Entertainment

Beef and Boards brings Johnny Cash Ring of Fire to Indy

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Beef & Boards production of Ring of Fire brings the massive volume of Johnny Cash’s iconic songbook to the stage in a different kind of musical. The opening song “Country Boy” is presented by actors who not only sing but also expertly play an unbelievable variety of  instruments. This number sets the stage for the entire show.

The cast opens Ring of Fire with the song “Country Boy.”

B&B’s long time veteran Jeff Stockberger’s direction led the cast to move effortlessly from song to song and to messages that offered distinctly different themes and emotions.

Devin McDuffy plays the accordion in “Daddy Sang Bass”

Devin McDuffy, an Indy area born and raised debuts with an energy, character, vocal and instrumental talent that just shines with every thing he does. What a delight of a performance to view!

Luke Darnell (left) and Tyler Breeding perform “Folsom Prison Blues”

Both of these men are also making their first showing at Beef & Boards. Both have long and impressive resumes and bring that talent to Ring of Fire. Whether singing or playing the guitar their on stage ability shines through with great clarity. Feel the energy with each note played.

Mary Catherine Fahrenbacher plays the guitar as she sings “All Over Again”

Mary Catherin Fehrenbacher comes to B&B from New York City. She is an actor, musician and music director. Her credits include an awesome list of world famous productions. Her clear voice and instrumental talents make her portrayal of June Carter Cash a memorable part of this offering of Ring of Fire.

Sarah Hund appears as Minnie Pearl to perform “Flushed From the Bathroom of Your Heart”

This is Sarah Hund’s 33rd show at B&B! I can’t say I’ve seen them all, but for sure have seen the lion’s share of her wonderful performances. In this show she is also assistant director and associate music director. Perhaps younger audience members will not remember Minnie Pearl on Grand Ole Opry, but Sarah’s portrayal is just perfect. Yes that is a price tag on a string hanging from the hat. Ring of Fire showcases her remarkable talent across all genres and atmosphere in the songs she sings.

As I said at the beginning, this is a different kind of musical. Don’t expect a lot of narration of storylines nor long scenes of actors interacting with their lines. Just sit back and enjoy the wide variety of Johnny Cash’s inspired music pieces.

Tickets are currently on sale exclusively through Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre at Beef & Boards Website or by calling the box office at 317.872.9664. Ring of Fire runs through Oct. 4.

RIP Dolly Parton, her statue in bronze

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It was sad news today hearing of the passing of Dolly Parton. Her statue is located on the courthouse yard of Sevierville, Tennessee, her home town. The statue was placed in 1987, and shows Dolly as a young lady before she gained international fame and fortune. Almost by accident we spotted the bronze when on our first trip to Pigeon Forge several years ago. Sevierville is right next to Pigeon Forge, where Dolly World and  Dolly Parton’s Stampede show is located.

Delicate loving butterfly on Dolly’s guitar

Rest in Peace Dolly
January 19, 1946 – August 25, 2026

Snoqualmie Falls Washington

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One of the most popular attractions in the Seattle area is the Snoqualmie Falls, a 269 foot single drop waterfall. The falls are near the town of Snoqualmie, which also offers interesting attractions to tourists and locals alike.

View from the observation deck

The area became an active logging site in the 1870’s with logs actually floated over the falls. In 1889 a railroad was built, opening the logging trade further. The town of Snoqualmie was platted in 1889 as well, and by the 1890’s Charles Baker had constructed an underground hydroelectric plant at the falls. Some of the original generators still function today.

 

 

 

 

It is very easy to gain access to the falls. Free parking is available, and an easy walk on the pedestrian bridge leads to the concrete paths to observation decks. If you prefer, for $7.00 you can park next to the gift shop next to the observation decks.

Salish Lodge, note the wedding tent

Beautiful scenery from the observation deck

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Salish Lodge and Spa offers high end accommodations, spa, and dining. Many use the striking views as a place for weddings. It overlooks the river, the generating plant and the top of the falls.

The walk to the observation decks is easy with only a couple of places with widely spaced steps. There were quite a few people enjoying the sights, but we felt comfortable and not crowded. The layout was very nice, and all of the paved paths and safety fencing was kept in excellent condition. It is easy to see why Snoqualmie Falls is one of Washington state’s most popular scenic attractions.

Unique Texas roadside souvenir opportunity

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On one of our trips to Austin, Texas to see our oldest son and his family we all took a day trip to Bastrop, an historic town East of Austin. On our way back we spotted a big Texas flag, a big trailer and a couple of longhorn steers that had been saddled.

Then on second look, things became clear. One of the steers was munching on a flake of hay. The second, next to the trailer and flag had a folding step ladder set next to the saddle. Finally you see the sign: “$10 Photo”. It’ll be easy to climb the ladder, set in the saddle, and get a souvenir photo of you riding a real Texas longhorn. This cowboy has a unique side hustle.

Johnny Cash’s life at Indy’s Beef & Boards “Ring of Fire”

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Opening August 27th at Indy’s beloved Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre will be a celebration of the legend that is Johnny Cash. For this show Beef & Boards welcomes six new talented performers and a few veterans to its stage for Ring of Fire. Johnny Cash’s remarkable story is told through his music, featuring more than two dozen of his hits, from “I Walk the Line,” to “A Boy Named Sue,” to “Folsom Prison Blues,” and the famous title tune.  This show celebrates but never impersonates the
Man in Black.

The talented cast

Ring of Fire burns for 48 performances through Oct. 4. Beef & Boards’ freshly-prepared dinner buffet, is included, along with coffee, tea, or lemonade. Gourmet desserts and bar beverages are available for purchase. Tickets are currently on sale exclusively through Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre or by calling the box office at 317.872.9664. Don’t be disappointed, get your tickets soon.

 

Tasty food, good beer and live music at Broad Ripple’s 317 B.B.Q. & Taproom

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On the near north side of Indianapolis is the village of Broad Ripple. It is well known for an eclectic mix of local dining, unique shops and vibrant nightlife. Sher was checking out some of the clubs and found the 317 BBQ & Taproom. It sounded interesting and advertised live music Sunday afternoon. Off we went with our son driving.

The front of the 317BBQ & Taproom

Welcoming entry way

 

 

 

 

 

We were fortunate and found street parking within a few feet of the entrance.  It was pretty hot, but the inside of the facility was wide open with high ceilings and several large fans which made the seating acceptable. The on tap menu was filled with local brews. The two we tried were very good.

Beer on tap menu

The bar

Good, no VERY good beer

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

With the name of “317 BBQ” we were of course curious of what the menu offered. The menu opened from a bar code was rather limited, however we all found items to order. The BBQ baked beans with beef brisket pieces was very tasty. The fried ocra was very hot , crispy and quite tasty. The waffle fries also were hot right from the fryer. Our son really loved the warm biscuit covered with honey butter.

Waffle fries Yum!

Crispy fried ocra

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Our delicious bar food order, delivered to our table fast

 

While we were enjoying our drinks and food the band was getting ready on the outside patio. There were tables with umbrellas and tents set up for the band to provide a bit of shade. When the band started they played a nice mix of blues, jazz, and as advertised, several Beatles tunes. The heat was too much for us to handle for any length of time, so we did not stay for long listening to the live music.

Outdoor patio seating, tents for the band

Ricks of wood for Pig Pen the smoker

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

We had to get a picture of us and Pig Pen the huge smoker!

All in all, we all really enjoyed our visit to the 317 BBQ and Taproom. The food portions were large, Everything was delicious. The beer on tap that Sher and I had was very good, we would both order again. The staff was very friendly and met our needs completely. Put this establishment on your to do list the next time you are in Broad Ripple. This is the 317BBQ website

We saw a large toy soldier at a Town Festival

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All green on every surface

Note the plates under the boots mimicking a real plastic toy soldier.

This is a novel way to make a living, or at least provide a clever side hustle. We saw this fellow at a town festival where we had set up as vendors several years ago. He showed up at noon on Saturday (of the weekend festival) and just walked around. He did not say a word, but every so often would freeze in a position and hold it for several minutes, thus becoming a big “plastic” toy soldier. Kids loved it and followed him around all afternoon.

King Neptune statue on the Virginia Beach Boardwalk

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September of 2005 saw the grand unveiling of an awesome sight on the Virginia Beach Boardwalk. Where 31st Street intersects Atlantic Avenue, a 34′ tall bronze statue of the famous King Neptune gazes over the city as he emerges from the depths of the sea. Well, OK, he maybe isn’t coming out of the sea but he is sure impressive!

Compare Neptune’s size to the bike rider!

The artwork is the masterpiece of artist Paul DiPasquale’ a well known sculptor from Richmond, Virginia. Neptune grips his trident in his right hand while he “palms” a huge sea turtle in his left hand. He is surrounded by many other seas creatures, including dolphins and a massive octopus. The details in both Neptune and the sea creatures are breathtaking. This statue is adjacent to Neptune’s Park, site of many events held on the beach during both the summer season and the off season as well.

Neptune and his turtle

The octopus on the statue base

A trip to meet King Neptune is a must when you visit Virginia Beach, Virginia. You will be impressed! And be sure to check the calendar of events for Neptune’s Park to plan on attending whatever event is planned for the time of your visit.

Historic Starr Piano and Gennett Recording Studio

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Original Gennett Records logo

Richmond Indiana is a history filled city on the Ohio-Indiana border in the central part of the state. Both I-70 and Historic US 40 run through Richmond. One of the historic sites in Richmond is the remains of the old Starr Piano manufacturing plants and the Gennett Recording studios.

Starr made high end pianos beginning in the 1870’s. The remaining Starr pianos are highly sought after by collectors and musicians alike. The Gennett recording Studios were in business from 1920 to 1934. The records were made in a primitive concrete and brick building with little acoustical features. Legend says that an Oriental rug from the Gennett mansion was used as a wall hanging to deaden the echo sounds during the recording sessions.

Louis Armstrong’s place on the Walk of Fame

Today the Starr Gennett Foundation continues to keep the music history of the 20’s and 30’s alive with many events at the site of the old factory building. One of the many memorials to music is the Walk of Fame. The Starr-Gennett Foundation website details this feature and a special event in September 2026: “In 2007, as part of its ongoing effort to promote and celebrate the music legacy of Starr Piano Company and its subsidiary, Gennett Records, the Foundation inaugurated the Gennett Records Walk of Fame to honor those who recorded for Gennett Records and whose work contributed significantly to American history. Selected by a national panel of music experts, those honored are musicians who created the distinctly American musical genres of jazz, blues, country, gospel, and popular music. However, the Gennett studio recorded the spoken word as well as the music of American Indian and other ethnic groups.”

Many famous musicians of the times got their first recordings made at Gennett. Hoagy Carmichael’s big band recorded there. Louis Armstrong got his start in the Gennett studio. The Great Depression, however, signaled the end of Gennett Records as it did many other record companies of the times.

The old factory now refurbished for concerts

Unique view of the old factory

 

 

 

 

 

The remaining portion of the brick factory now has a modern steel structure and metal roof system. This building is used for concerts, meetings and other civic events. It is interesting to think of the tremendous musical history represented at this Indiana site. Hand made pianos and the beginnings of several genres of music began here. When in Richmond be sure to seek out the old Starr Piano building. You just might hear echoes of music from the past.

Austin’s Lady Bird Lake from the water after dark

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The Colorado River runs through Austin’s vibrant downtown. Flanked by parks, bike and hiking trails and entertainment venues, the river also widens and slows, prompting the name Lady Bird Lake after LBJ’s First Lady.

Striking view at dusk

Groupon led us to Lone Star Riverboat cruises, offering a chance to enjoy a sunset cruise and beautiful views of the remarkable and interesting architecture of Austin’s skyline. Lone Star has both a double deck “paddle wheeler” style boat and large open air pontoon style boats. Sher and I and our son, daughter-in-law and granddaughter chose  the pontoon boat for our sunset cruise.

Center building is either an owl or a nose hair clipper: locals laugh about it

Curved building is the new Google Headquarters, far right is one that looks like a thumb drive

We thoroughly enjoyed our slow paced tour up and down the waters. Our Captain of the craft gave a most interesting running commentary of the sights seen from the vantage point of the water. One interesting anecdote concerned the heights of the buildings. Formerly no Austin building could be taller than the State Capitol. However, one rich Texan donated a building that would be taller. Money talked, and the impressive skyline continues to grow in height.

Our cruise was slightly over and hour, and was reasonably priced with special kid’s rates and a nice Senior discount as well.