Freddy ‘The Beard’ Bentivegna’s Parting Gift for Pool Fans
Freddy “The Beard” Bentivegna “The ‘Encyclopedia’ of Pool Hustlers was the final hilarious work by pool writer Freddy ‘The Beard’ Bentivegna. He published the 325-page tome in 2013 and then passed away too soon in June of the following year. He sent me a signed copy, which I still cherish. The book (apparently out of print but you can still find it...
Guest Post: Fast-Shooting Lou Butera Gunned ’em Down
Lou Butera got his “Machine Gun” nickname for his quick shooting style. By Jack Smiles/Guest Contributor Lou Butera photo courtesy of the Greater Pittston Historical Society Sam Butera opened a billiard parlor on South Main Street in Pittston, Pennsylvania, in 1937 the same year his son Lou Butera, later to be known as Machine Gun, was born. At 10 Lou was famous around the Pittston...
BCA Makes It Official: Schmidt Breaks Record
The Billiard Congress of America has recognized John Schmidt’s new straight pool record of 626. Just below is the sanctioning body’s Aug. 15, 2019 press release that makes the record official. The previous record of 526 was set by Willie Mosconi in 1954. Willie Mosconi’s record of 526 stood for 65 years. SUPERIOR, COLO., August, 15, 2019 – The Billiard Congress of America would...
Memories of the Johnston City Hustler Jamborees
Pool history includes plenty of examples of grander tournaments but few were as colorful as those in Johnston City. I have been thinking a lot lately about the famous 1960s Johnston City tournaments, especially given the recent selection of tournament founders George and Paulie Jansco for posthumous induction into the Billiard Congress Hall of Fame. The colorful tournaments in Southern...
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