#261: Jazz vs. Blues ...vs. Ska?

Today, you have to make a decision: blues or jazz.*

vs.

This weekend features both the South Bend Ribs and Blues Festival and the Elkhart Jazz Festival.  Which will it be?  Lots of barbecue vendors and  bands at the newly-renovated Coveleski Stadium?  Or an established and nationally-acclaimed jazz festival that features six stages scattered around downtown Elkhart? 

Or how about something completely different?  Slalom skateboarding -- the first (and perhaps first in Michiana ever) Pinhook Slalom Open, a time-based competition features 22 skaters from several states.  Perhaps most importantly, it's a fundraiser for charity:water. 

For more information about performers, ticket prices and parking: 

Elkhart Jazz Festival:

Now - Sunday afternoon

http://www.downtownelkhart.org/elkhart-jazz-festival/

Tip: Don't have the dough to shell out?  Check the student pricing and/or the free concert at 5:00pm by Jenna Mammima and Robin Lewis at the Ruthmere Museum.

South Bend Ribs Festival: 

First act begins at 12:15 pm - last band goes on at 8:00 pm

http://sbpark.org/activities/special-events/south-bend-blues-and-ribs-festival/

(and check our profile of it last year here)

2012 Pinhook Slalom Open:

http://www.envisionskate.com/the-race/for-water/

*Actually, you can experience them both -- the Elkhart Jazz Festival continues on Sunday.  Whew.

#255: Niles Bluegrass Festival

I'm happy to report that one of the "365 South Bend" founders will be moving back to the Bend in a week's time, and as such, from here on out, this blog will be updated on a regular basis until we reach our goal of 365 posts about all the wonderful things to do in the community. 

Last summer, as all bloggers were away, we didn't really highlight much around the community. Yet summer is, in my opinion, the best time to be here.  (And yes, summer includes the first ND football of the season.)

Being on the very edge of the Eastern Standard Time zone blesses St. Joe County with incredibly long hours of daylight.  And simple math here: more hours of daylight = more fun outside = more fun.

Some of the most fun to be had in the summertime are the unplanned events -- those impromptu pick-up soccer games, or lazy afternoons wasted out on the nearest patch of grass or beach, or just hanging out on the deck until someone realizes the beer's gone and it's way past midnight.  However, just in case some boredom sets in, this blog might give you some suggestions how to shake up your summer.  And of course, feel free to send your suggestions in as well!

Not ready for the work week yet?  How about closing out the weekend with a free music festival?
Today marks the last day of a festival that's been going on all weekend - the Niles Bluegrass Festival.  And I think bluegrass goes with summer almost as well as lemonade does.  Now in its tenth year, the festival hosts more than 20 bands to jam from morning (10am) till night (9pm).  There are two stages, both on St. Joseph River -- the perfect place to sit back, relax, and listen to some music. 

When: Thursday, May 31 -Sunday, June 3, 10am - 9pm
Where: Riverfront Park, Wayne Street, Niles, Michigan  (Niles is only about 20 minutes north on Route 31 for most residents of the 574 code)
Website: http://www.nilesbluegrass.com/
Cost: Free!

#250: East Bank Emporium

Highlighting the celebration for First Friday in downtown South Bend is a monthly favorite.  It's truly an event not be missed, and there always seems to be one stand-out event (or a few) that distinguish one month's festivities from another. 

For February 2012, the theme is "Shiver on the River" and it features fireworks over the river at 8:30.  The Howard Park Ice Rink is open, and around downtown, there will be free hot chocolate around the area.  Lucky for us, unlike last year's blizzard, the weather forecast will be more forgiving for roaming around between spots.  Less fortunately, it also marks the second-to-last night of Winter Restaurant Week (bummer). 

With these factors in mind, I recommend making a stop at the East Bank Emporium.  This restaurant, right on the East Bank Trail, is on the other side of the river from downtown and might seem a little distant from the action.  Quite the opposite.
 
1) It's located between the downtown art galleries and stories and the Jefferson row shops, not to mention the nearby ice rink.
2) You will have the ideal vantage point for watching the fireworks. 
3) The Emporium is participating in restaurant week, so you can get a 4 course meal (app, salad/soup, entree, and dessert -- per person!) for $25.

[I took advantage of this deal last week --and I emphasize deal.  The crab cake appetizer was delicious, and the BBQ salmon portion generous.  I was too full for dessert, but our waitress kindly gave us each a slice of cake to-go instead of insisting we forgo what we couldn't eat.]

In addition to its food, its ambiance is worth the trip across the river.  The light woodwork and antique light fixtures give this place a nostalgic feel.  The tiered eating levels break up the large space, so it is a comfortable place for a couple or a party of 12 to go. 

It's hard to articulate how unique the interior is.  See it to believe it.

For First Fridays, it will be especially lively because of Chicago rocker Don Savoie, who will be playing will be live music from 5:30-8:30 PM.  At the end of his set, you will be in a perfect position to watch the fireworks go off over the river. 

Where: 121 S Niles Ave
Call (574) 234-9000 for reservations and hours.
Website: http://www.eastbankemporium.com/


Tip: Huge parking lot!  Don't worry about that. 
Tip 2 (for later): They have a spacious deck that is perfect for an outdoor drink or meal, right on the river!  I don't know of any restaurants closer to the river's edge than this one.

#245: Trio's Restaurant

With a lot of buzz going on about the opening of Cafe Navarre, the new upscale restaurant in downtown South Bend, it's easy to forget the other fine dining establishments DTSB, some even in the same block.  I was fortunate enough to try Cafe Navarre tonight -- the food was excellent, and the decor spot on -- but on my way in, I could not help but think of its neighbor just down the street, Trio's.

Trio's, opened in 2007, is distinguished from other restaurants in the area by its Cajun twist.  The menu serves quality steaks, a decent wine list (at least to my limited knowledge), and some interesting ingredients to spice up the dishes.  My favorite meals have been pasta-based, but they have gumbo, house made Cajun ribs and--unexpected but quite welcome--fried green tomatoes, although prepared fancy-like.  For a sit-down business lunch, there is also a nice menu, with options ranging from a grilled vegetable sandwich to fried macaroni and cheese (food coma alert). 

A unique feature about Trio's is the jazz club next door, which features live acts several nights a week.  There's a separate menu for this place, but you can "Eat steak even late," to borrow a Wendy's jingle.  When I came in for food on a weekday night after 9:00 PM, a time at which most DTSB restaurants have closed for the night, they were happy to serve me from the regular menu as well.  The chef was also happy to accommodate my quirky requests (eg. the time I wanted the wild mushroom risotto as my main dish...too good to be an accompaniment, okay?) and go above and beyond to make it a quality dining experience.  The quality of the service is a big factor in feeling like you get what you pay for, and in this case, I was not disappointed.


We have highlighted Trio's Jazz Club before, so I won't go into great detail, but as a heads up, this weekend, you can hear such performers like regulars William Cole Quartet, internationally-playing Bill Boris Group, and the 24-year-old Chicago sensation Marquis Hill.  No charge for admittance into the Jazz Club for most events.

I hope the addition of a new restaurant in downtown South Bend is not seen at the expense of the restaurants, but rather as an addition to the family.  I hope it will be a draw for people into the city, a 'foodie' district.  Even without organized events like the Holiday Wine Walk, it would be so easily to hop from one place to another, sampling the mussels parisienne there, the Cajun crab cakes here.

Where: 129 N. Michigan St. (you can park in the lot across the street after hours)
When: Lunch--11 AM - 2 PM (M-F); Dinner--5 - 10 PM (M-Th); 5 - 11 PM (F, Sa) and the Jazz Club is open two hours later than the restaurant
Website: http://www.triossb.com/

#230: Drum Circle at Jon Hunt Plaza

On Tuesday evenings, "from 7 till whenever," you will find an unusual happening in downtown South Bend.  Stroll over to the Jon Hunt Plaza, across from the Morris Theater, near the beautiful fountain, for something a little different. 

The fact that a large group of people coalesces in an urban center should not be a surprise; who and what you might find might be.  Drummers, dancers, fire bearers...you name it.  Come see for yourself (while the weather's still great) how South Bend moves its own beat.

#213: On the River

Ever wish you lived in South Beach instead of South Bend?  Well, for one weekend a year, on an unused plot overlooking downtown, On the River brings the beach to the Bend.  This event, begun in 2008, is a fundraiser for the Center for the Homeless and has grown into one of the biggest summer festivals in the city.

As opposed to many events, which tend to be either family-oriented or beer tent-oriented (and not even trying with the hard-to-please teen crowd), the multiple nights of On the River allows everyone* to enjoy the novelty of a sand beach and palm trees in DTSB.  Each night features a  DJ and live music, volleyball and cornhole, and tropical drinks and food, although on Teen night, the daiquiris are virgin and "Freaky Tiki Punch" is not available.  Family Day on Saturday afternoon gives kids the chance to build sand castles and enjoy a variety of carnival activities in an alcohol-free environment... more than you can say for most beaches on Lake Michigan.  Tonight's 21+ Beach Bash kicks off in only a few hours, and get your crew there early for the volleyball or cornhole tournament (3:00 and 5:30 pm start, respectively).

21+ Beach Bash

New this year was In the River, an organized group paddle of the St. Joe Saturday morning.  Organizers were aiming to get 200 boats out on the river.  Look for the follow-up to see if they made their goal!

When: Friday, August 5, 6:00-11:00 pm (Teen Night); Saturday, August 6, 11:00 am-3:00pm (Family Day), 3:00-11:00pm (Beach Bash)
Where: near Colfax Ave. Bridge on the east side of the St. Joe River, across from the Century Center

For tickets, to register for the tournaments, and for more information about parking and what to bring, visit www.ontheriverfest.com.

*Except for Senior night.  Perhaps it's the heat, the skill needed to maneuver on sand, or the loud music, but it would be great to welcome South Bend's eldest out to enjoy the beach!

#202: South Bend Blues and Ribs Fest

Only one letter differentiates "fest" and "feast", but I think the South Bend Blues and Ribs Fest will bring these two words together even further.  Among the many festivals this summer, this one in particular is a feast, both for your ears and your tastebuds.

In its inaugural year, the South Bend Parks & Recreation Department has booked some premier blues artists.  The Elwood Splinter's Blues Band, Michael Burkes, Rod Piazza and the Mighty Flyers, and Jimmy Thackery & the Drivers will be performing.  Their musical styles represent a range of sounds, drawing from either coast, with a hefty dose of Chicago jazz style thrown in.  A unique aspect of music festivals is the variety of music offered, and if you don't listen to blues much (yes, I'm guilty as charged!), you will likely hear something that you dig.  This lively but laidback musical style might just become part of the summer soundtrack.

In regard to food, variety is again a feature.  Area vendors and restaurants, including Lincolnway Cafe, Hillybilly Deluxe, and Fisher's Tips and Chips, will be selling ribs and other barbeque offerings.  And for those who may not be rib fans, Fiddler's Hearth, Bruno's Pizza, Island Snow, and a beer tent will be offering other forms of nourishment.

Whether it's Rod Piazza's virtuoso harmonica playing or Lincolnway Cafe's smokey ribs that draws you to the riverfront, bring your lawn chair out to the river to celebrate the summer. 

When: Sat., June 11, from 2pm - 10pm.  "Doors" open at noon.
Where: Howard Park
Cost: $16 beforehand, $21 at the door.

Click here for the line-up and to purchase tickets.

Tip: Don't have the bones to buy a tickets?  Set up your feast across the river at the office complex for a DIY festival experience.  But proceed do raise money for building baseball fields at Miracle Park, a proposed complex at Blackthorn for special needs children and adults.

UPDATE
Photos from Saturday:

Big crowds at Howard Park

Jimmy Thackery & the Drivers

 

View of the stage from the ribs line




The wait: over an hour.... and the ribs: worth it

The aftermath (we were too starved to get any before pictures)





#148: Generic

Matt Ferriter, the amicable owner of Generic, expressed his intention that his store would not be moving anytime soon.  Good thing, too, because this space really takes advantage of place and space downtown.

Not only would it be painstaking to recreate the decor -- there are hobby horses hanging from the ceiling, an Irish flag in gargantuan frame, and a motley assortment of knick-knacks scattered around the store -- it would take days to move out all merchandise that's crammed into the store.  The store is packed with used and new clothing, shoes, belts, scarves, suspenders, jackets, CDs, incense, jewelry, torn cloth to repurpose...all the necessary punk/grunge/goth gear at good prices.  (Even this prepster found a couple shirts to wear...for $5...total.  Ah, the sweet smell of thrifting.)  Spend an hour and won't have combed over everything this small store has to offer.  Don't forget to check the clothes rack suspended above your head in the dressing room (how convenient!).


While Generic's resourceful use of space is admirable, what really rocks is that somehow, someway, space is made in the back to turn this store into a evening music venue.  In this back room, bands can set up for 50-person show, giving local bands and touring underground artists a chance to display their talent.  Last night's 7pm show featured four bands (Listener, The Homeless Gospel Choir, Analecta, and The Rendition) for $5.  I can only vouch for Analecta's great post-rock sound (see here; haven't heard the others), but we are lucky to have a venue to discover and support these emerging bands.  I only wish there were more places like Generic downtown in order to create an area for like-minded community to congregate, but I'm grateful that Generic makes the most of where's it at...which is right in line with our efforts to foster an appreciation for where you are.


Where: 127 W. Washington St.
When: 10am - 6pm, unless a show keeps the store open late
Website: http://www.myspace.com/genericshop.
Check the store windows for their shows, as well as other concerts in the area.

#145: St. Paddy's Day Tent Party & Pub Tour

I look forward to the first Friday of the month because it brings people together to downtown South Bend.  Sure, Notre Dame football games and shows at the Morris draw crowds, but I like it when hundreds of people come downtown for the sole purpose of hanging around downtown all night long, visiting the great bars, businesses and restaurants there.

Well, this month brings us the luck of the irish because the annual St. Paddy's Day Tent Party & Pub Tour makes downtown South Bend the place to be tonight for the second week in a row.  This event, now it's its year, is organized by the friendly folks at DTSB, who know what the crucial elements of a good St. Patrick's Day party are: green beer and loud rock music (and free public transit between bars).

Five dollars buys you the wristband that gives you entrance into the tent where Stillshot and Blessed Engine are playing, rides on the trolley trolling between bars, and admission into Club Fever for the after party and 12 other bars downtown.

Where: Every bar downtown, but the tent is 350 S. Michigan, near the Main library, naturally.
When: 5:00 - 11:00 tent (Blessed Engine, 5:30; Stillshot, 8:00); trolley runs from 5:30 - 12:30am; bars open til ?
Tip: Sorry kids, 21 & up only.  Though that doesn't stop you from getting some food at Fiddler's or CJ's....
Check out http://www.paddyparty.com/ for details.  The Michiana Entertainer also has a great pub tour guide that explains what each bar offers.

#110: Concerts

If you want to see a concert, go to Chicago...or Indy...or Grand Rapids...or Blue Chip Casino... right?   South Bend doesn't have decent venues or attract decent performers, right?

WRONG.

For post no. 110, here are ten (+2) shows happening over the next ten days.  Variety of genres, variety of venues.  Take your pick and experience the warm and fuzzies only live music can give you.

Thursday:  Bryan Barr, Kelly's Pub, 7pm: The man, the myth, the legend.  Request your show tunes here (...but do they have gospel hour?)
Friday: Alligator Blackbird, Club Fever, 8pm: It's a CD release party as well as benefit concert for the Center for the Homeless.  What more could you ask for?! Oh, Half Pint Jones and Andyman Hopkins are also playing.  $8, $10 at door.
Saturday: Trigger, J.K. Rodeo Bar, 9pm: Country and southern rock. Come for the music, stay for the mechanical bull.  Also playing Friday night.
Don't like country? Check out Destrukters (and more punk bands) at the Anchor Inn, 7pm.
Sunday: Bailey Williams CD Release Party, The Midway Tavern, 8pm:  A fifteen-year old folk rocker performs at the former hangout of Al Capone.  Also featured is the reunion of "Soul Purpose" and a jam session afterwards.  $10 (includes a copy of Williams' CD).
Monday: Irish Music Jam, Fiddler's Hearth, 8:30pm:  You can always depend on Fiddler's to have live music. Kim Hoffmann of WSND's The Celtic Hour leads the group.
Tuesday: Children's Choir of Michiana (Rehearsal), First United Methodist Church, 6pm: Awwww.
Wednesday: Snoop Dogg, Club Fever, 8pm: Fo shizzle. Tickets are sold out, but if you brave the student crowds tonight at 10pm, there are 100 tickets on hand to sell to students. $45. (Kinda expensive? check the cost of his shows in other places.)
Thursday: La Orquesta Soave, Club Landing, 10pm: Celebrate the three year anniversary of the infamous salsa night. Free dance lessons at 10 and a few drinks, and you'll be tearing up the dancefloor with your merengue before you know it. $10.
(365-degree alternative option? The "Mozart Marathon" at Notre Dame from noon-four.  Free cookies and coffee in O'Shaugnessy Hall to celebrate the maestro's birthday.)
Friday: Bill Boris Group, Trio's Jazz Club, 9pm: Keyboards, trumpet, drums and bass make a smooth synthesis of "straight ahead jazz, funk and R&B".
Saturday: The Avett Brothers, Morris Performing Arts Center, 8pm: I'm ended the concert list at this event, because in my mind, it's the pinnacle.  They're one of my favorites band with lots of energy and great live shows.  It's hard to pigeonhole them into a genre, but it's somewhere between bluegrass, punk and pop. $25.

#109: LangLab

It's been called everything from a concert venue to a cultural club to an idea incubator.  LangLab is your friendly neighborhood abandoned-factory hub-o-culture.   Yes, this "space" is a former factory, and yes, they have periodic events featuring music, dance, art, environmental living, and oh so much more.  So no, it's not easily understood in our rigid square terms, man.  I'll let these pictures do the talking.... 

 The view from the parking lot.

 Shoots of the "artist-in-residence" apartment on the second level

 Use of this room: TBD

the LangLab "stage" from the Caught dance performance featured previously on our blog

Location: 1302 High Street, South Bend

Hours: Varying...very varying...depends completely upon their events schedule.

Tip: Like them on Facebook - otherwise there's not a very good way to stay in the know with their events - unless you infiltrate the LangLab "inner circle".....and if you do, report back and leak us stories about their "going-on's"!

#107: Martin Luther King Day Celebration Concert

Maybe you've already celebrated Martin Luther King Day at the Century Century breakfast, the lunchtime march downtown, or the prayer service under the Dome at the Dame.  If you didn't get a day off work or if you've 'celebrated' by sleeping in and running errands, there's still an opportunity for you to commemorate one of our greatest civil rights leaders.

Tonight, there is a celebration concert at IUSB that brings together the South Bend Symphony Orchestra, the SB Symphonic Choir,  and the SB Symphony Youth Orchestra, as well as the IUSB Chorale and Gospel Choir.  Maestro Tsung Yeh always commands an energetic performance, and I have no doubt that all these bands will pay just tribute to Dr. King.  Appropriately, all the music that will be played is by African-American composers.

A wonderful thing about this concert is that it's free!  All the performers are volunteering their time in honor of King.  You do need a ticket -- call the SB Symphony office at 574.232.6343 -- but just head to IUSB's North Side Hall Auditorium where you will be able to pick it up.  (If you don't have a ticket, but are willing to chance it, I'm sure there will be people around with extras to share...)

Where: North Side Hall Auditorium, IUSB, 1700 Mishawaka Ave.
When: 7:00pm tonight
Cost: Free!

(Pstt...can't make it tonight?  There's another concert, "Lift Every Voice", occuring next month.  On February 26, this show will feature the South Bend Symphonic Choir and the Ebony Chorale from Florida, performing pieces by black composer Adolphus Hailstork, who will be there.  Reserve tickets ($3, adults/free for students and children) at 574-520-4203.)

#88: The Bergamot & The Mark's "Believe in Magic"

Jimi Hendrix asked us, "Are you experienced?" and in that question, our perception of what musical performance should be like is challenged.

From the ashes of his burning guitar, some musicians do continue to question the standard of "band on stage, audience in front; play a set, take a break, come back for the encore".  They continue the blend the line between a concert, a show, an event, an experience.

One of these groups is The Bergamot, a local duo who just returned from a cross-country tour to launch their new album, Haven, in January.  This young couple had the brilliant idea of pairing their "fresh. retro. fun." sound with a restaurant that has a similar feel.  The Mark, the lone locally-owned restaurant in Eddy Street Commons, is an "upscale diner" with some of the best food you'll find in town.  I could wax poetic about their all-day breakfast offerings, their vegan reuben, or their sweet potato fries, but I shall refrain, because tonight's event, entitled "Believe in Magic", is all about the experience.   

You can choose either a three-course meal ($35) or admission to the show ($10, 2 drink/dessert minimum).  Both obviously incorporate music and food, but in different amounts.  You shape what experience you would like to have.  The Bergamot will play holiday favorites and original songs, although be forewarned: this is not a dinner show -- the music will complement the dinner, not control it, and vice versa.  

So if you're looking for something different to do -- a shake up from going out to a nice dinner or to a fun concert, try this out.  It's hard to imagine a fine dinner with the Jimi Hendrix Experience shaking the brick walls of this new complex, but the folksy grooves of The Bergamot will add the perfect atmosphere to a fine meal.

When: Tonight, 7:00-9:00 PM
Where: The Mark Dine and Tap. 1234 Eddy Street
Check out the Facebook page for more information! 

#56: Arts Cafe

Again with the misnomers!  "Arts Cafe", an annual community open house hosted by the Near Northwest Neighborhood, Inc. (NNN), is more of a lively all-ages festival than a laidback artists gathering.  Now in its eigth year, this event is a great way to catch a glimpse into a neighborhood that has a lot of character.

The motivation behind this event is to showcase some restored homes that are for sale (at great prices -- even I could afford the mortgage. I thought seriously about buying a house...for about two minutes), so there were about a half-dozen homes that you could enter and look around.  Each one was different, but beautiful wood floors and window frames and unexpected nooks seemed to be common features.

Looking at these different homes was fun enough itself, but in addition, there were booths set up in different homes with local vendors selling everything from cookies to knit caps.  You never knew what you would find when you entered a house.

Also, on the street, there was a two stages with live music, and pop-up tents for non-profits and businesses were scattered throughout.  Many organizations in South Bend, and NNN in particular, support community groups and historic preservation.  Paradoxically, this appreciation for the past keeps the city vibrant and full of things to discover, especially when there's pressure to have in town the big-name chains that can be found anywhere.  There may not be a Cheesecake Factory in the area, but trust me, it ain't got nothing on Miss Brittney Jennings's $1.50 pumpkin-and-cream-cheese cupcake.

When: Sunday, 10 am - 5pm
Where : Stop by Cushing Street and Lindsey St. first, where the NNN tent with a map to the house tour
Website: http://www.nearnorthwest.org/Pages/Events/ArtsCafe2010.htm

#47: The Goshen Theater

Every once in a while, a spontaneous roadtrip is in order.  This need to get outta town can be caused by a great weather for the beach/snow, a desire to see someone/get away from someone, or in our case, a favorite band whose closest stop was Goshen, Indiana.  Thus, we found ourselves on Route 33, with no tickets in hand, rushing to get to a place we'd never been, while the opening act was likely performing.

However, I was pleasantly surprised at how easy it was to pull off our last minute decision, and I strongly encourage you to test your spontaneity with a roadrip to Goshen, especially for a show at their theater.

The Goshen Theater is a wonderfully restored, century-old theater that seats 442 people (717 if you include the balcony!), so it provides a close setting for an intimate concert.  It's not only used for music shows -- there's also theatrical productions and church gatherings that occur frequently.  While we attended a benefit concert featuring Over the Rhine last Friday, there are "five-and-dime" shows --concerts that cost $5.10--a gimmick I find utterly charming.  Check out the events listing here.  A lot of the events are heavy on the folk and bluegrass, but hey, that's alright with me.  (There's Generic and the Wander Inn for other musical tastes, but we'll get to those later...)  The small venue is just the right size to enjoy the strings and vocals.

Where: 216 S. Main St., Goshen, IN
To get to Goshen, head south through downtown until you hit 33, and take it east to Goshen.  The town of Goshen has some fun looking shops and eateries, although most were closed after the show.  Come to town a little early to enjoy The Electric Brew, a coffeeshop across the street from the theater.

#45: 91.1 The Globe

It's not technically in South Bend, but I think it counts that Goshen College's radio station (based in, you guessed it, Goshen, Indiana) comes in loud and clear here in this part of St. Joseph County.  I discovered this gem of a radio station only this summer (thanks to a friend), and it's been set at #1 (in my ancient car) ever since.  The Globe has been around for more than 50 years and bills itself as a radio station that "features a fresh and eclectic mix of Americana, alternative acoustic, folk, singer-songwriters and world beat music." I personally can't think of a better line-up.


Some of the shows are imported from NPR while many are DJ'ed by the volunteer student staff of Goshen College or other local DJ's.  My favorite NPR import is 'World Cafe', on every day from 5-7 with recent featured artists such as Robert Plant, Ray LaMontagne, MGMT, Local Natives, and Suzanne Vega. Some of the great local shows include 'Could Lead to Dancing' on Sundays from 7-9 and the 'Folk Revival' on Mondays from 7-9.


I can't recommend this radio station enough. Listen in your car or online, but whichever you choose, you should tune in now.


Check out the website (and online player) here. 


Check out a program guide here. 

#40: South Bend Symphony Pops with James Dapogny's Chicago Jazz Band

As part of their 78th season, the South Bend Symphony will be performing tonight at the Morris Performing Arts Center.  If you haven't yet attended a performance, you should make it your first.  Playing in collaboration with an internationally renowned jazz band (that have appeared many times on Garrison Keillor's Prairie Home Companion), the performance is bound to be entertaining.  My last experience with the Symphony, at their outdoor concert at the Chris Wilson Pavilion, was incredibly enjoyable and I'm looking forward to hearing them again.

Where: Morris Performing Arts Center
When: 8:00pm

For more information about tonight's performance, upcoming performances, and the South Bend Symphony in general, visit their website: www.southbendsymphony.com.

#19: Michiana Celtic Festival and Highland Games

 
Yet another festival drew people from across the city Sunday.  However, I don't think there are any other festivals with attractions like men carrying logs and women flinging intestines.  Come to the Michiana Celtic Festival and Highlands Games to see the sights and experience the Islands in this land-locked county.  

You won't be bored by the multifarious array of events at this festival.  From bagpipers to "Whiskey B4 Breakfast", bands perform both traditional and contemporary Celtic music.  Celtic dancing, weapons demonstrations, and competitions in sports you didn't even know existed keep the sights fresh.  And when you get hungry, there's always haggis to try.  Let me know how it is -- couldn't bring myself to taste it!

Where: Howard Park, next to the river, across Jefferson from The Emporium
When to go: 10am-6:30pm
Tip: Walk over to Fiddler's Hearth for the post-party

#12: The Barbeque and Blues Festival

Everyone wants to take advantage of the gorgeous South Bend summers to gather as a community at the various parks around town.  Seitz Park, just off the East Race Trail near Colfax Ave (and the Emporium restaurant), was bustling with festival-goers Sunday afternoon for the first annual Barbeque and Blues Festival.

This festival, however, had a philanthropic bent -- profits benefited the St. Joe County Bridges out of Poverty, a non-profit organization that sponsors programs that break the cycle of poverty.  As you would expect at such a festival, there was both BBQ and blues.  Half a barbequed chicken sold for five dollars, and beverages and dessert was only a dollar.

I did not plan on attending this festival (although my love of BBQ prevents me from ever being a perfect vegetarian), but rather, I literally ran into it.  There was no escaping the huge crowd and groovy music on my afternoon run by the river.  Many people strolled along the riverwalk, checking out each other and listening to the music.  Others brought lawn chairs and set up across the river to watch the flow of humanity.  I believe local favorites, The Oblates of Blues, played a set and other musicians spun their tracks as well.  Not bad for the first year.

When to go: 12 - 6pm
Where: Seitz Park
How to get there: Try biking on the East Race Trail

#11: The Chris Wilson Pavilion at Potawatomi Park

So what do you do if you have a big, brand-new performing arts pavilion in the middle of one of South Bend’s most beloved parks?  Why, hold an outdoor concert series of course! This Saturday marked the final concert of the summer held at the aforementioned new Chris Wilson Pavilion in Potawatomi Park. The concert featured the South Bend Symphony Orchestra performing American classics from Copeland to Sousa to the score of Rodgers and Hammerstein’s Oklahoma (my personal favorite). And even though this event was the finale to a summer concert series, look for this pavilion to hold many more events and concerts in the future.

The South Bend Symphony Orchestra

It’s built to accommodate a 50-seat orchestra and the extended lawn of the park holds several times that amount in spectators. The pavilion is ideally and scenically located in one corner of the park and makes for the perfect space to hold large community events. Because really nothing quite says summer like humming along with 250 of your closest friends and neighbors to “Stars and Stripes Forever” while sitting on a blanket as the sun sets.

The crowd at the concert

Visit Potawatomi Park year-round located at the intersection of Wall and Greenlawn Streets and check for upcoming events at the Chris Wilson Pavilion here: http://www.artseverywhere.com/venue/detail/4511.