It was unusual for teenagers to be up so early on a hot summer morning. But this was a special day. We gather our “stuff” to take with us. We needed money, sunglasses, sun screen and our glove. We were going to a Cubs’ game at the “Friendly Confines” also know as Wrigley Field. From our neighborhood in the Western Suburbs it took at least two hours to get to the park. We walked to the bus (at the time it was called the CTA). The bus took us to the Desplaines Ave. train station of the “L’. The “L” took us downtown into the subway section to transfer to a northbound train. Emerging from the tunnel, squealing around each curve as we ascended just missing nearby buildings by inches, we approached Wrigleyville. As the train pulled into the Addison station, we could see the park from the elevated platform. We joined the early throng to rush to the bleacher gate. We didn’t want to miss batting practice. Ernie Banks, Mr. Cub” might hit one into the bleachers. Even if I didn’t catch a ball in my glove, this was going to be a special day because it was a double header day. Ernie would always say, “What a great day for baseball. Let’s play two!”
Cub fans have a unique bond that often forms very early in life. It has sometimes been described as an addiction. With all do respect to Tiger’s fans, WE LOVE OUR CUBS. Wrigley Field is the real deal from the ivy clinging to the outfield walls to the manually operated scoreboard. There isn’t a bad seat in the intimate, 39,000 seat park, save for a few behind supporting beams. The crowd can be rowdy and friendly at the same time. I once met a family with four generations in attendance. A few special traditions separate Cub fans and Wrigley Field from all others.
• Opposing Team’s home runs are thrown back on to the field.
• The hot dogs are the best anywhere.
• Babe Ruth “called his shot”
• Ernie hit his 500th.
• The Billy Goat Curse.
• The “Bartman” ball.
• Flying the blue “W” flag after every victory.
• The last park to have lights installed for night games. The first night game was nationally televised to millions, but was rained out by a frightening thunder storm. Tradition says God didn’t approve of night baseball at Wrigley.
• Last won the World Series – 1908
We believe it is no longer “wait until next” this is next year. I have even order a supply of “BELIEVE BRACELETS” to support the Cubs and the Cubs Care Charity. We believe so strongly that this is the year I even have a friendly wager with my Business Partner Dave Clouse (a Tiger’s fan). Every time the Tigers win, I’ll make a small contribution to Dave’s favorite charity. Every time the blue “W” flies, Dave will contribute to one of my favorite charities. Wouldn’t it be Great, just like 1908 the Cubs and Tigers in the World Series. Cubs in 7!!!!!
Thanks,
Harry Gribnitz
Your Home Loan Specialist for Life!
PS: If you would like to help by supporting the Cubs and Cubs Care just drop me a note and I’ll send you a bracelet.
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