Infused: The Spirit of Chocolat in review

Fredericksburg, TX's Chocolat adds a spirited twist to the traditional art of Swiss chocolate.

In INFUSED, a weekly column, Elizabeth J. Musgrave connects spirits, wine, and beer with culinary and creative arts.

When looking for a perfect dessert, we often turn toward chocolate or an after-dinner drink, creating the unpleasant decision of which to choose. It’s a decision that proves difficult for even the most strong-willed person. But for almost thirty years, Lecia Duke has made life easier by combining the two options into a selection of unique, one-bite nuggets.

Duke’s shop, Chocolat sits snugly deep in the heart of Texas, located in the charming town of Fredericksburg within the Lone Star state’s Hill Country region. Duke blurs the line between spirits and candy through a 200-year-old method learned while apprenticing with a Swiss chocolatier. Originally an architect-turned graphic designer, the chocolate master creates a crystallized sugar nest to encapsulate the liquor, wine or liqueur in a process known as liqueur praline. She then covers the fragile globe with the finest chocolate available: bourbon, Irish Cream and spiced rum are just a few of the choices among the over-21 liquids to get the Willy Wonka treatment.

According to the award-winning chocolate maker, beer and Champagne are the only liquids unable to withstand the process for the Spirited Chocolates line of confections.

After nearly two dozen tastes, my favorite is a toss-up between Amaretto and Sam Houston Straight Kentucky Bourbon, although the red wine is rather tasty as well.

The signature piece, Tequila D’Almendrado, is the only liqueur praline to progress through three individual flavors: almond, tequila and finishing with chocolate.

For more information on chocolates, tours and flavors, visit Chocolat-Tx.us.

Elizabeth J. Musgrave is a syndicated columnist, travel writer, performing arts and restaurant critic. Catch her column, Infused, at FoodandDrinkDigital.com, as Indy’s Entertainment Adviser on 93 WIBC, and follow her on Twitter @GottaGo, LinkedIn, and Facebook. Gotta Go is published on BroadwayWorld.com, GottaGo.us and in M magazine and the following newspapers: South Sider Voice, Indiana Weekender, New Palestine Reporter, Pendleton Times Reporter and Fortville-McCordsville Reporter.

The Cake Boss, Buddy Valastro Live at Murat Theatre

Who: Buddy Valastro Live: The Cake Boss

What: Homemade for the Holidays Tour

Where: Murat Theatre at Old National Centre

When: Wednesday, December 5 · 7:30 p.m.

Website: LiveNation.com

*Press release*

Candy canes, carols, and the Cake Boss! Celebrate the holidays this season with America’s favorite baker, Buddy Valastro, at the Murat Theatre at Old National Centre in Indianapolis, Indiana on Wednesday, December 5 at 7:30 p.m. Tickets go on-sale this Friday, June 15 at 10:00 a.m. at livenation.com, by phone at 800-745-3000, or at the Old National Centre box office. Reserved tickets are $47.50, $37.50 and $24.75 plus applicable service charges. A limited number of VIP tickets are available for $85.00 which includes a post-show meet and greet, Cake Boss tour laminate, and special holiday surprise.

Buddy Valastro, star of TLC’s “Cake Boss,” brings a special live holiday show the entire family will enjoy. Sharing the holiday traditions and stories from his family at Carlo’s Bakery, Buddy presents an all-new show full of holiday spirit and jingle bell rock. Demonstrating the techniques that have made him the most famous cake artist in the country, Buddy will share behind-the-scenes stories from his hit TV show, answer audience questions, and will bring several lucky members of the audience up on stage for cupcake and cake decorating.

One of the centerpiece shows of the TLC network, a 5th season of “Cake Boss” began airing on Memorial Day. Viewers continue to celebrate the mouthwatering desserts and not-to-be-missed Valastro family moments occurring in bustling Hoboken, NJ, home of Carlo’s Bakery, which celebrates its 102nd anniversary this summer. In addition, Buddy’s second TV series on TLC “Next Great Baker” launches a new season on November 26th.

In late 2011, Buddy’s released his second book with Simon & Schuster. In “Baking with the Cake Boss: 100 of Buddy’s Best Recipes and Decorating Secrets,” Buddy shares everything a home cook needs to know about baking as he takes readers through the same progressive training he had in his apprenticeship at Carlo’s Bakery. A new book is set for release in November 2012 (details forthcoming).

The Homemade for the Holidays Tour is produced by Mills Entertainment based in Saratoga Springs, NY. An industry leader in alternative and branded live entertainment, Mills produces, promotes and manages shows throughout the United States, Canada and abroad. For more information, visit millsentertainment.com.

Elizabeth J. Musgrave is a syndicated columnist, travel writer, performing arts and restaurant critic. Catch her as Indy’s Entertainment Adviser on 93 WIBC, and follow her on Twitter @GottaGo and Facebook. Gotta Go is published on www.BroadwayWorld.com and in M magazine and the following newspapers: South Sider Voice, Indiana Weekender, New Palestine Reporter, Pendleton Times Reporter and Fortville-McCordsville Reporter.

Infused: Christian Moerlein Lager House in Review

Where can you go with a hankering for a nice pint, views of two professional ball stadiums and food infused with various spirits, wine and beer? Only one place. In fact, you will need to trek to the nation’s Midwest region for such a high-maintenance request.

Cincinnati, to be exact.

Upscale Christian Moerlein Lager House, recently opened, offers a gourmet gastropub menu, gleaming taps and every sports fan’s dream – an up close and personal view of the home for the Cincinnati Bengals and the home of the Cincinnati Reds.
Being privy to a four hour private tour of the craft-beer lover’s version of Disneyland, I could only gawk and grin at the marvel of this, this … I don’t want to say beer joint … this, this …

World Class Beer Mecca.

Seriously, who thinks of things like this? Two stories high with seating for nearly 750 of your closest friends, a beer garden, wraparound outdoor seating, and, oh, just for fun -- live music in the park in which it resides, sitting majestically overlooking the Ohio River, paddle and steam boats cruising along for colorful scenery (in case the stadiums aren’t enough).

Although it would have been so simple for proprietor Greg Hardman to have gone over-the-top with the décor and atmosphere, he has instead, somehow created a blended ambiance of familiar congeniality and understated elegance. As friendly as a neighborhood pub, Moerlein’s pulls off its regal pose while keeping a mindful eye on the original brewing district of German settlers known as Over-the-Rhine.

Gone are the days of underground tunnels keeping barrels cool, giving way to the microbrewery setup Hardman has situated directly to the left of the grand entrance. Acquiring the entire Hudepohi-Schoenling Brewing Co. of Cincinnati's line of brands, Hardman is now the proud, yet somehow modest, owner of Christian Moerlein, Little Kings Cream Ale, Hudepohl Amber Lager, Hudy Delight and Burger.

Beyond the numerous, seasonally changing, tap offerings, the 28,000 square foot lager house has a menu to drool over. Rivaling the finest restaurants and surpassing the standard pub’s level of epicurean delights, Chef Carl Chambers, executive chef, has created a menu infused with beer, spirits and wine for every palate. Barbecue sauce with dark lager, smoked malt marinades, prime rib with Barbarossa demi and horseradish cream, mussels with white wine … oh, so many choices. The list is extensive without ever losing its original focus.

Elizabeth Recommends:
No matter what else happens upon being seated, order immediately from the meat & cheese boards menu for the taste bud teaser you’ll enjoy indicative of the pure delight your foodie palate is in for within this noblest of all craft beer establishments. It is a “choose two or three of each” style selection, including smoked salmon, Prosciutto, candied pork belly, King Ludwig beer cheese, and Cambozola to name a few options.

Beer flights: Get them, enjoy them and then decide which is your favorite beer for a full serving.

Desserts: Here is where it starts to hurt. You absolutely must save room (trust me it will be extremely difficult) for the desserts at this Cincy jewel. Some options include, Black Cherry Forest Cake with Kirschwasser cherry compote and chocolate ganache, Apple Almond Bread Pudding with toffee-crusted vanilla ice cream, brown sugar almonds and white chocolate sauce, Orange Panna Cotta with Grand Marnier candied oranges ... see what I mean?

Bottom Line: Greg Hardman’s Christian Moerlein Lager House brings the world’s attention to Cincinnati’s brewing heritage, sets the future standard for all craft beer establishments and puts ‘Cincinnati’ on the lips of every worthwhile beer drinker, brewer and expert.

Need to know:
Website: ChristianMoerlein.com
Reservations: Highly recommended due to baseball and football home games, concerts, etc.
Parking: Underground parking garage
Hours: Mon – Thurs: 11a.m. – Midnight; Fri & Sat: 11a.m. – 1a.m.; Sun: 11a.m. – 11p.m.
Address: 115 Joe Nuxhall Way, Cincinnati, OH 45202
Phone: 513-421-2337

Elizabeth J. Musgrave is a syndicated fine-living columnist, travel writer, and restaurant and performing arts critic. Find her new column, Infused at FoodandDrinkDigital.com, catch her as Indy’s Entertainment Adviser on 93 WIBC, and follow her on Twitter @GottaGo, LinkedIn and Facebook. Gotta Go is published on BroadwayWorld.com, GottaGo.us and in M magazine and the following newspapers: South Sider Voice, Indiana Weekender, New Palestine Reporter, Pendleton Times Reporter and Fortville-McCordsville Reporter.

Hoosier Park Racing & Casino Announces 2012 Summer Concert Lineup

(Anderson, Ind) Thousands of visitors from throughout the Midwest are expected to visit Hoosier Park Racing & Casino for a lineup of six top music acts in the Coors Light Summer Music Track II concert series. All concerts will be held in the outdoor music center with the series running through Sun., Sept. 2.

Grammy-nominated classic rockers, Foreigner, will kicked off the series Memorial Day weekend, followed by an all-day country music event featuring headliners Gary Allan, Rodney Atkins and Josh Thompson in the
Country Throwdown Tour Sunday, June 3.

Five-time Grammy winner, Wynonna Judd, will perform Saturday, July 7 with progressive rockers, Styx, taking the stage Saturday, Aug. 4. Kool & the Gang, with the Commodores, will bring their blend of funk and soul to the series Friday, Aug. 11. The 2012 Coors Light Summer Music Track II concert series will culminate on Sept. 2 with one last special performance.

All concerts will take place in the Hoosier Park outdoor music center, which accommodates up to 5,500 reserved ticket seats. The music center features a wide variety of ticket options, including premium VIP seating and a private party deck complete with personal beverage service and a private music center entrance. All concerts are scheduled to begin at approximately 7:30 p.m.

Performances 

· Saturday, May 26, Foreigner with special guests The Devonshires

· Sunday, June 3, Country Throwdown Tour (Headliners: Gary Allan, Rodney Atkins & Josh Thompson)

· Saturday, July 7, Wynonna & The Big Noise with special guests Steel Magnolia

· Saturday, Aug. 4, Styx

· Friday, Aug. 11, Kool & the Gang with The Commodores

· Friday, Aug. 31,   Creedence Clearwater Revisited
· Sunday, Sept. 2, Big & Rich with special guests Cowboy Troy and Bradley Gaskin

For more information, tickets and directions, please visit www.hoosierpark.com 

Elizabeth J. Musgrave is a syndicated columnist, travel writer, performing arts and restaurant critic. Catch her new column, Infused at FoodandDrinkDigital.com, and as Indy’s Entertainment Adviser on 93 WIBC, or follow her on Twitter @GottaGo, LinkedIn and Facebook. Gotta Go is published on GottaGo.us, BroadwayWorld.com and in M magazine and the following newspapers: South Sider Voice, Indiana Weekender, New Palestine Reporter, Pendleton Times Reporter and Fortville-McCordsville Reporter.

Theater Review: Beef and Boards: The Wizard of Oz

Beef and Boards Dinner Theatre, Indianapolis, brings out classic The Wizard of Oz for its beginning summer fare, playing through July 15. Based on the series of books by L. Frank Baum, the story of a little Kansas farm girl transported to a colorful place, one that is "(Somewhere) Over the Rainbow." The tale was made famous by the 1939 MGM film starring Judy Garland, Ray Bolger, Burt Lahr, Margaret Hamilton and Frank Morgan.

With several strongly talented crowd favorites in the cast, this live production is sure to be a hit with the family sector as well as anyone looking for a bit of nostalgia. Main character, Dorothy Gale, portrayed by Lisa Bark, joins her trio of friends played by Jeff Stockberger (Tin Man), Doug King (Scarecrow) and Jayson Elliott (Cowardly Lion). Eddie Curry steps onstage to play both the Wizard of Oz and Professor Marvel. Lynne Perkins portrays the Wicked Witch and Miss Gultch
If the show seems to run a little long, it could be the inclusion of the fun "The Jitterbug" dance scene cut from the award-winning movie version.
Two performers step into the Gotta Go Spotlight by standing out with the energy and enthusiasm brought to their roles.

Curry, whose version of Professor Marvel was a little quiet and sedate, delighted the audience with his animated style as the Wizard. Portraying the phony wizard with just the right amount of vulnerability and sweetness, Curry creates a very likable character.

Elliott practically roars upon the stage with his over-the-top Cowardly Lion role. Solos "If I Only Had the Nerve" and "King of the Forest" are easily the best vocal performances of the evening showcasing Elliott's powerful singing ability. A treat for those who are just now learning of his talent for the first time, fans and critics alike who believe one can never get enough of Elliot's multi facted range. Whether in Oklahoma, Smoke on the Mountain series or Always...Patsy Cline, he consistently turns in top notch performances. Elliott's unbridled enthusiasm set the standard in Oz which the others, surprisingly, didn't match until the second act.

I will say there is a confused disappointment for me with Stockberger and King. Both are well known for their talent which leaves this critic scratching her head as to their laid back performances in the first half of the program. The lack of enthusiasm is perplexing. It certainly isn't as if we are not all aware of the fabulous ability each has on the stage.

Particularly with Stockberger whose dramatic and zany sides are both much loved by audiences; who is able to say so much with just a glance or twitch - the expectation was high. A man made out of tin whose moves are limited should be custom made for Stockberger. Fortunately the energy level was somewhat recovered in the second half. I would certainly enjoy knowing that all retrieved all of their normal zest for the remainder of the scheduled performances.

* Special Note & Spoiler Alert * There are several situations occurring throughout the performance which inspires me to mention the best seats for this show are those nearest the aisles. In particular, seats: R34-35; R44-40; L35/45; and along the aisle of L10/20/30 and A9/19.

Bottom Line: Jayson Elliott is absolute perfection and thoroughly delightful as the Cowardly Lion making Beef and Boards' The Wizard of Oz a must-see.

Photo credits: JulieCurryPhotography.com
For tickets, directions, and schedule, click on BeefandBoards.com.

Elizabeth J. Musgrave is a syndicated columnist, travel writer, performing arts and restaurant critic. Catch her as Indy’s Entertainment Adviser on 93 WIBC, and follow her on Twitter @GottaGo and Facebook. Infused is published on FoodandDrinkDigital.com. Gotta Go is published on GottaGo.us, BroadwayWorld.com, in M magazine and the following newspapers: South Sider Voice, Indiana Weekender, New Palestine Reporter, Pendleton Times Reporter and Fortville-McCordsville Reporter.

Richard Dawson Dies at 79

RICHARD DAWSON

(Nov. 20, 1932 - June 2, 2012) 

Richard Dawson (nee Colin Lionel Emm), born Nov. 20, 1932, died June 2, 2012 from esophageal cancer. The British-born actor became a United States citizen in 1984.

Dawson was a cast member of the unexpected hit series, Hogan's Heroes, (1965-71), portraying Cpl. Peter Newkirk. The sitcom revolved around a WWII prisoner camp.

Family Feud

Known perhaps best for hosting the popular game show, Family Feud, (1976-89), Dawson was also a regular guest on the '70s popular game show, Match Game 73 (1973-82).

Dawson is survived by his wife, Gretchen, their daughter Shannon, two sons, Mark and Gary, from his first marriage to British film star Diana Dors, and four grandchildren.

Elizabeth J. Musgrave is a syndicated columnist, travel writer, performing arts and restaurant critic. Catch her as Indy’s Entertainment Adviser on 93 WIBC, and follow her on Twitter @GottaGo and Facebook. Infused is published at FoodandDrinkDigital.com. Gotta Go is published on BroadwayWorld.com, in M magazine and the following newspapers: South Sider Voice, Indiana Weekender, New Palestine Reporter, Pendleton Times Reporter and Fortville-McCordsville Reporter.

Vintage Indiana Wine Festival Schedule 2012

 Vintage Indiana

A festival of wine, food and fun

June 2, 2012
11 a.m. - 7 p.m.
Military Park-Indianapolis

Taste the Experience!

Join us at the 13th annual Vintage Indiana Wine & Food Festival

~ An award-winning festival promoting Indiana wine and food ~

Celebrate with the Indiana wineries as they offer samples of more than 200 award-winning wines.

Adult sampler ticket only ~ ID required ~ First 10,000 receive etched wine glass

Tickets are available by clicking VintageIndiana.com

Adult Tickets:

$22 in advance/$25 at the gate

Designated Drivers: 21 and older

$10 in advance/$10 at the gate

Age 6 to 20: $5

Children 5 and under: FREE

Phone Orders: 1-800-359-2968

BRING YOUR LAWNCHAIRS AND BLANKETS

OUTSIDE COOLERS, FOOD AND BEVERAGES ARE NOT ALLOWED

These items will be confiscated at the gate or if found on the grounds.

No re-entry, no pets, no refunds, no outside food/beverage No Refunds

RAIN OR SHINE

Noon
Beat the Dinnertime Clock

Any busy parents knows getting a meal on the table before your kids break out into the “I’m starving” chant! You can get dinner on the table before the kids think they are starving. Quick and easy recipes from the Indiana’s Dairy Farmers and Indiana’s Turkey Producers will make you look like a champion. The New Hoosier Wine Trail will talk about their favorite wines with this great meal.

1:30 p.m.
Lighten up Your Meals for Summer

When it gets too hot, no one wants to spend lots of time in the kitchen. These recipes featuring dairy and turkey will have you out of the kitchen and enjoying summer in no time. The Indy Wine Trail will entertain your palate during this hour. 

3:00 p.m.
Recipes Dad Wants You to Make
Father’s Day is just a few weeks away and it’s time to spoil the Dad’s in our lives with great food and drink! Indiana’s Dairy Farmers show you how to add cheese to your potatoes while Indiana’s Turkey Farmers whip up a dish your Dad will love! The Indiana Wine Trail will be on hand to guide you in wine Dad will love! 

4:30 p.m.
Get our Your Grill

Warm summer days mean our grills are busy! Join the chefs from Clarks Appliance as they showcase their cooking talents and show us what they grill during the summer months! We will also announce the winner of the contest for those Indiana Uplands Wine Trail trekkers who participated in the year long tasting event! 

Entertainment

Noon ~ 2 p.m.
Mike Milligan and Steam Shovel

2:30 p.m. ~ 4:30 p.m.
Jennie DeVoe

5 p.m. ~ 7 p.m.
Casey James

Participating Wineries

Best Vineyards - Brown County Winery - Buck Creek Winery

Butler Winery & Vineyards - Carousel Winery - Cedar Creek Winery

Chateau de Pique - Easley Winery - Ertel Cellars Winery

French Lick Winery - Harmony Winery - Huber's Orchard, Winery & Vineyard

Indian Creek Winery - Mallow Run Winery - McClure's Orchard

Monkey Hollow Winery - Oliver Winery - Rettig Hill Winery

River City Winery - Satek Winery - Simmons Winery

Thomas Family Winery - Turtle Run Winery - Whyte Horse Winery

Wildcat Creek Winery - Winzerwald Winery

Participating Restaurants

Barto's Banquets and Catering - Baskin Robbins

Bazbeaux Pizza - Big Green Bistro

Blue Lagoon Catering - Boone County Pork Producers

Chef Dan's Southern Comfort - Cobb's Cajun Cooking

Emkay Enterprises - Glodo's Original Kettle Korn

Jr. Chapter of the American Culinary Federation

Little Jimmy's - Port-a-Pit Catering - Taco Lassi

Art Vendors

A+ Images - All Bottled Up in Indy - Cookie Lee Jewelry

Dave's Nepal Attire - Elizabeth Alta Jewelry - Glass with Class

Hats by Patricia - Heavenly Dips - Iron Kettle Restaurants

Jennifer Meeker Fine Art - Klick! Photography - Mushroom Gear

Nature's Bling - Niyama Herbal Arts  -  Scentsy

The Happy Fish Shoppe - The Painted Ladies  -  The Wishing Well

Tiki Trends - Tina's Traditional Old English Kitchen
Trinkets From the Heart - Vintage Indiana Shoppe  -  Xocai Healthy Chocolate

Vintage Indiana is presented by the Indiana Wine Grape Council, headquartered on the Purdue University campus in West Lafayette. Sponsors: WFMS & WJJK Radio,Indiana's Family of Farmers, NUVO Newsweekly, Indiana Turkey, WISH-TV, the American Dairy Association of Indiana, WNDY-TV, Clark Appliance, Indiana State Poultry Association, and Marsh Supermarkets.

For additional information, tickets, and directions, visit VintageIndiana.com, or call 1.800.832.WINE.

Elizabeth J. Musgrave is a syndicated columnist, travel writer, performing arts and restaurant critic. Catch her as Indy’s Entertainment Adviser on 93 WIBC, and follow her on Twitter @GottaGo and Facebook. Gotta Go is published on www.BroadwayWorld.com and in M magazine and the following newspapers: South Sider Voice, Indiana Weekender, New Palestine Reporter, Pendleton Times Reporter and Fortville-McCordsville Reporter.

Dario Franchitti Wins 96th Indianapolis 500 2012 Wrap up

Dario Franchitti wins his 3rd Indy 500 & a kiss from Target mascot Bullseye      Image/Musgrave

The final press conference has finished with three-time Indianapolis 500 champion, Dario Franchitti, and now the media people are scurrying about finishing their work before hopping a plane, jumping in their car or heading back to their hotel. Photographers, writers and other various media entities are tired, but happy with this year's ending.
After the devastating blow to the racing world's family and fans alike with the death of the immensely popular Dan Wheldon, there seemed to be a bit of a cloud over this year's race. Who would be the first to receive the honored Borg-Warner Trophy after Wheldon's amazing last minute win in 2011?

As a friend of Wheldon, Franchitti's win made the hollow feeling a little less hollow, the black cloud a little less dark. As if it were the only path that would provide the healing needed for the tragedy's insiders and onlookers.

I understood the immensely tight group of the racing world a little more this year. With last year being my first ever time to attend the "Greatest Spectacle in Racing," I was just lucky to remember where to park, when to cover my ears and how to find the conference room. This time I was able to navigate the media room better, had learned to arrive at the press conference before it was announced and spent more time actually watching the race. More time was spent watching and understanding the interpersonal relationships between owners and their drivers, fans and the Indianapolis Motor Speedway staff, and the media with each other which gave better insight to the loyalty, respect and caring that goes on behind the scenes and runs like a river of life cleansing the old pain, washing away the anger and moving everyone forward in their lives.

I hope to be fortunate enough to attend in 2013. Before that happens I have vowed to research more of the history, facts and figures of the Speedway, drivers and the race itself. Covering many fields of interest with Gotta Go, it isn't possible to be an expert in every area. This has been a journey of learning for me, and hopefully for you also, as I have been willing to look the fool by asking the questions no one wants to out of fear of looking foolish. In return for being allowed to travel to wonderful places, meet marvelous people and try wondrous new experiences, I am willing and then report back my findings to you.

However, I have been remiss, I believe, when it comes to my hometown's pride and joy -- The Indianapolis 500. Perhaps because I grew up listening to it on the radio, or because I always felt I could "get around to it" I never truly paid attention to it all that much. Embarrassing, but true.More time was spent learning about other places, other events, other people, instead of what was in my own backyard.

I make a vow to myself, to you and to the race today. To research and learn so that I might teach others who are too shy to admit they also know too little about it. It is far too easy to overlook that which is directly in front of us while looking at something farther away. I apologize from my heart for taking far too long to understand what I did today.

Bottom Line: I have found a deep respect for what the Indianapolis 500 means as financial support through many jobs, as a lifelong passion of fans worldwide and pride in the history and heritage of what truly is "The Greatest Spectacle in Racing."

Elizabeth J. Musgrave is a syndicated columnist, travel writer, performing arts and restaurant critic. Catch her as Indy’s Entertainment Adviser on 93 WIBC, and follow her on Twitter @GottaGo and Facebook. Gotta Go is published on www.BroadwayWorld.com and in M magazine and the following newspapers: South Sider Voice, Indiana Weekender, New Palestine Reporter, Pendleton Times Reporter and Fortville-McCordsville Reporter.

Infused: Fuzzy Zoeller Cocktails for Indianapolis 500 Include Hoosier Momma Bloody Mary Maker

Although the Infused Top 10 Indianapolis 500-inspired Cocktails List was published a couple of weeks ago, (click here to read and drool) these recipes have been submitted to me by Fuzzy Zoeller's Ultimate Premium Vodka, the official vodka for the IZOD IndyCar Series.

The folks here at Infused thought these deserve a mention as well, particularly as they include the high-quality mixer from Indiana's cocktail mix goddess Hoosier Momma. At Fuzzy's Happy Hour for the media in Indianapolis Motor Speedway's Pagoda's 5th floor plush club, some of these tasty drinks were available for tasting.

So I did.

Fuzzy’s Checkered Flag Lemonade  and Fuzzy’s Start Your Engines Hoosier Mary won top spots and are part of the collection of recipes below. Shake, stir or pour, whatever your preference, and let me know which is your favorite.

Fuzzy’s Hole-In-One Martini

Chilled Martini Glass

Fill ice filled shaker with the following:

3 oz Fuzzy’s Ultra Premium Vodka

Splash of Olive Juice

Shake vigorously.

Strain into chilled Martini Glass

Garnish: Blue Cheese Stuffed Olive

12 oz Glass

Fill with ice

2 oz Fuzzy’s Ultra Premium Vodka

Fill with tonic

Squeeze of lime

Garnish: Two Lime Wedges

Fuzzy’s Start Your Engines Hoosier Mary

12 oz Glass

Rim glass with salt

Fill with ice

2 oz Fuzzy’s Ultra Premium Vodka

Fill with Hoosier Momma Bloody Mary Mix 

Shake.

Garnish: Celery, Olive and Lime Wedge

12 oz Glass

Fill with Ice

1 ½ oz Fuzzy’s Ultra Premium Vodka

Fill with Sprite/Sierra Mist

½ oz Rose’s Blue Raspberry Infusion

Stir

Garnish: Lime Wheel

Fuzzy’s Checkered Flag Lemonade

12 oz Glass

Fill with ice

1 ½ oz Fuzzy’s Ultra Premium Vodka

4 oz lemonade

¾ oz Strawberry Puree

Shake well.

Splash of Sprite/Sierra Mist on top.

Garnish: Lime Wheel

To buy, locate retailers, and more recipes, visit these websites:
FuzzyVodka.net
HossierMomma.

Photos: Hoosier Momma, LLC; Fuzzy's Ultra Premium Vodka


Elizabeth J. Musgrave is a syndicated columnist, travel writer, performing arts and restaurant critic. Catch her new column, Infused, at FoodandDrinkDigital.com and as Indy’s Entertainment Adviser on 93 WIBC. Follow her on Twitter @GottaGo, LinkedIn and Facebook. Gotta Go is published on GottaGo.us, BroadwayWorld.com, in M magazine and the following newspapers: South Sider Voice, Indiana Weekender, New Palestine Reporter, Pendleton Times Reporter and Fortville-McCordsville Reporter.

Guy Fieri, St Elmo and Corvettes at Indianapolis 500 2012

Guy Fieri with Indy 500 pace car   Image/Musgrave

Rolling in to Indianapolis is one of the culinary world's royalty. The rock god of food, Guy Fieri is completely out of bounds, off the charts and always ready to grab some insanely delicious gastro delight.

Known best through his Food Network program, Diners, Drive ins and Dives, Fieri arrived, signature sunglasses firmly in place, to be the newest inductee of the elite club in which members have all driven one very special vehicle.

At a press conference, held today (May 26, 2012) at Indianapolis Motor Speedway, Guy Fieri expressed his elation at being selected to drive the Pace Car for the 96th running of the Indianapolis 500. The Chevy Corvette ZR1 will be driven for four laps around the 2 1/2 mile oval track to begin the race, known the world over as "The Greatest Spectacle in Racing."

Below is a small part of the Q&A session with the personable host of the popular television that covers everyday eateries across the nation.

MODERATOR: Guy, you showed up here yesterday morning, we treated you like a race car driver. The first thing you got to do was give a physical at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway. How was that first impression here?

GUY FIERI: I didn't go through all the physical that the guys go through. They said they have to strip all the way down, I'm like: "Wow, that's great. I'm glad we're passing that piece." It was great, though. Everybody has been so friendly. I understand why this is such a popular race, not just by the fans and the media, but by the drivers. Everybody is so hospitable. Indianapolis just rolls out the red carpet. I've been texting my friends and emailing and tweeting and everybody. They're like, "What's it like?" And I said you just can't get it. From television, it just gives you like one-tenth of what the experience is, and if you haven't been to a race, then you are missing it. This is a lifetime event to come to.

Sunrise over Indianapolis Motor Speedway                           Image/Musgrave

Someone asked if it was on my bucket list to be a pace car driver, I said, "Listen, it was on my bucket list to make it to the race." So I don't even know what level of bucket this would be to be the Pace Car driver. I was nervous, I'll be very honest. I mean, it was a nerve-wracking two weeks or three weeks that I have been really thinking about it. Because I thought you just drove around and waved. The car doesn't look like it's going that fast on TV. Then I talked to a few of my buddies and they said, "No, no, it goes." But I got great training and it's been awesome.

MODERATOR: Have you had a chance to sample any food while you've been here? Anything that when you think Indianapolis you think about in terms of food?

FIERI: Well, you know, when we shot here -- and this is kind of my theory on places like Indianapolis. When you find an area that has a chance to get real cold, and we were here for the Super Bowl with no snow, which was crazy, but people spend time indoors when you get an area that has a lot of history. So when you start compiling those kinds of pieces and being in the Midwest and start adding it up, you really start to find some real culture in food; and not just like Midwestern culture like a steak-and-potatoes place. We went to St. Elmo's last night, which was really good. Had a great dry-aged steak, 28-day dried steak. If you haven't had that, by the way, dry aging is the way to roll. The culinary tips will now start coming out. But it's been great. We've had a really nice experience. Everybody is so genuine and so cool. Like when we came for the Super Bowl this year, although it was just pandemonium, it was just a really nice environment and a lot of real friendly people. I'm always encouraging people to come here and try out the DDD joints.

MUSGRAVE-Q: Did you get to try the shrimp cocktail at St. Elmo's?

St. Elmo's Shrimp Cocktail                                   Image/Musgrave

FIERI-A: I'm sorry, did I try it three times did you say? (Laughter) Have I completely cleansed my sinuses from 400 pounds of horseradish?

MUSGRAVE-Q: Did you get to try 1933?

FIERI-A: I did not get to try 1933. I was there with my buddy, Brandon Bernstein, who is a Top Fuel dragster and drag racer. It's his favorite place. So every time I come to town, Brandon says, "We've got to go to St. Elmo's." So we enjoyed it so much, we're going back tonight, so we'll be there for round two.

MODERATOR: So Johnny Rutherford, three-time Indianapolis 500 winner, gives you some training. Two questions: What did he have to say to you? And then we were waiting for you to come in Pit Lane. Photographers wanted to get a picture of the exchange. Next thing we know, somewhere on the track where we couldn't see you, you must have convinced him to let you drive because you came by with your hook and horns out the window.

FIERI: It happened a couple times. So JR and I -- and what a great guy. Talk about a legend of legends. And he's so in it and understands it and gets it. I was joking yesterday, saying, "Just let him take and run that car with everybody." I would just love to see he could run that ZR1. We came out of the pits at about 80 and came into that little side track there, and we were flying. I'm stuck to the side of the window not knowing if I was going to make the first turn. It was just a really cool experience. We talked about the track. We talked about the lines. We talked about when to get in it, when to get out of it, just all of these key things. It was like driving school 101 times a thousand. He just took the time with me and explained things. And I've always been a car freak, so I understood a lot of the components. But then what happened is we were driving around, he says, "OK, now you do it." That was quick. So we go through it, I drive. And he kind of, he says: "Really good. I like that." And he says: "All right, now you're done. Get out." So we stop in the middle of the track and he says, "Now let me show you." So he gave me like a little beginning driving lesson. I drove, then he gets in it. That's when we took Turn 4 at 125, 130 miles an hour in a street car; a ZR1 but a street car. I'm like, "We're never going to survive this corner." Came right out of it. He looked at me and said, "That's how you do it." Amen.

MODERATOR: Have you thought a little bit, or has anybody talked to you a little bit about what you'll see tomorrow morning? Obviously, the place has been relatively empty. You're going to come here tomorrow, hundreds of thousands of --

FIERI: Empty? Were you here yesterday for Carb Day?

MODERATOR: Wait until you're here tomorrow, I guess is my point. So you're going to go into Turn 1, and have they explained to you this place that's so big is going to feel small and intimate?

FIERI: It was a cross between Disneyland and a Rolling Stones concert yesterday. I mean, everything from kids to rockers yesterday. It was out of bounds. So many people. As we were driving around, my team from Chevy, who has been super-awesome about this whole experience, as they're were driving giving me like some real culture, went to the Museum and did all those pieces, and went to the basement of the Museum, by the way, it was just, oh, man. We got to see it with the lights on, which is I guess is not how it normally goes. But they said, "Oh, yeah, this knoll and this golf course and that area and this thing and that tree people will be in." I'm like, "Get out." They said it's going to be just packed, over 300,000 fans.

And, listen, if it's already not nerve-wracking enough, I've got the greatest race car drivers in the world behind me. I'm driving the Chevy car, doing four laps, maybe five or six or 12, depends on how I feel. (Laughter) This might be the longest Pace Car driving that you've ever seen.

I was thrown off the track today. They said to me: "You're done. Johnny gave you the gold star, you're finished." I said: "No, I don't feel comfortable. I want to do more." They're like, "We're not buying it; you're off." But I heard it's just crazy. I heard the colors in the stands and how it's just filled up and all the people and all the flashes, I can't wait. I'm really excited.

Elizabeth J. Musgrave is a syndicated columnist, travel writer, performing arts and restaurant critic. Catch her new column, Infused, on FoodandDrinkDigital.com and as Indy’s Entertainment Adviser on 93 WIBC, and follow her on Twitter @GottaGo and Facebook. Gotta Go is published on www.BroadwayWorld.com and in M magazine and the following newspapers: South Sider Voice, Indiana Weekender, New Palestine Reporter, Pendleton Times Reporter and Fortville-McCordsville Reporter.

Infused: Book Review: Ice Cream Happy Hour 50 Boozy Desserts

Having reviewed books for quite awhile now, I have been privileged to read some rather great ones. Every  once in awhile, however, one crosses my desk that makes me think: “Man, I wish I had written that one.” Valerie Lum and Jenise Addison’s Ice Cream Happy Hour is one of those books.

Bearing the subtitle “50 Boozy Treats You Spike, Freeze and Serve,” no cocktail napkin is left unturned: the Chocolate Martini, Pina Colada and even Sangria receive the frozen treatment. Butter Pecan with Brandy brings an American favorite to the adult beverage level, while Jasmine Tea with Sake prepares the palate for an Asian delight. Wine, beer and spirits all are invited to the kitchen to meet up with traditional ice cream, sherbet and sorbet dishes.

Recipes from beginner to advance with step by step instructions give everyone the Dutch courage to test the over-21 concoctions in their very own kitchen. Irish Coffee, Whiskey Sour and Mojito are covered, as are Cape Cod, Mimosa and Cosmopolitan. The list is impressive and thorough. After reading this 80-proof recipe book, I may never look at a banana split or turtle sundae the same way again.

Instructions and conversions are provided, along with fabulous images. My suggestion is to purchase two, one for yourself and one to replace it when your guests steal your original copy.

The book is outright simplistic brilliance. So obvious is the combination of ice cream and liquor, so beautiful the resulting colors, and such honeymoon-bliss the flavors – I kick myself for not thinking of it before these two culinary artists who met while working at Bierkraft in Brooklyn.

Bottom Line: A word of warning to ice cream freezer retailers: Prepare for inventory issues. Ice Cream Happy Hour tweaks frozen comfort food and creates original combinations for a grown up ice cream parlor delight giving adults a whole new reason to purchase the long forgotten ice cream freezer.

For more information: UlyssesPress.com
Photo credits: Judi Swinks Phtography

Elizabeth J. Musgrave is a syndicated columnist, travel writer, performing arts and restaurant critic. Catch her new column, Infused, at and FoodandDrinkDigital.com, as Indy’s Entertainment Adviser on 93 WIBC. Follow her on Twitter @GottaGo, LinkedIn and Facebook. Gotta Go is published on BroadwayWorld.com, in M magazine and the following newspapers: South Sider Voice, Indiana Weekender, New Palestine Reporter, Pendleton Times Reporter and Fortville-McCordsville Reporter.

Grill Time 2012

Grilling is one of America's favorite pastimes, and what's not to love? The mood is relaxed, the weather is perfect, and men take over cooking. And by cooking I mean experimenting and showing off their insane creative abilities. Nothing is too far out or off limits when the grill becomes center stage.

Ribs are slathered in secret sauces, special lemonade is poured into old, glass canning jars and watermelon is sliced. What makes men come alive for this open air eat fest? Studies may hint that it is from the forefathers, getting to play with fire and the hunter within each of the male persuasion. Whatever the reason, I sit back, relax while sipping on an adult beverage and allow them to share, show off and shine in their passion.

Do you call it "grilling," "barbecuing" or "cooking out" when lighting up the grill? And, is gas or charcoal better? What are your favorite recipes, and what makes yours better than everyone else? Is it the sauce, the style of cooking or perhaps the cut of meat? Whatever makes your food taste that much better is what I would like to hear about.

Growing up, no outdoor meal was complete without my mother's potato salad. Made with a few sprigs of dandelion greens, I still hanker for it whenever the weather becomes kind, freshly cut grass scents the air and stores display the latest in man aprons.

Below are a few links to festivals devoted to the culinary tradition and related events. If you know of others, please let me know and I will add it to the list. Until then, enjoy outdoor dining!

• Kokomo Ribfest: June 9, Kokomo w: CityofKokomo.org 
• BBQ Ribfest: June 14-17, Ft. Wayne w: BBQRibFest.com
• Indy Wine Trail-BBQ: July 14-15, Indianapolis w: IndyWineTrail.com

Elizabeth J. Musgrave is a syndicated columnist, travel writer, performing arts and restaurant critic. Catch her new column, Infused, at FoodandDrinkDigital.com, as Indy’s Entertainment Adviser on 93 WIBC, and follow her on Twitter @GottaGo and Facebook. Gotta Go is published on BroadwayWorld.com and in M magazine and the following newspapers: South Sider Voice, Indiana Weekender, New Palestine Reporter, Pendleton Times Reporter and Fortville-McCordsville Reporter.

96th INDIANAPOLIS 500 SCHEDULE 2012

96th INDIANAPOLIS 500 SCHEDULE 2012

(All times local, subject to change)

For tickets, complete details and directions, visit IndianapolisMotorSpeedway.com

Monday, May 21

NO TRACK ACTIVITY

Tuesday, May 22

NO TRACK ACTIVITY

Wednesday, May 23

AMERICAN FAMILY INSURANCE 500 FESTIVAL COMMUNITY DAY

(No track activity)

$8 advance/$10 gate, 6 and under free

9 a.m.-6 p.m., Public Gates Open

11 a.m., 500 Festival Community Day Pin Distribution, Pagoda Plaza

11 a.m.-noon, Firestone Indy Lights Driver Autograph Session, Plaza

Pavilion 1C/1D

12:30-1:30 p.m., Indy 500 Autograph Session #1 Wristband

Distribution, MotoGP Garage 36

1:30-2:30 p.m., Indy 500 Autograph Session #1, Plaza Pavilion 1C/1D

2-3 p.m., Indy 500 Autograph Session #2 Wristband Distribution,

MotoGP Garage 36

3-4 p.m., Indy 500 Autograph Session #2, Plaza Pavilion 1C/1D

3:30-4:30 p.m., Indy 500 Autograph Session #3 Wristband

Distribution, MotoGP Garage 36

4:30-5:30 p.m., Indy 500 Autograph Session #3, Plaza Pavilion 1C/1D

Thursday, May 24

FIRESTONE FREEDOM 100

PRACTICE, QUALIFYING

Free

8 a.m.-6 p.m., Public Gates Open

9 a.m.-noon, Firestone Indy Lights Practice

1:15-2:15 p.m., Firestone Indy Lights Qualifying

2:30-4 p.m., Vintage Car Laps

Friday, May 25

MILLER LITE CARB DAY

$20 admission, 12 and under free

8 a.m.-6 p.m., Public Gates Open

10:30-11 a.m., Q&A with IndyCar Crew Members, Coca-Cola Stage

10:45 a.m., Firestone Pin Distribution, Pagoda Plaza

11 a.m.-noon, Indianapolis 500 Final Practice

12:30 p.m., Firestone Freedom 100 (40 laps)

1:35 p.m., Indy 500 Pit Stop Challenge

3:30 p.m., Miller Lite Carb Day Concert featuring Lynyrd Skynyrd

Saturday, May 26

LEGENDS DAY HONORING ROGER PENSKE PRESENTED BY SHELL V-POWER

$10 admission; 12 and under free

8 a.m.-6 p.m., Public Gates Open

8:45-9 a.m., Chase Rookie of the Year Candidates Q&A, Coca-Cola Stage

9-10 a.m., 2011 Starting Field/Indy 500 Winners Autograph Session, Pagoda Plaza

9 a.m.-4 p.m., Indianapolis 500 Memorabilia Show, Plaza Pavilion 1A/1B

9:30-10:20 a.m., Vintage Car Laps

10:30-11 a.m., Public Drivers Meeting, Tower Terrace

11-11:30 a.m., Q&A with Roger Penske, Coca-Cola Stage

1-4 p.m., Indy 500 Veterans Autograph Session, Pagoda Plaza

For the Top 10 List of Indianapolis 500 Inspired Cocktails, click here.

Sunday, May 27

96TH INDIANAPOLIS 500 RACE DAY 

Tickets start at $30

5:33 a.m.-6 p.m., Public Gates Open

7 a.m., Snake Pit Opens

8:30 a.m., Parade of Bands

9:30 a.m., 500 Festival Princesses Lap

11 a.m., Vintage Car Lap

11:10 a.m., Military Tribute Lap

11:30 a.m., Driver Introductions

Noon, Start of 96th Indianapolis 500 (200 laps)

Elizabeth J. Musgrave is a syndicated columnist, travel writer, performing arts and restaurant critic. Catch her new column, Infused, at FoodandDrinkDigital.com, as Indy’s Entertainment Adviser on 93 WIBC, and follow her on Twitter @GottaGo and Facebook. Gotta Go is published on BroadwayWorld.com and in M magazine and the following newspapers: South Sider Voice, Indiana Weekender, New Palestine Reporter, Pendleton Times Reporter and Fortville-McCordsville Reporter. 

Manilow, Shelton and Journey Headline 2012 Indiana State Fair concerts

Barry, Blake, Journey and Train
Headline 2012 Indiana State Fair concerts

Manilow                                                                    Image courtesy of Orlando Sentinel

INDIANAPOLIS – The Indiana State Fair will hold four concerts at Bankers Life Fieldhouse over the course of its 17-day run Aug. 3 – 19.

Shows include

Barry Manilow – Aug. 3 at 7:30 p.m.

Train – Aug. 4 at 7 p.m.

Journey with Pat Benatar and Loverboy – Aug. 8 at 7 p.m.

Blake Shelton – Aug. 17 at 7 p.m.

Tickets for all these shows include a ticket to the State Fair good on any day of the fair, not just the day of the concert.

Ticket prices for the shows are as follows:

Barry Manilow - $129.99, $89.99, $69.99, $39.99, $19.99 and $9.99
Train - $61, $50 and $40
Journey/Pat Benatar/Loverboy - $90, $70 and $45
Blake Shelton - $75, $55 and $40

Blake Shelton

Tickets: Purchase at the State Fair box office,  Ticketmaster locations, at 1-800-745-3000 or at Ticketmaster.com.

In addition, the state fair will present the Indiana Fever vs. Atlanta Dream game on Aug. 18. Any group that purchases 15 or more tickets to the game will receive the same number of tickets to the fair, also good on any day of the fair. These tickets can be purchased at the State Fair grounds box office, through Ticketmaster or at Bankers Life Fieldhouse.

For details, contact the Indiana State Fair grounds Box Office at (317) 927-7601 or visit IndianaStateFair.com.

About Indiana State Fair

The 2012 fair is the “Year of Dairy Cows,” showcasing Indiana Dairy farmers. The Indiana State Fair is the state’s largest multi-day event celebrating Hoosiers’ spirit and agricultural heritage. Nationally recognized for offering great entertainment, showcasing youth, interactive agriculture education programs, premiere facilities and a variety of unique, fun foods, the Indiana State Fair has been an annual tradition for generations of Hoosiers since 1852.

Manilow photo: Courtesy of Orlando Sentinel
Elizabeth J. Musgrave is a syndicated columnist, travel writer, performing arts and restaurant critic. Catch her new column, Infused, at FoodandDrinkDigital.com, as Indy’s Entertainment Adviser on 93 WIBC, and follow her on Twitter @GottaGo and Facebook. Gotta Go is published on BroadwayWorld.com and in M magazine and the following newspapers: South Sider Voice, Indiana Weekender, New Palestine Reporter, Pendleton Times Reporter and Fortville-McCordsville Reporter.

Howie Mandel to Call Cars to Grid 2012 Indianapolis 500

'America's Got Talent' star Howie Mandel

Serves as Honorary Announcer for 2012 Indianapolis 500

INDIANAPOLIS, Saturday, May 19, 2012 - Howie Mandel, judge on "America's Got Talent," the top-rated summer reality competition series on NBC, will serve as honorary announcer for the 96th Indianapolis 500 Mile Race on Sunday, May 27.

On Race Day, Mandel will give the famous command, "All cars to the grid!" to start the countdown to the green flag. His signature humor will put a distinctive spin on a time-honored tradition executed for decades by the legendary "voice of the Speedway," Tom Carnegie.

"I'm very honored to be chosen to call the cars to the grid at this year's Indy 500 ... for the 10th time, this being the first time I've actually gotten to do it on site," Mandel said. "The fans, teams and drivers will be waiting for me to give the command. It'll be an experience of a lifetime that I'll never forget."

Said Jeff Belskus, president and CEO of the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Corporation: "This year is the start of the next 100 years for the most important race in motorsports. We're entering this new era with a reinvigorated sport that is intent on evolving with the times. Howie Mandel will bring a unique entertainment value to the race that elevates its profile in a non-traditional arena before potential new fans."

Buy tickets online at www.imstix.com

Elizabeth J. Musgrave is a syndicated columnist, travel writer, performing arts and restaurant critic. Catch her as Indy’s Entertainment Adviser on 93 WIBC, and follow her on Twitter @GottaGo and Facebook. Gotta Go is published on www.BroadwayWorld.com and in M magazine and the following newspapers: South Sider Voice, Indiana Weekender, New Palestine Reporter, Pendleton Times Reporter and Fortville-McCordsville Reporter.

Pole Day Qualifying For 2012 Indianapolis 500 - May 19

Pole Day Qualifying For The 2012 Indianapolis 500 - May 19

Saturday, May 19, 2012

Schedule of Events

6:30 am - Public Gates Open -

8 am - Practice Begins - Track

8:30 am - Breakfast at the Brickyard - Brickyard Crossing Golf Course

10:15 am - Q&A with Parnelli Jones - Coke Stage, Plaza

10:45 am - American Dairy Association Pin Distribution - Pagoda Plaza

10:55 am - Live Music by Time For Three - Yard of Bricks

11 am - Qualifications Begin - Track

4 pm - Ceremonial Lap Honoring 50th Anniversary of Parnelli Jones' 150-mph Lap - Track

4:30 pm - Fast Nine Qualifications Begin - Track

6 pm - Pole Award Presentation - Yard of Bricks

6:15 pm - Live Music by Here Come The Mummies - Coke Stage, Plaza

6 pm - Public Gates Close -

For more information, tickets, and directions, click here.

Elizabeth J. Musgrave is a syndicated columnist, travel writer, performing arts and restaurant critic. Catch her as Indy’s Entertainment Adviser on 93 WIBC, and follow her on Twitter @GottaGo and Facebook. Gotta Go is published on www.BroadwayWorld.com and in M magazine and the following newspapers: South Sider Voice, Indiana Weekender, New Palestine Reporter, Pendleton Times Reporter and Fortville-McCordsville Reporter.

U.S. MILITARY TO BE HONORED AT INDIANAPOLIS MOTOR SPEEDWAY

Wish For Our Heroes Program to provide Indianapolis 500 tickets to soldiers, veterans

INDIANAPOLIS, Friday, May 18, 2012 - The Indianapolis Motor Speedway will pay homage to the men and women of the United States military during Armed Forces Day on Sunday, May 20, which also is the final day of qualifying for the 96th Indianapolis 500.

"The Greatest Spectacle in Racing" has paid tribute to the troops since its inception in 1911. Activities on Sunday will begin when the gates open at 7:30 a.m., as all active members of the military will be admitted free who are in uniform or show their military I.D. at the gate.

Wish For Our Heroes (W4OH), the Indianapolis Motor Speedway and Indiana National Guard have teamed up this year to provide fans with an opportunity to help send active United States military or veterans to the Indianapolis 500, Super Weekend at the Brickyard or Red Bull Indianapolis GP in 2012. Wish For Our Heroes, a national, non-profit organization based in Noblesville, Ind., will coordinate purchase and delivery of all tickets to service members and veterans.

A special W4OH ticket giveaway for active duty soldiers for the 2012 Indianapolis 500 will take place on Armed Forces Day at 3 p.m. on the Coca-Cola Stage in the Pagoda Plaza.

The tickets will be presented by Melissa Jarboe, who was engaged to her husband, Jamie, on Feb. 13, 2010 at the IMS Hall of Fame Museum and were married that same day. A Frankfort (Ind.) Senior High School graduate in 2003, Sgt. Jamie Jarboe was deployed overseas later that month.

A huge fan of the Indianapolis 500, Jarboe was shot by a sniper April 10, 2011, while serving in Operation Enduring Freedom in Kandahar, Afghanistan, and died March 21, 2012, at age 27. Since that day, Melissa has maintained her husband's Indianapolis 500 room at their home in Topeka, Kan., and she has amassed 18,000 Facebook followers who monitor her as she continues to express her feelings about her loss, helping many other family members of fallen soldiers.

Jarboe and her daughters, Celestial and Alexa, will attend the 96th Indianapolis 500 on Sunday, May 27 as guests of Wish For Our Heroes.

The Wish For Our Heroes Fund program gives fans three ways to salute American service members through contributions or donations at www.indianapolismotorspeedway.com/wish4ourheroes or www.wish4ourheroes.org.

Other activities on Armed Forces Day at IMS:

•Enlistment ceremony: At 11:15 a.m., an Armed Forces Enlistment Ceremony led by Indiana Senator Richard Lugar will take place for new members entering all branches of the U.S. military. The event will take place at the base of the Pagoda on the Yard of Bricks. Melissa Jarboe also will appear at the Enlistment Ceremony.

•Military vehicle display: An extraordinary collection of military vehicles and equipment will be showcased on the Pagoda Plaza, and on Turns 7 and 9 of the IMS Moto GP course located just north of the IMS Hall of Fame Museum when the gates open at 7:30 a.m.

Aerial exhibits will include a UH-60 Black Hawk four-bladed, twin-engine, medium-lift utility helicopter that first entered service in 1979. Also on display will be a Bell OH-58 Kiowa single-engine, single-rotor helicopter used for observation, utility and direct fire support.

Ground displays will include a M777 Howitzer, which is a 155mm caliber, artillery piece, that's combined with a new GPS-guided munition that allows accurate fire for up to 25 miles.

Vehicles on display will include a Heavy Expanded Mobility Tactical Truck, a High Mobility Multipurpose Wheeled Vehicle (Hummer) and an M1083 Military Truck. Also on hand will be an M1088 Medium Tactical On and Off Road Vehicle, a 40-Ton Transporter Trailer, a Palletized Load System, an M577 Command Post, an Armed Security Vehicle and an RG33 Mine-Resistant Ambush Protected Vehicle.

The horses, caisson and limber of the Indiana National Guard Ceremonial Unit will also be on display during Armed Forces Day. Used during official funerals, the Indiana National Guard has the only caisson unit in the nation aside from the "Old Guard," which is famous for guarding the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier at Arlington National Cemetery.

•Fans encouraged to thank military members via Twitter: As a way to salute our active military throughout the day, IMS has encouraged fans to provide Twitter handles of friends or family currently serving in the military to the IMS Facebook page, www.facebook.com/IndianapolisMotorSpeedway. IMS then will put some of those handles on the large screen video boards on the track Sunday, May 20 and encourage fans at the track to tweet to those military members with a "thank you" message including the hashtag #500salutes.

"The Indianapolis Motor Speedway has always made celebrating and honoring our troops a priority at all our events, but especially the Indianapolis 500," said Indianapolis Motor Speedway Corporation President and CEO Jeff Belskus. "In this day of instant communication, we wanted to encourage our fans to pass along their thanks to those troops stationed all over the globe for the sacrifices they make every day for this country."

Admission for Armed Forces Day at IMS on Sunday, May 20 is $15, with children 12 and under free.





***



2012 Indianapolis 500 tickets: Tickets are on sale for the 96th Indianapolis 500 Mile Race on Sunday, May 27, 2012 at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway.

Race Day ticket prices start at just $30. Fans can buy tickets online at www.imstix.com, by calling the IMS ticket office at (317) 492-6700, or (800) 822-INDY outside the Indianapolis area, or by visiting the ticket office at the IMS Administration Building at the corner of Georgetown Road and 16th Street between 8 a.m.-5 p.m. (ET) Monday-Friday.

Children 12 and under will receive free general admission to any IMS event in 2012 when accompanied by an adult general admission ticket holder.

Tickets for groups of 20 or more also are on sale. Contact the IMS Group Sales Department at (866) 221-8775 for more information.Elizabeth J. Musgrave is a syndicated columnist, travel writer, performing arts and restaurant critic. Catch her as Indy’s Entertainment Adviser on 93 WIBC, and follow her on Twitter @GottaGo and Facebook. Gotta Go is published on www.BroadwayWorld.com and in M magazine and the following newspapers: South Sider Voice, Indiana Weekender, New Palestine Reporter, Pendleton Times Reporter and Fortville-McCordsville Reporter.