WELCOME to the February edition of the CUBS WORLD CHATTER. Some exciting things are happening this month. Please grab coffee or a cocktail (or both) relax and enjoy!
As we all know, this is the month when pitchers report to Spring training and additional players that shouldn't be there ... sneak in. (Come on....everybody knows that!)
By the way, even though the main focus in this newsletter will always shine on our Cubbies, I have taken a little time for a personal tribute to BOB EUCKER, the voice of the Brewers. When you read it, you'll understand why.
My editor, partner and friend, Dan Marx wants to remind everybody that things can become quite interesting if you send in comments and suggestions. Keep in mind, we always look forward to hearing from you. GO CUBBIES!
As we all know, this is the month when pitchers report to Spring training and additional players that shouldn't be there ... sneak in. (Come on....everybody knows that!)
By the way, even though the main focus in this newsletter will always shine on our Cubbies, I have taken a little time for a personal tribute to BOB EUCKER, the voice of the Brewers. When you read it, you'll understand why.
My editor, partner and friend, Dan Marx wants to remind everybody that things can become quite interesting if you send in comments and suggestions. Keep in mind, we always look forward to hearing from you. GO CUBBIES!
ON DECK FOR MARCH
(Our logo looks amazing any where its placed!)
March 3rd
EISENHOWER
Special Guests...
BOB IBACH
and
TONY GAROFALO!
Once again, on Monday, March 3rd, Cubs World members will be returning to EISENHOWER RECREATION CENTER , located at 3560 Buena Vista Blvd. This will be an event you won't want to miss!
Ernie Banks used to say, "LET'S PLAY TWO!" and that's exactly what we're going to do! Come help us celebrate the return of Bob Ibach and Tony Gorofalo.
Bob Ibach served as PR person for the Chicago Cubs. He has some great "Behind the scenes" stories to share. He will tell us how his sports world interests have expanded.
Tony Gorofalo was a Chicago Cubs team athletic trainer in 1977. He is the most senior trainer for Athletico! His position is a critical one for any team and the North-siders were blessed with his guidance. His work is extremely specialized as you will discover!
Please come join us!
(Our logo looks amazing any where its placed!)
March 3rd
EISENHOWER
Special Guests...
BOB IBACH
and
TONY GAROFALO!
Once again, on Monday, March 3rd, Cubs World members will be returning to EISENHOWER RECREATION CENTER , located at 3560 Buena Vista Blvd. This will be an event you won't want to miss!
Ernie Banks used to say, "LET'S PLAY TWO!" and that's exactly what we're going to do! Come help us celebrate the return of Bob Ibach and Tony Gorofalo.
Bob Ibach served as PR person for the Chicago Cubs. He has some great "Behind the scenes" stories to share. He will tell us how his sports world interests have expanded.
Tony Gorofalo was a Chicago Cubs team athletic trainer in 1977. He is the most senior trainer for Athletico! His position is a critical one for any team and the North-siders were blessed with his guidance. His work is extremely specialized as you will discover!
Please come join us!
FOR YOUR INFORMATION!
Once again, Gators restaurant in Brownwood will be our OFFICIAL home for Cubs Game Watches! For those who did not manage to procure a schedule at the the membership meeting, here is a complete schedule for your ed...edif...um...edifica...........CONVENIENCE!
(Gathering time is one hour earlier than the scheduled start time.
WED APRIL 2 CUBS VS A'S game time 3:35
SAT APRIL 19TH DIAMONDBACKS AT CUBS game time 1:30
SAT MAY 17TH SOX AND CUBS game time 2:20
SAT JUNE 21 MARINERS AT CUBS game time 1:30
SUN JULY 20 RED SOX AT CUBS game time 1:30
SAT AUG 16th PIRATES AT CUBS game time 2:20
FRI SEP 26thth CARDINALS AT CUBS game time 2:20
Once again, Gators restaurant in Brownwood will be our OFFICIAL home for Cubs Game Watches! For those who did not manage to procure a schedule at the the membership meeting, here is a complete schedule for your ed...edif...um...edifica...........CONVENIENCE!
(Gathering time is one hour earlier than the scheduled start time.
WED APRIL 2 CUBS VS A'S game time 3:35
SAT APRIL 19TH DIAMONDBACKS AT CUBS game time 1:30
SAT MAY 17TH SOX AND CUBS game time 2:20
SAT JUNE 21 MARINERS AT CUBS game time 1:30
SUN JULY 20 RED SOX AT CUBS game time 1:30
SAT AUG 16th PIRATES AT CUBS game time 2:20
FRI SEP 26thth CARDINALS AT CUBS game time 2:20
RED WORD TIME!!!
by Wayne Richards
Ok! We admit it! We've been quite sneaky with some of these red words. So this month we'll give you a break. The word should be easier to find this time around.
Once you find it, write it on a piece of paper along with your name and drop in a special jar at our next membership meeting at Eisenhower.
You just might win a PUBLIX gift card!!! Exciting eh?
by Wayne Richards
Ok! We admit it! We've been quite sneaky with some of these red words. So this month we'll give you a break. The word should be easier to find this time around.
Once you find it, write it on a piece of paper along with your name and drop in a special jar at our next membership meeting at Eisenhower.
You just might win a PUBLIX gift card!!! Exciting eh?
FRANZ BEARD VISITS OUR TEMPORARY CUBS WORLD HOME
By Dan Marx
Our February meeting, got off to a great start with the Cubs World members serenading Annie Richards ( Wayne’s wife)with their rendition of “take me out to the ballpark.” Annie is home recovering from brain surgery and doing extremely well. She expects to be at the March meeting.
Jim Gulesarian did his “Let’s play too” and recapped the Cubs acquisitions during the offseason. I think the consensus is that we did pretty well. More on that in a little bit with Franz Beard. We watched a very humorous tribute to the late Bob Uecker, and then tried our hand at Cubs IQ.
When he heard about the Kyle Tucker trade, Franz Beard was on the phone with Wayne immediately to let him know that he had a very close relationship with Tucker, and wanted to let the club know about it. He first told us a story about Stan Musial and his efforts to help integrate baseball. Despite the fact that Musial destroyed us every time we played him, he was a true humanitarian.
Beard then gave us stats about Tucker that had us all drooling, especially the stats for last year when he lost a third of the season due to a shin injury. He is projected be one of the top 10 offensive players in baseball this season. Franz follows the Cubs very closely and loves many of our starters. He loves Michael Busch. He loves our new closer Ryan Pressley. He thinks Dansby Swanson will rebound and have a good season. The only starter he wasn’t crazy about is Nico Hoerner. Beard is convinced that the Cubs are going to pick up Alex Bregman, and when that happens, we will get into the World Series.
Looking at our prospects, he also loved what he saw. There are two that he made very lofty comparisons to. Our prospect catcher, Moises Baillesteros, he compared defensively to Johny Bench, and Cade Horton, he compared his delivery to Jim Palmer.
When Franz was ready to leave, we had a big surprise for him. When our featured speakers come to see us, they automatically become a member of our family. Because of that, the Cubs World board decided to start a new tradition. Every one of our speakers from now on, will be a getting a Cubs World knit shirt. Franz couldn’t have been more excited to receive this from our membership.
Thanks for getting us excited about our 2025 Chicago Cubs, Franz.
By Dan Marx
Our February meeting, got off to a great start with the Cubs World members serenading Annie Richards ( Wayne’s wife)with their rendition of “take me out to the ballpark.” Annie is home recovering from brain surgery and doing extremely well. She expects to be at the March meeting.
Jim Gulesarian did his “Let’s play too” and recapped the Cubs acquisitions during the offseason. I think the consensus is that we did pretty well. More on that in a little bit with Franz Beard. We watched a very humorous tribute to the late Bob Uecker, and then tried our hand at Cubs IQ.
When he heard about the Kyle Tucker trade, Franz Beard was on the phone with Wayne immediately to let him know that he had a very close relationship with Tucker, and wanted to let the club know about it. He first told us a story about Stan Musial and his efforts to help integrate baseball. Despite the fact that Musial destroyed us every time we played him, he was a true humanitarian.
Beard then gave us stats about Tucker that had us all drooling, especially the stats for last year when he lost a third of the season due to a shin injury. He is projected be one of the top 10 offensive players in baseball this season. Franz follows the Cubs very closely and loves many of our starters. He loves Michael Busch. He loves our new closer Ryan Pressley. He thinks Dansby Swanson will rebound and have a good season. The only starter he wasn’t crazy about is Nico Hoerner. Beard is convinced that the Cubs are going to pick up Alex Bregman, and when that happens, we will get into the World Series.
Looking at our prospects, he also loved what he saw. There are two that he made very lofty comparisons to. Our prospect catcher, Moises Baillesteros, he compared defensively to Johny Bench, and Cade Horton, he compared his delivery to Jim Palmer.
When Franz was ready to leave, we had a big surprise for him. When our featured speakers come to see us, they automatically become a member of our family. Because of that, the Cubs World board decided to start a new tradition. Every one of our speakers from now on, will be a getting a Cubs World knit shirt. Franz couldn’t have been more excited to receive this from our membership.
Thanks for getting us excited about our 2025 Chicago Cubs, Franz.
SPRING TRAINING ON THE SPOT REPORTS ARE-A-COMING!
by Wayne Richards
I am a most fortunate man having some amazing and dedicated friends! Once again, these amazing souls plan to come through for Cubs World.
As many of you know, Tony and Kathy are very good friends who moved to Arizona just when Annie and I moved here. I've said it before and I'll say it again, you will not find a more dedicated Cubbie couple. Tony moved for the warmth of 124 degrees and also to have yearly access to Spring training games.
Once again, Tony will be my "on the spot" reporter for one or two upcoming games. He always calls me live from a game and it drives me nuts because I'd love to be there. But his efforts to share his excitement with us is the next best thing!
by Wayne Richards
I am a most fortunate man having some amazing and dedicated friends! Once again, these amazing souls plan to come through for Cubs World.
As many of you know, Tony and Kathy are very good friends who moved to Arizona just when Annie and I moved here. I've said it before and I'll say it again, you will not find a more dedicated Cubbie couple. Tony moved for the warmth of 124 degrees and also to have yearly access to Spring training games.
Once again, Tony will be my "on the spot" reporter for one or two upcoming games. He always calls me live from a game and it drives me nuts because I'd love to be there. But his efforts to share his excitement with us is the next best thing!
Another individual who worships the Cubs is Christina Mcgrath. She has also graciously reported to us directly from Sloan Park and has been feeling horrible that she will not be attending games this year.
Christina (who is thinking about moving to the Villages) used to come to a club in Arlington Heights where I performed for 13+ years. Her mother (unfortunately now deceased) was a regular and started bringing Christina along until she became a regular.
Her passion for the Cubs is evident everywhere she goes abd somehow has the knack for getting her photo taken with Cubs legends. Maybe she will share some of those.
Christina, whenever you make it to the Villages, there's a club waiting for you! GO CUBS!
Christina (who is thinking about moving to the Villages) used to come to a club in Arlington Heights where I performed for 13+ years. Her mother (unfortunately now deceased) was a regular and started bringing Christina along until she became a regular.
Her passion for the Cubs is evident everywhere she goes abd somehow has the knack for getting her photo taken with Cubs legends. Maybe she will share some of those.
Christina, whenever you make it to the Villages, there's a club waiting for you! GO CUBS!
The Dream
by Wayne Richards
I happen to be one of those individuals who dream quite a bit. I also remember them vividly.
My writing coach back in College suggested that I keep a diary of my dreams because you never know how these thoughts in your head are going to collide.
He was so right and I'll tell you why. I often times drive Northward on Beuna Vista Blvd. Right across from Liberty stands an old house, which I've always admired. I'm not sure if it has historical significance, but its very attractive.
In my recent dream, I left a membership meeting driving a golf cart. This is funny because I don't own one. In any case, I was chugging along and pulled up to my house which , of course, was the house I admired.
This structure had various Cubs artifacts placed around in the garden, on the porch. The roof was Cubbie Blue. On the roof, a W flag flew proudly in the breeze. Quite a nice dream.
The next day, I was searching for some information while preparing a piece for this newsletter when I came across this wonderful artist's rendering of a Cubbie house. It is amazingly close to what I dreamed. Amazing how these connections are made.
The one big difference is that my W flag is replaced by an American flag. Either way....it's a winner!
by Wayne Richards
I happen to be one of those individuals who dream quite a bit. I also remember them vividly.
My writing coach back in College suggested that I keep a diary of my dreams because you never know how these thoughts in your head are going to collide.
He was so right and I'll tell you why. I often times drive Northward on Beuna Vista Blvd. Right across from Liberty stands an old house, which I've always admired. I'm not sure if it has historical significance, but its very attractive.
In my recent dream, I left a membership meeting driving a golf cart. This is funny because I don't own one. In any case, I was chugging along and pulled up to my house which , of course, was the house I admired.
This structure had various Cubs artifacts placed around in the garden, on the porch. The roof was Cubbie Blue. On the roof, a W flag flew proudly in the breeze. Quite a nice dream.
The next day, I was searching for some information while preparing a piece for this newsletter when I came across this wonderful artist's rendering of a Cubbie house. It is amazingly close to what I dreamed. Amazing how these connections are made.
The one big difference is that my W flag is replaced by an American flag. Either way....it's a winner!
THE GREATEST
by Dan Marx
(from a highly recommended book!)
I have seen a number of polls on Facebook lately as to who is the greatest athlete who ever lived. I’ve seen Wilt Chamberlain, Jim Brown, the legendary Jim Thorpe, Michael Jordan, and countless others. The one name that I don’t think that I see enough is Bo Jackson.
Bo won the Heisman trophy and was the number one pick in the NFL draft. He was spectacular in track and field in high school and college and ran a 4.12 in the 40. Others swore that they saw him do a faster time. But to watch Bo play pro football was eye popping. His speed , his power, his football IQ was something to behold.
But, then his baseball talents were also incredible. This story is about an at bat against the great Nolan Ryan. Bo had faced Ryan 6 times and struck out each time. He was determined not to strike out this time. Jackson worked the count to 3-2, and the moment of truth was at hand. Ryan knew if he threw Bo a curve that he would strike him out. But, he looked at Jackson’s eyes which seemed to be saying “cmon old man, give me the hardest fastball you’ve got” . And that’s exactly what Ryan did. Ryan threw it right down the middle, and Bo turned on it and creamed it, sending it to a part of the park that no baseball had ever landed in before. Bo gave Nolan a smile as he rounded the bases, but all he got back was a glare. Ryan was asked after the game whether that was the longest homer he had ever given up, and Ryan denied it.
But the next day he came to the ballpark and saw many of his teammates sitting in the spot where the home run landed. He joined them, and finally admit that Bo hit it a pretty long way.
Back to the greatest athlete ever, my vote does have to go to Jim Thorpe, even though 20 years from now, don’t be surprised if Ohtani’s name isn’t there. It’s a list that has no winner, but is always a great debate.
However broad your definition of “athlete “ might be, please share with us your top 3 athletes of all time. We'd love to hear from you.
by Dan Marx
(from a highly recommended book!)
I have seen a number of polls on Facebook lately as to who is the greatest athlete who ever lived. I’ve seen Wilt Chamberlain, Jim Brown, the legendary Jim Thorpe, Michael Jordan, and countless others. The one name that I don’t think that I see enough is Bo Jackson.
Bo won the Heisman trophy and was the number one pick in the NFL draft. He was spectacular in track and field in high school and college and ran a 4.12 in the 40. Others swore that they saw him do a faster time. But to watch Bo play pro football was eye popping. His speed , his power, his football IQ was something to behold.
But, then his baseball talents were also incredible. This story is about an at bat against the great Nolan Ryan. Bo had faced Ryan 6 times and struck out each time. He was determined not to strike out this time. Jackson worked the count to 3-2, and the moment of truth was at hand. Ryan knew if he threw Bo a curve that he would strike him out. But, he looked at Jackson’s eyes which seemed to be saying “cmon old man, give me the hardest fastball you’ve got” . And that’s exactly what Ryan did. Ryan threw it right down the middle, and Bo turned on it and creamed it, sending it to a part of the park that no baseball had ever landed in before. Bo gave Nolan a smile as he rounded the bases, but all he got back was a glare. Ryan was asked after the game whether that was the longest homer he had ever given up, and Ryan denied it.
But the next day he came to the ballpark and saw many of his teammates sitting in the spot where the home run landed. He joined them, and finally admit that Bo hit it a pretty long way.
Back to the greatest athlete ever, my vote does have to go to Jim Thorpe, even though 20 years from now, don’t be surprised if Ohtani’s name isn’t there. It’s a list that has no winner, but is always a great debate.
However broad your definition of “athlete “ might be, please share with us your top 3 athletes of all time. We'd love to hear from you.
SOMETHING ABOUT BOB
by Wayne Richards
During Jim Guleserian's membership meeting segment called "LETS PLAY TOO", I was delighted to see a tribute to Bob Eucker lovingly presented. Mr. Baseball truly deserves accolades.
I also would like to offer a tribute and explain why this man's loss affects me deeply. Let me explain why.
First of all, Some years ago, I watched a fascinating interview with Bob where he spoke at length about his youth and how he developed a love for baseball. Chicago played a big part in sparking that interest. Eucker reflected fondly of how he would break away from his routine and take the Milwaukee Road railroad from BEER TOWN to Wrigley. It was one of his favorite things to do!
Of course, when his broadcasting career was solidified in Milwaukee, he would take digs at Wrigley, just as he would at any other ballpark. That was his job....to be faithful to the Brewers.
But, more importantly, he always directed true criticism in comic form to himself. That to me is the mark of a very special individual! In other words, he masterfully connected two of my passions...baseball and humor. What an amazing showman!
Jim presented some video examples of just how quick Eucker's mind was when he appeared on the TONIGHT SHOW. Due to technical issues, one video could not be played. It was his induction speech into the Hall Of Fame. Needless to say it is a masterpiece and we invite you to check it out. CLICK HERE
by Wayne Richards
During Jim Guleserian's membership meeting segment called "LETS PLAY TOO", I was delighted to see a tribute to Bob Eucker lovingly presented. Mr. Baseball truly deserves accolades.
I also would like to offer a tribute and explain why this man's loss affects me deeply. Let me explain why.
First of all, Some years ago, I watched a fascinating interview with Bob where he spoke at length about his youth and how he developed a love for baseball. Chicago played a big part in sparking that interest. Eucker reflected fondly of how he would break away from his routine and take the Milwaukee Road railroad from BEER TOWN to Wrigley. It was one of his favorite things to do!
Of course, when his broadcasting career was solidified in Milwaukee, he would take digs at Wrigley, just as he would at any other ballpark. That was his job....to be faithful to the Brewers.
But, more importantly, he always directed true criticism in comic form to himself. That to me is the mark of a very special individual! In other words, he masterfully connected two of my passions...baseball and humor. What an amazing showman!
Jim presented some video examples of just how quick Eucker's mind was when he appeared on the TONIGHT SHOW. Due to technical issues, one video could not be played. It was his induction speech into the Hall Of Fame. Needless to say it is a masterpiece and we invite you to check it out. CLICK HERE
BOBBLING ON WITH FRESH CONCEPTS
by Wayne Richards
It's truly amazing to think how many baseball bobble heads have been distributed through the years. The styles and themes of these creations run the gamut from heartfelt to interesting and in some cases, ridiculous! Have some fun checking out these masterpieces. (ATTENTION... OFFICIAL CUBS WORLD BOBBLE HEAD COLLECTOR). Some of these you might have.
by Wayne Richards
It's truly amazing to think how many baseball bobble heads have been distributed through the years. The styles and themes of these creations run the gamut from heartfelt to interesting and in some cases, ridiculous! Have some fun checking out these masterpieces. (ATTENTION... OFFICIAL CUBS WORLD BOBBLE HEAD COLLECTOR). Some of these you might have.
BUSY AS A ONE ARMED WALLPAPER HANGER!
by Wayne Richards
Take a look at the wonderful people gathered in the photo below. They are members of Cubs World. They are very fine individuals who share a passion for baseball on many different levels. I consider them family.
I also would like to thank everyone for making a moment special for my wife, Annie, who is recovering from brain surgery. The little telephone version of TAKE ME OUT TO THE BALL GAME that the entire membership rendered really made her smile, although the phone cut in and out quite a bit.
I am proud to be your president and consider you part of the family. GO CUBBIES!
by Wayne Richards
Take a look at the wonderful people gathered in the photo below. They are members of Cubs World. They are very fine individuals who share a passion for baseball on many different levels. I consider them family.
I also would like to thank everyone for making a moment special for my wife, Annie, who is recovering from brain surgery. The little telephone version of TAKE ME OUT TO THE BALL GAME that the entire membership rendered really made her smile, although the phone cut in and out quite a bit.
I am proud to be your president and consider you part of the family. GO CUBBIES!
GREAT LOOKING GROUP!
WOULDN'T YOU SAY?
WOULDN'T YOU SAY?
Ok Cubs World! It's time for you to express yourself. Please tell us what's on your mind. This is that amazing time of year when those of us who truly love baseball are busting at the seems with excitement for the new season.
Do you share this excitement? Tell us about it! In fact, here's a question for you. What is is about baseball that you love the most?
Cubs World continues to be a special place only because of people like you!
GO CUBBIES!
Do you share this excitement? Tell us about it! In fact, here's a question for you. What is is about baseball that you love the most?
Cubs World continues to be a special place only because of people like you!
GO CUBBIES!