Growing up on the far south side of Chicago, I was a White Sox fan. Comiskey Park was my first and favorite ballpark. The Last Comiskey book launch celebrated the release of the book chronicling the last season of that great ballpark.
Held at Chicago History Museum, the event started with a gathering of media and baseball fans. I wrote “baseball fans” because whether a Cubs or Sox supporter, we all appreciate the history of baseball. I caught up with old friend author George Castle and met several other Chicago media veterans including Tom Shaer, Chris Boden, Rich King and Sharon Pannozzo.
Tom Shaer
Chris Boden
Rich King
Sharon Pannozzo
Shaer hosted the night, which started with a condensed version of the Last Comiskey documentary. That was followed by Shaer discussing the book with author Ken Smoller. Former Sox stars Jack McDowell, Ron Kittle and Donn Pall joined them for a panel discussion. In addition to covering the last season, the players also recalled their big moments. “BlackJack” discussed winning the Cy Young award, Kittle talked about winning Rookie of the Year, and Pall reminisced about playing for both of his hometown teams.
Jack McDowell
George Castle and Ron Kittle
Donn Pall
Fittingly, the night ended with longtime Sox organist Nancy Faust playing “Na Na Hey Hey Kiss Him Goodbye,” a song she used to signal every Sox win. Faust is said to be the first organist to play specific songs for batters, pitchers and significant game moments. Her organ perch was one of the most popular attractions at old Comiskey Park.
Nancy Faust
The book itself is an amazing 186-page journey through the 1990 season. It is full of pictures, quotes and stories from former Sox players and personnel. It’s like a big reunion in book form. Author Smoller did an outstanding job of packing so much into it.
As I drove home, I realized I moved to the North Side shortly after the 1990 baseball season. I wasn’t at the last home game of the old Comiskey Park, but I saw plenty of games that season. Since moving north, I don’t get to Guaranteed Rate Field, the new home of the Sox, very often. It’s a beautiful ballpark, but no park will ever capture the magic of the old park. Thanks to Last Comiskey, I have a tangible bit of nostalgia. Look for Last Comiskey to make my list of best books of the year.
— John Wroblewski, online writer
Read This Next
7 Hotel Restaurants Worth the Travel
Daily
Nov 4, 2024
Introducing
FX Excursions
FX Excursions offers the chance for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in destinations around the world.
#globility
Insta FeedDaily
Nov 4, 20247 Hotel Restaurants Worth the Travel
Book a reservation at one of these hotel restaurants around the country, providing excellent dining experiences you won’t soon forget.
Sponsored Content
Royal Air Maroc Relaunches Direct Casablanca–Beijing Route, Debuts Toronto Flight
As part of its international network expansion, Royal Air Maroc will reinstate the direct Casablanca–Beijing route initially launched in January 2020 and suspended just a few weeks later due to the health crisis.
Slideshow
Nov 4, 20247 Reasons to Put Strasbourg, France, on Your Travel List
It’s time to start dreaming of your next trip. Here’s some destination inspiration for you. Take a visual journey through Strasbourg, France, with us.
Daily
Nov 4, 20248 Must-Have (and Must-Pack) Perfumes for 2025
Still on the search for your next favorite perfume? Whether traveling, heading out to a fancy dinner or simply spending the day at home, finding the scent that works for you and lasts for hours is essential. These are our eight perfume recommendations for 2025:
Sponsored Content
Sailing the Ionian Sea: Explore Greece’s Nautical Gems
Sailing the Ionian Sea is an enchanting way to experience Greece's breathtaking islands and pristine waters. Known for its favorable winds, calm seas and stunning landscapes, the Ionian Sea offers a paradise for both experienced sailors and those looking to explore for the first time. From lively beaches to secluded bays, these waters have something for every traveler seeking adventure and relaxation.
Daily
Nov 1, 2024Check Out The Beach Terrace, The Only Carlsbad Hotel Directly on the Sand
Looking for the perfect destination to unwind and savor the final days of fall or first weeks of winter? Check out the sunny California town of Carlsbad. Located just 45 minutes north of San Diego, Carlsbad embodies the classic Southern California lifestyle for those looking for that winter escape without the chilly temperatures. The 48-room Beach Terrace is Carlsbad’s only hotel directly on the sand, and with November and December weather still in the 60s and 70s, it is an oasis of relaxation to soak up the sun without the summer crowds.
Embark on Chile’s Lakes & Volcanoes Route
Daily
Nov 1, 2024Make The Londoner Hotel Your West End Base
Daily
Oct 31, 2024Daily
Oct 30, 2024Winnipeg’s Indigenous-Owned and -Led Tour Operators Offer Array of Authentic Cultural Experiences
In Canada, Winnipeg’s indigenous population is the largest in the country, with numerous indigenous-owned and -led tour operators offering a variety of authentic cultural experiences. From dog-sledding adventures through old forests to cultural workshops and culinary treats, Winnipeg, Manitoba, offers a unique opportunity to engage with indigenous traditions firsthand in all four seasons.
Sponsored Content
Pick Your Paradise: Experience Bali at 3 Incredible Hotels
Bali is a name synonymous with island bliss. But there is more than just one side to this incredible place. Get a sense for the variety of experiences Bali offers by learning about three hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy® with distinctive opportunities for adventure and relaxation. With the Marriott Bonvoy Boundless® Card, earn points for free nights at each of these properties.
October 2024
Oct 30, 2024Enhance Your Flying Experience with These Handy Devices
Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones These wireless over-ear headphones from Bose won multiple awards and received rave reviews for best-in-class noise-cancelling technology and amazing sound quality. Available in white, sandstone or black, QuietComfort Ultra boast up to 24 hours battery life and are compatible with the Bose app, letting you customize your audio settings. Immersive Audio technology brings sound to life, and multipoint connectivity means you can easily switch between two devices at once. $429.
ShareThis