“Go Crazy, Folks! Go crazy!!” Those words are forever ingrained in the memory of St. Louis Cardinals’ fans. Hall of Fame Broadcaster, Mr. Jack Buck was talking about the game winning home run hit by Cardinal’s shortstop, Ozzie Smith. It clinched the 1985 National League Championship Series for the Red Birds. However, long before that, the Gateway Chapter of the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation had been “going crazy” because Jack Buck had been Honorary Chairman for the Gateway Chapter for many years.

In spite of his grueling schedule as the “Voice of the Cardinals” for almost 50 years, Jack has always had time to raise money for cystic fibrosis. In July 2001, he hosted the 32nd Annual Jack Buck Golf Classic. His tournament attracts more than 300 golfers every year, and has raised $7 million for research.

In 2002 he has stepped up to the plate again. He has published a new book, “Jack Buck, A Collection of Poems and Stories,” with all proceeds benefiting the CF Foundation. For his own enjoyment, Jack has been composing poetry most of his life. Few people outside of his own family have had the opportunity to see his poems. They cover far more subjects than baseball and other sports. Jack has donated 18 of his poems to the CF Foundation to be published for sale to the general public. It is a handsome, soft cover book and in addition to his 18 poems, Jack has included 20 hilarious true stories that will make his readers laugh out loud. For anyone that is a Jack Buck fan, you will treasure this 48-page book. It is as poignant and warm as it is funny.

The books are available from the Gateway Chapter of the CF Foundation for $20 each, plus shipping and handling. To quote Mr. Buck, “That’s a winner!” To purchase your copies of Jack Buck, A Collection of Poems and Stories, contact the Gateway Chapter at 200 South Hanley, Suite 620, St. Louis, MO 63105, (800)727-1464, e-mail gateway@cff.org.

The CF Foundation is saddened by Mr. Bucks death in June 2002. He will always be a treasured member to TEAM CF and will be truly missed.