Left-center field in WRIGLEY FIELD baseball stadium --- Chicago, Illinois --- where the Chicago Cubs struggle year in and year out to finish anywhere but at the top of the heap (often in last place) is a site where, for some of us, solemnity and reverant silence is present even after a Sammy Sosa grand slam homer. -- There, at the base of the ivy growing on the walls, is where some of Steve Goodman's ashes were scattered. Those of us who "know" always give several moments of silent tribute to the good man who wrote the fine songs "City Of New Orleans" and "The Dying Cub Fan's Last Request" before we take our seats following the singing of the national anthem. Indeed, especially in these sad times, our silent tribute to this fine fellow is the ONLY REASON WE BOTHER TO STAND UP AT ALL !!!

Art Thieme