Monday, May 13

Josh Gracin Headlines 14th Vintage Indiana Wine & Food Festival June 1, 2013

INDIANAPOLIS – Josh Gracin, the US Marine who became an instant fan-favorite during American Idol season two, will headline the 14th annual Vintage Indiana Wine & Food Festival Saturday, June 1 at Military Park in Downtown Indianapolis.

More than 200 wines from over two dozen Indiana wineries will be available for tasting. Participating wineries also will sell wines by the bottle and case. Click here for list of participating wineries.

Other festival attractions include the live music performances featuring Gracin, Cari Ray and Jennie DeVoe; cooking and wine pairing demonstrations; food vendors including food trucks; an eclectic arts & crafts showcase and more.

More than 10,000 wine enthusiasts from throughout the Midwest are expected to attend the event billed as “The Biggest Celebration of Indiana Wines.”

Gracin is a Michigan native whose fourth album is scheduled for release this summer. His previous albums – “Josh Gracin,” “We Weren’t Crazy” and “Redemption” – produced the No. 1 hit “Nothin’ to Lose” along with other charting singles including “I Want to Live,” “Stay with Me,” “We Weren’t Crazy,” “Favorite State of Mind,” “Different Kind of Crazy,” and “Long Way to Go.”

JW Marriott, located within easy walking distance of Military Park,offers a Vintage Indiana overnight package including two adult tickets to the festival plus discounted rates on room accommodations.

Vintage Indiana is presented by Indiana Wines, headquartered on the Purdue University campus in West Lafayette, Indiana.

Tickets: Marsh Supermarkets and at www.VintageIndiana.com. Advance sale: $22-adults 21+; $10-Designated Driver's; $5-youth-ages 6 to 20; Free-5 and under.

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.

Tuesday, May 7

14th Annual Vintage Indiana Wine and Food Festival June 1, 2013

The 14th annual Vintage Indiana Wine and Food Festival is set to take place in Military Park on
  Sat., June 1. Hours of the event are 11 a.m. - 7 p.m.

More than 200 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. 

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 Josh Gracin and Jennie Devoe. Although outside coolers, beverages and food are not permitted,visitors are encouraged to bring lawn chairs and picnic blankets.


Participating Wineries

Windy Ridge Winery



Art Vendors
Hats by Patricia
Iron Kettle Restaurants
Nature's Bling
Seven Lemons
Vintage Indiana Shoppe


Participating Restaurants

Blue Lagoon Catering
Cobb's Cajun Cooking
Emkay Enterprises, LLC
Glodo's Original Kettle Korn


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. Follow her on Twitter @GottaGo, LinkedIn and Facebook.

Sunday, May 5

97th Indianapolis (INDY) 500 2013 Schedule

Saturday, May 11
OPENING DAY/CELEBRATION OF AUTOMOBILES
$10 admission, 12 and under free
10 a.m.-6 p.m., Public Gates Open, Social Media Garage Open
10 a.m.-4 p.m., Celebration of Automobiles
11 a.m., Corvette Pin Distribution, Pagoda Plaza
Noon-6 p.m., Practice/Rookie Orientation Program
1:30 p.m., Q&A with Mario Andretti, Pagoda Plaza Stage

Sunday, May 12
PRACTICE
$10 admission, 12 and under free
10 a.m.-6 p.m., Public Gates Open
11 a.m., Firestone Pin Distribution, Pagoda Plaza
11 a.m.-5 p.m., Kids Zone Open
Noon-6 p.m., Practice/Rookie Orientation Program 
4 p.m., Give Me Jesus Tour Concert, Pagoda Plaza Stage

Monday, May 13-Thursday, May 16
PRACTICE
$10 admission, 12 and under free
10 a.m.-6 p.m., Public Gates Open
Noon-6 p.m., Practice

Friday, May 17
FAST FRIDAY PRACTICE
$10 admission, 12 and under free
10 a.m.-6 p.m., Public Gates Open, Social Media Garage Open
Noon-6 p.m., Practice
6:15 p.m., Pole Day Qualifications Draw, Pagoda Plaza Stage

Saturday, May 18
POLE DAY QUALIFYING
$15 admission, 12 and under free
6:30 a.m.-6 p.m., Public Gates Open, Social Media Garage Open
8-10 a.m., Practice 
10 a.m., American Dairy Association Pin Distribution, Pagoda Plaza
10 a.m.-4 p.m., Kids Zone Open
11 a.m.-4 p.m., First Qualifying Segment
4 p.m., Corey Cox Concert, Pagoda Plaza Stage
4:30-6 p.m., Fast Nine Pole Qualifying
6:15 p.m., Here Come the Mummies Concert, Pagoda Plaza Stage

Sunday, May 19
OLD NATIONAL ARMED FORCES BUMP DAY QUALIFYING
$15 admission, 12 and under free
7:30 a.m.-6 p.m., Public Gates Open, Social Media Garage Open, Hero Zone Open, CrossFit Competition
9-10 a.m., Practice
11 a.m.-5 p.m., Kids Zone Open
Noon-6 p.m., Qualifying

Monday, May 20-Tuesday, May 21
NO TRACK ACTIVITY

Wednesday, May 22
AMERICAN FAMILY INSURANCE 500 FESTIVAL COMMUNITY DAY
(No Track Activity)
$8 advance admission, $10 gate admission, 6 and under free
9 a.m.-6 p.m., Public Gates Open
11 a.m., Firestone Freedom 100 Driver Autograph Session, Pagoda Plaza; 500 Festival Pin Distribution, Pagoda Plaza
12:30 p.m., Indianapolis 500 Driver Autograph Session, Pagoda Plaza (wristbands required)

Thursday, May 23
FIRESTONE FREEDOM 100 PRACTICE, QUALIFYING
Free
8 a.m.-6 p.m., Public Gates Open
9 a.m.-noon, Firestone Indy Lights Practice
11 a.m., Hall of Fame Autograph Session, Hall of Fame Museum (separate admission)
1:15-2:15 p.m., Firestone Indy Lights Qualifying
2:30-4 p.m., Vintage Car Laps

Friday, May 24
COORS LIGHT CARB DAY
$20 admission, 12 and under free
8 a.m.-6 p.m., Public Gates Open, Social Media Garage Open
8:30-9:45 a.m., Vintage Car Laps
9:30 a.m., Firestone Pin Distribution, Pagoda Plaza
10-11 a.m., Public Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony, Pagoda Plaza Stage 
11 a.m.-noon, Indianapolis 500 Final Practice
12:30 p.m., Firestone Freedom 100 (40 laps)
2 p.m., Indy 500 Pit Stop Challenge
3:30 p.m., Coors Light Carb Day Concert Featuring Poison

Saturday, May 25
LEGENDS DAY HONORING PARNELLI JONES
$10 admission, 12 and under free
8 a.m.-5 p.m., Public Gates Open, Social Media Garage Open, Vintage Car Display, Memorabilia Show
9-10 a.m., Driver Autograph Session, Pagoda Plaza
9:30-10:15 a.m., Vintage Car Laps
10:25-10:30 a.m., 33 Roadsters Laps Led by Parnelli Jones
10:30 a.m., Public Drivers Meeting, Tower Terrace
11 a.m.-4 p.m., Kids Zone Open 
11:15 a.m., Q&A with Parnelli Jones, Pagoda Plaza Stage
Noon-12:45 p.m., Parnelli Jones Autograph Session, Plaza Pavilion
1-4:30 p.m., Indianapolis 500 Veteran Driver Autograph Sessions, Plaza Pavilion
4 p.m., Mattel Hot Wheels World Record Track Run

Sunday, May 26
97th INDIANAPOLIS 500 RACE DAY
Tickets start at $30
5:30 a.m.-6 p.m., Public Gates Open
7 a.m., Snake Pit Opens, Social Media Garage Opens
8 a.m., Parade of Bands
9 a.m.-2 p.m., Kids Zone Open
9:30 a.m., Celebrity Red Carpet, Pagoda Plaza
11 a.m., Vintage Car Lap
11:33 a.m., Driver Introductions
Noon, Start of 97th Indianapolis 500 (200 laps)

2013 Indianapolis 500 tickets
Race Day ticket prices start at just $30. Fans can buy tickets online at www.ims.com/tickets, 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 be receive free general admission to any IMS event in 2013 when accompanied by an adult general admission ticket holder.

Tickets for groups of 20 or more: (866) 221-8775 for more information.

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. Follow her on Twitter @GottaGo, LinkedIn and Facebook.

Thursday, May 2

2014 Corvette Stingray Named Pace Car for 2013 Indianapolis (INDY) 500


INDIANAPOLIS, Thursday, May 2, 2013-The all-new, seventh-generation 2014 
Corvette Stingray will serve as the Indianapolis (INDY) 500 Pace Car, leading the field to green at the start of the 97th running of "The Greatest Spectacle in Racing" on Sunday, May 26 at Indianapolis Motor Speedway.

It marks a record 12th time the Corvette has served as the Pace Car, starting in 1978. Along with Chevrolet's return in 2012 as an engine supplier, the Corvette Stingray Pace Car extends a legacy at the Brickyard that dates to the racetrack's early days.
Decked out in Laguna Blue Tintcoat with official Indianapolis 500 graphics on the doors, the Corvette Stingray Pace Car differs from production models with only track-mandated safety features and strobe lights. No power-train upgrades are required to run in front of the IndyCar pack, thanks to its all-new 6.2L LT1 engine, which features advanced technologies including direct fuel injection, continuously variable valve timing and Active Fuel Management (cylinder deactivation). They help produce an estimated 450 horsepower more efficiently.

The 2014 Corvette Stingray coupe goes on sale this fall, with a convertible model - featuring a fully electronic top that can be operated remotely with the key fob - coming a few months later.

Vehicle highlights include:
•An interior that offers genuine carbon fiber and aluminum trim, hand-wrapped leather materials, dual 8-inch configurable driver/infotainment screens, and two new seat choices - each featuring a lightweight magnesium frame for exceptional support.

•Advanced driver technologies, including a five-position Drive Mode Selector that tailors 12 vehicle attributes to fit the driver's environment and a new seven-speed manual transmission with Active Rev Matching that anticipates gear selections and matches engine speed for perfect shifts every time.

•Lightweight materials, including a carbon-fiber hood and removable carbon-fiber roof panel on coupes; composite fenders, doors and rear quarter panels; carbon-nano composite underbody panels and a new aluminum frame help shift weight rearward for an optimal 50/50 weight balance that supports a world-class power-to-weight ratio.

•A sculpted exterior featuring advanced high-intensity discharge and light-emitting diode lighting and racing-proven aerodynamics that balance low drag for efficiency and performance elements for improved stability and track capability.

•Track-oriented Z51 Performance Package, including an electronic limited-slip differential; dry-sump oiling system; integral brake, differential and transmission cooling; as well as a unique aero package that further
improves high-speed stability.
The Corvette Pace Car features the track-capable Z51 package.
Chevrolet was founded in 1911, the year of the inaugural 500-mile race, and the Chevrolet brothers - company co-founder Louis, Arthur and Gaston - all competed in early Indy 500 races. Arthur Chevrolet competed in the 1911 race and Gaston Chevrolet won it in 1920.

Chevrolet competed in Indy-style competition as an engine manufacturer in 1986-93 and 2002-05 with V-8 engines, and returned in 2012 with the Chevrolet IndyCar twin-turbo V-6 engine with direct injection. In that time, Chevrolet won 118 IndyCar races, powered seven driver series champions and scored seven Indianapolis 500 victories.

2013 marks the 24th time a Chevrolet has served as the official Pace Car of the Indianapolis 500, more than any other brand, dating to 1948 with a Chevrolet Fleetmaster. Camaro has served in the role seven times and, with this year's running, Corvette has led the way a record 12 times. www.chevrolet.com.


2013 Indianapolis 500 tickets: Start at $30. Fans can buy tickets online at www.ims.com/tickets, 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.

Children 12 and under receive free general admission to any 2013 IMS event when accompanied by adult gen. admission ticket holder.

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. Follow her on Twitter @GottaGo, LinkedIn and Facebook.

HOT WHEELS® Camaro Convertible Announced as Indianapolis (INDY) 500 2013 Festival Cars


*Prsee Release*(INDIANAPOLIS) - The 33 directors of the 500 Festival received their Indianapolis 500  in a ceremony Wednesday at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, a longtime tradition leading into the month of May and "The Greatest Spectacle in Racing."

Chevrolet Camaros 
The "Festival cars" have reminded Indianapolis-area residents of the upcoming Indianapolis 500 since the 1960s, and this year's unique cars will capture more attention and start more conversation than usual as they are driven around Central Indiana.

Each of the Indy 500 Festival cars this year is a special Camaro Hot Wheels® Edition convertible, which will arrive at Chevrolet dealerships this spring after a limited, one-time production run. It's the first time a full-size, production Hot Wheels car has been offered for sale by any manufacturer.
The Camaro Hot Wheels Edition echoes the cues that Hot Wheels enthusiasts recognize, including a vibrant, graphics-accented metallic paint scheme and even the red-lined wheels. The result is instantly recognizable as a Hot Wheels.

Available in coupe and convertible models and in 2LT (V-6) and 2SS (V-8) trims, the Camaro Hot Wheels Edition cars feature Hot Wheels grille and deck lid logos and Hot Wheels Edition sill plates among its exterior and interior styling.

SS models feature a 6.2L V-8, which is offered in two iterations: the "L99" on automatic-equipped vehicles and the "LS3" on manual-equipped models. Horsepower for the L99 is 400 (298 kW) and torque is 410 lb.-ft. (556 Nm) - and it features fuel-saving Active Fuel Management. The LS3 develops 426 horsepower (318 kW) and 420 lb.-ft. (569 Nm) of torque.

LT-based models feature the "LFX" 3.6L V-6 engine, with dual-overhead camshafts, variable valve timing and direct injection. It's rated at 323 horsepower at 6,800 rpm.

A dual-mode exhaust system is available on SS models with the six-speed manual transmission, as well as LT models with either the manual or automatic transmission. Similar to the systems found on the Camaro ZL1, the vacuum-actuated system provides a quieter driving experience at low engine speeds and a more aggressive sound during hard acceleration.

The original Custom Camaro 1:64-scale toy from 1968 was one of the original 16 Hot Wheels issued and remains one of the most valuable Hot Wheels toys among collectors.

The 97th Indianapolis 500 is scheduled for Sunday, May 26. Opening Day is Saturday, May 11.

2013 Indianapolis 500 tickets: Tickets are on sale for the 97th Indianapolis 500 Mile Race on Sunday, May 26 at IMS.
Race Day ticket prices start at just $30. Fans can buy tickets online at www.ims.com/tickets, 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 be receive free general admission to any IMS event in 2013 when accompanied by an adult general admission ticket holder.

Tickets for groups of 20 or more also are on sale. Contact the IMS Group Sales Department at (866) 221-8775 for more information.

Elizabeth J. Musgrave is a syndicated 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.

Wednesday, May 1

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.

Tuesday, April 30

Hoosier Park Racing & Casino 2013 Summer's Greatest Hits Music Series Includes Go-Gos, B-52s & More


Hoosier Park Racing & Casino includes bigger names, a variety of genres and both genders this year in its lineup for 2013 Summer's Greatest Hits Music Series.


Located on the track side of the Anderson venue, the amphitheater has become a summer tradition for fans of numerous types of music.

For reviews, return to GottaGo.us throughout the 2013 season. Ticket information and links are located below schedule.


2013 Performances

Huey Lewis & the News
Saturday, June 8
Known for such hits as “The Heart of Rock and Roll” and “I Want a New Drug”  Huey Lewis & the News kick off the summer concert series on with their "Sports" Anniversary Tour, named after their seven-time platinum 1983 album. 

The B-52s and The Go-Go’s
Saturday, June 29
Fellow 1980s rockers, The B-52s and The Go-Go’s, will bring their new-wave brand of rock to the stage playing their respective hits that include “Love Shack” and “We Got the Beat.”

Willie Nelson and Family
Friday, July 12
Country music legend Willie Nelson will treat country music fans to the classics that built his storied career such as “On the Road Again” and “Always on My Mind.” Alongside his series of fan favorites, Nelson and Family will play songs from their album, “Let’s Face the Music and Dance,” described as a collection of American standards and country classics.

The Beach Boys
Saturday, Aug. 31
The smooth, surfer-inspired harmonies of The Beach Boys will once again grace the Hoosier Park summer stage since last performing at the Anderson racetrack and casino in July '09. Recently coming off their 50th anniversary international tour, they've released a new studio album that represents a new harmonic blending from a super group with such hits as “Good Vibrations,” “Surfin’ U.S.A,” and “Kokomo.”


Hoosier Park's outdoor music center accommodates up to 4,500 reserved ticket seats. The music center features a wide variety of ticket options, including premium VIP seating and private party decks complete with personal beverage service.

Tickets range from $23 to $67 and can be purchased by calling 800-745-3000 or visiting Ticketmaster.com. Special VIP seating is available for an additional charge. Concertgoers may also purchase directly from the box offices located in Shelby’s Gifts at Hoosier Park Racing & Casino or in Hoosier Park’s Winner’s Circle Pub, Grille & OTB located in downtown Indianapolis. Club Centaur members receive a 20 percent discount on tickets purchased at either Hoosier Park box offices.

Images: Provided by Hoosier Park

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, and in print. Follow her on Twitter @GottaGo, LinkedIn and Facebook.

Saturday, April 20

Vintage Indiana Wine Festival Seeks Volunteers June 1, 2013

Vintage Indiana Wine Festival ~ June 1, 2013, Seeks Volunteers

Volunteers are needed for the 14th annual Vintage Indiana Wine Festival. Volunteers signing up for a three-hour shift will receive free admission, a t-shirt, free parking and a wine glass. Help serve more than 200 wines samples, sell thousands of bottles of Hoosier-made wine, greet visitors assist chefs at food demonstrations and food sales.

To sign up, go to www.vintageindiana.com/volunteer and choose the shift and work area preference.

JW Marriott and Vintage Indiana package includes two adult tickets and a hotel room. Click JW Marriott Vintage Wine Festival Pkg. for the package.

Tickets are available by clicking TicketsPurchase now, or can be purchased at any Marsh Supermarket beginning May 1.Wineries, restaurants, artisan vendors and concerts will be announced soon.

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.

Thursday, April 18

Jimmy Buffett Sings in Indianapolis While Lulu Buffett Serves Up Fun and Food in Gulf Shores, Alabama

JIMMY BUFFETT AND THE CORAL REEFER BAND
"Songs from St. Somewhere" Tour 2013
Thursday - June 27 - 8 pm

In a 2013 summer concert lineup heavy in country artists, Jimmy Buffett and the Coral Reefer Band is one of few standing out at Klipsch Music Center for alternate options. For one performance, Buffett will take the stage, Thursday, June 27, as part of his “Songs From St. Somewhere” Tour 2013.

The artist will be back in the studio to record a new album, tentatively titled "Songs from St. Somewhere," to be released on Mailboat Records. Last summer the Margaritaville singer-songwriter released a new CD/DVD on Mailboat Records called "Welcome To Fin City," which was recorded during two Las Vegas concerts.
Having not been to a Buffett concert as of this date, my curiosity is piqued. Perhaps mostly because others crow about the fun and I dined at his sister's restaurant recently in Gulf Shores, AL. Fans may have known the touring party guy has a sister, but it was news to me.

The happening spot, called Lulu's, (www.LuluBuffett.com) is a restaurant, live music venue, gift shop and bar all rolled into one, giant party-atmosphere adult and child play land of sorts. Although I attempt to keep an open mind when reviewing all the various restaurants I review, patterns do form and generally tourist town food offerings are not the strongest point at "fun palaces." However...Lulu's is one of the exceptions. In fact, the food was outright phenomenal rising high above expectations.

What's the best food to order from the menu?

Easy ~ seafood. You are in a Gulf Shores beach town after all.

First off, a must-try are crab claws. They are fresh, blue claws and you will want them fried.

Yes, fried ~ you're on vacation and calories don't count, right? Besides, and you can trust me on this one, you will be in the Gulf's water swimming, kayaking and playing so much you will absolutely burn off any calories you might accidentally pick up. This is the first travel-writing trip ever where I arrived home weighing less than before I went ~ by four pounds, to be exact. Also get the oysters (fried) and the fried green tomatoes.

One other must-get... smoked tuna dip served with various dippers. Once you try smoked tuna dip, you will look for it on menus all over town.

Lulu's exemplifies the very essence of Gulf Shores attitude, which is: Have fun! Whether playing sand volleyball, hollering at friends sitting nearby or dancing the night away to the live music entertainment, it is difficult to not let the waves of happiness and relaxation wash right over you, sweeping your troubles right on out with the tide.

Having visited his sister's jumping joint, it is only fitting to now visit the one who started the whole idea that hanging out and having fun past the age of 30 is perfectly okay. If I make Jimmy Buffett's concert, you will be able to catch the review right back here.

Tickets: Ticketmaster.com, all Ticketmaster outlets, (800) 745-3000.
Buffett images: Provided by Klipsch
Lulu's images: Izzy Evans & Elizabeth J. Musgrave

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.

Thursday, April 11

Restaurant Review: Another Broken Egg Cafe

It's exciting when a new restaurant opens in town. It's even more exciting when the concept is something just a little different. Another Broken Egg Cafe opens Monday, April 15, in Indianapolis at the 96th and N. Meridian area with a breakfast~brunch~lunch concept.

Checking out the new eatery from Ruth's Chris' local franchisee owners, I was impressed upon entering at the warm atmosphere, colors and decor. Imagine, if you will, a place where modern French Country decor, whimsical artwork and southern charm blend together harmoniously ~ silently inviting you to sit and sip mimosas, nibble on biscuit Beignets ($4.99) and catch up with friends and family in a sunny dining area or at the roomy bar.

Service is more than the obligatory niceness; there appears to be genuine caring about customers' needs and an excitement in the staff about the food selection, which includes the familiar with an unfamiliar twist.

Grits? Yes, but with blackberries. Omelettes? Naturally, however they come in such options as: The Floridian with cream cheese, crab meat and Monterey Jack cheese, Bacquezo with bacon, chorizo (made in house), The Mardi Gras loaded with Andouille, crawfish and red bell peppers, just to cite a few.

The menu bears marks signifying items that are Gluten-free, Vegetarian, House-made and Signature dishes. Healthy and indulgent choices give the diner several ways to eat, depending on his mood. For the behaving guest, the Seasonal Fruit Platter ($6.99) currently includes mangoes, pineapple, blueberries, strawberries and more with a dip for temptation's sake.

Sweet Potato Pancakes ($7.49) arrive to you with one plate-size pancake topped with cinnamon-marmalade infused syrup, spiced pecans and whipped cream. The Southern Crabstack ($13.49) comes in a skillet with a crabcake nestled atop a gritcake and surrounded by Andouille sausage and shrimp saute and a serving of crispy cubed potatoes.

Influenced with comfort food of the Midwest, the southern region and Creole favorites, the menu has a wide variety without going overboard. Burgers, salads, a variety of Signature Benedicts and Scramble Skillets, with a lengthy list of sides rounds out the menu nicely.

The full-service bar serves up local spirits, including Fuzzy's vodka in its well-garnished and infused-vodka Bloody Mary. Perfect-for-brunch cocktails, including Mimosas and Peach Bellinis, are listed at a lower price point than anticipated as are specialty coffee drinks.

Collectible stoneware coffee mugs, handcrafted by Deneen Pottery, are available as a souvenir or gift at the front counter in a variety of colors (I chose periwinkle).

Another Broken Egg Cafe will open a second Indy location toward the end of summer in the new hotel The Alexander and will offer dinner as well. Hours at the north side spot are 7 a.m.-2 p.m. seven days a week. Located in the strip mall which includes Daddy Jack's and Kona Jack's, this is not a Cracker Barrel or Waffle House style morning eatery and will easily become a favorite brunch choice for me.

Must-try items on the next visit are: Cinnamon Roll French Toast ($10.99) a giant cinnamon roll grilled with French toast batter, served with cream cheese, Bananas Foster sauce, berries and whipped cream; Southern Shrimp Salad ($9.99) with mixed greens, grilled shrimp, strawberries, blueberries, sprouts, feta and sliced almonds with garlic French bread; Baked Brie Delight ($10.49) with apples, pecans and raisins sauteed in a Grand Marnier butter sauce over warm Brie cheese with toasted French bread and the Lobster & Brie Omelette ($14.99) a cream-cheese filled omelette with Brie and sauteed lobster meat, topped with a Champagne butter sauce, diced tomatoes and scallions.

Okay...maybe my next two or three visits.

Bottom Line: Another Broken Egg Cafe is a welcome addition to the food scene on the north side with a menu that is lively, portions that are great for sharing and a welcoming ambiance.

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, and in print. Follow her on Twitter @GottaGo, LinkedIn and Facebook.