chicagotribune--2020-01-10--Mike Ditka's almost 40 years as a paid pitchman: Check out more than 50 commercials from the former

Mike Ditka's almost 40 years as a paid pitchman: Check out more than 50 commercials from the former Chicago Bears coach

has been the spokesperson for products ranging from antifreeze to Vienna beef sausages in his almost 40 years as a paid pitch man .
Here 's a look back at some of those print and television advertisements .
The types of things Ditka has promoted '' Hi Mike Ditka .
I believe in protecting any investment . ''
After being hired by George Halas in January 1982 , the coach 's first TV commercial as Bears coach was for this rustproofing system , which was based in Elmhurst , in 1982 .
Local photographer Marc Hauser recalled working with Ditka @ @ @ @ @ @ @ shoot on behalf of this company in a 1987 Tribune article , `` We had to make him four gallons of iced tea . ''
`` This is not for me . ''
In 1985 , Bears quarterback starred in a Honda Scooters commercial touting his outrageousness .
In this ad , which features the same music and a similar set as the McMahon ad , Ditka bucks outragous looks for a more elegant ride .
That 's something he finds , presumably , in this Pontiac Bonneville .
The car maker ended @ @ @ @ @ @ @ stolen from Chicago-area commuter trains as fast as they went up , and the display company had to replace all 378 twice in a month .
`` Even us tough guys like a little extra comfort underneath . ''
Long before fellow Chicago sports icon Michael Jordan signed on as its spokesman , Hanes tapped Ditka to chat about the brand 's men 's underwear line .
If you ca n't be an NFL coach , then why not dress like one ?
Ditka shows a fan he , too , can don @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and cap by Sports Specialties .
Pro Line clothes are still available from the NFL .
`` Protection to 84 degrees below zero . ''
Prior to the filming of this commercial , Ditka served on NASCAR driver Kyle Petty 's pit crew at the Daytona 500 -- as Petty 's water boy .
Ditka 's granddaughter , Lauren , called him `` Peep '' -- her family suspects -- after recognizing him in this commercial .
`` You , chunky -- get over here ! ''
Ditka is the definition of hangry @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Chunky Soup .
He even stayed on as its pitchman following a heart attack , which forced him onto a low-fat , low-salt diet .
The Tribune reported in June 1989 that Ditka signed a three-year promotion deal with the automaker .
But it also was reported the coach was chauffered in a limousine to his weekly TV show , which inspired him to start Iron Mike Limousine Service .
`` Even a coach needs a day in the sun . ''
Ditka , presumably waiting for a flight , is chatted up @ @ @ @ @ @ @ persuade him to take up fishing when he travels to Florida .
The coach appeared in the air carrier 's ads for three years before parting ways in 1989 .
Midway Airlines went bankrupt in 1991 .
`` I 'm going with the zesty , reduced calorie red French . ''
A cartoon Ditka spars with the title character from the `` Cathy '' comic strip .
At the time of this ad , Ditka was an investor in a group that owned three Burger King restaurants in the Chicago area .
`` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ . ''
Wearing full Bears coaching gear , Ditka touts the tough benefits of this congestion-fighting medicine .
According to a Crain 's Chicago Business article , ( one of nearly a dozen products ) from the same year , Ditka was pulling in $ 50,000 to $ 250,000 `` for hawking one of nearly a dozen products . ''
`` I never worry about the fine print at Talman .
They treat me right . ''
Ditka , once a customer of this savings and loan , was chosen to be its @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the coach 's visibility and hard-work ethic , which he felt mirrored the company 's own values .
He was reportedly paid less than $ 100,000 to appear in this ad campaign .
In a print ad from 1989 , Ditka is seen lounging in the ultimate man cave as part of the Campbell 's sponsored `` Ultimate couch potato '' sweepstakes .
`` It 's not just a hot dog .
It 's an attitude . ''
Opened in Naperville , the fast-food restaurant bearing Ditka 's likeness had a `` Hall @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` MVP '' steak sandwich and a `` Eye '' barbecue beef sandwich on its menu .
Its decor was `` constructed like a football stadium , down to the skyboxes ( an overhead dining area ) .
The bottom section is the field , with green-striped floor and tables , and the orange and blue sections converge upward gradually , creating a stadium effect , '' according to a December 1990 Tribune story .
`` It 's great the way Electric Avenue does whatever it takes to crush their opponent . ''
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ , Ditka worked at Montgomery Ward as a sales rep in the offseason .
Maybe that 's why the retailer tapped him for a series of print and TV ads and appearances in the early 1990s , which earned him a reported $ 500,000 per year .
Ditka was paid a reported $ 75,000 to star with fellow NFL coaches and players in this ad , which features the coach without his trademark hairdo .
According to a 1992 Tribune article , `` The funny thing about the Lay 's potato-chip commercial , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Michael Jackson , is that most of the players in the spot are having mediocre years or have been sidelined with injuries . ''
Reading from a dictionary , an impatient Ditka spells out the definition for tough but throws the book away after a failed search for the word `` oleum , '' which is short for the product 's competitor .
Perhaps Ditka 's first visit to Soldier Field after he was fired from the Bears in January 1993 was for a promotion sponsored by Krylon .
After being fired as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was out of a job .
The White Sox saw this as an opportunity to `` interview '' the coach .
But , in a classic Superfans sketch , Ditka was shooting for the stars for his next job .
`` He should really learn to control his temper . ''
While on a coaching hiatus , Ditka filmed this Super Bowl commercial .
Tribune sports reporter Bernie Lincicome did n't approve , saying in a February 1994 column , `` A coach is supposed to coach .
And not beer bottles .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ your Momma . ''
Remember the competition for collect calling during the late 1990s ?
Former Bears quarterback Jim Harbaugh also stumped for 1-800-Collect , but Bulls great Michael Jordan was an MCI spokesman '' Actually , you could save money using a woman 's hair spray .
You 'll always get in free on Ladies Night . ''
While head coach of the , an almost 60-year-old Ditka appeared in magazine ads for the men 's hair spray .
In this case , he also claimed to use the product .
`` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ this job , too ? ''
Recently fired as Saints coach , Ditka turns up in yet another Super Bowl commercial ( this one aired during the pregame show ) .
This time , he 's trying to persuade a pizza delivery guy to rent `` Runaway Bride . ''
`` When people understand what Z-Tel can do , they will make a change . ''
When the Tampa-based telephone company entered the Chicago market , it chose the now-former Bears and Saints coach to be the face of its television , newspaper @ @ @ @ @ @ @ an ad campaign that featured famous NFL coaches stumping for Marriott properties , Ditka gives `` training camp '' advice to a business traveler .
The actress opposite the coach might look familiar .
Her name is Melanie Paxson and she 's appeared in many TV commercials and sitcoms , according to her IMDb page .
Raised in Champaign , Paxson also trained with Second City and Steppenwolf .
Easily recognized for her spunky hair and voice , Paxson starred in a series of Glad trash bag commercials when then known as Melanie @ @ @ @ @ @ @ guys -- you 're all winners ! ''
Ditka coaches several eager gamblers before declaring , `` Now , this is my kind of place . ''
`` In football , come rain or snow or whatever , we play .
We stay in the game . ''
Ditka was signed to promote Bayer and GlaxoSmithKline 's impotence drug -- a competitor to 's Viagra -- in 2003 .
Ditka spoke openly about his erectile dysfunction at the Pro Football Hall of Fame 's 40th anniversary , and also briefly considered a run @ @ @ @ @ @ @ period .
This ad , which pits football 's benefits against baseball 's , ran during NFL games .
Tribune columnist David Haugh had the following reaction to this Super Bowl ad : `` Who is Diana Pearl and why were former Bears Mike Ditka , Jim McMahon and William Perry , as well as former Bull Dennis Rodman , in a commercial saying her name ?
Actually , Diana Pearl is the name of a countertop color designed by the Houston-based home-supply company Cosentino USA .
If the product holds over time @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ' pitchmen and overexposed bad boy Rodman , business will be booming for years . ''
Actually , the countertop color has been discontinued .
Ditka , who became part owner of the Arena Football League 's Chicago Rush in 2004 , stars opposite poker player Phil Hellmuth and Rush mascot Grabowski to promote ArenaBowl XX .
Played in Las Vegas on June 11 , 2006 , the Rush beat the , 69-61 .
The AFL folded in 2008 but later returned .
Several attempts were made to bring the Rush back to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the 'Half-time flush and the mass flush equals the amount of water that flows over Niagara Falls for seven minutes . ''
The toilet tissue company chose the coach to educate people about choosing the right toilet paper -- especially during Super Bowl half time .
`` During the Big Game , the pressure to win is always intense in the locker room , '' said Ditka .
`` And , the thing is , not only does the team feel the pressure , but the fans and their bathrooms do too .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ johns are flushed , they go into overtime mode .
All that water pressure can cause serious clogs so , it 's important to prepare ! ''
`` I was afraid we 'd ruin the new carpet . ''
The now defunct electronics retailer hired Ditka and former quarterback to star in this ad campaign during the 2007 NFL season .
`` Besides , it does n't taste like s -- - . ''
Ditka 's appeal is n't only in the Chicago area .
Lee 's Discount Liquor in Las Vegas featured @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in one of its ads .
The network of dental treatment centers has four offices in the Chicago area .
`` I did n't come out of retirement to coach a bunch of Momma 's boys . ''
A tough talking Ditka practices his `` pep talk . ''
This ad promoted Ditka 's return to the sidelines to coach high school seniors at the Under Armour-sponsored All-America Game in St. Petersburg , Fla. , in January 2011 .
This 2010 recreation of the '85 Bears `` Super Bowl Shuffle '' featured not @ @ @ @ @ @ @ from that team -- Jim McMahon , Mike Singletary , Richard Dent , Willie Gault , Otis Wilson , Steve Fuller and Maury Buford .
Ringtones of this popular Super Bowl commercial were also available for 99 cents and proceeds were to benefit the coach 's Gridiron Greats Assistance Fund .
`` I ca n't believe you missed the extra pint ! ''
After previously using news conference footage of Ditka and other former NFL coaches , Coors chose Ditka to be its spokesman for this Coors Light commercial .
`` Before you @ @ @ @ @ @ @ you are worthy . ''
Ditka and daughter-in-law , Stacy , own this company , which produces onesies , shirts , hoodies and hats bearing Da Coach 's likeness and iconic sweater design .
`` It works for me ! ''
The coach lent his name to a brand of supplements , which included the `` Ultimate Virility Enhancer , '' `` Ultimate Prostate Support '' and `` Ultimate Joint Support . ''
The line is discontinued .
George Wendt -- reprising his role as Bob Swerski from `` Saturday Night Live 's @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Bears receiver Tom Waddle and current Bears play-by-play announcer Jeff Joniak to tout the brand 's NFL T-shirts for men , women and `` da babies . ''
Ditka , riding atop the shoulders of two guys in football gear , approves .
`` Remember to hire smart and bet on the vets . ''
This is n't the only military veterans charity Ditka has endorsed -- he has also commented on behalf of Restaurants for Veterans and his own charity , Gridiron Greats .
`` Things happen for a reason .
Now @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ! ''
For 12 years , the coach has been an ESPN mainstay .
Ditka was signed as an analyst in 2004 .
In March , Ditka signed a new contract with the network that allows him to be a `` SportsCenter '' contributor from his homes in Chicago and Naples , Fla -- and requires less travel .
`` You know , I spent decades in football locker rooms so I got a very good nose for aromas -- and most of them would kill ya . ''
With an assortment of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ from $ 15 to $ 50 on his own website , Ditka seems a natural fit appearing in multiple TV spots for this beverage supplier .
He also has held bottle signings for his wines at Binny 's stores .
Other Chicago coaches have also become Binny 's spokespeople , including Cubs manager Joe Maddon and Blackhawks coach Joel Quenneville .
`` Chicago deserves a monster sausage they can be proud of . ''
The iconic Chicago-style hot dog purveyor teamed up with Ditka in 2013 to produce two flavors of sausage , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , for sale in local grocery stores and are also available for purchase on Vienna Beef 's website .
`` Coaching ?
I 'm not going to New York to coach . ''
Ditka has three Super Bowl rings : one for playing with the , another for serving as assistant coach for the Cowboys and the last for coaching the Bears to a Super Bowl XX win over the .
And he has a championship ring from 1963 , before the Super Bowl started in 1967 .
Yet , according to a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ see Ditka wear his Bears 1963 NFL championship ring : `` That ring looks like a high school class ring almost , '' Ditka said .
`` There is n't a lot to it .
It was a minimal cost to Mr. Halas , believe me . ''
In a news release , the online discount retailer said it hired Ditka to star in this ad since he `` portrays the same passion and excitement we feel about our business . ''
The coach said he enjoyed being reunited with former Bears quarterback @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
We think they both just wanted an excuse to use the word ri-Ditka-lous .
`` The world 's a better place now that we 've made this halftime show . ''
Ditka does his best Miley Cyrus `` Wrecking Ball '' impression during this two-and-a-half-minute commercial that ran during the 2014 Grammys .
We suspect the coach lip synched his way through this spot .
He did , however , relase a `` Super Bowl Shuffle '' -inspired music video of his own called the `` Grabowski Shuffle '' in 1987 .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ copies .
The Found Footage Festival found this behind-the-scenes look at the making of this music video .
`` Put the hot stuff on it .
I like it hot .
I like a little giardiniera on there .
I like it to pop a little bit . ''
Dtika was named spokesperson for the two brands in May 2014 .
Since then , Al 's Beef temporarily added a spicy , jumbo `` Ditka Dog '' to its menu and Nancy 's Pizza introduced Da Ditka Pizza -- cheese , meatballs , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` Yeah , stick to the game plan , Bruce .
Stick to the game plan . ''
After considering his own run for a U.S. Senate seat in 2004 , Ditka was tapped by Rauner 's campaign to appear in this 2014 ad where the two talk politics .
In 2016 , Ditka was asked to attend the Republican National Convention in Cleveland but the coach declined .
`` I do n't travel much anymore except between Chicago and Florida , and giving a speech at a convention is n't really my @ @ @ @ @ @ @ grabs a sweater from his closet -- a sweater .
Curses !
In the several weeks this ad ran on TV , the Packers lost three straight games -- a first since became the team 's quarterback in 2008 .
In a follow-up commercial , Ditka tears off the Packers sweater to reveal a Bears sweater underneath .
Then the Bears lost a close game to the Broncos .
`` I 'm personally involved in the selection of all the food products that carry my name , and I have spent a lot @ @ @ @ @ @ @ These products by Devanco Foods are available locally at Jewel , Mariano 's , Sunset Foods and other retailers .
We 're not sure why the erectile dysfunction pitchman was chosen as the face of the Drug Enforcement Administration 's `` Take Back Day '' , which encouraged people to responsibly dispose of their unused prescription medication .
Ditka and Hall of Famer Whitey Herzog have both written testimonials for the hearing aid provider , which has 20 Chicago locations .
`` Look guys , we do n't like to talk about it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ about it . ''
This is the third erectile dysfunction drug or supplement promoted by Ditka .
The coach spoke openly about his erectile dysfunction at the Pro Football Hall of Fame 's 40th anniversary in 2003 .
Hired as a pitchman for the car insurance brand in December 2016 , this commercial shows Ditka working on a car in a garage -- its walls plastered in posters from his NFL playing days .
`` It 's comfort that wo n't leave you smelling like a football gym bag . ''
Ditka and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ smelly sporting goods from their playing days while dabbing on some of the pain relief cream .
`` Tell me , are you getting all the benefits you 're entitled to ? ''
Wearing his Super Bowl ring , `` Iron Mike '' asks viewers to call the toll-free number to find out if they qualify for benefits including `` FREE gym membership . ''

Mike Ditka has been the spokesperson for products ranging from antifreeze to Vienna beef sausages in his almost 40 years as a paid pitch man. Here's a look back at some of those print and television advertisements.
The types of things Ditka has promoted
General categories for 56 commercials or endorsements:
HOME FOOD HEALTH TECHNOLOGY SPORTS BEVERAGE AUTOMOTIVE CLOTHING ENTERTAINMENT / TRAVEL GOVERNMENT / POLITICS HOME FOOD HEALTH TECHNOLOGY SPORTS BEVERAGE AUTOMOTIVE CLOTHING ENTERTAINMENT / TRAVEL GOVERNMENT / POLITICS FOOD HOME HEALTH TECHNOLOGY SPORTS BEVERAGE AUTOMOTIVE CLOTHING ENTERTAINMENT /TRAVEL GOVERNMENT /POLITICS FOOD HOME HEALTH TECHNOLOGY SPORTS BEVERAGE AUTOMOTIVE CLOTHING ENTERTAINMENT /TRAVEL GOVERNMENT /POLITICS
Ditka's endorsements, by run date
The Protector Corp. (1983)
"Hi Mike Ditka. I believe in protecting any investment."
After being hired by George Halas in January 1982, the coach's first TV commercial as Bears coach was for this rustproofing system, which was based in Elmhurst, in 1982. Local photographer Marc Hauser recalled working with Ditka in his studio for an all-day photo shoot on behalf of this company in a 1987 Tribune article, "We had to make him four gallons of iced tea."
Pontiac (1986)
"This is not for me."
In 1985, Bears quarterback Jim McMahon starred in a Honda Scooters commercial touting his outrageousness. In this ad, which features the same music and a similar set as the McMahon ad, Ditka bucks outragous looks for a more elegant ride. That's something he finds, presumably, in this Pontiac Bonneville. The car maker ended production in 2009.
U.S. News & World Report (1986)
"You tackle the issues."
These posters were stolen from Chicago-area commuter trains as fast as they went up, and the display company had to replace all 378 twice in a month.
Hanes (1987)
"Even us tough guys like a little extra comfort underneath."
Long before fellow Chicago sports icon Michael Jordan signed on as its spokesman, Hanes tapped Ditka to chat about the brand's men's underwear line.
NFL Pro Line clothes (1987)
"That's my sweater."
If you can't be an NFL coach, then why not dress like one? Ditka shows a fan he, too, can don a Cliff Engle sweater, Starter jacket and cap by Sports Specialties. Pro Line clothes are still available from the NFL.
Peak Antifreeze (1988)
"Protection to 84 degrees below zero."
Prior to the filming of this commercial, Ditka served on NASCAR driver Kyle Petty's pit crew at the Daytona 500 -- as Petty's water boy. Ditka's granddaughter, Lauren, called him "Peep" -- her family suspects -- after recognizing him in this commercial.
Campbell's (1988)
"You, chunky -- get over here!"
Ditka is the definition of hangry in this ad for the company's Chunky Soup. He even stayed on as its pitchman following a heart attack, which forced him onto a low-fat, low-salt diet.
Chicago Northwest Indiana Toyota Dealers (1989)
"Start saving today with these guys."
The Tribune reported in June 1989 that Ditka signed a three-year promotion deal with the automaker. But it also was reported the coach was chauffered in a limousine to his weekly TV show, which inspired him to start Iron Mike Limousine Service.
Midway Airlines (1989)
"Even a coach needs a day in the sun."
Ditka, presumably waiting for a flight, is chatted up by a fellow passenger who tries to persuade him to take up fishing when he travels to Florida. The coach appeared in the air carrier's ads for three years before parting ways in 1989. Midway Airlines went bankrupt in 1991.
McDonald's (1989)
"I'm going with the zesty, reduced calorie red French."
A cartoon Ditka spars with the title character from the "Cathy" comic strip. At the time of this ad, Ditka was an investor in a group that owned three Burger King restaurants in the Chicago area.
Dristan (1989)
"And it won't make you drowsy."
Wearing full Bears coaching gear, Ditka touts the tough benefits of this congestion-fighting medicine. According to a Crain's Chicago Business article, (one of nearly a dozen products) from the same year, Ditka was pulling in $50,000 to $250,000 "for hawking one of nearly a dozen products."
Talman Home Federal Savings and Loan Association (1989)
"I never worry about the fine print at Talman. They treat me right."
Ditka, once a customer of this savings and loan, was chosen to be its first spokesman since the company head admired the coach's visibility and hard-work ethic, which he felt mirrored the company's own values. He was reportedly paid less than $100,000 to appear in this ad campaign.
Lane/Campbell's Chunky Soup (1989)
"Couch potatoes of the world unite!"
In a print ad from 1989, Ditka is seen lounging in the ultimate man cave as part of the Campbell's sponsored "Ultimate couch potato" sweepstakes.
Ditka Dogs (1990)
"It's not just a hot dog. It's an attitude."
Opened in Naperville, the fast-food restaurant bearing Ditka's likeness had a "Hall of Famer" jumbo hot dog, "MVP" steak sandwich and a " Bulls Eye" barbecue beef sandwich on its menu. Its decor was "constructed like a football stadium, down to the skyboxes (an overhead dining area). The bottom section is the field, with green-striped floor and tables, and the orange and blue sections converge upward gradually, creating a stadium effect," according to a December 1990 Tribune story.
Montgomery Ward (1992)
"It's great the way Electric Avenue does whatever it takes to crush their opponent."
Little-known fact: In the early 1960s, Ditka worked at Montgomery Ward as a sales rep in the offseason. Maybe that's why the retailer tapped him for a series of print and TV ads and appearances in the early 1990s, which earned him a reported $500,000 per year.
Frito-Lay (1993)
"Hey, a chip's a chip, Tom."
Ditka was paid a reported $75,000 to star with fellow NFL coaches and players in this Super Bowl ad, which features the coach without his trademark hairdo. According to a 1992 Tribune article, "The funny thing about the Lay's potato-chip commercial, slated for the Frito-Lay halftime show starring Michael Jackson, is that most of the players in the spot are having mediocre years or have been sidelined with injuries."
Krylon (1993)
"I hate rust."
Reading from a dictionary, an impatient Ditka spells out the definition for tough but throws the book away after a failed search for the word "oleum," which is short for the product's competitor. Perhaps Ditka's first visit to Soldier Field after he was fired from the Bears in January 1993 was for a promotion sponsored by Krylon.
Chicago White Sox (1993)
Silent Ditka.
After being fired as Bears coach in January 1993, Ditka was out of a job. The White Sox saw this as an opportunity to "interview" the coach. But, in a classic "Saturday Night Live" Superfans sketch, Ditka was shooting for the stars for his next job.
Budweiser "Bud Bowl" (1994)
"He should really learn to control his temper."
While on a coaching hiatus, Ditka filmed this Super Bowl commercial. Tribune sports reporter Bernie Lincicome didn't approve, saying in a February 1994 column, "A coach is supposed to coach. And not beer bottles."
1-800-Collect (1997)
"Make believe I just insulted your Momma."
Remember the competition for collect calling during the late 1990s? Former Bears quarterback Jim Harbaugh also stumped for 1-800-Collect, but Bulls great Michael Jordan was an MCI spokesman
Alberto-Culvert's Consort Hair spray (1999)
"Actually, you could save money using a woman's hair spray. You'll always get in free on Ladies Night."
While head coach of the New Orleans Saints , an almost 60-year-old Ditka appeared in magazine ads for the men's hair spray. In this case, he also claimed to use the product.
Blockbuster (2000)
"You don't want me to lose this job, too?"
Recently fired as Saints coach, Ditka turns up in yet another Super Bowl commercial (this one aired during the pregame show). This time, he's trying to persuade a pizza delivery guy to rent "Runaway Bride."
Z-Tel Technologies (2001)
"When people understand what Z-Tel can do, they will make a change."
When the Tampa-based telephone company entered the Chicago market, it chose the now-former Bears and Saints coach to be the face of its television, newspaper and billboard advertisements.
Marriott Residence Inn (2002)
"Geez, I really miss it."
As part of an ad campaign that featured famous NFL coaches stumping for Marriott properties, Ditka gives "training camp" advice to a business traveler.
Glad (2002)
"Yeah, I'm mad all right."
The actress opposite the coach might look familiar. Her name is Melanie Paxson and she's appeared in many TV commercials and sitcoms, according to her IMDb page. Raised in Champaign, Paxson also trained with Second City and Steppenwolf. Easily recognized for her spunky hair and voice, Paxson starred in a series of Glad trash bag commercials when then known as Melanie Deanne Moore.
Majestic Star Casino (2004)
"All right, guys -- you're all winners!"
Ditka coaches several eager gamblers before declaring, "Now, this is my kind of place."
Levitra (2004)
"In football, come rain or snow or whatever, we play. We stay in the game."
Ditka was signed to promote Bayer and GlaxoSmithKline's impotence drug -- a competitor to Pfizer 's Viagra -- in 2003. Ditka spoke openly about his erectile dysfunction at the Pro Football Hall of Fame's 40th anniversary, and also briefly considered a run for U.S. Senate in the same time period. This ad, which pits football's benefits against baseball's, ran during NFL games.
Cosentino Silestone (2005)
"I am Diana Pearl."
Tribune columnist David Haugh had the following reaction to this Super Bowl ad: "Who is Diana Pearl and why were former Bears Mike Ditka, Jim McMahon and William Perry, as well as former Bull Dennis Rodman, in a commercial saying her name? Actually, Diana Pearl is the name of a countertop color designed by the Houston-based home-supply company Cosentino USA. If the product holds over time as well as the familiar 1985 Bears' pitchmen and overexposed NBA bad boy Rodman, business will be booming for years." Actually, the countertop color has been discontinued.
Arena Football League (2006)
"Hey, pipe down, poker brat."
Ditka, who became part owner of the Arena Football League's Chicago Rush in 2004, stars opposite poker player Phil Hellmuth and Rush mascot Grabowski to promote ArenaBowl XX. Played in Las Vegas on June 11, 2006, the Rush beat the Orlando Predators , 69-61. The AFL folded in 2008 but later returned. Several attempts were made to bring the Rush back to no avail.
Scott toilet tissue (2007)
"It's called the 'Half-time flush and the mass flush equals the amount of water that flows over Niagara Falls for seven minutes."
The toilet tissue company chose the coach to educate people about choosing the right toilet paper -- especially during Super Bowl half time. "During the Big Game, the pressure to win is always intense in the locker room," said Ditka. "And, the thing is, not only does the team feel the pressure, but the fans and their bathrooms do too. See, during halftime, so many johns are flushed, they go into overtime mode. All that water pressure can cause serious clogs so, it's important to prepare!"
Circuit City (2007)
"I was afraid we'd ruin the new carpet."
The now defunct electronics retailer hired Ditka and former Broncos quarterback John Elway to star in this ad campaign during the 2007 NFL season.
Lee's Discount Liquor of Las Vegas (2008)
"Besides, it doesn't taste like s---."
Ditka's appeal isn't only in the Chicago area. Lee's Discount Liquor in Las Vegas featured the coach's Kick Ass Red wine in one of its ads.
Clear Choice Dental Implant Center (2009)
"Here's a 3-D CAT Scan -- it's like giving docs X-ray vision."
The network of dental treatment centers has four offices in the Chicago area.
Under Armour (2010)
"I didn't come out of retirement to coach a bunch of Momma's boys."
A tough talking Ditka practices his "pep talk." This ad promoted Ditka's return to the sidelines to coach high school seniors at the Under Armour-sponsored All-America Game in St. Petersburg, Fla., in January 2011.
Boost Mobile (2010)
"That's fresh."
This 2010 recreation of the '85 Bears "Super Bowl Shuffle" featured not just Ditka, but plenty of players from that team -- Jim McMahon, Mike Singletary, Richard Dent, Willie Gault, Otis Wilson, Steve Fuller and Maury Buford. Ringtones of this popular Super Bowl commercial were also available for 99 cents and proceeds were to benefit the coach's Gridiron Greats Assistance Fund.
Coors Brewing Co. (2011)
"I can't believe you missed the extra pint!"
After previously using news conference footage of Ditka and other former NFL coaches, Coors chose Ditka to be its spokesman for this Coors Light commercial.
Ditka Kids/Ditka Goods (2011)
"Before you can win you have to believe that you are worthy."
Ditka and daughter-in-law, Stacy, own this company, which produces onesies, shirts, hoodies and hats bearing Da Coach's likeness and iconic sweater design.
Iron Mike supplements (2011)
"It works for me!"
The coach lent his name to a brand of supplements, which included the "Ultimate Virility Enhancer," "Ultimate Prostate Support" and "Ultimate Joint Support." The line is discontinued.
Old Navy (2012)
"Hey! Great job, fellas. Let's roll."
George Wendt -- reprising his role as Bob Swerski from "Saturday Night Live's" Superfans sketch fame -- joins former Bears receiver Tom Waddle and current Bears play-by-play announcer Jeff Joniak to tout the brand's NFL T-shirts for men, women and "da babies." Ditka, riding atop the shoulders of two guys in football gear, approves.
Coalition to Salute America's Heroes (2012)
"Remember to hire smart and bet on the vets."
This isn't the only military veterans charity Ditka has endorsed -- he has also commented on behalf of Restaurants for Veterans and his own charity, Gridiron Greats.
ESPN Fantasy Football (2012)
"Things happen for a reason. Now, stand up. You look pathetic!"
For 12 years, the coach has been an ESPN mainstay. Ditka was signed as an analyst in 2004. In March, Ditka signed a new contract with the network that allows him to be a "SportsCenter" contributor from his homes in Chicago and Naples, Fla -- and requires less travel.
Binny's Beverage Depot (2013)
"You know, I spent decades in football locker rooms so I got a very good nose for aromas -- and most of them would kill ya."
With an assortment of wines bearing his name ranging in price from $15 to $50 on his own website, Ditka seems a natural fit appearing in multiple TV spots for this beverage supplier. He also has held bottle signings for his wines at Binny's stores. Other Chicago coaches have also become Binny's spokespeople, including Cubs manager Joe Maddon and Blackhawks coach Joel Quenneville.
Vienna Beef (2013)
"Chicago deserves a monster sausage they can be proud of."
The iconic Chicago-style hot dog purveyor teamed up with Ditka in 2013 to produce two flavors of sausage, which were served in Ditka's restaurants, for sale in local grocery stores and are also available for purchase on Vienna Beef's website.
New York Jewelers (2013)
"Coaching? I'm not going to New York to coach."
Ditka has three Super Bowl rings: one for playing with the Cowboys , another for serving as assistant coach for the Cowboys and the last for coaching the Bears to a Super Bowl XX win over the Patriots . And he has a championship ring from 1963, before the Super Bowl started in 1967. Yet, according to a 2013 Tribune story, you won't see Ditka wear his Bears 1963 NFL championship ring: "That ring looks like a high school class ring almost," Ditka said. "There isn't a lot to it. It was a minimal cost to Mr. Halas, believe me."
Overstock.com (2013)
"Peep toe. Pumps. Can't beat Overstock.com prices!"
In a news release, the online discount retailer said it hired Ditka to star in this ad since he "portrays the same passion and excitement we feel about our business." The coach said he enjoyed being reunited with former Bears quarterback Jim McMahon for the 30-second TV spot. We think they both just wanted an excuse to use the word ri-Ditka-lous.
Pepsi (2014)
"The world's a better place now that we've made this halftime show."
Ditka does his best Miley Cyrus "Wrecking Ball" impression during this two-and-a-half-minute commercial that ran during the 2014 Grammys. We suspect the coach lip synched his way through this spot. He did, however, relase a "Super Bowl Shuffle"-inspired music video of his own called the "Grabowski Shuffle" in 1987. It went platinum selling more than 50,000 copies. The Found Footage Festival found this behind-the-scenes look at the making of this music video.
Al's Beef and Nancy's Pizza (2014)
"Put the hot stuff on it. I like it hot. I like a little giardiniera on there. I like it to pop a little bit."
Dtika was named spokesperson for the two brands in May 2014. Since then, Al's Beef temporarily added a spicy, jumbo "Ditka Dog" to its menu and Nancy's Pizza introduced Da Ditka Pizza -- cheese, meatballs, pepperoni, onions and green peppers.
Bruce Rauner campaign for Illinois governor (2014)
"Yeah, stick to the game plan, Bruce. Stick to the game plan."
After considering his own run for a U.S. Senate seat in 2004, Ditka was tapped by Rauner's campaign to appear in this 2014 ad where the two talk politics. In 2016, Ditka was asked to attend the Republican National Convention in Cleveland but the coach declined. "I don't travel much anymore except between Chicago and Florida, and giving a speech at a convention isn't really my style," he said.
McDonald's (2015)
"Go Pack go."
Ditka grabs a sweater from his closet -- a Packers sweater. Curses! In the several weeks this ad ran on TV, the Packers lost three straight games -- a first since Aaron Rodgers became the team's quarterback in 2008. In a follow-up commercial, Ditka tears off the Packers sweater to reveal a Bears sweater underneath. Then the Bears lost a close game to the Broncos.
Mike Ditka's Italian Beef & Gravy, Road House BBQ Beef & Giardiniera (2016)
"I'm personally involved in the selection of all the food products that carry my name, and I have spent a lot of time on this one."
These products by Devanco Foods are available locally at Jewel, Mariano's, Sunset Foods and other retailers.
Drug Enforcement Administration (2016)
"Help keep America's kids safe."
We're not sure why the erectile dysfunction pitchman was chosen as the face of the Drug Enforcement Administration's "Take Back Day", which encouraged people to responsibly dispose of their unused prescription medication.
Hearing Lab (2016)
"They'll listen, you'll hear."
Ditka and MLB Hall of Famer Whitey Herzog have both written testimonials for the hearing aid provider, which has 20 Chicago locations.
ProstatePM by LifeExtension (2016)
"Look guys, we don't like to talk about it. I don't like to talk about it."
This is the third erectile dysfunction drug or supplement promoted by Ditka. The coach spoke openly about his erectile dysfunction at the Pro Football Hall of Fame's 40th anniversary in 2003.
CarShield (2016)
"I'm pretty good under the hood."
Hired as a pitchman for the car insurance brand in December 2016, this commercial shows Ditka working on a car in a garage -- its walls plastered in posters from his NFL playing days.
Blue-Emu (2017)
"It's comfort that won't leave you smelling like a football gym bag."
Ditka and MLB Hall of Famer Johnny Bench compare smelly sporting goods from their playing days while dabbing on some of the pain relief cream.
The Medicare Helpline (2019)
"Tell me, are you getting all the benefits you're entitled to?"
Wearing his Super Bowl ring, "Iron Mike" asks viewers to call the toll-free number to find out if they qualify for benefits including "FREE gym membership."


chicagotribune--2020-01-10--Chinese New Year: Stylish ways to celebrate the Year of the Mouse

The famed mouse in red shorts and yellow shoes , who made his debut in 1928 , is also making @ @ @ @ @ on high end kitchen line Le Creuset ’ s cookware .
Coral & Tusk , @ @ @ @ @ , has embroidered mice on cool tooth fairy pillows , and has even created an @ @ @ @ @ ’ s perfect for framing after it ’ s sent .

Maileg's Chef Mouse comes dressed in his chef's hat and stylish houndstooth pants and travels in his cotton drawstring bag. $27, mailegusa.com (Maileg)
The humble mouse just got a major style boost as fashion’s symbol of the Lunar New Year, which starts Jan. 25. It’s actually the Year of the Rat, but as usual, designers have put their own spin on it .
Fashion house Gucci has joined forces with Disney to celebrate the Chinese New Year with a collection of over 75 pieces featuring Mickey Mouse on everything from sneakers to clothing to accessories.
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The famed mouse in red shorts and yellow shoes, who made his debut in 1928, is also making a splash in the kitchen on high end kitchen line Le Creuset’s cookware. Coral & Tusk, the chic home decor shop, has embroidered mice on cool tooth fairy pillows, and has even created an embroidered mouse note card that’s perfect for framing after it’s sent.
So go ahead, let a mouse into the house.


chicagotribune--2020-01-10--Harry Hains, ‘American Horror Story’ and ‘The OA’ Actor, dies at 27

On Jan 7 my beautiful son died .
He was 27 and had the world at his feet .
But @ @ @ @ @ illness and addiction .
A brilliant spark shone bright too short a time ..
I @ @ @ @ @ day of my life ... if you are in LA and know harry there is @ @ @ @ @ Hollywood Forever Sunday jan 12 at 3 pm .
6000 Santa Monica Blvd .. RSVP @ @ @

Actor Harry Hains, best known for his appearances in FX’s “American Horror Story” and Netflix’s “The OA,” died on Tuesday, his mother, actress Jane Badler, confirmed Friday on Instagram. He was 27.
“On Jan. 7 my beautiful son died. He was 27 and had the world at his feet. But sadly he struggled with mental illness and addiction,” Badler captioned a photo gallery. “A brilliant spark shone bright too short a time ... I will miss you Harry every day of my life.”
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A memorial service will be held in his honor at Los Angeles' Hollywood Forever Cemetery on Sunday.
Hains appeared in one episode of "American Horror Story," in addition to Amazon's crime drama "Sneaky Pete" and Netflix's sci-fi drama "The OA." He also had roles in indies, including the 2015 drama "The Surface."
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Born in Melbourne, Australia, Hains was residing in Los Angeles at the time of his death.
Badler, also an actor, starred as Diana in NBC’s 1980s sci-fi drama "V" and its 2009 remake. She also played Shannon Reed in the “Mission: Impossible” TV series.


chicagotribune--2020-01-10--Speak now or forever hold your peace: How to fire a bridesmaid

Make sure you listen to what she has to say and be calm .
Things may get heated , so @ @ @ @ @ calm and collected as possible .
Going into this , you need to understand the @ @ @ @ @ talk to you again , and you need to be prepared for this .
Hopefully @ @ @ @ @ an understanding .

Q: How do you fire a bridesmaid?
A: If you have found yourself in a predicament with someone in your bridal party posse, chances are she is feeling it too.
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This week, two bridal experts advise on how to have this difficult conversation. (Getty)
First, step back and clearly identify the issue. Sometimes this situation can be fixed by simply realigning your expectations. You may also want to consider hiring a wedding planner or coordinator to take the heat off your family/friends.
If your situation has reached a boiling point, set plans to meet alone, in person, just the two of you. Decide in advance of that meeting if you want to retain or remove the bridesmaid from the bridal party.
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During the meeting, outline the reasons for your disappointment, and prepare to present this in a way that won’t be offensive. If you ultimately want the bridesmaid to step down, prepare dialogue that clearly expresses that. This honest conversation can save your relationship.
If you want the bridesmaid to remain on your squad, be clear about what you need from her, and ask if she can meet these expectations. You can also offer her a reduced role (personal attendant, reader, greeter, etc.), so she is still involved but with less responsibility.
Whatever your decision, remember not to get emotional. The bridal party role is meant to be fun, and if it’s not working, offer the bridesmaid an “out.”
— Susan Cordogan, owner and founder of Big City Bride
A: We understand things happen as you are planning your wedding, and sometimes when selecting your bridesmaids, a “bump in the road” comes up, and you realize that someone just isn’t going to be a great fit.
If you do need to dismiss a bridesmaid, please do it in person, never, ever by text or email. This is already a very sensitive situation, and you need to be able to have a conversation face-to-face to explain your perspective. Ask your bridesmaid to meet you at a coffee shop, so you can easily part ways afterward if necessary.
Make sure you give her specific reasons why you are “letting her go” — maybe you had a disagreement or she isn’t putting in the time needed to be a bridesmaid, or she didn’t understand the cost involved. You need to be very clear and kind, and take some of the blame if you didn’t explain expectations upfront.
Make sure you listen to what she has to say and be calm. Things may get heated, so make sure you stay as calm and collected as possible. Going into this, you need to understand the consequences: She may never talk to you again, and you need to be prepared for this. Hopefully you can both come to an understanding.
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— Renny Pedersen, owner and creative director of Bliss Weddings & Events
hgreenspan@chicagotribune.com


chicagotribune--2020-01-11--At least 1,000 anti-abortion marchers rally in the Loop

Crowds of people wore blue and white knit hats with the four stars of the Chicago flag and “ March @ @ @ @ @ front .
The event featured about a dozen speakers , including Dr. Karen Deighan , @ @ @ @ @ gynecology at Loyola University Medical Center ; Pat McCaskey , vice president of the Chicago @ @ @ @ @ Dan Lipinski , one of the few remaining pro-life Democrats in Congress .

At least 1,000 anti-abortion marchers shut down Loop thoroughfares Saturday afternoon, rallying from the Daley Center to the Congress Plaza Hotel in the annual March For Life Chicago, chanting and carrying signs such as “Abortion isn’t health care."
The annual event, billed as “the Midwest’s largest pro-life event," attracted a few dozen counterprotesters as the nation becomes increasingly polarized over Roe v. Wade, the landmark 1973 Supreme Court case that established a woman’s right to terminate a pregnancy.
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Crowds of people wore blue and white knit hats with the four stars of the Chicago flag and “March for Life” across the front. The event featured about a dozen speakers, including Dr. Karen Deighan, associate professor of obstetrics and gynecology at Loyola University Medical Center; Pat McCaskey, vice president of the Chicago Bears; and U.S. Rep. Dan Lipinski, one of the few remaining pro-life Democrats in Congress.
The Chicago Police Department estimated the event attracted about 1,000 people, though an event spokesman said as many as 9,000 participated.
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Speaking at the Daley Center, Lipinski referenced the cold and windy weather, with rain expected to turn into 2 to 5 inches of snow later Saturday.
“Nothing is going to stop the pro-life movement,” he said to cheers from the crowd.
Maria Ignacio, a marcher visiting from California, said she “extra admires” the Midwesterners who participate in the winter March for Life event, rather than the much milder West Coast events.
“It’s really cool to be out here with hundreds of people who believe what you believe,” she said.
But 18-year-old Chicagoan Katherine Simeon is used to the January marches, having come with her church for the past several years.
“We believe life is sacred," she said.
Mikal Mandichak, 18, said he did not attend for religious reasons but rather because he “loves living” and wants to give others the chance to do so.
Across the street, at the corner of Washington and Dearborn streets, the counterprotesters gathered with a large sign that proclaimed: “Trump Pence Out Now," chanting the same words.
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Khandijah Green, 23, said she came out to stand on the other side because she believes women should have the right to choose when and whether they give birth.
She noted, though, that those rallying on both sides represent people likely to be set in their viewpoints. She saw the counterprotest as an opportunity to speak to people walking by who may be on the fence.
“Other people might listen,” she said.
After rallying in Daley Plaza, the anti-abortion marchers lined up, with bagpipers playing a tune near the front of the crowd. As they moved, police officers followed, controlling the traffic flow and temporarily shutting down portions of the streets to let them through. They marched east on Washington Street, then turned right to march south on Michigan Avenue to their ending point, the Congress Plaza Hotel, 520 S. Michigan Ave.
Earlier, about 11:30 a.m. a separate march stepped off from the Thompson Center and walked along West Randolph Street, with demonstrators denouncing the Trump administration’s actions against Iran.
mabuckley@chicagotribune.com


chicagotribune--2020-01-11--3 takeaways from Illinois’ 54-51 victory against Rutgers, including Ayo Dosunmu and Kofi Cockburn de

3 takeaways from Illinois’ 54-51 victory against Rutgers, including Ayo Dosunmu and Kofi Cockburn delivering — again

“ When you shoot 29 % , you better find a time to win , ” Underwood told reporters .
@ @ @ @ @ in the first half and found a way to win it against a good Rutgers @ @ @ @ @ proud of our guys today .
This shows the growth we ’ ve been seeing @ @ @ @

Welcome to the wild Big Ten.
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The last two seasons, Illinois and Rutgers finished among the bottom four in the conference. They battled Saturday for sole possession of second place.
The Illini secured it with a 54-51 victory at the State Farm Center, winning their third straight conference game.
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The low-scoring affair was ugly but will qualify as a beauty for fans eager to see Illinois (12-5, 4-2) ascend in the Big Ten. The Illini sit behind only Michigan State in the standings.
Coach Brad Underwood underplayed the meaning.
“We have two-thirds of the season left,” he told reporters in Champaign. “The next game is going to be just as hard as this one.”
Not how you draw it up, but we'll take it. Kofi has 9 pts, 16 rebounds. #Illini up 1, 32-21. pic.twitter.com/NpleYGvBaL — Illinois Basketball (@IlliniMBB) January 11, 2020
Here are three takeaways from the Illini victory:
1. Protecting home court is vital.
Illinois hadn’t won its first three Big Ten games in Champaign since the 2011-12 season. Included in those are wins this season against conference heavyweights Michigan and Purdue.
The Illini improved to 10-1 overall at home. Credit them for avoiding a letdown.
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The Illini faced an 11 a.m. tipoff after a meaningful road win against Wisconsin but delivered against a hot Rutgers team.
Illinois can add to its strong home record Saturday against Northwestern (5-9, 0-4).
2. The Illini defense looked dominant.
The Illini entered the game with the best scoring defense in conference play, holding opponents to 60.8 points per game.
Rutgers (12-4, 3-2), known for its strong defense, scored the second-fewest points this season to Purdue’s 37 on Sunday.
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While Illinois struggled offensively, scoring only 18 points in the first half and shooting only 28.6% from the field overall, it held the Scarlet Knights to just 34% shooting. The Illini outrebounded them 48-42.
“When you shoot 29%, you better find a time to win,” Underwood told reporters. “We shot 19% in the first half and found a way to win it against a good Rutgers team. I’m proud of our guys today. This shows the growth we’ve been seeing all year.”
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3. It sure helps to have reliable stars.
No, Kofi Cockburn and Ayo Dosunmu haven’t been perfect every game. But it has become clear they can help carry Illinois to victory.
Cockburn, a 7-footer, recorded his seventh double-double with 11 points and 17 rebounds. His total on the boards tied the freshman record he set this season. He also hit 5 of 6 free throws.
But it was sophomore guard Dosunmu who again sealed the victory with clutch shots — including four free throws in the final two minutes. It was a strong follow-up to the Wisconsin victory in which he made a go-ahead layup and 3-pointer in the final 90 seconds.
He scored 18 points Saturday — all but two after halftime — and added six rebounds.
“Coach has that trust in me down the stretch,” Dosunmu told reporters. “I like to seize the moment.”


chicagotribune--2020-01-11--Illinois defensive end Oluwole Betiku Jr. declares for the NFL draft

“ We wish Oluwole nothing but the best as he pursues his dream of playing in the NFL , ” @ @ @ @ @ in a statement .
“ Wole had a terrific impact on our football team , @ @ @ @ @ in the locker room .
We appreciate all he did during the time he was @ @ @ @ @ look forward to watching his future .
”

Illinois defensive end Oluwole Betiku Jr. announced Saturday that he is forgoing his senior season of eligibility and will declare for the NFL draft.
Betiku transferred from USC last summer and made an immediate impact for the Illini with nine sacks — tied for seventh most in school history — despite missing three games. He also had 36 tackles, including 13 for a loss.
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“I want to take the opportunity to thank everyone involved in the University of Illinois football program," Betiku posted on his Twitter account. "Although I only participated on the field for one season, I will always remember the special experiences I had here.
"I want to thank the coaches, fans, and my football brothers that have helped make my time in Champaign memorable.”
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The 6-foot-3, 250-pound Betiku, who grew up in Lagos, Nigeria, helped Illinois return to a bowl game for the first time since 2014. The Illini lost to Cal 35-20 to finish 6-7.
Illinois’ pro day is March 9 ahead of the April 23-25 NFL draft.
“We wish Oluwole nothing but the best as he pursues his dream of playing in the NFL,” Illinois coach Lovie Smith said in a statement. “Wole had a terrific impact on our football team, both on the field and in the locker room. We appreciate all he did during the time he was on the Illinois campus and look forward to watching his future.”


chicagotribune--2020-01-11--Dave Grohl, Billy Corgan, Max Weinberg among rockers mourning Neil Peart’s death

Smashing Pumpkins Billy Corgan found a photo of a long haired mustachioed Peart for Instagram and provided a lengthy commentary @ @ @ @ @ of Neil Peart , please let me add my voice to the chorus in praising @ @ @ @ @ .
His influence on the Smashing Pumpkins is indelible : giving us wings to soar @ @ @ @ @ to ultimately find our own way .
There isn ’ t a modern rock drummer @ @ @ @ @ heard him , and spoken his name with a reverence that ’ s reserved for @ @ @ @ @ as a lyricist , Mr. Peart is without compare .
I am forever in his @ @ @ @ @ say that though I never met him , I feel I knew him as a @ @ @ @ @ mind his great line , ‘ I can ’ t pretend a stranger is a @ @ @ @ @ God embrace you , Neil , as His own .
”

Whether you were a lover of the Rush drummer’s restlessly inventive and polyrhythmic percussive tricks or a fanatic for his science fiction-inspired lyrics, news of Neil Peart’s death at 67 from brain cancer shocked and saddened all. Peart was legendarily a musician’s musician, and his passing immediately turned rockers of all stripes tearful at the thought. Among them: Foo Fighters’ Dave Grohl who credits Peart with inspiring him to “pick up two sticks and chase a dream.” See Grohl’s and more social media reactions below.
RIP Neil Peart pic.twitter.com/PxNZ3W5WSs — Foo Fighters (@foofighters) January 10, 2020
Smashing Pumpkins Billy Corgan found a photo of a long haired mustachioed Peart for Instagram and provided a lengthy commentary: “On the passing of Neil Peart, please let me add my voice to the chorus in praising this incredible musician and poet. His influence on the Smashing Pumpkins is indelible: giving us wings to soar with and a road map to ultimately find our own way. There isn’t a modern rock drummer alive who hasn’t heard him, and spoken his name with a reverence that’s reserved for the very few. And as a lyricist, Mr. Peart is without compare. I am forever in his debt, and humbled to say that though I never met him, I feel I knew him as a friend. Which brings to mind his great line, ‘I can’t pretend a stranger is a long-awaited friend...’May God embrace you, Neil, as His own.”
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When guitarist Peter Frampton offered his own rest in peace Tweet, followed by “so sad to hear,” Heartbreakers keyboardist responded with “Oh no no no.”
Rest In Peace Neil Peart. So sad to hear. — Peter Frampton (@peterframpton) January 10, 2020
Geezer Butler, a founding member of Black Sabbath Tweeted his RIP.
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Sad to hear of Neil Peart passing. RIP. pic.twitter.com/2iMWJq1uoo — Geezer Butler (@geezerbutler) January 10, 2020
Questlove, the drummer from The Roots and bandleader from NBC’s “The Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon” went on to Instagram to declare “Neal the GAWD. All Respect due to the legend.”
Actor and Tenacious D vocalist Jack Black also hailed Peart as “the Master” who “will be missed.”
The master will be missed - Neil Peart RIP #RushForever pic.twitter.com/o4Y6chFiB3 — Jack Black (@jackblack) January 10, 2020
Anthrax drummer Charlie Benante said of the Rush rhythmatist, “There are drummers and then there is Neal Peart…. I would Rush ( no pun) home from school to play Natural science , subdivisions and numerous other tracks.”
There are drummers and then there is Neil Peart. I believe for most of us he was the “one”. I would Rush ( no pun) home from school to play Natural science , subdivisions and numerous other tracks. His playing helped shape the drummer I am today. RIP professor .I💜Neil Peart — Charlie Benante (@skisum) January 10, 2020
Beach Boys legend and composer Brian Wilson quoted from one of his own solo songs when he Tweeted, “I just heard about Neil Peart passing. I feel real bad about this - he was way too young. Neil was one of the great drummers and he’ll be missed. Love & mercy to Neil’s family.”
I just heard about Neil Peart passing. I feel real bad about this - he was way too young. Neil was one of the great drummers and he’ll be missed. Love & mercy to Neil’s family.
– Brian pic.twitter.com/T5qjECWX1W — Brian Wilson (@BrianWilsonLive) January 10, 2020
Fellow drummer Max Weinberg from Bruce Springsteen’s E Street Band Tweeted out his condolences, with “So saddened by the passing of Neal Peart. Drumming legend as we all know but a truly kind man. Personally arranged for my son, Jay (then a teenager) to open at a venue in Boston for Rush. Huge for an aspiring drummer! Condolences to his family from our family.”
So saddened by the passing of Neal Peart. Drumming legend as we all know but a truly kind man. Personally arranged for my son, Jay (then a teenager) to open at a venue in Boston for Rush. Huge for an aspiring drummer! Condolences to his family from our family — Max Weinberg (@EStreetMax) January 10, 2020
Metallica drummer Lars Ulrich took to Instagram to expres his genuine gratitude, and that of all drummers, for the inspiration Peart brought to the metal man’s rhythm skills.


chicagotribune--2020-01-11--Neil Peart, Rush drummer and lyricist, dies at 67

Neil Ellwood Peart was born in Hamilton , Ontario on September 12 , 1952 .
While his first exposure to @ @ @ @ @ lessons , which didn ’ t have much of an impact on him , Peart @ @ @ @ @ on various objects around the house .
He first picked up drumming at the age @ @ @ @ @ got a pair of sticks , a practice pad , and lessons , ” he @ @ @ @ @ that his parents told him , “ Once you show that you ’ re going @ @ @ @ @ a year , then we ’ ll get drums . '
Fair enough .
”

Neil Peart, the legendary drummer of Rush, has died, according to an announcement from the band. He was 67. The cause of death, according to a spokesperson, was brain cancer. Peart passed on Tuesday, January 7th, in Santa Monica.
Widely considered one of the most innovative drummers in rock history, Peart was famous for his state-of-the-art drum kits -- more than 40 different drums were not out of the norm -- precise playing style and onstage showmanship. He joined Rush in 1974, after the band’s cofounders, bassist/singer Geddy Lee and guitarist Alex Lifeson, had released one self-titled album.
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The addition of Peart, whose technical chops and use of melodic percussion instruments -- vibes, glockenspiels, chimes and later synthesized percussion -- vastly expanded the band’s musical palette, and he soon assumed the role of the band’s lyricist as well; he was famously influenced by science-fiction and particularly Ayn Rand, author of “The Fountainhead” and “Atlas Shrugged.” The band embarked on a series of increasingly elaborate albums whose lyrics and storylines were as sophisticated as their growing musical ambitions. “Necromancer,” a conceptual song on their 1975 album “Caress of Steel,” paved the way for the full-blown 1976 concept album “2112,” a dystopian tale about a future society without music.
Expand Autoplay Image 1 of 131 Dawn Wells, who starred as “good girl” Mary Ann in the popular 1960s sitcom “Gilligan’s Island,” died Dec. 30, 2020, of causes related to COVID-19. She was 82. (AP )
Over the next 15 years, Rush admirably declined to become a heritage act and continually challenged themselves and overhauled their sound, dropping the hard rock and high vocals that marked their early material and pursuing more keyboard-based arrangements and different musical styles. While their commercial popularity declined after the early 1980s they remained a hard-working and extremely popular live act with a deeply dedicated fan base that regularly filled arenas.
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In 1997, tragedy struck when Peart's daughter Selena was killed in a car accident, and his wife Jacqueline died from cancer just 10 months later. The band took a nearly four year hiatus while Peart healed by traveling some 55,000 miles across North and Central America on his motorcycle by himself. He chronicled his cathartic journey in his 2002 book, "Ghost Rider: Travels of the Healing Road." Peart remarried in 2000 and the band resumed recording and touring the following year.
On top of being Rush’s drummer and lyricist, Peart was a prolific writer with several non-fiction books to his credit including “The Masked Rider: Cycling in West Africa,” “Traveling Music: Playing Back the Soundtrack to My Life and Times.”
Neil Ellwood Peart was born in Hamilton, Ontario on September 12, 1952. While his first exposure to music was via childhood piano lessons, which didn’t have much of an impact on him, Peart had a hankering for drumming on various objects around the house. He first picked up drumming at the age of 13. “I got a pair of sticks, a practice pad, and lessons,” he said in 2012, adding that his parents told him, “Once you show that you’re going to stick with it for a year, then we’ll get drums.' Fair enough.”
When he turned 18, Peart left Canada to pursue a music career in England, which didn't pan out. Eighteen months later he returned home to join his father selling tractor parts. Peart played in local bands before landing with an up and coming Toronto band called Rush. His first gig with the band was on July 29, 1974 at the Pittsburgh Civic Arena opening for Uriah Heep and Manfred Man.
Over 30 years and 18 albums later, Rush’s final show took place at the Forum in Los Angeles back on August 1, 2015. At the end of Rush’s final concert, Peart stood on his drum riser and snapped a few photos before joining bandmates Lee and Lifeson for what would be the band’s final bow. Some of Peart’s star-studded fans in attendance that night include Red Hot Chili Peppers’ Chad Smith, Tool’s Daney Carey, Foo Fighters’ Taylor Hawkins, The Doors’ guitarist Robby Krieger and Jack Black.
According to the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA), Rush's album sales put them behind The Beatles and The Rolling Stones for the most consecutive gold or platinum certifications by a rock band. In the U.S., Rush album sales topped 25 million units. Worldwide, the band has moved over 40 million units of their 19 studio albums and live recordings, including the classics "Exit Stage Left," "A Show of Hands," "Different Stages" and "Rush in Rio," which all chronicle the band's incredible and evolving live shows over the years.
Their best-selling album is 1981's "Moving Pictures," on which the hits "Tom Sawyer" and "Limelight," as well as fan favorites like "Red Barchetta" and the instrumental "YYZ," appeared.
Rush was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2013 by Dave Grohl and Taylor Hawkins. During the event, the usually quiet Peart said, "The highest purpose of art is to inspire, what else can you do for anyone but inspire them? It's gratifying to think of us having inspired these youngsters to pick up a pair of drum sticks, a guitar and a rhyming dictionary and torment their parents as we tormented ours."
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Peart is survived by his wife, Carrie Nuttal, and daughter Olivia.


chicagotribune--2020-01-11--3 takeaways from the Bulls’ 116-105 loss to the Pacers, including Zach LaVine and Coby White’s scori

3 takeaways from the Bulls’ 116-105 loss to the Pacers, including Zach LaVine and Coby White’s scoring spurt and getting punished in the paint

He got to 20 in a row because he got hot from the field , but frankly also because the @ @ @ @ @ the game from getting out of hand .
LaVine racked up 43 points on 14 @ @ @ @ @ eight for 13 from beyond the arc , to go over the 40-point mark for @ @ @ @ @ and to make an increasingly compelling case to be in the All-Star game .
LaVine @ @ @ @ @ .
On Friday , however , it was as if he was trying to will @ @ @ @ @ himself .

If Friday night was any indication, life without Wendell Carter Jr. is going to be a massive struggle for the Bulls.
That much was evident watching Chicago’s 116-105 loss to the Pacers. Despite Zach LaVine, who dropped 43, and Coby White, who scored 23 points in his best game offensively in more than a month, the Bulls could not overcome the Pacers’ onslaught in the paint.
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The Bulls were without their best rim protector in Carter, but his presence alone would not have solved things for the Bulls, who lost their sixth consecutive game, further sinking their postseason aspirations as they fell to a season-worst 12 games below .500.
“We’re close,” LaVine said. “We’re not there. We need to scratch it out. We’ll get one eventually. We’ll keep fighting. We got another one (Saturday).”
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Here are three takeaways from Friday night’s game:
1. Zach LaVine carries the scoring load with Lauri Markkanen limited.
Zach LaVine couldn’t explain his latest scoring roll — 20 consecutive Bulls points from the end of the second quarter until a Lauri Markkanen three at the 4:40 mark in the third — mainly because he didn’t realized it until a reporter mentioned it after the game.
“I thought I hit four threes, 12 …16 … how I get 20?” LaVine asked.
Zach LaVine put up 43 tonight against the Pacers, shooting 8 of 13 from three 🔥 pic.twitter.com/cH8ZjRbkaP — Chicago Bulls (@chicagobulls) January 11, 2020
He got to 20 in a row because he got hot from the field, but frankly also because the Bulls needed it to keep the game from getting out of hand. LaVine racked up 43 points on 14 of 23 shooting, including eight for 13 from beyond the arc, to go over the 40-point mark for the second time this year and to make an increasingly compelling case to be in the All-Star game. LaVine is used to scoring outbursts. On Friday, however, it was as if he was trying to will the Bulls to victory by himself.
“That’s my job man,” LaVine said. “I recognize when we’re down, we need a scoring outburst. I’m just trying to go out there and do my job, help us win and play the right way.”
One reason LaVine was asked to shoulder so much offensively is because of the sprained left ankle that continues to bother Markkanen.
“I’m not thinking about it during the game,” he said. “I’m sure some movements are not as explosive as normal, but it’s nothing I was really thinking about during the game.”
Markkanen never found a rhythm. He did not attempt a shot until late in the first quarter and finished with just nine attempts in nearly 34 minutes of action, with six of those nine shots coming from beyond the arc. He finished with 11 points and five rebounds and was -18 on the night.
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A strong December had helped Markkanen rebound from a slow start, but his ankle injury is beginning to derail that progress. And because he was so limited, the Bulls had to rely even more heavily on LaVine and Coby White to handle the scoring load.
Still, Boylen praised Markkanen for continuing to play.
“He’s doing the best he can, he’s fighting though,” Boylen said. “I think he’s matured. I’m proud of him. He’s not 100 percent. ... It’s part of what we’re building here to do anything you can to help the team and if you can help it, even if you’re hurting you still try. ... He hasn’t made one excuse, he hasn’t pouted, he hasn’t asked to come out, he hasn’t done anything he’s played through pretty tough sprain.”
2. The Bulls were punished in the paint.
To say the Pacers had their way in the paint on Friday night is an understatement.
Indiana bullied and dominated the Bulls around the rim, even without Domantas Sabonis and Malcolm Brogdon. They drove to the lane at will. They dunked and dunked some more. They scored 70 of their 116 points in the paint.
Myles Turner scored 27 points on 10-of-18 shooting, but he wasn’t the only one to have his way near the basket. Even JaKarr Sampson, who had a brief four-game stint with the Bulls in 2019, had a stretch in the third quarter where he got free for a few dunks.
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Myles really just left him 😬😬😬 pic.twitter.com/EbPAHHovBF — Indiana Pacers (@Pacers) January 11, 2020
Yes, the Bulls miss Carter’s presence defensively. But not even that should yield such a drastic output.
“We give up points in the paint as a team in general,” LaVine said. “It’s going to hurt having Wendell out. But it’s been a problem of ours since the get-go. We got to continue to get better. We give up easy baskets. A lot of that is on us missing assignments. We got to do better.”
3. The Coby White show returns.
Coby White said his shot had been a bit off recently, especially while warming up prior to Wednesday’s game in New Orleans. So White wanted to use Thursday’s off-day to get some extra practice time. He summoned his older brother, Will, to head to the gym to help get his shot more in sync.
“Little things like finishing around the rim, the little finishes that I do and just tying to find rhythm with my shot,” White said. “I think just confidence helped a lot for me.”
It’s something the White brothers (Will played college basketball at Mars Hill), have been doing since they were growing up in North Carolina and the extra practice paid off on Friday night. White scored 23 points on 8-of-17 shooting, including five three pointers, providing some much needed scoring to give LaVine a breather.
It had been a while since White put up that kind of scoring performance.This was his fifth game of the season with at least 20 points, but first since he scored a season-high 28 points on Nov. 28th in Charlotte.
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According to NBC Chicago, White’s five 20-point games are the second most in team history for a player before his 20th birthday. (Luol Deng had six.)
Most 20+ point games before turning 20 in Bulls history
Luol Deng - 6
Coby White - 5
Wendell Carter - 3
Tyson Chandler - 1
(h/t: @ckamka) — Bulls Talk (@NBCSBulls) January 11, 2020
“Coby’s a confident scorer,” coach Jim Boylen said. “He’s a resilient young guy, he’ll miss two in a row and he’ll keep playing and I think that’s very important to us. I said earlier in the year, he’s a baller, he balls. He plays. And what we’re trying to help him do is continue to make good decisions when he is running the team as that lead guard to continue to grow in his decision making and his organization.”
Here’s coverage from Friday’s game:
Zach LaVine scored 43 points but it wasn’t enough to prevent the Bulls’ sixth consecutive loss, 116-105 against the Pacers on Friday night at the United Center.
The game was LaVine’s second with more than 40 points this season, and he made eight 3-pointers on 14 attempts.
“I felt Zach played like what All-Stars play like,” Bulls coach Jim Boylen said. “He was efficient, dynamic, did it in a lot of different ways.”
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Coby White added 23 points for the rookie’s first game with 20 or more since Nov. 23. Tomas Satoransky added 13 points and three assists, and Lauri Markkanen scored 11 with five rebounds and four assists for the Bulls.
Five Pacers scored in double figures, led by Myles Turner’s 27 points. He also grabbed a game-high 14 rebounds. Former Bulls Doug McDermott (16 points) and Justin Holiday (nine points, six assists) contributed to the win.
“It was a game where we were fighting uphill all night and just couldn’t get a timely stop," Boylen said. "And they made big shots when they needed it.”
The Bulls gave up 70 points in the paint and scored 36.
Bulls rookie Daniel Gafford made his first career start, manning center with Wendell Carter Jr. expected to miss between four and six weeks because of a high ankle sprain. Thaddeus Young started in Carter’s place Wednesday against the Pelicans but came off the bench Friday.
Before the game, Gafford reflected on making his first start.
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“I’m going to be excited," he said. "I’m going to be a tad bit nervous.
“It’s a lot of emotions going on. But nine times out of 10 it’s going to hit me out there on the floor because my adrenaline’s probably going to be rushing. There’s a lot of stuff going on in my head.”
Boylen said during his pregame address that he wasn’t going to “reinvent the wheel” with Gafford in the first unit, and it appeared to be a bit of a learning curve following in Carter’s footsteps.
Gafford wasn’t heavily involved in the offense, scoring two points on free throws and missing two attempts. He added two rebounds and two steals.
The nadir for Gafford occurred when Turner crossed him up before driving to the basket for a dunk, and Gafford got up limping.
Gafford said before the game that his left ankle, which he hurt Monday in Dallas, was fine. “I threw some dirt on it. We good.”
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Gafford’s teammates praised his effort and said the fault for the Pacers’ success in the paint lies with all of them.
“It’s going to hurt not having Wendell, (but) DG did a really good job today,” LaVine said.
“We give up points in the paints as a team in general. … it’s been a problem of ours from the get-go. We give up easy baskets and a lot of that is on us missing assignments. We’ve got to do better.”
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Markkanen added that Carter is “a big part of what we’re doing so it’s obviously going to take time with different lineups. But I think we should be able to handle it even though he’s missing.”
The Bulls reversed their usual doldrums in the third quarter and rained 3-pointers — with LaVine making four in a row and White making three — to draw within 74-72 after trailing 54-46 at halftime.
“It was fun,” White said. “Me and him got hot; we went on a little streak. But it doesn’t matter because we didn’t get the win. None of it really matters.“
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After another loss, four teams stand between the Bulls (13-26) and the final playoff spot in the Eastern Conference.
“I’m still trying to push for that,” LaVine said. “It’s tough. We’re really close. We’re still a (few) games out and if we can get hot we can still go out there and string some together. I’m optimistic.
“This is a tough stretch, this a tough month. We’ve played a lot of teams over .500, we have to get a couple of them before this All-Star break before it gets too late.”


chicagotribune--2020-01-11--Are the Bears closer to a Super Bowl or starting over at quarterback? An honest assessment — not an

Are the Bears closer to a Super Bowl or starting over at quarterback? An honest assessment — not an emotional one — is needed ahead of the 2020 season.

Still , if it ’ s widely accepted that great quarterback play is the most reliable catalyst for sustaining success @ @ @ @ @ ’ t really close to anything .
The two NFC teams with the most playoff @ @ @ @ @ the Packers and Seahawks , who coincidentally will meet Sunday at Lambeau Field in each @ @ @ @ @ appearance of the last 10 seasons .
Neither team has spent much time second-guessing its @ @ @ @ @ they had to invest valuable energy and resources in troubleshooting the position .

Once again, January has become an empty month in Chicago. The NFL playoffs continue with eight teams still eyeing the Super Bowl. Yet once again, the season’s biggest games go on with the Bears stuck on the outside and with a passionate fan base left to deal with its frustration and envy.
The rival Packers? They’re awaiting a visit from the Seahawks.
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The Vikings? Their road upset of the Saints on Sunday sends them to San Francisco for the divisional round.
Patrick Mahomes and Deshaun Watson? The two quarterbacks Bears general manager Ryan Pace passed over three years ago in the draft will reunite in a highly anticipated postseason duel in Kansas City.
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So how can the Bears get back in the championship hunt? How can they rediscover the formula that propelled a 12-4 season in 2018? Most importantly, in this edition of “Real Talk,” Tribune Bears writers Dan Wiederer and Rich Campbell tackle one of the biggest big-picture questions: Are the Bears close?
Dan Wiederer: Close. It’s an interesting and open-ended adjective. But it’s the one quarterback Mitch Trubisky chose after the Bears ended their 8-8 season on Dec. 29 in Minneapolis. Trubisky said he believes these Bears are indeed close. “I feel like we’ve got the pieces,” he said. “We just need to put it all together.”
When pressed for reasons he senses the Bears are close, Trubisky emphasized his team’s resolve and competitive grit.
“We could have easily just cashed it in," he said. "But we didn’t. We never gave up, all the way to the last minute. We have guys who will battle and stick with you through thick and thin.”
You know where I stand on this, Rich. I’m with Trubisky that a team’s unity and persistence mean something. Sure. Those are important qualities that are prerequisites for the climb up the mountain.
But at this level those qualities alone don’t denote a team that is close to achieving and sustaining high-level success. They simply provide reassurance that the Bears are no longer a bottom-tier mess vulnerable to debilitating division and dysfunction.
Campbell: You and I are — ahem — close on this point, Dan. The Bears’ chemistry, harmony and functionality in finishing .500 get a golf clap from me. Worthy of applause, indeed, yes, OK. But I’ll save the roar for when they make the long putt.
Consider the Eagles. In late October, someone within the team anonymously and publicly criticized quarterback Carson Wentz. That was before they lost three straight games to fall to 5-7. The Bears never reached that level of dysfunction.
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But the Eagles beat the Bears, dominating them in the first half of that 19-14 game in Philly on Nov. 3. They finished with a winning record. They won their division and hosted a playoff game.
Which team was “closer” to the ultimate goal this season?
Oh, you say the Eagles played in a lousy NFC East? Well, the Bears finished 8-8 with five of their wins against quarterbacks Case Keenum, Jeff Driskel, Daniel Jones, David Blough and Sean Mannion.
It’s about winning. And you mentioned the word I’m fixated on: sustaining. The Bears certainly could jump back into the playoffs in 2020. But how close are they to sustaining success?
Bears coach Matt Nagy, left, and general manager Ryan Pace speak at a news conference at Halas Hall on Dec. 31, 2019. (Stacey Wescott / Chicago Tribune)
Wiederer: Bingo. And that’s where the most important leaders in the organization have to step back and be honest with themselves. There has to be an aversion to the self-congratulatory vibes that always seem to accompany the occasional exhilarating triumph. One 12-win season can’t leave everyone at Halas Hall feeling intoxicated and believing a Super Bowl is truly within reach when the roster still has so many major flaws.
Think about the offseason shopping list for Ryan Pace. The offensive line needs an upgrade. The tight end position needs an overhaul. A backup quarterback who can become a starter if necessary is a must. The Bears may also have to find starting-caliber secondary replacements for Ha Ha Clinton-Dix and Prince Amukamara. They have to decide what to do with linebacker Danny Trevathan and Nick Kwiatkoski.
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Their pass rush needs a boost. Their offense was bottom five in many of the most meaningful categories.
It doesn’t feel like we’re describing a team that is close to sustaining excellence. At some point there has to be a realization of what it takes to not only achieve success in a cutthroat world but to sustain it.
You know exactly how I feel about a third-place team breaking out the disco ball and strobe light for a shrug win. Think bigger. Have higher standards. Understand exactly what it is you want to be “close” to.
Campbell: Let’s sound it out, then. What does it take to sustain success?
A wise football philosopher once said: “You don’t achieve greatness in this league without great quarterback play.”
(Checks notes)
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Ah, yes. Those were Pace’s words after boldly trading up to draft Trubisky.
Well, three years later, Trubisky’s body of work falls well short of “great quarterback play.” The flashes of greatness have been too few and far between. Even Pace, Trubisky’s greatest champion, has acknowledged the quarterback’s insufficient performance level, albeit tepidly.
So maybe one way to go about this is ask ourselves: How close are the Bears to getting great quarterback play?
It’s a loaded question with uncomfortable answers.
Wiederer: And maybe that is the heart of the matter, even with as much as the fixation on quarterback performance can sometimes feel like overkill.
Still, if it’s widely accepted that great quarterback play is the most reliable catalyst for sustaining success, the Bears probably aren’t really close to anything. The two NFC teams with the most playoff appearances in the 2010s are the Packers and Seahawks, who coincidentally will meet Sunday at Lambeau Field in each team’s eighth postseason appearance of the last 10 seasons. Neither team has spent much time second-guessing its starting quarterback. Nor have they had to invest valuable energy and resources in troubleshooting the position.
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Meanwhile, the Bears have a three-year starter they are tutoring to become, in Matt Nagy’s vision, “a master at understanding coverages.” Along with that, there is a push to get Trubisky to trust the pocket better; to polish his footwork to help the timing of the passing game; to improve his touchdown-to-checkdown mentality. That’s a lot of heavy lifting.
Bears quarterback Mitch Trubisky looks to throw against the Vikings on Dec. 29, 2019. (Jose M. Osorio/Chicago Tribune)
Campbell: Pocket presence, playmaking savvy — those question marks get at Trubisky’s instincts. If Trubisky has them, why hasn’t he shown them more consistently by now? Does he need everything to be perfect around him for them to shine on game days? How realistic is that? It’s particularly worrisome entering Year 4.
Wiederer: Pace has acknowledged Trubisky’s troubling inconsistency but downplayed his own worry on the matter: “There’s just a growth process we’re watching take place.”
Pace has emphasized how Trubisky made only 13 starts in college and how he had to learn a new offensive system after his rookie season. But the former factor should have been part of the Bears’ predraft evaluation process. And Pace had control of the latter, pairing Trubisky in 2017 with a coaching staff he knew likely wouldn’t be around to see the development through.
So now a sixth-year GM and fourth-year quarterback are hoping patience and hard work can provide a significant breakthrough? That’s a “Proceed With Caution” warning if ever there was one.
Campbell: It’s a tough sell, too, given the regression in 2019. Maybe Trubisky pushes himself forward next season. But without evidence improvement is imminent, counting on that would put the Bears on thin ice.
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Of course, the quarterback in the better-quarterback-play equation doesn’t necessarily have to be Trubisky. For them to get back to the playoffs in 2020, they could pair average quarterback play with a strong defense. The Vikings succeeded with that type of chicken-wire-and-gum approach with Case Keenum in 2017.
But for the Bears to sustain success, they need stability at the position. And that gets to a question at the heart of Pace’s offseason. What can he do to build around Trubisky? Three times in the opening minutes of the postseason news conference, he referenced shortcomings on offense around his handpicked quarterback, a potential clue about the upcoming player-acquisition cycle.
Pace can add a backup quarterback who is capable of winning games. The Bears also must figure out why all five offensive linemen regressed, understanding they’ve committed significant resources to four of them. As for the fifth spot, an upgrade at right guard is crucial for an interior trio that struggled mightily. Tight end is a black hole too.
I’m taking a see-it-to-believe-it approach on whether the Bears can improve in each of those areas. But they’ll take their swings.
Wiederer: Sure. Pace has never been afraid to take those swings. It’s just that the range of results on the biggest ones — from Khalil Mack and Allen Robinson to Trubisky and Kevin White — have been extreme.
My suggestion for the Bears to up their odds of succeeding in what promises to be a critical offseason is that they do their best to replace wishful thinking with critical thinking. As we’ve mentioned, this organization tends to grow easily enamored with flashes of promise rather than the full body of evidence.
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It’s why Pace continues to put more weight on Trubisky’s occasional “Aha!” moments than he does on a three-season stretch defined by inconsistency.
It’s why Chairman George McCaskey and team President Ted Phillips are convinced that the 12-4 division-championship season of 2018 is this team’s true identity as opposed to the 8-8 disappointment they all just lived.
So are the Bears close? To another playoff appearance? As soon as next year? Perhaps.
Over time, the Bears have been able to catch lightning in a bottle. But the organization hasn’t enjoyed back-to-back winning seasons since 2005 and 2006. And the Bears haven’t made three consecutive playoff appearances since 1988.
So is this group close to what matters? Are they close to being a top-tier team year after year after year? An argument could be made that the Bears are just as close to starting over at quarterback, general manager and head coach as they are to winning a Super Bowl.
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So again, proceed with caution with how you invest your hopes.
Campbell: In that sense, 2020 feels like a crossroads for the Bears. Do they rebound like the Vikings did this season? Or do they fall all the way back into irrelevance like the Jaguars have since their 2017 breakthrough?
Part of sustaining success is elevating your floor. Look at the Super Bowl favorite Ravens. In 12 seasons since John Harbaugh became coach, they’ve finished with a losing record one time. Once!
They’ve missed the playoffs more than once, but 8-8 has been their floor. They’ve contended for the playoffs just about every year, and they’ve been in the tournament in eight out of 12 seasons. That’s a testament to their skilled, smart decision-makers, talented evaluators and player developers.
As you mentioned, it has been too long since the Bears have sustained anything resembling that success.
If they returned to the playoffs next season, at least they would have better evidence that this year’s 8-8 record is their new floor. That, to me, is the only way to prove they’re close.


chicagotribune--2020-01-11--‘They pay me to have an opinion,’ says Kevin Warren, the new Big Ten commissioner. 10 takeaways from

‘They pay me to have an opinion,’ says Kevin Warren, the new Big Ten commissioner. 10 takeaways from his 1st interview in the job.

Asked if he will have his own view or simply represent the wishes of the conference ’ s 14 presidents @ @ @ @ @ : “ They pay me to have an opinion .
And I have no problem @ @ @ @ @ But ( I ’ ll be ) doing it in the prism ( of ) @ @ @ @ @ to do for our conference , for intercollegiate athletics , for society and ultimately for @ @ @ @

Kevin Warren begins each day on his knees with a morning prayer.
“I thank God for another day and thank God for a wonderful wife,” he says. “I pray to keep my children safe. And I pray for the Big Ten Conference.”
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He dons a suit-and-tie combination laid out the previous night. Even his workout clothes are set aside for maximum efficiency before sunrise.
Warren leaves his high-rise overlooking Lake Shore Drive for what is typically a 27-minute drive to Big Ten headquarters in Rosemont. He listens to a mix of sports and business shows on SiriusXM Radio, toggling between ESPNU and “First Things First” on Fox Sports Radio.
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The conference’s most powerful employee is also the first to arrive, often before 6 a.m. His workday ends about 13 hours later, and he returns downtown for a 7:45 dinner with wife Greta and daughter Peri at a spot such as Joe’s, Capital Grille or Bandera.
Big Ten Commissioner Kevin Warren poses at conference headquarters in Rosemont on Dec. 13, 2019. (Kamil Krzaczynski / Chicago Tribune)
Told that he is tireless, Warren replies: “This could be my last day on Earth. I want to make sure that when I get to the pearly gates, I can say I gave it my all.”
In his first interview since succeeding Jim Delany as Big Ten commissioner Jan. 2, Warren spoke of playoff expansion, trailblazing, big words and bigger goals. Here are 10 takeaways.
1. An inspired selection
Big Ten officials conducted such a furtive search, many of Warren’s friends and associates didn’t even know he was a candidate.
“I found out on Twitter (after he got the job),” Michigan athletic director Warde Manuel said. “That’s how tight it was.”
Warren was considered a surprise selection, in part because insiders knew Big Ten athletic directors would push hard for Northwestern’s Jim Phillips, one of their own.
Warren, though, blew away university chancellors and presidents during his interview. They hold the power. And looking back, how could Warren not have been considered an ideal candidate?
Warren, 56, is a former student-athlete, a basketball player at Penn and Grand Canyon University in his native Phoenix. An Academic All-American, he earned a law degree from Notre Dame, worked as a sports agent and spent nearly 20 years as an NFL executive for the Rams, Lions and Vikings. Early in his career he teamed with future Southeastern Conference Commissioner Mike Slive on cases involving NCAA infractions.
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His father, Dr. Morrison Warren Sr., played professional football for the Brooklyn Dodgers of the All-America Football Conference after starring at Arizona State. He served on the board of the Fiesta Bowl. Older brother Morrison Jr. was one of Stanford’s first African-American scholarship athletes. Son Powers plays tight end at Mississippi State.
Big Ten Commissioner Kevin Warren, right, with his family — from left, son Powers, wife Greta and daughter Peri — while in Pasadena, Calif., for the 2020 Rose Bowl. (HANDOUT)
“It’s a big world,” Warren says. “Sometimes the most logical choice or people to hire are the ones in your milieu.”
Your … what now?
“Milieu,” he replies, retrieving his phone to offer a precise definition. “Isn’t that a great word? It means a person’s social environment.”
2. A way with words
Warren is the youngest of seven children and sometimes felt isolated. After school he would visit his mother, Margaret, an elementary school librarian.
“My mother loved words,” he says. “The library is where I developed my love for reading.”
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And for travel. Warren would spin a globe, put his finger on a spot and read about it. Decades later, when he was finally able to visit the Louvre or the Duomo in Milan, Italy, he was “awestruck.”
Travel will be a huge component of his job. Warren is determined to see every Big Ten varsity team compete in 2020, starting Jan. 26 with the Maryland-Indiana men’s basketball game. There are, no joke, 351 Big Ten teams. He will catch many at their conference tournaments.
“It’s already mapped out,” Warren says. “It’s important to get on all the campuses and (ask): What can we do to create an even more healthy and productive environment for our student-athletes?”
3. A new vibe
Have you ever tried to explain to someone what makes the musical “Hamilton” so special? You can’t. You end up saying, “When you see it, you’ll understand.”
It’s the same with Warren.
When you meet him, you’ll understand. The appeal is his combination of intelligence and warmth.
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“Feel that energy?” says Diane Dietz, the Big Ten’s deputy commissioner.
There’s a less formal vibe in the office.
An example: My exit interview with Delany began in a conference room on the second floor. Warren, though, waves me up to his office on the third floor, which is designated for Big Ten employees.
He asks about my kids, taking a sincere interest. Our interview was blocked off for 30 minutes, but even after a conference official enters to remind him of his next meeting, Warren says: “Ask what you want. Don’t rush yourself.”
And after 45 minutes, he walks me to the elevator.
4. A view from the helmet
We did not hit on every topic. I can’t say how Warren feels about Friday night football, superconferences or name, image and likeness rights. But his answer regarding the proper size of the College Football Playoff was telling.
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“One of the things always at the top of my mind are the time and training demands on our student-athletes,” he says. “They're in college to get an education. So many times we forget these are not professionals. When they’re done with a game, they don’t fly to the next city. They may study for a final exam or do homework.
“So I look at: What is the length of the season? What is the impact on their body? I don’t think it comes down to: Let’s just add two to four teams. I’m studying it all now from a holistic standpoint.”
Asked if he will have his own view or simply represent the wishes of the conference’s 14 presidents and chancellors, Warren replies: “They pay me to have an opinion. And I have no problem with articulating an opinion. But (I’ll be) doing it in the prism (of) what is the right thing to do for our conference, for intercollegiate athletics, for society and ultimately for our student-athletes.”
5. A warm goodbye
A helmet signed by Vikings players who attended Big Ten universities sits in the office of Big Ten Commissioner Kevin Warren, the former chief operating officer of the Vikings. (HANDOUT)
Speaking of helmets, Warren displays a meaningful one in his office.
It has the signatures of about a dozen Vikings players from Big Ten schools, including Kirk Cousins (Michigan State), Ben Gedeon (Michigan), Ameer Abdullah (Nebraska), Stefon Diggs (Maryland), Pat Elflein (Ohio State) and Ifeadi Odenigbo (Northwestern).
“I got called down to the (practice) field,” Warren says. “They surprised me with that.”
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Big Ten Commissioner Kevin Warren is presented with a helmet signed by Vikings players who attended Big Ten schools. From left, Ifeadi Odenigbo (95), Ben Gedeon, Warren, Kirk Cousins, Ameer Abdullah (31) and Pat Elflein (65). (Travis Ellison / HANDOUT)
6. A unique plan
Warren earned his law degree from Notre Dame in 1990 and taught there after establishing a sports and entertainment company. While in his 20s, he persuaded an All-America defensive lineman — Chris Zorich — to become his first client.
Zorich recalls how Warren sent him a binder with a variety of form letters to use after his clients made contacts in the business world.
Dear BLANK,
It was a pleasure meeting you …
Warren also faxed his clients talking points before cocktail parties so, as Zorich jokes, “we wouldn’t sound like dumb athletes.”
“He is amazing,” Zorich says. “No one will outwork him. He brings something extra to everything he does. If the (Vikings) stadium is four walls and a roof, he will make it four walls, a roof and a breast-feeding room.”
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7. A legacy
Warren is the sixth commissioner in the 125-year history of the Big Ten, joining John Griffith (1922-44), Kenneth “Tug” Wilson (1945-61), William Reed (1961-71), Wayne Duke (1971-89) and Delany (1989-2020).
Portraits of the five men greet Warren as he enters his office each day.
“This is a unique conference,” he says. “Incredible opportunities. With the history and tradition, that creates longevity — or the potential for longevity.”
8. An open door
Big Ten Commissioner Kevin Warren, left, chats with predecessor Jim Delany at conference headquarters in Rosemont on Dec. 13, 2019. (Kamil Krzaczynski / Chicago Tribune)
The Big Ten hired Warren in June, but he remained with the Vikings as chief operating officer. He started Sept. 16 in a transitional role, learning from Delany.
Warren worked in a conference room that connects to the commissioner’s office, and the door was always open so Warren could hear half the conversations.
“TV partners. Bowl partners,” Warren says. “It was a perpetual education from the day I walked in.”
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During an interview with Big Ten Network, Warren likened it to sitting down with Abe Lincoln.
“It was great to have the historian right there,” he says. “I'm so grateful that Jim took the time, energy and effort to do it.”
9. A trailblazer
The highest-ranking African-American executive working on the business side for an NFL team is now the first black commissioner of a Power Five conference.
Warren is interested in studying other Big Ten trailblazers. Rutgers last year unveiled a statue of Paul Robeson, who earned 12 varsity letters as the school’s third African-American student. Upon graduating in 1919, Robeson earned a law degree from Columbia and earned worldwide acclaim as a singer and actor.
“A true African-American Renaissance person,” Warren says.
Warren often asks during job interviews: If you were to embark on a cross-country driving trip, which three people dead or alive would you want in the car? I turn the tables and pose that question to him.
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“Paul Robeson,” he says. “Jackie Robinson, to have a really detailed discussion. Mother Teresa, to ask why. And I would hope we have a larger car or SUV to include Helen Keller.”
10. A full day
Upon arriving in Rosemont around 6 a.m., Warren typically prepares for his first meeting and then does cardio and lifts weights from 6:45 to 7:30.
Then he leads a company that produced $759 million of revenue in 2018, one with 50 employees and about 10,000 student-athletes.
“This is a spectacular place,” he says.
He wants the Big Ten to take a leadership role on issues such as mental health and wellness, voter registration and financial literacy.
“I want our student-athletes to understand: How does the stock market work?” he says. “What is the Dow Jones Industrial Average? What’s the difference between a stock and a bond? What’s the time value of money?”
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As our remaining time whittles away, Warren tells me: “Keep encouraging your kids. Every trip we made, I took them to a college campus. We took Powers to a Blackhawks game and got him a Patrick Kane jersey. He still talks about it.”