First Day of (Jack) Spring

Happy First day of Spring, on behalf of the only Cub ever named Spring….

~Jack Spring (Cubs 1964)
He pitched for seven teams in his eight big league seasons, and for exactly one month that team was the Cubs. They acquired Jack in May of 1964, and he pitched in seven games over the next few weeks. But then on June 15, 1964, Spring was called into the manager’s office and told he had been traded again. This time he was the throw-in in the trade that sent Lou Brock to the Cardinals. In St. Louis, Spring won a ring (although he didn’t make the postseason roster that year). Not sure what happened to that Brock character. One of the most miraculous stats of Jack’s career is this little tidbit: He once went 19 consecutive outings without recording a strikeout. That’s the longest streak since 1957.

Made me chuckle

Too soon? pic.twitter.com/oPe9qwQxqK

— Southport Corridor (@SouthportCor) March 19, 2020

Justin Kaufmann out at WGN

Justin Kaufmann has been let go by WGN, or more technically, his contract ran out and will not be renewed.

Sad to hear it. I enjoyed his show during summer nights sitting out on the deck.

He will be replaced by the host of the Wintrust Lunch...Ji Suk Yi.

(Photo: John Landecker & Justin Kaufmann)

My (Not So) Favorite Things

Thanks to John Landecker for tipping me off to this one...

Viva Italia!

#Italy #ourloveisreal to all our dear friends in Italy pic.twitter.com/eM1teGWfIm

— Nils Lofgren (@nilslofgren) March 17, 2020

Fox News is a Disgrace

I could post one of these every day. It takes a pandemic to get through to some people. Others are still in make believe land.

What a damning indictment of Fox News from the Post video team here. pic.twitter.com/r8Fz8vo5KV

— andrew kaczynski🤔 (@KFILE) March 18, 2020

What a business

Last year Kevin Ryder & Bean Baxter, the morning hosts at KROQ in Los Angeles, were inducted into the Radio Hall of Fame.



Bean retired to move back to England, but Kevin and the rest of the crew carried on. Until yesterday...

Why did @kroq fire all of us on the morning show? I assume it’s the ratings, which were down. The economy because it’s down. But it’s a pretty crappy way to treat people.

We’re humbled by you spending any time w us. THANK YOU. (Going to sleep for about a week :)

— Kevin Ryder (@thekevinryder) March 18, 2020

St. Patrick's Day

On St. Patrick's Day we salute EVERY CUB EVER with the first name Pat.

~Paddy Driscoll (Cubs 1917)
Paddy Driscoll is a football hall of famer, but he also got a cup of coffee in Major League Baseball thanks to the Cubs. In 1917, the team’s second season at what is now known as Wrigley, he played in 13 games and got 32 at bats. Unfortunately, he only managed three hits. Among the games he played in was the famous double no-hitter on May 2, 1917, featuring Hippo Vaughn and Fred Toney.

~Pat Hughes (Cubs announcer 1996-present)
Pat has been the radio play by play for the Cubs for nearly 20 years and before that he worked in Milwaukee on Brewers broadcasts with Bob Ueker. We interviewed him once and asked him to compare and contrast Bob Uecker and Ron Santo. This is what he said: “In some ways the two of them are similar: They’re among the most popular figures in the history of their respective cities, they’re both ex-players, although granted—a slightly different caliber—Ron was a great player and Uecker was more of a mediocre one. But I consider myself incredibly fortunate to have worked with both of them. In addition, I worked with Harry Caray for two years, and did Marquette basketball with Al McGuire. Those are some larger than life personalities. I’m lucky to have known and worked with all of them.” Pat will also be in the Hall of Fame someday.

~Pat Luby (Colts 1890-1892)
In his rookie season of 1890, Luby won 18 straight games for the Cubs (then known as the Colts). That was a strange year in baseball history because there were three professional leagues, including a Player’s League (featuring many former Chicago players). After that season Luby only 20 more games in his career.

~Pat Mahomes (Cubs 2001)
Mahomes was a well-traveled journeyman pitcher who lasted eleven seasons in the big leagues. He pitched for the Twins, Red Sox, Mets, Rangers, Pirates, and Cubs. His lifetime ERA was over five, and he never registered double digits in either wins or saves, but he pitched in over 300 big league games. With the Cubs, Mahomes was 1-1, with a 3.86 ERA.

~Pat Malone (Cubs 1928-1934)
Malone was a two-time 20-game winner with the Cubs and led the team to the 1929 and 1932 World Series, but he also hung out with Hack Wilson. When they weren’t playing baseball, they were either drinking or brawling. The stories are legendary. In Malone’s first season with the Cubs his roommate was Percy Jones. They didn’t get along. Jones insisted on getting a new roommate after Malone trapped some pigeons on a hotel ledge and put them in Jones’ bed as he slept. One night Malone and Wilson got into a huge fist fight in a hotel. They were walking down the hallway of their hotel, and Wilson laughed. Someone in a hotel room mimicked his laugh. Wilson and Malone broke into the room and beat the hell out of four men, until all of them were out cold. One of the men was still standing and Malone kept punching. Wilson pointed out that he was already knocked out. “Move the lamp and he’ll fall.” Malone moved the lamp, and the man fell to the ground. It didn’t end well for either man. Wilson was only 48 years old when he drank himself to death. Malone didn’t even last as long as Hack. He was only 40 years old when he died in 1943.

~Pat Moran (Cubs 1906-1909)
Moran was a member of the last two championship teams, the 1907 & 1908 Cubs, as their backup catcher. He later managed in the big leagues, and led the Cincinnati Reds to the World Series championship in 1919. It’s not Moran’s fault that the Reds’ opponent, the Chicago Black Sox, threw the series.

~Pat Perry (Cubs 1988-1989)
The Cubs got Perry in the trade that sent Leon Durham to the Reds. He was a member of the division champion 1989 Cubs team, but he was used sparingly out of the bullpen (19 appearances), and didn’t make the post-season roster. They released him in December of that year. He did manage to win two games and save two games during his tenure with the Cubs.

~Pat Pieper (Cubs P.A. announcer/1916-1974)
He was known for his trademark opener…”Tention! Attention Please! Get your pencils and scorecards ready and I will give you the correct lineups for today’s game.” He got the job in 1916 when the Cubs first started playing in what is now known as Wrigley Field, and he kept the job until his death in 1974–an incredible streak of 59 years. When he first began, he had to do his job with a gigantic megaphone (this was before a public address system had been invented.) He said the starting lineups to the crowd from third base, and then did the same thing on the other side of the field from first base. In 1932, the Cubs finally installed a public address system. Pieper was the PA for 6 World Series, but he also handled those chores for the twenty consecutive seasons the Cubs finished in the bottom half of the league (1946-1966). When he died shortly after the 1974 season (October 22nd), the Cubs had just finished their most successful stretch since their World Series days.

~Paddy Quinn (White Stockings 1877)
Paddy was 16 years old when the Civil War ended–living in his hometown of Chicago. He embarked on a baseball career by the time he was 20, and played for several teams before the National League was founded. Paddy was 27 when he played for the Cubs (then known as the White Stockings) for four games in 1877. Unfortunately, the outfielder only managed to get one hit in 15 plate appearances.

~Pat Ragan (Cubs 1909)
Ragan had a couple of good seasons as a starting pitcher in the National League, winning 15 games one year for the Dodgers, and 17 games for the Braves another. He spent just a fraction of one season with the Cubs–his rookie season. Ragan appeared in two games as a reliever.

~Pat Tabler (Cubs 1981-1982)
He was involved in the same trade that brought Warren Brusstar to the Cubs, though neither of them were the main bargaining chips. The Cubs acquired Steve Trout in that trade, and the White Sox got Dick Tidrow. Tabler ended up playing in the big leagues for 12 seasons, and won a ring with the 1992 Blue Jays. His nickname was Mr. Clutch.

~Pat Wright (Colts 1890)
Wright was a second baseman who played 14 seasons in the minor leagues, and exactly one game in the big leagues. On July 11th, 1890, just a week after his 22nd birthday, Wright started at second base for the Cubs (then known as the Colts). He went 0 for 2 with a walk. Chicago lost the game 6-0 in Boston.

Chicago Radio Ratings

Robert Feder posted these today. For the full day-part breakdown, check his column...

1. WBBM 780-AM/WCFS 105.9-FM all news, 5.8 (5.4)
2. WTMX 101.9-FM hot adult contemporary, 5.4 (4.9)
3. WDRV 97.1-FM classic rock, 5.3 (5.3)
4. WVAZ 102.7-FM urban adult contemporary, 4.9 (5.2)
5. WLIT 93.9-FM adult contemporary, 4.8 (5.5)
6. WLS 94.7-FM classic hits, 4.2 (4.2)
7. WGN 720-AM news talk, 3.9 (3.8)
8. WKSC 103.5-FM Top 40, 3.7 (3.6)
9. WBEZ 91.5-FM public radio news talk, 3.6 (3.9)
10. (tie) WXRT 93.1-FM adult album alternative, 3.3 (3.1); WOJO 105.1-FM Mexican regional, 3.3 (3.4); WSHE 100.3-FM adult contemporary, 3.3 (3.6)
13. WUSN 99.5-FM country, 2.8 (2.6)
14. WSCR 670-AM sports talk, 2.7 (3.3)
15. (tie) WBBM 96.3-FM Top 40, 2.6 (2.6); WLEY 107.9-FM Mexican regional, 2.6 (1.9)
17. WBMX 104.3-FM classic hip hop, 2.5 (2.4)
18. WRME 87.7-FM soft rock oldies, 2.4 (3.5)
19. (tie) WKQX 101.1-FM alternative rock, 2.3 (2.2); WLS 890-AM news talk, 2.3 (2.3)
21. WGCI 107.5-FM urban contemporary, 2.1 (2.1)
22. (tie) WPPN 106.7-FM Spanish adult contemporary, 1.9 (1.5); WVIV 93.5-FM Spanish contemporary, 1.9 (1.5)
24. WCKL 97.9-FM contemporary Christian, 1.5 (1.2)
25. (tie) WEBG 95.5-FM country, 1.4 (1.6); WPWX 92.3-FM urban contemporary, 1.4 (1.4)
27. WMVP 1000-AM sports talk, 1.2 (1.4)
28. WFMT 98.7-FM classical 1.0 (0.9)
29. WMBI 90.1-FM Christian ministry, 0.8 (0.9)
30. WSRB 106.3-FM urban adult contemporary, 0.7 (0.8)

A timely message

A message from me and my dad, @Melbrooks. #coronavirus #DontBeASpreader pic.twitter.com/Hqhc4fFXbe

— Max Brooks (@maxbrooksauthor) March 16, 2020

Beatles Songs About Real Places

Thanks to Eckhartz Press author Brent Petersen for this great blog post: Beatles Songs About Real Places

I thought I knew everything about Beatles songs, but I didn't know a bunch of these details.

Always remember to turn off your microphone

During a Coronavirus update/meeting this Mayor excused himself to the restroom but forgot to turn off his microphone — and I am now dead...🤭🤣😭💀💀 pic.twitter.com/WZ18JQq7cO

— Rex Chapman🏇🏼 (@RexChapman) March 16, 2020

Minutia Men--St. Patrick's Day Special

This week's @MinutiaMen helps fill the St. Patrick's day void. Irish singer/musician Timothy O'Shea is in the studio with us playing some beautiful traditional Irish songs.

Listen to it here.

Sure Sign of End Times

Fox News is a Disgrace

‘Barack Ebola’ — Fox News freaked out over Ebola under Obama in 2014, but is defending Trump and shrugging off the coronavirus in 2020 pic.twitter.com/638JXg0L4F

— NowThis (@nowthisnews) March 13, 2020

Free Kicks--CoronaVirus

All Premier League football is suspended until April 3rd, so this might be our last Free Kicks episode for a while.

Listen to it here.

St. Patrick's Day

So, Chicago isn't painting the river green this year, and we aren't having a St. Patrick's Day parade, but your good pals Rick and Dave will be bringing Ireland to you via podcast. We interviewed Irish musician Timothy O'Shea today, and he played us some truly beautiful Irish folk songs. The show drops on Saturday. Be sure to check it out in the safe environs of your own home. Thanks to Mike Shevlin for lining this up for us. We really enjoyed it.

Johnny Kaempfer

Had a busy day yesterday, but not too busy to spend the evening with son #2, Johnny Kaempfer. He turned 22 years old yesterday.

We all went out to dinner as a family (for maybe the last time in a long time) and saluted the young lad. He has turned into a very caring, big-hearted man. I'm very proud of him.

Why Don't You Wash Your Hands?

The latest parody song from John Records Landecker is called "Why Don't You Wash Your Hands" and you can probably guess what it's about. Vocals by Bob Stroud. Produced by Matt Bisbee. Great job, guys!

Why Don't You Wash Your Hands

It's not just the flu

Dr. Anthony Fauci: "It is ten times more lethal than the seasonal flu."

Watch full #Coronavirus hearing here: https://t.co/qUfpOTAqTq pic.twitter.com/Zfo4SShnij

— CSPAN (@cspan) March 11, 2020

One man... immune to information.

PANDUMBIC pic.twitter.com/gZUPZJBmwV

— The Daily Show (@TheDailyShow) March 10, 2020

Go Illini

"We just have to keep doing what we've been doing." - @IlliniMBB's Kofi Cockburn (@kxng_alpha), @B1GMBBall's Freshman of the Year for both the media and coaches votes. pic.twitter.com/TwGWP7DL2I

— Illinois on BTN (@IllinoisOnBTN) March 9, 2020

Inside Melania

The best part of being a publisher is the moment that an author gets to hold their book for the very first time. "Inside Melania" author Lauren LoGuidice had that moment this week. Congrats to her! (The book is available here)

Minutia Men--Mitchell, Movies & Missing Millions

Rick and Dave interview sportswriter and author Fred Mitchell, and discuss a really unfortunate cleanup, a really inappropriate use of a public library, and Rick’s brush with football Hall of Famer Brian Urlacher. [EP170]

You can listen to it here.

Clark Weber

Sorry to hear about the passing of Clark Weber. I worked with Clark for several years at WJMK/WJJD. He was such a nice man and had some incredible stories about the early days of rock and roll and rock radio. His story about the Beatles at Comiskey Park is one I’ve retold many times. RIP Clark. You will be missed.

Here is my 2007 interview with Clark. He tells the Beatles story and a few other great ones.

No Low is Too Low

The Education Secretary’s brother has hired FOREIGN SPIES to target political rivals of Donald Trump. Disgusting. https://t.co/Ar43vtEoie

— Joe Scarborough (@JoeNBC) March 7, 2020

Free Kicks--No Longer Unbeaten

Adam and Rick discuss the end of Liverpool’s incredible unbeaten streak. [Ep63]

Listen to it here.

The Cure

Great Reviews for "The Unplanned Life"

Fellow authors, broadcasters, and educators review Badesch’s memoir

The book doesn’t even come out until next month, but the people who have read the galleys are gushing. The Unplanned Life is available for pre-order now…

“You may think you know Roger Badesch if you have listened over the years to his exact and artful news reports on radio, but between the covers of this book you will find so much more–a man of great depth, many passions and skills. His is a wonderful life that you can now share.”
–Rick Kogan, Chicago Tribune, WGN Radio

“The phrase ‘Been There, Done That’ has never been more true than when describing the indefatigable Roger Badesch. Not only is he a noted media figure, educator, and beloved character in the Chicago area, but with the publication of THE UNPLANNED LIFE he adds to that list Writing Superhero for sharing with us his very well-lived life through a story extremely well-told.”
–Tom Blomquist, Author of Silent Partners & Eye of the Storm

“Roger and I go back over 50 years to when he was a high school student and I was the TV Director for Evanston Township High School. Then again when I was TV Producer-Director for Southern Illinois University and Roger was an enthusiastic RTV Major. He worked on several of my shows including one with Billy Joel and one with the rock band Brownsville Station. I went on to co-create and direct PBS’ Austin City Limits, and Roger went on to become an anchor for WGN Radio News. His story is bound to be a good one!”
–Bruce Scafe, co-creator, Austin City Limits

“Chicago is a big, beautiful place. Roger Badesch has made it more beautiful. Roger has spent a lifetime of working with a generation of young people from some of the poorest and most violent neighborhoods on Chicago’s tough South and West sides.Roger’s innate ability to facilitate students and allow them to create honest, original stories predates Black Lives Matter; providing them with the tools to create critically acclaimed, award winning films, videos and media projects. These productions inspired and brought honor to his students, and the Chicago Public Schools. The current renaissance of film and video in Chicago and elsewhere can in part be directly connected to Roger.”
–Tim Tuten, Former Manager of High School Media Relations Chicago Public Schools / Former Director of Special Projects, Partnerships and Events U.S. Department of Education

“This book’s cover photo was taken on a night we’ll never forget. Trust us, we never had a night like that on the radio before or since and, along with our WGN radio listeners, were praying that Roger would survive. Spoiler alert: He did! In this book Roger shares the details of that night and other adventures, including his time with Chicago’s first black mayor, Harold Washington, and first woman mayor, Jane Byrne. “The Unplanned Life” of this man we’re so proud to call a friend was obviously part of a bigger plan. Thankfully, he listened to the universe and went along for the ride. Buckle up, it’s a good one!”
–Steve King & Johnnie Putman, award-winning Chicago broadcasters and authors

“Roger Badesch is like an onion. He has many layers and if you’re too close to him for any length of time you’ll cry. The tears will be caused by laughter, sympathy or the act of shaking your head wildly in disbelief. If you’ve listened to Roger on the radio, you’ve no doubt experienced all three. I know I have. With “The Unplanned Life,” Roger regales us with the story of a life that is funny, tragic, hopeful, at times idiotic, but always endearing. You’ll want to laugh with him, cry with him, hug him and shake some sense into him all at the same time. Finally we can stop saying “Wait, what did he just say?” when Roger finishes a story. We can re-read his various tales and marvel at how a kid from Chicago could have enjoyed such a full and undoubtedly unplanned life. Just remember, if he offers you a ride home in a snowstorm…take the bus!”
–Brian Noonan, Radio Personality/Comedian/Roger’s On-Air Foil

I'd Like to See More of This

Wait for it...the reporter/anchor argument is the kind of thing you hear OFF the air all the time. Usually not ON the air.

This is the most incredible video on the internet pic.twitter.com/NSpyhIEtTR

— Yashar Ali 🐘 (@yashar) March 6, 2020

One Town that Won't Let You Down

Happy 183rd Birthday, Chicago! pic.twitter.com/I3TK0lB88A

— Barry Butler (@barrybutler9) March 4, 2020

Mitch Michaels

This week's celebrity interview is with legendary rock jock Mitch Michaels.

You can listen to it here.

Spring Training 1939

On this day in 1939, the Cubs arrived at their Spring Training facility on Catalina Island in California. They were the defending National League champions. During the time the Cubs trained in California, in the years before a big league team had moved out west, the Cubs were the toast of Hollywood. Every year they were sure to get a visit from one big movie or radio star. In spring training of 1939, their visitor was the biggest dummy in America, Charlie McCarthy, along with his ventriloquist Edgar Bergen. There are three Cubs Hall of Famers in the picture. Can you spot them? Gabby Hartnett, Billy Herman, and Dizzy Dean. (Dizzy is the one right behind Charlie looking down on him)

(Photo: Acme file photo)

Never Trade These Two, Please

Rizz and KB are naturals on the mic. pic.twitter.com/PXzKcimS6W

— Chicago Cubs (@Cubs) March 3, 2020

My main man Arlo

I may actually watch Chicago Fire games this year. This is exciting news...

Burning up the booth. Welcome @arlowhite, @TMeola1 and @TNTerens! 🎙https://t.co/y4QskSE8xT

— Chicago Fire FC (@ChicagoFire) March 3, 2020

Count on it Rick!

— Arlo White (@arlowhite) March 3, 2020

Pervy Newsman

Look closely at the tabs on this tweet from Brit Hume. Whoops.

Chris Matthews

I never have the TV on at dinnertime, but for some reason, I flicked it on last night and saw this live. Talk about a bombshell. When this statement ended, so did Chris Matthews' MSNBC career. Steve Kornacki was on the air, and looked totally shocked by what had just happened.

Pat Cassidy

The March issue of Illinois Entertainer is out and features my interview with WBBM News Radio's Pat Cassidy.

You can read it here.

Minutia Men--Inside the Comic's Mind

Rick and Dave talk to comedian Ross Bennett, and analyze what makes a comic tick. They also discuss a story that will give you nightmares, Dave’s impersonation of a bodily fluid, and Rick’s brush with soul singer Sam Moore. [Ep169]

Listen to it here.

Schlachtfest 2020

Fulfilled my soccer emcee duties on Saturday night for Green White Soccer Club (for the 20th time or so).

A good time was had by one and all at Schlachtfest 2020. Congrats to our new Miss Green White, Audrey Nilsen. Audrey is the first 4th generation Green Whiter recognized. Her great-grandfather (Michael Melcher) was president in the early 60s, her grandfather (Horst Melcher) was president for twenty-plus years, and her mother Sonja was Miss Green White herself.

Free Kicks

Figures a story about French soccer would somehow end up sexual...

Listen to it here.

Siri Interview

#MinutiaMenCelebrityInterview EP12: Rick and Dave interview Susan Bennett, the original voice of #Siri on the #iPhone https://t.co/IVtGUYGdUy

— Radio Misfits (@RadiosMisfits) February 26, 2020

Ash Wednesday

On this Ash Wednesday, we salute the most famous Ash to ever play for the Cubs…(From Everycubever)

~Richie Ashburn 1927–1997 (Cubs 1960-1961)
While it was great to have the Hall of Famer Ashburn covering centerfield for the 1960 and 1961 Cubs, the lifetime .308 hitter was long past his prime. He put up those Hall of Fame numbers mostly for the Philadelphia Phillies. The stories about Ashburn from his early days are legendary. He loved hitting so much he slept with his Louisville Slugger when he was in slump. He was a speedy singles hitter who won two batting titles, finished second three times, and hit over .300 nine times. By the time he came to the Cubs, unfortunately, his career was declining and he no longer had the speed he exhibited early in his career. Ashburn was a five time all-star, but none of those appearances came with the Cubs. The Cubs let him to go in the expansion draft of 1962, and he finished his career as the only all-star on the worst team of all-time, the 1962 Mets. After his playing career ended, he became a beloved announcer for the Philadelphia Phillies. He died in 1997, two years after he was elected into baseball’s Hall of Fame. (Photo: 1961 Topps Baseball Card)

Fat Tuesday celebration

We made reservations last night to take out the whole family for Fat Tuesday. Cajun food and New Orleans Jazz. Son #2 said he had other plans. Son #3 said he had too much homework. So it was just son #1, Bridget and me. Still had fun...

Fat Tuesday

Happy Fat Tuesday! On this Fat Tuesday, we recognize the fattest Cub of all-time…(From EveryCubEver...https://eckhartzpress.com/shop/everycubever-new-2019-updated-edition/)

~Jumbo Brown 1907–1966 (Cubs 1925)
When Brown came up with the Cubs as a rookie, he immediately set a record. He was the heaviest player to ever play in the big leagues at that time; tipping the scales at 295 pounds. He may be remembered for his size, but Jumbo was actually a trailblazer in the big leagues. He was one of the first pitchers who was kept on a roster strictly as a relief pitcher. In the first three and last four seasons of his big league career, he didn’t start a single game.

The Latest Eckhartz Press Book

Pre-order it here.

Big Ten Fight Songs 1929

Guilty

BREAKING: Disgraced movie mogul Harvey Weinstein—once revered as one of Hollywood’s most influential power brokers—was found guilty of third-degree rape and a criminal sex act at his watershed rape trial in Manhattanhttps://t.co/YE6w6fOOYa

— The Daily Beast (@thedailybeast) February 24, 2020

Minutia Men--Bags, Batman & Barney

This week's episode includes an interview with WGN-TV's Mike Toomey. He does his famous Barney Fife and Batman impersonations for us.

Listen to it here.

Mike Toomey

The man behind this WGN-TV bit about Mr. Rogers going to a marijuana dispensary (https://wgntv.com/2020/02/21/wgn-morning-news-mr-rogers-visits-chicago-marijuana-dispensary/) will be a guest on our Minutia Men podcast this weekend. Nice job, Mike Toomey!

Free Kicks--The Champions League Death Penalty

This week's Free Kicks is about the unprecedented punishment handed out by the Champions League against Manchester City, and the incredible lack of details about why that decision was reached.

Listen to it here.

Watch the Transformation

Love this. https://t.co/j8AdnNyZWX

— Rick Kaempfer (@RickKaempfer) February 21, 2020

What Happened When You Talked Smack to MJ?

This is a pretty great example...

JR Rider & Kevin Garnett talk about the time a young KG made the mistake of talking trash in front of MJ 😅 pic.twitter.com/VfL57upGhB

— Jumpman History (@HistoryJumpman) February 20, 2020

Still Hard to Believe

I was in Switzerland at the time. My Dad woke us up at 3 in the morning to watch this game.

Do you believe in miracles?! YES! 40 years ago today, history pic.twitter.com/SDojSkC5HR

— Mike Onorato (@YankeeClipper09) February 21, 2020

Chicago Radio Ratings

Looks like people forgot to turn their radios away from WLIT after the Christmas music stopped. Congrats to them. Thanks to Robert Feder for posting these numbers. If you want the daypart breakdowns, his column is here.

1. WLIT 93.9-FM adult contemporary, 5.5 (13.7)
2. WBBM 780-AM/WCFS 105.9-FM all news, 5.4 (4.9)
3. WDRV 97.1-FM classic rock, 5.3 (4.6)
4. WVAZ 102.7-FM urban adult contemporary, 5.2 (5.7)
5. WTMX 101.9-FM hot adult contemporary, 4.9 (3.3)
6. WLS 94.7-FM classic hits, 4.2 (4.3)
7. WBEZ 91.5-FM public radio news talk, 3.9 (3.1)
8. WGN 720-AM news talk, 3.8 (3.0)
9. (tie) WKSC 103.5-FM Top 40, 3.6 (2.8); WSHE 100.3-FM adult contemporary, 3.6 (3.0)
11. WRME 87.7-FM soft rock oldies, 3.5 (3.0)
12. WOJO 105.1-FM Mexican regional, 3.4 (3.1)
13. WSCR 670-AM sports talk, 3.3 (3.5)
14. WXRT 93.1-FM adult album alternative, 3.1 (3.1)
15. (tie) WUSN 99.5-FM country, 2.6 (1.6); WBBM 96.3-FM Top 40, 2.6 (2.9)
17. WBMX 104.3-FM classic hip hop, 2.4 (2.5)
18. WLS 890-AM news talk, 2.3 (2.3)
19. WKQX 101.1-FM alternative rock, 2.2 (2.4)
20. WGCI 107.5-FM urban contemporary, 2.1 (2.5)
21. WLEY 107.9-FM Mexican regional, 1.9 (1.9)
22. WEBG 95.5-FM country, 1.6 (1.2)
23. (tie) WPPN 106.7-FM Spanish adult contemporary, 1.5 (1.6); WVIV 93.5-FM Spanish contemporary, 1.5 (1.1)
25. (tie) WMVP 1000-AM sports talk, 1.4 (1.4); WPWX 92.3-FM urban contemporary, 1.4 (1.4)
27. WCKL 97.9-FM contemporary Christian, 1.2 (1.6)
28. (tie) WFMT 98.7-FM classical 0.9 (0.8); WMBI 90.1-FM Christian ministry, 0.9 (1.0)
30. WSRB 106.3-FM urban adult contemporary, 0.8 (0.9)

People Love Minutia Men

Well, technically it's like 314 - 5 star reviews, 14 - 4 star reviews and a couple of jerks. Hear what you're missing. Subscribe on #sticher #googleplay #iheartradio #applepodcasts etc. #podernfamily #podbean Great shows at @RadiosMisfits pic.twitter.com/KjRJxKts7h

— Minutia Men (@MinutiaMen) February 18, 2020

I love the obscure guests
☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆
“It’s fun to listen to interviews with obscure guests like the lady who is he voice of The Tube. The Mooch was fun.”
circlekandlol646 via Apple Podcasts · United States of America · 02/10/20

Wow, don’t hold back Mooch
☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆
“The Mooch unloads in the Donald. That pie hub stuff is hilarious.”
chavioy via Apple Podcasts · United States of America · 02/10/20
stylisticpillow via Apple Podcasts · United States of America · 02/10/20

Happy to hear The Mooch back on
☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆
“Loved the new interview with The Mooch. Have him on more. Also the rock star interviews,”
larr666lar via Apple Podcasts · United States of America · 02/10/20

Stay up to date with worthless info
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“Need news you can use to become a better person? Don’t listen to this show. Need to laugh and be entertained for 40 minutes? Subscribe. They get big name celebrities and their interviews are hilarious.”
irenabolstoir via Apple Podcasts · United States of America · 02/10/20

Smart, glib and easy
☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆
“Need a quick podcast? This one is perfect. Episodes run about 20 minutes and are easy to listen. Sound quality and voices are good. Interviews are always interesting.”
1323goofle via Apple Podcasts · United States of America · 02/10/20

Great fun
☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆
“Love the Mooch interview. He actually sounds like a nice guy.”
rustycannoli via Apple Podcasts · United States of America · 02/10/20

The Mooch hits a homerun
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“Glad he finally has seen the light. I bet Trump isn’t happy about this interview.”
rottgemop via Apple Podcasts · United States of America · 02/10/20

Pie hub and Trump
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“Not an image I can un-see! Great stuff. Mark Cuban interview was great too.”
yoadrian67 via Apple Podcasts · United States of America · 02/10/20

The Mooch
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“Wonderful interview with The Mooch. You can tell these guys are good friends.”
tyrelbiggs via Apple Podcasts · United States of America · 02/10/20

Just a great time
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“Do yourself a favor and listen to this show on your commute. Timely, topical and terrific c. Great celebrity interviews.”
woodymally via Apple Podcasts · United States of America · 01/21/20

Funny and engaging
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“These guys are great. Interesting topics and awesome chemistry.”
Zach Cornwell via Apple Podcasts · United States of America · 01/16/20

Love these guys
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“Extremely well done and funny podcast. Hosts have great chemistry and are very witty. Topical stories and great celebrity interviews.”
rockymockyman via Apple Podcasts · United States of America · 11/26/19

Binge Worthy
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“This is a great podcast to binge a few episodes at a time. Quirky news stories, fun hosts and great guests.”
plyamber65 via Apple Podcasts · United States of America · 10/14/19

Ok, new favorite comedy duo!
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“These hombres crack me up. Great mix of topics and hilarious banter! This is a comedy pod you def need to add to your playlist. Perfect for my long commute!”
loveboyyyy via Apple Podcasts · United States of America · 10/11/19

Life’s about the little things
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“And these guys are here for them (and you). You’ll feel like you’re in on every joke, because their chemistry is warm, funny, and inclusive. Get into it!”
Michael Paul Smith via Apple Podcasts · United States of America · 10/11/19

Good Stuff
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“They have voices for radio and our spot on with their content. They sound like they have been friends forever. Cheers!!”
WTPC85 via Apple Podcasts · United States of America · 10/08/19

Awesome show!
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“Rick and Dave bring a lot of entertainment to their listeners with every new episode. Not only is this show funny with good news stories and silly banter but there are also some really good interviews as well, it’s the best of both worlds. And on top of all of that the audio quality is on point...”Read full review »
PDS Kirk via Apple Podcasts · United States of America · 09/12/19

One of the best productions I’ve heard!
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“This is a fantastic show. Knowledgeable hosts that were some easy listening. The production is top notch and an example of how it should be done. Listen and sub!”
Taff 79 via Apple Podcasts · United States of America · 09/11/19

Quick paced, witty and well done
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“If you’re looking for a perfect commute podcast, this is it. Quick news stories, banter and great celebrity interviews.”
fagell67 via Apple Podcasts · United States of America · 08/07/19

Fun stuff
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“Love their interviews with celebrities. Also, their funny news stories are great.”
yoman6556 via Apple Podcasts · United States of America · 07/23/19

Great fun interviews
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“The irreverence of David Letterman coupled with the intellectual prowess of Bill Maher. THEIR INTERVIEWS ARE GREAT.”
rt686878 via Apple Podcasts · United States of America · 07/01/19

Love the interviews
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“I’m a huge fan of the way Rick and Dave interview guests. Not the typical stupid questions you’re used to. For instance they asked The Mooch if he ever got business cards when he worked in the White House. Really funny.”
rt34527382 via Apple Podcasts · United States of America · 06/25/19

Perfect for a car ride
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“My football coach turned my team on to this podcast. We listen while we drive to road games. I love it. Really fun. I haven’t heard of a lot of these guests, but the interviews are great.”
salmonbros via Apple Podcasts · United States of America · 06/25/19

Your New Favorite Talk Show!
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“Rick and Dave are engaging and hilarious as they discuss everything and anything - health tips, wacky foods and drinks, top trends, and viral news pieces being just a few hot topics! They even conduct interviews with a variety of “who’s who” in pop culture! If you’ve been looking for a good...”Read full review »
Crime Culture Podcast via Apple Podcasts · United States of America · 06/14/19

My new morning show
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“This show is quickly becoming my new morning drive show, started with recent episodes but now I find myself going through the back catalogue. Two podcasters who are great to listen to and will keep you entertained the whole way through.”
The Oddball Aussie via Apple Podcasts · Australia · 06/04/19

Decompress with a couple of funny cynics
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“Rick and Dave are a couple of cynical goofs who will entertain you for an hour or so. Give em a try on your commute.”
oldyellow65432 via Apple Podcasts · United States of America · 05/30/19

Wow, very well done
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“Great hosts, great content, great guests. Very funny and topical and dare I say, wonderfully cynical.”
ob530 via Apple Podcasts · United States of America · 05/30/19

Great Mix
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“A very nice mix of humorous stories and informative interviews, with a really good mix of guests as well. Perfect podcast for a commute.”
Top 5 for fighting via Apple Podcasts · United States of America · 05/27/19

Radio show banter
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“Good mainstream conversationalists with flowing fun listening banter. An easy subscription and good listening for your commute.”
Fastkilr via Apple Podcasts · United States of America · 05/22/19

Great chemistry
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“Rick and Dave have great history, and their discussion topics and interview subject run the gamut. Always fun and interesting. Check it!”
AreYouStillSnacking via Apple Podcasts · United States of America · 05/15/19

Great Podcast and good humor
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“Very entertaining with a variety of topics.”
The Deleon Talk Podcast via Apple Podcasts · United States of America · 05/14/19

Great interviews
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“Love the wide range of guests. What other podcast can you hear interviews with Mark Cuban, Cousin Oliver and the hooker from Fargo?”
braceletbain via Apple Podcasts · United States of America · 04/11/19

Loop Reunion with Logo

Thanks to Mark Wilhems for creating this...

Mental Health Break

This little bear and lion cub are the best of friends 🤩 pic.twitter.com/lnEgUJDv3A

— Jack (@J4CKMULL) February 17, 2020

The 45

Went to Hey Nonnie's last night in Arlington Heights to see Len Kasper's band "The 45". I had no idea that Matt Spiegel (The Score, Tribut-asaurus) is the lead singer and that Dag Juhlin (Steve Dahl Show, Poi Dog Pondering) is the lead guitarist. Great show. Had a chance to chat will all three of them after the show.

Hall of Famers

From Robert Feder's column this morning...

Chicago radio legends Larry Lujack and Dick Biondi have been named charter inductees in the Hall of Fame of the new Illinois Rock & Roll Museum on Route 66 under construction in Joliet. Lujack, who died in 2013, was elected by museum members in the DJ category. Biondi was named recipient of the Founder’s Lifetime Achievement Award and also will be inducted in the Hall of Fame. Ceremonies will be March 29 at the Renaissance Center in Joliet. Other inaugural inductees include Chicago, Cheap Trick, Ides of March, Muddy Waters, Buddy Guy, Buckinghams and REO Speedwagon as performers; and WLS Radio, Chess Records and Thirsty Whale in non-performer categories.

I know most of the inductees personally. That feels a little odd for a Hall of Fame, but congrats to all of them!

Minutia Men--Valentines, Honest Abe, & a Nun

Rick and Dave discuss a Kimono Dragon mishap, a spiteful Valentine’s Day idea, Dave’s famous Abe Lincoln poem, and they interview Catholic Comic Vicki Quade about her new upcoming stage show. [Ep167]

Listen to it here.

Our latest e-book

Valentine's Day

My Valentine pic.twitter.com/5EdgitD2FF

— Rick Kaempfer (@RickKaempfer) February 14, 2020

The Elephant in the Room

Thanks so much to Dane Placko at Fox 32 for featuring this story last night. It's an important story for all parents, and my heart goes out to my old friend Brendan Sullivan and the entire Sullivan family.

Eckhartz Press Author John Records Landecker Named to National Association of Broadcasters Hall of Fame

Looks like I might be going to Vegas in April.

From RadioInfo.com…

Legendary American Top 40 disc jockey John Records Landecker will be inducted into the NAB Broadcasting Hall of Fame at the 2020 NAB Show.

Landecker is best known for his tenure as the evening personality at WLS-AM Chicago, a 50,000-watt station reaching audiences in some 40 states.

His signature style included incorporating satirical songs and bits based on current events into the program, as well as his trademark saying, “Records truly is my middle name.” Landecker is credited for introducing some of the first interactive phone features on Top 40 radio, a style that is still prevalent today.

His 50-year broadcast career began as a high school student at WOIA-AM in Saline, Michigan. He stayed on the air throughout college in Michigan, working at WTRK-AM Flint, WERX-AM Grand Rapids and WILS-AM Lansing. Landecker later entertained listeners with stints at WIBG-FM Philadelphia; CFTR-AM Toronto; WPHR-FM Cleveland, Ohio; WJMK-FM Chicago; and WGN-AM Chicago.

NAB Executive Vice President of Industry Affairs, Steve Newberry, says, “John Records Landecker has had a profound impact on radio and has inspired generations of new talent. His induction into the Broadcasting Hall of Fame symbolizes the personal connection between DJs and their audiences and how innovative personalities can influence radio programming.”

Additionally, Landecker has released six albums of his work and written an autobiography titled ‘Records Truly Is My Middle Name’ and he currently hosts a weekly program on his hometown station WEFM-FM Michigan City, Ind.

Landecker was inducted into the National Radio Hall of Fame in 2017 and was named Billboard Magazine’s Radio Personality of the Year in 1977.

His on-air talent and contributions to the radio industry are memorialized in the radio exhibit at the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in Cleveland.

Free Kicks--Postpone a Match?

Adam and Rick discuss the rarity of postponed matches, the history of relegated teams, and more, including the regular feature…Guess the Premier League Star. [Ep60]

Listen to it here.

Mini Loop Reunion

Met up with some old Loop friends last night downtown. First photo is a Ebony & Ivory reunion (with a photobomb from Vince). Second photo is everyone who was there...

Damone!

#MinutiaMenCelebrityInterview EP11: Rick and Dave interview Robert Romanus, who played Mike Damone in Fast Times at Ridgemont High https://t.co/BDwUONf1b2

— Radio Misfits (@RadiosMisfits) February 12, 2020

Newsman, Bluesman

From Robert Feder's column this morning...

Newsman, bluesman and longtime Chicago radio raconteur Buzz Kilman will be back on the air Friday when he fills in for David Plier from 11 p.m. to 1 a.m. on Nexstar Media Group news/talk WGN 720-AM. Kilman was last heard on WGN when Jonathon Brandmeier hosted mornings there from 2011 to 2013. He’s been a fixture on Chicago radio since 1980 when he joined the station formerly known as The Loop as Steve Dahl’s morning news anchor.

Tommy Kaempfer's Writing Debut

Allow me to be a proud dad. Tommy Kaempfer's first concert review in the Illinois Entertainer https://t.co/FX8ZQSWvnp

— Rick Kaempfer (@RickKaempfer) February 11, 2020

The Sweetest Words

Bill Holub is an old friend and colleague from my days at the Loop. My first year writing this blog (14 years ago!) I asked him to write about a phrase he used to utter every year in the hallways of the Loop when he heard that spring training was beginning. He called it "The Sweetest Words in the English Language." It's become a tradition to repost his piece every year on that momentous day.

Today's the day for the Cubs!




THE SWEETEST WORDS IN THE ENGLISH LANGUAGE
By Bill Holub

“Pitchers and catchers report”.

These are indeed the sweetest words in the English language. Friends have been hearing me recite this every year at this time. I once had an old poker playing friend who used to say the sweetest words have always been “I’ll play these”. This is the same friend who couldn’t win even when dealt a pat hand. That however is a story for another time and place, where an explanation of the relationship between the quantity of beer consumed, what the cards in your hand really look like and the amount of money you bet can be fully explored. It’s really something scientists should be looking at.

In the meantime, I apologize to all those who came here looking for a sentimental dialogue on romance. I’m sorry to say it but the sweetest words in the English language are not “I love you”. Now that I think of it, this may instead be a sentimental dialogue on romance and baseball.

It’s funny how the two always converge around Valentine’s Day. Spring fever is referred to as that time of year when things start to bloom as the weather changes and love is in the air. It is no coincidence that this is the same time the baseball season opens and brings hope to all of us diehard baseball romantics.

My love affair with baseball was re-ignited in 1987-88. There was only one place to catch baseball highlights from all over the major leagues back then. Once a week you could tune in to “This Week In Baseball” with good ol’ Mel Allen. During those two seasons I was hooked into witnessing two West Coast baseball Gods embodied in the forms of a young Mark Mcgwire and Jose Canseco. This is before anyone had ever heard of andro, anabolics and the other chemical cocktails that have since cast a pall over these two. Back then, I was treated week in and week out to mammoth sized home runs flying out of every ballpark in the country. The fact that these home runs were being hit by players wearing what my brother and I had always considered the coolest looking baseball uniforms in the world (the Oakland A’s green and gold) had me embracing the game I grew up on all over again.

By 1989 I was so hooked on this game I even started collecting baseball cards again, although as much as an investor as a fanboy. I also started another nasty habit that impacts my life to this day. That is when I started a fantasy baseball league with a bunch of guys at work. 1989 also happened to be a division winning season for my beloved Cubs, so I was in baseball heaven and haven’t looked back since.

THE NATIONAL PASTIME

I think we can honestly say that baseball is no longer the national pastime in this country. It has been supplanted by football. I can accept that. Although I would insist the true national pastime is gambling, which is the driving force that makes football the number one spectator sport in America. I suppose I could go off on a George Carlin type of rant here on the differences between football and baseball, but that’s not why I’m writing this piece.

I just want to point out there is one major difference between the two and that is commitment. I’m talking about the commitment between baseball fans and football fans. Football is a four month season requiring your undivided attention one day a week, or two if you’re both a college and pro fan. Baseball is a six month season requiring your undivided attention throughout with your favorite team(s) playing as many as five or more games a week.

Baseball is a commitment. I believe it carries as much of a commitment as love. They both require dedication and attention. They can both go awry despite the best laid plans. An early swan dive in the standings in May that ends a team’s season before it even had a chance can be just as painful as not having your phone calls returned after the second or third date. Meanwhile an October champagne shower celebrating a pennant or World Series championship is as sweet and memorable as a ‘yes’ to a question posed on one knee.

BASEBALL AND THE CINEMA

Once that warm baseball is back feeling starts sinking in every year, I like to get fully immersed by throwing myself into my favorite baseball movies before the games actually begin. This is my form of spring training.

You’ve got your “Bull Durham”, “Field Of Dreams”, “Major League” (only the first one, please), but there is one movie that hits me in the right spot. “City Slickers” is not a real baseball movie per se, but there’s one scene that remains among my all-time favorites. It’s where the three friends (Billy Crystal, Daniel Stern and Bruno Kirby) are on the cattle drive and passing the time by discussing their favorite baseball memories. Billy Crystal remembers the first time his father took him to Yankee Stadium as a kid and how he had never seen grass that green before. Mickey Mantle even hit a home run that day. Daniel Stern recalls how growing up he and his father never saw eye to eye, but they could always talk about baseball with each other. “We always had baseball” he says.

As for me, one of my earliest baseball memories was getting to take the day off of school with my brother because my Dad got opening day tickets to Wrigley Field. I still remember wearing our warmest winter coats and knit hats, waiting to sit down while the Andy Frain usher brushed the snow off our seats. They don’t make Aprils in Chicago like that any more.

THE SWEETEST SOUND

There is a sound that accompanies the words “pitchers and catchers report”. It is the sound of a ball popping into a mitt. The sound of a simple game of catch. It is more than the crack of a bat sound. The sound of a mitt popping brings the memories and feelings of a lifetime of baseball flooding your senses all at once. It happens every time, whether it’s major leaguers or just a game of catch with your dad or your kid. The week pitchers and catchers report there are no cracking bats, only popping mitts. The sweetest sound in the world. “Pitchers and catchers report”. The sweetest words in the English language.

RIP Angel

Angel Echevarria has passed away at the way too young age of 48. This is his EveryCubEver write-up...

~Angel Echevarria 1971--2020 (Cubs 2002)
By the time Angel arrived in Chicago, the first baseman was already 31 years old. He had a few cups of coffee with Colorado and Milwaukee before playing for the Cubs. Angel hit pretty well (a career-high .306) and drove in some big runs (21 RBI), but was never given another shot at the big-time.

Former #Cubs outfielder passes away at 48: https://t.co/Y0LUdpsUpl pic.twitter.com/n0Su5ZvPUo

— CubsHQ.com (@ChicagoCubsHQ) February 9, 2020

Congrats to JRL

Congrats to @gvsu alumnus @Landeckerjohn on this tremendous honor!@gvsucmj
John Records Landecker will be inducted into the National Association of Broadcasters (NAB) Broadcasting Hall of Fame at the 2020 NAB Show. https://t.co/vEu5ztsYvZ

— Len O'Kelly (@LenOKelly) February 10, 2020

The Mooch on Minutia Men

Anthony Scaramucci worked in the White House for eleven days as the White House Communications Director. He has since turned on his former boss, and done so in a big way. First via Twitter, when Trump went after his wife. Now via our podcast, Minutia Men.

You have to hear this. It's brutal. And prety funny.

Listen to it here.

The Elephant in the Room by Brendan Sullivan

Brendan Sullivan is the co-author of the first book ever released by Eckhartz Press, The Living Wills. On Saturday February 1st, 2020, he suffered a terrible loss. His son Charlie passed away unexpectedly at the age of 24. Brendan penned the following piece, which was passed out at Charlie’s wake and funeral. The Sullivan family hopes it can help others avoid Charlie’s fate.

The Elephant in the Room

Perhaps these facts can help save one person’s life, and save one other family from this unfathomable pain.

Our son, we have learned in the last few days, occasionally used cocaine ‘recreationally.’ Cocaine is more popular today than we naive parents realized, readily available and more common than we ever expected. Perhaps you have used cocaine? Perhaps your child has? Perhaps your child has and you don’t know? Talk to them.

Our son was trusting of other people, and always saw the best in everyone. We know that he could not imagine that someone out there would knowingly hand him a drug that might kill him.

Fentanyl is an opiod pain medication, a narcotic that is 50 to 100 times stronger than morphine. It is prescribed for late stage cancer patients experiencing extreme pain. Misuse of fentanyl can cause death, especially when used without a prescription or when combined with other drugs including alcohol.

Street fentanyl, primarily manufactured illegally in Mexico, is added to cocaine and heroin by drug dealers to increase its potency, to ‘enhance your high.’ However, most users have no idea that they are using fentanyl, often resulting in overdose deaths. You only have to use it once.

In 2019, more people in Cook County, Illinois died of a fentanyl overdose (789) than were killed by guns (580). This is a cruel epidemic which we fear does not get the attention and outrage it deserves because its victims were using an illegal drug so ‘they should have known better.’

Our son did not take his own life deliberately, and he was not an addict. He was a young man who made one bad decision last week. If you or your family are dealing with suicide or addiction, our hearts go out to you. Our prayers are with you. These are also huge problems in our community that should be given more attention.

Talk to your children. Listen to your children. Hug them, and tell them you love them. And feel free to share this message with the world.


Charlie Sullivan 1996-2020

Hollywood & the Cubs

There have been a ton of Hollywood connections featuring the Cubs.

On this Oscar night, read all about them at Just One Bad Century.