Hockey HOFer Chris Chelios was the recipient of "a heartfelt, big-budget Blackhawks jersey retirement ceremony" last night at the United Center. His 90-year-old mother, Sue, and his four kids -- including current Hawks broadcaster Caley -- and former teammates including Jeremy Roenick and Ed Belfour were in attendance, as well as "a star-studded collection of friends" ranging from Hockey HOFer Wayne Gretzky to Basketball HOFer Dennis Rodman to Pearl Jam singer Eddie Vedder. Chelios "blew well past" his allotted speaking time during his speech. Former Blackhawks broadcaster Pat Foley emceed the event. Chelios received "universal love" as the team raised up his No. 7 banner -- the ninth raised by the Hawks (CHICAGO SUN-TIMES, 2/25).
Dressed in "all black and surrounded by family, friends and former teammates," Chelios "blew kisses to the cheering crowd" after he was introduced. The fans saluted the Chicago native with chants of "Cheli! Cheli!" while the current Blackhawks and Red Wings watched from the benches. Model Cindy Crawford and former tennis star John McEnroe were also "among a group of Chelios’ longtime friends" in attendance. Michael Jordan, another "longtime buddy," sent along a congratulatory video. Gretzky and fellow Hockey HOFer Mark Messier "also watched from a box" (AP, 2/25). Chelios started the ceremony "with a ride onto the ice in a black classic car along with his mother" (CHICAGO TRIBUNE, 2/25). Jordan "planned to attend" in person, but "had to back out because of a family matter" (Chicago DAILY HERALD, 2/25).
