WOW! Can it be August already? What is it with time around here? Can't we slow it down a little? Also....what's the deal with our Cubbies? What do you think management needs to do to plan for the future? Why am I asking so many questions? Is it the heat?
Anyway, welcome to the newest edition of Cubs World Chatter!
Anyway, welcome to the newest edition of Cubs World Chatter!
ON DECK CIRCLE
UPCOMING EVENTS!
WATCH PARTY AT GATORS IN BROWNWOOD
August 17th
Cubs vs Blue Jays
Game time 2:20
SEPTEMBER MEMBERSHIP MEETING
Monday, September 2nd
Guest Speaker...Franz Beard (Sports Writer)
UPCOMING EVENTS!
WATCH PARTY AT GATORS IN BROWNWOOD
August 17th
Cubs vs Blue Jays
Game time 2:20
SEPTEMBER MEMBERSHIP MEETING
Monday, September 2nd
Guest Speaker...Franz Beard (Sports Writer)
FRANZ BEARD TO SPEAK TO CUBS WORLD
by Wayne Richards
In a similar manner to our friend "Sudden" Sam Mcdowell, Franz Beard suffered an injury and had to re-schedule his appearance. He is ready and very anxious to give his presentation for us.
In the 48 years that Franz Beard has been writing about sports, he has covered Super Bowls, World Series, NCAA basketball championships, BCS championship games, heavyweight title fights and what seems like thousands of college football, baseball and basketball games. For a good part of his career, he has been a columnist and special assignments editor for Gator Country, the voice of the University of Florida Gators.He also does a lot of research on major league baseball teams. For CubsWorld, he will look at the Chicago Cubs top minor league prospects and gave an analysis of each of the top prospects.
Franz will speak at our September membership meeting on Monday September 2nd at Colony Cottage. DON'T MISS IT!
by Wayne Richards
In a similar manner to our friend "Sudden" Sam Mcdowell, Franz Beard suffered an injury and had to re-schedule his appearance. He is ready and very anxious to give his presentation for us.
In the 48 years that Franz Beard has been writing about sports, he has covered Super Bowls, World Series, NCAA basketball championships, BCS championship games, heavyweight title fights and what seems like thousands of college football, baseball and basketball games. For a good part of his career, he has been a columnist and special assignments editor for Gator Country, the voice of the University of Florida Gators.He also does a lot of research on major league baseball teams. For CubsWorld, he will look at the Chicago Cubs top minor league prospects and gave an analysis of each of the top prospects.
Franz will speak at our September membership meeting on Monday September 2nd at Colony Cottage. DON'T MISS IT!
WHAT IS IT ABOUT LEESBURG AND LIGHTNING?
by Wayne Richards
A second visit to Pat Thomas stadium to see the Lightning play brought....well...MORE LIGHTNING! But, after all, we live in the LIGHTNING CAPITAL OF THE UNITED STATES!
The weather does what the weather does whether we like it or not! But still, despite all that, our good friend Jim Guleserian threw out the first pitch quite nicely!
Of course, a few thunder rumbles echoed through the stadium instead of the anthem (which I was scheduled for. Again.)
Soon, the masses got bored and started leaving the stadium one by one. But before Annie and I exited the venue, I walked up to the broadcast booth to say hello and drop off my card. The intent was to interview the "play by play" announcer for a piece in Cubs World Chatter.
The next morning, while enjoying a cup of coffee in my office, the phone rang. On the other end of the line was Billy Matthews, the host of a morning sports talk show on "THE Q" broadcasting out of Eustis. He informed me we were going on the air to talk about CUBS WORLD. We did just that for almost a half hour!
But my intent was to interview HIM! So, during a commercial break I suggested we switch to interviewing each other. He loved the idea and the back and forth banter began!
During our time yakking it up, I found out some very interesting little tidbits. First of all, despite Mr. Matthews deep and very professional sounding dulcet tones, he has only been on the air for four years! As it turns out, Billy is a state certified electrician.
To be honest, I was quite surprised to find the Leesburg Lightning games could be heard on WQWQ with such entertaining "Play by play" flair. However, if you plan to listen in, keep in mind that the baseball season is very short. However, after the Lightning sparks up the summer, in come the Leesburg Yellow Jackets!
It also should be noted that Pat Thomas Stadium has a very interesting history. Did you know that this handsome little sports venue was once the Spring training home of the Baltimore Orioles! Other teams have also used the facility while ball players of legendary status have roamed the nicely groomed field. Among these men was right handed relief pitcher, Rollie Fingers!
By the way, if you examine the stadium, you might have noted that the field is dedicated to Charles "BUDDY" Loew. No...he does not own the hardware store empire. But he was Florida's winningest high school baseball coach. 599-246. Not bad wouldn't you say?
As a fitting tribute, I was informed from a reliable source that Buddy is buried right in the field! I am not here to dispute that claim.
Grass roots baseball is always fun. These players want to be noticed and play with their hearts. Mix in the great food at the ball park and it becomes a great place to spend time to soak in the great game of baseball!
by Wayne Richards
A second visit to Pat Thomas stadium to see the Lightning play brought....well...MORE LIGHTNING! But, after all, we live in the LIGHTNING CAPITAL OF THE UNITED STATES!
The weather does what the weather does whether we like it or not! But still, despite all that, our good friend Jim Guleserian threw out the first pitch quite nicely!
Of course, a few thunder rumbles echoed through the stadium instead of the anthem (which I was scheduled for. Again.)
Soon, the masses got bored and started leaving the stadium one by one. But before Annie and I exited the venue, I walked up to the broadcast booth to say hello and drop off my card. The intent was to interview the "play by play" announcer for a piece in Cubs World Chatter.
The next morning, while enjoying a cup of coffee in my office, the phone rang. On the other end of the line was Billy Matthews, the host of a morning sports talk show on "THE Q" broadcasting out of Eustis. He informed me we were going on the air to talk about CUBS WORLD. We did just that for almost a half hour!
But my intent was to interview HIM! So, during a commercial break I suggested we switch to interviewing each other. He loved the idea and the back and forth banter began!
During our time yakking it up, I found out some very interesting little tidbits. First of all, despite Mr. Matthews deep and very professional sounding dulcet tones, he has only been on the air for four years! As it turns out, Billy is a state certified electrician.
To be honest, I was quite surprised to find the Leesburg Lightning games could be heard on WQWQ with such entertaining "Play by play" flair. However, if you plan to listen in, keep in mind that the baseball season is very short. However, after the Lightning sparks up the summer, in come the Leesburg Yellow Jackets!
It also should be noted that Pat Thomas Stadium has a very interesting history. Did you know that this handsome little sports venue was once the Spring training home of the Baltimore Orioles! Other teams have also used the facility while ball players of legendary status have roamed the nicely groomed field. Among these men was right handed relief pitcher, Rollie Fingers!
By the way, if you examine the stadium, you might have noted that the field is dedicated to Charles "BUDDY" Loew. No...he does not own the hardware store empire. But he was Florida's winningest high school baseball coach. 599-246. Not bad wouldn't you say?
As a fitting tribute, I was informed from a reliable source that Buddy is buried right in the field! I am not here to dispute that claim.
Grass roots baseball is always fun. These players want to be noticed and play with their hearts. Mix in the great food at the ball park and it becomes a great place to spend time to soak in the great game of baseball!
RED WORD TIME AGAIN!
Some lucky Cubs World member might win a Publix gift card if they do the following. First, go to the nearest square and join in a line dance. (Just kidding)
As you peruse the offerings in this edition, search for a word printed in red. Write it down and bring it to the membership meeting. Place it in a special jar for a drawing. Good luck!
Some lucky Cubs World member might win a Publix gift card if they do the following. First, go to the nearest square and join in a line dance. (Just kidding)
As you peruse the offerings in this edition, search for a word printed in red. Write it down and bring it to the membership meeting. Place it in a special jar for a drawing. Good luck!
BLEACHER BUM REPORT
by Jack Herbon
Do you believe in miracles? Yes, we all saw what happend at Cleveland in 2016 in Game 7. Maybe, just maybe instead of rain we get lightning in a bottle and make the playoffs.
Remember what happened to the Philadelphia Phillies in 1964? Strange things can and do happen in sports and especially baseball. The Cubs do have a favorable stretch to end the season. Good weather is a must and we are long over due for an extended winning streak. With that in mind here are the biggest come-backs in major leagues history. Here are the TOP FIVE.....
1 1978 New York Yankees
So indeed anything can happen. The Cubs biggest hurdle are the teams in front of them in their own divisiion. But, just imagine if they could just put together a couple of long winning streaks! The team has so many young players that are trying to prove themselves which is a very good thing. So let it rip and let's see how this season ends!
by Jack Herbon
Do you believe in miracles? Yes, we all saw what happend at Cleveland in 2016 in Game 7. Maybe, just maybe instead of rain we get lightning in a bottle and make the playoffs.
Remember what happened to the Philadelphia Phillies in 1964? Strange things can and do happen in sports and especially baseball. The Cubs do have a favorable stretch to end the season. Good weather is a must and we are long over due for an extended winning streak. With that in mind here are the biggest come-backs in major leagues history. Here are the TOP FIVE.....
1 1978 New York Yankees
- Division deficit: 14 games back in mid-July
- Season result: Beat Red Sox in one-game playoff, went on to win World Series
- Division deficit: 11 games in August
- Season result: Lost in ALCS
- 13 games down on June 30th
- Season result: Lost in ALDS
- Division deficit: 9 1/2 games on Aug. 1
- Season result: Lost in ALDS
- Division deficit: 13 games in mid-August "The Giants won the pennant, the Giants won the pennant!"
- Season result: Lost in World Series
So indeed anything can happen. The Cubs biggest hurdle are the teams in front of them in their own divisiion. But, just imagine if they could just put together a couple of long winning streaks! The team has so many young players that are trying to prove themselves which is a very good thing. So let it rip and let's see how this season ends!
A MAN TO RESPECT AND ADMIRE
by Wayne Richards
While tropical storm DEBBIE dumped 7 or so inches on the Villages doorstep, there was much concern as to whether or not the Monday, August 5th membership meeting of Cubs World would take place. It really was touch and go.
This past January, Cubs World was to be honored with a very special guest speaker. Who would ever guess that “Sudden” Sam McDowell, considered to be one of the greatest pitchers of all time, would graciously accept an invitation to speak? This talented resident of the Village of Odell eagerly expressed how happy he was to visit.
For those who might not know, he was given the title “SUDDEN” SAM due to the undetectable speed of his pitches. It threw off many a batter.
Unfortunately, just as the Colony Cottage theatre room started filling up, word came that he had been in a very serious accident. His January appearance was scratched.
by Wayne Richards
While tropical storm DEBBIE dumped 7 or so inches on the Villages doorstep, there was much concern as to whether or not the Monday, August 5th membership meeting of Cubs World would take place. It really was touch and go.
This past January, Cubs World was to be honored with a very special guest speaker. Who would ever guess that “Sudden” Sam McDowell, considered to be one of the greatest pitchers of all time, would graciously accept an invitation to speak? This talented resident of the Village of Odell eagerly expressed how happy he was to visit.
For those who might not know, he was given the title “SUDDEN” SAM due to the undetectable speed of his pitches. It threw off many a batter.
Unfortunately, just as the Colony Cottage theatre room started filling up, word came that he had been in a very serious accident. His January appearance was scratched.
This past Monday, while still in recovery mode and donning a chest brace, Sam McDowell finally made it to the delight of those who braved the weather. He did not disappoint!
First of all, as president of our club, I have the honor of dining with our guests. My first impression of him was how great a sense of humor he possesses. Said Sam, “You know I just had my second pacemaker put in because I told my doctor I was going to speak to a group of Cubs fans.” One of our features in Cubs World is Jim Guleserian’s wonderful segment called “LETS PLAY TOO.” He always has interesting facts and trivia about the Chicago Cubs and how they’re doing, followed by a quick quiz with a prize at stake! Jim was also beaming with pride that he will be taking an ‘HONOR FLIGHT” this year. Cubs World is very proud of him!
Next, I introduced our key speaker. At first glance, nobody would suspect that this tall figure of a man was a six time ALL-STAR pitcher. As a matter of fact, he is considered to be among the 9 or 10 best pitchers of all time. Despite this fact, McDowell did admit much to the delight of our membership, that the toughest batter he ever faced was the Cubs beloved Ernie Banks!
Sam’s presentation will forever be remembered , not just for highlighting the evening with lighthearted stories, but for revealing the hard reality of his alcoholism and how it effected his career and his life.
In short, through determination, he recovered and set out to help others through his work as an EAP counselor for over 40 years! It is this part of his life he desired to share with us while directing our attention to his book, THE SAGA OF SUDDEN SAM...The Rise and Fall of Sam McDowell.
“It took me decades to finish this book,”proclaimed Sam. He sold every volume he brought to display. It is a work he is very proud of and should be.
As stated during his presentation, “I was asked by Joe Garagiola and others to design a program to help players, “ stated Sam. His efforts always generated positive results. McDowell revealed some very sobering tales about rescuing a man diagnosed with cancer contemplating suicide from an 11th floor ledge. After being helped, he lived for another 7 years. Sam McDowell has saved the lives of 123 players. “It is unfortunate that the suicide rate in baseball is so high,” stated McDowell. “This is because the suicide rate in this country is high, especially in the military.”
As always, at the end of a presentation, our guests are subject to a “question and answer period”. A query popped up about increased use of technology in baseball. Said Sam, “I don’t like it at all! They’ve ruined everything with all this stuff. They’ve taken the real fun out of the game!”
At the end of the evening, people left Colony Cottage enriched by the wonderful experience of spending an evening with a giant of a man on many levels!
First of all, as president of our club, I have the honor of dining with our guests. My first impression of him was how great a sense of humor he possesses. Said Sam, “You know I just had my second pacemaker put in because I told my doctor I was going to speak to a group of Cubs fans.” One of our features in Cubs World is Jim Guleserian’s wonderful segment called “LETS PLAY TOO.” He always has interesting facts and trivia about the Chicago Cubs and how they’re doing, followed by a quick quiz with a prize at stake! Jim was also beaming with pride that he will be taking an ‘HONOR FLIGHT” this year. Cubs World is very proud of him!
Next, I introduced our key speaker. At first glance, nobody would suspect that this tall figure of a man was a six time ALL-STAR pitcher. As a matter of fact, he is considered to be among the 9 or 10 best pitchers of all time. Despite this fact, McDowell did admit much to the delight of our membership, that the toughest batter he ever faced was the Cubs beloved Ernie Banks!
Sam’s presentation will forever be remembered , not just for highlighting the evening with lighthearted stories, but for revealing the hard reality of his alcoholism and how it effected his career and his life.
In short, through determination, he recovered and set out to help others through his work as an EAP counselor for over 40 years! It is this part of his life he desired to share with us while directing our attention to his book, THE SAGA OF SUDDEN SAM...The Rise and Fall of Sam McDowell.
“It took me decades to finish this book,”proclaimed Sam. He sold every volume he brought to display. It is a work he is very proud of and should be.
As stated during his presentation, “I was asked by Joe Garagiola and others to design a program to help players, “ stated Sam. His efforts always generated positive results. McDowell revealed some very sobering tales about rescuing a man diagnosed with cancer contemplating suicide from an 11th floor ledge. After being helped, he lived for another 7 years. Sam McDowell has saved the lives of 123 players. “It is unfortunate that the suicide rate in baseball is so high,” stated McDowell. “This is because the suicide rate in this country is high, especially in the military.”
As always, at the end of a presentation, our guests are subject to a “question and answer period”. A query popped up about increased use of technology in baseball. Said Sam, “I don’t like it at all! They’ve ruined everything with all this stuff. They’ve taken the real fun out of the game!”
At the end of the evening, people left Colony Cottage enriched by the wonderful experience of spending an evening with a giant of a man on many levels!
WELCOME TO THE CHICAGO CUBS GALLERY
by Wayne Richards
The thought occurred to me not too long ago that history will never die as long as people keep taking photos and storing them.
The Cubs World Chatter has featured a couple of articles about the the Chicago Baseball Museum. You can check it out at www.chicagobaseballmuseum.org
This is strictly an on line museum, so I figured, why shouldn't Cubs World create one of our own?
by Wayne Richards
The thought occurred to me not too long ago that history will never die as long as people keep taking photos and storing them.
The Cubs World Chatter has featured a couple of articles about the the Chicago Baseball Museum. You can check it out at www.chicagobaseballmuseum.org
This is strictly an on line museum, so I figured, why shouldn't Cubs World create one of our own?
We begin our first tour through the CUBS WORLD MUSEUM with a photo taken outside Wrigley Field in 1938. This reminds me of my youth when I was a pretty good tree climber!
It was magical for a while because the house where I grew up had one of the biggest trees in Illinois. We lived not too far from a drive in theatre so I watched cartoons up there until the mosquitos started eating me alive.
But, if I lived in Wrigleyville, this is exactly the kind of thing I'd do!!! My question to Cubs World. Have you ever climbed a tree or scaled a wall to sneak a peek?
It was magical for a while because the house where I grew up had one of the biggest trees in Illinois. We lived not too far from a drive in theatre so I watched cartoons up there until the mosquitos started eating me alive.
But, if I lived in Wrigleyville, this is exactly the kind of thing I'd do!!! My question to Cubs World. Have you ever climbed a tree or scaled a wall to sneak a peek?
AH! Here we are back in our own time attending our first LIGHTNING FEST of the season in Leesburg. Our good friend Kyle Farnsworth was on hand. We are very blessed to have such a superstar in our midst. He's told me a couple of times that he really feels connected to Cubs World! We have a REAL CUBBIE in our midst!!!!
Personally, I plan to attend Leesburg Lightning games more often next year. I think we will publish their schedule in the Chatter!
Personally, I plan to attend Leesburg Lightning games more often next year. I think we will publish their schedule in the Chatter!
This year, Cubs World will be celebrating women in baseball, hopefully with a ZOOM session featuring Sue Zipay from the original ROCKFORD PEACHES!
I suppose if we had a gift shop in this museum, we'd have this sweatshirt in stock! Actually, I'm sure you can get one on line if you choose to do so.
By the way, the Sue Zipay evening was going to be a double header of sorts. Our good friend Gary Koca has put together an outstanding powerpoint presentation about the Rockford Peaches. However, he will not be able to join us due to an illness he is dealing with.
Everyone in Cubs World wished you a speedy recovery and a journey back to health!!!!! You're a good man Charley Brown!
I suppose if we had a gift shop in this museum, we'd have this sweatshirt in stock! Actually, I'm sure you can get one on line if you choose to do so.
By the way, the Sue Zipay evening was going to be a double header of sorts. Our good friend Gary Koca has put together an outstanding powerpoint presentation about the Rockford Peaches. However, he will not be able to join us due to an illness he is dealing with.
Everyone in Cubs World wished you a speedy recovery and a journey back to health!!!!! You're a good man Charley Brown!
HOLY COW! WHO DO WE HAVE HERE? There never has been nor will there ever be another Harry Carey!
I never got to know Harry, but I used to see him bouncing around from bar to bar on State Parkway and Rush Street where we had a few friendly exchanges.
One time I was taking a break from performing in front of the restaurant, EUGENES , where I held forth and Harry would occasionally hold a fifth. As Harry was passing by he looked at me and asked, "Have you seen my kid Chip anywhere?" I said no. Said Harry, "Well, I guess I'm 0 for 2!"
Carey lived right across the street from Eugenes in the Ambassador East Hotel.
I've mentioned before that I had the opportunity to socialize with Jack Brickhouse and I treasure the time we spent together. Butwow...do I wish I had had a drink with Harry!
I never got to know Harry, but I used to see him bouncing around from bar to bar on State Parkway and Rush Street where we had a few friendly exchanges.
One time I was taking a break from performing in front of the restaurant, EUGENES , where I held forth and Harry would occasionally hold a fifth. As Harry was passing by he looked at me and asked, "Have you seen my kid Chip anywhere?" I said no. Said Harry, "Well, I guess I'm 0 for 2!"
Carey lived right across the street from Eugenes in the Ambassador East Hotel.
I've mentioned before that I had the opportunity to socialize with Jack Brickhouse and I treasure the time we spent together. Butwow...do I wish I had had a drink with Harry!
This photo sums up a great visit to Wrigley! A hot dog in the afternoon sun!
Now, as I've stated before, it is an honor to serve as president of Cubs World. But if I were elected president of Wrigley, I would make it illegal to display any hot dog with even a hint of catsup!
Actually, I'd like to see the day when we all enjoy baseball food at one of our membership meetings. Hot dogs...natchos...etc.
Does this sound like a good idea?
Now, as I've stated before, it is an honor to serve as president of Cubs World. But if I were elected president of Wrigley, I would make it illegal to display any hot dog with even a hint of catsup!
Actually, I'd like to see the day when we all enjoy baseball food at one of our membership meetings. Hot dogs...natchos...etc.
Does this sound like a good idea?
Bet you'd never would have thought that the Chicago Bulls would play at Wrigley. But they have!
I know they've played hockey and have even hosted ice skating events. But here is proff it happened!
I'm not sure if Air Jordan played at this game, but I'm sure that if he had, he'd high five people on the rooftops!
We will be back for another visit to the CUBS WORLD gallery next month. In the meantime, please HIDE THE CATSUP!!!!
I know they've played hockey and have even hosted ice skating events. But here is proff it happened!
I'm not sure if Air Jordan played at this game, but I'm sure that if he had, he'd high five people on the rooftops!
We will be back for another visit to the CUBS WORLD gallery next month. In the meantime, please HIDE THE CATSUP!!!!
FROM THE PRESIDENT'S DESK
by Wayne Richards
It might appear that my desk is a bit overloaded. But not really. As your President I'm very anxious to communicate with any and all members of Cubs World.
You can always reach me at my personal e-mail address at [email protected] or call at 630 390 4212.
I am very anxious to gather ideas and suggestions for Cubs World. I also encourage folks to lend a helping hand if you possess any skills in photography or videography. We have some wonderful events coming up and we'd like to capture some of these to enjoy later.
Dan Marx and I always make sure that our newsletter informs and entertains. We both encourage anyone to share stories, comments and insights. Don't be shy out there. I know we have some writing talent!
Dan Marx are very appreciative to
During our last membership meeting featuring "Sudden" Sam, we passed around a sheet for those of you who desire to check out and enjoy the CUBS WORLD Facebook page. The real name CUBS WORLD THE VILLAGES. If you've signed the sheet requesting to be a part of this private group, you should be contacted soon with how to hook up. The administrator of this page is our own Jack Herbon! If he were in charge of a tic tok page, he'd be a creator. In real life, he's just a nice guy!
Speaking of one of our own, Gary Koca is fighting an illness and had to step down from his much appreciated efforts. If you don't know, Gary has always been involved in assisting in efforts to find interesting speakers for our membership meetings. He also has written a number of wonderful books about the movies and character actors of yesteryear! We wish Gary a very speedy recovery.
Condolences go out to our vice president, Terrence Burke, for the loss of his brother. Mourn the loss, but celebrate the life!!!
See you all at the September meeting to hear Franz Beard and....no...he is not a chef!! Oh....before I go. What did you think of the Chinese food served at the last meeting? Inquiring board members want to know!
by Wayne Richards
It might appear that my desk is a bit overloaded. But not really. As your President I'm very anxious to communicate with any and all members of Cubs World.
You can always reach me at my personal e-mail address at [email protected] or call at 630 390 4212.
I am very anxious to gather ideas and suggestions for Cubs World. I also encourage folks to lend a helping hand if you possess any skills in photography or videography. We have some wonderful events coming up and we'd like to capture some of these to enjoy later.
Dan Marx and I always make sure that our newsletter informs and entertains. We both encourage anyone to share stories, comments and insights. Don't be shy out there. I know we have some writing talent!
Dan Marx are very appreciative to
During our last membership meeting featuring "Sudden" Sam, we passed around a sheet for those of you who desire to check out and enjoy the CUBS WORLD Facebook page. The real name CUBS WORLD THE VILLAGES. If you've signed the sheet requesting to be a part of this private group, you should be contacted soon with how to hook up. The administrator of this page is our own Jack Herbon! If he were in charge of a tic tok page, he'd be a creator. In real life, he's just a nice guy!
Speaking of one of our own, Gary Koca is fighting an illness and had to step down from his much appreciated efforts. If you don't know, Gary has always been involved in assisting in efforts to find interesting speakers for our membership meetings. He also has written a number of wonderful books about the movies and character actors of yesteryear! We wish Gary a very speedy recovery.
Condolences go out to our vice president, Terrence Burke, for the loss of his brother. Mourn the loss, but celebrate the life!!!
See you all at the September meeting to hear Franz Beard and....no...he is not a chef!! Oh....before I go. What did you think of the Chinese food served at the last meeting? Inquiring board members want to know!
