Bono, Goldie Hawn, and Steel City Con

Around mid April I ventured to meet Bono. I went inside the event and had to sit through an incredibly boring set of speeches that never seemed to end. Damn I was going insane. To add salt to the wound Bono took photo ops with some girls literally right next to me. Like if I moved 2 inches I would have bumped into him. That's how close I was. Wow that was painful. 

When it finally did end I had to figure out a way to get to Bono especially with police around. I go around and get an autograph but before I could get close enough for a photo op I get yelled at by police saying I'm behind the press line. I hide away in order to strike again. Then when he leaves the room I attempt to ask for a photo op but he ignores me. Police give me a final warning at this point I simply leave the room. 

I then wait outside with graphers, and two random girls join us. Bono comes with police escort and takes perfect selfies with those girls. I try to approach but police stops me. I then get another autograph and beg for the selfie he goes "nahhhh" and again police stop me. I try to approach his car then police get upset again and warn me to stay way from the car. At this point police want to detain me as one cop tells the other "run this guy". They want to get my info but I pointed out that I was on a sidewalk and did nothing wrong so I did not have to cooperate with them. The police then tries to tell me that I will cooperate but I then remind him that I don't as I did nothing wrong. Then I walked away from the police.

Very very infuriating to fail at that photo op simply because I had no vagina! 

Bono autographs


Couple of days later I get a late evening phone call from a Master. Apparently there is a super secret flight for Goldie Hawn. We go to the airport and it's just the two of us. We see her and ask for a photo op and she politely declines. At this point I get a pap shot that looks valid. But then we break her down and she agrees to photos. I then get a selfie. I then ask for an autograph and she politely declines. Wow never thought I'd ever meet Goldie Hawn, but I did. Hell, if in 2015 you told me that in 2016 I'd have a photo op with Goldie Hawn and her daughter I'd laugh in your face. 

Goldie Hawn take 1

Goldie Hawn take 2


With so many events behind me, and so many events coming up, I decided to hit up a relatively easy and stress free Steel City Con. I get there Saturday around noon. It is boiling hot outside, they are "sold out" due to fire marshal crap, and there is a looonnnggg ass line outside to buy wristbands. Apparently unless you pre order you're screwed. But I did not have a day to waste. 

So I get on my knees, I say a prayer to the mooching Gods, and 5 minutes later BAM I'm in the building! 

When inside my main want for the show, Shannen Doherty was at the Froggys pro ops booth along with Holly Marie. I wasn't sure if she was doing table ops. She had another pro op session at 4pm so if I didn't get a pro op I would risk staying till 4pm. I scrambled to try to find out if she was doing table ops but no one could give me a clear answer. Finally I found the promoter representing her and he told me that she is doing table ops. Perfect. I wait in line. Both Charmed sisters arrive. But wait turns out I'm in the Holly Marie Combs line. I was told it was one line for both but apparently not! I then explained this to the same promoter and he said he would take care of me. Great. So after about two more people meet Shannen he calls me over and I get the photo op. 

I then stand in line for Jon Heder AKA Napoleon Dynamite and get the photo op with him. I then go to Dee Wallace. Got her before but needed her on my ET poster. She asked who signed on the moon I told her Drew Barrymore. She was impressed that I had Drew Barrymore on it and said "that's a hard one to get". I got another photo op with her because photo ops were free with a purchase. 

To make my trek to Steel City Con a little more worthwhile I got a $10 photo op with actor Eddie Deezen from Grease. 

I then left Pittsburgh and on the way back added 30 minutes of driving to avoid a $14 toll. 

Shannen Doherty

Jon Heder

Dee Wallace

Eddie Deezen

ET poster

Carol Burnett, Eddie Money, plus other music meets

On this day there was an event with a bunch of music related names. The two names on that list I cared for the most were Eddie Money and Dee Snider. And Snider I already met twice. But I had an early morning Eddie flight. So I thought I would do that, then do a Carol Brunet flight later in the day (which would happen the same time as entries to the music event) and after that call it a day. 

I arrive early morning, and adelta arrives with a Master. We wait for Eddie money, he arrives and is nice as can be. I get the photo op and autographs. 

Later in the day I return for Carol Burnett with a different set of graphers. I already have her but thought I could improve my photo op and get more autographs. We wait and finally see her. She says to walk with her for autographs. I end up with a photo op and 4 autographs. 

Kinda gets you thinking, so many modern day actresses are total bitches, want nothing to do with fans, hardly even pose and have horrid autos if they sign. Whereas someone like Carol Burnett will take care of everyone and give nice full autographs. She even liked the photos I had her sign. 

At this point I could have gone home, but decided I would do the music event on exits. And while I had to sacrifice my evening I'm actually glad I did. Only thing that sucks is I didn't have things to get signed since I wasn't planning to go.  

So I arrive at the event and again adelta joins along with others. 

Many names I get were WHO names. First I get Wale and Yolonda Adams. But I did get a Dee Snipder combo, improved my Smokey Robinson photo op (he didn't sign anything for anyone), Kem photo op, improved my Nancy Pelosi photo op, got producer Peter Asher. 


Then Kathy Sledge of the group Sister Sledge (We Are Family) comes out. She is one I really wish I had albums for. But she is nice as can be signing everything for everyone doing photo ops. You would think she is barely valid as nice as she was. My first shot was invalid since both her eyes were closed but she was more than happy to pose again. 

Then I get Paul Wall, Grammy owner Neil Portnow, Eddie Money again, Robert Kool Bell, Rodney Jerkins, Ed Roland, and Warren Haynes (former Allman brothers guitarist, but not original). Didn't know who Ed Roland was but upon research he's the lead singer of Collective Soul who sang the 90s song Shine which I actually know (but completely forgot about). So I consider that a good score for me. 

Eddie Money

Carol Burnett

Smokey Robinson


Kathy Sledge

Full event photo ops

Autographs obtained

QUEEN MARY LIED about her SUICIDE on the TWILIGHT of GROUNDHOG DAY

When written in stone guaranteed photo ops were announced for Cameron Diaz book signings, I immediately pre ordered my book without further question (it's a fool's endeavor to try for her on the street, either autograph or photo op). 

The signing I attended would be the Brooklyn one and I decided to get to NYC at the crack of dawn in order to commandeer a free parking spot and to hopefully start the day early with some combos. My regular travelling buddy was ok with that but this caused an objection from another friend of ours who we will call J who did not want to sleep in the car for the sake of combos and preferred to come later and split parking 3 ways. He almost didn't come due to this but then finally caved in. 

I also wanted to stay an extra day to get Dustin Hoffman but as it turned out he was filming 30 minutes north of the city and I had no exact address. So I decided that was too risky. 

Anyhow, arrive in the city, commandeered the all important free parking spot, took a nap, and woke up. 

The first spot was for Ashley Greene and Naomi Watts. Coming in they did nothing for no one. Naomi Watts leaves first and does nothing. I then chase after the car and hold up my item to get signed at a stop light. To my shock she rolled down and started signing. Other people followed. I managed to get J the only photo op she did at this spot. 

Wait some more and Ashley Greene comes out. She is friendly as can be and I get a combo. Already right off the bat J should be thankful that I made him sleep in the car cause he got two first time photo ops he would not have had if we followed his plan to come later and pay for parking. Free parking AND first time photo ops? I would say that's win/win/win on all fronts. 

Off to the next spot for Queen Latifah, Ken Jeong, and Alyssa Milano. The first one I never met the other two I already got but have photos for them to sign. Personally I could care less about Queen Latifah's music, but she is also a movie name which is why I wanted that combo. 

We missed Alyssa going in but she did nothing for no one. Leaving Alyssa does nothing even after many of us ran after her car down the street. Going in Ken does nothing either. Sadly at this point the rain is hitting hard and hindering potential combos. 

We move to an awning to remain dry till she arrives which was a terrible move because we forfeited our spots in the rail and when she arrived it was tough to get anything. I got a blurry and invalid shot! But others there racked autographs. She said she would rush to the car going out and went inside. 

At this point Joresky and J decide it's cold, they're hungry, and no one will stop leaving. So they leave to get some food. I warned them "don't go crying if I get a combo from her" as they continued to walk away. I decide to stick it out as does one other person. 

20 minutes later Queen Latifah comes out and we scream for her. She does photo ops with both of us, I get her to sign my 8x10. The other guy is stumbling saying he has one poster for her and she says "well hurry up and get it". 

Waited more and Ken Jeong comes out. I get my items done and get another photo op just because. Now earlier someone had pointed me to Raven Symone's car. And she is someone I needed an upgrade with. So I waited it out. She comes out and is friendly, I get a photo op. Whoopie Goldberg was also parked by the door but since I have two photo ops with her and nothing to get signed I decided not to wait it out. 

I grab some $1 pizza slices, and as I eat them I walk to the next spot and rejoin Joresky, J, and see none other than and Masters waiting. Sadly I found out I missed Andie MacDowell by 30 minutes. Can't blame myself cause I was waiting for people that I knew I would definitely see. In foresight it's always smart to choose the known over the unknown. But I got a few people at that spot. I got Boris Kodjoe and Titus Burgess. Then I spot someone that looks like a rock star. I yell out for a photo op and he was nice as can be about it. After this is done Joresky realizes it's David Coverdale lead singer of White Snake. Decent music name. Then finally Dominic Sherwood from Shadowhunters. The cast of Pretty Little Liars including Billy Zane sadly rushed out and didn't stop. Sucks cause Billy is a want of mine. 

After this we take the train to Brooklyn for the Cameron Diaz appearance. This signing was a reunion of graphers including Masters. This is further proof on how impossible she is. Not as many as the Kate Hudson one but also because she did more appearances than Kate Hudson. It was good to see everyone and bs with everyone. 

Finally get to Diaz and there are 2 issues. First there are 2 cameras, and second she is standing too far away! WTF? We take the photo op. Upon looking my picture, whilst valid was pretty pixelated and low quality due to 2 flashes going off at once and being too far away. Though Joresky's picture came out fine. I tell them I'm not happy with my picture I want a redo and I'm denied saying "it doesn't matter". Wow they do not know what these things mean to us and what we go through for them. I was asked to move along and when it came time to pick up my book I didn't pick it up saying I either want a refund or I want to go back to take my picture. 

I then get called over by a guy and explain to him the situation and how my picture was crappy and I came for that yada yada yada. He says to wait and I do. After a few minutes he pulls me away from the vicinity and I go on explaining and ask "what's the big deal, I can just go back in line and pick up my book when done". He asks if I'm really telling the truth that I still didn't pick up my book and I assure him it's the truth (which it is). He goes "ok, I don't remember you, go". I thank him then go back in line with 

A few minutes later the guy comes back to me to confirm that I didn't pick up the book and I do. He also tells another guy "I don't want to fight with him all day. Again go inside, none of the other staff seems to remember me (which is good). I get to Diaz and this time she is standing closer (again, good). I give the staff my camera and tell the pro photographer I just want one flash. He puts his camera down (another good). Get a second shot with Diaz and this time it turned out MUCH better. Not as good as it could be cause she was still a good distance, but more than acceptable. My reaction was this face I then pick up my book and I shake the guy's hand and thank him. I was extra happy I did what I did when the photos they uploaded to facebook were VERY low quality. To boot, most pictures (mine included) were invalid as either one person or both were looking at different cameras (in my case both of us were looking at another camera). I still saved it for archival purposes but that shot is invalid and garbage. I really hope it doesn't become a trend to have a pro photographer uploading to facebook. It would be the modern day forced Polaroids. 

At this point on we go chill and have dinner at Wendy's. Then we go to a spot where we hope to see randoms. I then get a call from a Master who gives me a tip for Andie MacDowell. I also informed him of what I was doing and he told me this spot had randoms 2 weeks ago! WTF! Somehow we had wrong info. I then run to the Andie spot but looks like they were done, sadly. So I rejoin Joresky at a spot for Jessica Lange, Gabriel Byrne, Michael Shannon, and John Gallagher. We had good spots on the railing and hoping for the best. We get Colby Minifi. Then we see Jessica Lange dashing to her car doing nothing for no one. Next actor John Gallagher Jr. We sadly don't see Gabriel Byrne and Michael Shannon. Already had Shannon but wasn't to virgilize with some autographs. 

Joresky then leaves town and I go to the spot where I went to earlier. Picked up a couple of photo ops, then when Billy Zane and more Pretty Little Liars cast show up they sadly do nothing for no one. I pleaded with Billy for a photo op but he says he doesn't do photo ops at 3am (it was actually 1:15). 

After this a grapher who me and Joresky hadn't seen in a year says he'll walk me to my car, take a piss, then take the train. I graciously accept his company. We walk to my car, he takes his piss. He is about to leave and I invite him to crash in the back seat of my car since we are both going back to the Billy Zane spot the next day. He accepts my invitation. Lucky for him I had 2 sets of blankets.

Full list of day 1 photo ops

Cameron Diaz

Ashley Greene

Queen Latifah

Ken Jeong

Raven Symoné


David Coverdale



Wake up and back to the Billy/Andie spot. Sadly don't see either one but I get a few female photo ops including Katherine McNamara from Shadowhunters and Danai Gurira from The Walking Dead. The latter did one photo op at that spot and it was with me. While at this spot I sadly didn't notice a pregnant Emily Blunt in time as she came in and out of her car. Though she probably wouldn't have taken the photo op whilst pregnant. 

Then I had to move to another spot for Jai Courtney from Terminator: Genisys, Divergent and of course Captain Boomerang in Suicide Squad. Sadly I didn't have a prime rail spot but that didn't stop me. First the singer MAX leaves and I get a photo op with him. Finally Jai comes and gets handed a sub par silver. I get an autograph then go out of the railing and beg for a photo op which I score. Then I go back get a second autograph. The first auto came out fine but the second one sadly came out bad that I almost want to delete it. 

With this objective successfully completed, I go back to the spot I left. Ray arrives and he wants David Coverdale. He also gives me a tip on Chicago's spot and that they are leaving the spot soon. Since nothing was happening here I  rush to the Chicago spot and make it on time. Sadly no original members are spotted and I only get two scrubs from the band. I rush back to the original spot, grabbing some $1 pizza slices on the way. I thought about eating it there but then decided "that's how you miss people" so I just took it with me. As I arrive I see Billy Zane take photo ops, so I rush with pizza still in my mouth. I ask for a photo op and he goes "you were here last night" and I say "yes". He goes "no one wants to take pictures at 2am" and I get a photo op! YES another main objective is scored. 

While we wait more baseball player Dave Winfield is spotted from a distance and we all get photo ops. David Coverdale also leaves and signs. Then I get Lucy Hale but sadly she is wearing a beanie and shades. Oh well I guess beggars can't be choosers still a valid shot. At this point I am joined by markedout's heelorton who also wants to get Andie. 

I get a tip for Andie's spot, but sadly my phone was dead so I didn't see the message till late. Me and heelorton figure it's too late for that spot. We wait and wait still nothing. Then in a rookie move I step aside to charge my phone for 10 minutes and 5 minutes after I go to do that Andie comes in. My reaction is this face 

At this point I was bummed and depressed as it seems to be Groundhog day for me when it comes to her. I just keep missing her. I still wait some more and lo and behold the combo Gods took pity on me and give me a chance at redemption. She comes out with her family to go eat dinner! I finally grab the photo op and tell her I've been waiting all day for her. She doesn't believe me but it's essentially half true. I've been waiting at this spot most of the day for her and Billy. Steven Weber also comes out and I score him. SUCCESS!  

I then step aside to charge the phone, then at one point me, heelorton, and two others all go to the Jessica Lange/Gabriel Byrne spot. This time we stand on another door hoping to see Byrne and Shannon, but sadly see aboslutely nothing. We go to the door me and Joresky stood at yesterday and it is done. 

I go up to a grapher and ask what happened, he saw the same people me and Joresky saw the evening prior plus Michael Shannon! Really? Me and heelorton then decide to check one last spot for Deep Purple and members of the rap group NWA but sadly it looks like the spot is dead and we are too late. While I failed at all that Lanza and Greg both got Russel Crowe. I already had Crowe but would have liked a shot with less facial hair plus I had something to get signed. In foresight I wanted names I didn't have. In hindsight I should have been at that spot. My day wasn't a bust but the tail bit of the evening was. I guess you win some you loose some. It's the nature of the beast. The only guarantee when it comes to street meets is if you don't play you don't win. 

Full list of day 2 photo ops

Jai Courtney

Billy Zane


Andie MacDowell

Autographs obtained the past two days

Ken Jeong autographs

Sucks the shittier auto is on the better picture.

The Weekend of Multi PUNCHES

Before heading to the Three Stooges con in PA and then NYC, I meet up Friday night with  and adelta outside a Disturbed concert. As I arrive I apparently miss the singer but he was hooded up and rushed to the bus. I did however get photo ops with the other three band members, two of which are original. 

With both Joresky and adelta in the car we then go to a spot for Mike Epps who I know best from The Hangover movies. We had no access at that spot so we had to rush to the next spot. He sees us and was baffled that we did what we did, but was cool about signing and taking pictures. 

Adelta then found info for Floyd Mayweather at a club, but it wasn't 110% guaranteed that we'd get a photo op. Since it was very late and we had a long weekend ahead of us I decided to call it a night. In hindsight that was a terrible move because looking at Instagram it looked like he did photo ops. I got him before but it's a car shot with hat and shades. So that was quite a PUNCH in the face and one of the plethora of bad decisions I've ever made whence hunting. 

Get up early Saturday to the Three Stooges con. My main goal was to upgrade my Chris Diamantopoulos photo op since he is hooded up in my airport picture. We go inside and get a combo with Johnny Ginger (Billy the Kid). He was only $5 an auto free 8x10 and photo op! Wow you don't see too much of that in this day and age. At that price I'd feel bad mooching him. So he got my $5. 

We then went to the Q&A and waited for it to finish. Then I rushed to stage and got my Chris Diamantopoulos combo and a photo op with writer Mike Cerrone. At this point they were trying to prevent combos but I ignored like I usually do. Then I got Will Sasso to sign. Didn't bother to fight for that photo op since I had him already. But a few minutes later he was doing photo ops as he was leaving the room so I got a photo op. We were also joined by markedout's Andrew. 

There was a 1pm signing but I didn't need anything there. So I tagged along for moral support. After the signing the trek at the con ended. 

Disturbed band members

Mike Epps 

Three Stooges con photo ops

Three Stooges con autographs


Now the lead singer of Disturbed was in Philly. I had the choice to go redeem that miss or head to NYC. I chose to head to NYC since there were chances at celebrities I wanted more and to cut down on driving time. First spot was one for Benedict Cumberbatch but we saw no activities. So we went to a spot for randoms but sadly saw nothing. 

Then we walked 2 blocks and people were waiting for two of the nastiest celebs that exist, namely Ed Norton and Kierra Knightly. Markedout's heelorton was also waiting. Baffled me why people would consider dedicating time to these two, but minutes later me and Joresky leave go to yet another possible Benedict Cumberbatch spot. This spot has activity but we can't find where to stand. Wow what a punch in the face. Could have gone to Philly and gotten the singer of Disturbed instead I came to NYC and got nothing. 

With this failure and PUNCH, I go to where I'm practically guaranteed success, namely Rider Strong (Shawn Hunter in Boy Meets World). We wait and Rider arrives and is as accommodating as can be. You don't see that too often. I got a combo from him. Director Dennis Hauck arrives and I get a photo op from him as well. Joanna Cassidy was supposed to be at this spot but sadly never showed up. 

After this I go to another spot where my main goal is Phylicia Rashad. While I was looking for her Benedict Cumberbatch was randomly seen but did nothing for no one. Finally I see Phylicia and I get a photo op and two autographs. This completes my Cosby Show cast! Sadly Claire Danes and Hank Azaria sneak out. I got them before but had items for them. Didn't expect to get Claire but I thought I'd at least get Hank. 

Next up a Timothy Olyphant spot. At this spot I get photo ops with Keith Nobbs, Adelaide Clemens (Silent Hill: Revelation), and Jenn Lyon. Finally Timothy comes out and I get a combo from him. 

Me, Joresky, Aussie Josh, Asian Dave, and Pablo then all go for 2 Bros Dollar pizza slices as we brace for a late night. 

Now we need to find info for the next spot, so we go to where we need to find that info. Sadly the rain was coming down which made finding info much much harder. We got Lennie Pickett at that spot and Asian Dave struck gold by getting a first time Adam Sandler and Paul Rudd shots. With that news I prepped my Adam and Paul 8x10s from the stack I randomly in my car.

At the last possible moment we get to the right spot and Gwen Stefani does nothing for no one as she goes inside. Peter Dinklage apparently did nothing going in. Got comedian Jim Breuer as he was leaving and he was nice as can be even shook my hand after the photo op. Gwen Stefani finally comes out and it was a lot of pushing and shoving but I got an item signed. Someone did get a photo op but she generally didn't do those but I have a near perfect shot with her so that didn't affect me. 

Adam Sandler comes out and I score a photo op with his wife Jackie Sandler who is actually valid. I also get Adam to sign me an 8x10. Then I got a walk-along selfie. Already had him but he was doing them and figured this is at least different due to facial hair. Leslie Jones comes out and was posing so I got an upgrade with her. 

Now Andrew Shue comes out and I couldn't for the life of me get a valid photo op with him as he wasn't really trying to stop. I got three shots, one essentially invalid and two completely invalid. ugh! Judd Apatow was being his usual friendly self and I got an update. Finally Peter Dinklage and Paul Rudd exit but do absolutely nothing for no one. Needed a Peter combo and Paul autos so that was pretty crushing to wait all night and not get them. 

The final spot for the evening, while technically not a bust as I got stuff, was sadly sub par at best. 

Full list of Saturday NYC photo ops

Rider Strong

Phylicia Rashad

Adelaide Clemens

Timothy Olyphant

Leslie Jones

Andrew Shue take 1 (invalid)

Feasting on dollar pizza slices (or in the case of Asian Dave, $1.75 pepperoni)

Full list of Saturday NYC autographs

After some sleep me and Joresky decide to start our day off with a name that will likely be easy. Namely, Jonathan Freeman AKA Jafar in Disney's Aladdin. We arrive at the spot and play the waiting game, finally he shows up. He is more than happy to pose and sign, even waiting for us to be finished with everything and giving nice autographs. None of that "sorry guys I gotta go" or "sorry I'm late" crap, no rushing, nothing. These are the perfect type of names to start your day with because you're most guaranteed to start your day off with a combo and they start their day feeling special. 

We then go to a spot for randoms and also Andie Macdowell but sadly see none. Now we had info on Benedict Cumberbatch but decided to hit up the Ed Harris spot for a couple of reasons. a) We thought there would be randoms b) We thought Amy Madigan would do photo ops since it's their last day (plus she did a photo op with Asian Dave the evening before) and c) Benedict is not known to do photo ops. Let's see our batting average. 

Since it's cold I run to the Ed Harris spot. Joresky was smart enough to pass by a spot for Phil Collen (guitarist of Def Leppard). As it turns out he got that photo op. Yet another PUNCH in the face for me. At this point I was sitting all warm in the Ed Harris spot but super miserable. 

So the spot starts letting out and right off the bat Adam Sandler is at the bar with his family and we get photo ops. Really weird seeing him just chilling like a normal person. Then we see Alex Wolff and Joan Allen as randoms! Wow pretty good names for randoms! But apparently Adam Driver was also there and I didn't see him. I ran outside to see if I could find him but no luck! Missed a chance at him, yet another PUNCH in the face.

Ed and Amy come out, I upgrade my Ed Harris shot and as we predicted Amy did photo ops! I couldn't believe it! So far 2 of our 3 predictions came true. Nat Wolf comes out and he is clean shaven so I get an upgrade! And finally another photo op with Taissa Farmiga just because. Despite two punches in a row I wasn't upset with 3 fresh names and 2 upgrades. 

Next up a spot for Saiorse Ronan, Ben Whishaw and others. We arrive and stand by some Masters. Saiorse Ronan comes out and is super rushed. Seems like you couldn't get a combo, either or. I said I had nothing to get signed and wanted the photo op and she barely did it. Then Ciarán Hinds is was begrudgingly doing combos and cursing out a dealer and I got a photo op. Ben Whishaw comes out and is super nice, get a photo op and two autographs. Sadly Ben has a beard which takes away from the photo op. Finally Sophie Okonedo comes and is super nice. I get a photo op. 

Despite the sweeping success at the last two spots, we would find out that a few people got Dr Strange suited Benedict Cumberbatch photo ops, which was the final and most major PUNCH in the face. Wow just wow. Guess one of our predictions did not come true and it turned out to be the punch of punches. 

Stood at a final spot in the evening in the hopes of seeing Andie Macdowell but we only see current Smashing Pumpkin guitarist Jeff Schroeder. This ended our trek. 

Full list of Sunday photo ops

Jonathan Freeman

Adam Sandler

Alex Wolff

Joan Allen

Ed Harris

Amy Madigan

Nat Wolff

Saiorse Ronan

Ciarán Hinds

Ben Whishaw

Full list of Sunday autographs

MY GENERATION needs some AVENGING

On a day in march I had two goals. Pete Townshend, lead guitarist of The Who, and Don Cheadle (Ocean's Twelve, Ocean's Thirteen, Iron Man 2-3, Avengers: Age of Ultron, Captain America: Civil War, among others). 

In previous days Pete has been sick and did nothing for no one and Roger Daltrey was being a total dick even denying people before they ask for anything. 

I arrive at the Who spot. Already other graphers are there. More arrive including markedout's adelta with two graphers. He was actually playing minion to one of the graphers who gave him a ride (in exchange for autos) while the other grapher was using his mom (yes his mom) as a minion. 

Time passes we do see Roger and of course he blows us off. The old lady even tried for him at the car window he still ignored her. When Roger came back the grapher was upset his mom was sitting aside reading a book because he thought if she went up to him in time he would have signed for her. 

Pete's security guard tells us that he is still stick and won't be signing today and "maybe tomorrow". When Pete shows up one grapher spots him and he still ignored. Then we all pop up and Pete just goes in the car. Big bust. 

Now I still have two opportunities ahead. A late train for Don Cheadle and Pete coming back from the venue. Both Don and Pete somewhat conflict, but I decide to go for Don and rush for Pete.

So I go to Costco to kill some time and eat some hot dog and ice cream, then head for Don. I park the car, go inside while two people are waiting outside with a car parked out front. 

I see Don and ask right off the bat he says he can't stop. As he is walking I ask for a shot while he's walking he says ok. First shot is blurry and invalid, but I get a second shot that is much better. Looks almost invalid but he is clearly posing so I think it counts. 

He goes outside and denies the two waiting outside. Then when he goes in the car he signs and one guy gets a car shot. 

The grapher heads directly to the Pete spot, and I go to the car and head directly there. I'm about 2 minutes away from the spot and get a call. He asks where I am I tell him. He said he arrived, 30 seconds later Pete arrives and signs 5 things for him. I arrive at the spot and the grapher shows me 5 albums done and is dancing in celebration. I was beside myself. Other graphers heard the news and were upset but said I should feel "really" bad because I was there and just missed him. I don't think I felt as bad as I should have with the many many misses and blunders over the years. It's like I'm desensitized. To make matters worse Don's train as about 15 minutes later. Had it been on time I would have made the Pete spot with minutes to spare 

With news of Pete success spreaking, the next morning graphers were waiting yet again. And I decided to give it one last ditch effort. After all how many other opportunities for Pete Townshend will present themselves in the future? 

The witching hour arrives and we approach, he tells us to back off and his security guard is also there, but moments later CHAOS ensues. I guess it makes too much sense for the guard to tell everyone to calmly line up To make matters worse, Pete had his own shitty black sharpie. Triple Ugh! Despite shoving, pushing, and Pete yelling at people to back off I get two things done in the bad sharpie (one bad autograph and one really bad autograph) and somehow manage to get a valid photo op! At one point someone got him to switch pens then when the grapher who got him mom the day before put up 5 things to get signed (he had gotten 3 things done with the bad one) another grapher shoved him away yelling "don't put your stuff on top of me"

Pete left and the two graphers ended up in a HUGE fight/argument, head butting, cursing each other out, and throwing punches. Meanwhile a third grapher was trying to play peace keeper saying "guys, not here". The one who brought his mom the prior day said things like "you prevented me from getting stuff with the good marker, now I won't be able to pay my bills". 

I was recording and when they realized one of the graphers attacked me and threw me into a cab. The cab driver then said he wanted to call the cops on him because his car was damaged. But the grapher went to the cab and said "this can easily be removed" as he used his saliva to remove the marking. 

After the fact everyone shook hands and made up. We did not even bother to wait for Roger to exit. 

What a difference 2 minutes can make. The night before I could have had perfect autographs and a photo op and not dedicated any more time. But at least this story has a happy ending since I got the photo op 

Don Cheadle photo op

Don Cheadle autograph

Pete Townshend photo op

Pete Townshend autographs 

On another day I decide to try for another Avengers related name, namely Tom Hiddleston AKA Loki. Sadly he had been soured up in NYC so I was bracing for the worst. I arrive at the airport, graphers are there including markedout's adelta. We wait and never see him. We then found out he bumped his plane to the next one. So we wait longer. Meanwhile Joe Lieberman is spotted and we get photo ops. 

Finally he arrives and right off the bat he denies everybody. Airforce guy tried to use the military card but to no avail. As he walked outside I beg for walking selfie and he agrees and I get that. Photo is slightly blurry and not the best, but passable and valid. Thankfully a pap takes a MUCH better shot. When that shot was sent to me my reaction was this face 

He gets in the car and people beg for a roll down but he does not bite. 

With this photo op, I am now officially out of the Wizard World fuck money fest in June. I will still go for other names but as far as the Marvel names go I am good! Only way I would pay for anything Marvel related at that fuck money fest would be if any of the announced guests are fully suited or if they announce someone named Samuel or Scarlet. 

After this success I go to Costco, hot dog and ice cream, charge my phone, relax, and go to Hiddleston's event. At the event the only other grapher is the old timer. He wasn't happy when I told him that Tom signed nothing for no one at the airport but said "maybe he'll see me with my cane and feel sorry for me". 

He arrives at almost the last minute. The venue folks are trying to back us off but we ignore them completely and do our thing. First I get a photo op with director and producer Marc Abraham who is nice as can be then we ask Tom he says he has to go in. Marc apparently told him to sign (according to the old timer I didn't hear that) but he does one per for 3 people. He was wearing spectacles so I didn't even ask for a photo op as that would be a downgrade. 

While I dedicated more time than I would have liked, overall I'd say fruitful and successful.  

Joe Lieberman

Tom Hiddleston take 1

Tom Hiddleston take 2

Marc Abraham

Autograph

I went to the BARBERSHOP

There were two events that featured Regina Hall, Cedric the Entertainer, and Ice Cube. Of those 3 names I need Regina Hall who I know best from the Scary Movie films, upgrade with Ice Cube since he is wearing a cap and shades in my shot, and a decent "get if there" name in Cedric. So this was worth embarking on. 

The first event was an in writing meet and greet. So it made sense to go there. I arrive, find a free parking spot about 7 blocks away, walk to the event, and line up. We are taken inside and right there and then things start to go sour. There are TWO seats instead of three! I asked and apparently Regina would be "late" which would turn out to be code for "no show". This sadly meant I would have to go to the second event regardless. 

We start and they say someone will take your photo op. Seconds pass and now you can take selfies if you're quick. More seconds pass and now photo ops are not allowed! This all happened within a 1 minute time span 

It is my turn, I get Ice Cube to sign an 8x10 plus the poster they provided. Then I ask for a selfie he goes "if you can get it" then on to Cedric who signs the poster and poses for a selfie as well. 

The photo ops, whilst valid, where not very pleasing to look at. Ice cube seemed like a downgrade even though he was wearing no hat. Plus no way I could call it a day as I still didn't have Regina. So I stuck around and hopped to the end of the line for another shot at photo ops. But at that point they were being REALLY strict on photo ops. I did however get another poster signed. 

I then waited outside and both actors came in the barbershop bus (where they were offering free haircuts). There was a crowd so any shots would be tough, but as they went to their cars I somehow grabbed selfies that look much better than the table shots. 

Killed some time and then headed to the spot for the next event. It was a big ass mall where I've never ever been. But I commandeered an almost free parking spot and went. I scouted it out and eventually saw a old timer combo hunter. I wouldn't call him a "Master" but he has been doing it since the 1940s so he's not without experience. He told me that he's done many events here and 90% of the time this is the door they come in from. Perfect so now I was a little more at ease. 

We wait and the cars pull up at that very door. I see both Cedric and Ice Cube enter and I'm looking for Regina. I finally see her and ask for a photo op and she is nice as can be. Signed and did the photo op. Sadly she signed on a dark spot on the two posters but still valid (to be specific she signed on Ice Cube's crotch). 

I waited for exits cause I heard Common might have slipped inside as I was looking for Regina (already had him but could add him to the posters) but that turned out to not be the case. On exits I got much better shots with Ice Cube and Cedric (though Ice Cube is wearing shades at night, still an upgrade over my old shot). 

One older woman who was randomly walking by was on orgasm as she saw Ice Cube and got a photo op with him. 

Hindsight is 20/20 I should not have wasted time with the meet and greet and should have done the second event. Goes to show you that there are no rules when it comes to success in combo hunting. The non-guaranteed event was better than the "meet and greet" in every shape and form. Better photo ops, more celebs, the works. 

Full list of photo ops

Regina Hall

Ice Cube

Cedric the Entertainer

Autographs

The A list scores in NYC

After Monstermania I was on my way with to NYC! Our friend Suzanne had already obtained Will Smith. It was a bit heart crushing that she got Will Smith while I was getting scrubs at Monstermania (albeit guaranteed scrubs) but I would have a chance to redeem this. 

But before we would hit up this spot we would arrive at an "easy" spot for Robin Tunney and Zachary Quinto. And this spot we would meet up with our Australian buddy Josh. Josh tends to rack a lot of good names whenever he combo hunts. So me and Joresky decided to stick with him so that his good luck rubs off on us. 

First we spot Zachary Quinto who is nicer than he used to be in the past. I have a picture with him from before but got a nice upgrade. Also got my photo signed. 

Robin Tunney comes out she says quickly cause she has to go but does multi combos anyway. I got my three items done plus the photo op. 

Off to the spot for Will Smith and Helen Mirren. We arrive and figure out the right place to wait by spotting Masters. None other than was also at that spot. A Master asks me to help him with autos but I said truthfully I had my own items. Also it turns out Helen Mirren is not there. Didn't affect me cause I had her. After a wait we see Will Smith and I ask for a photo op. WTF my camera is acting up but thankfully Will is a nice guy and I get the shot! I then manage to score not one but TWO autographs! I couldn't believe it. My luck turned around!  

I then ran down the street to yell and scream in victory then came back. I then told the Master to give me items to get signed. He has helped me with info in the past so if once in a while I play temporary role of minion and get him some autos it is the least thing, in my opinion. 

When Will Smith comes out he says he will do walk along selfies but no autos. Despite that one guy manages to get an auto and I get right to him for an auto but he didn't sign for me. Oh well at least I tried. 

From this point one, everything else was just gravy. I got an A lister that has eluded me for a long time plus autographs! This was a rare victory for me. Additionally most other photo ops I've seen he either has a hat or a cap, but this is the only time he had neither! Wow just wow! 

After this great victory we went to a spot in the hopes of seeing randoms but saw no one we recognized. We then got some $1 pizza, commandeered a free parking spot for the day, then went to sleep. 

Wow I can't believe it, hindsight is 20/20 I did every single thing right that day. I got the guarantees at Monstermania, hit up the "easy" spot and didn't miss Will Smith in doing so, then I got a perfect combo and extra with Will Smith, no hat or cap to boot! This is such a rarity for me, so I REALLY appreciate it when that happens. 

Zachary Quinto

Robin Tunney


Will Smith


The next day was more or less the classic bell shaped curve. It would start off slow, shoot up, and then plummet again.

We wake up, and I go wash up, take a crap, and charge my phone. Meanwhile we get a tip for a My Big Fat Greek Wedding 2 spot. Me and Joresky go there and after a while see nothing. We decide to go to other spots. We wait for Wayne Brady. We see him coming in wearing a hat and shades and on the phone. As he is about to enter Joresky asks him for a photo op. He then says he's on the phone with his daughter and if he has to choose it will be his daughter every time. He says he will come back out to take a picture but told Joresky to watch his face. 

Minutes later true to his word he does come out and does photo ops with us. I was hoping he would at least take off the hat or shades but no luck on that front. We then go to a spot for Saiorse Ronan and Ben Whishaw but sadly never see them go in. However, going to this spot would turn out to be a brilliant move. Because we saw a Master who conversed with us and told us the technique required to increase our odds for Ed Harris and Lupita Nyong'o photo ops! On a side note, according to this Master he can stay home for 6 months and be ok. "That's how much money I have" according to him. 

Next up we try for Forest Whitaker but sadly he didn't come out. We got Frank Wood. Then we try for Ed Harris using the new info we got. Sadly Ed doesn't come out but we do get  Bill Irwin, Larry Pine, Taissa Farmiga, Nat Wolff, Paul Sparks, and Rich Sommer. Not too shabby.

Stopped by the Lupita Nyong'o spot to obtain materials and she never came out. Then off to the Saiorse Ronan and Ben Whishaw spot but they don't come out either. Did get actor Jim Norton though. But wow 4 spots and not ONCE did we get the main person we wanted. 

Back to the My Big Fat Greek Wedding 2 spot didn't see them but we do see Howie Mandel and I get a photo op. 

Now it's time to hit up the previous spots in the hopes that our luck would turn around. On our way we see Danny Woodburn randomly. He blew off Joresky for a photo op. I had no reason to chase him down since I got a photo op at Chiller, but Joresky did and still failed. After some $1 pizza we go back to Forest Whitaker. After two failed attempts we finally see him and get the photo op. Sadly he didn't sign merch. Off to the Ed Harris spot. We did exactly what we were told to increase our odds. But even that wasn't enough because when him and his wife came out neither one did photo ops. Ed said there were too many people but then would waste time BS-ing with everyone. WTF Ed also signed my 8x10. After most of the crowd left we had our Australian buddy try to break him and it worked and we all got photo ops! I couldn't believe it! This is a tough photo op to get we had to use the tip given to us which put us in the playing field AND we had to use the "Australian" card. 
After this success I ran over to the Lupita Nyong'o spot. I had to follow the stealth related technique I was told in order to get that photo op. When it was time to strike I commandeered my front rail spot. Since Joresky didn't run he got there too late and was behind me (ie second row). Lupita finally comes out after taking her sweet time and signs my item. I ask for a selfie and she agreed to it! Sucks she has hat and shades (at night) but she is a tough photo op to get so I'll take this valid shot. 

Wow I couldn't believe it. I successfully sniped 3 for 3! Forest, Ed, Lupita! The day is redeemed! Although to be honest I'd want another Ed because hat plus beard kinda screams upgrade. After I got Lupita I gave Joresky my spot but sadly his shot came out blurry. 

Now it was off to a spot where I wanted Three Doors Down and Joresky wanted Stevie Wonder. Since Joresky felt defeated he thought it was too late for Stevie. He stopped by McDonald's for a chocolate shake and I continued to the spot. Not 5 minutes later Stevie came out! His handler said no autographs but he will do photo ops. Everyone lined up and he took photo ops. I got two shots since the first looked invalid but this is my second time meeting him so it wasn't much of a victory. I wish it were Three Doors Down. Australian Josh came 10 seconds too late as he was already in the door when he arrived. And Joresky arrived about 5 minutes late and had the look of death in his face as Josh recorded me showing him the Stevie Wonder photo op. In an unusual twist (for this spot) an employee at that spot tried to kick us away. We backed away to a certain point yet he still wanted us to go. At this point we all simply ignored him and he gave up telling us to leave after a minute or two. But shortly after I went to get the car in order to be ready for the final spot for the evening. 

The final spot for the evening was one for Ariana Grande. I have her but could use a better shot and this spot typically gets randoms. Sadly the only good random was Larry David and he did nothing for no one. Ariana attracted a huge crowd and this pretty much made the spot worthless. 

Here is where the annoying part lies. They pulled her car to the side door on private property implying that it was game over. Then they moved the car back to the front door and setup barricades implying that she intends to take care of her fans. But of course when she comes out she rushed out covering her face 

The evening ended on a low note and it was then off to sleep. 

Forest Whitaker

Ed Harris take 1

Ed Harris take 2

Lupita Nyongo

Stevie Wonder

Full list of photo ops for the day


The final day starts with the Stevie Wonder spot, but then we move to a spot for actor Campbell Scott since this is his last day at the spot. Joresky spots him 20 minutes later and he does photo ops no issue. He sees the 8x10 Joresky has and is shocked that someone actually has merch for him. I got him on my Amazing Spiderman 2 poster already signed by director Marc Webb. We made his last day a day of happiness, and he started our day with happiness. Why can't it always be that way. 

Next up we get a tip for a Robert De Niro spot. I already have him but wouldn't mind another shot. We arrive and stand in one spot and get blocked by a security guard. We re position ourselves away from that guard and we see Harvey Keitel. I let Joresky have that since I got it already. He goes "make it quick" and Joresky gets the shot. 

We wait for returns and see director Taylor Hackford and he blows us off in disgust. One of his assistant thanked us for being polite. 

When De Niro walked back it was just me and Joresky, no security guard, couldn't have been a calmer setting, he said "not now" when we asked. Seconds later Australian Josh arrives.

We eat and Wendy's then try again, same response and this time a grapher was present. Damn. 

More people arrive, with the presence of more photo op people and more dealers we contemplated giving up, even went to get the car and $1 pizza slices, but decided to make one last ditch effort. To our shock, he actually posed and we all got selfies 

This being my second photo op with him it wasn't so much of a victory, but I guess this was Joresky's "Will Smith". 

To be honest I was more glad he got it than me, because that meant I would not have misery, whining, and complaining on the way home. Instead Joresky was happy and in a state of major drug induced euphoria. 

Campbell Scott

Robert De Niro

All the autographs obtained