Happy Birthday Cuzz!

Today Cuzz Gekas celebrates his birthday. Today, I raise a blog post to my pal.

Cuzz has been a great friend for many years. We've shared many road trips with other friends and also just by ourselves. Whether it's a baseball trip or a convention outing, it is always a great time with Cuzz.

Cuzz is a great help at events, spotting celebrities, taking pictures and generally coordinating logistics when I get overwhelmed by the chaos there. More importantly though, is the fun I have with him. Several folks could be helpers at conventions, but none can take Cuzz's place.

Earlier this year, Cuzz joined me covering a Loyola women's softball game. Besides hanging with me, he had a special interest. His goddaughter Maddie Kapsimalis was one of the best players on the Dayton Flyers, who were playing Loyola. Maddie's father Greg, a longtime friend of Cuzz's, was also there. It was a fantastic day of watching them watch their beloved Maddie. Sadly for them, the Flyers lost that day. I had divided loyalties and just wanted a good game, with Maddie playing well.

After the game, we all talked and took pictures. I later interviewed Maddie via Zoom, which is at On the Beat with Maddie Kapsimalis. While I would have been at the game even without the Maddie-Cuzz connection, it was special because of Cuzz. It also added to one new event for us.

Happy birthday, Cuzz! I hope it's a great day and upcoming year.

Cuzz Gekas and Maddie Kapsimalis in Chicago, IL-May 2023.

Friend Encounters: Kris Statlander and John D. at StarrCast VI

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

I can post this picture of my pal John D. meeting All Elite Wrestling's Kris Statlander without being envious. I Recently had the pleasure of meeting Statlander at StarrCast VI.

Actually, I met Statlander a couple years back. Because it was during the pandemic, Statlander was masked. While I understand and respect her decision to wear the mask at the time, it wasn't a picture I really wanted.

When I saw Statlander would be at StarrCast VI, she went to the top of my list of wrestlers I wanted to meet. I could make up for the mask photo.

Of course, while I was there, John D. was also there to meet Stanlander and the many other great wrestlers. John is a frequent attendee of such events and we cross paths many times. John also meets a lot of singers and other celebrities. Thus, he has many opportunities to take pictures that make me envious. Fortunately, this one with Statlander is not one of them.

Go to StarrCast.com for more info on a great wrestling event. Check back here for more friends with celebrities. Feel free to send your own pics to me.

John D. and Kris Statlander in Schaumburg, IL-September 2023.

Celebrity Jersey Cards #659 Erika Piancastelli & Joe Namath

Celebrity Jersey Cards is a weekly series in which I create virtual trading cards for celebrities wearing sports jerseys. Today, I conclude my season-long alphabetical journey through all Major League Baseball teams with two female athletes.

Erika Piancastelli was born in Modena, Emilia-Romagna, Italy, but came to America and starred at McNeese State. Along the way, she also has played with Team Italy. For the last three seasons, she has been one of the stars of Athletes Unlimited Softball. Usually a catcher, Piancastelli often played outfield at AU. I saw her make one of the best throws I have ever seen, when she nailed a runner at third with a perfect strike from right field. As amazing as she is on the field, she is just as great off it. A few times I brought friends to AU games and messaged her asking her to stop by the autograph area to meet them and she always did. Piancastelli earned her Celebrity Jersey Card at Yankee Stadium.

Born in Beaver Falls, Pennsylvania, Joe Namath starred at Alabama before being selected by the New York Jets with the first pick in the 1965 AFL Draft. He was also selected by the St. Louis Cardinals with the twelfth pick in the 1965 NFL Draft. Namath chose the Jets. He almost single-handedly put the AFL on the map by guaranteeing and delivering a victory in Super Bowl III against the Baltimore Colts. After 12 seasons with the Jets, Namath finished his career with one with the Los Angeles Rams. Injuries plagued Namath throughout his career, limiting his overall success. Still, he was elected to the Hall of Fame in 1985. His stats do not reveal the totality of what Namath accomplished. Namath showed great form on the mound for the New York Yankees to earn his Celebrity Jersey Card.

Cards That Never Were: Bubba Smith Topps 1968, '69, '74 and '77

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 a successful career at Michigan State, Charles "Bubba" Smith was selected #1 overall by the Baltimore Colts in the 1967 NFL draft. Smith played five seasons with the Colts, missing the 1972 season with an injury. He returned to play two seasons with the Oakland Raiders, followed by two seasons with the Houston Oilers. In his career, he played in 111 games, making two Pro Bowls.

For his efforts, Topps gave Smith cards in 1970-'73 and '75-'76. That left 1968-'69, '74 and '77 missing. The first three were relatively easy to create. There are very few pictures of Bubba with the Oilers. In fact, one picture has Tody listed as Bubba. I used that as a CTNW for Tody and kept searching to complete Bubba's set.

I finally found a black and white shot that I somewhat colorized. It's not the best, but okay being that Topps used the same picture on four different years of cards for Smith (1970, '71, '75 and '76). That's about as bad as it gets for trading cards. My 1977 Bubba Smith card might not be the est, but at least it is original.

Debra McMichael at Blizzard Brawl 2021

Debra McMichael seems like an unlikely guest at a wrestling convention or event. I give her credit though for carving her place in wrestling and making the most of all opportunities.

The ex-wife of both "Stone Cold" Steve Austin and "Mongo" Steve McMichael (please do not put an "s" on his name), Debra debuted in 1995, accompanying Mongo to the ring in WCW. She eventually joined the WWE as a manager. She won the Divas title once and later was paired with then-husband Austin. She left wrestling in 2002 and has kept a low profile, although I do follow her on social media and she seems to be doing great.

Debra is a great example of interesting guests promoter and #Superfriend David Herro brings in for Blizzard Brawl. The guest list hasn't been announced yet, but I know I will be "On the Beat" there and I am sure there will be plenty of great names as usual.

Go to GLCWWrestling.com for more info and scheduling. Check back here for my recurring coverage.

Debra McMichael and me in Waukesha, WI-December 2021.

Terry Huddleston at New York Comic Con 2021

After going the last two years, I missed the New York Comic Con this year. NYCC is one of the biggest comic cons in the country. I will be back "On the Beat" meeting celebrities and creators of all sorts.

Terry Huddleston was one of the first artists I met at a comic con. I saw his wall of superheroes and immediately looked for Aquaman. I found it and it was old school Aquaman, too.  I became a fan of his right on the spot. Of course, I like all of Terry's work, not just Aquaman.

Terry is a freelance artist and illustrator from South Bend, Indiana. I first noticed his Superhero heads, but he does more than just Superheroes and more than just heads. The heads do take up a major part of his booth though. Actually, his booth might have the most artwork of any creator booth at comic cons. He is literally surrounded by his fantastic art. As you can see, I could barely get a selfie with him because he has so much stuff on display.

That's not a complaint. I love seeing all of his work displayed. No matter how many times I see his display, I always am amazed by it. I always seem to find new things in it.

Terry is also one of the coolest artists put there. He is always up for a little chat with con attendees. His booth is a regular stop on my Artist Alley loop and I always look forward to catching up with him.

Go to TerryHuddlestonArt.com for more info on Terry and his latest projects. Check NewYorkComicCon.com for updates and scheduling on NYCC 2024.

Terry Huddleston and me in New York, NY-October 2021.

Back "On the Beat" with the Loyola Ramblers WBB

Despite the impending doom of a long, cold Chicago winter, I am excited. I was just confirmed to be back "On the Beat" for my fifth season with the Loyola Ramblers Women's Basketball team.

Last season was Coach Allison Guth's first season with the team. It was also their first year in a new conference. That's already a lot of change. Then injuries set m/ The team struggled to a 6-24 season.

I admit, some games were tough to watch. Playing short-handed at times, the team suffered some big losses. Somehow though, the team seemed better than the record indicated. That doesn't mean they underachieved. Quite the opposite. They played hard and fought in every game, even when the outcome was sealed by halftime.

Right from the start, I felt something different with the team. When I left the first game, I called my long-time buddy Louie, uncle of guard Sam Galanopoulos and told him something special was being built at Loyola. I always respected the play of the Ramblers, but I really liked this team under Guth.

I always enjoyed the post-game press sessions. The players were positive, despite logging lots of tough minutes. Coach Guth was such a class act. After every session, she thanked me and the others individually for covering the team.

After the team finished 6-24, I still felt the future was bright. At the risk of sounding like a homer, i really thought this team needed a season under Coach Guth, in the new conference with better health.

The regular season starts November 6 at home against UIC. I am calling for a close win over their city rivals. I am also calling for twice as many wins as last season. I even think a .500 season is possible. No matter what, I will be courtside for many games, thanks to the hospitality of the Loyola University Athletics Department.

Check my coverage of the Ramblers here, GlobalTravelerUSA.com, TheEveryDayFan.com and the Johngy's Beat NCAA playlist on YouTube. Also, check LoyolaRamblers.com for more in-depth coverage, including box scores, pictures and other game-related notes.

Austin and Colten Gunn at Blizzard Brawl 2021

Blizzard Brawl returns Saturday, December 2. Great Lake Championship Wrestling's biggest event of the year is not one to miss.

The day starts at 4:30 with a big meet and greet featuring 20+ wrestling legends, stars and up-and-comers. It continues with a full night of wrestling matches.

While it's cool meeting the legends and current stars, it is also a great opportunity to meet youngsters before they hit it big. Such was the case when I met Austin and Colten Gunn a couple years back.

Sons of Billy, the second generation Gunns are now on the bigger stage at All Elite Wrestling. They have been part of big angles and are doing very well there. It's a good bet if they are at a convention now, their line would be much longer and their price price much higher.

The Gunn brothers aren't the only stars on the rise I met at Blizzard Brawl. Over the years, I have met quite a few young wrestlers who have gone on to bigger things. That list includes HollyHood Haley J and Leila Gray, both of whom have appeared in AEW.

This year, the legends include John "The Berzerker" Nord, who I will be happy to finally meet. It will also include some youngins, who one day might be on the bigger stage elsewhere. That is the beauty of Blizzard Brawl.

Check GLCWWrestling.com for more info and scheduling. Also, check back here for my recurring coverage.

Austin and Colten Gunn and me in Waukesha, WI-December 2021.

On the Beat With Hardcore Heather Owens

I recently made my debut on the Cincinnati Patch when I went "On the Beat" with Hardcore Heather Owens to discuss Power! Pride! Pro Wrestling!: A Drag & Wrestling Extravaganza! Longtime friend, (semi( retired pro wrestler and Co-Chair of Cincinnati Pride Athletics Committee, Heather is the perfect person to get the scoop on this cool event.

Power! Pride! Pro Wrestling! brings together the world of pro wrestling with the LGBTQ+ community. It features five wrestling matches and three drag performances. There's also great drinks, because it's held at Rhinegeist Brewery and great food from the Wild Side Caveman food truck.

I have known Heather for about a decade, having met at Resistance Pro Wrestling. She's one of the coolest, sweetest people, except in the ring, where she earned her "hardcore" moniker. Either way, Heather is the best. If she is involved in something, it's going to be good.

The interview is on the Patch at Power! Pride! Pro Wrestling! For more info and tickets, go to CincinnatiPride.org.

Friend Encounters: Maggie Lee and Mike Pankow

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

I have known Mike Pankow for many years. We crossed paths at wrestling events all over the Chicago area.

A few years ago, Mike started Windy City Slam, a wrestling website and podcast. Mike is a one man show, covering wrestling in the midwest, but also big news around the world. 

Obviously, I cover wrestling, too, but admittedly not as in depth as Mike. He sometimes covers multiple events in one day. I have sen him come to a wrestling show, get some content and leave before the matches even start because he had somewhere else to go.

Mike is a great guy and definitely passionate and knowledgeable about wrestling. Windy City Slam has grown a lot in a short time and is one of the most respected wrestling sites.

With his background, he obviously knows talent. He took the pic below with Maggie Lee, a young wrestler who appears to have a bright future. I might have to have an interview with Mike to get his scouting report on Maggie and others. 

Check WindyCitySlam.com to see Mike's great work. Keep your eye out for him at wrestling shows and talk wrestling with him.

Mike Pankow and Maggie Lee in Long Grove, IL-August 2023.

Celebrity Jersey Cards #658 Mackenzie O'Brien & Jim Peterik

Celebrity Jersey Cards is a weekly series in which I create virtual trading cards for celebrities wearing sports jerseys. Today, I continue my season-long alphabetical journey through all Major League Baseball teams.

Chicago-area native taught herself how to play guitar at the age of 14. Nicknamed Hummingbird for her habit of humming made up melodies, the moniker became a symbol for her music and the title of her song and video in 2020. O'Brien can often be found playing around Chicagoland, but she has made several trips to Nashville and elsewhere playing her music. I saw her live a few years back and talked to her after the performance. She was as sweet as she was talented. I also met her father, who was very engaging and proud of his daughter (and rightly so). O'Brien performed the National Anthem for the Chicago White Sox and landed on a Celebrity Jersey Card.

Born in Berwyn, just west of Chicago, Jim Peterik went on to success as a singer/songwriter for The Ideas of March and as the found of Survivor. He has also co-written many songs with others, including the Beach Boys, Cheap Trick and more. Easily recognizable for his colorful hair, when he isn;t performing, he can often be spotted around the Chicago area. He played the National Anthem for the White Sox and landed on an old school Celebrity Jersey Card.

Cards That Never Were: Calvin Hill Topps 1975 & '82

Cards That Never Were is a weekly series in which I create virtual trading cards for players missed in various sets. It is a concept I borrowed from far too many to list, but I appreciate all of their efforts.

After a stellar career at Yale University, Calvin Hill was selected by the Dallas Cowboys in the first round (24th overall) of the 1969 NFL draft. The running back played six seasons with the Cowboys, before signing with Hawaii of the the upstart World Football League. After one season, he was back in the NFL with the Washington Redskins. After two seasons, he played his final four seasons with the Cleveland Browns. For his career, Hill played 156 games, rushing for 6,083 yards, averaging 4.2 yards per attempt, with 42 touchdowns. He also had 2,862 receiving yards with 23 touchdowns.

For his efforts, Topps gave Hill cards in sets from 1970-'74 and '76-'81. Despite Hill playing in the WFL in 1975, Topps gave him a 1976 card with his new team. They did not give him a card in the '75 set though. I had to correct that miss, as well as give him a "career capper" for the '82 set.

Gail Kim at Blizzard Brawl 2021

We are just over six weeks away from Blizzard Brawl. Great Lakes Championship Wrestling's biggest event of the year is one I never want to miss.

Run by #Superfriend David Herro, Blizzard Brawl takes place at the Waukesha County Expo Center. It features a bunch of wrestling legends and current stars for a meet-and-greet, followed by a full card of wrestling action.

When talking about legends, Gail Kim is among the best women wrestlers to ever grace a ring. A champion everywhere she went, Kim won numerous titles and had great feuds with the likes of Trish Stratus, Mickie James and more.

Kim is married to Chef Robert Irvine. The pair met at WWE SummerSlam when Irvine prepared meals for WWE VIP's.

The full guest list has not been announced yet this year, but John Nord (The Berzerker) is one I am very interested in meeting. I am certain more great names will be announced soon.

Blizzard Brawl is on Saturday, December 2. The doors open at 4:30 to give everyone plenty of time to meet the talent. The show starts at 7:00. Limited (but good) food and beverages are available.

For more info and scheduling, go to GLCWWrestling.com. Check back here for my recurring coerage.

Gail Kim and me in Waukesha, WI-December 2021.

Tony Schiavone at New York Comic Con 2021

New York Comic Con is less than a month away. Running October 6-10, it is one of the country's biggest comic cons. Once again, I will be "On the Beat" meeting celebrities and creators of all sorts.

Last year, I had the pleasure of meeting wrestling announcer Tony Schiavone

A while back when my creator friend Dirk Manning told me he was doing a book with Tony, I excitedly awaited the release. Graphic novel Butts in Seats: The Tony Schiavone Story came out recently and it is fantastic!

Tony has had a great career. With a broadcasting career going back to 1983, Tony has been a broadcaster for wrestling, baseball and more. Nearing 40 years behind the mic, Tony is still an underrated broadcaster, who deserves more credit and exposure.

Now as a Senior Producer and announcer for All Elite Wrestling, Tony is being exposed to another generation of wrestling fans. Already selling in crazy numbers, Butts in Seats is giving Tony even more exposure.

Butts in Seats is 148 pages of colorful stories of Tony's life in and out of the wrestling world. It's a quick read. I planned on just starting it and reading a bit each day for a while, but once in the book, I kept going. Kudos to Dirk, Tony and the other involved on a fantastic book.

When at NYCC last year, I talked to both Dirk and Tony about the book. They were very excited and proud. I met Tony a couple years ago, but this was the first time I really talked to Tony. He is such a genuinely nice guy. I am very happy for him.

Go to AllEliteWrestling.com for more info on Tony and all the wrestlers of AEW. Go to NewYorkComicCon.com for more info and updates.

Tony Schiavone and me in New York, NY-October 2021.

On the Beat With Frank Catalanotto

As the baseball playoffs get serious, I turned to 14 year Major League veteran Frank Catalanotto for my latest Talking Travel interview. Now the Hofstra Head Baseball Coach, Catalanotto has a story of family, baseball and travel.

Catalanotto was drafted by the Detroit Tigers and made his MLB debut in 1997. He played for the Tigers, Texas Rangers, Milwaukee Brewers, New York Mets and Toronto Blue Jays, before retiring after the 2010 season. He hit a very nice .291 for his career, while playing several positions. He was also named Player of the Week twice.

Early in his career, daughter Morgan was born. Morgan had a vascular birthmark, which ultimately led the Catalanotto family to the Vascular Birthmark Foundation. Fortunately, Morgan is now fine. She is also honored by the Frank Catalanotto Foundation, which helps the VBF raise funds and awareness.

Catalanotto talked to me about all of this and all of his travels, in and out of MLB. Having played games in every MLB city, ads well as overseas, he qualifies as a global traveler! He also gave a scouting report on the 2024 Hofstra Pride baseball team. 

The full recap is on GT at Talking Travel with Frank Catalanotto. All of the Talking Travel interviews are on the GT YouTube channel. Be sure to subscribe to the channel (it's free) for all of the travel content.

Val Venis at Blizzard Brawl 2021

"Hello ladies..." and gentlemen. I channeled Val Venis for that opening.

Venis was one of the more popular characters in the WWE when it was in the Attitude Era. A porn star who wrestled was an interesting concept, but Val made it work.

Venis is mostly retired, although he makes convention appearances, where he is still one of the most popular. He looks great, although he isn't wearing his trademark towel (fortunately).

A couple years ago, Venis was one of the wrestling guests at Great Lakes Championship Wrestling's  Blizzard Brawl. .This year, Blizzard Brawl is December 2 in Waukesha, Wisconsin. I don't know if Venis will be there this year, but either way, there will be more than 20 wrestling legends and stars. The guest list hasn't been fully announced yet. I will provide updates as things develop.

Go to GLCWWrestling.com for updates and news. Check back here for my updates.

Val Venis and me in Waukesha, WI-December 2021.

Friend Encounters: Bill Murray and Mike Preston

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

Today's feature is a bit of a source of angst for me. Although I have known Mike Preston for many years, I do not know the story of this picture.

I know Mike was involved in Bill Murray's Groundhog Day. I suppose the best guest would be he was an extra on the film. The problem with that theory is I have seen many pictures of Mike with the stars, like the one today. I know Mike is resourceful and possibly could finagle his way into many pictures. I also know Mike is very talented and funny. That could have endeared him to the staff and crew.

In either case, Mike is a great guy. I met him years ago when he was still hosting PsychoBabble on cable. I even managed to worm my way onto a couple episodes. Mike had some health issues in recent years, but it is good to see him back and even performing on occasion.

I have never met Murray. I have met and interviewed his brothers Andy and Joel, the latter who is a chef at Murray Bros. Caddyshack in Rosemont and Florida. The Murray family is like royalty in Chicago.

Maybe someday I will finally meet Bill. Maybe someday I will also get the story on Mike and Groundhog Day.

Bill Murray and Mike Preston in Woodstock, IL-1992.

Celebrity Jersey Cards #657 Kayla McBride & Candice Wiggins

Celebrity Jersey Cards is a weekly series in which I create virtual trading cards for celebrities wearing sports jerseys. Today, I continue my season-long alphabetical journey through all Major League Baseball teams.

A native of Erie, Pennsylvania, Kayla McBride starred at Notre Dame before being selected by the San Antonio Stars in the first round of the 2014 WNBA draft. She played with the Stars/Las Vegas Aces through the 2020 season and with the Minnesota Lynx since then. She also plays overseas. McBride got a Celebrity Jersey Card from her appearance at a Minnesota Twins game. McBride was always a lot of fun in WNBA Zoom media sessions.

Born on Valentine's Day in Baltimore, MD, Candice Wiggins starred at Stanford, before being selected by the Minnesota Lynx in the first round of the 2008 WNBA draft. Wiggins played eight seasons with the Lynx and one each with the Los Angeles Spark, Las Vegas Aces and New York Liberty. A few years ago, Wiggins revealed she retired early from the WNBA after being bullied and harassed for being heterosexual. Despite a big backlash from WNBA players and other athletes, Wiggins stood by her statements. During her time with the Lynx, Wiggins tossed a ceremonial pitch, thus earning a Celebrity Jersey Card.

Meeting Riley Grudzielanek of the Northwestern Wildcats

Anyone who knows me, knows I am fascinated with familial connections in sports. I think it's interesting when players are related.

Earlier this month, I met Riley Grudzielanek, the niece of former Major League Baseball player Mark Grudzielanek.

Unlike uncle Mark, Riley is a pitcher. Among her many accomplishments in high school, she was a 2021 and 2022 First Team All-State and 2021 and 2022 All-Conference Pitcher of the Year. A native of Wisconsin, Riley choose Northwestern over the University of Wisconsin. Getting Riley was a major score for NU Coach Kate Drohan.

Uncle Mark played 15 seasons as a middle infielder with the Montreal Expos, Los Angeles Dodgers, Chicago Cubs St. Louis Cardinals, Kansas City Royals and Cleveland Indians. He hit .289 with 2,040 hots in his career. He won one Gold Glove and played in an All-Star game. He also led the league twice in double plays turned as a second baseman and once as a shortstop. His 54 doubles in 1997 led the league.

I was very happy when he came to the Cubs. Although in the later stages of his career, he hit .312 during his time here.

I met Riley at NU Fall Ball. Although I did not see her pitch, it was good to see her in person, since she looks to be a major part of the team's future. You can't have enough solid pitching and Riley is a great addition to pitching coach Michelle Gascoigne's staff.

Riley Grudzielanik and me in Evanston, IL-October 2023.

 

Terri Runnels at Great Lakes Championship Wrestling

Last year, I caught up with Terri Runnels at Great Lakes Championship Wrestling's Golden Days. I wrote more about it for Global Women's Sports Radio at Golden Days Was Solid Gold.

I had a lot of fun with Terri. She was as lively as always. I hadn't seen her in years, but it was just like old times when she greeted me as "Jay Leno." Then for whatever reason, Terri grabbed my hand and said we were going to run laps around the whole area. Who am I to argue with Terri? It was fun seeing all the odd looks and Terri and I had a lot of laughs.

I have meet Terri many times at GLCW events, including Blizzard Brawl. This year, Blizzard Brawl is on December 2 in Waukesha, Wisconsin. Only a couple guests have been announced, but there will be at least 20+ legends and current wrestlers there. I'm hoping that includes Terri, because it is always great catching up with her. Either way, I will have updates here as announcements are made.

Go to GLCWWrestling.com for more info on Too Cool and other events. Also, check here and GWSR for my recurring coverage.

Terri Runnels and me in Cedarburg, WI-January 2022.

On the Beat With Joey Roth and Steve Ahrendt of Rocket Pro Wrestling

One week ahead of the return of Rocket Pro Wrestling, I interviewed Joey Roth and Steve Ahrendt. At Darkness Falls, these two will be back in the same room, but for my interview, I kept them separated for obvious reasons.

This feud has been running a long time and it keeps getting hotter. Joey, along with Roxi Heart, is the leader of the World Famous Fabulous Idols. Commentator Steve now holds the newly-rechristened Main Event belt. That belt was previously called the Joey Roth belt, but this feud goes beyond that shiny belt, whatever it is called.

I attempted to get some peace, but I failed. I did get a fun interview though. These men are pumped and ready for action Saturday. Darkness Falls promises to be a great night of action, but there is no promise these two will ever see eye-to-eye.

Go to RocketProWrestling.com for more info and updates. Until then, enjoy the interview at On the Beat With Rocket Pro Wrestling.

Anthony Michael Hall at Fan Expo

Anthony Michael Hall has had an amazing career. Starting 45 years ago, Hall went from being a teen actor to maturing into a well-rounded actor.

We all know Hall from his roles in the films of John Hughes. Hall showed great promise, but so do a lot of young actors. The difference is Hall grew and kept challenging himself. He joined the cast of Saturday Night Live. He started taking mor serious roles on television and the big screen. He worked hard at being a versatile actor and it paid off.

Hall also grew up without any major incidents, unlike many of his contemporaries. Hall is a real success story. He is also a very nice guy.

I forget all the great roles he had. Meeting him at Fan Expo and seeing all of this 8x10s, brought back fun memories of his many projects. I had forgotten Edward Scissorhands, one of my favorite movies. I also forgot 61, a great baseball movie. It just proves how many really interesting parts he has played and shows what an underrated career he has.

Fan Expo bought Wizard World and the comic con has not missed a beat. Any fear that the con would suffer should be gone. Fan Expo has done a great job carrying on the legacy Wizard World built.

The next event is October 20-22 in Boston, MA. Go to FanEcpoHQ.com for more info and look here for recurring coverage.

Anthony Michael Hall, Tony and me in Rosemont, IL-August 2023.

Barry Bostwick and the Hair Incident at Fan Expo

The last time I saw Barry Bostwick, we were messing up our hair together. If you don't believe me, watch it at On the Beat With Barry Bostwick.

The hair incident occurred several years at at Wizard World (now Fan Expo). There was a special media session with Bostwick and a few other celebrities. As I asked Bostwick for an interview, he started the hair talk and I ran with it. Who am I to argue with him? Besides, with my mop of hair, I couldn't really do any damage.

It's times like that I really love doing this. I am quite sure Bostwick wouldn't remember it, but it was one of my funniest moments.

We had to visit Bostwick again at this year's Fan Expo. I mentioned the hair incident and although he didn't remember, he did comment that we both had hair worth mussing. It wasn't a classic moment like the original hair time, but it was a funny exchange.

Fan Expo has done a great job continuing the legacy of Wizard World. Aside from the name change, I don't think anyone could tell a difference. Fan Expo 2023 was as well-organized and fun as any comic con I attend.

Fan Expo has many such events nationwide. The next one if in Dallas, October 20-22. G to FanExpoHQ.com for more info and updates. Check back here for my recurring coverage.

Barry Bostwick, Tony and me in Rosemont, IL-August 2023.

Friend Encounters: Skye Blue and Dennis D.

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

Today I feature a young wrestler on the rise and a buddy from the convention scene. This is another pic I would have wanted, but I have met her several times already.

Skye Blue has wrestled around the Chicago area for a few years. She is already a young veteran in the business. She recently was signed to All Elite Wrestling. That's a big break for Skye and one she is taking seriously. Skye is still a bit green, but she has the look and skills to go far in wrestling. She also knows how to promote well, which is an often overlooked aspect of wrestlers.

Pictured with her is Dennis, another friend whose path I crossed many times over the years at conventions and wrestling events. That seems to be a pattern with a lot of us. We attend the same events and go from recognition to short greetings to becoming friends. At StarrCast VI, we must have run into each other a dozen times, but it was always fun seeing each other recap our latest encounters.

Nothing has been announced for StarrCast VII, but I'm certain it will be bigger and better than ever. Go to StarrCast.com for future announcements.

Dennis D. and Skye Blue in Schaumburg, IL-September 2023.

Celebrity Jersey Cards #656 Richard Branson & Diana Lewis

Celebrity Jersey Cards is a weekly series in which I create virtual trading cards for celebrities wearing sports jerseys. Today, I continue my season-long alphabetical journey through all Major League Baseball teams.

Born in London, England, Richard Branson started his business career at 16, when he published a magazine called Student. Since then, his empire has continued to grow to astronomical levels. In 2021, he was onboard Virgin Galactic Unity 22 on a test flight, to become the third oldest person to fly into space at the age of 70. Branson was spotted enjoying ballpark food at a Detroit Tigers game, which landed him on a Celebrity Jersey Card.

Diana Lewis debuted on the Detroit television scene in 1968 and built a legendary career until her retirement in 2012. Along with her media work, Lewis dabbled in acting, most notably appearing in Rocky and Rocky V. Since retiring, Lewis has been a caregiver for her husband, who served as a Marine Sergeant in Viet Name and is suffering several health issues. Lewis is a strong woman, with a deep faith. She earned many awards in life, the latest being the Celebrity Jersey Card from her ceremonial pitch for her Detroit Tigers.

Danielle Williams and the Northwestern Wildcats

A 3-2 loss to the University of Alabama ended a great season for the Northwestern Wildcats softball team. Although it was disappointing not to see the team advance beyond the Super Regionals, the Cats gave fans a lot of excitement all season.

The Wildcats finished 42-13, including 20-3 in Big Ten play and a perfect 14-0 home record. They were the Big Ten Conference champs and also won the Big Ten tourney.

Leading the way was pitcher Danielle Williams, who went 23-3 in her fifth season on the mound. She had 11 complete games, pitching 164 innings and racking up 196 strikeouts. In her career, Danielle is 106-30.

With the Covid exemptions, I don't know what her status is. If her NU career is done, it was an amazing career. If she returns, the Purple Army will be very happy and very relieved.

In addition to being a standout player, Danielle is a fine young lady. She is a team leader on and off the field. She is always good with the press and fans, too.

It's unfortunate NU did not advance at least to the final eight. I really thought they were that good. The other teams are great, too, though. Only one can win. In that three game series, Alabama was just a bit better. That was just enough to eliminate NU.

I applaud Alabama for winning, but I also applaud NU for an outstanding season. On the surface, it was a disappointment, but with a broader view, this was still a successful season.

I look forward to today's  Fall Ball to preview the 2024 team. Wherever Danielle is next season, on or off the field, I wish her a lot of luck and I thank her for a great career.

 Danielle Williams and me in Evanston, IL-May 2023.

Maria Kanellis at Blizzard Brawl 2021

Great Lakes Championship Wrestling's Blizzard Brawl is Saturday, December 2. The full wrestling card and guest list hasn't been announced yet, but it will be as great as always. One of the nicest guests at Blizzrd Brawl was Maria Kanellis, although I don't think she will be there this year.

Kanellis has been on the wrestling scene for almost two decades. She already seemingly has done it all in the world of pro wrestling.

After finishing fifth in the 2004 Diva Search (that was ridiculous), she went on to have an excellent run in the WWE anyway. She also had a brief run in Impact Wrestling, before joining All Elite Wrestling in 2022. Although I am enjoying her run in AEW, it is bittersweet.

AEW keeps her too busy to run Women's Wrestling Army, the all women wrestling company she started before signing with AEW. I can't blame her for joining AEW, but I miss WWA.

WWA featured the best women's wrestling I have seen. The cards were excellent start to finish. They did everything right, including production, meet-and-greets, seating and more. It howed great promise, but Maria got too busy.

I don't think WWA is a lost cause. I think Kanellis will bring it back at some point. I just wish it was sooner than later.

In the meantime, I enjoy other wrestling, like Blizzard Brawl. I will be "On the Beat" as always. Check here for my coverage and go to GLCWWrestling.com for updates and news.

Maria Kanellis and me in Waukesha, WI-December 2021.

Sting and StarrCast VI

Steve Borden has had an amazing career as wrestler Sting. After debuting in 1985, he is still going strong at 64 years old.

Originally billed as Flash, he started in a tag team with Jim "Justice" Hellwig, who grew to fame as The Ultimate Warrior. As they went their separate ways, Flash would morph into Sting and go on to be one of the faces of  World Championship Wrestling. When that was bought by WWE, he chose not to join them and ultimately signed with TNA/Impact Wrestling. He eventually made it to the WWE, but had an underwhelming storyline, followed by an injury (none of which was his fault). Sting moved on to All Elite Wrestling, where he is still a main player, although his in-ring time is somewhat limited.

I met Sting a couple times over the last few years and almost saw him again at StarrCast VI, but his line was too long and cut off by the time I got to it. I wasn't too disappointed, because of my previous encounters with him. Had I not already met the Icon, I most certainly would have begged to make the cut.

Sting will go down as one of the all time greats. I am not sure he will be in the elite category, although he should be. I think Sting is too often overlooked. He took a surfer gimmick and made it legendary. Then he turned it into a vigilante-type, followed by a Joker-ish one, followed by his current one, which is basically him.All were successful. Even at 64, although he isn't working a major schedule, he works smart and is an asset to AEW.

StarrCast is a great place to meet wrestlers and be ensconced in wrestling fun. There is no announcement yet on StarrCast VII, but check StarrCast.com for future announcements.

Sting and me in Indianapolis, IN-August 2018.

Being Henry: The Fonz...and Beyond

I am pretty sure everyone has heard what a nice guy Henry Winkler is. I'm here to confirm, he is one of the nicest people ever (if not THE nicest).

I have met Winkler several times at various conventions. Every time, he walks the line thanking everyone for being there and being patient. It doesn't matter if the line is five deep or hundreds in number, Winkler leaves his booth every so often to walk the line and express his appreciation. It's not schmaltzy either. He asks your name, shakes your hand and even hugs on occasion.

His line often moves slowly, because he takes time to interact with each person once they are at his booth. He genuinely engages everyone. In a world of quick pics and next up, Winkler is a rarity.

Winkler is currently on tour to promote his book, Being Henry: The Fonz...and Beyond. Go to CeladonBooks.com for more info on the book and tour. I will be at a Chicago stop and recapping all here.

Henry Winkler and me in Rosemont, IL-August 2023.

Talking Travel with Steve Dolinsky

For my latest Talking Travel interview on Global Traveler, I turned to a hometown favorite. Actually, make that two hometown favorites.

Food and travel reporter Steve Dolinsky has been a welcome presence on Chicago's television for more than three decades. Over the years, Steve has become an expert on pizza, although he is not limited to just pizza. 

I talked to Steve about his career and all things pizza. Steve described the ultimate pizza, the best beverage accompaniment, searching for good pizza, his books, podcast and more.

I could have talked pizza with Steve for another few hours. The man definitely knows his stuff. Steve is one busy guy though. On television, podcasts and tours, Steve is all over the place.

I thank Steve for his time and consideration. I appreciate all of the great information he has given over the years. I'm extending an open invitation to Steve for a pizza outing on me.

The full recap is on GT at Talking Travel with Steve Dolinsky. All of the Talking Travel interviews are on the GT YouTube channel. Be sure to subscribe to the channel (it's free) for all of the travel content.

Friend Encounters: Jim Wojdyla and Jim Strong

Friend Encounters is a weekly series featuring friends meeting celebrities.

My pal Jim Strong took a break from wrestling to meet a man of many talents and roles. Jim W. is a real renaissance man.

Jim Wojdyla is the Marketing Director ot the Volo Museum, an amazing auto showcase. He is also the founder and lead singer of the Modern Day Romeos, an author and more. 

Located in northern Illinois, the Volo Museum sits on a huge piece of land because it has so many exhibits. Automobiles of all sorts take up most of the space, but there are also plenty of other things to see there. If you are anywhere in the area, it is well worth a trip.

Back to Jim S., he is a big fan of wrestling, photography and music, sometimes combining all three. While he isn't a Renaissance man (sorry Jim), he is a great guy and always a welcome sight at events.

Does anyone recognize Jim W.'s jersey? Maybe it is a custom jersey for a rec team?

Jim Wojdyla and Jim Strong in IL-June 2021.

Celebrity Jersey Cards #655 Cassadee Pope & Aisha Tyler

Celebrity Jersey Cards is a weekly series in which I create virtual trading cards for celebrities wearing sports jerseys. Today, I continue my season-long alphabetical journey through all Major League Baseball teams.

Born in Florida, Cassadee Pope is a pop and country singer. She was the lead vocalist and songwriter of the band Hey Monday, before embarking on a solo career. Her first solo album debuted at No. 1 on Top Country Albums chart. More recently, she returned to her pop punk roots. Pope earned a Celebrity Jersey Card after singing the National Anthem for the Kansas City Royals.

A native of San Francisco, CA, Aisha Tyler is an actress, director and talk show host. Among her most known roles, she co-hosted several seasons of  The Talk, for which she won a Daytime Emmy Award for Outstanding Entertainment Talk Show Host. More recently, she hosted Whose Line Is It Anyway? Tyler played in the Big Slick charity softball game to earned her Celebrity Jersey Card. Clearly she was safe on the play.