Best in Trivia Rescue

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.

This year marks the 6th annual Best in Rescue event, and there’s lots of ways for you (and your pets) to participate!

  • Think your pet has what it takes to earn the crown? Visit this link or scan the QR code on the flyer below to enter your animal in the “Donate to Vote” event before May 31 at 11:59 p.m. CDT! Your $20 donation includes 20 votes to help get your campaign going.
  • Don’t have a pet? You can still make a difference! For just $1/vote between June 1-20, you can help Alive Rescue support homeless animals in the area AND decide which contestant best personifies the prestigious title of Best in Rescue 2026!
Best In Rescue 2026 Submission Flyer

But wait, there’s more! The top 15 dogs in the Donate to Vote challenge can represent your family LIVE and compete 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

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.

While Whaddayaknow? Free Pub Trivia provides countless opportunities for human enrichment each week, we can’t leave out our furry, feathery, or scaly friends! Below are just a few of our favorites.

Meet Nitro

When she’s not on the mic at Eris Brewery or the aptly named Dog Haus – Wicker Park, Whaddayaknow? host Kari loves making funny faces with her sweet four-legged pal. Who’s been a good albeit serious boy that can likely win a staring contest? My money’s on Nitro.

Dog making a funny face while looking up from their pet bed at a camera
Cat snuggled up with a blanket and fish catnip toy

Meet Asia

With a government name like Miss Asia Pinky Fuzzy Cat and a side eye to match, this fancy feline is always fishing for attention. She’s keeping Whaddayaknow? host Bryson’s favorite blanket warm while he’s working the crowd at AliveOne or Carol’s Pub.

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
Jake R headshot

Meet Jake

One of these things is not like the others, but Jake is a combination of one of the best types of humans. When he’s not evoking knowledge and excitement on the mic at at Gannon’s Pub, you can find him closely connected to ALIVE Rescue, a state-of-the-art non-profit and animal safe haven right here in Chicago.

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.