On July 20th, before a packed crowd at the Park West Theater in Chicago, former Chicago Cubs All Star Pitcher Ryan Dempster hosted an inaugural unified performance of Off The Mound – a live, late evening talk show that featured Chicago Cubs Superstar Anthony Rizzo, former Chicago Cubs outfielder Moises Alou, Chicago Blackhawks legends Jeremy Roenick & Chris Chelios, Chicago comedian Jeff Garlin and our very own Special Olympics International Global Messenger, Daniel Smrokowski.
The evening was as entertaining as it was inspiring, celebrating the different abilities we all have and the power of inclusion. The night was highlighted by Daniel Smrokowski guest hosting and interviewing Ryan, along with a show stunning karaoke performance to close out the show by Ryan, Jeremey Roenick and Anthony Rizzo! To see more please visit the SOILL Flickr page.
Thank you to everyone who joined the show and our wonderful sponsors and supporters: The Chicago Cubs, Sloan Valve Company, Tito’s Vodka, The Chicago Federation of Labor, Rizzo’s Bar & Inn, Sugar Factory, Prestige Exotic Cars, Jenny & P. Jay Fortner, Jim Corrigan & Stack Family Foundation, The Knights of Columbus, Tom Murray, and Karen Atwood.
Last, but not least, a huge thank you to Ryan Dempster, one of the most kind and authentic people around. His steadfast commitment to a more inclusive world is amazing and we warmly welcome him to the Special Olympics Illinois family!