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First, can you tell me how you got into photography?

I played sports growing up and really got into skateboarding in junior high school and high school.  My grandparents had paid for a photography class for me one Summer – and I was on crutches a bit after getting hurt skateboarding. I wanted to hang out still with my friends so I got an old Canon camera online and photoed my friends skateboarding.

One of the kids was really good and I got a roll of him at the skatepark and handed out some 4x6s. He really liked them and put them up on his site. I was super-stoked to have them on a professional site! Looking back I should have asked for a royalty! But that’s when I saw there could be a future in it.

Continue reading “Exclusive with Steelers Photographer Jared Wickerham”

First off, are there any projects you have coming up that you want folks to know about? Is there a “dream project” you’d love to pursue still?

I don’t have a dream project to pursue.  I’ve done my dream project.  Over the 57 years I’ve been doing this, different directors and actors have asked me “When will we see your Lear?”  My answer is “Never.”  I’ve never had any interest in doing Lear.  My “Lear,” dream was to play the Stage Manager in “Our Town.”  Ted Pappas at the Pittsburgh Public Theater fulfilled that dream.

My favorite year of my career and the end of my stage career was in 2013, or 2015, I can’t remember which.  In that favorite year, I did the Stage Manager in “Our Town, learning the words beginning in early June, rehearsing August into September, running September into October; playing Scrooge in “A Musical Christmas Carol” for the eigth year in a row, November until the 23rd of December. Finally, The Chief in January for a two-week run, for the ninth year.  All three of my favorites in a row.  I couldn’t have ended my stage career any happier.

Continue reading “Exclsusive with Pittsburgh Native/Actor Tom Atkins”

First off, what have you been up to since your playing days?

I wish I could say it’s been exciting. I’m a single dad who was coaching high school here in Texas. I was on TV for Fox and the Big 10 Network for a while,  but I’ve mostly been just enjoying being a father. My son has lived with me most of the time and it’s just been great being able to pick him up and take him to school.

Other than that, it hasn’t been that exciting.  Athletes when they retire they try to find those things that they can be great at, but it’s not easy to find another thing that you can be at the top one percent at.

Continue reading “Exclusive with Former Ravens Quarterback Tony Banks”

First off, can you let me know what you’ve been up to since your playing days?

I’m working in behavioral health now – working mostly with youths but with some adults as well.  I’m working for Mary’s Mission and am involved in a number of charities working with kids, to raise awareness on prostate cancer….I’m also the President of the NFLPA.

I’m a family man also – a grandpa now too!

Continue reading “Exclusive with Former Bengals Defensive Lineman Michael Bankston”

Before we head into 2025, a tribute to those #Steelers players who passed away in 2024:

LB Andy Russell (October 29, 1941 – March 1, 2024)
“Of course, as a gung ho player, I remember mistakes I made more accurately than those I made well. I think one of my favorite thing is that I was the Captain for 10 years.”
https://steelerstakeaways.com/andy-russell/

K Allan Watson (November 5, 1942 – March 1, 2024)
He tried out for the Pittsburgh Steelers in 1969 and received a contract, later being sent to the Ohio Valley Ironmen of the Continental Football League. After returning to the Steelers in 1970, Watson played through preseason but was ultimately released in favor of Gene Mingo; however, after Mingo struggled late in the season, Watson was re-signed and played in the final four games.

Continue reading “Remembering Steelers Players & Family That Passed Away in 2024:”

First, can you tell us a bit about what you’ve been doing since your time in the NFL?

Since football, you can say I’ve become an addicted entrepreneur. I’ve started up many businesses – sport facilities, I was a successful sports agent, opened up a transportation company and car business. I’ve had several endeavors and am still busy running those day-to-day operations.

How was that post-NFL transition for you?

It was a smooth transition for me – only because I was prepared for it. The NFL is a revolving door – all who go in come out. You have to understand that going in.

Everybody goes in wanting longevity and has goals of being a starter, Pro Bowl player … everyone sets some goals for their career. Not everyone thinks about what happens afterwards. I was fortunate to play for 10 years and was able to walk away on my own accord.

Continue reading “Exclusive With Former Bengals Wide Receiver Tim McGee”

First to all, can you let us know about your new role at VisitPITTSBURGH?

I just recently joined VisitPITTSBURGH – I come from a fairly deep background in professional sports. I worked for over 20 years with the Penguins – the bulk of that with team operations – travel, logistics, things like that. I also led the Penguins Foundation – building community relationships and partnerships throughout the region.

I’m excited – my work now is about highlighting the city to bring exciting events here. I work with the Pirates, Steelers, Penguins and the vibrant amateur and youth sports in the area to help bring other events to the city.

Continue reading “Exclusive: Jim Britt, Vice President of Sports Events, VisitPITTSBURGH”