Broad Ripple Gazette vol 13 no 15

first published in the Broad Ripple Gazette

Can you believe that it is almost Indiana State Fair time? My intention is to attend all 17 days of the Fair again. I’m giving you the rundown on insider tips and the headlining concerts early so you’ll have plenty of time to plan. I’ll see you there!  

Indiana State Fair
August 5 – 21, 2016
Indiana State Fairgrounds
1202 E. 38^th Street
all-ages, $12 at the gate (several presale promotions available) + $5 parking

I am an Indiana State Fair geek – I’ve attended every single day of the Fair for years. Here are a few of the things I’ve learned along the way.  

Admission: There are tons of deals to be had. There will be a coupon in Monday, August 8^th Indianapolis Star for free admission on Wednesday, August 10. For Meijer Family Day on Monday, August 15 gate admission is only $20 for up to 10 people. There are also discounts for bringing Pepsi product cans, AAA member’s day, college students, military personnel and families, and much more. Check out indianastatefair.com for more information.

Parking: It is $5.00 to park in Fairgrounds and around the Fairgrounds. If I’m driving, I find it easiest to park at the Indiana School for the Deaf at 52nd Street and the Monon Trail. The charge is the same, and it is an easy walk across the street. There is also handicapped parking there and you don’t have to down and up the steps under the track. I find it easier to exit also, be prepared, everyone has to exit onto 46th Street, but there is you get to see all of the trailers and fun stuff of the folks that are working at the Fair.

Free State Fair Park & Ride: When you park at Glendale Mall’s Rural Street lot, you can ride the Indiana State Fair on the free shuttle. The shuttle runs every 20 minutes from 10 a.m. to 11:45 p.m. each day of the fair.

Walking: The Monon Trail leads right to the Fairgrounds. You can hop off at 42nd or 38th Street and there is a gate between the two that leads into the Midway.

Pedal & Park: The secured bicycle parking is right on the trail, north of 38th Street. And you receive a coupon for $1 off of your admission. Be mindful that you need to retrieve your bike by 8:00 PM.

IndyGo: Routes 4 and 39 stop just steps away from the main entrance on 38th St. Fare is $1.75 per ride or $4 for an all-day pass. Youth 18 and under and people 65 and older are eligible for reduced fare with proper ID. Plan you public transit trip to the Fair at IndyGo.net

Once you’re there:  The Tractor Shuttle is my favorite way to get around. It is a great way to see the Fairgrounds and meet people. I couldn’t confirm this year’s price; it was a dollar per ride last year. You can take a full turn around the Fairgrounds while sitting in the shade (or out the rain). Seniors can purchase a daily unlimited ride wrist band for $3 – and it is free for seniors on both Tuesdays of the Fair.

Food: On both Tuesdays of the Fair there are $2 Taste of the Fair specials. All concessionaires will offer a $2 special. It’s a great way to sample it all!

Balloon Launch and Light Up the Night: Friday, August 5 (Opening Day). The balloons will launch at sunrise (about 6:15 AM) and that evening (9:00 PM) there will be an Illuminated Tractor Parade and Hot Air Balloon Glow, presented by Reynolds Farm Equipment. The Illuminated Tractor Parade was great fun last year – nothing like tractors outlined by lights to get you in the State Fair Spirit.

In honor of Indiana’s bicentennial all of the concerts are included in the price of admission.  You read that right – FREE!

On the aptly-named Free Stage (northwest corner of the Fairgrounds, in front of the 4-H buildings)

Night Ranger – Friday, August 5, 7:30 pm

Neal McCoy – Saturday, August 6. 7:30 pm

Hispanic/Latino Music Festival featuring El Dasa – Sunday, August 7, 3 – 8 pm

Aaron Tippin, with the Hunter Smith Band  - Monday, August 8, 6 pm

Granger Smith featuring Earl Dibbles Jr.– Tuesday, August 9, 7:30 pm 

Susan Cowsill and Flo

Happy Together Tour starring The Turtles featuring Flo & Eddie, Chuck Negron, Mark Lindsay, Gary Puckett & The Union Gap, The Cowsills, and The Spencer Davis Group Wednesday, August 10, 7:30 pm

The Fray– Thursday, August 11. 7:30 pm 

38 Special– Friday, August 12, 7:30 pm 

The Bacon Brothers– Saturday, August 13, 7:30 pm 

Contemporary Christian Music Festival starring Jason Gray, Zealand Worship, SHINEBRIGHT, The Lasting Hope, and The Dave Chisham Band –Sunday, August 14, 2-8 pm 

Blues Traveler – Monday, August 15, 7:30 pm

Maddie & Tae – Tuesday, August 16, 7:30 pm

Lauren Alaina – Wednesday, August 17, 7:30 pm

Anthony Hamilton – Thursday, August 18, 7:30 pm 

ABBA The Concert (A Tribute to ABBA) – Friday, August 19, 7:30 pm 

Laura Marano– Saturday, August 20, 1 and 3:30pm

The Reverend Peyton’s Big Damn Band– Saturday, August 20, 7:30pm

Gospel Music Festival starring Karen Clark, Sheard, and Chicago Mass Choir – Sunday, August 21. 3 – 9 pm

I was hoping to be able to tell you the schedule for the Main Street Stage and the Pioneer Village Stage, but I only had bits and pieces of those schedules by press time. I’ll highlight some of the acts in the next issue.

I can’t wait!

www.indianastatefair.com

  

Broad Ripple Gazette vol 12 no 16

First published in the Broad Ripple Gazette. 

It’s the most wonderful time of the year – the 2015 Indianapolis State Fair is open! It is also time for the fifth annual Indy Folk Fest at Indy Hostel and mark your calendar for Sausagefest on August 21^st and 22^nd.  I’ll see you at the Fair! 

Indy Folk Fest
Saturday, August 8, 2015
Indy Hostel
4903 Winthrop Ave
all-ages, 1:00 – 11:00 PM, $10 or 4 ticket Family Pack $35

I can’t believe it is only the fifth Indy Folk Fest, it has quickly become a beloved part of the summer festival circuit.   This year’s festival is featuring all local bands and artists and several community organizations. This year the festival will benefit KidsPeace, a nonprofit agency that provides professional support to children and families in the foster care system.

The bands are: Bigfoot Yancey, The Midwest Rhythm Exchange, Sphie, Knollwood Boys, Noble Roots Music, Prowlers & The Prey, Kevin Krauter, and Lisa Walks. 

There will be a vendor village with gobs of great art and other goodies. Karma Kitchen Food Truck will be on site and Upland Brewing Company beer will be offered. 

Visit the Indy Hostel website for more details. 

www.indyhostel.us

 

Indiana State Fair
Friday, August 7 – Sunday, August 23, 2015
Indiana State Fairgrounds
1202 E. 38^th Street
all-ages, $12 at gate ($8 advance, various other specials and free admission specials)

There are several places to hear music during the Indiana State Fair and I hear they’re adding music to the Indiana Beer and Wine area, including Bubbles Brown on all three Fridays, from 6:00 – 8:00 PM. 

The Free Stage is located in front of the 4-H buildings on the northwest corner of the Fairgrounds.

This year’s Free Stage lineup is eclectic, ranging from the Dukes of Hazard to The Village People! Festival bench seating, free with Fair admission. 

Friday, August 7, 7:30 PM: Indigo Girls 

Saturday, August 8, 7:30 PM: Morris Day & The Time 

Sunday, August 9, noon – 8:00 PM: Hispanic/Latino Music Festival featuring Los Caminantes de Humberto Navarro

Monday, August 10, 7:30 PM: Rodney Atkins 

Wednesday, August 12, 7:30: Happy Together Tour with The Turtles; The Association; Mark Lindsay; The Grass Roots; The Buckinghams and The Cowsills 

Thursday, August 13, 7:30 PM: Creedence Clearwater Revisited 

Friday, August 14, 7:30 PM: Return of the Dukes: John Schneider & Tom Wopat , and photo ops with the General Lee from 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM

Sunday, August 16, 2:00 PM – 9:00 PM: Contemporary Christian Music Fest with Colton Dixon 

Monday, August 17: Village People at 7:30 p.m.

Tuesday, August 18, 7:30 PM: Big & Rich 

Wednesday, August 19, 7:30 PM: Craig Morgan 

Thursday, August 20, 7:30 PM: KC & the Sunshine Band 

Friday, August 21, 6:30 PM: “Nashville” stars Lennon and Maisy; 8:00 PM, The Henningsens
Saturday, August 22, 7:30 PM: Rusted Root 

Sunday, August 23, 4:00 – 9:00 PM: Wild Cherry Pepsi Gospel Music Day with special guest Ms. LaShun Pace of the legendary Pace Sisters 

The Main Street Stage is just to the north of the Grandstand. There is picnic table seating and it is close enough to the Dairy Bar that you can get there without your milkshake melting too much. 

Friday, August 7

10:00 – 11:30 AM: Indiana INETERNnet
Noon, 2:00 PM, 4:00 PM: SHEEZA
1:00 PM, 3:00 PM: Thomas Wayne Pruitt
5:30 – 7:00 PM: London Rose
8:00 – 10:00 PM PictureYes

Saturday, August 8

10:00 AM, 11:30 AM: Ovation Singers!
1:30 PM, 3:00 PM: Vocal Throwdown preliminaries – Jr. Division
4:00 – 5:30 PM: Vocal Throwdown preliminaries – Sr. Division
6:30 – 8:00 PM: Osiella

Sunday, August 9

10:30 - 11:30 AM, 12:30 PM: Indy Spotlight
4:00 PM, 5:00 PM,  6:00 PM: Sheltered Reality

Monday, August 10

10:00 AM, Noon, 2:00 PM, 4:00 PM: U.S. Navy Navigators
11:00 AM, 1:00 PM, 3:00 PM: Dominique Von
5:30 – 7:00 PM: The Cosmic Situation
8:00 – 9:30 PM: Blue Monkey Sideshow

Tuesday, August 11

10:00 AM, Noon, 2:00 PM, 4:00 PM: Sawyer
11:00 AM, 1:00 PM, 3:00 PM: Cap Quirk
5:30 – 7:00 PM: Terry Lee & the Rockaboogie Band
8:00 – 9:30 PM: Cook & Belle

Wednesday, August 12

10:00 AM, Noon, 2:00 PM, 4:00 PM: The Kandis Chambers Band
11:00 AM, 1:00 PM, 3:00 PM:: McKayla Willever
5:30 – 7:00 PM: Terry Lee & the Rockaboogie Band
8:00 – 9:30 PM: Mike Milligan and Steam Shovel

Thursday, August 13

10:30 AM, 11:30 AM, 12:30 PM, 1:30 PM: Chris Burch
3:00 – 4:30 PM: The JenaRitas
5:30 – 7:00 PM: The Beautiful Discord
8:00 – 9:30 PM: Cyrus Youngman & The King Fishers

Friday, August 14

10:30 AM, 11:30 AM, 12:30 PM, 1:30 PM: Eric Martin Smith
3:00 – 4:30 PM: The Indiana Boys
5:30 – 7:00 PM: Blue Mafia
8:00– 10:00 PM: Ashley Wilcox and The Cosmos

Saturday, August 15

10:00 AM, 11:30 PM: Ovation Singers!
1:30 – 3:30 PM: U.S. Navy Four Star Edition
5:00 PM: Vocal Throwdown finals – Jr. Division
6:00 PM: Vocal Throwdown finals – Sr. Division
8:00 – 10:00 : Chinese JailBreak

Sunday, August 16

10:00 AM, Noon, 2:00 PM, 4:00 PM: Seth Cook
11:00 AM, 1:00 PM, 3:00 PM: Heaven Cansler
5:30– 7:00 PM: The Lemon Brothers Band
8:00 – 9:30 PM: Fistful of Bacon

Monday, August 17

10:00 AM, 11:00 AM, Noon, 1:00 PM, 3:00 PM: Stevens Puppets – "Beauty & the Beast"
5:00 - 6:30 PM: Directors’ Jazz Orchestra
8:00 PM – 9:30 PM: Blue Monkey Sideshow

Tuesday, August 18

10:00 AM, Noon, 2:00 PM, 4:00 PM: Ball State’s Note to Self
11:00 AM, 1:00 PM, 3:00 PM: Ryan M. Brewer
5:30- 7:00 PM: Craig B. Moore & The Invaders
8:00 - 9:30 PM: Cosmic Preachers

Wednesday, August 19

10:00 AM, Noon, 2:00 PM, 4:00 PM: Twilite Nites
11:00 AM, 1:00 PM, 3:00 PM: The Minister’s Quartet
5:30– 7:00 PM: Shelby County Sinners
8:00 PM – 9:30 PM: P*ssed Off Catfish

 

Thursday, August 20

10:30 AM, Noon: Birch Creek
2:00 PM, 3:30 PM: Indiana Gospel Music Association
5:30 – 7:00 PM: Jester
8:00 PM – 9:30 PM: Jon Strahl Band

Friday, August 21

10:30 AM, 1:00 AM, 3:00 PM: Dior
Noon, 2:00 PM, 4:00 PM: Against the Clocks
5:30 – 7:00 PM: Timothy Scott and Toolbox Union
8:00 – 10:00 PM: Audiodacity

Saturday, August 22

10:30 AM, Noon: The Meek Sisters
3:00 – 4:30 PM: J-STAR Band
5:30 – 7:00 PM: Building Nations

Sunday, August 23

10:00 AM, Noon, 2:00 PM, 4:00 PM: Veseria
11:00 AM, 1:00 PM, 3:00 PM: Circle City Sound

The Pioneer Village Stage is cleverly located in the Pioneer Village on the northeast part of the Fairgrounds. The music stage is in the back of the Pioneer Village Barn, church pew seating, free with Fair admission. This year there will also be musicians playing on the front porch of the barn.

I suggest visiting Pioneer Village early in your day at the Fair. The music and demonstrations are mostly daytime events.

Friday, August 7

10:00 AM: Family Reunion String Band
2:00 PM: Cumberland Gap Bluegrass Band
6:30 PM: Liar’s Contest by Storytelling Arts of Indiana (contestants welcome)

Saturday, August 8

10:00 AM: Johnson County Folk Music Society
1:30 PM: Johnny Appleseed performed by Steve McPhail
3:00 PM: Naptown Jug Busters 

 

Sunday, August 9

10:00AM: Family Reunion String Band Gospel Sing
2:00 PM: Common Ground

Monday, August 10

10:00 AM: Patchwork
2:00 PM: Myra Dworski 

Tuesday, August 11

 
10:00 AM: Mac Bellner and Friends
2:00 PM: John Kay of Traditional Arts Indiana
6:30 PM: Bill Bailey with Hands on Rhythm

Wednesday, August 12

10:00 AM: Indiana Songbook presented by the Indiana State Museum– featuring President Lincoln
2:00 PM: Hank Hazard and Nashville Swingers

Thursday, August 13

10:00 AM – 5:00 PM: Steve Jeffris

Friday, August 14

10:00 AM: Indiana Songbook presented by the Indiana State Museum– featuring President Lincoln
2:00 – 5:00 PM: Steve Robbins & El Diego

Saturday, August 15

10:00 AM: Slates Family Band
2:30 PM, 5:00 PM: Scioto Ridge Boys 

Sunday, August 16

10:00 AM: Scioto Ridge Boys Gospel Hour
2:00 PM: Andra Faye and Scott Ballantine
5:30: Last Drop Jug Band – in the Main Street Tractor Parade
6:30 PM: Sacred Harp 

Monday, August 17

10:00 AM: Mac Bellner and Friends
2:00 PM: White River Jazz Band

Tuesday, August 18

10:00 AM: Robin Harrison
2:00 – 5:00 PM: Last Drop Jug Band  
6:30: New August Acoustic Duo

Wednesday, August 19

10:00 AM: Delta Duo
2:00 -- 5:00 PM: The Dulcimer Gathering

Thursday, August 20

10:00 AM – 5:00 PM: Steve Jeffris

Friday, August 21

10:00 AM: Mike and Joe Flowers
2:00 – 5:00 PM: Witch Hazel Valley People
6:30 PM: Marion County Line 

Saturday, August 22

10:00 AM: Last Drop Jug Band
1:30 PM: Johnny Appleseed performed by Steve McPhail
5:30 – 7:00 PM: Building Nations

Sunday, August 23

10:00 AM: Reunion String Band gospel sing
2:00 PM: Straight Line Bluegrass Band

Shane Co. Concert Series at the Indiana Farmers Coliseum

A separate ticket is needed for these shows (the cost of the ticket DOES NOT include Fair admission or parking).

Tuesday, August 11, 7:30 PM, $58 & $48: Meghan Trainor with special guests Charlie Puth and Life of Dillion,

Wednesday, August 12, 7:30 PM, $60, $55, $35, & $30: Garrison Keillor

Thursday, August 13, 7:30 PM, $55, $45, & 39 at 7:30 PM: Gabriel “Fluffy” Iglesias

Friday, August 14, 8:00 PM, $55 & $45: Jake Owen with special guest Parmalee

 http://in.gov/statefair/fair

Broad Ripple Gazette vol 12 no 15

First published in the Broad Ripple Gazette.

It’s Indiana State Fair time, it’s Indiana State Fair time! I can’t believe how excited I get each year – I’m always afraid that my enthusiasm will wane, but not this year at least. The “Year of the Farmer” promises great music and exhibits. I will preview a slice of the goodness in this issue and the next of the Gazette. In the meantime, there are oodles of fun to be had. 

Rodeo Ruby Love – Final Show with Mike Adams at His Honest Weight
Friday, July 31, 2015
The Hi-Fi
1043 Virginia Ave
21+, $10, doors 8:00 PM/show 9:00 PM

All good things must come to an end, or so I hear. 

Rodeo Ruby Love has being doing great musical things for the past 10 years. And band years are like dog years, each year should be multiplied by seven, at least. They have toured (with the requisite van breakdowns) several times, recorded six albums, contributed to compilation recordings, and played hundreds of shows in the last decade. They are celebrating the end of their era with a farewell show at The Hi-Fi in Fountain Square. 

The description on their website says it best “Rodeo Ruby Love has tried to become synonymous with Indiana: honest, hardworking, non-assuming and a little bit behind the times. Their songs seek to tell real stories, vulnerably exploring truth in the emotions we experience when life and love collide—the heartaches of friendship, the exhilaration of relationship, and the innocent angst of trying to get to second base.” 

Mike Adams at His Honest Weight (isn’t that a fun band name?) will open the show. 

www.hifiindy.com

In-Store Performance with Summer and Michael Kelsey
Sunday, August 2, 2015
Indy CD & Vinyl
806 Broad Ripple Ave.
all-ages, free, 5:00 PM

Yowza, Summer is talented! I’ve been listening to her debut album, Save the World, and it is wonderful good old-fashioned rock and roll. The fact that she is only 14 years old adds to the fun. She caught the ear of the guitar virtuoso and multi-talented Michael Kelsey, who produced the record and will perform with her at Indy CD & Vinyl. 

Trust me, you don’t want to miss this show.   

summersmusic.net
michaelkelsey.com
www.indycdandvinyl.com

Indiana State Fair – Year of the Farmer
August 7 – 23, 2015
Indiana State Fairgrounds
1202 E. 38^th Street
all-ages, gate ticket price $12, advance $8,  children under 5 years old free, various packages and discounts available 

I am an Indiana State Fair geek – I’ve attended every single day of the Fair for years. Here are a few insider tips. 

Parking: They started charging $5.00 for parking on the Fairgrounds a few years ago. If I’m driving, I find it easiest to park at the Indiana School for the Deaf at 52^nd Street and the Monon Trail. The charge is the same, and it is an easy walk across the street. There is also handicapped parking there and you don’t have to down and up the steps under the track. I find it easier to exit also, be prepared, everyone has to exits onto 46^th Street, but there is you get to see all of the trailers and fun stuff of the folks that are working at the Fair. 

Walking: The Monon Trail leads right to the Fairgrounds. You can hop off at 42^nd or 38^th Street, or there is a gate right on the Trail that leads into the Midway. 

Pedal & Park: The secured bicycle parking is right on the trail, north of 38^th Street. And you receive a coupon for $1 off of your admission. Be mindful that you need to retrieve your bike by 8:00 PM. 

Train: I had never taken the Indiana Transportation Museum FairTrain because it seemed a little crazy for me to drive to Fishers to travel back to my neighborhood. Last year my clever brother pointed out that I could make the round trip from the Fairgrounds to Fishers and back. Why didn’t think of that? I’ll be taking my inaugural FairTrain ride this year. The trains arrive and depart the Fairgrounds several times each day across from Gate 6, you can now purchase tickets at the Coliseum Box Office. Prices vary by day and age of the rider, check www.itm.org for more info. 

Tractor Shuttle: I have an unnatural affection for the Tractor Shuttle. It is a great way to see the Fairgrounds and meet people. I couldn’t confirm this year’s price; it was a dollar per ride last year. You can take a full turn around the Fairgrounds while sitting in the shade (or out the rain). Seniors can purchase a daily unlimited ride wrist band for $3 – and it is free for seniors on both Tuesdays of the Fair. 

Admission: There are tons of deals to be had. There will be a coupon in Monday, August 10^th Indianapolis Star for free admission on Wednesday, August 12. There are also discounts for brining Pepsi cans, AAA member’s day, college students, military personnel and families, and much more. Check out indianastatefair.com for more information. 

Food: On both Tuesdays of the Fair there are $2 Taste of the Fair specials. All concessionaires will offer a $2 special. It’s a great way to sample it all! 

Balloon Launch and Light Up the Night: Friday, August 7^th (Opening Day). The balloons will launch at sunrise (about 6:15 AM) and that evening (9:00 PM) there will be an Illuminated Tractor Parade and Hot Air Balloon Glow, presented by Reynolds Farm Equipment.

I’ll have the rundown of concerts and other State Fair events in the next issue.

 

Broad Ripple Gazette vol 11 number 10

First published in the Broad Ripple Gazette

Indiana State Fair Coliseum

Weeks ago I was thrilled to see the old Indiana State Fair sign hoisted to the top of the building replacing the Pepsi Coliseum neon (nothing against Pepsi – this column is fueled by diet Pepsi and popcorn) and I couldn't wait for the chance to peek inside the building.

I had the opportunity to go behind the scenes at the newly remodeled Coliseum a few days before the public opening and it is grand!  I tend to be suspicious of change and couldn’t imagine how the 75 year-old could be made better. I was wrong.

I was counting the hours until the open house for the folks that had worked on the building. While I didn't swing a hammer or run any wire, I do know the guys who installed the beer lines (yes, beer!) so I tagged along as their guest. I was so excited that I arrived before event started. You can ask the editor of this fine paper or any of my three employers – I’m never early for anything.  Ever.

 Wooden seats salvaged from the old Coliseum. 

The renovated Coliseum looks great, with several nods to the old building including a section of the original wooden seats, photographs from old concerts (Beatles!) and the brass deco ticket windows. I did my best to open all of the doors, sit as many places as I could – including the ice hockey penalty box and drink out of every water fountain. 

All I'm missing is the sash and crown! 

Speaking of drinking, I had a delicious locally brewed beer from Outliers. It would have been rude to not test the beer lines after all of Spencer and Schaun’s hard work, although I think they were pretending like they didn't know me when I walked down the runway like I’d just been crowned Miss Indiana State Fair. For the record, that was pre-beer sampling.

The Coliseum Concert Series at the Indiana State Fair has been announced:

-Lynyrd Skynyrd with special guests Jamey Johnson and Drake White and the Big Fire - July 31 at 7:30; $26, $36 and $60.50

-Robin Thicke with special guest Estelle - Aug. 1 at 8 p.m.; $35, $45 and $75

-Phillip Phillips - Aug. 5 at 8 p.m.; $25 and $35

-American Idol Live! 2014 Tour – Aug. 6 at 7:30 p.m.; $25, $39.50 and $59.50

-Pitbull - Aug. 8 at 8 p.m.; $35, $45 and $75

-Hunter Hayes - Aug. 9 at 8 p.m.; $35 and $45

-Jim Gaffigan - Aug. 17 at 8 p.m.; $25, $35 and $45

For more information, contact the Fairgrounds Coliseum Box Office at (317) 927-7601 or visit www.indianastatefair.com.

Mark Buselli Quintet CD release show
Sunday, May 4, 2014
The Jazz Kitchen
5377 N. College Ave
21+, 5:00 – 9:00 PM, $12

Mark Buselli is celebrating the release of his newest album, Untold Stories. He as recorded several records with his orchestra over the last decade, but this is his first with the quintet in a few years. The record has six of his original songs and his take on Duke Ellington’s “Angelica.” I especially loved the song, “Claude” a tribute to the late Claude Sifferlen, Mark’s long-time collaborator and Indianapolis jazz piano legend. The record features Mark playing trumpet, saxophonist Danny Walsh, pianist Steve Allee, bassist Jeremy and drummer Steve Houghton.  

I have to share this review of the album by Chris Spector, Midwest Records: The unique thing this trumpeter brings to the bandstand is that he sounds like he could have been a student of Miles but he isn’t trying to ape Miles. What a cool fine line to be able to tread. One of those cats with a day job as an educator that doesn’t let the classroom interfere with his ability to swing, this is a sweet, straight ahead listening date that knows you want to groove even if you are sitting down. Well played throughout, this well decorated cat within the halls of academe is well deserving of some more love from the real world. Time to show this cat what Valentine’s Day feels like.

I need to start writing jazz reviews so I can throw around descriptions like “cats” and “ape” and “groove.”

thejazzkitchen.com 

Broad Ripple Village Gallery Tour
Friday, May 9, 2014
Various Venues
free, all-ages, 5:00 – 9:00 PM

This year’s Spring Gallery Tour features 20 venues filled with art and goodness. Start at the Broad Ripple Fire Station (6330 Guilford Avenue) to get your official map with the galleries and the artists they are featuring. Here is a sampling:  

Fine Estate Art – Gallery Two (5914 N. College Ave). Gallery Two is a brand new gallery space and is an extension of Fine Estate Art. The work in the new space features nine Indiana and regional artists.

Broad Ripple Magnet High School (1115 E. Broad Ripple Avenue). The works of middle school and high school students will be on display. And being in a school when you’re not required to be is extra fun!

Flanner and Buchannan Funeral Centers (1305 Broad Ripple Avenue). First of all pop in to thank them for being the sponsor of the Gallery Tour. Secondly, check out the work of painter John Reynolds work of farm animals. And thirdly, just like high school – it’s a great place to visit when you’re not required to be there!

VSA Indiana (924 E. Westfield Boulevard). The students of Very Special Arts have been making beautiful items for the Gallery Tours for years – I have a great collection of flower pots, candle holders, tiles, and bowls purchased though participating merchants. Their Urban Artisans interns work will be featured in this show.

The Bungalow (924 E. Westfield Boulevard). Artist Phil O’Malley’s bold work will be featured.

Marigold Clothing (6512 Cornell Avenue). The late-nature photographer Bill Brink’s work in the form of prints and notecards will be on sale to benefit his namesake memorial garden along the Monon Trail. Indianapolis jewelry artist Suzanne Bowles will be in the store with her one-of-a-kind textured pieces.

Broad Ripple Knits (6510 Cornell Avenue). The shop will be showing off their new space and yummy yarns.

Editions Limited Gallery of Fine Art (838 E. 65^th Street). Editions Limited is hosting their annual group show, titled Fresh From the Studio.

Ashland Gallery & Stu’s Studio (6537 N. Carrollton Avenue). The Gallery is featuring the self-portrait of photography of local artists and photographers including Michelle Merle Pace, Erin Huber, Benaiah Cusak.

Indianapolis Art Center (820 E 67^th Street). The Art Center is hosting their biennial Art from the Heartland exhibition, featuring work from some of the Midwest’s most exciting artists.

Before or after you visit all 20 galleries – you can do it, I just know it – please pop into the restaurant sponsors, Ambrosia (5909 N. College Avenue) and Corner Wine Bar (6331 Guilford Avenue) and thank them.

Broad Ripple Gazette vol 10 no 15

First published in the Broad Ripple Gazette

This might be my favorite two weeks of the year. The Indiana State Fair is in full swing, plus there will be great music at the Indy Folk Festival and SausageFest. Food and music, what more do you need? 

Indiana State Fair
August 2 – 18, 2013
Indiana State Fairgrounds
1202 E. 38^th Street
all-ages, general admission $7 presale (CVS, Walmart, State Fair ticket office), check www.indianastatefair.com for more discount options. 

I have an unnatural affection for the Indiana State Fair. And popcorn. Seriously, rarely a day goes by that I don’t eat popcorn.  The 2013 agricultural theme is Year of Popcorn! I haven’t missed a day of the Fair in the last decade, even with the addition of more days and I hope to make all seventeen days this year too. I hope to see you there – you can usually find around the Pioneer Village or the Home and Family Arts building with a big grin on my face and most likely some form of popcorn in my hand. 

There is no way that I can list all of the great things happening each day of the Fair; here are some highlights and I promise that you can find fun whatever days you happen to be there. 

Pioneer Village is in the northeast corner of the Fairgrounds. You’ll find old-timey farming demonstrations, antique tractors, barns, and Dick Reel.  Dick is one of the many volunteers who use their vacation time to sleep on the Fairgrounds at night and recreate home and farm skills by day.  Dick has demonstrated woodworking and carving for almost 20 years. Even more fascinating, he has worked on the fairgrounds every August since he was 14 and has wonderful stories about working at the grandstand and taking tickets at the entrance gates. You can see vintage farm machinery in action most days at 10:00, 2:00, and 4:00 (time vary on Sundays and a few other days). 

The Glass Barn is brand newest addition to the Fairgrounds and can be found on the north side of the Fairgrounds next to the MacReynolds barn. The new venue promises a clear look into the farming experience. I can’t wait to see it.

The Coliseum is being renovated and you can tour the progress each day between 10:00 – 6:00. I can’t wait for a peek. 

Historic and Vintage Pianos will be on display each day, from 9:00 to 9:00 on the third floor (wind your way up the stairs after you check out the open show photographs) of the Home and Family Arts Building. 

The Big Cheese Sculpture is in the DuPont Pavilion. You can watch the carving in the early days of the Fair and gawk at the sculpture.    

World’s Largest Ball of Popcorn. You read that right! The world’s largest ball of popcorn will be a mere mile from my house. It’s almost too much to think about. You can find it (and mostly likely me) in the Ag/Hort building each day from 9:00 – 9:00. 

The Daily Parade takes place each day – hence the name – although if I were in charge I would call it the Tractor Parade at 6:30, except for Friday, August 16.  

Souvenirs: The State Fair Gift Shop (across the entryway to the Midway) on Main Street always has fun State Fair hats, tees, and other goodies. In Pioneer Village you can purchase a freshly cut cedar shingle stamped Indiana State Fair with the year. The last two years there has been a die stamping machine making brass key chains before your eyes and ears. My favorite place to purchase a tee shirt is the MacReynolds Barn. Not only do they sell John Deere toys and goodies, but they generally have a shirt unique for the State Fair. 

Music: With the renovation of the Coliseum and lack of stage at the Grandstand all of the music at the State Fair this year is free once you’re in the gate. I can’t list all of it, but here is a sampling. 

Marsh Free Stage (northwest corner of Fairgrounds, in front of the 4-H buildings), all times listed are in the evening.

Friday, August 2, 7:30 – Karmin
Saturday, August 3, noon and 2:00 – Coco Jones, 7:30 – Matt Nathanson
Monday, August 4, 7:00 – Vertical Horizon and Blind Melon
Wednesday, August 7, 7:30 – Parmalee & Rachel Farley
Thursday, August 8, 7:30 – Kevin Costner and Modern West Band (and yes, it is that Kevin Costner)
Friday, August 9, 7:30 – Theory of a Deadman
Monday, August 12, 7:00 – Styx
Tuesday, August 13, 7:00 – Joe Nichols
Wednesday, August 14, 7:00 – Sail Rock Tour, featuring Christopher Cross (I still have my ticket stub from when I saw Christopher Cross in 1980 at Purdue), Orleans, Gary Wright, Firefall, John Ford Coley, Robbie Dupree & Player
Thursday, August 15, 7:30 – Montgomery Gentry
Friday, August 16, 6:30 – Jennie Devoe, 8:00 – Reverend Peyton’s Big Damn Band (if I was in charge of labeling this lineup I’d call it “Indiana’s Most Beloved Musicians.” Both acts are diverse on the surface, but have a good dose of the blues running through them. 

Saturday, August 17, 7:00 – Blood, Sweat, & Tears

Main Street Stage (and you thought these streets had no name; on the south side of the of the infield track, across from the draft horse barn), the music typically starts at 11:30 and the last show ends at 8:00 PM. There is plenty of shade and picnic tables by the stage and it is strategically placed between the Dairy Bar, Pork Tent, and Cattleman’s Tent for a handy place to eat and enjoy the music. 

I don’t have enough room to list all of the shows but that stage tends to feature Indiana musicians. In fact on Saturday, August 3 from 10:00 AM – 1:30 the show will be a spotlight of Indianapolis musicians. 

Pioneer Village (in the north side of the red barn on the northeast side of the Fairgrounds – I sound like my dad with those directions), the music features old-time, apron-wearin’ music. The music typically starts at 10:00 AM and lasts until about 6:30 PM when the parade starts. There are church pews for sitting to listen to the music. Make sure to have your program handy or something to fan yourself with, those pioneers were hardy stock, no air conditioning. Be sure and find Bill Baily – he’ll be wearing overalls – not that that narrows it down, but if you’re lucky he’ll be playing the washboard and spoons. Thank him for organizing the music in Pioneer Village, it’s always a treat. 

I suggest downloading the Indiana State Fair app, checking out the website, or grabbing a program to have a rough idea of what you want to do while you’re at the Fair. It’s easy to get caught up in one area and not make it around the Fairgrounds. We’re lucky enough to live close enough to make it feasible to visit the Fair several times and the Fair offers same-day pass outs if you want to break up the day. I suggest that you plan on picking up an Indianapolis Star on Monday, August 5 for the free ticket to use on Wednesday, August 7.

I’ll see you there, for sure. 

www.in.gov/statefair

 

Indy Hostel Folk Festival and Anniversary Celebration
Saturday, August 10, 2013
Indy Hostel
4903 Winthrop Ave
all-ages (under 13 free), $13 advance, $15 day of

The tag line for the Indy Hostel anniversary festival is “10 Years of Bringing the World to Our Neighborhood,” which is true and awesome, but I think of Indy Hostel’s anniversary as “10 years of getting touring musicians off of Nora’s sofa.” I can’t believe that it has been almost a decade since my couch was a stop on the underground railroad of touring musicians! Not only is the hostel a good spot for musicians, but they have housed hundreds of international travelers, tourists, students, and other fascinating folks during that time.

This year’s folk fest is spilling out to the street. A stretch of Winthrop Avenue from 49^th Street to the north will be closed to make way for the stage and crafts people, food trucks and Upland beer. 

The day will start with a parade of kiddos and adults (me at least!) on bikes at 10:00. Feel free to decorate your bikes; there will be prizes for the children.

Here is the schedule:
Kids’ Bike Parade: 10-10:45
Stasia Demos: 11:00-11:45 Street Stage
Dave Duvall: 12:00-12:45 Backyard Stage
John Barney & The Passengers: 1:00-1:45 Street Stage
Cara Jean Marcy: 2:00-2:45 Backyard Stage
Stella Luna & The Satellites: 3:00-4:30 Street Stage
Shiny & The Spoon: 5:00-6:30 Backyard stage
Flea Bitten Dawgs: 6:30-8:00 Street Stage
Sacred Circles (fire arts): 8:00-9:00 Backyard Stag

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The Spud Puppies: 9:00-10:45 Street Stage

If you’d like to volunteer contact indyhostelff@gmail.com, it will be a fun gig. You can hear the music while you’re volunteering, get an official tee shirt, and a ticket to stay (or come early) for the rest of the event. 

www.indyhostel.us

 

SausageFest
Friday and Saturday, August 16 & 17, 2013
Saint Thomas Aquinas
4600 Kenwood Ave (46^th and Illinois)
free, all-ages 

Not only does SausageFest feature sausage and beer – it’s nearly a law that you can’t have one without the other – there is a fine lineup of music. 

Friday, August 16
5:30 – SausageKings (a group of St. Thomas men, folk-rock)
6:15 – Jon Martin and Gary Wasson (country-rock with a side of Merle)
7:15 – 3:1 (psychedelic goodness)
8:15 – Bill Rumley & Class Trip (fun summer rock classics)
9:30 – Streaker (don’t worry, they keep their clothes on. Led by parishioner Don McMahon  and they are a crowd favorite with kiddos and adults alike)

Saturday, August 17
4:30 Mass (indoors)
 5:30 Stella Luna and the Satellites (big party fun)  
6:30 Dugan Brothers (bluegrassy goodness)
7:30 Chad Mills and The Upright Willies (a personal favorite of mine, talented sing-songwriter with a fabulous band)
8:30 Mars or the Moon (they always play a lovely mix of tunes
9:45 Hip Sindicate (making their festival debut,  the band is fronted by St. Thomas member, Paul Souza of the East Coast-based Velveteen Playboys and an excellent lineup of Indianapolis musicians)

The festival features plenty of games for the kiddos – I think my niece and nephew spent their allowance and mine on the nickel pitch last year – games for the adults, food and beer. 

www.staindy.org