Chris' Autograph Adventures

My Best of 2011!

2012-01-13T13:00:00.003-05:00

So, 2011 was a great year for autographing for my collection!

There were more hits, than misses!

And I've decided to make a "Top 10 List" to show the highlights of my 2011 autograph adventures!

Let's get right to it!

"My Best of 2011!"

10: Stevie Johnson helmet

In February, the young Buffalo Bills wide reciever made an appearance at Wegz, in Woodbridge, Ont. I was fortunate enough to win this awesome full size Buffalo Bills helmet and have him sign it, at the sports bar that day! That was one fo the best days this past year, as I got to play "Why So Serious!" himself in a Madden 11 video game challenge! He also signed photos and a football for me. Later in the year, I got to meet SJ13 again, and he was kind enough to sign a Bills jersey for me, adding his "Why So Serious!" inscription to it! Stevie Johnson is a favourite in my home! Go Bills!

9: Corey Perry jersey

Being a Guelph Storm fan, I hated Corey Perry in his OHL days as a London Knight! But, love him or hate him...he's a great hockey player, and a future Hall of Famer! Having won a Memorial Cup ring, World Junior Championship Gold Medal, Olympic Gold Medal, Hart Trophy (NHL MVP), and a Stanley Cup ring...he's a proven winner! When he appeared at AJ's this past summer, my wife Corinna, got a Ducks jersey signed for me. He added "2010 NHL MVP" as a special inscription, to the jersey!

8: Gale Sayers mini helmet

One of the greatest NFL running backs of all time, made a rare appearance in Novi, Michigan this past June, and Corinna and I decided to make a day trip to meet "The Kansas Comet" and do some shopping! He was incredibly nice, and was happy to meet some Canadian fans! Sayers was kind enough to add his HOF 77 inscription for no charge, to my Chicago Bears throwback mini helmet!

7: Matthew Stafford helmet

This autographed full sized helmet's story was so cool...I blogged the event! Matt Stafford, who threw for over 5000 yards this past season, appeared at Wegz in February. One of my best friends, Richard, won the chance to play Matt in a game of Madden 11, and recieved many prizes including this Detroit Lions helmet, which Stafford autographed! Richard, being the guy who he is, gave the helmet to me...and is one of my best football signed items! Thanks again Richard!

6: Thurman Thomas jersey

If you know me...you know I'm a Buffalo Bills fanatic! So, when Thurman Thomas made an appearance in Rochester, NY in early Novmeber...we were there! Actually, Corinna and I were 2nd and 3rd in line for the Bills legend! I had Thomas sign a Bills jersey for me, and Corinna got a jersey done for my friend Ernie (who never seems to travel for autographs!), and I got the jersey authenticated through JSA afterwards (a 1st for me using this service). It was great to see one of my all time favourite Hall of Fame Buffalo Bills! Go Bills!

5: Jim Kelly 16x20

Let's keep the Bills connection going! There are many Bills players that are among my favourites...Lee Evans, Marshawn Lynch, Andre Reed, Thurman Thomas, Fred Jackson, Stevie "Why So Serious" Johnson...just to name a few! But I do have one favourite, above and beyond all NFL football players...the legendary master of the K-Gun offense; Jim Kelly! Jim made a rare Toronto appearance, at a clothing store in November to promote the Bills in Toronto series that was happening the next day (they won that game!). A few of my good friends made the trip out to meet the great Hall of Fame quarterback! I was lucky enough to recieve a signed giveaway card, a Bills mini helmet...and a highlight of my autograph collection; a 16x20 of Jim, personalized to my family! Thanks to Ryan for the image! Go Bills!

4: Martin Brodeur McFarlane

Late last year, Martin Brodeur made his first Toronto autograph appearance in a few years...and I was fortunate enough to work with him! AJ's Sportsworld brought the legendary goalie, along with Ilya Kovalchuk, in for a signing...and I helped with the event. In the back of store, during the private signing, I was privy enough to hear many awesome stories, and see Marty sign many fantastic items! I was lucky enough to have Marty sign a 12" McFarlane base for my private collection. It's now a highlight of my autographed McFarlane figures!

3: Dick Butkis Mini helmet

In September, Corinna and I celebrated 5 years of marriage! We visited Las Vegas, for the 2nd time, and had an awesome time! We saw a few shows, including Penn & Teller! Corinna actually was a part of the show, and was brought up on stage! Afterwards we got to meet the magicians and get photos with them! Of course we got multiple autographs from the duo! But the highlight of the vacation, when it comes to autographs, was when we visited Field Of Dreams, inside of Caesar's Palace. This was our 2nd time to the store. The 1st visit resulted in Pete Rose's autograph...this new visit resulted in an legend's autograph! Dick Butkus, one of the greatest football players of all time, was signing autographs this day! I was lucky enough to sit down with the Hall of Famer, and talk Buffalo Bills football with him for about 5 minutes! Afterwards, he signed a Chicago Bears throwback mini helmet, and added 2 inscriptions...his "HOF 79" and "Monster of the Midway"! It really is an incredible piece! If you're ever in Vegas...go and meet this terrific man!

2: Bobby Orr McFarlane

What a morning this was! Another awesome story, that was blogged about! In fact...it was my last blog of 2011! Please take a few moments, after this entry to check out the story! I got to meet the greatest defenseman of all time, with my friends Richard and Ernie, and have #4 autograph a 12" McFarlane base for me! The Bobby Orr autograph I recieved, that August morning, is one of the best autograph I own today! It's one of first I mention, everytime someone asks me "Who are some of the best autographs you have?"

1: Jerry Rice helmet

In February, Corinna and I, along with Ernie and his wife, Michelle...attended a Super Bowl viewing party in Toronto. The highlight of the party was that it was hosted by the legendary, Hall of Famer, wide-reciever Jerry Rice! Although the 3 time Super Bowl champion was abit of a toughie, when it came to autographs that day, I was lucky enough to get 2 autographs from him. One on a football...and the 2nd on an awesome San Francisco 49ers full size helmet! Ernie actually recieved 3 autographs from him; a jersey, football, and mini helmet! This autographed helmet, which includes his #80, is priceless to me. To have an signed helmet, by the greatest wide reciever of all time, is the highlight of my 2011!

Thanks for the read! More to come!

Thanks to Richard, Ryan, Ernie, Bill, and my beautiful & loving wife Corinna for their help this past year with signings! Hopefully 2012 will be just as rewarding to everyone in the hobby!

Comments welcome, just leave your name!

All the best!
C

Pay no attention to that man behind the curtain!

2012-01-10T14:37:00.010-05:00

Wow, it's been a very long time!

Let's get started then.

Recently, I've been fortunate enough to help out at AJ's Sportsworld's autograph signings. Volunteering there, had been both fun and rewarding to me. I've got to work with some very famous athletes, AJ's excellent staff, and have gotten to meet alot of cool customers. I've helped out with the mail order/private stock signings "in the back", and worked "in the front"...dealing with the public, as they get to meet the athletes. I've taken tickets, handled markers, taken pictures, answered questions, and many other jobs...with the public! In the back, I've helped with moving photos, moving jerseys, grabbing fresh markers, taking pictures, handling signed items, and many other cool jobs.

In the 3 or 4 months, I've had a chance to be privy to many cool conversations, heard awesome stories, and helped out with the athletes requests.

Here are some cool factoids that I've witnessed, and decided to share with you all!

"Pay no attention to that man behind the curtain!"

Gordie Howe's appearance at the Expo, I'm taking tickets, Vito's handling makers, and Richard is taking photos of customers!

Mike Keane wore his poppy on his hat! Dave Andreychuk has a foundation in his own name, and donated his entire appearance fee to his charity! A customer had a game-worn Canadiens jersey, and Steve Shutt verified that it indeed was his former jersey! ...Shutt then signed the Habs logo on the front! Mike Keane ran a charity hockey game, in Winnipeg, the night before his recent Expo appearance! Steve Shutt (claims) to have scored the winning goal, at Keane's charity game! ...Keane claims he, himself, scored the game winner! Mike Keane let his son bring one of 3 Stanley Cup rings to school for 'Show & Tell'! Dave Andreychuk resides in Florida, and works radio telecasts for Lightning games a few times during the season!

With 3 time Stanley Cup winner, Mike Keane!

Doug Gilmour is a quiet guy, in the back. Curtis Joseph thoroughly examines each photo he's about to sign, publicly...and will tell you if he likes the photo! During a signing of photo, where Doug Gilmour was pictured with blood on his face and jersey, Corinna (my wife) said; "That's an awesome shot, I like the determination!"...to which Gilmour respeonded; "I wasn't happy at the time, just look at my bloody face!". Gordie Howe is a prankster! Cujo has no problem signing photos of "The Gilmour goal"...he says he understands how important it is to Leafs fans! Mike Keane doesn't sign the "Canadiens Captains" Upper Deck card! Ray Bourque was, also, very quiet in the back!

With Hockey Hall of Famer, Doug Gilmour!

Anton Stastny said to me, while signing a photo of him as a Nordiques rookie; "Look Chris, here I was young and good looking...now I'm just good looking!". Peter Stastny works for the United Nations! Anton Stastny resides in Slovakia! Marion Stastny, surprisingly signed alot of Leafs items...even though he played 70 games for the Blue & White! There is acutally 4 Stastny brothers...Vladimir, never played in the NHL! When the 3 Stastny brothers appeared at the Expo, in November, it was the first time all 3 former Nordiques were under the same roof in over 10 years! Marion Stastny currently resides in Quebec! Gordie Howe's son Marty, was in attendance for Gordie's Expo signing!

With former Quebec Nordique, Anton Stastny!

Ilya Kovalchuk likes light beer! So does, his teammate, Martin Brodeur! Gordie Howe signed his rookie card for a customer...I was shocked to see one! Ilya Kovalchuk prefers Iphone! Again...so does Martin Brodeur! Dan Bouchard, former '76 Canada Cup goalie, puts a happy face in the "D" of his 1st name when he autographs an item! Martin Brodeur says he'll never sign another "exclusive" autograph contract again! Dan Bouchard says; "If there's no happy face in my autograph, then it's a fake!". Ilya Kovalchuk didn't put his "number 17" on the private stock...just his name!.

With legendary goaltender, Martin Brodeur!

At 83 years of age, Gordie Howe still has a beautiful signature, and will not rush it...he takes his time for each and every autograph! While at his Expo appearance, Curtis Joseph had many of his "Cujo's Kids Charity" recipients, in the autograph line...they all thanked him for his charity, to which...he thanked them for talking to him about the charity! (That was awesome to witness!). Drew Doughty was in Guelph this past summer, visiting his Guelph Storm billets! Ilya Kovalchuk asked me whom all the Russians were on the Toronto Maple Leafs currently!

With Olympic Gold Medal winning defenseman, Drew Doughty!

Jonation Quick, goalie for the L.A. Kings, chewed tobacco during his appearance! Dan Bouchard adds a Bible verse to his autograph! Mikhail Grabovski introduced himself to me, pronouncing his first name as "Michael"! Nikolai Kulemin was very quiet in the back! Ilya Kovalchuk said that Nikolai Kulemin is a great hockey player, and is one of the best Leafs on the team! My friend Adam had Game-used skates of Mikhail Grabovski for him to sign...they turned out awesome in silver paint pen! When I asked Mike Keane, Dave Andreychuk, and Ilya Kovalchuk, what city has the most autograph hounds? They all responded the same...Montreal!

With Russian superstar, Ilya Kovalchuk!

The first person Ilya Kovalchuk ever asked for an autograph, was Viacheslav Fetisov! Doug Gilmour's appearance at the Expo in November, sold an incredible amount of tickets...3rd most in the history of AJ's! Bryan McCabe has the number 1 spot in tickets sold! Ilya Kovalchuk collects his own jerseys, and says one of his all-time favourites is his Atlanta Thrashers draft day jersey, when he was taken first overall in 2001! When Martin Brodeur signed a 16x20 for my son, as a Christmas gift, he inscribed "To Josh, Thanks for being a fan!, Martin Brodeur"!. Dan Bouchard said that the 1976 Canadian team of the Canada Cup, is the greatest team ever assembled...there are more 50 goal scorers on that Canadian squad than any other ever put together!

With Toronto Maple Leaf, Mikhail Grabovski!

I wrote an entry a few years back, about Curtis Joseph's appearance in Guelph...after signing autographs in Guelph, he played road hockey with some kids. I found out, after working with him, that the equipement he used...was NHL game-used! The bible verse that Dan Bouchard adds to his autograph is Psalm 139, and is too long for me to add here...look it up, it's beautiful! Although he doesn't live in Hamilton anymore, Dave Andreychuk donates alot of hockey equipement through his charity to youth hockey programs in the Canadian city! None of the athlete's that I've had the chance to work with, have worn their Stanley Cup ring to their signing! Surprisingly, in the back, Doug Gilmour signed alot of non-Toronto items! Anton Stastny's favourite memory was scoring 8 points in one NHL game, brother Peter added 8 points in the same game...what a night for the Stastnys! Dave Andreychuk is the biggest man, that I've had the chance to work with...also one of the friendliest!

With Stanley Cup winner, Dave Andreychuk!

Well, that's about it! Thanks for the read! Hope you enjoyed it! I hope to have alot more entries this year, than I did last year...sorry about that! I hope to write about; an update on my Hockey Hall of Fame 16x20 project, a Blue Jays prospect, and a special trip! When time permits it...I'll give my focus back to my blog! Thanks again for checking out my blog!

C

PS; Many thanks to Andrew Goldfarb, owner of AJ's Sportsworld, for trusting me enough to come out and help his business, during special events! Please check out www.ajsportsworld.com for their upcoming signings. I hope to interview Andrew soon, for an up close and insider's look into the world of promoting public autograph signings.

Number 4

2011-08-15T18:47:00.002-04:00

I'm often asked, who've you met in hockey that's famous? I always reply, it's not whom I've met...it's whom I've haven't met. I haven't met; Mark Messier, Paul Coffey, or Bobby Orr. All stars and superstars in NHL history. Everyone else you can think of...I've met.

Well, a few weeks ago...I got to scratch one off of that short list.

Let's do this, with a timeline.

Let's roll.

"Number 4"

7:41am; Sleeping, quite nicely. Then the bloody phone rang. It's Ernie's number. I decided to answer my co-worker's way-too-early call.

7:42am; "Chris, wake up man. Bobby Orr is going to be at 570news, for a 9am appearance" Ernie yelled at me! "What?!!" I replied, still half-asleep. "Buddy...Bobby Orr is in Kitchener, and is going to be at 570news...we need to go and try for his autograph!". I instantly went from neutral to 5th gear, in a nano-second!"

7:43am; The conversion continued. "Alright man, I've got a 12 inch McFarlane figure, I'm going to try to get him to sign the base" I said. "I've got a puck and a 6 inch McFarlane base, I'm trying for" Ernie responded. "You know, I heard he only personalizes autographs and is strict one per person!" I mentioned. "Gotta try!" Ernie responded. "Alright, let's try to get him on the way in...I'm grabbing a quick shower and I'm out" I said. "See ya there, he's supposed to be on the air for 9am". "Ok, see you there". I said, hanging up.

7:44am; I decided to text my army buddy Richard to see if he wanted to come along. "Going to try for Bobby Orr, leaving in 10 minutes, coming?" I texted him. I text my friends Ryan and Bill with the news also.

7:46am; Stepping in shower, my Blackberry went off. "Yes!" Is all Richard said!

7:57am; Out of shower, deodorized, and dressed.

7:59am; Got McFarlane base, heading out the door.

8:03am; Picked up Richard, about to turn Highlander in Kitchener's direction.

8:10am; Hitting traffic on Hwy 7. Very common between Guelph and Kitchener. Big pain in the butt though!

8:22am; Searching for parking spot, 570news building is in our sites...one hound outside.

8:25am; The Highlander is locked up, and is safe. Richard and I quickly walked across King St., headed for the front door.

8:26am; No sign of Ernie yet. Funny...he lives in Kitchener!

8:27am; The hound says that Orr went in, and his manager said no autographs to him. Orr is just with his manager, and no other entourage. The fact that Orr didn't sign for one person...makes my heart sink.

8:30am; I call Ernie to see where he is, and to give him the update.

8:33am; No sign of Ernie, but people are walking out of the 570news building with signed Orr stuff. Starting to feel upbeat again.

8:37am; Richard and I scout out the building for exits, finding only 2. If Orr leaves out the back door...we'll see him!

8:40am; After chatting with the hound, Richard and I decide to investigate which vehicle Orr came in.

8:43am; We discover that Orr and his manager has parked on King St., in a new Equinox. Now we know, where they're headed after Orr's interview!

8:45am; Sitting outside 570news, enjoying the sunshine.

8:47am; Guess who shows up?! Ernie comes walking down King St., Richard gives him a hard time about showing up late! Lotsa laughs!

8:51am; More people coming out with autographs. Maybe it's time to try going into the radio station?

8:54am; Ernie and I consider going up...but pass, as it's time for his interview. Maybe afterwards.

9:04am; Ernie tunes in 570news on his iPhone (Boo!) and we all listen to his interview.

9:06am; Both Ryan and Bill respond with "good luck" on getting Orr. They can't make it.

9:09am; Richard decides to help Ernie get his puck signed. Ernie's going to try to get his 6 inch McFarlane base signed.

9:14am; We're sitting around chatting about Orr's website and authenticating company that handles his autographs.

9;21am; Ernie show us the pictures he brought along. If he can, he'll try for more. I'm content with my base, at this point.

9:28am; Take a walk showing Ernie the back of the building, and Orr's ride.

9:30am; Orr's interview ends. Now the nerves are jumping.

9:31am; A mother and her 2 daughters show up, trying to meet Orr also. Now our group is at 7.

9:36am; Ernie and I decide to make a leap of faith, after hearing on the radio that "Bobby Orr wanted to know, how many people are outside?". My heart sinks again. If Orr wanted to know how many people there are...he probably won't sign leaving! Ernie and I make our move. We enter the building.

9;38am; In elevator heading up to 570news office.

9:41am; Turned away at the front desk! Secretary repeats what we just found out...Orr wants to know many people are outside.

9;44am; Back out front, in the sunshine. I love summer!

9:47am; Action! Out walks Orr's manager! No Orr though. Not good.

9:49am; The manager walked out to the car (we were right!), and drives off. I figure he's going to bring to the back of the building...so we walk to the rear of the 570news building.

9:51am; I was right. The car pulls up. Suddenly, the garage door opens...and the car heads underground.

9:53am; With the car now out of sight...it's gone from tough to impossible. I explain to everyone, that Orr will just hop in the vehicle...the car will drive out...and keep going. He won't stop for our group, which now has 2 more people...as a young couple arrived with a McFarlane figure of their own.

9:55am; Ernie's nervous. I'm panicked. Richard was cautiously optismitic. "Don't worry guys, Bobby will see the 2 young daughters and their signs, and stop and sign. Hopefully he'll sign for everyone else too!" The retired soldier said. I liked Richard's attitude.

9:59am; No sign of Orr. Another person joins the group. He's wearing a Orr jersey. This is getting far too big, I think to myself.

10:04am; We hear a car start, inside the building. The 2 young girls stand near the garage door...good move, as Orr would see them, and their Orr signs first!

10:06am; Things start to move in slow motion for me. Here we go, I thought, as the garage door began to open.

10:07am; The GM product began to roll forward towards the exit and our group, with the manager driving, and the greatest defenseman of all time in the passenger seat. For the first time in my life, I saw Bobby Orr! I grinned at the sight. That grin turned into a full blown smile, as I saw something that made me feel great. Bobby Orr reached down, and lifted up...A BLACK SHARPIE!

10:08am; Bobby Orr rolls down his window and greets the 2 young girls, thanking them for their cool signs! After a second...he says "This isn't working for me!" and opens the door, and steps out of the car to sign autographs!

10:09am; Richard spots a pin on Orr's shirt, and asks him if that's a 'Support the Troops' pin? Orr said yes! Attaboy Bobby...support our Canadian Heroes!

10:10am; After almost 20 years of waiting, I finally get to meet (arguably) the great hockey player of all time! I said "Hello, Mr. Orr!" He replies "Hello, whom do I make this out to?", as I hand him my McFarlane base. "My name is Chris, and thank you for stopping to sign for us!". "My pleasure" Number 4 answers. I looked down, and watched him sign "To Chris, Good Luck Always, Bobby Orr". And in the span of about 3 or 4 seconds...I got Bobby Orr's autograph! I thanked him, and stepped aside for Ernie!

10:11am; Things kinda turned into a blur at this point. Call it shock...happiness...whatever! I was just stunned looking at my autograph! Ernie got his base signed...and a picture with Orr. Richard got Ernie's Boston Bruins puck autographed.

10:12am; Instantly, my mind clicked. I didn't get a photo with the Hall of Famer! Orr was autographing for the man with the jersey, when I asked Bobby directly for a picture with him! "Sure, just give me a minute...I need to sign for everybody!" Incredible answer! Simply incredible.

10:14am; With my Blackberry in his hand, Richard zoomed in on Bobby Orr and I. I was standing next to the legend, with our arms around eachother...when Richard took our picture together!

10:15am; Looked at Richard's pic...and loved it!

10:16am; We all thank Bobby Orr, as he finished signing for every person waiting...and hopped into his car, waving goodbye as we watched the GM pull away!

10:17am; We highfived eachother on our success!

10:20am; Still on a personal high, we walked back to our vehicles! Ernie discovers something...his picture didn't turn out! Oh no! Well...at least he got 2 autographs in total!

11:00am; Back home, with a new autograph. The autograph of number four...Bobby Orr. A new highlight of my large collection.

Epilogue; Many thanks to Ernie for tuning into 570news, so early that wonderful morning, and waking me up! Thanks to Richard for coming out, staying positive, and helping us out! And the biggest thanks to Mr. Orr, for being incredibly kind...when most would've driven on by their fans!

Thanks for the read! As always, your comments are welcome! (Don't forget to leave your name!)

Ps- Just a side note...Ernie finally did get that picture with Bobby Orr, after all...as we met Orr the next day in Waterloo! (No autographs)

Autograph Questions With...Wendel Clark

2011-07-15T19:06:00.001-04:00

I'm sitting here, finally on vacation, on a rainy day...thinking, I've ignored my blog long enough.

Let's roll.

So, awhile back...I went to Wendel Clark's Restaurant. The Oakville location was celebrating it's one year anniversary, and had an open house to the public. So, I decided to go with a couple friends. Richard, Ernie, and Ryan all wanted to check out Wendel's restaurant, and the event that was planned.

Normally, I would talk about the celebrity...but hey, it's Wendel! Everyone knows Wendel! Captain Crunch! Number 17! Bleeds Blue & White! Yup...you know whom I'm talking about!

A few former NHL players were to attend. Johnny Bower, Tom Fergus, Gary Leeman, Doug Gilmour, and Wendel Clark, himself, were scheduled to attend. When we arrived, Wendel was already there, greeting guests!

We sat at the bar, enjoying the restaurant! They had free food, beer, power drinks...they were doing it up!

After pictures and autographs with Wendel, I decided to approach him again and talk about my blog...hoping he'd agree to a quick interview about autographs. He agreed to answer a few questions.

I was very, very surprised about his attitude on autographs.

Here's the interview, enjoy!

"Autograph Questions With...Wendel Clark"

Who was the first person you ever asked for an autograph?
"I've never asked for an autograph. Just not my thing, I understand why people ask for autographs, I just don't collect them."

What's the coolest thing, you've ever autographed?
"To me...it's just an autograph."

What's the weirdest thing, you've ever autographed?
"I've autographed people's skin, and had them come back and show me that they had it tattooed onto the them!"

What item do you autograph most? Cards, photos, equipment?
"Hockey cards, by far."

Did you ever collect other player's memorabilia like...sticks or jerseys, during your playing days?
"No, not at all. I know other players collect stuff like that, but not me."

Did you keep your own memorabilia things like cards, sticks, jerseys, and other equipment?
"Not really, I do have important goal pucks and sticks...but that's about it."

"Thanks for your time, Wendel!"
Thank you!

I would love to say it was a interview that he wasn't into, but he was. He gave honest answers, but he made his point clear that...he understands why people ask for autographs, and that he signs no problems...but for him, he's not a collector!

And that's fine with me...just as long as he keeps signings!

Thanks for the brief read!

The Next Johnny Bower Or Eric Fichaud?

2011-04-09T17:40:00.020-04:00

Welcome back.

This is one of three entries I'm working on.

This blog entry is about 'the hype', as I refer to him.

James Reimer, the rookie goaltender of the Toronto Maple Leafs, has captured the attention of 'Leafs Nation'...dragging the team to the doors of the NHL playoffs, only to miss the dance by the narrowest of margins...8 points.

I, for one, was stunned the Leafs made it so close to the playoffs. But, unlike most Leafs fans, I'm a realist when it comes to the 'Blue & White'...but once I looked at Reimer's numbers, I quickly knew the truth about the Leafs. He was almost single-handily pulling the team along.

Reimer made his NHL debut for the Leafs on December 20th, 2010. He was put into the game, against the Atlanta Thrasher, when Jonas Gustavsson was pulled...after allowing 5 goals on 18 shots. Reimer played 14:09 of that game, stopping all 4 shots he saw. The Leafs lost, surprise...surprise.

Reimer would finally get into another NHL game, this time starting for the Leafs against their rival...the Ottawa Senators, on New Year's day. On the 33 shots he faced, Reimer let in one goal. Toronto destroyed the Sens, 5-1 that day. Strangely, he wasn't one of the three star selections.

James Reimer has gone onto to play in 37 games for Toronto, this season.

He has won 20 of them.

Currently his personal statistics are; 20 wins, 10 losses, 5 OTL. 2.60 goals against average. .921% save percentage. And 3 shutouts.

He's played in less games than the season holds, put has more wins than all the other Leafs goalies...COMBINED. Funny enough, he has less losses than both of the other goalies too.

It's plain to see, the Leafs are just a better team, with 'Optimus Reim' in the net.

Now...is he the real deal? ...or just a flash in the pan?

We've seen this before, with Leaf goaltenders. Bring up a kid, let him win a few games...burn him out. Or have the Leafs done it right this time? Keep him in junior, then mature him in the AHL, and finally give him a shot?

Reimer could be the next Johnny Bower...cool under pressure, no fear, and led the Leafs to the promised land, winning 4 Stanley Cups...in the Leafs final dynasty.

Or could he be the next Eric Fichaud? Drafted 1st round, 16th overall in 1994, by the Toronto Maple Leafs. In his draft year, he led his team to the Memorial Cup finals, winning a host of awards, including the top goaltender and playoff MVP awards. A classic butterfly goaltender in the Patrick Roy mold, Fichaud looked to be a future NHL starting netminder. Fichaud never lived up to the lofty expectations his fantastic junior career had led to, bouncing between the minor leagues and the NHL. In only 95 NHL games, Fichaud won 22 games, losing 47.

Time will tell.

However, the 23 year old is hot.

...And he's doing a free signing.

That's just enough fuel, for me to get his autograph!

It was announced that on Sunday, April 10th, James Reimer would be making his first ever public autograph appearance. Pickering Flea Market is hosting the free event.

I decided instantly that I would go. Hard part is...I figured every other Leafs fan out there will be going too.

I also decided that I would blog my travels...in a different format. I decided that I would make this entry, 'real time based'. Hope you like it.

Let's roll.

The Next Johnny Bower Or Eric Fichaud?

Saturday, April 9, 2011 (Day before autograph signing)

12:35pm; Freshly out of shower, deodorized, and fully dressed, I find myself on my laptop seeking out images of James Reimer...suitable for signing. I decided that I would print out a 16x20 of Toronto's hottest rookie, in years, and have him autograph the large picture.

12:38pm; Found the image I wanted. It's abit different...but definitely cool!

12:43pm; Finished searching internet for JR pics, loaded image onto flashdrive.

1:12pm; Absolutely beautiful day! Glad I'm in t-shirt and shorts for the first time in 2011! Arrived at Wal-mart, hitting up the Kodak printers.

1:29pm; After realizing that the Guelph Wal-mart is apparently now allergic to McFarlane figures, time for a quick lunch at McDonald's. Gave this stuff up months ago, just having 2 Chicken snack wraps, while 16x20 is being printed.

1:55pm; With 16x20 in hand, and happy with it's turn out, I'm out of Wal-mart. I'm now ready for the signing.

4:15pm; 16x20 is now in spare top-loader for safe keeping. Safe from Caesar's sharp Chihuahua teeth!

7:31pm; My great friend, Richard, just messages me from New Brunswick saying he found 2 McFarlane variants for me! What a guy! He's now going to bring a Jimmy Howard (Detroit Red Wings goalie) and a Dion Phaneuf (TML Captain) home for my collection! I tell him thanks...and that I'm going to Reimer's signing tomorrow, he mentions that he'd like JR's autograph on his Leafs jersey. Not a problem for my, retired soldier, friend.

11:49pm; After watching dozen's of episodes of Battlestar Gallactica, I just found out the Leafs lost to the Habs. Now, I'm going back to update all the stats I listed earlier about Reim's!

Sunday, April 10, 2011 (Day of autograph signing)

8:40am; Alarm goes off.

9:02am; Awake. Kind of.

9:27am; Hit shower. Super hot...loosen up sore, tight muscles. Meh.

9:55am; Walking out front door, with 16x20...in need of caffeine. Something feels off though.

10:07am; Hitting the 401 eastbound (and down!), looks like rain. Still feeling weird about something.

10:09am; Text both Bill and Ryan, to see if they're on their way, and to save a spot in line.

10:11am; 680news says smooth sailing throughout Toronto, however there seems to be alot of traffic this morning. Making good time. ETA is 11:10am, for Pickering.

10:18am; Both Bill and Ryan, respond...on their way to Reim's. Am I breaking the law, here?

10:28am; Fully caffeinated. But, something is still off.

10:36am; Feel bladder filling up. Not good. Passing Yonge Street, starting to rain. Also, not good. Glad I put the 16x20 in a top loader, where it should be ok from the rain.

10:43am; Passing the Scarborough Town Centre, and it hits me like a tonne of bricks...I suddenly realize what's wrong! I FORGOT RICHARD'S MAPLE LEAFS JERSEY, BACK IN GUELPH. Frak.

10:44am; Feeling terrible, can't turn back.

10:51am; BBM from Corinna; "You forgot Richard's jersey". The return of the guilty feeling, again.

11:01am; Entering Pickering. Downpour. Meh.

11:07am; Text from Bill; "Hurry up!". I knew it...it's going to be a madhouse!

11:20am; Parked, not easy. At least I'm here. Pickering's current population...plus one.

11:22am; Inside the Flea Market, shaking off rain from myself and pic. Still glad I wore t-shirt and shorts, though. Gotta love the spring!

11:25am; Find Bill and Ryan in line. Not too far back, good spot. Line is massive already though. They're both chatting with the promoter of the signing, Aaron. (Of The Heritage Stick Co.) Free plug.

11:28am; Just dicussed that I have to pay for my 16x20 to get signed...because of its size, but if I purchase an 8x10...that'll get signed for free. Well, I'm buying the 8x10 photo...I owe that much to Richard. I'm thinking I'll get it personalized to him, too.

11:31am; With our spot saved in line, we check out the photos available for the rookie. Looks like 6 different images. I select the 'licensed NHL/NHLPA' image. Acutally, I really the pic...that's why I selected it. Man, they have alot of pics here, to purchase. They also have game-model goalie sticks, and tonnes of pucks. Hope they sell a few.

11:35am; Looking at promoter's old signed stock. He's selling autographed 8x10's for $5 bucks, and signed pucks for $10. Nice looking stuff. But I'm a 'in person' guy. Unless, someone gets it signed for me. So, I pass on various signed items...however Bill and Ryan make a healthy donation to Aaron's company!

11:41am; Wandering around the market, with Ryan, looking at the various booths...searching for a ATM for him, and the washroom for me.

11:47am; Various McFarlane dealers/booths are distracting us, from our goal! I just saw a Buffalo Bills Drew Bledsoe variant for 8 bucks! I have one opened...but I'd love another is mint packaging!

11:48am; Bladder wins, I pass on the DB variant. Another time, Drew...another time.

11:52am; Ryan has cash, and I have an empty bladder. Back to the line.

11:56am; We're not good at this...we keep getting distracted! We just spotted a James Reimer painting, framed, for $90 bucks. Ryan is checking it out. Then turns to me and says; "It was $60 earlier". Nice.

11:59am; Return to the line, tell Bill about the painting. Then find out, Ryan can get it for around $20. He might be on to something here.

12:05pm; BBM Corinna that I'm getting Richard an 8x10. She agrees with the idea.

12:17pm; Various chats about current Leafs, and their signing habits. James Reimer? Great signer.

12:24pm; Find out that Bill is going to the Marlies game tonight, against the Heat. No, not Miami...the other Heat. The Abbotsford Heat. He's hoping to get Leland Irving. Another goaltending prospect.

12:26pm; Quickly counted we're around 60th in line. Impressive. I'm guessing there is around 500 people here now. Good for the promoter!

12:31pm; Bill, Ryan, and I are checking out what we brought to get signed by Optimus Reim. Bill has a Marlies giveaway, cards, and a photo. Ryan has a team jersey, photos, and cards. I still only have my 16x20 and Richard's 8x10.

12:34pm; Ryan shows the Leafs jersey...looks great! Already has Dion Phaneuf, Clarke MacArthur, amongst others.

12:35pm; Bill has been here since 10:30am. That's commitment to a hobby, baby.

12:41pm; Line moves forward. No JR isn't here yet, it's security moving line tighter together. Meh. Bill notices the line has actually circled where we are.

12:46pm; Part of line that circled us...just moves forward now! Bill notices this, we all share a little laugh in amazement!

12:47pm; I mention that I'd like a picture of the line for my blog...Bill says why don't you go for walk along the entire line and video tape it to for the amount of time to walk the length of the line! Great idea...not sure if I have the memory available for the walk on my Blackberry! This is one monster line!

12:49pm; I take a quick pic of the line.

12:51pm; Bill shows us a picture he had taken at a travelling "Wipeout" display, promoting the Canadian broadcast of the TV show. It's Bill getting punched in the face, along the boxing glove wall! Hilarious! All free!

12:56pm; Bill and Ryan step outside for a quick cylinder of tobacco. Still raining.

1:00pm; Start of signing. However, James Reimer still isn't here yet! Actually Bill & Ryan are still outside.

1:09pm; Hearing applause from front of the line. Guess I know, who's here!

1:10pm; Bill & Ryan return. Bill says he walked in behind Reimer!

1:14pm; Line is moving. Good news.

1:22pm; We find ourselves in front of the booth selling the merch. All the photos are sold out! Incredible! Simply incredible! Good for Aaron's company! Seems like this is a total success! We're about 10 feet away from TML's goaltender of the future.

1:23pm; It's Ryan first, myself second, and Bill third. Two people in front of us.

1:24pm; One person. They got the "Optimus Reim" inscription...that's great!

1:25pm; Uh oh...Ryan is having problems getting his stuff out of protection! He remains calm, and tells me to go ahead. I quickly hand my ticket to the handler, pull out both the 8x10 and 16x20 out of protection, and step in front of the signing table...where Aaron is sitting beside James Reimer. It's my turn.

1:26pm; It put my 2 items down, putting the 8x10 first to get signed...Richard first. Then the 16x20 image. Aaron comments that the 16x20 is really a cool shot! I agree, and pull out my BB and get the camera going. I greet James Reimer with a hello! He says hello, and I quickly ask him to make the autograph out "To Richard". Instantly he starts with the personalization! He signs it afterwards, near the bottom right corner. I took a quick shot of JR signing for Richard.

1:27pm; I move the 16x20 in front of JR, and he stops to check it out. I told him, this is the final shootout of the season, where you won the game for the Leafs! I mentioned; "I like the picture, because it has you buried in the net, looking up to the Lord...thanking him!". James smiled at that, and reached for the blue Sharpie. I quickly spoke again. "James, can you sign a large autograph and add the Optimus too?". "Sure" he said. James Reimer signed a large autograph in the perfect spot on the 16x20, adding the 'Optimus Reim' inscription! I took another quick shot of JR signing for me.

1:28pm; I gathered my items, and thanked James for signing for me. He looked at me and said; "No problem...that's a real cool picture!" I smiled and said thanks again.

1:29pm; It's Ryan's turn with Optimus Reim. I took a quick shot of Ryan getting his stuff signed by the rookie.

1:31pm; Finally, the last of out trio is up. Bill is now with the goaltender. I took a quick picture of Bill getting his items signed...however Bill moves like the '6 million dollar man', and blurs the shot!

1:33pm; As we do after every signing, we show eachother our stuff signed. Ryan isn't too happy with some of his cards. A couple of them bled, making the autograph kind of watered-looking. We try to figure out, if the problem is because of the gloss, Sharpie, or if Reimer signed it too quickly. Bill showed his cards...not as bad, but a few thin parts in JR's auto. I'm chalking it up to a quick signature.

1:36pm; We all agree, that was pretty cool. I throw out the idea of lunch. Bill mentions he has to run to the Marlies game, and that Ryan has to head home. Oh well, next time.

1:40pm; We say our goodbyes, shake hands, and part ways...all with our newest additions to our ever-growing collections.

1:42pm; Started up the Highlander, and BBM Corinna..."I'm on my way home". Looks like the rain has passed.

Epilogue;
For the record, I think that Reimer is a fantastic piece to the Leafs puzzle. Will he be a Cup contender goalie? Time will tell. However, I hope the Leafs don't burn him out, like they have with rookies of the past. If the Leafs can add a touch more firepower up front, continue to develop youngsters (like Kadri, Colborne, McKegg, etc...), and use Reimer and Gustavsson properly next season...The Toronto Maple Leafs will make the 2011/12 playoffs. You heard it here first.

Thanks for the read.
C.

Autograph Questions With...Hayley Wickenheiser (2nd Edition)

2011-04-04T16:09:00.013-04:00

In memory of #17 Mandi Schwartz. Cancer took away a future gold medalist on Sunday.

Note; Believe it or not, I am working on a normal, full length blog entry...but I thought I'd give an quick entry, in the mean time.

Back on May 5th, 2010, I introduced a new feature to my blog. "Autograph Questions With..." was a success with my readers, friends, and family. I still get questions, now and then, about who was the nicest person I've ever interviewed for my blog. My answer is still the person I interviewed first. I got so much positive feedback from interviewing Hayley Wickenheiser last year...that when the oppourtunity presented itself on April 3rd, 2011, to speak to her again...I jumped at the chance.

This past weekend, Hockey Canada brought in around 30 hopefuls to make the 2011 IIHF World's Women Championship. Hayley was one of the invitees. The camp was held at the Mastercard Centre, in south Etobicoke (Toronto).

On Sunday, I made my way down to hopefully gain a few autographs. When I arrived, Hayley and the rest of the Team Canada's hopefuls arrived afterwards. Hayley signed for everybody, who asked for her autograph.

It was at this point, I thought I would ask her again, if I could interview her for my autograph blog. After a few moments in the dressing room, Hayley came out to the stands surrounding the ice surface...to tape up a few hockey sticks. She walked into the seats, sat down, and began to tape up her sticks. I decided, it would be now or never!

I walked over to where she was sitting, and introduced myself; "Hi Hayley, my name is Chris...we met at a Canadian Tire signing you had last year...where you were kind enough to answer some questions about autographs and autographing, for my blog!". She said she remembered, but kept on taping. I continued, "I was hoping if you had a minute or two, that I could ask you a few more questions about autographs and autographing...I had alot of positive responses from that entry!". "Sure", she responded...and kept on taping.

Let's roll.

Autograph Questions With...Hayley Wickenheiser (2nd Edition)

How often per week do you get asked to sign an autograph?

HW; "I get asked everyday!"

What do you get asked to autograph the most?

HW; "Mostly, hockey cards and pictures."

Where is the weirdest place you've ever been recognized and asked for an autograph?

HW; *Gave this question some thought, before answering "I would have to say...on a beach!"

Can you remember the first item, you were ever asked to autograph?
HW; "Yes, my first hockey card."

Do you have any autographed items, on your walls, at home?

HW; "Yes, I have autographs of Jann Arden, Mark Messier, and Bill Clinton!" *She didn't mention was items were autographed by the three celebrities, and I didn't ask.

And finally, Hayley, do you collect your own memorabilia?

HW; "No. I mean, I kept some things like 'key pucks and sticks', but that's it."

...And with that, I thanked her for time, shook her hand, and left her to continue taping her hockey sticks.

She was kind enough to sign to sign a puck & card (thanks for the card, Bill) for me this past weekend...and posed for a quick picture! Of note, she was super-kind enough to give an inscription on the Team Canada puck; 02, 06, 10 Gold...representing all 3 Olympic victories!

Hayley, even when appears to be busy, always has time for her fans. Something truly appreiciated here, and by my close friends. Not all celebrities are like that...making Hayley truly a Canadian icon!

Thanks for the read,
Chris

PS- "4 out of 5" is half way done. Watch for it, in the next 2 weeks.
PS deux- Comments are always welcomed! However, PLEASE leave a name/handle! If you just say..."nice"...I have no clue in who you are! :)

The Weekend At Wegz (Day 1)

2011-01-13T16:53:00.015-05:00

There's a super-bar in Woodbridge, Ontario called Wegz Stadium Bar. It's a massive sports bar on Rutherford Rd, that boasts over 100 HD tv's, a sportsbook, and seating for over a thousand. This sportsbar, was the setting for an incredible weekend!

The Weekend At Wegz
Day 1

I was looking at my home page on Facebook, when I got a notice from the Buffalo Bills. The notice said that this Saturday and Sunday, at Wegz Stadium Bar, there will be a EA Sports Madden 11 challenge, featuring 2 NFL players in attendance! The two players were Detroit Lions quarterback, Matthew Stafford and Buffalo Bills wide receiver, Stevie Johnson!

This was great news! Two awesome football players in Ontario! The bad news was, I had about 36 hours to prepare for the first player to appear at Wegz, which was Matt Stafford.

...And finding NFL items, like official footballs, helmets, and official 8x10's are difficult to find in Canada, to say the least.

I decided to ask my best friend Chris, the best man at my wedding back in '06, if he wanted to go and check this event out...he said yes. I also asked my good friend, Richard (a decorated retired Canadian soldier), if he wanted to join us...a guy's night out! Richard agreed to come out, and help out with an autograph if possible. I also talked to my friend Ernie, if wanted to come out...as he's a huge NFL fan, too...however, he had a hockey game Saturday evening, and decided to pass.

However, Ernie did some looking around Kitchener-Waterloo for some Lions items to get signed, Saturday morning. I was doing the same...scouring Guelph and Cambridge, with Corinna. Corinna found a Lions autograph white football, which she picked up. Sadly, Ernie and I found nothing. Ernie and I decided that we would have to go the homemade 8x10 route, if we wanted additional autographs. By the way, did I mention that Ernie wanted me to pick him up an autograph, while he was on the ice?!

Not a problem. That's what friends are for.

Returning home, I hit the familiar websites searching for pics of Matt Stafford. I found two great shots. One of him playing the Buffalo Bills, and the other of him from his college days...when he was a Georgia Bulldog.

Matthew Stafford began his football career, playing QB at Dallas' Highland Park High School. Even then, he was touted to be a NFL QB. After high school, he joined Georgia, as started as a true freshman. After 3 excellent years in the NCAA, where he won 3 Bowl games, and threw for 51 touchdowns & 7731 yards, he decided to pass on his senior season...and enter the 2009 NFL entry draft.

Already after the 2008 NFL Draft, several NFL analysts predicted Stafford would be the #1 pick in the 2009 draft if he chose to leave school early. He eventually did, and on April 24, 2009, agreed to record contract terms with the Detroit Lions to become the first overall pick of the 2009 NFL Draft, one day before the draft was held. The six-year contract reportedly contains $41.7 million in guaranteed money and carries a total value of up to $78 million.

In his first season in the NFL, playing for the Detroit Lions, Stafford started 10 games and threw for 13 touchdowns & 2267 yards. He rushed for 2 more TD's. Sadly he was picked 20 times as a rookie.

He 2nd season with the Lions, 2010, was a injuried riddled campaign. He appeared and started in only 3 games. He did manage to throw 6 touchdown and gain 535 yards. He also rushed for a touchdown. He managed to turn the interception problem around. He was only picked once, in year 2.

After selecting the photos, putting them on a flashdrive, it was off to Walmart to print them off. I decided to print one of the Bulldog pic, for myself and 4 of the Lion pic. One for myself, Chris, Richard, and Ernie. 5 in total got printed. After lunch with my wife, it was time to get ready to head out to Wegz.

I picked up Richard, and headed to Mississauga to pick up Chris. After picking up Chris, we headed to Rutherford Rd, in Woodbridge...where Wegz is located. We walked into Wegz, and were amazed.

This place was huge! Screens were everywhere! Signed memorabilia were all over the walls! Gretzky, Jordan, Pele...just to name a few of the signed jerseys! The 'Bud Girls' were there, with a photobooth set up! And of course...EA Sports was set up, with about 20 screens of Madden 11 gaming! The screens were split evenly between Xbox 360 and PS3 consoles...for your gaming preference.

I'm an 360 man, myself! However, if anyone wants to buy me a PS3...I may just switch my alliance!

After getting a table, we (Richard, Chris, and I) decided to check out the Madden 11 Tournament, and how we enter to win prizes. After getting the details, which were...simply book a time with an opponent, on your system of choice, you were given a ticket for the draws. If you won your game, you were given another ticket for the draws. After about 15 minutes of gaming, we had alot of tickets!

Taking a break from playing as the Buffalo Bills...Bills to the end, baby!...we decided to sit down and have a cold one. During this time, we were invited up to have our picture taken with the two Bud Girls, in front of a green screen. I didn't want to...being married and all that...but the guys wanted to, so who was I to say no?!! (Smiles)

After taking a pic with the Bud Girls, we selected the background we wanted in the photo...a football stadium, we gathered our new pics and 'Bud Beads' the Bud Girls gave us! We then returned to our table to watch Chris' New Orleans Saints take on the underdog Seattle Seahawks...and to play some more Madden 11 games, when it was our turn.

Oh yeah...the signing!

During this time, we found out that Stafford was going to play Madden 11 with 5 lucky draw winners...then do a autograph signing afterwards. I have to admit...there was maybe 15 people there for autographs! I liked my chances of getting everything signed!

While we sat, and had a pop or two...my friend Ryan showed up, and joined us. Ryan had two photos for Stafford to sign. During this time, Wegz kept drawing tickets for prizes. The Prizes included Madden 11 for Xbox 360, Madden 11 for PS3, and a NFL prize bag which included a NFL duffel bag, NFL long-sleeve t-shirt, NFL logo hat, NFL logo jacket, and a NFL replica football. Needless to say...we wanted to win!

We kept playing our tournament games, earning tickets, and just kept having a great time! When we weren't playing, we were relaxing at our table with a cold one, watching the Seahawks somehow handling the defending Super Bowl Champions! Chris was not impressed with his Saints, at this point. At this point, Ryan's friend Wayne showed up and joined us. After introductions, I asked Wayne what he brought to get signed? He said that he had brought a jersey to get signed! I mentioned to him, that I was searching everywhere for a Stafford jersey to get signed...that's when he said that he had an extra one for sale with him, from his friend! After agreeing a price, the jersey was mine!

Yes! Now, I was up to a jersey, a football, and 5 photos to get signed! And looking at the minimal amount of people there for autographs...I was incredibly confident that everything would get signed! This was turning out to be a fantastic evening! Just after Wayne sold me the Matthew Stafford jersey, guess who walked in the front door...completely unnoticed?! Yup...Stafford walked in. I said to the boys, "Hey, there's Stafford right there!" pointing him out! He walked into the employees lounge, and disappeared for awhile.

We kept playing, gathering more tickets for the draws...hoping to get the chance to play Matthew Stafford in Madden 11! After watching more of the Saints & Seahawks game, the Wegz staff, with the Lions quarterback, began to announce the ticket numbers, for those to play Stafford in Madden 11 (on the Xbox 360 console). First number...not us.

Second number...

RICHARD!

Yes! Richard quickly left our table with his winning ticket, and I followed with my camera! Chris took over looking at my tickets. Third number...not us. Fourth number...not us.

Fifth and final number...

Not us.

At this point, it didn't really matter...because one of us won the main prize!

Richard went up to the organizers, and Stafford, to show his ticket. After verifying his ticket, Richard was in! He was to play Stafford second, and they told him that he some cool prizes too! Richard won a full-size replica Detroit Lions helmet signed by Matthew Stafford! He also won an official Wilson NFL Super Bowl XLV football! This rare football is worth $150, and is incredibly collectable!

We all walked down to the gaming area, where Stafford played his first opponent. Richard appeared to be just soaking it all in! Richard saw me in the small crowd, and came over and told me about his awesome prizes! I told him how lucky I thought he was. It was at this point, that Richard stunned me.

Richard leaned over the bar table, and said to me; "Whatever one of the two prizes you want Chris...it's yours!". I said "Are you serious?!". I believe he said, "I'm serious, if it wasn't for you, I wouldn't be here anyways...whatever one you want, it's yours!"

I didn't need to be told again, at that point! I was stunned by his incredibly kindness and generosity! I knew immediately which prize I liked...the helmet! I already have two signed helmets at home, and I thought that the Lions helmet would look great with those helmets, in my basement!

"Richard, if you're sure...I'd like the helmet...that's what Corinna and I went looking for today!" I responded.

"It's yours" was all Richard said, smiling! I can't remember if I shook his hand, or told him that he was too kind, or if he was a great friend...it's kind of a blur!

Anyways, after Richard's kind gift...it was his time to play the 2009 first overall pick of the NFL, and starting quarterback of the Detroit Lions...Matthew Stafford. Richard and Stafford shook hands, and they chatted for abit, while the game loaded up. I was standing off to the side, taking photos of the pair. Richard told Stafford that he never played Madden football before! They continued to chat, when the game finally started. Richard at some point, mentioned that him and his friends had some things to get signed, and apparently Stafford said not a problem, that he'd be signing autographs after all 5 winners played him, in Madden 11.

By the way, Matthew Stafford took the Detroit Lions, in the video game...and played as himself!

Anyways, Stafford wasn't taking it easy on Richard...at all. I can't remember what the score was, maybe 10-0 with only abit of time left in the game, when Stafford dropped back into the shotgun, spotted Johnson down field...and let the ball fly. Well...Richard was telling the truth that he never played Madden 11 before, but on this play...he was like a pro!

Richard moved his cornerback, slightly in front of Stafford's reciever...and intercepted him! Wegz irrupted in cheers for Richard, as he turned that player around...and starting running! After the longest 80 yards that Stafford had to watch...Richard ran that interception back for a touchdown! The bar cheered for Richard! Stafford was laughing at his bad luck!

"Picked off by a rookie!", I hollered at Stafford!

It was a great moment, to witness! What a great night! Richard and Matthew Stafford shook hands, as Stafford did win the game! Richard came over to where I was, and I told him again, that I couldn't believe his incredible luck! We all went back to our table...where we finished watching the biggest upset in NFL history!

As former Buffalo Bill, Marshawn Lynch ran for the final touchdown of the game...Chris knew that his team was finally done for the year. I reminded him that at least his team has a Super Bowl win. And that's all I'm going to say about that.

After, the gaming was done...we lined up for autographs. I went up with my newly acquired jersey and 3 photos. Chris took my football and a couple photos too. Richard decided to stay at our table.

This is where the night changed.

A lady cut the line, and got in front of me. After seeing that she had 2 8x10 photos, and wanting to see if she'd get them both signed...I decided not to raise an issue. The line moved incredibly fast, as Stafford's handler moved the line along at a expedited rate...cutting off anyone chatting with Stafford or trying to get a photo with him! Rude, I thought as there was about 8 people in front of me...and maybe 5 behind me!

The lady went up, and got both photos signed. Yes! I thought...he's signing everything! I turned to Chris, and said that he's signing everything! Chris said great! When I turned back...it was my turn with the quarterback.

I placed my jersey in front of Stafford, with the 8x10's underneath the jersey. I told him that I was Richard's friend, as I handed him a blue Sharpie...instead of the black he was using. As he signed it, I told him that his win in the Sugar Bowl was awesome! He smiled, and said thanks alot! I lifted up the beautifully signed jersey, and pushed up the pics to get signed. Stafford went to sign them, when it went bad. This handler, if that's the proper term, said 'Just one buddy'. Stafford looked at me, and handed back the Sharpie.

I was shocked.

Chris was up next, and got the football signed nicely too. And then was cut-off also, when he tried to get an 8x10 signed...by this handler.

Then it was Ryan's turn...as I handed him back his blue Sharpie, and guess what? Yup...only 1 item signed!

Then, I decided on the fly, to hop back in line...I wasn't going to go home with 5 unsigned photos! And instantly security stopped me, saying the autograph signing was over! What the hell?!

Chris, Ryan, and I walked back over our table. I told Richard what just happened, and he jumped up and grabbed a photo to get signed. Chris and Ryan followed, both armed with a photo each, to get signed by the 2009 first overall NFL pick. I stayed at the table, to watch over the autographed items. As Stafford, who was swarmed by security and that idiot handler, made his way back towards the lounge, Richard leaned against a wall...that Stafford had to pass. Chris got close, beside Richard. As Stafford passed Richard, Richard spoke up "Hey, Matt can I get that autograph now?". Stafford instantly stopped the mob, and signed the Georgia Bulldog 8x10 for Richard. I saw that the handler was visibly angry! When Stafford finished, Chris handed Stafford his 8x10 to get signed, asking Stafford to autogrpah it...the handler cut it off, saying no more autographs...moving the mob along again. Ryan was shutout too.

When the three of them returned, Richard handed me the autographed picture. For an autograph that was signed in a mob of security...it was signed very nice! I turned to Chris, who was visibly disappointed...and gave him the signed Matthew Stafford Georgia Bulldog 8x10 photo. No one goes home empty handed, I said. Chris thanked me. The four of sat around for the next 10 minutes, complaining about the handler...and saying that Stafford wanted to sign for us. Regardless, I was happy with stuff I got done. And I was thankful for everyone's help with my hobby.

As Stafford left, we tried again...with no luck...guess why?

Afterwards, we returned to our tables, and had a pop. We watched somemore football, as the Chiefs and Ravens played. Then Wegz began to pull more tickets for the NFL prize packs! This instantly got us excited! And we decided that if any of us won...we'd split up the bag and stuff inside between us all!

Sadly...none of our tickets won a prize again that night. However, it was one hell of a night out with the boys!

Richard was given his prizes from the Wegz staff, and promptly told me the helmet was mine! He posed for some pictures with his haul, which Wegz quickly posted on Facebook...along with gaming photos of him with Stafford!

As we finally left, One of the guys asked me, if I was coming back tomorrow to meet Buffalo Bills Wide Reciever, Stevie Johnson. Naw, I said...I don't think so, I responded.

I thought to myself, there is no way...tomorrow could top the fantastic night, we just had!

Man...was I ever wrong.

After dropping off Chris and Richard, I got home and showed Corinna what the evening produced. She asked if I was going back the next day, and if I was...she wanted to go! Well, how can I say no, now?

Thanks for the read,
Chris

Watch for "The Weekend At Wegz (Day 2)" in the next few days!

What happens in Vegas...gets blogged?!!!

2010-12-28T06:59:00.005-05:00

So, Corinna and I went to Las Vegas for a Christmas vacation. Being a huge autograph fan...I did some investigating before leaving Canada to see if any celebs were going to be signing during the time that we'd be in Sin City.

After some looking around online, I found out that Pete Rose signs autographs (basically) everyday in Vegas! He has a deal with the superstore "Field of Dreams", in the shops of Caesar's Palace. After talking with Corinna, about visiting the store, we decided that it could be an interesting autograph to obtain.

What happens in Vegas...gets blogged?!!!

For those of you who don't know who Pete Rose is...I'm just to say this; He is the ultimate baseball hero to some, and the ultimate baseball villain to others. He is controversial, to say the least. He's a 3 time World Series champ, 17 time All-Star selection, 1963 NL Rookie of the Year, 1975 World Series MVP, 2 time Gold Glove winner, and a Silver Slugger award winner.

His greatest achievement is arguably the greatest record in all of baseball...

Pete Rose has 4256 career hits! 2nd place belongs to (who I feel is the greatest ball player of all time) Ty Cobb, with 4191 hits.

Rose actually owns 2 more MLB records. 3,562 career games played and 14,053 career at-bats.

He's arguably one of the greatest of all time.

Now...the villain part.

In August 1989, three years after he retired as an active player, Rose agreed to permanent ineligibility from baseball amidst accusations that he gambled on baseball games while playing for and managing the Reds, including claims that he bet on his own team. In 2004, after years of public denial, he admitted to betting on baseball and on, but not against, the Reds.

After Rose's ban was instated, the Baseball Hall of Fame formally voted to ban those on the "permanently ineligible" list from induction. Previously, those who were banned had been excluded by informal agreement among voters. The issue of Rose's possible reinstatement and election to the Hall of Fame remains a contentious one throughout baseball.

So, I decided that I wouldn't get Rose on my HOF autograph baseball, and just get him on a normal MLB baseball...hopefully on the sweetspot, with an inscription.

After flying out of Detroit, transferring in Dallas, we arrived in Las Vegas. 2 days later...we visited Caesar's Palace, and Field of Dreams!

Here's my encounter with "Charlie Hustle"!

Pretty cool, eh?!

I asked him to inscribe "I enjoyed Montreal baseball", but he seemed hesitant to put that. I told him that I was Canadian, and then he mentioned that he got his 4000th hit as an Montreal Expo, on opening day. I instantly said sure, as I wanted a little bit of "Canadiana" as an inscription!

I'm incredibly pleased with my newest autographed baseball!

Thanks for your time!
C

PS; After leaving Caesar's Palace, we went back to New York, New York...our hotel in Las Vegas. Corinna and I, went to the Sports Bar to watch Monday Night Football and have dinner...in hopes of watching the Falcons win, so I could win my little parlay! While there, I spotted NHL All-Star Sheldon Souray! As he was leaving, I asked him for a quick photo...which he was happy to do!

Star spotting...not bad, eh?!

By the way...the Falcons lost.

From Management...

2010-12-24T12:58:00.001-05:00

Have a wonderful Christmas, Happy New year, and a very safe holiday season...from your favourite blogger!

;)

Take care...stay tuned!

Chris!

Autograph Questions With...Gary Roberts

2010-11-20T14:37:00.011-05:00

Welcome back.

Believe it or not, I've been trying to finish a new blog entry...without much success. Not sure if it'll be completed...issues with the uploading process of a video. Hopefully it'll happen.

On to the present day.

I just got home from a cool autograph signing.

My friend Ernie and I, had the privilege of meeting former NHL great Gary Roberts.

Abit about Mr. Roberts...

Gary Roberts is a retired hockey player who played 21 seasons in the NHL. He was the first round pick of the Calgary Flames, 12th overall in the 1984 NHL Entry Draft. Roberts played the first ten seasons of his NHL career with the Flames, winning the Stanley Cup in 1989.

A serious neck injury forced Roberts to miss most of the 1994–95 season as well as the first half of the 1995–96 season. He returned to the Flames late that year, and after scoring 42 points in 35 games, won the Bill Masterton Memorial Trophy for perseverance and dedication to hockey. His neck did not get better, and he was forced to miss the entire 1996–97 season.

One year later, Roberts made a comeback with the Carolina Hurricanes, where he played three seasons before finishing his career with stints playing for the Toronto Maple Leafs, Florida Panthers, Pittsburgh Penguins, and Tampa Bay Lightning. Roberts played over 1,200 NHL games in his career, recording 438 goals and 910 points.

While he was in Toronto, Roberts became an instant fan favourite for his tenacity and 'nose for the net'. #7, scored 157 points in 237 games with the blue and white. He played with Mats Sundin, most of the time, and the duo led the Leafs to the playoffs...each of the four seasons, that Roberts was a member of the Toronto Maple Leafs. It was in the post-season, with the Leafs, where Roberts made his mark with most Leafs' fans. He scored 40 points in 50 TML playoff games.

In 130 total career playoff games, Roberts scored an incredible 93 points. He also added 332 post-season penalty minutes. His tremendous playoff efforts, paid off in 1989, as he won the Stanley Cup with Calgary.

Yesterday, I found out that a bank had a new branch opening in Mississauga, and mentioned it to my friend Ernie about the signing. Instantly, he was excited about going. And after a few minutes of talking about it, we had plans to go and meet Gary Roberts. After meeting in the morning, E-Train and I, made our way to Mississauga. We stopped at Wal-mart to print a couple photos of Roberts to get signed. E-Train also had a puck to get signed, and I had a Upper Deck 04/05 Sp Authentic hockey card. I'm actually trying to get all the cards signed, that are in that set. Insanity, at it's finest! I also had my neighbour's jersey to signed by Roberts. 2 for Ernie, and 3 for myself.

After arriving at the bank, we got in line. My best friend Chris, whom I missed at the signing, BBM'ed me saying that Gary was signing everything for everybody! Chris mentioned that one guy got 2 jerseys, 5 cards, and a book signed! Incredible! Sadly, I didn't get to see Chris this time. After a few minutes in the line, E & I were up. Ernie went up first, and got his two items signed.

I also took a picture of the big Leaf fan with the former Leaf great! After giving Ernie my camera...it was my turn.

I greeted Gary Roberts, and gave him my three items. I told him the jersey was for my neighbour, who was a huge fan...he said thanks! As he finished signing it, I asked him if I could ask him a few questions about autographing for my blog. As Gary signed my photo and card, we talked about autographs.

Let's roll.

Autograph Questions With...Gary Roberts

Whom was the first person you ever asked for an autograph?
GR; "Hmm...I didn't really have the chance to ask for autographs all that much, when I was younger. But I believe it was Lanny McDonald."

Whom was the most recent person you asked, for an autograph?
GR; (Smiling) "My son. He got his first hockey card, and I asked him to sign it for me!"

When you played in the NHL, what city did you find had the most autograph seekers?
GR; (After much thought) "Montreal"

What's the 'coolest' thing, you've ever autographed?
GR; "I'm not sure about it being cool...but I did sign a cast once!"

Well, there we have it! Roberts was incredibly approachable, and seemed to enjoy the questions! He posed for a picture with me afterwards.

And after about 15 minutes, Ernie and I left the bank...with all things signed, and a cool interview!

Notice the answer about what NHL city has the most autograph collectors?! Seems to be a trend happening here!

Thanks for your time! I hope you enjoyed AQW... with the biggest name yet!

Check back soon!
C

Star Struck!!

2010-10-10T01:54:00.001-04:00

If you've been waiting for a normal, full length autograph blog entry, differing from the "updates", "Autograph Questions With...",or "Can't Miss Prospects"...then, here we go.

Star Struck!!

So, the 17th of September was my birthday. And after a slow start to September, on the autograph front, I decided that I would treat myself to an autograph signing.

During the week, leading up to the weekend, I found out that Jim Kelly and (his wife) Jill Kelly were scheduled to do a signing in Orchard Park, New York...on Saturday.

Jill has recently released a book, about her family's experiences concerning their son Hunter. The Kelly's only son, Hunter, was diagnosed with Krabbe disease shortly after his birth on February 14, 1997. Hunter died as a result of this disease on August 5, 2005 at the age of eight. The Kelly's also have two (older) daughters.

To honor his son, Kelly established a non-profit organization in 1997 (Hunter's Hope). Kelly's advocacy on behalf of Krabbes' patients has increased national awareness of the disease. Kelly and his wife, Jill, founded the annual Hunter's Day of Hope, which is held on February 14, the birthdays of both Jim and Hunter Kelly.

I've gone to a Jim Kelly signing once before. Believe it or not, it was less than 3 months after Jim lost his son. Jim seemed in good spirits that day, in Buffalo's Walden Galleria, when he signed a Bills helmet for me. It was one of the very few times, that I was 'star struck'! I barely got out that I drove down from Toronto to meet him, when one of the handlers...hijacked the conversion! He started saying 'Oh you're from Canada?! Go Leafs Go! Hahaha!!'. Jim Kelly didn't like that very much...as he is a Sabres fan! He gave the guy a dirty look, and then...thankfully...shook my hand, then I was escorted off.

I really wanted to say..."Jim, you're my football hero! Thanks for the years of excitement! Thanks for the 4 AFC Championships! You're the reason I began to watch football, and the reason I love the Bills!" But none of that came out. I got star sruck, then moved along.

Often at work, my friends and I started razzin' eachother about our football teams. Dallas this, Patriots that, or "How about the fish?!". I usually get the standard razzes..."Oh a Bills fan eh?!, how about the 4 Super Bowl losses?!". I quickly respond with..."Hey, at least 4 of the players from those teams are in the Hall of Fame! ...And coach Levy too!" And if I continue to get some slack for being a Bills super-fan...I quickly mention one of the greatest quarterbacks of all time, who led the Bills for 10 years, Jim Kelly...and I usually end the conversion on that point!

Everyone usually respects Kelly. Let me tell you why.

1st round pick. 4 Pro Bowl selections. 35,467 passing yards. 237 touchdowns. Member of the Bills wall of fame. 2874 completions. Number 12 retired by the Bills. Creator of the K-gun offence. And finally, a member of the Football Hall of Fame. He was inducted into the Hall, on August 3rd, 2002.

So, on September 18th, my wife Corinna and I decided to return to Buffalo. Armed with nothing to get signed...only a camera to capture it all, we hopped in the Highlander and headed for the border. As former Buffalo Bills season ticket holders, we know the greater Buffalo area fairly well...and decided to visit a flea market in the Walden Galleria area, to try and find something cool to get signed by my favourite quarterback of all time!

Prior to leaving, I called the bookstore, to make sure that I could get an additional item signed, besides the book. I was told that if I purchase a book, he'll sign it, or any item of your choice. I was quite happy with that news!

After crossing the border, we arrived at the flea market. I was looking for a jersey, or something different to get signed. After we wondered around for about 30 minutes...we couldn't find a jersey. However, we did find a vendor that was selling souvenir white Bills footballs. I checked it out, and thought the football (that lists the history of the team) would look great signed in blue Sharpie! So, after haggling out a price...we left the flea market, with the football.

We arrived at Barnes & Noble, in Orchard Park about 15 minutes later. Ralph Wilson Stadium, the home of the Bills, is about 6 or 7 minutes away from the bookstore. We walked in, and quickly purchased our copy of Jill Kelly's book. We were told that the signing was being done by numbered ticket, and that we had to go to the back of the store where the tickets and signing area where located. We went up to the lady who was handling the tickets, and after we showed our proof of purchase we were given our numbered ticket.

Apparently, everyone was to line up by number, once the signing began. I always preferred this style of signing...this was I can leave and return, knowing I haven't lost my spot. However, we had a high number...and decided to go shopping. When we left the bookstore, I knew that the signing started at 1pm, and we didn't have to hurry up. We had number 116.

After alot of window shopping, and a enjoyable lunch, we returned to the bookstore. Seeing that the signing had began, we were hoping that our number was close. Negative. They were only in the 70's, at this point. So I decided to take a few pictures.

Jim and his wife, Jill, were joined by their two daughters...Camryn and Erin, who were signing their mother's book also! Cool! People were getting the entire family's signatures on their book!

Jim was also signing other items. Somebody actually gave Jim an authentic NFL football to sign, which he did, and Jim had him "go long" and threw him the autographed football! Can you imagine a Hall of Fame quarterback throwing you a signed a football?!!

Anyways, Corinna and I decided to look around the bookstore. I found the sports section, and quickly enjoyed all the books about the Buffalo Bills! After killing 15 minutes around the store, we got into the long line. Corinna and I chatted about things we saw that people had to get signed...footballs, mini-helmets, photos, and of course...the book. Strangely though, we didn't notice any jerseys.

After only a few minutes, we found ourselves at the front of the line. When it was our turn up next, the handlers took our book and football. We took a corner, and were instantly in front of the Kelly's!

First in line was Jill Kelly, she took our book and signed it nicely adding a bible verse. Her inscription was "Deut 31:8". Corinna said hello, and was speaking with Mrs. Kelly, when I noticed that Jim was signing a football.

But it wasn't mine. He was quickly signing one for an employee, who snuck it in!

Here I was, again finally, in front of my favourite QB! I wanted to say thanks for everything! Thanks for the memories! Thanks for putting Buffalo football, back on the map! But I didn't. I froze up. Jill Kelly spoke to me, saying thanks for coming out. I snapped out of my frozen state, and said; "Our pleasure, we came down from Toronto to support your book!". Jill Kelly looked shocked! "Stop it! For real?!" She spoke out. I looked quickly at Jim, he was signing my football! And thankfully, in blue Sharpie! I said, "Honestly, we're from Canada...we wanted to help Hunter's Hope!".

Jill Kelly was very grateful, shaking Corinna's hand again, and then shaking mine...and then got Jim's attention. She said; "These nice people came all the way down from Canada, Jim! Sign the book for them too!" She then looked at my hat, which is a white Bills cap, and asked me "Do you want your hat signed too?!" Here I was, finally in a conversation with Kelly...just not the QB, it was his wife!

I said "No, that's ok...I don't want to be greedy, and slow down the line!". Mrs. Kelly then thanked us again, for coming down to Buffalo and for supporting the book and charity. While she said this, Jim signed our book! Awesome, I got two autographs from him! Jim looked up at me, finally, and offered his hand and spoke to me.

"Thanks for coming out, we appreciate it. Have a safe drive home!". I remember shaking his hand...but if I said something back, you'd have to ask Corinna! I noticed that Corinna was shaking his hand afterwards, meaning I was finally coming out of this "star struck" moment! Haha! Jim then slid the book to his two daughters, who quickly signed our book and thanked us for our support. We both said thanks, in return, as I reached back along the table for my football. Can't forget that!

As we walked away, I looked at Corinna...and she began to laugh at me! "A little star struck, there buddy?!" She joked. "I guess so...so much for interviewing him for my blog! But, look at my football...it's awesome!". She agreed that he signed it perfectly, and then commented on Jim Kelly's hands..."His mitts are huge!" That's true, Jim Kelly is a huge man! If you ever meet him...shake his hand, you'll see!

After the signing, we drove over to the outlets...and I treated my wife to a new Coach purse. When we arrived back in Canada...we were both happy with our new treasures!

Thanks for read, and Go Bills!
C

PS; To learn more about Hunter's Hope, visit the website; 'www.huntershope.org'. It has lots of great information about Krabbe's disease, and the Kelly's story.

PS deux; Curious about Mrs. Kelly's bible inscription? She wrote "Deut 31:8", which in the King James Bible reads; "And the LORD, he [it is] that doth go before thee; he will be with thee, he will not fail thee, neither forsake thee: fear not, neither be dismayed."

PS trois; Finally, I turned 36 recently...matching the number of blog entries I've posted! ;)

Recent Additions II

2010-08-29T22:15:00.018-04:00

Yes, I'm alive. In case you've been wondering.

Welcome back.

I could go on and on, why I haven't blogged much this summer...crazy overtime, busy weekends, working around the house...but I won't bore you with all that!

Let me apologize to those, who check in on this site from time to time, for not having any updates.

Yes, it's been a busy summer for me...but I've managed to score a few autographs during this wonderful summer of 2010.

Instead of blogging a story, or stories have you, I'll just show highlights of the past few months...with a brief story.

I've done this style of blog once before, as you may remember. I kinda liked it, so I'm going to try it out again.

Let's roll.

Recent Additions II

Projects; Part One- Canadian Women's 2010 Olympic Gold Medal Winning Hockey Team 8x10 Photo

Sometimes I really wonder why I start difficult projects. I've got a few on the go right now. 2 different card sets. The (in)famous Hall of Fame 16x20 photo. A Hall of Fame baseball. A 8x10 of the 1993 World Series winning Toronto Blue Jays...just to name a few.

However, as you probably know, I started a 8x10 of the Women's 2010 Olympic Hockey Team. The team that capitivated the country, as they won Gold, on home soil.

The project began with captain Hayley Wickeheiser's autograph, as I mentioned before. It's grown over the summer.

Gillian Apps

I met Gillian Apps, at AJ's Sportsworld, when she had a public signing.

After she signed my 8x10, she was kind enough to pose for a photo with me...and let me hold her 2010 gold medal!

Jennifer Botterill

I met 'Botts' at a University of Guelph golf tourney, where she was very happy to sign for me! Incredibly nice!

Rebecca Johnston

Probably the nicest hockey player, that I've met. Long story short...she heard that my friends and I were waiting for her, and that we missed her...she came off her team bus, walked across an entire parking to sign autographs, on her own accord!

Just a great person to her fans! After she signed my photo, she was great enough to pose for a picture!

She's still young, so Canada gets to watch her play for a long time to come!

Marie-Philip Poulin

At the same facility, where I met Rebecca Johnston, I got to meet the 'Sidney Crosby of women's hockey'! Marie was very nice, and signed the 8x10!

Afterwards, she posed for a picture...and thanked me! For those of you who don't know she is...in Canada's 2-0 Gold medal win over the USA, she scored both Canadian goals! She's fantastic!

Cherie Piper

I wish I had a cool little story....but I don't. My great friend, Bill, was kind enough to land her autograph for me! Thanks Cherie...and many thanks to Bill!

Projects; Part Two- Hockey Hall Of Fame 16x20 Photo

The king of my projects. I think I do more travelling over this badboy, then any other autograph in general!

Gilbert Perreault

The life long member of the Sabres, and part of the famous 'French Connection' line, was recently at Frozen Pond, where he signed my 16x20 photo.

He added his HOF 90 incription, before posing with me for picture.

Luc Robitaille

The superstar 2009 inductee, was also at Frozen Pond recently.

After talking to him about his cool Delissio commercial (thanks Bill!) with Martin Brodeur, he signed my project and took a photo with me!

Borje Salming

The legendary Toronto Maple Leafs defenseman, was back in Canada for a short amount of time from his home Sweden. He made an appearance at Frozen Pond, where he signed a 8x10 of him and Allan Bester, and the HOF 16x20.

We posed for a picture together afterwards.

Projects; Part Three- Captains of the Blue & White 16x20 Photo

I picked up a 16x20 recently, at AJ's Sportsworld. I really like the look of it, and decided to work on it. It's a 16x20 of 5 Captains of the Toronto Maple Leafs.

Wendel Clark

Wendel recently appeared at Mohawk raceway, promoting the Maple Leaf Trot. The same horserace that Darryl Sittler promoted the year previously...in which I blogged about!

My entire family went to the signing, along with friends Sheldon, Chris, Ernie, and Michelle! After getting up to Wendel, we got the 16x20 signed beautifully, a free 16x20, and a puck.

My son, Josh, got to take a picture with the famous Leaf!

Sheldon got a puck, Chris got some cards done, and Ernie & Michelle got a jersey, puck, photo, and a card signed! Afterwards, I was interviewed by 'The Score', asking about my favourite Wendel memory! It was quite the great day!

Rick Vaive

I returned, once again, to Frozen Pond this summer. This time, former Leafs Captain, Rick Vaive was making an autograph appearance. I brought along the cool Leafs Captains 16x20, and had him sign it.

Afterwards, the 50 goal scorer and I posed for a picture together.

All righty, onto some individual (non-project) autograph signers!

Allan Bester

I finished that 8x10 I mentioned earlier, with Borje Salming, at the Toronto Card Show...when Allan Bester, former Toronto Maple Leafs goalie, made an appearance.

He signed the pic, and added a "Go Leafs Go!" inscription! Thanks to Ryan for sharing the photo with me.

Steven Adler

Well, where to begin?! Guns 'N Roses is one my all time favourite bands (We saw them this past February in Toronto!), so when former drummer Steven Adler made an appearance at a Chapters for a book signing...I had to get his autograph! However, it was a work night for me. My wife, Corinna, who is also a fan of GNR...decided to make the trip to Toronto for me!

Adler greeted Corinna with a hug, and planted a kiss on her!

He signed his autobiography and my Appetite For Destruction album cover for her! He also posed for a picture with her!

He was incredibly nice, and was appriecative of everyone who came out to meet him! I'm glad she got to meet the drummer of Sweet Child O' Mine, Welcome to the Jungle, and Paradise City...to name a few legendary tunes! Thanks Corinna!

Johnny Bower

For the 2nd time this year, I got to meet the legendary goaltender...Johnny Bower. After picking up his book, sadly in the discount bin for 5 bucks, I got it signed at the Toronto Card Show.

He was very gracious, and seemed touched that someone brought his book!

Dustin Brown

Recently, the Guelph Storm OHL team had a reunion game...that I've mentioned here before. One of the former players, Dustin Brown, returned to Guelph. Brown is now the captain of the Los Angeles Kings, and was a member of the Silver Medal winning, USA Olympic Hockey Team. After waiting briefly in line, Brown signed an 8x10 for me.

Drew Doughty

The 2010 Gold Medallist, also returned to Guelph for the alumni game.

Before the game, I caught up with the star defenseman, outside of the Sleeman Centre, where he was kind enough to sign 2 items.

A 16x20 of the Men's Olympic Hockey Team, and a 8x10 in a Canadian uniform!

He signed a puck for me later on in the day also!

Ferguson Jenkins

My family and I, recently went to St. Mary's for the Canadian Baseball Hall of Fame inductions. I brought along a 8x10 of the Cooperstown Hall, and had the Canadian Legend sign it for me.

After Fergie, nicely signed the pic, he posed for a photo with Josh and I.

Paul Henderson

Corinna made the trip to AJ's Sportsworld for me recently, and got a great 8x10 signed for me.

The famous 1972 Summit Series game winning goal scorer, Paul Henderson, appeared for a signing, and Corinna got the famous image signed for me! Thanks baby!

Vladislav Tretiak

Also, at the same signing, was one of the greatest goaltenders of all time. Tretiak, who Henderson scored the famous goal on, also appeared.

Corinna got him to sign the same 8x10, and my HOF 16x20 project...as he's a member of the Hall of Fame (1989).

Strangely enough, Henderson is not.

Katie Morgan

Former adult star, and current Hollywood actress (Zack & Miri...) was at a Kevin Smith appearance in Brantford recently. She was there last year, and I didn't have anything for her to sign...this year however...I came prepared with an 'interesting' 8x10. She was very nice, and personalized the autograph to me.

Thomas McCollum

The former Detroit Red Wings first round selection, returned to Guelph for the alumni game this summer. During the pre-game signing, he was good enough to sign an 8x10 of him playing for the USA, in the World Junior Championship.

After the game, we posed for a picture...with his Detroit goalie gear!

Jeff O'Neill

Former Leaf & Hurricane, Jeff O'Neill returned to Guelph for the almumni game also. O'Neill still holds many scoring records with the Storm.

He signed a cool 8x10 during the pre-game signing, but trying to talk to him or getting a picture with him...was a bit more challenging.

Roberto Alomar

This should acutally be an entire blog entry on it's own. Why? Because Robbie is my wife's favourite! Yup. Whenever he's in town making an appearance...we're there! Truth is, I like him too...but Gretz, is my fave! Anyways, Robbie was getting inducted into the Canadian Baseball Hall of Fame, and we made the trip to St. Mary's just to see him! (And for me to land some other autographs!) When Robbie arrived, with his family, he started signing.

During this time, he stopped and posed for a picture with his number one fan...Corinna!

We managed to get SEVEN autographs from him that evening!

He was incredibly gracious to my family, and my friend Ernie, signing everything we had. During an charity softball game, he signed for over an hour for his fans!

I was stunned! Corinna and I now have over a dozen Roberto Alomar in-person autographs...and something tells me, we'll get more!

Brian Willsie

The former linemate of Joe Sakic, Willsie, returned to Guelph for the Alumni game.

During the pre-game signing, Brian signed an 8x10 for me. I also interviewed him for a possible future AQW... blog entry.

PK Subban

While waiting for Johnston & Poulin, of the Women's Olympic Team, PK Subban and some other NHL'ers showed up at the same arena for a charity ball hockey game.

Subban, the young Habs star defenseman, signed a Team Canada puck for me after the game.

The 2 time World Junior Gold Medal winner posed for a picture with me, after he signed the puck.

Well, there we go...finally a new entry. Hopefully, it won't be this long next time. And as always, thanks to those who help me out with autographs and picture taking...you know who you are!

Finally, thanks for visiting the site.

See you soon,
C

Autograph Questions With...Logan Couture

2010-07-04T22:55:00.006-04:00

Recently...

My family and I went to the Canadian Baseball Hall of Fame celebrity charity softball game, to meet Paul Quantrill and Roberto Alomar. I met up with a father and son duo, who collect autographs. The son, Chris, asked if I brought anything for Logan Couture to sign? My heart sank. I didn't even know that the San Jose Sharks' 2007 first round pick was going to be at the event. His autograph would've been a nice addition to my collection. Swing and a miss.

Let me tell you about the hot prospect.

In May of 2005, Couture was drafted by the Ottawa 67's 12th overall in the 2005 OHL Priority Draft. Couture scored at a point-per-game pace as a rookie with 64 points in 65 games in 2005–06, third in league rookie scoring behind John Tavares and Sergei Kostitsyn.

The next season, in 2005–06, Couture was added to the OHL roster for the 2006 ADT Canada-Russia Challenge, replacing Jordan Staal, who was retained by Pittsburgh Penguins. He was also selected to play for the Eastern Conference in the 2007 OHL All-Star Game, winning the shooting accuracy competition.

After completing his second OHL season improving to 78 points in 54 games, Couture was drafted 9th overall by the San Jose Sharks in the 2007 NHL Entry Draft.

Returning to the 67's in 2007–08, Couture's production dipped to 58 points in 51 games, his lowest major junior total, due to two concussions. He had suffered the first concussion midway through the season on December 16, 2007, after receiving an open-ice hit from Tim Billingsley in a game against the Mississauga St. Michael's Majors. He had also been named to the 2008 OHL All-Star Game, but was replaced by Michael Swift of the Niagara IceDogs due to the injury.

The next season, in 2008–09 season he finished the season in 9th place in league scoring with 39 goals and 48 assists for 87 points in 62 games. He also appeared in the 2009 OHL All-Star Game. Near the end of the season, he was named OHL Player of the Week on March 16, 2009, following an 8-point performance in 3 games.

On October 25, 2009, Couture made his NHL debut against the Philadelphia Flyers. He later scored his first NHL goal on November 5, 2009 against Chris Osgood of the Detroit Red Wings. On April 22, 2010 Couture scored his first two playoff goals against the Colorado Avalanche in game 5 of the first round of the Stanley Cup Playoffs.

Couture was also an integral component of the success of the 2009-10 AHL Worcester Sharks as he played 42 games scoring 20 goals and 33 assists for 53 points. He also was a league-leader with 9 game winning goals and was named to the AHL all-rookie team. He was voted onto the AHL all-star starting line-up for AHL Team Canada, and finished the game with a goal and two assists as well as scoring a shoot-out goal.

He scored 4 goals in the recent playoff run, the saw the Sharks reach the semi-finals of the 2010 Stanley Cup playoffs.

Chris pointed out Couture to me, who I instantly recognized. After talking to my wife Corinna, and my friend Ernie (who joined us to meet Alomar), about possibly interviewing him for my blog...everyone said whynot, he seems approachable...so I did.

I went over to where he was, outside of the Hall, and introduced myself, and mentioned to him about my blog and such...and he said ok. As I was getting my pad & pen out...he mentioned that he liked my hat, and that he was a Buffalo Bills fan too!

I liked him instantly!

Autograph Questions With...Logan Couture

How old were you, the first time you signed an autograph?
LC; "Not too sure...I think I was in grade 8, when another student asked me!"

Who was the first person, that you asked for an autograph?
LC; "Jeremy Roenick."

Who was the most recent person, that you asked for an autograph?
LC; "Dany Heatley, he gave me his game-used stick."

What's the 'coolest' thing you've ever autographed?
LC; "A jersey with my name on the back!"

What NHL city do you find is the toughest for autograph hounds?
LC; "Both Edmonton and Calgary."

If you could ask anyone, living or deceased, for an autograph...who would it be?
LC; "Wayne Gretzky."

There we have it! He was very approachable, and gave alot of thought into his answers. He even spoke about how 'hounds' followed him in taxi cabs for autographs in Alberta...he didn't like it too much! He also spoke of his 'game-used' stick collection, that also includes Joe Thornton and Patrick Marleau, in addition to the Heatley signed gamer!

Thanks to Chris, for taking the picture of Logan and I!

Thanks for the read!
Chris

PS; Two quick entries in a row!

Autograph Questions With...Dan Paille

2010-06-29T13:50:00.013-04:00

Another "AQW..." that was gathered at the recent Guelph Storm Alumni Game.

I watched a young Dan Paille in 2003-04 play for the OHL's Guelph Storm, and he tore up the league that season.

He picked up 80 points in only 59 games, that year. He made the Canadian squad for the World Junior Tournament, and was named captain. He led Team Canada to a silver that tournament, his same medal result the year before. But he grew from that loss, and helped lead the Storm to an OHL Championship that year. He scored 18 points in 22 games, that playoff drive. He was great to watch, as a Storm fan that year.

I've had a few things signed by Dan, that season, which turned out to be his last with the Storm. The next season, the Buffalo Sabres assigned him to Rochester, after drafting him in the 1st round, 20th overall in 2002. After spending the 2005-06 season in the AHL, Buffalo called him up next season. Paille scored his first NHL goal on January 14, 2006, against the Los Angeles Kings. In the summer of 2007, Paille signed a one-year, $535,000 one-way contract to remain in Buffalo, then re-signed with Sabres for two years, which was announced on July 16, 2008, for $2.2 million: $900,000 in the first year, and in the second, $1,300,000.

He got to play in the, now famous, 2008 Winter Classic with Buffalo, against the Pittsburgh Penguins. Buffalo ended up losing in a shoot-out, as Sidney Crosby scored the game winner on Ryan Miller.

Paille was traded to the Boston Bruins on October 20, 2009 for a third-round and a conditional fourth-round draft selection. Paille's move to Boston marked the first ever trade of a player under contract between the two division rivals in their common 39 years in the NHL.

This trade enabled Paille to play in his second Winter Classic. On January 1st, 2010, his Bruins faced the Philadelphia Flyers, at Fenway Park. Again, this game went to overtime, but his time wouldn't lose this time! The Bruins won in Boston, as Marco Sturm scored early in overtime.

When Paille returned to Guelph, a few weeks ago, for the Alumni game, I had a couple of photos for him to sign. When I got to see him, at his signing table, he gladly signed each of the photos, commented on how much he liked the Sabres photo, in which he is jumping after a goal! After chatting for a minute, we shook hands and that was it.

After the game, I decided to stick around and meet some of the players and hopefully interview them for my blog. When Paille came outside of the Sleeman Centre, after the Alumni game, he agreed happily to answer some questions about autographing.

Which now leads me to our interview.

Autograph Questions With...Dan Paille

Who was the first person, you ever asked for an autograph?
DP; "Walter Gretzky."

Who was the most recent person, you've asked for an autograph?
DP; "My teammate, Zdeno Chara."

What's the 'coolest' thing you've been asked to sign?
DP; "Hmmm...a baseball bat, in Boston!"

What NHL city do you find is the worst for autograph hounds?
DP; "Montreal." (He immediately had an answer for this question!)

Finally, if you could ask anyone, living or deceased, for an autograph...who would it be?
DP; "Hmmm...Mario Lemieux."

There's another "AQW..." in the books.

Hope you enjoyed it, I should another one ready soon for posting. Want a hint on who it is?! It's not a Storm alumni...it's a San Jose Shark, and I didn't have a single thing for him to sign! Thanks to Bill, again, for the photo of Dan and I.

All the best,
C.

PS- I realize the last few postings have been nothing but interviews, but this summer has been pretty quiet on the autograph front, and when I get an 'adventure' worth posting...you'll see it! Until then, please visit regularly, and try to enjoy the "AQW..." interviews!

Autograph Questions With...Paul Quantrill

2010-06-21T19:32:00.005-04:00

So many interviews conducted, so little time to blog them.

Yes readers, I've got ALOT of "AQW..." to blog about now! Now, if I could only find decent to write them all out!

Anyways, enough complaining, let's get started.

Last Thursday, my family and I made the trip (back) to St. Mary's, Ontario for the Canadian Baseball Hall of Fame's celebrity softball game. I had the pleasure of meeting the Hall's newest inductee; Paul Quantrill.

Paul Quantrill, born in London, Ontario, is a former Major League Baseball right-handed relief pitcher. He earned a reputation for being very durable and having impeccable control. He regularly appeared in 80 or more games a season and did not walk more than 25 batters in a season since 1996. Commentators often joked that he had a "rubber arm".

Quantrill was drafted in 1986 by the Los Angeles Dodgers in the 26th round, 660th overall, and again by the Boston Red Sox in the sixth round of the 1989 amateur draft, 161st overall, and made his Major League debut on July 20, 1992.

Originally considered a starter, Quantrill eventually found consistency as a reliever after several years of splitting time between the bullpen and the starting rotation for several teams. Some of his best years came for the Toronto Blue Jays, in his home province of Ontario.

Before the 2004 season, Quantrill signed a two-year $6.8-million deal with the New York Yankees.

Due to poor performance in late 2004 and early 2005, Quantrill was designated for assignment on July 1, 2005. The next day he was traded to the San Diego Padres for pitchers Tim Redding and Darrell May. Quantrill was then traded to the Florida Marlins and spent the rest of the year in the bullpen. In the middle of March while playing in the Baseball World Classic, Quantrill said he would retire at the end of the World Baseball Classic.

Quantrill was one of the coaches for Team Canada during the 2009 World Baseball Classic.

On June 19, 2010, Quantrill was inducted, along with former Blue Jay Roberto Alomar, into the Canadian Baseball Hall of Fame in St Marys, Ontario.

He pitched in 841 MLB games, by far the most of any Canadian.

After recieving a great autograph from Quantrill, and posing for a picture with the Canadian relief pitcher, the former 2001 All-Star answered a few autograph questions.

Let's roll.

Autograph Questions With...Paul Quantrill

Who was the first person you asked for an autograph?

PQ; My father got me a Bobby Orr autograph, when I was young.

Who was the most recent person you asked for an autograph?

PQ; It was actually a Yankees team signed baseball for my son, while I played there.

What MLB city had the most autograph hounds, when you played?

PQ; Baltimore.

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

PQ; Being Canadian, I have to say signing a hockey stick was the coolest thing that comes to mind!

Finally, if you could ask anyone (living or deceased) for an autograph, whom would you ask?

PQ; Babe Ruth.

Well, that's my first baseball player "AQW...", and I'm glad that it was a Canadian baseball player! Hoped you enjoyed it!

Thanks to Paul for his time, during his induction weekend. And thanks to Chris for taking our picture!

Take care,
Chris

Autograph Questions With...Ryan Callahan

2010-06-12T23:35:00.014-04:00

Welcome back.

Right off, I recently attended (with my wife) the Guelph Storm Alumni Reunion game, in Guelph, Ontario. The Storm decided to bring back some (former) star players, have a game...all in the name of charity. The tickets to special event were 10 dollars, with all net proceeds from the event being donated to the Guelph Wish Fund For Children.

There was an autograph signing with the players before the game, which was a bonus for me, as I just wanted to see the game originally! There were dozens of former Storm players in attendance, and we ended up with LOTS of autographs!

I also had the rare chance to speak to a few Storm alumni, and ask them a few autograph questions, which I'll try to blog within the next few weeks. (Easier said than done?!)

Let's change gears here.

When people (friends, family, etc...) find out that my hobby is collecting (in-person) autographs, I get asked a few common questions. "Who's your most famous?", "Who's your most valuable?", "Who's really nice and who isn't?", "What's your favourite signed piece?", and "Who's your favourite player, of your favourite sport?"

Let me tackle the last question. Growing up, I loved hockey (still do!), and my favourite player was the greatest to ever play...Wayne Gretzky. Since Wayne retired, I've enjoyed a few other players' style, but there was one player whom I got to see since his beginnings in junior hockey. And maybe it's because I got to watch him grow within the game, and begin to dominate each level he joined, he became my favourite player.

I love to watch Sidney Crosby play, but my favourite current NHL player is Ryan Callahan.

Most junior hockey fans have that one special player, they got to watch for 3 or 4 years, blossom into a great NHL player...and mine happens to be the former Captain of the Guelph Storm, and current Alternate Captain of the New York Rangers. Strange part is...I hate the Rangers, as I'm a Leafs fan! I often say, I'm not a Rangers fan...my favourite player, plays for the wrong team!

Anyways, Cally, is simply a great player. Let me tell you about the Rochester, NY native.

Callahan played one year of high school hockey for Hilton High School. He began his junior career with the Rochester Junior Americans of the Empire Junior B Hockey League where he played for two seasons, 1999–2001, then moving on to the Syracuse Jr. Crunch and Buffalo Lightning of the OPJHL before moving onto a four-year Ontario Hockey League (OHL) stint with the Guelph Storm, where he played alongside future Ranger teammate Daniel Girardi. Ryan turned professional with the Hartford Wolf Pack of the American Hockey League (AHL), where he played most of the 2006–07 season.

Callahan received his first NHL call-up to the Rangers on November 28, 2006, making his NHL debut on December 1, but he would only play in that one game before being sent back down to the Wolf Pack.

He was called up for a second time on December 19, but would again only play in one NHL game in that stint. Towards the end of the season, Callahan was called up for the third and final time on March 15, 2007, after scoring 35 goals in 60 AHL games, and he would stay with the Rangers through the postseason. Two days later, on March 17, he scored his first two NHL goals against Joey MacDonald of the Boston Bruins. He scored his first career assist on March 21 and first career game-winning goal on April 1. He scored his first two NHL playoff goals in a 7–0 win in Game Three of the Eastern Conference Quarterfinals against the Atlanta Thrashers on April 17, 2007.

After scoring one goal in the first eight games of the 2007–08 season with the Rangers, Callahan was out for a month with a Grade two knee sprain. He never gained his full strength back at the NHL level, going his next 16 games without a goal, so the Rangers sent him back to the Wolf Pack on January 7, 2008. After 11 games in Hartford, he was called up on February 3 to replace an injured Brendan Shanahan in the Rangers' line-up against the Montreal Canadiens.[6] Callahan tallied his second career two-goal game against the San Jose Sharks on February 17. Callahan scored the game winning goal with 20 seconds remaining to help clinch the Victoria Cup for the Rangers during an exhibition game in Switzerland.

2008–09 was a breakout year for Callahan. On October 1, 2008, Callahan scored the game winning goal for the New York Rangers with 20 seconds left in the inaugural Victoria Cup. The Rangers defeated Metallurg Magnitogorsk by a 4-3 tally. In the regular season, he was third on the Rangers with 22 goals and fifth on the team with 40 total points during the regular season. Callahan was awarded the Rangers' Steven McDonald Extra Effort Award for his hard work throughout the season, and scored the winning goal in the team's playoff-clinching win in the final home game of the season. Callahan was re-signed by the Rangers on July 13, 2009.

Callahan was named an alternate captain of the Rangers on October 2, 2009. On January 1, 2010, he was named to the United States Olympic team, with whom he earned a silver medal in Vancouver.

I've seen Cally play lots of times, at the junior level...witnessing first hand, the Storm winning the 2004 OHL Championship. I saw him again, at the AHL level, during the 2007 All-Star Classic, when he scored the game winning goal (7-6), with less than 10 seconds left in the game! In 2008, we made the trip to Buffalo, to see the Rangers play the Sabres, and finally got to see Cally play at the NHL level. I'm glad to say that I've seen him play at all three major levels of his career. I've gotten his autograph countless times, on various cards and pictures, and he's ALWAYS been accomodating and friendly each and every time.

So, when I finally had the chance to catch up with #24 again at the Storm Alumni game, I was pretty excited!

When I reached the table where Callahan was sitting for his portion of the autograph session, I was about 4th in line for him. When I reached the front of the line, he recognized me, smiled, dropped his Sharpie, saying; "Hey...how's it going, man?!" while offering his hand!

I shook his hand, replying that I was good, and asked the same of him. We spoke for a minute, as I asked about his knee and if he was going to play today. He said that his knee was good, and that was going to play. I also asked him; if he was on Facebook, to which he said no, and that he has someone pretending to be him. He said that he gave up FB along time ago. Just a head's up, folks.

After our quick conversation, he signed a couple of 8x10's for me, personalizing one photo to me. Corinna, my beautiful wife, went through Cally's line earlier (as I was in Jeff O'Neill's line), and got to get a card signed for my son, by Cally. (Thanks to Ryan, for the card.)

Afterwards, I shook his hand again, and thanked him for everything. He seemed pretty appreciative, as he knows that I'm a big supporter.

After gaining alot more Storm players' autographs, I returned to where Cally was, and had a chance to take a picture with him, and got to ask him some autograph questions...which I hope you know enjoy!

Sorry for the long delay/build up...but please, carry on!

"Autograph Questions With...Ryan Callahan"

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

#24; "It was Jason Bonsignore. I asked him, as a kid, in Rochester...where he's also from".

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

#24; "Markus Naslund." (Cally played with Naslund, for the NYR, when Naslund retired)

What's the coolest thing you've ever been asked to autograph?

#24; "Hmmm...you know, I gotta say a 'fight' picture! I really think it's cool to sign a picture of me in a hockey scrap!"

What NHL city, other than your home team's city, has the most autograph seekers?

#24; "Montreal."

Finally, if you could ask anyone (living or deceased) for an autograph, whom would you ask?

#24; "Muhammad Ali."

Well, that's my "AQW..." with my favourite player. He was really, really accomodating, and I thank him for that...and his time. I urge you all to check out a Rangers game next time, they're on tv, and watch for #24. He'll be the one, that his coach will be depending on.

I got to do my "AQW..." with 5 or 6 other players, which I hope you return to check out in the next few weeks.

Also, in the next little while, I'll show some autograph successes that I had at the Guelph Storm Alumni game.

Finally, the team that Cally played for...(the white team), won the Storm Alumni game.

Take a guess on who the game MVP was?

Yup...#24. Ryan Callahan.

Go Storm Go!
Chris

PS; Thanks to Corinna for her help, throughout the day...and for helping me 'razz' O'Neill! Thanks to Bill for his kindness with his camera, et al...and again to Ryan, with the Cally card for Josh. Our day, was a great day.

Autograph Questions With...Stephenie LaGrossa

2010-06-05T14:06:00.009-04:00

Time for the 2nd installment of "AQW...", hope you enjoy it.

Autograph Questions With...Stephenie LaGrossa

As I explained in my previous posting, I had the chance to meet Stpehenie LaGrossa of Survivor, and recieve her autograph. During the signing, she kindly agreed to answer a few questions about autographing. This is what was said;

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

SLG; "Hmm...oh, Mickey Mouse! Yes, my parents to us to Disney World when I was kid, and I asked Mickey for his autograph!"

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

SLG; "Eric Desjardins. When I was the 'in-game host' of the Philadelphia Flyers, I needed to get him to sign a jersey for a contest we were doing for the fans."

"What's the 'coolest' thing you've ever been asked to sign?"

SLG; "The coolest thing...hmmm...oh, my torch from Survivor Palau. A lady paid $10,000 for it, with proceeds going to charity!"

That's it folks. I didn't get to ask as many questions, as I did with Hayley Wickenheiser, but I hope you enjoyed reading this. Stephenie was very, very accommodating and seemed to enjoy the couple questions I asked! The answer about her torch, you could tell she was very proud that it raised so much money for the Survivor charity.

Just a quick bio; when Stephenie was a territory sales representative in pharmaceutical sales, she received the call to be cast on CBS Survivor: Palau. She was one of the most popular players to ever play the game (92% approval rating) and was invited back for the very next season, Survivor: Guatemala, where she finished second to the $1,000,000 winner. She appeared a third time, on Survivor: Heroes vs Villains, and was voted off second after separating her shoulder.

Thanks to Stephenie for her time!

Take care,
C!

The Tribe Has Spoken

2010-05-31T15:20:00.002-04:00

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

2010-05-30T17:17:00.009-04:00

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!

2010-05-04T14:01:00.024-04:00

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

Can't Miss Prospects; Taylor Hall

2010-04-25T10:46:00.010-04:00

In the last three years leading towards the 2010 NHL Entry Draft, there has been one name on the minds of junior hockey fans, that has captivated them all...Taylor Hall.

Can't Miss Prospects; Taylor Hall

I've posted a few blogs now about 'Can't Miss Prospects' (CMP), but none of the previous players mentioned come with the championships, potential, and hype, as Taylor Hall.

Hall was born in Calgary, Alberta in 1991. His family moved to Kingston, Ontario when he was 13. His father is a former CFL player, who played with 3 CFL teams in the 1980's. After playing with the Greater Kingston Predators, Hall was drafted by the Windsor Spitfires with the 2nd overall pick in 2007. Hall chose to wear number 4, as a tribute to Bobby Orr.

Things clicked immediately for the rookie in 2007.

And the hockey world noticed soon after.

His first campaign in the OHL landed him an incredible 84 points, where he scored 45 goals in 63 games! It's because of these 84 points, and adding 5 points in 5 games in the OHL playoffs he was awarded both the OHL and CHL Rookie of the Year trophies.

He represent Canada twice and Ontario, once, in international play in 2008. Would you believe he won gold all three times?! Hall represented Canada at the 2008 IIHF World U18 Championships in Kazan, Russia. He was fifth in tournament scoring, with nine points in seven games, helping Canada to a gold medal. He returned to Canada's under-18 team to earn a second gold medal at the 2008 Ivan Hlinka Memorial Tournament in Slovakia. Finally, he won gold with Team Ontario at the U-17 World Hockey Challenge.

In the next season, 08/09, things got better for Hall, and the Spitfires. Hall was selected to play in the 2008 ADT Canada-Russia Challenge as the only non-draft eligible player on the team. He improved his points totals in his 2nd OHL season, by scoring 90 points. This was enough to lead the Spifires in points. The Spitfires entered 08/09 OHL playoffs, heavy favourites, and Hall led the way. In 20 games he achieved an incredible 36 points, scoring 16 goals! When the Spitfires won the OHL champioinship, the J. Ross Robertson Cup, Hall won the OHL playoff MVP award...Wayne Gretzky 99 Award. The Spitfires then went up against the best CHL teams in Canada at the Memorial Cup Tournament.

The tournament began on May 15, 2009. After starting 0-2 in the round-robin, Windsor defeated Rimouski in the tiebreaker and Drummondville in the semifinal, becoming just the second team since the current Memorial Cup tournament format was adopted in 1983 to reach the final after losing its first two games. Windsor then captured the Memorial Cup, defeating Kelowna 4–1 on May 24, 2009, becoming the first team in Memorial Cup history to win the tournament after starting 0–2, and also the first to win coming out of the tiebreaker.

Hall finished tied for 2nd in Memorial Cup scoring with 8 points. He won the tournament MVP, capturing the Stafford Smythe Memorial Trophy, and was chosen for the tournament's All-star team.

A strange event happened during the 2009 summer, Hall got drafted. No, not to the NHL, but to the rival KHL Russian Super League. Even though he would likely never play there, Ak Bars Kazan selected him 89th overall, on June 1, 2009.

When the 09/10 OHL season began, Hall had become a household name in many hockey circles. He was 2nd in the preliminary rankings of the NHL Central Scouting, behind Tyler Seguin. (Please see CMP; Tyler Seguin, about my autograph adventure with him). However, when the 2nd rankings came out mid-season in January, it was Hall who was ranked first.

During the season, Hall was finally selected to play in the World Junior Championships for Canada. Hall made the team that was the host country, in Saskatchewan. He was the lone draft-eligible player selected to the final roster.

Hall scored a hat-trick against Slovakia, in a game Canada ended up winning 8-2. After the championships had finished Hall finished 3rd overall in scoring. He ended up with 6 goals and 6 assists for12 points, in 6 games. He was named to the tournament All-star team. Hall, and Team Canada, brought home silver.

His OHL campaign, this season, proved to be his finest. He finished with 106 points in only 57 games, scoring 40 times. He tied with Tyler Seguin for the overall scoring title, even though Seguin played in 6 more games (63) than he did. They shared the Eddie Powers Memorial Trophy for highest scorer in the Ontario Hockey League.

However, it would be Seguin who was ranked first, again, in the final Central Scouting report, putting Hall in the second position again. It'll be interested, come June, whether the Edmonton Oilers decide they need a centreman (Seguin) or a winger (Hall). I'm thinking they'll take Hall, leaving Seguin to be claimed by the Boston Bruins 2nd overall with the Toronto Maple Leafs former pick.

Hall and the Spitfires are currently in game 7, of the OHL playoffs against the Kitchener Rangers. The Rangers took an 3-0 series lead, which no one expected, and the Spitfires have won the last 3 games to tie it up, with 3 each.

As I write this, about 1:50pm, April 25th, the puck drops at 2:05pm. The winner will play the Barrie Colts, in the OHL final, for the OHL championship and the right to go to the Memorial Cup.

Last week, I decided that I've waited far too long to get Hall's autograph. And if I didn't act soon, the chance at getting his autograph would become alarmingly difficult, once he made the NHL.

I decided that on Saturday, I would go to Kitchener's Auditorium, home of the Rangers, and scout out Hall there.

On the way into work on Friday, travelling from Guelph to Woodstock, a certain large bus came in the opposite direction along the 401. It was a 'Great Canadian' bus, and on the side of it was; "Windsor Spitfires, 2009 Memorial Cup Champions". I smiled to myself.

Why?

Simple.

That was the team's bus, and I now knew that they were staying in Kitchener overnight, and would most likely practice in the morning. Getting autographs during practice is usually easier, than getting them after the game in Kitchener. Less people. No security to escort people out. And less chance of the bus travelling inside of the Aud, to pick up the players.

After work, I hit the internet to find photos suitable to get signed. I found two that I thought were good to go. The first was one of Hall stick-handling, and the second was Hall and Seguin shaking hands after the 'Top Prospects Game'. I figured that if I got Hall on it, it would be a matter of time before I met Seguin again, and had him sign it also.

Saturday morning, my wife and I got up, and headed to Wal-mart to print the photos. After the instant 8x10's were printed, we had a quick breakfast, and headed to Kitchener to try our luck.

We arrived at the Aud, to see alot of cars, which suprised me. We walked up to the Aud, and spotted a worker having a smoke outside, and asked him what time the Spitfires hit the ice?. "11 to 12" he answered. Looking at my watch, it was already 10:20am, which meant Hall and his teammates were already inside. This cancelled Plan A, which was to catch him entering the Aud.

Time for Plan B, catch him inside...walking onto the ice.

This was going to be tough.

In Guelph, this is not a problem at all. However, I wasn't familiar with the Aud's practice rules and if they're open to the public.

Either way, I opened the door and we walked in.

We walked into the concourse to find out why there was so many cars in the parking lot. People weren't here for the Rangers and the Spitfires, they were here for a scrapbooking expo! "Scrapfest" looked like it had a few hundred people walking around, checking things out. I had zero interest, Corinna however, was mad she didn't know this event existed! Yes, my wife is a scrapbooker!

Anyways, we quietly entered into the arena and saw the Rangers on the ice going through their drills. Corinna and I, quickly and quietly moved through the Aud, towards the visitors ice entrance. We saw a few workers, but they didn't see us. We stopped in one of the hallways leading to the seats, from the concourse. We watched the Rangers practice for a bit. Suddenly, I had an idea...I told Corinna, let's check out the basement of the Aud, where the dressing rooms were, and see if we could catch Hall outside the dressing room warming up. I know this pre-practice ritual, because of watching Sidney Crosby go through it in Rimouski.

We made out way downstairs, only to find the Spitfires inside their dressing room, not outside warming up. We quickly left, quietly, and made our way to where they would enter the ice-surface. I sat in the first row, about 5 feet above the ice and walkway. Corinna sat at the top of the entrance to take a picture of Hall, hopefully, signing for me.

After the Rangers left the ice, the Zamboni, entered and cleaned the ice for the Windsor practice. While the Zamboni was circling the ice, the Spitfires began to come out, and wait at the ice surface's door. 1, 2, 3, they all started coming out and skated out to their bench. No Hall. Jesse Blacker, a Leafs' prospect entered. Zack Kassian, a Sabres' prospect, entered. I looked up at Corinna and shrugged. She looked at me, and gave me the "I don't think this is going to happen" look.

I turned at looked back at the team assembled across the ice surface, while the Zamboni finished it's job. When I glanced to my right again, to see what player was beside me, it was him.

Taylor Hall was waiting for the Zamboni to pass us by, so he could safely enter the ice, to join up with his team.

I briefly interupted that idea.

"Excuse me, Taylor?" I said. He looked up at me. "Could I get your autograph, please?" I finally asked the most famous hockey prospect in the world.

"Yup", was all he said. It was more than enough for me.

I moved lightning fast, and put my binder in front of him, exposing the two freshly made 8x10's, and handed him my silver Sharpie. He took his gloves off and put his stick to his side, and took my Sharpie, and signed both of my 8x10's. He quickly signed the stick-handling photo, as he's probably signed that one, more than a few times. However, he did stop for a second to look at the picture of him and Tyler Seguin. After that quick second, he placed a nice autograph over himself on the 8x10. He handed the Sharpie back to me, and after I capped it, I said "Thanks! Good luc..."

But he was gone...just like that. He skated onto the ice and flew over to his teammates as the Zamboni made it's final pass. I looked up at Corinna and she smiled. I motioned to her, let's go...and we took off. We hustled down the Aud's concourse and corridor, and left the arena.

We were outside a minute later...with two Taylor Hall autographs.

Thanks for checking out this latest entry, I hoped you enjoyed. It was alot of fun seeking out Taylor Hall, and asking for his autograph! As I finish this last sentence, about to start adding photos for your viewing pleasure, it's 4-1 for Windsor, first Spits goal by Adam Henrique, assist by...Taylor Hall, in the 3rd period.

Looks like the Spitfires have just done the impossible...came back from an 3-0 deficit in the series, to win 4-3!

See ya soon,
C

PS- My last poll had Sidney Crosby winning over Alex Ovechkin, in the fan category! More Sid the Kid fans check out my blog, I guess!

PS deux- I decided to change up the colour scheme, getting away from the dark-look, and threw out some blue. I like it, but it may change again.

Swimming with the Shark!

2010-04-17T18:25:00.004-04:00

Since I received (mostly) positive feedback with my first vlog article, 'Grapes', I decided to try it again.

Swimming with the Shark!

I got a piece of mail this past week, and decided to save it for the weekend. Once Saturday rolled around...Corinna and I just returned from meeting Taylor Hall, and decided to record the opening of the envelope.

Check it out.

Well there you have it.

Greg 'The Shark' Norman.

One of the most admired and successful golfers to ever play.

Let me just give you a small insight into his great career;

He spent 331 weeks between the 80's and 90's as the number 1 golfer in the world.

He won two major championships, winning the British Open twice. He also finished 2nd eight times in major tournament play.

He has won tournaments all over the world;.

20 PGA tournaments, including the 1984 Canadian Open defeating the 2nd placed Jack Nicklaus by 2 strokes.

14 European PGA tournaments, highlighted with back to back wins at the Dunlop Masters.

31 PGA tour of Australia, including winning the Gold Jacket of the Australian Masters a record 6 times. Tiger Woods is the most recent winner of the Gold Jacket.

25 other wins, including the 2001 Skins game when he won one million dollars...the first and only time one person has won all 18 holes.

And finally, he was a member of the 1998 International winning team that captured the Presidents Cup.

He was inducted into the World Golf Hall of Fame in 2001.

His career earnings, according PGAtour.com, is over 14 million dollars.

Simply incredible.

C.

PS- As you probably noticed, I made mention of Taylor Hall. Expect the next 'CMP' very soon.

The China Wall

2010-04-11T00:39:00.007-04:00

This is a entry about the most respected Toronto Maple Leaf of all time, in my opinion, Mr. Johnny Bower.

The China Wall

I saw on Aj's Sportsworld's website that they were going to have Johnny Bower in for an autograph signing. I immediately decided that I would go. There were many reasons for my quick decision to attend.

I always felt he was the greatest Leafs goalie, and that he was the most accessible Maple Leaf from the last Cup winning team. He also does a massive amount of charity work, and that he always has time for kids hockey. Those are just a few of the reasons why I respect the 85 year old Hall of Fame legend.

I figured this would a perfect time to land his autograph on my Hockey Hall of Fame 16x20 photograph. And considering the $15 price that AJ's was asking, I knew this was a great chance to land Bower, again.

I've met Bower a few times, over my 17 year hobby of collecting autographs. I've had him sign a Leafs puck, 8x10, a 11x14 photo of him with Jean Beliveau, and most recently a 8x10 of him with Gordie 'Mr. Hockey' Howe.

Each and everytime, he was super-friendly and extremely courteous. He's always talking about the Leafs, and asking what people think of how they're doing. He's a real treat to talk with, and recieve an autograph from!

Bower usually signs once every month or two in the Greater Toronto Area, as I personally believe, this is his primary source of income nowadays. But, I'm sure he's doing well...as he always has a large line-up of fans waiting for him! It's to the point now, I'm sure, that every autograph collector in Ontario has his autograph...and probably would like another from this Hall of Famer!

His career landed him in the Hall of Fame in 1976, after 25 pro seasons, winning 2 Vezina trophies, a first team All-star selection, 3 Calder Cups (AHL's championship), and 4 Stanley Cups.

His number '1' hangs from the Air Canada Centre, where the Maple Leafs honoured his time and play with the 'Blue and White'.

He also served Canada in the second World War, serving from 1940 to 1943.

After discussing the signing with my wife, Corinna, we agreed to check out Bower's signing at AJ's and the local Ikea, conviently located nearby! Hey, she's got to get some shopping time in too!

We arrived at AJ's about 30 minutes early, and after purchasing our ticket, we were about 20th in line. A couple minutes later 2 collector friends of mine, Bill and Ryan, arrived...both armed with Hall of Fame 16x20 photos! Ryan has around the same amount of autographs on his 16x20, as I do. Bill, however, was seeking his very first autograph on his newest project. He mentioned that he regretted not starting this project earlier in the hockey season, but he was happy that Bower would be the first to sign it. Bill, ever the good guy, gave me an 8x10 of my favourite Guelph Storm graduate and NHLer, Ryan Callahan. I hope to see Cally this June, and have this awesome picture signed. Thanks again, Bill!

After chatting hockey with my friends, and wife (she is a hockey fan too!), Mr. Bower made his entrance. He looked very good for 85, as a former goalie that Bobby Hull shot his incredible slapshot at, with no mask!

The line went along very smoothly, as it usually always does at AJ's Sportsworld events, and soon it was my time with the 2 time Vezina trophy winner. Corinna stood to Bower's left, armed with our camera.

I approached 254 game winning goaltender, and said; "Hello Mr. Bower, how are you?" as I pulled the 16x20 photo of the Hall from it's protective sleeve. "I'm good, nice to see you" Johnny Bower replied. "Would you mind signing this in blue, for me?" I asked. "Sure" The China Wall answered, as he picked up the blue Sharpie to his right.

He signed the bottom right corner of my picture, adding his famous "#1" (representing his honoured Toronto Maple Leaf number) and his "HOF 76" induction inscription. It looked great!

I asked if would be okay, if I could get a photo with him, and both Mr. Bower and AJ's representative, Vito, said sure. I sat beside Toronto's last Stanley Cup winning goalie, and he leaned towards me as Corinna took our picture together. I was incredibly pleased with the event!

I shook Johnny Bower's hand, which swallowed my hand!, and thanked him for his time. He smiled and said thanks as well.

Both Bill and Ryan were up next, and asked Corinna to take their photos too, with the legendary Leaf. Bill had Mr. Bower sign across the Hall's logo plate on his brand new project. I'm not too sure where Ryan had Mr. Bower sign his, though.

Like I mentioned, both Bill and Ryan asked Corinna to take their pictures with Bower.

After our time with Mr. Bower, we all chatted for awhile about past autograph experiences and a few other hockey topics outside AJ's, and also chatted about the upcoming Sports Card Expo and which Hall of Famers were appearing at the Spring time event. I'm sure I'll be writing an article about my time at the Expo in the next month or two!

All in all, it was a very good time...seeing a legendary Leaf, meeting up with friends, and spending time with my beautiful wife...whatelse could I ask for that day?

Until next time,
C

Recent Additions, including Super Mario!

2010-04-04T13:26:00.018-04:00

Well, the results are in...a tie!

I've been running a poll here, on my blog, about the next possible topic. Of the three topics, 'recent additions', 'meeting Mario Lemieux', and 'my all-times favourite autographs', the first two gathered the most votes and finished in a draw.

So, what I decided to do; is show some recent additions, with the Mario sucess.

I'll make a blog entry of my all-time favourite autographs, some time later this year. Thanks to all who voted, so here it is;

Recent Additions, inclduing Super Mario!

I'll try keep my writing to a minimum with this entry, and focus more with photos...I figure that's what everyone wants to see anyways!

Hockey Hall of Famer, Andy Bathgate

Hockey Hall of Famer, Leonard 'Red' Kelly

Hockey Hall of Famer, Henri Richard

Hockey Hall of Famer, Dick Duff

Toronto Maple Leaf, Jonas 'The Monster' Gustavsson

Hockey Hall of Famer, 'Terrible' Ted Lindsay

(Former) Toronto Blue Jay, Roy 'Doc' Halladay

Hockey Hall of Famer, Bill Gadsby

Hockey Hall of Famer, 'The Magnificent One' Mario Lemieux

Hockey Hall of Famer, Dickie Moore

Hockey Hall of Famer, Gerry Cheevers

Well, I hoped you enjoyed viewing some of my recent autograph additions, including my encounter with Mario Lemieux! I threw in the meetings with Gustavsson and Halladay, to change up the fact most of the celebrities shown were Hockey Hall of Famers...hope you liked it!

Just an update on my Hockey Hall of Fame autograph project...

Since I started this project, 8 months ago, I've collected 11 autographs on the 16x20 photo of the grand hall!

The honourned members who've signed it so far are;

-Darryl Sittler (HOF 89)
-Cliff Fletcher (HOF 04)
-Bill Gadsby (HOF 70)
-Ted Lindsay (HOF 66)
-Henri Richard (HOF 79)
-Dick Duff (HOF 06)
-Red Kelly (HOF 69)
-Andy Bathgate (HOF 78)
-Dickie Moore (HOF 74)
-Marcel Dionne (HOF 92)
-Gerry Cheevers (HOF 85)

It's coming along quite nicely, and still has alot of room left for more HOF'ers to autograph!

Thanks for the read, see ya soon!

PS- I've posted a new poll, asking who are you a fan of? Sidney Crosby or Alexander Ovechkin? Most hockey fans love one and hate the other...who's side are you on?

Grapes

2010-03-25T22:30:00.005-04:00

Welcome to a blog experiment.

I've always wondered how a video 'autograph success' would look here on my blog, and how it would be recieved?...by those who take the time to visit my site. Well, I've wondered enough and I've decided to try to take my blog to the next level. I'm proud to present the first ever CAA vlog!

Grapes

Normally, at this point I'd get right into describing the person, who's autograph I'm trying to recieve, what I'm getting signed, and how it went while getting the autograph...not this time.

To begin my experiment...push play.

Well, as you saw...that was quite the awesome package!

As you saw, this entry of CAA is about one of the most Canadians of all time...Don Cherry!

I really don't need to get into a description of Grapes...you probably know something about this great man.

Whether you agree or disagree with his opinions, you have to respect his love of Canada, and all Canadians...especially our brothers and sisters of the Armed Forces.

His love of hockey, and helping out kids who play hockey...is unmatched by anyone I know. He dedicates almost all his free time, to helping charities that encourage kids playing hockey!

Thanks again, Grapes...for your kindness!

Here are some photos of the successes;

Thanks for checking out my vlog experiment.

Please take the time to leave a message...let me know if you like this type of posting. I won't be posting videos everytime, however if the feedback I recieve is positive...I may post a video every now and then.

Take care,
Chris

PS- Please, vote in my poll...only a few days left!

PS deux- Again, I sent my items to Don Cherry, care of HNIC/CBC in Toronto. The turnaround time was less than 2 months!

Can't Miss Prospects; Peter Holland

2010-03-21T21:04:00.009-04:00

Welcome to the second in the on-going series of 'up and coming' hockey players..."Can't Miss Prospects". I hope you enjoy it.

Can't Miss Prospects; Peter Holland

Last June, the highest ranked prospect of the OHL's Guelph Storm, was drafted 15th overall by the Anaheim Ducks, of the NHL.

The Guelph Storm, my favourite OHL team, continues to send first round picks to the NHL. Nine total Storm graduates were drafted in the NHL's first round; Drew Doughty, Ryan Parent, Dan Paille, Dustin Brown, Thomas McCollum, Manny Maholtra, Jeff O'Neill, and Todd Bertuzzi.

The ninth player, is the focus of this blog entry; Peter Holland.

When I watched Holland get drafted, on TSN, I figured I'd pick up his autograph during the upcoming season, either at training camp or (if he got returned to Guelph) during the regular OHL season.

One thing led to another, and I forgot about the 15th overall pick, being in Guelph.

Until last week.

When I saw that the Storm had made the playoffs again, I figured it was now or never.

Tickets were reduced for the first round of the OHL, to just $10 dollars, and I figured it was a sign!

Once Corinna and I agreed on seeing the Storm take on the rival London Knights, on Sunday, I decided to take a look at Holland's season, and his career to date.

Peter Holland originally was choosen by the Guelph Storm, 11th overall in the 2007 OHL draft. In his rookie season with the team in 2007-08, Holland appeared in 62 games, earning 23 points which placed him tenth in team scoring. He was named the Wellington Motors/Guelph Storm Franchise's Rookie of the Year Award winner following the 2007/08 season.

It was his 2nd season in Guelph, when things took off for Holland. Holland would be given more playing time, and he improved his numbers greatly, as he scored 28 goals and added 39 assists for 67 points, which was the second highest on the Storm. He was selected to play for the Western Conference All-Stars in the OHL All-Star Classic, and had two assists. He also appeared in the 2009 CHL Top Prospects Game, playing for Team Orr. When the Storm went to the playoffs, he scored 4 goals in 4 games.

This solid season, made him popular amongst NHL scouts, and led to him being a first round prospect heading into the 2009 NHL draft in Montreal. Central Scouting and The hockey News had him ranked to go in the 19th position. Which meant, if all the NHL teams followed these prospect rankings, the New York Rangers would select Holland with their 1st pick, 19th overall.

But things, in the NHL, hardly go as scripted.

The Anaheim Ducks, needing a power forward centreman of the future, used their 1st round pick to select Holland in the 15th spot.

The Rangers eventually selected a U.S. high school player, Chris Kreider.

This past fall, Holland got to go to the Ducks' training camp, and played with the Ducks in the NHL pre-season. After playing in 2 of the NHL's pre-season games, he was returned to Guelph for the 2009-10 season.

He took the move well, and had a excellent season.

Although he only appeared in 59 games, he acheived 80 points. 30 goals and 50 assists, helped Holland finish 2nd in team scoring, and 15th overall in league scoring.

Very impressive for a 19 year old, who could return to the Storm for one more year, next season.

If he returns to the OHL for the 2010/11 season, and not the NHL or AHL, I'm predicting him to finish in the top 3 of OHL scoring.

When gameday came, we bought our tickets online that morning. We left home with a Anaheim Ducks puck that I picked up from Frozen Pond early that week. We arrived for the Storm/Knights game at the Sleeman centre early, and had lunch at the arena's restaurant.

During the warm-up, we took our seats for game 2 of the best-of-7 game series. The Guelph Storm and London Knights rivalry is truly massive in Canadian junior hockey. Fans of each team, travel to one-another's city to cheer on their team...every rivalry game. This rivalry, in my opinion, is the biggest in the province. There is a hatred between fans, and even the players. It reminds me alot, of the Maple Leafs and Habs rivalry.

During the warm-up skate, players were chirping at eachother! The referees had to stand on the centre-line to keep the players apart. The puck wasn't even dropped yet!

The game eventually started with the Knights jumping out early. It was incredibly hard-hitting, chippy, and tough hockey. Fights broke out, a rarity in the playoffs...but these 2 teams, just plain don't like eachother!

After 60 minutes...the Knights won game two, 4-3, and took a 2-0 lead in the series.

Corinna and I made our way down to the players exit, to meet Peter Holland. Many Knights players entered the lobby area, to meet family and fans, before boarding their team bus. Storm players also began to come out to greet the public. There were 4 or 5 collectors waiting for hot-prospect Nazem Kadri. The Toronto Maple Leafs 1st round pick, came out and signed everything for all the people who were waiting for him. Kadri, who was the game's 1st star, posed for pictures with fans, and signed countless autographs. I was glad to see this future Leaf dedicate so much time to these collectors. If you've read my previous blog entries, you'll know that I've met Kadri twice before, and had him sign 2 photos (1 of those for charity) and a hockey puck. He was great to deal with, both times.

After awhile, we figured that Holland must've left threw a different exit, so we decided to leave. As we walked away from the players exit, I spotted Peter Holland with some family (I presume), in the arena's staircase area.

This rare time, I spotted the player before Corinna! I mention this, because she has 'eagle eyes' when it comes to spotting players at a distance!

I mentioned to Corinna, not so quietly; "There he is!", then she got our camera ready, to document this autograph encounter.

When I went to approach Holland, in his family circle, I was beaten to the punch...by another collector!

This guy had alot of photos of Holland. he had his kids with him, that seemed to want to get them signed. I backed off, so then Corinna and I watched their encounter.

Holland began to sign for them, when a lady in his circle...I presume his mom, asked the guy where he got the photos of Holland? She was curious where he found draft photos of Holland, that large, without the Photofile (a photography company) watermark. He seemed a little suprised, and finally offered up that he got them from the internet. She wanted the images he found, for herself, and gave the guy her email, so hopefully he would send those particular images of the Ducks prospect to her. Holland signed everything for him and his kids, which I figured was around 5 pictures...of the same image, just in different sizes.

When his mom (I think!), was giving the collector her email, Holland noticed Corinna and I, so I lifted up my puck...gesturing that I'd like his autograph also. He smiled and came over to sign my puck.

I handed the 30 goal scorer my silver Sharpie, and congratulated him on becoming a Duck. He replied; "Thanks, would you like me to add my number?", as he put the Sharpie to the Ducks puck. I was kind of surprised by this...but I quickly realized what he meant...he was asking if I wanted his Guelph Storm number, because he didn't have a permanent Anaheim Ducks number, yet. I answered, believe it or not, quickly; "Yes, but would you mind adding 'Go Ducks!' also?". "No problem" Holland said, as he signed his incredibly cool autograph! I mentioned to him that I was a Ducks fan...which is true, but only 2nd to the Leafs though. I've always like JS Giguere and Ryan Getzlaf...that's why.

Anyways.

After he signed his name through the middle of the puck, he inscribed 'Go Ducks!' across the top of the puck...making it that even more special, for my collection.

I thanked him for his autograph and his time, and then offered my hand in a final thanks. He shooked my hand...rather strongly, and that was it.

Smiling, I looked at the puck and was excited in the final product! I showed Corinna, who said that it was extremely cool! She understands how special, and pretty rare, inscribed additions with an autograph are.

As we walked away, headed for the parking, I realized how great Guelph is...for collecting autographs!

And how great my wife is...for her patience, for my hobby.

Keep an eye for Peter Holland in the future, he's going to be good one.

Thanks for your time,
C.

PS- Have you voted? Please check out the poll, near the top-right of the page, for one of the next blog entries!

Cujo in my backyard

2010-03-06T15:48:00.014-05:00

Thanks to Rob Langille, for the head's up.

"Cujo in my backyard"

Some of you might be wondering, is he talking about 'Stephen King's killer St. Bernard'...in the backyard of his house?!

Nope.

I'm talking about this 'Cujo'; the three time NHL all-star and 2002 Olympic gold medal winning goaltender. Better known as Curtis Joseph.

In my backyard.

Let me begin properly.

I logged into Facebook, on February 28, and saw that I had a message waiting for me. I figured it was group message from some group that I'm a part of. I was wrong, it was a message from a friend of mine, Rob Langille. Rob sent a very simple message, titling it "Signing". This is what he said;

CUJO at the new CIBC by Walmart on March 6th.

Well, well, well.

After sending a message back to Rob, I began to consider this news.

One of most popular Toronto Maple Leafs of all time, was coming to Guelph for an autograph signing. And it was supposedly free.

I had exactly one week to plan this signing out, if I was going to attend.

But who are we kidding...If this signing was for real...I was going!

How often does any NHL'er (former or current) ever come to Guelph?! Not very often!

So, I decided to go to Kijiji.ca to try and find some interesting things to get signed. I was hoping to get a McFarlane figure or a bobblehead...something different from what I usually get signed. While I was looking for Cujo items on the internet, I told Corinna about Cujo possibly coming to Guelph.

A light went on.

She mentioned that her United Way commitee at her work, was considering asking me to get a jersey or something 'worth while' signed to donate to their charity auction to raise money for the United Way...since the highest auctioned item ever donated, was a Maple Leaf team signed jersey that I donated, 2 years ago!

How can I say no to helping the United Way?!

I told her that I'll try to find a Toronto Maple Leafs Curtis Joseph jersey, and if it's affordable...go to the commitee to purchase it, and I'll get it signed. Either at the CIBC event, if it's real, or the upcoming Frozen Pond paid signing. She agreed to take my idea to the UWC at her work.

I continued to search for Cujo stuff.

The next day, Corinna came home and said that the UWC had agreed to purchase the jersey, if I could get it signed...sounded good to me.

I quickly located a guy who was selling 2 Joseph jerseys, near my work in Woodstock. He agreed to the UWC price, and I picked up one for myself too.

I picked up a Toronto Maple Leafs Cujo jersey for the UWC, and a Detroit Red Wings Cujo jersey for myself.

And it was a steal of a deal!

Even Corinna patted me on the back for my work, on obtaining these 2 jerseys.

However, I wanted one more piece to get signed. I was thinking of a photo, but really wanted something different.

Again, I went back to Kijiji to find something.

While searching for a Cujo McFarlane figure, I came across something I haven't seen in 6 or 7 years.

I found a 2002/03 Upper Deck Mask Collection mini-mask of Curtis Joseph. The Cujo replica mini-mask was a give-away to collectors who purchase a box of 02/03 Mask Collection hockey cards. These hockey cards were geared towards goalies, featuring the best goaltenders of that season. The mini-masks that come with each box, were incredibly popular and became very valuable. Which eventually led to the masks becoming very difficult to find.

When I saw that somebody was selling their collection of these mini-masks, I quickly sent an email, asking if the Cujo mask was still available.

The seller got back, rather quickly...saying yes.

I agreed on a price, and we set a time for me to pick up the mask.

After picking up the mask, I was content with my things to meet Cujo with. A Red Wings jersey, Leafs mini-mask, and a Leaf jersey for charity...everything seemed good.

Until I realized something.

The appearance at the CIBC, still wasn't confirmed!

When Saturday morning finally came...we had 2 sets of plans for the morning.

Plan 1; Go grocery shopping, get a oil change, and get some lunch.

Plan 2; Go to CIBC, meet and greet with Curtis Joseph, come home...write new blog entry.

Guess which one worked out?!

At 9am...CIBC confirmed Cujo's appearance for 11am, with him signing for just one hour, and then he would go outside and have some break away drills with children. Sounded great to me!

After gathering our items, we hopped into the Highlander and proceded to drive out of our driveway, turn right, drive, turn left and park at CIBC.

Yep. 2 turns. That's it. 5.2 kilometres. 3 miles. 8 minutes.

Incredible.

When we got at CIBC, a line had already formed. We were probably around 50-60th in line, at 10:10am. It was cool though...a simply beautiful day, because the sun was shining, and it seemed like a Spring day, instead of Winter!

CIBC employees were everywhere. They were walking the line handing out cookies, balloons, contest forms, free pens, pieces of cake...they really 'did it up'!

I had a cookie.

Anyways, it was at this point, that a couple of autograph collectors noticed me, and said hello...because of my blog. It was great to meet fellow collectors and people who enjoy the hobby, as much as I do. Bill and Mike were cool guys, and I hope to see them again.

Meanwhile, Corinna was chatting with my best friend, Chris, over her Blackberry, and he was interested in coming out to the signing with his kids, to meet Cujo. After a couple messages, Chris and his kids were on their way. Apparently Chris was bringing some Cujo rookie cards to get signed for himself and his family.

This was turning out to be a great day! Time with my wife, autographs with Cujo, a donation for charity, and now time with my buddy; Chris and his kids!

At this point, you're probably expecting me to write something negative happened to us while waiting in line, right?

Well, it didn't.

Cujo showed up on time, and the line slowly began to move. People started to come out of the new bank, with their signed Cujo items in tow. Mike and Bill came out after the line began to move, with their cool McFarlane figure bases signed. Yes, I was a touch jealous!

I was hoping the Chris would show up soon, so he could hop in line with us...but no such luck. We were soon at the front of the line.

When we made the final corner, entering the lobby, we saw Curtis Joseph.

He was standing, signing everything for people, and posing for pictures. I thought this was fantastic. Normally, whomever is signing, is sitting at a table, greeting people. Not Cujo...he was standing up, shaking hands, greeting people...it was nice change from the normal circuit.

It was now our turn.

Corinna went first, with the Leafs jersey and said hello. Cujo chatted for a second, took her jersey, spread it out nicely and signed across the 'one' of his number 31. He also signed a free giveaway picture from CIBC, for her.

I was taking a picture of this scene, smiling ear to ear, when he asked her for picture together! How cool was that?! She was pretty nervous, as Corinna NEVER takes pictures with signers! But, she stood beside him, and I took their picture together! They shook hands, then she picked up her jersey and giveaway, then turned to me for our camera.

It was now my turn.

I went up to Cujo, and told him that I've been a big fan for years, and thanked him for his time in the NHL. He thanked me for that, and took my Wings jersey that I handed him.

He beautifully signed 'Cujo 31' across the '1' of his number 31.

I mentioned that I had this mini-mask of his, and would he mind signing it also? "Sure, no problem!" he answered nicely. He picked up a silver Sharpie, flipped the mask around, and signed it across the side of the mask.

He handed it back to me, and I offered my hand in thanks. He shook my hand, and I asked one more thing of him.

"Can I get a quick picture with you?"

"Sure" he responded, standing beside me for the shot. I quickly put my stuff on the table in front of us, and posed for Corinna.

A strange thing happened...

2 flashes went off, while Cujo and I stood beside eachother.

I didn't think of it twice, as I thanked the All-star goalie, for his time.

And that was it. For us, at least.

I turned to find Corinna, and saw her talking to a guy. When I approached him, he held up a recorder, and asked me if I was Christopher Hynes?

I was being interviewed!

I answered yes, and he began to ask me some questions...

Instead of me telling you what happened...

WHY DON'T I JUST SHOW YOU WHAT WAS PRINTED IN THE GUELPH MERCURY THE NEXT DAY!

Fans young and old line up for a chance to meet Cujo

Tony Saxon

GUELPH — It was hard to tell who was more excited Saturday, the kids lined up to meet former National Hockey League goaltender Curtis Joseph or their mom and dads.

Hundreds waited in line to meet Joseph, who hit Guelph for the opening of the new CIBC branch on Woodlawn Road. He signed autographs and posed for pictures before heading to the parking lot where kids got to take shots on him.

“What a great turnout,” said the 42-year-old Joseph, who wrapped up his 19-year NHL career last season.

“Occasionally you do these promotions and they’re either not promoted properly or they’re in the wrong place, and there’s nothing worse than that,” Joseph said. “Today there’s tons of people. It’s lots of fun.”

The man they call Cujo played for six different teams, including a five-season stop with the Toronto Maple Leafs. It was the blue and white memorabilia and jerseys that found itself at the end of Joseph’s Sharpie most often Saturday.

“We came down for my son,” said Dale Bain of Alma, who was wearing a smile twice the size of his son Michael when posing for a quick picture with the potential Hall of Fame goaltender.

“I’ve been a Leafs fan since 1967, which is the same year (Joseph) was born. It’s always nice to meet someone like him.”

Corinna and Christopher Hynes took turns taking one another’s picture with Joseph.

“He was my favourite player for years,” beamed Christopher. “I had other plans today but changed them for the chance to meet him.”

Hynes met Joseph several years ago, but said Saturday’s handshake and photo were just as exciting as when he was a kid.

Tamara Jonathan and her son Andrew stood in line for about an hour before getting to meet Joseph.

“It’s for the kids and myself. I was actually a bigger fan when he played for Detroit, because my dad was a huge Detroit fan. But he looks a lot younger than I thought he was,” said Jonathan.

After retiring last year, Joseph said he is taking things easy and “doing family things. Giving back to my family a little bit.”

The Toronto-area resident has three sons who play hockey, but he doesn’t coach any of them.

“I coach in the car, like every other hockey parent,” he said.

Like most other Canadians, Joseph was glued to his television recently, watching the Canadian hockey team on its path to Olympic gold.

He took in the gold medal game at home with his family.

“It was awesome. Saw all the games,” he said.

He might have been feeling a bit for goaltender Martin Brodeur when he found himself on the bench for the rest of the tournament after a tough game early in the round-robin portion.

Joseph suffered a similar fate at the 2002 Olympics in Salt Lake. Coach Pat Quinn benched Joseph in favour of Brodeur after a bad game and Canada went on to win gold.

“That’s kind of the nature of it. The goalies are the best in the world. It’s just the way it goes.

“We’ve all got a lot of pride and we all want to be ‘the guy,’ so I know how he felt,” Joseph said of Brodeur this year.

“We won the gold medal. So what are you going to do?”

PRETTY INCREDIBLE, ISN'T IT?!

Yep...I made the paper! Actually...WE made the paper!

So, that was the second flash...it was the Guelph Mercury's Tony Saxon taking a picture of Corinna, taking a picture of Cujo and I.

And yes...that picture made the paper!

On a side note...this is the 1st time I've ever been in a newspaper!

Anyways, let's go back to that day.

When we went outside, after being interviewed by Tony Saxon, there was Chris and his kids...sadly, 2 minutes, too late.

Chris and I chatted for a minute about what happened, when my work friend Corey walked by and said hello! After introductions, we all chatted for a few minutes about various things. It was a cool scene. After abit, Corey had to check on his vehicle getting fixed, and Chris jumped in line...to meet Cujo, with his two kids.

I told Chris, that I would go inside and take pictures of his family meeting Cujo. I could tell Chris was a little nervous about meeting his favourite team's best goalie of the last 15 years!

When it was Chris' turn, Cujo was still smiling like when it was our turn, previously! Cujo said hello to all of them, and signed Chris' son's "Cujo" t-shirt, a giveaway for his daughter, and all of Chris' rookie cards!

I gotta tell ya...Chris was nervous! He looked star-struck, but that was cool to see!

When it was all said and done for Chris, he looked like a kid in a candy store! His kids were just as excited! Corinna and I were both happy for them.

We stepped outside, and I got Chris to show off his, now valuable, autographed Cujo rookie cards.

Afterwards, we all chatted for a few more minutes, before it was time for Chris and his kids to head back to Mississauga for their plans.

We said our goodbyes, and then Corinna and I headed to the CIBC barbeque. We each got a hamburger and water, and thought about waiting to see Cujo take a few shots with some kids.

CIBC has set up a outside rink, with a net for Cujo to play some street hockey with some kids. After we finished our little lunch, Cujo came walking out of the bank...IN GOALIE GEAR!

Man...this was cool to see!

Sure enough, the Olympic gold medalist got in net, and kids got to go one-on-one with Cujo! There were some breakaways, some wristshots, and the odd slapshot on the netminder! He stopped a few, but this morning...most of the kids scored!

It was a great experince for Corinna and I...on many levels!

It's also a day, we'll never, ever, forget.

C

PS- Thanks to Curtis Joseph and to CIBC Woodlawn Road. Thanks to Chris, and his kids for coming out, and to Corey for saying hi...and scoring a signed puck! Thanks to Rob, again, for the head's up...I owe ya one. Nice meeting you Bill and Mike. And last, but not least...to Corinna, for everything.

PS deux- Thanks to Tony Saxon and the Guelph Mercury, for publishing our experience that day, and using our photo in their great newspaper and internet site. The article used is property of both Saxon and the Mercury, and is not my own, or affiliated with my blog.

The original article is located here;
http://news.guelphmercury.com/Sports/article/606154 (my image, is image 2!)

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