#Chicago the Chicken

[7weaslesinacoat]

not even a jason todd fan, but some of the shit i see of him make me wanna stick him in an oven and make him spin like a rotisserie chicken until that sexy mf is fully cooked.

and then keep him spinning till he’s burnt bc that ass deserves to be appreciated but SOMEONE while y’all are too busy looking at nightwing.

[copperbadge]

[ID: On a darkened Chicago street, there stands a fiberglass statue about five feet tall; it looks like a character from a 1920s animated short, with huge eyes and a smiling mouth. It is the Jollibee mascot, a bee wearing a red tuxedo and a chef's hat and gesturing me inside.]

ADVENTUR.

I hate going out to only do one errand, but I was overdue to pick up a prescription, so I put on my parka and went adventuring. As a reward, I planned to catch a Michigan Avenue bus home and stop at the Jollibee on the way to finally try their fried chicken and spaghetti.

Jollibee is a cultural institution in the Philippines and across southeast Asia, but only made it to North America recently. It's proven popular in Chicago, although when I went in it was empty, probably because it's 9F in Chicago right now. I considered getting a sampling of everything but it's close enough that I can go back easily, so I just got a chicken thigh with a side of spaghetti.

[ID: A photograph of my meal, still in its paper carton; a dark gold fried chicken thigh is on the left, while on the right is a small tray containing spaghetti noodles topped with a deep red tomato sauce.]

I've been told that the spaghetti is what people who grew up with Jollibee really love. A lot of food blogs have described the sauce as basically ketchup, but I found it pleasantly complex. It's very sweet, but not the "bright" sweetness of ketchup, and instead of a vinegar undertone it has a good smoky flavor from the cut up sausage in it. It's not to my personal taste, but I think it's genuinely pretty good spaghetti.

I wasn't overly impressed with the fried chicken, but I was also there on a slow night, so it wasn't as fresh as it could have been. It's certainly on par with Popeye's or KFC, and the chicken gravy you get with it is a nice touch of umami. Overall, good hot food and of higher quality than I'd expected given what I'd heard of it.

And they moved in right next door to a Chik-fil-a, which is a pettiness I can only approve of.

[ourladyofomega]

[corvoda]

Throughout the week of November 4th, I'll be streaming a TON of strange games to raise money for Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago! They saved my life when I was 5 years old, and every year I try to repay the favor!

Join me on My Twitch as we play a wide variety of strange things! Including such games as:

Mort the Chicken

Mario Drinks A Glass of Milk, the Trilogy

Pocket Dogs

Ninja Baseball Batman

Mario64, but Mario has a Shotgun

Rayman Brain Games

And many more!

Donation incentives! I'll take game suggestions! Gondal will return!

Hope to see you all there!

[fnaf-news]

FiGPiN has dropped a new set of FNaF pins on their site! Just 750 pieces of each have been made.

This, along with an exclusive Glow in the Dark Foxy pin, which can only be found at the C2E2 Convention in Chicago, from Plastic Empire Collectibles. [Apr. 26th-28th]

[rabbitcruiser]

National Greasy Foods Day

Deliciously satisfying bites with a hint of indulgence, these comfort eats are a guilty pleasure that never fails to hit the spot.

”Greasy food might not be good for your body, but it does wonders for the soul. A healthy diet may prolong your life, but what would you have to live for? What is the point of living to a hundred if you have to subsist on bland food? One may as well die of boredom.” ~ Jessica Zafra

The world is full of a veritable cavalcade of delicious foods, and the vast majority of them are filled to the brim with fats and grease! While those who are on a crusade for better health often find themselves avoiding these amazing foods in favor of a thinner waistline, Greasy Food Day encourages us to take a day off from that diet and remember the good things in life.

Otherwise, as Ms. Zafra says, what else are we living for?

On this day, it’s time to celebrate living for Greasy Food!

History of Greasy Food Day

These types of food certainly get a lot of hate from health fanatics, those delicious meals that make everyone’s mouths and souls sing out loud with joy. Granted, this day definitely wasn’t started by a doctor or nutritionist who was on a health food kick.

Whether talking about the rich stretchy cheese that graces the tops of people’s favorite pizza dishes, or the flavorful and delicious sub sandwiches that are shiny with grease as they are unwrapped, greasy foods can truly be said to be one of the greatest things in life. (That is, at least, while they are being eaten. For some people, that doesn’t necessarily hold true afterward when their stomachs are all tied up in knots.)

Now it is true that greasy food should be consumed in moderation, but sometimes moderation is a thing for the other 364 days out of a full year.

Greasy Food Day encourages everyone on earth to indulge in their favorite things and remember what it was like to truly be able to enjoy anything without consequence.

What’s your favorite greasy food? Juicy hamburgers? Hot dogs bursting with flavor? Sausage Rolls? Maybe some Canadian will enjoy the overwhelmingly flavorful and greasy dish that is poutine?

Whatever the chosen poison, Greasy Food Day is the perfect excuse to dive in and enjoy it like there’s no tomorrow. Get ready to celebrate with Greasy Food!

How to Celebrate Greasy Food Day

Enjoy a Greasy Food Meal

Go out to that special dive restaurant and order your favorite greasy dishes, and don’t forget to bring some napkins! Sometimes nicknamed a “Greasy Spoon” these restaurants are all about cooking with the tastiest of fats. Almost everything is deep-fried in oil until deliciously crisp, and often dripping with grease.

Whether french fries, onion rings or a greasy slice of pizza, this day is all about enjoying the drip. So pop into that restaurant and order up all the things that would normally be on the list of “no-nos”.

Enjoy the Greasiest American Foods

This day is all about paying heed to greasy foods. But even among them, some are greasier than others. Try out these ideas for how to bag the absolutely greasiest foods that American Culture has to offer:

Philly Cheesesteak. Cooked properly, this sandwich will require not only a pile of napkins but also perhaps a bib in order to eat it without getting extremely messy. Beef steak, chopped and cooked over a grill is made even greasier with the addition of cheese and onions.

Buffalo Wings. Named after the city in New York in which they began, these chicken wings are dipped in batter and deep fried before being coated in a buttery hot sauce. Finish it off with a dip in some blue cheese or ranch dressing.

Cheese Curds. How to take cheese and make it fattier? Deep fry it! A Wisconsin favorite (perhaps due to its dairy production) these little balls of cheese are dipped in batter and then, of course, deep fried to perfection. For an Italian twist on this northern favorite, try fried Mozzarella sticks.

Watch One (or Both) of the Grease Films

In keeping with the theme of the day, while downing those greasy foods, why not take in the guilty pleasure of watching one of these Grease themed films?

Grease (1978). This American musical romantic comedy film starring John Travolta and Olivia Newton John is what drove the careers of these two to the top. Based on the 1971 stage musical of the same name, this story of two young high schoolers who fell in love has been a hit for generations.

Grease 2 (1982). Quite a bit less popular than the first (possibly due to the absence of Newton-John and Travolta), this followup film didn’t score well at the box office. It was okay for Michelle Pfeiffer, however, and her career moved forward because of this.

Make Some Greasy Food at Home

Is your favorite greasy food a family recipe? Alright then! It’s time to get the family together and celebrate Greasy Food Day with a rich dish that is steeped in tradition. And be sure to pass that on to the kids so they can continue the celebration once you’re gone. Rich greasy food is often a comfort food for many people, so don’t let anyone tell you that you don’t deserve a bit of comfort. In fact, get as comfortable as you like on Greasy Food Day!

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[highsocietygifs]

[cogitet]

[windycityscapes]

Making chicken salad and pumpkin cookies when I get off work tonight. Any good documentaries to watch while I'm in the kitchen?

[moodycarcass]

I'm making chicken noodle soup

[wromwood]

I've just realized that I really want to tell an anecdote about Colin Baker.

A few weeks ago, I attended Chicago TARDIS and I was lucky enough to be able to splurge on a Meet and Greet ticket with Peter Davison, Colin Baker, and Sylvester McCoy. A certain number of con attendees (such as myself) were able to buy these tickets. At the Meet and Greet, we were loosely split into three groups that rotated sitting at three tables, each one having one Classic Who actor, giving us all an equal amount of time to sit with each guest.

While it was cool to speak with any of them, I think my time with Colin was the most fun. He has such a great sense of sharp, dry British humor, and he must've been in a good mood that night.

Anyway, the anecdote I want to tell is short and silly, but I think about it a lot. He spent a good deal of time talking about his animals when my group sat with him. He told us that he currently has (and I hope I'm remembering this correctly; the amount of cats and dogs may be reversed) two horses, four cats, three dogs, and some chickens. I excitedly asked him what kind of chickens they were.

For context, I know someone who owned Silkie chickens, making my default idea of "chicken owned by someone who isn't a farmer" a fluffy grey cutie pie that lays blue eggs. One of my uncles also owns chickens, and while they're more "normal," I've still heard him talk about differing breeds. So I was very interested to hear what breed of chicken Colin Baker prefers to own.

In response, Colin squinted at me and said, "The kind that lays eggs."

I lay awake thinking about this response some nights.

[holyviolence]

the thing about eating at locally owned restaurants is that i will Get So Full and then someone offers me a free sample or side and i can't say no.

[maddestmewmew]

id say i cope with anger like a normal person yeah

[hydratedking]

[rabbitcruiser]

National Pizza Day

Imagine sinking your teeth into a hot, crispy, cheesy slice of heaven. Each bite is a flavor explosion, transporting you to pizza paradise.

National Pizza Day is the perfect time to get that pizza eating game on!

Yes, it’s absolutely true! A whole day – 24 happy and delicious hours – devoted especially to celebrating that yummy carb that almost no one can do without. From the humble beginning of sauce on flatbread to today’s gourmet offerings, pizza has captured the hearts and stomachs of people from all around the globe.

Enjoying the basic Italian Margherita pizza? Love the traditional American cheese and pepperoni? Feeling more adventurous and need to show that in a unique selection of pizza toppings? Now is the time to show the world what pizza eating really is!

Who is a pepperoni type of person? Or, who prefers their pizza plain – with just cheese and tomato only? Perhaps there is someone who likes to experiment with different, more unique toppings?

There are many disputes about the best pizza, with the main argument being whether pineapple belongs on a pizza or not. No matter each person’s preference, though, there’s one thing pretty much everyone can agree on: pizza is one of the best culinary inventions around.

Aside from figuring out what toppings to have on pizza, it is also necessary to make the decision about what type of crust to go for. There are also thick and thin crusts, as well as pizzas with stuffed crusts. The options are practically endless!

Now is the time to learn a little bit more about National Pizza Day.

History of National Pizza Day

While it’s impossible to know for sure, some people might say that National Pizza Day got its beginning in the 10th century in Naples, Italy. This is when records first show the presence of what has now become modern-day pizza. It started out as a simple flatbread spread with sauce and sprinkled with cheese. It is likely that the first people who made this as a creative snack for their families had no idea the sensation that they had whipped up and what it would become.

Pizza eventually made its mark on America in 1905. In New York City, a pizzeria called Lombardi’s created the spark that would light hearts across the country from then until now – and with no conceivable end in sight. And 1905 was the year that Lombardi’s was granted the first mercantile license to make pizza issued in the United States. Amazingly, Lombardi’s is still in business! For those who want to taste that first real pizza to hit American shores, head over to Little Italy in Manhattan and check them out.

It is estimated that the first National Pizza Day probably began some time in the early 2000s, but whenever it started, it now deserves to be celebrated each and every year!

National Pizza Day Timeline

6th Century BC

Writings from Darius the Great record findings of flatbreads that are topped with dates and cheese, which is possibly the earliest mention of something like pizza.

1522 AD

Naples creates modern pizza

Following the import of tomatoes to Europe, the people of Naples begin combining them with flatbreads. Naples’ status as a port city means sailors and travelers spread the word throughout Europe.

18th Century

Royal pizza oven in Naples

Queen Maria Carolina d’Asburgo Lorena, wife of the King of Naples, has a special oven installed in her palace that is specifically for making pizzas.

1830 AD

Earliest-known pizzeria begins

In Naples, Italy, the world’s first pizza restaurant opens and begins to replace the street vendors who sold slices to local artists, students and others with low incomes.

1905

First American merchant license for pizza

Lombardi’s on Spring Street in New York City is issued a mercantile license for baking pizza. This is the first official pizzeria license in the United States.

How to Celebrate National Pizza Day

Is it really necessary to give instructions on how to celebrate this awesome day? Even so, for those who are looking for suggestions, here are just a few ideas to get those creative juices started. This is a great way to be creative with the following ideas to try out on your own or with family and friends:

Enjoy a Slice (or Several Slices!) of Pizza

What could be better than enjoying a simple but delicious slice of pizza? This cheesy round disc has become a meal that is adored all over the world, from its founding in Italy to the war between New York and Chicago style pizzas, and everywhere in between. There’s Detroit style pizza, Neapolitan pizza, Greek pizza, Sicilian pizza, California pizza and many more.

The only difficulty on a day like today is deciding what sort of toppings to put on top.

Join in on National Pizza Day Celebrations

All throughout the USA and other places in the world, pizza places will host various events and activities in honor of National Pizza Day. Check out what’s happening in a local pizza place, or make a day (or weekend!) of it and take a road trip to a new city.

Types of events put on by pizza places in observance of National Pizza Day may include debuting special gourmet pizzas or limited-time-only toppings options. Look for restaurants that offer special deals, discounts, BOGOs (Buy One Get One), promo codes, and meal packages.

Local news programs often pay homage to National Pizza Day by including media spots where pizzas are made or featured. Look for pizza and beer craft pairing events at pubs and restaurants.

Host a Pizza Party

Another fun way to dive into celebrating National Pizza Day is by having a pizza party for friends and neighbors. Why not get a few loved ones together and order some of those favorite pizzas? After all, what could be better than some good food and good company? Keep things low-key and watch some movies together or choose to get the tunes on and dance the night away.

Or, if pizza day falls on a work day, celebrate by ordering pizza into the office and sharing a few pies with coworkers. Better yet, order from several different pizza places and have a taste test to see which is the best.

No matter what is decided, just make sure that there is plenty of pizza on hand for people to enjoy.

Try Making Pizza at Home

Feeling up to making pizza from scratch at home? It’s probably easier than it seems! Come on, it’s time to head into the kitchen and take a look around.

Pull out a favorite cookbook or hit up a search engine and search for pizza recipes. Wow! Look at all those options. Pick one that sounds delicious and then get going. Make trying a new from-scratch pizza a tradition for National Pizza Day!

Visit a Pizza Parlor or Pizzeria

Not a fan of the kitchen? That’s okay! Every city and town has many choices as well when it comes to this fabulous dish.

Head out and try a new pizzeria – or two! Make it a great family adventure. Let the kids help map out where to go. Maybe pick toppings out at random and try something you’ve never had before. Who knows? It may become a new family favorite.

Drive around any American city and it will not be difficult to find a pizza place on almost every corner. From the chains that boast a perfect pizza (exactly like every other one made from any of their stores), to the quaint mom and pop restaurants that share their family traditions with their customers year after year. There are lots of famous and popular pizza brands, with the three main ones being Pizza Hut, Papa John’s, and Domino’s.

The great news is that it isn’t necessary to choose between these types of pizzerias because they are all fabulous! Sometimes those commercials and funny jingles just get into my mind and make me drive over for a slice!

Learn Fun Facts About Pizza

There are lots of pretty interesting facts about pizzas that can be found and shared in honor of National Pizza Day.

Impress friends and family with fun facts like these:

350 slices of pizza are eaten every second in the United States. However, surprisingly, the country with the highest consumption of pizza in the world per capita is Norway.

The most expensive pizza in the world will cost a massive $12,000 to order. This is a pizza that is sold in Italy, made by Renato Viola and just the dough takes 72 hours to make. It features some of the most lavish ingredients (as would be expected for that price tag), such as grains of pink Australian sea-salt from the Murray River, lobster from Norway, and even three different types of caviar.

Pizza is the second most popular fast food in the United States. The only fast food that people love more than pizza is hamburgers! There is no denying that the love of pizza is very real.

Create New Varieties of Pizza

For an even more special National Pizza Day, take some time to come up with a unique pizza invention. There are many weird and wonderful toppings that people have put on pizzas over the years. Why not see what can be discovered or created as the next big thing?

In addition to traditional savory pizzas with cheese and sauce, people have also created dessert pizzas. These might include pizzas covered in Nutella and other chocolate delights, or pizza with cream cheese “sauce” and then covered in slices of fruit. Find recipes like this online, or you can create them. It might even be fun to share a new pizza creation on social media and make everyone drool over those creative pizza skills!Does the family already take part in this day? If not, make sure to start now, and turn it into a community event where everyone can be involved!

National Pizza Day FAQs

Is pizza healthy?

Some versions of pizza, especially frozen and fast-food versions, are often high in sodium, fat, sugar, calories and preservatives. However, homemade pizza that uses simple, fresh ingredients offers nutrients such as protein, calcium, antioxidants, vitamins and fiber.

How is pizza made?

Pizza is actually a fairly easy dish to make. It starts with a flatbread that is then topped with some type of sauce, vegetables, meats, cheese or other toppings. It is then baked in either a regular oven or a traditional wood fired oven.

Is pizza Italian?

Yes! Pizza is a dish that originated in Naples, Italy and is still served there to this day. However, pizza recipes differ based on region and some American pizzas, especially Chicago deep dish, barely resembles the original Italian versions.

What is the most popular pizza topping?

Certainly every individual has their favorites and preferences from Hawaiian to Margherita. But, for Americans, pepperoni tops the list of the best pizza toppings with more than 53% of people saying it is their favorite.

When is National Pizza Day?

Each year, National Pizza Day falls on February 9. But there are also tons of other ways to celebrate pizza throughout the year, including National Pepperoni Pizza Day, National Cheese Pizza Day, National Deep Dish Pizza Day, National Pizza Month and several others!

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[chkabstractions]

Chickens at a local community garden.

Fuji X-T4. 70-300mm f/4-5.6