Here's your chance to meet Andre Dawson thanks to World Fishing Network

WFN: World Fishing Network

and Hall of Famer Andre Dawson

Team Up To Find “Chicago’s Best Angler”

Fans will have a chance to meet Dawson March 19 at Bolingbrook Bass Pro Shops® and to win a fishing trip with the former Cub and Hall of Famer

WFN: World Fishing Network, the nation’s only 24-hour fishing lifestyle TV channel, celebrates the launch of its Web site dedicated to finding Chicago’s Best Angler, www.wfnchicago.com, with the help of former Chicago Cub and avid fisherman—and soon to be Hall of Fame inductee—Andre Dawson.

Dawson, an avid fisherman who played six years with the Cubs and won the NL MVP with the club in 1987, will pick the lucky angler, who will win the “fishing trip of a lifetime” with Dawson to a fishing hole to be determined. The winner and Dawson will have their fishing adventure covered by a WFN crew, and it will air on the network, giving the lucky winner a rare chance to appear on national television. The grand prize also includes $1,000 in cash and WFN merchandise.

WFN has also partnered with Bass Pro Shops to give fans and anglers in the Chicago area a chance to meet Dawson and get an autograph at 7 p.m. Friday, March 19 at the Bass Pro Shops location at 709 Janes Ave., Bolingbrook; (630) 296-2700.

Anglers and fans who visit the store during the event will meet their baseball hero, receive a special autographed Dawson photo, and have the opportunity to sign up for the contest.

Chicago and area fans are encouraged to go to www.wfnchicago.com to enter for their chance to win. To bolster their chances of winning, entrants are encouraged to make sure their friends and family “rate” their entry on the site. Entrants are also encouraged to promote their entry on Facebook, Twitter and other social media sites, to help garner support.

To enter, fans must tell the network and Dawson in 200 words or less what they love about fishing in the Chicago area and why they are Chicago’s best angler. Entrants are also encouraged to include a photo with entry. Dawson will select the winner, to be announced in late April.
The site also includes blogs from local anglers, photos and video content, all relevant to anglers in the area. “We are excited to partner with Andre Dawson and Bass Pro Shops to celebrate the launch of our Chicago presence online, since the Chicagoland area is one of the nation's top fishing markets and the demand for the network is huge,” said Mark Rubinstein, President & CEO of WFN. “We have been thrilled to bring WFN to the more than 60 million people across the nation who love to fish, and we look forward to launching this initiative specifically for the Chicago market.”

Fishing in Illinois is big business, and massive participation. More than 873,000 people fish in Illinois each year, spending more than 16 million days fishing with total related expenditures at more than $774 million.*

WFN already has become a popular channel in other surrounding fishing markets, launching on Charter in Wisconsin, a popular fishing destination for many Chicagoans. Xfinity (Comcast) has added WFN to its lineup in Michigan markets such as Detroit, Grand Rapids, Lansing and Flint.
WFN’s high definition channel, WFN HD, is available in the Chicago area on DISH Network (channel 394) and AT&T U-verse (channel 1679).

WFN is also available nationally on satellite TV provider DISH Network, AT&T U-verse, Charter Communications, Verizon Fios among other distributors.

Chicago French Market Named Best Redevelopment Project of 2009

Chicago French Market (131 N. Clinton between Randolph and Washington streets, a project by the Bensidoun family of France and U.S. Equities Realty of Chicago, has been named Best Redevelopment Project of 2009. Chicago French Market appeals to the "shop local" food movement by offering about 30 vendors of fresh ingredients for home cooking or for commuters grabbing a quick lunch.  The award was presented last night at a benefit for the Greater Chicago Food Depository, Chicago's food bank. The awards dinner raised more than $850,000 to support hunger-relief programs and has raised more than $10 million in the past 22 years. More than 1,500 attendees were on hand as awards were presented in 15 categories.

Glen Prairie Weekend Specials, March 12-13

Come in after 5 p.m. this weekend, March 12 -13, to Glen Prairie (1250 Roosevelt Rd., Glen Ellyn, Ill.; 630-613-1250) for farm-fresh specials from Chef Daniel Ovanin. Dishes featured include a starter, La Quercia Organic Prosciutto Plate with grilled sourdough, olive tapenade and olive oil for $9; entrees include Wild Caught Alaskan Halibut served with caramelized cauliflower, sautéed organic spinach and crispy potatoes for $23, and Grilled Becker Lane Organic Pork Chop paired with charred market onions, confit fingerling potatoes and natural jus for $20.

About Glen Prairie
Glen Prairie serves contemporary American cuisine, with a strong emphasis on local Midwest flavors and products. Breakfast is served 6 a.m. until 11 a.m. Monday through Friday and 7 a.m. until 11 a.m. Saturday and Sunday. Lunch hours are 11 a.m. until 5 p.m. daily. Dinner is served 5 p.m. until 10 p.m. Sunday through Thursday, and 5 p.m. until 11 p.m. Friday and Saturday. The lounge remains open one hour later than the restaurant each day.

For more information or for reservations call (630) 613-1250 or visit www.glenprairie.com. Follow Glen Prairie on Twitter @glenprairie.

Weekly Specials at Karma

Still deciding on dining plans for this week or weekend? Come to Karma (510 E. Route 83, Mundelein, Ill.; 847-970-6900) for its weekly specials offered March 12 -19. Start with a Smoked Salmon Carpaccio served with Field Greens and a Yuzu Dressing for $7. The entrée feature is a Grilled Marinated Flank Steak served with Pesto, Mashed Potatoes and Baby Vegetables for $22. End the meal with Lychee Tapioca garnished with Peaches and a Green Tea White Chocolate Lattice for $7.

Karma’s weekly specials will be served in addition to the regular menu.

About Karma
Karma is a sophisticated restaurant with a zen-laced atmosphere that serves Pan-Asian cuisine. Breakfast is served 6 a.m. until 10:30 a.m. daily. Lunch hours are 11:30 a.m. until 2 p.m. daily. Dinner is served 5 p.m. until 10 p.m. Sunday through Thursday, and 5 p.m. until 11 p.m. Friday and Saturday. The lounge stays open one extra hour each night. Karma is located adjacent to the Crowne Plaza Chicago North Shore at 510 East Route 83, Mundelein, Ill. 60060.

For more information or reservations call (847) 970-6900 or visit www.karmachicago.com. Follow Karma on Twitter @karmamundelein.

Birch River Grill features Easter Brunch Buffet

Looking to try out a new place for Easter Brunch this year? Bring the family to Birch River Grill (75 W. Algonquin Rd., Arlington Heights, Ill.; 847-427-4242) for its Easter Brunch Buffet, served from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m., Sunday, April 4 with a wide variety of stations.

The Seafood Station includes Whole Smoked King Salmon, Whole Smoked Trout and Peel and Eat Cocktail Shrimp. The Salad Station features Mixed Greens with Goat Cheese, Pecans and Lemon Herb Dressing, Baby Hearts of Romaine with Anchovy Parmesan Dressing, and Orzo Primavera Salad with Spring Artichokes and Kalamata Olives. The Continental Station offers Bakery Fresh Breads, Muffins, Croissants, Danish, Mini Bagels, and Fresh Fruit and Berries. The Eggs, Omelets and Waffles Made to Order Station includes Eggs and Omelets Made to Order, Fresh Belgium Waffles with Strawberry Coulis and Cinnamon Whipped Butter, Sage Country Sausage Links, Peppered Bacon, and Red Skinned Breakfast Potatoes with Caramelized onions and peppers. The Carving Station features Sirloin of Beef with Red Wine Demi Glaze, and Maple Roasted Breast of Turkey with Honey Mustard sauce. The Hot Buffet offers Fire Roasted Rainbow Trout with Wild Rice Pilaf and Citrus Butter, Pan Seared Breast of Chicken with Wild Mushroom Marsala, Three Cheese Au Gratin Potatoes, Fusilli Pasta with Asparagus and Sun Dried Tomato, and Spring Vegetable Melange. Save room for dessert, Assorted Mini French Pastries, Mini Fruit Tarts, BRG Carrot Cake, and Cakes and Tortes are featured.

The cost is $30.95 for adults, $12.95 for kids 10 and under, and kids under 4 eat for free.

About Birch River Grill
Birch River Grill serves rustic American gourmet comfort food. Breakfast is served 6 a.m. until 11 a.m. Monday through Friday, and 7 a.m. until 11 a.m. Saturday and Sunday. Lunch is served 11 a.m. until 3 p.m. Monday through Sunday, with only the lounge menu available from 3 p.m. until 5 p.m. Dinner hours are 5 p.m. until 10 p.m. Monday through Thursday, and Sunday, and 5 p.m. until 11 p.m. Friday and Saturday, with the lounge open one hour later daily. All major credit cards are accepted. Complimentary parking is available.

For more information or to make a reservation call (847) 427-4242 or visit www.birchrivergrill.com. Follow Birch River Grill on Twitter @birchrivergrill.

Photo Credit: Getty Images

Easter Brunch Buffet at Karma

Make your Easter Brunch plans at Karma (510 E. Route 83, Mundelein, Ill.; 847-970-6900) which offers a special brunch buffet with many options. Bring the family in Sunday, April 4 between 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. and enjoy Chef Robert Packer’s menu.

Choices include: Bow Tie Pasta Salad, Crème Fraiche Potato Salad, Grilled Vegetable Salad, Mixed Garden Greens with Dressings, Imported and Domestic Cheeses with Artisan Breads. Seafood options include: Citrus Poached King Salmon, Peel and Eat Shrimp with a Plum Tomato and Horseradish Sauce, and Creole Seafood Salad. Hot food options consist of: Scrambled Eggs with Chives, Pepper Cured Bacon, Country Sausage Links, Breakfast Potatoes, Buttermilk Pancakes, Cheese Blintzes with Fruit Compote, Grecian Style Roast Chicken, Seared Salmon atop Braised Napa Cabbage with Tomato Concasse, Mustard Crusted Roast Pork Loin with Cranberry Demi Glace, Green Beans with Roasted Red Peppers, and Oven Browned Potatoes with Charred Shallots. The Carving Station features Herb and Garlic Crusted Prime Rib and Oak Roasted Pit Ham. Also available is an Omelet Station. Desserts offered are Assorted Mini French Pastries and Bakery Fresh Tortes and Pies.

The cost for adults is $26.95, kids are $12.95 and kids under 5 eat for free.

About Karma
Karma is a sophisticated restaurant with a zen-laced atmosphere that serves Pan-Asian cuisine. Breakfast is served 6 a.m. until 10:30 a.m. daily. Lunch hours are 11:30 a.m. until 2 p.m. daily. Dinner is served 5 p.m. until 10 p.m. Sunday through Thursday, and 5 p.m. until 11 p.m. Friday and Saturday. The lounge stays open one extra hour each night. Karma is located adjacent to the Crowne Plaza Chicago North Shore at 510 East Route 83, Mundelein, Ill. 60060.

For more information or to make a reservation call (847) 970-6900 or visit www.karmachicago.com. Follow Karma on Twitter @karmamundelein.

Gramp's Gourmet Foods Debuts in Chicago French Market

Chicago French Market at MetraMarket in Chicago's Fulton River District (131 N. Clinton St.; 312-575-0306) welcomed its newest vendor, Gramp's Gourmet Foods, today. Gramp's Gourmet Foods, founded by Bill "Gramp's" Brickner in 2005, features 17 varieties of both sweet and dill pickles, Martha's Sweet Hot Mustard, a variety of pickled beets and Gramp's signature drink: Apple-Pie-In-A-Jar. It is the first permanent location for Gramp's, well known for its handmade, natural gourmet foods.

Brickner's pickles hobby began during his days as an insurance salesmen, when he would create handmade pickles for his customers, family, friends and community events. After his retirement from the insurance business and with encouragement from his children, he then extended his pickle business to farmers' markets, specialty shops, online and now Gramp's first permanent location at Chicago French Market. Gramp's Gourmet Foods also offers customized gift boxes available for special order. All pickles are available in slices or spears, are hand-cut and hand-packed.

"We're excited to open our first permanent location in the heart of Chicago, at Chicago French Market," says Brickner. "What started as a passionate hobby for me has turned into a love for sharing my food, and I hope to serve this active, growing community in Chicago at Chicago French Market."

Gramp's Gourmet Foods has already created a strong following, with orders coming in from as far away as New York, Arkansas and Texas, with most repeat customers based in the Chicago and Quad Cities areas. Brickner even creates new products based on customer suggestions. After a regular customer suggested making pickles with garlic, Brickner created a recipe and launched the product, which is now one of his bestsellers.

"We even have customers order the same jars of pickles every month, and tell us they put our pickles on everything they eat," says Brickner's wife, Janet. "Making people happy is our main goal, and we're excited to make customers happy at Chicago French Market."

Gramp's Gourmet Foods joins an already impressive lineup of 30 vendors in the Chicago French Market, a European-inspired market offering an array of local produce, meats, seafood, breads, pastries, cheese and wine, chocolates, pastas, artisan-made goods, flowers and a seating area for customers. MetraMarket's Chicago French Market and its vendors stay open year-round, six days per week, and is located at 131 N. Clinton St. (between Washington and Randolph Streets). For more information, visit www.chicagofrenchmarket.com.

Easter Brunch Buffet at Dine

It’s not too early to schedule your Easter Brunch reservations. Bring the family to Dine (733 W. Madison St., Chicago, Ill.; 312-602-2100) Sunday, April 4 for an extensive brunch buffet offered 9:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. The buffet features a variety of stations including: Build Your Own Omelets, Breakfast Selections, Waffle Station, Lunch Entrees, Carving Station, Pasta Selections, Assorted Seafood, Assorted Gourmet Desserts and a Kid’s Station.

The cost is $39 for adults, $15 for children 12 and under, and free for children 5 and under.

For more information or reservations call (312) 602-2100 or visit www.dinerestaurant.com.

Photo Credit: Getty Images

Shop For A Cause

Save your grocery list for Thursday, March 25 and come to Whole Foods Market Sauganash (6020 N. Cicero Ave., Chicago; 773-205-1100) to raise money for A Silver Lining Foundation’s Buy A Mom A Mammogram. Five percent of total sales that day benefit the program which provides screening mammograms to uninsured and underinsured women at Swedish Covenant Hospital (5145 N. California Ave., Chicago; 773-878-8200).


Dr. Sandy Goldberg started A Silver Lining in 2002 to provide underinsured and uninsured women with information concerning cancer resources, treatment options and support services and funds no cost mammograms. With your support on March 25 we can fund more mammograms to women in need.

For more information call (312) 345-1322 or visit www.asilverliningfoundation.org.

Karma Features March Prix Fixe Menu

This month Karma (510 E. Route 83, Mundelein, Ill.; 847-970-6900) features a three-course prix fixe menu for $20 a person. Starters include Miso Soup with tofu and roasted nori or Karma House Salad with crisp lettuce, napa cabbage, cucumber, daikon radish and carrot ginger dressing. Entrée options include Orange Peel Tempura Chicken with sesame jasmine rice, ginger chili cucumber salad and Yuzu orange glaze or Yellow Mango Vegetable Curry served with spring vegetables tossed coconut yellow curry, jasmine rice and kimchi. Dessert showcases Trio of Sorbet or Ice Cream with fresh berries.

Prix Fixe Menu not valid with the Entertainment Book Promotion of buy one entrée get one free.

To make a reservation call (847) 970-6900 or visit www.karmachicago.com. Follow Karma on Twitter @karmamundelein.