08.14.2014-08.20.2014
THE TIMES MEDIA CO.
TV antics A LAUGHING MATTER: MORNING SHOW COMEDIANS BACK IN NWI
N W I .CO M /G O
THICKE READY TO PERFORM AT VENUE
HEARTLAND POKER TOUR IN THE CARDS FOR REGION
GIUSEPPE’S SERVES UP AUTHENTIC ITALIAN FOOD
08.14.2014 / THE TIMES MEDIA CO. / GO!
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08.14.2014-08.20.2014 MUSIC+CLUBS 3 | Local Scene Spotlight on music performances and happenings in the area 4 | MUSIC + CLUBS Local musician Fernando Rodriguez sets his sights on Las Vegas
5 | FUN + GAMES
John G. Brokopp discusses the Heartland Poker Tour 7 | THEATER The latest local theater productions and shows
THE BIG SCREEN 10 | CAPSULES The lowdown on all the latest films at a multiplex near you 12 | 24/7 Your guide to the latest events and happenings in Northwest Indiana and surrounding regions
COVER STORY
SAT. OCT. 18
ON SALE SATURDAY AT NOON!
8 / SEE + DO The Morning Show Comedians prepare to conjure up laughs in the region.
15 | FUEL Italian fare shines at Giuseppe’s Restaurant in Schererville
PROVIDED
Pictured is gelato on warm brioche with chocolate ganache from Giuseppe’s Restaurant.
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08.14.2014-08.20.2014
THE TIMES MEDIA CO.
TV antics
SAT. AUG. 23
A LAUGHING MATTER: MORNING SHOW COMEDIANS BACK IN NWI
NWI.COM/GO
THICKE READY TO PERFORM AT VENUE
HEARTLAND POKER TOUR IN THE CARDS FOR REGION
GIUSEPPE’S SERVES UP AUTHENTIC ITALIAN FOOD
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ON THE COVER:
WGN news reporters Pat Tomasulo, Ana Belaval and Mike Toomey star in the comedy spotlight. PROVIDED PHOTOS
Copyright 2014 Go! is published Thursdays by The Times Media Co. and Lee Enterprises. No part of Go! may be reproduced without prior written consent. For permissions requests, reprints, back issues and more information, call 219-933-3200 or visit nwi.com/pages/contact-us
CARE TO COMMENT? WHERE’S YOUR FAVORITE PLACE TO EAT ICE CREAM IN THE REGION?
SAT. AUG. 30
SUN. NOV. 9
KRISTIN LOWERY VIA FACEBOOK: Cabo’s in Michigan City. We are very conscious about what we eat and my son goes nutso when he eats high fructose corn syrup and crazy dyes. We know EXACTLY what is in the ice cream and popsicles there, nothing but REAL ingredients! Everything is made on site and is fresh and the owners are amazing. I won’t go anywhere else!!! ZACH BIENIAK VIA FACEBOOK: Cold Stone, Dyer
Follow us on social media to join the conversation. For next week, tell us WHERE’S YOUR FAVORITE PLACE TO ENJOY A HAMBURGER AROUND THE REGION? LET US KNOW ON SOCIAL MEDIA OR EMAIL ELOISE.VALADEZ@NWI.COM TO BE FEATURED IN NEXT WEEK’S FEEDBACK! facebook.com/gonwitimes
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Jaded Incorporated, 10 p.m. Sept. 12 (18 and older). $15
Top songs on iTunes • ➙ 1. All About That Bass, Meghan Trainor • 2. Bang Bang, Jessie J & Nicki Minaj & Ariana Grande • 3. Rude, MAGIC! • 4. Stay With Me, Sam Smith • 5. Burnin’ It Down, Jason Aldean • 6. Maps, Maroon 5 • 7. All I Need Is You, Lecrae • 8. Chandelier, Sia • 9. Boom Clap, Charli XCX • 10. Dirt, Florida Georgia Line
Lake County Fair’s Battle competition a tight match
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Ryan Adams, 7:30 p.m. Oct. 16. $39.50-$59.50
Catfish and the Bottlemen, 8 p.m. Oct. 6 (18 and older). $10
The Wild Feathers, 7:30 p.m. Nov. 7. $18
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VIC THEATRE Jamusa.com The Airborne Toxic Event, 8 p.m. Oct. 18 (18 and older). $27 Warpaint, 8 p.m. Oct. 5 (18 and older). $22.50 DOUBLE DOOR Doubledoor.com Pete Yorn, 8 p.m. Oct. 8 (21 and older). $35 RIVIERA THEATRE Jamusa.com Fitz and the Tantrums, 8 p.m. Nov. 22. $33
Provided
Capernaum placed first in a recent battle of the bands at Lake County Fair.
MUSIC NOTES: • This columnist had a blast in Brookfield two weeks ago in front of the cameras at The Jam Lab while serving as the guest interviewer for “The Song
Is The Vehicle,” a new online webisode program soon to hit the Internet. The multi-part program produced by John Dykas follows the evolution of gifted Chicago songwriter and music icon, Jim Peterik (of Survivor, Ides of March, Pride of Lions and World Stage fame). Jim requested Yours Truly because our careers have crossed many times since before he formed the original line-up of Survivor. The web show is an audio/ visual tie-in with Peterik’s soon to be published autobiography, “Through The Eye Of The Tiger.” Keep up with all things Peterik at: jimpeterik.com. • As the region’s latest place to embrace live regional music by adding bands earlier this month to their menu
Echosmith, 7:30 p.m. Nov. 19. $15 Colony House, 10 p.m. Oct. 4 (18 and older). $10
METRO Metrochicago.com
tom lounges / beatboss@aol.com
Steve Poltz, 10 p.m. Sept. 26 (21 and older). $20
THE CHICAGO THEATRE Thechicagotheatre.com
Lucius, Lapland, 7:30 p.m. Oct. 8. $22
“Guffaw proved to be really dedicated, hard-working and well-schooled musicians. They played very well, but need a little more interaction with their audience and stage presence. Both of them were impressive.” Also doing a fine job were the seven-piece classic pop/rock ensemble For Us Cool Kids and alt-rock quartet, Infinity Pool. Both showcased their playing and writing skills quite well at the event. “Everyone did a great job,” Clark said.
SCHUBAS Schubas.com
All concerts listed below are all ages unless otherwise noted. Some of the ticket prices below do not include taxes and fees.
local scene
s emcee for last week’s “Battle of Midway” at the Lake County Fair, this columnist was excited to see top shelf young talent coming up the region music scene ranks. The style of each competing band was completely different and ranged from hard alternative and classic pop/ rock to country/pop and jazz fusion. This year’s event was trimmed back from events of past years and featured four bands in the finals to compete from the many submissions sent. Each band had more performance time and change over time, creating a less stressful environment. Congratulations to the country pop group Capernaum, who are ably fronted by spunky and energized singer/songwriter/multi-instrumentalist LeAnn Stutler, on taking first place honors in the 2014 “Battle.” The win was by a narrow margin of just one point over jazz fusion quartet Guffaw. Capernaum impressed the panel of music industry judges with their set of original tunes and well-picked covers to take home the 1st place trophy and $250 cash prize while Guffaw won over the judges with their well-played set of all original tunes to take home the 2nd place trophy and $100 cash prize. Capernaum also won over the audience who roared their applause during the “People’s Choice” segment of the show following all performances. “Capernaum had a lot of personality and delivered a really strong live show,” said judge Dan Clark, a professional working drummer and radio producer/ host at Lakeshore Public Radio.
Jon Bellion, 7:30 p.m. Oct. 30 (17 and older). $12
SUBTERRANEAN Subt.net
PARK WEST Jamusa.com Richard Marx, 7:30 p.m. Oct. 26. $35 Vintage Trouble, 8 p.m. Oct. 4 (18 and older). $18 CITY WINERY Citywinery.com Joan Osbourne, 8 p.m. Oct. 13. $30-$40 Kat Edmunson, 8 p.m. Oct. 14. $20-$30 HOUSE OF BLUES Hob.com Dirty Loops, 8 p.m. Nov.10. $36.55 LINCOLN HALL lincolnhallchicago.com Barcelona, 8 p.m. Nov. 4 (21 and older). $13 Mucca Pazza, 10 p.m. Oct. 31 (21 and older). $20 Lily and Madeline, 8 p.m. Nov. 15. $15
Send information on upcoming concerts to nwitickets@gmail.com.
of fun activities on weekends, Zao Island in Valparaiso, has fared well from all reports. Catch local favorites rocking amid the live alligators and batting cages as acoustic duo Chris & Lou perform on Friday, followed by a plug in and jam show on Saturday by Planetary Blues Band. For the full band schedule and more: zaoisland.net. • Northwest Indiana entertainment company — Imagine Music — will produce a concert at Memorial Opera House (104 E. Indiana Ave.) at 7:30 p.m. Aug. 22 to benefit the Porter County Museum Foundation featuring See Local scene, Page 4
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Fernando Rodriguez (center) is pictured with Titus Rodes Band.
Local Scene critically acclaimed singer/songwriter Alice Peacock (alicepeacock.com) along with Valpo native Kate Myers (Kate is the daughter of Valparaiso University law professor David Myers — katemyers.com). Tickets are $25 and $35. “Net proceeds will be donated to the Foundation to assist in the betterment of the Porter County Museum,” said Imagine partner Brad Koeppen. “My partner Rob Harkel and I have tried to include one benefit concert each year in our concert series and we hope this concert will be as successful as those in the past. Alice has been a part of our concert series on two other occasions during the past few years and is a fantastic singer/songwriter. We hope to see a full house for this special show.” More: mohlive.com or (219) 548-9137. • Veteran blues guitarist/songwriter/vocalist Elvin Bishop, who proved himself a vital and creative artist when he first hit the national scene in 1965 as a member of the legendary Chicago-based Paul Butterfield Blues Band, has returned to his Windy City home in a musical sense by re-signing with Chicago’s blues label, Alligator Records. It was his label in the 1990s for a short spell. Alligator has announced Bishop’s return to their roster and an Aug. 19 release date for Bishop’s new album — “Can’t Even Do Wrong Right” — featuring guest appearances by famous friends like blues harmonica great Charlie Musselwhite and former Jefferson Starship vocalist Mickey Thomas. More: alligator.com. • The audience was surprised to hear singer, frontman, band leader Don Wilson of the John Mellencamp tribute group Mellencougar announce near the end of the band’s concert on Aug. 2 at Lake County Fair that it would be the band’s “last performance together.” “After seven-and-a-half years, it’s actually over,” said Wilson. “Mellencougar was a fun ride that allowed me to sing my favorite music to people who felt the same way. It was something. I got to sing for thousands of people in the Midwest on some stages I didn’t deserve with some killer musicians. I’m proud of what we did as a band.”
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PROVIDED PHOTOS
GO! OUT
LIVE MUSIC VENUES UDDY AND PAL’S B PLACE CROWN POINT 1206 E. Summit St., Crown Point, IN 46307 219.662.0088 BUDDY AND PAL’S PLACE SCHERERVILLE 340 U.S. 30, Schererville, IN 46375 219.865.8377 buddyandpals.com
Hammond musical mainstay sets sights on Vegas TIM SHELLBERG / TIMES CORRESPONDENT
H
ammond songsmith and singer Fernando Rodriguez admitted to being apprehensive when he advised members of his Titus Rodes Band he would be stepping down as a member and guiding force. “Initially, I thought this would have brought a lot of negativity, but these guys have been supportive and all they want to do is see me succeed,” he said. “When I broke it to them, of course there were some tears that were shed. But they know that this is something I need to do.” He’ll make his final appearance with region popsters Titus Rodes Band on Saturday at East Chicago’s Veterans Park during the city’s annual Taste of East Chicago. Rodriguez has been a fixture in the region music strata for more than a dozen years and was a finalist and regular competitor on “Fox Chicago Idol.” In 2006, Rodriguez, along with Kiki Ventura and George Buck, formed the Titus Rodes Band. Taking their inspiration from contemporary dance and electronic music, the band released the full-length set, “Reasons to Conquer The World,” with Rodriguez penning and producing the songs that make up the set, in early 2012. Last year, Titus Rodes put out a single, “Ooh” which, along with their full-length set, is available on iTunes, Amazon and Spotify. In tandem with Titus, Rodriguez has lent his talents to the long-running doo-wop ensemble Harbor Lights. A member since 2008, Harbor Lights has released nearly a half dozen discs over the course of the last decade and has performed throughout the country. On Aug. 31, Rodriguez will perform with Harbor Lights at the Blueberry Fest in Plymouth, Ind. Rodriguez is busy preparing to move to Las
Right: Harbor Lights
J.J. KELLEYS 2455 Bernice, Lansing, IL 60438; 708.474.9977 jjkelleyslansing.com MEYERS CASTLE LOUNGE 1370 Joliet St., Dyer, IN 46311 219.865.8452 meyerscastlelounge.com LONGSHOTS SPORTS BAR 2251 US 41, Schererville, IN 46375 219.322.0080
Left: Fernando Rodriguez, member of Titus Rodes Band and Harbor Lights, is preparing to move to Las Vegas.
Vegas to work in the audio and video field in Sin City. “It’s not that I wanted to leave: it’s a choice that I had to make,” he said. “I wanted to make a career move, and (Las Vegas) was the right opportunity … It’s hard to give (both bands) up, but it’s a decision I had to make.” While Rodriguez’ pending move to Vegas is bittersweet, the songsmith and producer will continue to pursue music and plans to take advantage of his new location. Titus Rodes, he said, will continue to perform and record after Rodriguez heads west. “I will be closer to the West Coast, and I hope my original music will get to the right hands,” he said. “If I do land some kind of recording contract out in L.A. it’ll be ‘Hey, I’ve got a band. Let me call them over.’” Rodriguez’s final show with Titus Rodes is the headlining show Saturday at Taste of East Chicago. Opening for Titus Rodes is New Orleans Beau and the Big Easy Band. FYI: Titus Rodes Band, New Orleans Beau and the Big
Easy Band will perform at 5 p.m. Saturday at Veterans Park, 154th Street and Indianapolis Boulevard, East Chicago. Free admission. Visit eastchicago.com.
WHITE RHINO 101 Joliet St., Dyer, IN 46311 219.864.9200 whiterhinoonline.com STADIUM 1480 Joliet St., Dyer, IN 46311 ZODIAC 113 N. Main St., Crown Point, IN 46307 219.663.0303 zodiaccafelounge.com WOODHOLLOW AFTER DARK 200 U.S 41, Schererville, IN 46375 219.864.8862 BULLPEN BAR & GRILL 1013 W. U.S 30, Schererville, IN 46375 219.322.7788 gotobullpenbar.com GOODFELLAS 11200 W. 129th Ave., Cedar Lake, IN 46303 219.374.6700 Goodfellascedarlake.com SOCIAL 219 2350 Cline Ave., Schererville, IN 46375 219.322.3060 socialtwoonenine.com DANNY Z’S 1860 45th St., Munster, IN 46321 219.924.3500 dzpubngrub.com
Your home team schedules ➙ Aug. 14: Chicago Cubs vs. Brewers, 1:20 p.m. Aug. 15: Chicago Cubs @ Mets, 6:10 p.m.; Chicago White Sox vs. Blue Jays, 7:10 p.m.; Gary Southshore Railcats @ Kansas City T-Bones, 7:05 p.m. Aug. 16: Chicago Cubs @ Mets, 6:10 p.m.; Chicago White Sox vs. Blue Jays, 6:10 p.m.; Gary Southshore Railcats @ Kansas City T-Bones, 7:05 p.m. Aug. 17: Chicago Cubs @ Mets, 12:10 p.m.; Chicago White Sox vs. Blue Jays, 1:10 p.m.; Gary Southshore Railcats @ Kansas City T-Bones, 5:05 p.m.
Ameristar hosts Heartland Poker Tour
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JOHN G. BROKOPP/JOHNBROKOPP1@GMAIL.COM
meristar East Chicago is celebrating the grand opening of its new live poker room in grand style by hosting one of the Heartland Poker Tour’s biggest events of the year. The 10-day extravaganza began Aug. 8 and runs through Sunday. The tournament is headlined by a nationally televised Main Event that begins today. Because the tournament is expected to bring in between 400 and 600 players from around the country, the games are being held in the Ameristar Discovery Ballroom. Heartland Poker Tour, founded in 2005, made Majestic Star Casino its home in Northwest Indiana for many years. Nearly $8 million in prize money was distributed there and 14 champions were crowned on national television. Majestic Star filled its tournament void with the Mid-States Poker Tour which was held July 26 through Aug. 3. The move to Ameristar was a natural. Pinnacle Entertainment, the property’s parent company, also owns the Heartland Poker Tour. The tour’s Ameristar debut is the start of a new era. The full slate of daily events includes four days of Main Event competition that requires a $1,650 buy-in. The televised Final Table will take place on Monday. The casino’s new poker room, located on the fourth floor, is a 108-seat venue built at a cost of $400,000. Each of the 12 tables is
equipped with a USB port at every seat. There is also free Wi-Fi plus a self-service beverage station and food service. The room is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Another player perk is the BravoPokerLive, a rating system which tracks the time players spend at the tables. It’s a convenient way to document points that can be redeemed by players for comps. Ameristar’s live poker room was closed in 2008. The space was redesigned for a non-smoking slot section. The non-smoking area has been relocated to the first level of the vessel. The caliber of competition that the Heartland Poker Tour attracts affords average to above average players the opportunity to experience big-time (and big money) tournament action. It’s a great way for people who frequent the poker rooms in their home towns to bring their game to the next level. For complete tournament information, please visit www.hptpoker.com.
BONUS ROUND-UP BLUE CHIP: Joining the casino’s B Connected player’s club this month has its advantages. New members receive a $5 off coupon for the buffet and 5 times slot points. If you earn 1,000 base points on the day of sign-up you can pick up a 12-pack of Mug Root Beer or Diet Mug Root Beer at the B Connected Club. FOUR WINDS: W Club members can begin earning entries Aug. 31 for the $125,000 Keys to Luxury promotion set for Saturday,
Nov. 1. The grand prize is a 2015 Cadillac Escalade. There will also be cash drawings, including one for $10,000. Receive one free entry daily by visiting the W Club. Earn additional entries by playing slots or table games using your card. HARRAH’S JOLIET: Swipe your Total Rewards card between 1 and 8:30 p.m. every Saturday in August to find out if you’re an instant winner to enter Mr. Monopoly’s Money Booth and the chance to grab as much Monopoly money as you can in 20 seconds. Winnings will be awarded in free slot play. Ten names will be drawn each promotion day at 8:45 p.m. HOLLYWOOD JOLIET: Stop by Club Hollywood any day this month and register with your e-mail address. Every Tuesday one name will be drawn from among the registrants to win $1,000 in cash. Visit Club Hollywood for complete details. MAJESTIC STAR: Every Sunday this month players will have a chance to receive a set of four Luminarc glasses. Player’s club members who earn 125 points between 6 a.m. and 7:30 p.m. can collect their set of glasses at the second level walkway. Earn an additional 125 points and receive a second set. RIVERS: Visit the property on Thursdays in August to participate in $7,500 slot tournaments. Registration takes place in Cube between 4 p.m. and 7. The top 10 winners each week win a share of $30,000. First place is worth $2,000 cash. Winners are announced at 7:30 p.m.
Sunday, August 17 Free COnCerT
GO! PLAY CASINOS
MERISTAR CASINO A 777 Ameristar Blvd., East Chicago, IN 46312 219.378.3000 Ameristar.com/ east_chicago.aspx BLUE CHIP CASINO 777 Blue Chip Drive, Michigan City, IN 46360 219.879.7711 bluechipcasino.com FOUR WINDS CASINO NEW BUFFALO 11111 Wilson Road, New Buffalo, MI 49117 866.494.6371 Fourwindscasino.com HARRAH’S CASINO JOLIET 151 N. Joliet St., Joliet, IL 60432 815.740.7800 Harrahsjoliet.com HOLLYWOOD CASINO 777 Hollywood Blvd., Joliet, IL 60436 888.436.7737 hollywoodcasino joliet.com HORSESHOE CASINO HAMMOND 777 Casino Center Drive, Hammond, IN 46320 866.711.7463 horseshoe hammond.com MAJESTIC STAR CASINO 1 Buffington Harbor Drive, Gary, IN 46401 219.977.7777 majesticstar casino.com RIVERS CASINO 3000 S River Road, Des Plaines, IL 60018 888.307.0777 Riverscasino.com
UPCOMING SHOW
Heritage Park Gazebo
6:30pm - 8:00pm located at the corner of Ridge Rd. & Columbia Ave. For info on future concerts, please call 219-836-7275 or visit
PROVIDED
Players ante up recently for the first official game in the new poker room that opened at the Ameristar Casino in East Chicago.
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Billy Croft and The Five Alarm
www.munster.org
FREE Admission
Concessions sold
Handicapped drop-off area. parking at School Town Administration Building or St. paul’s Episcopal Church.
With four vocalists and a blistering rhythm section, this red hot smokin’ country rock band offers music from the latest hits on the country charts to rock legends and country classics. Billy, a longtime firefighter, wants you to find out yourself what a 5-Alarm is all about.
If inclement weather arises, “Sounds at Sunset” will be held at the munster High School Auditorium.
Free concert at Centennial park: August 15 AmeriCAn enGliSH 08.14.2014 / THE TIMES MEDIA CO. / GO!
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CELEB BIRTHDAYS ug. 15: Actress Rose Marie (“The Dick Van Dyke Show”) is 91. Actor Mike Connors is 89. Actress Pat Priest (“The Munsters”) is 78. Author-journalist Linda Ellerbee is 70. A Songwriter Jimmy Webb is 68. Singer-guitarist Tom Johnston of The Doobie Brothers is 66. Actress Tess Harper is 64. Actor Larry Mathews (“The Dick Van Dyke Show”) is 59. Actor Rondell Sheridan (“That’s So Raven,” ‘’Cory in the House”) is 56. Actor Peter Hermann (“Law and Order: Special Victims Unit”) is 47. Actress Debra Messing is 46. Actor Ben Affleck is 42. Singer Joe Jonas of The Jonas Brothers is 25. Actor-singer Carlos Pena (“Big Time Rush”) is 25. Actress Jennifer Lawrence is 24. DJ Smoove da General of Cali Swag District is 24. Aug. 16: Sportscaster Frank Gifford is 84. Actress Julie Newmar is 81. Country singer Billy Joe Shaver is 75. Actress Lesley Ann Warren is 68.
Hammond Community Theatre actors bring ‘Hell’ to the stage
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TIM SHELLBERG / TIMES CORRESPONDENT
arle Howe, co-director of Hammond Community Theatre’s production of George Bernard Shaw’s “Don Juan in Hell,” says the subjects debated in the play are uncannily relevant to today’s audiences. “He talks about man’s preoccupation with warfare and death and inventing new and greater weapons of destruction,” he said. “Birth control is even mentioned, and women’s rights and how the world is being driven to more of a secular society. He covers just a ton of stuff.” Opening today and running through Aug. 24 at Hammond’s Beatniks on Conkey, “Hell” finds the title character, along with the Devil, Don’s former flame, Ana and her father, the Commander, pondering and debating a variety of subjects. They lament everything from art and war to mortality and love. “Hell” was penned by Nobel Prize recipient and Oscar-winning Irish playwright Shaw first as a dream sequence of his acclaimed multi-act “Man and Superman.” “Hell” made its stage debut in 1907 and its best known production took place on Broadway in 1951. Howe, who is directing “Hell” with his wife, Angie, first saw a production of the play in Chicago approximately four decades ago. “It just stunned me,” he said. “It’s funny. It’s deep. It’s philosophical. And ever since I saw it I wanted to direct it … the play is more than 110 years old and there’s just a lot that still resonates.”
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GO! / THE TIMES MEDIA CO. / 08.14.2014
PROVIDED
Hammond Community Theatre presents “Don Juan in Hell.”
Grant Fitch from Highland plays Don Juan in this production of “Hell” and his wife, Kali Rasala-Fitch, portrays Ana. Joining the Fitches onstage is Hal Kilgore from Griffith as the Devil and Hammond’s Don Taylor as Ana’s father.
“(The cast) took to the material like ducks to water,” Howe said. “They are just so on top of this. They’ve brought a lot to (the play) themselves, and I’m just enjoying it thoroughly. They’re really, really good.”
FYI: “Don Juan in Hell” will be performed at 8 p.m. today through Saturday and Aug. 21 and 22 and 2 p.m. Aug. 24 at Beatniks on Conkey, 418 Conkey St., Hammond. Cost is $15. Call (888) 928-6648 or visit hammondcommunitytheatre.org.
THEATER NOW SHOWING A UG. 14-16 GREATER TUNA Mainstreet Theatre, 807 Franklin St., Michigan City. 219.874.4269. festivalplayersguild.org.
AUG. 17 THEATREPALOOZA FESTIVAL 3-6 p.m., Merrillville High School’s Reinhart Auditorium, 276 E. 68th Place, Merrillville. 219.331.2071. theatrepalooza.bpt.me. Theater companies from across Northwest Indiana will present short shows or excerpts of longer ones in a showcase format at this free theater festival.
AUG. 24 MAINSTAGE PREVIEW PARTY 2:30 and 5 p.m., Theatre at the Center, Center for Visual and Performing Arts, 1040 Ridge Road, Munster. Event is free but tickets are required. (219) 836-3255 or theatreatthecenter.com.
VENUES INDIANA FOOTLIGHT PLAYERS 1705 Franklin St., Michigan City. 219.874.4035. footlightplayers.org. This community theater group has been entertaining audiences in Michigan City for more than 50 years with its
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show season every year with an occasional third musical.
productions of dramas, comedies and musicals. FOURTH STREET THEATER 125 N. Fourth St., Chesterton. 219.926.7875. 4thstreetncca.org. Originally founded in 1990 as the North Coast Cultural Association and was located in the former St. Patrick’s Catholic Church until a fire burned the church down in 1998. The second location, now the Fourth Street Theater, opened its doors in the fall of 1999. In the summer of 2002, Fourth Street Theater joined the Northwest Indiana Excellence in Theatre Foundation, or NIETF, from whom they have since received over 120 nominations and 40 awards for excellence in all aspects of theatrical production. MARIAN THEATRE AUDITORIUM 119th and Lincoln Avenue, Whiting. 219.659.3776. The Marian Theatre Guild, founded in 1928, is the oldest continuous community theater group in Indiana. The guild is committed to providing audiences with riveting dramas, lighthearted comedies and wonderful musicals with local Northwest Indiana premieres. Productions are shows in April and November with dinner shows on Saturdays. Season ticket plans are available.
STAR PLAZA THEATRE I-65 & US 30, Merrillville. 219.769.6600. starplazatheatre.com. With 3,400 seats arranged in two intimate seating levels, the theater consistently hosts premier performers year-round. With its convenient location in the heart of Northwest Indiana’s shopping and dining district and its proximity to the adjoining Radisson Hotel, the Star Plaza offers a total entertainment package to area theatergoers.
PHOTO BY GREG KOL ACK
Actor Stef Tovar, surrounded by, clockwise from left, Kent Haina, Brandon Koller, Eric Lindahl and Matt Raftery, starred as Coach Knute Rockne in “Knute Rockne — All American” in 2008 at Theatre at the Center in Munster. Theatre at the Center will present its Preview Party, featuring upcoming productions, on Aug. 24. THE MEMORIAL OPERA HOUSE 104 E. Indiana Ave., Valparaiso. 219.548.9137. mohlive.com. This renovated, 364-seat building—with red, white
and blue stained-glass windows—was built as a living memorial to the Civil War veterans of Porter County. Built in 1893, the theater has a rich history as a venue
for musical and dramatic performances. ROSS MUSIC THEATER 227 Center St., Hobart. m-mproductions.com. Ross Music Theatre is a
community theater group whose goal is to involve everyone who wants to in the magic known as theater. Ross Music Theatre in association with M & M Productions puts on a two musical
THE THEATRE AT THE CENTER Center for the Visual and Performing Arts, 1040 Ridge Road, Munster. 219.836.3255. theatreatthecenter. com. This theater, just 35 minutes from downtown Chicago, has the distinction of being the only professional equity theater in Northwest Indiana, and showcases the artistry of professional actors, musicians and designers from throughout the Midwest.
ILLINOIS AUDITORIUM THEATRE OF ROOSEVELT UNIVERSITY 50 E. Parkway, Chicago. 312.902.1500. auditoriumtheatre.org. A National Historic Landmark and a mainstay of Chicago architecture and theatre since 1889, the Auditorium continues
to provide unparalleled ballet performances and a variety of artistic productions. BROADWAY IN CHICAGO Various venues, Chicago. 800.775.2000. broadwayinchicago.com. A joint venture between the two largest commercial theater producers and owner/ operators in the U.S., Broadway in Chicago offers the finest of professional stage productions in multiple theaters, all residing in Chicago’s lively Loop. Bank of America Theatre, 18 W Monroe St. Broadway Playhouse, 175 E. Chestnut. Cadillac Palace Theatre, 151 W. Randolph St. Oriental Theatre, 24 W. Randolph St. CHICAGO SHAKESPEARE THEATER Navy Pier, 800 E. Grand Ave., Chicago. 312.595.5600. chicagoshakes.com. Prominently located on Navy Pier in Chicago, this venue mounts renowned productions of the plays of William Shakespeare, as well as works from distinguished American and international playwrights and directors. The theater’s mission to reach out to younger audiences is well accomplished with its offerings of children’s productions and student matinees. The architecturally dynamic structure houses both an engaging, 500-seat courtyard theater and a 200-seat black box theater.
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As seen
on TV
Morning news comedy trio returns to center stage at Theatre at the Center HILIP POTEMPA / PHILIP.POTEMPA@NWI. P COM, (219) 852-4327
W
hen television news sports personality-turnedmoonlighting comic Pat Tomasulo was in Munster in August 2012, behind the mic on stage at Theatre at the Center, he was fresh from his audition opposite Disney syndicated talk show host Kelly Ripa. Tomasulo, best known for his television morning news sports anchor duties for WGN, was one of the five finalists for what was then the new cohost spot to fill retired Regis Philbin’s empty seat. Former NFL player/Fox football commentator Michael Strahan became the media man to fill the role opposite pert Ripa. No matter though, since it still gave Tomasulo something funny to share about the subject for his comedy act as part of The Morning Show Comedians tour. Not taking such things “too seriously” has become one of the popular trademarks for Tomasulo and his morning TV news counterparts. It’s also one of the reasons the natural chemistry and funny banter between the crew led to the trio forming a comedy team to take their act on the road.
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PROVIDED PHOTOS
TOP: WGN TV familiar faces Mike Toomey (left to right), Ana Belaval and Pat Tomasulo share the stage and the TV studio, headlining together as The Morning Show Comedians. ABOVE: Tomasulo manages to balance his early morning television sports anchor duties with late night stand-up comedy bookings around Chicagoland.
Tomasulo’s fellow desk commentators-turned-comics include Mike Toomey, who provides humorous segments for the morning TV broadcasts, and Ana Belaval, the “out in the field” lifestyles TV reporter. And after a successful near sold-out one-night performance on the Munster stage in 2012,
the three-of-a-kind comedy names are returning for another one-night run at Theatre at the Center at 8 p.m. Aug. 22. And this time, it is the funny gal whose name is getting national attention as a possible co-host replacement for a major, high-ratings syndicated morning chat fest.
Last month, Belaval was featured as a “try-out” for the possibility of joining the ladies of ABC’s “The View,” now that Sherri Shepherd and Jenny McCarthy are gone and Barbara Walters has retired. (The buzz is that producers are leaning towards conservative political commentator Nicolle Wallace
and October Gonzalez, the latter who is the wife of former NFL star tight end Tony Gonzalez, as the lead replacement favorites to host alongside Whoopi Goldberg and Rosie O’Donnell). Belaval says she was just excited to be asked to give the possible highprofile gig a try. “They were looking for a Latina and it was a great experience,” Belaval said last week. “Who knows? I love what I do.” And part of what she does is share the stage with comedy cohorts Tomasulo and Toomey when she’s not doing her “Around Town” segments for WGN. “I was so excited when the producers at WGN asked me to be out in the field to do ‘Around Town,’ because it puts me into the community,” she said. “Originally, it was different reporters who were responsible for that segment. I think Joanie Lum used to do a lot of them. And then later, it was Julian Crews.” Belaval said the “Around Town” segments, which allow the reporter to experience an event or activity by participation, provide the same inspiration which triggered her desire to try stand-up comedy. After being advised to consult professional Chicago female stand-up headliner Patti Vasquez, who now also has her own weeknight radio show on WGN Radio called “Pretty Late with Patti Vasquez” 11 p.m. to 2 a.m. Sundays through Fridays, Belaval tried out her comedy act at Zanies Comedy Club and then advised pal Tomasulo to do the same. “The comedy side bookings really started by accident,” Tomasulo said during his last Munster visit in 2012. “In August 2010, I was asked to be on stage for a charity event and I tried out some comedy lines and the audience responded. Ana had already been doing some stand-up and has been doing comedy for years, and Mike, of course, has been in comedy for 30 years.” As for his comedy inspiration, Tomasulo says he’s found the best topics are all around. “My act isn’t really built that much around talking about my morning television experiences, although I sometimes make references or have a story or two,” he said. “The best comedy is when you can poke fun at the obvious.”
And even though Tomasulo has to be up before dawn to be at the studio for the live morning show, he still manages to do night comedy spots at venues around Chicago at least two or three times a week, without missing too much sleep to be bright-eyed with his familiar sarcastic tone for his a.m. sports segments. Belaval, whose workday starts with a rise-and-shine alarm at 4:30 a.m., is a wife and mother of two, in addition to her busy career. “I’m fortunate that I get to start my day by going right out to my first location for each morning’s 8 a.m. segment, rather than reporting to the studio first,” she said, reminding she’s originally from Puerto Rico before beginning her broadcast career in Washington D.C. prior to landing in Chicago. During the performance at Theatre at the Center, Tomasulo opens the show with 15 minutes of comedy, followed by 25 minutes of material by Belaval leading up to 30 minutes
or more at the microphone for Mike Toomey. “We work well together, because we each have our own distinct style and funny perspectives to bring to the audience,” Tomasulo said. Belaval said the stage also provides a chance for some surprises that even her comedy colleagues don’t always expect. “The last time we played Munster in 2012, it was on that day that I
announced to Pat and Mike, as well as the audience that I was expecting my second child,” she said. “And now, my son is 16-months-old.” Ana Belaval, Pat Tomasulo and Mike Toomey as The Morning Show Comedians at Theatre at the Center, 1040 Ridge Road, Munster • WHEN: 8 p.m. Aug. 22 • HOW MUCH: $30 with the option of a cash bar • FYI: (219) 836-1930 or theatreatthecenter.com
Arts & Crafts and Dog and Business Fair Arts & Crafts Fair Saturday, August 16 Sunday, August 17
Arts & craft, market and food vendors, and local business booths with giveaways!
Doggie demonstrations, contests and prizes; arts & craft, market and food vendors!
9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Centennial Park, 900 N. Centennial Dr., Munster
For more information visit www.munster.org or call (219) 836-7275 n w i .co m /g o
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Fandango’s top ten ticket best sellers 1. Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles
6. Step Up All In
2. Guardians of the Galaxy
7. Hercules (2014)
3. Into the Storm
8. Get on Up
4. The Hundred-Foot Journey
9. Dawn of the Planet of the Apes
5. Lucy
10. Planes: Fire & Rescue
IN THEATERS THIS WEEKEND
COURTESY THE STUDIOS
THE GIVER
1 hr 34 min | PG-13 | Released Aug. 15
In a seemingly perfect community, without war, pain, suffering, differences or choice, a young boy is chosen to learn from an elderly man about the true pain and pleasure of the “real” world. Among stars in “The Giver” are Jeff Bridges, Meryl Streep, Katie Holmes and Taylor Swift. The film is based on the children’s book “the Giver,” written in 1993, by Lois Lowry.
THE EXPENDABLES 3 2 hr 6 min | PG-13 | Released Aug. 13
Barney augments his team with new blood for a personal battle: to take down Conrad Stonebanks, the Expendables co-founder and notorious arms trader who is hell bent on wiping out Barney and every single one of his associates. Starring in the movie are Sylvester Stallone, Jason Statham, Wesley Snipes, Harrison Ford, Antonio Banderas and others.
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TEENAGE MUTANT NINJA TURTLES 2 hr 0 min | PG-13 | Released Aug. 8
Darkness has settled over New York City as Shredder and his evil Foot Clan have an iron grip on everything from the police to the politicians. The future is grim until four unlikely outcast brothers rise from the sewers and discover their destiny as Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles. The Turtles must work with fearless reporter April O’Neil and her cameraman Vern Fenwick to save the city and unravel Shredder’s diabolical plan.
INTO THE STORM
1 hr 29 min | PG-13 | Released Aug. 8 In the span of a single day, the town of Silverton is ravaged by an unprecedented onslaught of tornadoes. The entire town is at the mercy of the erratic and deadly cyclones, even as storm trackers predict the worst is yet to come. Most people seek shelter, while others run towards the vortex, testing how far a storm chaser will go for that once-in-a-lifetime shot.
GO! TO THE MOVIES MC SHOWPLACE 16 A 875 Deer Creek Drive, Schererville, IN 219.322.9762 amctheatres.com
GUARDIANS OF THE GALAXY
GET ON UP
AND SO IT GOES
From Marvel comes a new team — the Guardians of the Galaxy. Brash adventurer Peter Quill finds himself the object of an unrelenting bounty hunt after stealing a mysterious orb coveted by Ronan, a powerful villain with ambitions that threaten the entire universe. To evade Ronan, Quill is forced into an uneasy truce with a quartet of disparate misfits — Rocket, a gun-toting raccoon; Groot, a tree-like humanoid; the deadly and enigmatic Gamora; and the revenge-driven Drax the Destroyer. But when Quill discovers the true power of the orb and the menace it poses to the cosmos, he must do his best to rally his ragtag rivals for a last, desperate stand.
In his follow-up to the four-time Academy Award®nominated blockbuster “The Help,” Tate Taylor directs 42’s Chadwick Boseman as James Brown in “Get on Up.” Based on the incredible life story of the Godfather of Soul, the film gives a fearless look inside the music, moves and moods of Brown, taking audiences on the journey from his impoverished childhood to his evolution into one of the most influential figures of the 20th century.
There are a million reasons not to like realtor Oren Little (Michael Douglas), and that’s the way he likes it. Obnoxious to anyone who might cross his path, he wants nothing more than to sell one last house and retire in peace. His wife passed away years ago, so while awaiting his big real estate break, he’s biding his time in the waterfront four-plex building he owns, surrounded by neighbors who have formed a community that he mostly avoids. Oren’s life gets turned upside-down when his estranged son Luke (Scott Shepherd) appears, asking him to care for the nine-year-old granddaughter (Sterling Jerins) Oren never knew existed.
2 hr 2 min | PG-13 | Released Aug. 1
2 hr 18 min | PG-13 | Released Aug. 1
1 hr 34 min | PG-13 | Released July 25
AMC SHOWPLACE 12 1400 Eagle Ridge, Schererville, IN 219.322.9264 amctheatres.com AMC SHOWPLACE HOBART 12 2590 Southlake Mall, Merrillville, IN 219.755.0377 amctheatres.com
KENNEDY THEATRE 6735 Kennedy Ave., Hammond, IN 219.845.5336 CROWN THEATRE 19 N. Court St., Crown Point, IN 219.663.1616 HOOSIER THEATRE 1335 119th St., Whiting, IN 219.659.0567 CINEMARK THEATER 700 Porter’s Vale Blvd., Valparaiso, IN 800.326.3264 LANSING CINEMA 8 16621 Torrence Ave., Lansing, IL 708.418.0300
PORTAGE 16 & IMAX 6550 U.S. 6, Portage, IN 46368 219.764.7469 imax. com/theatres/t/ portage-16-imax/ ART THEATER 230 Main St., Hobart, IN 219.942.1670 hobartarttheater.com
HERCULES
BOYHOOD
2 hrs |PG-13 | Released July 25
2 hrs 44 min | R| Released July 11
BEGIN AGAIN
Haunted by a sin from his past, Hercules has become a mercenary. Along with five faithful companions, he travels ancient Greece selling his services for gold and using his legendary reputation to intimidate enemies. But when the benevolent ruler of Thrace and his daughter seek Hercules’ help to defeat a savage and terrifying warlord, Hercules finds that in order for good to triumph and justice to prevail... he must again become the hero he once was... he must embrace his own myth... he must be Hercules.
“Boyhood” is something different entirely. Filmed over 12 years, for a few days each year, the movie follows one family — two parents, two kids — as they navigate love, marriage, divorce, school, work, pain, pleasure and everything else a family can go through. Yet the story isn’t particularly dramatic — certainly not by the standards of typical Hollywood storytelling. Indeed, its utter simplicity — some might say even banality — is its strength. What happens to this family, and specifically to Mason, the main character, over 12 years? Life. That’s what happens.
This is a soul-stirring comedy about what happens when lost souls meet and make beautiful music together. Gretta and her long-time boyfriend Dave part ways when the trappings of his new-found fame soon tempt Dave to stray. Her world takes a turn for the better when Dan, a disgraced recordlabel exec, stumbles upon her performing on an East Village stage and is immediately captivated by her raw talent.
EARTH TO ECHO
TAMMY
AWN OF THE PLANET D OF THE APES
The lives of a trio of inseparable friends are about to change. Their neighborhood is being destroyed by a highway construction project that is forcing their families to move away. But just two days before they must part ways, the boys begin receiving a strange series of signals on their phones. Convinced something bigger is going on, they team up with another school friend, Emma, and set out to look for the source of their phone signals. What they discover is something beyond their wildest imaginations: a small alien who has become stranded on Earth.
Tammy (Melissa McCarthy) is having a bad day. She’s totaled her clunker car, gotten fired from her thankless job at a greasy burger joint, and instead of finding comfort at home, finds her husband getting comfortable with the neighbor in her own house. It’s time to take her boom box and book it. The bad news is she’s broke and without wheels. The worse news is her grandma, Pearl (Susan Sarandon), is her only option—with a car, cash, and a desire to see Niagara Falls. On the road, with grandma riding shot gun, it may be just what Tammy needs.
1 hr 29 min | PG | Released July 2
N W I .CO M /G O
1 hr 36 min | R | Released July 2
1 hr 45 min |R | Released June 27
2 hrs 10 min | PG-13| Released July 11
In “Dawn of the Planet of the Apes,” a growing nation of genetically evolved apes, led by Caesar, are threatened by a band of human survivors of the devastating virus unleashed a decade earlier. They reach a fragile peace, but it proves shortlived, as both sides are brought to the brink of a war that will determine who will emerge as Earth’s dominant species.
The expendables 3 [PG-13] 700 1000 1205AM The Giver [PG-13] 800 1025 1205AM riffTrax live: Godzilla [PG-13] 700 leT’s be Cops [R] 1115AM 150 425 700 935 TeenaGe MuTanT ninja TurTles [PG-13] 1130AM 210 450 730 1010 [REALD 3D] 1010AM 1250 330 610 850 Guardians of The Galaxy [PG-13] 1100AM 200 500 800 [REALD 3D] 1000AM 1215 100 310 400 700 1000
The hundredfooT journey [PG] 1020AM 115 415 715 1015 inTo The sTorM [PG-13] 1005AM 1235 300 525 750 1015 luCy [R] 1110AM 150 430 710 950 planes: fire & resCue [PG] 1225 245 sTep up: all in [PG-13] 125 705 [REALD 3D] 1035AM 415 955 GeT on up [PG-13] 100AM 110
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AUG. 14-16
GLOW—Art After Dark 8-10 p.m., Taltree Arboretum & Gardens, 450 W. 100 N., Valparaiso. 219.462.0025. taltree.org. Taltree’s second annual nature-inspired art and cultural showcase will feature glow-in-the-dark artwork and performances, children’s activities, night hikes, stargazing, music, food and drinks. AUG 14-17
Hobart Lakefront Festival Festival Park, 111 E. Old Ridge Road, Hobart. 219.942.2489. cityofhobart. org. This four-day event features live entertainment, an arts and crafts area, food vendors and a beer garden. The festival also hosts the Hobart Chamber of Commerce Pig Roast and Hobart Community Foundation’s Dam Duck Race on Sunday. AUG. 16
Farm 15K 9 a.m., Fair Oaks Farms Adventure Center, 856 N. 600 E., Fair Oaks, IN. 877.536.1194. fofarms.com. Fair Oaks Farms invites runners to get “moovin’” at their first 15K run, featuring both paved and trail sections. AUG. 16
Roller Derby 6:30 p.m., Jean Shepherd Center, 3031 J.F. Mahoney Drive, Hammond. 219.306.1756. southshorerollergirls. com. South Shore Roller Girls square off against the Bone City Rollers. Food and beer are available for purchase during the game and fans can enjoy half-time entertainment and vendors as well.
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HAPPENINGS
EXHIBITS
THROUGH AUG. 28
THROUGH AUG. 15
ARTS IN THE PARK 6:30-8 p.m. Wednesday-Thursday, Fox Park’s Dennis Smith Amphitheater, Truesdell Ave., La Porte. 219.363.9317. artsintheparklaporte. com. Attendees to this weekly event can enjoy music, art and poetry on the beautiful hillside overlooking Clear Lake. AUG. 14: HiFi2WiFi, Youth Artist Exhibit and Laura Hernandez Myers; AUG. 20: LPHS Marching Band & Color Guard, Karen Marken and Julie Kessler; AUG. 21: Windiana, Karen Marken and Dr. Scott Simerlein.
FIFTY AND OVER ART Calumet College of St. Joseph, 2400 New York Ave., Whiting. 219.473.4215. ccsj.edu. A talented group of artists aged 50 years and older display their works in a variety of media.
THROUGH SEPT. 13 TAI CHI IN THE PARK 8:30 a.m. Saturday, Meadows Park, 9400 Southmoor Ave., Highland. 219.838.9875. kjmalearning.com. Tai Chi is a type of moving meditation teaching balance for both mind and body. The movements are slow and relaxed and can be done by most people. The classes are held as weather allows and the first class is free.
AUG. 16 TOMFOOLERY FUN CLUB—FUN ON THE SHORE! 8-10 p.m., Hammond Marina, 701 Casino Center Drive, Hammond. 219.228.0674. tomfooleryfunclub. com. This comedy-based variety show features various forms of comedy and music.
AUG. 17 “POOCH”APALOOZA 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Centennial Park, 900 N. Centennial Drive, Munster. 219.836.6922. munster.org. Dedicated to dogs, this event features a variety of vendors, contests, demonstrations, dog care tips and training methods. Concessions are available for humans and dogs alike.
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THROUGH AUG. 17 GALACTIC LAGOONS— PAINTINGS BY RENEE ROBBINS Center for Visual and Performing Arts, 1040 Ridge Road, Munster. 219.836.1839. southshoreartsonline.org. Contemporary Chicago painter Renee Robbins depicts imagery inspired by natural phenomena and micro to macro relationships. Using multiple layers of acrylic paint, she creates vivid, detailed abstractions that seem underwater and otherworldly.
THROUGH AUG. 31 BABY BOOM OR BUST! Center for Visual and Performing Arts, 1040 Ridge Road, Munster. 219.836.1839. southshoreartsonline.org. This exhibit takes a fond look back at the iconic, often innocent, images of life in the nuclear age with iconic imagery by artist Brian J. Sullivan and memorabilia— including Hanna Barbera characters, Barbie and Ken, Howdy Doody, space toys and robots, lunch boxes, presidential memorabilia and vintage paint-by-numbers from an atomic childhood.
THROUGH AUG. 31 FLASHBACK—1970S South Shore Arts, 435 Fayette St., Hammond. 219.933.0200. southshoreartsonline.org. This exhibit brings a variety of artists from Michigan, Indiana and Illinois together with a vision inspired by the 1970s, plus several pieces of contemporaneous 1970s works of art on loan. Featuring a diversity of mediums, the artwork interprets the
PROVIDED
AUG. 15 ROBIN THICKE Horseshoe Casino, 777 Casino Center Drive, Hammond. 866.711.SHOE Singer-songwriter and musician Robin Thicke has written and produced on more than 20 gold and
✔ platinum albums for various artists including Michael Jackson, Marc Anthony, Pink, Christina Aguilera and others. Thicke, the son of entertainers Alan Thicke and Gloria Loring, will perform his hits for his faithful fans. His latest album, “Paula,” is dedicated to his estranged wife, Paula Patton.
fads, music and politics, among other trends, of the time.
THROUGH SEPT. 9 SCOTT COVERT SHOW The Ellen Firme Gallery, 92 W. US Highway 12, Beverly Shores. For nearly 25 years, artist Scott Covert has immortalized the immortal through his innovative and diverse works featuring grave
rubbings of well-known names.
THROUGH SEPT. 13 ROLLER DERBY— WORKS BY KEVIN HANUSIN South Shore Arts, 123 N. Main St., Crown Point. 219.836.1839. southshoreartsonline. org. Introduced to the sport of roller derby when his wife began skating for South Shore Roller Girls,
artist Kevin Hanusin’s water color and acrylic paintings illustrate not only the players but also the emotion and energy behind the scenes and during the competitive sport.
THROUGH SEPT. 26 PAINT THE PARKS Indiana Welcome Center, 7770 Corrine Drive, Hammond. 219.989.7979.
alongthesouthshore. com. This traveling exhibit makes a stop in Northwest Indiana with approximately 100 paintings representing 75 different artists from across the country. The exhibit originally began in 1985 as an annual competition to select the best artist renderings of events are ✔ These Editor’s Picks
landscapes, wildlife and history of the United States’ nearly 300 national parks, seashores, monuments and historic sites.
THROUGH OCT. 18 INVASIVE SPECIES— THE ART OF UPCYCLING Lubeznik Center for the Arts, 101 W. Second St., Michigan City. 219.874.4900. lubeznikcenter.org. A resurgence in the “ready-made” art practice made popular by Dada artists Duchamp and Man Ray, upcycling makes use of discarded materials and transforms them into beautiful objects without breaking down the material. This exhibit features upcycle inspired artwork that crosses boundaries between environmentalism and art. Also, THROUGH OCT. 18: Aquatic Kaleidoscope and Transformation.
PERFORMANCE AUG. 15 SUMMER RHAPSODY MUSIC FESTIVAL— HIGHWAY BAND 7:30-9:30 p.m., Central Park Plaza, 68 Lafayette St., Valparaiso. 219.464.8332. valparaisoevents.com. Highway Band performs as part of the Summer Rhapsody Music Festival, a feast of the sounds and senses for music lovers of all ages. Attendees should bring a picnic, blanket and chairs.
AUG. 17 BASTILLE DAYS 2-9 p.m., St. Elijah Hall, 8700 Taft St., Merrillville. 219.755.4444. ibtnw. org. Indiana Ballet Theatre presents this festival and includes excerpts of “An American In Paris” and “Gaite Parisienne,” a Ballet Folklorico Tapatio of NWI performance, a treasure hunt, a kite
N W I .CO M /G O
PROVIDED
AUG. 16-17 LAKEFRONT ARTS FESTIVAL 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Saturday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Sunday, Washington Park, 115 Lakeshore Drive, Michigan City. 219.874.4900. lubeznikcenter.org.
Center for the Arts celebrates 33 years of fine art in Michigan City’s Lakefront Washington Park with works of art from more than 100 fine artists and crafts people. The event also ✔ Lubeznik features artist demonstrations, a beachfront food court and a free children’s activity tent.
contest, food, vendors and more.
AUG. 17 STEELY DAN 8 p.m., Horseshoe Casino Hammond, 777 Casino Center Drive, Hammond. 800.745.3000. horseshoehammond. com. Steely Dan has created a sophisticated, distinctive sound with accessible melodic hooks and complex harmonies.
FARMERS MARKETS THROUGH AUG. 27 DEMOTTE’S MARKET IN THE PARK 11 a.m.-7 p.m. Wednesday, Spencer Park, east side of
Halleck St., Demotte. 219.964.8626. Visitors to this weekly market can enjoy crafters, food, produce and live entertainment.
THROUGH SEPT. 25 SCHERERVILLE INTERNATIONAL FARMERS MARKET 3-8 p.m. Thursday, Redar Park, Replinger Road/Park Street and South Park Avenue, Schererville. 219.865.5503. Fresh farm produce, artisan baked goods, specialty foods, freshly ground coffee, locally grown honey, personal care products, locally farmed meats and a beer/wine garden with
performances by local, acoustic performers make this market a must-see.
THROUGH SEPT. 28 MILLER BEACH FARMERS MARKET 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Sunday, 667 S. Lake St., Gary. 219.983.7720. millerbeacharts.org. This weekly market features fresh produce, local honey, prepared foods from local vendors and a variety of handcrafted items.
Portage. 219.762.1675. ci.portage.in.us. Produce, breads, flowers, crafts and food are all on display at this weekly market.
THROUGH SEPT. 28 TOWN OF MUNSTER’S FARMERS MARKET 8 a.m.-1 p.m. Sunday, Centennial Park, 1005 S. Centennial Drive, Munster. 219.836.7275. munster.org. This weekly market features fresh produce and fun every Sunday.
THROUGH SEPT. 28
THROUGH SEPT. 30
PORTAGE COMMUNITY MARKET 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Sunday, Woodland Park, 2100 Willowcreek Road,
CENTRAL PARK PLAZA MARKET 8 a.m.-2 p.m. Tuesday, 8 a.m.-noon Saturday, Central Park Plaza, downtown Valparaiso.
219.464.8332. valparaisoevents.com. Valparaiso Community Festivals and Events’ weekly market now features extended hours. Market-goers can enjoy fresh produce, handmade items, locally grown ingredients, live lunchhour music and more.
THROUGH OCT. 10 CENTRAL MARKET 3-8 p.m. Friday, Central Park 600 N. Broad St., Griffith. 219.484.6697. Patrons to this weekly night market will be treated to some of the region’s finest musical artists and can browse selected foods, wines and beers, and crafted wares available for purchase.
THROUGH OCT. 18 HIGHLAND STREET MARKET 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturday, Main Square Park, 3001 Ridge Road, Highland. 219.838.0114. highlandparks.org. Farmers and vendors offer produce, cheeses, honey, natural hair and skin products, pies, cakes, spices and more at this weekly market.
THROUGH OCT. 25 CHESTERTON’S EUROPEAN MARKET 8 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturday, Broadway & Third Street, Chesterton. 219.926.5513. chestertonseuropeanmarket. com.
This European Market offers a quality shopping experience, live entertainment and a festive community environment. The artists, chefs, merchants and farmers come from Indiana, Michigan and Illinois to offer visitors an extraordinary collection of products and services.
THROUGH OCT. 29 RIVERSIDE MARKET 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturday-Sunday, 234 E. Second St., Michigan City. 219.874.5864. Local farmers, merchants and artistic talents offer residents and tourist the opportunity to buy regionally grown fresh produce, healthy organic foods and local creative arts and crafts during this weekly market.
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Dining buzz ➼ Bennett-Curtis House events, The “Murder in the BC Mansion Dinner” will be held Saturday, Sunday and Aug. 30 at the Bennett-Curtis House, 302 W. Taylor St., Grant Park, Ill. The event features a five-course dinner, the play, coffee and tea. Tax and gratuity are included. A Speak Easy Event is Sept. 19 and Paint by Wine Night is Aug. 19. Call (815) 465-2288 or visit bennetcurtis.com. ➼World Scrambles, IHOP restaurant is featuring World Scrambles through Sept. 7 at the eatery. The new scrambles are the Tuscan Scramble, Californian Scramble and All-American Bacon Scramble. Visit IHOP.com
Giuseppe’s earning praise for authentic Italian recipes
E l o i s e M a r i e Va l a d e z p h o t o s , T h e T i m e s
Interior of Giuseppe’s Restaurant. Eloise Marie Valadez / Eloise.Valadez@nwi.com, (219) 933-3365
J
oe Belmonte and his family have the recipe for superb Italian fare and they’re serving it at Giuseppe’s Restaurant in Schererville. The restaurant debuted in the fall of 2011 on Eagle Ridge Drive not far from ShowPlace Theaters and is a short walk from the Schererville Post Office. Giuseppe’s may be off the beaten path (it’s a block in from busy Indianapolis Boulevard) but in the past three years the eatery has drawn much repeat business from Italian food fans who’ve spread the word. Owner/manager Belmonte believes it’s the
authentic flavors of the food and the fact they focus on from-scratch cooking that attracts diners. “We have everything from pizza and pasta to chicken, veal dishes and unique desserts,” said Belmonte, adding Giuseppe’s is a “one-stop shop” for diners. Sandwiches, appetizers, gelato and more are also offered on the menu. While the menu isn’t too large, it includes favorite staples from spaghetti and lasagna to pizza and gnocchi. Belmonte said he’s most proud of the pizza served at the restaurant, which is cooked in a stone wood burning oven. The Neapolitan Margherita con Bufala Neapolitan pizza.
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pizzas served at the eatery are one of the specialties. Belmonte learned to make the authentic pizzas from master pizza chef Antonino, who hails from Naples and occasionally flies to the United States to teach his pizzamaking techniques. Belmonte’s brother Tony built the special pizza oven and also built the restaurant itself. Family members also designed the interior of Giuseppe’s. During a recent Thursday evening dinner at the quaint restaurant, we sat near the window and also faced a colorful mural. The atmosphere at the restaurant proved warm and unpretentious. Our servers were attentive and even owner Belmonte was in the house conversing with guests and helping to make the dining experience pleasant. Belmonte’s parents Delia and Umile hail from the Calabria region of Italy and the recipes and authentic fare served at Giuseppe’s is prepared in the Calabrian style, which focuses on simplicity and fresh ingredients. At Giuseppe’s, various members of Belmonte’s family are all part of the operation. The star chef at the restaurant is, in fact, mother Delia, who turns out delicious sauces, hearty pasta dishes and more. For dinner, we ordered the arancini (rice ball) to start and also chose the eggplant Parmesan ($13.95) and the chicken Francese, which is a lemon-chicken basking in a flavorful lemon-butter sauce. We also enjoyed a Margherita con Bufala Neapolitan pizza ($14.50). Other popular dinners at the eatery include lasagna ($11.95); Ravioli (4 cheese) and 2 meatballs ($10.95); Gnocchi ($10.95); calzone with mozzarella and ricotta ($9.75) and other dishes. The owner/manager said he regularly adds new items to the menu and recently added a chicken and veal marsala and a stuffed eggplant dish. Belmonte stressed his mother is always hard at work making meals from scratch, including creating sauces from hand-peeled tomatoes (no cans here) and hand rolling meatballs. In addition to all the savory dishes, Giuseppe’s gelatos, which are also made on the premises, are popular selections. To close our meal, we tried the gelato cheesecake, ($4.50) which was a winner at our table. Other sweets on the menu include a dessert featuring three flavors of gelato on brioche and then covered with chocolate ganache.
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Chicken Francese and Eggplant Parmesan are two of the popular dishes at Giuseppe’s in Schererville.
No One Under 21 Admitted Smoking Allowed
full service Bar & restaurant
6110 Kennedy Ave. • HAmmond, In • 219-844-9812 • open 7 dAyS A WeeK • WWW.cHucKAndIreneS.com S
Fridays only - All you can eat
Bring in This Coupon on Fridays
No coupons or any discounts will apply. Dine in only. All food consumed on premise only!
a ticket of $800 or more
BONELESS OCEAN PERCH - $10.00 Gelato cheesecake.
Prior to the restaurant in Schererville, Giuseppe’s was located on Torrence Avenue in Lansing. That location was strictly a carry-out and delivery service. FYI: Giuseppe’s Restaurant, 1000 Eagle Ridge Drive, Schererville, (219) 322-0011 or visit giuseppespizza.net. Hours are 11 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. Tuesdays through Thursdays; 11 a.m. to 10:30 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays; and 4 to 9 p.m. Sundays. Closed Mondays.
• We have a wide variety of Seafood on Fridays •
$
monDay special
1.75 Domestic Bottles
saturDay & sunDay specials
2.00 23 oz. Footballs
$
Daily lunch specials
mON tHRu tHuRS. 10Am tO 6Pm FOR $5.75 FiSH SPECiALS EvERy FRiDAy, 10Am tO 9Pm
3.00
$
off
Tax & Tip Not Included. Limited to one coupon per table, per visit. No carry outs. Dine-in only. Valid Fridays only.
full menu of
Sandwiches, Steaks & Fried chicken
Appetizers Are hAlf price from 3 pm to 8 pm. mondAy to thurs.
• Homemade Soups • Tacos • daily Specials • Great variety dJ david Zane every Fri. and Sat. night, from 9 pm to 2 Am of Seafood FISH Fry every FrIdAy • AduLT dInInG • FuLL menu cArry ouT
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08.14.2014 / The Times Media Co. / Go!
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