FRE
E
December 2014
Jokes • Hot Shots • NWI Events • NWI Music • Bar Directory • NWI Profile
Our Team Rolando Martinez Publisher
Rosemarie Stephens
Contributing Writer
Daniel Anthony
Contributing Writer
Rick Jensen
Contributing Writer
Jerome Hindmon
Contributing Photographer
Sean Michaels
Contributing Photographer
Denise Roznowski
Contributing Photographer
December 2014 Northwest Indiana Music Justin Golday Josh Holmes
18 26
Northwest Indiana Events
10
Radisson Star Plaza NYE Party
Northwest Indiana Profile
People You Should Know - Carlos Chabes 14 Krazy Cab 30 Kountry Wild Salloon 34
Monthly Features Street Smarts Bar Directory
8 20
Mark Halliar
Layout & Ad Design
Cover image shot on location at Track Lounge and Index Page photo taken at Safe House, both in Crown Point, IN
Advertising & Submissions NWI Entertainer LLC 6212 US Hwy 6 • Suite 170 Portage, IN 46368
Sales Roly Martinez 773-416-0665 Rolym05@comcast.net
NWI Entertainer is a monthly publication by NWI Entertainer LLC. All rights reserved. Production without permission is strictly prohibited. All photographs & articles submitted become the sole property of NWI Entertainer Magazine.
Catch 22 Merrillville, IN
Track Lounge Crown Point, IN
Pearly Gates
Three men died on Christmas Eve and were met by Saint Peter at the pearly gates. “In honor of this holy season,” Saint Peter said, “you must each possess something that symbolizes Christmas to get into heaven.” The first man fumbled through his pockets and pulled out a lighter. He flicked it on. It represents a candle, he said. You may pass through the pearly gates Saint Peter said. The second man reached into his pocket and pulled out a set of keys. He shook them and said, “They’re bells” . Saint Peter said you may pass through the pearly gates. The third man started searching desperately through his pockets and finally pulled out a pair of women’s panties. St. Peter looked at the man with a raised eyebrow and asked, “And just what do those symbolize?” The man replied, “They’re Carols”
Kinds of Penises
A young woman asks her mother, “Mom, how many kind of penises are there?” The mother, surprised, answers, “Well, daughter, a man goes through three phases. In a man’s twenties, a man’s penis is like an oak, mighty and hard. In his thirties and forties, it is like a birch, flexible but reliable. After his fifties, it is like a Christmas tree.” “A Christmas tree?” the young woman asks. “Yes, dried up and the balls are there for decoration only.”
Superbowl Crown Point, IN
FRIDAYS & SATURDAYS
®
NEW YEAR’S EVE
Upcoming Entertainment! COUNTDOWN TO 2015
Night Club admission: $20 10:00pm – Close Includes party favors & champagne toast at midnight. Bottle service available.
E N T E R TA I N M E N T L I N E U P
SATURDAYS DEC 6
Entertainment provided by: Lt. Dan’s New Legs Party also features Vegas Showgirls! Open from 5:00pm to 2:30am. Dinner served until 9:30pm. Last reservation taken for 9:00pm.
Dick Diamond and the Dusters
DEC 13 17th Floor DEC 20 Naked Karate Girls DEC 27 Too White Crew
Open for Dinner Friday & Saturday. 5:00pm – 10:00pm Make reservations for dinner online at www.bluechipcasino.com/dine/its-vegas-baby. ©2014 Blue Chip Casino. Must be 21 years of age or older with a valid state or government issued photo ID. Don’t let the game get out of hand. For assistance call 800-994-8448.
MICHIGAN CITY, IN | BlueChipCasino.com
8685Fja_BC_IVB_DecNWIent_AD 7” x 4.25” 11.14.14
Created by: Sam Mechling WINO: Randy Skinner
STREETWALKER: Fluffy Tubbs TASTES LIKE: The dirt at a rodeo. NICKNAME: “Fluffer Nutter”
SMELLS LIKE: A bear’s den filled with hospital garbage. PERSONAL QUOTE: “Three fingers, or a dick?!”
Being creative this Christmas
Shawn, a tennis instructor from Whiting asks: Any idea on what to buy for a mom who just brought her first child home from the maternity ward? STREETWALKER: “Buy that bitch a good bra! When I take my top off these days, my tits just unravel like a cartoon wolf’s tongue!” Wino: “F**k maternity wards! I got kicked outta there last week for robbing cribs! How else am I supposed to build my dirty-diaper-tuxedo?!?”
Amber, a law clerk from Valpo asks: Is it a good idea to buy my husband season tickets to Great America to give him something to look forward to during this winter? STREETWALKER: “Have you ever been trapped upside-down in a roller coaster when your Irritable Bowel Syndrome kicks in? Woo! I was combing chilishits out of my weave for three hours!!!” Wino: “Oh Shit, Fluffy! Is THAT why there’s always flies orbiting your head like Pig Pen from Charlie Brown!?!”
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Brad, an account executive from Portage asks: Would it be wrong to buy an “escort” for my buddy? He hasn’t been laid since his girlfriend left him. STREETWALKER: “Why not? Every now and again, I’ll buy myself a gigolo! Ain’t nothing wrong with spending $50 to get your BUSH PUSHED.” Wino: “Man, I don’t like them paywhores. They’re too rough! Lady, it’s my pecker, not a damn cigarette machine!”
Radisson Star Plaza Hotel
New Year’s And soon enough, as we usher in the New Year, it will be time for New Year’s resolutions. But before any resolutions get made (or broken), it will be time to celebrate New Year’s Eve. And this year, the annual bash at the Star Plaza Radisson Hotel will be the place to be to ring in the New Year. A party of unprecedented proportions is planned, featuring dance parties and live bands at three “Main Events” throughout the various venues at the Star Plaza, plus there will be a comedy show too. The first “Main Event” will take place in the Celebrity Ballroom where the Radisson has partnered up with radio station B96 and Fireball Cinnamon Whiskey for a “Fire Up The New Year” Dance Party. Beginning at 8:00 pm, B96 radio host Stylz of the Stylz and Roman radio show will count down the New Year in a special event. In addition, Northwest Indiana’s DJ Navic and DJ Gordo of Plan B Promotions will spin tunes to keep everyone dancing with all night drink specials available. The second “Main Event” is the Atrium Party,
where Northwest Indiana’s favorite cover band, Mr. Funnyman, will entertain revelers and keep them dancing in a colorful, unique setting beginning at 8:00 pm. The “Atrium Party” also features all night drink specials. The third “Main Event” is the “Pub Party” at T.J. Maloney’s Authentic Irish Pub, where party goers can celebrate the New Year with an Irish flair beginning at 7:00 pm with a number of live bands, including Celtic rock band Of Eld. The “Pub Party” will also feature all night drink specials. But perhaps the top event of the evening will be held in the Grand Metropolitan Ballroom as Wisecrackers Comedy Club will feature shows at 7:30 pm and 10:00 pm featuring comics Mikey Mason and James Hodge. In addition, the Star Plaza Theatre will feature a headline performance by Damon Williams. The doors will open at 7:00 pm and the show begins at 8:00 pm. With so many things going on, you might think the New Year’s Eve Party at the Radisson would cost a fortune, but a ticket covering admittance
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by Daniel Anthony
s Eve Party to all three “Main Events” is only $30. And if you want an even better value, tickets for the Wisecracker’s Comedy Club show cost $40, but include admittance to all three “Main Events” too. In addition the Radisson Hotel has a variety of additional party packages available, including overnight specials that include a room at the hotel. There is also VIP Preferred Seating with Bottle Service available at the “Dance Party” and Private Cabanas are available at the “Atrium Party”. General Open Bar options for guests are available also. “We want this party to be the party event of the year,” said Brian Narug, Director of Food and Beverage at the Star Plaza. “We want this to be the New Year’s Eve to remember with biggest New Year’s Eve party in the Region. We want to own New Year’s Eve.” “We are offering great deals on the three “Main Events”, we have great hotel deals and the Wisecracker’s Comedy Show package is the hottest deal in town,” continued Narug. “The tickets for the three “Main Events” are only $30, and for just $10 more you can get the comedy show at Wisecrackers too! By partnering up with B96 and Fireball Cinnamon Whiskey,
and with all the entertainment we have lined up we’re going all out to make this the biggest New Year’s Eve party we’ve ever had.” For many people the recent trend on New Year’s Eve has been to stay home and stay safe, but this year, the annual Radisson Star Plaza’s New Year’s Eve Bash provides a great argument for going out. There are plenty of entertainment options, the entertainment is top shelf and the prices are affordable. And the overnight packages available eliminate the need to worry about getting home or finding a designated driver to get home. For more complete information on available party packages or to book a reservation you can visit www.radissonhotel.com/merrillville and click on the Entertainment/Special Events tab. To reserve VIP Preferred Seating at the “Dance Party” e-mail Brian Narug at bnarug@whitelodging.com. To reserve a Private Cabana at the “Atrium Party” e-mail Jennifer.guard@whitelodging. com. For all inquiries you can call the Radisson Star Plaza Sales Office at 219-769-6311, extension 5321. - nwie
Chuck & Irene’s Hammond, IN
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Female Reindeer
What do all the female reindeer do when santa is busy working with the males on christmas eve? Go into town and blow a couple bucks!
Christmas Eve
On Christmas morning a cop on horseback is sitting at a traffic light, and next to him is a kid on his brand new bike. The cop says to the kid, “Nice bike you got there. Did Santa bring that to you?” The kid says, “Yeah.” The cop says, “Well, next year tell Santa to put a tail-light on that bike.” The cop then proceeds to issue the kid a $20.00 bicycle safety violation ticket. The kid takes the ticket and before the cop rides off says, “By the way, that’s a nice horse you got there. Did Santa bring that to you?” Humoring the kid, the cop says, “Yeah, he sure did.” The kid says, “Well, next year tell Santa to put the dick underneath the horse, instead of on top.”
CHARGED with a
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One of the biggest questions we face when we are kids is what do you want to be when you grow up? Most kids change their minds multiple times before settling on a career, and some decide by not deciding. But unless you are born into wealth, everybody needs to find some way to make money, whether it is a job working for someone else or running your own business. Either way, the most important thing is that you are happy with what you do. Those who are fortunate enough to enjoy what they do will tell you that since they love their job it doesn’t even seem like work. One person who fits that bill is Carlos Chabes, the owner of First Choice
Barbers in Portage. “I started cutting hair when I was a teenager,” said Chabes. “I did it as a hobby, giving my brother and my friends haircuts and I just kept doing it more and more.” And sometimes fate guides you onto a career path and since Chabes had always cut hair, when he found himself unemployed, destiny beckoned. “In 2009 I couldn’t find a job,” said Chabes. “My brother in law was in barber school at the time and he told me I should check it out, so I went to Success Barber School in Merrillville, got certified and passed the state exam.” Then Chabes, a 40 year old Portage native, worked at a shop in Chesterton for
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By Daniel Anthony
a while when a place called Louie’s Bar- the business is doing well and is gaining ber Shop in Portage became available. new clients regularly, even some of the Louie’s had been in business under varold Louie’s people. ious names for over 60 years but more “Barbering has changed my life,” said recently had fallen on hard times. Chabes. “I love what I do so it’s not work Chabes had gotten haircuts there as a kid for me. I couldn’t imagine myself doing so he jumped at anything else now.” the chance to take “Barbering has changed my life... I “But my goal is to over the place; so love what I do so it’s not work for me. get the place back to in August of 2012 I couldn’t imagine myself doing any- what it used to be. I he reopened it as want people to know thing else now.” First Choice Bartheir money is not bers, offering haircuts to please virtually the most important thing the first time everyone. they come in the shop. I want people “I give all kinds of haircuts,” said Chabes. to know they can count on First Choice “I cut all sides of the spectrum and all Barbers because I want their business ages too: black, white, Latino and even over and over.” ladies. And we’re the only shop in PorFirst Choice Barbers is located at 5973 tage to offer a straight razor shave.” McCasland Avenue in Portage, and is “And this isn’t a cookie cutter type of open Monday through Friday from 9:00 place where we rush you in and out ei- am to 6:00 pm and on Saturdays from ther,” continued Chabes. “We make sure 9:00 am until 3:00 pm. The phone numour clients get the same consistency ber for appointments is 219-762-0204. in their haircut; the same haircut in the NWIE same way in the same chair, every time.” The old Louie’s Barbershop was packed all the time and Chabes is working to reestablish that atmosphere with quality haircuts at reasonable prices. Today,
Jason’s
Hammond, IN
Christmas Cheer
One Monday morning a mailman is walking the neighborhood on his usual route. As he approaches one of the homes he noticed that both cars were in the driveway. His wonder was cut short by Bob, the homeowner, coming out with a load of empty beer and liquor bottles. “Wow Bob, looks like you guys had one hell of a party last night.” the mailman comments. Bob in obvious pain replies, “Actually we had it Saturday night. This is the first I have felt like moving since 4:00 am Sunday morning. We had about fifteen couples from around the neighborhood over for Christmas Cheer and it got a bit wild. Hell, we got so drunk around midnight that we started playing WHO AM I.” The mailman thinks a moment and says, “How do you play that?” Well all the guys go in the bedroom and we come out one at a time with a sheet covering us and only our “privates” showing through a hole in the sheet. Then the women try to guess who it is.” The mailman laughs and says, “Damn, I’m sorry I missed that.” Probably a good thing you did,” Bob responds. “Your name came up four or five times.”
Justin Golday by Rick Jensen
The music business can be a cruel mistress, one that can chew you up and spit you out. No matter what kind of talent you have, the odds against being discovered or hitting it big are staggering. It takes a rare combination of talent, hard work and being in the right place at the right time to make it. In fact it’s like looking for a needle in a stack of needles. You’re more likely to be struck by lightning than to hit the big time in the music business. And trying to make it is a real grind; the money isn’t all that great, and the hours are late and long, tough for anyone with a family. But nonetheless, there are plenty of musicians all across this great land that are out there doing all they can to make it. There’s one thing all of these would be stars have in common, and that’s a love of music. But to avoid being trampled by the music business, you have to have perspective. In other words, you gotta have a Plan B. One local musician who has that kind of perspective is Justin Golday of Chesterton. Golday, 35, loves music and has been playing
around the area since he was eighteen. But Golday also has no illusions either. Golday started playing the bass and guitar when he was thirteen and has stayed with it since. Like most kids, he played in garage bands in high school; and when he was in his early twenties he tried to make a living in the music business. He played lead guitar in bands like the Tommy Thompson Band and Supernatural for three or four years but when those groups broke up he started playing solo shows featuring all original music. He also worked at Front Porch Music for a while giving guitar lessons, all in an effort to make ends meet. But while Golday is still an active musician today, he is married with a family and is a full time father first. Golday also went back to school. A full time pre-med student at Purdue North Central, Golday is majoring in biological science and is scheduled to receive his undergraduate degree next year. “I have no delusions about the music business,” said Golday. “I love music and I’m never gonna stop playing but school is my main priority now. I
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- Lovin’ the Music
went back to school as a father, because you have to have something to fall back on.” “Even if I become a doctor I’m never going to stop playing, but then again I’m not going to rely on it either. The music business is a hard business. There are a lot of great players out there but a lot of it depends on who you know and being in the right place at the right time, in my opinion.” “But I like where I’m at,” continued Golday. “I don’t strive enough to be discovered, so I’m not stressing out over making it or not, I’m in it to have fun.” But don’t think Golday doesn’t really play enough anymore either. He played over a hundred shows this past summer, and still plays a few shows a week when he can. He plays with Diablero, an all original heavy alternative rock band he formed in 2006. Diablero has recorded two albums and has
played at Reggie’s in the south loop of Chicago as well as at other stops in the city. Golday also hosts an AllGood JamNight every Sunday night at 9:00 pm at Brando’s in Porter with another of his bands, The All Good Things Band. Still another group Golday is involved with is Brant Vogel and Porter County Line, a classic country band headed by fellow Chesterton native Brant Vogel, an award winning country artist. After looking at the list of musical groups and projects Golday is involved with, you might think he is chasing that elusive dream, and maybe he is, but he’s keeping it in perspective too. “Thanks to my dad I love music,” said Golday. “My dad (Greg Golday) was a DJ at WIMS Radio in Michigan City back in the day and there was always music playing in the house. Along with the Allman Brothers and my older brother Jason, he is still one of my main musical influences.” “I like to keep it new and original if possible and I’m involved in a lot of band projects, and if there isn’t anything going on there I’ll play solo,” continued Golday. “But I hold no illusions about the music business. I’m in it to have fun.” - NWIE
NWI Bar Directory
Burns Harbor The Mill Bar & Grill 295 Melton Rd. Cedar Lake Big Butt BBQ & Sports Bar 13231 Wicker Ave. Goodfella’s Bar & Grill 11200 West 129th Ave Hunley’s Bar 13115 West Lake Shore Dr. Shane’s Bar & Grill 8120 Lake Shore Dr Town Club Taven 13111 Lake Shore Dr Chesterton Arron’s Mortgage Inn 1400 Broadway El Cantarito Mexican Res. 709 Plaza Drive Flannery’s Tavern 125 Calumet Rd. The Craft House 711 Plaza Dr. Hunter’s Brewing 1535 S. Calumet Rd. Kountry Wild Saloon 1050 Broadway The Upper Deck Lounge 139 S. Calumet (2nd Floor) Uncle Joe’s 361 N. Calumet Rd. Val’s Pizza 112 S. 11th St. Crown Point 513 Ale House 513 N. Main St. Back Court Bar 932 South Court St. Boz’z Place 8281 E. 109th Ave. Buddy and Pal’s 1206 E. East Summit Bullpen Luxury Bar 10685 Randolph St. Crown Brewing 211 S. East St. Diamond Jim’s 210 S. Main St. Fricke’s 519 Grant St. Jolly Rogers Lounge 11217 Whitcomb St. Martony’s 104 South Main St. Matey’s Irish Pub & Grill 419 N. Grant St. Mighty Mick’s 10727 Randolph Safe House Bar & Grill 101 S. Court St. The Point 1910 N Main st. The Silver Bullet 100 N. Main St. The Super Bowl 218 S. East St. The Zombie Club 118 W Clark St Three Monkey’s Bar 21 W. 112th Ave. Track Lounge 318 N. Jackson St. Dyer Finnegans Pub 1074 Joliet St. Meyer’s Castle 1370 Joliet St. Sheffield’s 1027 Sheffield Ave. Spanky’s Bar and Grill 15213 101St. Stadium Bar 1468 Joliet St. The Engine Room 202 Joliet St. Vino Tini 1143 Joliet St. White Rino 101 Joiliet St. East Chicago Beto’s Bar 1301 E. Chicago Ave. Good Times Bar & Grill 503 W. 151st St. 2nd String Quarterback 719 W. 151st St. Mario’s Lounge 4720 Indianapolis Blvd. Gary / Miller 18th Street Brewery 5725 Miller Ave. Arvin Cedar Bar 4477 Cleveland St. Bamboo Tavern 603 East 39th Ave. Beer Belly’s 4450 Cleveland
219-841-9475 219-374-5500 219-374-6700 219-374-9520 219-374-9835 219-374-9898 219-926-3113 219-728-6962 219-926-2614 219-929-5570 219-728-6729 219-929-1040 219-926-1814 219-921-0056 219-662-0513 219-310-8416 219-661-1770 219-662-0088 219-661-0088 219-463-6551 219-663-7665 219-663-0529 219-662-0639 219-310-8436 219-663-8155 219-662-2244 219-779-9307 219-779-9711 219-663-7700 219-661-9015 219-662-8272 219-662-7000 219-663-9838 219-865-9896 219-865-8452 219-322-5808 219-365-6635 219-322-6500 219-865-2424 219-322-9185 219-864-9200 219-397-8247 219-397-8810 219-354-0586 219-398-6405 219-939-8802 219-980-9552 219-887-5317 219-981-8400
Gary / Miller Cont. Black Cherri Lounge 6900 Melton Rd. 219-939-0461 Brother’s Lounge 5072 Broadway 219-980-3333 Bugsy’s Tavern 4489 Broadway 219-887-2847 Green Top Tap 4510 W. Ridge Rd. 219-980-9546 Hunter Inn 3861 Broadway 219-980-9866 Majestic Star Casino 1 Buffington Harbor Drive 888-225-8259 Milan’s Tavern 5115 Broadway 219-980-9667 Murphy’s House of Pain 5245 E. Dunes Hwy 219-427-1006 Paradise Lounge 5004 Broadway 219-887-6524 Roxxy’s 5705 East Dunes Highway 219-427-1023 Scores NWI 9148 Melton Rd. 219-938-1556 The Beach Café 903 N. Shelby 219-938-1100 Thumbs Up 620 S. Lake St. 219-938-0154 Griffith Depot Bar & Grill 520 Main St. 219-934-9767 Final Round Sports Bar 105 N. Broad St. 219-924-9539 Griffith Town Tap 602 E. Main St. 219-924-6451 John’s Place 1613 N. Cline 219-838-4490 Set’Em Up 135 N. Broad St. 219-924-3181 Shades of Time 1813 W. 45th 219-924-5009 Soprano’s 840 S. Broad.St. 219-924-0304 Hammond 5th Amendment Pub 6729 Kennedy Ave. 219-844-8267 Archor Inn Sports & Ent. 6712 Calumet Ave. 219-933-4677 Billy Bears Bar & Grill 1225 169th St. 219-844-1441 Chuck & Irene’s 6110 Kennedy Ave. 219-844-9812 Coach’s Corner 6208 Kennedy Ave. 219-844-1111 Cozy Tavern 1304 East Summer St. 219-931-3338 Dick’s Are you Crazy 1221 E. 150th St. 219-853-8709 Dodo’s Firehouse Tap 521 Conkey St. 219-933-6646 Don’s Pub 250 East Gostlin St. 219-933-9418 Flick’s Tavern 6205 Kennedy Ave. 219-844-9761 Good Time Charlie’s 6023 S Calumet Ave. 219-933-9267 Home Plate Pub 3105 165th St. 219-844-9724 Hoosier Buddy Saloon 839 169th St. 219-931-0716 Industrial Strip 3626 S. Calumet Ave. 219-937-9750 Jason’s Sports Bar 3949 Hohman Ave. 219-933-1976 Just One More 5245 S. Sohl Ave. 219-931-8984 Just Toni 5602 Calumet Ave. 219-937-5778 Kenwood Lanes 6311 Kennedy Ave. 219-937-7872 Kenwood Tap 6247 Kennedy Ave. 219-844-9766 Mickey’s 4648 S. Sheffield 219-852-0148 Miso’s Overflow Tavern 6309 Kennedy Ave. 219-937-7871 Moochies 7022 Kennedy Ave. 219-845-7478 Old Glory Tavern 6755 Indianapolis Blvd. 219-844-1128 Olympia Lanes (Pocket Shots) 4150 S. Calumet 219-933-6677 Our Place 1403 East Michigan St. 219-933-9247 Pines Tap 7349 Calumet Ave. 219-931-1583 Porter’s Tap 6405 Kennedy Ave. 219-845-0597 Pudlos Tap 3803 Hohman Ave. 219-933-9561 Spirro’s Country Lounge 4760 S. Calumet Ave. 219-932-3255 Sportsman’s Tap 6320 Kennedy Ave. 219-844-8489 Sports Corner 155 Goslin 219-803-7148 Hebron Old Hertiage Inn 215 N. Main St 219-996-2211 Lighthouse US 231 & Madison 219-996-9040
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Portage Highland Boomers 2522 Portage Mall Beek Geeks 3030 45th st. 219-513-9795 2528 Portage Mall Bone Dry 3805 Ridge Road 219-838-2442 Curly Joe’s Bar & Grill FrankO’s 2712 Condit St. 219-838-3330 El Cantarito Mexican Rest. 6291 Central Ave. Mark O’s Bar and Grill 2385 Willowcreek Rd. Getway Bar 1827 W. 45th 219-924-1717 2548 Portage Mall Growler’s 2816 Highway Ave. 219-924-0245 Mood’s Pub & Eatery 6245 Ameriplex Dr. V.I.P Lounge 2045 45th St. 219-922-6845 Quaker Steak & Lube Red Carpet Lounge 6481 Melton Rd. Rusty Nail 2420 Dombey Rd. Hobart 6340 Melton Rd. Agave Mexican Restaurant 327 Main St. 219-947-3355 Ryan’s Tavern Shenanigan’s 6121 Melton Rd. Cressmoor Lanes 620 N. Wisconsin St. 219-942-6169 Stonequarry Lounge 2596 Portage Mall Cressmoor Lounge 601 N. Wisconsin St. 219-942-7711 5844 US Hwy. 6 End Zone Bar & Grill 314 Main St. 219-942-0647 Sunset Lounge Hobart Lanes/10 Pin Lounge 99 S. Hobart Rd. 219-942-0906 Indian Ridge Golf Course 6363 Grand Blvd 219-942-6850 Porter 212 Lincoln St. Lisa’s Lounge 3617 Michigan 219-962-4550 Brando’s 333 US 20 Main St.Station 235 Main St. 219-942-1000 Leroy’s Hot Stuff 124 Lincoln St. Mickey D’s Bar 518 East 3rd St. 219-942-0730 Santiago’s Wagner’s Ribs 361 Wagner Road The Depot 1429 W. 37th Ave. 219-947-5194 Whistle Stop Bar & Grill 206 Lincoln St. Lake Station 219 Bar & Grill 2415 Rush St. 219-963-6053 Schererville 340 East US Hwy. 30 Bens Twin Oak 2935 Central Ave. 219-963-0598 Buddy & Pal’s Déjà Vu 2491 Ripley St. 219-962-4398 Bullpen Luxury Bar & Grill 1013 W. Lincoln Highway El Amigo Mexican Rest. 312 W US HWY 30 Draft House 4825 Central Ave. 219-962-1575 Dreamgirls 2491 Ripley St. 219-963-0555 Jalapenos / Woodhollow 200 US Hwy. 41 Longshots Sports Bar 2251 US HWY 41 El Ranchero Restaurant 3559 Michigan Ave. 219-962-1396 1204 W. Lincoln Hwy. He Ain’t Here Lounge 2661 Decatur St. 219-962-2074 Quest Sal Y Limon 2330 S. Cline Ave. Kimmies 2808 Dekalb St. 219-962-1232 Schererville Lounge 48 East Joliet St. L F Norton Central Ave. 219-962-3415 2350 Cline Ave Muncie’s Lounge 4106 Central Ave. 219-962-6012 Social 219 Spike’s Lakeside Inn 21 East Joliet St. Ray’s Lanes 3201 Central Ave. 219-962-1297 Ruthie’s Lounge 3425 Central Ave. 219-963-7987 Tap House 1233 1233 Central Ave. 219-962-6546 St. John Blue 82 Sports, Food & Spirits 8209 Wicker Ave. Lowell Rascal’s Pizza Pub & Grub 9623 Wicker Ave. Town Pub 214 E. Commercial Ave. 219-690-1947 The Clubhouse 9165 Wicker Ave. Sidetrack Saloon 106 Washington St. 219-696-9231 The Copper Still 9121 Wicker Ave. Cliffhanger’s 151 Deanna Dr. 219-690-1002 The Cove Bar & Grill 4665 W. Main St. 219-696-0700 Valparaiso Lake Dale Ale 5512 W. Main St. 219-696-1256 Big Shots 391 W. US HWY 6 Duffy’s Place 1154 Axe Ave. Merrillville Franklin House 58 S. Campbell St. Beavers 7505 Talf St. 219-769-2351 Margarita’s Bar & Grill 21 Lincolnway Beer Barrel 4717 E. Lincoln Hwy 219-947-2995 Martinis 1004 Calumet Ave. Catch 22 500 E. 81st Ave. 219-793-9625 NorthSide Tap Room & Grill 712 Calumet Ave. Dawg House Pub 3790 W. 80th Lane 219-756-4220 Old Style Inn 5 Lincolnway Hydad’s 31 80th Pl. S. W. 219-736-9110 Parkside Urban Bistro 1305 Calumet Ave. Maxim’s Lounge 7205 Broadway 219-795-9520 Pepel’s Mexican 1058 RT. 2 Pepe’s Mexican Restaurant 8011 Broadway 219-769-7191 Rosewood Restaurant 367 W US Highway 6 R-Place 65 W. 68 Pl. 219-769-0037 Sportman’s 381 US Hwy. 6 Sheffield’s 1515 East 82nd Ave. 219-795-1005 Tony’s Place 218 East Lincolnway T.J. Maloneys / Wisecrackers 800 East 81st Ave. 219-755-0569 Whiting Villa Del Sol 2225 Lincoln Hwy 219-201-4457 Bulldog Brewing Co. 1409 119th St. Center Lounge 1312 119th St. Munster 1225 119th St. 3 Floyds Brewing Co. 9750 Indiana Parkway 219-922-3565 Clipper’s Lounge Game Time 2 Bar & Grill 2062 Indianapolis Blvd. Cheers Foods & Drinks 1942 45th Ave. 219-922-1325 Midtown Station 1928 New York Ave. Danny Z’s 1860 45th St. 219-712-0912 Sportsmen’s Corner 1200 120th St Johnny’s Tap 8050 Calumet Ave. 219-836-9218 The Office 2008 Indianapolis Blvd Mark O’s Bar & Grill 2 435 Ridge Rd.
219-763-7300 219-763-0195 219-762-1900 219-763-3779 219-762-7305 219-764-9464 219-762-7485 219-850-4675 219-763-7771 219-762-0509 219-762-5812 219-762-6065 219-926-3050 219-926-6211 219-762-2113 219 926-7614 219-921-0100 219-865-8377 219-322-7788 219-865-3022 219-864-8862 219-322-0080 219-322-4812 219-322-6723 219-322-5660 219-322-3060 219-322-4444 219-365-1525 219-365-7880 219-365-5509 219-627-3649 219-850-4935 219-462-1057 219-462-2533 219-242-8160 219-464-0801 219-465-0885 219-916-2086 219-286-7664 219-465-0205 219-763-2282 219-762-4099 219-464-1018 219-655-5284 219-659-4080 219-659-5006 219-473-0239 219-659-7530 219-659-9695 219-659-1070
Little Johnny
Little Johnny had a cussing problem and his father was getting tired of it. He decided to ask his shrink what to do. The shrink said, “Since Christmas is coming up, you should ask Johnny what he wants Santa to bring him. If he cusses while he tells you his wish list, leave a pile of dog poop in place of the gift or gifts he requests.” Two days before Christmas, Johnny’s father asked him what he wanted for Christmas. “I want a damn teddy-bear laying right beside me when I wake up. When I go downstairs I want to see a damn train going around the damn tree. And when I go outside I want to see a damn bike leaning against the damn garage.” Christmas morning, Little Johnny woke up and rolled over into a pile of dog poop. Confused, he walked down stairs and saw another pile under the tree. Scratching his head, he walked outside and saw a huge pile of dog poop by the garage. When Johnny walked back inside with a curious look on his face, his dad smiled and asked, “What did Santa bring you this year?” Johnny replied, “I think I got a dog, but I can’t find the son-of-a-bitch!”
First Day of School
Little DJ has his first day at school. His Mom was real worried, and when she picked him up from school at the end of the day, she anxiously asked him how his day went. ‘Well, I came top of the class in Math, I made a touchdown in football, and I had sex with the teacher.’ ‘What! How dare you! Get into your room and wait till your father gets home!’ Little DJ goes to his room, and when his father comes home, DJ’s mom tells his father, ‘I’m absolutely disgusted with DJ. He said he came top of the class in Math, made a touchdown in football, and had sex with the teacher!’ ‘That’s my boy’ thinks his Dad. So he goes upstairs to talk to DJ. ‘Don’t worry about your Mom. She’s a bit upset, but it sounds to me like you had an awesome day at school. In fact, I’m so pleased, you know that bicycle I said I was going to buy you for Christmas, I think I’ll get it for you this weekend.’ ‘Oh no, Dad, don’t. I don’t think I’ll be able to sit down for a while.’
Buddy & Pals Schererville, IN
Cheating Husband
The wife comes home early and finds her husband in their master bedroom making love to a beautiful, sexy young lady! “You unfaithful, disrespectful pig! What are you doing? How dare you do this to me, the faithful wife, the mother of your children! I’m leaving this house; I want a divorce!” The husband, replies “Wait, Wait a minute! Before you leave, at least listen to what happened.” “Hmmmmmm, I don’t know... Well, it’ll be the last thing I will hear from you. But make it fast, you unfaithful pig!” The husband begins to tell his story . . . “While driving home this young lady asks for a ride. I saw her so defenseless that I went ahead and allowed her in my car. I noticed that she was very thin, not well-dressed, and very dirty. She mentioned that she had not eaten for 3 days. With great compassion and hurt, I brought her home and warmed up the enchiladas that I made for you last night, the ones you wouldn’t eat because you’re afraid you’ll gain weight; the poor thing practically devours them. Since she was very dirty I asked her to take a shower. While she was showering, I noticed her clothes were dirty and full of holes, so I threw them away. Since she needed clothes, I gave her the pair of jeans that you have had for a few years, that you can no longer wear because they are too tight on you. I also gave her the blouse that I gave you on our anniversary, the one you don’t wear because I don’t have good taste. I gave her the pullover that my sister gave you for Christmas, the one you refuse to wear just to bother my sister; and I also gave her the boots that you bought at the expensive boutique that you never wore again after you saw your co-worker wearing the same pair.” The husband continues his story . . . “The young woman was very grateful to me and I walked her to the door, at which point she turned around, and with tears coming out of her eyes, she asks me: “Sir, do you have anything else that your wife does not use?”
Bullpen Dyer, IN
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Silver Bullet Crown Point, IN
Josh Holmes | W by: William Mathews Most fans of the Northwest Indiana music scene will know the name of Josh Holmes. Holmes has been playing all original music around the area since 1998 and has recorded eight CDs. But some of those same fans may have noticed that they have seen a little bit less of Holmes these days, and it’s true. Holmes has not been playing as many live shows recently as he had in the past. Instead, he has spent the time writing and recording his ninth CD, ‘thinking out LOUD’. The CD was just released on Black Wednesday at a CD Release Event show at the Lake County Fairgrounds and featured a live performance by Holmes and his band. “This CD is the culmination of three years of work,” said Holmes. “My last two CD’s were acoustic, but on this one I went back to my roots, playing more aggressive rock music.” The CD was recorded at the Alley Recording Company in Valparaiso and was mixed and mastered at Smoke and Mirrors Studios in Santa Monica, California and features a driving, aggressive rock sound. Holmes, a 36 year old Schererville native, wrote all eleven tracks on the album and played the guitar and bass as well as performing all the vocals.
Holmes was accompanied on the CD by Steve Fields on drums and Steve Krupa on keyboards. Holmes first picked up a guitar when he was nine years old after his father took him to see ‘La Bamba’. It was then and there he decided he wanted to play the guitar and Holmes still credits Richie Valens as a major influence on his music. Like most musicians, Holmes had to learn to balance his love of music with the responsibilities of a family and a regular day job the hard way. “I used to play over 200 shows a year,” said Holmes. “I had a booking agent and I would travel from coast to coast to play shows. And I would love to do music full time again but I have a family now and the road thing was hard.” “When I turned 30 I decided it was time to take a break and work a regular day job. Now I play music as a hobby.” “In order to sustain a career in music on the road, I would have to be more selfish,” continued Holmes. “Now I only play out about once a week, and I really don’t miss being out there. Plus, it has given me more time to write and record music.” Despite the fact that Holmes has played fewer live shows than before, he has still opened for some big name national acts like Collective Soul,
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When Less Is More Huey Lewis and the News, the Doobie Brothers, Blue Oyster Cult and O.A.R., just to name a few. “I have been lucky to be contacted to do a few big shows each year,” said Holmes. “The booking agency I had when I did music full time got that ball rolling. And I like opening for national acts because I can play my original music.” “My favorite place to play is anywhere that I can play original music and there aren’t a lot of places here where I can do that.” The fact that Holmes has spent less time playing live shows is proof of the old adage that sometimes less is more, because Holmes feels his time away from the road has had a positive effect on his music.
“The time away from playing live has really made my music better,” said Holmes. “I really enjoy writing and recording music and the current material is the best I’ve ever done.” “I feel like the quality of my new CD is a direct result of music being my hobby, not my paying job. It’s allowed me time to write and be more creative,” continued Holmes. “I do it now because I want to, not because I have to.” “I’m very, very proud of this CD. I wish I had done this fifteen years ago.” The new album ‘thinking out LOUD’ is available for fan purchase on-line at www.joshholmes.net and is also available on iTunes, Amazon and CD Baby.- NWIE
Get the Hell of the Train
A few days after Christmas, a mother working in the kitchen, was listening to her son play with his new electric train set. She heard the train stop and her son said ‘all you sons of bitches who are getting off, get the hell off now, and all of you sons of bitches who are getting on-get your asses on the train cause we’re leaving right now.’ The mother went into the living room and told her son, ‘we don’t use that kind of language in this house. Now I want you to go to your room for two hours. When you come out, you may play with your train but you must use nicer language.’ Two hours later, Her son came out of his room and resumed playing with his train.Soon the train stopped and the mother heard her son say, ‘All passengers who are disembarking the train, please remember to take all of your belongings with you. We thank you for riding with us today and hope that you will ride with us again. For those of you just boarding, we ask that you stow all hand luggage under your seat. Remember that there is no smoking except in the club car. We hope that you will have a pleasant and relaxing journey with us today. For those of you who are pissed off because of the two hour delay, please see the bitch in the kitchen.’
One Liners
Now that food has replaced sex in my life, I can’t even get into my own pants. Marriage changes passion. Suddenly you’re in bed with a relative. I saw a woman wearing a sweat shirt with “Guess” on it. So I said “Implants?” She hit me. I don’t do drugs. I get the same effect just standing up fast. Sign in a Chinese Pet Store: “Buy one dog, get one flea...” I live in my own little world. But it’s OK. They know me here.
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Northwest Indiana Profile
Krazy Cab – A Famil
by Rick Jensen
Businesses will often advertise the fact that they are family owned and operated. This is important to consumers because when a business is locally owned, any money they spend with that business stays local. Most folks would rather help to support their own community by spending their money with someone they know rather than with a faceless chain store where their money goes out of town. But it’s also important to consumers because they are more likely to get better service or a better product with a family owned business. Family businesses care more about their customers because their family name is on the line. But you may not think being family owned is all that important when it comes to a taxi cab company. But if you do, then you are wrong, because Krazy Cab of Northwest Indiana is proof. You see Krazy Cab is a family owned,
local business that is staffed and run by a family. But what makes this family owned business special is that they treat their customers like family. Robert Rosendaul Jr. bought the company twelve years ago and was joined by his mother, Linda Stauffer, as his partner nine years ago. Stauffer’s daughter, Taisha Rosendaul also works for the company in accounting and dispatch. But the familial connections don’t end there. Dispatchers Tommy and Lynette Bates are Rosendaul Jr.’s in-laws; dispatcher Kari White is Stauffer’s niece, and Stauffer’s ‘virtual son’ Joe Porras also works there. Even Stauffer’s husband, Marty J. Stauffer, a steel worker who is not formally employed at Krazy Cab, is involved with the business, shopping for new cabs and performing maintenance on the fleet among other duties. But the tightly knit family group running the business is not the only thing that makes Krazy Cab special. What makes the company special is how this family treats their clients like they are part of the family too. “What sets us apart is our service,” said Linda Stauffer. “We go the extra mile to make sure our customers have an enjoyable ride and a safe ride. And we help them with their needs.” “We serve a lot of elderly, handicapped and sick people. Many of them are people who don’t have anyone else to help them so we take them to physical rehabilitation, the doctor or out to
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ly Serving Families pay their bills so we do whatever we can to help the town can take a Krazy cab and split the cost them.” without worrying about who will be the designat“If you have ever ridden in a cab in Chicago or ed driver; an important consideration with the another big city they rush you in and out, they holidays coming up. drive like maniacs and “That’s our niche,” says the drivers are rude,” At night Krazy Cab makes sure people Stauffer. “We saw a continued Stauffer. who have been out at bars and don’t need in the area with all “We take our time and the retirement homes have a designated driver available get open the doors for our and hospitals as well as clients, or we’ll carry to their destination safely and thus keep the drinking and drivthe public safe too. in their groceries. We ing problem. So we’ll have step stools to do whatever we can to make it easier for them to get in and out or we help the customer. We’re all one big happy family help them get in and out of the cab.” here and we treat our customers like family too!” “We get to know our customers, so we’ll help them Krazy Cab of Northwest Indiana is located at 786 button their coats or tie their shoes if they need it. McCool Road in Valparaiso and serves both Lake And all our drivers are courteous. We don’t rush and Porter counties. The number to call for a ride anybody and we add the personal touch.” in Lake County is 219-962-4949 and the Porter Besides helping their clients with their various County number is 219-763-1675. needs, Krazy Cab also keeps the fixed incomes The company’s website is www.krazycab.com of their clients in mind by providing five minutes and the e-mail address is krazycab@comcast.net. of free time when they come to pick up a fare. Krazy Cab also has a smart phone app available Krazy Can also has reduced rates for time spent too. - NWIE waiting in situations like when a client is waiting at the pharmacy for a prescription. And Krazy Cab doesn’t charge per person like the big cab companies do. At night, the company’s clientele is bit different. At night Krazy Cab makes sure people who have been out at bars and don’t have a designated driver available get to their destination safely and thus keep the public safe too. And since Krazy Cab doesn’t charge per person, groups who are going out for a night on
Lake 219.962.4949 Porter 219.763.1675 WEB KrazyCab.com
More One-Liners
I got a sweater for Christmas. I really wanted a screamer or a moaner. If flying is so safe, why do they call the airport the terminal? I don’t approve of political jokes. I’ve seen too many of them get elected. There are two sides to every divorce: Yours and Shithead’s. I love being married. It’s so great to find that one special person you want to annoy for the rest of your life. I am a nobody, and nobody is perfect; therefore, I am perfect. Everyday I beat my own previous record for number of consecutive days I’ve stayed alive. How come we choose from just two people to run for president and 50 for Miss America? Isn’t having a smoking section in a restaurant like having a peeing section in a swimming pool? Why is it that most nudists are people you don’t want to see naked? Snowmen fall from Heaven unassembled. Every time I walk into a singles bar I can hear Mom’s wise words: “Don’t pick that up, you don’t know where it’s been!”
Beavers
Merrillville, IN
A good friend will come and bail you out of jail...but, a true friend will be sitting next to you saying, “Damn..that was fun!
By Daniel Anthony These people are upscale, professional types who would prefer to frequent classier establishments with a great atmosphere and good food. But if they are looking for a restaurant/bar with a country theme, their choices are pretty limited. There are certainly a lot of bars in Northwest Indiana and they come in a range of types. There are neighborhood corner taverns, your run of the mill bar and grills, and plenty Some things are uniquely American, like baseball, tackle football, jazz and country music. Al- of sports bars; it seems almost every bar today though country music has been around seeming- claims to be a sports bar. ly forever, for many years it was a musical genre But there are few, if any, country themed bars. largely considered the province of hillbillies and But all that has changed, because, to put a new spin on an old saying, “there’s a new sheriff in rednecks. But over the years, country music has evolved town.” from a backwoods musical niche into a popular On Thursday, October 23rd, a new bar opened genre in the American musical mainstream. Stars in Chesterton that will likely set a new standard like Carrie Underwood, Kenny Chesney, Luke for country bars. That new bar is the Kountry Wild Bryan and Toby Keith are as popular as any main- Saloon. Located in the old Hooligan’s building at 1050 stream stars. But in spite of the popularity of country music, Broadway in Chesterton, the Kountry Wild Saloon country style bars are still pretty much hole in the wall honky-tonks frequented by the aforementioned hillbillies and rednecks. If you want a shot and a beer and or to get falling down drunk, or if you are looking to get into a fist fight, the old style country honky-tonks are the place for you. But most folks are not looking for that kind of entertainment. For the most part, the people who enjoy the new country music are not hillbillies, rednecks or hicks. Their idea of a good time is not to get hammered, get into a fight and maybe go to jail.
is an upscale, country themed bar that provides an alternative to sports bars. According to Rusty Lagneau, the Northern Division President of Kountry Wild Saloons, the Kountry Wild Saloon provides a local, country themed tavern with an upscale ambience, great food and middle class prices. “We developed the idea because there were no country themed bars in the area,” said Lagneau. “We thought that people would like a country themed bar, a casual type of place where the locals could feel at home and have fun.” And although it’s not a coat and tie type of place, it has an upscale menu featuring shrimp cocktail, prime rib, western steaks and lobster, and lasagna. To insure the quality of the food, the chef is a graduate of the Chicago Culinary School at the Illinois Institute of Art. But in spite of this pedigree, the menu is priced so it won’t break the bank. For entertainment there are pool tables, the new Galaxy 3 Dart Boards, and twelve TV’s. And even though the games are on the TV’s, the Kountry Wild
Saloon is not a sports bar. For additional entertainment the management also plans on having period entertainment, karaoke and deejays. All of that is well and good, but the Kountry Wild Saloon has something even more entertaining: The employees! The waitresses and bartenders at the Kountry Wild Saloon are scantily clad in halter tops, “Daisy Duke” short shorts and of course, cowboy boots. There may even be some dancing on the bar. But why Chesterton? “We studied the demographics and picked Chesterton because of the character of the community,” said Lagneau. “We think that the people here will really take to this idea.” And if all goes as planned, there will be Kountry Wild Saloons popping up all over Indiana. The next location will open in Lafayette next year, and after that there will be locations in St. John, Portage and Indianapolis. The Kountry Wild Saloon corporate headquarters are located in Monticello, Indiana and franchise opportunities are available. For more information on franchises, interested parties can contact the company via e-mail at rogness53@gmail.com or by calling 219-405-1036. The Kountry Wild Saloon in Chesterton is open from 7:00 am to 3:00 am Monday through Saturday and from 10:00 am to 2:00 am on Sundays.
What a Boy Wants for Christmas
David remembers accompanying his father out shopping in the toy department of Macy’s one Christmas Eve. Dad said, ‘What a marvellous train set. I’ll buy it.’ The girl behind the counter looked pleased and murmured, ‘Great, I’m sure your son will really love it.’ Dad replied with a glint in his eye, ‘Maybe you’re right. In that case I’ll take two.’
What a Girl Wants for Christmas
The Santa Claus at the shopping mall was very surprised when a Emily, young lady aged about 20 years old walked up and sat on his lap. Now, we all know that Santa doesn’t usually take requests from adults, but she smiled very nicely at him, so he asked her, ‘What do you want for Christmas?’ ‘Something for my mother, please,’ replied Emily sweetly. ‘Something for your mother? Well, that’s very loving and thoughtful of you,’ smiled Santa. ‘What do would you like me to bring her?’ Without turning a hair Emily answered quickly, ‘A son-in-law.’
Santa’s Funny Outfit
How do you know Santa Claus has to be a man? No woman is going to wear the same outfit year after year!
Safe House Crown Point, IN
Reasons Why a Woman Would Like to Be Santa Claus
10. - There’d be no more early morning decisions about what to wear to the office. 9. - No one would bother to ask Santa Claus for a ride to work. 8. - Buy one big brown belt and you’d be accessorized for life. 7. - You’d always work in sensible footwear. 6. - You’d never be expected to make the coffee. 5. - There’d be no need to play office politics; a hearty hoho-ho would remind everyone who is the boss. 4. - Juggling work and family would be easy. All your children would adore you; even your teenagers would want to sit in your lap. 3. - You’d never take the wrong coat on your way home. 2. - You could grow a tummy the size of Texas and consider it a job requirement of a funny Santa Claus. 1. - No one would ask to see your job description.
A Christmas Story
According to the Alaska Department of Fish and Game, while in the summer both male and female reindeer grow antlers each year, male reindeer drop their antlers at the beginning of winter, usually late November to mid-December. Female reindeer retain their antlers till after they give birth in the spring. Therefore, according to EVERY historical rendition depicting Santa’s reindeer, EVERY single one of them, from Rudolph to Blitzen, had to be a girl.
Three Monkeys Crown Point, IN
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Have a Happy & Safe Holiday Season!
200 Indianapolis Blvd • Schererville, IN 46375 • 219.864.8862
TUESDAY NIGHTS
KARAOKE NIGHT • 9PM
THURSDAY SABOR NIGHTS SATURDAYS
1/2 PRICE WELLS
THE AREA’S BEST BAND NIGHT UNPLUGGED! LIVE BANDS • 8PM
$2.50 ALL BEERS
1/2 PRICE MARGARITAS
SOME EXCLUSIONS APPLY
$2 CORONA’S
BACHATA • SALSA • TOP 40
$2.50 TECATE $3 SANGRIA $5 STRAWBERRY MARGARITAS
$4 MAESTRO DOBEL TEQUILA EVERY DAY