Rich Lives GLOW EVENT

Rich Lives ‘GLOW EVENT’

Monday, April 25, 2011

WFYI Indianapolis     

1630 N. Meridian Street*  

Indianapolis, IN 46202

The event is to honor Eleanor Arnold and all the other people who brought Rich Lives to life at the Indiana State Fair Pioneer Village Opry House in August 2010 and on film through WFYI-public television 

Schedule 

5:00 p.m. Gather, Enjoy a Light Repast in the WFYI Community Room

5:45 p.m. Greetings

6:00 p.m. Screening of Rich Lives

7:00 p.m. Conversation

 The role of homemaker is one of the most valuable, yet frequently least valued positions in American society. Rich Lives explores the world of 20^thcentury homemakers in a stage presentation by Rita Kohn based upon an oral history compiled by Eleanor Arnold. Arnold crafted “Voices of American Homemakers” from interviews with more than 200 women in the mid-20^th century. The women interviewed shared their experiences, values and deep feelings about their lives and the changing world they were living. They revealed homemaking as a universal experience distinguished from housekeeping by the caring and love with which it’s done.

Rich Lives is dedicated to Barbara Zimmer and Loukia Finale.

WFYI filmed a live performance, interviewed cast members and created an hour-long program to be aired for the first time on

Sunday, April 17, 2011 at 2:00 p.m. on WFYI-1

* The visitor parking lot – directly behind WFYI’s digital television studios – is accessible from Pierson Street, which is just west of Meridian Street.

To enter the building, follow the Eli Lilly and Company Foundation Welcome Promenade & Plaza around the north end of the building to the lobby entrance along Meridian Street.

Download directions and map (42KB .pdf get Adobe reader)

or follow directions below:

please reply to Rita Kohn – rkohn@nuvo.net or call 317-253-2724

Elizabeth J. Musgrave is a syndicated columnist, travel writer, music, restaurant and theater critic. Catch her as Indy’s Arts & Entertainment Adviser on 93 WIBC and follow her on Twitter @ejmusgrave1 and Facebook.
Gotta Go is published in the following newspapers: South Sider Voice, Indiana Weekender, West Side Community News, New Palestine Reporter, West Indianapolis Community News, Pendleton Times Reporter and Fortville-McCordsville Reporter.

Indiana Artisans: New Day Meadery

Wine is a fermented drink made from grapes, usually. Other items can be used to make wine: berries, fruit, rice. They are referred to by the ingredient and the word wine, ex. rice wine, blackberry wine...whereas wine from grapes are simply called wines.
Wine can also be made from honey. The fermenting process is the same and the result is called mead. Normally associated with Renaissance fairs, such as the one held every autumn in Fishers, mead is making a comeback as a niche market in today's world.
With that knowledge, let me introduce you to New Day Meadery, recently moved into Indianapolis' Fountain Square neighborhood. With a home place in Elwood, the tasting room opened in Indy last summer to give the Old World beverage a modern twist.

Tia Agnew

As the only Indiana meadery, and one of the few in the country, owners Tia Agnew and Brett Canaday are prepared and eager to teach the world of mead to everyone. Honey wine is a new concept to many and is usually regarded as a sweet wine. Not so, explains the Indiana artisans. In fact, mead/honey wine is available in the same categories as grape wine: dry, semi-dry, semi-sweet and sweet.
The couple enjoys sharing the ancient concoction in a fun, casual way through gatherings such as Wednesday Knit and Wine nights, Tuesday evenings' Game Night, and the upcoming Mead-Making class on April 13. There is even a tapping of the keg event, Yelp! Drinks Tapping Party, on April 4 to official open kegs of their sparkling wines and kick off Yelp! Drinks Week.

Brett Canaday

From berry mead to hard ciders on tap, such as Gold Rush, an Old-World style, and South Cider, smooth with apple hints, the menu continues to expand with the popularity of the offerings. The tasting and sitting areas reflect the warmth of the owners' personalities. Passion for their craft is reflected in the products. Former beekeepers themselves, they continue supporting the sustaining food movement by using Indiana sources for their ingredients.
Bottom Line: New Day Meadery is a welcome addition to Indy's wine scene. It brings an old-world drink to the revitalized Fountain Square area in a modern, fun and classy atmosphere.


Elizabeth J. Musgrave is a syndicated columnist, travel writer, music, restaurant and theater critic. Catch her as Indy’s Arts & Entertainment Adviser on 93 WIBC and follow her on Twitter @ejmusgrave1 and Facebook.


Gotta Go is published in the following newspapers: South Sider Voice, Indiana Weekender, New Palestine Reporter, Pendleton Times Reporter and Fortville-McCordsville Reporter.
Photos: EJMusgrave

Chicago on a Budget

Millennium Park

Prioritizing while planning a trip helps in determining a budget. This list is even more relevant if the location you are going to has numerous options, like Chicago. Knowing what's most important helps decide where to trim spending in order to have money for deal breakers. If food is not the high priority, but a live theater performance is an absolute must, checking out the eatery menus online can determine where to eat for less in order to have the must-haves.

If shopping is your dream, then stay in a nearby hotel and walk to the shops. With the economic downturn, attractions, hotels and eateries are all offering more budget-friendly packages and discounts than ever before, so now truly is a great time to travel. Much like a favorite movie which never grows old, Chicago always presents unknown treasures upon every visit. This trip proved no different.

Lodging

The Palmer House Hotel

The Palmer House, built by Potter Palmer as a wedding gift to his wife, Bertha, is one of the few remaining grand hotels. Its opulent entry with Tiffany 24-Karat gold chandeliers has been named Chicago’s "Best lobby." Viewing the hotel’s architecture is worth a trip in itself. In its 135-year history, in addition to numerous U.S. presidents, the hotel has been visited by Oscar Wilde, Charles Dickens and Prince Charles, just to mention a mere fraction of the list of who’s who. Entertainers, including Frank Sinatra, Ella Fitzgerald and Louis Armstrong have graced the stage in the Golden Empire Room.
Old World atmosphere, authentic décor and furnishings, world-class service and a proud history make this historic landmark the backbone of Chicago.

Special packages, some including city passes, mean staying in the heart of shopping, theater and museums, including the Art Institute of Chicago, is budget possible. Valet parking specials or parking at Millennium Park garage create more savings. Park and walk for a tighter budget or grab a taxi if the budget allows.

Eating Right
Chicago dining always proves pleasurable, perhaps even sinful at times. Being treated to four eateries meant
finding great food for every budget.
The Village, Chicago’s oldest restaurant, and one of three owned and housed by the Capitanini family, at the Italian Village building is fashioned after an Italian outdoor café. Located on the top floor, the menu offers familiar favorites. Stay on a fixed budget with sandwiches and pizza or take a small step up to the still reasonably-priced entrees, including the tender chicken Marsala. Make sure to ask for Mo, the waiter’s

Vivere'

captain, whose charisma and personalized service made me feel as if I was his only concern in the world.

Street-level Viveré serves upscale modern Italian cuisine when fine-food dining is top priority. For smaller budgets, stop in for lunch size portions. With Michael Taylor, wine director and Chef Robert Reynaud treating me to one gourmet food and wine course after another, it would be difficult to recommend only one. However, Reynaud’s pan-roasted duck breast with almond-plum pudding and spiced-Port reduction, coupled with Taylor’s choice of an ‘05 Chianti Classico, stood out as a combination which may be next to impossible to find elsewhere. Each food and wine combination showcased the knowledge, experience and pride accumulated over the years and shared with patrons of this award-worthy establishment.

The Grand Lux Café offers up more than 150 menu items personally selected by David Overton, who traveled throughout Europe finding the recipes. The Crispy Caramel Chicken entrée is generous enough for two, helping with the budget, but delicious enough that I wasn’t sharing. The spicy Thai sauce, red chilies

Grand Lux

 and ginger make this one of the restaurant’s signature dishes. Other money savers are soups, salads, sandwiches and lunch specials for less than 10 bucks. If money allows, the must-not-miss items are the desserts, baked to order and delivered piping hot from the oven and large enough to share. The New Orleans Beignets, served with three dips, are heaven in a basket.

The breakfast buffet at Palmer House’s Lockwood restaurant is, quite simply, the most elegant and all-compassing breakfast buffet I have ever encountered. Well worth the higher price, staying on track is possible by eating enough at this luxurious buffet that only a light lunch, if any, would be required.

Little Extras

Architectural Tour

Tours are always a great way to see a town, and Chicago has them for every budget, including free. While in town, I caught the Untouchable tour of Chicago gangsters. From Capone to Dillinger, costumed guides shared the riveting details. For the minimal cost, it is worth checking into. I also found the 90-minute architectural boat tour worth the money. Complimentary neighborhood tours are offered by volunteers wanting to show visitors their great city.

In short, adjusting the budget to ensure your highest priorities are achievable by checking into all options before heading out the door. Get your money’s worth by utilizing tourism and business sites for discounts, and travel dollars will be maximized without sacrificing fun and adventure.

Elizabeth J. Musgrave is a syndicated columnist, travel writer, music, restaurant and theater critic. Catch her as Indy’s Arts & Entertainment Adviser on 93 WIBC and follow her on Twitter @ejmusgrave1 and Facebook. Gotta Go is published in the following newspapers: South Sider Voice, Indiana Weekender, New Palestine Reporter, Pendleton Times Reporter and Fortville-McCordsville Reporter.

Dance Kaleidoscope Announces 2011-12 Season Happy 40th Birthday DK!

Dance Kaleidoscope Announces 40^th Season

Indianapolis: Press release

With its 2011-12 season, Dance Kaleidoscope will turn 40.  Founded in 1972 as part of the Young Audiences program, DK is Indianapolis’ professional contemporary dance company.  Reflecting on the number of years DK has been in Indy, artistic director David Hochoy says with a smile, “Life begins at 40!”

The first concert of the season will be The Four Elements (Redux) in October on the IRT Main Stage.    This piece premiered in 2005 and quickly became an audience favorite.  The powerful section, Earth, will remain in tact.   Water, Air and Fire will be reworked by David Hochoy.  

Just before the Super Bowl comes to town, DK will offer an energetic party of a concert called Super Soul.  Featuring the music of Motown, Super Soul will run for the first two weekends of January on IRT’s Upper Stage.

In March, DK will return to IRT’s Main Stage to present its tribute to William Shakespeare called All the World’s a Stage.  The program will include a world premiere of Romeo and Juliet, using Tchaikovsky ‘s soaring music. 

Celebrating Indiana’s own Cole Porter, DK will present the full evening audience favorite, COLE! On IRT’s Main Stage. 

Tickets and season subscriptions are available at 317.940-6555. 

Summer Staycation

For light fun this summer, see DK’s concert, Summer Musicals/Elvis Sizzle.  The first act will be sections from Mad for Musicals, followed by sections from The Elvis Project.  The show will run July 7-10 on IRT’s Main Stage. 

Elizabeth J. Musgrave is a syndicated columnist, travel writer, music, restaurant and theater critic. Catch her as Indy’s Arts & Entertainment Adviser on 93 WIBC and follow her on Twitter @ejmusgrave1 and Facebook.


Gotta Go is published in the following newspapers: South Sider Voice, Indiana Weekender, New Palestine Reporter, Pendleton Times Reporter and Fortville-McCordsville Reporter.

ISO: Idina Menzel

Coquettish, classy, and the girl next door all rolled into one, Idina Menzel graced the stage with the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra at The Hilbert Circle Theatre, Indianapolis. Noted by the excitement in the air, and the sold-out status, the night looked to be a great one.

Menzel, known for her Tony-Award winning role as Elphaba in Broadway's smash hit Wicked, a Tony-nominated performance in Rent and, more recently, her role in television's Glee, has endeared her to audiences of all genres. Appearing in a regal purple gown sans shoes gave forth the idea that although she has a glamorous occupation, she's still just one of us. The marvelous thing about that idea is...it's authentic. Menzel keeps the audience entertained, not just with her vocal range and powerful ballads, but also with her tales of growing up with all the usual angsts.

Selections included Defying Gravity, I'm Not That Girl and the nicely combined Love for Sale with Roxanne. One moment flirtatious with I Feel Smoochey, the next gentle in Look to the Rainbow from Finian's Rainbow is just one more reason Menzel is so popular. The reachable factor; yes she is on stage above you, but she is human and not stand-offish. Apologizing to the ISO Juliard-trained performers, she made the audience howl with laughter by ripping into her Glee rendition of Lady Gaga's Poker Face.

Throughout the evening the Long-Islander imitated Barbra Streisand's well-known voice, complete with the New York accent. She nailed the superstar's mannerisms and vocals during Don't Rain on My Parade and Funny Girl without losing her own style. She brought the house down with her tale of meeting idol Barbra Streisand, who promptly ignored her as only Babs can do. Eventually, after Menzel downed numerous tequila shots to get over the snub, she was finally given the nod of approval from the star for her performance.

Welcoming the only three ticket holders from the Smiley Glee Club (the entire group had performed in the lobby), onto the stage, Menzel performed back-up vocals, allowing the trio to be showcased. That, my friends, is a true lady with zero diva tendencies.

Bottom Line: Idina Menzel is enthralling in her approach with the audience, the songs, the orchestra and life. Her talent takes her from stage to television and to the silver screen. It doesn't take a crystal ball to predict that this performer will follow in the footsteps of other greats, including Streisand and Liza Minelli, who have outlasted countless others and have that one thing everyone wants: IT.

Elizabeth J. Musgrave is a syndicated columnist, travel writer, music, restaurant and theater critic. Catch her as Indy’s Arts & Entertainment Adviser on 93 WIBC and follow her on Twitter @ejmusgrave1 and Facebook.
Photos: www.indianapolissymphonyorchestra.org; www.idinamenzel.com
Gotta Go is published in the following newspapers: South Sider Voice, Indiana Weekender, New Palestine Reporter, Pendleton Times Reporter and Fortville-McCordsville Reporter.

National Maple Syrup Festival

This morning found me traveling south for almost two hours to judge the Sweet Victory Challenge at Burton's Maplewood Farm. A nice, leisurely drive through small towns and winding roads. The sky was happy to be back in blue and held tight to the warm sun and fluffy clouds, in other words...a perfect day for a drive.

Arriving earlier than needed for the desserts (I swear I didn't request it, it just happened) competition, I was able to meander about and meet folks, sample goodies and pick up a little festival fever. The season isn't in full swing yet, and the National Maple Syrup Festival was a good way to prime the pump.

Master of Ceremonies was Scott Hutcheson, a talented writer, food critic and family man well known throughout the Midwest. As an admirer of his writing style and knowledge, meeting him outside of Facebook made my life better. Other judges included Angie Burton of Burton's Maplewood Farm, Brian Blackford of Indiana Office of Tourism and Development and Paula Haney of Hoosier Mama Pie Company.

The contestants had been narrowed down to five finalists and awaited for the judging to cap the sweets winner. The requirement? Use Burton's Maplewood Farm's maple syrup and King Arthur all-purpose flour in the recipe.

Second place

Entries included, maple molasses shoo fly pie bars with walnuts, Indonesian coconut maple syrup dumplings, petite maple pudding cakes, maple sweet potato toffee cheesecake and double peanut butter chocolate and maple syrup pudding. Chef identities were concealed, naturally; so I will name the winner by the dish.

Second place went to the unusual idea recipe of Indonesian dumplings. Presented in a glass cylinder, the dumplings rested in a maple-coconut milk and garnished with fresh mint. The creativity rating on this dish was high...who thinks to make dumplings for dessert? The presentation contained the wow factor and, in my opinion, would have won had it not been for the intricacy of the winning entry.

Top honor went to the sweet potato cheesecake with bourbon whipped cream. This dessert was
complicated, consisting of numerous layers, chocolate, sweet potato, toffee, etc., but each layer held its place without melting into the underlying layer. The recipe was time-consuming and detail-oriented. A lot of pride and love went into this dessert. When the private chef came out to accept the title, he beamed as a person does who has worked hard and is enjoying the results of that effort.

It is completely worth the drive and time when it is obvious effort and passion were infused into the competition's entry. Each dish had good aspects and flaws, but certainly each one was well thought out and executed by talented cooks from around the state.

Elizabeth J. Musgrave is a syndicated columnist, travel writer, music, restaurant and theater critic. Catch her as Indy’s Arts & Entertainment Adviser on 93 WIBC and follow her on Twitter @ejmusgrave1 and Facebook. Gotta Go is published in the following newspapers: South Sider Voice, Indiana Weekender, New Palestine Reporter, Pendleton Times Reporter and Fortville-McCordsville Reporter.
Photos: EJMusgrave; Burton's Maplewood Farm

Book Review: Midnight Lemonade

Midnight Lemonade, by Verla Wills, is a book of poetry that gives fresh thoughts to life. Inside the pages you find laughter, tears and hope from a woman who has taken on life and won.

The delightfully funny Life with Arthur give a comedic look at arthritis, while Discarded Love shares the heart-breaking theme of growing old and My Freedom Bunny salutes the soldiers. Will's best work is showcased in her poems where she gives a tongue-in-cheek insider's view to growing old, such as Second Phase advises there is still some youthful desires inside.

Bottom Line: Midnight Lemonade is Verla Wills' take on life's everyday situations told with hope, laughter and honesty.

Elizabeth J. Musgrave is a syndicated columnist, travel writer, music, restaurant and theater critic. Catch her as Indy’s Arts & Entertainment Adviser on 93 WIBC and follow her on Twitter @ejmusgrave1 and Facebook.


Website: http://www.vertomenterprises.com/
Photo: Vertom Enterprises
Gotta Go is published in the following newspapers: South Sider Voice, Indiana Weekender, West Side Community News, New Palestine Reporter, West Indianapolis Community News, Pendleton Times Reporter and Fortville-McCordsville Reporter.

Book Review: Cafe Indiana

Cafe Indiana, written by Joanne Raetz Stuttgen, covers mom-and-pop eateries throughout the Hoosier state and is divided into six sections: North, South, East, West, Central and South Central, as determined by tourism sources. With 181 cafes featured, Stuttgen was able to account for the small town (fewer than 10,000) diner and its significance to the town's personality.


The resident of Indiana since 1990 is also the author of Cafe Indiana Cookbook, co-authored by Indianapolis Star food editor Jolene Ketzenberger, for those who must try making the local goodies in their own kitchen. Stuttgen includes a list of "Next Best Bet" cafes which may have had something special on the menu, or notable decor, making it worth mentioning.


What resonates throughout the book is the author's appreciation, affection and respect for cafes in small town America. The history, the local culture and personal side of each is brought forth in a personable, feel-like-you-know-them style. And, you probably do. They are that pie cafe you stop at on your way for a scenic Sunday drive, the worth-driving-to tenderloin joint just past nowhere and the "do you remember the name of that little place, honey" eatery that you both enjoy so much because of the fun decor, great food and friendly people.


They come with all kinds of names, decor and menus, and yet they are all pretty much the same. A non-chain place with quirky decor, simple foods and hard-working owners who are willing to sit and chat. Not the glitzy type with the latest food trend, these places have the local school's banners on the wall, the owner's collection of Coca-cola items and the local regulars.


From R&S Cafe in Linden, where owner Sue makes her own tenderloins, noodles and pie dough, to Dinky Diner in Garrett where Steve serves up hand-dipped milkshakes and malts, to Harold’s in Poseyville, where Patti's pan-fried chicken brings locals, celebrities and tourists alike, the story is the same. Everyone is welcome.


Bottom Line: Cafe Indiana is an excellent guide to small town cafes and leaves the reader with a longing to hop in the car, with the book, to explore the Hoosier state's hidden treasure of mom-and-pop eateries.


Website: www.wisc.edu/wisconsinpress
Photo: Kay Westhues


Elizabeth J. Musgrave is a syndicated columnist, travel writer and theater critic. Catch her as Indy’s Arts & Entertainment Adviser on 93 WIBC and follow her on Twitter @ejmusgrave1 and Facebook.


Gotta Go is published in the following newspapers: South Sider Voice, Indiana Weekender, West Side Community News, New Palestine Reporter, West Indianapolis Community News, Pendleton Times Reporter and Fortville-McCordsville Reporter.

The Cabaret: Andrea Marcovicci

Andrea Marcovicci

The season opening gala for The Cabaret at The Columbia Club showcased well-known Queen of Cabaret Andrea Marcovicci with Shelly Markham on piano.

"Queen of Quips and Tips" might be her unofficial title as the songbird made her way about the Crystal Terrace, flirting and chatting with old friends, who flew in just for her performance, and new friends, alike. As glamorous as the Hollywood stars from her younger days, Marcovicci swept onto stage with style, grace and sass. A regular at The Oak Room, the actress and singer chided one naughty guest for wearing the unacceptable attire....blue jeans.

Shelly Markham and Andrea Marcovicci

After the laughter quieted, the belle of the ball danced and sang her way through the years of movie classics, including Moon River, Swingin' on a Star, Days of Wine and Roses and a combination of Barbra Streisand's The Way We Were and Bob Hope's theme, Thanks for the Memory. The staple of Manhattan's cabaret scene's biggest asset is her ability to make the audience open as a flower in a hot house. With every song, sprinkled like magic growth potion, guests blossomed into a back-up choir, joking with each other and the songstress, gaining confidence while reliving cherished memories. By the end of the evening, the floral guests were planted firmly in their potted seats, awaiting another dose of potion from the music maker.

As Time Goes By

As has become my custom, I reviewed the most recent CD of the artist. Marcovicci's As Time Goes By, is a compilation of her best and two new songs, including the delightful Lies of Handsome Men. Other songs, As Time Goes By, On Such a Night as This and Beyond Compare take the listener along an avenue of used-tobe with the singer. Marcovicci's 17 albums, movie, television and stage career are well-documented and this CD brings it full circle as she and her admirers enjoy life's journey.

Bottom Line: Andrea Marcovicci and Shelly Markham create a longing to dance lovingly into the night, wrapped in the music, memories and moonlight.

Elizabeth J. Musgrave is a syndicated columnist, travel writer, music, restaurant and theater critic. Catch her as Indy’s Arts & Entertainment Adviser on 93 WIBC and follow her on Twitter @ejmusgrave1 and Facebook.

Gotta Go is published in M magazine and the following newspapers: South Sider Voice, Indiana Weekender, West Side Community News, New Palestine Reporter, West Indianapolis Community News, Pendleton Times Reporter and Fortville-McCordsville Reporter.
Photos:  marcovicci.com; greatexposures.net

Food Review: Seasons 52

Seasons 52

When you write a column and blog, you are offered numerous opportunities not given to just anyone. Case in point: I received an invitation to a private dinner to taste-test the offerings at about-to-open-in-Indy, Seasons 52 restaurant. Situated in front of the Fashion Mall at Keystone, the Darden restaurant, a Florida-based chain, takes mid-level dining to a new high.

Setting the standard up several notches, 52 proudly admits to having No. 152 from the short list of the world's Master Sommeliers choosing the wine cellar's selections. Award-winning George Miliotes, a charming encyclopedia of wine, matched perfectly five courses of culinary deliciousness. A difficult task, pairing wines to food for two dozen critics at one setting; but he pulled it off admirably. Not a surprise, considering the level of difficulty in acquiring the Master Sommelier status. Among other honors, Miliotes was named Wine Spectator’s 2009 Award of Excellence.

George Miliotes

The venue, an understated elegant approach, soothed the ears, as well as the eyes, with a seven-days-a-week pianist, live in the bar area. Listening to tinkling ivories truly enhances the overall dining experience, and this extra nugget adds to an already pleasurable ambiance.

Senior Culinary Director Cliff Pleau and Executive Chef Bill Erath presented the cuisine from the seasonally changing menu consisting of the freshest ingredients 52 weeks out of the year; hence the name-Seasons 52. Presented with such attention to detail it's difficult  to remember you're sitting in the 16th eatery of the same name. The chef's choices were made more significant by the stories relayed to us, explaining the inspiration behind each course. The meal was an expression of love from the kitchen to the diners, without regard to anything except the reaction of the recipient.

Amuse-Bouche

What we ate
Appetizers-Flatbreads: Artichoke and goat cheese with leaf spinach, balsamic onions and roasted peppers; chipotle shrimp with roasted poblanos, grilled pineapple and feta cheese. Wine: Chartogne-Toillet Cuvee Sainte Anne, Champagne MV

Amuse-Bouche: Lump crab and haas avocado. Wine: Aveleda Vinho Verde, Portugal 2009

Second course: Organic Salmon and lemongrass sea scallop roasted on a cedarplank. Wine: Mer Soleiel Chardonnay, Central Coast 2008

Third Course: Earthbound Farm organic green with oak-grilled mushrooms, toasted pistachios and truffle dressing. Wine: Sinskey Pinot Noir, Carneros 2007

Mini Indulgences

Fourth Course: Sonoma goat cheese ravioli with roasted garlic, basil and light tomato broth. Wine: Sierra Cantabria, Rioja 2006


Fifth Course: Mesquite-grilled lamb T-bone chop and Manchester Farms quail breast, mashed sweet potatoes and bourbon-chili glaze. Wine: Markham Petite Sirah, Napa 2004; De Toren Fusion V, Stellenbosch 2007

Desserts: Mini Indulgences of carrot cake, fresh fruit, rocky road, pecan pie, Key lime pie, chocolate peanut butter mousse. Note* desserts also change with the season.

Bottom line: Presenting an entire dining experience, complete with seasonally fresh ingredients, "Wine, dine and relax" seems to be the motto for Indy's newest food choice.

Elizabeth J. Musgrave is a syndicated columnist, travel writer, music, restaurant and theater critic. Catch her as Indy’s Arts & Entertainment Adviser on 93 WIBC and follow her on Twitter @ejmusgrave1 and Facebook.
Photo Credit: EJMusgrave

Gotta Go is published in the following newspapers: South Sider Voice, Indiana Weekender, West Side Community News, New Palestine Reporter, West Indianapolis Community News, Pendleton Times Reporter and Fortville-McCordsville Reporter.

DVD Review: You Again?

I know the majority of critics have pooh-poohed this movie.

Aaah...Critics...what are you going to do with us? We are each just one opinion. Find a critic, like me or another, with whom you agree more often than not and you'll have one who will guide you to flicks you have a good chance of enjoying.

For example, Disney's You Again? out on DVD now in a Blu-ray combo pack is getting several thumbs down from the "everything must be dramatic" critics. Nope, wrong. Some movies are created for just plain, good old-fashioned fun. I watched this DVD with two other females and one male. The male left the room, while the three chicks laughed throughout this flick.

Anytime Betty White (Golden Girls, The Proposal) is in a movie, you know it is likely to be fun and funny. Throw in Kristin Chenoweth (Glee, Wicked, You're a Good Man Charlie Brown), Jaime Lee Curtis (Freaky Friday, Trading Places), and Sigourney Weaver (Avatar, Ghostbusters), and you have the makings of an enjoyable film.

Not great, mind you. The light-hearted movie takes on the ages-old belief that we all had a bully in high school and that it bothers us throughout our lives. An easy plot, with plenty of humorous one-liners from Weaver, Curtis, Chenoweth and, of course, White, keep the laughs coming.

Marnie (Kristen Bell) is successful in business and returns home for the wedding of her brother, Will (James Wolk) to her high school tormentor, Joanna (Odette Yustman Annable). Operation Stop the Wedding commences. Mother (Curtis) attempts to deal with her own high school friend/enemy issues with Ramona (Weaver). The sometimes physical comedy is not asking to be taken seriously.

Bottom Line: Don't think too hard, just call the BFFs over for a girl's night and enjoy this movie, because it is a frolicking romp through teenage troubles and the lessons of growing up.

Elizabeth J. Musgrave is a syndicated columnist, travel writer and theater critic. Catch her as Indy’s Arts & Entertainment Adviser on 93 WIBC and follow her on Twitter @ejmusgrave1 and Facebook.
Gotta Go is published in the following newspapers: South Sider Voice, Indiana Weekender, New Palestine Reporter, Pendleton Times Reporter and Fortville-McCordsville Reporter.

DVD Review: Alice in Wonderland

Disney's Alice in Wonderland is celebrating its 60th anniversary. Those who grew up on the story by Lewis Carroll about a fair-haired child falling down a hole and enjoying an adventure, will be happy at the news. But, is it appropriate for today's parenting style?

Maybe. And, then again, maybe not.

A disclaimer at the beginning of the film tells children in text that smoking is a bad idea. Problem is...preschoolers don't read big words. Children of an age to read probably already know Mom and Dad puff or know that it is bad...verrrry bad. Either way this disclaimer comes across as something inserted due to requirements by a government or watchdog group.

The film itself is exactly as remembered. Sweet, and silly, in a fun way. Alice follows a rabbit instead of sitting around being bored by her governess and ends up, literally, heads over heels in trouble and adventure. Taken at face value, this film still hits it out of the ballpark for animation, evolution of story and...that marvelous league of talent that, seemingly, only Walt himself could find and gather.
Sterling Holloway, also known for his portrayal of Kaa, the Indiana python, in The Jungle Book, provides the voice for the Cheshire Cat. Especially noteworthy is the comedic genius of Ed Wynn (1905-92) as the voice actor for the Mad Hatter.

Bottom Line: This Blu-ray included anniversary edition of Walt Disney's Alice in Wonderland is a must-have for Disney film collectors and film lovers alike.


Elizabeth J. Musgrave is a syndicated columnist, travel writer and theater critic. Catch her as Indy’s Arts & Entertainment Adviser on 93 WIBC and follow her on Twitter @ejmusgrave1 and Facebook.


Gotta Go is published in the following newspapers: South Sider Voice, Indiana Weekender, New Palestine Reporter, Pendleton Times Reporter and Fortville-McCordsville Reporter.

Food Review: Jockamo

When asked, I tell people I am a restaurant critic, not a food critic. The difference? My review covers more than food, by rating on the traditional 1-5 stars in six separate categories: Appearance, Menu, Service, Product, Style and Website.

Jockamo Upper Crust Pizza is well known in historic Irvington. Opening a second location was inevitable. Rather than following the well-worn path to Broad Ripple or Mass Ave, owners Mick McGrath, Nancy Duncan, and Bob and Laura Stark headed to 401 Market Place, Greenwood.

Upon entering Jockamo's, I was welcomed with a sweeping view of the warm, inviting decor. Hostesses handled well the wait list; a good sign. Once seated, the official inspection of the menu began — I admit to being a menu junkie.

Hummus

Appetizers include standard breadsticks with dips, as well as the interesting choice of hummus, a pureed chickpea dip. It’s accompanied by pita and toppings of onions, tomatoes, cucumbers, olive oil and Kalamata olives.

Sammies are represented by six choices, including the California roll with lump crab meat and the Healthwich. A variety of salads are offered, including Greek, spinach and house.

Caliente and S-Five

The bar area is set off by a half-wall from the spacious dining area, which has tables set far from each other, eliminating the jostling which occurs at so many eateries.

The beer and wine menu is nicely suited for the fare, while the entree menu is extensive, giving apt descriptions. Opting to halve two pies in order to taste four flavors seemed prudent. The recommended Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon stood up well to the pizza.

The ‘zas arrived piping hot with a not-too-thick crust and a balance of cheese and toppings. The Caliente was exactly that, hot, and covered with peppers. The Slaughterhouse Five is a generously portioned all-meat variety, while the Cheese Louise is a five-cheese treat.

The Philly Jack is a good version of the famous sandwich. Noteworthy is the quantity of choices available of traditional, original gourmet and custom styles. Sauces marry well with toppings and the crust is worth eating by itself.

The Philly and Cheese Louise

The service projects a small-town, favorite hangout feeling with greetings between guests and staff, who likely know each other from local activities. Friendliness, however, should never replace efficiency. These two key ingredients blend well at this tucked-away gem.

The website, found at jockamopizza.com, is easy to maneuver, but doesn’t encourage interaction from visitors. Also, when clicking on page four for the wine list, the kid's menu and soft drink list pops up instead. Listing local products used earns points as this topic becomes less of a trend and more of a decision-maker for diners.

Bottom Line: Jockamo Upper Crust Pizza knows what it wants to be and achieves it with quiet confidence. Nothing showy… just true to itself.

                                  Stars earned out of 5 
                                          ~ 4 ~

Elizabeth J. Musgrave is a syndicated columnist, travel writer, music, restaurant and theater critic. Catch her as Indy’s Arts & Entertainment Adviser on 93 WIBC and follow her on Twitter @ejmusgrave1 and Facebook.


Photos: EJMusgrave, Jocakamo

Gotta Go is published in the following newspapers: South Sider Voice, Indiana Weekender, West Side Community News, New Palestine Reporter, West Indianapolis Community News, Pendleton Times Reporter and Fortville-McCordsville Reporter.