On The Road to the Jackie Robinson West Rally & Parade

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There are some days when it's difficult to not only watch the news, but to work in the news business.  You know what I'm talking about - crime, shootings, horrible car crashes - the list goes on and on - but not this past weekend.  Chicagoans were glued to their sets, tablets and smart phones, watching the underdogs from the south side lift the spirits of fans all over the world.  Of course I'm referring to the fine young men on the Jackie Robinson West Little League Team.

Even though these exceptional players are only 11 and 12 years old, they carried themselves in ways well beyond their years.  They are role models to all ages, not giving up when the going got tough, and winning the National Championship with grace and composure that many could learn from.  Even though they didn't win the world title, you'd never know it from all the respect and support these 13 boys are getting from around the globe.

It couldn't have come at a better time - bringing such joy to Chicago and showing he world that Chicago does have true heart and soul.  Even before Saturday's win, Mayor Emanuel promised a parade and rally to welcome the team home - regardless of the series outcome.  Details of that celebration have just been announced:  The rally will begin at 9:00 am Wednesday at Jackie Robinson  Park, the parade will step off at 10:00 am, traveling from the park to Millennium Park.   Here are the details from the city:

The parade route is as follows:

  • Northbound on Aberdeen to 105th
  • East on 105th to Halsted
  • Northbound on Halsted from 105th to 35th Street
  • Eastbound on 35th Street to Indiana
  • Northbound on Indiana to 31st Street
  • Merge onto northbound Michigan Avenue

Throughout the parade route, the following locations have been designated for fans to show their support

  • 103rd and Halsted
  • 95th and Halsted
  • 87th and Halsted
  • 79th and Halsted
  • 63rd and Halsted
  • US Cellular Field

The parade will end with a rally at Millennium Park at approximately 11:00 am.  No street closures are planned for the parade.

We will be covering the parade and rally - I am so proud of this team, and grateful for the opportunity to participate in such a positive news story. I've said it before, and I'll say it again - these boys have captured the hearts and souls of Chicago and the world!