I've been keeping active with the TTM requests recently. Despite the fact that February is a prime time for mailing requests to Phillies Spring Training camp I have more or less decided to forgo the opportunity this year. It's not that I've "grown out" the experience, but am not excited about many of the potential targets. Instead, I am keeping focus on a few different older-era, team projects.

1960 Eagles Program Cover

1960 Eagles - Championship Program Autograph

A long dormant effort that I'd like to spend more time on this year, the photo is of the 1960 Championship Game program cover. I started the project with Chuck Bednarik a few years ago. This most recent success came from a key member of the 1960 team, running-back Billy Ray Barnes.

What I love most about collecting teams I missed is getting to learn more about the season and the players who were involved. I have seen Barnes autographed photos over the years, but never knew he was the first ACC player to rush for 1,000 yards (as an All-American with Wake Forest in 1956), or that he was a three-time Pro Bowl selection for the Eagles (1957-59).

Phillies Wall of Fame

I got this new favorite project out to Larry Bowa right before pitchers and catchers reported to Clearwater early last month. I recommend Bowa to anyone who is new to TTM. He is as guaranteed as it gets - both at home and the stadium. The photo is now out to Hall of Famer, Jim Bunning...