Friend Encounters: Chris Zorich and Tony Feddeler

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

My friend Tony Feddeler is usually known to be a fan of the Seattle Seahawks, but today I feature him with a legendary player from the Chicago Bears.

Native Chicagoan Chris Zorich was a star at Notre Dame, before being selected by the Bears in the second round of the 1991 NFL Draft. Zorich played with the Bears for most of his career, before finishing with the Washington Redskins for a few games in 1997. He was named an alternate for the 1993 Pro Bowl. 

I was always a big fan of Zorich. I attended several events held by the Christopher Zorich Foundation back in the day.

Zorich's latest endeavor is the Chris Zorich podcast. Zorich has had many former Notre Dame players on his podcast, including Rocky Bleier, Joe Montana, Joe Theismann and others. Of course, it is not just all about Notre Dame. It's a highly entertaining listen and I encourage everyone to give it a try.

I am also a fan of Tony. As I have previously written, I don't remember where we first met. We have narrowed it down to the Chicago Bandits softball game, a comic con or a wrestling event. That doesn't really help much though. It really doesn't matter though. We've had many great times at all of these events over the years.

One such event was the Chicago Pop Culture Con in 2019. We actually crossed paths at Zorich's booth. I think I even took the picture.

It was great seeing Zorich again. It had been many years since the last time I saw him. He's really a great guy. I say the same thing about Tony, too.

The Chicago Pop Culture Con is a fun event. It isn't huge, but they have a solid guest lineup and it is well-run. It's a staple on my convention circuit every year.

Look for The Chris Zorich Podcast on YouTube. Check out ChicagoPopCultureCon.com for news and updates on future events.

Tony Feddeler and Chris Zorich in St. Charles, IL-December 2019.

George Castle and Great Reads 2019

I first met writer and author George Castle at Lerner Newspapers back in the early 1990's (maybe even the late 1980's_. He was a sports writer and I was in the Circulation Department. We bonded over talking sports.

George has more sports trivia knowledge than anyone I have ever met. I am proud that he gives me credit for having a lot of knowledge, too, although I am not in his league.

George has written many books during his lengthy career. His latest book is The 1969 Cubs: Long Remembered - Not Forgotten. Co-written with Hall of Fame pitcher Fergie Jenkins, this is the definitive look at the 1969 Cubs. Jenkins gives his personal reflections, while Castle fills in fascinating details and facts. Castle conducted interviews with several significant players invloved in that season.

This book is a "must" for any Cubs fan. If George is involved, you know it is thorough. Actually, any baseball fan would love this book. I included The 1969 Cubs: Long Remembered - Not Forgotten in my Great Reads 2019 online piece for Global Traveler.

You can check out all of George's book on Amazon's George Castle author page. I have several of his books, including The 1969 Cubs: Long Remembered - Not Forgotten and Champions: 15 Inspiring Comeback Stories from Sports & Life.

George Caste, me and Steve Gassman in St. Charles, IL-December 2017.

Tim Zurko and Chicago Pop Culture Con

I spent last weekend at the Chicago Pop Culture Con. My full story can be found at Fun at Chicago Pop Culture Con 2019 on Patch.com.

Zurko Promotions runs the Chicago Pop Culture Con and several other events throughout the year around the Chicago area, including their All Night Flea Market in October.

Zurko Promotions is a family affair. Brothers Tim and Bob are always on hand and I recently met their father. I am sure there are other Zurko family members on site, but I haven't met them all yet.

These events have a little bit of everything. There usually is a former Chicago athlete, a couple of celebrities, local authors, creators, artists and more. Over the years, I have met CJ and Richie Ramone, Wesley Eure and Kathy Coleman (of tv's Land of the Lost), former Chicago athletes Jim Morrissey, Chris Zorich, Bobby Douglas, Kurt Becker and Paul Popovich and more.

Aside from the celebrities, many of the regulars have become friends of mine. I always enjoy catching up with Chicago filmmaker John Borowski, author Racheal Blaze, James Azrael (who does too many things to list), horror host D. Winter and so many other talented folks. One of the cool things is seeing them interact with each other.

I also have fun discovering others like Darren Marlar of the "Weird Darkness" podcast. I met Marlar for the first time this year and gave his podcast a listen. It has a lot of interesting content and I have added it to my podcast listening rotation. Now I look forward to catching up with him in the future.

If this all sounds like a bit of a family reunion, it sort of is. These might not be my everyday friends, but it always seems that way when I see them again. Plus, I know many of the attendees and it's just as fun seeing them.

It all goes back to Zurko Promotions for creating this atmosphere. Their events succeed because they feel like a big county fair on a Sunday morning. I mean that in all the best ways. Their events have all of the good elements of bigger conventions, while retaining the family feel of smaller events. I never feel overwhelmed or hurried, yet at the end of each event, I always feel like I did and saw so much.

Go to ZurkoPromotions.com for info on all of their events. Their next event is the Chicago Area Antique Flea Market in Wheaton on December 15.

Tim Zurko and me in St. Charles, IL-December 2918.

Friend Encounters: Richie Ramone and Joey Roth

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

If his hair was darker, Joey Roth could be one of the Ramones. He's a knowledgeable enough fan to pull it off, too.

At Chicago Pop Culture Con last year, I was there to witness Joey meet Richie Ramone. Richie was there in part to promote I Know Better Now: My Life Before, During and After the Ramones, his recently published book. The meeting of Richie and Joey was epic (at least in Joey's mind).

In all seriousness, Joey was excited to meet Richie, as was I. The Ramones do not make many appearances these days. For fans like Joey and me, this was pretty cool.

Richie is pretty much considered the best drummer the Ramones ever had. He is the only drummer to have sung lead vocals on Ramones songs. Joey Ramone gave Richie credit for saving the Ramones and putting the spirit back in the band. That's high praise from Joey considering the amount of discourse in the band over the years.

Meanwhile, Joey Roth credits himself with saving the Chicago wrestling scene. One of Joey's idols is Rowdy Roddy Piper and it shows in Joey's work and style. I haven't seen Joey wrestle, but I have heard his work on the mic and with a crowd. He has the charisma and the verbal sparring ability to capture a crowd, whether they are with him or against him.

At Chicago Pop Culture Con, I had the pleasure of interviewing Richie. That interview can be found at On the Beat with Richie Ramone. I have yet to interview Joey, but he is on my radar and it will appear right here when it happens.

You can get more info on Richie at RichieRamone.com. You can follow Joey on social media and also check him out at POWW Entertainment.

You can catch Joey all over the Chicago area wrestling scene. You can also find "The best damn villain ever" at Joey Roth on Facebook. Hopefully, I will catch Joey at an event and add him to my interview resume.

Joey Ramone and Richie Ramone in St. Charles, IL-November 2018.

Friend Encounters: Jim Morrissey and Steve Michaels

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

This Friend Encounter features two celebrities, one of whom is one of my newest friends and both of whom I interviewed at the Chicago Pop Culture Con 2018. Those interviews can be found at On the Beat With Jim Morrissey at Chicago Pop Culture Con 2018 and On the Beat With Steve Michaels at Chicago Pop Culture Con 2018. The Chicago Pop Culture Con presented the perfect opportunity for the "Master of the Chicago Bear Hug" to meet Jim Morrissey of the Super Bowl XX champion Chicago Bears.

Morrissey was a rookie on the 1985 Bears. With Otis Wilson, Mike Singletary and Wilbur Marshall firmly in place as starters, Morrissey provided solid backup work, as well as special teams play. He made the most of his time on the field, like his interception in Super Bowl XX.

Morrissey went on to have an excellent 9 year career. He played the bulk of ihis career with the Bears, adding a few games with the Packers in his last season. He actually came back to Chicago with the Packers that season, a moment we discussed in our interview.

Steve has been making a name on the wrestling scene, as he tries to make his way to the WWE. Steve's gimmick is totally Chicago. I think his character is more reality-based than gimmick-driven. I think it is just Steve being himself.

Steve has the size and charisma to make it big and I'll be watching his progress. Hopefully, one day he will be in the WWE ring. He won't face his dream opponent (the late Vader), but he will find plenty of other worthy opponents.

I'll be looking for Steve on independent wrestling shows in Chicago. I'll also be following him at @ChicagoBearHug on Facebook.

Steve Michaels and Jim Morrissey in St. Charles, IL-November 2018.

Friend Encounters: James Azrael and Tony Feddeler

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

I took the picture for today's feature. My friend Tony Feddeler and I were attending Chicago Pop Culture Con, when we came across our mutual friend James Azrael and his booth for the HSPPA (Horror and ScFi Prop Preservation Association).

James was there promoting the HSPPA and also "It's Just A Game," a movie he co-produced. The movie centered on 4 teenage girls. The movie started with them exchanging scary stories, but it quickly spun off into a paranormal horror thriller.

James invited us to a special premiere, but I was unable to go. Tony did go and gave it a good review.

A couple weeks later, James sent me a private YouTube link for me to watch the movie. I reviewed it at Johngy's Beat Reviews "It's Just A Game" on the Patch.

In short, I really enjoyed the movie. I thought the young actors did a great job with a wide range of emotions. The movie relied on a lot of understated moments or subtlety. Instead of wild slasher moments, it went for a little less visual, but far more effective shots. The overall acting followed the same concept. The young actors stayed within themselves and the script. Instead of trying to steal the scenes, the actors looked even stronger.

"It's Juts A Game" won't win an Oscar, but I think it is destined to become a cult classic. UIt's the type of movie that will grow on you as time passes. I could easily see the actors at future comic cons for years to come.

It was fun hanging with Tony at the convention. I am not even sure where I first met Tony. It had to be either at a wrestling show, comic con or a Bandits game. Any way, I am happy to know Tony.

As the weather starts warming, my thoughts turn to future cons and Bandits games. I am sure I'll see Tony again and we will probably see James promoting again.

Until then, check out the HSPPA on Facebook. You can watch the "It's Just A Game" trailer on YouTube and and follow "It's Jus A Game" on Facebook.

James Azrael and Tony Feddeler in St. Charles, IL-November 2018.

"It's Just A Game" and James Azrael

When I saw my bud James Azrael at the Chicago Pop Culture Con, he was promoting the HSPPA (Horror & SciFi Prop Preservation Association). The non-profit organization brings iconic screen-used props to public settings for fans to see up close in an effort to preserve filmic history for generations to come. Along those lines, there was some pretty cool stuff to see at the HSPPA booth.

James was also there to talk about "It's Just A Game," a movie he co-produced. We talked about the HSPPA, "It's Just A Game" and more in our interview at On the Beat With James Azrael at Chicago Pop Culture Con.

James described "It's Just A Game" as a paranormal horror thriller. Various promo pieces advertised it as "a twisted tale of teenage bullying, jealousy, angst, and a bizarre theatre cult intent on summoning the spirit of an ancient witch." The premise sounded like a typical thriller, but it appealed to me and I wanted to see where it went.

James was very passionate about it and I always like to support the talented folks I have met at pop cons. James is very talented and I was curious to see his latest creative endeavor.

James graciously invited me to a special screening, but I was unable to attend. He followed that by offering me a private link to a screener copy online. Of course, I eagerly accepted that and looked forward to watching the movie.

As much as I like seeing the creations of my talented friends, I also am a bit leery about actually reviewing them. What if I don't like the product? I can't lie in my writing, but I also wouldn't want to disparage my friends or their work. It could get sticky.

Fortunately, my fears quickly faded within minutes as I started watching "It's Just A Game." In fact, I messaged James and jokingly said I was annoyed because I intended on watching only a few minutes to get the basic feel, but I was sucked in and watched about half of it. Furthermore, I knew I had to set aside enough time to watch the rest in one sitting, because I knew I wouldn't want to leave it again.

I wrote a full review at Johngy's Beat Reviews "It's Just A Game" on Patch.com. Spoiler alert...I really enjoyed it!

The movie starts as 4 teenage girls are telling spooky tales. Things start to go awry when dissension arises within the group. Things go really badly when a cult is introduced into the movie. What is the connection? What happens to the girls? How does everyone respond? Is it all "just a game?"

Those questions are all answered very clearly and the suspense stays strong right through the end. As I watched the movie, my mind raced through ending scenarios. For the record, none of my thoughts were correct and I am happy about that. The ending was a surprise, but logical, too.

One of the things I enjoyed the most was the simplicity. It didn't try to be a blockbuster, over-the-top horror movie. In my review, I wrote that it employed the "less is more" theory. Subtlety is a beautiful thing if done right. It's actually even more sinister if done perfectly.

"It's Just A Game" contained some sex scenes which were actually sexy because they weren't gratuitous or extended. Some slasher scenes were done in the same minimal way. These scenes evoked more reactions than had they been over-produced moments.

The young actors did an outstanding job. Th character development was well-done and the actors did well with the progressions.

My bud James even had a small part in the movie. As cult member Brother Julius, James was more than "the big guy with a beard," as he described his role. While he wasn't a main character, he wasn't simply filler either.

"It's Just A Game" is a thoroughly enjoyable movie. I see it as a future cult classic. I can see the young actors going on to have excellent careers and I also see them having a reunion at a future horror con. I will be there if that happens, of course. Until then, I encourage everyone to check out "It's Just A Game."

Thank you to James for this opportunity. Great job all around, pal! 

You can watch the "It's A Game" trailer on YouTube. You can also follow "It's Just A Game" on Facebook for more info and updates. 

James Azrael and me in St. Charles, IL-November 2018.

Deadgar Winter Loves Johngy's Beat

Recently, I had the pleasure of interviewing Deadgar Winter. That interview can be found at On the Beat With Deadgar Winter and Celeste at Chicago Pop Culture Con 2018. After that interview, Deadgar was kind enough to give a shout out to Johngy's Beat.

You can go to Deadgar's site for a lot of cool stuff, including episodes, merchandise and other fun. You can also follow Deadgar's Dark Coffin Classics on Facebook for news and updates.

Celeste of Deadgar's Dark Coffin Classics Loves Johngy's Beat

At the recent Chicago Pop Culture Con, I had the pleasure of interviewing Deadgar Winter and Celeste Parker of Deadgar's Dark Coffin Classics. That interview is at On the Beat With Deadgar Winter and Celeste at Chicago Pop Culture Con 2018. After that interview, Celeste was kind enough to do a promo for Johngy's Beat.

Check out Deadgar and Celeste at Deadgar's Dark Coffin Classics on Facebook. You can also go to Deadgar's site to watch episodes, get merchandise and have lots of other fun.

On the Beat With Steve Michaels at Chicago Pop Culture Con 2018

At the recent Chicago Pop Culture Con, I had the pleasure of finally meeting Steve Michaels. While he has wrestled all around the area, I have not seen him in person due to scheduling conflicts. It was great to finally connect with Steve.

The interview started off a bit ominously as Steve implied a threat of his trademark "Chicago Bear Hug" if the interview didn't go well. Fortunately, I kept the interview positive and I remained uninjuured.

In reality, Steve is a super nice guy. When I contacted him weeks before the event, he graciously accepted my interview request. Upon meeting him at Chicago Pop Culture Con, Steve told me I could stop by anytime and we could get it done. He was as accommodating as could be.

A lot of people call themselves wrestlers, but Steve is the definition of a wrestler. This isn't a weekend thing for him. Wrestling is his full-time gig and he is busting his butt and having fun with it.

In the interview below, we talk about his start in wrestling, his career, his dream opponent and more. His dream opponent is especially interesting to me. He selected a big man, which makes sense because it would be a bruiser of a match. On the other hand, as I asked him, could he get his "Chicago Bear Hug" around that opponent?

Steve certainly embraced Chicago in his career. Naming his signature move "Chicago Bear Hug" also makes total sense. Plus, I love the concept of a bear hug being used. It's old school in the new era. It's pure Chicago.

Talking to Steve was a lot of fun. I look forward to actually seeing him wrestle soon. I will report back on that right here when it happens. Either way, I will continue following Steve's career and I encourage all to do so, too.

Follow Steve at @ChicagoBearHug on Facebook to get news and updates. You can also follow Steve at @ChicagoBearHug on twitter and @ChicagoBearHug on Instagram. You can also get Steve's merchandise at Pro Wrestling Tees. For some real entertainment, be sure to catch Steve wrestling somewhere.

Thank you to Steve for his time and consideration (and for not putting me in the Chicago Bear Hug). Thanks to Tim Zurko of Zurko Promotions for facilitating this and the other interviews at Chicago Pop Culture Con.

On the Beat With John Borowski at Chicago Pop Culture Con 2018

I met filmmaker John Borowski several years ago at a convention in Chicago. I found his focus fascinating and figured it would make for an interesting interview. That interview led to several more, while I followed his projects and formed a friendship with him.

John is an independent filmmaker, producer, author, historian and more. He has made films about HH Holmes, Albert Fish, Carl Panzram, Vincent Castiglia and more. He is also the creative force behind Serial Killer Culture TV, an episodic show featuring interviews with people involved in the serial killer culture community.

At first glance, this might seem macabre or even sensationalistic, but I always stress the point that John's work, while entertaining, is about history and education. John's approach is to learn and share that knowledge. I might belabor this point, but I think it is a major point that needs to be made.

I get asked about John and I am sure he gets some of the same questions, but all you have to do is see his work or talk to him and you will see how informative his productions are. In no way does he glorify his subject matter. He digs in deep and personal and unearths information crucial to the cases, as well as helpful in future situations. John is brave enough to tackle and present this subject matter and I will always support him.

Bloodlines: The Art and Life of Vincent Castiglia is one of his most recent projects. Castiglia paints in human blood, stirring emotions and thoughts rrom the viewer. What is behind Castiglia's art? What path did Castiglia take to get to this point? Why use human blood? These questions and so many more are answered in John's documentary. It's beautiful, sad, emotional and a roller coaster ride of other emotions. John's presentation is amazing.

I am proud to be a friend and supporter of John. I continue to look forward to more fantastic work from John, as well as years of friendship.

Go to JohnBorowski.com for more info and news on John and his projects. You can also follow John Boroski on Facebook.

Thank you to John for his time and consideration, but especially for lots of entertainment and his friendship. Thanks, too, to Tim Zurko of Zurko Promotions for the hospitality at Chicago Pop Culture Con and for facilitating this and the other interviews there.

On the Beat With Deadgar Winter and Celeste at Chicago Pop Culture Con 2018

I am a fan of horror hosts. With so many of them all over the country, it is hard to stand out. Deadgar Winter has established himself as an excellent horror host.

 Deadgar’s Dark Coffin Classics is a horror/comedy show airing in Wisconsin and other parts f the country. Hosted by Deadgar with Celeste Parker and Maleva Ravic, it has been entertaining fans for about 6 years. As Deadgar and Celeste explain in the interview below, they feature horror films, while welcoming rock bands, authors, artists and other interesting folks to their show. It's a unique approach and one that separates them from the average horror film show.

At the recent Chicago Pop Culture Con, I had the pleasure of interviewing Deadgar and Celeste. We talked about their show, their favorite horror movies, their new hot sauce and more. It was a lit of fun talking to these two.

How does a line of hot sauces fit in with a horror show? Who really cares, because the sauce is very good. You might say it is horrifically awesome. There are a few different sauce options and I think I tasted and enjoyed all of them at the Chicago Pop Culture Con.

Check out our interview, then check out the show and the hot sauce. The show will entertain you and the hot sauces will delight you.

Go to Deadgar's Dark Coffin Classics on Facebook to learn more about this horror show and Deadgar, Celeste and Maleva. Also, check out ZurkoPromotions.com for info and updates on future events.

Thank you to Deadgar and Celeste for their time and consideration, as well as years of entertainment. Thanks to Tim Zurko of Zurko Promotions for the hospitality and for facilitating this and other interviews.

On the Beat With Jim Morrissey at Chicago Pop Culture Con 2018

When I signed on to cover the recent Chicago Pop Culture Con, former Chicago Bears linebacker Jim Morrissey was one of my main interview targets. Thanks to the hospitality of Tim Zurko of Zurko Promotions and Mark Childers, Morrissey's appearance agent, I was able to accomplish that goal.

After an excellent career at Michigan State, Morrissey was selected by the Bears in the 11th round of the 1985 NFL draft. He went on to play 9 seasons in the NFL, all with the Bears except for a handful of games with the Green Bay Packers in his last season.

Unfortunately for Morrissey, in his rookie season, the Bears were loaded with linebackers. Otis Wilson, Wilbur Marshall and Mike Singletary were 3 of the best at the time. The positive is that the Bears won the Super Bowl in his rookie season. Morrissey did see plenty of playing time and responded with excellent play, like his interception in the Super Bowl. He became a starter in his 4th season. and remained a starter for most of the games through his 8th season. 

His tenure with the Bears ended midway through the 1993 season. He signed with the rival Packers and actually returned to Soldier Field for a game against the Bears. He retired after the '93 season.

Morrissey looked to be in great shape at the Chicago Pop Culture Con. He was in great spirits as he mingled with all of the fans. He enjoyed seeing and signing all of the cool memorabilia brought by the many fans there to see him.

After his appearance stint, Morrissey gave me a few minutes of his time. We talked about hsi career highlight (other than the Super Bowl), his role in "The Super Bowl Shuffle," returning to Chicago with the Packers and more.
I really appreciate Morrissey for giving his time and consideration. I appreciate Mark and Tim for facilitating this interview. It's not every day I interview a Super Bowl champ, especially one from my '85 Bears!

On the Beat With Richie Ramone at Chicago Pop Culture Con 2018

I have been a fan of the Ramones since new 6th grade classmate Steve Marino introduced me to the punk rockers. I thought their sound was so original and unique, but I didn't realize how important they were to the music scene.

Richie Ramone joined the band in February 1983 and stayed with the band through August of 1987. The talented drummer has been called the greatest drummer the Ramones ever had. This comes from critics and lead singer Joey Ramone. That is high praise, especially from Joey, considering the amount of dissension often found in the band. Richie is also the only Ramones drummer to write songs and sing lead. His stint in the Ramones might have been relatively short, but he it was memorable.

When I signed on to do coverage of Chicago Pop Culture Con, I contacted Richie about an interview. He quickly agreed and I even did extra coverage on his October appearance in Chicago. That story can be found on the Patch at Richie Ramone Will Rock Reggie's.

Walking into Chicago Pop Culture Con, Richie was the first celebrity I saw. Of course, I immediately went to him. Although quiet, Richie has an aura about him. Maybe it was just me being a fan, but he has that "natural" rocker presence.

I kept the interview short, because time is precious at these events. I can't keep Richie from his fans for too long. We talked about him joining the Ramones, being their best drummer and his upcoming book release. Released November 27, I Know Better Now: My Life Before, During, and After the Ramones is available on Amazon.

I'm definitely adding Richie's book to my library. It should be arriving in the mail this week. I can't wait to dive into it and learn more about Richie.

Extremely talented and versatile, Richie debuted a classical composition in 2007. He was both the featured soloist and the concerto's co-composer. I have listened to Richie's work outside of the Ramones and I am even more in awe of him. Of course, the Ramones will always be special to me, but my interest in Richie goes beyond the Ramones.

It was a real pleasure talking to Richie during and after the interview. It brought me back to my early days of loving the band. Although Richie joined the band about 6 years later, he is part of such a big part of their history. Now, I am proud to say he is a part of Johngy's Beat history.

Go to RichieRamone.com for more info and updates on Richie. You can also follow Richie Ramone on Facebook.

Thank you to Richie for his time and consideration. Thanks to Tim Zurko of Zurko Promotions for the hospitality and access all weekend.

On the Beat With James Azrael at Chicago Pop Culture Con 2018

At the recent Chicago Pop Culture Con, I interviewed James Azrael, a member of my convention family. James is not only a bud, he is a talented guy with an impressive and varied resume, including "It's Just a Game," his movie premiering December 1.

According to the Kickstarter page for "It's Just a Game," the movie is "twisted tale of teenage bullying, jealousy, angst, and a bizarre theatre cult intent on summoning the spirit of an ancient witch." James also gives his insight into the movie in our interview below. Written and directed by Daniel Emery Taylor, produced by my bud James, it stars Hannah Cohen-Lawlor, Leah Hudspeth, Alex Zuko and James, who plays brother Julius (or big guy with a beard, according to James). 

James invited me to the big event this Saturday, but unfortunately, other work prevents me from being there, but I'll be there in spirit and I'll live vicariously through many other friends going. I don't say this because James is a friend. This movie intrigues me.

At the many comic cons I attend, I see a lot of films being promoted. It takes something very special to stand out and "It's Just A Game" sounds very special to me. I also see the passion and excitement when I talked to James.
The Kickstarter program runs for another 9 days. There are several levels of pledging with awesome rewards on each level. In addition to the Blu-Ray, you can get autographed merchandise, limited edition pieces, and lots of other collector's items. Most importantly, you will be helping talented people and getting lots of entertainment, while being part of something special.

Go to the Kickstarter page for It's Just a Game" to get more info on that project, to secure your copy and to help the cause. For more info on James, check out James Azrael on Facebook. You can also follow the HSPPA on Facebook. Go to the It's Just a Game Facebook page for more news about the movie.
Thanks to James for his time and consideration. I wish my friend a lot of success with this project. Thank you also to Tim Zurko of Zurko Promotions for the hospitality all weekend at Chicago Pop Culture Con.

'

Victori Belle and Rob Fury at Chicago Pop Culture Con 2017

The Chicago Pop Culture Convention starts today and runs through tomorrow in St. Charles, IL. There is still time to get in on the fun.

It's always good to see familiar, friendly faces at these events. Despite his growl in the picture below, Rob Fury is always a friendly face.

I first met Rob at RPro wrestling, where he showed his talents inside the ring. I soon learned he was a diehard cosplayer. In fact, I had probably seen Rob many times at conventions without realizing it. He is part of The Age of the Geeks, a top-notch cosplaying group which performs at various comic cons.

I caught up with Rob at TAotG booth, where he was surrounded by talented and awesome cosplayers. Truthfully, I recognized many of the characters, but couldn't really tell you the character names. Some were a bit obscure and my knowledge of such is limited as is. I enjoy the costues and appreciate the effort!

Rob is always cool, but always busy. He's usually zipping off to a panel or signing or other such event. It must be tiring at times, but he seems to have a ball.

He introduced me to his cosplaying mates, including the lovely Victori Belle. She is a dedicated cosplayer of over 8 years. Her goal is to always show the beauty of cosplaying. She's also a model, an actress and an all around interesting person.

You can check out Rob on Facebook, Victori on Facebook and The Age of the Geeks on Facebook. Of course, you should really try to see them in person. They are a lot of fun.

Go to ChicagoPopCultureCon.com to get more info and then come to this cool event. I'll be "On the Beat" as usual.

Victori Belle, Rob Fury and me in St. Charles, IL-November 2017.

Leigh Savage at Chicago Pop Culture Con 2017

The Chicago Pop Culture Convention starts this Saturday and runs through Sunday in St. Charles, IL. I'll be "On the Beat" as usual, looking for interesting celebrities, guests and friends.
Leigh Savage is an author, podcaster, actress and more. She is also a spokeswomen of the #EroticaSpeaks campaign that is trying to bring all forms of Erotica into a more positive and empowering light. She is quite the busy woman.
She was her usual busy self at last year's Chicago Pop Culture Con, too. With panels, signings etc, I kept missing my chance to get a picture with Leigh. I was about ready to leave, when Leigh turned a corner and I almost literally ran into her. I love happenstance.
You can find out more about Leigh's books at GoodReads. They aren't your average books and they will certainly entertain you. You can also follow Leigh on Facebook.
Go to ChicagoPopCultureCon.com for more info and schedules. I'll be "On the Beat" and hopefully, I'll see you there.

Leigh Savage and me in St. Charles, IL-November 2017.

Paul Popovich at Chicago Pop Culture Con 2017

The Chicago Pop Culture Con runs this Saturday and Sunday in St. Charles, IL. Last year, they had a cool mix of guest celebrities, including several ex-Chicago athletes.
Paul Popovich was a classic reserve middle infielder. He had two stints with the Chicago Cubs. In between, he played a season and a half with the Los Angeles Dodgers. He finished his career with two seasons with the Pittsburgh Pirates.
Faithful readers now I have a fascination with backup catchers, but that also extends to backup QB's, backup goalies and even backup middle infielders. In short, I have a soft spot for long time backups.
Popovich was blocked by Don Kessinger and Glenn Beckert in his efforts to gain more playing time. Still, he carved a nice 11 year career in the majors.
At the Chicago Pop Culture Convention last year, we talked a bit about his time with the Cubs. He played with Hall of Famers Ron Santo, Fergie Jenkins, Ernie Banks, Billy Williams and Hoyt Wilhelm. He was here for the second half of the infamous 1969 season. He saw the veteran greats leave and the team turn into a mediocre mess in the early 1970's.
Popovich had nothing but praise for his former mates, especially Kesinger and Beckert. He looked and sounded great, especially for a 78 year old.
Meeting Popovich was especially cool. Back in his playing days, there weren't many player appearances like there are now. Basically, we had television, baseball cards and baseball magazines to get to know a player. I look at the picture below and it blows my mind remembering opening a pack of 1973 baseball cards and finding Popovich and now I am standing next to him. It doesn't seem odd in 2018, but in 1973, it didn't happen.
I look forward to seeing the celebrity guests this year at Chicago Pop Culture Con. Go to ChicagoPopCultureCon.com for more info and schedules. I'll be "On the Beat" and hopefully, I'll see you there.

Paul Popovich and me in St. Charles, IL-November 2017.

Bobby Douglass at Chicago Pop Culture Con 2017

The Chicago Pop Culture Con runs November 24 and 25 in St. Charles, IL. Last year, they had a cool mix of guest celebrities, including several ex-Chicago athletes.

Bobby Douglass was the first quarterback I ever remember for the Chicago Bears. The big lefthander joined the Bears in 1969 and stayed with the team until mid-1975. He then played for San Diego, New Orleans and Green Bay. He also pitched in 4 games in the White Sox minor leagues in 1979.

Douglass was ahead of his time. He was a powerful runner with a strong, but often inaccurate, arm. In a more recent era, Douglass might have had a much better career.

At the Chicago Pop Culture Convention 2018, Douglass was another former Chicago athlete I was able to meet. He still looked big and strong, even at 70.

We talked about his career, including leaving the Bears just as Walter Payton was starting. I also poked him about playing for the hated Packers. Of course, a job in the NFL is better than sitting at home.

I am looking forward to this year's Chicago Pop Culture Con. Go to ChicagoPopCultureCon.com for more info and schedules. I'll be "On the Beat" and hopefully, I'll see you there.

Bobby Douglass and me in St. Charles, IL-November 2017.

Brian F. Colin at Chicago Pop Culture Con 2017

The Chicago Pop Culture Con runs November 24 and 25 in St. Charles, IL. Last year, they had a cool mix of guest celebrities, including several ex-Chicago athletes.
In doing my pre-con research, I saw Brian F. Colin was a celebrity guest. Brian is a video-game designer, artist and animator. He has worked on many video games, including the popular Rampage. Of course, I am a fan of Arch Rivals, a slightly lesser-known game, but one that I played frequently back in the day. My longtime bud Louie and I used to have quite the battles and I believe I hold the series edge by a game or two.
Arch Rivals was a basketball game, which featured a handful of court issues which could cause turnovers. Most importantly, the game had a punch feature which would allow your player to steal the ball from the opposition. It was so much fun, accept when you knew the punch was coming but you couldn't escape it.
Brian had some exciting news about Rampage, which he discussed in the interview we did. He also talked about Arch Rivals (as I stood in awe). My interview can be found at On the Beat With Brian F. Colin at Chicago Pop Culture Con.
Go to ChicagoPopCultureCon.com for more info and schedules. I'll be "On the Beat" and hopefully, I'll see you there.

Brian F. Colin and me in St. Charles, IL-November 2017.