The Tribe Has Spoken

Sports, sports, sports!

That's all I seem to blog about lately!

Time for a much needed shift in direction, on the autograph front.

"The Tribe Has Spoken"

On May 17th, while searching a website that's great for autograph news, I stumbled upon something that caught my attention.

Before I reveal what that information was, let me set this up properly.

We all have 'guilty pleasure' television shows that we always watch, but don't always tell our friends about! My wife always watches the Bachelor/Bachelorette shows. My mom, she loves American Idol and Dancing With The Stars.

For me...my guily pleasure television show is Survivor.












I love it.

There, I said it!

So, when this website mentioned that a Survivor contestant was going to be in Ontario...I began to smile.

One of the greatest Survivor players ever, was going to make two appearances in two South-western Ontario horse racetracks. The tracks, were Flamboro Downs and Western Fair Raceway, near Hamilton and London respectively.

The Survivor appearing was to be Stephenie LaGrossa.


















Commonly known as just 'Stephenie' to most Survivor fans, she was to appear on the 23rd at Flamboro Downs, and the following day in London's Western Fair Raceway. Her autograph signing was to be 2 to 4pm in Flamboro, which is the signing I decided I would attend because of it's proximity to my home in Guelph, Ontario.

Flamoboro Downs is about 25 minutes driving time, through the countryside, from my home.

I told my wife, Corinna, about Stephenie's appearance and she decided that she would join me in meeting the Survivor...as Corinna really enjoys Survivor as well!

I started looking up images of Stephenie, on various websites, to see if there was anything cool to get signed. Since, this was a appearance at a casino/racetrack, I figured that there would be a giveaway picture of some sorts...possibly a 4x6, 5x7, or a 8x10. I hoped that I could get my own picture autographed and recieve one of the giveaways...if I asked nicely enough! Corinna was hoping for just a giveaway for herself.

After searching google images, I found a cool looking cast photograph of the Survivor's from 'Heroes vs. Villains', and decided that this would the pic to get signed by Stephenie. I know that other Survivors, like Ethan, Boston Rob & Amber, and Johnny Fairplay (to name a few), and travel to Ontario to for signings...so this way I could have something to get signed if other contestants from 'Heroes vs. Villains' come to Ontario for a signing.













After deciding on the photo, it was now the waiting game.

Fast forward to the Sunday, of the signing.

After driving south to Flamboro Downs, from Guelph, we arrived at the racetrack about 30 minutes before the signing. We entered the building, and headed for the casino part of the racetrack...where the signing was to take place.


















Now, before I continue...let me give you a head's up. Since, we weren't allowed to bring our camera inside the casino...sadly, there are no photos of my 'autograph encounter'.

I'll use photos from the internet for reference. These pics aren't my own.

When Corinna and I walked inside the casino, immediately to our right was a table set-up for Stephenie's event. Apparently the casino was giving away an HD television everyday in the month of May, and brought in Stephenie to help promote their contest. We scouted out the line in front of the table, which had a tropical theme around it(Surivior-ish?!), and found no one.

Yup, no one was in line.

So, Corinna and I did what came naturally...we played a few slots!

After a small donation to the casino, we heard over an announcement that Stephenie had arrived and had was beginning to start her autograph signing. When we made our way back to the entrance of the casino, where she was signing, a few people had already lined up. In the line-up, we were approached by a representative of the casino, and asked if we were 'Winner's Circle' members. I said that we both were members of the casino's VIP club, and he asked if he could see our cards. Of course, neither Corinna or myself had our cards with us, so the rep said that with our cards, we could enter a contest to win a very private meet and greet dinner with Stephenie later in the afternoon. Good enough for me! He took our information, and went to get us both some new cards.

When he returned, we were still in line, he gave us both our new cards, entry ballots into the meet and greet with Stephenie, 5 dollars in casino cash, and a ballot to enter the draw for the HD televison! Pretty cool, eh?

For those that know me well...know that I'm a very, very "lucky" person. I'll just leave it at that.

After stuffing all this paperwork into our pockets, it was our time to meet one of the greatest Surivior contestants to play the game!


















I approached Stephenie, with Corinna at my side, and said hello. She welcomed us, smiling, asking us how we were doing. After our greetings, I showed her my Survivor; Heroes vs Villains cast photo, and she looked very impressed. After signing only her 5x7 giveaway photos, she looked at us as real fans for having something for her to sign!

"Wow, guys...this looks like the promo's the network gave out!" Stephenie said, looking at my picture, and then rubbing her finger over the image to see if it was truly a giveaway. "No" I began, "I found it this cool shot, on Google images". "It's really cool" She answered. "Where would you like me to sign it?" Stephenie asked. I looked at the picture, and saw that she was standing in front of Colby Donaldson (another fan favourite). "Would you mind signing right above Colby?" I suggested.

She took her black Sharpie, and beautifully signed her autograph, adding an incription.














She signed her name, then added S10, S11, S20, and finally a 'smiley face'. Her inscription, which she seems to add to everything she autographs, represents her 3 seasons on Survivor.

After she signed my 8x10, I asked her some autograph questions, that she agreed to answer...I'll post the 2nd "AQW..." later this week, featuring our short conversion!

After our private Q&A about signing autographs, Stephenie signed a 5x7 for Corinna and I individually. This was the giveaway, that featured the OLG Slots logo and Stephenie posing for a candid Surivior photo.












We thanked Stephenie for her time, shook hands, and parted ways.

Or so we thought.

It was at this point we noticed my friend Mike, and chatted with him for a few minutes, after he got a few things signed by Stephenie LaGrossa. After our conversation with Mike, we went back into the casino for another quick donation!

Afterwards, Corinna and I walked out of the casino, and sat down in the lounge area to take a proper look at all the paperwork we were given earlier. We began to fill out the ballots we were given, and properly read the other ballots we recieved. I filled out a pair of ballots for the meet & greet with Stephenie, as Corinna did also, and then Corinna put our ballots into the drum for the 4pm draw. I put our televison ballots into another drum...hoping for a big screen win!

After taking a walk around the building, seeing the sights of Flamboro Downs, it was soon time for the draw for the meet & greet. The draw for the tv was to happen at midnight...we weren't staying that long!

We saw the racetrack officials gather around the drum, and began to pull out 5 ballots. There was at least 100 ballots filled out, and I figured that our chances were slim.

But we did have hope!

They began to announce the 5 winners, over the speaker system, and our names...weren't included.

Corinna said, "Alright Mr Lucky, you can't win them all! Let's go home". I agreed, and we began to walk out of the atrium, headed for the parking lot.

"Our 5 winners have 5 minutes to claim their prize, or we will draw again until we have 5 winners!"

Those were the magic words that stopped us both in our tracks! Corinna and I, smiled at eachother, and quickly decided to stick around to see what would happen.

After the longest 5 minutes of our day, 3 winners claimed their great prizes, leaving 2 prizes unclaimed.

"We will be drawing two more names for our meet and greet with Stephenie LaGrossa, and full dinner..."

I looked at Corinna and said, "They're going to pull your name!". She laughed, and responded; "I never win, you're the lucky one here!"

The rep's began to announce the 2nd set of names..."Fred (I can't remember his last name)...and..."

You pretty much know who they pulled next right?!

Me.

After they announced my name, I looked at Corinna who was just smiling and shaking her head. "See...you always win!". I just laughed, and went to go over to where the ballot box was, to claim my prize.

The rep's told me that I just won a private meet and greet with Stephenie, where there will be a professional photographer taking pictures of the winners with Stephenie, and private Q&A session, and a 5 star dinner in the private 'Confederation Room'. I asked if I could bring my wife with me, and they said yes, that the prize was for the winner plus one guest. I thanked them a million times, and walked back to where Corinna was.

"The good news is that I won the prize, the bad news is I can't bring anyone with me!" I said to her, pulling a prank...as I often do with Corinna.

"Nice try, I heard what they said...I'm going with you!" She responed laughing, giving me a shot in the arm!

After sharing a laugh, talking about the prize, and figuring out what questions we would ask in the Q&A, we waited until 5pm...when the private event began.

We headed upstairs, above the casino, to where the seating was to view the horseraces, and spotted the 'Confederation Room', off in the secluded corner of the area. After realizing that Flamboro Downs was host to the annual 'Confederation Cup' race, we put 2 and 2 together on why this private room has this distinct name.

At 5pm, the rep's invited the winners and their guests into the Confederation Room. They had a photo area set up in the back corner of the room, where Stephenie was waiting for everyone to come in for private, professional photos. The photographer had a great little set up, with a couple lamps, and a black backdrop.

We were about the 4 or 5 couple in line, and we were checking out our surroundings, as we waited for our turn to say hello to Stephenie again.

The had a massive buffet table set up against the far wall, which was about 15 feet long. In front of the bar area, was a dessert table that was about 7 feet long. Between us (against one wall), and the buffet dinner wall, was about 10 round tables...all beatufully decorated in white.

Flamboro Downs did it up.

It was our turn with Stephenie, to have our picture taken. She smiled at us, as she said hi guys...hopefully recognize us from earlier. The photographer quickly explained that this photo will be available after the dinner for us to take home, as I stood beside Stephenie, and Corinna stood on her other side. Stephenie commented on that I should in the middle, because Corinna and her were both wearing the same colour (white)...I responded by saying that she was the celeb here, and she should be in the middle! She laughed, and said ok, as the photographer took a couple of shots.

Afterwards, we thanked her and the photographer, and we were directed by the rep's to find a seat at any table, and help ourselves to dinner.

Music to my ears!

Corinna and I picked a couple spots facing where Stephenie was hopefully going to speaking, and headed over to the big buffet table.

Oh my word...they did it up. 5 star is truly what this spread was!

We started at the bread area, where there was 3 different loaves of bread, and a huge bowl of various buns. Next was the salad bar, where you had 3 types of salads to build. After grabbing a small Greek salad, next was the pasta. I can't begin to remember how many styles they had, but I took some Rigatoni. Next was the main courses. They had 'jerk' flavoured ribs, smoked Salmon, roasted potatoes, mashed potatoes, chicken wings, steamed vegeatables, two kinds of rices, breaded lamb chops, and a honey ham.

I grabbed a little bit of overthing, and headed back to our table, where Corinna was waiting for me. I smiled at her, and mentioned how great my luck was! She laughed, and began with her salad.

After dinner and a quick jaunt to the desset table, the Q&A was about to begin.

Stephenie took a mic, and walked into the centre area, and began to talk about her life. She mentioned that she grew up in a catholic family, in Philadephia, the only sister to 3 (or 4?) older brothers. She spoke about her college career, then began to talk about her audition tape that she made to try and get on Survivor.


















She explained that, she and some her friends went to a Bon Jovi concert in Philly, and that Jon Bon Jovi picked her out of the crowd and brought her on stage to dance with him during a song!

So she submitted that scene to Survivor, saying that "If Jon Bon Jovi could pick me out of a crowd of thousands, you should be able to, too!". This got a huge laugh, and a round of applause!

She also went onto mention that she is now engaged to Philadephia Philles starting pitcher, Kyle Kendrick, and that she owns a pizza restaurant named GIGI Restaurant & Lounge in Philadelphia.














She began the Q&A session after this, and I had the first question!

I asked her how her shoulder was feeling, (as she separated in the first episode of Heroes vs Villains) and if James ever apologized for how her treated you on H vs V?

Stephenie began to explain how her shoulder got injured, and that not everything went down as it was broadcasted on tv. She told us how it happened, and how she had to pop it back into it's socket during the challenge. She also went on to say that she participated in the challenge after the injury was corrected! I won't comment on what she said about the editing of her injury, but you can all probably figure it out.

When she went to answer my question about James, a few people booed! During H vs V, she was labelled kryptonite by fellow cast member James Clement due to her inability to listen to the designated leader and his repetitive statements that whatever tribe she is on, it will be destined to fail. He, in my opinion, really came off as a bully, and eventually led a group to vote her off the show.

Stephenie said that during a wrap party, in which her fiance Kyle Kendrick also attended with her, that James approached both of them together as a couple...and apologized to both of them for his actions during Heroes vs Villains. She smiled as she said this, seeming to be touched that James said this to her and her partner. I was glad she shared this private moment with us all, when all she had to say was that "it was dealt with".

Corinna got ask a question next, which was "Where does everyone go, after the get voted off the island?" Stephenie gave a very honest answer! Sorry, but I won't reveal what was said here...I don't want to get sued by the producers of Survior! But if you ever cross paths with me, just ask...I'll tell you in person.

Stephenie went on to reveal some things like, that it takes 3 days of filming to fit into each 44 minute episode. Contestants really do stink after awhile, but 'you get used to it!". There are over 500 employees for each season, running around the tribes and setting up challenges. That Playboy has asked her 3 times to appear nude, and she has said no all 3 times..."The fact I have a Catholic family, with older brothers and a dad, kind of makes it difficult to do Playboy!" she joked.

She really gave open and honest questions into Survivor, which I'll be happy to share with you, if you ask in person.

After the hour long Q&A session, which had a great amount of laughs!, it was time for Stephenie to get going. The photographer returned with framed photos of our pictures with Stephenie, which she then handed out to the winners! When we got our photo, we quickly saw how special it was. Flamboro Downs had put in a special matte, that had an OLG Slots logo, the date, and had Stephenie autograph the matte for us! It looked great!















We both went over and shook Stehenie LaGrossa's hand one final time, and said goodbye.

What a great day.

Autograph Questions With...Hayley Wickenheiser

Welcome to a brand new segment/idea to my blog.

I introduced a new segment awhile ago, "Can't Miss Prospects", which I always recieve positive feedback about...so I decided to add an 'interview' touch to my blog.

I decided to try to ask athletes and celebrities, when I meet them, some general autograph questions...questions that I'm usually asked when people find out about my hobby of collecting autographs.

I've already asked two different celebrities these questions, and decided to present a true Canadian hockey icon's answers as the first posting.

It's my pleasure to present the Captain of the 2010 Canadian Olympic Women's Hockey Team's answers...Hayley Wickenheiser.

























I had the opportunity to meet Hayley today, in St. Catherine's, Ontario, at a Canadian Tire grand re-opening. I had two photos signed by the 3 time Olympic Gold Medallist, which she signed beautifully, and had a photo taken with the Canadian hockey legend. (Thanks to Bill, for taking our picture.)















I approached Hayley, and introduced myself. This past week I mentioned that I would like to ask her some questions for my blog, on her Facebook fan page. After remembering my posting on fb, she agreed to answer my questions! She kindly he signed my two photos and posed for our picture together. Then she told me to stand beside her, and that she would chat with me during her final few signings.

It's my distinct pleasure to present what was said, with the three-time Olympic Gold Medallist.



"Autograph Questions With...Hayley Wickenheiser"

"Who was the first person, you ever asked for an autograph?"

HW; "Gord Kluzak...former Boston Bruins defenseman."


















"Who was the most recent person, you've asked for an autograph?"

HW; "Hmmm...Oh, Alexandre Bilodeau...at the Olympics, for my son."














"What's the 'coolest' thing you've ever autographed?"

HW; "The leather, inside a Ford Escape!" (NOTE; She answered this question immediately, without hesistation!)













"What's the 'weirdest' thing you've ever autographed?

HW; "Hmm...Oh a bare, hairy back". (NOTE; We both laughed at her answer...really, who would ask someone to sign their hairy back?!)


















"If you could ask anyone, living or dead, for an autograph, who would it be?"

HW; (After thinking for a moment) "I think I would like a personalized letter from Nelson Mandela."


















There we have it. I can't express my gratitude to Hayley for her exremely valuable time and her kindness for answering my few questions. I hope all of you who take the time to read this, realize how much of a Canadian treasure Hayley truly is...and have a chance in the future to meet her.

And if you can't meet her...cheer on our Canadian Women's Hockey team, which she'll hopefully be leading again in the near future.















Remember, if you're not a Canadian Women's Hockey team fan...you're not a fan of Canadian hockey period!














Hope you enjoyed the first "AQW..." posting, and remember to visit again, as I have one more interview ready for posting in the next few days!

C

PS; Thanks for voting in the most recent poll, in which I asked who do you think the next Toronto Maple Leaf to be elected in the Hall of Fame will be?

With 52% of the votes, Doug Gilmour won the poll...with Mats Sundin coming in 2nd.

We'll see which former Leaf gets in next, as the inductees will be announced soon this summer.

PS deux; Images shown with Hayley's answers, are images found on the internet, and are meant for reference only.

A Hall Of Fame Weekend!

I'll break this posting down into three parts...just seems easier that way. The following events occured the weekend of May 1st and 2nd.

A Hall Of Fame Weekend!

1/3; SATURDAY MORNING

After debating all week long if I should make my to downtown Guelph, the city where I live, I decided I would.

Legendary NHL referee, and Hockey Hall of Fame inductee (2008), Ray Scapinello was putting on his annual 'The Ray Scapinello Road Hockey Tournament', in which kids 9-14 play for the 'Scampy Cup'! All the proceeds go to the Guelph Community Foundation, that helps with educational bursaries for deserving youth around Guelph.















Scampy's career is fantastic. A Guelph native, he began working with the NHL in 1971. Scapinello officiated his first NHL game on October 17, 1971, in Buffalo, between the Buffalo Sabres and the Minnesota North Stars. In 1980, Scapinello officiated his first Stanley Cup Finals. This was one of a total of 20 he officiated during his career, including Game 7 in 1994, between the New York Rangers and Vancouver Canucks. In 1998, Scapinello was chosen as one of 4 officials to participate in the 1998 Winter Olympics in Nagano, Japan.

Scapinello's final regular season NHL game came on April 2, 2004, a game held in Buffalo between the Buffalo Sabres and the Toronto Maple Leafs. Scapinello chose this to be his final game as he wanted to end his career in the same place he started it. Although this was his final regular season game, he participated in the 2004 Stanley Cup Playoffs.











Scampy retired in June 2004, after 33 seasons in the NHL. His career includes 2,500 regular season games, 426 playoff games, and 20 Stanley Cup Finals. Of these feats the most impressive thing is that he never once missed a game due to injury or illness.

In November 2008, Scapinello was properly inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame, as an on-ice official.














I debated all week long if I really wanted a 'non-player' on my HOF 16x20 project. What sealed the deal was three things. 1st; I already have a 'non-player' memeber autographed on my photo...Cliff Fletcher, inducted as a builder. 2nd; Scampy is a Guelphite...like my wife! and finally 3rd; Scampy is one, who does such wonderful charity work...how can I say no?!

Saturday morning rolled around, and it looked like it was going rain.

I don't do autographs in the rain.

I asked my wife if she wanted to join me in a quick drive (4 minutes) to the University of Guelph, to where the tournament was. She said sure, and we hopped in our Highlander and drove to her alma mater.

We drove through the grounds to the athletics parking lot, where we could see the event taking place.

Still, no rain.

As we pulled up to the parking lot, there was a large firetruck parked on the right side, beside a CJOY van. CJOY is the local AM radio station, in Guelph. I didn't think anything of the firetruck, as I figured it was there for the event and the kids.

Corinna spoke up, as we were about 10 feet away from the firetruck; "Someone has the Stanley Cup on the front of that firetruck!".

As I drove by the firetruck, around 10km per hour, I turned my head to the right, and only caught a glimpse of what Corinna was speaking about. I saw the top of the Stanley Cup, but I also saw Ray Scapinello holding it with 2 firefighters.

"That's Scampy!" I said. Corinna laughed! "Well, just stop right here, jump out, and I'll turn the truck around" she added.

My wife...great on the fly!

I parked the truck, in the middle of the road, hopped out, opened the back door, grabbed the HOF photo, and walked quickly towards the Hall of Fame official.

I looked up to the sky, still no rain. But it looked bad.

I approached Ray Scapinello, from behind. I was beside him, in about 5 seconds after leaving my truck.

"Excuse me Ray?" I asked. He turned saying hello, and offering his hand. I shook his hand immediately.

"Can I get your autograph, please?" I questioned him.

I've never had this response in the alomst 20 years of autograph collecting...

"I'd be honoured to, sir" he replied. I smiled, and showed him my 16x20 photo.

"Oh, the Hall of Fame!" he spoke again, as I pulled the photo from it's protective sleeve. He pulled out a black Sharpie, and I quickly countered with my own blue Sharpie.

"Would you mind using mine? I've got everyone in blue so far." I mentioned.

"Sure" he said, taking the trusty marker.

We bent down low, to our knees, so he could have a better writing surface to place his signature on. He asked where I wanted him to sign it, and I just said anywhere you like. He pointed to a spot, saying right here, and signed his great-looking autograph. He added his 'HHOF 2008' inscription also.












I thanked him for his time, and mentioned that it looks like he has a great turn out for his tournament. He actually thanked me too!

I shook his hand again, and that was it. I moved quickly back to the Highlander where Corinna (and Caesar) were waiting. I put the photo in the backseat, closed the backdoor, and felt the first raindrop hit my head.

Good timing, or what?!

I hopped in the front seat, and realized that I didn't use my camera! Regardless, Scampy was walking around with the Stanley Cup at this point, taking pictures with people. I didn't want to bother him again, so I took a quick shot of him with a CJOY worker, and promptly drove home.















As we were leaving the home of the Gryphons, Corinna said something, that might be true;

"Faster autograph ever!"

Could be!

2/3; SATURDAY EVENING

Projects.

I don't know why I always sucker myself into doing them.

One of these days, I'm going to write a posting on all the projects I have going...and why I decided to tackle them.

Regardless, Saturday evening meant a chance to draw closer to completing a cool project that I've been working on for about a year now.

Last year sometime, I purchased an official Rawlings National Baseball Hall of Fame Major League Baseball. These baseballs are collectors items, and are somewhat hard to find.

I picked one up, thinking that it would nice to get Baseball Hall of Famers to sign. And that it's easier to carry around than a bat!

We don't get very many BBHOF'ers in Ontario that often, so I figured it would be a long-term project. We all know, that Ontario is more of a hockey hot-bed, than baseball lately.

The first signatures I got on my HOFBB, came at the Toronto Maple Leafs Dinner.

I know what you're thinking...baseball players at a Leafs dinner?!

The thing is this...it's not the Leafs you're thinking of.

There is a small professional baseball league in Ontario, called the 'Intercounty Baseball League'. 9 major centres in Ontario, currently have teams, including the city I reside in...the Guelph Royals. However, it's Toronto's team that is the focus of this part of my blog entry.

The IBL's team in Toronto is named the Toronto Maple Leafs. They share the name with the world famous hockey team, but that's about it. The Intercounty Leafs, as they're commonly referred to as, are based out of Christie Pits, located on Bloor Street West.














Every year the TML have a pre-season dinner as a fundraiser, as means to help out their upcoming season. The cool part of the dinner are the 'players' that TML owner Jack Dominico brings in every year. The dinner consists of a buffet dinner, an Q&A session, and (of course) an autograph signing.

The 'players' that Mr. Dominico brings in, are always MLB Hall of Famers!

The tickets to this event are just $80 dollars!

Some of the names that have appeared at past TML dinners include; Andre Dawson, Luis Tiant, Ralph Kiner, and Brooks Robinson...just to name a few.

Last year I attended, picking up some autographs on my new HOF baseball. I managed to get these legendary baseball players; Bob Feller, Fergie Jenkins, Paul Molitor, Rollie Fingers, and Juan Marichal. At $80 dollars for my entry...that's about $16 dollars an autograph, not including the great buffet dinner! In addition to those 5 players whom signed my ball, I picked up Detroit Tigers' legend Al Kaline's signatture, afterwards (in Detroit)...bringing my autograph total to 6 Hall of Fame signatures!







































I had a great time at the 2009 dinner. So much so, that I planned the 2010 dinner 3 months in advance.

The 2010 TML dinner's guest line-up was announced during the winter. The line-up was another solid panel.

Bob Feller and Fergie Jenkins were returning again. HOF'ers Harmon Killebrew, Gaylord Perry, and Earl Weaver were the new panelists this year. This was great news to me! I already had Feller and Jenkins on my ball, but 3 more signatures would quickly fill up my project...meaning a quick end to this fantastic-looking baseball.

My only real dilemma was this...I still don't have the sweet spot signed.

For those of you that aren't aware of what that means, let me tell you quickly.

The sweet spot is the shortest distance between two seams on a baseball. This location on the baseball is the most preferred for signatures by collectors because it is centered as to the point of view, and pleasing to the eye when displayed. The other "sweet spot" is were the manufacturing stamping is placed on the ball.

I was really hoping to get someone very special in baseball history to sign the sweet spot of my great baseball.

I've spoken to many people about my baseball, and whom they feel is a candidate. I've often thought of Willie Mays or Hank Aaron. My work buddy, Tony, suggested Cal Ripken Jr. My better half, Corinna, prefers Roberto Alomar to sign it. The only problem with my wife's idea is the fact, that Robbie isn't in Cooperstown yet! (It's a shame, actually)

After considering the 3 players that I needed (that were coming), I decided that I wouldn't have any particular one sign my sweet spot...although Killebrew is a strong candidate!

Killebrew currently is 10th, on the all-time homerun list, with 573 homers.

I don't know why I decided against Killebrew on the sweet spot, I just did.

With 3 of 5 guests, going to sign my ball...I needed something for the 2 repeat guests; Bob Feller and Fergie Jenkins.

Last September, my wife and I went to Cooperstown, New York for our 3rd anniversary. Do I have the best wife ever or what?!! Anyways, while visiting the National Baseball Hall of Fame, we checked out the giftshop and I picked up a Ferguson Jenkins HOF plaque postcard. These postcards, while very cheap, are extremely collectable, and are often a good choice for collectors to get autographed. Figuring that I'll see him at the TML dinner or at the Canadian Baseball Hall of Fame induction in 2010, I picked it up...to get signed. What's .75 cents anyways?!














With the postcard for Jenkins, I still needed something for Bob Feller. Since I picked up a few baseballs in Cooperstown, I figured I'd get a ball signed just by him...on the sweet spot.

Done and done.

Now, just the waiting game for the dinner to roll around.

About 3 or 4 weeks before the dinner, it's announced that there will be another Hall of Famer joining us at the Leafs' dinner;

Reggie Jackson.

Yes...that Reggie Jackson! Mr. October himself!














I was incredibly excited at this rare chance to meet him! And when I thought about the chance to get his autograph, at the signing after the Q&A session, I knew that my sweet spot dilemma was over.

I was going to ask Reggie Jackson to be the legend to sign the sweet spot, on my special baseball.

I was very happy at the prospect of finishing this project in about year, with 10 autographs on my ball. Truth is, I probably could get 1 or 2 more if Juan Marichal didn't have such a large autograph! Regardless, 10 Hall of Famers on a baseball is a pretty incredible achievement, even more so considering the small amount of money spent acquiring the signatures! The fact that it is an official Hall of Fame baseball, is just icing on the cake!

As you can tell, I was pretty stoked about this night!

The week leading into the dinner, I mentioned to my co-worker (Ernie) that I was going to this special dinner and who was going to be there. Ernie is abit of an autograph collector himself, so he was impressed by this stellar line-up. He went on to mention that his mentor, his former school principal named Jack, was a huge Cleveland Indians and Bob Feller fan. He also mentioned that Jack is suffering from an life threatening illness, and that it would really brighten his day, if I could manage to land an autograph from Feller for Jack. Well, that's I needed to hear! I love getting autographs for people, whom are life long fans! I told Ernie that I didn't have anything in particular for Feller to get signed that would great as a gift, but I would try my best to help out. I told him that a photo would be best, as I could get it personalized "To Jack". We both agreed on a photo, if possible, and that he would pay me back any funds for the cost of the photo, as I was giving up my Feller autograph at the dinner. (The dinner has a one autograph per person rule, a rule that I will not break).

When Saturday afternoon rolled around, I was ready to go to Toronto.

I arrived at the Airport Westin Hotel, where the dinner was being held, and entered a side entrance. When I walked in, Gaylord Perry was walking towards me! I said "Hello Mr Perry" in passing, and he smiled and said hello in return. I presume he was heading to the men's room, but I didn't look back so I really don't know!

I purchased my ticket from the Leafs owner, Jack Dominico, at the reception room doors and walked in and found a spot at one of many tables. The place was half full, an hour early! Everyone was talking about Reggie. I got to see alot of cool things that people wanted Reggie to sign. There was even a seat from Yankees Stadium! I got to talking with a collector about the evening's guests, and asked him if he had an extra Feller 8x10 he could part with. He said, let me check someone out, meaning he had a lead on a photo.

Around 7, the emcee for the evening, the Fan 590's Roger Lajoie, announced that we could hit the buffet tables, if we liked. Music to my ears! They actually have some good food at these events, and I quickly filled up my plate, as there was around 500 people there.

When I sat down, the man who I asked about a Feller photo asked a friend of his if they had any extra pics of Bob? The guy said yes, come over and take a look...so I did. He had 2 choices, a close up of a young Feller tossing a ball in the air and a picture of him pitching from a distance. I chose the close up, for Jack, and paid the man for the photo. With that done, I was good to go when it came to the autograph portion of the evening!

During the meal, Lajoie began to announce the panelists.


















Jenkins and Perry were introduced.














Then Earl Weaver, and Bob Feller afterwards.



































Killebrew was next, and like the others, got a nice applause.


















It was a minute later when it got loud. Last to be announced was number 44, Reggie Jackson! Some stood for the slugger when he entered the reception.














He shook hands as he approached the head table, and then began to pose for pictures beside the head table, with fans. I got up, and went to get a picture with one my late-father's favourite Yankees! When it was my turn next to get a picture with Reggie, after 5 minutes of waiting, Reggie said he was done. Believe it or not. Oh well.














I took my seat, again, and listened to the Q&A session as it began. Some interesting questions were asked, nothing worth mentioning here because that wasn't shocking part of what happened during the Q&A.








I'll just cut to the chase.

During the Q&A, Fergie Jenkins interupted the proceedings by taking the podium. Jenkins began to say that Reggie has a private box in the new Yankee Stadium, and that he'd like to auction it off to any game in the 2011 season, except Red Sox & Mets games, along with 4 round trip airline tickets from Continental. Very impressive. Reggie told Jenkins to begin the auction at $5000 dollars...immediately out of my price range! Right away a guy at a table next to mine, bid 5 grand.

It was then, when it got strange. Jenkins asked if there was bid $6000, and there wasn't any takers. All of sudden Reggie stood up, took another podium, and did something I never saw coming. Reggie Jackson bid on his own auction! Reggie bid $6000! Fergie looked a little off by this, but started talking about the new stadium and that the prize also consisted of Reggie taking the winner and his group for a personal tour of the park and it's monuments. It sounded really great! Another person upped Reggie's bid to $7000 dollars. Immediately, Reggie was at it again! Jackson upped the $7000 dollars, to $8 grand! It felt weird to be apart of, in my opinion.

The bid was stuck at $8000 dollars for a minute or so, as these two Hall of Famers were trying to get people to bid on this prize. Reggie looked a little upset, and Fergie was appealing to the corporate people in the room to bid for this great prize. I believe it was the man who bid first, bid again...for $9000 dollars!

And what do you think Reggie Jackson did?

Yes, he bid again. Ten Thousand dollars, this time...on his own prize!












I was just...I don't know how to explain it! Uncomfortable?!

It was at this point, nobody bid again...and both Fergie and Reggie appealed to the crowd to help out. If I was a millionaire, I'd be all over this! Imagine...a private box to see the Yanks play anyone, in New York City, with 4 roundtrip tickets, AND a private tour with Reggie Jackson of Yankee Stadium?! That's quite the package!

However, it was too high for those in attendance.

Fergie, picking up on the fact that $9000 was the most anyone was going to bid, spoke to the room (and to Reggie) that we'll take a break on the auction and carry it on again...a little later. Just so everyone could reconsider bidding during the Q&A.

Reggie however spoke after Fergie was done. He said that the package is worth around $12000 dollars, and he would take a loss if he let it go for anything less. The money was to go to the Fergie Jenkins Foundation, which was great. Sadly, no one spoke up with a $12 grand bid. He seemed upset, like I mentioned earlier.

Anyways, the Q&A continued for another minute or so, when the night changed.

Reggie Jackson, who was sitting the the end of the head table, stood up.

Then he left the head table, and began to walk around the reception room towards the rear. He stopped to shake hands with Jack Dominico, and that's when it hit me.

Reggie was leaving.

I grabbed my ball, as he walked out of the reception hall, and gave chase. A couple other people realized what was happening and ran after Reggie too. I caught up to Reggie in the hallway, when his handler said to another collector; "Reggie isn't signing anything, don't bother him!". Reggie confirmed this, and left.

Yup.

He left.

So much for the sweet spot!

When I sat down at my table, everyone around asked me if he left. I said yes, and I can't write here what the responses were to that were.

The shock and disappointment to Reggie's actions, were quickly removed as the Q&A session pressed forward. Nobody commented on him leaving, which made me wonder if it was a scheduled exit. But the thing is, it was advertised that he would be there for the signing!

Regardless, I was back to my original plan of getting Gaylord Perry, Harmon Killebrew, and Earl Weaver on my ball. Fergie Jenkins on my postcard, and Bob Feller for Ernie's mentor, on a 8x10.

When the Q&A ended, and Lajoie told people it was time for the signing, everybody rushed to get in line, for autographs.











After waiting for my turn, Fergie Jenkins was first (should of been Reggie!). I showed Fergie my postcard, and asked him; "Mr Jenkins, do you prefer to sign the front or the back of your Hall of Fame postcard?". Reaching for it, Canada's only HOF'er responded; "I like to sign the front of these". He picked up his Sharpie, and placed a nice autograph along the top of the postcard. As he handed it back to me, I thanked him and asked him about his charity golf tournament. We chatted for a minute about it, shook hands, and moved to the next Hall of Famer.


















I took out my baseball, and showed Gaylord Perry that it was an official HOF ball, and asked him to sign the blank panel I was showing. He said yes, took the ball, and autographed it nicely. He didn't put his HOF inscription, so I asked him to put it down, if he didn't mind. He didn't say anything to my request, but he did add his 'HOF 91' inscription. I thanked him, and continued along the table.














Next was the Minnesota Twins' legend, Harmon Killebrew. He was incredibly friendly, as we greeted eachother. I showed him that I had an official HOF ball, and if he could manage to add his signature to the spot that I showed him...as he as a very long autograph! He smiled, and said "I think I can get it on there!". He took his time and signed my ball, with HOF inscription, quite nicely. I thanked him for coming back to Toronto, and shook his hand. I really wish he'll come back next year, as I'd love to get him to sign a bat!














I had to put my baseball down, and get out a photo. Next up, was Bob Feller.

Feller, who is the eldest living member of the Hall of Fame at 91, was waiting for me to come along to him. I pulled out the photo, handed it to him, and said "Hello, Mr Feller...would you mind making it out 'to Jack'?". Very abruptly he responded; "I'm not personalizing tonight", leaving me a little shocked. I said ok, no problem...as he signed his name on the black & white photo. The weird part was that he added his HOF inscription, inside the baseball that he was tossing in the photo, and this took about 4 or 5 seconds...probably the same amount of time he could of wrote "To Jack"! Anyways, it turned out beautifully, and I thanked him for his time.



































Back into my bag went the photo, and out came my baseball again!

The former Baltimore Orioles manager, who won an incredible 1480 games, was last. Earl Weaver was incredibly friendly, and smiling ear to ear. I showed him my baseball, and pointed to a spot, where I hoped he would sign. The coach who won the 1970 World Series asked me if I would like his 1996 Hall of Fame inscription? Wow! I've never been asked that before! I'm always the one asking for an inscription! I said yes, please and thank you sir, to the man who's been tossed 97 games as a bench boss! He signed his fantastic autograph, and handed me back my ball. I thanked him again, shook his hand, and parted ways with him and the autograph table.


















I took a quick second to put my things together in my bag, and left.














I was happy with the evening as I walked out of the hotel, and began to call Corinna with all my news.

3/3; SUNDAY AFTERNOON

Twice a year, Mississauga's International Centre is home to the largest hockey card event in the world. It's also the largest sports autograph show in Canada. The Sportscard Expo was my destination for Sunday.














The Expo, as it's commonly known as, always has 'big name' signers at it's event. In the past few years, it's been a who's who of sports as it autograph signers.

Gordie Howe, Jim Brown, Bobby Hull, Brett Hull, Bob Feller, Ray Bourque, Roberto Alomar, Jean Beliveau, and Mario Lemieux, just to name some that's been there in the last 4 or 5 years.

The Expo is an event, that is circled on most calendars by the hockey collecting community. It's simply a can't miss event.

This year's spring Expo featured an interesting autograph line-up. AJ's Sportsworld, who supplies the autograph guests to the Expo, decided to have a 1970 Stanley Cup winning Boston Bruins reunion.

If you don't know the story of the 1970 Cup winning Bruins...there's really only one way to tell the story.

"Out in front to Sanderson to OOOORR! BOBBY OOOORR! scores and the Boston Bruins have won the Stanley Cup!"
—Dan Kelly calling Orr's Stanley Cup winning goal














That image is arguably the most famous picture in hockey history.

The Expo was to have 15 members of that historic team, come and sign autographs during the weekend.

Sadly, Bobby Orr and Gerry Cheevers were the biggest names not to make the signing.

Just a side note, I've met almost every single famous hockey player ever to lace 'em up...the two biggest names I've never met (yet) are Mark Messier, and Bobby Orr. Two of the toughest autographs to get!

Leading into the weekend, John Bucyk and Harry Sinden both postponed their Expo appearances, scratching 2 of the 3 members of the Hall of Fame that I wanted to sign my (now somewhat famous!) Hall of Fame 16x20 project.

I decided to skip getting all the Bruins autographs, as I'm not a Bruins fan, and just focus on the Hall of Fame Bruins that were going to be attending.

Like I mentioned, 2 of the 3 HOF'ers I wanted to meet pulled out, leaving just one Boston Bruin Hall of Fame member.

Phil Esposito was to attend the Expo on Sunday afternoon. I've never met Phil previously, but have heard stories about him and his signing habits. He's truly one of most proudest Canadian men, you'll ever meet...that's what I'm always told when discussing Espo. That's something we can all respect nowadays. And, yes, I'm always told he's a good signer.


















Phil's NHL career started in Chicago. He played with Bobby Hull, and scored 174 points in 4 seasons with the Black Hawks. In 1967, for whatever crazy reason, the Hawks traded Espo along with Ken Hodge and Fred Stanfield to the Boston Bruins...and the NHL would never be the same again.

Esposito became the greatest scorer of his day, becoming the first NHL player to score 100 points in a single season with 126 in the 1969 season. He would break 100 points six times in all, including five consecutive seasons between 1971 and 1975 (plus a 99-point season in 1970), capturing the Art Ross Trophy in 1969 and 1971–74 as the top regular season scorer, and leading the league in goals for six straight seasons, (69/70 to 74/75).

He, and the Bruins, won the Stanley Cup twice during the early 70's, first in 1970 and second in 1972.

Esposito was named to the NHL's First All-Star team six consecutive times (from 1969–74), and won the Hart Trophy as the league's most valuable player in 1969 and 1974. During these great years, he was centering one of the most renowned forward lines in history with Hodge on right wing and left winger Wayne Cashman. It was commonly referred as 'The Espo Line'. It was in 1971 when Esposito shattered the record for most goals scored in a season when he finished up with 76.


















Gretzky has since eclipsed the record, upping it to 92 goals in a single season.

It was during the 1972 Summit Series when Esposito became a household name, across Canada.

His performance in the Summit Series is legendary, where he was the inspirational captain for Team Canada and its leading scorer in the series. Esposito also scored the first goal of the series and he scored or assisted four times in the deciding game.

During that series, his scolding of Canadian fans, who booed the national team after a 5–3 loss to the Soviet Union in Game Four, was credited with firing up his teammates. He addressed the Canadian fans after the game;














"To the people across Canada, we tried, we gave it our best, and to the people that boo us, geez, I'm really, all of us guys are really disheartened and we're disillusioned, and we're disappointed at some of the people. We cannot believe the bad press we've got, the booing we've gotten in our own buildings. If the Russians boo their players, the fans... Russians boo their players... Some of the Canadian fans—I'm not saying all of them, some of them booed us, then I'll come back and I'll apologize to each one of the Canadians, but I don't think they will. I'm really, really... I'm really disappointed. I am completely disappointed. I cannot believe it. Some of our guys are really, really down in the dumps, we know, we're trying like hell. I mean, we're doing the best we can, and they got a good team, and let's face facts. But it doesn't mean that we're not giving it our 150%, because we certainly are. I mean, the more - everyone of us guys, 35 guys that came out and played for Team Canada. We did it because we love our country, and not for any other reason, no other reason. They can throw the money, uh, for the pension fund out the window. They can throw anything they want out the window. We came because we love Canada. And even though we play in the United States, and we earn money in the United States, Canada is still our home, and that's the only reason we come. And I don't think it's fair that we should be booed."

Team Canada was fired up, and eventually took the series...as if you didn't know!

Esposito scored 7 goals in those 8 games, and piggy backed the team to their victories.

In the final game, in the last minute of play, with Phil Esposito, Yvan Cournoyer and Peter Mahovlich out on the ice, Paul Henderson stood up at the bench and called Mahovlich off the ice as he was skating by. Bobby Clarke was supposed to replace Esposito, but Phil didn't come off ("There was no way I was coming off the ice in that situation" Esposito said). Esposito got off a good shot, and with just 34 seconds remaining in the game, Henderson, in perhaps the most famous moment in Canadian sports history, put the rebound behind Soviet goaltender Vladislav Tretiak. "I jumped on the ice and rushed straight for their net. I had this strange feeling that I could score the winning goal", recalls Henderson. This play is widely known as "the goal heard around the world".


















Phil Esposito finished up his career in New York, after being coached by Don Cherry in Boston. In 1975–76, he and Carol Vadnais were traded to the New York Rangers for Brad Park, Joe Zanussi and Jean Ratelle.

While not as an offensive force as in his earlier days, as captain of the Rangers, Esposito led the Rangers in points each of his full seasons with the club and remained an effective scorer until his final season.

The highlight of his years in New York was leading the Rangers to the Stanley Cup final in 1979 where at 37 years of age he finished third in postseason scoring.

He retired in 1981, behind only Gordie Howe in career goals and total points, and third in assists to Howe and Stan Mikita.

Esposito was elected to the Hockey Hall of Fame in 1984. In December 1987, his #7 jersey was retired by the Boston Bruins in an emotional ceremony where the then-current wearer, superstar defenseman Ray Bourque, pulled off his #7 jersey to reveal his new number, 77—dramatically "surrendering" his old number in Esposito's favor. Esposito was "visibly moved" when Bourque showed the Boston Garden crowd his new number, which he used for the rest of his career.


















I picked up my autograph ticket on the Friday, for Espo's signing on Sunday. When I arrived at the Expo on Sunday, the autograph line-up was incredibly long.

I decided to let the line work it's way down, and walk around the massive hockey card show. With over 57 different vendors to check out...I had some time to kill! I always enjoy looking at all the various items people bring to sell, there were thousands and thousands of hockey cards under the roof this weekend. Gretzky rookies, Howe rookies, and even a Crosby "Cup" rookie. I mention the Crosby "Cup" rookie, as it's worth more than the Gretzky and Howe rookies! How you ask?! The Crosby "Cup" rookie is autographed, has a piece of a game used jersey emblem, and is serial numbered to 99 copies. It's value is well over ten thousand dollars ($10,000), were the Gretzky can be had between $500-1000 and the Howe around $2000-3000. Strange, but true.

After looking at the booths for well over an hour, I decided to check out the autograph line. It shortened, a little. I decided that I would now tough it out, and wait.

And wait I did. Espo is famous to chatting to every single person in line, as is his brother Tony, and greets them all nicely. This is not a bad thing at all, just a time consuming thing! But, I have to respect it...these two brothers are classy gentlemen, and it's not everyday you get to meet a Canadian legend like Phil Esposito.

After about an hour, I was finally up next.

I greeted Phil, and placed my 16x20 of the Hall in front of him. He scanned it for a second, and asked me; "Where would you like me to sign it?". I pointed to the top left area of the photo, responding "Maybe in this area, sir...or anywhere you would prefer".















He placed his cool signature, to the left of Ted Lindsay's autograph, adding his number 7 and his 'HOF 84' incription.















I asked the 717 goal scorer, if I could get a picture with him? He answered with a "Of course!", inviting me to sit beside him, behing the autograph table. Our photo was taken, and I offered my hand to him. As he shook my hand, he noticed the Guelph Storm jersey I was wearing.
















He looked at it, then looked at me and asked "What's the 'Storm'?". Kind of surprise by this, I almost laughed. Only because he's been an NHL GM 2 different times...with the last year of his tenure with the Lightning being in 1998, well after the Guelph Storm formed in 1991! "It's the Guelph Storm...of the OHL, sir." I answered. As I said 'Guelph', the lights went on, and he rolled his eyes at his own question! "Of course, what's wrong with me?!" he joked, as I parted ways with him!

'Nothing' I thought, as I smiled to myself...you're one of the greatest Phil.




Well, there's another record length blog entry, now in the books. I hoped you enjoyed reading it, and that you're family didn't bother you that much during the time it took to look this over!

Thanks for taking part in the last poll about 'vlogs'. I've decided to make it a rarity, as it takes quite some time to upload videos to this site. And, honestly...I prefer writing, over a 'show & tell' presentation.

I've posted a new poll, that I'm inviting you all to take part. Who do you think will be the next Toronto Maple Leaf to make the Hall of Fame? I've got quite a few options up there...let's see what the consensus thinks. This will probably be the last hockey poll for awhile...maybe even the last poll for awhile, now that I think about it!

Anyways, again...thanks for your generous time, and I hoped you enjoyed "A Hall Of Fame Weekend!"

Remember, comments are always welcomed!

Take care,
C