Bill Veeck was born in Chicago and grew up in an American baseball family. His father became the president of the Chicago Cubs after he wrote a series of sports columns recommending ways the Cubs could improve. The team’s owner, William Wrigley, Jr., was so impressed he hired Bill’s father to run the franchise.

Bill left college to work with the Cubs. He rose up the ranks rapidly and was an innovator from the start. He was the first to put player’s names on their jerseys, the first to have fireworks after a game, and the first to promote fan appreciation nights.

Veeck became so successful that he bought the Cleveland Indians baseball team. After he sold the team, he bought the controlling interest in the Chicago White Sox. He is the last baseball franchise owner who was not wealthy and a baseball employee.

Veeck wanted to “stay in touch” with knowledge so he read 6 books a week and became an expert on tropical fish, dogs, and horses. He learned about and cultivated rare flowers.

Veeck also wanted to stay in touch with people (especially fans). He never used obscenities because he didn’t want people to be uncomfortable. He had his office door removed so anyone could see him at any time. He often sat with fans in the stands and asked them what they liked and what they would improve. They loved him.

Bill Veeck was a “people sponge “. He maintained a remarkable life by “staying in touch” and continually learning from everyone.

The Bible says in Proverbs 27:17, “As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another.” NIV

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