Happy Anniversary Global Traveler

In February 2004, Global Traveler published its first issue. As it enters its 23rd year, GT is as strong as ever.

The picture below was taken at last year's GT Tested Readers Survey awards. It's one of GTs annual events and also serves as a bit of an anniversary party. While there are several longtime GT folks, Publisher Fran Gallagher and I are the only originals. Actually, I am a bit surprised at the longevity of several folks. At least four others have been at GT for at least 15 years. That speaks of their commitment and also of the working environment.

It all started and stays with Fran. In 1984m when I met the then-goofball, little did I realize we would still be friends 42 years later, while working for him for the last 22.

It's been a fun ride. I have gone to places, met people and experienced things I never would have with Fran and GT. The few bumps along the way are minimal and far outweighed by the good times.

Happy anniversary GT, Fran and the whole staff. Thank you for so much fun..

The GT Team in Coral Gables, FL-December 2025.

Friend Encounters: Patricia Kara and Tony

Friend Encounters is a weekly series featuring friends meeting celebrities.

My pal Tony has heard me talk of Patricia Kara on many occasions. He has heard the stories of my interviews and seeing her at a book signing. When I saw she was doing another book stop, I asked for his interest and of course, he was up for the experience. Little did we know how surreal the night would be.

After we made the trek to Homer Glen, we entered the room filled with Patricia's family, friends and fans. Patricia greeted us and I introduced her to Tony. Then the show was on. Tony and Patricia discovered they grew up near each other and had several mutual friends, despite Patricia being several years younger than us.

As always, Patricia couldn't have been nicer. Despite being surrounded by many folks, she talked to us for a long while and then again as we departed.

Patricia's book Dream On...Now Deliver is billed as a guide to show business, but I maintain it has many lessons and much info on life outside of that field. I recommend it for all.

Tony and Patricia Kara in Homer Glen, IL-June 2025.

Celebrity Jersey Cards #779 Caleb Williams & Jill Pizzotti

Celebrity Jersey Cards is a weekly series in which I create digital trading cards for celebrities wearing sports jerseys. Today, I celebrate the Chicago Bears, who are out of the playoffs, but had an unbelievable season.

The Bears success started with two men. In addition to new head coach Ben Johnson, quarterback Caleb Williams led the team to an amazing season. In his rookie season, Williams showed flashes of brilliance, but suffered through a 4-13 season. Williams wasn't helped by bad coaching and a thin roster. That changed this season, as Johnson brought a new attitude and new players bolstered the team. Williams set the club's passing yards record and looks to be the star of the future. Williams earned his Celebrity Jersey Card at a Chicago Blackhawks game he attended with Cubs star Pete Crow Armstrong.

Born in Lombard, Illinois, Jill Pizzotti played basketball at Southeast Missouri State. She started her coaching career there upon graduation. Pizzotti had several coaching jobs, including as an assistant at DePaul, before being named women's basketball head coach last season. Coach Pizzotti supported the Chicago Bears during their playoff run by donning a jersey during a Blue Demons game.

Introducing Gwyneth Philips of the PWHL

Late last year, I got my first live taste of women's pro hockey, courtesy of the Professional Women's Hockey League. The Minnesota Frost played the Ottawa Charge in Rosemont (Chicago) as part of the Takeover Tour, designed to test markets and gain exposure.

On Saturday, I got to chat with Charge player Gwyneth Philips. A goalie, Philips starred at Northeastern University in Massachusetts. She compiled a record of 70-15 with 4 overtime losses. Philips earned several awards and accolades, including WHCA National Goalie of the Year in 2023.

With the Charge last season, she went 8-5-1.This season, the Charge are struggling in last place. In nine games, she has a solid 2.32 goals against average. That's third best for regular goalies.

Just finished with an exhausting practice, Philips was in great spirits. It probably helped to see so many fans wanting to meet the players, although it meant more time. Still, these are the folks who support PWHL and the players could not have been nicer.

The PWHL has eight teams. Fans filled the arena for the Rosemont games. I think Chicago will eventually get a team. I am hoping for next season though.

Go to thepwhl.com for more info on the league. Check back here for my recurring coverage, which will increase when the league expands to Chicago.

Gwyneth Philips and me in Rosemont, IL-December 2025.

Appreciating Sara Richard

Late last year, artist, illustrator Sara Richard once again granted me an interview. That interview is at Talking Travel with Sara Richard on Global Traveler.

I don't remember exactly when or where I first met Sara. It was probably either at Motor City Comic Con or one of the comic cons in Chicago and probably around 2010. Either way, Sara is one of the first artists I ever followed, covered and befriended. I probably have more interviews and pictures with Sara than any other creator I have covered. One reason is because she is just that good. Another is she is very engaging and nice.

Sra has been so gracious in giving me her time in interviews at conventions and via Zoom. She even indulged me and allowed my young cousin (aka my Johngy's Beat intern) to interview her. She could very easily have declined any or all of my requests, but she doesn't. 

She s so talented, too. She has contributed her artwork to several books, trading cards and more. She also has done commissions, like the Johngy's Beat variation shirt she designed.

I cannot speak highly enough of her work or just her as a person. She is simply the best.

Go to sararichard.com to learn a bit more and to see some of her brilliant work. You can also watch all of my interviews with her on the Johngy's Beat YouTube channel.

Sara Richard and me in Novi, MI-May 2017. 

The Thriller in the Miller III

Last Saturday night, I had a great evening at The Thriller in the Miller III at St. Demetrios. It's a special night, especially because I played a small part in its inception.

A few years ago, I was walking to Village Inn for a slice of their delicious pizza. As I crossed the street, I heard someone beep and call my name. It was my old friend and softball teammate Billy Frigelis. After he parked and we exchanged pleasantries, Billy mentioned a fundraiser he was organizing for St. Demetrios, his church. He said they were looking to have pro wrestling as part of it. Knowing I have some connections in local wrestling, Billy asked for suggestions. I suggested 2econd Wrestling, then a new company run by Rabbi Jeremy Fine. A couple weeks later, Billy told me all was set for the event to be held in January, coincidentally on my birthday weekend.

When the day came, Tony and I were curious as to how it would be presented. From walking in the door, we were impressed with how organized and professional it was. Billy, Jimmy Stamos and their whole crew were amazing. They had every detail covered.

Last Saturday, The Thriller in the Miller III raised the bar once again. Tony and I are both impressed with everything there.

I have known Billy for 30ish years. I first met Billy's brother George through Louie. We played on softball teams for years. They are all great guys. I was named an honorary Greek when I was a groomsman for Louie's wedding at St. Demetrios.

It's funny, because I remember Billy as a young teen subbing on the team until he became a regular. Now I see the adult Billy organizing such a great event. Time flies.

I appreciate Billy, Jimmy, George and all the others for the wonderful event and even more for bringing me in the Greek family.

My recap is at The Thriller at St. Demetrios on Global Traveler. Also, check 2econd Wrestling on Facebook to learn more about that great wrestling company.

Billy Frigelis, Jimmy Stamos and me in Chicago, IL-January 2026.

 

Madusa Returns to Squared Circle Expo

The wrestler lineup for Squared Circle Expo VI just keeps getting better. Wrestling legend Madusa Miceli is returning to SCX.

Madusa was way ahead of her time. She could do it all. She was a beautiful woman who could wrestle (technical or brawling) and was great on the mic. She also was loaded with charisma.

Unfortunately for her, she came up in a time when women wrestling matches were an afterthought. There might be one women's match and too often it was a silly match for eye candy. True wrestling fans do not care for that. We want good women matches and Madusa delivered great matches every time.

Madusa did win titles everywhere she went, but she had only a few memorable feuds, although that definitely wasn't her fault. I can only imagine awesome matches between Madusa and Trish Stratus, Lita, Becky Lynch, Charlotte Flair and so many other women who are legit wrestlers.

The last time I saw Madusa, she joked about my press credential and wanted to sign it. Who am I to decline that request. It's my only signed credential now.

Madusa is just one of about 50 wrestling legends and stars named already for SCX VI in March 27-28 Indy. I will be there "On the Beat" all weekend. I am sure I will talk to Madusa at some point. One of the best parts of SCX is despite having so many wrestling guests, it is run so well there is time to meet all you want. I have never left without accomplishing my goals.

For more info on SCX, go to SquaredCircleX.com. Check back here for my coverage and come join the fun in March!

Madusa and me in Indianapolis, IN-March 2021.

SCX Champ Jake Omen

Squared Circle Expo returns to Indianapolis, Indiana March 27-28. Once again, I'll be "On the Beat,' but more importantly, so will SCX champ Jake Omen.

A native of Noblesville, Indiana, Jake brings 20 years of experience with him into the ring. Jake is in his second reign as Heavyweight champ at SCX, having first won it in 2021 to become the first SCX champ. He regained his belt at SCX V and hopes to retain at SCX VI.

I actually met Jake years ago, when he became a two-time tag team champ at Resistance Wrestling (formerly Resistance Pro).

Jake's opponent at SCX VI hasn't been announced, but it will be a worthy opponent. I have no doubt it will be a great match.

SCX is a fun two days of wrestling-related events, culminating in a full night of wrestling. There are usually about 70 wrestling legends and stars for meet-and-greets, panels, Q&As, photo ops and more. It is extremely well run and organized. It is a "must" on my yearly event schedule.

For more info, go to squaredcirclex.com. Also, check here for my updates.

Jake Omen and me in Indianapolis, IN-April 2023.

Friend Encounters: Missa Kate and Glen Rylko

Friend Encounters is a weekly series featuring friends meeting celebrities.

Today, once again I honor, feature and remember my late friend Glen. Since passing in 2022, Although he passed in 2022, I keep his memory alive with these features.

Today I actually feature two of Chicago's finest. "Chicago's favorite sweetheart" Missa Kate is one of the best wrestlers around. Glen was one of the most supportive wrestling and convention fans.

I used to say Missa was the best around here, but she has experienced time on the national level. She has all the tools and one of the big companies should sign her. She plays equally well as a good guy or bad guy. She has no weakness. Unfortunately for her fans, she retired late last year. I wish her well wherever her future takes her.

As for Glen, I miss seeing my buddy at wrestling and comic cons. We generally sought the same folks, like Missa. Since he passed, I always think of him whenever I am at any such event. He was a good guy and he is missed by all. RIP Glen.

Missa Kate and Glen Rylko in Chicago-August 2021.

Celebrity Jersey Cards #778 Nattie Neidhart & Pete the Plumber

Celebrity Jersey Cards is a weekly series in which I create digital cards for celebrities wearing sports jerseys. Today, I feature two Calgary legends.

Natalya Neidhart is a third generation wrestler. Her grandfather Stu Hart ran Stampede Wrestling for years. Her father Jim "The Anvil" Neidhart was a tagteam champ with her uncle Bret Hart. She also has several other uncles involved in wrestling. Nattie carved her own path though, earning everything including several titles. Nattie was the perfect combination of looks and skills. Perhaps a bit weak on the mic, but that's a minor criticism. I think Nattie is too good. I think she has gotten taken for granted by the WWE. They view her as such a good trainer and ring partner, they don't use her enough for her own storylines. I'm not sure what Nattie was doing for Calgary TV in the picture, but it earned her a Celebrity Jersey Card. Her #23 might be the year or it could be for former center Sean Monahan.

Pete the Plumber has been helping the fine folks of Calgary with plumbing issues for more than 50 years. Starting with working with his father, Pete has become quite famous and very well-liked in the area. A good plumber is a treasure and that is Pete. Pete earned his Celebrity Jersey Card as a fan at a Calgary Flames game. I truly enjoy making these types of cards. Folks like Pete deserve a bit of the spotlight, even if it is more of a flashlight with Johngy's Beat.