June 2013 The Ear

2013 CAC REUNION WAS EMOTIONAL, BUT AMONG

THE MOST MEMORABLE

by Eric Chmiel

The 48th Anniversary gathering of the Cauliflower Alley Club at the Gold Coast Casino in Las Vegas in April was a memorable and especially emotional affair. The main reason for the emotion was that one of our scheduled top honorees, Bill Moody known to wrestling fans as Paul Bearer aka Percival Pringle—passed away only weeks before the reunion was to take place. To say that the CAC was collectively in shock over his passing would be an understatement. Literally just a few days before he left us, Moody was a guest at the annual Gulf Coast Reunion in Alabama. Condolences poured in to his family, and social media sites like Facebook and Twitter were abuzz with club members posting fond remembrances.

On behalf of the CAC family, The Ear would like to express our condolences to his surviving family members. Everyone who knew Bill, even as a passing acquaintance, held him in high regard. As a wrestling personality, his lifelong love of the business helped him become the rare performer who combined charisma and psychology with enormous ability to become the complete package. His presence at ringside helped turn his chief charge, The Undertaker, into one of the all-time greats.

More importantly, as a human being, Bill was a sweetheart of a Bill Moody, a friend of the CAC to the man who never said no and always had time for friends and fans very end (photo courtesy of Bill Moody) alike. Never did he double cross a fellow worker or politic behind another person’s back in order to climb the ladder in his chosen profession. He became a superstar over the course of his career in WWE for no reason other than he simply earned it based on his huge talent. He was a lifetime member of the CAC going back many years, and he will be sorely missed by us all.

The second reason there was a lot of emotion in the air at the reunion this year was because of another honoree, Jake “The Snake” Roberts. It’s no secret that Jake has wrestled with his demons for many years, trying time and again to tame them, always without prolonged success. But in accepting his Men’s Wrestling Award this year, he projected a palpable sense that he had finally turned a corner. And, he looked healthier than at any time in recent memory, weighing around 60 pounds lighter than he was when he last attended a CAC reunion in 2011.

During his moving speech, Jake expressed a deep gratitude to Diamond Dallas Page, who came to Las Vegas to present Jake with his award. Page took Jake into his home several months ago and began working his magic, introducing his friend to yoga, better nutrition and a more structured, disciplined lifestyle. It helped Jake get clean and sober and put his life back on track. In expressing his appreciation, Jake encouraged others to follow DDP’s lead. “If everyone in the world

Jake Roberts, with his son and daughter, would just do a little bit to take care of the person next moments after receiving the CAC Men’s to them,” a teary-eyed Roberts told the crowd, “the world Wrestling award (photo by Scott Romer) would be a lot better place.” He also paid tribute to his family, several members of which had assembled at the Gold Coast to witness Jake getting his award.

More recently, Page has taken a second troubled grappler under his wing: Scott Hall. Maybe sometime in the not-so-distant future, the CAC will be fortunate enough to see a clean-living Hall follow in Jake’s footsteps and make a trip to Las Vegas to accept a CAC award of his own.

Elsewhere, our annual reunion provided its customary share of hardy laughs and good times, as always. There is no event like it in wrestling. CAC reunions are special because they bring together our sisters and brothers of the wrestling fraternity in a unique way; these greats from wrestling’s past and present don’t fly or drive all the way to Vegas each year because they’re paid to be there, or because they’re trying to make a quick buck by selling an autograph or two. They come because they love the wrestling business and they want to break bread with people they care about.

There were too many highlights at this year’s event to mention them all here. However, the editor-in-chief of The Ear would like to list, in no particular order, just of few of his own personal favorites, witnessed during the week:

* Anytime you get two wrestling superstars like Adam Copeland, aka Edge, and Rob Van Dam together in the same place, it’s a noteworthy occurrence. But when RVD picked Edge up high in the air for a bodyslam right in the middle of the

The camera catches the eye of Greg “The Hammer” hospitality room on Wednesday afternoon, those Valentine as he speaks to CAC President who were lucky enough to witness it were Nick Bockwinkel (photo by Scott Romer) treated to quite a spectacle. Luckily considering Edge has retired from the ring—Van Dam was only playing around with his longtime pal and refrained from planting the multiple-time former WWE champion on the floor. Seeing these two laughing and joking together personified not only the best aspects of the wrestling business, but also the spirit of friendship that has come to embody the CAC.

* It was wonderful to see ex-NFL star and longtime pro wrestler Don Manoukian back at the CAC this year. Don got a hold of the roving microphone during the Baloney Blowout on Tuesday night and stirred up a lot a laughter by poking some good-natured fun at himself, a few of his old pals in attendance, and even at the event itself. “You’re killing this town,” Manoukian joked about the proceedings. He still looks great after all these years.

* What an awesome gesture from a first-class organization: “Wrestling Cares,” a charity outfit headed by the famed trainer/wrestler/announcer Les Thatcher and philanthropist for the arts David Jackson, presented a check to Karl Lauer and Morgan Dollar benefiting the CAC Benevolent Fund. When the Benevolent Fund gets a boost from our members, the proceeds go to help workers in need. Thank you, guys! The Wrestling Cares company promotes family-friendly wrestling throughout California and donates 25% of its ticket revenue from every event to a variety of non-profit charities based in the state. Go to Facebook, type in “Wrestling Cares” and click “Like” to show that you support this great group.

* One of the most interesting aspects of a CAC reunion is when veterans whose distinguished careers rarely if ever crossed paths come together for a face-to-face meeting. For example, how about when Greg Valentine and Nick Bockwinkel shared a few words in the hospitality room, or when Rob “Wrestling Cares” donates to the CAC (from left to right: Van Dam approached “Butcher” Paul Vachon on Nigel McGuinness, Karl Lauer, Morgan Dollar, David Tuesday afternoon? We also enjoyed seeing Bill Jackson, Les Thatcher) (pic courtesy of Wrestling Cares) Alfonso shooting the breeze with JJ Dillon in the hospitality room. When superstars who aren’t usually associated with each other suddenly enter the same space, it makes for a pretty cool scene and a thrill for fans.

All in all, with a lot of familiar faces coming back for another year and a slew of new superstars arriving on the scene, the 2013 CAC Reunion & Banquet turned out to be one of the most memorable ever. Plans are already underway for next year.

LANO’S CANVAS CAVITY: THOUGHTS ON THE 2013 CAC REUNION

by Mike Lano

FIRST TIMERS: Among those making their first appearance at a CAC event this year was Diamond Dallas Page, who gave a wonderful speech on behalf of his mentor Jake Roberts. After starting out in Florida with Dusty Rhodes and Minnesota with the AWA, he’s more recently reinvented himself doing motivational speaking and teaching Yoga seminars all over North America and beyond. He’s always given back to the business, and has done so again in helping to bring sobriety to Jake and Scott Hall. Longtime superstars Rob Van Dam and Bill “Fonzi” Alfonso made their CAC debuts as well. Van Dam was a World champ in both ECW and WWE and has an extensive Japanese background, while Fonzi is the rare individual who can talk ring history with our best historians like George Schire and Tom Burke. Fonzi was a star ref for Eddie Graham’s Florida circuit, then “zebra’d” in NWA/WCW and WWF plus he became one of the great managers in ECW. Former WWE star Molly Holly also made her first CAC event.

WWE main eventers Edge and Beth Phoenix made their initial foray into the world of the CAC and both were quite impressed. It would be a surprise if they aren’t back again soon. Edge is wonderful guy, and Beth is a treat to talk to. Kevin Gill was a great Vegas first-timer too. Kevin helps rap greats Insane Clown Posse with their global Stranglemania and Hoodslam promotions. TNA X Division champ Kenny King and former WWE stars Brian “Spanky” Kendrick and Teddy Hart were some other big names among our first-timers. Club President Nick Bockwinkel brought for the first time a rare NJPW bronze bust of Antonio Inoki from the Paul Boesch Houston Museum collection which no one had seen in years.

FAMILIAR FACES: Happily, Bill White is with us every year. He worked for nearly every promoter on the planet in a decorated career. We saw great CAC supporters such as Col. Howard Rogofski, Dave Meltzer and of course Jan Ross, who is a total foodie gourmand. Jan’s husband Jim Ross was back with us as part of the always star-studded WWE contingent that also included Sgt. Slaughter and Rick Steamboat. We’d like to see the Rosses bring some of JR's world-famous BBQ sauce to our hospitality area. That sauce gets 5 stars in my book. It was great to see former NWA/WCW and AAA announcer Chris Cruise. As Chris mentioned in his tribute to Men’s honoree Matt Riviera, he’s more recently been Dr. Mike Lano hanging out in the hospitality room with an announcer for Matt's Traditional Championship JJ Dillon and Akio Sato (photo by Scott Romer) Wrestling league. Matt was fresh off his star-making appearance on the hit cable show “Millionaire Matchmaker.” But Matt, where was that hot chick you dated on the show? Please bring her next year! One of TCW's brightest stars is Kincaid, who had an amazing match with Spanky at the Monday night wrestling show. Our GLOW friends were back in full force, including Cheryl "Lightning" Rusa reuniting with her partner "Thunder," who was making her first CAC appearance. And of course, who can forget GLOW and WWE alumnus Lisa “Ivory” Moretti?

Bruce Swayze attends CAC without fail every year and was one of the first wrestler/managers, even before Roddy Piper. He’s now the world’s number one rubber band manufacturer and pioneered rubber wristbands with photos on them. As an aside, Bruce’s son Billy is one of rock's brightest young touring acts. Don Manoukian returned to the CAC this year. He’s been friends and tag partners with our own Dick Beyer, and since retiring in the 60's he has become one of the West Coast's top real estate gurus. Akio Sato was back. Many may not know of his tremendous history in All Japan Wrestling as Shohei Baba's top office worker before he was both talent and an agent for WWE. Frankie Kazarian from TNA returned to the Gold Coast. I’d like to see Frankie bring TNA standout Christopher Daniels with him next year. How awesome it was to see the great Leo Burke, a big part of the storied history of Canadian wrestling. There were representatives from the All Pro Wrestling NorCalif promotion at the reunion, including booker and manager Markus Mak, plus workers Dylan Drake and Dave Dutra.

The legendary Brian Blair is always terrific to catch up with. Jimmy Valiant did an awesome job paying tribute to his longtime pal Ivan Koloff at the banquet. Jimmy didn't need a script, as he entertained the crowd just speaking from the heart. Ivan was very deserving of being our main event honoree. The

gigantic, glowing smile he shows at all times just radiates love for everyone. So good of the CAC to give him the respect long due him. And what a rock of strength his wife and family have been for him. He’s just an absolutely wonderful man who gave wrestling his body. He thanked Paul Vachon, another returning legend, for helping start him out in Montreal.

Others making their return to the Gold Coast for another year were Sebastian Ice, famed Horsemen manager JJ Dillon (who was again at the helm of the Wednesday banquet), trainers extraordinaire Ron Hutchison, Jesse Hernandez and Les Thatcher, the amazing Freddy “Puppy Dog” Peloquin of Canada, Moondog Mayne’s son Shawn Mayne, ladies legend Ethel Brown, longtime star Duke Myers and his old tag partner “No Class” Bobby Bass, Calgary-area manager Abu Wizal (back for his second straight CAC), refs Billy Silverman, Mickey Jay and Trevor Blanchard, the always delightful Destroyer, and so many others. We were all happy to see each and every one of them.

SAYING GOODBYE TO PERCY: Finally, I’d be remiss not to say a few words about Bill Moody, who passed away just weeks before he was to be honored at the reunion this year. Bill was many things to so many of his friends. He was one of the nicest people ever in the industry, period. And he Don Manoukian, Brian Blair and The Destroyer at was also one of the top historians of even the the Baloney Blowout (photo by wrealano@aol.com) slightest detail of the modern-day history of the biz, territory by territory. He'd always go out of his way to help anyone who asked. Bill was also one of the regular faces at the CAC, which he loved so much. He was involved in some of WWE's biggest angles over the years, but always retained his true roots and soul. It sounds trite to say, but it’s true: they broke the mold when they made Bill, because no one can take his place.

HERNANDEZ HONORED BY CAC DURING SAULTE TO THE INDEPENDENTS

The CAC took Wednesday afternoon at this year’s reunion to salute the many independent wrestlers and promoters who attend our event each spring. The lynchpin of the festivities, which took place in the hospitality room, saw a special “Commissioner’s Award” presented to the durable and talented Jesse Hernandez, who operates the Empire Wrestling Federation promotion and the “School of Hard Knocks” training school , both out of San Bernardino, CA. The award, presented by Hernandez’s promoting peers Michelle Starr of Canada and Jeff Farmer of the Pacific Northwest, was for “Outstanding Independent Promoter” and was the first of its kind to be given out by the CAC.

Hernandez has had a strong record of churning out top pros for years, having had a hand in training onetime WWE stars like Kia “Awesome Kong” Stephens, Shelly Martinez and Rico Constantino as well as TNA standouts like Frankie Kazarian, among many others. His EWF promotion continues to thrive and provides regular bookings for a wide variety of talented California indie wrestlers. Hernandez himself has been a standout in-ring performer and referee, and he’s appeared in several blockbuster movies, including “Ed Wood” with Johnny Depp and “Seabiscuit” with Jeff Bridges.

Humorously, the award was a surprise to Hernandez, who just happened to come wandering into the hospitality room to check in Jesse Hernandez accepts his award at the badge table just as he was about to be honored. It worked (photo by wrealano@aol com) out perfectly, as he was able to come right over and accept his plaque. Also at the ceremony, Rock Riddle echoed the sentiments of the late Bill Moody, pointing out that with the territories gone, it’s up to the indie leagues to break in the future superstars of the business, and to keep the many gifted indie wrestlers employed & doing what they best: entertaining wrestling fans.

A SHORTER BUT BETTER BALONEY BLOWOUT

by Vandal Drummond

It was a unique combination of wit and wistfulness at Baloney Blowout 2013. The event stands as a sweet salute to the days of old when wrestlers on the road would combine their meager cash reserves to create an economically-minded feast of lunch meats, Wonder bread and beer (when I read about it or hear wrestlers reminiscing, the brand Schlitz is the one bandied about the most). Back then, a great many up-and-coming wrestlers simply couldn’t afford much more than those three staples.

While in the past there have been some Blowouts that were marathons, this one set a new tone for the future. Under the watchful guidance of new reunion organizer Morgan Dollar, the pace was kept brisk for both the speeches and the funny between-awards banter, leading to about a one-and-a-half hour affair with scarcely a dull moment. As a result, this really was one of the best Baloney Blowouts in recent memory.

Morgan introduced a new Blowout emcee, the skilled Canadian TV personality Arda Ocal. Arda’s snappy wit and charming personality seemed to be an instant hit with the audience. Ocal reintroduced the concept of the roving microphone, which led to numerous hilarious moments. Ross Hart and his nephew Teddy Hart (wearing an outfit that definitely made him stand out in the crowd) told a Ken Jugan gives his acceptance speech as Jason couple stories about growing up as a member of the Sanderson looks on (photo by Scott Romer) famed Hart wrestling family, while a hilarious Don Manoukian stirred up some laughs by gently ribbing the proceedings. For his part, legendary trainer Les Thatcher praised former TNA star Nigel McGuinness as his best pupil ever.

There also was the sight of longtime Cauliflower Alley Club members wearing red as a tribute to our recently departed brothers Red Bastien (one of Cauliflower Alley’s finest goodwill ambassadors ever) and Paul Bearer; Bastien because of his nickname and Bearer due to his ties to the Alabama Crimson Tide.

Being no fan of lunchmeats, I initially had trouble gauging the quality of this year’s munchable delights, relying instead on the measure of gratified satiation on the faces of Hollywood Book & Poster’s Eric Caiden to my left, and Karen Merritt to my right. So while I enjoyed my lettuce and sweets, I peered about the table for second hand culinary ratings, which were decidedly high. It’s worth noting how fast we were all able to get our food this year, due to the doubling of the number of buffet tables serving the grub.

Morgan and his banquet organizing predecessor How does that sly ol’ dog do it? Karl Lauer enjoys the Karl Lauer opened the evening’s presentation affections of Lisa “Ivory” Moretti (photo by Scott Romer) with wisecracks that were quite reminiscent of the one-liners once bandied about at the CAC’s banquets years ago when they were held at the Sportsman’s Lodge in Studio City, California. Some of the jokes hit and some of them missed. But either way, Karl must be a genius, because it all led up to a gag where Lisa Moretti came up on stage and gave him a kiss and a big hug.

Briefly backtracking: The day before the event, I was having lunch at TGI-Fridays at the Gold Coast, when I saw expressions of shock on the faces of those around me as they looked up at the TV screen behind me. The bombing at The Boston Marathon had just taken place. Obviously this set an odd tone to the first day of the CAC, a day filled with old friends happily reuniting, combined with sadness and confused shakes of the head over the terrorist attack.

The attack was addressed poignantly at the Blowout by Bishop Jason Sanderson, offering up the words of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.: “Darkness does not drive out darkness; only light can do that. Hate does not drive out hate; only love can do that.”

Especially enjoyable to me was The Destroyer’s speech prior to introducing the James C. Melby Historian Award, reminiscing over the days of pro wrestling’s “secret handshake” past. “All the people I have sitting at my table today were once kayfabe. My son (Kurt Beyer, who is a true hepcat!), he’s going crazy today because I keep taking my mask on and off here in the hotel. “

I hit the bar between speeches, gave the bartender a lighter-than-air handshake and asked for a Schlitz. He looked at me like I was high. I think I heard him mutter something about a “stupid mark” as I walked away.

Amongst the awards handed out during the Blowout: George Schire received the Melby Historian Award, David Cantu was presented with The Golden Ear Award, and Alberta’s Bobby Sharp took The Future Legend Award. All were richly deserving of their honors.

When it came to The Jason Sanderson Humanitarian Award, I learned something about the recipient that night, a guy I first caught sight of at the old WFIA ( Wrestling Fans International Association) convention in Georgia back in 1980, but whom I did not formally meet until Cauliflower Alley’s 2011 gathering. Ken Jugan and I clicked at the mention of mutual friend Sam Panico (Pittsburgh’s most dangerous wrestler). Ken and Tom Burke reintroduced me to Darla Staggs (who I did actually meet at the WFIA convention way back when). She’s a very sweet woman, though I learned quickly in 1980 to NEVER say anything negative about Eddie Gilbert, unless you wish to brave an icy stare from her.

While we made small talk at previous Cauliflower fests, Ken “Lord Zoltan” Jugan never sung his own praises, though he would’ve been well justified in doing so. Ken received The Humanitarian Award for spearheading the organization “Deaf Wrestlefest” over the years and promoting wrestling fundraisers for The Western Pennsylvania School For The Deaf, which his sons Adam and Blaise both attended. This tradition began in the early 1990s, and many wrestlers from Greg Valentine to Mick Foley to Domenic DeNucci all contributed their rasslin’ finesse to raise money for the school.

Jugan even got James J. Dillon to shed his manager’s fleece and sport the trunks for some in-ring action at the 2009 Deaf Wrestlefest show, which celebrated the 140th anniversary of the school. Man, if I had known, I would have hitched a plane trip just to see that! The only time I’ve ever seen Dillon in action has been on YouTube, in a late 1960’s Detr oit TV taping match where he and Arnold Skaaland took on the “California Hell’s Angels” Chris Colt and Ron Dupree. I’ve lost count of how many times I’ve watched that match; it’s not the “5-Star” match avid fans tend to seek out, but it really is the sweet archetype of the TV studi wrestling I grew up on. o

Ken Jugan, you are the coolest!

And then I saw my old friend Scott Walton (real name: “El Hijo de Tux Newman”). Anyone who knows Scott can tell you he has the tell-tale expressive face of his father, which can signal more efficiently than words his approval, scorn, or indifference to any situation. In past years at Baloney Blowouts, Scott sported pursed eyebrows, a half-frown and an occasional shrug that signaled “the food is alright, I guess.”

But as I watched Scott this year, plate in hand, a mega-beaming smile was stretched across his Scott Walton, son of the great Los Angeles announcer face. And what was piled high on his plate? Jeff Walton, playfully plunders a plethora of palatable Pickles. Lots and lots of pickles. As it turns out, pickle products (photo by Vandal Drummond) pickles are apparently the surest route to Scott Walton’s good graces. I have never seen him happier at any previous Cauliflower Alley function. His heart was filled with glee (not to mention megaloads of sodium). Any function that can make my pal Scott that happy has got to be the epitome of supreme culinary experience.

Baloney Blowout 2013 was the greatest, the top dog and the gold standard of all Baloney Blowouts.

BANQUET NIGHT LEAVES CAC MEMBERS

WITH A SLEW OF GREAT MEMORIES

by Dan Murphy

The 48th year Cauliflower Alley Club reunion banquet proved to be an emotional affair, where farewells were said to departed friends and the redemptive power of the human spirit was celebrated. Bill “Paul Bearer” Moody, the recipient of the Lou Thesz Lifetime Achievement Award, passed away on March 5, one month before the reunion. Two honorees – Men’s Wrestling award winner Jake “The Snake” Roberts and Iron Mike Mazurki award winner Ivan Koloff – took their time at the podium to talk about how they struggled with drugs and alcohol but managed to turn their lives around.

“I didn’t think I’d ever wear a suit again until it was time to stick me in the ground, because that’s where I was headed,” Roberts said. Roberts candidly discussed his struggles with addiction and said he had considered suicide, but he credited his children with giving him the strength to make it through his darkest hours.

Diamond Dallas Page, who has been working with Roberts to help him lose weight and get healthy through his “DDP Yoga” program, presented Roberts with the award, and acknowledged that Roberts helped him get his start in the wrestling business over 20 years ago.

“The guy who believed in me when very few did, is the guy I get to induct tonight, and that’s really powerful,” Page said. Page talked about the time Roberts stayed at his home in the early 1990’s, including an anecdote about Robert’s pet cobra getting loose in Page’s house, to the chagrin of Page and his then-wife Kimberly.

“I have made many mistakes in my life, but the one mistake I never made was giving up on myself,” Roberts said, his trademark raspy voice cracking with emotion at times. “This guy right here (Page) stuck a hand out for me when I wouldn’t even help myself.”

While his speech proved to be an emotional highlight Ivan Koloff prepares to accept the Iron Mike Award of the evening – one that prompted a visibly moved as Jake Roberts and Dallas Page join the crowd J.J. Dillon, the emcee for the event, to remark “How in a standing ovation (photo by Scott Romer) are we going to follow that?” – Roberts wasn’t about to leave the stage without taking one last good-natured shot at his old WWF rival, Ricky “The Dragon” Steamboat.

“Steamboat, I’ll drop your ass again,” he said, getting a big laugh from the crowd in referencing the time he DDT’ed Steamboat on the arena floor during a 1986 edition of Saturday Night’s Main Event.

Accepting the Lou Thesz award on Moody’s behalf were Ethan Emerson and Adam Pearce. Cowboy Bob Kelly presented the award, and said that Moody was always his right-hand man for the annual Gulf Coast Wrestling reunions in Mobile, Alabama. “I love him like a brother, and I miss him very much,” Kelly said.

Emerson, a longtime friend of Moody, said that Moody took special joy in knowing he was receiving this award from his peers. “He considered this the biggest honor he received in his wrestling career,” Emerson said.

An unadvertised Men’s Wrestling Award plaque was presented to 11-time WWE/World champion Adam “Edge” Copeland, who attended the banquet with four-time WWE Women’s/Divas champion Beth Phoenix. Jim Ross, who served as vice president of talent relations for the WWF when Edge was hired in 1997, presented the award.

“I’ve always had Vince in my ear. What the hell am I going to do?” Ross cracked of his impromptu presentation speech. He said he remembered getting a videotape of the young Canadian Copeland in the mid-1990s, when he was wrestling under the name “Sexton Hardcastle.”

“Sexton Hardcastle? I thought that someone had sent me one of the videotapes that Jerry Lawler keeps under the bed in his guest bedroom,” Ross joked.

Ross went on to praise Edge as “one of the greatest we’ve ever had in the business.”

Edge accepted the award and acknowledged his trainer, Ron Hutchison, and Leo Burke in the audience, as well as other influences from Dory Funk Jr. to Tom Prichard. Edge talked about his remarkable journey from being a teenage wrestling fan to sharing the ring with the likes of Ric Flair, Hulk Hogan, Kurt Angle, Undertaker and many of the greatest stars of his era. “They changed my life and made me want to do nothing in my life other than this,” he said. “I’ve led a charmed life.”

Ivan Koloff was presented with the Iron Mike award (named after CAC founder “Iron” Mike Mazurki) from his longtime friend and frequent in-ring opponent Jimmy Valiant. “The Boogie Woogie Man” praised Koloff’s conditioning, and provided him with wrestling’s ultimate compliment: “He always made his opponent better than he really was.”

Koloff reminisced about growing up as one of ten children in a farmhouse in Canada, without electricity. He said he dreamed of becoming a wrestler from the Longtime WWE stars Edge and Beth Phoenix share time he was eight years old, when he was first able to a laugh at Jim Ross’ speech presenting Edge with watch wrestling on TV at a friend’s house. He thanked the Men’s Wrestling Award (photo by Scott Romer) the old WWWF for giving him his legendary win over Bruno Sammartino for the WWWF title, saying it gave him credibility and put him on the map nationally. Like Roberts, he discussed his struggles with drugs and alcohol, and thanked God for providing him with a new life. Koloff also thanked the fans for coming out and paying to see him get beat up as “the nasty old Communist Canadian.”

Sandy Partlow and Nora “Molly Holly” Greenwald received Women’s Wrestling awards. A very humble Greenwald was presented with the award by last year’s women’s honoree, Lisa “Ivory” Moretti, who praised Greenwald for her heart and strength of character.

A two-time WWE women’s champion, Greenwald said she never quite felt comfortable with her fame. “I’m just this girl from Martin Lake, Minnesota, who was just an average student,” she said. “And then here I am, flying in first class with The Macho Man. Little kids were dressing up as me for Halloween!”

She said that wrestling allowed her to compete in 15 countries and 49 states, and said that she was having a wonderful time visiting with her fellow wrestlers at her first CAC reunion.

A solemn Cowboy Bob Kelly remembers his dear friend Bill Moody (photo by Scott Romer) Partlow was presented with her award by her daughter, Tonya Partlow, herself a former pro. Tonya credited her mother for having the courage to pursue her dream and achieve a noteworthy career in professional wrestling. Tonya said her mother was “the first Native American woman to represent the United States in a professional sport in Japan.” Sandy gave an excellent speech looking back on her career, having been broken in by the CAC’s own Bob Geigel.

Matt Riviera also received a Men’s Wrestling award as an active wrestler. He was presented with the award from former NWA and current Traditional Championship Wrestling announcer Chris Cruise. “I think that this is a young man you’re going to see a lot of in the decades to come,” Cruise said.

“It is an honor to be acknowledged in the greatest sport in the world – professional wrestling,” Riviera said to a chorus of cheers from the audience.

PHOTOS FROM THE 2013 CAC REUNION

When Jeff Sharkey gets out of hand doing Ken On occasion, Hutchison gets a taste of his own Patera impressions at the Gold Coast bar, tough medicine from other CAC members, as 2013 guy Ron Hutchison sometimes has to discipline Future Legend Award finalist Bambi Hall him with a brutal headlock (photo by Eric Chmiel) demonstrates here (photo by wrealano@aol.com)

Maybe Dan Kroffat also was out of hand doing CAC board member Gloria Lovell poses with a pair Ken Patera impressions, as he got a headlock too, of Kansas City wrestling legends, announcer Bill from 2013 CAC Women’s Wrestling Award winner Kersten on the left and promoting great Bob Sandy Partlow (photo by wrealano@aol.com)

Geigel in the middle (photo by Scott Romer)

PHOTOS FROM THE 2013 CAC REUNION

Ear editor Eric Chmiel and CAC board member Royal Duncan pose for photog Mike Lano as the distinguished

Two great Canadian stars come together as Calgary’s own Dan Kroffat joins the Maritimes’ own Leo Burke (photo by wrealano@aol.com)

Author/promoter

PHOTOS FROM THE 2013 CAC REUNION

SEMINAR PROGRAMS RUN THE GAMUT OF TOPICS, WITH

EXPERTISE ON ABUNDANT DISPLAY

by Eric Chmiel

Bob Leonard once again did an excellent jo yone. . nding.

b organizing the seminar series this year. There was truly something for ever No doubt, the biggest beneficiary of the seminars would have to be the young workers who gained valuable knowledge about how to succeed in wrestling from experts in several facets of the business But even if you’re just a fan, there was more than enough entertainment value to make every seminar well worth atte Indeed, all the events took place in full rooms.

R

on Hutchison did a great job illustrating the basics of solid he s d of inar

by

wrestling training. He should know, as he’s trained some of t biggest stars of the past two decades, including World champion like Christian, Gail Kim, Trish Stratus and Edge. Speaking of Edge, after facing some maddening flight delays on the way to the reunion, he and Beth Phoenix stepped right off their plane an made it to the Gold Coast just in time to join Hutchison at his seminar. Edge pitched in and recounted some cool stories of training under Ron, including what it was like to endure some his mentor’s more unorthodox methods. Later, Hutchison demonstrated some moves on 2013 CAC Future Legend Award PWI’s Dan Murphy during his sem nominee Bambi Hall, who survived the experience unscathed despite the no-nonsense roughhousing of the master trainer. Hutchison’s advice on how to build a match and how to select a interesting and sound, plus he offered a multi-media presentation to boot, thanks to a hand from technophile and new Baloney Blowout host Arda Ocal.

D

Cheerleader Melissa, he discussed how young wrestlers might market themselves in today's world. Nobody understands the topic more than the grizzled journalist Murphy, the principal compiler of the “PWI 500,” that magazine’s ranking of the top 500 wrestlers in the world. With the influence he carrie in this capacity—the PWI 500 is the most anticipated issue of any newsstand wrestling magazine in North America and it’s an indispensible tool for struggling workers to get their name noticed—he has seen overtures of every stripe from aspiring independent workers. Anyone lucky enough to have been there left Murphy’s presentation with an expended knowledge of the methods of self-promotion.

good wrestling school was both an Murphy of Pro Wrestling Illustrated magazine had an excellent seminar of his own. With help from s situations rs in seminars took place. One e saw longtime Calgary-area worker Dan Kroffat, hat

A seminar on dealing with unusual that may arise in the ring was scheduled to be moderated by CAC staple Ted Gordienko. But Gordienko had heart surgery just prior to the reunion (he’s reportedly doing well, our best wishes go out to him), so the trusty Bob Leonard stepped in to take his place. Leonard led the veteran panel of Bill White, Beverly Shade, Bruce Swayze & Tom Andrews imagine the combined experience there—as they entertained and informed the young worke attendance with advice on how to handle even the most trying in-ring dilemma.

Two other high-quality

Dealing with difficult situations in the ring (l to r: Bruc Swayze, Beverly Shade, Tom Andrews, Bill White and who has gone from a successful wrestler to an moderator Bob Leonard (photo by Scott Romer) even more successful businessman, lecture on how wrestlers can prepare for life after the business. As Kroffat noted, the time to start thinking about a post-wrestling life is now. Of course, t is no less than sage advice. Also, the talented Sinn Bodhi, aka Kizarny, an ex-WWE and ex-TNA worker, talked about how to build a match, spot by spot, in what may have been the most valuable seminar for young wrestlers. Bodhi has near-encyclopedic knowledge of working and it showed. He also spoke about always acting professional to get ahead in the business. Bodhi gave a similar presentation las

year that got rave reviews, and this time he did another great job.

MICK FOLEY AND OTHER WELL-KNOWN NAMES HEADLINE REUNIUON WRESTLING EVENT

by Eric Chmiel and Brian Westcott

ou have to hand it to Billy

Blade; this guy can really promote a fantastic wre nce again when his Vendetta Pro Wrestling partnered wi o other outstanding indie groups like All-Pro Wrestling, Traditional Championship Wrestling and Gold Rush Pro Wrestling to give the CAC a special card of high-octane matches on Monday night at the reunion. Despite its length, the show never slowed down in showcasing a lot of great talent, including some nationally-known superstars.

stling show. He proved it th

The evening’s highlight was an appearance by Mick Foley, who was greeted by a

chants of “Foley, Foley” and thunderous pplause. In a show of class, Foley came to Vegas to pay ,

tribute to our fallen friend Paul Bearer. He offered hilarious recollections of his time working with Bearer in WWE which touched not only on the late manager’s humanity, but also his sense of humor. His ten-minute speech ended on a somber note, as Foley said of Bearer, “He loved the business he loved the fans and he would’ve loved to have been here. On his behalf, thanks to all of you.” Then Foley led the crow in a chant of “Uncle Paul, Uncle Paul.”

Results of the show: 1) Adrenaline Unleashed champion Billy Blade defeated Willie Mack to retain h

the title ; 2) TCW junior eavyweight champ Kincaid kept his belt by defeating former

lat r former

dapper Mick Foley pays tribute to the WWE star Brian “Spanky” Kendrick; 3) Shimmer champion e Bill Moody during the wrestling show Cheerleader Melissa won her match over anothe at the Gold Coast (photo by Scott Romer) WWE star in Shelly Martinez; 4) Dave Dutra defeated Will Rood to win the All Pro Wrestling Internet Championship (this was the first title change ever on a CAC wrestling show); 5) J.R. Kratos defeated world-famous ex-WWE worker Gangrel when Shelly Martinez turned o Gangrel; 6) In an elimination match, Santana Garrett was the sole survivor in a bout that also included Allie Parker, Bambi Hall, Tab Jackson, Andrea the Giant, L Rosa Negra, Raven Lake, Melissa Coates, Sexy Samantha and Kat Von Heez; 7) APW Universal Champ Adam Thornstowe topped El Chupucabra.

8) 2013 honoree Matt Riviera got the pin on CAC staple B. Brian Blair (who looked great); 9) Gold Rush champ Dylan Drake defe 1 unified tag belts, Pink Mink Inc. (Matt Carlos & Rik Luxury) kept their belts over EGO (Nathan Graves & A.J Kirsch), The Freak Squad (Gabriel Gallo & Dom Vitalli), Cyanide & Vintage Dragon, The Ballard Brothers, J.D. Horror & Sledge, The Wyld Stallyns (Julian Cash & K Devine), Mexican stars Bestia 666 & Damian 666, and The Suburban Commandos (D-Unit & T-Rent); 10) Greg Michelle Starr tries to dump Sean Casey during Anthony defeated "Mr. Saturday Night" Michael Barry to the Casino Royale (photo by Scott Rome win the TCW International championship after a belt shot to the back (the se Rumble-style match, Sinn Bodhi was the victor over an astounding 44 other competitors when he was the last man in the ring after eliminating Sexy Sean Casey. mainstays Sebastian Ice, Rock Riddle (who won it last year) and Michelle Starr.

ated Drake Younger to keep his belt; 0) In a tag team Gauntlet match for the APW/Vendetta

cond title change of the night); and 11) In the 3rd Annual “Casino Royale” Royal

There was also an excellent video tribute to the many great names we’ve lost since the last CAC reunion a year ago. It was a list that was sadly long as so many of our brothers an w

see since the show was being taped for broadcast, even if the audience had thinned by the climax was a strong show, and the CAC thanks Billy Blade for putting it together.

Also taking part in the Rumble were CAC d sisters are longer ith us. The matches began in front of a Standing Room Only crowd in the ballroom, which was nice to . It

CARMICHAEL WINS 11th ANNUAL BEYER CRIBBAGE TOURNAMENT

by Al Friend and Eric Chmiel

For only the second time e

ver, a non-worker snared the title at the annual Dick T l, a longtime CAC member and a regular e ly made it all competition, final championship victory. He won the decisive m in the 11th annual tourney by besting another non-worker in Tim Pulkrabek, who was unsuccessful in the finals for the second consecutive year, having dropped the last bout eventual winner Riki Ataki in 2012. By virtu his four hard-won triumphs in the cribbage ba royal, Carmichael now becomes the eighth man ever to hoist the coveted championship plaque that signifies the winner of this storied CAC event. No doubt, there will be a long line of challengers gunning for him next year, including a litany of big name wrestlers.

Beyer CAC Cribbage ournament. Andrew Carmichae ntrant in the annual the way to a atch to e of ttle

AHats off to Ataki, who set a new standard for championship class in relinquishing pro wrestling’s highest cribbage honor. Despite his schedule, which did n

ot allow him to compete in ndrew Carmichael holds the cribbage tournament plaque this year’s tournament, he nonetheless came to off day ni ght to

as last year’s champ Riki Ataki and tournament organizer Las Vegas early in the week in order to drop Al Friend offer congratulations (photo by Scott Romer) the title plaque before leaving town and then, incredibly, returning on Wednes present the coveted plaque to Carmichael. No doubt, it must’ve made Carmichael’s win all the more sweet to receive the blessing of the previous reigning champ.

tBesides besting Pulkrabek who vows to return next year to claim the plaque— Carmichael had to get by a deep field tha included numerous former CAC cribbage champions, including the tournament’s namesake and two-time winne

r Dick Beyer. lso in the mix, but ultimately unsuccessful,

A were past titlists like another two-time champ in Bill White, 2006 winner Al Friend and the winner of the inaugural 2003 event Paul “Butcher” Vachon. Rounding out the field was a mix of newcomers and tough veterans including Horseman JJ Dillon, author Pat Laprade, and members Chris Ostrovsky, Jared Hawkins and Yves Leroux.

This year’s tournament represents the end In a first-round battle of cribbage heavyweights, two-time of an era, as Al Friend, who’s been running champ Bill White takes on ex-Horsemen manager JJ Dillon. the event for years now with help from Bill W reasons. Next year, the tournament will be organized by someone else who has not yet been selected The competition promises to stay fierce in 2014, regardless of who assumes organizing duties.

White won this bout. (photo by wrealano@aol.com) hite, is retiring from his post, citing health .

ht a wrong from the CAC banquet this year, saying, d

erseverance of Bill White, my tag partner in helping to run the tournament for the past 8 years. It’s

Regarding Bill White’s input, Al asked us to rig “During my excitement of announcing the winner of the tournament at the banquet, and having Riki Ataki present to hand the trophy to Andrew, I neglected to mention the hard work, dedication an p

been a passion for me to be the executive in charge and if it were not for my health issues, I would continue, but I forgot to thank Bill during the speech of my resignation from my post. Bill White, two time Cribbage Champion, I am truly sorry for the oversight."

MAURIELLO ORGANIZES, THEN CAPTURES VICTORY IN, THE KEN RAMEY BOWLING TOURNAMENT

When It’s a rganizes and sup lower Alley Club st happened to b

the result was announced at the Wednesday night banquet, the crowd had a little fun yelling work!” and “Fixed!” But in reality, it wasn’t a work at all, it was the real deal: the man who “ o ervises the annual Dr. Ken Ramey bowling tournament for the Caulif e the very same man who won it.

Joe Mauriello overcame an unlikely streak of thr consecutive fourth-place finishes in the inaugural trio of CAC bowling events to finally grab the t prize this year. He out-rolled twenty-four other competitors on his way to the crown, scoring a 160 average in his three games. “We raised $480 for the benevolent fund and had fun d Mauriello. “I’m looking forward to next year.”

ee op oing it,” said d

Destiny Hamblin of Arizona, who once worked at a bowling center, came in second place. Scott Walton, the guy who loves pickles (see Vandal Drummond’s Baloney Blowout recap in this issue) was the thir place finisher.

Worker

Lil Salazar finished way out of the money.

In fact, she was in last place. But in this tourney,

The top three in the bowling tourney pose with their the last place finisher gets their $20 entr plaques: Destiny Hamblin, Joe Mauriello (middle) so by her less-than-stellar p

y fee back, erformance, she broke and Scott Walton (photo by Scott Romer) even. Adam Pearce also bowled, as did Steve

Ogilvie of New Zealand. The word is, the bowling tournament is a blast and it gets better every year. Next year is going to be the biggest yet.

m natic, as going to organize the first tournament in 2010 but unfortunately for all of us, he’s been unable to

The CAC bowling tournament is named for Dr. Ken Ramey, who was a manager all over the U.S. fro the deep South to the West Coast for more than 25 years. He’s best known as the manager of both The Interns (one of whom was the CAC’s own Tom Andrews) and The Medics. Ramey, a bowling fa w attend a CAC for the past several years due to health issues. Scott Spade, an independent wrestler from Illinois, captured the previous two bowling event championships. As with the cribbage tournament, the proceeds from the $20 entry fee go to benefit the CAC benevolent fund.

DAVID JACKSON WINS THE BELT!

o over Edge or Diamond Dallas Page. Heck, he didn’t eve show at the Gold Coast. But David Jackson won the CAC

e didn’t pin a longtime CAC legend like Nick Bockwinkel or “Butcher” Paul Vachon, nor did he pound ut a submission victory n have a match at the onday night wrestling belt—in a raffle.

charity & nd Dave illican, who have created title belts for everyone from

Jackson, who heads up the “Wrestling Cares” wrestling promotion with Les Thatcher, won the annual championship belt raffle held at the Wednesday night banquet. He was quite happy, and understandably so. The belt is of the highest quality, created by expert strap makers Rico Mann, Reggie Parks a M

WWE to TNA to UFC to pop singer Madonna (you can see her wearing one of their creations on the cover of her CD “Hard Candy”). But Jackson shouldn’t be too happy with his new belt, because the CAC board of directors i discussing the idea of having him defend it against Andrea the Giant at next year’s wrestling show……

Jackson is a deserving winner of the belt. He’s not only Pat Laprade and Yves Leroux with the involved in Wrestling Cares (you can see him donating a Molly Holly DVDs that Pat mysteriously check from Wrestling Cares to the CAC in the photo earlier won twice! (photo by Eric Chmiel) in this issue), he has

worthy causes that benefit the arts on both coasts. He has also served as the Development Director for na

a Community Arts Center serving the children of South Los Angeles as well as working with the Gha Free Community Library Project in West Africa. He might not have wrestled for it, but David earned that belt in a multitude of other ways. He’s truly a champion.

While we’re on the subject of CAC raffles: A lot of folks probably met Pat Laprade of Montreal at this year’s reunion. With Bertrand Hebert, Pat co-authored the excellent book “Mad Dogs, Midgets and Screw Jobs: The Untold Story of How Montreal Shaped the World of Wrestling,” which he sold along with his friend Yves Leroux in the hospitality room. This book i w

s going to go down as one of the best orks ever written on wrestling history. It’s honestly that good. In any event, at the banquet, Molly the

Holly was kind enough to raffle off ten autographed copies of her DVD right after the drawing for the belt was held. With one belt and ten DVDs raffled off, and about 500 CAC members having attended reunion this year, that means roughly 490 people went home without winning anything in a raffle. An yet, amazingly, Mr. Laprade somehow won not one Molly Holly DVDs, but two! Some people jokingly accused Joe Mauriello of fixing the bowling tournament this year. Of course, there’s no truth to that. But the real scandal of the 2013 reunion is, who did Laprade pay off to win that second DVD? We need to subpoena Karl Lauer and Morgan Dollar and get to the bottom of this!

REUNION DRAWS MEMBERS FROM ALL OVER THE WORLD

by Eric Chmiel

D th people are willing to travel from just about anywhere to be at a CAC event.

id you know that this year’s CAC reunion drew attendees literally from all over the world? It seems at

or example, a contingent from Alaska P

F a ro Wrestling came all th rs, the patriarch of the n America, led a group of his wrestlers on an 8-hou flight from Anchorage that included the workers Bonez, AK Lightning and Sevvyn Sixx. “This is my fourth time here,” said Saunders year. I come every yea

Then there was a group of wrestling fans who all the way from Tokyo, Japan on an 11-hour, tw flight odyssey. Toshiyuki Fujii and Takeshi Yuzurih tagged along with Shuhei Aoki, who’s been attendin the CAC for over a decade now. Amazingly, despite living half a world away from Vegas, Aoki has not missed a CAC reunion since 2003. That would make Aoki, a fan and also a longtime c Japanese wrestling magaz attending non-workers in the entire club.

Coming from even farther away was a young couple CAC member Takeshi Yuzuriha, who traveled from of New Zealanders who currently live in Austral Japan, poses with Nick Bockwinkel, the Destroyer & Wrestling manager Steve Ogilvie, who is known Destroyer’s son Kurt Beyer (photo by Scott Romer) professionally as “Mr. 100%” Gary O. Davis, flew

w

e way from the 49th state to be in ttendance. Michael “Maddness” Saunde orthernmost wrestling league in North r . “I’ll be back next r now.” came o a g ontributor to the ines, one of the longest ia. in

It was well worth it for Ogilvie. “It’s my fourth straight here,” he said. “Me and Stacey hope to live in the U.S. one which would make getting to the reunions a a great time every year.”

from Sydney ith his fiancée Stacey Ngawhika on a flight that took 13 hours. year day, lot easier. We have who came shoot

But the champion traveler this year was Alex Cools, in with a fellow traveler named Tia, who is a talented grappler. They came from Europe, but due to having to travel not only across the Atlantic but also then across the continental U.S. to get the Vegas, it took them 18 hours. Cools is Belgian and lives in Brussels, but he was actually born in Alabama. Tia, who won a gold medal at the NAGA grappling championships in Germany just a couple wee H

ks after the reunion, is a native of ungary. “In nine years, I’ve missed only one CAC,” says Cools. Alex Cools poses with CAC legend Paul “I’ve been here about every year. I don’t plan to stop coming.” “Butcher” Vachon (photo by Scott Romer)

NEWS FROM AROUND THE CAULIFLOWER ALLEY CLUB

PLEASE HELP US BUILD AN EMAIL LIST FOR THE CAC

The CAC is building an email database of our members in order to create a “Special Announcement List.” A ley Club events and business. It would

Please send yo s part of this list, you’ll receive important information via email regarding Cauliflower Al be very helpful to us if you’d assist us in this project.

ur email address to us at cacdean@hotmail.com to get on the list.

The communications that will be sent to members on the Special Announcement List will go to CAC members ONLY and will not be released to the general public. Thanks!

NEXT YEAR’S REUNION

The dates for next year’s Cauliflower Alley Clu year event will be held in June this time, from J b Banquet and une 2nd

ximity to Easter and ia. So we’ll see everyone at the Gold Coast next June! Reunion are already set. Our 49th th , 2014, at the Gold Coast Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas, Nevada. We’re trying ent with the dates this time, as many members have been unable to pril in past years due to various reasons like the close pro to June 4 something differ attend in A Wrestleman

THANK YOU TO RING WARRIORS We acknowledged a great donation to the CAC Benevolent Fund by “Wrestling Cares” earlier in this issue. But just before we went to press, it came to our attention that another great organization, the Ring Warriors promotion, also made a donation to the fund. Thank you so much to Ring Warriors officials Howard Brody, Paul Jones and Larry Brannon. Money from the fund goes to help ariety of past and present workers when they need a hand in life, so donations are lways welcome. Wrestling Cares and Ring Warriors both challenge other promotions to give to the

a v a fund as well. It’s money that always goes to a great cause.

THE MYSTERY CAMERA After the conclusion of the Wednesday night banquet this yea there was a camera found in the banquet room at the Gold Coast, sans owner. An examination of the photos on the camera did nothing to shed any light on exactly who belongs to. If you lost a camera at the banquet and you think the mystery camera may yours, please contact Morgan D

r, it be ollar either via email at morgan@caulifloweralleyclub.org ia phone at (336) 215-0108 to make an identification. Morgan will then see to it that e camera gets back in your hands ASAP. or v th

A SHOUT OUT TO THE PHOTOGRAPHERS A big CAC Thank You goes out to the photographers who contributed the great pics in this issue, including Scott Romer, Mi Lano, Dan Westbrook, Vandal Drummond, the late Bill Moody, Wrestling Cares, Don Lastra and Eric Chmiel. And a special thanks goes to Scott Romer for the awesome cove shot that adorns thi

ke r s Ear. Thanks, guys!

And One Pic For The Road……

Mike Lano at wrealano@aol.com contributed this classic shot from the final reunion ever attended b both Oliver Humperdink and Bill Moody, two of th finest managers—not to mention finest human beings ever to grace us with their presence at a CAC event. It’s a shame we won’t be seeing their faces or sharing a few laughs with th y e em anymore. ed of ” The many memories these two men Their zest for life and positive outlook embodi the very essence of our club motto, “The Ring Freindship. helped make with us will be treasured for many years to come, and their spirit will haunt all future CAC gatherings.

383 Highway 00

Rolla, MO 65401