Time Out, episode 139

This tape features a 1984 episode of "Time Out," a weekly sports program that was hosted by a number of Chicago area journalists and sportscasters. This week's commentators are: Sports Illustrated writer Rick Telander, WBMX Sportscaster and Assistant Coach for DePaul University's Men's Basketball team Kenny McReynolds, WIND reporter Fran Spielman, and former NBA star John Mengelt.

00:00Copy video clip URL This tape begins with a black screen and promos.

00:19Copy video clip URL Opening sequence for the program.

00:42Copy video clip URL The narrator gives a brief overview of the program which includes: a slow motion look at Michael Jordan in play, an interview with Chicago Bears President Michael McCaskey, a visit with the Spirit of Chicago Women’s Basketball team, and an NFL weekend preview with Gary Fencik.

01:01Copy video clip URL Dissolve into a shot of the four commentators in the back room on the “Time Out” TV set. The four begin the show by talking about the Chicago Bulls’ loss to the Denver Nuggets the previous night. They debate over Michael Jordan’s enthusiasm and “hot dogging” while on the court and whether that helps or hurts the team.

04:20Copy video clip URL Cut to a slow motion segment that features two great plays from Michael Jordan. We watch as Jordan drives down the lane to score over three defenders and watch as he soars past four defenders from in front of the free throw line to score a lay up.

06:02Copy video clip URL Cut back to the four commentators who begin to talk about the Chicago Bears. This cuts into a segment that features a collection of interviews with Bears fans giving their opinion on the upcoming Bears/Raiders game on Sunday.

08:15Copy video clip URL Bears fans weigh in on whether or not the Bears will be victorious on Sunday.

08:40Copy video clip URL Cut to an interview with Chicago Bears President Mike McCaskey. Mengelt and Telander ask McCaskey about his background and why he became involved in the professional sports business. McCaskey is George Halas’ grandson. The three talk about the business aspect of the franchise and the current state of the team. They also focus on the importance of the Bears/Raiders game set for the upcoming weekend. McCaskey goes on to say that Walter Payton is “the greatest football player that’s ever played the game of football.”

14:57Copy video clip URL Cut to the “Time Out Sports Almanac” segment.

16:13Copy video clip URL Dissolve into a a shot of the four commentators who quickly introduce a segment on the Chicago Spirit Women’s Basketball team.

16:31Copy video clip URL Cut to a shot of the Chicago Spirit players hard at work on the basketball court. Owner Larry Furher, Head Coach Rich Maack, and player Charlotte Lewis are interviewed. Furher talks about the way the women’s league is set up. Lewis comments on the playing style within the league. Maack highlights the differences between men’s and women’s basketball.

18:02Copy video clip URL Cut back to the four commentators who continue to talk about the Women’s Basketball league and debate over its appeal to audiences. They quickly move on to talk about recent college football happenings, specifically focusing on the Northwestern Wildcats team and their coach, Dennis Green. The four also talk about the Chicago Cubs’ off season news. This cuts into a segment on Southport Lanes bowling alley in Chicago.

21:19Copy video clip URL Cut to a shot of a neon red sign that hangs outside Southport Lanes. A “Time Out” correspondent interviews a number of employees and patrons who discuss the atmosphere of the bowling alley. Co-owners Leo and Ella Beitz talk about the community aspect of the bowling alley/bar. Various customers talk about why they frequent the establishment. Pin spotters talk about their job and the dangers and frustrations that come along with it. Pin Boy Robert Schuardt seems slightly on edge while working his shift. In a frustrated tone of voice, Schuardt briefly describes what he has to do as a pin spotter.

23:18Copy video clip URL Cut to the NFL preview segment with Gary Fencik of the Chicago Bears.

26:41Copy video clip URL Cut to a football quiz question.

26:55Copy video clip URL Cut back to the four commentators who begin to talk about Cubs pitcher Rick Sutcliffe’s free agent signing possibilities. They then go on to make their sports predictions for the week. The credits roll shortly afterward and are followed by promos.

30:23Copy video clip URL Tape ends.