For the 41st year, former Chicago Park District superintendent Ed Kelly’s sports program is hosting its Giant Awards Dinner — honoring well-known Chicagoans in various fields.
The Monday, June 29 banquet at the White Eagle Banquet Hall in Niles will toast the accomplishments of Chicago Bear Matt Forte — presenting him with the Muhammad Ali Athlete Award. Popular NBC-5 news anchor Lauren Jiggetts will be given the Irv Kupcinet Media Award — named in honor of the late, great Sun-Times columnist.
The Ray Meyer Coach Award will go to Loyal Academy head football coach John Holecek; and Christine Boardman, president of SEIU Local 73 will be presented with the Bill Hogan, Sr. Labor Award.
Veteran restaurateur Tony Durpetti of Gene & Georgetti’s will be given the Harry Kempf Business Award and noted philanthropist and investment guru Richard Driehaus will be honored with the Jerry Gleason Achievement Award.
Finally, Dr. Samuel J. Cascio will be presented with the organization’s annual Marshall H. Smulson Humanitarian Award.
For ticket information, call the Ed Kelly Sports Program at (773) 728-6300.