Thanks begin with hockey that finally matters
Today, we take it for granted.
But if you take a step back, and remember just a short time ago, it's hard to believe hockey is important in Chicago again.
The Blackhawks are as vibrant a sports franchise as there is in America, but it was only two years ago that Rocky Wirtz took over the team and single-handedly transformed the Mausoleum on Madison into a madhouse again, and brought a dead product into the 21st century.
The Hawks are a legitimate Stanley Cup contender with professionals running the organization from top to bottom, changes that didn't occur without pain and circumspection.
But the Hawks have done the right things and by doing so, they've put themselves in a position to win and win with professionalism, a change so shocking from just a couple years ago that perhaps we take for granted the monumental difference.
Gone is nearly all the rabble, and in their place is a group dedicated to serving the fans and bringing a Cup back to Chicago.
If it doesn't happen this season, well, 2011 marks 50 years.
And to even speculate about such an event after so many decades of abject misery on the West Side, it's a wonderful feeling fans couldn't have imagined not so long ago.
Generations should be grateful, should remember how horribly bad it was, and understand how fortunate we are that hockey in Chicago matters again.
Thanks for the memories
Sports fans have many other people and moments for which to be thankful, and here are just a few that come to mind:
• The Wolves.
For 15 years, they've been the most fan-friendly organization in Chicago and have played each season with the intention of winning it all, something at which they've become quite good.
But they've also been extremely active in the community, and recently began a program called "Wolves Wish," a nomination-based program intended to reward deserving individuals in need of a special treat.
If you know a fitting candidate, please visit chicagowolves.com and let them know.
• Tiger Woods
After a dreadfully dull 2008 summer without him, Woods came back to make the PGA Tour relevant again in 2009.
And just when his critics were wondering if he'd ever be the same, Woods arrived at the BMW and ripped to shreds a Cog Hill course redesigned to capture a U.S. Open.
He won by a touchdown, put to rest any talk of a slide, and with 6 victories - and 14 top 10s in 17 starts - Woods cruised to the FedEx Cup title and Player of the Year honors.
• Solheim Cup
More than 120,000 people showed up at Rich Harvest Farms in Sugar Grove to see the U.S. vs. Europe in what turned out to be a spectacular display of top-notch golf and American pride.
The U.S. victory was moving, but there was nothing more stunning than seeing Michelle Wie reach her potential and play with a ferocity that makes you ponder how far her talent can take her.
• Bulls-Celtics
Wackiest, most ridiculous and most entertaining seven-game series. Ever.
• Mark Buehrle
Perfect.
• SEC football
Every game is a war of attrition, the hitting is beyond belief, and the defense from teams like Alabama and Florida is better than anything else in football.
• Derrek Lee
A class act who revived his career and proved that he can still be a heck of a player.
• Derrick Rose
A superstar in the making.
• Jonathan Toews
Captain consistency is a tribute to the sweater, and has a chance to be one of the great two-way players of his time.
• RedZone Channel
Best thing that ever happened to a football fan.
• Gordon Beckham
Brilliant talent and the team's best all-around player, move to second could put Beckham on a track to Ryne Sandberg-land.
• Lance Briggs
In a season gone so wrong, on a team so lacking talent, Briggs remains the team's best player and a true professional among so many lacking effort and intellect.
• Randy Wells
A much-needed surprise on the North Side, and a rare find who knows how to pitch.
• Joel Quenneville
A real pro who teaches and demands at a very high level, and a big reason the Hawks are taking steps up the ladder.
• Kahlil Bell
OK, it was one run, but he looked quicker to the hole and faster down the field than any Bears back in a year.
• Four games Thursday
A great tradition that would be better served if Matthew Stafford were available in Detroit after his heroic effort Sunday.
• Jake Peavy
You have no idea how lucky the White Sox are to have him, and you're going to love watching him pitch.
• Robbie Gould
Worth every penny.
• Tom Ricketts
After all that, a Cubs owner who genuinely cares about winning.
And finally
As always, on a day of stuffing yourself with food, football and family, think of those who are missing someone at the table, perhaps for the first time, and be grateful for what you have.
Happy Thanksgiving.