Chico's designer creates another original for Handbag Happy Hour

For the second consecutive year, Chico's F.A.S. designer Michael Chase has created a one-of-a-kind handbag to be auctioned at the Island Coast AIDS Network's signature fundraiser, Handbag Happy Hour. This year the event, the sixth annual, moves to the Hyatt Regency Coconut Point in Bonita Springs on Friday, Nov. 7.

Chase's "Beach Glass" purse was inspired by the many moods of the sea and reflects a palate that ranges from subtle seafoam green to deep purple with embellishments of beading, sequins and bugles. Last year's Chico's bag by Chase, "Koi Soiree," raised $8,000 at live auction; "Beach Glass" is sure to garner similar attention this year.

Handbag Happy Hour features live and silent auctions of coveted celebrity, designer, unique and "previously loved" purses. The $85 admission includes open bar, hors d'oeuvres, cigar terrace and hundreds of handbags for auction.

Opportunities are still available for individuals and businesses to contribute to Handbag Happy Hour through sponsorships and handbag donations. Customized sponsorship packages are $500 to $10,000. By sponsoring or donating a new handbag, your name will appear on the silent auction bid sheet and signage. Gently used handbags and men's items such as golf bags, briefcases, shav- ing kits, guitar cases are also gladly accepted.

Handbag Happy Hour is presented by Chico's Charities and sponsored by Morgan Stanley, Oswald Trippe and Company, Inc./Westfield Insurance, Bank of Florida, Tweed Advertising, Hyatt Regency and Fort Myers Florida Weekly. Online registration is available at www.icanswfl.org.

ICAN's mission is "to prevent the spread of HIV/AIDS and assist individuals infected and affected in Southwest Florida." ICAN is partially funded by United Way, Lee County Human Services and the Florida Department of Health. Visit www.icanswfl.org or call 337-2391 for more information.