It's called "Indiana's Nicest Day" for a reason. This year's Penrod Arts Fair lived up to its motto with sunshine, crisp fall temperatures, numerous dance and music performances, food, beverages and of course, art. I co-hosted a LIVE webcast from the WFYI Blues Stage that day. In between bands, I interviewed a dozen local arts and music experts plus a local craft beer and wine producer. Here are highlights from my three favorite conversations.

CRAFT BEER: Fellow Broad Ripple resident, Sean O'Connor from Flat 12 Bierwerks let me sample "Penrod 22" the Kolsch style brew created for the event and named for the original 22 members of the Penrod Society. The dry German lager is crisp and clean with notes of apples and a smooth finish.

NEW and fun at Flat12 "Paws" Dog Brew - yes, for your 4 legged. Non alcoholic beer made from meat and bones from Smoking Goose.

www.flat12.me

TRUE COMPANIONS: Medical Mutts - Dog trainer Jennifer Cattet wanted to see more smart, friendly shelter dogs find a home. She started Medical Mutts, which partners with animal shelters to adopt dogs then teach them how to be companion animals for people with diabetes. Cattet says people with diabetes need to closely monitor their blood sugar 24 hours a day. Medical Mutts are trained to keep an eye and nose on their owners, wake them up during the night, and respond if a person has a diabetic episode. Want to help? The Indianapolis Humane Society partners with Medical Mutts. www.indyhumane.org

INDIANA WINE: Easley Winery's Summer Blowout Sale continues this weekend with 25% off wines. And this year virtually all have garnered top awards at national and international wine competitions. Meredith Easley talked and tasted three of the winery's fall "must haves" with me.

Traminette - Lovely off-dry white with aromas and flavors of white peach, green apple and apricot. Double Gold and Wine of the Year at Indy International.

Cranberry Wine - made from 100% cranberries; tart, sassy and a real treat plus GOLD medal winner at Great Lakes Great Wine competition.

Blueberry Wine - 100% from the fruit-smooth, juicy and fun. Another GOLD medal winner at both Tasters Guild International and Pacific Rim International competitions.

www.easleywinery.com