Top 10 Coolest Midwest Museums 2014

Grohmann Museum Rooftop Sculptures

Museums are more than just somewhere you are forced to go on an elementary school field trip. After you grow up (and are no longer required to go) you find out they are nice. Even tasty in some cases.

Whatever your interests there is a good chance a museum devoted to it exists somewhere. Unfortunately many museums have little or no budget available for marketing and go unknown. Food, music, military, fine and performing arts, outer space, underground and on land, water and wheels ~ pretty much anything goes. Below are the ones I believe should make someone's bucket list.

Top 10 Coolest
Midwest Museums 2014

GROHMANN MUSEUM

More than 1,000 paintings, mosaics and sculptures line the walls, floors and rooftop paying homage to the laborers throughout history in the Eckhart G. Grohmann "Man at Work" collection, located in Milwaukee. The passion of Dr. Grohmann encompasses works (from 1580 through post WWII era) depicting farmers, glass blowers, miners and other trades people he had watched as a child in Germany. Dr. Grohmann happened to be in the museum when I visited and proved to be a delightful and gracious host, passionate in his respect to working men and women, stemming from his days spent at his grandfather's marble processing plant.

GrohmannMuseum.org

NATIONAL MUSTARD MUSEUM

Is there anyone who hasn't had a hot dog slathered with the bright yellow goo known as mustard? With literally hundreds of flavors, mustard is the new black in the world of condiments. Located near Madison, in Middleton, Wisconsin is the coolest of quirky when it comes to museums. From the hundreds of different types of mustard to try (and purchase), to Poupon U mustard university, to the fresh pretzels and hot dogs in house to eat for lunch with, what else, mustard, this is the only museum devoted to the yellow spread. Spicy, sweet, maple ~ even chocolate ~ can be found in a jar, bottle or tube, along with mustard serving spoons and dishes dating to the beginning of mustardom.

MustardMuseum.com

CRANBROOK INSTITUTE OF SCIENCE

Michigan's Museum of Natural History
This is one of those museums adults love to go to even though they'll pretend it's really for the kids. The scientific section of the Cranbrook Educational Community in Bloomfield Hills (metro Detroit), is the ultimate spot for learning about the world around us. Featuring, among many other areas, a Bat Zone, planetarium theater, observatory, and plant gardens, summer programs are also popular, along with overnights and themed lectures and galeries.
Science.Cranbrook.edu

ROCK AND ROLL HALL OF FAME MUSEUM

From The Everly Brothers to The Beatles and on to Van Halen, music has been a part of American history as the inventor of the rock and roll genre. The coolest list would not be complete without the Cleveland, OH music pillar. Fans flock from around the world to see thousands of artifacts including, concert posters, instruments and rockers' jewelry among other items. Exhibits, live entertainment and inductee ceremonies give music lovers a one-stop venue to enjoy all that is Rock and Roll.

RockHall.org

AMERICAN MUSEUM OF MAGIC

Highlighting the masters of magic through thousands of artifacts, the Marhsall, MI shares the history, memorabilia and artifacts of such famous magicians as Harry Houdini and Harry Blackstone, among others. Children and adults alike will find fascinating items in this educational and fun museum. Gifts, books and magicians' coins are available in the gift shop. Supported by the National Endowment of Arts, research appointments are available at the archive center which houses more than four centuries of information about magic and magicians.
AmericanMuseumofMagic.org

INDIANA MEDICAL HISTORY MUSEUM

Located in Indianapolis, this museum is one which will surprise you with the background story. The history of the Old Pathology Building places it on the campus once used as the Central State (Mental) Hospital. The National Register of Historic Places building features an autopsy room, amphitheater lecture hall and three clinical laboratories used in the beginning era of psychiatric medicine. On the grounds, also, is the Medicinal Plant Garden, featuring more than 90 medicinal plants for education and demonstration purposes. It is maintained by Purdue Master Gardeners of Marion County.

IMHM.org

CITY MUSEUM

St. Louis is the home to the Cardinals, the Arch and the Mighty Mississippi River, it's true. However, this hands- and feet- on interactive museum might be even more popular. The 10-story spiral slide begins on the rooftop where you'll find a school bus hanging off the building's edge and various midway equipment (still working and safe). It will wind you down through floors of enchanted caves, the shoelace factory and MonstroCity. Tours, educational programs and age-appropriate activities solidify the learning-through-fun premise.

CityMuseum.org

MARK TWAIN BOYHOOD HOME & MUSEUM

Few literary figures elicit a museum, and this is a personal favorite author from my childhood. A town of sorts, complete with Grant's era-replicated drug store, Becky Thatcher's home, Twain's boyhood home and father's law office. Merging Twain's actual childhood and literary characters creates a 3D historical situation. Interactive events (whitewashing the famous fence) free outdoor musical concerts and walking tours of the eight building compound make this a family friendly museum.

MarkTwainmuseum.org

FIRST DIVISION MUSEUM AT CANTIGNY

Located just west of Chicago is Cantigny Park, 500 acres of gardens, golf, camping and picnic grounds open to the public, along with two museums. First Division Museum preserves, interprets and presents the history of the U.S. Army's 1st Infantry Division, "in order to promote understanding of American military history and affairs." Gardens, live music evenings and exhibits, such as "WE NEED YOU! Propaganda of the Great War," and the Historic Military Vehicle Collection make this a museum, gardens and park not just for military, history and vehicle buffs.

FirstDivisionMuseum.org

ELLWOOD HOUSE
Step back in time to a world changing rapidly at the 1879 home of barbed wire entrepreneur, Isaac Ellwood, situated in Dekalb, IL. The three-story mansion features original Victorian style architecture and Gothic Revival, Georgian and Colonial Revival styles through subsequent remodeling projects. Gardens, exhibits and the home are open to the public for tours, events and an extensive interactive youth program, which focuses on art, history and nature. Children will be able to hunt for replicas of sea life, dragons and other creatures within paintings, carved into wood and throughout the mansion.

EllwoodHouse.org

Images were provided~

Elizabeth J. Musgrave is a syndicated fine-living, travel, food, wine and spirits columnist, freelance writer and photographer, and performing arts and restaurant critic for Gotta Go. Catch her as Indy’s Personal Lifestyle Adviser on Indy Style, WISH8 (CBS). Read Infused, her spirits, wine & beer lifestyle column, at www.GottaGo.us and www.FoodDigital.com Gotta Go is published on www.Gottago.us, and in magazines. Follow her on Twitter @GottaGo, LinkedIn and Facebook.

Top 10 Best Things to do at Ameristar Casino Resort Spa 2014

I recently visited St. Charles, Missouri's upscale casino: Ameristar Casino Resort Spa. And, by upscale I mean ~ how did this place land in the Midwest? I have been in a few casinos and this is more of a spa, resort and casino combined yet, completely separate of each other's identities.

And ~ considering I am not really one to put coins into a machine without being assured of getting a candy bar back ~ this was great news. And surprising to find outside of Las Vegas.

Located in the historic town and just a few minutes from the airport makes this an easy road (or air) trip and provides the small town charm with big city slots.

It is owned by Pinnacle Entertainment, which also owns over-the-top Vegas-glamorized River City Casino and Hotel in St. Louis, which I wrote about earlier. Read Top 10 List here. Here are the Gotta Go recommendations for Ameristar Casino and Hotel, St. Charles.

Top 10 Best Things to Do

Ameristar Casino Resort Spa

~ 1 ~

Twirl

 
There are many food items in this list, I realize. However, when it happens that you find so many great ones, you just need to share. Here is the worth-the-drive pasta dish from the masterminds at Bugatti's Steak & Pasta, the Italian fine dining eatery. Beef short rib tagliatelle is a very long name for a very scrumptious meal to twirl. This could actually be my new No. 1 favorite Italian dish. No disrespect to Tony Danza who has just been pushed to the No. 2 spot.

~ 2 ~
Scrub Up
When I found out the ARA Spa service menu features Missouri's only Japanese bathing ritual-inspired all over body treatment, I went for it. Pure Bliss consists of five-parts using minerals, flowers and fruit essences, oils and lotions for an ultimate experience. All over mimosa shower, bamboo scrub, cherry blossom polish, plum mist and hydrated with wild lime oils.... that's not a spa menu item, it's an entire spa buffet. Wow. I might have floated to heaven somewhere between the second and third segment, or at least felt no stress for a couple of hours ~ Be sure to ask for Ramon.

~ 3 ~

Play Footsie

Just like any other lady (and cool men), I have received many pedicures in my life and the reasons this one hits the list is the professionalism and friendliness of the technician, the atmosphere and decor of the salon, and..... here's the big reason ~ the polish did not chip, smudge or flake off for three weeks ~ what a time saver without the extra cost and time for a gel polish treatment like Shellac gel. I use OPI regular nail colour (they also have a gel) almost exclusively and this was no exception. Except it lasted. And lasted. I received the Pure Bliss Ara ritual pedicure (and manicure) and if I lived within a reasonable driving distance, I would use ARA Salon for this reason alone.

~ 4 ~

Step Down
The suites are just that... suites. A relaxing sitting area accompanies every hotel room-suite in the form of a sunken living room. Picture windows showcase the cityscape or river view flooding the room with natural light. The step-down area is large enough for a few friends to sit and enjoy themselves without sitting on a bed or uncomfortable desk chair, making this a hotel that actually understands their customers' needs.

~ 5 ~

Flop it

No, I have not missed the Texas Hold 'em craze, which became more than a fad and is now a staple in casinos, bars and homes across the nation. I just never got the hang of it ~ until an invitation to a private lesson (my job does have its perks). Many things were learned at that tutorial: they are called cheques not chips, it's really, really fun to win large stacks on a bluff and you can take home big bucks playing this game. Hmmm, maybe I should take on that Moneymaker guy. I wonder if he's playing the Heartland Poker Tournament in Kansas City this October?
I think I'm ready ~ let 'em flop.

~ 6 ~

Pearl's Oyster Bar
(See image at top)

There is only one thing better than seafood. A tower of seafood. Pearl's is a Cajun and seafood eatery that tops itself with a vertical tribute to all that is wonderful under the sea. Blue Point oysters, King crab, snow crab legs and huge shrimp fight to be king of this hill of horseradish, hot sauce and melted butter. Enough to share with your gaming pals, chances are you will wrestle for the last bites.

~ 7 ~

Catch Fire

Because this casino's food and beverage team are slightly insane in that let's-see-how-we-can-top-it kind of way, they have taken a classic drink, the Hurricane (Pat O'Brien's in NOLA), and, well... lit it on fire. Yes. Flamed up the old standby get-the-party-started drink, proving they truly will try anything. Thank goodness.

~ 8 ~

Make a Wish

Now, I am not certain you are allowed to toss in the customary three coins, but no matter. This million-dollar water fountain doesn't need any coins to make you believe wishes truly do come true. It also doesn't scream for attention with flash and neon, simply drawing you in gently, offering a calming respite from all the gaming floor action.

~ 9 ~

Lap it up

Take a few laps in the indoor-outdoor pool or... just soak up the sun's rays while sipping a few cold concoctions. The cabana-style bar serves frothy, frozen and fruity drinks and is available to non hotel guests as well in the form of a day pass.

~ 10 ~
Listen Close

Live entertainment in the form of national and local artists fill the venues, such as Bottleneck Blues Bar and The Night Club. The St. Louis metro property even goes so far as to bring the music outdoors with Rehydrate Weekends ~ a pool party on steroids. Country, 80s pop, blues, you name it and you will find music for the soul.

Images ~ 

©Jeff Roberts JLR Photo&Video
E.J.Musgrave

Elizabeth J. Musgrave writes two magazine food and wine columns: Destination Dining and White Linen & Corks,and is a travel, features, food and wine writer, travel and food photographer, and performing arts and restaurant critic. Catch her as the Travel & Leisure Adviser on FOX59 Morning News Show. She also is a speaker, consultant and trainer for hospitality, travel and luxury businesses, P.R., and tourism groups, as well as a radio and television guest and host. Follow her on Twitter @GottaGo, LinkedIn and Facebook.

The Cabaret at the Columbia Club Autumn Schedule 2014

Rene' Marie

One of the venues that deserves all the attention it can garner, and more attention and reviews than I (unfortunately) have the time to write, is The Cabaret at The Columbia Club.

The upcoming calendar allows a visit and review for a couple shows in the near future, thankfully, and I truly look forward to one of my favorite places in the world ~ right here in Indianapolis overlooking The Circle. If you haven't been; hold off.

Click here to read a review on Tom Wopat performing at The Cabaret.

Yes, I said wait. Just until the lights are up on the World's Largest Lighted Christmas Tree. At the beginning of the second half of a Cabaret performance, the curtains are opened and the gasp-aloud view will wow you and then ... you will get why I had you wait.

Okay, okay, don't wait.


But... definitely get tickets asap for the always-sold out holiday show as this year will be no different. The fundraiser performance (It is a non profit organization) is always worth the ticket price.

Click here to read a review of Shannon Forsell performing at The Cabaret.

The autumn 2014 schedule includes Broadway, film and television stars, Tony- and Grammy- Award winners, and the much-anticipated annual fundraiser. For reservations and tickets, visit TheCabaret.org.

The Cabaret at the Columbia Club

Autumn Schedule 2014

~ July 25-26 ~ 
A Piece of her Heart-A Tribute to Janis Joplin: Karen Irwin

~ August 8 ~ 
Other People's Stories: Ian Bossung and Eric Wiegand

~ August 23 ~ 

Steve Kazee: Steve Kazee

~ September 12-13 ~

Blossom & Bee: Sara Gazarek

~ Oct. 10-11 ~ 

Breaking Character: Jeremy Jordan

~ October 17-18 ~ 
I Wanna be Evil with Love to Ertha Kitt:  Rene' Marie

~ November 1 ~ 

Kelli O'Hara

~ November 14-15 ~ 

Christine Ebersole: Christine Ebersole

~ December 10-13 ~

A Swingin' Christmas: Jim Caruso, Klea Blackhurst and Billy Stritch

Elizabeth J. Musgrave writes magazine food and wine columns: Destination Dining, White Linen & Corks, and is a travel, features, food and wine writer, travel and food photographer, and performing arts and restaurant critic. Catch her as the Travel & Leisure Adviser on FOX59 Morning News Show. She also works as a consultant for hospitality, travel and tourism businesses and groups, as well as a radio and television guest and host. Follow her on Twitter @GottaGo, LinkedIn and Facebook.

Indianapolis Motor Speedway Launches New Scoring Pylon

Press Release ~INDIANAPOLIS, July 22, 2014 – When a race goes green at the Indianapolis Motor
Speedway, a lot more fans are going to know it instantly.

The third-generation scoring pylon was unveiled Tuesday on the main straightaway and among the many capabilities on the full-LED-paneled pylon is the ability to completely flash with green lights. Or yellow. Or with an American flag look for pre-race.

And then, in a blink, the 92-foot, 4-inch pylon can look just like the one that was removed last month after 20 years of service, documenting the lap count and running order of 33 cars on the track.

“We wanted to generate more information, to give more information to the fans in their seats,” said Indianapolis Motor Speedway President J. Douglas Boles.

“That old pylon was iconic, so we wanted to make sure the size was similar – we’re about two feet taller and three inches wider (with the new pylon) – but we wanted the ability to light it like everybody’s used to, especially for the Indianapolis 500.”

The pylon can display the top 10 on the track while also circulating through spots 11 through 43. It can also provide enhanced stats information like lap times, miles per hour and time behind the leader.

The pylon erected in 1994 that stood sentry over the first 20 Brickyard 400 races, two decades of Indianapolis 500 races and other events. Powered by 6,496 30-watt light bulbs, that pylon could only display basic race scoring with a space at the top for race logos.

The new pylon can fully light up with “Indianapolis Motor Speedway,” race logos or other digital artwork. The possibilities are considerable.

The first IMS pylon that went up in 1959 and was manually operated. More than a half-century later, the pylon now has animation and video capabilities. In the coming year, video boards around the track will be added with the same digital capabilities.

Elizabeth J. Musgrave writes two magazine food and wine columns: Destination Dining and White Linen & Corks,and is a travel, features, food and wine writer, travel and food photographer, and performing arts and restaurant critic. Catch her as the Travel & Leisure Adviser on FOX59 Morning News Show. She also is a speaker, consultant and trainer for travel, hospitality and tourism businesses, and groups, as well as a radio and television guest and host. Follow her on Twitter @GottaGo, LinkedIn and Facebook.

Sangrias made Simple: Easy to make red and white sangria recipes

Summer + sangria = Great way to cool down on a hot, muggy day. While searching for recipes to make the fun wine cocktail and found, instead, recipes with long lists of ingredients and, quite frankly, I am not certain I know anyone who wants to go to that much trouble for a drink. Particularly on a hot summer's day.

Soooo, enlisting the help of friends in the know on these things; answers ranged from, "experiment," "put in whatever you want," "throw in some vino and voila," and some great recipes also. All great advice.

Watch me create these recipes on Fox 59 Morning News Show by clicking here ~

One thing became clear: they all had four core ingredients. Deciding that's good enough for me, I started with those four. Below are the core recipes, with some tips and options.

Easy Red Wine Sangria

1 bottle of  semi or dry red wine (Spanish Rioja is great like Tempranillo)

1/4 cup brandy

1/3 cup white sugar

3 cups fruit or berries

Do NOT use a sweet wine as you have no control of the sweetness.

Use flavors that complement when selecting fruits and berries, but don't feel scared to try new combinations. Example, red wine goes great with mixed berries ~ I used 1 cup each of raspberries, blueberries and strawberries. Do NOT smash the berries or fruit.

Put the cleaned berries or fruit into a bowl and pour all of the brandy over it to let it soak into the mixture. It should absorb all of the brandy, about 15 minutes.

Pour red wine into a pitcher (clear is prettiest) or drink container with a spigot. Add the white sugar and stir. Slowly put in fruit or berries then gently stir again. Cover and refrigerate overnight (minimum four hours) to let brandy infiltrate wine and sugar.

Prior to serving, use a slotted spoon to pull out some of the berries or fruit and add a little to each glass before pouring sangria into glass. Any glass works; Mason jars are great as are hurricane glasses.

Scoop ice into pitcher and glasses (if person wants ice) and pour in sangria. 

Easy White Wine Sangria

1 bottle of  semi or dry white wine (Spanish Rioja is great like Viura)

1/4 cup brandy

1/3 cup white sugar

3 cups fruit or berries

Do NOT use a sweet wine as you have no control of the sweetness.

Use flavors that complement when selecting fruits and berries, but don't feel scared to try new combinations. Example, white wine goes great with fruit ~ I used 1 cup each of limes, lemons and oranges. Do NOT smash the berries or fruit.

Put the cleaned berries or fruit into a bowl and pour all of the brandy over it to let it soak into the mixture. It should absorb all of the brandy, about 15 minutes. Leave the peels on the fruit and cut into small chunks as people like to pull them out and nibble on them.

Pour white wine into a pitcher (clear is prettiest) or drink container with a spigot. Add the white sugar and stir. Slowly put in fruit or berries then gently stir again. Cover and refrigerate overnight (minimum four hours) to let brandy infiltrate wine and sugar.

Prior to serving, use a slotted spoon to pull out some of the berries or fruit and add a little to each glass before pouring sangria into glass. Any glass works; Mason jars are great as are hurricane glasses.

Scoop ice into pitcher and glasses (if person wants ice) and pour in sangria.

Other tips to remember

I like Spanish wines as Spain is where sangria was created. The brand I used is Franco-Espinolas and I had great success.

Fruits and berries can (for an extra flavor oomph) match the brandy you choose. A good friend who knows more about spirits and wine then most sommeliers I know suggested apples and apple brandy for the white wine sangria, which I will be making verrrry soon. Another great combination would be peaches and peach brandy with the white.

Red could easily welcome blackberry brandy and berries still with it or cherry brandy and a mix of cherries ~ you get the idea. Strawberries and rhubarb, passion fruit... the sky's the limit now that you have the basic recipe. Just switch out the fruit/berry choice and the brandy flavor.

Some folks toss in vodka of various flavors and that's good also. Anything goes, almost, is the key tip to remember. It's super easy to make and fun to switch things up a notch or two. I am already thinking of what I want to try next. And, you will never have a problem finding someone to taste test the flavors for you!

Let me know what flavor combos you like or try and whether these work for you.

Images: E. J. Musgrave

Elizabeth J. Musgrave is a syndicated fine-living, travel, food, wine and spirits columnist, freelance writer and photographer, and performing arts antic for Gotta Go. Catch her as Fox 59 Morning News Show's Travel & Leisure expert. Read Infused, her spirits & wine column at www.GottaGo.us and www.FoodDigital.com. Follow her on Twitter @GottaGo, LinkedIn and Facebook.

Theater Review: The Book of Mormon ~ Broadway Across America Indianapolis 2014

The Book of Mormon opened to a sold-out audience in Indianapolis this week and it continues that rare status throughout its run at Old National Centre. In fact, the only thing that surprises me is Broadway in Indy didn't realize its potential and originally schedule more shows or add on performances.

There are shows which are carried by the story line and writing quality; others by the sheer talent of the performers. Then there are those that bring IT from the talents of every factor: acting, directing, writing, music, choreography ~ all of it comes together to bring the show to the elite status of a must-see show. The Book of Mormon accomplishes that and more...it was a pure delight to watch. The entire audience was rocking with laughter all night as the top-quality performers burst from their seams with energy, enjoyment and rock-solid talent.

There is no way to fit all the names that should be in this review, unfortunately, as they do deserve mentioned.

I will not put out a spoiler with the plot, but know if you (and who hasn't) have had one too many pairs of Mormons approach your door with that zealous speech ready to give you help in finding their religion, you will be howl with laughter at this Broadway phenomenon and Nine-time Tony award winner.

Christopher John O'Neill EXPLODES onto the stage with all the enthusiasm of a 10-foot, 400 pound orangutan and the adorability factor of the entire Little Rascals Gang. Brilliantly portraying Elder Cunningham, positive of what he is spouting one moment then flipping to the clueless way he actually feels underneath then immediately transforming into a child needing love and attention (lots of both) ~ O'Neill sets a level of energy that would require the average person a dozen highly caffeinated drinks to accomplish. It is no doubt this will not be O'Neill's last professional stage performance, although it was a complete shock to find out this was his debut.

Elder Price, the new recruit who believes he is incredible and meant for greatest of all things, like living in Orlando, is portrayed by Mark Evan. Evan is able to convey a vulnerability within the pompous attitude of his character who believes that he is a higher quality Mormon than all of his counterparts and ready to excel at being No.1. His insecurity shows when he finds himself out of element and not the wonder recruit he believed himself to be.

Bottom Line: If you didn't catch Broadway Across America's The Book of Mormon 
this week in Indianapolis, well, may God ~ or Joseph Smith ~ have mercy on your soul.

Images: Broadway in Indy

Elizabeth J. Musgrave writes two magazine food and wine columns: Destination Dining and White Linen & Corks,and is a travel, features, food and wine writer, travel and food photographer, and performing arts and restaurant critic. Catch her as the Travel & Leisure Adviser on FOX59 Morning News Show. She also is a speaker, consultant and trainer for businesses, media, P.R., and tourism groups, as well as a radio and television guest and host. Read Infused, her spirits, wine & beer lifestyle column, at www.GottaGo.us and www.FoodDigital.com. Follow her on Twitter @GottaGo, LinkedIn and Facebook.

Top 10 Best Things to do at River City Casino and Hotel, St. Louis 2014

Returning from a trip is always a bit overwhelming ~ the origin of that feeling coming from two (or more) worlds colliding, I suppose. Leisure conflicting with work and home modes. You have been
either walking about a cruise ship, racing to see all family members or, perhaps it was a business trip and you need to relax before returning to local work mode and family duties.

Generally for me it entails a breakneck pace participating in, attending and trying as much as I can so as to report back to you. Kind of like the first guy across the ice before everyone else attempts it. Or the one who tastes the hot sauce first then cautions the others. Either way, I love it and upon returning home, I like to take a day or two, when possible, to let the world I just left swirl through my mind and see which ones are the ones I recommend the most. Here is the list for River City Casino and Hotel, located in St. Louis.

Top 10 Things to do

River City Casino and Hotel

~ 1 ~

Nosh on German Chocolate Pancakes

This is to-do list No. 1 for a reason. I have never seen anything like this anywhere else. Available at Lewy Nine's, no way will you eat this all by yourself, so be prepared to share with tablemates, onlookers and complete strangers as this is a showstopper dish.

~ 2 ~

Book a Director's Suite

If you do not believe these hotel rooms are worth the drive alone, we need to talk. It's a must to experience the Director Suites, with amenities such as glossy magazine-level bedroom, sitting room and.... those bathrooms, wait until you see those.

~ 3 ~

Bathe

No, you are not the smelly kid, which is a good thing because the shower is big enough for you and four of your closest friends in this spa-like retreat. The tub is a romance-inspiring deep soaking joy just waiting for a couple to slip in and enjoy a Hollywood movie moment.

~ 4 ~

Play

Although there is more than enough to keep busy without stepping onto the gaming floor, go ahead and hit the slots (more than 2000), and throw some dice. There are live dealers (55 tables), which is always more enjoyable, and the top-end venting system makes any nearby smokers a complete non issue.

~ 5 ~

App Up

The free app was so helpful in checking out the entertainment calendar, menus, and a map to keep you going in the right direction. But don't wait until you're there to download it ~ it's great ahead of time for reservations and more. Click here to download.

~ 6 ~

Throw (or eat) a Tomahawk Steak

A great ice breaker meal with friends, coworkers or family and found by order at 1904 Steakhouse,  Let them know when reserving a table that you want the 44 oz. prime ribeye and the optional 8-10 lb. lobster and your group will have plenty to enjoy.

~ 7 ~

Take a Stroll

I mean it... walk throughout the property enjoying the beautiful design, water fountains and other ooh and aah factors. This is not just another casino, folks. I have seen a few in my travels, and this one blew my mind that it is not located on the Las Vegas Strip.

~ 8 ~

Cater Events and Conventions

I am not in the convention-booking field, nor do I set up catered affairs, but if I did ... this is the place dreams are made of. I was priviliged to try out many items from their customizable catering menu and was impressed with how many could be served without losing quality, pricing or flavor.

~ 9 ~

Be Entertained

The ever-changing schedule makes me believe they truly care what their patrons want. It varies with boxing, music of all genres and other shows to keep it fresh. Click for schedule.

~ 10 ~

Toast a Little Lasagna

 

Seriously ... with St. Louis as the home to toasted ravioli, Executive Chef John Johnson uses his mad culinary skills (and I do mean over-the-top mad skills) to twist things up with this Beerhouse dish. Click here to watch his video on making it at home.

Images ~ E.J.Musgrave

Elizabeth J. Musgrave is a syndicated fine-living, travel, food, wine and spirits columnist, freelance writer and photographer, and performing arts and restaurant critic for Gotta Go. Catch her as Indy’s Personal Lifestyle Adviser on Indy Style, WISH8 (CBS). Read Infused, her spirits, wine & beer lifestyle column, at www.GottaGo.us and www.FoodDigital.com Gotta Go is published on www.Gottago.us, and in magazines. Follow her on Twitter @GottaGo, LinkedIn and Facebook.

Christ Church Cathedral Women's 49th Annual Strawberry Festival June 12 in Downtown Indianapolis

Ahhhh yes indeed... it is that time of year again (thank goodness after this long, harsh winter). And nothing says summer like the festivals in, and around, Indiana, including the Christ Church Cathedral Women's 49th Annual Strawberry Festival.

I don't know many people, particularly in this area of the states, who don't like berries in general and strawberries are the first to show their juicy little selves every summer. And, with the exception of those who are allergic, I don't truly trust anyone who doesn't like strawberries...

They represent a beacon of light showing us that the long, harsh winter is finally behind us. And... we like them every way we can get them: straight from the garden, pies, cakes, with sugar, in fruit salads and every other concoction. But, perhaps most of all, we like strawberry shortcake. And the annual Monument Circle event has been around, seemingly, forever, to most of us.

Every year, hundreds of volunteers, church, civil, celebrity and media, line up to scoop, dish and hand out thousands of strawberry shortcakes. I like that. The volunteers, the food and the continuity of the event, not altering the great menu and keeping the price incredibly reasonable ~ $7 ~ (especially considering it is for non profit groups) which means we can get more than one and feel good helping others at the same time. A win-win for everyone in my book.

When is the strawberry festival? Thursday, June 12. It runs from 9 a.m. through 6 p.m., but to-go orders can be scooped up (get it?) beginning at 8:30 a.m. in the basement of Christ Church Cathedral Don't wake me, okay? I will be there later, but not too late because when supplies run out, they are done for the year. And, there is not much more disappointing then your taste buds being robbed of something yummy.

Once again, it is a cash only situation, but and ATM will be onsite for those who forget. Live entertainment begins at 10 a.m. this year. Christ Church Cathedral Women has hosted the Strawberry Festival every summer since 1965. More than 300 volunteers will be on-hand to serve an estimated six tons of strawberries and 18,000 homemade shortcakes. Festival proceeds benefit local, national and global nonprofit organizations through bi-annual grants.

Christ Church Cathedral on Monument Circle

About Christ Church Cathedral
Christ Church Cathedral is the cathedral church of the Episcopal Diocese of Indianapolis. Christ Church Cathedral is located on Monument Circle at the center of Indianapolis. The Cathedral is the oldest building on the Circle and the oldest religious building in continuous use in Indianapolis. Christ Church Cathedral has a strong commitment to serving the needs of others and is actively involved in mission work locally, nationally and internationally.

Images: provided

Elizabeth J. Musgrave is a syndicated fine-living, travel, food, wine and spirits columnist, freelance writer and photographer, and performing arts and restaurant critic for Gotta Go. Catch her as Indy’s Personal Lifestyle Adviser on Indy Style, WISH8 (CBS). Read Infused, her spirits, wine & beer lifestyle column, at www.GottaGo.us and www.FoodDigital.com Gotta Go is published on www.Gottago.us, and in magazines. Follow her on Twitter @GottaGo, LinkedIn and Facebook.

Kentucky Proud Wine & Chocolate Tasting at Stoneware June 19

I always like hearing about new ideas, especially those including wine and chocolate.

Stoneware, Louisville's premier pottery and stoneware makers, is showcasing Kentucky wine maker, Old 502 Winery, and chocolatiers Cellar Doors at its Third Thursday Lifestyle Series. The wine and chocolate pairing features products by two Kentucky Proud members.

The free event runs from 5-7 p.m., Thursday, June 19. The Lifestyle Series is designed to showcase authentic, local makers of products that complement the Stoneware products and lifestyle.

Attendees will have the opportunity to meet Logan Leet, owner of Old 502 Winery, and Erika Chavez, owner of Cellar Door Chocolates, who will explain their processes. Stoneware staff will be on hand to answer questions about products including their new Stoneware Wine Coolers that can be stored in the freezer and used to keep wine chilled.

Old 502 Winery makes its nine unique varieties of wine in downtown Louisville, using grapes sourced from Kentucky farmers.

Since 2007, Cellar Door Chocolates has been sourcing the finest ingredients and creating unique flavor combinations in handmade truffles, butter creams, sea salt caramels and small batch bourbon balls among other chocolate treats.

Stoneware has been hand making and hand painting pottery for the home, garden and kitchen for 199 years.

Kentucky Proud is the state’s official farm marketing program. The Kentucky Proud logo stands for food and farm products raised, made or processed in Kentucky.

Elizabeth J. Musgrave is a syndicated fine-living, travel, food, wine and spirits columnist, freelance writer and photographer, and performing arts and restaurant critic for Gotta Go. Catch her as Indy’s Personal Lifestyle Adviser on Indy Style, WISH8 (CBS). Read Infused, her spirits, wine & beer lifestyle column, at www.GottaGo.us and www.FoodDigital.com Gotta Go is published on www.Gottago.us, and in magazines. Follow her on Twitter @GottaGo, LinkedIn and Facebook.

15th annual Vintage Wine Festival 2014

The 15th annual Vintage Indiana Wine and Food Festival is set to take place in Military Park Sat., June 7. Hours of the event are Noon to 6 p.m. These are new hours, so be certain you buy bottles to take home early.

More than 300 wines are available for sampling, buying to enjoy onsite or take home. The first 10, 000 adult-sampler tickets with I.D., receive a commemorative etched wine glass. I get one every year and enjoy collecting them. I do wish they would make each year a different design just for fun.

A children's area with KidZone interactive play equipment will be open. Vendors, food concessions and musical entertainment are available throughout the event.

Music headliners include Jennie Devoe, My Yellow Rickshaw and Zanna-Do!. Although outside coolers, beverages and food are not permitted,visitors are encouraged to bring lawn chairs and picnic blankets.

Participating Wineries

Best Vineyards

Brown County Winery

Buck Creek Winery

Butler Winery & Vineyards

Cedar Creek Winery

Chateau de Pique

Easley Winery

Ertel Cellars Winery

French Lick Winery

Harmony Winery

Huber's Orchard, Winery & Vineyard
Holtkamp Winery    

Madison County Winery

Monkey Hollow Winery

Oliver Winery
Owen Valley WineryRiver City Winery

Satek Winery

Thomas Family Winery

Traders Point Winery

Turtle Run Winery

Whyte Horse Winery

Wildcat Creek Winery

Windy Ridge Winery

Winzerwald Winery

For the cost, and to purchase advance tickets, visit Marsh Supermarkets or click here.

Images: E.J. Musgrave

Elizabeth J. Musgrave writes the food and wine columns: White Linen (Retirement Living magazine) and Destination Dining (M magazine), is a fine-living, travel, food, wine and spirits writer photographer, and performing arts and restaurant critic for Gotta Go. Catch her as the Travel & Leisure Adviser, WISH8 (CBS) on FOX 59 Morning News Show. Read Infused, the spirits, wine & beer lifestyle column, at www.GottaGo.us and www.FoodDigital.com Gotta Go is published on www.Gottago.us, and in magazines. Follow her on Twitter @GottaGo, LinkedIn and Facebook.