Listen to it here.
Monday, May 06, 2019
Minutia Men, Episode 133
Listen to it here.
Free Kicks, Episode 37
Listen to it here.
Stylz & Roman out at US-99
From this morning's RAMP Newsletter...
Entercom Country WUSN (US99)/Chicago has parted company with morning duo Stylz & Roman after nearly three years in the wake-up slot. Dougie Stylz (a.k.a. Doug Bobrowski) and Justin Roman caused quite the stir when they debuted on WUSN under former owner CBS Radio back on Sept. 6, 2016, replacing the previous longtime duo of "Ramblin' Ray" Stevens and Lisa Dent. After all, Stylz and Roman were both newcomers to the Country format, having spent the previous 12 years across the hall on Top 40 sister WBBM (B96), starting out as promotions interns before teaming up for nights, and later spending a decade in afternoon drive before making their big Country move. In a Facebook post, the guys expressed their gratitude, saying, "Thanks to both our B96 and US99 families for all the love! But most of all, thanks to YOU for listening over the past 15 years!"
Janet Sutherland on Radio Health Journal
This appeared on over 500 radio stations over the weekend. Thanks again to Reed Pence for inviting Janet Sutherland into the studio to do this interview.
Here's the article that accompanied the interview...
One in every 50 Americans has a chance of experiencing the type of headache that no amount of medicine can dull. One with a 40% fatality rate. Typically non-symptomatic and often undiagnosed, brain aneurysms are bulging blood vessels in the brain (picture an expanding water balloon).
30,000 people per year have the misfortune of not recognizing their brain aneurysm until it ruptures and produces searing pain. A pain the prompted brain aneurysm survivor Janet Sutherland-Madden to call her mother one March afternoon to say what she believed to be her final goodbye.
What started as one of her daily headaches ended up bringing her dangerously close to death. Soon after Sutherland-Madden dialed 911, paramedics found her seizing on her kitchen floor and recognized that she was displaying the symptoms of a ruptured brain aneurysm. Amazingly, these paramedics had recently undergone training on how to identify brain aneurysms––a fact Sutherland-Madden recognizes as a true miracle.
Statistically, a brain aneurysm ruptures every 18 minutes, and ruptures have been found to occur twice as often in the African American community compared to Caucasians. Sutherland-Madden discusses these statistics and other truths in her new book Nose Over Toes––a product of her new-found mission to disseminate knowledge and raise awareness about aneurysms.
You can listen to it here.
Book Signing weekend
Thanks to everyone who came out this weekend. We sold out of books at Moretti's...
And we had a great time in Wheaton...
And we had a great time in Wheaton...
Friday, May 03, 2019
Jam Packed Weekend
2 weekend book signings--3 great Eckhartz Press #books. 1st on Saturday from 2-4pm, at Moretti's in Mt. Prospect selling my book "EveryCubEver" along with @BeckySarwate of "Cubsessions". (#Cubs) Sunday I'll be in Wheaton for "Nose Over Toes" signing at Emmett's Brewing. Stop by! pic.twitter.com/gaAajJ2LtF
— Rick Kaempfer (@RickKaempfer) May 2, 2019
Sinclair Going All-In on Sports
That comes with a hefty $10 billion price tag.
This news follows the news that they are starting up a sports network in Chicago with the Cubs, beginning next season. Let's hope this new focus on sports causes them to give up politics.
Thursday, May 02, 2019
EveryCubEver in the Daily Herald
Super appreciative of this article in the Daily Herald: So you think you know the Cubs?
If you'd like to win a copy of my book "EveryCubEver" you have a chance via this piece There's a trivia question--and it's a reeeeeeally hard one. I didn't even know the answer.
Do you?
Janet Sutherland
This is a great piece in the Kane County Chronicle about Eckhartz Press author Janet Sutherland and her book "Nose Over Toes". I'll be in Wheaton on Sunday with her. If you're in the neighborhood, stop by. I'll buy you a beer. (Another signing at a brewery? Is this how they get you to show up to all of these things, Rick?)
Wednesday, May 01, 2019
Paul Still Isn't Dead
Gibb worked for WKNR and led the discussion about the "clues" that pointed to McCartney's death. #radiohistory
— Len O'Kelly (@LenOKelly) May 1, 2019
Russ Gibb — Detroit rock visionary, schoolteacher and 'Paul is dead' prankster — dies at 87 https://t.co/a0izEW4fvc via @freep
May Day
My book "everycubever" is available now via eckhartzpress (https://eckhartzpress.com/shop/everycubever/). It features a mini-bio of every Cub who ever played--including all three that are worthy of featuring on May Day...
~Derrick May 1968-- (Cubs 1990-1994)
Derrick was a first round Cubs draft choice in 1986, and made his big league debut in 1990. The son of big leaguer Dave May didn’t really get regular playing time until 1992, but in his final three seasons with the Cubs he did show some promise. In ’93 he had his best campaign, hitting 10 homers and driving in 77 while batting .295. After the 1994/1995 strike, May was permitted to leave as a free agent, and later played with the Brewers, Astros, Phillies, Expos, and Orioles.
~Jakie May 1895--1970 (Cubs 1931-1932)
The little lefty (only 5’8″) pitched 14 seasons in the big leagues, the last two of which were for the Cubs. He was used almost exclusively out of the bullpen. Jakie won 7 games and saved 3. He retired after the 1932 World Series loss to the Yankees, a few months shy of his 37th birthday. He had been rocked for seven runs in only two innings pitched in that series.
~Scott May 1961-- (Cubs 1991)
Scott was a September call-up at the end of the 1991 season and appeared in two games. The right-handed reliever gave up six hits and four earned runs in only two innings (an ERA of 18.00). It was his last chance at the big leagues. He previously had a cup of coffee with the Rangers.
Derrick was a first round Cubs draft choice in 1986, and made his big league debut in 1990. The son of big leaguer Dave May didn’t really get regular playing time until 1992, but in his final three seasons with the Cubs he did show some promise. In ’93 he had his best campaign, hitting 10 homers and driving in 77 while batting .295. After the 1994/1995 strike, May was permitted to leave as a free agent, and later played with the Brewers, Astros, Phillies, Expos, and Orioles.
The little lefty (only 5’8″) pitched 14 seasons in the big leagues, the last two of which were for the Cubs. He was used almost exclusively out of the bullpen. Jakie won 7 games and saved 3. He retired after the 1932 World Series loss to the Yankees, a few months shy of his 37th birthday. He had been rocked for seven runs in only two innings pitched in that series.
Scott was a September call-up at the end of the 1991 season and appeared in two games. The right-handed reliever gave up six hits and four earned runs in only two innings (an ERA of 18.00). It was his last chance at the big leagues. He previously had a cup of coffee with the Rangers.
Jim O'Donnell
This month's Illinois Entertainer is out and features a great cover story about Steve Earle. It also features my media column about Daily Herald sports-media columnist Jim O'Donnell.
You can read it here.
Tuesday, April 30, 2019
Book Signing Weekend
On Saturday you'll find me (and Becky Sarwate-Maxwell from "Cubsessions") here...
On Sunday you'll find me (and Janet Sutherland from "Nose Over Toes) here...
On Sunday you'll find me (and Janet Sutherland from "Nose Over Toes) here...
Rick on TV
This morning I traveled down the WGN-TV studios to do a bit with the morning team (and naturally, promote my book). Here's the link to my appearance this morning on WGN-TV Morning News.
Next time I'll have to bring a photographer. These are the only pictures I have...
Next time I'll have to bring a photographer. These are the only pictures I have...
Last Farewell to Chet
Teddy Greenstein of the Tribune was there (sitting just a few spots away from me), and filed this very accurate report for the Chicago Tribune.
Monday, April 29, 2019
Minutia Men, Episode 132
Listen to it here.
Big Weekend
On Friday my first batch of books arrived...
On Saturday I did my first book signing in Orland Park. One of the Cubs showed up (Steve Trout with his grandosn)...
On Sunday I went on the Playtime wiht Bill Turck and Kerri Kendall show and did a toast for our old pal Chet Coppock, and then talked about my new book...
And this morning I'm heading in to the city for Chet Coppock's memorial service.
Tomorrow morning I'll be on WGN-TV.
Just explaining my lack of posting here. Things will return to normal soon.
On Saturday I did my first book signing in Orland Park. One of the Cubs showed up (Steve Trout with his grandosn)...
On Sunday I went on the Playtime wiht Bill Turck and Kerri Kendall show and did a toast for our old pal Chet Coppock, and then talked about my new book...
And this morning I'm heading in to the city for Chet Coppock's memorial service.
Tomorrow morning I'll be on WGN-TV.
Just explaining my lack of posting here. Things will return to normal soon.
Friday, April 26, 2019
Everycubever Launch Party
Yes, I will be in Orland Park tomorrow selling "everycubever", but I will also be throwing this party (below) in my neck of the woods on May 4...
Not a Lefty
Fox News judicial analyst Judge Andrew Napolitano: "When the president asked Corey Lewandowski ... to get Mueller fired, that's obstruction of justice. When the president asked his then-White House counsel to get Mueller fired & then lie about it, that's obstruction of justice." pic.twitter.com/5k3dSpD76v
— Kyle Griffin (@kylegriffin1) April 25, 2019
Thursday, April 25, 2019
Pedro's Car
Just before last night's Cubs game, Pedro Strop's car was stolen. He was dealing with the police during the first few innings of the game.
Bleacher Nation has the details.
My favorite part of the story? During the 4th inning he said to the police: "SORRY OFFICER, I HAVE TO GET BACK TO YOU BECAUSE WE’RE IN THE MIDDLE OF A BASEBALL GAME AND I HAVE TO GO PITCH IN A HIGH-INTENSITY SITUATION."
He did, too. He got the save last night.
Bleacher Nation has the details.
My favorite part of the story? During the 4th inning he said to the police: "SORRY OFFICER, I HAVE TO GET BACK TO YOU BECAUSE WE’RE IN THE MIDDLE OF A BASEBALL GAME AND I HAVE TO GO PITCH IN A HIGH-INTENSITY SITUATION."
He did, too. He got the save last night.
Pacino explains acting
This is probably the best description I've heard of how to "act"
It’s Pacino’s birthday today, which reminds me of the time he gave a remarkably simple answer about the secret to acting.
— Carl Quintanilla (@carlquintanilla) April 25, 2019
(via @RealEOC) pic.twitter.com/gP8uCuZ9pZ
Tweet-a-holics
Sounds like a lot to me, but it's not even in the ballpark to be considered a heavy Twitter user.
According to this piece, 80% of tweets are done by 10% of Twitters users. The president, for instance, has tweeted 41,000 times and has been on Twitter about as long as I have. Former sportscaster (and radio talk show host) Bruce Wolf has tweeted 72,000 times. Local Chicago journalist Robert Loerzel (who is a great follow by the way) has tweeted 372,000 times.
Just explaining why your Twitter feed may be dominated by a few people. If it's dominated by me, you don't follow any heavy Twitter users.
Wednesday, April 24, 2019
Virgil!
I agree with this call. The difference between Liverpool in the pre-Virgil years and the post-Virgil years is that they used to lose games because they gave up a lot of goals. They don't anymore. The offense is still great (I love Salah, Mane, and Fermino) but without Virgil they wouldn't be where they are now.
Liverpool defender Virgil van Dijk to be crowned PFA Players’ Player of the Year | Daily Mail Online https://t.co/bBoEJqTm6M
— Joe Scarborough (@JoeNBC) April 24, 2019
The most impeachable offense
Yes, he obstructed justice (at least five counts are provable in court).
Yes, he paid a porn star off just before the election to hide the news of his affair (a criminal offense--he is named as a co-conspirator in court).
Yes, he accepted and applauded help from Russia, even if "collusion" couldn't be proven. It's still anti-American and despicable.
Both the worst thing is that he still won't do anything about Russians attacking our political system, because he thinks it will help him.
Today's bombshell: Former Homeland Security Chief Nielson was told NOT to mention her concerns about Russians attacking us again in 2020 to the President.
Yes, he paid a porn star off just before the election to hide the news of his affair (a criminal offense--he is named as a co-conspirator in court).
Yes, he accepted and applauded help from Russia, even if "collusion" couldn't be proven. It's still anti-American and despicable.
Both the worst thing is that he still won't do anything about Russians attacking our political system, because he thinks it will help him.
Today's bombshell: Former Homeland Security Chief Nielson was told NOT to mention her concerns about Russians attacking us again in 2020 to the President.
Rick in Orland
This is where I will be on Saturday--signing and selling my newest book "everycubever" along with fellow Eckhartz Press authors Randy Richardson and Becky Sarwate Maxwell. My son Sean is coming along because of the sportscards on sale too. If you're in the neighborhood, swing by...
Chet's Last Days
This is Chet Coppock's last interview. He taped it with Rabbi Doug the week before he left on his trip to South Carolina...
Jim O'Donnell wrote about Chet's final days in the Daily Herald. This is the untold story of what happened to Chet in South Carolina, and the story of his passing.
Robert Feder has the details about Chet's memorial service...
Jim O'Donnell wrote about Chet's final days in the Daily Herald. This is the untold story of what happened to Chet in South Carolina, and the story of his passing.
Robert Feder has the details about Chet's memorial service...
A public memorial service for Chet Coppock will be held at 10 a.m. Monday at Saint Pauls United Church of Christ, 2335 North Orchard Street in Chicago. The famed sportscaster and self-styled “Godfather of Sports Talk Radio” died April 17 in Savannah, Georgia — 11 days after he was injured in a car accident in Okatie, South Carolina. Coppock would have turned 71 on April 30. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Chicago Baseball Cancer Charities.
Tuesday, April 23, 2019
Gym Couples
I laughed out loud...
GYM COUPLES NAILED IT!!! 😲💪🏻 pic.twitter.com/QVKm9G2GVb
— Arron Crascall (@arron_crascall) April 22, 2019
Is the tide turning?
Today a former member of Trump's transition team calls for impeachment hearings.
What will tomorrow bring?
What will tomorrow bring?
Ray Starr
My book "everycubever" is available for pre-order now (https://eckhartzpress.com/shop/everycubever/). It features mini-bios of every Cub who ever played for the team, including today's birthday boy...
~Ray Starr 1906–1963 (Cubs 1945)
Ray Starr earned the nickname Iron Man by pitching both ends of more than 40 minor league doubleheaders during his 20-year career. One of his memorable quirks? Each season he pitched fastballs and curves for two hours on the first day of spring training. (Modern Day pitching coaches faint at the mention of this ritual). As a wartime pitcher with the Reds, Starr won 15 games in 1942, and made the All-Star team. But that was really his only good year. The Cubs picked him up from the Pirates during their pennant winning 1945 season, but Iron Man didn’t exactly pitch well. His ERA was 7.42. Starr gave up 17 hits and 7 walks in just 13 innings with the pennant winning Cubs. He retired after the 1945 season.
Ray Starr earned the nickname Iron Man by pitching both ends of more than 40 minor league doubleheaders during his 20-year career. One of his memorable quirks? Each season he pitched fastballs and curves for two hours on the first day of spring training. (Modern Day pitching coaches faint at the mention of this ritual). As a wartime pitcher with the Reds, Starr won 15 games in 1942, and made the All-Star team. But that was really his only good year. The Cubs picked him up from the Pirates during their pennant winning 1945 season, but Iron Man didn’t exactly pitch well. His ERA was 7.42. Starr gave up 17 hits and 7 walks in just 13 innings with the pennant winning Cubs. He retired after the 1945 season.
Beer
Sponsorless beer ad, Chicago 1913 pic.twitter.com/BvJj1EkHEf
— Jeff Nichols (@backwards_river) April 23, 2019
This Weekend in Orland Park
Your first chance to get "Everycubever" in the flesh. I'll be signing copies at the Orland Park Civic Center (come on out south side Cub fans--I know you are out there) on Saturday from around 10am until 1pm or so.
They wrote an unbelievably nice piece about me in the Orland Park Patch. You can read it here.
They wrote an unbelievably nice piece about me in the Orland Park Patch. You can read it here.
Monday, April 22, 2019
The Truth About the Mueller Report
President Trump and his Attorney General have been saying a lot of things about the Mueller Report. Most/many of those things are untrue.
The non-partisan Associated Press has fact checked them.
The AP doesn't engage in opinion or activist journalism. They are Jack Webb in Dragnet. Just the facts, ma'am. According to them, Trump and Barr are misleading and outright lying to the American people.
The non-partisan Associated Press has fact checked them.
The AP doesn't engage in opinion or activist journalism. They are Jack Webb in Dragnet. Just the facts, ma'am. According to them, Trump and Barr are misleading and outright lying to the American people.
Minutia Men, Episode 131
Listen to it here.
Full House
We had a full house for Easter yesterday. I really enjoyed seeing everyone. These are just the kids who were here...
Friday, April 19, 2019
Rick on the Radio
Tune in tomorrow morning (Saturday) to Murph & Fred (ESPN-AM 1000) at 11am. I'll be on with the fellas to discuss my upcoming book "Everycubever" (https://t.co/9l2isBHjGz). Looking forward to it--I've always liked their show. #Cubs
— Rick Kaempfer (@RickKaempfer) April 19, 2019
UPDATE: The podcast can be heard here.
The Mueller Report
I gave up cable news for Lent, and yesterday was probably one of the toughest days of Lent for me. I sooooo wanted to turn on the TV and watch the experts devour the Mueller report. Instead, I followed on twitter and read something called newspapers. Remember those?
By the way, I also read the report, which was on-line and available to anyone who wanted to read it. I wanted to read it badly.
My takeaway: The media has been absolutely correct in virtually everything they have reported about this case. The next time he says "Fake News" realize that he is 100% full of shit.
Also, this is an important point. He fails as Commander in Chief because he still hasn't done anything about Russian (now proven) meddling in our elections. He won't protect us from a foreign adversary because he is hoping they help him again.
Still nothing like print newspapers... pic.twitter.com/B9xiOwM7VN
— Peter Baker (@peterbakernyt) April 19, 2019
By the way, I also read the report, which was on-line and available to anyone who wanted to read it. I wanted to read it badly.
My takeaway: The media has been absolutely correct in virtually everything they have reported about this case. The next time he says "Fake News" realize that he is 100% full of shit.
Also, this is an important point. He fails as Commander in Chief because he still hasn't done anything about Russian (now proven) meddling in our elections. He won't protect us from a foreign adversary because he is hoping they help him again.
Remembering Chet
There were tons of tributes yesterday to Chet Coppock. He was even trending on Twitter.
I know my phone was ringing off the hook. Thanks to WGN Radio, WLS Radio, and the Daily Herald for calling me and allowing me to share some stories about Chet. (The WGN interview is here if you want to hear it)
I thought the Sun Times did a very nice tribute to Chet.
Robert Feder did a nice piece in Chet's own words.
I wrote a tribute to Chet on the Eckhartz Press website too.
Steve Dahl did a nice tribute that featured classic audio of Chet. Chet appeared on Steve's show just recently--in the closing days of Steve's show on WLS Radio. (That's where this picture was taken.)
He even got a shout out on national television. Michael Wilbon paid tribute on PTI...
(I took that picture of Chet and his girlfriend at WGN Radio last year)
I will say this about yesterday. In his last few years Chet was beginning to feel that people had forgotten him, and he worried what his legacy would be. I don't think in his wildest dreams did he ever think he would receive the kind of outpouring of love that he received.
I hope that he somehow could see it or feel it or know it.
It would have meant the world to him.
I know my phone was ringing off the hook. Thanks to WGN Radio, WLS Radio, and the Daily Herald for calling me and allowing me to share some stories about Chet. (The WGN interview is here if you want to hear it)
Now @JohnHowellWLS and friend @RickKaempfer remember legendary sportscaster @ChetCoppock, tune in. pic.twitter.com/yP39MqsICf
— WLS-AM 890 (@wlsam890) April 18, 2019
I thought the Sun Times did a very nice tribute to Chet.
Robert Feder did a nice piece in Chet's own words.
I wrote a tribute to Chet on the Eckhartz Press website too.
Steve Dahl did a nice tribute that featured classic audio of Chet. Chet appeared on Steve's show just recently--in the closing days of Steve's show on WLS Radio. (That's where this picture was taken.)
He even got a shout out on national television. Michael Wilbon paid tribute on PTI...
Beautiful tribute to Chet Coppock from @RealMikeWilbon on ESPN’s @PTI. Chet would have loved it ...and all of today’s overwhelming outpouring of love and respect. pic.twitter.com/mTwBzHEUEv
— Jim Williams (@JimWilliamsCBS2) April 19, 2019
(I took that picture of Chet and his girlfriend at WGN Radio last year)
I will say this about yesterday. In his last few years Chet was beginning to feel that people had forgotten him, and he worried what his legacy would be. I don't think in his wildest dreams did he ever think he would receive the kind of outpouring of love that he received.
I hope that he somehow could see it or feel it or know it.
It would have meant the world to him.
Thursday, April 18, 2019
Sad News
I'm still processing the news. I just talked to Chet the day before his accident, and had no idea anything was wrong. So sad. I'll miss the old Bohunk. He was one-of-a-kind. Truly. https://t.co/UGM5uYk2IA pic.twitter.com/IROkqUTJtI
— Rick Kaempfer (@RickKaempfer) April 18, 2019
Wednesday, April 17, 2019
Free Kicks, Episode 36
Listen to it here.
Rick and Bridget 2039
First I have to learn how to dance, but how hard can that be?
Love this! https://t.co/bt4EIvAJiR
— Rick Kaempfer (@RickKaempfer) April 16, 2019
Tom Needham
My book "everycubever" is available for pre-order now, and ships on May 1st. It features mini-bios of every Cub who ever played, including today's birthday boy...
~Tom Needham 1879–1926 (Cubs 1909-1914)
Needham was born in Ireland and came to this country as a youngster. Deerfoot, as he was called, joined the Cubs in the midst of their historic run to be the backup catcher to Johnny Kling, and then Jimmy Archer. He even got to bat in the 1910 World Series against the A’s. Deerfoot was known as a good defensive player, but never hit well (career average was .209). He played six seasons with the Cubs, but didn’t quite last long enough to play in the new ballpark. In his last few years with the Cubs Needham was a player/coach. He later became the pitching coach for the White Sox.
It's also Cap Anson's birthday today. If you'd like to read about him, his more lengthy bio can be found today at Just One Bad Century.
Needham was born in Ireland and came to this country as a youngster. Deerfoot, as he was called, joined the Cubs in the midst of their historic run to be the backup catcher to Johnny Kling, and then Jimmy Archer. He even got to bat in the 1910 World Series against the A’s. Deerfoot was known as a good defensive player, but never hit well (career average was .209). He played six seasons with the Cubs, but didn’t quite last long enough to play in the new ballpark. In his last few years with the Cubs Needham was a player/coach. He later became the pitching coach for the White Sox.
It's also Cap Anson's birthday today. If you'd like to read about him, his more lengthy bio can be found today at Just One Bad Century.
CJ Edwards Instagram Posts
MLB is investigating racist instagram posts sent to Cubs pitcher Carl Edwards Jr.
When players like Jacque Jones and Milton Bradley complained of racist attacks--I didn't buy it. When Dusty Baker claimed to be the victim of racist attacks--I didn't buy it. I'm starting to change my mind.
This element of Cubs nation is welcome to go root for another team. We don't want to be associated with you.
“We were shocked by the racist, profanity-laced social media message sent to Carl Edwards Jr. earlier this month,” said Theo Epstein, Cubs president of baseball operations, in a statement released to The Athletic. “We vehemently condemn the content of the message and are supporting Major League Baseball’s investigation to identify the person responsible.”
When players like Jacque Jones and Milton Bradley complained of racist attacks--I didn't buy it. When Dusty Baker claimed to be the victim of racist attacks--I didn't buy it. I'm starting to change my mind.
This element of Cubs nation is welcome to go root for another team. We don't want to be associated with you.
RealityCon
MTV is doing a convention for reality shows. It's called RealityCon.
Has there ever been a better name for a convention?
Has there ever been a better name for a convention?
Tuesday, April 16, 2019
Tommy Sewell
My book "everycubever" is available for pre-order now! (Ships May 1) It includes a mini-bio of literally every Cub who ever played between 1871-2018, including today's birthday boy...
~Tommy Sewell 1906–1956 (Cubs 1927)
Tommy had exactly one big league at bat. It came on June 21, 1927 at Sportsman Park in St. Louis. Tommy pinch hit for Cubs pitcher Percy Jones in the seventh inning against Cardinals pitcher Flint Rehm. Unfortunately for Tommy, Flint was a 20-game-winner that season. Sewell didn’t get on base and never got another chance in the big leagues. After that he played in the minor leagues for another four years before hanging up his spikes. Tommy couldn’t even brag about his big league experience when he came home to Alabama. His brother Joe was a Hall of Famer, another brother Luke also played in the big leagues, and so did his cousin Rip.
By the way, I tweeted out an abbreviated version of this, and it was my 5000th tweet of all time. Not sure I'll hit another milestone like that. It took me ten years to hit it...
Tommy had exactly one big league at bat. It came on June 21, 1927 at Sportsman Park in St. Louis. Tommy pinch hit for Cubs pitcher Percy Jones in the seventh inning against Cardinals pitcher Flint Rehm. Unfortunately for Tommy, Flint was a 20-game-winner that season. Sewell didn’t get on base and never got another chance in the big leagues. After that he played in the minor leagues for another four years before hanging up his spikes. Tommy couldn’t even brag about his big league experience when he came home to Alabama. His brother Joe was a Hall of Famer, another brother Luke also played in the big leagues, and so did his cousin Rip.
By the way, I tweeted out an abbreviated version of this, and it was my 5000th tweet of all time. Not sure I'll hit another milestone like that. It took me ten years to hit it...
My book "everycubever" (https://t.co/9l2isBHjGz) is available for pre-order now! (Ships May 1) It includes a mini-bio of literally every #Cub who ever played between 1871-2018, including today's birthday boy Tommy Sewell. He was the Tommy Aaron of his day. Brother Joe is a HOFer. pic.twitter.com/uK7vh9llJh
— Rick Kaempfer (@RickKaempfer) April 16, 2019
Chicago Radio Ratings
Robert Feder posted all the of the Chicago radio ratings this morning. If you want to look at the daypart breakdowns, click here to read the whole column. (Eric Ferguson is #1 in mornings, Bob Stroud in middays, and Joe Soto-WVAZ in afternoons). Here are the overall ratings...
1. WBBM 780-AM/WCFS 105.9-FM all news, 5.8 (6.1)
2. WTMX 101.9-FM hot adult contemporary, 5.4 (5.5)
3. (tie) WDRV 97.1-FM classic rock, 5.3 (5.1); WVAZ 102.7-FM urban adult contemporary, 5.3 (4.7)
5. WLS 94.7-FM classic hits, 4.5 (3.9)
6. WOJO 105.1-FM Mexican regional, 4.2 (5.0)
7. WLIT 93.9-FM adult contemporary, 3.9 (4.4)
8. WBMX 104.3-FM classic hip hop, 3.6 (3.1)
9. WBEZ 91.5-FM public radio news talk, 3.4 (3.3)
10. WSHE 100.3-FM adult contemporary, 3.2 (3.2)
11. (tie) WXRT 93.1-FM adult album alternative, 3.1 (3.3); WGN 720-AM news talk, 3.1 (3.5)
13. WBBM 96.3-FM Top 40, 3.0 (2.2)
14. (tie) WGCI 107.5-FM urban contemporary, 2.9 (2.7); WKSC 103.5-FM Top 40, 2.9 (2.9)
16. WSCR 670-AM sports talk, 2.8 (3.0)
17. (tie) WUSN 99.5-FM country, 2.6 (3.0); WKQX 101.1-FM alternative rock, 2.6 (2.8); WRME 87.7-FM soft rock oldies, 2.6 (2.6)
20. WLEY 107.9-FM Mexican regional, 2.2 (2.6)
21. WPWX 92.3-FM urban contemporary, 2.1 (2.1)
22. WPPN 106.7-FM Spanish adult contemporary, 1.9 (1.6)
23. WLS 890-AM news talk, 1.7 (1.7)
24. WEBG 95.5-FM country, 1.6 (1.6)
25. WFMT 98.7-FM classical, 1.3 (1.2)
26. (tie) WCKL 97.9-FM contemporary Christian, 1.2 (1.5); WVIV 93.5-FM Spanish contemporary, 1.2 (1.0)
28. WMVP 1000-AM sports talk, 1.1 (1.0)
29. (tie) WERV 95.9-FM classic hits, 0.9 (0.7); WMBI 90.1-FM Christian ministry, 0.9 (1.0)
1. WBBM 780-AM/WCFS 105.9-FM all news, 5.8 (6.1)
2. WTMX 101.9-FM hot adult contemporary, 5.4 (5.5)
3. (tie) WDRV 97.1-FM classic rock, 5.3 (5.1); WVAZ 102.7-FM urban adult contemporary, 5.3 (4.7)
5. WLS 94.7-FM classic hits, 4.5 (3.9)
6. WOJO 105.1-FM Mexican regional, 4.2 (5.0)
7. WLIT 93.9-FM adult contemporary, 3.9 (4.4)
8. WBMX 104.3-FM classic hip hop, 3.6 (3.1)
9. WBEZ 91.5-FM public radio news talk, 3.4 (3.3)
10. WSHE 100.3-FM adult contemporary, 3.2 (3.2)
11. (tie) WXRT 93.1-FM adult album alternative, 3.1 (3.3); WGN 720-AM news talk, 3.1 (3.5)
13. WBBM 96.3-FM Top 40, 3.0 (2.2)
14. (tie) WGCI 107.5-FM urban contemporary, 2.9 (2.7); WKSC 103.5-FM Top 40, 2.9 (2.9)
16. WSCR 670-AM sports talk, 2.8 (3.0)
17. (tie) WUSN 99.5-FM country, 2.6 (3.0); WKQX 101.1-FM alternative rock, 2.6 (2.8); WRME 87.7-FM soft rock oldies, 2.6 (2.6)
20. WLEY 107.9-FM Mexican regional, 2.2 (2.6)
21. WPWX 92.3-FM urban contemporary, 2.1 (2.1)
22. WPPN 106.7-FM Spanish adult contemporary, 1.9 (1.6)
23. WLS 890-AM news talk, 1.7 (1.7)
24. WEBG 95.5-FM country, 1.6 (1.6)
25. WFMT 98.7-FM classical, 1.3 (1.2)
26. (tie) WCKL 97.9-FM contemporary Christian, 1.2 (1.5); WVIV 93.5-FM Spanish contemporary, 1.2 (1.0)
28. WMVP 1000-AM sports talk, 1.1 (1.0)
29. (tie) WERV 95.9-FM classic hits, 0.9 (0.7); WMBI 90.1-FM Christian ministry, 0.9 (1.0)
Monday, April 15, 2019
Ed Bailey
~Ed Bailey 1931–2007 (Cubs 1965)
Ed was one of the best catchers in the National League in the late 50s and early 60s. He was a five-time All-Star, and a World Series hero during his time with the Cincinnati Reds and San Francisco Giants. One of his personal highlights during those years was when he caught his brother Jim (a pitcher for the Reds in 1959). The Cubs acquired him along with Harvey Kuehnn and Bob Hendley in 1965. He was near the end of his career when he came to the Cubs, but he still played well. He was clearly the best catcher on that 1965 team. The Cubs acquired Randy Hundley the following year, which made Ed expendable. He finished his career with the Angels. (Photo: Topps 1966 baseball card)
When he was with the Reds, he and his teammates appeared on "What's My Line"
Jackie Robinson
Something to remember...
There’s only one MLB park left where Jackie Robinson played - Wrigley Field. #JackieRobinsonDay pic.twitter.com/Bt9tz6WPYE
— Bob Vorwald (@BobVorwald) April 15, 2019
Liverpool
I'm a big Liverpool supporter in the Premier League, and I kept flipping back and forth between Tiger and the Liverpool game. Lucky I saw the best of both. Mo Salah's goal was one for the ages, and the atmosphere at Anfield was absolutely incredible. This captures it pretty well I think...
In mid commentary flow at Anfield a few minutes after Salah’s screamer 🗣. #LFC @NBCSportsSoccer. By @julesmakeup70 pic.twitter.com/JwiQSisTYo
— Arlo White (@arlowhite) April 14, 2019
Eddie V
From this morning's Robert Feder column...
It didn’t take long for Eddie Volkman to land on his feet. Just days after the sale of northwest suburban classic rocker WFXF 103.9-FM cost him his job as morning personality, the longtime Chicago radio star has been hired by WSSR 96.7-FM, the Alpha Media southwest suburban adult-contemporary station. Starting today, he’ll program Star 96.7 as content manager and double as afternoon host from 2 to 7 p.m. weekdays. Volkman succeeds Scott Childers, who exited the station after 15 years last week. “It’s a shame I won’t be working with my longtime friend Scott Childers,” he said. “We go all the way back to when he was ‘Rich Scott’ doing traffic for us on B96. He has built a solid station here, and it will be an honor to inject some new energy into the operation.” In the latest Nielsen Audio survey, Star 96.7 tied for 36th place with a 0.3 percent share.
(Photo: From the day I appeared on Eddie's podcast a few years ago)
Unfortunately, as you can tell from Eddie's comments above, the move coincided with the firing of Scott Childers. That was referenced in this morning's RAMP newsletter...
(Photo: From the day I appeared on Eddie's podcast a few years ago)
Unfortunately, as you can tell from Eddie's comments above, the move coincided with the firing of Scott Childers. That was referenced in this morning's RAMP newsletter...
The sharp knife of radio strikes again," said Scott Childers, who has exited as PD of Alpha Media's suburban Chicago Hot AC WSSR (Star 96.7)/Joliet, IL after 15 years. As Childers told RAMP, "Ironic that it happened on the 95th birthday of WLS/Chicago... my last firing came on MY birthday back in 2002." [Ed. note: As reported by Robert Feder, Childers is the author of Chicago's WLS Radio, a critically acclaimed illustrated history of "The Big 89," published by Arcadia Publishing in 2008. He also created a tribute website at WLShistory.com.] Childers will now focus on his v/o work as he plans his next move. He can be reached at 630-901-9670 or scott@childers.com.
Tiger
I was glued to the tube watching this...even got a little verklempt.
This is a great piece in the Washington Post written by Thomas Boswell. It captures the excitement, drama, and history of that magical moment incredibly well.
I was driving through a snow storm with my kids and listened to the final putt on the radio. That is without question the first time I've ever listened to golf on the radio.
Watching this on repeat. The noise level from the gallery, the hug with the kids, Tiger’s roar and genuine joy. Better than we could have imagined. pic.twitter.com/2oe3jILYKS
— Nathan Murphy (@nathanmurf) April 14, 2019
This is a great piece in the Washington Post written by Thomas Boswell. It captures the excitement, drama, and history of that magical moment incredibly well.
I was driving through a snow storm with my kids and listened to the final putt on the radio. That is without question the first time I've ever listened to golf on the radio.
Minutia Men, Episode 130
Listen to it here.
Mitch in Westmont
It was good catching up with Eckhartz Press author Mitch Michaels on Saturday in Westmont. I didn't realize it was National Record Store day. It's always fun hanging out at a record store, but even better on an important day like that.
Good to see WGN Radio's Wendy Snyder there with her two sons, and former colleague John Calhoun (currently at the River, but we worked together at WJMK). Young up and comer Brandon Herman was there too. Also, met Samantha James (The River) and her husband for the first time.
Thanks to the folks at Blue Village Vinyl for inviting us out there. It was a fun way to spend a Saturday afternoon.
Friday, April 12, 2019
Free Kicks, Episode 35
Listen to it here.
Rick on the Radio
Thanks to the gang at the @CochranShow on WGN radio for having me on this morning to talk about my book "everycubever" (https://t.co/P0G5S6JSPE). And thanks to many people who pre-ordered the book after hearing the interview! I'm blown away by the response. Radio works, folks! pic.twitter.com/AUcQWuGgv7
— Rick Kaempfer (@RickKaempfer) April 12, 2019
Gotta say...this book is a giant hit already. I'm in shock. Biggest pre-sales we've ever had.
You can listen to the interview here.
Thursday, April 11, 2019
Lookee Here
The most exciting thing about being a publisher is the moment you give the author the very first copy of their book. Today that author was me...and the book took me 10 years to write. “Everycubever” is now available for pre-order at www.eckhartzpress.com. I’ll be on Steve Cochran’s show tomorrow morning hyping it. (9:15am on WGN radio)
Mitch in Westmont
Don't forget to come out and meet Eckhartz Press author Mitch Michaels Saturday (April 13) at Blue Village Vinyl in Westmont. He'll be there signing and selling copies of his book "Doin The Cruise" from 2-3:30. It's the perfect place for music fans to meet the rock and roll radio icon! http://www.bluevillagevinyl.com/
Wednesday, April 10, 2019
Rick on TV
Remember, the camera adds 40 pounds.
I will post a link when it's up on their website.
Completely Unchanged
The first photo is at Dave's wedding in 1991. The second one is last weekend at his daughter's Baht Mitzvah...
Rick leaves the house
Another Cubs PR Debacle
Oh. Newest addition to Cubs press box. pic.twitter.com/ABcaOc6Cj7
— Madeline Kenney (@madkenney) April 8, 2019
The Cubs explained that this sign was from the '40s and they were just showing how far society has come in that time, but c'mon gang. There are quite a few women working in the press box these days. Did you really think they would find it quaint and endearing?
Tuesday, April 09, 2019
"everycubever" available for pre-order now!
What will you find in the pages of everycubever?
*Mini-bios of every player who ever wore the uniform between 1871-2018 plus bonus bios of Cubs managers, owners, broadcasters and more.
*Stories about Cubs who served in every war since the Civil War.
*Notes about players who were wearing the Cubs uniform on days of historical significance.
*Stories of Cubs who achieved greatness and heroism off the field, including those who became movie stars, titans of industry, life savers, and even a few who served in political office.
*Stories of those who received unwanted notoriety, including shooting victims, murderers, kidnappers, racists, burglars, thieves, and political criminals.
*Tragic tales, uplifting tales, and hilarious baseball stories.
*Spotlights on everyone from Hall of Famers to the guys who made it to the big leagues for just one cup of coffee.
Compiled over the last decade by the editor-in-chief of the website Just One Bad Century (www.justonebadcentury.com) , this is the most Cubrehensive look ever at the men who wore Cubbie Blue. Author Rick Kaempfer has been a Cubs fan since 1968 and has seen hundreds of games at Wrigley Field, but has lived an otherwise normal and relatively defensible life.
Monday, April 08, 2019
Mick on the Mend
I have tickets for their Chicagio concert. I hope they eventually do make the rounds again. Sounds like Mick is recovering...
Thank you everyone for all your messages of support, I’m feeling much better now and on the mend - and also a huge thank you to all the hospital staff for doing a superb job.
— Mick Jagger (@MickJagger) April 5, 2019
Trump Skips Correspondent's Dinner again
The bully cannot take a punch.
Minutia Men, Episode 129
Listen to it here.
Sunday, April 07, 2019
Cubsessions 2019 Edition
This past 2018 season they continued interviewing others, and those seven new interviews have been added to last year's version of the book--and we now have a brand new 2019 edition!
The authors have partnered with and are donating 100 percent of their proceeds from book sales to a collection of two charities: Chicago Baseball Cancer Charities (CBCC) and Club 400. Both are federally-registered 501(c)(3) tax-deductible charitable organizations.
Get your copy today!
Meet Mitch Michaels
Meet Eckhartz Press author Mitch Michaels Saturday (April 13) at Blue Village Vinyl in Westmont. He'll be there signing and selling copies of his book "Doin The Cruise" from 2-3:30. It's the perfect place for music fans to meet the rock and roll radio icon! Look at all of these records (at this link)!
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