ANOTHER YEAR HAS BEGUN FOR CUBS WORLD
Hopefully you and yours had a wonderful holiday season filled with joy and feel hopeful that 2023 will bring us great things...particularly when it concerns the Cubbies!
This is going to be a fun filled year for Cubs World. There is an enthusiasm in the air. May that enthusiasm become the driving force to keep the Cubs facing the future with confidence!
Hopefully you and yours had a wonderful holiday season filled with joy and feel hopeful that 2023 will bring us great things...particularly when it concerns the Cubbies!
This is going to be a fun filled year for Cubs World. There is an enthusiasm in the air. May that enthusiasm become the driving force to keep the Cubs facing the future with confidence!
IMPORTANT UPCOMING EVENTS!
February- Fred Rosenthal- was director of Stadium operations for the Kane County Cougars. February membership meeting guest speaker
March- Bob Ibach- Cubs trainer during the 1960's. Great stories about many of the players.
April- Cody Hills- will give his 2023 Cubs forecast and Steve Barton will give presentation on Gatorball
February- Fred Rosenthal- was director of Stadium operations for the Kane County Cougars. February membership meeting guest speaker
March- Bob Ibach- Cubs trainer during the 1960's. Great stories about many of the players.
April- Cody Hills- will give his 2023 Cubs forecast and Steve Barton will give presentation on Gatorball
GUEST SPEAKER SET FOR FEBRUARY MEMBERSHIP MEETING
Special Report by Dan Marx
Fred Rosenthal
Fred grew up in Iowa as a WGN Cub fan, good enough to tryout for the Minnesota Twins. Fortunately, his neighbor had taught him how to umpire
too, as it was to become his first job in baseball.
His knowledge of the game led him to become a scout for Milwaukee and radio announcer on station WGSB in Geneva, IL owned by Nelda Brickhouse. There he became a close friend of Nelda's husband, Jack Brickhouse who helped his career along. Fred was like the players he preferred that had "attitude" and "hustle" over those with more talent, but less desire.
Fred became Director of Stadium Operations for the Kane County Cougars
before they were a Cubs affiliate, and the Schaumburg Flyers. No doubt many of our CubsWorld members developed a love for minor league baseball through the nostalgic experience of watching these teams play in suburban Chicago.
Fred and his wife Karin are now retired (like we are) and living in The Villages. He still busies himself with volunteer work, including the Military Honor Flight program.
Special Report by Dan Marx
Fred Rosenthal
Fred grew up in Iowa as a WGN Cub fan, good enough to tryout for the Minnesota Twins. Fortunately, his neighbor had taught him how to umpire
too, as it was to become his first job in baseball.
His knowledge of the game led him to become a scout for Milwaukee and radio announcer on station WGSB in Geneva, IL owned by Nelda Brickhouse. There he became a close friend of Nelda's husband, Jack Brickhouse who helped his career along. Fred was like the players he preferred that had "attitude" and "hustle" over those with more talent, but less desire.
Fred became Director of Stadium Operations for the Kane County Cougars
before they were a Cubs affiliate, and the Schaumburg Flyers. No doubt many of our CubsWorld members developed a love for minor league baseball through the nostalgic experience of watching these teams play in suburban Chicago.
Fred and his wife Karin are now retired (like we are) and living in The Villages. He still busies himself with volunteer work, including the Military Honor Flight program.
SEARCH FOR THE RED WORD!!!!!
As usual , somewhere embedded in this newsletter you will find a word printed in RED. When you find it, take a moment to write it down on a piece of paper or a card and bring it to the membership meeting. There will be a drawing or two with the winner claiming a nice gift card!
GOOD LUCK TO ALL!
As usual , somewhere embedded in this newsletter you will find a word printed in RED. When you find it, take a moment to write it down on a piece of paper or a card and bring it to the membership meeting. There will be a drawing or two with the winner claiming a nice gift card!
GOOD LUCK TO ALL!
WELL ATTENDED MEMBERSHIP MEETING KICKS OFF THE NEW YEAR IN STYLE
by Dan Marx
What a special night it was for a good size crowd that turned out to hear our featured speaker, Rich Billings, on our first membership meeting of the year, 1/9. There were many firsts that night, including a different venue, Odell Rec Center, a different Monday night ( the second Monday of the month) and a different time of night- 5:30. But it all worked out great, including a delivered boxed meal from PDQ chicken.
Jim Guleserian kicked things off with everything you always wanted to know about career first at bat homers for Cubs players throughout the years. From one of my favorite players, Frank Ernaga, to a couple of pitchers, Jim Bullinger and Hoyt Wilhelm( of all people) , we had fun recalling all of those names.
Then it was time for Rich Billings. He was a breath of fresh air. He came with his entire family. This included his dad, who’s the assistant coach, his mom, his wife and young daughter.
Rich Billings has been head coach at Lake Sumter State College at 2 different times in his career. When he first started in 2008 he became the youngest coach in the country at age 23. In his second year at LSSC , he saw his team break the school batting average record at .300. His 2012 team had the 3rd best team era in school history. These are just some of the records that are in his bio, because Rich is too modest to point this out to us. He has had another stint as head coach there since 2015.
Rich has sent over 70 of his players to 4 year schools, including 20 at division 1 levels.
He made a point of mentioning 2 or 3 very special young men who stayed on in baseball , but not as players. One of them even made the top 10 ESPN highlight reel. Billings has befriended some ex Cubs who were gracious enough to personalize their own “ cameo” greetings to our club. Those included Terry Mulholland, Kyle Farnsworth, Andre Dawson, and the skipper, David Ross.
Rich is also currently the head coach of the popular Leesburg Lightning of the Florida Collegiate Summer League. He is trying to work out a “ Cubs World” night to see the Lightning play one night next summer.
Thank you Rich, for a wonderful evening. We even made it back in time for the start of the national championship.
by Dan Marx
What a special night it was for a good size crowd that turned out to hear our featured speaker, Rich Billings, on our first membership meeting of the year, 1/9. There were many firsts that night, including a different venue, Odell Rec Center, a different Monday night ( the second Monday of the month) and a different time of night- 5:30. But it all worked out great, including a delivered boxed meal from PDQ chicken.
Jim Guleserian kicked things off with everything you always wanted to know about career first at bat homers for Cubs players throughout the years. From one of my favorite players, Frank Ernaga, to a couple of pitchers, Jim Bullinger and Hoyt Wilhelm( of all people) , we had fun recalling all of those names.
Then it was time for Rich Billings. He was a breath of fresh air. He came with his entire family. This included his dad, who’s the assistant coach, his mom, his wife and young daughter.
Rich Billings has been head coach at Lake Sumter State College at 2 different times in his career. When he first started in 2008 he became the youngest coach in the country at age 23. In his second year at LSSC , he saw his team break the school batting average record at .300. His 2012 team had the 3rd best team era in school history. These are just some of the records that are in his bio, because Rich is too modest to point this out to us. He has had another stint as head coach there since 2015.
Rich has sent over 70 of his players to 4 year schools, including 20 at division 1 levels.
He made a point of mentioning 2 or 3 very special young men who stayed on in baseball , but not as players. One of them even made the top 10 ESPN highlight reel. Billings has befriended some ex Cubs who were gracious enough to personalize their own “ cameo” greetings to our club. Those included Terry Mulholland, Kyle Farnsworth, Andre Dawson, and the skipper, David Ross.
Rich is also currently the head coach of the popular Leesburg Lightning of the Florida Collegiate Summer League. He is trying to work out a “ Cubs World” night to see the Lightning play one night next summer.
Thank you Rich, for a wonderful evening. We even made it back in time for the start of the national championship.
ULTRA BUSY SEASON AHEAD!
CLUB OPENS AT WRIGLEY FIELD, MARCH 30 VS. MILWAUKEE BREWERS.
INTERLEAGUE PLAY FEATURES SERIES AGAINST EVERY AMERICAN LEAGUE TEAM, INCLUDING HOME-AND-HOME SERIES VS. CHICAGO WHITE SOX.
PLAY TWO-GAME SERIES IN LONDON AGAINST ST. LOUIS CARDINALS
EXTRA! EXTRA! READ ALL ABOUT IT! BOBBLE HEAD ON THE HORIZON
The Chicago Cubs are taking pre-orders for the new Dansby Swanson bobblehead! I think I know somebody in our midst who might be interested in ordering one!
CLUB OPENS AT WRIGLEY FIELD, MARCH 30 VS. MILWAUKEE BREWERS.
INTERLEAGUE PLAY FEATURES SERIES AGAINST EVERY AMERICAN LEAGUE TEAM, INCLUDING HOME-AND-HOME SERIES VS. CHICAGO WHITE SOX.
PLAY TWO-GAME SERIES IN LONDON AGAINST ST. LOUIS CARDINALS
EXTRA! EXTRA! READ ALL ABOUT IT! BOBBLE HEAD ON THE HORIZON
The Chicago Cubs are taking pre-orders for the new Dansby Swanson bobblehead! I think I know somebody in our midst who might be interested in ordering one!
QUESTION OF THE MONTH
Here is something to ponder. There has been quite a bit of encouraging talk about how much better the Cubbies should do this coming season with the acquisitions recently made. But how do you feel?
Is this all just talk or do you think the Cubs will improve? In fact, we'd love to hear your opinion as to just how well or badly the Cubs will perform in 2023.
Everyone is encouraged to leave a comment here at our MEMBER'S CORNER!
Here is something to ponder. There has been quite a bit of encouraging talk about how much better the Cubbies should do this coming season with the acquisitions recently made. But how do you feel?
Is this all just talk or do you think the Cubs will improve? In fact, we'd love to hear your opinion as to just how well or badly the Cubs will perform in 2023.
Everyone is encouraged to leave a comment here at our MEMBER'S CORNER!
CUBS SIGN DANSBY SWANSON
by Wayne Richards
Back in the days when the signal of WGN radio reached across America and even some parts of Norway, a young man would travel from Atlanta to Chicago with some friends and their wives to enjoy some day games at Wrigley Field. His name was Dansby Swanson and even though he become an icon with the Braves, the "second City" has always been in his heart.
Dansby's enthusiasm for Chicago was a key factor in the Cubs management decision to shell out $177 million over seven years. But his fine record and attitude might be the real ingredients needed to create a recipe for the kind of leadership Rizzo once provided!
"Winning is a mentality, " proclaims Swanson. "You have to show up every day thinking you're going to win!"
Returning from his recent honeymoon , Dansby began making phone calls to his new team mates within 48 hours! He praises Cubs fans. Said Dansby, "They show up every day and to be able to perform for a town like this is remarkable!"
At a recent Chicago press conference, he leaned over to whisper something to his new bride. "Mallory, " said he, "This is where we belong!"
by Wayne Richards
Back in the days when the signal of WGN radio reached across America and even some parts of Norway, a young man would travel from Atlanta to Chicago with some friends and their wives to enjoy some day games at Wrigley Field. His name was Dansby Swanson and even though he become an icon with the Braves, the "second City" has always been in his heart.
Dansby's enthusiasm for Chicago was a key factor in the Cubs management decision to shell out $177 million over seven years. But his fine record and attitude might be the real ingredients needed to create a recipe for the kind of leadership Rizzo once provided!
"Winning is a mentality, " proclaims Swanson. "You have to show up every day thinking you're going to win!"
Returning from his recent honeymoon , Dansby began making phone calls to his new team mates within 48 hours! He praises Cubs fans. Said Dansby, "They show up every day and to be able to perform for a town like this is remarkable!"
At a recent Chicago press conference, he leaned over to whisper something to his new bride. "Mallory, " said he, "This is where we belong!"
THEY BUILT IT...AND THEY DO COME!
by Wayne Richards
Within the Cubs World family, there are individuals who not only love the men in blue and baseball, but also other sports. In Chicago's famous Water Tower Place (located along the Magnificent Mile) there is a special oasis for Chicago sports fans. It is called the CHICAGO SPORTS MUSEUM!
This interactive, family friendly venue offers a variety of Chicago Cubs artifacts...some with great memories attached...but others a bit more challenging. For instance, Ernie Bank's Medal of Freedom and Hall of Fame ring are proudly displayed. But you will also find Sammy Sosa's famous corked bat.
Among other treasures to be found on the seventh level of Water Tower Place David Ross's catchers gear from game 7. You will also find Joe Maddon's "WE DID NOT SUCK 2016" tee shirt worn at the Grant Park Championship party.
One of the most popular attractions is a replIcation of the WGN broadcast booth at Wrigley Field. Guests are invited to sit at the microphone and render their very best Harry Carey imitation. They will record and send your performance to you in case you feel like posting it on Instagram or Facebook!
One wing of the museum is called, CURSES AND SUPERSTITIONS. There are no billy goats walking around, but you will be amazed to learn of the ways in which players , from all sports, do their level best to scare away bad juju. Fans are also featured with regard to "curse reversing" and that is explained very well. I'm sure you remember the mass destruction that was initiated against a certain foul ball when it was imploded via a special device during a ceremony at harry Carey's restaurant. The remnants were placed in jars of spaghetti sauce and sold for charity.
If you happen to visit Chicago, this museum would be a wonderful place to bring the family for an afternoon. Media reviews for this attraction have been very positive and the admission price is quite reasonable at $10.00 for adults and $6.00 for seniors. However, if you dine at Harry Carey's seventh Inning Stretch restaurant the admission is complimentary!
If anyone in Cubs World has visited this museum, please let us know what you thought of it.
by Wayne Richards
Within the Cubs World family, there are individuals who not only love the men in blue and baseball, but also other sports. In Chicago's famous Water Tower Place (located along the Magnificent Mile) there is a special oasis for Chicago sports fans. It is called the CHICAGO SPORTS MUSEUM!
This interactive, family friendly venue offers a variety of Chicago Cubs artifacts...some with great memories attached...but others a bit more challenging. For instance, Ernie Bank's Medal of Freedom and Hall of Fame ring are proudly displayed. But you will also find Sammy Sosa's famous corked bat.
Among other treasures to be found on the seventh level of Water Tower Place David Ross's catchers gear from game 7. You will also find Joe Maddon's "WE DID NOT SUCK 2016" tee shirt worn at the Grant Park Championship party.
One of the most popular attractions is a replIcation of the WGN broadcast booth at Wrigley Field. Guests are invited to sit at the microphone and render their very best Harry Carey imitation. They will record and send your performance to you in case you feel like posting it on Instagram or Facebook!
One wing of the museum is called, CURSES AND SUPERSTITIONS. There are no billy goats walking around, but you will be amazed to learn of the ways in which players , from all sports, do their level best to scare away bad juju. Fans are also featured with regard to "curse reversing" and that is explained very well. I'm sure you remember the mass destruction that was initiated against a certain foul ball when it was imploded via a special device during a ceremony at harry Carey's restaurant. The remnants were placed in jars of spaghetti sauce and sold for charity.
If you happen to visit Chicago, this museum would be a wonderful place to bring the family for an afternoon. Media reviews for this attraction have been very positive and the admission price is quite reasonable at $10.00 for adults and $6.00 for seniors. However, if you dine at Harry Carey's seventh Inning Stretch restaurant the admission is complimentary!
If anyone in Cubs World has visited this museum, please let us know what you thought of it.
A QUESTION FOR CUBS WORLD MEMBERS
by Wayne Richards
While attending the January membership meeting , my eyes beheld a very strange totem pole-like statue sitting on the lectern. I walked up to it very carefully, worried that the carved out figures might come alive!
There obviously is a story behind this piece. There's a lot of emotion being displayed here. Clark the bear seems happy and content. But, the figure below with the snarling face looks like Zambrano just before he tried to beat up a Gatorade machine.
As for the baseball on the bottom, I'd grit my teeth too if there were two figures sitting on my head. Actually.....FOUR if you count the birds. Are these two of the flying pests that terrorize Wrigley late in the afternoon in search of a HAPPY HOUR buffet of hot dogs and nacho crumbs?
If anyone knows the story behind this art work, would you please fill me in? In fact, please feel free to share the story in the Chatter. I think many would be interested.
Until next month, keep smiling and keep positive thoughts about a great new season ahead. It's not that far away!!!!
by Wayne Richards
While attending the January membership meeting , my eyes beheld a very strange totem pole-like statue sitting on the lectern. I walked up to it very carefully, worried that the carved out figures might come alive!
There obviously is a story behind this piece. There's a lot of emotion being displayed here. Clark the bear seems happy and content. But, the figure below with the snarling face looks like Zambrano just before he tried to beat up a Gatorade machine.
As for the baseball on the bottom, I'd grit my teeth too if there were two figures sitting on my head. Actually.....FOUR if you count the birds. Are these two of the flying pests that terrorize Wrigley late in the afternoon in search of a HAPPY HOUR buffet of hot dogs and nacho crumbs?
If anyone knows the story behind this art work, would you please fill me in? In fact, please feel free to share the story in the Chatter. I think many would be interested.
Until next month, keep smiling and keep positive thoughts about a great new season ahead. It's not that far away!!!!