At Heritage Pointe of Huntington senior living community in Indiana, loyalty runs deep and unwavering, especially when it comes to Chicago Cubs baseball. Geography, records, and past experience do little to sway the many residents who proudly call themselves die-hard fans of the team.
“Residents here are Cubs fans through thick and thin, win or lose, 24 hours a day and 365 days a year,” said Brad Fuller, Activity Director at Heritage Pointe of Huntington. “They fanatically love their team, and it’s something I enjoy supporting.”
When the Cubs’ broadcasts moved from WGN to the Marquee Network, Fuller recalled that there was potential for an uproar. Instead, the community acted quickly, upgrading its television system to ensure residents could keep watching their beloved Cubs without interruption.
The passion shows up in every corner of the community. Residents decorate their apartments and hallways in team colors, sport Cubs gear, and even get manicures with Cubs-themed designs. And when game time arrives, you can be sure the die-hards are watching and cheering.
For some, the devotion has spanned a lifetime. Resident Rex Tribolet recalls listening to games on the radio as a boy, later watching on television, and attending more than a dozen games at Wrigley Field. He still remembers the long three-hour traffic jams on Lake Shore Drive after games as fondly as the games themselves.
Resident Judy Thurston is another proud fan who never misses a game. Often she’ll watch live, then stream the replay the following day. One of her greatest joys was seeing the Cubs win the 2016 World Series. “I waited a lifetime to see that happen,” Thurston said, showing off her replica championship ring, which she calls her most prized possession.
For Fuller, supporting this level of loyalty is a joy. “We’ll host parties and special events to celebrate the Cubs fans,” he said. “Whatever our residents love, we like to encourage.”
At Heritage Pointe of Huntington, the Cubs aren’t just a baseball team. They’re a source of joy, community, and lifelong memories.
