First Friday in August took me first to Gallery 924 downtown to see how artist Jerome Neal "sees" the city. His show "Circle City 360" captures a number of popular and hidden views of Indianapolis on a canvas brimming with color, collage and even some glitter. His mixed media painting of Broad Ripple captures the old school feel of the village as a place of peace and harmony.

From 924, I went to The Landmarks Center to see photographer Mark Sheldon's incredible collection of Indiana jazz legends past and present. "The Naptown Scene" is a collection of black and white photos accompanied by a paragraph or two of information. The combination sizzles and makes the perfect appetizer for the upcoming Indy Jazz Fest next month. Many of those shows take place in the Broad Ripple area with the FREE pub creep performances plus a variety of acts at the Jazz Kitchen.

Then it was up to Fountain Square to see the artist throwdown between old and new, The Hoosier Salon vs IMOCA (Indianapolis Museum of Contemporary Art) . Many of you remember that the Hoosier Salon was located in Broad Ripple for years before its recent move to Carmel. On this First Friday night, HS gallery manager Richard Anderson selected a handful of his best, and Paula Katz, Exec. Director of IMOCA, mixed them with a handful of IMOCA artists. The show at the Murphy Building was visually compelling in tone, color, and flair.

Wine was served at all locations. But it has been the twilight time wines I've savored with friends lately that have left the best impression on my palate.

Linen Sauvignon Blanc is from all places, Washington State. Its tangy, white grapefruit aromas and flavors make the perfect patio sipper as the hot hazy days of Summer continue.

Soleil Pomegranate Mimosa is a one stop shop for juice and fizz. Low in alcohol and a bottle cap closure, makes a great post-bicycle ride refresher or even better brunch beverage. I shared with friends on a porch and we all agreed it would be delish paired with a chorizo studded omelet or the Bee Sting or Lingonberry Torte from Perk Up.