Harper administrator chronicles years as Wrigley usher

When Bruce Bohrer came to Harper College in 1976, the Chicago Cubs were headed to yet another forgettable, sub-.500 record. The season's most memorable play likely happened in between pitches, when outfielder Rick Monday snatched away an American flag from two protesters intending to burn it on the field.

Over the next 27 years, the Cubs would enjoy a few short playoff runs, and Bohrer would help grow the Northwest suburban community college first as a counselor and later the director of admissions. After retiring in 2002, the die-hard Cubs fan decided to join the ranks of Wrigley Field ushers. Bohrer saw quite a bit from his vantage point over nine seasons, from marriage proposals he helped arrange (everyone accepted) to a $20 bribe by two preteens looking for a closer seat.

Bohrer, 63, captures his adventures in "Best Seat in the House: Diary of a Wrigley Field Usher," his debut book recently released by Eckhartz Press.

"There were so many crazy shenanigans," Bohrer said. "I started jotting down notes to remember it all, and eventually, I thought it might make for an interesting read."

And he'll never forget the Bartman game of course during the magical 2003 season.

"I remember that game like it was yesterday," said Borher, who worked the coveted Aisle 17 near home plate that night. "In my mind I had already rearranged my schedule so that I could work all the World Series games. Five more outs was all we needed."

The Buffalo Grove resident is enjoying a warm literary reception, winning praise from the likes of radio personality Bob Sirott and national anthem voice Wayne Messmer.

"The ushers at Wrigley Field often play the part of historian, storyteller and concierge in addition to paying great attention to the fans' comfort and safety," Messmer says. "They are a major reason that this baseball mecca continues to be known as the 'Friendly Confines.'"

Bohrer will be on-hand for a book signing at 3 p.m. Sunday, July 27, at Murphy's Bleachers, 3655 N. Sheffield Ave. in Chicago.

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