Whaddayaknow? is proud to support our local community and its philanthropic efforts hosted by groups like ALIVE Rescue. We’ve even joined as a co-presenting sponsor with Bernese Builder for this year’s event, as it’s near and dear to both of our hearts.

Thanks to your support in online voting from June 1-20, the community rallied together and raised nearly $10,000 to help ALIVE Rescue save homeless animals. They are beyond grateful for every vote, every share, every donation, and every ounce of support you’ve shown.

But wait, there’s more! The Top 15 Dogs in the Donate to Vote challenge have qualified to compete THIS WEEKEND for the ultimate prize as the acclaimed TOP DOG of 2026. 

Grab your tickets below to join us at THE tail-wagging event of the summer.

Sunday, June 28

11:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.

Pilot Project Brewing – Logan Square

 2140 N Milwaukee Ave

Tickets are just $20, and 100% of proceeds go directly toward saving homeless animals. Friendly & vaccinated dogs are welcome, and their owners can enjoy 20% off the food menu as they partake in raffles and in-person judging.

In addition to the funds raised through the contest and ticket sales, an additional $2 from every beer purchased will be donated back to ALIVE Rescue.

Sounds like a win-win situation.

Not Just an Award Ceremony: It’s a Celebration!

If you join us this Sunday for the LIVE event, you can enjoy:

  •  Delicious pizza from Pizza Lobo
  •  A complimentary beer tasting from Pilot Project Brewing
  •  An amazing raffle full of great prizes
  •  Fun games and activities

Meet fellow rescue lovers and adorable adoptable animals, and watch the Top 15 pups compete LIVE for the title of Best in Rescue!

 

Top 3 LIVE Dog Prizes:

 First Place ($725+ Value)

  • Centerfold in the ALIVE Rescue Coloring Book
  • $150 Gorjana Gift Card
  • Ultimate grooming package featuring Andis tools, supplements, and treats

 Second Place ($175 Value)

  • $100 Penelope’s Shop Gift Card
  • At-home pup spa package
  • Dog water sprinkler
  • Treats

 Third Place ($120 Value)

  • $50 Abboo Candle Co. Gift Card
  • Arcadia Trail Outdoor Adventure Kit

 

    We’re thrilled to announce that one of these Top 15 Dogs is Whaddayaknow’s very own Lily!

    Meet Lily

    When Whaddayaknow? host Lindsay’s not curating the perfect trivia playlist weekly for Friar Tuck (or maybe even writing this blog), she and Lily enjoy long walks on the Chicago lakefront. What is this 7 lbs. of fluff’s favorite pastime? Any chance to do a meet-and-greet with her devoted fans (any animal or human within eyesight).

    Dog smiling on a blanket by the lakefront
    Lindsay Ritenbaugh headshot

    Lindsay Ritenbaugh serves as the Lead Content Strategist for Whaddayaknow? Free Pub Trivia. Coupled with a background in elementary and higher education, her Whaddayaknow? story began in 2013. She joined the Southern Comfort team of co-workers and fellow Florida/Georgia transplants at Merkle’s Bar & Grill and the rest was history! Even during a brief relocation back to Florida, Lindsay remained closely connected thanks to the company's virtual bingo and trivia offerings in 2020. She's spent the last five years playing (and hosting!) trivia throughout the Lakeview East, Lincoln Park, Southport Corridor, and Wrigleyville neighborhoods.

    In her role as content lead, Lindsay now brings the fun of trivia to life by sharing stories that highlight the energy and camaraderie of the game. In addition to keeping players up to date on upcoming Whaddayaknow? events and special happenings, she channels her love of storytelling into content that resonates with both devoted trivia fans and curious newcomers alike.

    Compete against Lindsay and the Washington Generals Tuesdays at The Butcher’s Tap, if you dare. Or start your own team and weekly tradition Wednesdays at Friar Tuck and/or Thursdays at Replay Lakeview, where you can experience her endearing teacher voice live on the mic.