GO! March 13, 2014 by The Times of NWI

03.13.2014-03.19.2014

THE TIMES MEDIA CO.

25 YEARS AT STAR PLAZA THEATRE CHARLIE BLUM LOOKS BACK

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ST PADDY’S PARADE DRAWS HUNDREDS

ETHNIC FOLK MUSIC AND DANCE AT MUNSTER HS

CALUMET FISHERIES FRIES UP FAVORITES

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03.13.2014-03.19.2014

ON THE COVER: Star Plaza

Theatre President, CEO and Talent Buyer Charlie Blum is cheek-tocheek with the stars of his July 2011 Star Productions run of the stage musical “Hairspray.” He is framed by Gina Guarino (left), who played Tracy Turnblad and bewigged Frank Hattula who played Tracy’s mom Edna, for a family photo backstage at the Star Plaza Theatre in Merrillville.

Charlie Blum with Anita Baker.

SEE+DO 8 / PHIL POTEMPA Phil Potempa’s column honors Charlie Blum’s 25th anniversary at Star Plaza Theatre.

6 / TAMBURITZANS The famous Eastern European folk group comes to Munster High School. 7 / ST PATTY’S DAY Crown Point’s St. Patrick’s Day parade is a festival of floats, lights and family fun.

MUSIC+CLUBS

THEATER

COVER STORY:

3 / LOCAL SCENE Tom Lounges’ column gets a sneak peek at Munster native S. Joel Norman’s new album. 5 / DUELING PIANOS The Northwest Indiana Symphony presents a night of music with two piano virtuosos.

9 / ON STAGE The latest local theater productions and shows.

THE BIG SCREEN 10 / CAPSULES The lowdown on all the latest films at a multiplex near you.

FUN+GAMES 12 / CASINO Avoiding the temptation of a progressive jackpot.

Winston Choi will perform at NISO’s Dueling Pianos. 13 / 24/7 Your guide to the latest events and happenings in Northwest Indiana and surrounding regions. 17 / FUEL Calumet Fisheries is a diamond in the rough in southeast Chicago.

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? How do you celebrate St. Patrick’s Day around the Region? Where’s the best place to go for food? Where’s the best St. Paddy’s Party? BENJAMIN AMELING VIA FACEBOOK: “At home with family eating corned beef and cabbage and traditional Irish soda bread.” CINDY YORK VIA FACEBOOK: “TJ Maloney’s in Merrillville. Good food, music, and if Chandler is still a server there, awesome service! Someone have my black and tan ready on St. Pat’s! I’ll be there by 5:30!” JASON VARGO VIA FACEBOOK: “I could never figure out why NWI has so few Irish restaurants. All of my favorite Irish places are either in Chicago or the Illinois suburbs.” Follow us on social media to join the conversation. For next week, STAYING AROUND THE REGION OR SURROUNDING AREA FOR SPRING BREAK? WHERE ARE YOU HEADED FOR SOME FAMILY FUN? WHAT DOES THE PERFECT STAYCATION INCLUDE? LET US KNOW! facebook.com/gonwitimes

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LOCAL SCENE

Package Information General Admission $40 | 1:30pm - 5:00pm Includes Pint Glass.

VIP $75 | 1:00pm - 3:00pm

PROVIDED

S. Joel Norman in the recording studio.

S. Joel Norman travels light with new album

Access to sour beers, firkins & barrel aged beers. Includes Pint Glass, T-Shirt & Lanyard. Early entrance at 1:00pm.

Brewmaster $99 | Noon - 1:00pm

Lunch with a Brewmaster (12:00pm – 1:00pm). VIP access to sour beers, firkins & barrel aged beers. Includes Pint Glass, T-Shirt, Bottle Opener & Lanyard. Early entrance at 1:00pm.

Designated Driver $15 | 1:30pm - 5:00pm Includes T-Shirt and complimentary soda & water.

S. Joel releases new album ‘Traveling Light’ Must be 21 years of age or older with a state or government issued photo ID to attend event.

‌TOM LOUNGES / BEATBOSS@AOL.COM‌

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unster native S. Joel Norman celebrated the release of “Traveling Light” last week with a headline performance at The Metro in Chicago and is thrilled that radio is already picking up on the title track/single. Norman’s sophomore release is the follow up to his 2011 debut, “Take It In Stride,” which made this columnist’s “Top 10” list for that year in The Times.

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It is available in multiple formats – digital, CD and as a limited edition vinyl LP. It can be ordered at all online music retail sites and at sjoelnorman.com While “Take It In Stride” was more laid back, “Traveling Light” shows tremendous growth for Norman, who has lived in downtown Chicago for the last few years. There are plenty of horns, some tremendous gospel group backing vocals and other adventurous changes.

Tickets On Sale Now!

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These elements really collide well on “Don’t Need A Reason,” which opens up Side B on the vinyl LP version of the album with a funky Blues Brothers/ Stax Records kind of infectious groove making it impossible to sit still. “We just kind of stood on the shoulders of what happened last time with the first album and took it from there,” said Norman. “Since the last album we found out who we were as a band, what worked, what didn’t, what I liked to write, and what turned me on as a musician.” Norman credits much of his sound to producer Marc Nelson of The Alley Recording Studio in Valparaiso. Although many fine recording studios are closer to Norman’s Chicago home, he comes to Valparaiso to lay down his tracks primarily because as he put it, “Marc gets it! Marc is more than just an engineer. Marc is an artist and thinks like an artist.” Nelson saw Norman gigging out one night and invited him to appear on the “Live From The Alley” PBS-TV show Nelson was producing at the time. “I thought I was just going to roll in there rock style – drums, bass, guitar and knock it out,” said Norman. “Marc had other ideas. He wanted to add horns, gospel singers, and I remember I spent the whole night before our taping writing horn parts.” Norman’s robust R&B growl falls somewhere between Joe Cocker and Van Morrison. His songs reflect personal experiences and people he has known. The song “Traveling Light” is Norman’s most personal and reflective song to date. “There was an old chapel in Shelbyville, Mich. I used to go to as a kid, and it was a really beautiful experience for me. I remember the way I felt going to that chapel and how much it meant to my whole family that we were there together. My life has changed so much since then but I wanted to find a way to bring that old life and my new life together in a song, to reconcile them in some way. That’s where ‘Traveling Light’ came from and is all about.” “Growing up I always had a knack for music but never thought it would be a career. I was born in Lansing and we moved to Munster when I was about 2 years old,” said Norman who has long gone by his middle name of Joel rather than his first name of Steven. The adding of S. to the front end of his name has become

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a frequently asked question by the media and he confessed that he takes creative freedom while telling various humorous versions on what the S. means. “The truth is, I’ve always gone by Joel and the reason I added the S. and stared going by S. Joel Norman professionally is because I couldn’t cash a check once that had been made out to ‘Joel Norman’. So I put the S. in front of it so I wouldn’t have problems when it came to getting paid,” he laughed. “I literally had to be fired from a job I had at a college I was working at before I thought maybe I should try making some money playing music,” he recalled. “I was 24 at the time and I’ve never looked back.” His strict Dutch upbringing introduced Norman to gospel music early on and have his antique collecting mother brought an old piano home that instantly became a hit fixture with her young son, she signed him up for lessons. “I think Mom just got sick of me just pounding away on it, and said, ‘So I guess I need to get you lessons!’ so when I was four I took lessons and that sort of started it all,” recalled Norman who went on to study at Wheaton Conservatory of Music, where he was the first to perform juries with a valve trombone, the first to perform an all-jazz recital, and the first to receive a bachelors degree in a new field of study he tailored. Along the way Norman has composed and arranged pieces for orchestra, chorus, and jazz ensemble as well as scores to many Arena Theater productions, including “The Madwoman of Chaillot” and “A Midsummer Night’s Dream.” He was most recently commissioned by Northern Illinois University to compose original songs for their Shakespeare production of “A Winter’s Tale.” Next up for Norman are doing as many gigs as possible to promote “Traveling Light” and in spring he’ll be part of a musical cruise in the Caribbean that he is clearly looking forward to after such a harsh Midwest winter. “I’m just enjoying getting out there and playing with my band,” concluded Norman, who hopes to book a date later in the summer back home in Northwest Indiana. Email Tom Lounges at beatboss@aol.com

Turning up the heat on

3pm Aug 29. $45$119.80 THE CHICAGO THEATRE Thechicagotheatre. com

‘Dueling Pianos’

‌All concerts listed below are all ages unless otherwise noted. Some of the ticket prices below do not include taxes and fees.

‌ loise Marie Valadez / Eloise.Valadez@ E nwi.com‌

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blend of dynamic, graceful and engaging compositions will take center stage when Northwest Indiana Symphony Orchestra presents its latest show. Music director and conductor Kirk Muspratt leads the symphony in a “Dueling Pianos” show Friday at The Auditorium at Bethel Church in Crown Point. “This is a great concert for families and children,” Muspratt said. He added the excitement of having two pianos “face to face” on stage in a type of battling play, in a sense, is fascinating for audience members to see. “And we have piano cams that focus in on the hands at the keyboard throughout the show,” he explained. The piano cams make it much more dramatic to watch the musician’s feats up close. “If anyone happens to be studying the piano (taking lessons), they’ll really enjoy this show,” Muspratt said. Special guests performing with the symphony will be pianists Marta Aznavoorian and Winston Choi. Steve Robinson of WFMT radio will serve as narrator for the “Carnival of the Animals” piece by Saint-Saens. Muspratt said “Carnival of the Animals” is an engaging work and it’s filled with humor. Also on the concert bill are performances of Poulenc’s “Concerto for Two Pianos” and Brahms’ “4th Symphony.” Since it is St. Patrick’s Day weekend, Muspratt promises some “Irish encores” at the show. About the evening’s special guests, Muspratt said he’s looking forward to presenting the three talents on stage

SUBTERRANEAN Subt.net JD McPherson, 9pm May 30 (17 and older show). $20 Owls, 8:30pm May 16 (17 and older show). $17-$20 FIRST MERIT BANK PAVILION Livenation.com Widespread Panic, Tedeschi Trucks Band, 5:30pm June 20. $59.55 SCHUBAS Schubas.com Provided

Winston Choi is one of the stars to perform at Northwest Indiana Symphony Orchestra’s “Dueling Pianos” show. Provided

Marta Aznavoorian will be featured in “Dueling Pianos.”

with the orchestra. “We’re very lucky to have them,” he said, noting the pianists are well known on the touring circuit and Robinson’s distinct and “gorgeous” speaking voice will be perfect for narrating Saint-Saens’ work. Muspratt plans to present a preconcert discussion as he does for other shows. “And the soloists always show up for the pre-concert lectures,” he said. The talks are well-attended as are the maestro’s “Cookies with Kirk” gatherings after the show. He promises “the artists will be there after the show to greet everyone.” Muspratt said the concert is sure to be a fun experience for audience members. And he’s looking forward to

“If anyone happens to be studying the piano (taking lessons), they’ll really enjoy this show.” Kirk Muspratt, Northwest Indiana Symphony Orchestra Music director and conductor

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saluting St. Paddy’s Day with special surprises as well. “We’re expecting this concert to sell out,” he said. The concert is sponsored by The Crown Point Community Foundation and The Giragos Family. FYI: The Northwest Indiana Symphony Orchestra will present “Dueling Pianos at 7:30pm Friday at The Auditorium at Bethel Church, on Broadway, south of U.S. 30, Crown Point. Pre-concert talk begins at 6:15pm. Tickets range from $25 to $65, with student tickets priced at $10. Call (219) 836-0525, ext. 200 or visit nisorchestra.org

Dan Wilson, 7pm June 7 (21 and older). $20 Mike Posner, 8pm April 7. $20 Walter SalasHumara, 7pm June 6 (21 and older). $12 FIRST MIDWEST BANK AMPHITHEATRE Livenation.com Linkin Park, 30 Seconds to Mars,

Doug E. Fresh, Biz Markie, Slick Rick, 8pm March 29. $73.81-$115.86 Tori Amos, 7:30pm Aug 5. $52.78-$78.41 LINCOLN HALL Lincolnhallchicago. com Uh Huh Her, 8pm May 6 (18 and older). $20 Margot and the Nuclear So and So’s, 9pm May 23 (18 and older). $15 Galantis, 8pm April 29 (21 and older). $30 BEAT KITCHEN Beatkitchen.com King Gizzard and the Lizard Wizard, 8pm May 6 (21 and older). $8-$10 Eagulls, 8pm June 10 (18 and older). $12 ALLSTATE ARENA Allstatearena.com Rod Stewart, Santana, 7:30pm Aug. 16. $50.25-$269 HOUSE OF BLUES hob.com Yandel, 8pm June 19 (17 and older). $52.60 Lucky Boys Confusion, 8:30pm June 28 (17 and older). $29.45

Send information on upcoming concerts to nwitickets@gmail.com.

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6247 Kennedy Ave • Hammond • 219-844-9766 Open 11am - 8pm Sun - Wed • 11am - 10pm Thur - Sat

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Celeb birthdays M ‌ arch 13: Actress Tracy Wells (“Mr. Belvedere”) is 53. Rapper Common is 42. Rapper Khujo of Goodie Mob is 42. Singer Glenn Lewis is 39. Actor Danny Masterson (“That ‘70s Show”) is 38. March 14: Actress Penny Johnson Jerald is 53. Drummer Michael Bland of Soul Asylum is 45. Singer Kristian Bush of Sugarland is 44. Actress Grace Park (“Battlestar Galactica”) is 40. Actor Chris Klein is 35. Singer-keyboardist Taylor Hanson of Hanson is 31. Este Haim (Bassist/guitarist for Haim) is 28. March 15: Singer Bret Michaels of Poison is 51. Singer Rockwell is 50. Singer Mark McGrath of Sugar Ray is 46. Bassist Mark Hoppus of Plus-44 and Blink 182 is 42.

Dynamic Tamburitzans to perform in Munster

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‌Eloise Marie Valadez / Eloise.Valadez@nwi.com‌

ne of the most colorful of shows will descend on Munster this weekend. The Duquesne University Tamburitzans will bring their blend of music, culture and dance to the stage of Munster Senior High School on Saturday, March 16. The troupe will perform at 2 p.m. “The show is such great family entertainment. There are beautiful costumes and exciting dances. It’s a great experience from beginning to end,” said John Pruzin Jr., a local Tamburitza and supporter of the Duquesne Tamburitzans. The group, with Paul G. Stafura as managing director, offers a variety of entertainment combining musical performances with folk dances. The group is comprised of students of Duquesne University in Pittsburgh, Penn., and was established officially in 1937 with just a few musicians. Pruzin said every show contains new additions with this year featuring a segment with Jewish songs and dances. While the group’s main concentration of musical material is centered on the Balkans, including Croatian and Serbian influences, they

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also present a great deal of other Eastern European cultures on stage, including Czech, Macedonian, Russian and more. In a past interview, director Stafura said, “In Eastern Europe, you can go across the river, across the road or across the mountains and see a whole new culture, new costumes, new sets of songs and new dances. So, we never run out of resources.” On the entertainment roster, audience members will see a variety of dances including Vlach Dances; Dances from Polissia; The Potters’ Dance; Gypsy Songs from Slovakia; Dances from the Timok River Valley and more. Pruzin said something new this year will be the opportunity for fans to gather in the cafeteria at the high school for food, additional music and dance. There’ll be various food for sale including homemade nut rolls and strudel. Braca Tamburitza will perform for guests’ enjoyment. “It’ll be a nice experience,” Pruzin said. FYI: Duqesne University Tamburitzans will perform at 2pm March 16 at Munster Senior High School, 8808 Columbia Ave., Munster. Tickets are $25 and $23. For more information, call (877) 826-6437 or visit duq.edu/tamburitzans

C o u rt e s y o f D u q u e s n e U n i v e r s i t y T a m b u r i t z a n s

College students from Duquesne University perform as the touring Tamburitzans representing Eastern European culture, music and traditions centered on the Balkans, but with Yiddish, Czech, Macedonian and Russian influences as well

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• Huge Outdoor Deck • Two Stories (Upstairs Bar) • Daily Specials • www.STaTiOn-21.cOm 201 North Main Street Crown Point, IN 46307 • Call Us: (219) 661-0021

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30 Plasma TV’s to watch all the upcoming maRcH GamES! Stop in for Food and Drink Specials in the month of march!

ST. PATRICK’S DAY

Celebrate the luck of the Irish MARCH 15 St. Patrick’s Day Dinner St. Michaels Parish in Schererville will host a St. Patrick’s Day Dinner to benefit the St. Michael’s Education Foundation from 5-8pm. The dinner will include corned beef, cabbage and carrots, sausage and sauerkraut, Irish potatoes, chicken tenders and hot dogs, as well as coffee, dessert and a cash bar. Carry outs are available. FYI: stmichaels-parish.org

‌CHRISTINE BRYANT / CHRISTINESDESK@GMAIL.COM‌

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he historic Crown Point Courthouse Square will turn into a sea of green this week as the city kicks off its popular St. Patrick’s Day festivities. The celebration will begin at 3 p.m. March 17 with a corned beef and cabbage dinner at the fire station on North East Street, and will end with hundreds flocking to the city to see the city’s annual St. Patrick’s Day parade. “This event is the only nighttime parade in the area,” said Diana Bosse, special events administrator with the Mayor David Uran’s office, who added that parade entries are illuminated. Since first beginning in 2009, the parade has grown in attendance each year, she said. “We have been very successful over the years because mother nature has been on our side,” Bosse said. “We expect another great turnout this year as people are ready to get out and celebrate Spring.” The parade will feature emergency vehicles, lit entries, Band of Brothers Pipes and Drums, Lake County Pipes and Drums and the Junior Grand Marshall Event Logo Contest winner. Uran will serve as the Grand Marshall of the parade, which commences at dusk on South Main Street around the historic square rain or shine. Bosse said the city’s St. Patrick’s Day celebration will also include vendors selling items on the south side of the Courthouse Square, including concessions, parade novelties, traditional Irish heritage items, jewelry, glow sticks and festive Irish themed items.

MARCH 16 Irish performance Irish Duo Switchback will perform at Theatre at the Center, 1040 Ridge Road, Munster at 7:30pm. A traditional Irish dinner will precede the performance. FYI: 219.836.3255 or theatreatthecenter.com.

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The crowd waits for the St. Patrick’s Day parade to start in downtown Crown Point in 2013. Hundreds of spectators turned out for the festivities.

Because of increased traffic, intersections in town, including South and Main, a portion of Wells Street, and Court and South streets will be closed during the parade. Several bars and restaurants in Crown Point also will feature St. Patrick’s Day celebrations. For more information on Crown Point’s St. Patrick’s Day celebration, call (219) 662-3290 or go to crownpoint.in.gov.

Leprechaun Hunt Help a naturalist use his GPS unit to find leprechauns and their gold during this Indiana Dunes State Park from 2-2:45pm. Meet in front of the Nature Center for the 45-minute hunt. FYI: interpretiveservices. in.gov

Mark Reid, of the Band of Brothers Pipes and Drums, spins his drum during the fourth annual Crown Point St. Patrick’s Day Parade.

KRISTIN A. SMITH, THE TIMES

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St. Patrick’s Day luncheon Whiting Knights of Columbus, Whiting Council 1696, will host a St. Patrick’s Day luncheon/dinner. Doors open at 11am and lunch will be served until 5pm. Included is a corned beef dinner with potatoes, cabbage, carrots and an ice cream sundae bar. FYI: whitingkofc.com/ KC1696

A decorated old fashioned car drives past during the fourth annual Crown Point St. Patrick’s Day Parade.

South Side Irish St. Patrick’s Day Parade More than 100,000 will gather for the South Side Irish St. Patrick’s Day Parade in Chicago’s Beverly neighborhood at noon. The parade kicks off at 103rd Street and Western Avenue. FYI: southsideirishparade.org

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An entertaining Star Plaza’s Charlie Blum celebrating 25 starry-eyed years ‌ HILIP POTEMPA / PHILIP.POTEMPA@NWI. P COM

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harlie Blum, president, CEO and talent buyer for Star Plaza Theatre in Merrillville, still recalls the first “big stage entertainers” he ever purchased a ticket to see on stage. “It was the Beach Boys in Atlantic City,” Blum said. “And I can honestly say I never dreamed one day I’d be the guy booking them to play at a theater where I would be the guy picking the talent to entertain audiences.” Today, March 13, marks Blum’s 25th anniversary charting the stars for Star Plaza Theatre. Star Plaza Theatre’s 35-year history has earned it landmark status for ticket traffic. The vision to build an entertainment and lodging destination in the middle of a cornfield in 1979 came from Dean and Bruce White, who planned and developed the $6 million Holiday Inn and Holiday Star Theater, which today is the Radisson Hotel at Star Plaza. Blum remains the force credited with making it a major player in the field of live entertainment. After working for the Nederlander Organization and booking shows as a consultant for the Merrillville stage space, he joined the staff full-time in March 1989, and today, still ranks as the guy who Blum and had the idea to Leann Rimes book Jay Leno more than a year in advance, and schedule his standup show just weeks after the 1992 announcement that he would replace Johnny Carson as host of “The Tonight Show.” It was also Blum who helped produce comedian Howie Mandel’s HBO special in 1997, filmed on the Star Plaza stage.

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Today, Blum, with his boundless energy, has added even more layers to his responsibilities by managing two of the hottest touring PBS stage sensations in the country: Under the Streetlamp and Gentleman’s Rule. “I credit Bruce White for always believing in me and supporting my booking decisions,” Blum said. He also faithfully gives a knowing nod to his beloved parents, both having passed in the last decade, for inspiring his career dream. “My parents would always tell me that if you are doing something that you love for your career, then you’ll never work a day in your life.” As for his booking secrets, Blum says it’s both knowing about show biz along with “a bit of luck.” “When we booked Jerry Seinfeld for his stand-up act, his show was just added to the NBC lineup as a summer fill-in. Who knew just how popular it would be?” Blum said. “It used to be we’d get big names in here like Liberace, who would do 14 shows for us and Tom Jones who would do three nights of performances,” he said. Over the years, Blum has introduced Northwest Indiana audiences to stage greats including Liberace, Aretha Franklin, Phil Collins, Barry Manilow, Whitney Houston and Marvin Gaye, Aerosmith, Judas Priest, Johnny Mathis, Garth Brooks, Perry Como, Tom Jones, Julio Iglesias, Dolly Parton, Lee Greenwood, Liza Minelli, Bette Midler, Bob Dylan, James Taylor, Penn & Teller and Bill Cosby. “If there were anyone who I really wanted to book, but didn’t get to bring to Star Plaza, it’s Frank Sinatra,” Blum said. While looking at the walls of his offices at the theater, he remains amazed at some of the major names he sees featured on the promotion posters from past decades for the star line-up

JOHN LUKE, THE TIMES

Star Plaza Theatre President, CEO and Talent Buyer Charlie Blum, who began his career as a booking consultant for the theater, marks his 25th anniversary with the stage space on March 13, 2014.

schedule, who at the time, were billed as “opening acts.” They were today’s headliners such as late Whitney Houston, Larry the Cable Guy, Rascal Flatts and Garry Shandling, among others. And over the years, he’s also had to make sure stars’ demands, needs and whims were met to assure a smile when they took the stage. Bob Hope’s wife Dolores, a devout Catholic, requested a car and driver with arrangements to attend Sunday mass. (She attended Our Lady of Consolation on Taft Street in Merrillville.) Chocolate-covered espresso beans were a must for singer Richard Marx. All of the “special requests” are part of the “fine print” included with contracts in the section called “a rider.” “Victor Borge only played a Bosendorfer (piano),” Blum said. “There were only about five of them in the country, but we’d get him one. Dwight Yoakam wanted to visit some of our flea markets while he was here so we took him on a tour.” But Dionne Warwick’s special requests still top the list for “high maintenance.” “She demanded a Ms. PacMan arcade game in her dressing room and three bottles of Cristal champagne, with the latter each costing $200 a bottle.” Blum recalls Patti LaBelle and pal Oprah Winfrey dining at the Olive

Garden on Route 30 before LaBelle’s performance and Red Skelton paying a visit to the Merrillville Kmart before his show to pick up a few props. And when country music star Billy Ray Cyrus needed a cowboy hat, Blum took him to the nearby Great Western Boot Co. Blum said he’s grateful Star Plaza Theatre and Star Productions, which is the original Blum and entertainment Huey Lewis projects division he helps oversee, also continue to help foster new young talent from in the Region and around the country. In recent years, he’s worked with the casts for annual locally produced summer musicals like “Chicago,” “Cabaret,” “Annie” and “Hairspray.” “I have a great staff who are the ones that help make what I do so much easier and also so much more fun,” Blum said. “Especially Mark Bishop, our general manager who I convinced to move his whole family here to take the position just a year after I arrived. And then there are others like Stevie Kokos, our building engineer, who has been with the theater for 28 years. In addition to the great entertainers we feature on stage, these are the people who make sure our audiences leave smiling.” See a gallery of the galaxy of stars who have graced the stage at Star Plaza Theatre in Merrillville courtesy of Charlie Blum’s personal scrapbook photos from the past 25 years.

THEATER NOW SHOWING MAR 14 THE WEIR Festival Players Guild,Mainstreet Theatre, 807 Franklin St, Michigan City. 219.874.4269. festivalplayersguild.org. Set in a rural Irish Pub, this typically Irish play is sad and sweet. Written by Conor McPherson, this play’s theme focuses on a lack of close relationships and missed connections and is recommended for mature audiences.

MAR 14-22 SNOW ANGEL Chicago Street Theatre, 154 W Chicago St, Valparaiso. 219.464.1636. chicagostreet.org. A funny and eerie tale of teen angst, discovery and the power of believing, this play open when a mysterious girl named Eva steps out of a snow bank in the quiet town of Deerpoint during the biggest blizzard in 107 years. Eva recruits 15 confused teenagers to help her search, but who she truly is and what she’s searching for becomes a mystery that baffles, divides and energizes the teens of Deerpoint.

THROUGH MAR 16 ADRIFT IN MACAO Towle Community Theater, 5205 Hohman Avenue, Hammond. 219.937.8780. Set in 1952 in Macao, China, Adrift in Macao is a loving parody

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mohlive.com. This renovated, 364seat 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.

of film noir movies. Everyone that comes to Macao is waiting for something, and though none of them know exactly what that is, they hang around to find out. The characters include your film noir standards, like Lureena, the curvaceous blonde, who luckily bumps into Rick Shaw, the cynical surf and turf casino owner her first night in town. And don’t forget about Mitch, the American who has just been framed for murder by the mysterious villain McGuffin. With songs and quips, puns and farcical shenanigans, this musical parody is bound to please audiences of all ages.

Ring of Fire

THROUGH MAR 30

VENUES INDIANA

RING OF FIRE: THE MUSIC OF JOHNNY CASH Theatre at the Center, Center for Visual and Performing Arts, 1040 Ridge Road, Munster. 219.836.3255. From the iconic songbook of Johnny Cash comes this unique musical about love and faith, struggle and success, rowdiness and redemption, and home and family. More than two dozen classic hits – including “I Walk the Line,” “A Boy Named Sue,” “Folsom Prison Blues,” and the title tune – performed by a multi-talented cast, paint a musical portrait of The Man in Black that promises to be a footstompin’, crowd-pleasin’ salute to a uniquely American legend.

CHICAGO STREET THEATER 154 W Chicago St, Valparaiso. 219.464.1636. chicagostreet.org. Now in its 58th season of bringing live theatrical entertainment to the greater Northwest Indiana region, the CST presents a variety of plays and musicals each season, in addition to regularly scheduled theater classes for both adults and children.

PROVIDED

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 productions of dramas,

comedies and musicals. MARIAN THEATRE AUDITORIUM 119th and Lincoln Avenue, Whiting. 219.659.3776. The Marian Theatre Guild, founded in 1928, is the oldest continuous community theatre 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. April 26-27, May 3-4: The Guys. Nov 1-2, 8-9, 15-16: Shrek the Musical. THE MEMORIAL OPERA HOUSE 104 E Indiana Ave, Valparaiso. 219.548.9137.

ROSS MUSIC THEATER 227 Center Street, 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 show season every year with an occasional third musical. 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. THE THEATRE AT THE CENTER Center for the Visual and Performing Arts, 1040 Ridge Rd, 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.

and a variety of artistic productions.

TOWLE COMMUNITY THEATER 5205 Hohman Ave, Hammond. 219.937.8780. towletheater.org. To honor its mission of nurturing and celebrating local talent in the arts, the Towle Community Theater presents exhibitions, theatrical productions and musical performances in the heart of downtown Hammond.

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.

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

M A R Y D ’A L O I S I O

Snow Angel

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.

03.13.2014 / THE TIMES MEDIA CO. / GO!

‌Fandango Top 10 Presales 1. 300: Rise of an Empire 3D 2. Mr. Peabody & Sherman 3D 3. Divergent 4. Non-Stop 5. Son of God 6. The LEGO Movie 3D 7. The Grand Budapest Hotel 8. Captain America: The Winter Soldier 9. Muppets Most Wanted 10. The Monuments Men

IN THEATERS THIS WEEKEND

COURTESY THE STUDIOS

‌VERONICA MARS

1hr 48 min | PG-13 | Released March 14

Director: Rob Thomas On the eve of graduating law school, Veronica Mars has put Neptune and her amateur sleuthing days behind her. While interviewing at high-end New York law firms, Veronica Mars gets a call from her ex-boyfriend Logan who has been accused of murder. Veronica heads back to Neptune just to help Logan find an attorney, but when things don’t seem right with how Logan’s case is perceived and handled, Veronica finds herself being pulled back into a life she thought she had left behind. The film is a continuation of the story told in the TV show, which went off the air in 2006. Following the series’ cancellation, creator Rob Thomas wrote a feature film script continuing the storyline, but could not secure traditional funding. In 2013, Thomas and star Kristen Bell launched a fundraising campaign to produce the film through Kickstarter, which attained the $2 million goal through fan donations in less than 10 hours.

GO! / THE TIMES MEDIA CO. / 03.13.2014

THE SINGLE MOMS CLUB

NEED FOR SPEED

‌300: RISE OF AN EMPIRE

Director: Tyler Perry

Director: Scott Waugh

Director: Noam Murro

Brought together by an incident at their children’s school, a group of single mothers from different walks of life bond, and create a support group that helps them find comedy in the obstacles of life, inner strength to overcome their personal challenges and inspiration and laughter in their new sisterhood.

Tobey Marshall (Aaron Paul) is a blue-collar mechanic who races muscle cars on the side in an unsanctioned street-racing circuit. Struggling to keep his family-owned garage afloat, he reluctantly partners with the wealthy and arrogant ex-NASCAR driver Dino Brewster (Dominic Cooper). But just as a major sale to car broker Julia Maddon (Imogen Poots) looks like it will save Tobey’s shop, a disastrous race allows Dino to frame Tobey for a crime he didn’t commit.

This new chapter of the epic saga takes the action to a fresh battlefield—on the sea—as Greek general Themistokles (Sullivan Stapleton) attempts to unite all of Greece by leading the charge that will change the course of the war. 300: Rise of an Empire pits Themistokles against the massive invading Persian forces led by mortal-turned-god Xerxes (Rodrigo Santoro), and Artemesia (Eva Green), vengeful commander of the Persian navy.

| PG-13 | Released March 14

2 hr 4 min | PG-13 | Released March 14

1 hr 43 min | R | Released March 7

Go! TO THE MOVIES ‌ MC Showplace 16 A 875 Deer Creek Drive Schererville, IN 219.322.9762 amctheatres.com

The Grand Budapest Hotel

Mr. Peabody and Sherman

Non-Stop

Director: Wes Anderson

Director: Rob Minkoff

Director: Jaume Collet-Serra

The Grand Budapest Hotel tells of a legendary concierge, Gustave H, at a famous European hotel between the wars and his friendship with a young employee, Zero Moustafa. The story involves the theft and recovery of a priceless Renaissance painting, the battle for an enormous family fortune.

Mr. Peabody (Ty Burrell), the most accomplished canine in the world, and his boy, Sherman (Max Charles), use a time machine to embark on outrageous adventures. However, when Sherman takes the Wabac without permission to impress his friend Penny (Ariel Winter), he accidentally rips a hole in the universe.

The film takes place on an international flight from New York to London. Bill Marks is a vet of the Air Marshals service. Shortly into the journey from New York to London, he receives a series of mysterious text messages ordering him to have the government send $150 million or a passenger will die every 20 minutes.

1 hr 39 min | R | Released March 7

1 hr 31 min | PG | Released March 7

1 hr 22 min | PG-13 | Released Feb. 28

AMC Showplace 12 1400 Eagleridge 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. Highway 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

Repentance

The Bag Man

Son of God

Director: Philippe Caland

Director: David Grovic

Director: Khavn de la Cruz, Michael Noer

Years after a drunken car crash that almost took his life, Tommy Carter (Anthony Mackie) has reinvented himself as a therapist/spiritual advisor who advocates a synthesis of world religions and positivity. His book draws the attention of Angel Sanchez, a troubled man fixated on the “untimely” death of his mother.

THE BAG MAN is a taut crime thriller that follows the story of JACK (John Cusack), a tough guy with chronic bad luck but human touches. Hired by DRAGNA (Robert De Niro), a legendary crime boss to complete a simple but unusual task.

Told with the scope and scale of an action epic, the film features powerful performances, exotic locales, dazzling visual effects and a rich orchestral score from Oscar®-winner Hans Zimmer. Portuguese actor Diogo Morgado portrays the role of Jesus as the film spans from his humble birth through his teachings, crucifixion and ultimate resurrection.

‌3 Days to Kill

Pompeii

‌Winter’s Tale

Director: McG

Director: Paul W.S. Anderson

Director: Akiva Goldsman

In this action-thriller, Kevin Costner is an elite government hit man, who is determined to give up his high stakes life after receiving news that he has a terminal disease. But when his agency offers him an experimental, potentially lifesaving drug in exchange for one last mission, it’s an offer he can’t refuse.

Set in 79 A.D., POMPEII tells the epic story of Milo (Kit Harington), a slave turned invincible gladiator who finds himself in a race against time to save his true love Cassia (Emily Browning). As Mount Vesuvius erupts in a torrent of blazing lava, Milo must fight his way out of the arena in order to save his beloved as the once magnificent Pompeii crumbles around him.

One night in early 20th-century New York, master thief Peter Lake (Colin Farrell) breaks into a Central Park mansion and quickly has his heart stolen by its occupant, Beverly Penn (Jessica Brown Findlay). Unfortunately, she is dying from consumption, and he is marked for death by his demonic former mentor, Pearly Soames (Russell Crowe).

1 hr 30 min | R | Released Feb. 28

1 hr 40 min PG-13 | Released Feb. 21

n w i .co m /g o

1 hr 50 min | R | Released Feb. 28

1 hr 45 min | PG-13 | Released Feb. 21

2 hr 18 min | PG-13 | Released Feb. 28

1 hr 58 min | PG-13 | Released Feb. 14

300: Rise of an empiRe [R] 1250 330 610 850 [REALD3D] 1130AM 330 610 850 mR. peaBoDY & sHeRman [PG] 1115AM 155 435 715 955 [REALD3D] 1235 315 555 835 non-stop [PG-13] 1125AM 210 450 735 1020 son of goD [PG-13] 1215 340 705 1020 tHe lego movie [PG] 1120AM 155 430 705 940 [REALD3D] 1240 315 550 825

neeD foR speeD [NR] 800 1055 1205AM [REALD3D] 800 1055 1210AM tYleR peRRY’s tHe single moms ClUB [NR] 800 1045 3 DaYs to Kill [PG13] 1115AM 205 455 RoBoCop [PG-13] 1125AM 215 tHe monUments men [PG-13] 1115AM 205 455 745 3 DaYs to Kill [PG-13] 1115 205 455 fRoZen sing-a-long [PG] 1120AM 440 fRoZen [PG] 200

03.13.2014 / The Times Media Co. / Go!

Top 10 St. Patrick’s games ➙ ‌1 Who’s the Leprechan? • 2 Gold Hunt • 3 Shamrock Scramble • 4 Kiss the Blarney Stone • 5 Leprechaun Trap• 6 Gold Coin Toss • 7 Leprechaun Tag • 8 Rainbow Relay • 9 Gold Coin Pitch • 10 Pot of Gold Relay. For more information on these St. Patrick’s games visit: kidsparties.about.com/od/stpatricksday/tp/St-Patricks-Day-Party-Games.htm

GO! PLAY

CASINO SCENE

Progressives: Let the slot player beware

JOHN G. BROKOPP / JBROKOPP@COMCAST.NET

hen you walk into a casino, generally one of the first sights that will catch your eye is the brilliantly lighted display of a bank of progressive slot machines. The jackpot on the meter builds right before your eyes as people chase the dream of winning a lumberyard of greenbacks for a toothpick investment. Casinos make concerted efforts to entice people to play progressives. It’s the nature of the gaming business. Under no circumstances should you chase jackpots. Going into a gaming session with “pie-in-the-sky” hopes can prove disastrous to your bankroll. Playing with a mindset that “Somebody is going to win, why not me?” has been the downfall of many a slot player. The truth of the matter is that with a majority of progressives, the odds against winning the jackpot are astronomical. For every person who wins a six-figure progressive, tens of thousands go home disappointed. When you are dealing with monster odds against you but still face the temptation of taking a chance at capturing lightning in a bottle, always bet a little but not a lot. Play a portion of your gaming bankroll. If you win something, that’s fine. If you lose, at least you can say you gave it a shot. How many times have you heard about someone winning a huge jackpot and read the quote: “I just played a few dollars and hit the jackpot two minutes after sitting down at the machine.” Sound familiar? Giving it “a shot” is all it’s really worth when the odds are millions to one against you. Just as with the lottery’s million dollar games, your chances of winning really don’t increase that much whether you buy a single ticket or spend hundreds of dollars. Pumping a ton of money into a progressive to chase a jackpot just doesn’t make good gambling sense. There are exceptions to the rule. The first is video poker progressives. Unlike reel and video slots which have payback percentages

GO! / THE TIMES MEDIA CO. / 03.13.2014

TIMES FILE PHOTO

Slot machines at the Ameristar Casino.

that vary, the odds against winning at video poker are based on true mathematical probability. Pay tables on video poker machines differ, which makes some machines better to play than others. Astute players know this and scout the best machines. Since the probability of getting a royal flush is something like one in every 42,000 hands, you have pretty much the same chances of getting one on a progressive machine as you do on a solitary stand-alone unit. If the payout for a royal flush on a regular quarter machine is 4,000 coins ($1,000) and you spot a quarter progressive with a jackpot of over $1,000, you may be better off playing the progressive, depending upon how big the jackpot is. You must also take into account the pay table because you can get eaten up percentagewise on full houses and flushes if the payouts are sub-standard. The other exception occurs with traditional reel slot progressives. Some are programmed to “hit” infrequently. A number of years ago, over the course of

many months, I watched a quarter progressive grow to over $100,000, a staggering sum for that denomination. It finally hit, but only after tens of thousands of players lost hundreds of thousands of dollars. At the opposite end of the spectrum are ‘rapid hit” progressives. The chances of winning are increased by the computer program. Over the long term it may be hit an average of once every day, or once every two or three days. The ability to track progressives can work to your advantage. BONUS ROUND-UP: BLUE CHIP: March is a good month to sign up for B-Connected membership. New members will receive $5 off at Options Buffet and earn 5-Times slot points. Earn 1,000 base points the same day you sign up and you’ll receive a 12-pack of soda. Just visit the B-Connected promotions area between 7 a.m. and 11 p.m. FOUR WINDS: Saturday, March 29, is the day for the $150,000 Drive into Spring promotion. W-Club members will have the opportunity to win a 2014 Mercedes S550 Sedan or a share of $30,000 in cash. Hourly drawings begin at 3 p.m. (EDT) through 10 p.m. There will be a $10,000 winner drawn at 10 p.m. The car will be awarded at 9 p.m. Earn one free entry daily now through the day of the promotion. HARRAH’S JOLIET: The casino’s “Choose Your Fortune” promotion will be held every Saturday this month for a chance for Total Rewards members to win up to $5,000 cash. Players are invited to swipe their cards at the promotional kiosks every promotion day between 10 a.m. and 9 p.m. Everyone will receive a Reward Credit Multiplier up to 10-times plus entries into the Fortune Money Bag Drawing at 9 p.m. HOLLYWOOD JOLIET: Don’t miss the $10,000 Half Court Shot promotion at the Hollywood Stadium Sports Bar. Enter for your chance to play March 16 through April 7. Every “Final 4 Winner” will get a chance to take a half court shot during the college hoops tournament finals on April 7. Make the shot and win $2,500.

CASINOS

AMERISTAR CASINO 777 Ameristar Blvd.; East Chicago, IN 46312; 219.378.3000; Ameristar.com/ east_chicago.aspx BLUE CHIP CASINO 777 Blue Chip Dr.; Michigan City, IN 46360; 219.879.7711; bluechipcasino.com FOUR WINDS CASINO NEW BUFFALO 11111 Wilson Rd.; 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; hollywoodcasinojoliet. com HORSESHOE CASINO HAMMOND 777 Casino Center Dr.; Hammond, IN 46320; 866.711.7463; horseshoehammond. com MAJESTIC STAR CASINO 1 Buffington Harbor Dr.; Gary, IN 46401; 219.977.7777; majesticstarcasino.com RIVERS CASINO 3000 S River Rd.; Des Plaines, IL 60018; 888.307.0777; Riverscasino.com

HAPPENINGS MAR 13 ‌

‌MAR 15

10th Annual Chi-Town Blues Festival 7pm, Star Plaza Theatre, 8001 Delaware Pl, Merrillville. 800.745.3000. starplazatheatre.com. This 10th annual festival stars Latimore, Floyd Taylor, Sir Charles Jones, Mel Waiters, Willie Clayton, Theodis Ealey and Bobby Rush. MAR 15

Spazmatics 10pm, Blue Chip Casino, 777 Blue Chip Dr, Michigan City. 219.879.7711. bluechipcasino.com. Made up of four self-proclaimed hilariously cool science nerds, Spazmatics play 80’s new wave pop synth. MAR 16

Switchback 7:30pm, The Theatre at the Center, Center for the Visual and Performing Arts, 1040 Ridge Rd, Munster. 219.836.3255. theatreatthecenter. com. For more than two decades, Brian FitzGerald and Martin McCormack of Switchback have been entertaining audiences around the world with their amazing blend of American roots and Celtic soul.

SIPS AND STARS AT THE BARN‌ 5-7pm, Bargain Barn, 815 Calumet Ave, Valparaiso. valpolife. com.‌ In collaboration with Chicago Street Theatre, Lemon Tree Mediterranean Grill, Figure Eight, Hungry, Inc and Ideas in Media Motion, Bargain Barn hosts an open house featuring scenes of Chicago Street Theatre’s upcoming productions, delicious appetizers, craft brews and shopping.

MAR 14 ‌ BELLATOR MMA CHAMPIONSHIP TOURNAMENTS‌ 6pm, Horseshoe Casino Hammond, 777 Casino Center Drive, Hammond. 800.745.3000.‌ Reigning Bellator Featherweight Champion Daniel Straus defends his crown against former Bellator champion and Crystal Lake, IL native Pat Curran.

MAR 14 ‌ DUELING PIANOS‌ 7:30pm, The Auditorium at Bethel Church, 10202 Broadway, Crown Point. 219.836.0525 ext. 200.‌ Two intertwined pianos will stand center stage as two award-winning pianists play face to face. Intriguing and dynamic, this concert features a musical medley perfect

for concert-goers of all ages. Our “piano-cam” will catch the intricate musicianship of our guest artists. Plus, the grandeur, power and nobility of Brahms’ 4th Symphony is the perfect piece to showcase our world-class orchestra.

MAR 14 ‌ JESSE LYNCH’S JAZZ 101‌ 7:30pm, Munster High School Auditorium, 8808 Columbia Ave, Munster. Cost: five concerts for $65 or single concert $25. 219.923.2078.‌ Musician Jesse Lynch plays everything from Beethoven and Bop to free jazz and contemporary compositions. Jesse Lynch is no stranger to Live On Stage. He has played piano for popular veterans Daniel Rodriguez and The American Tenors and has wowed audiences of his own playing everything from Beethoven and Bop to free jazz and contemporary compositions.

MAR 14-17 ‌ ST. PATRICK’S DAY CELEBRATION‌ T.J. Maloney’s Authentic Irish Pub, Radisson at Star Plaza, 800 East 81st Ave, Merrillville. 219.769.6311. starplaza.com.‌ T.J. Maloney’s Authentic Irish Pub’s weeklong St. Patrick’s Day celebration features a different theme each day, with a whiskey tasting Friday, a dinner buffet with musicians and dancers

PROVIDED

‌MAR 14 COMEDY NIGHT AT THE CVPA—COMEDIAN TIM CAVANAGH 6:30pm, Center for Visual and Performing Arts, 1040 Ridge Rd, Munster. 219.836.1930. cvpa.org. Stand-up comedian and regular on Bob & Tom Show Tim Cavanagh performs his high-energy, stand-up

✔ routine with comedy songs and inventive audience interaction. all day Saturday, a brunch buffet and musical performances all day Sunday and a dinner buffet with musical guests all day Monday.

MAR 15 ‌ LUCKY LAPORTE ST. PATRICK’S DAY FESTIVAL‌ 2-8pm, Michigan Ave & Lincolnway, LaPorte. 219.331.5517.‌ Downtown LaPorte plays host to vendors from the Celtic lands and everything Irish at this first time celebration.

PROVIDED

Jesse Lynch’s Jazz 101

N W I .CO M /G O

MAR 15 ‌

MAR 15-16 ‌

LOS IMPROVIACHIS‌ 8pm, Crown Point Community Theatre, 1125 Merrillville Rd, Crown Point. 219.805.4255. cpct. biz.‌ Los Improviachis, the world’s only improvised mariachi band, performs their special brand of comedy with a Latin flavor.

SHIPSHEWANA ON THE ROAD‌ 9am-6pm, Porter County Expo Center, 215 E Division Rd, Valparaiso. 269.979.8888. shipshewanaontheroad. com.‌ For two days only, this popular outdoor market stops in Valparaiso with products and merchandise from artisans, crafters, flea market dealers and retail business owners—including finished and unfinished pine furniture, handmade crafts, toys, home décor, handmade jewelry, clothing and more.

MAR 15-16 ‌ MAPLE SYRUP TIME‌ 10am-4pm, Deep River County Park, 9410 Old Lincoln Highway, Hobart. 219.769.PARK. lakecountyparks.com.‌ Visitors can learn the sticky business of producing syrup from tree sap, plus see how corn is stone ground into cornmeal and more, at this yearly event. There’s fun for the whole family with games and puzzles for kids, quilting and checkers. Visitors can warm up with hot maple tea, coffee or hot chocolate, and take home some handmade maple syrup and cornmeal available for sale.

MAR 17 ‌ ST. PATRICK’S DAY CELEBRATION CROWN POINT‌ 3pm Irish dinner, Crown Point Firehouse‌ 126 N East St, Crown Point. 219.661.2271. Dusk parade, along Main St,

✔

These events are Editor’s Picks

downtown Crown Point. 219.662.3290. crownpoint.in.gov.‌ The festivities begin with a meal of corned beef and cabbage at Crown Point’s downtown firehouse, followed by a nighttime Irish parade featuring Lake County Pipes and Drums and Band of Brothers Pipe and Drum Band and other unique participants.

APR 5 ‌ MET OPERA LIVE 2014—WERTHER,‌ 11:55am Sat, 5:30pm Wed, Portage 16 IMAX, 6550 American Way, Portage. 219.764.7469. gqti. com.‌ Theatergoers can experience The Metropolitan Opera’s performance of Werther‌ on the big screen. Two of opera’s greatest artists—Jonas Kaufmann and Elina Garanca—appear together for the first time in Massenet’s sublime adaptation of Goethe’s revolutionary and tragic romance.

03.13.2014 / THE TIMES MEDIA CO. / GO!

full service Bar & restaurant

THROUGH MAR 15 ‌

No One Under 21 Admitted

6110 KENNEDY AVE. • HAMMOND, IN • 219-844-9812 • OpEN 7 DAYS A WEEK • WWW.CHUCKANDIRENES.COM

Fridays only - All you can eat

Bring in This Coupon on Fridays

3.00

BONELESS OCEAN PERCH - $10.00 $

off a ticket of $800 or more

No coupons or any discounts will apply. Dine in only. All food consumed on premise only!

Tax & Tip Not Included. Limited to one coupon per table, per visit. No carry outs. Dine-in only.

• We have a wide variety of Seafood on Fridays •

LaMB March 22 at 11am $15 per order

MonDay SPeciaL SaturDay & SunDay SPeciaLS

1.75

Domestic Bottles

2.00

DaiLy Lunch SPeciaLS

23 oz. Footballs

Marh 22

• Homemade Soups • Tacos • Daily Specials • Great Variety of Seafood

We are having an FULL MENU OF 80s party at the bar, Sandwiches, Steaks MON tHRu tHuRS. 10 AM tO 6 PM FOR $5.75 FiSh SPeciaLS EvERy FRIDAy, 10AM tO 9 PM with DJ and & Fried Chicken drink specials. AppETIzERS ARE HALF pRICE, MON - THURS. FROM 3 pM TO 6 pM Starts at 8 PM.

Come watch all your favorite BIG 10 NETWORK teams on our 9 TVs & two 55" HDTV Widescreens!

DJ David zane every Fri. and Sat. night, from 9 pM to 2 AM

Smoking Allowed

FISH FRY EVERY FRIDAY • ADULT DINING • FULL MENU CARRY OUT

Blackhawks Game Day Special When the Blackhawks are playing, we will have Labatt Blue Import Draft on Special Pints for $1.50 on Game Day

ACTIVITIES INDIANA‌ MAR 15 ‌ 14TH ANNUAL RUNNING WITH THE IRISH 5K‌ 9am, Indiana Dunes State Park, 1600 N 25 E, Chesterton. 219.926.1390. stpatsparish.org.‌ An annual tradition, this competitive run and noncompetitive walk takes place throughout the park.

MAR 15 ‌ LEOPOLD BENCH WORKSHOP‌ 2pm, Indiana Dunes State Park, 1600 N 25 E, Chesterton. 219.926.1390. in.gov.‌ Nature enthusiasts can take a special look at the legacy of famed ecologist Aldo Leopold and get a chance to construct their own Leopold bench to take home. Registration is limited and each participants receives a copy of Leopold’s landmark book “A Sand County Almanac‌.”

EXHIBITIONS INDIANA‌ THROUGH MAR 13 ‌ WHITE RIPPLE & USG COLLABORATION ART SHOW‌ 11am-4pm Tue-Thu, Sun, White Ripple Gallery & Co, 6725 Kennedy Ave, Hammond. 773.885.1919. whiteripple.com.‌ More than 25 artists from Indiana to Chicago exhibit their works during this collaboration between White Ripple Gallery and Union Street Gallery. 2/14/14 3/20/14

N W I .CO M /G O

DISCOVERING THE FOREST—PAINTINGS BY ROBERT JOHNSON‌ South Shore Arts Crown Point Branch, 123 N Main St, Crown Point. 219.663.0200. southshoreartsonline. org.‌ Robert Johnson’s paintings explore the nature of the forest in this exhibit.

THROUGH APR 6 ‌ TRUCKS—RECENT WORKS BY JOHN HIMMELFARB‌ Brauer Museum of Art, Valparaiso University Center for the Arts, 1709 Chapel Dr, Valparaiso. 219.464.5365. valpo. edu/artmuseum.‌ Chicago-based artist John Himmelfarb showcase his whimsical representations of trucks at this exhibit. His works are executed in a wide variety of media—including sculpture, painting and printmaking—and an outdoor sculpture made out of an actual truck accompanies the exhibit.

THROUGH APR 6 ‌ MODERN VISION— JAPANESE PRINTS FROM THE RUTH A. RUEGE COLLECTION‌ Brauer Museum of Art, Valparaiso University Center for the Arts, 1709 Chapel Dr, Valparaiso. 219.464.5365. valpo. edu/artmuseum.‌ Donated and loaned by long-time collector Ruth A. Ruege, this collection features Japanese prints from all periods.

THROUGH APR 20 ‌ SOUTH SHORE ARTS PRESENTS WILLIAM DAWSON‌ Monday-Friday 10am-5pm Saturday 10am-4pm and Sunday 11am-4pm, Center for Visual and Performing Arts, 1040 Ridge Rd, Munster. Cost: $2.

219.836.1839.‌ Several dozen carved wood sculptures, totems and works on paper will be included in this extraordinary show of works created by a man raised on his grandfather’s farm in Huntsville, Ala., who made his way north to Chicago and didn’t begin creating art until he was in his sixties. Organized by the Montgomery Museum of Art, Montgomery, Ala., with additional selections from Chicagoarea collections.

THROUGH APR 27 ‌ BEYOND THE OBVIOUS— PHOTOGRAPHY BY KATHLEEN HOCKER‌ Center for Visual and Performing Arts, 1040 Ridge Rd, Munster. 219.836.1839. southshoreartsonline.org.‌ As a former teacher of chemistry and physics, artist Kathleen Hocker is drawn to the natural world and her work explores botanicals using a telephoto lens. She concentrates on the intricate detail found in nature and transforms everyday plant life into beautiful compositions of abstract color.

THROUGH APR 30 ‌ REGION UNITED, NATION DIVIDED— FOLLOWING LINCOLN‌ 8am-5pm, Indiana Welcome Center, 7770 Corinne Dr, Hammond. 219.989.7770. southshorecva.com.‌ Photos, artifacts and reproductions of Northwest Indiana Civil war regimental battle flags tell the story of the Lake, Porter and LaPorte County men who fought to preserve the Union and end slavery.

THROUGH MAY 11 ‌ WHAT IS LEFT UNSPOKEN‌ Lubeznik Center for the Arts, 101 W Second St, Michigan City. 219.874.4900.

lubeznikcenter.org.‌ This exhibit feature 2-D and 3-D conceptual pieces by artists Barbara Hashimoto— displaying installation pieces create by turning everyday junk mail into art—and Doug Fogleson—displaying “overlapped” imagery. Also, through MAY 11: Embroidered Archetypes‌

ILLINOIS‌ THROUGH APR 14 ‌ UGO RONDINONE‌ The Art Institute of Chicago, 111 S Michigan Ave, Chicago. 312.629.6635. artic. edu/aic.‌ These works, completed in 2013, are part of a series that the artist began in 2007 known as Scholar Rocks, a reference to stones found in China’s Tai Lake region that were traditionally collected by scholars and used as ornaments for reflection. The stones, most standing at less than a foot in height and riddled with holes from natural erosion, have long been admired for their shapes and were evaluated on the aesthetic bases of form, texture, and the ways in which they were molded by nature. Through Jul 27: When the Greeks Ruled—Egypt after Alexander Great.‌

THROUGH JUN 15 ‌ MCA DNA—WARHOL AND MARISOL‌ Museum of Contemporary Art, 220 E Chicago Ave, Chicago. 312.280.2660. mcachicago.org.‌ Inspired by the multifaceted relationship of Andy Warhol and Marisol, this exhibit compares and contrasts Warhol’s silk screen printings and Marisol’s wood sculptures sideby-side. Also, through Mar 9: The Way of the Shovel—Art as Archaeology‌; Through April 13: CITY SELF‌

03.13.2014 / THE TIMES MEDIA CO. / GO!

‌ From nwi.com/go ➼March Hoopla: The Game at Blue Chip Casino, Michigan City, will feature special “March Hoopla” items from March 16 through April 7. Among items are the Free Throw hot dog ($2); The Three Pointer featuring three hot dogs ($4.75) and the 100-Oz. Beer Tower ($12). Visit bluechipcasino.com ➼The Quest for breakfast: The Quest, 1204 W. Lincoln Highway, Schererville, now serves Sunday breakfast from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. Call (219) 322-4812 or visit thequesteatery.com ➼IACP Conference to hit Chicago: The International Association of Culinary Professionals will present its 36th annual trade conference titled “Food Connectors: Connecting the Past, Present and Future of Food” March 14 to 17 at Chicago Marriott on Michigan Avenue. Among special guest speakers and attendees will be Ferran Adria, Rick Bayless, Nephi Craig of the Native American Culinary Association, Douglas Gayeton and Ben Reade of The Nordic Food Lab.

Calumet Fisheries hooks diners ‌ LOISE MARIE VALADEZ / E ELOISE.VALADEZ@NWI.COM‌

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uring Lent or anytime of year, fish lovers will delight in a visit to Calumet Fisheries on Chicago’s Southeast Side. Calumet Fisheries has had a starring location for the past six decades on the west end of the 95th Street bridge, well-known to film fans as the bridge Dan Aykroyd and John Belushi jumped across in the popular 1980 film “The Blues Brothers.” “Everything has really stayed the same since 1948,” said Mark Kotlick, co-owner of the eatery, during a recent interview. He said prices have gone up slightly during the last couple of years, but everything else, including the building, menu and friendly neighborhood feel of the South Side institution remains the same. As the eatery only accepts cash, another new feature, which is humorously a sign of the times, is an ATM machine situated in the corner of the small restaurant.

The seafood shack, known for its signature smoked and fried fish, including shrimp, salmon and chubs, is a carry-out eatery. The building dates to 1928 but was purchased by the Kotlick and Toll families in 1948. Kotlick said the majority of his employees have been with him for years, including smoker Ray Campos, who mans the smokehouses next to the shack three times a week and Carlos Rosas, a manager, who’s worked at Calumet Fisheries since 1995. Just walking into Calumet Fisheries one easily senses the family atmosphere. While there are times when the eatery is filled to the gills with customers, one always gets a friendly hello from Kotlick and his crew. Back in 2010, the Kotlick and Toll families were given a major honor from The James Beard Foundation when they were awarded the American Classics Award at The James Beard Awards in New York City. Kotlick said, after receiving the award, he usually gets an invitation to the annual gala event in the Big Apple.

award is given to “restaurants with timeless appeal, beloved for quality food that reflects the character of the community.”

But, he’s only gone there once when he traveled to New York for the big honor. He said he wouldn’t mind going again sometime. According to the James Beard Foundation, the American Classics

See CALUMET, Page 16

Every Friday! All You Care To Eat Yellow Lake Perch or Snow Crab Legs!

Kids Eat Free Wed Nights

Wine Down Wednesday

Up to 2 kids age 12 or younger can order from our kids 1/2 price any bottle of wine menu for every regularly priced adult entree purchased* (*Not applicable to sandwiches. Not valid with any other discounts, coupons or specials. Dine-in only.)

10 OFF

$50.00 food purchase Mon-Thu 4-9pm Fri-Sat 4-10pm Sunday 12-9pm Pub Open Daily

Dine-in only. Limit one per table on food only. Not applicable to Friday AYCE or Surf & Turf for two. Expires 3/23/14.

BlackStoneWoodfireGrill.com P H O T O B Y E L O I S E M A R I E VA L A D E Z

Pictured is the smokehouse situated next to Calumet Fisheries in Chicago.

N W I .CO M /G O

7311 Mallard Lane • Schererville, IN 219.769.0000 03.13.2014 / THE TIMES MEDIA CO. / GO!

Continued from Page 15

Calumet Kotlick said, while customers frequent his restaurant throughout the year, the Lenten season is one of the most popular at Calumet Fisheries. “Ninety-five percent of our customers are repeat,” Kotlick said. During a recent visit to Calumet Fisheries, we ordered a smoked salmon filet ($15.59 a pound) and the popular fried shrimp dinner ($10.59). Among some of the most popular selections at CF are the smoked salmon and catfish, fried shrimp and chubs. The dinner combo included fries, coleslaw, crackers and sauce. CF’s shrimp gets a thumbs up for great taste and for the batter not being grease-laden. The salmon’s smoky, rich flavor was a winner.

Among other menu items: crab cake dinners ($7.69); scallops dinners ($10.35); chubs ($14.49 a pound); Rainbow Trout ($10.69 a pound); a la carte items — shrimp ($7.99 for half order, $15.49 full order); frog legs ($7.09 half order, $12.99 full order); and more. Sides, salads and beverages are also available. Note: There are no seats in Calumet Fisheries. But customers often eat in their cars in warmer weather. Whether you’re looking for a Lenten seafood feast or just have a taste for fish, pay a visit to Calumet Fisheries. It’s good flavor, a bit of history and some South Side lore all in a one-stop shopping experience. FYI: Calumet Fisheries is located at 3259 E. 95th St., Chicago. Hours are 10am9:45pm Sundays through Wednesdays; 9am-9:30pm Thursdays and 9am-9:45pm Fridays and Saturdays. Call (773) 9339855 or visit calumetfisheries.com

P h o t o b y E l o i s e M a r i e Va l a d e z

Smoked salmon sits in the case at Calumet Fisheries

TASTE+SIP+DINE Sunday, March 30, 2014

FR FFRESH RESH SEAFOOD SE E AF O

Jack Daniels &

ﬂﬂown own in in every everyy w eek ffrom ro om week

HONOLULU

WooDforD reserve Pairing

EvEnt

$55 per person | 5pm to 7pm *Advanced payment is required

4 Courses paired with Jack Daniels & Woodford Reserve Each guest will receive a personally engraved 375mL bottle of Jack Daniels or Woodford Reserve to take home.

For Reservations call 219-865-3854 1259 JoLiEt St, DyER, iN 46311

Open Wed – Sat, 5 pm – 9 pm 54 Main St | Hobart, IN 219.947.2817 www.bistro54main.com

Go! / The Times Media Co. / 03.13.2014

www.GinosSteakhouse.com Facebook.com/GinosSteakhouse

Thursdays and Sundays Only 30% off your entire bill on lunch or dinner. Not valid with AYCE or any other offer or coupons. Expires 4/13/14. • Full Salad Bar • Smoke Free Dining Room • Smoking in Bar Only

SPIkeS lakeSIde 2 21 E Joliet St | Schererville, IN 219.322.4444

ST. PATRICK’S 3-DAY CELEBRATION Irish whiskey dinner and green beer Saturday, Sunday and Monday. Saturday 8pm Lake County Pipes and Drums 9pm Jamrose Band

1204 W. Lincoln Hwy. | Schererville, IN 219.322.4812 thequesteatery.com