On the Beat With Adam Chalifoux of "Running With The Bulls" Podcast

Last week, I started writing a blog about podcasts for Global Traveler. The blog ran yesterday at Podcast Pleasures. Yesterday, I posted my interview with Jill Urchak of the "On A Quest Paranormal" podcast. Today, I am sharing my interview with Adam Chalifoux of the "Running With The Bulls" podcast.

Adam and Reed Denver do a great job covering the Chicago Bulls and the NBA. Even now, without live NBA action, "Running With The Bulls" still provides basketball entertainment. With the NBA season in limbo, providing content is a real challenge, but the duo has filled the void with things like a fantasy draft of NBA greats and other fun that Adam discusses in our interview. Adam and Reed are knowledgeable, enthusiastic, informative and interesting.

Adam and I also have a connection from way back. I worked with Adam's father Bill during my college years. Bill was a salesman for CWO&O, a newspaper advertising representative and I was an assistant while attending DePaul. Who would have thought 30+ years later, I would be interviewing Bill's son.

In the interview, Adam discusses the "Running With The Bulls" podcast, providing content without basketball, future episodes, his Mt. Rushmore of Bulls and more. As always, I asked Adam for a few minutes, but the fun stretched a bit longer.

I really appreciate Adam's time. I also am thankful for the entertainment that "Running With The Bulls" provides.

Go to @RWBPcast on twitter to get all the updates and other fun stuff. Look for "Running With the Bulls" on most podcast platforms.

Squared Circle Expo Update Featuring Dustin Runnels

When I last reported on the Squared Circle Expo 2020, I shared the news that it had been rescheduled for August 21-22.
The SCE organizers recently announced that all previously purchased tickets have been transferred to the new dates, unless otherwise requested. Also, all reservations made through SCE and the Wyndham Indianapolis West have been transferred. Anything secured through third party sources would need to be transferred through those places.
The SCE organizers also announced a new guest. Dustin Runnels has been added to the wrestling guest lineup.
Debuting in 1988, Runnels has gone on to have a legendary and underrated career. He has won 23 titles between the WWE and TNA. He also has the second most Royal Ru8mble appearances with 13. Runnels has continued to evolve his character or create new ones as his career progressed.
Originally “The Natural,” Runnels followed in the footsteps of his Hall of Fame father Dusty Rhodes. When he started his second stint in the WWE in 1995, he debuted Goldust, one of the most unique and controversial characters ever in wrestling. Since then, Runnels has continued making Goldust interesting by keeping the character fresh. Currently, Runnels is wrestling for All Elite Wrestling.
I have met Runnels many times. He is always great. The last time I met Runnels, I had the pleasure of talking to him for several minutes about his career. Of course, the conversation turned to his epic match with brother Cody in AEW. I totally felt his pride in the match. It was palpable. He even thanked me for my appreciation for the match.
I also mentioned other fun moments from his career, like his infamous match with Rowdy Roddy Piper. Runnels has a deep appreciation for his fans and our memories of him.
I am really looking forward to seeing Runnels again. People ask why fans want to meet wrestlers so many times. At least with Runnels, the answer is simple. Much like his characters, each encounter is enjoyable and unique.
The organizers of the SCE have been busier than usual because of the rescheduling caused by the pandemic. They have been frantically securing old wrestling guests as well as new ones. They have transferred tickets and reservations. They have also kept fans updated along the way and we all appreciate that. Especially during this time of great confusion,l it is great to have answers on this big event and to be able to look forward to it!
The Squared Circle Expo 2020 is now four months away. I will continue to provide updates and coverage all through the event.
Check SquaredCircleX.com for all of the info on this great event. Also follow Squared Circle Expo on Facebook for more frequent updates.

Dustin Runnels and me in Indianapolis, IN-July 2019.

On the Beat With Jill Urchak of "On A Quest Paranormal"

I recently wrote a blog about podcasts for Global Traveler. For the blog, I had the pleasure of interviewing Chicago media personality Jill Urchak. If you have listened to radio over the past many years, you have heard Jill hosting, contributing, reporting traffic and more. The blog can be found at Podcast Pleasures.

Born and raised on the south side of Chicago, Jill has been on Chicago radio for 20+ years. Jill's personality shone through her traffic reporting and led to larger roles as she interacted with the various show hosts. On the Score, former hosts Doug Buffone and Dan Jiggetts incorporated Jill into their show, as did others including Terry Boers and Dan McNeil. Jill even guest hosted on occasion.

A passionate and knowledgeable White Sox fan, Jill's shows were always interesting and fun. She never hesitated to take a playful (?) jab at the Cubs, but that was part of her charm and all entertaining.

Jill's skills are not limited to radio though. She has also done some television and written a couple books and a few of her poems have been published in other books.

I am a fan of Jill's and wanted to interview her for a while. My story for Global Traveler gave me the perfect opportunity, because Jill has added podcaster to her impressive resume.

"On A Quest Paranormal" is Jill seeking out the unknown, unseen and unproven. Episodes have included talks with folks on close encounters, reiki, animal spirits and other fascinating topics. Jill is "On A Quest" to learn more from those who have fascinating experiences, personal knowledge and interesting thoughts.

In our interview, Jill discusses her interest in the paranormal, seeking knowledge while "being a wimp," her Catholic faith, her first hand experiences and more. Each episode is like a conversation between friends, with Jill making listeners feel like they are on the journey with her, because we are.

I am skeptical, but open-minded about the paranormal. I have learned a lot from "On A Quest Paranormal." I can't say I have become a staunch believer in all things paranormal, but that's not the point. I have become better informed and definitely entertained. Neither Jill nor her guests try to persuade listeners to believe. They simply discuss their experiences and beliefs.

I originally asked Jill for a few minutes of her time, but the interview ran longer and I couldn't be happier and more grateful to Jill for her time and thoughts. Once we started talking, I didn't want it to end.

I really appreciate Jill for her time and cooperation and even more for the "On A Quest Paranormal" podcast. Thank you as always to Global Traveler for the opportunity to write about things I love.

Be sure to go to @OnAQuestPod on twitter. You can find links to the "On A Quest Paranormal" podcast there or look for it on your podcast platform of choice. You can also follow Jill on most forms of social media.

Friend Encounters: Lee Majors and Mad Man Pondo

Friend Encounters is a weekly series in which I feature friends who have met celebrities.

This is one of the fun times when both parties are celebrities. Actor Lee Majors and Madman Pondo are both quite accomplished in their respective fields.

Last year, my friend the Pondo met Majors. Mad Man Pondo has appeared here several times with other celebrities. Pondo is a regular attendee at comic and horror cons. A star in the wrestling ring, Pondo is popular at wrestling events, but is also stopped several times at comic cons by fans wanting to get a picture with him.

I have had the pleasure of working with Pondo at The Resistance Wrestling in Chicago. Along with being an in-ring performer, Pondo is a great addition for his knowledge and leadership. I admit I was intimidated (and a bit scared) when I first asked Pondo for an interview, but he immediately made me feel at ease, by being one of the coolest, nicest, most accommodating people I have ever interviewed.

Over the years, while watching him wrestle and help the younger wrestlers, I gained a lot of respect and admiration for Pondo. I am very proud to call Pondo a friend.

When I was growing up, Lee Majors was one of the coolest guys out there. He was the star of The Six Million Dollar Man and married to Farrah Fawcett.

Born Harvey Lee Yeary, he was a high school football star. He hurt his back while playing football at Eastern Kentucky University until a back injury paralyzed him for two weeks and ended his career. When he went into acting, he chose the last name "Majors" in tribute to Johnny Majors, a football hero of his.

Majors and Fawcett were the inspiration for Midnight Train to Georgia, a #1 single in 1973. It was originally entitled Midnight Plane to Houston, a line Fawcett said in a phone chat with songwriter Jim Weatherly.

I haven't seen Pondo in a while, but I hope to connect with him in 2020. He's a really good dude and very talented. Aside from his wrestling, Pondo has acted, hosted his own show and is now promoting Girl Fight Wrestling, a midwest women's wrestling organization.

A couple years ago, Pondo wrote his life story, which I highly recommend. It can be purchased at Memoirs of a Mad Man.

Follow him at @MadManPond0 on twitter. Also, follow @GirlFightWrest on twitter for info on their events.

Lee Majors and Mad Man Pondo in Lexington, KY-September 2019.

Celebrity Jersey Cards #476 Nick Faldo & Matt Ryan

This is a weekly series in which I create virtual trading cards for players wearing sports jerseys. Today, I continue working my way alphabetically through the Major League Baseball teams.

Born in England, golfer Nick Faldo won three Open Championships and three Masters. He was ranked #1 for 97 weeks. Now mostly retired, he is a golf analyst. He threw out a pitch for the Atlanta Braves, wearing a #6 jersey to represent his six major championships. Faldo can now add a Celebrity Jersey Card to his accomplishments. The best #6 for the Braves would probably be Davey Johnson..  

Quarterback Matt Ryan starred at Boston College before being selected #3 overall by the Atlanta Falcons in the 2008 NFL Draft. In 2008, he was the NFC Offensive Rookie of the Year and in 2016 he was the NFL MVP. In 2016 he led the Falcons to Super Bowl LI, but lost to the New England Patriots. At one point, "Matty Ice" was the highest paid player ever in the NFL. He has thrown 4,460 passes in his NFL career, but it was his toss for the Braves which earned him a Celebrity Jersey Card.

Cards That Never Were: Merv Rettenmund Topps 1981

Cards That Never Were is a recurring series in which I create virtual cards for players missed in various sets over the years. It is a concept I have borrowed from far too many to list, but I appreciate all of them. You can find more of my creations and a lot of other great creations (and not just baseball cards) in the Custom Baseball Cards group on Facebook.
Mervin Weldon Rettenmund was signed by the Baltimore Orioles as an amateur free agent in 1964, after a successful career at Ball State. After four seasons in the minor leagues, Rettenmund was called up to the Orioles late in the 1968 season. After the '73 season, Rettenmund was traded to the Cincinnati Reds, where he stayed for two seasons, before being traded to the San Diego Padres. After two seasons in San Diego, he was traded across the state to the California Angels. He appeared in just two games in his third season with the Angels before the team released him, ending his 13 year career.
For his career, Rettenmund had 693 hits, 66 home runs, 329 rbi's, 393 runs score and a .271 average. Mostly a fourth or platoon outfielder, Rettenmund was on three World Series teams, winning one with Cincinnati and splitting two with Baltimore.
For his efforts, Rettenmund had Topps baseball cards from 1969 through 1980. While it is understandable Topps did not give Rettenmund a card in their 1981 set, considering his minimal playing time and his career ending early in 1980, that doesn't stop me from making a "career capper" for him.

Gold Glove Winner A.J. Andrews Loves Johngy's Beat

Ayanna Jeanne Andrews was a star softball player at Louisiana State University. During her time there, LSU made it to the Women's College World Series twice.

The Chicago Bandits selected A.J. in the second round of the 2015 National Pro Fastpitch draft. After one season with the Bandits, A.J. was traded to the Akron Racers. In 2016, A.J. became the first woman to win a Rawlings Gold Glove Award and also was a co-winner of the Rally Spike Award as the league's stolen base leader. In 2017, A.J. was featured in the Body Issue of ESPN The Magazine.

Always good for an interview during her time with the NPF, A.J. is a class act. Recently, she was kind enough to send a shout out to Johngy's Beat.

I really appreciate A.J.'s time and consideration over the years and especially the video below. In turn, I encourage all to follow A.J. at @AJ_Andrews_ on twitter and @AJ_Andrews_ on Instagram.

MJF and Wardlow at C2E2 2020

I am not a regular watcher of All Elite Wrestling, but I am definitely familiar with it. I knew AEW was gaining popularity, but it was never more obvious than at C2E2 earlier this year.

I was in the first wave of people who got into C2E2 on Friday, but such a good portion of that crowd immediately went to the AEW line. By the time I got there, the line wrapped all around the convention area and I knew I had no chance at the first few AEW stars. That line never really let up. Different wrestlers switched in and out of the booth,l but the line remained one of the longest at C2E2.

Finally on Sunday, when the convention was winding down, I found myself pretty much done with all of my work and with time on my hands. The AEW line wasn't horribly long by now. I jumped in without even knowing which stars I would meet.

To my surprise, MJF and Wardlow were the first two AEW stars I met. They stayed in character, especially MJF, who scowled at me.

MJF received some criticism for how he handled some young fans. I'm a bit split on this issue. On one hand, if the kids watch wrestling, they would know his character and also would have seen plenty of harsh things on television. If the kids wouldn't know better, their parents should have. It shouldn't have been a shock.

On the other hand, I don't exactly know what MJF did to incur the wrath. Perhaps he could have stayed in character, but lightened up a bit around the kids? It's a tough call.

I once had a knucklehead "bad guy" wrestler tell me he doesn't have 8x10's because he is a bad guy. I believe the history of wrestling proves you can be both a bad guy and a popular wrestler. In fact, especially in more modern wrestling, bad guys often are more popular and are almost forced to become good guys because they get cheered so loudly.

If nothing else, I applaud MJF for trying to keep the mystery of wrestling alive. In wrestling terms, he is keeping kayfabe and that's not a bad thing.

Go to C2E2.com for more info and hope to see you there in 2021. Also check out MJF, Wardlow and all the others at AllEliteWrestling.com.

Tommy Else and the Or Else Podcast Network

Over the many years I have known Tommy Else, he has gone from a wrestler-to-be who I interviewed to a great friend. He has also been a Johngy's Beat contributor, my Resistance broadcast partner, a loyal supporter and even the occasional thorn in my side.

A while back, Tommy invited me to co-host a podcast he wanted to do about his history with Resistance Pro Wrestling. Of course, I joined and we have done 51 episodes as we work our way through the years.

Tommy wasn't content with one successful podcast. He started "Jesse Unplugged," with his good friend Jesse Anderson. This one is pretty self-explanatory. While Jesse speaks what is on his mind from personal events to world affairs, it is more like two friends catching up, because that is really what it is.

Enjoying the podcasting life, Tommy started "Losing Friends," a podcast where he explores different viewpoints on many topics, most of which are somewhat controversial. The name is a bit sarcastic, as it really isn't about losing friends, but more about allowing friends to discuss opposing opinions in a friendly manner.

To further his insatiable desire to conquer the podcast world, he started "Everything Else," a podcast about everything (and anything) else. Tommy discusses topical issues, as well as anything else on his mind. Part humor, part serious and part everything else. It's a virtual potpourri, but somehow Tommy makes it all flow seamlessly.

You'd think by now Tommy would be satisfied with his podcast empire. Instead, he is still expanding. His latest effort is "Checking In." On the surface, it is Tommy talking to his friends while social distancing. This might be the most socially relevant and interesting to the masses. Tommy "checks in" on his many friends during the self-quarantine. With his friends from various areas, lifestyles and professions, it is a look at how people are handling this current situation. These interviews are time capsule material for this period.

It is also a chance for Tommy's friends to get to know each other better. I have heard stories of Tommy's friends and training clients, but I don't know all of them. This humanizes them to me. I am getting to know these folks through these check-ins.

Will Tommy add more to his podcast family? Only time will tell, but I'd bet yes. In the meantime though, you can enjoy all of his podcasts on The "Or Else" Network on SoundCloud. 

Tommy Else and me in Chicago, IL-March 2013.

Kelsey Stewart of Team USA

Kelsey Stewart was a star infielder for the University of Florida. In her four seasons, she played 259 games, hitting .395, with 15 home runs, 145 rbi's, 257 runs scored, 112 stolen bases and a .565 slugging percentage.

Along the way, Kelsey racked up a load of awards and accomplishments. In her first season, she was a Second Team All-SEC selection. She was First Team All-SEC in her second year. In her third season, she was the SEC Player of the Year. As a senior, she was named to the SEC All-Tournament Team. Those are just the highlights of her achievements.

After her brilliant career at Florida, Kelsey was selected in the 2016 National Pro Fastpitch College Draft by the USSSA Pride as the 12th overall pick. Her time with the Pride was limited due to her Team USA commitments.

On the international field, Kelsey was a 2014 WBSC Junior Women's World Championship Silver Medalist and a WBSC Women's World Championship Silver Medalist. She was also a WBSC Women's World Championship Gold Medalist in 2016 and 2018. Last year, Kelsey was named to the 2020 Olympic team. Unfortuanately, the Olympics have been postponed to mid-2021, but that just gives Team USA that much more time to prepare.

In July 2021, Kelsey will take the field in Tokyo as Team USA goes for the gold. I cannot wait to see Kelsey and my other softball friends on the grandest stage of all.

Check out the Team USA softball site for more info on the team and the Olympics. Follow Kelsey at @stewartkels7 on twitter.

Chelsea Thomas, me and Kelsey Stewart in Rosemont, IL-Summer 2016.

Happy Birthday Jean

Today I celebrate my sister Jean's birthday. There's not much celebrating anywhere today, but we must take happiness when we can and we must make our lives as normal as possible.

I was supposed to be in Florida last month to celebrate my birthday late or her birthday early or really, just to have a good time. Unfortunately, those plans got shelved due to the health crisis.

The picture below makes me so happy and I am sure it makes Jean and Scott happy, too. Little Delaney is such a joy to all. Jean and Scott are proud and happy grandparents. While it is odd seeing my sister as a grandmother, it is so heartwarming. She is such a loving, giving person. Delaney is one lucky little girl. I am just as lucky as her brother.

I couldn't ask for two better sisters. I celebrate their birthdays, but I also give thanks for them.

The worldwide pandemic is keeping all of us apart, but I send love and best wishes to Jean today for a happy birthday and we will all celebrate soon. I love you, Jean!

Jean, Delaney and Scott in Florida-February 2020.

Friend Encounters: Tom Ricketts and Alison Moran

Friend Encounters is a weekly series featuring friends who have met celebrities.

I honestly do not know how or when I first met Alison Moran. I assume our paths crossed many times at various sports events, but the first extended exchange I remember was at a Chicago Sky Media day a few years back. Our paths cross a lot more since I have started covering a lot of female sports teams.
A veteran on the Chicago media scene, Alison does wonderful work with Token Female. On the Token Female site, Alison proudly exclaims, "I'm here to inform and take your suggestions regarding the role of women in sports and life. Title IX allowed me to fulfill my dreams. I want the same accessibility for all people. In community, there is strength!"
Alison's work is important, especially in a world where women in sports and women's sports are so undercovered and underappreciated. Legitimate female writers and reports are also too rare, but women like Alison are changing that, too. There is still a long way to go, but things are changing.
Things would change even more if more men and more big time media outlets started giving real coverage and support to women's sports. The WNBA has decent coverage, while other women's sports get covered to a lesser degree. Unfortunately, sports like the National Pro Fastpitch get minimal, if any, coverage.
I applaud Alison's efforts. Big change takes a while and takes many small changes. Alison's work will make it easier for the next generation of women covering sports. Hopefully, Alison's work will also spur other media outlets to give a little more coverage to women's sports.
Alison is not exclusive to women's sports, though. She is a sports fan across the board. A proud Chicago sports fan, Alison was happy to meet (then) new Cubs owner Tom Ricketts several years ago. I wonder if she urged him to add some women to his baseball operations staff? Knowing Alison, I am sure she did.
Follow Alison on her Token Female page on Facebook. If you see an energetic redhead with  media badge at a sporting event, it is probably Alison and she is probably sniffing out a story!

Tom Ricketts and Alison Moran in Chicago, IL-January 2014.

Celebrity Jersey Cards #475 Kim Cattrall & Danielle Wade

This is a weekly series in which I create virtual trading cards for celebrities wearing sports jerseys. Today, we continue working our way alphabetically through all Major League Baseball teams.

British-Canadian actress Kim Cattrall might be best known for her role on Sex In The City, for which she received five Emmy Award nominations and four Golden Globe Award nominations. She has won many awards in her legendary career and continues to be a presence on the big and screens. Cattrall threw out a ceremonial pitch for her motherland Blue Jays and earned her Celebrity Jersey Card.

Canadian born Danielle Wade is in the early stages of what looks to be a bright acting career. A big break came when she won Andrew Lloyd Webber's search for Dorothy in The Wizard of Oz. Wade threw out a ceremonial pitch for her Blue Jays and got her Celebrity Jersey Card.

On the Beat With Alisa Rosenthal

I first met Alisa Rosenthal at C2E2 2019. Alisa, as Harry Scaray, was acting as emcee for the Chicago League of Lady Arm Wrestlers (CLLAW). I wrote about Alisa and CLLAW at On the Beat With Chicago League of Lady Arm Wrestlers on the Patch.

CLLAW is part wrestling, part theater and all fun. As host, Alisa (Harry) ties it all together and adds a lot of humor.

I enjoyed CLLAW so much, but scheduling prevented me from seeing their full shows at the Logan Auditorium. When I saw CLLAW would be back at C2E2 earlier this year, I made sure to catch the show and it was even more entertaining.

Interviewing Alisa has been on my list for a while. I would have preferred to do the interview in person, but at least I took the opportunity during the quarantine to get Alisa to jump on Skype for an introductory interview.

Alisa is such a multi-talented and busy person, the interview ran longer than I asked and I still didn't get to all the things I wanted to ask her. Her sock puppeteering alone could be a separate interview, as could her "Songs to Caftan In," her music lessons, her children's music, her work with CLLAW and so much more. You get the point.

I really enjoyed talking to Alisa. She is such a fun and positive person and I think that comes through very clearly in the interview below.

Fortunately, at the end of the interview, she did commit to an in-person interview in the future. (I think the video represents a binding contract. LOL).

Seriously, Alisa is awesome and I thank her for her time and consideration. I look forward to revisiting Alisa in the future when things return to normal.

Until then, check out Alisa on social media at @PluckyRosenthal on Instagram, at @AlisaRosenthal on Instagram and at @MusicWithAlisa on Facebook. Also, this Sunday, April 19, at 3 p.m. CST, Alisa will be performing "Songs to Caftan In: Sheltering In Caftan Edition" on her Plucky Rosenthal Instagram page. This promises to be a blast!

Squared Circle Expo Update

The Squared Circle Expo was scheduled for May 29-30, but had to be postponed, like every other big event. The SCE organizers have been very busy staying on top of the situation, exploring all options and keeping everyone posted on developments, the latest announcing new dates of August 21-22. My coverage continues at Squared Circle Expo 2020 Update on the Patch and here, of course.
Along with the new dates, the SCE organizers released info regarding ticket and hotel statuses. Basically, all will transfer over, unless you contact them to change things. Many of the scheduled wrestling guests will still be at the SCE. The SCE organizers are waiting to hear from the rest of the scheduled guests, as well as reaching out to others who originally couldn't make the May date. In any case, the SCE 2020 will be full of wrestling greats.
While, of course I am excited about meeting so many wrestling legends, I am probably just as excited about seeing old friends again. There is nothing like being cooped up in a condo for 2 months to really make one appreciate human contact.
One of the friends I will see is Jayson Maples, an Indiana-based wrestling promoter who has become a friend through our meetings at various conventions over the years. Jayson is the man Heroes and Legends Pro Wrestling fanfests and wrestling shows. While mostly held in Indiana, Jayson ran a show in Chicago last year and the success seemed to indicate more would follow. Jayson has been in the wrestling business for many years as a performer and a promoter. Aside from bringing great wrestlers to many conventions, Jayson is a great guy.
The picture below isn't a great representation of Jayson. Oh sure, he still has the big smile, but everything else about him is much smaller thanks to his tremendous transformation. He has lost a lot of weight and looks and feels better than ever. I cannot wait to congratulate him in person on his effort and achievement.
Go to HeroesandLegendsWrestling.com for more info on Jayson't events. Check SquaredCircleX.com for all of the info on this great event. Also follow Squared Circle Expo on Facebook for more frequent updates.

Cards That Never Were: Roger Crozier 1974 & '76

This is a recurring series in which I create virtual trading cards for players missed in various sets over the years. It is a concept I have borrowed from far too many to list, but I appreciate all of their work.

Goalie Roger Crozier made his NHL debut with the Detroit Red Wings in the 1963-64 season. After the '69-'70 season, he was traded to the Buffalo Sabres. He played with Buffalo through the '75-'76 season, before ending his career by playing 3 games with the Washington Capitals in the '76-'77 season.

His first hockey card was a 1964 Topps. He continued appearing in sets through '73. He was missed in '74, but reappeared one last time in '75. I couldn't find a picture of Crozier with the Caps, but I was able to create missing cards for '74 and '76.

Will Friedle at Motor City Comic Con 2018

The Motor City Comic Con was supposed to be in May, but it has been postponed due to the pandemic. While I sadly wait for the situation to be resolved and the MCCC to be rescheduled, I am recalling some of my favorite times there.

Will Friedle is probably best known for his role as the older brother Eric on tv's Boy Meets World. As the series progressed, the Eric character got dumber, but Will enjoyed that direction. He said that nothing he did was wrong, because it was all perfect for Eric. He had a great attitude about the character and embraced it. He reprised his role on the spinoff Girl Meets World.

Will seemed to have a blast at MCCC. It was one of his first conventions and he enjoyed meeting his fans and seeing all of the other stuff happening.

I would meet Will many years later when he appeared with some of his Boy Meets World castmates. It was a reunion of the show, but it was also like a real class reunion. The gang was back together and having fun.

Follow Will at @WillFriedle on twitter for his updates and news. Go to MotorCityComicCon.com for more info and follow MCCC on Facebook for more frequent updates.

Will Friedle and me in Novi, MI-May 2018.

Friend Encounters: Traci Lords and Brian Steward

This is a weekly series featuring friends who have met celebrities.

I first met Brian Steward many years ago at a Days of the Dead convention. He is an artist, writer and photographer. I have interviewed him several times. One of our first interviews can be found at On the Beat With Brian Steward.

It was the art he did of Giada that originally caught my eye, but he has done a ton of other stuff, including a lot of awesome work with Kiss. After one interview, Brian was kind enough to give me a signed print of the Giada piece.

One of Brian's latest projects is The Official Kiss Posterbook. Coming from his company, Fantasm Media, it is a "Greatest Hits" from their first two issues. It is just the most recent of a lot of cool stuff he has done with the band.As a Kiss fan from way back, I love seeing all of his creations, whether photographs or original artwork.

Many years ago, Brian met Traci Lords, another of my favorites. I haven't seen any Traci creations from Brian, but I'll ask him the next time I see him. Traci seems like a natural for one of Brian's illustrations.

Traci is a talented actress who overcame obstacles to carve out a solid career in the entertainment industry/ All throughout, she has maintained a positive attitude and is great with fans.

For more info on Brian, check out BrianSteward.com and follow Brian Steward on Facebook.

Brian Steward and Traci Lords in Dallas, TX-May 2012.

Celebrity Jersey Cards #474 Ric Flair & George Foreman

This is a weekly series in which I create virtual trading cards for celebrities wearing sports jerseys. Today, we continue working our way alphabetically through all Major League Baseball teams.

Wrestler Ric Flair was born in Tennessee, but was raised by his adoptive parents in Edina, MN. Considered to be one of the greatest wrestlers of all time, Flair has held a World tile belt between 16-25 times, depending on which are counted. Flair is a two-time WWE Hall of Famer (as a solo and with the legendary Four Horsemen). Now retired from in-ring action, Flair is proud to see his daughter Charlotte among the top WWE female performers. Falir earned this Celebrity Jersey Card when throwing out a pitch at an Astros game.

Texas native boxer George Foreman won a Gold Medal in the 1968 Olympics. As a pro, Foreman was 76-5, highlighted by two heavy weight championships. He is also well known for his George Foreman Grill. Foreman earned his Celebrity Jersey Card when throwing out a pitch for the Astros.

On the Beat With John Bullard of Chicagoland Championship Wrestling

Late last year, I started seeing social media posts about a new wrestling company starting in the Chicago area. Honestly, at first, I wasn't really interested, because there are so many other companies. The more info that was released, the more I did become interested.
While many wrestling companies start with great promise (or at least promises), many fold just as quickly. Chicagoland Championship Wrestling was promoted as an in-studio wrestling show, like a throwback to the first wrestling I (and many more) watched on television. It promised to be "Chicago" and to be different.
The man behind Chicago Championship Wrestling is John Bullard. He is a veteran of the wrestling scene, filling many roles over his career.
I contacted John fairly early on and asked about interviewing him for Johngy's Beat and HeroTV. John graciously agreed.
While the current pandemic has delayed in-person interviews, I really wanted to get back "On the Beat" and John agreed to be my first guest. I asked John for a few minute interview, but once we got talking, I realized it was running over and I didn't care. I was having fun learning about John and CCW. I'll let John tell you more about CCW in our interview below.
I appreciate John for giving me his time and for his patience. We had a couple glitches while recording, but John weathered the storm with me and I am quite happy with the first attempt at a socially distant interview. I definitely plan on checking back with John in the future, including attending his show and interviewing him properly in person.
For more info on CCW, their talent and their shows, go to ChicagolandChampionshipWrestling.com. Also, follow CCW on Facebook and subscribe to the CCW YouTube channel.

Catching Up With Traci Lords

Today, I am going way back to feature actress Traci Lords. Back in the early 90s, Traci had reddish hair, while I sported a dark mullet.

Traci has had quite a career. She has overcome drug issues and other personal stuff to become a strong and successful woman. Through it all, Traci remained positive.

I first met Traci at a Hollywood Celebrities Show. Back then, these shows weren't nearly as common as they are now. I thought it might be the only time I would meet her. Little did I know I would meet her many times and actually become a "convention friend."

Over the years, Traci's hair has gone through a series of colors, but she always looks great. Meanwhile, my hair has gotten grayer and on my best day, I don't look great.

Over the years, I have also developed a nice rapport with Traci. It had a bit of a rough start though, when I asked for a picture of her choking me. (I just wanted something funny, but didn't properly explain that). She polite declined, but gave me agreed to put her hand over my face for the shot. Mission accomplished, despite my awkwardness. She now jokes with me about goofy pictures we can take.

Most recently, Traci starred in Women Behind Bars. In 2018, she released Come Alive, a new single and is reportedly working on an EP. This was a return to music for Traci, who released 1000 Fires in 1995.

Go to TraciLords.com for more info on Traci. Also, follow her at @theTraciLords on twitter.

Traci Lords and me in Rosemont, IL-Late 1990's.

Sting At Motor City Comic Con 2017

The Motor City Comic Con was supposed to be in May, but it has been postponed due to the pandemic. While I sadly wait for the situation to be resolved and the MCCC to be rescheduled, I am recalling some of my favorite times there.
Steve "Sting" Borden has been a wrestling star for more than 30 years. Sting progressed from a popular surfer character to a dark Crow character to a crazy Joker gimmick, all the while delivering great matches and growing in popularity. Sting eventually joined the WWE and was inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame. Unfortunately, an injury prematurely ended Sting's in ring appearances. Rumors still persist though of a return, but only time will tell.
I had the pleasure of meeting the icon at Motor City Comic Con s a few years back. Appearing in his Crow paint, Sting was hugely popular as the long line of fans would prove. He was as nice as could be given the tight time constraints.
This was a rare chance to meet Sting, as he doesn't do a lot of appearances. Even though his line was long (probably the longest of anyone at MCCC that year), it was much shorter than it would be at a wrestling convention. The MCCC usually has a few wrestlers at their shows and it is a great way to meet them without the huge lines you would have at a wrestling con.
Go to MotorCityComicCon.com for more info and follow MCCC on Facebook for more frequent updates. Look for recurring coverage on Johngy's Beat.

Sting and me in Novi, MI-May 2017.

Happy Birthday Nancy

Today is my oldest sister Nancy's birthday. Since she is across the country right now, I will celebrate her day here.

We might tease her about being the "matriarch" of the family and being the oldest sibling, we love her dearly. It's not because she makes cookies, cupcakes or even pumpkin rice krispies treats. It's not because she helped hang a bunch of pictures in my place either. It's not even that she indulges me and gets pictures with mascots whenever she can. While Nancy has done a lot for me, it isn't for what she does. We love Nancy for who she is.

Nancy is caring, generous, thoughtful, loyal, funny and all other qualities you'd want in a person. Lucky for me, she is my sister and my friend.

I always say, my sisters are my rocks. I love them both and appreciate them dearly.

We've had so many great memories and I look forward to so many more, like when we celebrate when she's back in town. For now, I just wish her a wonderful birthday. I love you, Nancy.

Nancy and Clark in Chicago, IL-December 2019.

Team Australia Stacey McManus and the Olympics

With the Olympics postponed to 2021, I reached out to several of my Olympic softball friends for Olympians' Thoughts, my latest online contribution to Global Traveler.  Team USA Monica Abbott, Team Canada Lauren Bay Regula, Team Mexico Sashel Palacios and Team Australia Stacey McManus were kind enough to give me their thoughts. Coincidentally (or not) all aqre former Chicago Bandits.

Stacey played one season for a Bandits a few years ago. The Australian players then became the Aussie Spirit, based in Mankato, MN.

It was cool having the Aussies on the Bandits. They had a huge fan base from around the world and their native land folks were very supportive.

Stacey's mom Cindy came from Australia for several games. It turns out she is originally from New Jersey and was a bit of a softball player, too. Mom Cindy is such a sweet person. She gifted me with a little koala bear during Stacey's season with the Bandits. It was so thoughtful and cool. It now sits on my shelves along with other softball swag.

It was awesome seeing Stacey return with the Spirit after her year with the Bandits. Of course, we all missed Stacey and the other Aussie Bandits playing here, but it was also cool to see the whole Australian team play.

I really was looking forward to seeing my friends in the Olympics, but I'll hold that anticipation through 2021. Hopefully by then, the world will be close to normal.

I really appreciate the friendships I have developed from National Pro Softball. I especially am grateful for these four friends for their time and thoughts. Other players echoed their sentiments and I encourage all to follow players on social media. There are messages of disappointment and frustration, but there is a lot more hope and togetherness. At a time like this, that is the most important thing.

Stacey McManus and me in Rosemont, IL-Summer 2019.

Friend Encounters: Arn Anderson, Tully Blanchard, JJ Dillon and Tony Feddeler

Friend Encounters is a weekly series featuring friends who have met celebrities.

The last time I saw my friend Tony Feddeler with the Four Horsemen, he was repping the Johngy shirt. Tony returns here with some of the Horsemen, but no Johngy shirt. Still, this is a very cool moment.

Arn Anderson and Tully Blanchard were the tag team within the Horsemen. On their own they would have been a great team, but as part of the Horsemen, they became legends. The Horsemen were perhaps the greatest stable and assembly of talent ever. With Ric Flair as the leader, Arn and Tully as the backbone, a rotating 4th member and manager JJ Dillon, the Horsemen were so good as villains, they were cheered.

Tony is a great friend, a wrestling fan and a convention buddy. We've had a lot of fun over the years at various events. He's a good guy and I always look forward to seeing him.

I love the picture below, because Tony looks like he could have been in the Horsemen. Actually, he could have been Arn's tag team partner, moving Tully to the secondary title picture with Ric still being the main man. Arn and Tony would have been a force.I am sure Tony wouldn't disagree with me placing him in the Horsemen!

Arn Anderson, Tony Feddeler, Tully Blanchard and JJ Dillon in Schaumburg, IL-September 2018.

Celebrity Jersey Cards #473 Doug McWilliams & Michael Zagaris

This is a weekly series in which I create virtual trading cards for celebrities wearing sports jerseys. Today, we continue working our way alphabetically through all Major League Baseball teams.

Doug McWilliams is a huge part of the history of baseball cards. From the early 1970s through 1995, McWilliams was one of the main photographers for Topps. The first picture of his that Topps ever bought was of George Hendrick, although they did not use it for a card. His first picture bought and used by Topps was Vida Blue. In 2010, McWilliams donated more than 10,000 negatives of his photographs to the Baseball Hall of Fame. After being responsible for so many of the baseball card pictures, it is only fair that McWilliams appears on one. This Celebrity Jersey Card features McWilliams wearing #50, presumably to represent his 50 years of photographing baseball.

Based in San Francisco, CA, Michael Zagaris rose to fame shooting rock and roll and fashion. He eventually concentrated on sports photography and became the official team photographer for the Oakland A's and San Francisco 49ers. Like his photography colleague, Zagaris deserved to be "carded" and his Celebrity Jersey Card, featuring him in an A's jersey,  serves that purpose.

Micky Dolenz at Wizard World St. Louis 2017

The new year is well underway, which means a whole new year of Wizard World events across the country. The next Wizard World is June 5-7 in St. Louis, MO.. I won't make the trip, but I will be there in spirit.

A couple years ago, Jack and I did make the trip to St. Louis for Wizard World. It was my fourth Wizard World city (along with Chicago, Columbus and New York).

One of the cool celebrities we met was Micky Dolenz, the former singer and drummer for the Monkees. Dolenz's career actually started well before his Monkees days, when he was on tv's Circus Boy. He had his own band for a while before he auditioned for the Monkees tv show.

The Monkees became a hit series, although short lived. The four musician/actors eventually became a real band. That band has continued to remain popular and has reunited many times over the years.

Micky isn't the only entertainer in the Dolenz family. His younger sister Coco appeared on some episodes of The Monkees and also sang some backup. His daughter Ami is an actress, too.

Check out WizardWorld.com for all of the info on the Cleveland event and all of the other Wizard World events all year. Also, check out MickyDolenz.com for news on Dolenz.

Micky Dolenz, Jack Keenan and me in St. Louis, MO-April 2017.

Aubree Munro of Team USA

Aubree Munro was a star catcher at the University of Florida. In her four seasons, she hit .254 with eight homers, 76 rbi's and 57 runs scored. She also had a fielding percentage of .997. She was a two-time NCAA National Champion and a two-time WCWS All-Tournament selection.

Aubree was selected in the 2016 NPF College Draft by the USSSA Pride as the 39th overall pick. She played a bit for the Pride, but concentrated more on Team USA. With Team USA, she was a World Cup of Softball Silver Medalist in 2016 and 2017. In 2019, she was a Pan American Games Gold Medalist.

Like her Team USA mates, Aubree was excited when she was named to the 2020 roster. Unfortunately, with the pandemic, the Olympics were postponed until 2021. As I have mentioned before, I am really looking forward to this Olympics. Never a big fan of the Olympics, I am excited to see my friends (or at least acquaintances) take the big stage.

I will be supplying recurring coverage through the Olympics here, for Global Traveler and for Patch.com. Also, follow Aubree at @Aubree_Munro1 on twitter. Also, go to the Team USA softball site for all of the info on the team.

Aubree Munro and me in Rosemont, IL-June 2019.

Cards That Never Were: Doug Favell Topps 1968-'69

Cards That Never Were is a recurring series in which I create virtual trading cards for players missed in various sets. It is a concept I have borrowed from far too many to list, but I appreciate all of their efforts.
Doug Favell started his professional hockey career in the Boston Bruins organization. The Philadelphia Flyers selected Favell and teammate Bernie Parent in the 1967 NHL Expansion Draft. After the 1972-'72 season, Favell was traded to the Toronto Maple Leafs for Bernie Parent (who had been traded there in February of 1971). Favell played three seasons with the Leafs, before being sold to the Colorado Rockies. The Edmonton Oilers selected him in the 1979 NHL Expansion Draft, but Favell chose to retire.
Favell played 370 games and had a 317 goals against average for his career. He was one of the first goalies to use the butterfly technique. He was also the first goalie to use a painted design on his mask (although former teammate Gerry Cheevers was the first to actually have artwork on his mask).
An excellent lacrosse player, Favell played professionally for the Detroit Olympics and the Philadelphia Wings. He was inducted into the Ontario Lacrosse Hall of Fame in 2005.
For his efforts, Topps (or OPC) issued cards for Favell in every set from 1969-1979. Since they missed a 1968 rookie card, I felt compelled to create one.

Chris Chelios at The National 2017

Chris Chelios played an unbelievable 26 years in the NHL, 8+ with my beloved Blackhawks. That career, ended after the 2009-10 season with the Atlanta Thrashers, earned him an enshrinement into the Hall of Fame.

Prior to his NHL career, Chelios was an outstanding prep player. He even played at Mt. Carmel, my alma mater. It's a long-running joke among my friends that no other duo of Mt. Carmel alums played as many games as Cheli and I. Together we played 1,651 games in the NHL. Of course, I played none, but that doesn't get in the way of a (bad) joke.

Actually, Cheli didn't attend Mt. Carmel for long. Despite him being 3 years older than me, we weren't even there at the same time. I think he played his freshamn year at MC, before the family moved to the west coast.

Despite his Chicago roots and his time playing for the Hawks, I had never met Cheli until last year at The National. He looked to still be in playing shape, despite being 55 years old.

I mentioned our MC connection (but not the bad joke). We talked a bit about his son Jake (then playing defense in the AHL) and daughter Caley (a sports reporter in Tampa).

It was a thrill to meet Cheli. Because of ages and proximity, I really followed Cheli's career for more than 30 years. (How had he really escaped me until then?)

Chris Chelios and me in Rosemont, IL-August 2017.