Political Quotes

“I rise today to honor a Chicago institution and a good friend, Irv Kupcinet, on the occasion of his 90th birthday on July 31, and to pay tribute to his outstanding contributions to the veterans of the Chicago area. While best known for his work in journalism, Kup has also dedicated a major part of his life to serving his community's veterans. Born in 1912, Irv grew up in Chicago. Early on, he had a job cleaning Pullman Co. railroad cars so that he could earn money to attend college. He went on to receive his journalism degree from the University of North Dakota in 1934. While in college, he was involved as both the director of athletic publicity and as the quarterback of the football team. So, during the week, he wrote about sports and on Saturday, he played them. Initially he was headed toward a future in football. He was even selected for the 1935 College All-Star football team, which led him to begin a short career in professional football with the Philadelphia Eagles. However, a shoulder injury led him to a new path in life, as he shifted from sports player to sports writer. Kup began as a writer for the Chicago Times in 1935. Chicago readers have been enjoying the writings of 'Kup' ever since. After all these years, Irv still writes 'Kup's Column' in the Chicago Sun-Times today. Additionally, Kup broadcast Chicago Bears games on the radio for 24 years with another Chicago icon, Jack Brickhouse.”