Joba Chamberlain will be honored at the 30th Thurman Munson Awards dinner February 2 at New York's Grand Hyatt Hotel. The gala remembers the legendary Yankees catcher and captain, and benefits the AHRC-New York City Foundation,which assists children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. It's great news that Chamberlain will be recognized for his philanthropic efforts. His DUI arrest in October 2008 was a big mistake and he's done everything he said he'd do in terms of talking to children about the dangers of drinking and driving. Good for him.
Notable Yankees to previously receive Munson Awards include Yogi Berra, Joe Torre, Don Mattingly, Mariano Rivera, Bernie Williams, Alex Rodriguez, Andy Pettitte, Bobby Murcer, Willie Randolph, Joe Girardi, Robinson Cano, Rich Gossage and Gene Michael. Current Cubs manager Lou Piniella, another previous Munson Award recipient and Munson’s teammate on the Yankees' 1977 and ’78 World Series championship teams, will receive the “Legend Award” for his long and meritorious service to baseball.
Diana Munson, Thurman's widow, has attended all 29 previous dinners and will be on hand for No. 30. Knicks guard Chris Duhon, former Mets and Yankees outfielder Darryl Strawberry, and two-time harness driver champion Jason Bartlett will also be honored.
For tickets and information on the Munson Awards Dinner, contact 212-249-6188.
