O'Reilly Auto Parts World of Wheels in Chicago to be largest event in show's history

The 48th Annual O'Reilly Auto Parts World of Wheels held March 5-7, 2010 at its new location, the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center (5555 N. River Road, Rosemont, Ill.), is positioned to be the largest show in the event's long running history. This year's show, presented by Denny Guest's South Oak Dodge-Chrysler-Jeep and produced by Championship Auto Shows, Inc. hosts 500 of the country's best custom and restored cars. The show is open 3 p.m. - 10:30 p.m. Friday, March 5; 10 a.m. - 10:30 p.m. Saturday, March 6; and 10 a.m. - 7 p.m. Sunday, March 7. Admission is $16 per person, $5 for children ages 6-12 and discount tickets can be purchased at any Chicago area O'Reilly Auto Parts retailer.

"As we anticipated, the move from Chicago's McCormick Place to the Rosemont venue has provided us with more space this year," says Pete Toundas, president of Championship Auto Shows. "Already the oldest and biggest auto enthusiast event in Chicago, we expect the show to be the largest in the show's history. The additional space has allowed us to showcase more cars and offer new special exhibits."

The move to the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center enables the show to continue to grow, having 550,000 square feet of exhibition space for its custom and restored cars, trucks and motorcycle exhibits. The show also has more features, vendors, displays and events, including a live charity auction and a lifestyle area with live entertainment, fashion shows and karaoke competitions.

New Features at O'Reilly Auto Parts World of Wheels
The O'Reilly Auto Parts World of Wheels is a weekend to remember with new features like Drag City USA, presenting a unique exhibit of nostalgic dragsters from The Don Garlits Museum of Drag Racing in Ocala, Fla. Among them are Garlits' personal collection of "swamp rats," Connie Kalitta's "Bounty Hunter" and Don Prudhomme's 1970 Wynn's Winder, known as "The Snake," which some may remember as a Hot Wheels car. The dragster exhibit also features the Chi-Town Hustler and Hawaiian Funny Cars from Greg Mosley's Mopar Museum Moline, Ill.

New this year is the Tuner Galleria featuring a collection of the finest European and Japanese modern muscle and sport compacts paired with live entertainment. A lifestyle aspect is also part of this exhibit, featuring fashion shows featuring PMGirls models, karaoke, dance competitions and more.

Formerly a show in itself, the popular Chevy VetteFest also is a new addition to the O'Reilly Auto Parts World of Wheels, where the ultimate in original and restored Corvettes and Chevrolets compete for the Gold Spinner and Triple Crown Awards.

Guests can also enjoy 30-minute shows from the WheelieShow.com's Streetbike Freestyle Stunt Team. The high-energy, breathtaking shows are held multiple times each day of the three-day event.

Celebrity Showcase, presented by SuperStart Battery
Celebrity appearances are always a popular feature at the O'Reilly Auto Parts World of Wheels. The Celebrity Showcase, presented by Super Start Battery, features an all star line up including WWE Women's Champion Melina Perez (Melina) from 7 p.m.-9 p.m. Friday, March 3. Joining the line up this year is also Chip Foose, legendary auto designer and star of "Overhaulin" on TLC who appears at the show from 1 p.m.-4 p.m. and 7 p.m.-9 p.m. on Saturday, March 6. The kids will be happy to know that Disney actress Brenda Song from "The Suite Life of Zack and Cody" and "Suite Life on Deck" joins the celebrity showcase from noon-5 p.m. on Sunday, March 7.

Back by Popular Demand
Returning this year are popular exhibits including Cycle Rama, featuring more than 100 of the nation's best custom built choppers; and MotoRama, showcasing traditional rods and customs including cars from the well-known "VooDoo Larry."

Throughout the weekend, cars compete for the prestigious Legend Cup, sponsored by CleanTools. This award is given to the winning vehicle which best represents a combination of style, quality and craftsmanship during the O'Reilly Auto Parts World of Wheels weekend. The winner of the CleanTools Legend Cup is awarded a beautiful perennial cup and presented with a check for $5,000.

O'Reilly Auto Parts World of Wheels also hopes to combine the worlds of auto and art with the Chicago Brushmasters "Kustom Kulture Automotive Art Auction." This live charity auction features several hundred professionally decorated pieces from artists around the country, and all proceeds benefit the Ronald McDonald House. The charity auction will have a special display of NHRA driver Ashley Force's professional race car. At 6:45 p.m. on Saturday, March 6, the Chicago Brushmasters present legendary sign artist Art Dexter with the "Frank H. Atkinson Lifetime Achievement Award" for his innovation, mentoring and inspiration to the pinstriping community.

Committed to educating future generations about the automotive industry, the 5th Annual O'Reilly Auto Parts World of Wheels Student Day is held Friday, March 5 at the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center. Participating students visit the show floor to see the vehicles and speak with sponsors and exhibitors before the event opens to the public, as well as earn complimentary access to all parts of the three-day show.

"Championship Auto Shows is committed to providing the best experience possible at the O'Reilly Auto Parts World of Wheels show," says Toundas. "We are confident the new features this year will please our guests new and old, and the show will continue to be Chicago's largest auto enthusiast event."

About O'Reilly Auto Parts World of Wheels
The 48th Annual O'Reilly Auto Parts World of Wheels, presented by Denny Guest's South Oak Dodge-Chrysler-Jeep is produced by Championship Auto Shows, Inc. of Auburn Hills, Mich. Part of the International Show Car Association custom car competition, the show takes place March 5-7, 2010 at Donald E. Stephens Convention Center (5555 N. River Road, Rosemont, Ill.). The event hours are Friday, 3 p.m. to 10:30 p.m., Saturday, 10 a.m. to 10:30 p.m. and Sunday, 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Discount pre-sale tickets can be purchased at O'Reilly Auto Parts. For more information, visit www.worldofwheels.com or www.worldofwheels.wordpress.com. Tweeting updates can be found at @WorldofWheelsIL.

"A Night in Support of Haiti" presented by Erie-LaSalle Body Shop, Feb. 26

In honor of its 75th anniversary, Erie-LaSalle Body Shop is hosting a charity event "A Night in Support of Haiti" 5:30 p.m.-9 p.m. Friday, Feb. 26 at Martini Park (151 W. Erie St.). Guests enjoy complimentary appetizers and an open bar with a $40 advance admission fee ($50 at the door), from which 100 percent is donated to Partners in Health, a charity that has been working on the ground for more than 20 years.

"As soon as I heard of the tragedy in Haiti, I felt compelled to my lend support. I was already planning Erie-LaSalle's 75th anniversary party, so it seemed like a great opportunity to tie the two together," says Erie-LaSalle Body Shop's owner Bob Gottfred. "Partners in Health is a natural fit for me because they have been established in Haiti for two decades. As a longtime business owner myself, I know the importance of going to someone you can trust."

Erie-LaSalle has been repairing and servicing vehicles at its Erie and LaSalle Street location since 1934, establishing itself as Chicago's premier auto repair shop.

Attendees are encouraged to RSVP to the event early by visiting www.erielasalle.com/haiti, although admission can be paid at the door for an additional $10. Admission includes an open bar with beer, wine and cocktails including four specialty martinis like the Erie-LaSalle Body ShopTini and Strawberry Basil Martini. Passed appetizers are provided during the event. Guests have an opportunity to win raffle prizes, and Martini Park's signature live band plays throughout the night.

Partners in Health (PIH) has been established in Haiti for more than 20 years. In addition to their efforts in Haiti, PIH works to bring modern medical care to poor communities in eight other countries around the world. The work of PIH has three goals: to care for patients, to alleviate the root causes of disease in communities and to share lessons learned around the world. To learn more visit http://www.standwithhaiti.com/.

About Martini Park
Martini Park, Chicago’s “Playground for Grownups”, debuted in Chicago in July 2007 at 151 W. Erie St. in River North. This unprecedented upscale lounge concept features a variety of live music every night, highly-acclaimed signature martinis and cocktails, as well as sharable plates of delectable food items, all within an atmosphere of world-class design. Specialty offerings include the Cucumber Martini, Strawberry Basil Martini, Apple-tini, Smoked Salmon Poppers and Kobe Beef Sliders. Martini Park’s team of seasoned professionals serves each guest with impeccable attention to detail, providing the highest standards in hospitality and service. Martini Park is open Monday – Friday 5 p.m. to 2 a.m. and Saturday 5 p.m. to 3 a.m.

Erie-LaSalle Body Shop is located at 146 W. Erie St. in Chicago. Valet parking is available. All proceeds from the 75th anniversary charity event go directly to Partners in Health. For more information about "A Night in Support of Haiti," please call (312) 337-3903 or visit www.erielasalle.com/haiti.

Glen Prairie's Super Bowl Weekend Specials

It's almost the weekend, so it's time to start making dinner plans. Looking for a dining deal in Chicago's western suburbs? Look no further than Glen Prairie (1250 Roosevelt Rd., Glen Ellyn; 630-613-1250), where executive chef Daniel Ovanin has crafted farm-fresh dishes, offered just Feb. 5 and 6.

Try Pan Seared Salmon, with tomato, Kalamata Olive and caper relish, and melted leek risotto ($21), or Smothered Center Cut Pork Chop, caramelized onions, whipped potatoes, green beans and carrots ($20).

And don't forget about Glen Prairie's Super Bowl specials, offered during the Big Game Sunday, Feb. 7. Whether you're cheering on the Colts or supporting the Saints, these deals can't be beat. Enjoy Half price Miller and Budweiser bottle, and complimentary appetizers in the lounge during halftime, including buffalo wings, quesadillas and mini egg rolls.

Make your reservation today by calling (630) 613-1250 or visit http://www.glenprairie.com/. Follow Glen Prairie on Twitter: @GlenPrairie.

Photo: Getty Images

Save the Date: A Night in Support of Haiti

Save the date! In honor of its 75th anniversary, Erie-LaSalle Body Shop is hosting a charity event "A Night in Support of Haiti" from 5:30 p.m. - 9 p.m. Friday, Feb. 26 at Martini Park (151 W. Erie St.) Guests enjoy complimentary appetizers and an open bar with a $40 advance admission fee ($50 at the door), from which 100 percent is donated to Partners in Health, a charity that has been working on the ground for more than 20 years.

Admission includes an open bar with beer, wine and four specialty cocktails, like the Erie-Salle Body ShopTini and Strawberry Basil Martini. Passed appetizers and a buffet are also included.

Erie-LaSalle has been repairing and servicing vehicles at its Erie and LaSalle Street location since 1934, establishing itself as Chicago's premier auto repair shop.

Partners in Health (PIH) has been established in Haiti for more than 20 years. In addition to their efforts in Haiti, PIH works to bring modern medical care to poor communities in eight other countries around the world. The work of PIH has three goals: to care for patients, to alleviate the root causes of disease in communities and to share lessons learned around the world. To learn more, visit www.standwithhaiti.com.

Erie-LaSalle Body Shop is located at 146 W. Erie St. in Chicago. For more information about "A Night in Support of Haiti," please call (312) 337-3903. And don't forget to mark the date in your calendar!

Image: Partners in Health

Upcoming Events at the Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum

Just because it's the middle of winter doesn't mean there's nothing to do in Chicago! Head to The Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum (2430 N. Cannon Dr., Chicago; 773-755-5100) for upcoming events:

AON Corporate Lecture Presents Gary Hirshberg- Free, 6:30 p.m. Feb. 11
Gary Hirshberg, President and CEO of Stonyfield Farm, discusses how being green can be good for the bottom line and the planet.

Nature Museum FREE Film Series
Discover the gateway to fresh and insightful films focused on sustainability and nature. From arctic animals to electric cards, explore a variety of topics that connect you to the natural world. Feb. 20 features a screening of 'National Parks: America's Best Idea,' which includes a special reception and guest speaker.

The Birth of Coffee- Opens Feb. 12
This compelling photography exhibition sheds light on the complexity of our global food system by allowing visitors to see the origins of coffee. The exhibition is oganized by The Image Expedition and is sponsored by Intelligentsia Coffee and Tea.

National Geographic Crittercam: The World Through Animal Eyes
Animal lovers can watch a great white shark capture its prey, follow penguins as they glide beneath the ice, and experience an ocean voyage with seals. Crittercam is sponsored by Motorala Foundation, Challenger, Gray & Christmas, Inc., Sidley Austin LLP, and Solomon Cordwell Buenz.

Bunking with Butterflies Overnights
Receive a special discount when you register for the museum's Slumber Party Science Overnight, which takes place Friday, March 19 - Saturday, March 20. The special cost is $30/child, $20/adult (members), or $35/child, $25/adult (non-members). For more information, call (773) 755-5111, ext. 7, or e-mail overnights@naturemuseum.org.

Register for Summer Camp
The museum's two-week programs connect children (ages 4-10) to the wonders of nature through art, storytelling, movement, music, acting, hands-on science activities and live animal encounters. 2010 Summer Camp sessions begins June 21 and run through August 16.

Green City Market
Enjoy the popular farmer's market with seasonal produce, meats, baked goods, and cheeses in the museum's South Gallery. This month's theme, Meat and Potatoes, features a variety of demonstrations from local chefs.

For a full list of upcoming events, visit the museum's site.

This entry is part of Kurman Communications' Free Release Tuesdays series. Are you a non-profit or charity with an upcoming event? Let us help promote it with our new service, FRT- Free Release Tuesdays.

What is it? All you have to do is send us news on your upcoming event, including the details-- date/time, location, images, a link to a Web site, etc. We'll pick our top selections and post them on our highly-read blog! Got Buzz receives thousands of page views monthly by consumers and journalists who are looking for things to do and content to feature. KCI is pleased to help you spread the news!

Send all materials to kurmanstaff@kurman.com, and remember to follow us on Twitter: @kurmanstaff.

English Goes to the Dogs in Support of Chicago Canine Rescue

Attention dog lovers and partygoers: support the Chicago Canine Rescue 5 p.m. - 8 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 10 at English (444 N. LaSalle St., Chicago; 312-222-6200). Indulge in appetizers, beer, wine and a silent auction for just $35 at the door.

This event is for partygoers 21 and up only. For more information, visit http://www.chicagocaninerescue.org/.

This blog post is party of Kurman Communications' Free Release Tuesdays series. Are you a non-profit or charity with an upcoming event? Let us help promote it with our new service, FRT- Free Release Tuesdays.

What is it? All you have to do is send us news on your upcoming event, including the details-- date/time, location, images, a link to a Web site, etc. We'll pick our top selections and post them on our highly-read blog! Got Buzz receives thousands of page views monthly by consumers and journalists who are looking for things to do and content to feature. KCI is pleased to help you spread the news!

Send all materials to kurmanstaff@kurman.com, and remember to follow us on Twitter: @kurmanstaff.

Unite 4 Haiti at LaSalle Power Co.

Haiti still needs our help, and this week is your chance to raise money for a good cause while having a good time. Head to Unite 4 Haiti: One City. One Promotion. United for Haiti, benefiting Doctors Without Borders, 6 p.m. - 10 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 4 at LaSalle Power Co. (500 N. LaSalle St., Chicago; 312-661-1122).

With a $20 donation at the door, enjoy live music by: DJ Billy the Kid, DJ Dante the Don, DJ Matt Roan, DJ Rock City, DJ Jordan V, and DJ Alex Rage, including live performances by Chicago's own The RichKiddz, Platinum Events' "Platinum Crue" Dance Troupe, and more.

The hosted bar by Dragon Bleu Vodka and Bottle Green Cordial, with cocktails mixed by guest bartenders: D.C. Crenshaw, host of "Game Time Dine," Natalie Getz, ABC's "The Bachelor," Ginger Zee, Weather Anchor for NBC 5 Chicago, Ryan Chiaverini, Sports Reporter/Anchor for ABC 7 Chicago, Jason Erkes, Chicago Sport & Social, and Justin Jacobson, Platinum Events.

NBC 5 Chicago's Natalie Martinez emcees the event, with complimentary hors d'oeuvres provided Centered Chef, SRO Catering and Big Delicious Planet and cocktails included in the admission price.

Unite 4 Haiti is selling 45 tables and fewer than half of those ramind. Table cost is $250, which includes entry for up to 6 guests and 1 bottle of Dragon Bleu Vodka and mixers. For table reservations, contact Justin at Platinumevents@me.com.

The event also features an SMS Silent Auction of goodies donated from Garrett Popcorn, Jake Melnick's, Atlast CrossFit, Halo for Men, Bonnie & Clyde's, Berry Chill, Windy City Social, AD Edwards, ChicagoPhotoShop.com and LA Fitness. Memento Photobooth provides a photobooth for the event to document the occassion.

Doctors Without Borders i the largest non-government organization operating in Haiti, most recently operating three emergency hospitals in Port-au-Prince. Their immediate response in the first hours following the disaster in Haiti was only possible because of private unrestricted donations from around the world received before the earthquake struck. For more information or to donate online, visit http://doctorswithoutborders.org/.

This is the first in Kurman Communications' Free Release Tuesdays series. Are you a non-profit or charity with an upcoming event? Let us help promote it with our new service, FRT- Free Release Tuesdays.

What is it? All you have to do is send us news on your upcoming event, including the details-- date/time, location, images, a link to a Web site, etc. We'll pick our top selections and post them on our highly-read blog! Got Buzz receives thousands of page views monthly by consumers and journalists who are looking for things to do and content to feature. KCI is pleased to help you spread the news!

Send all materials to kurmanstaff@kurman.com, and remember to follow us on Twitter: @kurmanstaff.

Maven's Diva Series Honors Influential and Successful Women

Sarah Vargo of Maven proudly announces the next Diva Series, to honor influential and successful women in Business, PR, Media, Fashion, Fitness, Beauty, Lifestyle and much more. These women are at the heart of publicity and entertainment, and Kurman Communications president Cindy Kurman is honored as a Diva AKA Media Maven!

Celebrate with the cocktail party for these dynamic women 6 p.m. - 9 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 4 at Jbar (610 N. Rush St., Chicago). Small bites and cocktail specials will be available. RSVP to sarah@maven-chicago.com.

Other Media Mavens include:

Kyra Kyles - Tribune/Redeye Columnist and WGN-TV pop culture contributor
Melissa Maynard - Editor and Chief of Factio Magazine and Runway to Retail
Tsitsiki Felix - Emmy Award Winning Solo Anchor for Telemundo Chicago
Jen Patterson - On-Air personality with Comcast's Game Time Dine, and Redeye 5 on 5 every Wednesdays, Comcast SportsNet - Production/on-air
Amalie Drury - Editor of Chicago Social and Nightlife Contributor for Chicago Magazine

...and many more! For more information, visit the Diva Series: Media Mavens Facebook event page.

Karma's Cocktails for Groundhog Day: Will it be Spring or Winter?

Raise your glass and toast to spring (hopefully!) on Groundhog Day, next Tuesday, Feb. 2 at Karma (510 E. Route 83, Mundelein; 847-970-6900), which offers one-day-only drink specials.

If Punxsutawney Phil fails to see his shadow, that means spring is on the way! Try Karma's springtime-themed cocktails, Punxsutawney Sunrise, Karma Tequila, Cointreau Liquor, orange juice and grenadine ($8), and An Early Spring Martini, St. Germaine, Champagne and lime juice ($8).

On the other hand, if Punxsutawney Phil sees his shadow, winter is here to stay for another six weeks. Warm up with these cocktails: Buttery Cream Coffee, Butterscotch Schnapps, Godiva White Chocolate Liquor and hot coffee ($8), and Beringer Pinot Noir, which has hints of wood and earthy tones ($9.25).

For more information, call Karma at (847) 970-6900 or visit http://www.karmachicago.com/. Follow Karma on Twitter: @Karmamundelein.

Celebrate Groundhog Day at Glen Prairie with Trivia, Prizes and Appetizers

When you hear "Groundhog Day," do you think of the 1993 film starring Bill Murray? Will Punxsutawney Phil see his shadow? Join Glen Prairie in celebrating Groundhog Day at 5 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 2. Answer trivia questions about the movie for a chance to win prizes, and enjoy complimentary Punxsutawney Phil's Breaded Vegetables with sun-dried tomato aioli at the bar.

Enjoy one of Glen Prairie's signature martinis, like the Glen Prairie Martini, organic Prairie Vodka chilled and shaken, served straight up with bleu cheese olives ($9), or Green Orchard Martini, Absolut Pear vodka with Apple Schnapps and a splash of sour, served with an apple slice ($9).

For more information, visit call (630) 613-1250 or visit http://www.glenprairie.com/.

Image: Mike Mindel (Flickr)