Indianapolis Motor Speedway Gala

Every kingdom has its so-called royal class, and Indy is no exception. Friday evening proved it as the Indianapolis Motor Speedway royalty came out to play. IMS held its Gala Extraordinaire at the Sagamore Ballroom at the Indiana Convention Center for the kings and queens of the brickyard. Helmets and jumpsuits were exchanged for tuxes and evening gowns as the elite came forth to share in the Centennial event for the Speedway.

All three four-time champions, Rick Mears, A.J. Foyt and Al Unser, Sr., were on hand for the festivities. King Foyt took in stride the friendly harassment for not wearing a tux and bow tie, commenting that he couldn’t afford one. We should take up a donation, shouldn’t we?

The Thomas Kinkades were also on hand to unveil the masterwork which will grace the cover of the 2009 Indy 500 official program. Conversing with the painter gave this lady a little thrill as a fan of many years. He and wife Nanette, who was wearing a gorgeous red gown, shared a tidbit to keep in mind.

Known for placing the letter “N” in every painting for his wife, Kinkade inserted two on this painting. You will have to look hard for them, because I am not telling where they are located. Sorry, I like a little secret; don’t you?

What fabulous foods were devoured by all? Although the appetizers of melon and prosciutto were scrumptious, and the entrée of macadamia-crusted chicken was tender and delicious, nothing and no one could take the spotlight away from the dessert; my apologies to Mr. Wayne Newton.

Dear God, when I die, please allow me to come back as this showstopper dessert. A replica of the IMS Pagoda created entirely from chocolate and cheesecake. That, ladies and gentlemen, is heaven on earth. A tower of fudge brownie, cappuccino cheesecake, chocolate tiles and Chambord (raspberry liqueur) chocolate cake represented well the famous Pagoda of the Brickyard. Until I nibbled off the roof and gobbled the foundation, that is.

Hey, what’s a girl to do when faced with a plate of sinful decadence?

Exactly. I do all the hard work for you, don’t I? I am not sure which catering company erected that tower of temptation, but I want them at all of my soirees.

If you have questions or comments, e-mail me at Elizabeth@gottago.us. Me, I’ll be right here, trying to figure out where to get one of those cool commemorative jackets.

--This post was originally published under "Gotta Go" in the West Side Community News in Indianapolis, and the West Indianapolis Community News.