(CHICAGO, IL) April 20, 2009– Fans Forever LLC, a Chicago- based company, announced today that Beyond the Vines, an internment area modeled after Wrigley Field's centerfield wall, is now completed. Opening Day will be held on Wednesday, April 22, 2009 at the Bohemian National Cemetery, 5255 N. Pulaski (at Foster). The festivities commence with an Open House and tour from 12:00 PM to 3:00 PM. At 1:20 PM, the dedication ceremony, which will include the unveiling of the 7’ x 4’ stained glass scoreboard.
Beyond the Vines, complete with the iconic red bricks, has enough space to hold 288 of your loved-ones urns. The wall is 35’ in length and 16’ tall. “Going to visit loved ones at the cemetery can be a bit gloomy at times, which is why I wanted to transform the experience of the cemetery visit . At Beyond the Vines, you can sit in authenticated Cubs box seats, walk on the antiquated Wrigley Field pavers, or stand on the recently removed Wrigley turf. You’ll be able to go back in time and reminisce about those great moments you’ve shared with your departed.” said Mascari. “One of our customers actually said “I can’t wait to be here.” “That’s what it’s all about. This is just not an idea that came to me, it’s an idea that came through me.“ “It’s really a beautiful place!”
“I can see what’s going on during this recession period. People are not only cutting back on their living expenses, but on their dying expenses as well. The average cost for a cremation is between $3,000 to $5,000. Our Eternal Skyboxes will start at $1295.00. It’s not only for Cubs fans but for all fans.” Mascari said. Catered lunches on-site will also be an option for families after services. Beyond the Vines is the first Columbarium in the United States patterned with a sports theme.
According to the National Vital Statistics Department, 34% of deaths in the United States were cremated in 2006. Based on current trends, the Cremation Association projects that to grow to 40% by 2010 and almost 60% by 2025.
Beyond the Vines has been followed by the major Chicago newspapers and national publications such as, Associated Press, USA Today, Washington Post, ESPN, CNN, Sports Illustrated, L.A.Times, MSNBC, amongst others. When Mascari first introduced his concept last summer, he was interviewed on Fox News in the Morning, CBS 2, NBC 5, ABC7, 190 North, Comcast SportsNet, 670 The Score, WLS, WGN Radio and Television, Q101, and an interview by Scott Simon for NPR.
For further information:
Phone: (773) 789-8885
Website: www.beyondthevines.net
On CBS NEWS April 22, 2009