Walter Payton's Son to Appear at Orange 13 to Introduce New Beer

Former NFL running back Jarrett Payton, the son of the late Chicago Bears great Walter Payton, will appear at in Lemont on Thursday to unveil his new craft beer.

Payton has partnered with Chicago-based Argus Brewery to develop a "flavorful, drinkable ale that will please craft beer drinkers," according to a press release.

Orange 13 will introduce the beer during a special event at 8 p.m. Thursday, with Payton will be on hand for the first pour.

The All-American Ale is described by the website Chicago Beer Geeks as a beer "that is straw in color, moderately bitter with a subtle, fruit-like hop character that compliments the refreshing, wheat-based ale."

"This beer does exactly what it’s intended to do; it gives party goers a local craft beer alternative to mass produced beers at popular local establishments," the site says. "The bottle label is simple and classic with JP’s signature in the middle, and blue stripes patterned to resemble the hash marks of a football field."

Argus is owned by father/son duo Bob and Patrick Jensen, who inspired Payton to pursue the venture.

“My dad was always a craft beer admirer and he would always talk to me about what craft beer means and what makes it so special,” Payton said in a press release. “He also instilled in me the mind of a business man. Because of my close relationship with my dad, I could not think of a better father/son team to partner with than Bob and Patrick Jensen. I’m proud of the ale we have created, and I am looking forward to introducing our beer to the patrons of Orange 13.”

In the release, the Jensens said they are "extremely proud" of the beer Payton created.

“Jarrett has become a part of the Argus family," Patrick Jensen said. "He has been with us every step of the way, from deciding what type of beer he wanted to produce to the packaging of the product. Jarrett is a consummate businessman and we look forward to a long lasting partnership.”

Jarrett Payton is a radio host, businessman and philanthropist. He played college football at the University of Miami, and went on to play in the NFL for two years with the Tennessee Titans and Amsterdam Admirals (NFL Europe). He also played in the Canadian Football League from 2007 to 2009.

Payton recently founded the Jarrett Payton Foundation, which works with schools to implement anti-bullying messages and programs. He dedicates much of his time to the Walter and Connie Payton Foundation, which helps mentor underprivileged youth.

Jarrett will be the second Payton to visit Lemont this year. His sister, Brittney Payton, is a co-host on the popular WGN show "Chicago's Best," .

Orange 13 is located at 14196 McCarthy Road in Lemont. For more information, visit www.o13lounge.com or call 630-257-1313.

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