No Criticism of Kevin Nash Here

Kevin Nash has had an interesting wrestling career.  He has been involved in some of the greatest angles.  He has been a multiple time champion.  Unfortunately, he has also been criticized for various reasons (such as backstage politics and laziness).
I don't know the inside scoop, but I can tell you he seems like a straight up guy to me.  He is always really cool in person and I have met him several times under many different circumstances.  He goes out of his way to give his fans what they want.
For some odd reason, JayHawk and I decided we wanted the big man to put us in headlocks.  He obliged.  Be careful what you ask for, but hindsight is 20/20.  It seemed like a good idea.  Fortunately, Big Kev kept it a loose lock and didn't snap our necks.  Seriously, I do think Kev could have put a hurtin' on us if he wanted.
Kev also is patient and willing to talk about himself, wrestling and his friends in wrestling.
He has enough detractors out there (really too many), but I am not one of them.  Kev is okay in my opinion!

JayHawk Evans, Kevin Nash and me in Rosemont, IL-August 2010.

Friendly Encounters

This is a weekly series featuring friends who have met celebs.

Matt Parker is my nephew and a frequent subject of Friendly Encounters.  Matt is always looking for Friendly Encounters opportunities.
Recently Matt attended a WSCR broadcast as part of their "Who Needs Two?" promotion featuring Dan Bernstein and Terry Boers.  The nearby Chicago bar was pretty crowded, so Matt didn't really get to interact with the broadcasters.  He did manage to talk to show producer Herb Lawrence, a Score veteran.
Matt asked Herb for a picture (always looking for the FE photo-op...good job Big Money).  Herb seemed somewhat surprised that Matt would want a picture with him.  Herb is certainly no slouch.  He's a beloved Score personality.  Besides, there are no small stars as far as Johngy's Beat goes.

Herb Lawrence and Matt Parker in Chicago, IL-Spring 2011.

On the Beat with Steve Fireovid-Part 2

Yesterday, I posted the first part of a Q&A I had with former pitcher Steve Fireovid.  Today, I am presenting the second part.

Q-How did your book, The 26th Man, come to be?
SF-The 26th Man was really meant to represent a whole lot of players, not just me.  There were (and are) so many people who were never really given the opportunity truly deserved.  I think I pointed out in the book that this is true of most professions -- not just baseball players.  I was at the point in my career where I knew I could speak with a bit of authority on the matter and I probably heard a dozen players every year say, "I should write a book about all of this crap."  So I did.  I've always been at ease with writing,so I felt comfortable doing it.  It was a nice summer project and I had the kind of year on the field to easily justify my point.

Q-What is your favorite vacation spot?
SF-My favorite vacation spot is virtually anywhere that is not here.  For me, it's more about what I'm leaving and who I'll be spending time with than where I'm going.  Don't get me wrong though-- given a choice between Toledo and a nice condo on the ocean, I'll take the water.

I have read The 26th Man a few times over the years.  I am also one of a few people who reviewed it on Amazon.  I thought it was a great book.  It had laughs, honesty, great stories and interesting insight into baseball, life and Steve himself.  I have read a lot of books, specifically many autobiographies and The 26th Man is one of the best.
I really appreciate Steve taking time to answer my questions. I followed Steve's career, collected his cards (although I wish he had a White Sox card!) and read his book.  I had a lot of fun following him through the years.  It means a lot that Steve would take the time to thoughtfully answer my questions.  I am an even bigger fan of his now!

On the Beat with Steve Fireovid-Part 1

Steve Fireovid was drafted by the San Diego Padres in 1978 and made his major league debut with them in 1981.  He pitched for 5 teams during his 6 seasons.  As a long time fan of his, I was happy when he pitched (although only briefly) for my hometown Chicago White Sox in 1985.
His time in the majors was fairly short, but his pro baseball career was lengthy and successful.  During parts of 16 seasons in the minors, he had an impressive record of 139-98.  His 1990 season with the Indianapolis Indians is the subject of The 26th Man, a book he wrote back in 1991.  It is a season long diary, with good stories and a candid look at his career and life.
I recently contacted Fireovid to ask him a few questions.  Below is the first part of my exchange with Fireovid.

Q-What have you been doing since you retired?
SF-Since retiring in 1993, I've been a financial adviser in my hometown of Bryan, OH.  In 2000, I formed Fireovid Financial Group, Ltd.  It's a far cry from baseball, but I imagine most any occupation would be.  I am involved in the community in areas I feel strongly about, but enjoy being a homebody for the most part.  I certainly do not miss the travel associated with baseball.

Q-How did it feel to see your first card and to be asked for an autograph?
SF-I was pretty gracious when it came to autographs.  In fact, I still get several a week in the mail and try to promptly return them.  I think the first time I was asked for one, I just thought to myself, "Why would anyone want my signature?"  I still do feel that way, but that's a whole different and deeper conversation.  My first card was bittersweet.  I'm no male model, but it may be the worst picture I've ever seen.

Q-Do you know which pitcher gave up your first major league hit?
SF-Rick Mahler of the Braves.  I hit a groundball up the middle.  I do have to admit feeling justified even if only to myself.

For the record, Fireovid's first hit came on Sept. 12, 1981, in his second at bat (he struck out in his first).  Fireovid came up in the top of the fifth with nobody on base and no outs.  Joe Lefebvre had just cleared the bases with a home run to put the Padres ahead 4-1.  Ozzie Smith, Gene Richards and Ruppert Jones all made outs and stranded Fireovid on base.
I thought Fireovid would remember his first hit.  So many times,players have vivid memories and specifically pitchers about their hitting.
Check back tomorrow for Part 2.  Until then, check out some of his other cards.

Celeb Jersey Cards #54 Alyssa Milano

This is a regular series which combines my passion for trading cards with my interest in celebs.

I am featuring just one card today, but its is an important card.  It is a Celebrity Jersey Card of Alyssa Milano and I am taking this opportunity to call out the lovely actress.  Yeah that's right...Johngy is calling out Alyssa Milano!
Milano "writes" a baseball blog Touch 'Em All.  Or should I say, she previously wrote a baseball blog.  Her last post was May 4, 2010.  At the top is a block which proudly lists it as one of MLB's top 100 blogs.  That's a sham in itself.
Milano started her blog in 2007.  Maybe she just got tired of it by now.  I would argue that even during her early days, there were months when she only blogged a handful of times.  MLB's top 100?  Ha!
Despite being the spokesperson for a whole line of MLB wear, I couldn't find any recent photos of Milano in a Dodgers jersey.  I know she can be seen wearing all sorts of jerseys, but those are simple photoshopped pictures.
I acknowledge that Milano is a long time avid Dodgers fan and attends many games.  I give her credit for that, but not for being a blogger.  Yet, she receives praise and MLB awards.
Believe it or not, I don't dislike Milano.  I have followed her career from her time on Who's the Boss? and I generally like her.  She has avoided most of the craziness that usually befalls young stars as they mature into adulthood.
I liked the idea of someone like Milano writing a baseball blog.  I would have liked to see it updated on a regular basis.  It seemed like a half-hearted effort which got a lot of praise before it deserved any, then sputtered onward for a few years before it was completely abandoned.  What a letdown after such ballyhoo!
Before I end, I would like to extend an offer to Milano.  If she would like to address this situation, I will gladly print her response verbatim!  Defend yourself, Alyssa.  Prove to me I am wrong.  Until then, I stand by my opinion.

Is Melina Changing?

With everyone paying so much attention to Kharma, some of the other Divas have kinda slipped out of sight.
Case in point...Melina.
Melina has held the WWE Divas Championship twice and the WWE Women's Championship three times making "The A–List Diva" a five time (insert Booker T repeat here) champion.
But she hasnt been on Monday Night Raw in what, almost three months?
Oh sure she's shown up on WWE Superstars (in a losing effort against Beth Phoenix), but where's the WWE love?
We know there was some heat between Trish and Melina about her boyfriend John Morrison's match at Wrestlemania.
Melina seemed to feel that she should have been in the match with John, not Trish.
But the WWE gets over things like that right?
(Uh-huh)
Besides, WrestleMania XXVII was back on April 3rd and Melina hasnt been on Raw since January 24th (I think), and that was way before WrestleMania.



On a recent live chat over at her official site (http://realmelina.com/) she said...
"I'M ACTUALLY THINKING OF CHANGING MY LOOK ALL TOGETHER. MAYBE IT WILL MAKE PEOPLE SAD BUT I AM AT A POINT WHERE I NEED A DRAMATIC CHANGE."
Evidently Melina's cap lock is stuck or she likes to shout, but we get the point.

What kind of change is she looking for?
Going back to face again?
I hope not.
I think Melina plays a great heel.
If the WWE would give her a chance to play at all that is.

The Melina vs. Beth Phoenix from WWE Superstars on May 5th, 2011.

In New York With Global Traveler

When this post appears, I will be in New York for the annual wine-tasting event for Global Traveler (GT) magazine.  All of the airlines submit their wine to be judged by a panel of experts.  GT oversees this and presents awards to the winners at a later date.
Since the inception of this blog, I have mentioned GT 44 times. Some people have asked me what GT is and what I have to do with it.
GT is the creation of Fran Gallagher a long-time friend of mine (from my college job days). GT is a magazine aimed at the frequent or business traveler. It is distributed nationwide and internationally. Louie Atsaves (another long-time friend, but this time from my Lerner days) and I handle the distribution. We have worked at GT from the beginning, which really was before the first issue in February 2004.
I also contribute an online piece for GT every Wednesday, as well as having contributed to the actual printed magazine. This lead me to winning the 2009 Globility award (as I have previously discussed).
Many of my interviews are because of GT. Sometimes it is not a matter of real content, but more of getting the GT name out there (and getting me on major league fields). Many of my trips are GT-related.
If you have a few minutes, shoot over to the GT site and see all of the great travel, business and technology GT covers and then check out the GT blogs, especially the one which appears every Wednesday!

The GT staff in New York, NY-January 2010.

Reviewing:Captured Prey

Late last year, I had the pleasure of reading Craig Odanovich's debut novel, The Black Widow Trainer.  I also reviewed it here, giving it a completely positive review.  Recently, I read Craig's second novel, Captured Prey, the next book in The Black Widow Trainer series.
I had really been looking forward to Captured Prey.  I had a lot of questions as to what Craig would do with the characters and their further adventures.  Captured Prey surpassed my hopes.
Writing a book review is always tricky.  I want to tell about some of the exciting stories and plot twists, but I don't want to ruin any of it for anyone.  My goal is to convey the excitement, intrigue and adventure, without spoiling any of the story.
I can say the story picks up with Misty returning from Argentina (where she spent time with her best friend Gabriella) to start a new training session and a new adventure in Texas.  Needless to say, the story does not end in Texas.  Misty even gets involved in the vicious world of politics.
I love the character growth in this book.  Misty delves into her feelings and examines her life.  Misty shows more depth and more maturity, while not losing any of her freedom.  Misty is developing into a strong, controlled woman.
New characters are added and some old ones reappear.  All of the characters are interesting and help shape who Misty is, but Misty is the star of this book (and series).
Misty is a fascinating character.  She is innocent in a way, yet very worldly.  Her lust for life is contagious and palpable.  She is completely likable, yet I found myself enjoying it when she got in a little trouble.  A good character (and good story) needs to get in (and out) of trouble at times.  It keeps everything interesting and shows that Misty isn't untouchable.  (Although once in the trouble, I rooted for Misty to get herself out of it.)
On Craig's site he states that the story "can be scandalous, racy, risque, steamy and adventurous".  I completely agree, but I also add that there is a very real element to the story and the characters.  That's what makes the series so interesting to me.
I could talk a lot more about Captured Prey, but my suggestion is for you to read it yourself.  It is now available on Amazon (book and kindle).  It is also available through Barnes and Noble.  The ebook version of The Black Widow Trainer is only $2.99 and Captured Prey is only $4.99.  Ebook, kindle, hardback...whatever format you like, just make sure you get on board with Misty and TBWT series!
Craig and Misty are going places.  Craig has already done several successful book signings for The Black Widow Trainer, along with doing several interviews, including one on Playboy radio and one here on Johngy's Beat.  It is an exciting time for Craig, but also for us readers.  I am already looking forward to the next book!

Congratulations Erin!

I am a bit late on two counts, but I hope that doesn't diminish any of the sentiments which will follow.  The subject of today's post deserves a hearty congratulations and best wishes on her future endeavors.
Erin Galligan, girlfriend of my nephew Matt, recently celebrated her birthday.  I hope she was able to fully enjoy it, despite being on the middle of her college graduation preparation.
Last weekend, Erin graduated with honors from the University of Illinois with a degree in Kinesiology.  Yesterday, Erin started her journey in continuing her education, with a Doctor of Physical Therapy degree as her goal.  That will take a few years of hard work and dedication, but I have no doubt Erin will excel in her quest.  She should be proud of her accomplishment and excited about her future! 
Erin is a great young lady and it has been great getting to know her a bit.  I really wish her the best of luck along the way to reaching all of her goals.  I am sure she will succeed and I think she'll have fun along the way, too.
During all of the graduation madness, Erin and Matt posed by the Alma Mater statue at the U of I.  What a great picture.
Take a bow, Erin...you deserve to be proud and we are all proud of you!

Matt Parker, the Alma Mater Statue and Erin Galligan in Urbana, IL-May 2011.

Friendly Encounters

This is a weekly series featuring friends who have met celebs.

We have seen my sister Nancy with a horse, an M&M mascot and even a stone carving in effort to get exposure here in Friendly Encounters.  She is almost shameless.  I applaud her effort and reward her by running the photos.  She has taken it one step further however.  Now she has involved her friends.
On a trip to Saugatuck (MI), Nancy and her friends saw this lime green guy outside of Hoopdee Scootee, a store for "unique gifts, clothing and collectibles".  I could not get any info on what exactly the lime green guy is, but oddly it isn't even the strangest part of the picture.
Look above him.  There are a pair of legs hanging out of the second floor window.  What is up with that?
This picture baffles and amuses me at the same time.  Nancy wins again, because I just had to run this picture.  She has yet to meet a human celebrity, yet she has made multiple appearances in Friendly Encounters.  She's lucky I love her like a sister.

Nancy Blais, MaryAnn, Vicki and a lime green man in Saugatuck, MI-July 2010.

RIP-Randy Savage

On Friday afternoon, I heard the sad news that Randy Savage had died after having a heart attack and crashing his car.  Savage was 58 and mostly retired, living his life near his brother, Lanny Poffo.  Their father Angelo died in March of 2010.
Savage was one of the most recognizable wrestlers of his era.  He had great success in the ring and he also did some acting and some spokesperson work.
I know several people who have met Savage over the years, but the best and most unique story comes from my friend Chuck Gekas.  Chuck met Savage while working at the Chicago Sun-Times, shortly before he joined Lerner Newspapers and our friendship started to really grow.
I'll let Chachi take it from here...
When I headed Sales for the Chicago Sun-Times' special sections department, we wanted to do a section in August 1994 for the grand opening of the United Center.  Originally Frank Sinatra was scheduled to be the arena's first show, but he had to cancel, which meant the WWF's SummerSlam 7th annual event on August 29th, 1994, would become the first ever event at the United Center.
I called the WWF (at the time, they had an office on Michigan Avenue) and asked if it was possible to have a wreswtler attend our ad sales meeting to help me pump up the staff to sell ads into the section.  When they said of course, I was happy and assumed they would send a non-star.  Not only did they not send a non-star, they sent a superstar, Randy "Macho Man" Savage.
We met a half hour before the meeting and he was extremely gracious and happy to help out.  We spoke about his father, Angelo Poffo and his sit-up record, as well as growing up in the Chicago area (Downers Grove) and playing in the St. Louis Cardinals farm system as a catcher.
Prior to the weekly sales meeting, nobody knew who my special guest was.  So when I addressed our 200 person ad staff and introduced Randy Savage, the place went up for grabs.  He put on quite a show and really did a great job of helping me generate interest for the special United Center section.  Afterward, he stuck around for photos and autographs.  The cost to have the superstar was $0.  He was truly a class act.
That's a great story, because it has Savage in an unusual situation for him, yet he still had the crowd cheering.  It's even better when you hear Chuck tell it.  You can see his excitement and his appreciation for Savage.
As documented here previously, I have worked with Lanny in the past and I know what a close knit family they had.  My condolences go to Lanny and the rest of the Poffo family.  My thanks go to Randy for some great wrestling memories.  Thanks, too, to Chuck for sharing his wonderful story.  Finally, for more information and to view his guestbook, check out Legacy.com.
RIP Randy Savage and ohhhhh yeahhhhhhhhh!

Randy Savage and Chuck Gekas in Chicago, IL-August 1994.

Super Pigs

A few weeks ago, I wrote about Super Pigs, a project to raise money to help comic artist Josh Medors with his medical expenses.  Medors has been battling a rare form of spinal cancer.  Fellow comic artists Steph and Sean Forney are behind this artistic way to help their friend and give collectors fantastically creative piggy banks!
At the the recent Motor City Comic Con, I had the pleasure of meeting the trio, along with picking up an Aquaman Super Pig.  It was quite an interesting site to see a table full of the colorful Super Pigs that they had created.
It was also very heart-warming.  This is about friendship and love.  Each of the pigs isn't just a work of art, it is a work of love and I plan on adding more Super Pigs to my collection.
They plan on having Super Pigs available at several comic cons throughout the summer.  While they have a lot of different pigs available, it is a good idea to check out the Super Pig page and ask for any specific pig you might want.

Josh Medors, Steph Forney, Sean Forney and me (and my Aquaman Super Pig) in Novi, MI-May 2011.

AJ Lee - The Next WWE Diva?

It's rumored that Florida Championship Wrestling (FCW) and WWE NXT Diva AJ Lee will be the next lady called up to the main roster for the WWE.
AJ has teamed up with Natalya at several live Smackdown events, taking on Rosa Mendes and Alicia Fox.
This week she had a dark match at Smackdown taking on Rosa.
Interestingly, the WWE seems to be letting AJ ease into the main roster by working with Divas that also came from FCW like Natalya, Rosa and Alicia, as opposed to just throwing her out there.



AJ was trained by Jay Lethal and made her pro wrestling debut on September 29th, 2007.
Before signing with the WWE, AJ worked for WSU where she held the WSU Tag Team Championship (with Brooke Carter) and the WSU/NWS King and Queen of the Ring (with Jay Lethal).

She was signed by the WWE in May of 2009 and went to FCW.
There she has held the FCW Divas Championship and was the Queen of FCW.
AJ is the first FCW Diva to hold both the Divas Championship and the Queen of FCW title.

She got quite a bit of recognition by appearing in the third season of NXT as one of the rookie Divas where she was eliminated in Week 12, despite the fact that she won six challenges, more than any of the other Divas.
(Naomi was next closest with five).

Probably the smallest Diva at five foot two and 107 pounds, AJ relies on her speed with the bigger ladies.

Here is a video of AJ Lee taking on Brie Bella at NXT.
In a change for Brie, she is actually four inches taller and has 23 pounds on her opponent.



You can follow AJ at her Twitter account here:
http://twitter.com/rookieaj

Or her Facebook Fanpage here:
http://www.facebook.com/pages/April-JanetteAj-Lee/137539026270797

Celeb Jersey Cards #53 Jennie Finch & Shawn Johnson

Celebrity Jersey Cards is a weekly feature which combines my passion for trading cards with my interest in celebrities.

The Los Angeles Dodgers are on the south side of Chicago this weekend in a rematch of the 1959 World Series.  The Dodgers beat the White Sox 4 games to 2 games back then.  Hopefully, featuring these two athletes will jinx the Dodgers this time!
Jennie Finch was born and raised on the west coast, but she played pro softball in Chicago.  Finch is pure class on and off the field.  She is married to pitcher Casey Daigle of the San Francisco Giants, but she remains a loyal fan of the Dodgers.  Daigle has modeled a few uniforms (Diamondbacks, Twins, Rangers, Astros and Giants), but Finch has only modeled one...so far.  The #27 on her jersey isn't for Matt Kemp (who wears it now), nor for her husband (who has worn #41, #54 and #55).  Instead, it is her usual jersey number from her softball career.

 

Shawn Johnson was born and raised in the midwest, but moved to Los Angeles in 2009.  She is a gold and silver medal winner in the Olympics and she won the 2009 Dancing With The Stars competition.  She showed great form in tossing the ceremonial first pitch and earning herself a spot on the Celebrity Jersey Card team.  I think her #10 is for Dodgers legend Ron Cey, but I suppose it could be for other reasons.

Autograph Tales:Jerry Garvin

Jerry Garvin pitched for six seasons with the Toronto Blue Jays, compiling a record of 20-41.  It might sound cliche, but he was actually better than his record would indicate.  Those early Toronto Blue Jays were not very good.  He did make the Topps All-Rookie team in 1977 and he once had four pick-offs in a game.
After his playing career ended, he eventually got into real estate.  I sent him a note and some cards.  He signed the cards and sent back an additional card, this one a business card.
How cool of a business card is that though?  Look at it.  It has all of the relevant info, plus a picture of one of his baseball cards.  Hey, I sell real estate and oh by the way, I used to be a major league pitcher.
I wonder how he picked that card.  It is his last Topps card, so maybe that is it.  Maybe he just liked this card the best.
I always appreciated getting extra goodies like this with autographs.  Some celebrities do go that extra bit!

Celeb Jersey Cards #52 A.J. Pierzynski & David Arquette

This is a regular series which combines my passion for trading cards with my interest in celebrities.

In wrestling terms, today I am throwing a swerve.  This edition of Celebrity Jersey Cards features non-wrestlers getting a wrestling card.  Yes, I know there is no jersey present, but there are title belts.  Title belts rock!
Technically, A.J. Pierzynski is a baseball player, but he has a lot of wrestling in him.  His tag team partner is Dale Torborg, former baseball player and former wrestler.  Torborg is a coach and the son of former player Jeff Torborg (a member of the Backup Catcher Hall of Fame).  A little while back, they made an "impact" on Total Nonstop Action wrestling.  Some TNA wrestlers presented the pair with a real belt and that landed them on a Celebrity Jersey Card (wrestling belt edition

In one of the most controversial moves in the history of wrestling, actor David Arquette won the WCW Heavyweight title several years ago.  Arquette's title reign was short, but his legacy will live forever.  Now, he has been immortalized on a card of his own.

Friendly Encounters

This is a regular series featuring friends who have met celebs.

Last week, when I was looking for some help with the Chiller Theater event in NJ, Mikey Hersh was one of the first to offer to share his photos and stories.  He wrote about meeting Ace Frehley of Kiss.
Mikey went to the latest Chiller Theater event and sent a report my way.  I will let Mikey take it from here...
I have a bunch of movie lists with the most important one being the list of the Top 100 Movies I Enjoy. Number Five on that list is the 1984 classic, Revenge Of The Nerds. I will take the Nerds four pack (Nerds, Nerds In Paradise, The Next Generation, & Nerds In Love) over the Harry Potter series any day of the week. Thanks to watching Revenge Of The Nerds for the first time when I was seven years old, I learned my first new dirty words including a term for female pubic hair and a word that starts with d and ends with g. I also got my first taste of what to expect when I grew up and would go to college thinking panty raids and belching contests were the norm. I was fortunate to have met Robert Carradine (Lewis) and Curtis Armstrong (Booger) at the last April Chiller show. This time around, I could get my Nerds II: Nerds In Paradise poster 80% complete by meeting Larry B. Scott (Lamar) and Andrew Cassese (Wormser).
Poor Larry B. Scott! He portrayed the most feminine pansy in the history of movies, and most people expect him to be just like Lamar in real life with the limp wrist. Guess what, everyone? Larry is not gay, well at least not gay in the homosexual way, but gay in the real happy way. (Conversation Highlights: Doing those cheesy dance scenes in Nerds IV in order to attract the in the closet but obviously gay butler was a real blast for him. The reason for having very little screen time in The Karate Kid was because he was filming Revenge Of The Nerds at the same time and was traveling back and forth from Arizona to California. He enjoyed filming Space Camp and knowing the cast from Space Camp all moved on to bigger and better things. Larry kept shouting "Nerds here!! Get your nerds here!" to entice more people to come visit him, and how could anybody resist the chance to meet a Tri-Lamb? He thought about marketing Nerds javelins to bring to the show and sell but it would have cost a fortune to produce and ship. The rumored next generation Nerds movie is actually a done deal. Larry told me it's already in the can, but doesn't know if it will ever see the light of day. It had better never get released or I will protest and boycott just like I have done so for Larry B. Scott's other remade movie, The Karate Kid)
Andrew Cassese arrived a little bit late because he got stuck in traffic coming back from New York City after doing some voice over work.  I wasn't sure what he was going to look like since the last photo I saw of him was in an issue of Maxim for a Revenge Of The Nerds reunion feature and he looked awful.  This time around, he looked more like an older version of how he looked in Revenge Of The Nerds II.  He was very laid back, but a really nice guy and appreciative of our love for his work in the first two Nerds movies.  (Conversation Highlights: He also had caught wind of the remake of Revenge Of The Nerds script and was shocked that it wasn't a train wreck.  When asked why he didn't appear in the courtroom scene at the end of Revenge Of The Nerds III, he said that nobody even told him about it, and would have done it if asked.  Since he aged between the first two Nerds movies to the point of nonrecognition, he figured most people just assumed it was him even though it was character actor Sean Whalen instead.  Andrew told us he doesn't do much in front of the camera anymore, but does a lot of voice-over work that we probably knew but didn't recognize as being his voice.  The reason he looked so different and unshaven in the Maxim Nerds feature was because he was doing a play at the time and wasn't allowed to shave.)
Like Mikey, I also loved the Nerds movies.  Great stuff.  Great stuff, too, from Mikey.  I appreciate Mikey sharing his experience here and to future reports from him.  In the meantime, check out his site MisenPOPic, for even more great stuff!

Mikey Hersh, Andrew Cassese, Larry B. Scott and Scott in Parsippany, NJ-May 2011.

Happy Birthday Laura

Today is my niece Laura's birthday.  I doubt she got up early today to see if I featured her here.  Well I did, although she probably won't see it until much later (I would hope she would have better things to do than rise early and look here).  Still, whenever she does look, here it is!
I knew Laura before she was born, as I rode the metra train with her mom during her pregnancy.  I remember eagerly awaiting her entrance into this world.  It has been a pleasure watching her grow ever since.
Over the last few years, we have had a couple long road trips to get to know each other again (uncle-niece bonding).  She's a great young lady and I love her dearly.
Happy birthday Laura.  I hope it is your best ever.

Laura Fitzpatrick in Chicago, IL-Early 1990's.

At the Motor City Comic Con

This is a special series about my friends meeting celebs at the Motor City Comic Con.

In 2010, Chuck "Cuzz" Gekas made his first trip to the Motor City Comic Con, although he had been to several similar conventions in the Chicago area.  Still, attending a convention with JayHawk Evans and me is always a different experience.
One of the great parts of the MCCC is the vehicle sections.  Aside from having great celebrity guests, there usually are a handful of famous vehicles.  Unfortunately, you usually aren't allowed to actually get in one, but you can get very close and get some pictures.  Would anyone really want to see me behind the wheel of that bad boy anyway?
Cuzz is striking his best Mad Max pose.  I did not pose with this vehicle, because I wasn't really a fan of the Mad Max series (I guess I was one of the few).  Now, had it been the Monkees Mobile...

Cuzz Gekas and the Mad Max vehicle in Novi, MI-May 2010.

At the Motor City Comic Con

This is a special series about my friends meeting celebs at the Motor City Comic Con.

In doing research for Global Traveler about the Motor City Comic Con, I came across a man known as J.J. Conquergood.  Conquergood is an MCCC veteran and was willing to share one of his stories for the good of all.
This year will be my third Motor City Con. Usually four of us travel an hour from Canada just to go. I attend mainly for the Star Wars actors. The first year I met Carrie Fisher. Last year it was Daniel Logan and Ray Park. Ray was an awesome guy, we talked about the hat i was wearing and how he bought a back pack from the same company. Then we talked about Canada, the guy was a real chatterbox. For the comics side I really look forward to meeting the Star Wars artists/writers. Because of my friend, we actually got to have dinner with Stan Sakai last year. I attend Fan Expo in Toronto every year as well, although it is much bigger, the Motor City Con seems to attract the same level of talent without the massive lineups you experience at the bigger cons.
As always, I appreciate Conquergood sharing his experience with Johngy's Beat.   Hopefully, I will run into him at the 2011 MCCC.

 J.J. Conquergood and Richard LeParmentier in Novi, MI-May 2009.

At the Motor City Comic Con

This is a special series about my friends meeting celebs at the Motor City Comic Con.

This is a real friendly encounter at the Motor City Comic Con.  There is no celebrity involved, just a couple of friends meeting for the first time.
I connected with Jamin Hillwig while researching the MCCC for a blog at Global Traveler.  Jamin was very helpful and provided several pictures, some good stories and a lot of excellent information.
Last year, we had a loose plan (more of a hope) to meet at the MCCC.  I knew Jamin would be wearing his trademark shirt and we knew what each other looked like, but without a phone connection, the chance of running into each other was minimal.
Luck was on my side when my friends and I went outside for a break.  While walking back into the convention center, I walked right by Jamin, then realized who he was.  Jamin and his wife Susan couldn't have been nicer.  It was great meeting them finally.
I love meeting my favorite celebrities, but meeting people like Jamin is especially rewarding.  Gaining new friends through all of this is wonderful.  Hopefully, I'll see Jamin again this year.

Jamin and Susan Hilwig and me in Novi, MI-May 2010.

At the Motor City Comic Con

This is a special series about my friends meeting celebs at the Motor City Comic Con.

One of the great things about the Motor City Comic Con is the attendees are often as entertaining as the celebrity guests.  I have met several "Superheroes", characters from Star Wars and other creatures.  Usually the costumed attendees are very willing to pose for pictures.

Leave it to JayHawk Evans to run into some angry Storm Troopers (are there any pleasant Storm Troopers?).  I don't know what Evans did to incur their wrath on this day, but having known him for years, I can certainly understand their response.

Fortunately it all ended well as the Storm Troopers let Evans go and he was free to spread his unique cheer elsewhere.

JayHawk Evans surrendering to Storm Troopers in Novi, MI-May 2010.

Chyna Returns to... TNA

Although the TNA website is still listing the match at TNA Sacrifice this Sunday as "Kurt Angle and ??? vs. The Jarretts" we all know Kurt's partner is Joanie "Chyna" Laurer.
That is unless you have no internet connection, and if you don't, how are you reading this?
After nine years, Joanie will be returning to the (now) square ring in TNA.
A move which has left Vince McMahon livid according to reports.
Vince was considering placing Chyna in the WWE Hall of Fame, but that's pretty much gone now.
And the sad thing is, Chyna is working for TNA on a "handshake deal" with a "very, very short leash."
Of course with so much train-wreck behavior in her past, who can really blame them?

Hey, I hope Chyna keeps it together.
I would love to actually see her work matches again.
But I might not get to, because it's rumored that "The Ninth Wonder of The World" has been offered a one year contract with Japan's Inoki Genome Federation which Kurt Angle has worked for in the past.

But I can still hope for Chyna vs Tara can't I?

You can find out more about the Sacrifice PPV here:
http://www.tnasacrifice.com/

At the Motor City Comic Con

This is a special series about my friends meeting celebs at the Motor City Comic Con.

Several years ago, when I did my initial research for the Motor City Comic Con, the first person I encountered was Jack Odanovich.  Jack was a huge help that first year and I am still using his stories and pictures in my yearly MCCC recap for Global Traveler.
Jack is a great guy.  He attends many conventions in Star Wars attire, but he also puts on the gear for charity events.  He is a great photographer and he recently started a blog called Jack Odanovich Photography.
Additionally, his father Craig is an author, whose debut novel The Black Widow Trainer was very well-received by critics and readers, myself included.  I am proud to know both Jack and Craig.
Jack just might enjoy the MCCC more than I do (if that is possible).  He meets other Star Wars fans, mingles with the celebs and often has other fans request pictures taken with him.  One such celebrity was Kristy Swanson, of tv's Buffy the Vampire Slayer.
I want to thank Jack for all of his help.  I also wish him much luck in his photographic endeavors and encourage everyone to check out his site.

Jack Odanovich and Kristy Swanson in Novi, MI-May 2009.

At the Motor City Comic Con

This is a special series about my friends meeting celebs at the Motor City Comic Con.

I first met the Toth family through my initial research on the Motor City Comic Con for my blog for Global Traveler magazine.  Later that year, I met Tornado and his two daugters Layne and Peri Toth.  They were quite a family.
The young ladies are talented beyond their years.  They have about 100 projects happening at all times.  The sisters have Sisters Comics, a website detailing their past achievements, current projects and future goals.  They produce Lucky:The One Eyed Stray Dog, among other comics.  They also have illustrated a few books, as well as drawn fantastic photos of and for various celebrities.  If all of that isn't enough, the sisters are active in martial arts.
Meeting them was a real joy.  Their enthusiasm and passion for what they do is contagious.  They are great young ladies and Tornado is just as dynamic.
They are scheduled to appear at the Steel City Comic Con in late July.  If you are going, stop by their table to meet them.  You will walk away feeling great.  Unfortunately, they will not be at the MCCC this year, but they have given us a picture from a previous appearance.  How about that...Stan Lee a legend genius and Peri and Layne Toth, two young geniuses!  I love this stuff.

Peri Toth, Stan Lee and Layne Toth in Pittsburgh, PA-Summer 2009.

Friendly Encounters

This is a regular series featuring friends who have met celebs.

Previous to his recent reports on Legends of the Ring, when we last saw Josh Watko, he was meeting the Icon Sting.  Today, Josh is going to tell us about meeting the King, Jerry Lawler.  Before we get to that though, I'll give a little update on Josh.
Josh's website is JW's Wrestling Memorabilia. and it is full of great wrestling stuff.  Josh covers autograph signings, live events and products (new and old).  He also writes wrestling opinion pieces and other interesting posts.  Josh is gaining exposure and is already widely known within the wrestling circle.
I have asked him to share some wrestling stories and he has contributed one about meeting Mike McGuirk, Mae Young and the previously mentioned meeting with Sting.  Finally, here are Josh's thoughts on Jerry Lawler.
Back in 2001, it was Jerry Lawler's name on the marquee that got me to attend my first independent wrestling show.  Ten years and many meetings with The King later, I once again encountered the WWE Hall of Famer at a show for the very same promotion.  Although many stars fill IWC's annual Night of Legends show, it was clear that Jerry was the draw of the night.
The King, despite his often rotten in-ring character from years past, is one of the most fan-friendly wrestlers of all time.  He always has time for a word, a handshake and of course, photos and autographs.  A friend of mine even asked why his legendary piledriver did not come into play at his recent match at WrestleMania.  (The answer:It was discussed but ultimately shot down by the WWE.)

Lawler also has one of the most beautiful signatures I've ever seen.  I've always felt that this may be due to The King being an accomplished artist.  If you have paid attention to the announcer segments on Raw in recent years, you may have seen Jerry's shirt which includes a large facsimile of his exquisite John Hancock!
As always, I appreciate Josh sharing his experiences.  I like his insight.  As a longtime autograph collector, I can appreciate his insight about Lawler's signature.  If you have any interest in wrestling or even if you just want to check out some interesting things, give a look to Josh's site.

John Watko and Jerry Lawler in Elizabeth, PA-May 2011.

At Legends of the Ring

As promised yesterday, Josh Watko is presenting his report from the Legends of the Ring event yesterday.  I am excited about this, especially because Johngy's Beat is getting the story even before Josh puts it on his world famous site, JW's Wrestling Memorabilia!
Now I turn it over to Josh...
Legends of the Ring 12 was yet another great success from promoters Terrence and James. Early on in our journey to Jersey on Friday afternoon we learned of cancellations from both Dusty Rhodes and Terry Taylor. Rhodes was due to a death in the family and Taylor due to back surgery. The two were replaced on the superticket lineup by MVP and Carlito. Cancellations are an unfortunate reality in events such as these. It's no secret that despite meeting my all-time favorite wrestler a half a dozen times before, I was very much looking forward to seeing Dusty again. Taylor was also someone I was looking forward to meeting. The situation was handled very well, as always, and both names are said to have been rescheduled for the October Legends of the Ring event.
The show seemed to go off without a hitch with nearly every talent being top notch. Joanie "Chyna" Laurer was a total class act to the many fans who came out to meet her in a rare appearance. The extra special treat of being able to meet several top stars from New Japan Pro Wrestling was quite the thrill as well. Being a fan of his since his initial WCW appearances in 1991, Jushin "Thunder" Liger's appearance was very significant to me. He seemed just as enthusiastic to meet his fans as we were to meet him. "Once in a lifetime opportunity" is thrown around a lot on all convention scenes, however this is one case where the phrase may ring true.
From Ken Shamrock to Jim Ross to rare appearances by Bill Eadie and Barry Darsow (Demolition Ax and Smash) in their Masked Superstar and Krusher Kruschev gimmicks, respectively, LOTR 12 had something for everyone...and everyone went home with a smile.
I am quite sure Josh went home with a smile.  This is one of the best wrestling conventions and I am so glad that Josh gave us this report and picture and I promise to have more stuff from Josh in the future, especially around the next Legends of the Ring event.  Until then, check out his site for even more great wrestling stuff.

Josh Watko and Joanie "Chyna" Laurer in Monroe, NJ-May 2011.

At Legends of the Ring

I have featured Josh Watko several times on this site.  Josh is a fan of wrestling and runs his own site, JW's Wrestling Memorabilia, which is full of all sorts of wrestling fun.  Josh is my kind of wrestling fan.  He is knowledgeable and respectful, without being over-the-top.  He enjoys it and he likes writing and talking about it...and he knows his stuff.
This weekend, Josh is attending the Legends of the Ring event in Monroe, NJ.  As the East Coast Director of Wrestling for Johngy's Beat, Josh will be sending a report on this year's event.  At the top of Jason's 'want list" are Dusty Rhodes and Chyna (Joanie Laurer).  I look forward to his report, but for now I have a short Q and A with Josh.

Q-Why do you like wrestling?
JW-I guess it's just in my blood to be a wrestling fan. Growing up in Pittsburgh, my parents both watched Studio Wrestling with Bruno Sammartino and announcer Bill Cardille. I was learning to talk just as the "Rock n Wrestling" era was taking off and there is audio tape of me saying "Junkyard Dog" and "King Kong Bundy" at a young age. The marketing machine of that era gave me great items to collect and it took off from there.

Q-Which (active or retired) wrestler haven't you met but would most like to meet?
JW-I'd have to say Hulk Hogan. He's eluded me so far and it just feels like he's the one left that I really need to meet at least once. Other than him, I'd have to go with women's star Leilani Kai who is finally starting to hit the convention scene. I'm a big fan of classic women's wrestling and my fandom is something that developed after meeting some of the ladies. It seems to me that most of them adjust better to "life after wrestling" than their male counterparts. When they realize that fans are out there wanting to meet them and still enjoying their career work, it's a big surprise for them.

Q-Which wrestler whom you have met was the most pleasant surprise?
JW-This one, without a doubt, goes to Ole Anderson. Ole has quite the reputation out there but has been nothing but fan friendly every time I've met him. He has become a staple of the NWA Fanfests by holding court in the lobby telling stories, posing for photos, and signing autographs. He's like a gruff old uncle that, deep down, really cares about his family. He's not even in the best of health but continues to come in for Fanfest. When he's gone, a huge void will be left just like that left by the death of Oliver Humperdink earlier this year.

Below is a picture of Josh meeting two wrestling legends, Terry Funk and Mick Foley at Legends of the Ring IX.  I wonder if Josh was trying to talk them into reforming a tag team, with himself as their manager.
Josh is a great guy with a cool site.  Meeting people like Josh is one of the real pleasures of running this site.

Terry Funk, Josh and Mick Foley in Monroe, NJ-May 2008.

Celeb Jersey Cards #51 Nadia Bjorlin & Jenna Elfman

Celebrity Jersey Cards is a regular feature which combines my passion for trading cards with my interest in celebrities.  The Los Angeles Dodgers just finished a three game series with the Chicago Cubs, in which the Cubs took 2 of 3.

Nadia Bjorlin was born in the U.S., but lived in Sweden until she was seven.  Her father Ulf was a Swedish composer and conductor.  Her first role was on tv's Days of Our Lives.  She has gone on to several other roles in episodic tv.  She is also an accomplished singer and has performed the National Anthem at a Los Angeles Dodgers game.  I always love it when the anthem singer wears a jersey.

Actress Jenna Elfman was born and raised in Los Angeles and also as a Dodgers fan.  When she played in a Dodgers charity softball game, she donned a #13 Dodgers jersey.  I wonder if the #13 has any significance.  Is it her personal favorite?  Perhaps it's for Alex Cora.  Maybe Orlando Hudson?  I prefer to think she was paying homage to former catcher-outfielder Joe Ferguson (one of my childhood favorites)!

The Moose, Bill Skowron

Bill Skowron started his baseball career with the New York Yankees and played in the majors with the Yanks for 9 seasons.  Moose also played one season each with the Washington Senators, Los Angeles Dodgers and the California Angels.  Most importantly, he played 4 seasons with his hometown Chicago White Sox.
He is rightfully proud of his 6 World Series titles (and 8 appearances) and 8 All-Star games, however only one of those achievements (the 1965 AS game) occurred during his time with the Sox.  Still, Skowron is a diehard Sox fan.  His enthusiasm is hard to ignore.
I met Skowron while I was representing AU Sports at a White Sox convention.  He was almost 70 at the time, but he was lively and animated.  He told great stories and seemed to be having as much fun as the fans around him, myself included.  He gladly posed for pictures and signed baseballs...all for free!  Although he only played here for 4 seasons, just 347 games, he is a White Sox icon.

Moose Skowron and me in Chicago, IL-Late 1990's.

Goodbye Michelle McCool, Hello Kharma

Isn't it kinda strange when the WWE Extreme Rules PPV has a better Divas match than Wrestlemania?
Yeah I thought so too.
I have to admit, I think Michelle McCool and Layla really brought it in their "Loser Leaves the WWE" match.
It was a better match than I expected.



I'm not gonna change here and say that I'll miss Michelle McCool or that she was the greatest Diva the WWE ever had.
But she did come a long way from the 2004 WWE Diva Search.
Michelle held both the WWE Divas Championship twice and the WWE Women's Championship twice.
And LayCool was arguably one of the best ideas the WWE had for Divas recently....and was no way inspired by TNA's The Beautiful People.
::cough::

Is she gone "forever"?
Maybe.
With the Undertaker being seen less and less, I doubt he wants his wife pulling the grueling schedule that the WWE superstars do.
I would imagine he would want her to stay home.
Plus, there is that recently revealed foot injury to content with.

On a high note, we did get to see the appearance of Kia Stevens, aka Awesome Kong aka Kharma.
(You know I kinda got excited when I heard "Kharma" was coming to the WWE, I thought it was Jennifer Thomas)
Kharma got to come in, do the "Monster Heel" bit, demolish Michelle and scare the crap out of the other WWE Divas.

Please WWE, do a Brock Lesnar with Kia.
Have her do some run ins and crush some Divas (The Bellas, Kelly, Eve) before she really gets a storyline going.
You could do Gail versus Kharma (ala TNA) or do what I think most of the fans want, Beth Phoenix and Kharma.


Goodbye Michelle McCool, Hello Kharma, posted to http://beautiful-wrestling.blogspot.com/

Roddy Piper and Colt Toombs

I have met Roddy Piper a few times.  He is larger than life, but very humble as well.  He is one interesting person.  One thing I have learned about him is his deep love for his family.  A few years back, I got to witness a little of this when his son Colt accompanied him to a signing.
Today, Colt is an MMA fighter.  At the time, he was a teenager, who was hanging with his dad and helping him run the table.  I had previously talked to Piper about Colt and his pride was almost tangible.  When I saw Colt and talked to him, I could see the admiration and love went both ways.  Especially now, when there is so much chaos and so many stars seem to be having family problems, it was heart-warming to see the bond between Roddy and Colt.
Rowdy Roddy Piper forged a fantastic career and still entertains at conventions and at various wrestling events.  Colt Toombs seems to be well on his way to forging his own path, yet still following his father's success!

Roddy Piper and Colt in Rosemont, IL-Spring 2006.

Half of the Brady Bunch

Collectors Shows are great for unique photo opportunities.  At the Hollywood Celebrities Show a couple years ago, three of the six Brady kids and cousin Oliver were all seated at one table.  They were signing autographs and posing for pictures all day.
You had any option you would want for pictures.  They would pose in any combination.  I imagine the logistics were a bit difficult.  ERach time someone wanted a group photo, they would all have to walk to a ide area and pose with the fan.  The tricky part was sometimes a fan would want them all, but sometimes just the boys or just the "real" Brady kids (sorry Oliver) or sometimes just the youngest...well, you get the point.
I have to say it all ran very smoothly, despite the potential mind-numbing possibilities.  The stars were also very patient and willing to make everyone happy.
Shows like this are great for the hobby and the collector.  Walking away feeling like you got what you wanted will probably lead to return visits.  I know I have been going to their shows for about 10 years!

Chris Knight, Robbie Rist, Mike Lookinland and Susan Olsen in Rosemont, IL-Fall 2008.

Friendly Encounters

This is a regular series featuring friends who have met celebs.

Today I am featuring a new friend.  Actually, a group of new friends.  I haven't met any of them yet, but I am familiar with their work and I will be meeting them at the Motor City Comic Con in a few weeks.  I was doing research for upcoming pieces on the MCCC when I came across their latest effort.
It all started in 2000, when a group of comic book publishers got together and created the Hero Initiative, the first federally chartered not-for-profit organization to provide financial help to comic book creators in need.  Since then, the Hero Initiative has raised over $400,000 to benefit comic creators and their families.
At the 2010 Motor City Comic Con, Josh Warner's wife brought some piggy banks left over from a shower.  Josh, Sean Forney and Steph Forney drew comic characters on tem with regular Sharpies.  By mid-Saturday, the dozen or so piggy banks were all sold.
I'll let Steph take it from here...
After seeing how popular they were with comic fans we decided to order moreof them to work on and sold them to raise money for a good friend and artistJosh Medors at a benefit that we held for him at a local comic shop, Packrat Comics, in Hilliard, Ohio.We organized the event with the shop and the Hero Initiative and created agroup/facebook page called Help For Heroes: Benefit for Hero Initiative. Stephand Sean drew characters on several piggy banks for the event and sold them toraise money for the event along with a silent auction, live wrestling, andlocal artists. Following that we have been taking them to most shows to help raise some extra money to help out Medors with medical expenses. Westarted calling them Super Pigs and the name stuck. Wecontinue to work in conjunction with Hero Initiative and all the money weraise is ear-marked for Josh Medors to help with his chemotreatment and other cancer-related expenses. They have been great in helping usget started and help raise money for Josh during his 3 year fight against arare form of spinal cancer.  Whenever we have an idea or need some help, HeroInitiative is always there for our fellow artists. Hopefully we will continueto work with them, promote their cause, and raise money for Josh's fight.
I am really looking forward to meeting Sean, Steoph and Josh at this year's MCCC.  Of course, I will support the cause by purchasing an Aquaman pig!  It's a great cause and the pigs look really cool.

Sean Forney and Chewbacca at the Steel City Comic Con in Pittsburgh, PA-March 2010.

At Chiller Theatre

The second person who agreed to help with my Chiller Theatre report was Andrew Vallee, a veteran of Chiller and several other similar conventions.  Andrew is a New Yorker who loves baseball and football and has started to write  a screenplay.
Andrew is also an Administrator for the Facebook page Fans of All Things Horror, a horror group fan page run by fans for fans.  This site is chock full of everything horror, including pictures, reviews, links and other fun stuff.  That is the key to this site...it is fun.  My favorite part was cycling through the hundreds of great photos.
Speaking of photos, Andrew agreed to share the one below.  Andrew met actor William Sadler at Chiller Theatre in October of 2010.  Sadler has an impressive list of credits, including The Shawshank Redemption, one of my all time favorites.
I appreciate Andrew's contribution here.  Someday I hope to make it out to Chiller and meet all of the great horror guests and Andrew, too.

Andrew and William Sadler in Parsippany, NJ-October 2010.