Infused: Wanted Top 10 Indianapolis (Indy) 500 Inspired Cocktails 2013

Infused is the spirits/wine/beer lifestyle column infusing the art of spirits/wine/beer with culinary and creative arts and can be found on GottaGo.us and FoodandDrinkDigital.com.

I hope you will indulge with me and enjoy a life that is Infused...


Indianapolis is currently infused with the annual excitement that surrounds 500 miles of fast-paced adrenaline. With Indianapolis 500 2013 quickly approaching, once again, I've decided to dedicate a column to drinks inspired by the "Greatest Spectacle in Racing."

Anyone wishing to submit a recipe, along with contact information and an image, please do so by May 13, 2013. The company, mixologist, sommelier, restaurant, or bar's name will be featured, along with the bartender, recipe and image for the drinks chosen. Those selected as the Greatest Spectacle in Cocktails will be announced online with the image, recipe and contact information.

Here's the format for information needed:

 Cocktail: Smoke-n-Milk

Company: Drambuie

Creator: Anthony Caporale, spirit ambassador

Inspiration: After winning his second Indy 500 race in 1933, Louis Meyer requested a glass of buttermilk. He requested another glass in '36 after winning his third title, but instead received a bottle. With three fingers raised, he was captured by a photographer while drinking from that bottle, and the marketing opportunity wasn't lost on a local dairy executive. Unaware that Meyer was drinking buttermilk, the executive offered a bottle of milk to the winners of all future races, and milk has been presented at the conclusion of almost every Indy 500 since then. In honor of that tradition, Drambuie offers up an homage to this classic racing libation.

Recipe: In a shaker tin, half filled with ice, add 1 oz DRAMBUIE, 1/2 oz Laphroaig Single Malt Scotch, shake until the tin is frosted, add 1 oz milk, swirl to chill thoroughly. Pour into a rocks glass, add 1 dash Fee Brothers Black Walnut Bitters, garnish with an orange twist. Serve with a cocktail stirrer.

Where: w: Drambuie.com
Twitter: @drambuie

The main objective is the drink MUST contain alcohol, wine and/or beer and MUST be inspired by the Indy 500.

Not just any drink will do. We receive lots of fun cocktails with great stories and we are looking forward to showcasing yours!

Questions can be sent to me at elizabeth@gottago.us or elizabethjmusgrave@gmail.com.

And, just like with that bold and daring great race ~ Anything goes....

Tickets, schedule and directions: IndianapolisMotorSpeedway.com

Elizabeth J. Musgrave is a syndicated fine-living, travel columnist, freelance writer and photographer, and performing arts, libations 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 a regular guest Indy’s Lifestyle & Entertainment Adviser on Indy Style television program. Follow her on Twitter @GottaGo, LinkedIn and Facebook.

Chef Greg Schiesser of Indiana Downs Takes Top Award at Taste of Elegance 2013

Chef Greg Schiesser from Indiana Downs, takes home another culinary award. This go-round is the top award from Taste of Elegance 2013 held February 5 at the Indiana Roof Ballroom in Indianapolis.

Schiesser's winning entrée was candied pork belly with bacon infused goat cheese. The chef was presented with a check for $1,000 from Indiana Pork. He will represent Indiana at the Pork Summit hosted by National Pork Board in Napa Valley, CA.

Annually, chefs from across Indiana compete in the prestigious event, hosted by Indiana Pork in partnership with Indiana Farm Bureau, Indiana Soybean Alliance and the Indiana Corn Marketing Council to encourage chefs to use pork more frequently in creative, non-traditional ways. Indiana wines are paired with the dishes and served to attendees throughout the evening.

Schiesser continues his innovative ways with cooking and canvas classes in the fall and a 5-Course Tequila Pairing Dinner on Friday, March 22. The dinner will be hosted at 7 p.m. in the 2nd floor of the clubhouse. Call 317-421-999 to reserve a place.

Other 2013 award winners include:

Superior Chef Award

Grant Michael-Albatross Grille at Prairie View Golf Club, Carmel

Premium Chef Award

Lucas Trinosky-The Chefs Academy, Indianapolis

Wine Pairing Award

Lucas Trinosky-The Chef's Academy, Indpls, Winzerwald Winery's Lieblich

People's Choice Award - Favorite Entrée

Carlos Salazar-Oakley's Bistro, Indianapolis

People's Choice Award - Favorite Wine

Oliver Chambourcin-Oliver Winery, Bloomington

People's Choice Award -Favorite Display

Carlos Salazar-Oakley's Bistro, Indianapolis

Schiesser also won the Taste of the Southside Chef Challenge February 24. During two sessions, the competitors had 30 minutes to prepare a dish with mystery ingredients. Chef Greg’s mystery basket included alligator, quinoa, kumquats, summer squash and montenebro cheese. He presented a pan-fried alligator with citrus kumquat quinoa, roasted sweet pepper fondue, and baby arugula and pickled summer squash salad.

Other competitors were defending champ Richard Goss from Richard’s Kitchen and Brick Oven Pizza, Donovan Koester of Augustino’s Italian Restaurant, and Mike Heller of Main Street Grille.

Images provided by Indiana Downs

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.

Easley Winery Finds Gold in San Francisco

*Press release*
January 15, 2013 (Indianapolis, IN) - Easley Winery is proud to announce a gold medal win for its locally-made Traminette varietal wine at the 2013 San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition. Easley Winery, located in downtown Indy since 1974, garnered a gold medal with its 2010 Michigan Riesling last year at this prestigious event and is excited to bring home another gold medal for Indiana's signature wine.

"We love this wine!" Meredith Easley of Easley Winery states. "We are thrilled and honored to receive this award!"

"We were humbled to win a gold with Traminette in three 2012 competitions, and after this amazing award, we're looking forward to a prosperous 2013," added Mark Easley, winery owner, added.

Easley Winery has been no stranger to the award circuit, garnering 14 awards of gold or higher in competitions across the country in 2012, four of which came from California events.

The San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition is billed as the largest wine competition in America. With over 4,000 entries from across the country, a team of 60 industry experts are selected to judge various categories of wine from dry to sweet. Proceeds from the event go to support wine and food education at various educational institutions across California. The event organizers will hold a public tasting for all gold medal-winning wines on February 16 from 2-5 pm at the Fort Mason Center in San Francisco. For full 2013 competition results, visit WineJudging.com.

Easley Traminette boasts bold floral aromas and fresh citrus flavors. This semi-dry style of Traminette is a delicious complement to Indiana pork tenderloin and should be served chilled. Traminette was adopted as Indiana's signature wine in 2009 and continues to grow in popularity. Easley Traminette can be found at Indiana Meijer locations, select Indiana Marsh and packaged liquor locations, as well as Easley Winery in downtown Indianapolis.
For directions, hours, and more information on this wine or to find retail locations in your area, visit EasleyWinery.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.

5th Annual Gotta Go Ultimate Gift Guide 2012 Winners Announced

Judge's Favorite 2012

It's time for the 5th annual Gotta Go Ultimate Gift Guide 2012, giving you the best ideas accumulated through personal experience, referrals and submissions. The handy list is gift-wrapped with links and recipient suggestions making it easier to find a perfect gift for just about everyone.

Last year's new item ~ Judge's Favorite Award ~ was so popular, we are continuing it. This year's Ultimate Gift Guide has another new item: Twitter links so you can follow the companies.

Without further ado...

JUDGES' FAVORITE AWARD
Fischer & Wieser

Gift: 3-Sauce gift pack
What: Pineapple Bourbon, Raspberry Chipotle & Mango Ginger Habenero
Who: Hostess gift, gourmet cooks, gourmands
Website: Jelly.com
Twitter: @FischernWieser
*********************

Cantina di Soave Volere

Gift: Wine in a purse

What: Purse-shaped wine container,

available in Pinot Grigio, Rose or Merlot-Pinot Noir blend

Who: Gal pals, hostess, Secret Santa

Website: VolereWines.com

Twitter: N/A
(Read review here)

Franciscan Estates
Gift: Magnificat

What: Meritage Blend wine

Who: favorite wine enthusiast, hostess gift

Website: Franciscan.com

Twitter: @FranciscanWines
(Read review here)

Orchids at Palm Court-Hilton Netherland Plaza

Gift: Executive Orchids at Palm Court cookbook

What: personalized cookbook by Cincinnati's award-winning Executive Chef Todd Kelly

Who: Gourmet cooks, newlyweds, foodies

Website: OrchidsatPalmCourt.com

Twitter: @orchids_at_palm

240 Sweet

Gift: Gourmet Marshmallows & Bourbon barrel-aged Sugar

What: Top quality gourmet marshmallow holiday pack; gourmet sugar

Who: stocking stuffer, monthly club lover, sweets lover, gourmet cooks, bakers, gourmands

Website: 240Sweet.com

Twitter: @240Sweet

St. Elmo Steak House

Gift: Shrimp Cocktail Sauce

What: World--famous hot shrimp cocktail sauce

Who: Seafood lovers, stocking stuffer, hostess gift, Secret Santa

Website: StElmos.com

Twitter: @stelmo

Burton's Maplewood Farm
Gift: Brandy-infused maple syrup

What: Limited quantity collection of maple syrup steeped in brandy barrel for 12 months

Who: Foodies, gourmet cooks, waffle lovers, mixologists

Website: BurtonsMaplewoodFarms

Twitter: @MaplewoodFarm

Quench

Gift: Bar10der

What: 10-in-1 cocktail tool in cool colors; the Swiss Army knife for mixologists

Who: professional or home bartender, favorite in-law

Website: TheBar10der.com

Twitter: N/A

Deutsch Family Wine & Spirits

Gift: Ruta 22

What: Patagonia Malbec

Who: Wine lovers, hostess gift

Website: WJDeutsch.com

Twitter: N/A

Red Wanting Blue

Gift: CD and T-shirt

What: Popular modern rock band's latest musical offering

Who: Music lovers, Secret Santa, Stocking Stuffer

Website: RedWantingBlue.com

Twitter: @RedWantingBlue

Indiana Humanities

Gift: Food for Thought: An Indiana Harvest

What: Coffee table book rich in Hoosier food effort

Who: foodies, craft beer enthusiasts

Website: IndianaHarvest.com

Twitter: @INHumanities

Seasons 52

Gift: Wine glass set with gift card

What: Etched wine glasses and $25 gift card

Who: Foodies, wine drinkers, hostess gift

Website: Seasons52.com

Twitter: @Seasons52

Lobel's

Gift: Meat and Wine

What: Recipes, pairings and more by NYC's top meat purveyors

Who: Gourmands, wine enthusiasts, chefs

Website: Lobels.com

Twitter: N/A

Pisco Porton

Gift: Gift set

What:  decorative bottle of Pisco Porton and elegant glasses

Who: Brandy enthusiasts, hostess gift

Website: PiscoPorton.com

Twitter: @piscoporton

Avion

Gift: Gift set

What: Three pack of Tequila Avion

Who: tequila enthusiasts, stocking stuffer

Website: TequilaAvion.com

Twitter: @tequilaavion

Hoosier Momma

Gift: Cocktail mixers

What: Vegan-free Bloody Mary, Margarita mixers

Who: Cocktail drinkers, hostess gift, stocking stuffer

Website: HoosierMomma.com

Twitter: @HoosierMommaLLC

Maker's Mark

Gift: The Ambassador of Bourbon Book

What: Visually intoxicating coffee table book of Kentucky whisky pioneer's history

Who: Whisky drinkers, historians, mixologists, host gift

Website: MakersMarkShop.com

Twitter: @MakersMark

Dane Clark

Gift: CD-Postcards from the Hard Road

What: Hoosier native shows his rock 'n' roll roots

Who: Music lovers, Secret Santa

Website: DaneClark.com
Twitter: @DaneClarkMusic

Ulysses Press

Gift: Holiday Slow-cooker recipes

What: Cookbook for holiday food in an easy way

Who: singles, couples, elderly

Website: UlyssesPress.com

Twitter: @ulyssespress

Chocolate for the Spirit

Gift: Dark chocolate lover's gift pack

What: assorted dark chocolate goodies, including salted caramels

Who: hostess gift, chocolate lovers, teachers, mom

Website: ChocolatefortheSpirit.com

Twitter: @ChocolateSpirit

Disney Entertainment

Gift: Brave DVD 5 cd-pack

What: #1 animated film of 2012

Who: family, kids, Disney fans

Website: Disney.go.com/Brave

Twitter: @PixarBrave

Inovasi

Gift: No drama gin by North Shore Distillery

What: Herbacious over-proofed gin

Who: Gin and tonic lovers, home bartenders, host gift

Website: Inovasi.us

Twitter: N/A

Alpha Books

Gift: The Pocket Idiot's Guide to Texas Hold'em

What: Pocket-size aid for real-life tips on winning and keeping your cool

Who: Wanna be poker superstars, stocking stuffer

Website: IdiotsGuide.com

Twitter: N/A

Fusionbrands

Gift: Cup Cooley

What: Keep hands from being burned with to-go coffee cups

Who: Starbucks lovers, stocking stuffer

Website: FusionBrands.com

Twitter: N/A

Images furnished by companies

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, 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 magazines and several Indianapolis area newspapers. Follow her on Twitter @GottaGo, LinkedIn and Facebook.

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.

Dan Wheldon Honored Throughout INDY 500 Race Week

*Press Release*

INDIANAPOLIS, Wednesday, May 16, 2012 - The life of two-time Indianapolis 500 winner Dan Wheldon will be honored through a variety of activities during the 2012 edition of "The Greatest Spectacle in Racing" at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway.

Wheldon earned his second "500" victory in dramatic fashion in 2011, taking the lead for the first and only time on the final straightaway of the race. He also won the race in 2005. Wheldon suffered a non-survivable injury in a racing accident in October 2011 at Las Vegas Motor Speedway.

The salute to charismatic fan favorite Wheldon starts Wed., May 16 when the No. 98 William Rast-Curb/Big Machine Dallara/Honda/Firestone car that he drove to the improbable victory last May will be placed on display at the IMS Hall of Fame Museum until Sun., May 20.
That car also will be displayed Sat., May 26 in the Pagoda Plaza during Legends Day Honoring Roger Penske presented by Shell.

A variety of tributes to Wheldon are planned for 96th Indianapolis 500 Race Day, Sunday, May 27.
•  All fans entering the track on Race Day will receive a pair of white cardboard sunglasses - white sunglasses were a favorite of the fashionable Wheldon - to wear in tribute to Wheldon on the parade lap, Lap 26 and Lap 98, recognizing the numbers of his winning cars. Fans also are encouraged to wear their own white sunglasses during those laps.

•  Bryan Herta, co-owner of the team for which Wheldon drove last year at Indianapolis, will drive Wheldon's winning 2011 car for a lap of honor during pre-race ceremonies shortly before the command to start engines. Sam Schmidt Motorsports, which had a technical alliance last year with Bryan Herta Autosport at Indianapolis, has restored the car.

•  Wheldon will be featured on the Race Day technical inspection stickers affixed to all cars in the field.

"Dan embodied the spirit of the Indianapolis 500 and Indianapolis Motor Speedway like few who have ever raced here," said Jeff Belskus, Indianapolis Motor Speedway Corporation president and chief executive officer. "He loved this race and this special place so much, and his fans and everyone associated with 'The Greatest Spectacle in Racing' returned that affection with equal passion. We're honored to pay tribute to Dan - an incredible father, husband, friend and driver - through these activities this year. But rest assured, he will be remembered forever at IMS."

Other Race Week tributes include Wheldon's wife, Susie, participating in the Public Drivers Meeting on Saturday, May 26 at IMS and receiving her husband's Champion of Champions ring for his 2011 Indianapolis 500 victory when she arrives in Indianapolis.

2012 Indianapolis 500 tickets

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.

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.

Kendal R. Miller of Photography by Kendal wins 2012 Hoosier Women Artists Award

Kendal R. Miller receives Hoosier Women Artist Award

Dillsboro, IN -- Kendal R. Miller of Photography by Kendal in Dillsboro, IN had a piece of artwork chosen as a winner of Lt. Governor Becky Skillman’s 2012 Hoosier Women Artists competition.

Miller’s work, “Garden Door” — along with the other winning works — will be on display in the lobby of the Lt. Governor’s office and on the office’s website until the end of 2012.

During Women's History Month, Lt. Governor Skillman acknowledges the contributions Hoosier women artists have made to our state. Female artists from across Indiana were invited to submit original artwork for consideration.

Miller’s photograph, along with 10 other winners, was selected from 110 submissions. Winners will be recognized at a reception Wed., March 28, in the Statehouse.

An Indiana Artisan, Miller will remain in Indianapolis March 29-April 1 while participating in the second annual Indiana Artisan Marketplace to be held at the state fairgrounds.

Miller is a member of the Woman’s Press Club of Indiana and was recently selected to the Woman's Press Club of Indiana Education Fund Board of Directors. She is also a curator partner of the Community Art Center in Vevay.

Miller can be contacted at 812-667-4835, kendal@photographybykendal.com or visit photographybykendal.com. She is also on Facebook at Photography by Kendal-Kendal R. Miller and Twitter (@PhotosbyKendal).

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.

Easley Winery Strikes Gold with Riesling in San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition

Easley Winery Strikes Gold in San Francisco 

***Press Release***

INDIANAPOLIS, IN (January 18, 2012) - Easley Winery has struck gold with its 2010 Michigan Riesling - a gold medal that is, at the 2012 San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition. Selected as one of four gold medals awarded in a competitive field of similar Riesling offerings, Easley Winery could not be more proud of its 2010 Michigan Riesling.

"It's great to step out onto the field of competition and bring home a victory," states Easley Winery owner Mark Easley. "Easley Winery has been producing high-quality wines for years, and this gold medal, along with other recent wins such as Reggae Red's Best of Class at the Pacific Rim Wine Competition and others, keep driving that point home."

Easley Winery's 2010 Michigan Riesling is produced at the Easley Winery production facilities in downtown Indianapolis, and the Riesling grapes are grown in southwest Michigan, just 12 miles north of Indiana's border.

The climate of southwest Michigan proves to be the ideal location for growing Riesling grapes. Lake Michigan's effect on the vineyard is similar to the traditional Riesling growing regions of the world. Easley Winery works very closely with their grape growers to produce the finest wines possible. Easley Winery has been creating high-quality wines and champagnes since 1974. Depending on the year and season, Easley Winery produces 20 or more wine or champagne varieties. 2010 Michigan Reisling can be purchased at Indiana Meijer locations, select retailers that carry great wines, and Easley Winery, where great wines are created everyday.

For wine review, details, events, directions and hours, visit EasleyWinery.com
For Indy Wine Trail dates click  IndyWineTrail.com

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.

Movie Review: The Way Heartland Film Festival 2011

"The Way" is written and directed by Emilio Estevez, ("Bobby" 2006) and stars Martin Sheen (Apocolypse Now 1979, The American President 1995) as the play-it-safe father, Tom Avery. Son Daniel, portrayed by Estevez, has a different outlook on life. In fact, they are polar opposites. As Daniel explains to his life-numb dad, "You don't choose a life, you live one."

Ironically, Tom is an opthalmologist who helps his patients see things much more clearly than he sees things himself.

Wrapped up in his country-club lifestyle, Tom receives the call every parent fears.

Flying to St. Jean Pied de Port, France to retrieve his son's body, Tom learns Daniel died while taking the Christian pilgrimage known as Camino de Santiago, The Way of Saint James, or "The Way" for short. It involves trekking across 800 kilometers of Spain's countryside with the end destination of the Santiago de Compostela cathedral in Galicia.

Receiving the ultimate seal of approval, a golden, heart-shaped wreath, during Indianapolis' Heartland Film Festival this year, is a sure sign the film is going to touch you emotionally. Truly Moving Pictures awards the wreath to movies believed will touch viewers and make a difference in the world.
The personal triumphs, setbacks and internal healing throughout the journey will have you near tears more than once. To avoid creating a film too depressing to watch, Estevez wisely allows Sheen's charm and one-line quips to lighten the mood.

Martin Sheen and Emilio Estevez in "The Way"

Helping in that respect are fellow travelers, a Dutch marijuana enthusiast (Yorick van Geningen) who 
has a penchant for eating, an angry young Canadian woman (Deborah Kara Unger) and a creative writer form Ireland (James Nesbitt) who comes along the trip to find a new storyline.

The mood of the film boomerangs, logically, as the various characters deal with their inner demons. To have it any other way would have been a false path to choose, and as fans of Estevez knows, he stays true to a story line.
Bottom Line: See. It. Now. "The Way" celebrates life and death, bringing forth emotions you had forgotten.


*Opening October 21 in theaters across the United States.
Photos: Submitted by production
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 in M magazine and the following newspapers: South Sider Voice, Indiana Weekender, New Palestine Reporter, Pendleton Times Reporter and Fortville-McCordsville Reporter.

Devour Downtown Signature Drink Competition 2011

DEVOUR DOWNTOWN 2011

DRINK SIGNATURE CONTEST WINNERS

                                                GREY GOOSE

Winning Drink: Peach Paradise Froth

Bartender: Kenny Gardner

Restaurant: Tavern on South

Recipe

1 1/2 oz Grey Goose, 1 oz St. Germain, 3/4 oz Lime Juice, 3/4 oz Pasteurized Liquid Egg White, 1/2 oz Simple Syrup, 2 slices of peach
In a shaker muddle 2 slices of peach with simple syrup. Add Grey Goose, St. Germain, Lime Juice, Egg White, and a scoop of Ice. Shake vigorously and pour into a large rocks glass. The egg white will rise to the top to make a froth on top of the cocktail. Garnish with an orange peel.

2nd Place
Bartender: Candace Anastasio
Restaurant: St. Elmo Steak House
Strawberry Basil Cooler

Recipe

Grey Goose Orange 1 ½ oz, Fresh Strawberry puree ½ oz, Fresh Basil (crushed/ rolled) Fresh Sweet Sour 1 ½ oz
Over ice in a High Ball
                                               3rd Place

                                               Bartender: Brooke Showalter
                                               Restaurant: shelBi street caFe & Bistro
                                               Golden Goose

Recipe

2oz Grey Goose, 3/4oz Ginger Brandy, 3/4oz Mango Puree, 1/4 Fresh Lime, Barritts Ginger Beer (or Gingerale)
Chill a Cocktail Glass. In a shaker of ice add Grey Goose, Ginger Brandy, Mango Puree, and squeeze 1/4 of a fresh lime. Shake until chilled and strain into cocktail glass. Top with a good splash of Ginger Beer (or Gingerale). Garnish with a lime.

HENDRICKS GIN

                                          Winning Drink: Scottish Right      

                                          Bartender: Amy Marie Fischer
                                          Restuarant: Scotty's Brewhouse

Recipe

2 oz. Hendrick's Gin, 3 Lime wedges, 6 Mint Sprigs, Simple syrup, 1 1/2 oz. Pineapple Juice, 1 1/2 oz. Pomegranate Juice
Muddle limes, mint & simple syrup. Add all other ingredients with ice. Shake in tin, pour in a highball glass. Enjoy!

2nd Place

                                                       Bartender: Chris Nelson

                                                   Restaurant: Severin Bar and Grill

                                                    The Hendrick's Experience

Recipe3 oz Hendrick's Gin, 6 leaves fresh basil, 6 slices cucumber, 2 lime wedges, 2 lemon wedges, splash of 7up
In a mixing glass combine 6 leaves fresh basil, 5 slices cucumber, 2 lime wedges, and 2 lemon wedges. Muddle. Add 3 oz Hendrick's Gin and a scoop of ice. Shake until well chilled. Double strain into a chilled martini glass. Top off with splash of 7up. Garnish with a cucumber slice.

3rd Place

                                                      Bartender: Robert Young

Restaurant: McCormick & Schmicks

                                                             Strong Hendricks

Recipe

3 cucumber slices, 1/2 oz simple syrup, 3/4 oz Hendricks gin, 1 oz Rodney Strong sauvignon blanc
muddle 2 cucumber slices, add 1/2 oz simple syrup, 3/4 oz Hendricks gin. Shake vigorously. Strain into martini shell. Fill with Rodney Strong sauvignon blanc .

KNOB CREEK

                                           Winning Drink: Bitter Creek

                                           Bartender: Ruth Flores

                                           Restaurant: Elbow Room Pub

Recipe

1 1/4 oz knob creek, 1/2 oz orange liquer, splash Bitters, splash of sours, garnish with orange sliceAdd each ingredient in a mixing glass, shake and pour over the rocks

2nd Place
Bartender: Eleisia Rock
Restaurant: Harry & Izzy's

Honey Bee

Recipe

8 grapes, 1/2 oz. honey simple syrup,  1 1/2oz. Knob Creek, 1/2 oz. apple juice
muddle 8 grapes with 1/2oz. of honey and a splash of simple syurp.  Add Ice add 11/2oz. of Knob Creek, add 1/2oz. of apple juice. Shake, Strain in to a martini glass. Garnish with two frozen grapes cut in half dip cut part into sugar and put on skewer.

3rd Place

Bartender: Michael Gray

Restaurant: Turner's at the Canterbury

Wayworn Road

Recipe
.25 oz. Black Pepper Corn Syrup, 3-4 dashes Jerry Thomas Bitters by Bitter Truth, Snapped Thyme Sprig, 2 oz. Knob Creek Bourbon, Topped with Sparkling Water Peligrino (preferred)In shaker Snap 1 sprig of thyme, add 3-4 dashes of Jerry Thomas Bitters by Bitter Truth, add .25 oz. Black Pepper Corn Syrup, add ice and 2 oz. Knob Creek Bourbon. Shake well and strain into Old Fashioned glass full of ice. Top with Sparkling water, Peligrino is preferred. Garnish with a thyme sprig and lemon twist.


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 @ejmusgrave1 and Facebook. Gotta Go is published in the following newspapers: South Sider Voice, Indiana Weekender, New Palestine Reporter, Pendleton Times Reporter and Fortville-McCordsville Reporter.

Indy 500 2011 Wrap Up Dan Wheldon Wins

Always the bridesmaid, J.R. Hildebrand almost had it all, only to smack the wall and lose a wheel. It didn't stop him from carrying 2nd place home, however, and let Dan Wheldon take home top prize, a gulp of milk and the wreath...oh and that big, fat check.


Hildebrand showed what a classy guy he is by thanking the service men and women for their service at the post-race press conference. 


Dan Wheldon, driving car No. 98, took the checkered flag after Hildebrand smacked the wall during the last lap of the 100th anniversary of the Indianapolis 500. upon entering the press conference, Wheldon jubilantly announced, "I told you Honda loved me," as a representative handed him a giant plate of food. Digging in to the food, Wheldon joked around easily with media and owners. 


Bottom Line: All in all, my first Indianapolis 500 was a success. I learned a few things like I need a better camera, water is a necessity and tennis shoes are the best footwear... 


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

Firestone Freedom 100 Firestone Indy Lights Results 2011

From the Indianapolis Motor Speedway

INDIANAPOLIS - Results Friday of the Firestone Freedom 100 Firestone Indy Lights event on the 2.5 mile Indianapolis Motor Speedway, with order of finish, starting position in parentheses, driver, laps complete and reason out (if any):

1.  (2) Josef Newgarden,  40, Running
2.  (5) Esteban Guerrieri,  40, Running
3.  (4) Victor Garcia,  40, Running
4.  (3) Stefan Wilson,  40, Running
5.  (1) Bryan Clauson,  40, Running

6.  (6) Peter Dempsey,  40, Running
7.  (16) Rusty Mitchell,  40, Running
8.  (9) David Ostella,  40, Running
9.  (17) Chase Austin,  40, Running
10.  (7) Mikael Grenier,  40, Running

11.  (10) Jorge Goncalvez,  34, Contact
12.  (8) Anders Krohn,  34, Contact

13.  (14) Duarte Ferreira,  29, Contact

14.  (18) Brandon Wagner,  28, Contact
15.  (12) Gustavo Yacaman,  20, Contact 

16.  (15) Juan Pablo Garcia,  20, Contact
17.  (11) James Winslow,  20, Contact
18.  (13) Victor Carbone,  7, Contact

Race Statistics

Winner's Average Speed: 107.817

Time of Race: 55:38.9881

Margin of victory: Under caution

Cautions: 4 for 22 laps

Lead changes: 6 among 4 drivers

Lap Leaders: Newgarden 1-2, Wilson 3, Newgarden 4, Krohn 5-11, Newgarden 12, Guerrieri 13-14, Newgarden 15-40.

Point Standings: Newgarden 149, Guerrieri 125, V. Garcia 121, Wilson 121, Dempsey 111, Conor Daly 109, Grenier 102, Ostella 95, Krohn 94, Goncalvez 90.

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