Friday, February 26, 2010

Chicago's Best Angler Contest & WFN featured in today's Sun-Times


Just in case you haven't heard, the World Fishing Network (WFN) is looking for "Chicago's Best Angler" and Lewis Lazare did an awesome interview with WFN 's president and CEO Mark Rubinstein. The story ran in today's Chicago Sun-Times Here's the link: http://bit.ly/9fSYRI
Anglers are encouraged to go to WFN's new Chicago website: www.wfnchicago.com and tell them why you  deserve to be named the "best" here. The winner will get to enjoy a day of fishing with former Chicago Cub and Hall of Famer Andre Dawson, $1,000 and other goodies.

Hawk fans, mark your calendar.  He will be doing an autograph signing at the Bass Pro Shops in Bolingbrook on March 19 in conjunction with this promotion!

Are you familiar with WFN?  It's the only 24 hour television network dedicated to fishing.  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).  It isn't yet available here on Comcast or DirecTV.

Comcast and DirecTV subscribers, you may want to go to the WFN site as there's a place where you can urge your cable carrier to carry it.

Anglers who like to write and blog?  WFN is also looking for ambassadors to provide content to the website. For more info, check out the website or read today's Sun-Times. 

A big shoutout to Lewis Lazare who wrote an excellent story. Thanks again Lewis!

This Weekend’s Specials at Glen Prairie


Still deciding on dinner plans this weekend? Come in to Glen Prairie (1250 Roosevelt Rd., Glen Ellyn, Ill. 630-613-1250) after 5 p.m. this weekend for BBQ Glazed Salmon served with Wild Rice Pilaf, Miso BBQ Glaze and Baby Carrots for $21 or try the Butternut Squash Ravioli served with Roasted Tomatoes, Sweet Peas, wild Mushrooms and Truffle Cram Sauce for $18. Specials available Friday, Feb. 26 and Saturday, Feb. 27.

To make a reservation or for more information visit www.glenprairie.com or call (630) 613-1250. Follow Glen Prairie on Twitter @glenprairie.

Thursday, February 25, 2010

Don't forget "A Night in Support of Haiti" tomorrow night!

Tickets are still available but going fast for Erie-LaSalle Body Shop's "A Night in Support of Haiti" 75th anniversary party, happening Friday, Feb. 26 from 5:30 p.m.- 9 p.m. at Martini Park (151 W. Erie St.).

Admission is $40 in advance ($50 at the door) and grants access to the open bar with wine, beer and specialty cocktails like the Erie Latini, Fender Blender, Haitian Mojito and more. Martini Park is also providing some of its signature appetizers to be passed during the party. Tickets can be purchased at www.erielasalle.com/haiti.

Special announcements will be made at 7 p.m. including an appearance from Illinois Governor, Pat Quinn.

Guests will also be able to purchase raffle tickets for a chance to win exciting prizes including a one-hour flight in an L-39 fighter jet donated by Bill Wert of Gauntlet Warbirds, plus gift certificates to Chicago's favorites restaurants like Mercadito, Wildfire, Keefer's, Fogo de Chao and Gino's East. Other prizes include a personal training session as well as a personal organizer session.

All proceeds from "A Night in Support of Haiti" benefit Partners in Health, a charity that has been working on the grounds of Haiti for more than 20 years. For more information about Partners in Health, visit www.standwithhaiti.com.

Erie-LaSalle Body Shop is celebrating 75 years as Chicago's premiere automotive repair business. Erie-LaSalle Body Shop is third-generation owned family business priding itself on quality customer service and quality craftsmanship, receiving the I-CAR Gold Class Professional certification. For more information, visit www.erielasalle.com.

Wednesday, February 24, 2010

Upcoming Specials at Glen Prairie


Lent Fridays Fish Fry
Bring the whole family together for a meal every Friday after 5 p.m. during Lent at Glen Prairie (1250 Roosevelt Rd., Glen Ellyn, Ill. 630-613-1250). Chef Daniel Ovanin offers a “Lent Fridays Fish Fry,” Beer Battered Cod served with sides of rustic fries, creamy coleslaw, tartar sauce and malt vinegar is available for $15.

St. Patty’s Day Specials
What are you doing this St. Patrick’s Day? Come into Glen Prairie after 5 p.m. Wednesday, March 17 for great Irish specials! Braised Corn Beef Brisket served with Irish whiskey and mustard glaze, red cabbage, and buttery parsley potatoes is available for $18. Don’t forget to save room for dessert; Irish Cream Crème Brûlée is available for $6.

To make a reservation or for more information visit www.glenprairie.com or call (630) 613-1250. Follow Glen Prairie on Twitter @glenprairie.

*Photos: Getty Images

Live Entertainment at Birch River Grill This Saturday


Looking for Saturday night plans? Come to Birch River Grill (75 W. Algonquin Rd., Arlington Heights, Ill. 847-427-4242) this Saturday evening from 6-9 p.m., Feb.27 for live entertainment featuring Brad Conroy. Conroy is an accomplished guitar performer who specializes in both classical and electric guitar. Specials in the Birch River Grill Lounge include half-off appetizers, $3 Bud Light Draft and $6 martinis.

To make a reservation or for more information visit www.birchrivergrill.com. Follow Birch River Grill on Twitter @birchrivergrill.

Tuesday, February 23, 2010

Free Release Tuesday: Free Buttermilk Pancakes on February 23 at IHOP

In celebration of National Pancake Day, IHOP restaurants nationwide are offering each guest a free short stack of buttermilk pancakes Tuesday, February 23 in an effort to raise awareness and funds for Children's Micracle Network hospitals. IHOP's goal this year is to raise $1.75 million with its National Pancake Day fundraising area. Donations made in the Chicago area benefit the Children's Miracle Network program at Children's Memorial Hospital.

About National Pancake Day
On National Pancake Day 2009, IHOP served more than 2.5 million free pancakes, which if served together, would create a stack more than 20 miles high. Since the inception of National Pancake Day in 2006, IHOP has raised more than $3.25 million and given away more than 6.1 million pancakes to support charities in the communities in which it operates.

About IHOP
For 51 years, the IHOP family restaurant chain has served its world famous pancakes and a wide variety of breakfast, lunch and dinner items that are loved by people of all ages. IHOP offers its guests an affordable, everyday dining experience with warm and friendly service. The first IHOP opened to Toluca Lake, Calif. in 1958, and as of September 30, 2009, there were 1,433 IHOPs in 50 states, Canada and Mexico. IHOP restaurants are franchised and operated by Glendale, Calif.-based International House of Pancakes, LLC and its affiliates. International House of Pancakes, LLC is a wholly-owned subsidiary of DineEquity, Inc. (NYSE: DIN).

Free Release Tuesdays at Kurman
This 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.

Wednesday, February 17, 2010

Who Will Be Named Chicago's Best Angler?


WFN: World Fishing Network, the nation’s only 24-hour fishing lifestyle TV channel, enters the Chicago market in a major way today. With the help of former Chicago Cub and avid fisherman—and soon to be Hall of Fame inductee—Andre Dawson, WFN is making its presence felt with the launch of a Web site dedicated to finding Chicago’s Best Angler at http://www.wfnchicago.com/.

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’s high definition channel, WFN HD, is available in the Chicago area on DISH Network (channel 394) and AT&T U-verse (channel 1679).

Chicago and area fans are encouraged to go to http://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.

As part of the promotion, fans will get a chance to meet and get an autograph from Dawson on March 19, 2010. He’ll join the WFN team at Bass Pro Shops to host an autograph signing at the Bolingbrook Bass Pro Shop 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.

“The Chicagoland area is one of the nation's top fishing markets and the demand for the network is huge—which is why we’ve decided to launch this major promotional initiative here,” 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 is also available nationally on satellite TV provider DISH Network, AT&T U-verse, Charter Communications, Verizon Fios among other distributors.

About WFN: World Fishing Network
WFN: World Fishing Network is the only 24/7 television network dedicated to all segments of fishing with programming that covers instruction, tips, tournaments, travel, food, boating, outdoor lifestyle and more. WFN’s wide-ranging programming lineup includes primetime theme nights, regional bureaus from across the nation, a selection of the best international series and the most diverse species coverage of any TV channel. Featuring popular programs hosted by the world’s top anglers, the network also delivers a weekly news program, WFN News, and the schedule includes a variety of exclusive lifestyle shows including Hookin’ Up with Mariko Izumi and WFN’s Reel Road Trip. WFN also delivers the beauty of fishing in stunning High Definition with WFN HD, a separate network that delivers 100 percent High Definition programming 24/7.
Originally launched in December 2005, today WFN and WFN HD are available in more than 20 million households through North American cable, satellite and telecommunications distributors. In the U.S., distributors include AT&T U-verse, Charter Communications, Comcast, DISH Network and Verizon FiOS. For more information, visit http://www.wfn.tv/.

Editor’s note: Mark Rubinstein, President & CEO of WFN will be available for telephone interviews leading up to the event, as well as in-person interviews March 19. Mr. Dawson will be available on March 19 for interviews and media appearances regarding WFN. To arrange these opportunities, or for more information about WFN, please telephone Catherine Patterson or Cindy Kurman at Kurman Communications, Inc. at (312) 651-9000 or send an email to kurmanstaff@kurman.com.

* Source: 2006 National Survey of Fishing, Hunting, and Wildlife-Associated Recreation- Illinois)

Tuesday, February 16, 2010

Free Release Tuesday: Bowling for Brighter Futures

Strike up a good time while supporting better education for Chicago’s urban youth. Join the Inner City Teaching Corps for their “Bowling for Brighter Futures” event 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 25 at 10Pin Chicago (330 N. State St.)

Tickets are $35 until Thursday, Feb. 18 and $40 after, or at the door. Guests enjoy two hours of unlimited soft drinks, finger food plus one drink ticket. Tickets can be purchased here. Be sure to select the “Special Event” fund and put your guest’s name in the comments section. Please bring a children’s book to benefit the Inner City Teaching Corps.

About Inner City Teaching Corps
Since 1991, the Inner City Teaching Corps (ICTC) has worked to impact the changing urban education landscape in Chicago and the nation. ICTC’s work in schools—training teachers, mentoring students, guiding principals—is transforming the educational landscape from the top down and bottom up. To learn more, visit http://www.ictc-chicago.org/.

Free Release Tuesdays at Kurman
This 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.

Friday, February 12, 2010

Chicago Foodways Roundtable February Events

Chocolate Evolution, History and French Royalty
The Culinary Historians of Chicago present “The Bittersweet History of Chocolate in France” at 10 a.m. on Saturday Feb. 20 at Lexington College (310 S. Peoria St., Chicago). Explore the history and evolution of chocolate in France with award-winning master sugar artist, teacher and judge Mark Seaman. Learn about the oldest chocolate houses in France and their connections to the kings of France and Marie Antoinette. Discover the different types of chocolate and how chocolate bars derive from beans. A sampling of chocolates from the French Pastry School of Chicago are included.

Chef Mark Seaman teaches in the Professional Cake Decorating and Baking Program at the French Pastry School in Chicago. Seaman has received many awards for his work and has been featured on The Food Network and The Travel Channel.

To reserve your spot today call (708) 788-0338 or e-mail rsvpchc@yahoo.com. Tickets are $5 for the public, $3 for students and there is no charge for Culinary Historians of Chicago members and Lexington faculty and students.


Dining Like a President
Chicago Foodways Roundtable presents “The History of the First Stomach” by Barbara Kuck at 10 a.m. on Saturday Feb. 27 at Kendall College (900 N. Branch St., Chicago). Documents from Szathmáry Family Culinary Collection’s United States Presidential Autograph Collection assist in the discussion of Presidential family eating and dining habits. Anecdotes from past Presidents support the discussion with stories ranging from childhood homes, battlefields, to the White House kitchens. Tickets are $3 per person and free to Kendall students and faculty with ID.

Barbara Kuck is a Culinary Historian and chef involved in many culinary organizations and the recipient of many awards including the Food Arts magazine Silver Spoon Award and Culinary Ambassador for the American Culinary Federation.

To reserve your ticket today, call (847) 432-8255 or e-mail Chicago.foodways.roundtable@gmail.com. Please include your name, telephone number and the number of people in your party.

Photos: Getty Images

Batter Up for National Pancake Week



Fans of breakfast will love National Pancake Week next week, February 15-19 and to celebrate Glen Prairie (1250 Roosevelt Rd., Glen Ellyn, Ill.; 630-613-1250) celebrates with a new pancake every day in its breakfast buffet, just $14 per person.

Monday: Classic Buttermilk
Tuesday: Blueberry
Wednesday: Apple Stuffed
Thursday: Chocolate Chip
Friday: Applewood Bacon

The breakfast buffet is available 6 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. Monday - Friday and 7:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. Saturdays and Sunday. For reservations or more information call (630) 613-1250 or visit www.glenprairie.com.

Photo: Getty Images

Tuesday, February 9, 2010

Institute Issues Recommendations for Improving Access to Poetry

The Poetry Foundation is pleased to announce the first report of the Harriet Monroe Poetry Institute (HMPI). In 2009, the Institute convened a panel of poets, publishers, and experts from the fields of media, law, and technology to examine issues related to the access of poetry on the Internet and related new media. As a result of the study, the HMPI has released a white paper intended to help poetry come more effectively into new-media outlets so that it will be more accessible to various audiences.

The white paper’s recommendations are intended for use by poets and others in the poetry community as a tool to help them rethink their relationship to copyright and fair use and thus to develop permissions practices that allow the greatest possible access to poems while still protecting the rights of creators. The report also includes recommendations intended to help the poetry community use new media for poetry education. The full report is available for free download at www.poetryfoundation.org/foundation/poetryinstitute.html .

In order to maintain the value of accessibility as a top priority, the report provides a list of questions that poets and rights-holders can ask themselves when making licensing and permissions decisions. Finally, the report recommends that leading poets and poetry organizations work together to create a central online portal or aggregating website through which educators and others interested in learning more about poetry can find the best existing poetry websites. This last recommendation reflects a chief concern of the HMPI's inaugural report, the need for poets and poetry organizations to work together to achieve common goals.

“The report is also meant to inspire substantive community action,” noted Katharine Coles, HMPI director. “For example, the Center for Social Media, in a spin-off project, is working with the poetry community to create a Best Practices for Fair Use in Poetry document, while the University of California at Berkeley College of Law is working with the HMPI to develop a clinic related to fair use of poetry in education, with a focus on electronic media.”

A policy forum dedicated exclusively to issues of intellectual and practical importance to poetry, the Institute, named for Poetry magazine founder Harriet Monroe, has as its purpose to convene interested parties to identify issues and champion common solutions for the benefit of poets and the art form of poetry.

Advisors on the Institute’s new-media project included poets Michael Collier, Wyn Cooper, Rita Dove, Cornelius Eady, Kimiko Hahn, Lewis Hyde, Robert Pinsky, Claudia Rankine, and Alberto Ríos; publishers Kate Gale, Fiona McCrae, and Don Selby; nonprofit administrator David Fenza; computer scientist Rick Stevens; and law professors Jennifer Urban and Monica Youn.

In addition, the HMPI has announced its second project, POETRY ALIVE: Bringing Poetry into Communities, to be published in 2011, which will comprise essays by 10 poets with national and international reputations discussing important programs and vehicles for bringing poetry into specific communities. In addition to the essays and building from them, the book will include an appendix, which will draw from the strategies discussed in the essays and will serve as a kind of flexible toolkit for people and organizations interested in bringing poetry to their own communities. Poets to be included in the project include Robert Hass, Elizabeth Alexander, Patricia Smith, Luis Rodriguez, Bas Kwakman, Lee Briccetti, Alison Hawthorne Deming, Dana Gioia, Anna Deavere Smith, and Thomas Lux.

For more information on the Harriet Monroe Poetry Institute, please visit www.poetryfoundation.org/foundation/poetryinstitute.html.

About the Harriet Monroe Poetry Institute
The Harriet Monroe Poetry Institute is an independent forum created to provide a space in which fresh thinking about poetry, in both its intellectual and its practical needs, can flourish free of any allegiance other than to the best ideas. With this in mind, the Institute convenes leading poets, scholars, publishers, educators, and other thinkers from inside and outside the poetry world to address issues of importance to the art form of poetry and to identify and champion solutions for the benefit of the art.

About the Poetry Foundation

The Poetry Foundation, publisher of Poetry magazine and one of the largest literary organizations in the world, exists to discover and celebrate the best poetry and to place it before the largest possible audience. The Poetry Foundation seeks to be a leader in shaping a receptive climate for poetry by developing new audiences, creating new avenues for delivery, and encouraging new kinds of poetry through innovative literary prizes and programs. For more information, please visit www.poetryfoundation.org.

Free Release Tuesdays at Kurman
This 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.

Friday, February 5, 2010

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 Martini Park is located across the street from Erie-LaSalle Body ShopBasil 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.

Thursday, February 4, 2010

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.

Tuesday, February 2, 2010

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!

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!

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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.