At this writing, it feels as though I've transported to Alaska. But I'm filled with warm thoughts with the realization that pitchers will soon be reporting to Spring training camp in Arizona. Your president's buddy, Tony, is once again poised to report on the sights and sounds of Sloan Park! He always has something interesting to say about the proceedings. Our second reporter, Christina Mcgrath, will not be flying West, but will be attending some games at Wrigley. By the time the season ends I wouldn't be surprised if she shares selfies with a number of players. She definetely has a knack for doing that kind of thing. This is going to be a great season. GO CUBBIES!
ON DECK CIRCLE...HERE'S WHATS COMING UP!
MARCH MEMBERSHIP MEETING
"THE RETURN OF BOB IBACH AND TONY GAROFALO"
Monday, March 2nd
Colony Cottage
Doors open 5:30 pm.
COMING SATURDAY APRIL 28TH
Watch Party at Gators (Second game of opening series at Wrigley)
Gathering time 1:30
MARCH MEMBERSHIP MEETING
"THE RETURN OF BOB IBACH AND TONY GAROFALO"
Monday, March 2nd
Colony Cottage
Doors open 5:30 pm.
COMING SATURDAY APRIL 28TH
Watch Party at Gators (Second game of opening series at Wrigley)
Gathering time 1:30
HERE COMES ANOTHER RED WORD
by Wayne Richards
As the sign says, words indeed do have power! This is especially true when the word happens to be printed in red. After all, finding this word will give you the opportunity to win a PUBLIX gift card!
For those who might not be familiar with this little monthly game, all you need do is read through this newsletter and search for a word printed in red. Write it down on a piece of paper with your name on it and drop it off in a special jar for a drawing.
In the coming months during RED WORD drawings, there might be an extra gift included! So please make sure you read through this newsletter carefully.
The very best of luck to each and every one of you!
by Wayne Richards
As the sign says, words indeed do have power! This is especially true when the word happens to be printed in red. After all, finding this word will give you the opportunity to win a PUBLIX gift card!
For those who might not be familiar with this little monthly game, all you need do is read through this newsletter and search for a word printed in red. Write it down on a piece of paper with your name on it and drop it off in a special jar for a drawing.
In the coming months during RED WORD drawings, there might be an extra gift included! So please make sure you read through this newsletter carefully.
The very best of luck to each and every one of you!
We are always happy when new people join the Cubs World Family. We hope your time with us will be enjoyable and entertaining!
JOHN AND BETSY HUBBS
TIME AND KIM UHLIG
MARTY AND CYNTHIA SHANDLER
DENNIS AND JO MILLER
CHRIS STANNARD
JOHN AND BETSY HUBBS
TIME AND KIM UHLIG
MARTY AND CYNTHIA SHANDLER
DENNIS AND JO MILLER
CHRIS STANNARD
HERE’S A BIG QUESTION
by Wayne Richards
Ladies and gentlemen of Cubs World! The 2026 season is destined to be one of the most interesting and, perhaps, nerve-wracking years in a long, long time. This is particularly true with the Cubs penetrating into the post.
Here’s the big question. HOW WILL THE CUBBIES DO THIS SEASON?
During the coming months, Cubs World will be visited by some people in the know. Bob Ibach, Tony Garofalo, Cody Hills and others will share their thoughts and predictions. But, the CUBS WORLD CHATTER would like to hear from YOU! Your voice matters here. Tell us what you think in the comment box below.
by Wayne Richards
Ladies and gentlemen of Cubs World! The 2026 season is destined to be one of the most interesting and, perhaps, nerve-wracking years in a long, long time. This is particularly true with the Cubs penetrating into the post.
Here’s the big question. HOW WILL THE CUBBIES DO THIS SEASON?
During the coming months, Cubs World will be visited by some people in the know. Bob Ibach, Tony Garofalo, Cody Hills and others will share their thoughts and predictions. But, the CUBS WORLD CHATTER would like to hear from YOU! Your voice matters here. Tell us what you think in the comment box below.
WELCOME TO THE BIG SHOW!
BY Wayne Richards
Bob Ibach and Tony Garofalo are no strangers to Cubs World. Each year these two individuals make sure they can visit us, checking on our schedule many months ahead of time. And why not? We love them and they love us.
For our new members Bob has been involved with publicity for the Cubbies and Tony was a trainer.
They always have very interesting tales to tell because they know just about everyone! You will not be disappointed with their presentation.
By the way, they have named this showcase, the Bob and Tony show! I still insist they might do a song and dance.
I wish you wonderful folks could hear some of the phone calls Bob and I have had from time to time. Wow...does he have stories! This will be fun. Don't miss this upcoming appearance.
BY Wayne Richards
Bob Ibach and Tony Garofalo are no strangers to Cubs World. Each year these two individuals make sure they can visit us, checking on our schedule many months ahead of time. And why not? We love them and they love us.
For our new members Bob has been involved with publicity for the Cubbies and Tony was a trainer.
They always have very interesting tales to tell because they know just about everyone! You will not be disappointed with their presentation.
By the way, they have named this showcase, the Bob and Tony show! I still insist they might do a song and dance.
I wish you wonderful folks could hear some of the phone calls Bob and I have had from time to time. Wow...does he have stories! This will be fun. Don't miss this upcoming appearance.
A STAR IS BORN
by Dan Marx
We had our February membership meeting on Groundhog Day at Colony Rec Center . It was a terrific turnout of over 80 members, including 5 new members. After being treated to a delicious dinner by Golden Corral , we listened to a very special storyteller, our very own Coral Murphy. Coral and her then husband were owners of Murphy’s Bleachers in the early 1980’s, a Wrigley Field icon. As of now, Coral has turned the establishment over to her 2 sons. Murphy’s was preceded by Ernie’s Bleachers and Rays Bleachers and has been on that corner for over 80 years.
One of the biggest highlights of Coral’s life was establishing the first industrialized roof complete with gas grill and toilet. She would climb the 3 flights of stairs to watch many a game with a great view. It was so exciting for Coral to watch the evolution of Wrigleyville, knowing that Murphy’s was such an integral part of it.
Our special guest who joined us via zoom from Des Moines , Iowa was Jason Kemph. Jason had just finished his first year as play by play announcer for the Iowa Cubs. They are the AAA minor league team of the Cubs, and the ballplayers that are most ready to advance to the Cubs give the parent club a great chance to see how terrific these players really are. Jason has seen many of the current Cubs make their way through the system, and knows there are many current Iowa ballplayers that will quickly make a difference on the parent club.
Jason pointed out that out of his 11 years as an announcer in the minors, he can’t get over the passion that is shown in the Chicago Cubs system.
by Dan Marx
We had our February membership meeting on Groundhog Day at Colony Rec Center . It was a terrific turnout of over 80 members, including 5 new members. After being treated to a delicious dinner by Golden Corral , we listened to a very special storyteller, our very own Coral Murphy. Coral and her then husband were owners of Murphy’s Bleachers in the early 1980’s, a Wrigley Field icon. As of now, Coral has turned the establishment over to her 2 sons. Murphy’s was preceded by Ernie’s Bleachers and Rays Bleachers and has been on that corner for over 80 years.
One of the biggest highlights of Coral’s life was establishing the first industrialized roof complete with gas grill and toilet. She would climb the 3 flights of stairs to watch many a game with a great view. It was so exciting for Coral to watch the evolution of Wrigleyville, knowing that Murphy’s was such an integral part of it.
Our special guest who joined us via zoom from Des Moines , Iowa was Jason Kemph. Jason had just finished his first year as play by play announcer for the Iowa Cubs. They are the AAA minor league team of the Cubs, and the ballplayers that are most ready to advance to the Cubs give the parent club a great chance to see how terrific these players really are. Jason has seen many of the current Cubs make their way through the system, and knows there are many current Iowa ballplayers that will quickly make a difference on the parent club.
Jason pointed out that out of his 11 years as an announcer in the minors, he can’t get over the passion that is shown in the Chicago Cubs system.
Our special guest who joined us via zoom from Des Moines , Iowa was Jason Kemph. Jason had just finished his first year as play by play announcer for the Iowa Cubs. They are the AAA minor league team of the Cubs, and the ballplayers that are most ready to advance to the Cubs give the parent club a great chance to see how terrific these players really are. Jason has seen many of the current Cubs make their way through the system, and knows there are many current Iowa ballplayers that will quickly make a difference on the parent club.
Jason pointed out that out of his 11 years as an announcer in the minors, he can’t get over the passion that is shown in the Chicago Cubs system.
Jason pointed out that out of his 11 years as an announcer in the minors, he can’t get over the passion that is shown in the Chicago Cubs system.
A FEW WORDS FROM THE PREZ
It is always very heartening to see a large group like this for our membership meetings. I feel an energy with these incredible people. We also very much appreciate the folks who lend a helping hand to make Cubs World the unique and attractive club that it is.
You would be surprised at the number of people I talk to setting up speaker dates that have actually heard of Cubs World! Good going Cubs World!!!!!
It is always very heartening to see a large group like this for our membership meetings. I feel an energy with these incredible people. We also very much appreciate the folks who lend a helping hand to make Cubs World the unique and attractive club that it is.
You would be surprised at the number of people I talk to setting up speaker dates that have actually heard of Cubs World! Good going Cubs World!!!!!
THE BLEACHER BUM REPORT
by Jack Herbon
Well, it’s that time of year when true blue Cubs fans start getting a little excited. Spring training in Arizona is opening and those new Cubs will be getting out the kinks from this long winter.
Key 2026 Roster & Team Developments: Alex Bergman Signed to a five-year, $175 million deal as a top-tier addition to the infield. Pitching Additions: The team added right-handed pitcher Kyle Wright on a minor-league contract to boost pitching depth. Other minor-league deals include RHP Vince Velasquez and 2B Owen Miller. Bullpen: Manager Craig Counsell named Daniel Palencia as a key candidate for the closer role. Prospects/Other: Non-roster invites to spring training include RHP Jaxon Wiggins and 3B BJ Murray. Wrigley Field: New premium seating options, "The Yard," were added for the 2025-2026 season.
I’m sure many of you were looking to drive down to see the Cubs play the Rays at the start of this season.
But, I was totally surprised that this three game set is just about sold out. You might get lucky finding a few available
seats on other premium web sites like Stubhub. But be prepared to pay more.
And I want to thank Coral Murphy for a wonderful presentation on the history of that little piece of land
at the corner of Waveland and Sheffield. The difference of Rays Bleachers and Murphys
is not even close. Those old photos were great to see! I can still remember Rays had stacks of empty beer
bottle cases inside the washrooms. I can remember many players like Willie Smith, Fergie Jenkins and
Dick Selma stopping by for a beer after some games. They knew where they could get a free beer!
Will this be another magical year for the Cubs? I have a good feeling it will be!
by Jack Herbon
Well, it’s that time of year when true blue Cubs fans start getting a little excited. Spring training in Arizona is opening and those new Cubs will be getting out the kinks from this long winter.
Key 2026 Roster & Team Developments: Alex Bergman Signed to a five-year, $175 million deal as a top-tier addition to the infield. Pitching Additions: The team added right-handed pitcher Kyle Wright on a minor-league contract to boost pitching depth. Other minor-league deals include RHP Vince Velasquez and 2B Owen Miller. Bullpen: Manager Craig Counsell named Daniel Palencia as a key candidate for the closer role. Prospects/Other: Non-roster invites to spring training include RHP Jaxon Wiggins and 3B BJ Murray. Wrigley Field: New premium seating options, "The Yard," were added for the 2025-2026 season.
I’m sure many of you were looking to drive down to see the Cubs play the Rays at the start of this season.
But, I was totally surprised that this three game set is just about sold out. You might get lucky finding a few available
seats on other premium web sites like Stubhub. But be prepared to pay more.
And I want to thank Coral Murphy for a wonderful presentation on the history of that little piece of land
at the corner of Waveland and Sheffield. The difference of Rays Bleachers and Murphys
is not even close. Those old photos were great to see! I can still remember Rays had stacks of empty beer
bottle cases inside the washrooms. I can remember many players like Willie Smith, Fergie Jenkins and
Dick Selma stopping by for a beer after some games. They knew where they could get a free beer!
Will this be another magical year for the Cubs? I have a good feeling it will be!
A BOOK YOU SHOULD READ!
by Dan Marx
Baseball is one of those sports that many of us remember statistics. We remember how many homers Babe Ruth had in 1927, and how many he had in his career. We remember how many games Lou Gehrig played in a row. We remember Joe Dimaggio’s consecutive game hitting streak. We remember how many games Cy Young won in his career.
Why is baseball so different than other sports?
How many yards did Payton run in his career? How many tds did he score? How many tds in his career did he have? The same with Emmitt Smith or Barry Sanders. You could probably say the same about MJ in the NBA and Gretzky in the NHL.
I think part of the reason is that when our favorite players were playing when we were growing up we knew what those records were , and we wanted our guys to break them so that we could witness greatness.
Maybe the reason I used this introductory preface is that if anyone ever asked you who the youngest player to ever play in a major league game was, I would say that maybe 90% of you would say Joe Nuxhall . And you’re right.
Interesting little story about Nuxhall . It was 1944 and the Cincinnati Reds called up 15 year old Joe Nuxhall who was a freshman in high school. They were playing the St. Louis Cardinals and the Cardinals were destroying the Reds 13-0 in the 9th inning. The Reds manager called for Nuxhall , and he caught his foot on the top of the dugout steps and fell flat on his face. Bad omen ? Certainly a very embarrassing moment.
He got out the first 2 batters and had an 0-2 count on the next hitter, Debs Garms. Then Nuxhall made a career changing mistake of looking in the on deck circle and seeing Stan Musial. I probably would have wet my pants. Nuxhall walked Garms. Gave up a single to Musial , and then walked the next three batters and gave up another single. 2 days later Nuxhall was sent to AAA Birmingham . Nowadays, he probably would have been given a chance the next year to show his stuff. And he did have stuff. He went on to win 135 games and made the All Star team a few times.
However, because of that peek in the on deck circle, it was EIGHT years before Joe pitched in the majors again. But his place in Reds history will always be secure. He ended up becoming a beloved radio announcer for the Reds.
by Dan Marx
Baseball is one of those sports that many of us remember statistics. We remember how many homers Babe Ruth had in 1927, and how many he had in his career. We remember how many games Lou Gehrig played in a row. We remember Joe Dimaggio’s consecutive game hitting streak. We remember how many games Cy Young won in his career.
Why is baseball so different than other sports?
How many yards did Payton run in his career? How many tds did he score? How many tds in his career did he have? The same with Emmitt Smith or Barry Sanders. You could probably say the same about MJ in the NBA and Gretzky in the NHL.
I think part of the reason is that when our favorite players were playing when we were growing up we knew what those records were , and we wanted our guys to break them so that we could witness greatness.
Maybe the reason I used this introductory preface is that if anyone ever asked you who the youngest player to ever play in a major league game was, I would say that maybe 90% of you would say Joe Nuxhall . And you’re right.
Interesting little story about Nuxhall . It was 1944 and the Cincinnati Reds called up 15 year old Joe Nuxhall who was a freshman in high school. They were playing the St. Louis Cardinals and the Cardinals were destroying the Reds 13-0 in the 9th inning. The Reds manager called for Nuxhall , and he caught his foot on the top of the dugout steps and fell flat on his face. Bad omen ? Certainly a very embarrassing moment.
He got out the first 2 batters and had an 0-2 count on the next hitter, Debs Garms. Then Nuxhall made a career changing mistake of looking in the on deck circle and seeing Stan Musial. I probably would have wet my pants. Nuxhall walked Garms. Gave up a single to Musial , and then walked the next three batters and gave up another single. 2 days later Nuxhall was sent to AAA Birmingham . Nowadays, he probably would have been given a chance the next year to show his stuff. And he did have stuff. He went on to win 135 games and made the All Star team a few times.
However, because of that peek in the on deck circle, it was EIGHT years before Joe pitched in the majors again. But his place in Reds history will always be secure. He ended up becoming a beloved radio announcer for the Reds.
My very good friend and chief editor of this newsletter, Dan Marx, has enthusiastically and regularly attempted
to call everyone's attention to a book entitled WHY WE LOVE BASEBALL. This is a volume that has provided constant pleasure to Dan and he would like nothing more than to share this joy with everyone.
There's no denying that BASEBALL is special. That's why so many books have been written on the subject.
Baseball is a hell of a game! While seated at my somewhat organized office desk, I leaned back in my big gaming chair, put my feet up, glanced out my picture window and pondered what it is I love about Baseball.
I thought back to my introduction of the game around age six. It was my first visit to the Friendly Confines and the moment my eyes beheld the field it had the same effect as Dorothy walking out the door into a technicolor wonderland called OZ.
It was a grand day! The crack of a bat followed by the screams from the stands hit my ears like deafening thunder! I also think my grandfather was responsible for supplying me with my first ever taste of Hamms, which as a matter of fact, became my final!
The Cubs started to get into my blood stream. I ran home from grade school with hopes that the game was still on! I loved hearing Jack Brickhouse yelling, "HEY HEY!" Little did I know that in the seventies, I would have breakfast with him. What a thrill to get to know him.
I have never been a stats kind of guy. But I admire those who embrace percentages and into FANTASY baseball. This is a strong indication that their passion for the game is intense and unwavering.
I guess it's the light-hearted moments of baseball that I really love. It is players sliding on a tarp during a rainstorm. It's a pitcher who can't throw a ball to first, so he throws his mitt with the ball inside successfully rendering an out!
It's a hot dog. It's the anthem. It's singing GO CUBS GO. It's high-fiving total strangers after a home run.
I guess it's the things that make the heart of the game beat without fail. May the heart beat last forever!
to call everyone's attention to a book entitled WHY WE LOVE BASEBALL. This is a volume that has provided constant pleasure to Dan and he would like nothing more than to share this joy with everyone.
There's no denying that BASEBALL is special. That's why so many books have been written on the subject.
Baseball is a hell of a game! While seated at my somewhat organized office desk, I leaned back in my big gaming chair, put my feet up, glanced out my picture window and pondered what it is I love about Baseball.
I thought back to my introduction of the game around age six. It was my first visit to the Friendly Confines and the moment my eyes beheld the field it had the same effect as Dorothy walking out the door into a technicolor wonderland called OZ.
It was a grand day! The crack of a bat followed by the screams from the stands hit my ears like deafening thunder! I also think my grandfather was responsible for supplying me with my first ever taste of Hamms, which as a matter of fact, became my final!
The Cubs started to get into my blood stream. I ran home from grade school with hopes that the game was still on! I loved hearing Jack Brickhouse yelling, "HEY HEY!" Little did I know that in the seventies, I would have breakfast with him. What a thrill to get to know him.
I have never been a stats kind of guy. But I admire those who embrace percentages and into FANTASY baseball. This is a strong indication that their passion for the game is intense and unwavering.
I guess it's the light-hearted moments of baseball that I really love. It is players sliding on a tarp during a rainstorm. It's a pitcher who can't throw a ball to first, so he throws his mitt with the ball inside successfully rendering an out!
It's a hot dog. It's the anthem. It's singing GO CUBS GO. It's high-fiving total strangers after a home run.
I guess it's the things that make the heart of the game beat without fail. May the heart beat last forever!
THE FINAL WORD
by the Prez
As always, the last offering in this newsletter affords our members to make comments. We'd love to see more people participate and share your thoughts.
I ran across this interesting question and I think it's a great one! Let me start the ball rolling. There are two players I'd love to meet.
By the way, they're both deceased and one isn't even a Cubbie. Ready?
First would be the one and only Ernie Banks. At one time or another, many of us have run into him and shook his hand. But having a chance to really learn more about the man would be an extraordinary experience. There's a lot about his life that has never been exposed and you'd be surprised what people will say when they're at ease.
Secondly, although he once was king of Milwaukee, I'd give anything to have had the chance to chat with him. Actually, it would be one story after another after another and I admire people with a sense of humor. His was in overload!
So, if you're so inclined, tell us whom you'd like to meet. GO CUBBIES!!!!!
by the Prez
As always, the last offering in this newsletter affords our members to make comments. We'd love to see more people participate and share your thoughts.
I ran across this interesting question and I think it's a great one! Let me start the ball rolling. There are two players I'd love to meet.
By the way, they're both deceased and one isn't even a Cubbie. Ready?
First would be the one and only Ernie Banks. At one time or another, many of us have run into him and shook his hand. But having a chance to really learn more about the man would be an extraordinary experience. There's a lot about his life that has never been exposed and you'd be surprised what people will say when they're at ease.
Secondly, although he once was king of Milwaukee, I'd give anything to have had the chance to chat with him. Actually, it would be one story after another after another and I admire people with a sense of humor. His was in overload!
So, if you're so inclined, tell us whom you'd like to meet. GO CUBBIES!!!!!