Cubs Trophy Tour Stops In Glencoe

GLENCOE, IL — There was no need to wait 108 years, camp overnight or even wait more than an hour for the World Series trophy for students at Central Middle School.

The Cubs Trophy Tour made one of its final stops before the April 10 home opener, as several hundred people began lining up shortly after school was dismissed Tuesday afternoon.

The trophy's code name is "Tiffany," according to Cubs minority owner Andrew Berlin, and "she has a busy dance card." The father of two Glencoe District 35 students said he began efforts to book the engagement back in 2016.

"Isn't it amazing how a hunk of metal can make you so happy?" Berlin said.

First responders and seniors with limited mobility had a first showing, then doors were opened for the waiting cue. As people began to shuffle forward into Central's Misner auditorium, the line was treated to a screen projecting highlights of the 2016 season.

When the glimmering Commissioner's Trophy came into view, murmurs of excitement became increasingly palpable as the line snaked forward around a corner.

"I can see it, Dad!" said one 10-year-old lifetime Cubs fan.

Most people got their picture taken with trophy. A few struck silly poses. After waiting his turn in line, a Glencoe man called Dan, who described himself as a "small Cubs fan", passed on having a picture taken. Instead, he took the time to closely inspect the details of the two-foot, many-bannered sterling silver award.

Father David K. Miller, 86, and son, Robert K. Miller, 61, have been season ticket holders for more than 30 years. Everyone, said Robert, has been waiting their whole lifetime to see the trophy. That's longer for some people than others, he pointed out.

David took Robert to his first games in the mid-1960's. when he worked for a bank and he could treat clients to box seats. Robert managed to snag an autograph that day from Ron Santo, who became his favorite player for life.

The Cubs Trophy Tour organizers were prepared to cut off the line of participants at 500 people, but they ended up running out of people before the end of the allotted time. This was largely due to the efficient photographic assembly line of employees of the public relations firm contracted to assist with the tour.

Top photo: Fred Weber of Northbrook (Photos: Jonah Meadows)