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Reader senior writer Ben Joravsky riffs on the day’s stories with his celebrated humor, insight, and honesty, and interviews politicians, activists, journalists and other political know-it-alls. Presented by the Chicago Reader, the show is available by 4 p.m. Tuesdays through Fridays at chicagoreader.com/joravsky—or wherever you get your podcasts. Don’t miss Oh, What a Week!–the Friday feature in which Ben & producer Dennis (aka, Dr. D.) review the week’s top stories. Also, bonus interviews drop on Saturdays, Sundays and Mondays. 

Chicago Reader podcasts are recorded on Shure microphones. Learn more at Shure.com.

Chicago Reader senior writer Ben Joravsky discusses the day’s stories with his celebrated humor, insight, and honesty on The Ben Joravsky Show.

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After a Week 2 loss to the Green Bay Packers, even more narratives are being written about the Chicago Bears and their belief, or unbelief, in quarterback Justin Fields.

Whether it’s the national media beating up on Fields, questioning whether the Bears are all-in on him or a mixture of both, the madness never ends.

The biggest storyline seen around social media and talked about on a bigger stage is that the Bears may not be sold on Fields for the long-term. This is leading to plenty of fans buying into that narrative, and to be transparent, Bears fans have become soft.

Does Fields need to improve? Absolutely. He holds the ball too long and his mental clock is still slow. He needs to be a whole lot more decisive with the football. That, for one, his is biggest weakness at the moment.

But, to say the Bears don’t believe in him is absolutely crazy to me. There has been much said about Fields’ lack of pass attempts through two games, and most of it is extremely misguided. Let’s not forget that Ryan Poles has yet to fully surround his quarterback with enough talent. The blame goes all around.

To say the Chicago Bears are not all-in on quarterback Justin Fields would be way too early, and quite frankly, a foolish thing to assume.

First of all, the Bears only succeeded in obtaining 11 first downs against the Packers, which was the second-fewest in the NFL in Week 2. Therefore, their drives stalled far more often than not. The overall lack of plays run made it difficult on the offense to get anything going. Credit the Packers defense for a lot of it, but also know that Luke Getsy and Fields have to be better.

“But, Fields only threw 11 passes! How is he supposed to succeed if he doesn’t get enough called pass plays?”

The lack of pass attempts from Fields was not a reflection on Getsy and the Bears not believing in him.

Getsy called 22 pass plays during this game, but Fields only threw 11 passes. He rushed on eight of those called passes and was sacked another three times.

So, no, Fields did not get 11 called pass plays like many are assuming just based on his simple stat line.

Let’s set the record straight: Getsy called 22 pass plays versus 27 rushes against Green Bay.

To further the argument, the Bears ran for 180 yards on those 27 rush attempts — do you believe Getsy should stop calling what’s working?

To an extent, yes, the Bears must pass the football, especially if they are down in a game. But, the offense hardly had an opportunity to do so because they could not extend drives — and a lot of that is on the shoulders of Fields.

To say Fields needs to improve is an accurate statement. But, to say the Bears do not believe in or support Fields is completely misguided and inaccurate.

Now, if you want to say that the Bears didn’t do enough to surround him with talent this past offseason, then you would be correct. However, once again, you’d be missing the point.

Ryan Poles has a mobile quarterback on a rookie contract. He is not about to give up on a that guy after his first year with Fields. The 2022 offseason was all about setting the table for a successful future amidst a rebuild.

In 2023, the Bears have draft capital as well as over $100 million in cap space. If you think Poles is about to give up on a guy with as much potential as Fields before giving his young quarterback enough weapons and protection, then you don’t know football.

Next year was always the plan. The 2022 season is not going to be pretty, but the national media has to get paid. There has to be a narrative written — multiple narratives, in fact. It is up to you whether or not you buy into those narratives or if you see the bigger picture. I encourage you all to take a step back, breathe, and view it from afar. Let’s wait until after the 2023 offseason to make a real judgment.

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NBArank is back for its 12th season counting down the best players in the league.

Where are MVP candidates such as Giannis Antetokounmpo, Luka Doncic, Joel Embiid and Nikola Jokic? What about rookies and young stars ready to take the leap into the upper tier of NBA players?

Where is LeBron James, who is entering his 20th season?

To get the final NBArank prediction, we asked our expert panel to vote on pairs of players: LeBron vs. Kevin Durant, Stephen Curry vs. Ja Morant, Luka vs. Jayson Tatum … and the list goes on.

We asked, “Which player will be better in 2022-23?” Voters had to predict what they expected from each player during the season.

We’ve already revealed players Nos. 100-26. Today, our rankings continue with players Nos. 25-11.

Note: ESPN’s NBArank panel, composed of over 200 reporters, editors, producers and analysts, were asked to rank players based on their predicted contributions — quality and quantity — for the 2022-23 season only.

NBArank 2022: Zion, Russ and players Nos. 100-26

Jordan Johnson/NBAE via Getty Images

Minnesota Timberwolves Nos. 25-11

NBArank is back for its 12th season counting down the best players in the league.

Where are MVP candidates such as Giannis Antetokounmpo, Luka Doncic, Joel Embiid and Nikola Jokic? What about rookies and young stars ready to take the leap into the upper tier of NBA players?

Where is LeBron James, who is entering his 20th season?

To get the final NBArank prediction, we asked our expert panel to vote on pairs of players: LeBron vs. Kevin Durant, Stephen Curry vs. Ja Morant, Luka vs. Jayson Tatum … and the list goes on.

We asked, “Which player will be better in 2022-23?” Voters had to predict what they expected from each player during the season.

We’ve already revealed players Nos. 100-26 and Nos. 25-11. Today, our rankings continue into the league’s top 10 superstars.

Note: ESPN’s NBArank panel, composed of over 200 reporters, editors, producers and analysts, were asked to rank players based on their predicted contributions — quality and quantity — for the 2022-23 season only.

Matt York/AP Photo

Phoenix Suns SF

2021 NBArank: No. 3

It’s season No. 20 for James, and there’s a lot at stake for the all-time great. He needs 1,323 points to eclipse Kareem Abdul-Jabbar as the NBA’s all-time leading scorer, but the Lakers’ team success — or lack thereof — will largely determine how the moment resonates.

Wednesday, Oct. 19

Knicks vs. Grizzlies, 7:30 p.m.Mavericks vs Suns, 10 p.m.

Friday, Oct. 21

Celtics vs. Heat, 7:30 p.m.Nuggets vs Warriors, 10 p.m.

*All times Eastern

Why he fell three spots

For the second time in four seasons as a Laker, James missed the playoffs — this after only missing the postseason twice in his first 15 years in the league. James’ 30.3 points per game average was unprecedented for a 19-year veteran, but the 26 games he lost to various injuries and an ill-fitting roster around him made for one of the most disappointing seasons in franchise history.

James has already redefined the notion of how long a player’s prime can last, so it would be foolish write him off too soon, but it’s impossible to ignore that the Lakers had a negative net rating with James on the floor last season, which is reason enough to drop him out of the top five in the rankings no matter his impressive offensive output.

One huge question for 2022-23

In the middle of dropping 42 points during a cameo appearance in L.A.’s famed Drew League in July, James told ESPN, “I’m 100 percent healthy.” That’s a solid starting point for James to get things back on track.

The question is, can James have the good fortune to stay healthy at the same time that Anthony Davis can, giving the Lakers a chance to replicate the success that led to a title in 2020? If James and Anthony can both play the bulk of L.A.’s games, the Lakers will have a viable path back to the postseason, even with the challenges of working in Russell Westbrook and being guided by a new coach Darvin Ham.

— McMenamin

NBArank 2022: Nos. 100-26

Reach the peak of your beer season this year and celebrate Oktoberfest in Chicago with all you have! After exploring the fall beers from local breweries, we know you’re ready for the real celebration. From special events to week-long celebrations, these places will take you right to Germany. Are you ready to build some calories in the tastiest way?

Image Credit: Chicago Gourmet

Prost! In The Park

Wait, did I just say Chicago Gourmet has an Oktoberfest segment this year? Yup, you’ve heard me right! Join Chef Sarah Grueneberg (Monteverde Restaurant & Pastificio) for a Sünday Fünday to remember at Prost! In the Park, a beer and spirits festival with brews, bites, and boozie bevs from popular and soon-to-be-discovered producers. Tickets are only $95 each!

The Publican

837 W Fulton Market, Chicago, IL 60607

On Sunday, September 18th and Sunday, October 2nd, nine-time James Beard Award-winning One Off Hospitality and Executive Chef Paul Kahan are turning the Oktoberfest celebration at their modern American beer hall into a double Sunday event, honoring the Bavarian tradition the only way they know how: with four courses of hearty eats, plenty of beer, and good times all around in the heart of Fulton Market.

Image Credit: The Lodge Tavern

Oktoberfest on Division

She-nannigans, 16 W Division St, Chicago, IL 60610
The Lodge Tavern, 21 W Division St, Chicago, IL 60610

Raise a stein and pull out the lederhosen! Oktoberfest on Division Street is back and will take place on Thursday, September 29 from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. featuring She-nannigans and The Lodge Tavern. Festivities include a German word pronunciation game, stein holding competitions, German musical chairs, live music and entertainment from Die Kellerknaben Polka Band, and, of course, tons of Oktoberfest Beer, including Shiner, Goose, Spaten, and Founders Oktoberfest.

Emporium

839 W Fulton Market, Chicago, IL 60607

Did someone say arcade and beer? Well, I’m in! This year, celebrate Oktoberfest in Chicago at your favorite bar-cade Emporium as they put on “Prost! on the Patio” on Thursday, September 29 from 5 – 11 pm. This event will feature a top-notch beer selection from your favorite breweries, plus communal tables for beer tastings, SWAG giveaways, steinholds/giveaways, food, and beautiful Oktoberfest décor.

Participating breweries include

Goose Island Brewery (Featuring Goose Island Oktoberfest $6 can)
Warpigs Brewery (Featuring Munsterfest $7 Draft)
Dutchbag Brewery (Featuring Bok Lobster $7 Can)
Bell’s Brewery (Featuring Bell’s Oktoberfest $7 Draft) + Lager of the Lakes $7
New Belgium Brewery (same special as Bell’s) (Featuring Atomic Pumpkin)
Marz Brewery

Image Credit: Mac’s Wood Grilled

Mac’s Wood Grilled

1801 W. Division St. Chicago, IL 60622

The Oktoberfest specials at Mac’s Wood Grilled augment the daily deals during regular business hours Saturday, September 17 through Wednesday, October 5. Specials include

Soft Pretzel Twists with Cheddar cheese sauce and spicy mustard ($7)
an Oktoberfest Poutine with fries, fried cheese curds, gravy, and sliced bratwurst and sauerkraut ($15).

Seasonal draft beer selections include

3 Floyds Brewing Munsterfest, a Märzen-Style Festbier brewed with German malted barley, aromatic Bavarian noble hops, and traditional lager yeast ($8, 16-ounces)
Revolution Brewing Oktoberfest, a long-lagered Festbier using traditional German ingredients and methods ($7,16-ounces)

Image Credit: Bottleneck Management

Old Town Pour House

all locations

Celebrate Oktoberfest at Old Town Pour House (Chicago, Oak Brook, and Naperville). From Wednesday, September 17 — Sunday, October 3, diners will enjoy incredible German-inspired menu specials, including:

Smokehouse Currywurst with bacon braised sauerkraut ($15)
Crispy Pork Belly Spaetzle basted in brown butter ($21)
Pork Schnitzel with warm potato salad ($25)

With a stellar selection of fall beers on tap at all locations, Oktoberfest-ers will be sure to get their fill of seasonal beer favorites as well!

Image Credit: Tuman’s Tap & Grill

Tuman’s Tap & Grill

2159 W Chicago Ave, Chicago, IL 60622

Tuman’s celebrates Oktoberfest with an all-day kickoff party on Saturday, September 17, and an ongoing celebration of seasonal beers and brats through Monday, October 31. The kick-off party tapping features eight Oktoberfest beers, including award-winning German Festbiers, German-inspired Chicago-made beers, and a limited-release bourbon barrel-aged Märzenbier. The classic Festbiers are served in traditional steins; pricing is $8 for a half-liter and $15 for a liter. The barrel-aged beer is served in a 13.2-ounce snifter ($8).

The bar also debuts a $15 Paulina Meat Market Smoked Thuringer Brat and Oktoberfest Pork Beer Brat Dinner at the kick-off party. The brats are served with sauteed cabbage, crispy bacon, and roasted potatoes, plus a side of German mustard (available after 4 p.m. daily from September 17 through October 31).

Time Out Market

916 W Fulton Market, Chicago, IL 60607

We are dusting off our Dirndls and Lederhosen for Oktoberfest at the Market! Time Out Market partnered with Sam Adams this year to bring you a weekend full of Beer & events! The celebration begins on Friday October 7, 2022, featuring DJ, Stein Hoisting Contest, Oktoberfest Sampling & Giveaways, and a pop-up bar with Steins and Sam Adams Octoberfest. Kid-friendly events can be found over the weekend combined with more music and beer for the adults. Tickets are now available here.

District Brew Yards

417 N. Ashland Ave. Chicago, IL 60622

Sure, the Brew Yards aren’t hosting a patio party this year. But what’s a better place to go for all the Oktoberfest beers than this beer paradise!? Grab a weekend cabana with your friends, or a weekday reservation. Explore over 40 beers on tap alongside BBQ meat and delicious sides at their cashless, self-serving bar! Reservations are available via Tock.

Two Brothers Brewing

205 N Broadway, Aurora, IL 60505
30W315 Calumet Ave W, Warrenville, IL 60555

Steins full of Atom Smasher. Live Oompah music. The German food favorites. It’s Oktoberfest season! This year, Two Brothers Brewing will have two fests at their two locations:

Aurora, IL – Sunday, Sept. 18th
Warrenville, IL – Saturday, Sept. 24th

Each Oktoberfest will have everything you’ve love: steins full of Atom Smasher, German food favorites, live Oompah music, stein holding contests, etc. The best part? Both events are free!

Buffalo Creek Brewing

360 Historical Ln, Long Grove, IL 60047

Lake County’s destination brewery, Buffalo Creek Brewing, will tap into its German heritage when it hosts its annual Oktoberfest celebration, September 30th through October 2nd. The all ages, family-friendly festival features indoor and outdoor festivities throughout the brewery’s Bavarian-themed taproom and two acres of sprawling lawns, biergarten and tented pavilions. Besides traditional beer and food, the free festival is full of traditional Bavarian music, open-air performances, competitions, and outfits.

Wildfire

all locations

Wildfire locations in Chicagoland will be hosting Metropolitan Oktoberfest Beer Dinners. The dinners will feature a four-course German-inspired menu each paired with a Metropolitan brew to complement. Megan Simon, Metropolitan Street-Level Suds Slinger will join as guest speaker to discuss the evening’s pairings.

Dates for the Metropolitan Oktoberfest Beer Dinners at each location are as follows:

Wildfire – Oak Brook: September 19
Wildfire – Schaumburg: September 20
Wildfire – Glenview: September 21
Wildfire – Lincolnshire: September 22

Feeling tempted? Make your reservations here!

L. Woods

7110 Lincoln Ave, Lincolnwood, IL 60712

Celebrate Oktoberfest at L.Woods with a Bavarian Pretzel in one hand and a Hofbrau Dunkel in the other! Enjoy traditional German favorites like Pork Schnitzel, Pecan Pie Cobbler, German brews, and more from 12:00 PM – 8:00 PM. Oktoberfest specials are served a la carte and are available for dine-in, carryout, and delivery.

Image Credit: Hannah’s Bretzel

Hannah’s Bretzel

400 N La Salle St, Chicago, IL 60654

Hannah’s Bretzel is helping Chicagoans celebrate early with the launch of their new Oktoberfest sandwich. Now available at all of Hannah’s Bretzel locations, diners can indulge in the Oktüberfest Sandwich made with Gene’s Chicago Pork Bratwurst, Grandma Nina’s Bavarian Style Sauerkraut, whole grain honey mustard, caramelized onions, on homemade pretzel bread.

In addition to the Oktüberfest Sandwich, diners can also now enjoy Butternut Squash Soup or Kale White Bean Bratwurst Soup. Hannah’s Bretzel is one of Chicago’s most sustainable restaurants. With a storied track record of operating with the least environmental impact possible, these über sandwich makers live and breathe sustainability every day.

Featured Image: Two Brothers Brewing

The post Where to Celebrate Oktoberfest in Chicago (2022) appeared first on UrbanMatter.

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Are you tired of old-school fundraisers with not enough food and definitely not enough fun? Not being snobby, but I think we all agree that non profits could all use some crazier fundraisers to get people’s excitement up so they can hit their funding goals. Well — if you want to do something good but aren’t interested in sitting at a table for a whole night, or grabbing a burger meal and head right out, here’s a fantastic option for you: on Sept. 30th and Oct. 1st, you can rappel off (yes, you read it right) theWit Hotel from its rooftop bar and contribute to one of Chicago’s most significant youth-focused non-profit organization: Family Empowerment Centers.

A Double Tree by Hilton right next to the iconic Chicago Theater, Rooftop at theWit is a glamorous escape set at 27 stories above with a stunning skyline view. The highlight in the previous sentence? TWENTY, SEVEN, STORIES, ABOVE.

Event Details

201 N State St, Chicago, IL 60601

theWit Hotel is pleased to share that this fall, fundraisers for Family Empowerment Centers will go ‘Over the Edge’ off theWit. This thrilling event taking place on September 30 and October 1, invites adrenaline junkies to rappel off the hotel’s rooftop bar, ROOF on theWit, and down the iconic facade, all for a noble cause.

“We are proud to serve as the backdrop for this one of a kind fundraiser at theWit Hotel”, says General Manager Morgan Eagles. “We are humbled by the work done at Family Empowerment Centers and feel honored to be a partner for the organization in supporting families and mentoring children in the Chicagoland area.”

Participants going Over the Edge for Family Empowerment Centers will commit to raise funds for the chance to rappel down 27 stories of the Wit Hotel. Rapellers can choose from four participation levels, starting at $1,000 to $3,000, each with corresponding rewards including commemorative t-shirts, food vouchers to the hotel’s restaurants, GoPro footage of your experience, and more. Additionally, each participant will train with the Over the Edge staff before the event to learn how to rappel safely down the side of the building. Tickets are available here.

A One-of-a-kind Fundraiser For Family Empowerment Centers

Proceeds from this event will directly support the non-profit organization’s food pantry and the myriad of mentoring programs offered to children in the Chicago community such as summer soccer camps, summer day camps, football camps, and an after-school program.

“At a time when Chicago families need help the most, we’re excited to bring this fundraiser to life in support of Family Empowerment Centers’ most important efforts”, says Executive Director Scott Manke. “We’re grateful for each participant’s donations and fundraising efforts that directly support our families and programs.”

Family Empowerment Centers is at the forefront of creating pathways of opportunity for under-resourced individuals and families to experience greater joy and hope in their future. In a time when our most vulnerable families have even greater need, Family Empowerment Centers continues to meet that need by providing food for these families and additional educational support through camps and after school programs.

Featured Image: theWit Hotel

The post Skip a Beat! Go Over the Edge at theWit Hotel and Raise Funds For Family Empowerment Centers appeared first on UrbanMatter.

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If you’re looking for a neighborhood that’s filled to the brim with young and hot 20- to 30- somethings ready to find the loves of their life, look no further than Lakeview. Being a unique area of the city built up by smaller neighborhoods, there are tons of people to meet, talk to, exchange hobbies, and share secrets with. Continue with our Lakeview dating guide and explore the delicious restaurants, fun bars, events, and easy-to-access public transportation for an incredible date. Whether you want to get closer to the lake or closer to a potential partner, Lakeview is a great place to plan some incredibly fun dates in our own backyard.

PS: If you’re looking for date ideas in other areas of the city, be sure to check out our neighborhood dating guides for Wicker Park, Lincoln Park, and Logan Square.

Cubs Game – Wrigley Field 

1060 W Addison St, Chicago, IL 60613

Hey Chicago, whaddya say? Take your date to Wrigley today! Okay, yeah that was super cringey BUT definitely true. Whether you’re a Northsider or a Southsider, you truly cannot deny the importance of Wrigley Field in Chicago. I mean, the perfect summer afternoon isn’t complete without a sunny day game, right? Treat your date to a Wrigley hot dog and a tall Bud Light, and watch how the sparks fly. Cubs tickets are fairly cheap, there’s tons of public transportation surrounding Addison and Clark, and the atmosphere is consistently electric. I’m telling you, you can be a Sox fan and STILL have a good time on a date to the Cubs game. Worse comes to worst? Take your date bar hopping down Clark and get a little buzz. 

Coalfire

3707 N Southport Ave, Chicago, IL 60613

While Chicago is certainly known for our pizza, the food coma you go into after devouring three slices of deep dish just isn’t it for setting the mood. When you and your date want to dive into a delicious pie, head to Coalfire. This coal oven pizza is crisp, hot, and made with incredible ingredients. Coalfire prides themselves on using locally sourced artisanal butchers and growers, ensuring that each item that goes into your perfect piece is as fresh as can be. With menu staples like pepperoni & whipped ricotta and pistachio pesto, diners can delight in the house favorites or take the option to build your own pizza with toppings of your choice! Just don’t blame us if your date thinks your topping choices are weird. 

Belmont Harbor

3600 N Recreation Dr, Chicago, IL 60613

How often do you take the time to spend an afternoon outside? Surprisingly, the city is filled with green spaces and parks to hangout and enjoy the weather (as fleeting as our summers maybe). Whether you have a boat or not, Belmont Harbor is a beautiful spot in the city to spend some time with a potential love interest. You don’t have to sit on the docks either because there are plenty of grassy park areas to plan a cute picnic or bring a bottle of wine to enjoy along the Lakefront. Take advantage of our last few days of summer and ever-so-slightly changing trees to soak in some sun and kick-off a budding romance before the cuffing season begins. 

Elixir Lounge

3452 N Halsted St, Chicago, IL 60657

In the heart of Boystown, you’ll find Elixir. This cocktail bar and lounge is the perfect spot for couples to cozy up under the low-hanging chandeliers and enjoy the perfectly crafted cocktail list. With drinks made from all your favorite liquors, everyone can find a new favorite made with their alcohol of choice. With a signature cocktail list, Elixir puts their own twist on delicious cocktails by incorporating fresh ingredients and bold flavors to create drinks you might have never thought to try elsewhere, like their Rustic Artichoke or Bubblegum Old Fashioned. They also feature classic cocktails but elevate the traditional by adding some flair to give your old reliable a new flair. So sit back, relax, and sip on something different with the perfect date by your side. 

Pescadero Seafood & Oyster Bar

1258 W Belmont Ave, Chicago, IL 60657

Oysters are literally an aphrodisiac, so why wouldn’t you take a date to Pescadero? Not only does this Lakeview restaurant offer the freshest seafood you’ll find in the middle of Chicago, but with an upscale maritime theme, you’re given at least a brief escape from the Midwest. Since opening in June of last year, Pescadero has made waves (get it?) in Lakeview by continuously bringing the freshest fish and menu options to this location. The raw bar, small plates, seared favorites, and handheld options are perfect to enjoy while sharing fun facts about yourself and deciding if your current date is going to make it to the next level.

Featured Image: Choose Chicago

The post Neighborhood Dating Guide: Lakeview appeared first on UrbanMatter.

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With week one of the NFL season in the books, we think it’s pretty safe to say: the Chicago Bears are back! Alright, we’re kidding of course. They’re not all the way back after winning a single game. However, if they can pull off the Sunday Night Football upset with the Bears vs Packers matchup up next, we might just change our tune.

Regardless, after taking down the 49ers in their season opener, it’s safe to say they’re on the right track with the new regime.

How Game 1 Went

Speaking of the new regime, it’s pretty evident that they played a big part in last Sunday’s victory. The HITS mentality of Matt Eberflus enabled the defense to apply pressure throughout the contest. For those who aren’t familiar with the term, “HITS” stands for: hustle, intensity, takeaways, (playing) smart. 

Despite going down 10-0 early in the second half, the defense embodied HITS and managed to shutout Trey Lance and the rest of the 49ers offense for the remainder of the game. Both rookies and vets played their part. And after a few turnovers, all the 49ers momentum had washed away in the rain.

It wasn’t solely a defensive effort, obviously, as the Bears offense put up 19 points to complete the comeback. Justin Fields played about as well as you could ask a second-year quarterback to play when facing Nick Bosa in the middle of a monsoon during their first game back. When the 49ers defense pressured the Bears offensive line, Fields mimic’d the defense’s hustle by using his legs to extend plays and keep the ball moving. He ran for 28 yards on 11 carries, and completed 8/17 passes for another 121 yards and two scores.

After slippin’ and slidin’ their way to the dub, the next matchup on the schedule is one we’re all too familiar with: the Bears vs Packers. Our first showdown against Aaron Rodgers and the rest of the cheese heads takes place on the big stage this week with some SNF action! 

Bears vs Packers Week 2 Preview

Given that it’s the 204th time they’ll face each other, this next Bears vs Packers matchup takes place during the primetime Sunday night slot in week two.

Last Sunday’s season opener didn’t go as well for our rivals as it did for us. In the Packers’ week one NFC North showdown against the Vikings, both the offense and defense failed to get much of anything going as the team lost 23-7. It was Rodgers first game without Davante Adams in quite some time, and it sure showed. Through four quarters of play, no discount double-check celebrations occured. Rodgers stat line for the game saw him complete 22 of his 34 passes for 195 yards and an interception. The team’s only points came on an AJ Dillion touchdown run. Yikes.

If he’s going to own us, like… f***ing own us, as he claims to, then big boy Rodgers will have to show us he can make non-Davante Adams receivers successful when he throws the ball their way. It’s easier said than done, and the drops certainly don’t help. Nor are they Rodgers’ fault.

Plus, with the momentum the Bears have going for them, it’s likely that our secondary makes things challenging for the Packers receivers come Sunday night. And we sure hope that’s the case, because currently, the cheese heads are 10 point favorites over our guys for this Bears vs Packers game.

It’s a little funny seeing that spread though, because it means oddsmakers think the Packers are capable of even putting up 10 points to begin with. Guess we’ll just have to wait and see come Sunday night.

Featured Image Credit: Chicago Bears Instagram

The post Bears Slip Away From 49ers Ahead Of SNF Showdown With Packers appeared first on UrbanMatter.

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International Chocolate Day is here! Have you decided what to buy as a celebration (however, do we really need an excuse to buy chocolate)? First of all, check out our hand-picked craft Chocolatiers in town and fill up a bag (or three). Then, stray away from traditional chocolates and get ready for the best chocolate treats in Chicago!

Image Credit: Stan’s

Stan’s Donuts & Coffee

all locations

Stan’s Donuts & Coffee is the perfect spot to celebrate International Chocolate Day with a multitude of chocolate options for every customer. From the traditional Chocolate Old Fashioned to a Chocolate Pocket with Nutella and even a Chocolate Vegan recipe, there is a sweet treat for every type of chocolate lover this holiday. Even better, feel free to try them all!

In addition to sweet treats, sip on something chocolatey at Stan’s with the Chocolate Lightning, which is Stan’s popular Cold Brew mixed with Chocolate Milk for the perfect early morning sipper. Looking for something without caffeine? Stan’s offers a Frozen Hot Chocolate that is to die for!

Image Credit: Michael Jordan’s Steak House

Michael Jordan’s Steak House Chicago

505 N Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60611

What’s International Chocolate Day without a legitimate chocolate lava cake!? Inspired by the G.O.A.T.’s jersey number, this decadent chocolate treat at Michael Jordan’s Steak House has 23 rich and decadent layers of chocolate cake and fudgy frosting. After a savory steak house meal, it’s the perfect way to add a little sweetness to an evening out on the town.

Image Credit: Cookies & Dreams

Cookies & Dreams

10800 S Cicero Ave, Oak Lawn, IL 60453

If you’re looking for the best ooey-gooey chocolate treats in Chicago, look no further! Cookies & Dreams is a female-owned bakery based in Iowa that has just opened in South Suburban Oak Lawn, offering twelve or more freshly baked cookies in unique and classic flavors, perfect for any occasion. Their cookies can be purchased at any one of their locations or online + shipped right to your door.

Your chocolate choices are OG Chocolate Chip, Double Trouble, Caramel Pretzel, PuppyChow Cookie, Monster Cookie, or the OG Sea Salt Chocolate Cookie Cake.

An over-the-top, chocolate lover’s dream is Sweet Mandy B’s Just Dough It, a stacked cookie sandwich available for just $5.50 each at both the Lincoln Park and Streeterville locations. It features eggless chocolate chip cookie dough sandwiched between two chocolate chip cookies. The dessert was so popular during the August 20th anniversary celebration that Sweet Mandy B’s will bring it back for the month of September.

Sweet Mandy B’s

1208 W. Webster Ave, Chicago, IL 60614
254 E. Ontario St, Chicago, IL 60611

For even more chocolatey desserts, Sweet Mandy B’s offers a variety of treats like the Devil’s Food Cupcake with chocolate buttercream and sprinkles, the Chocolate Peanut Butter Cupcake with devil’s food cake, peanut butter buttercream and a chocolate drizzle, a Fudge Brownie, a Chocolate Iced Brownie, Flourless Chocolate Cake and more.

First Slice Pie

4664 N Manor Ave, Chicago, IL 60625

Honestly. First Slice is hands-down one of the best pie spots in Chicago. Chocolate mint pie, chocolate peanut butter pie, french silk pie, chocolate cream pie… Whether you’re a hardcore sweet tooth or prefer the richer and more complicated chocolate flavors, First Slice has something for you. They also have an awesome chocolate raspberry cheesecake for those prefer something lighter and smoother!

Kilwins Evanston

Mackinac Island Fudge

Most of you go to Kilwins for the ice cream. Well, the temperature is dropping. That’s why now is time to go there for the delicious fudge bars. Their Mackinac Island Fudge bars are made right there in the store, meaning you can watch the entire process unfold. They even swap out the featured flavor each week, which would surely keep you coming back! They also have other chocolate treats like chocolate-dipped pretzels, dark chocolate barks, and caramel, chocolate, and sea-salt-dipped apples.

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The nation’s most acclaimed champagne bar, Pops for Champagne, 601 N State St., is honoring its 40th Anniversary in Chicago this September 2022. To celebrate with locals and visitors alike, Pops is offering guests a rotating $40 pour of unique champagne, not typically served by the glass, such as 2006 Pierre Moncuit Cuvée Elizabeth, 2008 Pierre Paillard La Grande Récolte, and 2013 Vintage Louis Roederer, throughout the year, as well as reopening their underground speakeasy, Watershed, on Thursday, August 25th. Since opening its doors in 1982, Pops has become a staple in the city, having served over 900,000 bottles of champagne to hit 1,000,000 bottles served by the end of the year.

“We couldn’t be prouder to celebrate 40 years in Chicago with our team and loyal patrons. Our goal has always been to create an inviting, approachable space, and this achievement has solidified the storied history of Pops,” said Craig Garofalo, co-owner of Pops for Champagne. “Throughout the decades, Pops has become not only a destination for celebration but a space dedicated to exposing and educating our patrons on new and unique beverage experiences. With Pops, and the reopening of Watershed this year, we’re happy to continue to provide an escape in the heart of the city.”

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In 2018, Craig Garofalo and Andy Poch, both Chicago hospitality industry veterans, acquired Pops for Champagne and Watershed. Originally opened in 1982 in Lakeview, Pops for Champagne moved to the vibrant River North neighborhood in 2004. Over the years, Pops has expanded the champagne menu to offer a larger, more concentrated selection, aiming to represent smaller producers from the Champagne region of France.

Today, Chicago’s most elegant wine bar and one of the nation’s few dedicated champagne bars offers over 100 different champagne selections and introduces new selections on a weekly basis. Pops also offers sparkling, craft, and spirit-free cocktails, wine, beer, and a delectable bar snacks menu, from East Coast Oysters and Cheese & Charcuterie to Shishito Peppers and a Trio of Macarons.

Image Credit: Pops for Champagne

Originally established in 2010, Watershed, a speakeasy-style lounge tucked beneath Pops for Champagne, has undergone extensive renovations and reopened on Thursday, August 25th. Sitting just feet from the Chicago Red Line tracks, the restorations to the underground venue, built in the 1890s, have honored original details of the space, including a historic stone wall and custom woodwork.

Watershed’s wooden booths have been refinished and remodeled, new banquets have been installed, and the original custom wooden tabletops have been rehabbed. Custom wooden glass racks and display shelves have been installed throughout the bar, and wooden cabinets have been reimagined as display pieces, adding to the warm, inviting interior. Watershed also features new paint, floors, furniture, back bar mirrors, in addition to an enhanced sound system and lighting.

Pops for Champagne

The reimagined Watershed will introduce a ‘seasonal’ cocktail menu where every season focuses on a different television show, paying homage to the meaning of “watershed” in broadcasting, which is the time of day after which programming aimed towards mature or adult audiences is permitted. With the belief that a good bartender should be a guide, not a gatekeeper, Watershed Beverage Director, Logan Brown, has created the inventive new menu, kicking off “Season 1” with cocktails inspired by the fan-favorite show, Community.

The menu includes Episode 2: Advanced Safety Features (0% ABV) with Blackberry, Wine, and Lemon; Episode 12: Social Psychology (27% ABV) a Cinnamon Toast Crunch Espresso Martini made with Vodka, Coffee, Cereal, and Oat Milk, and Episode 9: Remedial Chaos Theory (28% ABV) with Pepperoni Combos, Malort, Thyme, Tomato, Vinegar, Bitter, and Port. Watershed will also serve beer, wine, and liquor from all over the world, representing passionate farmers, vintners, distillers, and brewers.

Every cocktail, beer, and wine will list its ABV so guests can decide to order anything from non-alcoholic to overproof drinks to suit their mood or preference. Guests are also invited to explore the rare spirits list, which is delivered via table side beverage cart. Pops for Champagne is open from 3 – 11 p.m. Monday – Wednesday, 3 p.m. – 12 a.m. Thursday – Friday, 1 p.m. – 12 a.m. Saturday, and 3 – 10 p.m. Sunday. Watershed is open from 5 – 11 p.m. Monday – Wednesday and 5 p.m. – 12 a.m. Thursday – Saturday.

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