This Monday is the 80th birthday of one of the greatest sports figures in Chicago and one of the greatest humanitarians, Ernie Banks, aka Mr. Cub.
I first met Mr. Cub when my dad took me to my first Cubs game in the summer of 1962. He came out of the dugout, shook my hand, signed a ball, and took a picture with me, a photo he autographed 38 years later when I became his dentist. From that summer day in 1962 I always wore number 14 and became his biggest fan — not just so much because of the great player that he was, but more because of the true gentleman that he is. A man who uses his love of the game, of life and of giving. A man who always has a smile and something nice to say to everybody. Always willing to give an autograph, always making you feel special.
One of the highlights of my life was spending opening day in 2008 with him, his family and friends when the statue of him was unveiled at Wrigley.
He is truly a goodwill ambassador for baseball and genuinely cares about people.
Wishing him a very happy birthday!
— Phil Finkel, Skokie
