KAREN BRADBERRY on SPORTS FANS

The Tiezzi aunts and uncles were such sports fans. Nothing came between them and their sports until Father Time finally caught up with the merry band. During baseball season they'd trek to Wrigley Field to cheer on their hapless, but beloved Cubs. This went on for years until finally it seemed that a trip to an emergency room became part of the trips. To cover all bases, we cousins would both cross our fingers and pray as our Moms and Dads hit the road. It became time to settle for radio and tv broadcasts.

Speaking of broadcasts, I remember the day I knew Mom was home, but just couldn't reach her by phone. Becoming extremely worried, I headed for her house. As I came down her street a Cub game could be heard blaring. All was well. That noise meant Mom was enjoying the game, but had forgot to put in her hearing aid. The tv drowned out everything else.