This text is a tribute to Harry Teinowitz, a Chicago radio personality who recently passed away. Here’s a breakdown of the key information:
Who was Harry Teinowitz?
Chicago Radio personality: He was best known for his work on Chicago radio, particularly the “Mac, Jurko and Harry” show, which launched in 2001 and became a hit.
Co-hosts: He worked alongside dan McNeil (“Mac”) and John Jurkovic (“Jurko”).
On-Air Persona: He was described as the “everyman,” a fan of all Chicago teams, with a privileged upbringing and cockeyed optimism. He was known for his humor, warmth, and engaging personality.
Sports knowledge: He had a deep knowledge of sports,memorizing jersey numbers,dates,and anniversaries,which he shared in his “Harry’s almanac” segments. He also formed friendships with athletes.
On-Air Dynamic: The tension and arguments between Teinowitz and McNeil were a significant part of the show’s success,with Teinowitz himself stating that people tuned in to hear them “kill each other.” Despite this,they became closer in recent years.
Other Pursuits: He was also working on a movie screenplay and had other projects in the works.
Key Quotes and Sentiments:
Jarrett Payton: Expressed deep sadness and highlighted Teinowitz’s belief in him and his constant support.
Dan McNeil: Described Teinowitz’s sports acumen as “aces” and believed he had been feeling better about his life recently, referring to him as “Happy Harry” for a period.He also called Teinowitz “a man of the people” and suggested an annual toast to him to celebrate the good in Chicago.
John Jurkovic: Stated that Teinowitz was “an absolute necessity” for the show’s success.
Danny Teinowitz (brother): Mentioned that Harry had “done so much, but he had so much left to do.”
His Legacy:
He is remembered for his humor, sports knowledge, and his ability to connect with people.
His legacy is tied to his love for Chicago, its sports fans, and the positive aspects of the city.
* His funeral is scheduled for Monday in Wilmette,followed by a festivity of his life at a local restaurant,which is expected to be filled with laughter and storytelling.
In essence, the text is a heartfelt farewell to Harry Teinowitz, celebrating his contributions to Chicago radio and his impact on those who knew him.