Carrie and The Squared Circle Expo

The Squared Circle Expo is the best wrestling convention I have attended. It was recently announced SCX V will be April 25-26 in Indianapolis, IN. (As a point of clarification, the date was moved back one week to avoid coinciding with WrestleMania.)

One of the unsung heroes of SCX is co-promoter Carrie, wife of co-promoter Adolfo. Usually found working the merchandise booth, Carrie is a calming, behind-the-scenes type. While other promoters Ed, Heather and Adolfo have gotten in the ring at one time or another, Carrie has remained outside the squared circle. I would be shocked if Carrie ever got in the ring, but it could be an awesome moment.

In or out of the ring, Carrie is simply a sweetheart. She is immensely helpful and nice at the conventions, which isn't easy. Attendees tend to voice complaints to promoters more than praise. I have never seen Carrie rattled, although she would probably disagree. Maybe on the inside, but outside, she is a smiling, welcoming presence.

I will be at SCX V as always and I encourage every wrestling fan to check it out. When you see Carrie, make sure to tell her how great it is. For more info, go to squaredcirclex.com.

PL Myers, Carrie Gedeon and me in Schaumburg, IL-November 2017.

Adolfo of Squared Circle Expo

With many comic and horror cons in the Chicago and midwest area, why wasn't there a wrestling convention? At one time, this area was a hotbed for pro wrestling. There were wrestling conventions on the east coast, North Carolina, Florida and elsewhere, but nothing around here.

Then Adolfo (and his crew) changed that.

A veteran of the comic con scene, Adolfo teamed with his wife Carrie and married friends Ed and Heather (semi-retired wrestlers and convention veterans) to launch Squared Circle Expo in Indianapolis in 2021. Since then it has grown in size and popularity.

SCX is everything you'd want in a wrestling convention. The two day event features 60+ wrestlers appearing for meet-and-greets, panels, Q&As and photo ops. Some even wrestle, along with enough other independent wrestlers to fill a full wrestling card.

I have never seen convention guests in such good moods. All of the wrestlers actually look like they enjoy being there. Usually, there are a handful of celebs who are polite, but not very engaging. This is not so at SCX. I have never had a bad experience with any of the wrestlers and I have met more than 250 at the first three shows.

Credit goes to Adolfo and his team. They are an amazing bunch. They are incredibly hard-working, passionate and fun. They know how to party, but they know when to work.

I highly encourage every wrestling fan to attend SCX. I will be there March 29-30. For more info, go to SquaredCircleX.com and also check here for my updates. 

PL Myers, Adolfo Dorta and me in Schaumburg, IL-November 2017.

The Shot to the Top PL Myers

"The Shot to the Top" PL Myers is truly one of a kind. A successful wrestling manager, founder of the Chicago Connection (of which I am a proud member), an author (Gate to Gate), Pl has carved quite a career.

I first met him when he was a manager (and part-owner) at PCW, a great, although now gone, independent wrestling company. PL did the seemingly impossible there. He stayed in heel character, but still check on fans making sure all were having a good time.

Along the way, we became friends, especially after we reconnected at Resistance Pro Wrestling. I was honored and humbled when he asked me to join his Hero TV show. Covid caused Comcast to change procedures, so Hero TV is on hiatus, but it will return in some  form.

Speaking of returning, Chicagoland Championship Wrestling returns Sunday, October 9, after Covid also delayed their shows. PL brings his Chicago Connection to cause havoc and win titles in CCW and I will be there "On the Beat" and supporting my Connection brothers.

For more info, go to ChicagolandChampionshipWrestling.com. Also, check here for my coverage before and after the return of PL and CCW!

PL Myers and me in Addison, IL-November 2019.

Friend Encounters: Valentine Bennett and Lori Myers

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

A couple months ago, my HeroTV co-host PL Myers and I ventured out to the music studio of Valentine Bennett. We had the double pleasure of interviewing him and hearing a bit of his music live.
We talked to Valentine about his writing process, his music idols, how the industry changed and more. Our HeroTV interview with Valentine can be found at HeroTV 2019 Episode 8: Valentine Bennett.
Accompanying us was PL's wife Lori,a big supporter of ours and (probably) a bigger fan of Valentine's. Lori has been known to steer us to some great interviews and such was the case again with Valentine.
I was not familiar with Valentine's music, but I am always open to new sounds. Plus, meeting him and hearing him play his music right in front of us was a very cool experience.
After the interview, Valentine was kind enough to give me one of his CDs. On my way home, I gave it Live Love Laugh a listen and really enjoyed it. In fact, I listened to it several times over the next few days and I liked it more each time. Since then, I have looked up more of his music and I am now a fan (although, probably not as big as Lori).
Valentine says things really clicked for him when he made his writing more personal. He was writing from his heart and things fell into place.
I really appreciate Valentine for his time and consideration. It was a fun experience. Valentine gained a new fan and I gained new music.

After you watch our interview, go to ValentineBennett.com for more info. Also, follow Valentine on Facebook. where Valentine goes live occasionally to perform music.

Valentine Bennett and Lori Myers in McHenry, IL-September 2019.

Friend Encounters: PL Myers and Chazz Moretti

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

Take your pick for friend or celebrity for PL Myers and Chazz Moretti. Actually, this is one of those cases where they are both.

PL and Chazz are two of the best managers on the independent wrestling scene. While their characters are different, they possess similar qualities. Both have charisma, command attention, have great mic skills and basically have all of the necessary components of a great manager. They both can even get in a match on occasion. They also both have a tremendous respect for the business and their craft.

As friends, they also share similar qualities. Both men are funny, humble, supportive and loyal.

I have learned a lot by watching them and have enjoyed every minute of it. I don't think they have ever worked against each other and that's a shame. I think they could do great work. I'm pretty sure they never even worked for the same company at the same time.

Young wrestlers or managers can learn a lot from these two. The big companies seem to underutilize the manager role, but it is still used effectively on the indy scene.

Both men are very active around the Chicago area. They might not be working together yet, but at lest they appeared together for the picture below.

PL Myers and Chazz Moretti in Rosemont, IL-September 2019.

HeroTV 2019 Episode 4: Elizabeth Perez and Lenny Gilmore

The newest episode of HeroTV 2019 is now airing on Comcast. HeroTV Episode 4: Elizabeth Perez and Lenny Gilmore features a pair doing interesting things in the world of skating.

I first met Elizabeth during her time with the Windy City Rollers, a Chicago-based roller derby team. I followed her since then and she has had quite a journey. In just a few short years since her move to Chicago, Elizabeth mastered roller derby and skating to the point where shje actually is a teacher and a consultant.

I had previously never met Lenny Gilmore, but I was familiar with him through their YouTube videos. You can find them at The Rollaways on YouTube.

The pair already have an interesting story and it is about to get more interesting. They are about to embark on a year-long trek around the country in a van. They will be teaching and promoting skating, but I am sure there will be other fun, too.

Elizabeth and Lenny do a much better job of explaining their plans than I can do. If you watch the video, you will also see their passion for what they are doing.

After Paul Erickson, James Finn Garner and now Elizabeth and Lenny, the last three episodes of HeroTV all feature guests I have brought to the show. I am very proud of these and I am thankful to co-host PL Myers for trusting my instincts that they ll have fascinating stories to share.

We really appreciate Elizabeth and Lenny for stopping by the Comcast studio to record this episode. We really look forward to following their journey and hope to have them back next year to update us.

You can watch the episode on Comcast and it is also available on our YouTube channel at HeroTV 2019 Episode 4: Elizabeth Perez and Lenny Gilmore. You can see all of our HeroTV episodes on the HeroTV YouTube home page.

Lenny Gilmore, Elizabeth Perez, PL Myers and me in Elmhurst, IL-February 2019.

HeroTV 2019 Episode 2: Paul Erickson Nerd Parodist

The newest episode of HeroTV 2019 is airing on Comcast. You can also watch it at HeroTV 2019 Episode 2: Paul Erickson Nerd Parodist. PL Myers and I welcome my old friend Paul Erickson into the Comcast studios for a half hour of fun we call an interview.

I have known Paul for many years, having met him on the comic con circuit. I believe Contributor Extraordinaire Matt Parker actually first noticed Paul and asked for an interview. To be honest, noticing Paul at a comic con isn't hard. He is usually dressed as a hobbit. Fortunately for all involved, Paul was casually dressed for the HeroTV interview, but I digress.

At that first meeting, I learned that Paul was a Tolkien parodist, hence the hobbit garb. Paul was promoting The Wobbit A Parody (Of The Hobbit), his parody book obviously based on LOTR. Going the extra mile, Paul manned his booth (shared with fellow author James Finn Garner, the subject of a future HeroTV interview) dressed as a hobbit, engaging all who meandered down the aisle. He certainly engaged us.

That was the start of a friendship which has seen us both grow. No longer "just" a Tolkien parodist, Paul is now the "world's foremost nerd parodist" as he has expanded his parodying to include Star Wars.

I have had the pleasure of interviewing him several times since the first encounter. I am always happy to spread the word on his latest projects. He in turn has included me in a few of his famous panels at comic cons. They truly have been some of the most fun I have had at the cons.

Fast forward to present day and I suggested Paul (and James) to PL for our HeroTV show. Impressed by his body of work, PL immediately agreed. Paul brought his "A" game as he talked to us about how he started writing parodies, comic cons, his influences, dressing as a hobbit, future projects and more.

I am always extra proud when a HeroTV interview is someone I brought to the table. I was happy to give Paul some extra exposure and to add him to our growing list of fascinating interview subjects.

The best interviews always seem like a fun conversation. If you know Paul and have ever talked to him, all conversations are fun and this was no exception.

Watch the interview at the link above. Also, check out Paul's work at NerdParodist.com. If you get the chance, by all means, see him at a comic con, where he is in action at his best!

Thanks to my HeroTV co-host for inviting me to join the legendary show. Thanks to Paul for his time and consideration. Also thanks to Paul for a lot of entertainment, but I am still waiting for that meatball sandwich (inside joke).

PL Myers, Paul Erickson and me in Elmhurst, IL-February 2019.

Happy 40th Anniversary Svengoolie Rich Koz

In June of 1979, Rich Koz debuted as the Son of Svengoolie on Chicago's WFLD-TV. Forty years and dozens of awards later, Koz is still going strong.

Joining WCIU-TV in 1995, Koz became Svengoolie, dropping the "Son of" with permission from Jerry G. Bishop, the original Svengoolie. Bishop reasoned that Sven "was all grown up now." Koz and Sven have remained on WCIU-TV ever since.

Last year, PL Myers and I had the pleasure of interviewing Rich Koz on the Svengoolie set at the WCIU studios. Just being on the legendary set would have been cool, but sitting down with Rich to discuss his career was a wonderful experience. That interview can be found at HeroTV 2018 Episode 11: Svengoolie Rich Koz.

Despite being in constant demand, Rich was very generous with his time. He is humble, funny and full of life. He talked to us about his start as Svengoolie, his passion for what he does, future goals and more.

Johngy's Beat has gotten me far more experiences than I ever imagined, however this one came from HeroTV. I guess, technically, it also came from Johngy's Beat, since that is part of why I am on HeroTV. Who really cares though. The important thing is I was there and talking to a Chicago icon.

Go to Svengoolie.com to learn more about Rich and Sven. You can also get updates at Svengoolie on Facebook. There will be a lot of appearances and events to celebrate the 40th year of Koz and Sven.

PL Myers, Rich Koz and me in Chicago, IL-October 2018.

HeroTV 2018 Episode 12: Eric Soderholm Part 1

Eric Soderholm was one of my first favorite players, despite playing for the Minnesota Twins, rivals of the Chicago White Sox. Eric suffered a devastating knee injury late in the 1975 season and missed all of 1976. In late '76, he was the first free agent to sign with the Sox.

Eric was named the 1977 American League Comeback Player of the Year and had another solid season in 1978. It was cool seeing Eric play here in Chicago.

Unfortunately, he was traded to the Texas Rangers during the 1979 season and then traded to the New York Yankees after the season. After one season with the Yankees, he retired. After his playing career ended, Eric did some scouting and owned a ticket broker company.

Eventually, Eric and his family opened SoderWorld Wellness Center. Earlier this month, as part of our HeroTV show, Paul Myers and I visited Eric at SoderWorld. I wrote about that experience for Global Traveler at Peace, Prosperity, Joy and Abundance at SoderWorld.

Immediately as we walked to the entrance, Paul and I both remarked at how peaceful the area was. It seemed the perfect place for a "body, mind and spirit sanctuary," as SoderWorld'promises. Despite the recent snow and cold front, I could see how beautiful the setting was. I can only imagine how wonderful it is in warmer times.

Eric was very gracious and accommodating. He answered all of our questions and gave us an interesting interview. It was great to learn about Eric's views on life and to see him genuinely at peace.I couldn't help but be drawn into his spirit.

Especially at this time of year, it is good to focus on the important things in life. Eric doesn't promise that SoderWorld will bring you a peaceful state of mind, but it will lead you on that path. Just being there already made me feel calmer.

I plan on returning to SoderWorld, specifically in the summer. I want to walk through the "Garden of Eden," as Eric calls it. I want to see the area in full bloom.

You can watch HeroTV 2018 Episode 12: Eric Soderholm Part 1 on the HeroTV YouTube channel. Also, check out HeroTV on Comcast.

Thank you to Eric for his time and consideration. It was a pleasure meeting him and learning about his career and SoderWorld. Go to SoderWorldWellness.com for more info. Also check SoderWorld on Facebook for news and updates.

PL Myers, Eric Soderholm and me in Willowbrook, IL-December 2018.

HeroTV 2018 Episode 11: Svengoolie Rich Koz

The newest episode of HeroTV is now on Comcast. HeroTV 2018 Episode 11: Svengoolie features th legendary horror host, Chicago icon and all-around great guy Rich Koz (aka Svengoolie).

Paul and I (and a small group of our HeroTV crew) met Rich at the WCIU studios in Chicago. Paul and I were both looking forward to interviewing Koz, especially on the famous set. This was about as cool as it gets.

Producer Jim Roche and Rich greeted us as we entered the sacred ground. I saw the iconic casket, the rubber chicken, signs for Berwyn and all of the other staples of the Svengoolie show. We chatted for a bit and then sat down for the interview I had anticipated for over a year.

Rich was as nice as could be, answering our questions with humor and insight. The 25 minutes flew by. At one point, I stumbled on my question, because I was a bit in awe of him and where I was. I have interviewed hundreds of celebrities and met even more. There have been very few times I have ever been tongue-tied, but this was one of those times.

Svengoolie goes beyond the horror fans. Rich and Sven have been doing this for 40 years. His fame goes well beyond Chicago, but he would certainly be on the Mt. Rushmore of Chicago television.

We'd like to thank Svengoolie Rich Koz for his time, consideration and friendship (not to mention years of entertainment). We also thank producer extraordinaire Jim Roche and the entire WCIU family for their hospitality.

You can check out the HeroTV YouTube channel for HeroTV 2018 Episode 11: Svengoolie Rich Koz. I hope you enjoy watching this one as much as we did filming it.

Paul Myers, Rich Koz and me in Chicago, IL-October 2018.

On the Beat With Kevin Matthews for HeroTV

The May episode of HeroTV is now airing on Comcast in the Chicago area and also on the HeroTV YouTube channel. It features radio legend Kevin Matthews.

I was a KevHead from his very first days on Chicago radio. Johnny B., Kevin and Steve and Garry got me through the day. Kev was always my favorite one though. I loved his radio program and also his work in comedy clubs, where I saw him several times. He was just so talented.

Fast forward 30+ years and the Loop is no more. Radio has changed so much. It's barely tolerable these days.

I had read a little about Kev and "The Broken Mary" project and it was a remarkable story. Earlier this year, I saw him speak at a church near me. I was brought to tears by his story.

It's better to hear it directly from Kev, but in short, he developed MC about 10 years ago. Raised a Catholic, Kev was also on a bit of a spiritual journey. It all started to come together when he found a broken statue of Mary at a flower shop, that he was guided to visit. Since then, Broken Mary has changed Kevin's life and the lives of so many. It's a powerful story that needs to be spread.

I told PL about Kevin and Broken Mary and he immediately agreed that we needed to interview him for HeroTV. I contacted Kevin and he eagerly agreed to meet us at St. Anthony's, where the Broken Mary usually resides. (In all honesty, Kevin also offered to meet us in Chicago at some point, but we thought it would be even more poignant to do it there).

Kevin couldn't have been nicer or more gracious. The quick wit is still there, but so is a real calmness. He talked so lovingly about Mary and his experiences. He eschewed talk that it is his story, instead putting the spotlight on Mary. I respectfully disagreed a bit, saying the story was really both of theirs. Kevin might also say it is everyone's story to share.

I can't tell you what this experience meant to me. Listening to Kev for so long and meeting him and having a lengthy interview with him about a topic so important, was a bit surreal, but completely wonderful.

I appreciate Kev for the many years of awesome entertainment. I hope everyone checks out BrokenMary.com to learn more about the Broken Mary Project.

Check out our interview at HeroTV2018 Kevin Matthews Part 1. Stay tuned for HeroTV 2018 Kevin Matthews Part 2 in June.

PL Myers, Kevin Matthews and me in Grand Rapids, MI-April 2018.

On the Beat at HeroTV With Carley Cooprider

The fifth episode of our HeroTV show is airing on Comcast and is also available on our HeroTV YouTube channel.  You can find that episode at HeroTV 2017: Episode 5 Carley Cooprider.
Carley is a very special you lady.  She talks candidly about her childhood, her time as a ref in pro wrestling, her new career path as a nurse, her battle with Lyme Disease and more.
Our paths had crossed prior to this interview, but I never really knew Carley until PL Myers and I interviewed her.  Within minutes of talking to her before the interview began, I was so impressed with her composure, courage and strength.  She has overcome a lot in life and is still crushing the obstacles.  Her message is so positive, so inspirational.
After the interview, I drove home thinking about Carley and HeroTV.  PL always says HeroTV is about the everyday heroes.  Carley is a hero in every sense of the word.  She is a true unsung hero.  I hope HeroTV shines a little light on her life and accomplishments.  I hope many people are introduced to this special person.  She has a wonderful message for life.  This isn't just lip service.  She has and is living courageously and admirably.
My respect goes to Carley.  I am proud that she is a new friend I have met through HeroTV.  It's not every day that I meet a real hero.

PL Myers, Carley Cooprider and me in Elmhurst, IL-July 2017.

On the Beat At HeroTV With Emily Allard of the Chicago Bandits

I often get asked why I love the Chicago Bandits or women's softball so much.  One easy answer is Emily Allard.
Emily is a California girl who attended college and played softball at Northwestern University.  She was selected by the Chicago Bandits in the 2014 National Pro Fastpitch Draft.  The outfielder quickly played her way into the lineup and the  hearts of fans.
Midway through her third season, Emily suffered a season-ending concussion.  She worked very hard and came back strong last season, but concussion issues lingered and her season was cut short again.  Her future in softball is in question at the moment.
Emily is a huge favorite of the fans.  There are many #24 jerseys worn in the stands at every game.
Outside of playing for the Bandits, Emily is co-founder of BeTheMomentumSoftball.com.  Emily is a slap-hitter and she is teaching youngsters the skill.  Not everyone can hit a towering home run.  Emily has used her speed and her well-placed hits to become a very valuable table-setter for the home run hitters behind her.
When I joined PL Myers on HeroTV, my first suggestion for an interview was Emily.  I figured she would be a very interesting interview,, but more important, I wanted to shine the light on her and the Bandits.  These ladies deserve much more recognition than they get.
When I asked Emily, she quickly agreed and despite a busy schedule, she met us early one Sunday morning at the Ballpark.  This was typical Emily.  Why stay in and catch more sleep, when she can be out giving of herself.
I am so happy and proud of this interview, which can be found on YouTube.at HeroTV Episode 4: Emily Allard.  We talked to Emily about her path to the Bandits, her passion, the young fans, her goals, her role models, her injury issues and much more.  You can feel the commitment she has to the sport and the young fans (and even us older fans, too).
This interviews was conducted prior to her stepping away from the game because of the lingering effects of her concussion.  Unfortunately, she made that decision about 10 days later.
Getting back to my main point, Emily is a perfect example of everything I have loved about covering the Bandits and being involved in the NPF.  The dedication of the players is amazing.  They play for little pay (and deserve much more), but it isn;t about the money.  It's about the sport and the young fans.  I see that on a daily basis around the team.
Win or lose, the players put smiles on their faces and walk the long line of fans after the game.  They sign autographs, pose for pictures and engage in a bit of chat with everyone there.The Bandits won two straight league titles, yet I saw so little coverage of the team.
I have no idea if Emily will play pro ball again.  I hope she does, but I know she will be fine either way.  She has a lot going on and she will continue to make a difference no matter where her career path takes her.
I thank Emily for her time in giving us this interview and for her friendship over the last few years.  I thank the Chicago Bandits for their continued hospitality in allowing me to do what I love.  I thank PL Myers for seeing something in me to ask me to join his show.

PL Myers, Emily Allard and me in Rosemont, IL-June 2017.

Emily Allard of the Chicago Bandits on HeroTV

PL Myers had been running HeroTV on Comcast for the last 20 years.   He asked me to join as co-host for his 21st year in 2017.  Of course, I jumped on board.

Our first show was an introduction of the revised show including me.  Our second and third show featured us interviewing Elliott Serrano, the King of Chicago Geeks.  The fourth show starts today and I am so proud of this episode.

It was our first real on-location show and I organized it, including getting our guest, Emily Allard of the Chicago Bandits.

As regular readers know, I cover the Bandits and I love the Bandits and National Pro Fastpitch.  Emily is one of a handful of players who have been there for all of my four seasons.  Actually, she was a rookie in my "rookie" season with the team.

I just love Emily.  She's everything you'd want in a player, teammate, coach, friend or person.  She's tough, athletic, intelligent, funny and sweet as can be.  She always has had time for our interviews at the ballpark or even just friendly chatter.

This time, the interview wasn't for Johngy's Beat, but rather for HeroTV.  despite being her usual busy self, Emily gave us her time on a beautiful Sunday morning at the ballpark.  PL and I asked several questions and Emily gave us thoughtful answers.

I really enjoyed this experience.  As we stood there in the park, I knew this was why I loved doing this.  It was a perfect morning and we got to air Emily's story and promote the Bandits a bit.

That episode started airing July 1 on Comcast and it will be on our HeroTV YouTube channel soon.  I am excited to see it air and I hope you all enjoy it.

On an unfortunate side note, since the taping, Emily has had to step away from softball for now due to injuries.  Her softball future is uncertain, but I know if she can come back, she will.  If she cannot return, she will be involved in some way and she will continue making the world a better place.

Thank you to PL for this opportunity.  Thank you all for following me and hopefully you will watch this episode.  Finally and most importantly, a HUGE thanks to Emily for her time and consideration.  Thanks, too, to Emily for doing what she does and making a difference.  It has been a pleasure knowing Emily and a thrill to interview her in this format.

As always, thank you to the Chicago Bandits for letting me do what Iove doing.  Check out the team at ChicagoBandits.com.

PL Myers, Emily Allard and me in Rosemont, IL-June 2017.

Friendly Encounters: PL Myers and Matt Parker

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

Former wrestling manager extraordinaire PL Myers was "the Shot to the Top."  He worked with some of the all-time greats of wrestling, such as the Road Warriors and Bobby Heenan.

Matt "Big Money" Parker was a Contributor Extraordinaire during the earlier days of Johngy's Beat.  Along with a lot of video work and computer assistance, Matt interviewed some very big names, like Craig Biggio and the Ultimate Warrior.

When two big hitters like PL and Matt get together, anything can happen.  I'm just fortunate to be friends with both.

PL is pretty much retired from the wrestling business and Matt is pretty much retired from Johngy's Beat.  Both have moved on to more important things, such as marital bliss.  While I miss both men, I also am happy for each, because they both seeem to be happy and content.

Of course, the wrestling door is always open for a return from PL and you just neer know in wrestling.  The Johngy's Beat door is also always open for a return of Big Money.  Either way, I have great memories of both and more importantly, both are still a part of my life away from business.

PL Myers and Matt Parker in Midlothian, IL-November 2011.

A Benefit For Thailand Volunteer Work: Part 1

This Saturday, February 27 at the VFW n Summit, IL, I will be attending "A Benefit for Thailand Volunteer Work."  I will be joining and helping good friends PL Myers, Lori Myers and Desiré  Hudson in making this an entertaining night of wrestling and fund-raising.

Last summer, I had the pleasure of sharing in the marriage celebration of PL and Lori.  I have known PL for many years, having met him on the independent wrestling scene, where, as one of the best managers in the business, he was the "Shot to the Top."  I met his bride Lori through PL and her daughter Desiré through Lori.

Desiré is a student at the College of DuPage.  She has embarked on a tremendous journey and "A Benefit for Thailand Volunteer Work" was PL's brainchild to help financially support her effort.

"A Benefit for Thailand Volunteer Work" is a fundraiser to help cover the cost of her two week trip to Thailand.  She will be caring for elephants, volunteering at a dog shelter, visiting the local elementary schools, and helping with such things as planting rice in the local villages.  This is such a wonderful cause and an opportunity of a lifetime for a special young lady.

Desiré has a GoFundMe page, where you can learn more and pledge your support!  You can also find out more info at the "A Benefit for Thailand Volunteer Work" Facebook page.

Paul and Lori Myers and me in Villa Park, IL-Summer 2015.

My Friend PL Myers

PCW was the first independent wrestling organization I ever followed.  That's where I first met PL Myers. Like most successful wrestling characters, Myers was quite colorful.  He pushed the edge, but he never went over the top.  He knew how to play it always.  He was usually the most entertaining part of the show. Even as a "bad guy," Myers was always good to the fans of PCW.  I saw him many times do little things for fans.  We would often talk and we were always friendly, but that was about it. A couple years ago, we reconnected when Warden Myers made his debut in Resistance Pro Wrestling.  Especially during a time of a lot of turmoil in RPro, Myers was a steadying force all around.  We started to talk more and really became friends.  I was very proud to be invited to his wedding last summer. He's a really good guy.  He has stories upon stories of working with wrestling legends, like Bobby "The Brain" Heenan, Paul Ellering and Jim Cornette.  Myers has done it all and you can read about it in Gate to Gate, his autobiography.  I happen to own a signed copy, but you can get the book on Amazon, among other places. Sometimes it is funny how friendships develop.  My path with PL wasn't the typical friendship route, but I am happy and proud to call him a friend in any case.

PL Myers and me in Oaklawn, IL-March 2012.

Goodbye and Thanks to Pro Championship Wrestling

I was very surprised when I recently saw on Facebook that Pro Championship Wrestling (PCW) was closing.  There would be no farewell show or any other chance for PCW to get a proper sendoff.

There wasn't a lot I could do about it, except to bid it a fond farewell via my writing platforms, namely Johngy's Beat and Tru School Sports.  This is obviously the Beat piece, while my story for Tru School Sports can be found at Goodbye and Thanks to Pro Championship Wrestling.

PCW was the first independent wrestling show I ever attended.  I am pretty sure I went to see one of the many wrestling legends they had at their shows.  Over the years, I met such legends as Ric Flair, Bret Hart, the Ultimate Warrior, Jerry "The King" Lawler, Tammy "Sunny" Sytch and more.  For many of the legends (at least at the time), these were rare appearances.  For the fans, it was a chance to meet wrestling royalty with relatively short lines.  Plus you got to see excellent wrestling action while you waited.

While at the shows, I met and befriended PL Myers.  Currently known as Warden Myers in Resistance Pro, Myers was a fixture on the PCW scene for over a decade.  For many, he was the face of PCW.  He was a manager, a performer, an ambassador and much more.  Nobody worked harder than Myers.

Most of the wrestlers will find their eay to other indy wrestling groups in the area.  It will be odd to see them elsewhere, but life goes on.

PCW had a great run.  It reached the top of the charts as an indy company.  It brought in the biggest names.  Their yearly "Dream Night" events were incredible.  They did things right and they should all be proud.

On behalf of all of the loyal fans, thank you to everyone in and out of the ring at PCW.  PCW will be gone, but the memories will last forever!

PL Myers and me in Willowbrook, IL-Mid 2014.

On the Beat at Resistance Pro's "Draw the Line"

The last Resistance Pro show was dedicated to United States veterans and they packed the house.  It was the usual great RPro event, plus the added bobus of giving back to the veterans for their service.

Speaking of the veterans, we got an interview with C Red, a veteran of the service.  He spoke on what this show means to him and the others.

We also spoke to Mickie Knuckles.  Knuckles left me with a unique and much-appreciated gift.

While Special Correspondent JayHawk Evans was interviewing Head Ref Robert King, they were interrupted by Robert's brother Justin.  They also were interrupted by "The Ego" Robert Anthony and Knuckles.  Lastly, all heck broke loose and the interview had to be continued in another room.

Finally, we talked to Warden Myers.  This interview was also interrupted.  Rival Manager C Red injected a little soul into the segment.

The next show is Friday night.  "Practice What You Prewch" promises to be another awesome night of entertainment.

On the Beat at Resistance Pro's "Don't Tread"

Last month's Resistance Pro's "Don't Tread" was another excellent show.  If you think I am just repeating myself, I challenge you to come to one of their shows and find out for yourself.  You will be saying the same thing, too.

It was another solid night for JohngysBeat.com, too, as we got several interesting interviews.  "Mr. M80" Marshe Rockett was getting shot at Jocephus Brody's title.  We talked to Marshe before his match and got his thoughts, along with the first look at his new shirt available for purchase.

After a year long absence (because of a "Loser leaves R Pro for a year" match with "The Ego" Robert Anthony), Mr. 450 returned and was looking for revenge.  We talked to him about what he had been doing and what his future holds.

Warden Myers is right in the middle of the action as always.  Two of his inmates were fighting for freedom, but one chose not to fight.  The Warden is never without a backup plan though.  He had two new men under his thumb, although he wouldn't reveal them during the interview.  (Johngy's Beat does give the reveal in it though.)

Chris Hall revealed his new shirt, but did not reveal his latest career path.  (Check back to the Warden's interview for a little clue.)

Just when I thought I was going to get that interview with Colonel Jesse Corgan, Timekeeper Mike Bellcaster stepped in and ousted me.  I have no idea where this is going, but I do not like it one bit.

Superfan and wrestling columnist Jonathan McMahon made his interview debut on both ends of the questions.  First, I interviewed him about his path to Resistance.  Then he took over the interview duties and got the latest scoop from Scotty Young.  Welcome to the JohngysBeat.com Universe, JMc and thank you.

That's a lot of action for a three hour show and that is just from my end.  The actual R Pro wrestling was even more entertaining.  Plus, I did not even mention the women of the Chicago Bliss who were there again.  Next show, I will have to get their opinions.

Speaking of the next show, it is this Friday, May 16.  "Savage Amusement" promises to be what the title proclaims.  Two days away and I can't wait..