Cosplay Central at C2E2 2020

I've written a few times about C2E2 2020 being bittersweet. It was one of the most fun times I have had at a comic con. It was also the last major event I covered before the pandemic shut down life.

I had planned to do my usual coverage. I'd interview a few celebrities and creators and meet a bunch more. I'd stroll the Artist Alley amazed at the beautiful creations. I might even add a few Aquaman prints to my collection.

Then something unexpected happened. I ventured to the Cosplay Central for some fun pictures. When I saw the organizers doing some pre-show prep, I walked over and asked if I could be part of it in someway. I'm always looking for new experiences for stories and just for fun. I expected a polite decline, but instead got handed a mic.

John plus a live mic and no idea what I was doing could equal disaster. I supplied a bit of commentary, some banter with fans and cosplayers and then handed the mic back to the real professionals. I wasn't exactly Ryan Seacrest, but I had a few moments of being the ringmaster in a circus of comic con fun.

C2E2 is scheduled for December 10-12. Go to C2E2 for more info, including scheduling and guests. I'll also be providing recurring coverage here, on Patch.com and GlobalTravelerUSA.com.

Me in Chicago, IL-March 2020.

Friend Encounters: Dave Bautista and Crystal White

Friend Encounters is a weekly series featuring my friends meeting celebrities.

Crystal White is one of my few lost interviews. Several years ago, when she wrestled for Resistance Pro at Excalibur, I interviewed her, but the audio frizzed out. Unfortunately, it was a fun interview, too. Oh well. It was one of only a few of the more than 1,000 interviews I have done that have been lost for some reason.

Crystal is a model, wrestler, trainer, fighter and more. She currently trains at the Super Beast Academy in Las Vegas, Nevada, but I am hoping she will make a return to Chicago sometime. If she does, I will do my best to get an update interview from her.

A few years back, while training in Florida, Crystal ran into (then) WWE wrestler Dave Bautista. Since then, Bautista has retired from wrestling and ventured into movies, becoming a big action star.

Crystal looked pretty happy to snap a selfie with Bautista. For some reason, I don't think I would have gotten the selfie with Bautista. I think Bautista would be much more receptive to a beauty like Crystal than an old guy like me.

So Crystal is on notice. If she is ever around Chicago and available, I am going to try for that interview finally!

Dave Batista and Crystal White in Tampa, FL-July 2018.

Celebrity Jersey Cards #565 Velvet Sky & Melina Perez

Celebrity Jersey Cards is a weekly series in which I create virtual trading cards for celebrities wearing sports jerseys. Today, I feature two wrestling stars currently working for the NWA, now owned by Billy Corgan.

Velvet Sky ha appeared here many times, thanks to her NFVel poster series. She has had a great career, winning several titles with tag team partner Angelina Love and as a singles wrestler. Velvet is currently working in the NWA as an announcer. Injuries shortened her career and probably will prevent her from returning to the ring. The best news for men though is she recently announced her breakup with Bully Ray. I'm sure she won't be single long. For Velvet's latest Celebrity Jersey Card, she is wearing a Buffalo Bills #28 jersey, most notably worn by running back Greg Bell.

Melina Perez recently returned to in-ring action after a bit of a hiatus. Despite a lot of success, Melina might be best known for her unique ring entrances, where she did the splits as she climbed into the ring. For her Celebrity Jersey Card, Melina wore the Pittsburgh Steelers, which was worn most notably by wide receiver Hines Ward. Melina gets extra poits for the football and wristbands.

Cards That Never Were: Jack Youngblood 1972 Topps

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. More of my creations and many great creations of others can be found in the Custom Baseball Cards Facebook group (and not just baseball cards).
Jack Youngblood played college ball at Florida before being selected by the Los Angeles Rams in the 1st round of the 1971 NFL draft. Youngblood went on to play 14 seasons with the Rams, carving out a Hall of Fame career. He missed one game in his career, that being in his final season. He also played in the Super Bowl with a broken leg. He was as tough as they come.
For his efforts, Topps gave Youngblood cards 1973 through '85. They only missed a rookie card in 1972. I found a nice action shot to use for a '72 virtual card to fill that void.

Linda Blair and the Linda Blair WorldHeart Foundation

Linda Blair rose to fame as the possessed child Regan in The Exorcist in 1973. Since then, she has remained active mostly in movies, but also on television.

An animal lover in her youth, she became an animal rights activist and humanitarian, working with PETA, Feed the Children, Variety, the Children's Charity, and other organizations. She also advocated for teen HIV/AIDS awareness.

In 2004, she founded  the Linda Blair WorldHeart Foundation, a non-profit organization which works to rescue abused, neglected and mistreated animals. Their mission is "to alleviate suffering, while rescuing, rehabilitating and rehoming abused, neglected and abandoned animals."

Several years ago at Days of the Dead, I approached Linda and asked for an interview about the WorldHeart Foundation. Her handler was hesitant, but Linda agreed anyway. That interview is at On the Beat With Linda Blair.

I really appreciated Linda's time. I loved that she overrode her handler's apprehension and gave me a few minutes of her time. As promised, I kept the interview on the WorldHeart Foundation.

Of course I wanted to talk to Linda about many other things. She has had a fascinating career and life. She had an iconic role as a teenager, a 40+ year career in entertainment, an avid dedication to animal rights and other charities and other interesting parts of her life. I would have loved to touch on any of those subjects. Still, I stayed on topic, because that is what Linda wanted. Sometimes you have to be willing to bend for the overall goal. I got to interview Linda Blair!

Go to LindaBlairWorldHeart.org for more info. Also get more frequent updates at @LindaBlairWorldHeartFoundation on Facebook.

Linda Blair and me in Schaumburg, IL-November 2017.

Meeting Erik Donner

I have been a fan of the late Ral Donner since my childhood. Donner was a singer, whose voice was similar to Elvis Presley. Donner had several big hits, includinbg "The Girl of My Best Friend," my favorite of his.

When my friends Paul and Lori Myers invited me to see Erik Donner, I didn't immediatelty realize he was Ral's son. After doing a bit of research, I found out about the familial connection and I looked forward to the night with my friends and seeing Erik.

Paul and Lori have seen Erik several times and have struck up a friendship with the singer. When I arrived the night of the show, they introduced me to Erik and we talked a bit before his show. I told him of my appreciatioon for his dad's music and he told me a little trivia. His adad provided the Elvis narration in the 1981 film "This Is Elvis."

Erik covers a wide range of music, including the Beatles, Beach Boys, Billy Joel and , of course, his father. One of the first songs he played was "The Girl of My Best Friend," which he dedicated to me, his newest fan. That was very nice of him and a really cool moment.

I wrote about the night for Global Traveler at An Evening with Erik Donner. Also, be sure to check out ErikDonner.com.

 Erik Donner and me in Lombard, IL-July 2021.

Levi Hastings at C2E2 2017

Chicago Comic and Entertainment Expo (C2E2) returns December 10-12 at McCormick Place and I can't wait. I'll be back "On the Beat" meeting celebrities and creators, like Levi Hastings.

Based in Seattle, WA, Hastings is an illustrator, cartoonist and visual artist. His passion for natural science, travel, history and Queer culture is obvious in his work.

He has worked for HBO, Absolut, Buzzfeed, The Washington Post, The Nib, The Stranger and more. He has written several children's books, including The Spirit of Springer and Mayor Pete.He has also been working on a graphic novel.

Fortunately, Hastings occasionally finds time to participate in comic cons, one of which was C2E2 a few years ago. That's the beauty of these conventions. As beautiful as the work of Hastings is, I might not have come across it if I didn't see it on display at C2E2.

I was intrigued by seeing his beautiful art next to his children's book. It's not completely unique to have an illustrator do children's books, but it can create interesting visuals when they are adjacent at a creator's booth. Such was the case with Hastings.

The piece below really caught my eye. No superhero, famous character or even a creative design, this is a wonderful look at nature.

Go to LeviHastings.com for more info and images from Levi. Also check C2E2.com for news and scheduling.

Levi Hastings and me in Chicago, IL-April 2017.

Joey Janela at C2E2 2020

C2E2 returns December 10-12. As usual, I will be "On the Beat" covering all the fun.

All Elite Wrestling had a major presence there in 2020 and was a huge hit. The lines to meet the stars of AEW were ridiculously long and they were so popular they did not have much time for media either. Finally on Sunday, as the convention as winding down, I had a chance to meet and talk to Joey Janela.

Janela lied about his age to get work with a small wrestling company. He went on to work for a few other companies before being one of the first signees with the new Al Elite Wrestling. He has been a featured wrestler with AEW since then. At only 31, with a lot of experience behind him, Janela's future is bright.

At C2E2, he talked about the wild early success of AEW. While it isn't ready to eclipse the WWE, it has surprised many with its early popularity. It continues to grow and is probably the #2 wrestling company right now.

For more info on AEW, go to AllEliteWrestling.com. Also, check C2E2.com for updates and scheduling.

Joey Janela and me in Chicago, IL-March 2020.

Friend Encounters: Art Baltazar and Joey Roth at C2E2 2020

Friend Encounters is a weekly series featuring friends meeting celebrities.

With C2E2 coming up soon, I am back with another Friend Encounter I orchestrated at last year's C2E2. This time, I have special interviewer Joey Roth joining Johngy's Beat to get the scoop from comic wiz Art Baltazar.

Art is a famous cartoonist, who also happens to co-own Aw Yeah Comics, located in Skokie, Illinois and New York. Art has done work for many major companies and has also self-published. He has also lent his talent to covering some of Skokie's outdoor utility banks with his cool graphics.

As I have previously written, Joey was the perfect choice to do interviews. His work in and out of wrestling rings, as well as on television and stage, shows his versatility and improv skills. I knew he didn't know the creative folks and I gave him very little preparation. I wanted a fresh perspective, coupled with his overall ability. The result was exactly what I wanted and the creative folks enjoyed the interplay, too. 

That interview can be found at On the Beat With Art Baltazar at C2E2 2020. Joey's other interviews there can be found on the Johngy's Beat C2E2 YouTube playlist.

C2E2 2021 runs December 10-12. Go to C2E2.com for more info and updates. Also check here for my coverage. Check ArtBaltazar.com to learn more about the very talented Art. Lastly, watch for Joey on the Chicago wrestling and entertainment scene (and hopefully on more Johngy's Beat interviews).

Joey Roth and Art Baltazar in Chicago, IL-March 2020.

Celebrity Jersey Cards #564 Katharine McPhee & Steve Wariner

Celebrity Jersey Cards is a weekly series in which I create virtual trading cards for celebrities wearing sports jerseys. It's a musical theme today.

Born in Los Angeles, CA, Katharine McPhee was the runner-up on the fifth season of American Idol. Her self-titled first album debuted at number two on the Billboard 200. McPhee has also embarked on an acting career. She eanrd her Celebrity Jersey Card when she sang the National Anthem at a Chargers game, wearing #96, most notably worn by Balise Winter.

Steve Wariner started his musical career backing up others, before going solo. He has had several singles reach the top ten of the Billboard Hot Country songs chart. Wariner sang the National Anthem for the Titans to earn his Celebrity Jersey Card. The #10 jersey has an interesting history for the team.Originally worm by QB Lynn Dickey, it was also the jersey of Craig Bradshaw (brother fo Terry)m Oliver Luck (father of Andrew) and a few others, but most notably Vince Young.

Swag Week: Cat Osterman Bobblehead

The Round Rock Express, Triple A affiliate of the Texas Rangers, had a Cat Osterman promotion last season. Cat bobbleheads were given to fans.

I have covered Cat's career for years, from National Pro Fastpitch to the Olympics to Athletes Unlimited. Cat retired after the AU season, with her legacy as one of the all time greats!

When I heard about the promotion, I set out to get one for my collection. It wasn't easy. Obviously, I wasn;t going down to Round Rock to get one. The team couldn't send one to me, because the demand was high and many other fans would want the same treatment.

I was determined though. Dteremination paid off. My source asked not to be revealed, but I am very grateful for the kindness.

Cat now joins other non-Chicago Bandits softball players Rachele Fico, Sarah Pauly, Sami Fagan and Kelley Montalvo on my shelf. That would be a great start to a softball team. If I add my Bandits bobbles of Jennie Finch, Amber Patton, Megan Blank, Megan Wiggins and Alisa Goler, it gets even better.

Swag Week: Kelly Kretschman Autographed Softball

Swag Week features interesting collectibles I have gotten through my coverage of various teams and people.

Kelly Kretschman is a softball legend. A four-time All-American at Alabama, she is a two-time medal-winning Olympian. She played 15 years of National Pro Fastpitch, most notably with the USSSA Pride. She was on seven NPF Champion teams and was a three-time NPF Player of the Year.

I had the pleasure of interviewing Kretschman on the field after a victory against the Chicago Bandits during the 2019 Cowles Cup Championship series. Kretschman's Pride won the series. The previous night at the NPF Awards ceremony, Kretschman announced her retirement. I talked about that with her in the interview. I ended by thanking her for the years of fun watching her play. I was gld to have the opportunity to interview her, but also to express my gratitude. That interview can be found at On the Beat With Kelly Kretschman.

I would never ask for an autograph while on press duty, but the next night I was just a fan. I asked Kretschman to sign a ball for me and she graciously did it laughing that I didn't ask the previous night.

Kretschman was a true pro. She is missed on the field. I wonder what she would have done in Athletes Unlimited Softball.

Swag Week: Natisha Hiedeman Jersey

Swag Week features the cool stuff I have gotten while covering teams, people and events. 

Natisha Heideman was a star player at Marquette University. I first met her on Marquette Media Day in 2017. She was tops on my list to meet. I did not get to interview her, but at least I met her.

When I started covering the whole WNBA in 2020, Heideman was playing with the Connecticut Sun. Luckily, the Sun granted me Zoom media access and I landed my first interview with Heideman. I since have talked to her several time in Zoom sessions. That first interview with her can be found at On the Beat With Natisha Heideman.

Last year, the Sun held a contest giving away prizes including autographed jerseys. I am not sure how I ended up with Heideman's, but I am grateful however it happened.

Natisha Hiedeman 2020 Connecticut Sun jersey. 

Swag Week: Brenna Moss Jersey

Swag Week features the cool stuff I have gotten over the years while covering people, teams and events.

After California native Brenna Moss starred at Fresno State, she was selected by the Chicago Bandits in the 3rd round of the 2015 National Pro Fastpitch draft. She went on to become a star over her five years with the Bandits. 

In 2018, she won the NPF’s Player of the Year Award after she tied the league’s single-season hits record (65) and broke the franchise record for single-season stolen bases (27). Also she won the NPF’s Offensive Player of the Year Award and Stolen Base Award in 2018. For her career, Brenna hit .301 with 4 HRs, 61 RBIs, 117 runs scored and 63 SBs in 228 games. 

Brenna was one of the most fun players in the league. She was always smiling and always willing to talk in interviews or simply for fun. One of my highlights was watching a playoff game with her dad down the left field line, while Brenna played left field.

The Bandits had special jerseys for various causes like Cancer Awareness. Over the years, the team had raffles for jerseys and I tried for a couple times to win Brenna's. Finally in 2019, I was lucky enough to get Brenna's jersey.

 Brenna Moss and me in Rosemont, IL-Summer 2019

Swag Week: Friend Encounters: Nadia Taylor and Don Martukovich

Friend Encounters is a weekly series featuring friends who have met celebrities. Swag Week continues with a Friend Encounters Special Swag Week edition. 

Don Martukovich is another friend I never met. Based in Ohio, Don is a huge softball fan, who attends many games and posts hundreds (thousands?) of pictures of the action and players. I live vicariously through him at these games. I appreciate his pictures, but the players and families appreciate them even more. I occasionally reach out to Don for help in identifying players in my own pictures and Don always is willing to help.

Today, I feature Don with Nadia Taylor and her jersey. I am guessing Don won it in an auction.

Nadia starred at the University of Texas, before turning to National Pro Fastpitch, signing with the Akron Racers as an undrafted free agent in 2014.She played for the Dallas Charge 2016-2017 and then joined the Chicago Bandits.

I wonder how many other jerseys Don has. I would guess a few, but probably many more signed balls. Everyone knows Don. Players are great with signing autographs, but I bet they nejoy signing stuff for him even more, because of all he has done for the players.

With the NPF suspending play in 2020-2021, we are all hopeful for a return in 2022. Akron is gone, but the Cleveloand Comts are an Ohio team I might visit and maybe see Don finally.

Don Martukovich and Nadia Taylor in Akron, OH-August 2014.

Swag Week: Celebrity Jersey Cards #563 Ed Rendell & Stacey Gardner

Celebrity Jersey Cards is a weekly series in which I create virtual trading cards for celebrities wearing jerseys. For Swag Week, we featured celebs with swag.

Born in New York, Ed Rendell would go on to become the 45th Governor of Pennsylvania, serving 2003-2011. Prior to that, Rendell was Mayor of Philadelphia 1992-2000. Rendell is a big sports fan, favoring the Eagles, but he has made several fun wagers supporting various Pennsylvania teams. For his Celebrity Jersey card, Rendell wore a #92, perhaps most notably worn by James Harrison. Swag in the form of a Steelers helmet and rag doll also made the card.

Born in Beverly Hills, California, Stacey Gardner is an actress, model and practicing attorney. She is possibly most known for her stint on tv's Deal Or No Deal, guarding briefcase #2. Punter Darren Bennett is probably the most successful #2 for the Chargers. Gardner's Celebrity Jersey Card also features several other DoND models, as well as their briefcases, in this case classified as swag.

Pinfalls: All Elite Wrestling Full Gear

Pinfalls is back and this time we venture into the land of All Elite Wrestling for the first time. Entertainment reporter Candace Cordelia and I look at the upcoming AEW Full Gear PPV airing Saturday, November 13.

Since we recorded this Pinfalls on Monday, we based our predictions on the matches announced. Any subsequent match changes are out of our control. As always, you'll have to watch the Pinfalls video to see our predictions and analysis, but I will reveal we had three different picks among the eight matches.

The Full Gear card is:

AEW World Championship

Kenny Omega (c) vs. Hangman Page

AEW Women's World Championship

Dr. Britt Baker D.M.D. (c) with Jamie Hayter and Rebel vs. Tay Conti with Anna Jay

AEW World Tag Team Championship

The Lucha Brothers (c) vs. FTR (Dax Harwood and Cash Wheeler)

Falls Count Anywhere

SuperKliq (Adam Cole and the Young Bucks) vs. Jungle Boy, Luchasaurus and Christian Cage

10 Man Tag Minneapolis Street Fight

Inner Circle vs. Scorpio Sky, Ethan Page and American Top Team

For a Future Title Shot

Miro vs. Bryan Danielson

CM Punk vs. Eddie Kingston

Darby Allin with Sting vs. MJF with Wardlow

It looks to be a great night of wrestling with eight excellent matchups.While we would have liked to see one more women's match, 

This episode of Pinfalls can be found at Pinfalls: AEW Full Gear on YouTube. Tune in to AEW Full Gear at 6:30 PM CST on PPV. Check back here for my recap and to see how Candace and I did.

Noelle Foley and Frank at C2E2 2020

C2E2 2020 was the last major event I attended prior to the pandemic lockdown. C2E2 2021 was delayed, but it returns December 10-12 and I can't wait.

Last year, I clowned around a bit with a couple old favorites. Noelle Foley and Frank the Clown also happen to be a real couple.

Noelle is the daughter of wrestling legend Mick Foley. Many times over the years, I talked to Mick about his kids, including (then) little Noelle. I watched her grow up through Mick's books, interviews, chats etc.

She dabbled in wrestling, until an injury ended that pursuit. She has co-starred on Holy Foley, done interviews for the WWE and hosted other shows. Somewhere on that journey, she picked up a clown.

Actually, she started dating Frank Mustari (also known as Frank the Clown). I first met Frank at Resistance Pro and had the pleasure of interviewing him there. That interview can be found at On the Beat With Frank the Clown.

Frank gets a bit of flak from the wrestling fanbase, but that's probably more envy from his relationship with Noelle. Frank is actually very talented and a hard-worker.I have seen him do some crazy things at wrestling shows. The guy knows how to work a crowd and get a reaction.

When I saw they would be at C2E2, I grabbed my red nose and went to see them. Of course, I started the conversation without the clown bit, but when I put on the nose for the picture, they both had a big laugh. Frank then grabbed an extra wig for me to also wear. It instantly became one of my favorite pictures, just because it's goofy.

I'm sure I'll have more similar fun with this year's celebrity guests. I can't wait! 

Go to C2E2.com for more info and scheduling. Also, check here for my recurring coverage.

Noelle Foley, Frank th Clown and me in Chicago, IL-March 2020.

Ryan Ottley at C2E2 2017

I am excited about the return of C2E2 December 10-12. I look forward to seeing interesting celebrities and creators. Illustrator Ryan Ottley has had a successful and interesting career.

He is probably best known for his work on Invincible, written by Robert Kirkman and published by Image comics. Ottley was discovered by Kirkman in an online forum in 2003. Kirkman offered him the job of illustrating Invincible Issue 8. Since then, Ottley has worked on the series as the artist for 127 issues of the 144 issue run.

Ottley has done plenty of other work, too. He has done inside art for Spider-Man and The Walking Dead among others, as well as cover art for Justice League, The Flash and others. He has also been an artist and contributing creator of INVINCIBLE, an animated series on Amazon Prime.

I had the pleasure of meeting Ottley at C2E2 a few years ago. I was amazed at the variety of his work. I hope to see him again at a future con.

You can get more info on Ottley on RyanOttley.Tumbler.com. Also, check C2E2.com for more info and scheduling.

Ryan Ottley and me in Chicago, IL-April 2017.

On the Beat With DePaul WBB Game One

The season opener was Allie Quigley Night for the DePaul Blue Demons Women's Basketball Team. With WNBA champ Quigley, the Blue Demons played like champs, crushing Texas Southern University 114-71.

First year player Aneesah Morrow was the star of the night. Playng her first regular season game, Morrow scored 31 points on 13-16 shooting. She is the first player in Coach Doug Bruno's DePaul career to score that many points in her freshman debut.

Morrow also grabbed a team-leading nine rebounds, falling just one short of a double-double. This prompted Coach Bruno to take a lighthearted jab at Morrow in the post-game media session for not hitting that milestone. Not missing a beat, Quigley retorted Coach Bruno should have kept Morrow in the game. This exchange caused a nice round of laughter from all.

Rounding out her dominating performance, Morrow had four steals and three blocks. Media members in press row were trying to recall any first game performance like this.

This game was never in doubt. TSU scored the first points, but DePaul took over from there, leading 35-18 after the first quarter and 60-27 at halftime. DePaul and Morrow were so dominating, Morrow actually matched TSU in scoring in the first half.

The lead was so big, Coach Bruno was able to give his bench a lot of playing time. Even with bench players in the game, DePaul played even with TSU as they cruised to the 43 point win.

In addition to Morrow, three other Blue Demons finished in double digits. Deja Church had 21, Dee Bekelja had 17 off the bench and Darrione Rogers poured in 11. Lexi Held had seven assists and six points.

For the game, DePaul shot 67.6% (46-68) from the field, 58.3% ()7-12) from three point land and 78.9% (15-19) from the free throw line. TSU shot 37.7% (29-77), 15.0% (3-20) and 90.9% (10-11), respectively.

It was a bit surreal in the post game media session with DePaul great Quigley sitting next to the rising star Morrow. It was a total feel good session, as all celebrated DePaul's past and future.

DePaul returns to action Friday night at Wintrust. They will face city rival Loyola University.

On Monday, Quigley, Coach Bruno and Held participated in a Zoom press session which can be found at On the Beat With Allie Quigley, Coach Doug Bruno & Lexi Held.

EG Daily at C2E2 2019

While I missed having C2E2 earlier this year, I have warmed up to the idea of C2E2 in December. It gives me something fun to do to take my mind off the impending winter.

Elizabeth Daily is an actress, voice actress, and singer best known for voicing Tommy Pickles in the Rugrats franchise. She has also voiced Buttercup on The Powerpuff Girls, Rudy Tabootie on ChalkZone, Babe on Babe: Pig in the City and Bamm-Bamm Rubble in the live-action film version of The Flintstones. Of course, Daily has done a lot more acting, singing,l voiceover and other projects in entertainment, but I will always know her as Dottie from PeeWee's Big Adventure.

At C2E2, I didn't realize who she was at first. I always cruise through the voice actors though, looking for folks known more for that, but who also played a key role in any of my favorites. Such waas the case with Daily.

She was sup[er sweet, too. Usually there is a handler to take care of pictures. For whatever reason, I started to ask a random person to take the picture, when Dailey took control and worked a selfie. At the time, my selfie skills were in their infancy, but Dailey was a pro. She joked that she had been doing it all convention and it was just easier for her to do it.

Daily also commented on my glasses, saying "they were cool" and asking where I got them. I'm sure Daily could get much better glasses than I had, but it was still funny.

C2E2 runs December 10-12. Go to C2E2.com for news and scheduling. Also, check back here for my recurring coverage.

EG Daily and me in Chicago, IL-March 2019.

Friend Encounters: Pepper Johnson and Larry Freda

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

Thomas "Pepper" Johnson played 13 seasons in the NFL, the first seven with the New York Giants. He won two Super Bowls with the Giants. After retiring as a player, Johnson began coaching, first with the New England Patriots for 13 seasons, winning three more Super Bowls. 

Johnson's aunt gave him the "Pepper" nickname, when she saw he put black pepper on his corn flakes. Johnson's son Dionte went undrafted, but signed with the Arizona Cardinals. An injury ended his NFL dream though.

Johnson's first year in the NFL was 1986, after my Chicago Bears won the Super Bowl. Johnson was not on the earlier teams who the Bears crushed on their way to greatness. Unfortunately for the Bears, they started collapsing after the Super Bowl, just as Johnson was starting to blossom.

It is only fitting that I feature Larry Freda with Johnson. East coaster Larry is a huge NY sports fan. I am sure it was a thrill for him to meet Johnson. Larry has met many celebrities and athletes, but I think the NY ones are extra special to him.

Larry Freda and Pepper Johnson in Woodbridge, NJ-July 2013.

Celebrity Jersey Cards #562 Brian Pillman Jr. & The Blue Meanie

Celebrity Jersey Cards is a weekly series in which I create virtual trading cards for celebrities wearing sports jerseys.

Born in Kentucky, Brian Pillman Jr. is a second generation wrestler. His father, "The Loose Cannon" Brian Pillman also played pro football with the Cincinnati Bengals. Unfortunately, Brian Sr. died way too young, but Brian Jr. is carrying on the legacy, while making his own name at All Elite Wrestling. Of course, for his Celebrity Jersey Card, he is repping the Bengals, but not his father's #58.

Brian Heffron was born in Philadelphia, PA and has stayed true to his roots throughout his career. He gained fame as "The Blue Meanie" in the now defunct ECW and later in the WWE. Heffron is a big fan of all Philly sports teams. His previous appearance on a Celebrity Jersey Card showed him in a Phillies jersey. Now, he reps his beloved Eagles. He still needs the Sixers and the Flyers to complete the Grand Slam.

Cards That Never Were: Brian Baschnagel Topps 1984 & '85

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. More of my creations and many great creations of others can be found in the Custom Baseball Cards Facebook group (and not just baseball cards).
After playing his college ball at Ohio State, Brian Bashnagel was selected by the Chicago Bears in the 3rd round of the 1976 NFL draft. Baschnagel played nine seasons with the Bears, but unfortunately spent the 1985 Super Bowl season on the injured reserve list. For his career, Baschnagel played in 129 games, catching 134 passes for 2,024 yards and nine TDs.
For his efforts, Topps gave Baschnagel cards in their sets from 1977 through 1983.That left 1984 and '85 missing. Despite not retiring until after the '85 season, I am calling the '85 card his "career capper" and not making an '86 card.
There aren't a lot of Baschnagel pictures online, but there were enough to fill the gaps. Lynn from the Facebook group Custom Baseball Cards created the 1984 card. and I created the '85 card, which is from one of my favorite sets. The '85 card also features Defensive Coordinator Buddy Ryan.

Anna Jay of All Elite Wrestling

Anna Jay started training for a wrestling career in July 2018. A shoulder injury caused a setback, but she eventually made her debut in September 2019. On April 1, 202, she signed with All Elite Wrestling and was on the rise until another shoulder injury sidelined her again. She returned to action on September 1, 2021.

Two shoulder injuries have caused her to miss considerable time, but at only 23, she still is young enough to bounce back. Hopefully, she can stay healthy going forward. Then we can all see what she can do in the ring.

If her time on the softball field is any indication, Jay is going to be a star. She played excellent defense in a recent charity softball game between AEW and Pro Wrestling Tees. She wa also a bit hit with fans at the meet-and-greet prior to the game.

I think Jay will have an excellent career if she can stay healthy and if she sticks with it. She has the tools, the looks and the charisma.

Go to AllEliteWrestling.com for more info on her and the rest of AEW. Also, check back here for my recurring coverage.

Anna Jay and me in Schaumburg, IL-September 2021.

Coach Curt Miller and the WNBA

The Connecticut Sun are the first WNBA team other than the Chicago Sky that I covered. Coach Curt Miller was the first WNBA coach other than the Sky coaches. 

Coach Miller started his coaching career as an assistant with Cleveland State University in 1991. After a couple other assistant tints, he became a head coach at Bowling Green in 2001. In 2015, he joined the WNBA Los Angeles Sparks as an assistant. He has been Head Coach of the Sun since 2016.

With the Sun, he was named the WNBA Coach of the Year in 2017. In his five seasons, he has a record of 89-69. This seas

Coach Miller gives great answers in media sessions. I always enjoy listening to his answers. I probably have talked to Coach Miller more than any other WNBA coach.

A lot was lost to the pandemic, but one benefit I had was being able to join media Zoom sessions for all of the teams. I never would have had that chance in regular times.

The Sun had an interesting 2021 season. They had the league's best record at 26-6, but they were upset in the Semi-Finals by eventual champ Chicago Sky. It was a tough series for me, because I obviously cheered for my Sky, but I hated to see the Sun lose.

Check back and GlobalWomensSportsRadio.com here for my recurring coverage. Also, check WNBA.com for all the info and news on the league.

Curt Miller and me in FL & IL-Summer 2020.

Celebrity Jersey Cards #561 Sue Bird & Nevin Harrison

Celebrity Jersey Cards is a weekly series in which I create virtual trading cards for celebrities wearing sports jerseys. Today, because the Seattle Seahawks are very Celebrity Jersey Card friendly with their 12th man flag raising, I feature two celebrity Seahawks.

After a stellar career at UConn, Sue Bird has established herself as one of the greatest of all time in the WNBA. During her 20 seasons (all with the Seattle Storm), Bird has won four WNBA championships. She has won countless awards along the way. She also earned five gold medals in the Olympics. There is much speculation on her future. I am betting she comes back for one more season. Either way, she earned a Celebrity Jersey Card with her pro home team Seahawks.

Like Bird, canoeist Nevin Harrison has also won Olympic gold. Harrison won the gold medal in the women's C-1 200 meters event at the 2020 Olympics.The 19 year old is a Seattle native. Harrison earned a Celebrity Jersey card with her hoetown team and shared it with Seahawks legend Paul Moyer.

David Herro at Blizzard Brawl 2019

Great Lakes Championship Wrestling's Blizzard Brawl returns Saturday, December 4 at the Waukesha County Expo in Waukesha, Wisconsin. Doors open at 5:00 PM with the show starting at 7:30.

Blizzard Brawl always has several wrestling legends and current stars who participate in the pre-show meet-and-greet. Despite there being a lot of wrestling stars, there is plenty of time to meet all of them. I have never run out of time trying to meet all of the talent. After the meet-and-greet, there is a full wrestling card featuring the legends and current stars.

Already announced are Val Venis vs. Backwoods Brown, Shannon Moore vs. Joey Avalon, Cash Flo vs. Joe Doering, "The Titan" Adam Scherr, EC3, Serena Deeb, Debra and the Gunn Club (Austin and Colten Gunn). That's already a Super Card and there is more to come.

It all adds up o a fantastic night of wrestling. It all starts with #SuperFriend and promoter David Herro. David is always working tirelessly to make all of his shows a fun time for all. Many of the wrestlers return, proving how much they like Blizzard Brawl and David. I have attended many Blizzard rwl events and all have been a blast/

David's son Kal has been involved in Blizzard Brawl shows since he was a toddler. He has gotten into the ring for various segments, but this year, he will be in the ring as an active member of the Ohio Valley Wrestling roster. It has been great watching Kal grow up over the years and now seeing "The Fannypack Kid" wrestle. I'm sure nobody is happier to see him than proud pops David and rightly so. They are a great combo and I look forward to catching up with them at Blizzard Brawl.

Go to GLCWWrestling.com for more info and scheduling. I'll be "On the Beat" there and will be providing recurring coverage before and after Blizzard Brawl.

David Herro and me in Waukesha, WI-December 2019.

Friend Encounters: Cora Jade and Mike Pankow

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

Fellow journalist Mike Pankow and I have run across each other many times at events. He is the creative force behind Windy City Slams, a website and podcast. I have even had the pleasure of helping Mike on a few interviews.

Obviously, Mike has met many wrestlers. Today, he is featured with a young wrestler he met on her way up. I'll let Mike explain. 

"I was fortunate enough to get a pic and autograph with a local wrestler named Elayna Black at a Freelance Underground show in Joliet. Fast forward a year later and Elayna is now in NXT and known as Cora Jade. Amazing journey for sure!"

The 20 year old Jade was trained at the Freelance Wrestling Academy by Bryce Benjamin, among others. Jade spent time in Impact Wrestling and All Elite Wrestling before joining the WWE.

While Mike didn't "discover" Jade, he definitely was one of the first to cover her and showcase her to wrestling fans through his work. Jade is just one of dozens (hundreds?) of wrestlers Mike has covered on WSC.

Go to WindyCitySlam.com to see all of Mike's wrestling stories and interviews. Prepare to spend some time there, because WCS is loaded with great stuff.

Mike Pankow and Cora Jade in Joliet, IL-February 2020.