WAYNE RICHARDS MUSIC CENTRAL
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  Welcome to the March 15th edition of CUBS WORLD CHATTER.  With the return of meetings and viewing parties and the promise of a full season ahead, we are pleased to announced the activation of our monthly contest we love to call RED WORD.  As you enjoy the newsletter, search the articles for a word printed in red.
  Write down the word on a sheet of paper or card and bring it to the April membership meeting.  You could win a prize!!!  Don't you just love that?
  

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MEMBERSHIP MEETING...A FRESH BREATH OF SPRING!  
by Dan Marx

 
  Our first membership meeting in a year was a rousing success, Monday night , March 1st at Colony Cottage Recreation Center. Following rec center protocols, members were thrilled to enjoy the camaraderie with each other again.
  The highlight of the meeting was our very popular Cubs baseball bingo with Bill McMahon. Alongside his partner in crime, Dick Stone, they were able to fill up our cards with Cubs  player’s names( past and present) . There were 6 very happy winners by the end of the games.
  But, it was a very busy agenda. We first made a very substantial contribution to sponsor our Lady Lake Cubs World little league team. A representative was there to accept our check. That story made the Daily Sun a few days later. Jim Guleserian enlightened us with his Let’s Play Too knowledge, and then tested our recollection with Cubs World IQ.
  Two very deserving members were also present to receive their hard earned Cubs World All Star award. They are Betty Gulesarian and Gary Koca. Many thanks to both of you for your contributions to the club.
  Then the evening ended with 4 lucky winners at 50/50.

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THIS MONTHS BLEACHER BUM REPORT
by Jack Hebron

  Well, the boys of summer are getting all the kinks worked out in Arizona now. The weather in spring training has been perfect and its good to see some people in the stands. Let's hope the weather follows them for their home opener on April 1st against the Pirates. 
     The off season saw some big changes. GM Theo Epstein is gone, as well as Kyle Schwarber, Jon Lester and Yu Darvish. The Cubs did make an interesting move by signing Jake Arrieta, which could provide dividends if he returns to his glory days. I know all of us will be pulling hard for him.  
      Here are the five young players to watch right now. 1/ Outfielder Brennen Davis 2/ Catcher Miguel Amaya 3/ Pitcher Brailyn Marquez 4/ Pitcher Adbert Alzolay and 5/ Shortstop Ed Howard.  The Cubs have good talent in their ranks and it won't be long before we will see them as everyday player.
      The current Las Vegas odds has the Cubs as 40-1 to win the World Series. Place your bets!! ​
  

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THE MARX REPORT
​by Dan Marx
  
Could it be??? Yes, opening day is right around the corner ! Bring out all of your good luck charms. Get your white and blue paint out, so you can make your "W" flag even brighter.
We are going to kick off the 2021 Cubs season together at LaHacienda Recreation Center. We are trying something different instead of gathering in a restaurant. Everything will be done using all Rec center safety protocols , right down to temperature checks at the door.
  Our Wrigley Field opener is against the Pirates , April 1st ( no fooling) . The season opening pitch is 2:00 PM but we suggest getting there earlier to participate in the fun games that we will set up for you.
  No food or drink will be provided, so we encourage you to bring your own. Please refer to the flyer on our website for further details. 
  We also want you to circle your calendar for our April membership meeting. We are still working on the details, but we know it’s Monday night, April 5th. Our featured guest speakers will be Cody Hills and Brady Bogart. Cody, the Daily Sun sports columnist and huge Cubs fan, will be giving his annual detailed prognosis for our upcoming season. Brady Bogart , the VHS head baseball coach will let us know of all of the highly successful players that he has managed , and have gone on to have great success in college ball. Also, he’ll make us aware of current players on his team that are being watched by pro scouts. And, yes, Let’s play too will also broaden our Cubbie knowledge.


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MEMORIES OF SPRING TRAINING
by WAYNE RICHARDS
  I love spring... particularly because it means the return of our beloved Cubbies and a fresh start for the team.  I think many people would say that pre season games don't mean anything.  I never understood this belief.  If an airplane has trouble lifting off, how can we expect it to fly?
  If you've never had the chance to avail yourself of the Sloan Park experience, you're missing out on something very special.  Yes, attending such games gives one an opportunity to view the players close up in a venue that actually has the sensibility of Wrigley.  It is fun to see how new players can be integrated into the texture of the team.  
  But the most fun is realizing that you are part of a crowd that truly loves baseball.  Mesa is cluttered with them!
  I remember striking up a conversation with a couple as we enjoyed a continental breakfast at a hotel.  They confessed that they tried to come every year, but only because of the game.  They didn't care who was playing.  
  On the other side of the coin was an older gent wearing a Cubs cap.  He was from Iowa and....WOW...was he ever vocally opinionated about the men in blue!  The way he described his passion for the Cubs was quite dramatic.  He actually would alternate between laughter and tears.   
  Laughter and tears.  What better words are there to describe the Cub experience?    
  

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CUBS WORLD MEMBER PENS SERIES OF BOOKS CELEBRATING OLD TIME CINEMA
​by Wayne Richards

  Anyone who views TURNER CLASSIC MOVIES on a regular basis are most likely familiar with the slogan, "FILMS ARE IN MY BLOOD!"  Cubs World member, Gary Koka is not only a regular viewer, but the perfect example of how an individual properly shares his love for classic films.   He has written volumes about his passion.
  Born in Park Ridge, Illinois, Koka attended both Maine East and South high schools.  Demonstrating his ever developing creativity, Gary composed the fight song for Maine South High School. He remembers his fellow classmates, including Hillary Clinton whom he dated.   
  At the same time, he also fostered his love for baseball and visited Wrigley whenever possible.  He remembers how the ball park was quite different back then, particularly with regard to the catwalks. 
  With a BA in English, Gary graduated from Northern Illinois, University.  But he needed something that would spark an attempt to travel down a literary path.  That opportunity materialized due to an unusual encounter via a conversation on a radio talk show.
  THE SCORE was and is a popular sports station in Chicago.  In 2006, Gary Koka called in to speak with radio host Mike North.  Somehow, during their conversation, the name of talented actor GLENN FORD popped up and a discussion ensued about older actors.  It must've been confusing to listeners tuning in to hear a conversation regarding old time actors.  In fact, one young caller was heard to ask, "Who the hell is Glenn Ford?"
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  The answer to these and other questions about old time actors  can be found in 7 well constructed books about film written by Gary Koka.  "Glenn Ford is featured as well as Tyrone Power along with many other actors, " said Koka.  "I've also written a book about great character actors from way back when."  The books are available on Amazon.
​  When asked what his favorite film of all time was, Gary did not hesitate to answer.   "The Best Years Of Our Lives...released in 1946, " boasted Koka.  "I've seen it at least ten times!"  When asked who his favorite actor was it was a classically trained supporting actor named Claude Raines.  Said Gary, "Walter Brennan was also great!"
  Koka has a special place in his heart for old westerns and science fiction films such as THE DAY THE EARTH STOOD STILL.  Gary is contemplating piecing together another book covering the subject of film noir, a style of film-making that is often dark and shadowy and deeply entertaining.
  Gary's interest in film focuses strictly on old works.  Said Gary, "I don't care for the computer generated effects in today's films.  I much prefer movies with stories of real human interest."
  I asked Mr. Koka if he had the opportunity to write a screenplay or produce a film about the CHICAGO CUBS, what story would he write?  One might think an epic film about the 2016 season would be in order.  Perhaps a drama about the billy goat curse since horror films are on his list.  However, Gary stated, "The film would be placed between 1906 and 1908, which was a period of their greatest success."
  Gary and his wife, Patricia, split the year between living up north and in the Villages.  They have two daughters, Julie and Karen and four grandchildren!  
  With his literary accomplishments and a wonderful family, Gary has much to be proud of.  We are proud that the Koka's are citizens of an ever-growing Cubs World.


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A JACK AND LOU SURPRISE FOR YOU!
  Jack Quinlan and Lou Boudreau were beloved Chicago Cubs broadcasters who somehow wound up doing spot commercials for the now defunct women's clothing store, Wieboldt's.  They would goof them up and laugh so often, the store management loved it because it put their business in an interesting and memorable light!

Here, hosted by an obviously frustrated Cub fan whom you will meet, is a special video for all to enjoy.

​CLICK HERE 

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OUR OFFICIAL SPRING TRAINING CORRESPONDENTS ARE AT IT AGAIN
(interviewed by Wayne Richards)
  Tony and Kathy Diliberto are dear friends and deeply passionate Cub fans.  That is why when they moved from Chicago to Arizona, they made sure they were close to Sloan Park.
  When last year's spring training came to a halt, Tony expressed a deep sadness that I did not feel was necessary to print.  At that point, we weren't certain that there would be any season at all.
  But, this year, with limited seating, the season brings promise.  In a Cubs/Mariners game, we had the rare opportunity of communicating in real time.  The game was televised here thanks to Roku and MLB.
GAME ONE...
  WAYNE:  I bet it's great to be back at the ball park.
  TONY:  Yes it is!  I'm lucky to get tickets.  They went out like wild fire! They were sold out in 24 hours.
  WAYNE:  So tell me, what's the covid situation?
  TONY:  Everybody came in wearing masks.  But inside, people ripped them off.  It's a little lax.
 

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WAYNE:  Yikes!  Is your wife drinking a hot tub full of beer?  How much is that thing?
TONY:  Ten bucks.  Everything is expensive.  12 for bratwurst.
WAYNE: Wow!  That ball was hit hard!  They're flying out of the joint.
TONY:  Some lady just got a foul ball in our section down the left field line.
WAYNE:  We're suddenly tied.  I bet the place is quiet.
TONY:  VERY!
WAYNE:  Looks like trees are blowing around pretty good.
TONY:  Yep. Gusting about 40 miles per hour. 
WAYNE: Are you coming to some other games?
TONY:  We have tickets for one more next Monday. We're very lucky to get them too.
WAYNE:  At least you don't have to drive too far to get home.
TONY:  30 minutes tops!  Oops!  The game just ended with a tie.
WAYNE:  I hate that!
TONY:  Me too.  But at least they didn't lose. 
GAME TWO...
WAYNE:  The White Sox have invaded my tv today.  Can't see the game. Hows the weather?
TONY:  About 83 degrees.  

WAYNE:  Who are we playing...and don't say the OTHER team.
TONY:  Texas Rangers.  4th inning. 1-0 Cubs.  But we gotta start hitting.
WAYNE:  Are you sitting in the same seats?
TONY:  No.  We're up on the Budweiser roof.  Hey guess what?
WAYNE:  What?  
TONY:  I don't know if they're playing 7 innings or 9 today.  Not only that, they occasionally don't have three outs in some innings.  It's very strange.
WAYNE:  Well, I do know that it's the manager's decision to play extra innings.
TONY:  HEY!  It's 7-0 Cubs!
WAYNE:  What happened?
TONY:  Baez 3 run homer.
WAYNE:  Give him an audience and he'll produce!  I know it's a small crowd, but did the energy build?  Is it noisy?
TONY:  Yes.  Pretty enthusiastic crowd for the most part.
WAYNE:  GOOD TO HEAR THIS!
TONY:  Cubs just took it 9-0.  They're only playing 7 innings.
WAYNE:  So, looking at the team, how do they look this year?
TONY:  Some of the youngsters looked good.
WAYNE:  IN the stands or on the field?
TONY: (laughing)  Both.
WAYNE:  A prediction for the season?
TONY:  YES.  If the pitching holds up we'll win about 75 or 80 games.


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INTERESTING TIPS FOR BASEBALL BROADCASTERS!
  Have you ever had a desire to sit in a broadcast booth and call play by play?  It takes a great deal of practice to develop skills.  
  Please enjoy this interesting little video which is an actual tutorial for future on air talent.  The instructor offers 9 different tips to colorize and improve your style.
  CLICK HERE


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FINAL THREE BASEBALL PROGNOSTICATIONS...and a little something extra!
  For several months, Cubs World Chatter has presented a series of predictions about the future of baseball.  The article was written by journalist Chris Mueller and submitted to us by our friend Dave Gran.
  Here are the final three glances into the future.  Please feel free to grade them and/or make comments.

​  18.  
Be more 'short'-sighted
   U.S. sports revolve around the playoff system. Baseball players have by far the longest regular season coupled with the shortest postseason outside the NFL. A 162-game schedule is unnecessary, so MLB should cut eight games from the regular season and make every playoff series seven games. The result: more drama in October, a greater chance that the better team wins a series and eight extra days off that will likely help with player wear and tear. Unfortunately, the league is trending in a much dumber direction, as a brilliant writer pointed out.

19.  Spread the wealth
  Many players have production-based bonus clauses in their contracts. The league should sweeten the pot for them by giving out similar bonuses for the league leaders in major categories. A million dollars for “major” categories like home runs and ERA titles and lesser amounts, but no less than $250,000 for, say, stolen base titles and most outfield assists. Players on also-ran teams doggedly chasing an individual milestone, often with comedic results? Sign me up.

20.  Introducing ... the Scoring Position Channel
  The NFL has the RedZone channel, and while baseball’s fantasy following isn’t as rabid, plenty of fans still play it. MLB should create a channel that cuts to every game that features at least one runner in scoring position and jump around with running commentary and discussion of fantasy implications. It’s a simple concept that would also serve to make the game more exciting overall. If there is a channel where something is constantly happening, it would help the sport appear more fast-paced and action-packed.

BONUS! Bring fans closer to the game... literally
  Ever been to a sparsely attended baseball game and tried to move down closer to the field from your nosebleed seats, only to be told by an usher to get lost? It’s ridiculous and penalizes fans for a completely benign, victimless action. Manfred ought to step in and create a “common sense” rule that doesn’t just permit but also encourages fans to move closer to the field when attendance is light. Better to reward paying customers when there are fewer of them rather than push them away.
​  

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MAYOR LIGHTFOOT OF CHICAGO MAKES ANNOUNCEMENT
  In a very entertaining television spot, the mayor of Chicago , Lori Lightfoot, steps out onto the fields of both Wrigley and Guaranteed Parking field to announce in a dramatic manner that baseball is back!  Lightfoot also tweeted, "Folks, we've significantly slowed the spread of covid.  We can begin to safely welcome fans back to our baseball stands on opening day."
  
Capacity will be limited to 20 percent to start the season, which will equate to 8,274 at Wrigley Field and 8,122 fans at Guaranteed Rate. Fans will still be required to wear masks, sit six feet apart and the stadiums will deal in cashless concession and merchandise sales.
  

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GO CUBBIES!!!!
  It's going to be a while before Wrigley returns to normal, but even a limited crowd is a major step in the right direction.  Just ask Baez!
  Our meetings and watch parties have also returned and even a mask cannot hide the smiles that are returning.  WELCOME BACK BASEBALL!    In celebration, please enjoy this video.  CLICK HERE


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  • THE WAYNE RICHARDS MUSEUM
  • NEWS AND COMMENTS
  • BIOGRAPHY
  • CONTACT
  • HARVEY "Behind the Scenes"
  • JUKE BOX
  • A SUMMER STORM
  • A SUMMER STORM page 2
  • LAND OF THE MIDNIGHT SUN
  • GALLERY OF SPECIAL PEOPLE
  • ORIGINAL MOTION PICTURE SCORES
  • BLACKLISTED REVIEWS
  • PHOTOS part one
  • MORE PHOTOS
  • GALLERY OF PRODUCTIONS
  • OTHER ARTISTS YOU SHOULD KNOW
  • WEB RADIO
  • REQUESTS I'VE RECEIVED
  • BIG SHOT AD COLLECTION
  • GIGS SAMPLE PAGES
  • RARE FINDS!
  • THE MEDIA ROOM
  • CHICAGO CUBS CHATTER edition one
  • CUBS WORLD CHATTER edition two
  • CUBS WORLD CHATTER #3
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  • THE WAYNE RICHARDS MUSEUM
  • NEWS AND COMMENTS
  • BIOGRAPHY
  • CONTACT
  • HARVEY "Behind the Scenes"
  • JUKE BOX
  • A SUMMER STORM
  • A SUMMER STORM page 2
  • LAND OF THE MIDNIGHT SUN
  • GALLERY OF SPECIAL PEOPLE
  • ORIGINAL MOTION PICTURE SCORES
  • BLACKLISTED REVIEWS
  • PHOTOS part one
  • MORE PHOTOS
  • GALLERY OF PRODUCTIONS
  • OTHER ARTISTS YOU SHOULD KNOW
  • WEB RADIO
  • REQUESTS I'VE RECEIVED
  • BIG SHOT AD COLLECTION
  • GIGS SAMPLE PAGES
  • RARE FINDS!
  • THE MEDIA ROOM
  • CHICAGO CUBS CHATTER edition one
  • CUBS WORLD CHATTER edition two
  • CUBS WORLD CHATTER #3
  • CUBS WORLD CHATTER edition #4
  • CUBS WORLD CHATTER #5
  • CUBS WORLD #6
  • CUBS WORLD ALL STAR BREAK EDITION
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