10 Things to Know Before Going on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail

Always helpful, I have compiled a list of facts, tips and advice through venturing on the trail myself. Here for you are the 10 Things to Know Before Going on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail.

1. Cell phone service is spotty at best. If you think you can connect with the outside world while 40 miles from nowhere...you are wrong.
2. The GPS system does not prove to be accurate. In order to not end up off in a field somewhere, go old school. Take a map and ask at distilleries, because the locals I asked weren't confident in their directions at all.
3. You don't get that much to drink, via samples, at the distilleries. Due to laws and regulations, very small amounts are dispersed. If you want more, you will need to buy it.
4. Trying to hit all seven locations in one day is fairly impossible, and downright dangerous. Plan on two-three days for the tours, sampling and socializing.
5. Separate out the fun over two sections for the distilleries. One day will keep you near Lexington and the other is situated between Louisville and Bardstown.
6. When going to the part of the tours around Lexington, visit Woodford Reserve first thing in the morning. Most visitors save it to last and the afternoons are always busier, according to the local experts. Hit it first thing and avoid the crowds.
7. Plan on an extra day, or two, and hit the Urban Bourbon Trail in Louisville. It's a fabulously fun time filled with restaurants, bars and pubs dedicated to all the splendor of bourbon. They live it, breathe it and love sharing the information and bourbon knowledge with everyone.
8. There is pretty much nothing you can think of that isn't made with bourbon in Louisville. Entrees,  sauces, cocktails, even ice cream and brownies are whipped up, baked and blended with the golden amber that makes this state happy.
9. Visit in the spring and autumn for the prettiest photo opportunities, and winter for fewer crowds and plenty of distilling happenings. Summer time is fine for visiting, but most locations halt distilling for a  month or two during the hot months, so if you want to definitely catch corn mashing practices, go during the other three seasons or call ahead to every distillery.
10. There are actually three trails: Kentucky Bourbon Trail, which includes the seven big guys; Urban Bourbon Trail, for the Louisville style of bourbon fun, and Craft Bourbon Trail, which includes small, boutique distilleries.

Websites

KyBourbonTrail.com

JimBeam.com

MakersMark.com

WoodfordReserve.com

HeavenHill.com

TownBranch.com

FourRosesBourbon.com

WildTurkey.com

Elizabeth J. Musgrave is a syndicated fine-living, travel columnist, freelance writer and photographer, and performing arts and restaurant critic for Gotta Go. Read Infused, her spirits, wine & beer lifestyle column, at www.GottaGo.us and www.FoodDigital.com and catch her as Indy’s Entertainment Adviser on 93 WIBC. Gotta Go is published on www.Gottago.us, www.BroadwayWorld.com, an in print. Follow her on Twitter @GottaGo, LinkedIn and Facebook.

Dig IN, A Taste of Indiana 2012 Announces Chefs, Menus, Vendors

Indiana’s top chefs, vintners, brewers, food and beverage producers and artisans will cook and pour for an approximate 3,500 foodies at the third annual Dig-IN, A Taste of Indiana, held at White River State Park. More than 60 food and beverage experts will be onsite for the local-food event. More than 30 chefs prepare sample dishes made with farm-fresh Indiana produce, meat and dairy products.

Selected chefs are provided with produce grown, and meat raised in Indiana and asked to create uniwue dishes. Indiana wine, beer, and watermelon and berry smoothies are served, and value-added foods like syrup, chocolates, breads, and beef & noodles are available to showcase what can be made from Indiana ingredients.

WHAT: Dig IN, A Taste of Indiana
WHERE: White River State Park Celebration Plaza, 

801 W. Washington St., Indianapolis

WHEN: Sun., Aug. 26, noon-5 p.m.

Tickets: $30-advance; $40-gate; available at DigINdiana.org and White River State Park Visitors Center 

INFO: DigINdiana.org 

CHEFS ~ DISHES

· JJ Boston, Chef JJ’s Big Green Bisto, Indianapolis: Sweet Cheeks

· Tyler Herald, Napolese, Indianapolis: Unlimited Tomato Caprese

· Greg Schiesser, Indiana Downs, Shelbyville: Hoosier Momma Margarita Duck or Pork

· Alan Sternberg, Albatross Grille, Carmel: Duck Prosciutto with Honey Ricotta and Persimmon Peach Gastrique

· Joseph Hewett, The Indigo Duck, Franklin: Sunking Braised Duck Fried Pie with Blueberry BBQ Sauce and Charred Sweet Corn Salad

· Ron Orebaugh, Grand Grilling (catering), Muncie: Grand Grilling's Pulled Pork BBQ

· Regina Mehallick, R bistro, Indianapolis: Chilled Peach Soup with Smoked Duck Salad

· Valerie Vanderpool, Zest! Exciting Food Creations, Indianapolis: House-made Ricotta with Peach & White Corn Puree finished with Twisted Sistaz Popcorn (made exclusively for Zest! by Just Pop In)

· Robert Justin Cowan, Served, Indianapolis: Duck Confit Slider or Quesadilla

· Cindy Hawkins, Circle City Sweets, Indianapolis: Caramels, Nougat and Pate de Fruit Candies

· Sam Brown, Second Helpings, Indianapolis: Strawberry and Banana Soup

· Luke Trinosky, The Chef's Academy, Indianapolis: Carolina Pulled Pork on Creamy Vegetable Salad

· Nicholas Carter, Black Swan Brewpub, Plainfield: BS Signature Reuben

· Steven J. Oakley, OAKLEYS bistro, Indianapolis: Lamb "Adobo" Lettuce Wrap

· Aaron Butts, Joseph Decuis, Roanoke: Wagyu Tongue & Cheek Tacos

· Mark Cox & Chef Josh Henson, Fermenti Artisan, Indianapolis: Fermented Garden Kraut with Capriole Farms Old Kentucky Tomme

· Jeff Ford, J. Ford's Black Angus, Terre Haute: Slow Smoked Bison Taco w/Indiana Pico & Goat Cheese Slaw

· Chef Doug & Marla Rennie, Just Rennie's Cookie Co., Evansville: Just Rennie's Signature Cookies

· Brad Gates, Brad Gates Catering, Carmel: Braised Bison Shoulder with Succotash, Savoy Cabbage & Horsera Creme Fraiche

· Caleb France & Chase Hinton, Cerulean, Winona Lake: Pork Belly, May Apple Jam, Hazelnut, Goldwood Garden Greens

· Ryan Nelson, Late Harvest Kitchen, Indianapolis: Corn, Walnut, Goat Cheese and Pancetta Salad

· Layton Roberts, Meridian Restaurant and Bar, Indianapolis: First – Cantalope and Cucumber Salad with Basil-infused Creme Fraiche and Watercress Pistou; Second – Grilled Peaches with Honey and Blueberry Cream

· Joseph Martin, 18 on the Square, Shelbyville: Bison Bratwurst with Relished Summer Salad and Hand Crafted Mustard

· Roger Hawkins, Circle City Soups, Indianapolis: "My Dad's" Sweet Corn Chowder

· Christopher Eley, Goose the Market & Smoking Goose, Indpls: Barbacoa de Chivo Walking Taco

· Brandon Canfield, The Loft at Traders Point Creamery, Zionsville: Great Organic Garden Gazpacho

· Dan Orr, FARMbloomington, Bloomington: Chilled Golden Summer Soup

· Craig Baker, Local Eatery and Pub, Westfield: Goat and Indiana Ambrosia

· Nitin Naidu, Spice Box, Indianapolis: Channa Masala

· Matt Kornmeyer, Scratchtruck, Indianapolis: Indiana Sweet Corn Panna Cotta with Dulce de Leche

· Becky Hostetter, Duos, Indianapolis: Potato, Greens and Goat Cheese Quesadilla

· Mark Marlar, The Oceanaire Seafood Room, Indianapolis: Indianapolis Vegetarian Perch

WINERIES

Best Vineyards,  Berretta and Wilbert Best, Elizabeth

Monkey Hollow,  Andy Hedinger, St. Meinrad

River City Winery,  Melissa Humphrey, New Albany

Thomas Family Winery,  Steve Thomas, Madison

Turtle Run Winery, Jim Pfeiffer, Corydon
Whyte Horse Winery,  Abbey Gross, Monticello
Wildcat Creek Winery, Lafayette,  Rick and Kathy Black

BREWERIES

Barley Island Brewing Company, Noblesville
Black Swan Brewpub, Plainfield
Brugge Brasserie, Broad Ripple

Crown Brewing Company, Crown Point

Flat 12 Bierwerks, Indianapolis

Mad Anthony Brewing Company, Ft. Wayne

New Albanian Brewing Company, New Albany
Sun King Brewing, Indianapolis
Three Floyds, Munster
Upland Brewing Company, Bloomington

INDIANA ARTISANS

240Sweet, Columbus, Alexa Lemley (marshmallows)

Chocolate for the Spirit, Shelbyville, Julie Bolejack (chocolates)

Burton’s Maplewood Farm, Medora, Tim Burton (maple syrup)

Coe’s Noodles, Lynn, Judy Coe (chicken/beef & noodles)

Frittle Candy, Indianapolis, Carrie Abbott (Frittle) 

HickoryWorks, Trafalgar, Gordon Jones (hickory syrup)

Hoosier Momma, Indianapolis, Erin Edds (bloody mary maker and margarita mix)

Seeds and Such, Norman, Charlotte Waltz (persimmon cookies)

Boyd’s Fudge, Westfield, Lori Shreve (fudge)

Best Boy & Co., Ft. Wayne, Wayne Shive (bourbon caramel sauce)

Yours Truly Foods, Trafalgar, Daina Chamness (wine cake)

FOOD TRUCKS

Scratch -- Scratchtruck.com
Duos -- Duosindy.com/
Spice Box Roaminghunger.com/spice-box (Indian food with Indiana vegetables)

MISC.

Nicey Treat, Jeff Patrick (paletas, ice pops made with fresh fruit)

Bjava (coffee infused with an Indiana flower) booth next to Circle City Sweets

Natural Born Juicers (Peach Lavender Smoothie)

Elizabeth J. Musgrave is a syndicated fine-living, travel columnist, freelance writer, and performing arts and restaurant critic. Read her new column, Infused, at GottaGo.us and FoodandDrinkDigital.com and catch her as Indy’s Entertainment Adviser on 93 WIBC. Gotta Go is published on Gottago.us, BroadwayWorld.com, in M and Retired Living magazines and several Indianapolis area newspapers. Follow her on Twitter @GottaGo, LinkedIn and Facebook.

41st annual Swiss Wine Festival 2012

41st annual Swiss Wine Festival
Aug. 23-26, 2012

The festival, held at the Paul Ogle Riverfront Park in Vevay, IN, is a four-day celebration commemorating Switzerland County’s wine-making roots and bragging rights as the “Birthplace of the First Successful Commercial Winery in the United States.”

Events

Wine Tasting Pavilion

Midwest Championship Grape Stomp

Arts & crafts

Amusement rides

Grand Festival Parade

Riverboat cruises

5K run/walk

Cheerleading competition

Live entertainment

Free video game truck for children and adults

Close Encounters of the Exotic Kind-includes lions, tigers, and elephants

Participating wineries

Buck Creek

Carousel

Chateau De Pique

Ertel Cellars

French Lick

Grateful Goat Vineyard

Harmony

Indiana Creek

Lanthier

Ridge

Windy Knoll

Winzerwald

Entertainment

Sammy Kershaw

Aaron Tippin\

Brittany Gillstrap

Hi-Tops

Kent Family

Diamondback

Hot Wax

Kristen Hobbs

Stevie and the Johns

I69

Dusty Road Band

The ZuZu African Acrobats

Kent Family Magic Circus

Daniel Lusk

Rik Roberts

joyUNSPEAKABLE

Upholding the Swiss Wine Festival tradition, gates open Thurs., Aug. 23 at 6 pm with the Little Swiss Polka and Edelweiss Dancers. Festivities on Saturday morning begins at 10 am with the Grand Festival Parade in downtown Vevay.

For more details on festival, entertainment and activities, and entry and parking costs, visit SwissWineFestival.org.

 Images: submitted by Swiss Wine Fest
Elizabeth J. Musgrave, who writes Gotta Go, is a syndicated fine-living, travel columnist, freelance writer, and performing arts and restaurant critic. Read her new column, Infused, at GottaGo.us and FoodandDrinkDigital.com and catch her as Indy’s Entertainment Adviser on 93 WIBC. Gotta Go is published onGottago.us, BroadwayWorld.com, in M and Retired Living magazines and several Indianapolis area newspapers. Follow her on Twitter @GottaGo, LinkedIn and Facebook.

3rd Annual Indianapolis Scottish Highland Games & Festival 2012 offers Scotch Whisky Tastings, Kilts and Clans

The 3rd annual Indianapolis Scottish Highland Games and Festival will be held Sat., Oct. 13 from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. at German Park, 8600 S. Meridian St., Indianapolis.

Presented by the Scottish Society of Indianapolis, the day features world class amateur athletes competing in the caber toss, hammer throw and sheath toss. Scottish and Celtic music, bagpipe soloists and other performers will perform throughout the day.

Events and Activities

 Mary Queen of Scots and her Court (the Tudor Rose Players)

Clans' ceremonial presentation of champions to Queen

40-50 world-class amateur athletes competing in Highland games

Live entertainment on 2 stages all day

8 Celtic bands

Pipe Bands

Fountain Trust Pipers

Roving entertainers

Highland dancers

Scottish cuisine

Scottish beer

Scotch whisky

Scotch whisky tastings

Scottish merchandise market

Youth activities

Clan tents

Bonniest knees contest

Haggis Toss

Highland Cows

*  Limited, Free Parking On-Site 

** Volunteer opportunities still available

Tickets: $12 adult/$6 child-advance at IndyScotGamesandFest.com; $15/$8-gate; active duty military (ID required) free, children 6 and under-free

Photos: Scottish Society of Indianapolis
Elizabeth J. Musgrave is a syndicated fine-living columnist, travel writer, performing arts and restaurant critic. Catch her newest column, Infused at GottaGo.us and FoodandDrinkDigital.com and as Indy’s Entertainment Adviser on 93 WIBC. Gotta Go is published onGottago.us, BroadwayWorld.com, in M and Retired Living magazines and several newspapers: South Sider Voice, Indiana Weekender, New Palestine Reporter, Pendleton Times Reporter and Fortville-McCordsville Reporter. Follow her on Twitter @GottaGo, LinkedIn and Facebook.

Spaghetti ice cream named Indiana State Fair ‘Signature Food’ 2012

INDIANAPOLIS – Spaghetti Ice Cream, created by Monroe Concessions, has been voted the 2012 ‘Signature Food’ at the Indiana State Fair. Online voters selected this dish after reading the insights from a panel of eight judges who tasted all six entries.

Click to read review of 2011 fair food.

Fair goers can find this winning dessert on Main Street across from the Pepsi Coliseum, the spot given to the contest’s winning concessionaire every year. The dish sells for $5 and consists of spaghetti shaped gelato, Italian ice cream, with strawberry ‘tomato sauce,’ shaved white chocolate ‘cheese’ and chocolate ‘meatballs.’
Bob and Joanie Monroe of Monroe Concessions in Marion, Ind., came up with the concept after learning that this year’s fair is the “Year of Dairy Cows” and will also feature an exhibit on Italy in the International Pavilion. This is the second time the Monroes have won the contest. Their deep-fried chocolate covered strawberries won the inaugural competition in 2006.

Indiana State Fair

Aug. 3 - 19

For tickets, directions and more information, visit IndianaStateFair.com.

To celebrate the 2012 Indiana State Fair's “Year of Dairy Cows” theme, contest rules required vendors to use dairy products in all food creations. The other entries will all be on sale at throughout the State Fair.

Cheese Squared (Coffman Concessions)

Chipotle, creamy spinach or garlic herb cream cheese wrapped in Swiss cheese, then lightly breaded and fried. ($6 for 5 squares)

Moo Chew Meal (American Dairy Association)

A light, refreshing lemon chiller milkshake served with a sourdough grilled cheese sandwich loaded with American and Pepper Jack cheese. ($5)

Micro Beer Cheese Sauce (Barto’s Catering)

Local micro brew-fused beer cheese sauce served on either fresh cut fries, hefty burger or on the side for dipping. ($1/cup)

Caramel Corn Sundae (Baskin Robbins)

Vanilla ice cream with hot caramel topping, caramel corn, fresh whipped cream, nuts and a cherry. ($5.50 for 2 scoops)

Blue Ribbon Cannoli (Bakerman Concessions)

A crisp Italian cookie shell filled with sweet, whipped ricotta cheese, whipping cream, powdered sugar, mini chocolate chips and dried berries, topped with a powdered sugar sprinkle. ($6 for 2)

Cumulus Radio sponsored this year’s competition, which is in its seventh year. WFMS and WJJKon-air personalities directed listeners to the radio stations’ web sites to view a video of the judges’ comments and get an itemized listing of all the entries.

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

Don McClean Debuts Aug. 3 & 4 at Symphony on the Prairie

Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra

40 Years of American Pie: An Evening with Don McLean

August 3 & 4

INDIANAPOLIS -- The Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra welcomes iconic and award-winning singer/songwriter Don McLean in his debut with the ISO at Marsh Symphony on the Prairie Friday and Saturday, Aug. 3 and 4, at 8 p.m. at the Conner Prairie Amphitheater. The concerts, titled 40 Years of American Pie: An Evening with Don McLean, will feature many of McLean’s beloved songs and hits such as “American Pie,” “Crying,” “And I Love You So,” “Vincent (Starry, Starry Night)” and “Castles in the Air.”
“American Pie” was inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame in 2003, and McLean was inducted into the Songwriters’ Hall of Fame in 2004.

40 Years of American Pie: An Evening with Don McLean also features Tony Migliore (Music Director, Conductor, Piano), David Smith (Electric Bass), Carl Vipperman (Electric Guitar) and Jerry Kroon (Drums).

Tickets: Adult: $22/$27; Children: $11/$13. Available at: Marsh, MainStreet or O’Malia’s supermarkets, Hilbert Circle Theatre Box Office, (317) 639-4300, IndianapolisSymphony.org. 

Premium Parking passes may be purchased for $20 each exclusively through the Hilbert Circle Theatre Box Office. All other Conner Prairie parking is free-of-charge and there are many volunteers available to assist patrons in carrying their belongings from their vehicles to their seats.

Guests may bring their own food, beverages (including alcohol), blankets, and lawn chairs or reserve a table for up to 10 people just feet from the stage for $59 (plus the ticket price).

Stay up-to-date on weather and traffic conditions by tuning in to WIBC (93.1 FM), the official radio station of Marsh Symphony on the Prairie. Patrons can sign up for the ISO’s Symphony weather text message service by texting WEATHER [date of performance] (e.g. WEATHER AUGUST 3) to 24025. This service will be available for every performance and will be updated by the ISO as conditions change.

Due to road construction on the northeast side of the Indianapolis metropolitan area, the ISO and Conner Prairie encourage patrons to “Know Before You Go.” WIBC-FM will offer the latest traffic updates for patrons en route.

Website: Don McLean
Website: For directions, tickets, and shows, visit IndianapolisSymphony.org
Image: ISO

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

Theater Review: Beef and Boards Dinner Theatre: Nunsense

When is a greeting card more than a greeting card? When it spawns a commercially successful international sensation known as Nunsense, one of off-Broadway's most commercially successful shows. Six sequels, three spin offs and a television show followed quickly. Originating from Dan Goggin's line of nun-based humorous cards, the popular Little Sisters of Hoboken convened once again on stage at Beef and Boards Dinner Theatre, Indianapolis.

The rollicking ladies of the convent are in dire straits for quick cash. Fifty-two nuns have died from botulism caused by the poor culinary skills of an unseen cooking sister (Sister Julia, Child of God). With only 48 buried due to improper money management, the wacky spiritual ladies contrive a revue and cookbook sale to raise the remaining funds needed to bury the dearly departed...before the Board of Health slaps them with a hefty fine for storing the stiff sisters in the walk-in freezer.

Amanda Butterbaugh as Sister Amnesia

A cast of five Sisters: Rev. Mother Superior Mary Regina (Nancy E. Carroll), Hubert (Mary Robin Roth), Amnesia (Amanda Butterbaugh), Robert Ann (Lin Tucci) and Leo (Laurie Walton), revolves constantly on stage and throughout the audience prior to the first and second acts.

In some shows a particular role is created perfectly to easily become the audience favorite. In some, an actor takes a role and makes it that way. Then you have the situations such as Beef and Boards' Nunsense. Sister Amnesia is almost a shoo-in to be an audience favorite and Amanda Butterbaugh takes the opportunity and puts it over the top. The role is noted as her favorite and she has played in off-Broadway productions and in tours. Butterbaugh's comedic timing in her endearing portrayal of the sweet nun with amnesia (received from a crucifix falling on her head) will steal the hearts of absolutely everyone and is worth the ticket price alone.

Nancy E Carroll as Rev. Mother Superior

Rev. Mother Superior (most notably portrayed by Rue McClanahan) is given a crusty, but likable portrayal by Broadway veteran Carroll, who also directs the production and toured in the role for two years. Pairing just the right amount of eye-rolling with glimpses of a soft heart, Carroll creates a thoroughly enjoyable character.

Created for the stage in 1985 and television subsequently, various punchlines and one-liners referencing popular topics in the '80s are adjusted for today's current events, particularly during Sister Robert's (Tucci) impersonations.

With adult-based humor involved, parents might want to leave the little, impressionable ones at the sitter for the evening. As hilarious as a nun tripping on an illegal inhalant might be for some, others might be less comfortable with their children viewing this scene.

Bottom Line: Beef and Boards' Nunsense gives Catholics and non Catholics alike an evening of rowdy fun, lessons in religion and fundraising.

For tickets, show times and directions, visit BeefandBoards.com.
Images: JulieCurryPhotography.com

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

Heartland Actors’ Shakespeare on the Canal returns to White River State Park

Othello

July 20-22, 2012

Free performances open to the public

WHATHeartland Actors’ Repertory Theatre (HART) returns to White River State Park with a full-scale production of Shakespeare’s Othello. HART’s Shakespeare on the Canal at White River State Park stands as the only full-scale, professional “Shakespeare-in-the-Park” event in Indianapolis. Each summer, the series has collectively attracted more than 6,000 Hoosier audience members since its debut in 2008.

WHERE
Celebration Plaza Amphitheater-White River State Park, 801 W. Washington St., Indianapolis

WHEN
July 20 and 21 at 8 p.m., and July 22 at 2 p.m.

HART’s 2012 Shakespeare on the Canal in White River State Park is FREE open to the public, made possible through the generous support of The Lily Endowment, Central Indiana Community Foundation and the Christel DeHaan Family Foundation, as well as other donations from private individuals.

Audience members are encouraged to arrive early to the free event in order to enjoy picnics and live pre-show music and events on the lawn of the Celebration Plaza Amphitheatre.

For information, directions and events, visit WhiteRiverStatePark.org.

For more HART information, visit HeartlandActors.org.

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

Klipsch Summer Concert Series 2012 Continues

Indianapolis, IN (June 26, 2012) Klipsch Music Center is nestled on 228 acres of land in Noblesville, located outside of Indianapolis in Hamilton County. The venue has hosted a wide variety of leading popular artists ranging from Frank Sinatra to Coldplay to Metallica to the recent appearance of Elton John and countless others since it opened in 1989.

Klipsch Summer Concert Series 2012

Phish – June 28 & 29

Toby Keith w/ Brantley Gilbert – June 30

Zac Brown Band – July 7

Vans Warped Tour – July 10

Rockstar Mayhem Festival – July 15

Iron Maiden w/ Alice Cooper – July 19

Nickelback w/ Bush, more – July 21

Wiz Khalifa & Mac Miller – July 28

Big Time Rush w/ Cody Simpson, more – July 29

Jimmy Buffett & the Coral Reefer Band – July 31

Def Leppard & Poison w/ Lita Ford – August 24

Linkin Park & Incubus – August 25

*Rascal Flatts – August 31

KISS & Motley Crue – September 1

Kelly Clarkson & The Fray – September 2

Jason Mraz – September 14

*Jason Aldean – September 15

*Shows not yet on sale; but are part of the Modern Trailer Sales Country Megaticket. General public on sales tba.

For tickets, directions, and details, visit LiveNation.com.

Top 4 Summer Value For Fans In 2012 Includes:

1. $4.00 12 oz. Domestic Draft Beer.
2. 4-Packs of Concert Tickets. Value pack of 4 tickets for the price of 3 at select shows..
3. Concessions: Value Combination Meals. Fan favorite value meals which include a choice of a
cheeseburger, hot dog or chicken tenders, with fries and a soda for a discounted combination price.
Refillable Souvenir Fountain Drink. Live Nation is offering a 32 oz. souvenir fountain soda with a
free refill. Restaurant Quality Upgrades To Menu Items. Upgraded restaurant quality food items
include hamburgers, hot dogs, pizza, chicken tenders, corn dogs and more.
4. New Food Stations and Food Trucks. Local food trucks will serve food fans know and like from
the greater Indianapolis area.

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

Infused Restaurant Review: Seasons 52 Unveils Wine-paired Summer 2012 Menu

You could go to years of specialized, intensive schooling and become a wine expert to learn how to pair wine with your meals.

You could.

Or.... you could just let a Master Sommelier such as George Miliotes (No. 152 of only 190 in the world) do it for you. The fact he is from Indiana's own Depauw University is another plus.

Seasons 52 unveiled its Summer 2012 wine-paired menu at a private tasting event where, once again, Master Sommelier Miliotes and Senior Culinary Director Chef Cliff Pleau paired up to, well, pair up food and wine. Naturally, you will be able to choose whatever vino you prefer, these are simply their expert recommendations.

Having been invited to the prior-to-opening event (read review here) I was suitably impressed to return for S52's spring unveiling (read review here) and last night's event. The Darden restaurant has continued to impress me with its menu, wine list and service. The entire concept is serve top top quality, local foods, be environmentally conscious (as with the new "green" water bottle made from Earth-friendly corn), and serve excellent wine. How can anyone hate that idea?

Below is the Summer 2012 menu items we tasted, wine pairings and descriptions, along with my notes:

Cocktail Reception
BBQ Chicken Flatbread-glazed BBQ chicken, balsamic onions, sliced scallions, melted Parmesan
Atichoke and Goat Cheese Flatbread-leaf spincah, balsamic onion and roasted peppers
Wine-Aveleda Vinho Verde, Portugal '10/'11
Note: This wine is crisp and refreshing, perfect with the goat cheese flatbread. If you feel flatbreads have run their course, there are other apps on the menu such as organic edamame, crab, chrimp stuffed mushrooms and spicy chicken chili relleno.

Click here for Seasons 52 full Summer dinner menu

First Course

Chilled lobster and shrimp spring roll-served with sauce trio of cool salsa verde, aromatic lemongrass, sweet-hot red chili
Wine-Hirsch #1 Gruner Veltliner, Kamptal '09/'10

Note: Definitely the Gruner coupled with the seafood. This is one of those, I-could-make-a-meal-with-just-these type of menu items. Seriously. They were light, yet filling; crispy, yet soft. I can picture nibbling on these while dining this summer.

Second Course
Organic Arugula Salad-watermelon, grilled golden beets, goat cheese, jicama, toasted pistachios
Summer Vegetarian Tasting-grains of life, soft taco, chili relleno, vegetables, cedar-roasted tofu, mango chutney
Wine-Honig, Napa '11

Note: This was my favorite white wine served matching the watermelon as easily as the tofu with mango. I am not a vegetarian by any means. I love red meat. But, this menu selection could convince me to cut way, way back on meat and become a pseudo-vegetarian. Be sure to eat a bite of goat cheese with the beets or watermelon for full effect of flavor.

Third Course
Wild Alaskan Copper River Salmon-corn risotto, fresh asparagus, roasted perpper, dill sauce
Wine-Chehalem INOX, Willamette '10

Piedmontese All natural, Bone-in Strip Steak 11 oz-roasted asparagus, cremini mushrooms, Fingerling potatoes
Wine-Markham Cellar 1879, Napa '10

Note: This red wine encompassed almost all of my needs in a wine ~ smoky, woodsy ~ the mushrooms and beef loved it as much as I did. Piedmontese will be the steak to request for anyone seeking a low-fat, yet still tender steak. The salmon (difficult to come by due to seasonal restrictions) with a dab of dill and red pepper was paired with the Chehalem and was soothed by the lemongrass notes of this Chardonnay.

Fourth Course
Mini-indulgence desserts-mocha macchiato, blueberry cheesecake, raspberry & chocolate chip cannoli, pecan pie with vanilla mousse, Belgian chocolate Rocky Road, Key lime pie, chocolate peanut butter mousse, Meyer lemon, fresh fruit.

Wine-Jam Jar Moscato, Western Cape '11

Note: Moscato is definitely a wine to go with for desserts if you are not certain which to choose ~ you can't go wrong with it for cheesecake or mousse. Desserts also change with the season.

Photo credits: Elizabeth J. Musgrave; Seasons 52

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

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.

If you are looking for the 2013 Summer Concert Lineup, click here.

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.

19th Annual Stutz Artists Open House April 27 & 28

*Press Release*

Artists from seven different counties but who create art in studios at the Stutz building will participate in the 19th annual Raymond James Stutz Artists Open House April 27 and 28. More than 70 artists will open their studios to visitors during the two-day event.

The open house is an opportunity to see artwork in the settings where it's created. Artwork ranges from paintings, drawings and photography, to sculpture, jewelry and furniture. The event also offers a rare chance to see vintage cars on display in the historic Stutz car factory.

WHAT: Raymond James Stutz Artists Open House
WHEN: Fri., April 27, 5:30-10:30 p.m.; Sat., April 28, 2-7 p.m.
WHERE: Stutz Business Center, 212 W. 10th St., Indianapolis
Enter Bearcat Alley from 10th or 11th streets.
(Free event parking in designated lots and free on-street parking on Capitol and Senate avenues and 11th Street.)
COST: $10 advanced sale tickets at select Old National Bank centers or the Stutz Business Office; $12 at the gate; $8 Saturday re-entry (with Fridays ticket stub); Admission for children is the same as admission for adults on Friday night; children 12 and under free on Saturday.
INFO: For tickets, directions, and artists, click www.stutzartists.com or call 317-503-6420

Elizabeth J. Musgrave is a syndicated columnist of Gotta Go, travel writer, performing arts and restaurant critic. Catch her as Indy’s Entertainment Adviser on 93 WIBC, as weekly columnist of Infused at FoodandDrinkDigital.com 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.

Theater Review: Beef and Boards Dinner Theatre: The Music Man

Some shows are best enjoyed on the silver screen, like Titanic 3D or Armageddon, while others are able to go from stage to screen and back again with the smoothness of a charming con man. The Music Man is just such a show. Opening at Beef and Boards Dinner Theatre, Indianapolis,  the six-time Tony Award winning musical (book, lyrics and music by Meredith Willson) brings a smooth-talking salesman into an Iowa city in 1912.

River City, to be exact, which brings us immediately to one of the many fun musical numbers, Trouble. The song is performed expertly, and at rapid speed, by Curt Dale Clark (White Christmas, Annie Get Your Gun) as Professor Harold Hill, the consummate con artist and the townspeople. Clark delivers Hill with such complete devilish charm as to give Robert Preston's 1962 film version a run for his money. With devil-may-care good looks and obvious merriment at being such a scoundrel, Clark is pure joy to watch ... while conning the entire town out of their money.

During our interview, Clark describes what makes playing the character of Professor Hill at Beef and Boards, as well as Fulton Theatre, et al, so enjoyable.

"I love playing Harold because he is so well constructed. In the beginning he is really not a nice man, but throughout the course of the play he is changed by his co-star Marion into a much better person and the audience loves to take that journey with him and it makes it very fun!!

Hill's love interest, and town librarian, Marian Paroo is portrayed charmingly by Katie Sina. Pairing nicely with Clark, Sina captivates the audience with her rendition of My White Knight.

Special mention goes to the break-into-song-at-the-drop-of-a-hat quartet consisting of John Vessels, Rex Wolfsley, Kenny Shepard and Damian Norfleet. Watching the group of school board members turn into the singing foursome, "Good Night Ladies," Pavlovian-style upon Hill's command is an absolute riot and must-see.

Bottom Line: Beef and Boards' The Music Man may have trouble in River City, but it brings nothing but fast-paced hilarity to Indianapolis.

Tickets, shows, directions and details can be found by clicking on BeefandBoards.com
Photos: JulieCurryPhotography.com

Elizabeth J. Musgrave is a syndicated columnist, performing arts and restaurant critic, and travel writer. 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, AroundIndy.com, in M magazine and the following newspapers: Southsider Voice, Indiana Weekender, New Palestine Reporter, Pendleton Times Reporter and Fortville-McCordsville Reporter. Email her at elizabeth@gottago.us.

National Maple Syrup Festival March 3-4, 10-11

First tree of the sugaring season to be tapped at National Maple Syrup Festival

*** News Release ***
MEDORA, IND. – When Indiana’s top ag man taps the ceremonial sugar maple, noon, Sat., March 3 at Burton’s Maplewood Farm, he’ll christen the fourth annual National Maple Syrup Festival. Joe Kelsay, director of the Indiana Department of Agriculture, also will signify the first tree in the U.S. to be tapped for the 2012 maple sugaring season.

“Indiana is the southernmost state in the U.S. Maple Belt,” said Tim Burton, co-owner of Burton’s Maplewood Farm and co-founder of the festival, “so as far as we know, the first trees are tapped here.

Though there are about 100 maple syrup producers in Indiana and countless festivals, this is the first and only national maple syrup festival in America. It’s held the first two weekends in March at Burton’s Maplewood Farm and Medora Community School.

Visitors can expect to learn about the modern-day maple sugaring process once the sap rises up out of the trees, as well as the history of maple sugaring from Native American and French historic encampments. There’s also live music, booths from Indiana Artisans and food ranging from pancakes and sausage to maple pork chops and maple baked beans.

The festival starts at Medora Community School, where pancakes and sausage are served and the Sweet Victory Challenge baking and cooking competition takes place. The competition is sponsored by Vermont-based King Arthur Flour, the oldest flour company in the U.S. Judging takes place on March 3 for the youth division and March 10 for the adult division. For details, visit www.SweetVictoryChallenge.com.

Then visitors ride shuttle buses from the school to Burton’s Maplewood Farm, where they’ll see the more than 700 sugar maple trees, Pat’s Snack Shack and the famous Mellencamp Maplehouse. In the Maplehouse is a large evaporator that boils down the tree sap to syrup; it takes 40 gallons of sap to produce one gallon of syrup. The Maplehouse also features the country’s largest Rumford fireplace, making it a warm and cozy stop.

Click for directions HERE

Children’s activities include a farm animal petting zoo, rope-making demonstrations by Cowboy Ron, a ventriloquist, face painting, crafts and more. Live music is located in Pat’s Snack Shack and will include a variety of bands.

New this year is a Dutch Oven Cookoff organized by Lesley “Dutch Oven Diva” Tennessen, and church services by the Christian Country Cowboy Church on March 4 and 11 at 10:30 a.m. at the Mellencamp Maplehouse.

Proceeds from the festival benefit the Heads Up!!! Foundation, which will use the money for the Riley Hospital for Children’s “Camp About Face” at Bradford Woods, a summer camp for youth with craniofacial anomalies.

WHAT: National Maple Syrup Festival

WHEN: March 3-4 and March 10-11

8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.

WHERE: Burton’s Maplewood Farm and Medora Community School

Medora, Ind. (20 minutes west off I-65 between Louisville and Indianapolis)

Parking is at Medora Community School, 82 S. George St., Medora, Ind.

COST: $10 for adults

$8 for seniors 65 and older

$6 for children ages 5 to 15

Free for ages 4 and younger

(Bring a canned good for local food pantries, and get $2 off admission.)

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

Symphony on the Prairie 2012 Lineup Includes Debuts of Don McClean, Motown & Disco

Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra

Symphony on the Prairie 2012

Don McClean

~If you are looking for 2013 Schedule click here~

The Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra announces its 31st season, June 16 - Sept. 2. The summertime Marsh Symphony on the Prairie Series features a broad mix of classical and pops symphonic music performed at Conner Prairie Ampitheatre in Fishers, Indiana.

Debuts include

Folk music icon Don McLean

award-winning country music band Diamond Rio

legendary Motown group The Contours.

Returning favorites include

The Music of Queen,

The Classical Mystery Tour Beatles tribute,

jazz swing band Big Bad Voodoo Daddy

world famous Glenn Miller Orchestra.

2012 Marsh Symphony on the Prairie Schedule

June 16

Gershwin’s Rhapsody in Blue

Guest conductor Ryan McAdams will open the 2012 summer season with classical favorites such as Elgar’s "Enigma Variations" and Gershwin’s "Rhapsody in Blue" featuring Stephen Beus, the winner of the 2006 American Pianists Association Max I Allen Fellowship. 

June 22-23

Heroes & Victors – Music from Sports Greatest Films

Conducted by Alfred Savia, Heroes & Victors features the clips from classic sports films such as Chariots of Fire, Breaking Away and Hoosiers shown on large video walls near the stage as the ISO plays excerpts from the scores.

June 29-30

The Music of Queen

Conductor Brent Havens and his tribute band join the ISO to perform the many hits by legendary 1970s and '80s rock band Queen.

July 2-4

Star-Spangled Symphony

The ISO celebrates Independence Day with three concerts featuring many patriotic favorites including the 1812 Overture with live artillery accompaniment and Stars and Stripes Forever with a spectacular firework display.

July 6-7

Disco Night at the Prairie – A Tribute to the Bee Gees

Tribute band Stayin’ Alive joins the ISO in a Disco-style program highlighted by the many hits from The Bee Gees.

July 13-14

The ISO Goes Global – The Music of our Sister Cities

ISO Assistant Conductor David Glover takes patrons on a world tour of celebrated classical works representing Indianapolis’ sister cities in Germany, Italy, and China, among others. Guest violinist Stefan Jackiw also pays homage to Indy’s sister city of Cologne with Bruch’s glorious "Scottish Fantasy." 

July 20-21

The Best of Broadway

Noted pops conductor Stuart Chafetz and a talented cast of New York City’s best vocalists put the hits of Broadway’s greatest musicals on center stage.

July 27-28

The Glenn Miller Orchestra with the ISO

The renowned Glenn Miller Orchestra and band leader Nick Hilscher return to join the ISO in performing the ensemble’s most recognizable works such as "Moonlight Serenade" and "In the Mood."

August 3-4

An Evening with Don McLean

Legendary folk singer and songwriter Don McLean joins the ISO’s string section in an evening of his enduring hits such as “American Pie” and “Vincent (Starry, Starry Night).”

August 10-11

Vivaldi’s The Four Seasons

The ISO’s string players will be this weekend’s star performers as they bring classical favorites – such as Vivaldi’s The Four Seasons to the stage, led by 2002 International Violin Competition of Indianapolis Gold Medalist Barnabás Kelemen.

*August 17-18

Classical Mystery Tour – A Tribute to the Beatles

For a fifth consecutive summer season, the members of the Broadway cast of Beatlemania will perform many Beatles hits such as "Hard Day’s Night," "Twist and Shout," "Yellow Submarine" and "Here Comes The Sun"  in an authentic tribute to Liverpool’s “Fab Four.”

*August 24-25

Diamond Rio

Four-time Country Music Award-winning band Diamond Rio will showcase its inventive country style and superb vocal artistry by performing many hits such as “Meet in the Middle,” “How Your Love Makes Me Feel,” and “Love a Little Stronger” in its Prairie debut.

*August 30-31

The Contours – 50 Years of Motown!

The legendary Motown vocal quartet The Contours will perform many of its favorites such as “Do You Love Me,” “Can You Do It” and “Can You Jerk Like Me” in their first-ever appearance.

*September 1-2

Big Bad Voodoo Daddy

Big Bad Voodoo Daddy returns to bring its blend of jazz, swing, Dixieland and Big Band music.

* The Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra does not perform in these concerts
Check back on GottaGo.us for review of artists throughout the season.

DIRECTIONS

For directions to Conner Prairie Ampitheatre, click here-->> Directions

TICKETS

10-ticket value packs, full season table subscriptions and group reservations on sale March 19; single tickets and single reserved tables go on sale April 23.

From March 19 through May 4, patrons can purchase Value Packs (10 concert tickets) for $155, which is a savings of 40 percent off of single ticket prices. From May 5-June 16, Value Packs are $180. Season table subscriptions may be purchased (seating up to 10) for $479 for 14 tables. Groups of 30 people or more may save at discounts up to 30% off the admission price at the gate.

Orders for Value Packs and season table subscriptions may be made in person at the Hilbert Circle Theatre Box Office, by phone by calling (317) 639-4300 or (800) 366-8457 outside of Indianapolis, or online at www.IndianapolisSymphony.org. For group sales, contact ISO Group Sales Manager Jeff Johnson at (317) 231-6788 or email jjohnson@IndianapolisSymphony.org.

Single Tickets On Sale Beginning April 23
Single tickets for Marsh Symphony on the Prairie concerts will go on sale Monday, April 23. For more information on all Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra indoor and outdoor presentations, contact the Hilbert Circle Theatre Box Office at (217) 639-4300, toll free (800) 366-8457 outside of Indianapolis, or at www.IndianapolisSymphony.org.

Marsh Supermarkets is the Title Sponsor of the entire 2012 Marsh Symphony on the Prairie season and St. Vincent Health is the Premiere Sponsor for the summer series.

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