Just the other day sitting around with some of my friends, SOMEHOW. The subject of Baseball came up. This brought to mind an episode of many years ago. When as a mere lad, my parents and our neighbors decided to make the 50 mile trip to a new store. They called it a “DISCOUNT DEPARTMENT STORE”. Now we had big stores in the big town we called the County Seat. We had a Montgomery Ward, a J.C. Penny and a local store that was about the same size as the previous mentioned named. But a “discount store” what was that? So one day we all set out on the 50 mile journey. WOW! There we were a Huge building with only one store. Inside I looked around with my parents and neighbors. But wait. I discovered the sporting good department, much larger than the sporting good store we had in our county. Being summer I was drawn to the baseball section. THEN; there it was a big black baseball glove. Not only was I attracted to it because it was black and the only gloves I had seen were brown. It was larger than any I had seen before. I kept coming back to it, wishing it were mine. But at that time $10 was a lot of money. My neighbor friend, her name was Katie; saw me admiring it and asked if I wanted it. Yes I said. She offered to buy it for me if i would mow her yard until it was paid for. I had to mow her yard for the remainder of the summer. BUT I had the glove I wanted so much. The other kept referring to it as a “peach basket” because it was large, NOT any bigger than what you see outfielders wear now-a-days. I was a Pee Wee leaguer and played center field, just like Mickey Mantle. (Well maybe not exactly just like Mickey). But I was proud of it, I caught more balls with it. But I was also proud of it because unlike many of my friends, whose parents bought their gloves, I EARNED IT AND PAID FOR IT MYSELF. That store just happened to be JUBILEE CITY. Jubilee City was an early discount department-store chain that tried to give American families a new kind of shopping experience: a large store where customers could purchase clothing, household goods, and other merchandise at competitive prices. The company emerged during a major transformation in American retailing. Suburban communities were growing, families increasingly depended on automobiles, and discount retailers were challenging traditional department stores. Jubilee City expanded beyond its original market, including into Tulsa, Oklahoma; Indianapolis, Indiana; Kansas City; Chattanooga, Tennessee; and the Houston area. But the business model that helped the company expand also created problems with management, merchandising, and distribution. Its operations gradually disappeared during the 1970s. The founding: Jubilee Shops in 1955 The history of Jubilee City begins in 1955, when Lawrence Altman founded Jubilee Shops Inc. in New York. Altman came from the traditional clothing business. He recognized that consumers were becoming interested in discount shopping and that a large store could attract customers by offering a broad selection of goods at lower prices. Rather than relying entirely on conventional department-store operations, Jubilee Shops developed an unusual arrangement: manufacturers and other operators could lease departments or sales-floor space inside the stores. This approach allowed Jubilee to offer merchandise from different suppliers without having to operate every department itself. It also reduced some of the need for the company to buy and manage all its merchandise through the conventional retail system. The company experimented with stores in the New York and New Jersey region before pursuing wider expansion. The precise locations and chronology of every early store remain incompletely documented. What made Jubilee City different? Jubilee City’s concept was to provide a broad, one-stop shopping experience rather than operate as a small specialty shop. Its stores could include departments selling: Clothing and apparel, Household goods, General merchandise Products supplied by independent manufacturers and department operators. Other consumer goods intended for everyday family shopping. The exact merchandise selection varied by location; surviving online historical records do not provide a complete inventory for every store. The leased-department system was central to the concept. Instead of having the parent company directly control every product category, separate operators could run different sections of the same building. This arrangement could broaden the selection available to customers. However, it also made the business more complicated to coordinate as the chain grew. Expansion into new markets during the 1960s During the early 1960s, Jubilee City sought to establish itself in markets where discount shopping was expanding but where opportunities remained for new regional competitors. The company negotiated locations in several metropolitan areas, sometimes pursuing multiple sites in the same market. Expansion required buildings, investment capital, suppliers, and local support. The chain’s historical footprint included the following locations. These are documented examples, not a claim that the list covers every store ever planned or operated. Where Jubilee City operated 6925 East Admiral Place, Tulsa The store operated from approximately 1962 to 1970. It became part of Tulsa’s early discount-shopping landscape and was later associated with Belscot and other retail uses. The property was subsequently subdivided. Indianapolis, Indiana 5302 North Keystone Avenue A documented Jubilee City location that operated into 1975. The building survived, although the property was later divided for other uses. Houston, Texas 10400 Eastex Freeway This location operated from approximately 1961 to 1963 and later became a Globe store. The building was eventually demolished during freeway expansion. Two other proposed Houston-area sites did not become completed Jubilee City stores. Kansas City area Kansas City, Kansas; Raytown and Shawnee, Missouri/Kansas area Historical records identify stores at 4915 State Avenue, 8760 Blue Ridge Boulevard, and 11215 West 63rd Street. These locations closed as Jubilee City stores around 1966, and the properties were later used by other businesses. Chattanooga, Tennessee 5615 Lee Highway This location operated into approximately… Continue reading Jubilee City
Tag: Texas
Kansas City Chiefs: The Complete History of a Football Dynasty
The Kansas City Chiefs are one of the most important franchises in professional football history. Their story begins not in Kansas City, but in 1959, when Lamar Hunt founded the Dallas Texans as one of the original franchises of the American Football League (AFL). The Texans became the Kansas City Chiefs in 1963, and the franchise has remained in the Hunt family ever since. From the great AFL teams of the 1960s to the Patrick Mahomes era, the Chiefs have produced Hall of Fame players, championship teams, legendary coaches and some of the greatest moments in NFL history. As of the beginning of the 2026 season, the franchise had won four Super Bowls: Super Bowl IV, Super Bowl LIV, Super Bowl LVII and Super Bowl LVIII. The Beginning: The Dallas Texans Lamar Hunt founded the franchise in 1959 as the Dallas Texans. The team became a charter member of the new American Football League and began playing in 1960. The Texans quickly became one of the AFL’s strongest teams. In 1962, Dallas won the AFL Championship in a dramatic double-overtime victory over the Houston Oilers. Despite the championship, Hunt concluded that Dallas could not adequately support both his team and the NFL’s Dallas Cowboys. He therefore moved the franchise to Kansas City after the 1962 season. The team officially became the Kansas City Chiefs in 1963. The move was enormously successful. Kansas City immediately embraced the new franchise, and the Chiefs eventually became one of the AFL’s signature teams. All Chiefs Owners One of the most remarkable aspects of Chiefs history is the continuity of ownership. The franchise has never been sold outside the Hunt family. Lamar Hunt — 1959-2006 Lamar Hunt was the founder, original owner and guiding force behind the franchise. He owned the team from its creation as the Dallas Texans in 1959 until his death in 2006. Hunt was also one of the founders of the American Football League and played a major role in the AFL-NFL merger. He was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1972. Hunt is also widely credited with helping popularize the name “Super Bowl.” Norma Hunt and the Hunt Family — 2006-2023 Following Lamar Hunt’s death in December 2006, ownership remained within the Hunt family. His wife, Norma Hunt, and their four children became involved in ownership of the franchise. Norma Hunt became one of the most recognizable figures in NFL history. She was known as the “First Lady of Football” and attended every Super Bowl from the first game through her death in 2023. The Four Hunt Family Ownership Groups — Present Today, the Chiefs are owned by the families of Lamar Hunt’s four children: Lamar Hunt Jr. Sharron Hunt Clark Hunt Daniel Hunt Clark Hunt serves as chairman and CEO and is the family’s principal representative in the operation of the franchise. The Chiefs therefore remain one of the NFL’s longest continuously family-owned franchises. Every Stadium the Chiefs Have Called Home The franchise has had three principal home stadiums when the Dallas Texans and Kansas City Chiefs history is considered together. Cotton Bowl — Dallas, Texas 1960-1962 The original Dallas Texans played their home games at the Cotton Bowl. The stadium was already one of the best-known football venues in Texas, and it served as the franchise’s home during its three seasons in Dallas. The Texans won the 1962 AFL Championship while playing at the Cotton Bowl. Municipal Stadium — Kansas City, Missouri 1963-1971 After moving to Kansas City, the newly renamed Chiefs played at Municipal Stadium. The stadium was located at 22nd Street and Brooklyn Avenue and had previously been used by the Kansas City Athletics baseball club. Municipal Stadium became the birthplace of Kansas City Chiefs football. Some of the greatest players in franchise history began their Chiefs careers there, including Len Dawson, Bobby Bell, Buck Buchanan, Willie Lanier, Emmitt Thomas and Johnny Robinson. The Chiefs played their final game at Municipal Stadium on Christmas Day 1971, losing a dramatic overtime playoff game to the Miami Dolphins. Arrowhead Stadium — Kansas City, Missouri 1972-present The Chiefs moved into Arrowhead Stadium in 1972. Arrowhead quickly became one of the most recognizable stadiums in professional sports. Its steep seating bowl, loud crowd and distinctive design made it one of the most intimidating home-field advantages in the NFL. The stadium was later known as GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium. Arrowhead has been the home of the Chiefs through the eras of Marty Schottenheimer, Dick Vermeil, Herm Edwards, Todd Haley, Andy Reid and Patrick Mahomes. It has also hosted some of the greatest playoff games in franchise history. Chiefs Pro Football Hall of Famers — The Chiefs Legacy The Pro Football Hall of Fame lists many former Chiefs because the players, coaches and executives associated with the franchise represent several generations of professional football excellence. For this list, the focus is on the Hall of Famers whose major football legacy was earned with the Dallas Texans/Kansas City Chiefs, rather than players who happened to spend a short portion of their careers in Kansas City. Bobby Bell Linebacker — Chiefs, 1963-1974 Bobby Bell was one of the great defensive players of the AFL era. He was a key member of the Chiefs’ championship defenses and became one of the most feared linebackers in professional football. Buck Buchanan Defensive Tackle — Chiefs, 1963-1975 Buck Buchanan was one of the dominant defensive linemen of the AFL. He was a cornerstone of the Chiefs’ great defenses and played in both of Kansas City’s first two Super Bowls. Curley Culp Defensive Tackle — Chiefs, 1968-1974 Culp was a powerful defensive tackle who became an important part of the Chiefs’ defense during the late AFL and early NFL years. Len Dawson Quarterback — Chiefs, 1963-1975 Len Dawson was the greatest quarterback of the early Chiefs era. He led Kansas City to the AFL Championship in 1966 and 1969 and quarterbacked the Chiefs to their historic victory in Super Bowl IV. Dawson was named… Continue reading Kansas City Chiefs: The Complete History of a Football Dynasty
Dallas Wings: Complete WNBA Franchise History
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Las Vegas Aces History: From the Utah Starzz to a WNBA Dynasty
The Las Vegas Aces have one of the most unusual histories in professional basketball. Although the Aces did not arrive in Las Vegas until 2018, the franchise itself dates to the very first season of the WNBA in 1997. The organization began as the Utah Starzz, moved to San Antonio in 2003 and became the San Antonio Silver Stars, later shortened to the San Antonio Stars. In 2018, the franchise moved to Las Vegas and became the Aces. The move to Nevada transformed the franchise. After several decades of searching for sustained success, the Aces developed into one of the WNBA’s premier organizations, winning championships in 2022, 2023 and 2025. The 2022 championship was especially historic because it was the first major professional sports championship won by a team representing the state of Nevada. At the center of the modern Aces has been A’ja Wilson, who became the first player in WNBA history to win four regular-season MVP awards and has played a central role in all three Las Vegas championships. The Beginning: Utah Starzz, 1997-2002 The franchise was one of the WNBA’s original eight teams, beginning play in 1997 as the Utah Starzz. The original owner was Utah businessman Larry H. Miller, who also owned the NBA’s Utah Jazz. The Starzz played their home games in Salt Lake City, Utah The Jazz. struggled during their first several seasons, but eventually became a playoff team. The franchise’s first major draft success came in 1998 when Utah selected Margo Dydek with the No. 1 overall pick. At 7-foot-2, Dydek became the tallest player in WNBA history. The Starzz finally reached the playoffs in 2001. In 2002, they won their first playoff series, defeating the Houston Comets before losing to the eventual champion Los Angeles Sparks in the Western Conference Finals. The San Antonio Years, 2003-2017 After the 2002 season, the franchise moved to San Antonio and became the San Antonio Silver Stars. The team was owned by Spurs Sports & Entertainment, the organization associated with the San Antonio Spurs. The franchise later shortened its name to the San Antonio Stars in 2014. San Antonio produced some of the most important players in franchise history, including: Becky Hammon, Sophia Young, Kayla McBride, Danile Robinson, Margo Dydek, Kelsey Plum, Moriah Jefferson, Dearica Hamby, Danile Robinson, Margo Dydek, Kelsey Plum, Moriah Jefferson, Dearica Hamby The high point of the San Antonio era came in 2008, when the Silver Stars finished 24-10, the best record in the WNBA, and reached the WNBA Finals. They ultimately lost to the Detroit Shock. Becky Hammon became the face of the franchise during this period. She was a multiple-time All-Star and All-WNBA selection and eventually had her No. 25 retired by the organization. The Las Vegas Move In October 2017, the WNBA announced that MGM Resorts International had purchased the San Antonio Stars and would move the franchise to Las Vegas. The organization was renamed the Las Vegas Aces, and Bill Laimbeer became president of basketball operations and head coach. The Aces immediately received a major opportunity. They won the 2018 WNBA Draft Lottery and selected A’ja Wilson No. 1 overall. Wilson averaged 20.7 points and 8.0 rebounds as a rookie and won the 2018 WNBA Rookie of the Year Award. The following year, Las Vegas won the draft lottery again and selected Jackie Young No. 1 overall, giving the franchise three consecutive No. 1 overall selections dating back to the San Antonio era. That decision became one of the foundations of the championship team. Aces Ownership History Because this is a franchise history rather than simply a Las Vegas history, the ownership timeline includes the organization’s previous cities. Years Owner 1997-2002 Larry H. Miller — Utah Starzz 2003-2017 Spurs Sports & Entertainment / Peter Holt ownership — San Antonio Silver Stars/Stars 2017-2021 MGM Resorts International — San Antonio Stars/Las Vegas Aces 2021-present Mark Davis — Las Vegas Aces MGM purchased the franchise in 2017 and moved it to Las Vegas. Mark Davis, owner of the Las Vegas Raiders, purchased the Aces in 2021, with the transaction approved by the WNBA and NBA in February 2021. Davis’s ownership coincided with the beginning of the franchise’s championship era. Home Arenas Through the Years The Aces franchise has played in several different buildings. Utah Starzz Delta Center — Salt Lake City, Utah The Starzz played their home games in the same arena that housed the Utah Jazz. San Antonio Silver Stars/Stars AT&T Center — San Antonio, Texas The team played most of its San Antonio history at the arena that was also home to the Spurs. Freman Coliseum — San Antonio, Texas The Stars temporarily played their 2015 home games at Freeman Coliseum while renovations were taking place at AT&T Center. Las Vegas Aces Mandalay Bay Events Center — 2018-2021 The Aces began their Las Vegas existence playing at the Mandalay Bay Events Center. Michelob ULTRA Arena — 2021-present The building was renamed Michelob ULTRA Arena in 2021. It remains the home of the Aces and is located at Mandalay Bay. The arena has a capacity of approximately 12,000 for basketball. The Aces have developed an especially strong home-court following in Las Vegas, including a long series of sellouts in recent seasons. Major Award Winners as Members of the Aces The modern Aces have produced an extraordinary collection of individual award winners. A’ja Wilson Wilson has won: 2018 Rookie of the Year 2020 MVP 2022 MVP 2022 Defensive Player of the Year 2023 Defensive Player of the Year 2023… Continue reading Las Vegas Aces History: From the Utah Starzz to a WNBA Dynasty
TEXAS RANGERS: COMPLETE HISTORY
The Texas Rangers have one of the more fascinating histories in Major League Baseball. The franchise began in Washington, D.C., as the expansion Washington Senators in 1961, moved to Washington Senators, for the 1972 season and became the Texas Rangers. For decades, the franchise struggled to reach the postseason. That changed in the 1990s, when Texas developed into an American League West contender. The Rangers eventually reached their first World Series in 2010, returned in 2011, and finally captured their first championship in 2023, defeating the Arizona Diamondbacks in five games. The Beginning: Washington Senators The modern Rangers franchise began in 1961 as an expansion version of the Washington Senators. The original Washington Senators had moved to Minnesota after the 1960 season and became the Minnesota Twins. MLB then awarded Washington another expansion club for 1961. The New Senators Played their first season at Griffith Stadium before moving into the newly constructed D.C. Stadium in 1962. The franchise remained in Washington through the 1971 season. Washington owner Bob Short eventually received permission to move the club to Arlington, Texas. The move was completed after the 1971 season, and the club became the Texas Rangers in 1972. The first Texas Rangers game was played on April 15, 1972, against the California Angels. Texas lost that game 1-0, but the move established Major League Baseball permanently in the Dallas-Fort Worth area. All Texas Rangers Principal Owners MLB’s official ownership history lists six principal ownership periods. Robert E. “Bob” Short 1968–1974 Bob Short purchased the Washington Senators in 1968. His most important decision came in 1971 when he received approval to move the franchise to Arlington. The team became the Texas Rangers beginning with the 1972 season. Short sold the franchise to Bradford G. Corbett in 1974. Bradford G. Corbett 1974–1980 Corbett purchased the Rangers in 1974. His ownership period included the emergence of some important Rangers players, including Jeff Burroughs and Toby Harrah, while future Hall of Fame pitchers Ferguson Jenkins, Gaylord Perry and Bert Blyleven also passed through the organization. The Rangers won 84 games in 1974, their first winning season in Texas, and Jeff Burroughs won the American League MVP Award. Corbett sold the team to H.E. “Eddie” Chiles in 1980. H.E. “Eddie” Chiles 1980–1989 Chiles was a Fort Worth businessman and became the Rangers’ principal owner in 1980. During his ownership the Rangers signed one of the greatest pitchers in baseball history. In December 1988, Nolan Ryan signed with Texas as a free agent at age 41. Ryan’s arrival would eventually become one of the most important events in Rangers history. George W. Bush / Edward W. “Rusty” Rose Partnership 1989–1998 An ownership group led by George W. Bush and Edward W. “Rusty” Rose purchased controlling interest in the Rangers in March 1989. Bush eventually became the club’s managing general partner before becoming Governor of Texas and later President of the United States. The ownership group oversaw one of the most important periods in Rangers history, including the construction of a new ballpark and the emergence of Nolan Ryan, Juan González and Ivan Rodriguez. Thomas O. Hicks 1998–2010 Thomas O. Hicks purchased the Rangers in 1998 for approximately $250 million. His ownership included some of the greatest offensive players in franchise history, including: Ivan Rodriguez, Juan González, Alex Rodriguez, Rafael Palmeiro, and Mark Teixeira The Rangers won three American League West titles during this period, in 1998, 1999 and 2010. The 2010 season ended with Texas reaching its first World Series. Rangers Baseball Express 2010–Present A group led initially by Rangers Baseball Express Bob Simpson and Nolan Ryan purchased the Rangers in 2010. The ownership group was later led by Ray Davis and Bob Simpson. Davis became the controlling owner in 2013 after Nolan Ryan stepped down from that role. Under the Davis-Simpson ownership, the Rangers eventually won the first World Series championship in franchise history in 2023. MLB officially continues to list Rangers Baseball Express as the ownership entity. Every Ballpark the Rangers Have Called Home The Rangers franchise has played regular-season home games in five primary stadiums. Griffith Stadium Washington, D.C. — 1961 The expansion Washington Senators played their first season at historic Griffith Stadium. The ballpark had been home to the original Washington Senators and was also associated with the Washington baseball history of the early 20th century. After the 1961 season, the new Senators moved to D.C. Stadium. D.C. Stadium / Robert F. Kennedy Memorial Stadium Washington, D.C. — 1962–1971 The Senators moved into D.C. Stadium in 1962. The facility was renamed Robert F. Kennedy Stadium in 1969. The franchise remained there until moving to Arlington following the 1971 season. Arlington Stadium Arlington, Texas — 1972–1993 Arlington Stadium originally operated as Turnpike Stadium, a minor-league facility. When Major League Baseball arrived, the stadium was expanded and renamed Arlington Stadium. The Rangers played there from 1972 through 1993. The final Rangers game at Arlington Stadium was played in October 1993. The Ballpark in Arlington / Ameriquest Field / Rangers Ballpark / Globe Life Park Arlington, Texas — 1994–2019 The Rangers opened their new ballpark in 1994. The facility went through several names: The Ballpark in Arlington — 1994–2004 Ameriquest Field in Arlington — 2004–2007 Rangers Ballpark in Arlington — 2007–2014 Globe Life Park in Arlington — 2014–2019 It became the backdrop for some of the greatest moments in Rangers history, including the club’s first two World Series appearances in 2010 and 2011. Globe Life Field Arlington, Texas — 2020–present The Rangers moved into Globe Life Field in 2020. The stadium features a retractable roof and climate-controlled environment, a particularly important feature in the Texas summer. The Rangers’ current lease agreement with Arlington extends through the end of 2053. Globe Life Field became the site of the Rangers’ first World Series championship celebration in 2023. Cooperstown Hall of Famers Who Entered the Hall as Rangers One distinction is important when discussing Rangers Hall of Famers. Several Cooperstown Hall of Famers played for the franchise, including Nolan… Continue reading TEXAS RANGERS: COMPLETE HISTORY
ATLANTA BRAVES ARE the OLDEST CONSTANTLY OPERATING PROFESSIONAL BASEBALL FRANCISE in NORTH AMERICA
The Braves history stretches back to 1871, before the National League itself was founded. The franchise has represented three cities—Boston, Milwaukee, and Atlanta—and is the only Major League Baseball team to win the World Series in all three of its home cities. Franchise timeline Years Team name Home city 1871–1882 Boston Red Stockings Boston, Massachusetts 1883–1906 Boston Beaneaters Boston 1907–1910 Boston Doves Boston 1911 Boston Rustlers Boston 1912–1935 Boston Braves Boston 1936–1940 Boston Bees Boston 1941–1952 Boston Braves Boston 1953–1965 Milwaukee Braves Milwaukee, Wisconsin 1966–Present Atlanta Braves Atlanta, Georgia Ballparks and home cities South End Grounds — Boston (1871–1914) Fenway Park — Boston (1914–1915, (temporary) Braves Field — Boston (1915–1952) Milwaukee County Stadium — Milwaukee (1953–1965) Atlanta–Fulton County Stadium — Atlanta (1966–1996) Turner Field — Atlanta (1997–2016) Truist Park — Atlanta (2017–present) Boston years (1871–1952) The club was founded in 1871 by brothers Harry Wright and George Wright. It won multiple league championships during the nineteenth century and became one of baseball’s first dynasties. The famous “Miracle Braves” of 1914 came from last place in July to win the National League pennant before sweeping the heavily favored Philadelphia Athletics in the World Series. The franchise struggled financially during the Great Depression. In 1935, aging superstar Babe Ruth finished his legendary career with Boston, although he played only a short time before retiring. The club temporarily changed its name to the Bees before returning to Braves in 1941. In 1948, pitchers Warren Spahn and Johnny Sain led Boston to another National League pennant. Milwaukee years (1953–1965) The Braves became the first modern MLB franchise to relocate when they moved to Milwaukee in 1953. The city immediately embraced baseball, drawing record attendance. Young stars developed into legends: Hank Aaron Eddie Mathews Warren Spahn The Braves won the 1957 World Series over the New York Yankees and returned to the World Series in 1958 before losing a rematch. Atlanta years (1966–Present) The Braves moved to Atlanta in 1966, becoming the first Major League team in the Deep South. Early Atlanta stars included: Hank Aaron Phil Niekro Dale Murphy In 1974, Hank Aaron hit his 715th career home run, breaking Babe Ruth’s long-standing record. The Braves became baseball’s dominant franchise of the 1990s under manager Bobby Cox. Their Hall of Fame pitching rotation included: Greg Maddux Tom Glavine John Smoltz Atlanta won an unprecedented 14 consecutive division titles (1991–2005, excluding the 1994 strike season) and captured the 1995 World Series over the Cleveland Indians. After rebuilding, another championship core emerged featuring: Freddie Freeman Ronald Acuña Jr. Ozzie Albies Austin Riley Max Fried The Braves won the 2021 World Series against the Houston Astros. Greatest Braves players and birthplace Player Born Hank Aaron Mobile, Alabama Warren Spahn Buffalo, New York Eddie Mathews Texarkana, Texas Phil Niekro Blaine, Ohio Dale Murphy Portland, Oregon Greg Maddux San Angelo, Texas Tom Glavine Concord, Massachusetts John Smoltz Detroit, Michigan Chipper Jones DeLand, Florida Freddie Freeman Fountain Valley, California Future stars the Braves traded away Player Born Became star with Adam Wainwright Brunswick, Georgia St. Louis Cardinals Jason Schmidt Lewiston, Idaho San Francisco Giants Kevin Millwood Gastonia, North Carolina Cleveland Indians and others Adam Duvall Louisville, Kentucky Cincinnati Reds Elvis Andrus Maracay, Venezuela Texas Rangers Neftalí Feliz Azua, Dominican Republic Texas Rangers Alex Wood Charlotte, North Carolina Los Angeles Dodgers Andrelton Simmons Mundo Nobo, Curaçao Los Angeles Angels David Justice Cincinnati, Ohio Later traded before helping other clubs win championships William Contreras Puerto Cabello, Venezuela Milwaukee Brewers Braves World Series championships 1914 – Boston Braves 1957 – Milwaukee Braves 1995 – Atlanta Braves 2021 – Atlanta Braves The Braves remain one of baseball’s most historic organizations, having produced dozens of Hall of Famers and legends while spanning more than 155 years of professional baseball history. They are the only MLB franchise to win World Series championships representing three different cities. Artie Fischal Views: 1
WAY TOO EARLY PROJECTION OF TEAMS IN 2026 MARCH MADNESS
Below is MY perceived 2026 NCAA Men’s March Madness 68-team bracket summary along with why these contenders are projected where they are and who the last four in might be. With clear sections and some bracket context based on multiple bracketology sources and current standings. 🏀 2026 NCAA March Madness – Perceived Bracket & Summary Top Seeds (Projected No. 1s) No. 1 Seeds: Duke, Michigan, Arizona, UConn These are the teams currently leading polls and bracket projections: Duke has taken over the AP No. 1 spot after a signature win over Michigan, Michigan and Arizona remain elite in NET and poll rankings, and UConn is dominating the Big East. 🏆 Projected Bracket — Top Regions (This is a field combining multiple bracketology projections through February) No. 1 Seeds Duke – ACC powerhouse with top metrics and high Quad-1 win totals. AP News Michigan – Elite resume, strong analytics profile across KenPom & NET. Arizona – Undefeated and dominant in Big 12 play. UConn – Big East leader and consistent NET top10 team. �table 2–4 Seeds (Consensus among projections): Purdue – Listed as a 2-seed and inside the top 10 NET as well. Illinois, Houston, Iowa State, Gonzaga – All regularly projected as 2–3 seeds due to strong resumes and Quad-1 victories. Texas Tech, North Carolina, Florida – Frequently slotted in the 4–5 range. 🔥 Bubble & At-Large Favorites These teams are frequently projected in the middle seed range (6–10) and are viewed as strong bubble contenders: Wisconsin – Now considered a lock with a solid Quad-1 profile. Bucky’s 5th Quarter NC State, Villanova, Utah State – Often seen as swing seeds (7–9). Tennessee, Alabama, Iowa, Louisville – Held inside projected field in most bracketology lists. 📉 Perceived Bubble & Tiering Likely In (just inside): NC State, UCLA, Auburn, Missouri, USC, SMU � Traditional Bubble (needs wins to secure): Butler, Creighton, Seton Hall, UCF, San Diego State � 🏟️ Last Four In (Play-In Candidates) According to recent projections such as Sporting News’ field of 68 and other bracketology builds: 📌 Projected Last Four In Texas Ohio State Texas A&M New Mexico These teams typically show up just inside the 68-team range but with resume gaps that could easily drop them on Selection Sunday. ❌ First Four Out (Near-Misses) Teams often crack the bracket: Just outside the field, meaning they’d need late resume boosts to USC Santa Clara Virginia Tech Missouri These programs hover near the cut line due to inconsistent Quad-1 wins or fewer signature victories. 🧠 Why These Projections Make Sense 📊 Standings & Metrics The teams near the top of the NET and AP polls (Duke, Michigan, Arizona, UConn) also have strong strength of schedule and Quad-1 win totals — key components the Selection Committee values. NCAA.com+ 📍 Conference Strength Big Ten, ACC, Big 12, and SEC teams are well-represented due to conference depth and quality wins. The Big Ten alone has numerous projected bids. Bucky’s 5th Quarter 📉 Strong Mid-Majors Gonzaga and Utah State often appear in the field due to excellent records, strong conference performance, and Quad-1/Quad-2 victories. The Slipper Still Fits Views: 3
NCAA March Madness 2016
What a thrilling ending to the 2016 edition of MARCH MADNESS. North Carolina probably wishing the could have waited a couple of seconds for their final shot. I didn’t do so well. I DID however pick a number two seed to win (Michigan State); BUT it was a number two seed which won. So I have to give myself a half credit (?). It has been FUN. I plan to do this again next year. Despite my troubles with CHROME. It gave me fits in updating. I would spend sometimes an hour updating just one bracket sheet. Finally learned I had to clear my cache every time before I attempted to update anything. Be sure to check back regularly. I don’t have any idea what I will write about….. NO! wait I have some idea. Maybe some racing history. (If I can find the notes I made a couple years ago. Also…. who knows. WELCOME TO OUR 2016 MARCH MADNESS. I am not sure How many years we have been doing this. I will have to look it up. This is where you can print your “OFFICE POOL” Bracket, Check the scores, etc. I will have this “MASTER BRACKET”, “WHAT IF YOU CHOSE THE HIGH PICKS” for each game. An “UPSET BRACKET” (if the favored team wins it will be in Green, if it is an upset it will be listed in RED”. And, Yes I will have my picks so you can compare your picks to mine. (And Laugh or Cry) What is a seed? Merely a starting place. Although unlikely, IT is possible for two 16 seeds to meet in the final game. Would lets say Michigan St were to be seeded as a number 16. They would still have to win all games to be CHAMPION ! SEEDING attempts to give a more favored team an easier path to the CHAMPIONSHIP. Seeding should lead to the best 2 teams playing in the final game. However there is always that upset minded team; or the chance that the favored team has a bad game, a stand out player is sick or injured. I am reminded of one year in our STATE High School WRESTLING Tournament. The Athletic Assn. decided to go with a draw, rather than seeding. The Result? Two wrestlers with one defeat each faced each other in the first match. Loser of a first round match goes home. It was a 3 OT match. One of these wrestlers went home, while wrestlers with more losses during the season advanced. The winner of this match had no competition left. Easy wins. He won the CHAMPIONSHIP that first match. Not much excitement. Reportedly there is a TEENAGE GIRL in Indiana who has only missed 3 games in this years bracket. She picked Texas over Northern Iowa. California over Hawaii. Final game she had Syracuse over North Carolina. Her Champion pick is……VILLANOVA. She says she does not follow Basketball regularly and has only attended a game or two at her high school. Maybe this is proof the rest of us over think some things To print BRACKET: Click on PRINT PDF button at top and select page with the bracket you want to print. ( If you do not see the “PRINT PDF” button. Please go to the The Title “NCAA March Madness 2016” and click to advance to the full post). MASTER BRACKET [pdf-embedder url=”https://fromthemiddle.blog/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/2016-march-madness-MASTER-bracket.pdf”] ALL HIGH PICKS [pdf-embedder url=”https://fromthemiddle.blog/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/2016-march-madness-ALL-HIGH-PICKS-bracket.pdf”] UPSETS [pdf-embedder url=”https://fromthemiddle.blog/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/2016-march-madness-UPSETS-bracket.pdf”] MY PICKS [pdf-embedder url=”https://fromthemiddle.blog/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/2016-march-madness-MY-PICKS-bracket.pdf”] Views: 109
NCAA 2015 MARCH MADNESS
NCAA MARCH MADNESS TOURNAMENT. Right now it appears that Kentucky will receive the overall number one seed. Which guarantees them the easiest path to the final four. Here is where I make many of you mad. Might just as well get it out of the way right now. After careful consideration I predict KENTUCKY will be the first NUMBER ONE seed out. Kentucky is a good team and appears as of now they will go undefeated in regular season. But if you look at their schedule…..WHO have they played. A few teams that may be in the Tournament. But looking at their overall schedule, it has been pretty much of a soft schedule. In other years it could have been a tough schedule. But this year, well it was a disappointment. All teams have these years….maybe. But it may work out for them. While they have pretty much coasting, and other teams have been going toe to toe. They may be the most rested team entering the Tournament. Is it possible for a team with a losing record be in the BIG DANCE? Just ask MEAC Tournament Champion Hampton Pirates. With a 16-17 record. The answer is yes. Can they wear the Glass Slipper? What is a seed? Merely a starting place. Although unlikely, IT is possible for two 16 seeds to meet in the final game. Would lets say Kentucky were to be seeded as a number 16. They would still have to win all games to be CHAMPION ! OKAY. so I was wrong Villanova was first number 1 out. So That makes Kentucky 2nd Number 1 seed out. I called it right the second time!! Kentucky was the second number 1 out. They did play well. But their weak regular season schedule did not prepare them for the stronger teams. It took a last second desperation shot to overcome Notre Dame. But Wisconsin’s tough season made them ready. The behavior of the Kentucky “FANS” back in Kentucky I am sure did not reflect the feelings of the Wildcat Coaches and Players. However their acts do reflect back to them, the University, and The STATE. I still do not understand this type of childish behavior. It does not change the outcome of the game. Maybe “TOO Much ALCOHOL” is an excuse. But that would be all it was. NOT A REASON! Kentucky did make it a lot farther than I expected. Hats off to Kentucky Team for not quitting. Maybe next year (for a change) they will return with experienced players, and not have to rely on Freshmen. Here is to next year Kentucky. Season is over. Congratulations to DUKE. It is hard to say one bad call changes the outcome of a game. However a couple of bad calls and NO CALLS. Can alter a game. In what I saw was DUKE get more than their share the last 3 minutes of the game. I saw them commit charges that were mis -called BLOCKS. I saw Duke throw up there forearms to clear space. I really think the REFS let the game get out of control. Of course You can make the excuse that they were letting the teams play. HOWEVER, the Most Questionable Non Call was with about 2 minutes +/-. It was plenty obvious the Ball went out last touched by DUKE’s Winslow I think. I am not really good with names. But no one can say for sure if that really made a big difference, DOWN by 5. It would have given the BADGERS a chance to score and cut the lead by 2 or 3, (if they scored). This could have changed the momentum, or not. Who can say? But it is over no going back. I WANT TO POINT OUT THAT UNLIKE KENTUCKY, I SAW NO BEHAVIOR ON THE PART OF EITHER TEAMS FANS. (hope I’m not speaking too soon). But Hats off to them for showing maturity. Well THAT IS HOW I SEE IT. Check back for other articles throughout the year. Maybe some Public Service Announcements, or who knows what may strike my fancy. Maybe a few sports articles. but I Just have not been able to get into baseball since the strike which brought about the PED thing when they allowed Mark McGuire to hit those home runs to generate interest in the game. Just like the NBA let MJ get by with making his own rules to create interest in their arena. I can’t really call them sports any more. But will be back with our usual Football coverage. ACTUAL / RESULTS https://fromthemiddle.blog/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/2015-MM-Brackett-Actual.pdf ALL-High-Picks. https://fromthemiddle.blog/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/2015-MM-Bracket-ALL-High-Picks1.pdf UPSETS https://fromthemiddle.blog/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/2015-MM-Brackett-Upsets1.pdf MY PICKS https://fromthemiddle.blog/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/2015-MM-Brackett-My-Picks.pdf Views: 120
Fishing
Thank you Oley for your contribution: Fishing, A Family Activity. I have many fond memories of fishing with family and friends. Let me relate a few of those memories, here. My Grandpa, and Grandma, took me fishing quite often in the creek (pronounced crick in my area), that ran through their farm. Come to think of it; even though I never thought about this before, they never BOTH took me it was only one of them at a time. Depending on the time of day,and day of the week. Grandma took me during the morning when Grandpa was working, If Grandpa was not working, he took me. One time while fishing with my Grandpa, it wasn’t a good time to fish, we were just spending time together. After a couple of hours and nary a bite, Grandpa said it was time to head for the house. I began to drag my line in and met with some resistance. Grandpa said I was probably snagged on a stick or something. I resumed pulling in my line, and imagine our surprise, to find a sixteen inch, (I’m guessing at least two pounds, maybe more), Sucker on my hook. (You may have different names for these fish, depending upon where you live. Suckers live near the bottom of the creek, and some people consider them to be scavengers). Some people don’t consider them as edible, but my Grandma made them edible. The three of us had a good meal from this one. My Grandma could also make Carp taste like Bass. Another time, while fishing with a friend, we saw a Snapping Turtle, a large one, swim under a roll of fencing that had floated down to the creek during a recent flood. There happend to be a man wading the creek fly fishing. We told him about the turtle, and where it went. Would you believe he reached in there, bare handed, and pulled the turtle out. He then explained to us a turtle has seven different meat flavors. He was visiting his uncle, a man we knew who lived just around the corner from me. A couple of days later his uncle asked us over and he had prepared some of the turtle for us. (My first taste of turtle), and sure enough there were seven different tastes. DELICIOUS !!! Another time while visiting my uncle on his lakefront home, my DAD, my uncle, and I were fishing off his pier. Of course being about 13 I had to have my radio on playing good old ROCK’N’ROLL. That is when they claimed my music was driving the fish away. They got in the boat, and left me fishing off the pier. About an hour to an hour and a half later when they returned with three little Crappie, I proudly showed them my stringer full of larger Crappie. They never complained about my music playing anymore. Lastly, the laughter was on me. I was taking my sons fishing where I used to fish with my Grandpa and Grandma. They were quite small and had not learned to swim yet. I had them walking along the bank. I was wading the creek. They got a real big kick when I fell in a hole and came up completely drenched, trying to catchup to my hat. But I haven’t been fishing for a long time. The boys buy me fishing rods, that have not been out of the package, yet. What with all the pollution in the creeks today, and around here they have warnings not to eat the fish from the creeks. I have lost my taste for fish. And if I did like fish, I always have a truck load. I try to avoid bridges, when in my pickup. You see, The fish tend to jump out of the creek and into the bed of the truck. Then I have to take them out and throw them back in the water. Terrible curse I have here. But after writing this maybe I will go fishing with my boys. No. Not to catch fish, but just to spend time with them. After all I really don’t have to have a hook on my line. Weight will allow me to make the casts. They have a really nice bass boat, and enjoy fishing in contests. We will probably win. When I am in a boat the fish tend to leap in it, just like in my truck bed. That Is How I See It. PS: A friend from Texas told me our creeks are what they call rivers in Texas. And I thought “every thing is big in Texas” Views: 150
