June 21, 2007

EVANSTON, Ill. -- Northwestern Head Football Coach Pat Fitzgerald will be the featured speaker at the Special Spectators Second Annual Gala on July 12, 2007 at Fulton's on the River. Special Spectators is the Chicago-based nonprofit organization that creates magical days for seriously ill children and their families at collegiate football games across the United States.

The festivities begin at 5:30 p.m. and include cocktails, hors d'oeuvres, dinner and a silent auction. WGN Radio Sports Director and voice of the Wildcats, Dave Eanet, will serve as the night's emcee.

Fulton's on the River, voted one of Chicago's "Best New Restaurants" by , is located at 315 N. LaSalle Street in the historic Reid Murdoch Building.

The price for this event is $125. Tickets may be purchased online by visiting www.SpecialSpectators.org.

Since 2002, Special Spectators has created the quintessential Saturday experience complete with tailgate parties, mascots, cheerleaders and marching bands for approximately 3,800 seriously ill children and parents. Over the last five years, we've hosted about 110 game day events that provide these kids with special access to people and areas of the stadium that are not accessible to most fans. Our youngsters tour locker rooms, meet coaches and walk on the field for a stadium announcement. Special Spectators also coordinates visits by athletes to children's hospitals or pediatric units in order to expose them to the inspiration and reward of making a powerful contribution to the community.

If you would like to cover the event or require additional information, please call Blake Rockwell at 312-919-1607.