State of the State

We have four separate seasons here in Wisconsin, and we like it that way. The weather is always either changing or about to change or planning to change in the not too distant future, and that's good. Because between that and the Packers, we're never at loss for conversation.

And when summer heat feels too oppressive or hangs on too persistently, we can usually find relief with a cold drink and some shade near a body of water.

Following are a few suggestions for some short trips that may or may not be near a body of water, but will definitely have cooling drinks readily available and music for your entertainment and edification.

The McMusical Calendar

Friday, June 30
The Birddog Blues Band keeps on rolling (and tumblin') into the heart of the summer "entertainment" season, starting at the Lake House Inn in Edgerton (1612 E. Hotel Drive). 7 to 10

Sunday, July 2
The two-man acoustic outfit Ford & the Fairlane pairs up guitarist/singer Mel Ford with bassist/singer Tom McCarty for a Sunday-afternoon at Tofflers in New Glarus. 2:30 to 5 pm

Saturday, July 8
Sample some "squeezins" with The Birddog Blues Band at Doundrins Distilling in Cottage Grove (300 Progress Drive).
6:30 to 9:30

Thursday, July 13
Check out the spacious lawn and panoramic views on the shores of Lake Monona while The Birddog Blues Band entertains at the East Side Club (3735 Monona Drive). 5:30 to 8:30 pm

Wednesday, July 19
Faux Fawn, the alt-folk outfit fronted by singer/songwriter Paul Otteson pops up at Crescendo Coffee (in Hilldale Mall) for a rare weeknight gig. Early evening? Safe bet.

Saturday, July 22
The Birddog Blues Band returns to Edgerton and the Lake House Inn (1612 E. Hotel Drive). 7 to 10 pm

Wednesday, July 26
The Birddog Blues Band entertains at Swan Park Bandshell in Beaver Dam from 7 to 8:30 pm.

Thursday, July 27
Enjoy food and drink whilst overlooking the mighty Wisconsin River and enjoying the return of Big Wes Turner's Trio (featuring Mel Ford, Rick Becker, Tom McCarty). Big Wes's musical chameleons offer eclectic and eccentric tunes from R&B, RocknRoll, and C&W traditions at Vintage Brewing in Sauk City.
6 to 8 pm (No rain date. Check your radar.)

Friday, August 11
The Birddog Blues Band back at the shack out back of the Hop Haus Brew Pub and Shops in Paoli. 5 to 8 pm.

Friday, September 1
Once again, The Birddog Blues Band returns to Edgerton and the Lake House Inn (1612 E. Hotel Drive). 7 to 10 pm

Saturday, September 2
Faux Fawn opens up for Free Dirt at the Eastside Club. Did we mention the spacious lawn and panoramic views. Evening set, but full day event.

Monday (Labor Day), September 4
The Birddog Blues Band whoop up the holiday on the patio at Club La Mark, just off the intersection of Hwy 51 and East Washington Avenue. Afternoon.

Check back for updates!