Ralph and Barb Grasso at a shore fishing event in Chicago, circa 1990s. | Ken Schneider

Remembering Ralph Grasso, who died last month, and his impact on Chicago fishing, especially the Chicagoland Bank Anglers; plus the Stray Cast.

Ralph and Barb Grasso knew each other well.

”We met in Beverly,” Barb said last month. ”We lived down the street from each other.”

They went to Morgan Park High School and were headed to their 52nd year of marriage before Ralph died of a heart attack in November.

Mr. Grasso owns significant parts of Chicago fishing. He founded the Chicagoland Bank Anglers in 1994 and was on Mayor Richard M. Daley’s first Fishing Advisory Committee in 1996.

The CBA, which grew to national interest, focused on match-fishing from pegs (designated areas).

”Ralph and Barb and Rita and Steve Somen were the backbone of the [organization],” said Steve Palmisano, a proprietor of Henry’s Sports and Bait. ”They promoted sportsmanship and camaraderie but competed fiercely, yet they always remained friends. They believed in competition, family and friends. Those were probably some of my most memorable years in the fishing-tackle industry.”

”I think [my husband] was kind, witty and so damn smart,” Barb said. “He knew everything. People would come to him and ask questions.”

My favorite example of Mr. Grasso’s wit came in June 2003 at the first public event at Northerly Island, which had been converted from an exclusive airport just months before. A fishing event hosted by Henry’s opened up the airport.

”This is the Harrison Ford Fishing Derby, isn’t it?” Mr. Grasso cracked.

Ford is the kind of environmentalist who is all-in until it interferes with his private planes.

That was more than Mr. Grasso being his witty self.

”I caught my first fish, a bluegill, here in 1956,” he said as he stood with his wife by that bend in the sidewalk. ”My dad used to park his Studebaker over there and take me. Then the bastards won’t let us in.”

Mr. Grasso worked at Masonite until he retired in 2010 and they moved to Champaign. Earlier, the couple lived for more than a decade in Washington, where he worked for Weyerhaeuser.

I found the pairing of Mick Thill and Mr. Grasso interesting. The effusive Thill was an obsessed evangelist for European-style match-fishing and fishing floats. Mr. Grasso was different in his personal life, appearing at fishing events with his wife, but he followed the fishing tenets taught by Thill.

”They got along,” Barb said. ”Mick was the one who got him into the long poles. Needless to say, Ralph does not own any bobbers.”

Mr. Grasso converted his wife to fishing, too.

”He is out there fishing, and I thought, ‘I’m going to give it a try,’ and I actually enjoyed it,” she said.

Provided by Henry’s Sports and Bait
Showing the drawing power of the Chicagoland Bank Anglers, most of the crew of (L-R) the late Frank “Pan Man ” DeFrancisco, Frank Brzycki, Ron Bridges, Ken Schneider, and the late Chuck Thompson sported Chicagoland Bank Anglers shirts before a presentation at Henry’s Sports and Bait.

Illinois hunting

The harvest of 50,300 during the first part of the firearm deer season was up 3,153 from 2020. The second part is Thursday through Sunday. Click here for a fuller breakdown.

Showtime

It’s a long drive, but the St. Paul Ice Fishing and Winter Sports Show (stpaulicefishingshow.com), which runs Friday through Sunday at the St. Paul RiverCentre in Minnesota, comes recommended by several readers.

Stray cast

Weekends without the Bears are like the fish fry after perch-fishing the South Side slips or a sambuca after a good Italian meal.

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Black Friday and Cyber Monday came and went about as fast as the holiday weekend did. We barely had time to grab our Thanksgiving seconds before the deals disappeared. But, for those of you who haven’t done enough shopping already, there’s still plenty of time to make those wallets hurt before Christmas. So, if you have any Chi-Town sports fans who still need some presents, then look no further than our Chicago sports gift guide!

Chicago Sports Gifts for the Golfer

Now might not be the best time to hit the links in Chicago, but that doesn’t mean you can’t shop for the golfers in your life. If you’re an Amazon Primer, you can score free shipping on a couple sets of Chicago sports golf balls. These Chicago Cubs themed balls are perfect for any northside fan, while these Chicago Bears golf balls come with their own set of tees. Plus, the orange Bears color of the balls will make hunting down those not-so-accurate drives much easier!

Grown Up Gifts

When the holidays and in-laws come into town, it’s no secret that the booze starts flowing. Upgrade your favorite Chicago sports fan’s drinking experience with these boozy holiday gifts. 

We’ve recommended these Chicago sports inspired frosted mugs before in our Father’s Day gift guide earlier in the year, and we’d be fools not to include them again. But, if you’re looking for something better than a couple of mugs, try out this collection of Chicago Bears beer taps from The Bradford Exchange. Don’t combine these two gifts though, you’ll never be able to top it!

Board Gamer Presents

Board games and the holidays are another duo that go hand-in-hand when celebrating the holidays with loved ones. This year, ditch the Yahtzee and Euchre with some classic Chicago sports trivia! The You Gotta Know Chicago trivia card game includes 125 playable cards with 500 questions about our city’s favorite teams. Or, for the more traditional board game route, check out this collectors edition Chicago Bears Monopoly game on eBay. We’re not sure if the seller has multiple copies or made a typo when listing the item, but $40 for a sealed vintage game of Chicago Bears Monopoly? We had to hold ourselves back on this one.

Treats for the Chicago Aesthetic

Etsy is one of the best websites to look for custom gifts for any theme or occasion. Sure, you’re probably paying a little extra to go this route, but in our experience it can’t be beat. These last set of items on our Chicago sports gift guide will help complete that Chicago aesthetic for both home decor, and the wardrobe.

Empty mancave walls need some love? Fill it up with this 4-foot long vinyl banner that just screams Chicago sports. Or if some classy wall-art is more of your thing, shop this Illinois-shaped metal sign that features the Bulls, Bears, Blackhawks, Cubs, and White Sox. And to top it all off, this Chicago logo mashup tee will fit perfectly with any game playing on that mancave TV.

Are these ideas not good enough? You can shop for more Chicago sports gifts through these dedicated collections on Amazon and Etsy if your heart desires. Happy shopping, and happy holidays from all of us at UrbanMatter!

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The Chicago Blackhawks were one of the worst teams in the National Hockey League during the month of October. It was tough to watch them because anything that could go wrong, did go wrong. Their 0-7-2 start is how they finished October. Not getting a single win during the month made it pretty clear that […] Chicago Blackhawks: November was surely better than October – Da Windy City – Da Windy City – A Chicago Sports Site – Bears, Bulls, Cubs, White Sox, Blackhawks, Fighting Illini & MoreRead More

Don’t get too used to the Chicago Bears winning, folks. The Bears hardly beat the worst team in football on Thanksgiving, where it took them a last-second field goal to beat the winless Detroit Lions. Matt Nagy might still have a job for now, but next week, things could change rapidly. The Bears are getting […] The Chicago Bears might be in for a bloodbath on Sunday – Da Windy City – Da Windy City – A Chicago Sports Site – Bears, Bulls, Cubs, White Sox, Blackhawks, Fighting Illini & MoreRead More

Material Issue — Ted Ansani (from left), Mike Zelenko and Jim Ellison — are the subject of a new documentary about the Chicago band. | Mercury Records

“At the end of the day, they had really solid good music, and that music is going to live on.”

In the middle of Illinois’ rock music legacy falls the band Material Issue, whose 1991 power pop showstopper “International Pop Overthrow” came around a decade or so after the launch of predecessors like Cheap Trick and Shoes, and just before the gilded Smashing Pumpkins-Veruca Salt-Liz Phair-Urge Overkill empire that forecasted Chicago as a runner-up to Seattle in the ’90s rock pantheon.

But, like it’s said, timing is everything, and unfortunately, it wasn’t on the side of Material Issue, who once bequeathed gems like “Valerie Loves Me,” “Diane” and “Kim The Waitress” that took hold of MTV and radio. The storied trio’s promising future would be cut short by the untimely passing of charismatic frontman Jim Ellison, who died by suicide in 1996.

For years, the band — also featuring Mike Zelenko on drums and Ted Ansani on bass — has been nothing short of local legend, supported by posthumous releases, a more recent Material Reissue re-formation (and the inspiration behind a long-running music festival) and now the subject of a new documentary that aims to shed light on just what went wrong.

“Out of Time: The Material Issue Story” (Arvonia Films) is the feature debut of up-and-coming director Balin Schneider and “aims to tell the story of a band searching for its identity in the gritty world of rock and roll in the early 1990s.”

It features a lineup of introspective interviews including what’s supposedly the first-ever with Ellison’s family, as well as thoughts from Zelenko, Ansani, Metro owner Joe Shanahan, music critics Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot, music producers Jeff Murphy and Mike Chapman, legendary engineer/producer Steve Albini and MTV host Matt Pinfield, among others.

Philin Phlash for “Out of Time: The Material Issue Story”
Material Issue — Mike Zelenko, Ted Ansani, Jim Ellison

“There is something really interesting with Material Issue — the title hints at this, too — how they were displaced in the sound of the time they were in, a sound I think would really catch on today,” says Schneider in an interview ahead of the film’s Chicago premiere Dec. 2 at Lincoln Hall. (It’s sold out, but future screenings are forthcoming.) “That was one of the first things that interested me — this exploration of why is this band that has three really solid albums and one great posthumous album, [so] why didn’t they become bigger?”

Much of “Out Of Time” hones in on the failed launch of the band’s third album, 1994’s “Freak City Soundtrack” (Mercury Records), that had the perfect recipe for success, including Mike Chapman at the boards (who had created hits for the likes of Blondie and The Knack), guest stars including Rick Nielsen and the backing of a major label.

Even though it had critical praise, it sold fewer than 50,000 copies and dealt a huge blow to the band. The film explores how the weak response to the album became a fulcrum point for Ellison, who was distraught over the fall from grace.

“There was a change, the sound of music that was being released had kind of morphed when we put out our third record, even though in hindsight we were traveling with the movement, being edgier and more aggressive in our recordings. The whole grunge thing was just happening, [and we were] going in an opposite direction of the trend,” says Ansani, who met Ellison while they both were enrolled in Columbia College Chicago in the ’80s; Zelenko came along after an ad was placed in Illinois Entertainer.

Philin Phlash for “Out of Time: The Material Issue Story”
Jim Ellison of Material Issue.

Zelenko takes it a step further, hypothesizing that a lack of label support, fumbled marketing around the newly emerging “alternative rock” genre and the wrong choice for the first single (“Kim the Waitress” should have been swapped out for “Goin’ Through Your Purse,” he says) were at play, too.

“I think the frustration that happened four months into ‘Freak City Soundtrack’ really got to all of us, but especially Jim,” he adds, as did some of the commentary slung at the band in a then cutthroat Chicago music scene that was fighting for its identity between starving art rock artist and eager acts looking for a major label deal. “A lot was directed at Jim on a personal level, which I think he shrugged off as it didn’t bother him, but I think it did,” says Zelenko.

It all reached a boiling point for Ellison at a time before our collective aptitude for talking about mental health. The more recent deaths of artists like Chris Cornell and Chester Bennington shined a light on mental health resources for musicians.

“These are all really great artists whose whole self-worth is about their art. There is a special archetype of an artist longing for something more,” says Schneider.

“I do think it’s good to talk about [mental health and suicide], and I’m happy the film addresses it in the way it does,” he says, adding that he was very conscious about not framing Ellison just by his tragic ending, but rather focusing on his life and life’s work.

In fact, the film (which was three years in the making) features some rare video footage Zelenko shot on the band’s first tour and in the studio with a video camera he borrowed from his father, along with what Schneider calls a “treasure hunt” of fan-submitted VHS recordings offering spotlights on late-night TV and MTV that show Ellison in all his glory.

“He was all about the band, the band was the most important thing in his life, I believe,” says Ansani, who theorizes Material Issue would have kept going to a certain degree if Ellison had lived, though noting the frontman was also starting to venture off into songwriting for other artists at the time of his passing.

Zelenko adds, “I really believe that if he would have gotten some help and he was still with us today, he’d be an extremely successful songwriter, whether it would have been with Material Issue or a solo artist or a songwriter. It was the thing he did best, he was absolutely naturally gifted at it. … And I think Material Issue would have succeeded and gotten through a tough time. There’s no doubt in my mind.”

Today, the band has continued in his stead with local singer-guitarist Phil Angotti now in the lead. The reformed trio first got together in 2011 as “Material Reissue” to coincide with album anniversary reissues. After the showing of the film on Dec. 2, they will take the stage once again at Lincoln Hall..

For Schneider, he hopes those in attendance fall in love with the band’s music again — or perhaps for the first time.

“I want people to know how important Material Issue was to the music history of pop and the music history of Chicago and how great of a songwriter Jim was. And understanding it was a complex band in a complex time. But at the end of the day, they had really solid good music, and that music is going to live on.”

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Coming off an impressive win over the Charlotte Hornets, the 14-8 Chicago Bulls begin a pretty difficult stretch over their next five games, with four coming on the road. Thursday, it begins with the Bulls traveling to take on the New York Knicks at Madison Square Garden. This will be the Bulls’ third meeting with […] The Chicago Bulls begin daunting 5-game stretch with playoff vibes – Da Windy City – Da Windy City – A Chicago Sports Site – Bears, Bulls, Cubs, White Sox, Blackhawks, Fighting Illini & MoreRead More

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A man was fatally shot Dec. 1, 2021, in Woodlawn. | Sun-Times file photo

About 1:05 a.m., he was standing in the 6200 block of South Eberhart Avenue, when a man wearing a ski-mask approached and fired shots.

A 28-year-old man was fatally shot Wednesday morning in Woodlawn on the South Side.

About 1:05 a.m., he was standing in the 6200 block of South Eberhart Avenue, when a man wearing a ski-mask approached and fired shots, Chicago police said.

He was struck in the neck and shoulder, and taken to the University of Chicago Medical Center, where he was pronounced dead, police said. His name has not yet been released.

Area One detectives are investigating.

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Moon Alert

After 6 a.m. Chicago time, there are no restrictions to shopping or important decisions. The moon is in Scorpio.

Aries (March 21-April 19)

Be smart and check everything about banking, shared property, debt and credit cards because something unexpected could affect these areas and catch you off guard. It might put you at odds with an authority figure. (Yikes!) Know what’s happening because this could affect you financially.

Taurus (April 20-May 20)

Slow down and take it easy because today is a bit dicey and certainly full of surprises. Difficulties with parents, bosses and authority figures might arise. (Never forget the power of courtesy.) Someone you know will throw you a curveball.

Gemini (May 21-June 20)

Your work routine will be interrupted today. Computer glitches, staff shortages, broken equipment, misplaced papers, canceled appointments — something. You might also be thwarted by rules and regulations or that old “we’ve always done it this way” excuse. Good luck.

Cancer (June 21-July 22)

Parents take note: This is an accident-prone day for your kids, so be extra vigilant. Know where they are at all times. Meanwhile, social events might be canceled. Possibly, an unexpected invitation will surprise you? Guard against sports accidents.

Leo (July 23-Aug. 22)

Get dressed because something will interrupt your home routine today. Someone might knock at your door. Meanwhile, small appliances might break down or a minor breakage could occur. (“No!”) The thing to know is that things will not flow as you expect them to go. Get ready.

Virgo (Aug. 23-Sept. 22)

Pay attention to everything you say and do because this is an accident-prone day for your sign. On the upside, because you can think outside of the box, you might have a clever, original idea? More likely, someone in authority or someone older than you will squelch your plans. (Bummer.)

Libra (Sept. 23-Oct. 22)

Keep an eye on your money and possessions today because it’s a crapshoot. Anything can happen. You might find money; you might lose money. Your possessions might be harmed or stolen. Restrictions related to children, sports or social activities might arise. Oh well.

Scorpio (Oct. 23-Nov. 21)

Today the moon is in your sign at odds with stern Saturn and opposite wild, wacky Uranus. It’s not an easy day. Keep your head down and your powder dry. Expect the unexpected. Expect to be thwarted by rules, regulations and authority figures. (Yikes!)

Sagittarius (Nov. 22-Dec. 21)

Today you feel restless. You have that feeling that you’re waiting for the other shoe to drop. This is totally appropriate because in your chart, the moon is “agitated” and it’s hiding, as well. This means your subconscious is being rattled by the universe. No biggie. Gone by tomorrow.

Capricorn (Dec. 22-Jan. 19)

Relations with friends and members of groups are dicey today. They might say or do something that surprises you? They might also try to restrict you or they might oppose your ideas. Don’t take this too seriously because this is just a temporary dark on your horizon. (Just for today.)

Aquarius (Jan. 20-Feb. 18)

This is a poor day to ask a boss, parent, teacher or the police for permission or approval. Give these people a wide berth. If you do ask them for a favor, their response will likely be, “Talk to the hand.” Meanwhile, they might surprise you. Tread carefully.

Pisces (Feb. 19-March 20)

Travel plans and anything to do with college and university schedules will be interrupted today. Almost certainly. Give yourself extra time so that you have wiggle room to deal with the unexpected. Surprising news in the media might catch you off guard. Someone might lay down the law. Oops!

If Your Birthday Is Today

Actor, rapper Riz Ahmed (1982) shares your birthday. You are ambitious, resourceful, passionate and fiercely independent. You have big dreams and fantasies. People love your wit. This year is the end of a nine-year cycle for you which is why it is totally appropriate for you to wrap up things and finish projects and certain events in your life. Clean your slate to begin something new next year.

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Northwestern guard Ryan Greer (2) dribbles around the defense of Wake Forest forward Dallas Walton (13) in the first half of an NCAA college basketball game on Tuesday, Nov. 30, 2021, at the Joel Coliseum in Winston-Salem, N.C. | Allison Lee Isley/AP

Pete Nance led the Wildcats with 15 points, seven rebounds and five assists, while Boo Buie scored 12 points and Elyjah Williams added 11.

WINSTON-SALEM, N.C. (AP) — Jake LaRavia made the go-ahead jump shot with five seconds left in overtime then came up with a steal on the ensuing possession to give Wake Forest a 77-73 victory over Northwestern in the Big Ten/ACC Challenge on Tuesday night.

After Northwestern’s Boo Buie made a layup to tie the score at 73 with 20 seconds left in overtime, Wake Forest called timeout then worked the ball to LaRavia. He hit the jumper then came up with the steal a few seconds later as Buie lost possession. LaRavia was fouled and made two free throws to finish off the victory.

LaRavia and Alondes Williams scored 21 points each for the Demon Deacons. Williams had nine rebounds and LaRavia seven. Isaiah Mucius added 12 points.

Pete Nance led Northwestern with 15 points, seven rebounds and five assists. Buie scored 12 points and Elyjah Williams added 11.

There were eight ties in an eight-minute stretch of the second half as the score moved from 51-all to 64-all. The Wildcats’ Ryan Greer hit a jumper to tie it at 64 with 2:35 remaining and neither team scored again in regulation. The back and forth continued in overtime with four lead changes in the first four minutes.

Toward the end of the first half, Wake Forest went on a 13-0 run to lead 32-20 but Northwestern responded with a 12-2 run. Wake Forest led 37-32 at the break.

Wake Forest (7-1) bounced back after taking its first loss, losing 75-61 to LSU in the championship game of the Emerald Coast Classic last week.

Northwestern (5-2) opened the season 5-1 for the second consecutive year.

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