anatomie artistique

6.04-6.11.08
anatomie artistique

In this week’s issue:

If you were to take the body politic, and invert it to represent the body artistique, you might end up with a place like Cleveland Plus. This week, Claudia Taller scopes out art events in our region thru September, with one handy click. And you’ll enjoy our profile of the CAC’s Catherine Boyle who administers the cigarette tax arts dollars that makes Cuyahoga one of the best funded arts communities in the world. The body politic gets its due as Mansfield faces the truth when it comes to judging our judges, and Roldo suggests our mainstream media is misguided on County reform. We guide you right with reviews of the new release by Three Miles Out, and a new graphic novel about drive-ins. Behold the anatomie artistique that surrounds you, give it a click and check it out. —Thomas Mulready

A Celebration of Art in the Offing
Plotting Out Cle’s Art Festival Circuit

Two rows of white tents paraded down the middle of Detroit Road for blocks during the Lakewood Arts Festival last summer. Adjacent local businesses took advantage of the crowds and pulled merchandise out onto the sidewalk. There was a carnival feel in the air, with people pushing strollers, stopping for lunch at Melt or Chipotle, and sipping wines on Rozi’s outdoor patio. People who knew each other stopped to talk and catch up. Artists explained how they developed their film, the way designs were created with horse hair on pottery, and the story behind the water color of a lighthouse on the Maine coast. People connected with stories and artistic technique, or they simply browsed to find unique pieces for their homes, from birdhouses to painted salad bowls.

Attending an art festival is a lively and creative experience — and something quintessentially Cleveland during our brightest weather months. Artists get great exposure as they pass out business cards and take orders. Business spills over into nearby stores. People connect. We learn to appreciate artistic technique. You can experience all of this and more in my list of art festivals (which misses church bazaars and craft shows supporting worthy causes). These events are no-cost and open to the public unless otherwise noted…
Read more from Claudia J. Taller here

SPONSORED: Leonard Moore, author of “Carl B. Stokes and The Rise of Black Political Power,” is the keynote speaker for the next CSU forum: “Race, Politics and Cities: 40 Years After the Stokes Era.” It will be held on Thu 6/19 from 4-6:30PM. He has provided analysis on ESPN, 60 Minutes, CNN, National Public Radio and more. Free and open to the public, this forum is moderated by Mansfield Frazier, with Roldo Bartimole as a panelist, both are Cool Cleveland contributors. In 1967, Carl Stokes became the first black Mayor of a major American city. During Stokes’ first year in office, MLK Jr. and Bobby Kennedy were shot. And Cleveland, like many cities around the nation, erupted in riots. Held at the Maxine Goodman Levin College of Urban Affairs at CSU, 1717 Euclid Avenue. For more info go to www.urban.csuohio.edu/forum/.

All We Are Saying, Is Give Art a Chance
Catherine Boyle, Executive Director of Cuyahoga Arts and Culture

“Give us a chance.” That’s the quick answer Catherine Boyle, Executive Director of Cuyahoga Arts and Culture (CAC), gives to critics of the 10-year cigarette tax that provides the revenue stream for the CAC’s grant programs. The CAC was created as a result of the passage of Issue 18 in November 2006, which approved a cigarette tax earmarked for arts and culture support. As the only regional arts and culture district in the state with a dedicated revenue stream, the CAC was established to make matching grants to not-for-profit organizations in Cuyahoga County that have a primary mission of arts and culture and that have a proven history of arts and culture program.

Critics of the cigarette tax question whether public money should be used to support the arts. In response, Boyle makes the argument that the arts and culture are a public good. She notes that in the focus groups that were part of the campaign for Issue 18, respondents, regardless of where they lived, said, “We’re proud to have world-class institutions.” Even if people don’t go to the orchestra or the art museum, they’re proud to have it. When they go on vacation, they like being able to say, “This is what we have in Cleveland.” That civic pride polled higher than any other factor. It [exposure to arts and culture] also helps children’s education. And what happens to Cleveland if the orchestra doesn’t exist? What happens if the art museum doesn’t exist or starts charging admission?”
Read more from Susan Petrone here

The Complete Works of William Shakespeare (abridged) Hang onto your seats! This is not your high school Shakespeare! It’s a high-speed roller-coaster condensation of all of Shakespeare’s plays, and is not recommended for people with heart ailments, bladder problems, inner-ear disorders and/or motion sickness – all 37 plays in 97 minutes! Pop culture idioms and lightning-quick humor make this a must-see from Fri 6/6 through mid-June; Friday and Saturday shows at 8PM and Sunday matinee at 3PM. http://www.cassidytheatre.com.

High School Musical Willoughby Fine Arts Association rocks the Disney mega-hit movie on their stage beginning Fri 6/6 at 7:30PM with a limited run through June on weekends. Join a group of high school students “Breaking Free” as they learn not to “Stick to the Status Quo.” Call 440-951-7500 for tix/details or visit http://www.fineartsassociation.org for more.

Meet the Trucks If you’ve got young boys at home, you know they’re hardcore into vehicles. Why not treat them to an eyeful of Lakewood’s city vehicles Sat 6/7 from 10AM – 1:30PM at Lakewood Park? Everything from police cars, motorcycles and ambulances to fire, garbage and other city trucks will be on display! Kid’s activities, safety clinics and food round out the fun. Call 226-9001 for more info.

We’re For Dogs Lake Metroparks is running a superfun Working Dog Weekend, a fun-filled, family friendly canine event that showcases how man’s best friend works alongside people in jobs including law enforcement, herding, hunting, therapy, and daily living. We hear they’re featuring hounds, too. Check it all out starting Sat 6/7. Details and schedule online at: http://www.lakemetroparks.com/programs/WorkingDogWeekend.shtml.

HOT 50 Years of Hale Farm & Village It’s an Opening Weekend Day-long, hands-on day full of activities (butter making, optical toys, and ice-cream making) and so much more. Snag a special discount ticket when you ride the train! Check it out Sat 6/7 starting at 10AM at Hale Farm & Village, 2686 Oak Hill Rd., Bath Twp. 330-666-3711. For more information call 330-666-3711 or visit http://www.wrhs.org.

Rainbow Science Family Workshop The Children’s Museum of Cleveland offers an amazing workshop presenting Tie-Dye Art. Children and adults will learn how rainbows are created, play with crystal prisms and practice color mixing Sat 6/7 at 12:30PM. Complete the workshop by designing your very own tie-dye piece of clothing! Participants should bring their own 100% cotton white piece of clothing to tie-dye such as t-shirts, tank tops, socks, onezies, etc. Other supplies will be provided. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Pre-registration is required, with a nominal fee. Call 791-7114 x22. http://www.clevelandchildrensmuseum.org.

HOT Beck Center Open House The center hosts a community celebration of Sat 6/7 from 10AM – 4PM called INSIDE the Beck — a no-cost, family fun open house event and sale of vintage costumes and stage items! There’s something for the whole family, including “make-and-take” art activities, live music, a bake sale, a chalk festival, and other cool programming. The Cleveland Artists Foundation (enclosed at Beck) will exhibit Parallel Paths, Singular Quest, painting and sculpture by Barbara and Julian Stanczak. 17801 Detroit Ave., Lakewood. http://www.beckcenter.org.

Sunbeam Race The 5th Sunbeam Run will be held on Sat 6/7 at Horseshoe Lake Park in Shaker Heights. The event, which begins at 9AM, includes a 4mi run and a 1mi walk. Both races are stroller friendly. The first 350 participants will receive t-shirts. Refreshments and entertainment, including balloon clowns and face painting, will be available after the race. Proceeds from the Run will benefit Vocational Guidance Services (VGS), a non-profit organization helping to prepare people with barriers to employment for a brighter future. http://www.hermescleveland.com.

Knee-High Naturalists and nature lovers ages 2 – 6 are gonna love this afternoon of outdoor exploration (their families will, too). Enjoy arts and crafts, hands-on nature exploration, live animal demos, “Nora the Explorer” hikes, stories and musical entertainment with Mr. Hatbox, face painting, tree planting, refreshments and more! It all happens Sun 6/8 from 2 – 5PM at the Chagrin River Road Sledding Hill, South Chagrin Reservation, Bentleyville. Call 440-247-7075 for info. http://www.clevelandmetroparks.com.

Cool Cleveland Kids Podcast Weekly roundup of cool events for kids & families from 11-year-old Cool Cleveland Kids correspondent Max.

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SPONSORED: Did You Know that You Can Make a Seven Course Meal based strictly on the epicurean art of asparagus? It’s true. And the Cleveland Museum of Natural History will prove it on Sat 6/14 at the “Natural History of Asparagus.” It will start with a reception at 6:30PM followed by dinner at 8PM where you will learn how asparagus was cultivated by the ancient Greeks and Romans, who valued it for its taste as well as its purported medicinal properties. Local grower Monica Bongue, who grows asparagus on her farm near Wooster, will present the natural history of this nutrient-dense vegetable. Ben Bebenroth, executive chef and owner of Spice of Life Catering, partnering with wine purveyor Mary Lapham, will provide commentary on each course and its complimentary wine. To register contact www.cmnh.org.

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This may be the best Cle baseball shirt of all time. Click
Can’t bare the thought of leaving your pets for a vacation? Or a long weekend? This innovative location solves your travel dilemma. Click
Fashion Week Cleveland on WWD Women’s Wear Daily checks out Fashion Week Cleveland and the town. Read.
Rock Hall’s Toddler Rock on Today Watch the cool clip here
MOCA Cleveland announces the temporary closing of the Jean Luc Mylayne exhibition in its main galleries to contain and exterminate insects discovered in the wooden frames of the photographic work. Powder Post Beetles
Are you a member of Adoption Network Cleveland? If not, what are you waiting for? Click
Know about the Seventh Annual Appalachian Uprising Bluegrass Festival at Eden Valley Farm in Scottown, Ohio? It’s a hootnanny certainly worth a roadtrip. Click.
CLA Celebration of Preservation winners announced and can be found here
Into walking tours? Do one in Oberlin called “A Walk through Time: Tour the History of Oberlin through the Landmarks around Tappan Square.” Click
Is Ohio exporting its very best students. One article takes a closer look. Click
Artists get introduced to health care by clicking our friends here
Are borrowers free to lie? This WSJ story talks foreclosure, bankruptcy and local bank Nat City is in the thick of the coverage because of a legal ruling. Click
How do you feel about changing county government? Here are what some people think. Watch
Are you big on poker or know someone who is? Why not play (or volunteer) for charity? Info

Cool Cleveland Podcast Weekly roundup of cool events, in an easy-to-digest 3 minute audio format, for playback on your computer or iPod.

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Send your cool events to: Events@CoolCleveland.com

HOT Weird Science…. ooooh! Build a machine that that moves like a cockroach, salamander or fish?!? Yup. Over 100 of the world’s pioneering engineers, biologists and neuroscientists who have contributed to building biologically inspired robots will be on the campus of Case Western Reserve University now through Fri 6/6 to discuss new developments in the field of biorobotics during the Fourth International Symposium on Adaptive Motion of Animals and Machines (AMAM). It’s “science fiction of yesteryear turned into today’s reality,” including a “Robot Zoo” on public display Thu 6/5 from 1-2PM at Cleveland’s Great Lakes Science Center. http://amam.case.edu.

Knockemstiff Donald Ray Pollock, author of Knockemstiff will be at Mac’s Backs Books on Coventry, 1820 Coventry Rd. in Cle Heights on Wed 6/4 at 7PM. Pollock’s book is a collection of hard-knock, compelling stories from a guy who spent the last 31 years working in a paper mill in Chillicothe. No cost, open to the public. http://www.macsbacks.com.

Nikki Turner has been called the “Queen of Hip Hop Lit” and is the author of four best-selling novels including A Hustler’s Wife. She signs her new novel about love, loss, and revenge entitled Black Widow on Wed 6/4 at 7PM at the Borders Books and Music at Cleveland Heights (Severance Town Center, 3466 Mayfield Rd.) Call 291-8605 for details. http://www.nikkiturner.com.

The Sparx are Flying! The Sparx Downtown Cle Concert Series, a 15-week summer line-up of no-cost live concerts, kicks off a 6th season on Thu 6/5 in the Warehouse District. Sparx is designed to highlight creative types and dynamic street life. Locations all across downtown come to life with Thu evening and Fri afternoon shows. We’ll clue you in on a few of the highlights as the summer goes, but you’re best to follow along by clicking here.

A Patio Sex Party Joseph-Beth Booksellers will play host to a fun-filled patio party for all Sex in the City fans on Thu 6/5 starting at 6PM. Enjoy appetizer specials and vote for your favorite of four cosmos – “The Charlotte,” “The Carrie,” “The Samantha,” “The Miranda” – as you test your SITC trivia knowledge. Movie tickets, DVDs, books and many other prizes will be raffled off to lucky winners. Joseph-Beth Booksellers, Lyndhurst. Call 691-7000, Ext. 1440 or visit http://www.josephbeth.com for more info.

Rusalka The Cleveland Orchestra performs Dvorak’s opera with members of the orchestra’s Chorus Thu 6/5 at 7PM and again Sat 6/7 at the same time. Soprano Camilla Nylund is among the featured performers. http://www.clevelandorchestra.com.

HOT The Little Italy Art Walk The 29th annual Summer Art Walk launches Fri 6/6 at noon and runs through the weekend, featuring the very best restaurants, galleries, artist studios and boutiques all joining together to bring the largest exhibition of authentic Italian cuisine, local, national and international fine art and artistic design collections in fashion, fine gift and home decoration. The historic neighborhood provides an amazing backdrop for this weekend of fun. Details can be found at http://www.littleitalyartwalk.com.

Art Festivals Got your attention? Read Claudia J. Taller’s piece in this week’s issue — which features “Art by the Falls” and a whole host of other great fests here.

Rise Above The first formal benefit for the “Rise Above It Charity” (see more info here) hits the Marriott Downtown on Fri 6/13. RAI upports local teens and young adults who have overwhelming bills from their cancer treatment that they are unable to pay. It was started by Colin O’Donoghue before he was overcome by cancer. This is a way for you to have some fun and to help struggling young people in the process — all in one night. http://www.raibenefit.org.

HOT On A Pedestal, Off The Wall The 4th annual exhibition of small sculpture from across the region launches with an Opening Reception at the Sculpture Center on Fri 6/6 from 5:30 – 8:30PM. A director’s talk is presented at 6:30PM. No cost, open to the public. 1834 E. 123rd St. http://www.sculpturecenter.org.

Founder’s Day Weekend In celebration of Alcoholic’s Anonymous and their 73 years of service (they were launched right here in NEO, no less!) this weekend-long event is sure to appeal to everyone. Check out the festivities at Stan Hywet Hall and Gardens Fri 6/6 – Sun 6/8. The film God As We Understand Him will be screened throughout the event. 714 N. Portage Path, Akron. For times and details visit http://www.stanhywet.org.

Broadway School Benefit w/ Marisela Sager Sager and other members of The Cleveland Orchestra join talents to present a Chamber Music Concert featuring the music of Mozart and Debussy on Fri 6/6 at 7PM at Cathedral Hall, Trinity Commons to benefit the Broadway School of Music and the Arts and its financial aid fund. The Broadway School has a waiting list of students who, without financial aid, have no opportunity to participate in the arts. 2230 Euclid Ave. Tickets can be ordered through the Broadway School at 641-0630 or broadwaysch@yahoo.com. http://www.broadwayschool.org.

Cohousing The Levin College Forum and the City of Cleveland Planning Commission present this forum with Charles Durrett, a national expert on cohousing and co-author of Cohousing: A Contemporary Approach to Housing Ourselves on Fri 6/6 at 11:30AM. Durrett will discuss the ways in which cohousing may benefit NEO communities. A distinguished panel of professionals share reactions and perspectives and discuss the potential of cohousing within the Cle area afterwards. Learn more and register here.

Year of the Rat On Fri 6/6 C-town will be formally introduced to the Year of the Rat through a public art exhibition. St. Clair Superior Development Corporation will install 25 different fiberglass rat sculptures (?!?) throughout the St. Clair Superior Neighborhood, which encompasses the area from the lake to Superior and Payne Avenues from Martin Luther King Boulevard to East 30th Street and in other key locations. Brings new meaning to the phrase Who Moved My Cheese? http://www.stclairsuperior.org.

Ohio Bike Week You’re not hardcore enough to head to Sturgis, but “Bike Night” every Wednesday in the Valley View Cinema parking lot just ain’t cutting anymore? From Fri 6/6 at noon and through mid-June, check out the Erie County Fair Grounds for this hugely attended, regional motorcycle extravaganza (formerly called the North Coast Thunder Rally). You don’t have to hike to South Dakota or Florida for a greasy, leathery gearhead fix… and it gives you an excuse to roll down Lake Road! Live music schedule and details at http://www.ohiobikeweek.com.

In Plain View The photojournalists at our daily paper have to document the news, events and people with the eyes of the entire community in mind. Their photographs strive to provide insights and function as the optical touchstone for the many stories that accompany them (in print or alone as interstitials). Have a look at the work from 17 different sets of eyes in this display starting Fri 6/6, with an opening reception kicking off the exhibition from 6 – 9PM at Heights Arts Gallery, 2173 Lee Rd., Cleveland Heights. Runs through late July. http://www.heightsarts.org.

SPONSORED: On Fri 6/9 and Sat 6/10, the first Jubilation-WCLV/United Church of Christ Church Choir Challenge took place at Pilgrim Congregational UCC Church in Tremont. The broadcast performances of the six finalist choirs are now available “on demand” on the WCLV website at www.wclv.com. The first place winner was The Choir of St. John the Evangelist. The other finalists are Epworth-Euclid United Methodist Church, Old Stone Church, The First Church UCC Oberlin, the Federated Church of Chagrin Falls and Christ Presbyterian Church Chancel Choir, Canton. Full details of all of WCLV’s programming can also be found at http://www.wclv.com.

HOT Stitch Cleveland’s Birthday On Sat 6/7 and Sun 6/8, Stitch Cleveland celebrates their first anniversary with a “non-party” of all things crafty and DIY — including informal workshops, demonstrations, and social networking lounges among artists, designers, knitters, embroiderers, quilters, seamstresses and crafters of every kind. Demonstrations on dyeing, felting, crochet and embroidery are paired with treats, cocktails and meeting other crafters working on projects. Oh yes, and crafty shopping, too. Stitch Cleveland, 1387 Sloane Ave. Call 220-4808 or visit http://www.stitchcleveland.com.

Textile tArts Flavors of Fiber is the group exhibition at the Beth K. Stocker Gallery at Lorain Community College. The exhibition with artwork by regional artists, Lois Carroll, Christy Gray, Susanne Gregg, Christine Mauersberger, Jill Milenski, Gayle Pritchard, Tina Rossi-Petrone and Susan Shie, presents an eclectic array of contemporary art incorporating textiles utilizing a broad range of media. Check out the exhibition at the gallery talk Sat 6/7 at 2PM. Lorain Community College, 1005 N. Abbe Rd., Elyria. http://www.lorainccc.edu/stocker for info.

HOT Black Tie & Purls The Cleveland Play House’s annual benefit will take place on Sat 6/7 in the Bolton Theatre at The Play House complex at E. 85th and Euclid. This year’s event, celebrating the theatre’s 92nd consecutive season, will feature the musical entertainment of Linda Purl. Festivities start at 6PM with cocktails and hors d’oeuvres in The CPH Rotunda, followed by Purl’s cabaret act at 7:30PM in the Drury Theatre. Dinner, a live auction and grand dessert buffet round out the evening. Suggested attire is (you guessed it) black tie and pearls. http://www.clevelandplayhouse.com.

NEO Polka Fest Roll out the barrel! Literally! Our region is known for a lot of things, but the magical sounds from the squeeze box is near the top of the list. Celebrate the history of the Central European dance (and genre of music) at this two-day festival in Geneva-on-the-Lake Sat 6/7 and Sun 6/8 (starts at noon both days). And enjoy some Lake Erie wine while you’re at it. The Old Firehouse Winery, 5499 Lake Rd. E, Geneva-on-the-Lake. Call 800-UNCORK-1 for more info.

Mandel Social Sciences Garage Sale The staff and faculty of the Mandel School of Applied Social Sciences at Case Western Reserve University are cleaning out their closets, basements and attics for a big garage sale on Sat 6/6 from 10AM – 3PM in the MSASS Building at Bellflower Rd. and Ford Dr. Children’s clothing, home decorative items, kitchenware and a whole lot more will be on sale, with proceeds benefiting the MSASS Annual Fund, which provides scholarships at the social work school. For info, call 368-2281.

HOT Kamm’s Corners Farmers Market has been developed to improve the quality of life of the Greater Kamm’s Corners community by providing locally grown, fresh, high quality produce and farm direct products in a social atmosphere including chef demonstrations, wellness demonstrations, local artisan displays and live entertainment. they start their season Sun 6/8 at 10AM in the municipal parking lot at West 168th St. and Albers Ave., off Lorain Rd. in West Park. Call 526-3803 or email: kcfarmersmarket@gmail.com for more.

TubaSummer Oompa-oompah! What’s not to love about tubas and their low-register thump-bump? Check out a fun, no-cost concert at Cascade Plaza on Main St. in Akron Sun 6/8 at 6:15PM. Along with the concert, food and other entertainment is on the menu. Call 330-762-9550 for detials.

Science Cafe Cleveland Enjoy a lively, informal scientific discussion in an inviting atmosphere of food and drink. This month’s topic: Big Numbers: The Role Played by Mathematics in Internet Commerce. Speakers this month include Dr. David Singer, Dept. of Mathematics at CWRU, and Mr. Ari Singer of NTRU Cryptosystems. SCC happens on the second Monday of each month (this month Mon 6/9 at 6:30PM) at Great Lakes Brewing Company, 2701 Carroll Ave. A few no-cost apps are provided; additional food and drinks can be purchased. http://www.greatlakesbrewing.com.

Les Roberts signs his brand new King of the Holly Hop Milan Jacovich mystery on Mon 6/9 at 7PM at Joseph-Beth Booksellers in Lyndhurst. King is Roberts’ most recent work of fiction featuring the Cle detective. The past president of both the Private Eye Writers of America and the American Crime Writer’s League, Roberts came to mystery writing after a 24-year career in Hollywood as a producer/ head writer of The Hollywood Squares and writer for The Andy Griffith Show, The Jackie Gleason Show and The Man from U.N.C.L.E., among others. Meet the man behind Milan! http://www.josephbeth.com. http://www.grayco.com.

HOT Inner Harmony, mind, body and music On Wed 6/11 at noon, the Cleveland Institute of Music Women’s Committee will present this unique program and luncheon featuring Dr. Kamal Chemali — a neurologist with the Cleveland Clinic — and CIM students. Focusing on the relationship between music and the brain, attendees will learn about the field of “neuromusic,” which studies the effect of music on the normal physiology of the nervous system… and from the beauty and comfort of the CIM’s new Mixon Hall! Music affects your heart and body. Learn how! http://www.cim.edu.

Send your cool events to: Events@CoolCleveland.com

A hot selection of tech and business news & events from around the region. Got business news? Send it to: EVENTS@CoolCleveland.com

Ohio’s workers will be essential in tomorrow’s clean-energy economy; help reduce global warming. Read Report
There’s certainly a need for paid sick days according to the report found here
Tourism ads target folks who are “Livin’ for the Weekend.” Click
IABC names Communicator of the Year and our own Thomas Mulready is one of their alums! Click
Combustion equipment helps this local group succeed, expand. Read
Gov. Strickland sees growth at Akron biz accelerator. Click
How’s about ya go Google yer health? Will it ever catch on? Click
Mgm’t team building tips for savvy entrepreneurs. Click
AAF-Cleveland’s lifestyle/media auction has just gone live. Check it out here
Check out info on the Mittal Steel doc film by clicking this link

Doing Business in China: Hurdling the Great Wall is a one-day forum event on Fri 6/6 from 9AM – 1PM. Details here
E4S leader Holly Harlan and GCBL Institute’s David Beach headline June Corp Club at Landerhaven lunch Thu 6/12 starting at 11:30AM. Click
“Communicating Change: The Transformation of General Motors” forum hits Tue 6/10 at Windows on the River, 2000 Sycamore Road in the Flats. Details
Kolman Rosenberg The successful photog/bizman speaks at the Lake Communicators luncheon Wed 6/11 at 11:30AM at the Lake Metroparks Pine Ridge Country Club, 30601 Ridge Rd. (SR 84). RSVP: 440-255-8932 or email: wolfeshirley@yahoo.com
Women’s Enterprise Network (WEN) Interactive TV show hits Sat 6/14 at 8AM. Click

Judging the Judges, Judging Ourselves

The tragic and saddening death of Chevonne Ecclestone, the Strongsville woman that was senselessly and brutally attacked in a Parma park a few weeks ago by Todd Torok (a persistent felon with multiple convictions) has sparked outraged calls for judicial reform from various quarters.

Suggestions run the gamut from electing tougher judges more willing to mete out longer sentences, to enacting Draconian new three strikes legislation that will take away those same judges’ latitude and discretion. However, all of the suggestions I’ve heard so far only prove how truly naive the average citizen happens to be in regards to how our criminal justice system actually works — or, more precisely, doesn’t work.

One of the first lessons a journalist learns is, if you don’t ask the right question, you’ll never get the right answer… especially from government. As outraged citizens demand firm and fair treatment from a justice system that has proven itself to be neither firm nor fair, we won’t ask the right questions because we — as a society — would (or at least should) be embarrassed by the answers…
Read more from Mansfield B. Frazier here

This week’s most active post on BrewedFreshDaily.com

The Convention Center becomes a hot topic again, because of a recent public meeting. Ed Morrison writes, “The common sense location for the convention center could be overridden by political concerns and the pressure to bail out Tower City. Public voices last night put their finger on the tight relationship between Forest City and the GCP.” Where should the convention center go? BFD readers had this to say:

Add your thoughts on Brewed Fresh Daily.

Filmmaker and Joshua Tree Productions catalyst Josh Gippin

What makes a cool journey? I myself, have always considered traveling as something physical, and have thought of a journey as something of a soulful twist. The best treks for most of us are those that begin in giddy anticipation and somehow become a journey… a right of passage, when we suddenly realize we are somewhere we hadn’t expected, changed in ways we never imagined intellectually, emotionally and spiritually.

Some of the best-loved heroes take some rough roads, encompassing lots of these facets in their journey. Most cherished, are those where wanderlust returns them safely to their roots. Like the legendary heroine from The Wizard of Oz, Dorothy, and American icon Forrest Gump. We all want to make it back home safe. Documentary filmmaker and founder of Joshua Tree Productions, Josh Gippin’s look at addiction and recovery is filled with stories of making it back home safe, from hell and back.

Researching his master’s thesis as a cultural anthropologist, Josh’s life took a turn in the road when his destiny intertwined with artist, photographer, and now wife, Shane Wynn. Thanks to their groundbreaking film God As We Understand Him airing June 10th, on PBS channels 45 and 49 at 10PM — and as a part of “Founder’s Day” (see this week’s Events section) — you’ll have the chance to walk the path. See those who have journeyed through addiction and recovery from Alcoholic Anonymous’ inception in 1935 (a program that originated right here in Northeast Ohio!) to the huge worldwide phenomena it has become over the past seven decades…
Read more from Deb Dockery here

Links to interesting NEO blogs

Help assess the region’s entrepreneurial confidence.
Not a bad way to spend a sunny Saturday in Cleveland.
Sandy Mitchell’s book about Cleveland’s Little Italy is out.
Forgivable Loans up to $15,000 available for nonprofit employees of Greater University Circle organizations.
Coming back to Cleveland causes car culture shock.
Eating local on a budget in NEO requires some creative genius.
New Home Sales Rise Cleveland ranked 3rd among 20 major metropolitan markets.

Tales of the Starlight Drive-In
Michael San Giacomo
Image Comics

Journalist and comic writer Michael San Giacomo’s tribute to the great American institution – the drive-in theater – is a sharp and impressive read in the graphic novel tradition. Released by Image Comics (the company anchored by comic icon Todd MacFarlane, creator of Spawn), Tales of the Starlight Drive-In features 32 short featurettes set in a fictional drive-in theater over the course of five decades.

San Giacomo, a reporter with The Plain Dealer, does well at showcasing his characters in the 31 of the 32 stories he wrote for Tales. Each of their stories was illustrated by one of nearly two dozen artists from all over the globe; the idiosyncratic Derf, known locally for his mind-bending political and pop cultural comics seen in alt-weeklies, wrote and illustrated the remaining story.

Each piece does well on its own, but all of the stories intertwine and assemble a historical rise and fall of the drive-in as an American institution… and each is laced with the wistful, melancholy thought of drive-in resurgence for the near future. Helmed by storyteller “Neil the Projectionist,” all the stories have a symbiotic relationship with the movie playing at the time; most of these stories are inked with color (except for those dated in the early 1960s). Space precludes an in-depth analysis of each story, but fans of graphic novels, cinematic lore, pure Americana and the self-referentiality that comes with really sharp, modern pop culture will love where these Tales go.

Michael San Giacomo and Derf will sign Tales at the The Aut-O-Rama Twin Drive-In, located on Lorain Road in North Ridgeville, this Friday, June 6. (On June 6, 1933, 75 years ago to the day, the first Drive-In theatre opened for business in Camden, New Jersey). Visit the Aut-O-Rama online at http://www.autoramadrivein.com for more details and directions.

From Cool Cleveland Managing Editor Peter Chakerian peterATcoolcleveland.com

Nobody
Three Miles Out
Big Doghead Records

With three power chords and cloud of dust, local modern rock quartet Three Miles Out charges straight into an adrenaline-charged alternative sound aimed at the X-Games generation. The tunes on their third long-player Nobody offer meaty guitar hooks and a nod to the best of the charting pop rock bands of the last ten years – namely Fuel, Vertical Horizon, Creed, Eve 6, Three Doors Down, Goo Goo Dolls, Shinedown, Boys Like Girls and even 311 covering Foo Fighters (witness the muscular “Master Plan”).

The band kicks things off on “All the Same” with a solid, rollicking guitar lead and keeps the energy on this summertime release high. From there, you get bits of that existential angst and honest, blue-collar spirit – channeled through classic rock and 90s alternative music. Tracks like “Perfect,” “All the Same,” “The Only One,” “Peace of Mind” (no, not a Boston cover) and the title track will have you thinking its 1992 again. Which isn’t necessarily bad, just a tad bit revisionist.

No matter. After spinning Nobody for a bit, you might even find yourself feeling a bit of déjà vu. TMO shuns the idea of having a gimmick; to wit, the 1992 hit movie Singles featured the classic line, “I think that, a) you have an act, and that, b) not having an act is your act.” Thankfully, these guys are solid musicians and good enough at what they do to pull it all off brilliantly.

Three Miles Out celebrates the release of Nobody at the House of Blues Cambridge Room Sunday, June 8 at 8PM. Visit the band online at http://www.myspace.com/threemilesout.

Wanna get reviewed? Send your band’s CD (less than 1 year old) to: Cool Cleveland, 14837 Detroit Avenue, #105, Lakewood, OH 44107

Get PD Off its High Horse on Reform

Maybe The Plain Dealer should stick to reporting news and issuing editorial opinions and stop looking foolish by trying to be a state legislature instead of a newspaper.

The newspaper’s ill-advised attempt to get County Commissioner Tim Hagan to lead the charge on “reform” of county government stumbled clumsily with a rebuke from the elected state legislature.

The Plain Dealer tried to ride a broken-down horse (Hagan) to streamline County government with little apparent thought, less common sense and arrogance that the newspaper often chastises other for exhibiting.

The newspaper – with Hagan in the lead and a tag-along Republican Party – tried to get state legislation, as is needed, to change Cuyahoga County government. The Ohio Senate, however, felt differently and dumped a reform amendment hastily attached to other legislation…
Read more from Roldo Bartimole here

Quick reviews of recent events
Submit your own review or commentary to Events@CoolCleveland.com

The Gamblers: CMA @ Kennedy’s 5/29
Comic gem: Nikolai Gogol’s 19th century Russian comedy about card sharks running a con game is one of the funniest things you’ll see all year. Director Massoud Saidpour takes a crackerjack male cast and elicits sublime physical comedy: the “silent film” blackjack game choreographed to music and the elevator gags are worth the price of admission alone. The excellent adaptation moves the con to a Midwestern town, with Inda Blatch-Geib’s costumes giving it a Guys and Dolls feel.
Funny men: Fabio Polanco makes a wonderfully sleazy ringleader, Terence Cranendonk is wreathed in self-importance and rationalizations, and newcomer Gabriel Riazi is delightful as the young sheep-to-be-fleeced.
Details: Thru 6/15, Playhouse Square, http://www.clevelandmuseumofart.org/educef/viva2007/html/1338768.html
From Cool Cleveland contributor Linda Eisenstein LindaATcoolcleveland.com

Cleveland Orchestra @ Severance Hall 5/29 It’s a rather eerie experience to hear something new from a composer who lived two centuries ago, and didn’t complete the work in question. Contemporary scholar Brian Newbould has reconstructed his own version of Symphonic Fragments, D. 936A, the Andante in B minor by Franz Schubert. It’s definitely Schubert, but yet not completely. However The Cleveland Orchestra with Franz Welser-Möst conducting, treated the work as though it was full-fledged Schubert. We can but wonder to what use the original composer might have put these notes, but in this version, they’re very tranquil, with a lovely duet between bassoon and oboe. On the other hand, an unexpected modulation in a horn solo prompts the listener to wonder – is that Schubert, or is that Newbould? No matter, really, it’s an entirely suitable introduction to any orchestral concert.

Béla Bartók also left some of his music incomplete at his premature death in 1945. Most of these have been finished off by his good friend Tibor Serly. Last week, we heard the Piano Concerto No. 3 with Mitsuko Uchida as performer. This week he have his Viola Concerto, also completed by Serly. The wonderfully involved soloist was Kim Kashkashian, who has made something of a specialty of this work. And no wonder – it seems tailor made for her vibrant personality, musical passion and intelligence.

Her iridescent deep blue gown swirled around her as she dashed around the podium to shake hands with Robert Vernon, principal viola, after having already extended that courtesy to concertmaster William Preucil. After that, she was all business, producing a gorgeous sturdy sound from her instrument . The opening portion featured her in a duet with the tympani, in a sensitive collaboration with Paul Yancich.

This concerto, while entirely contemporary, yet has lovely long lyrical passages in it, as well. Parts of it are even jaunty! There were engaging dialogues between soloist and various section of the orchestra as well. Ms. Kashkashian again ventured to the viola section for more hand-shaking with the musicians of that area during the enthusiastic response from the audience.

Previously, Mr. Welser-Möst led the orchestra in another Bartók work, The Miraculous Mandarin, a ballet score completed by the composer rather early in his career. Although a suite he extracted has been performed frequently here, this was the full score. It’s a grisly story, some of which is accurately portrayed by the orchestra, while at other times, the more gentle aspects are similarly treated. This performance required Joella Jones to not only play the on-stage piano, but also the off-stage organ. Additional highlights were provided by the consistent brass sections, and Franklin Cohen, principal clarinet.

Closing out the evening –the supreme dessert!– was the gorgeous Emperor Waltz, Op. 437 by Johann Strauss, Jr. So beguiling is this music that almost immediately, many of the patrons seated around me started humming the melody, even though it wasn’t really intended as a sing-along! Some of them were still whistling the main tune as they made their way down to the main lobby and out the front doors! But who could blame them, really? Mr. Welser-Möst has this music (and it’s famous after-beat) in his blood, and has readily imparted this passion to his orchestra, until today, I think it’s the very best Strauss specialist anywhere! The performance was invigorating, as evidenced at the conclusion by the smiles on the faces of the concert-goers.

This week brings the first performances ever in Cleveland of Dvorak’s opera Rusalka, on Thursday and Saturday, beginning at 7PM. For tickets or more information, call 231-1111 or visit the website: http://www.clevelandorchestra.com.

From ‘Cool Cleveland” contributor Kelly Ferjutz artswriterATroadrunner.com

Windsong: Rhythm of Life @ Archwood Church 5/31 “June is bustin’ out all over” was not one of the songs on their concert, but the actuality was stunning! The weather could not have been more cooperative and the women of Cleveland’s feminist chorus Windsong have never sounded better, as they presented its spring concert Saturday evening at Archwood Church. Rhythm of Life was the theme for this outing, and throughout the entertaining program—ages, stages, rhythms—of life were presented in various guises. Artistic Director and Conductor Karen Weaver has instilled a sense of confidence in her chorus that emboldens the singers to take it to the next level, and that they did!

Accompanied by their usual splendid pianist, Karin Tooley, they also benefited by the presence of guests Gene Epstein, double bass, and Janet Pemberton, percussion. Chorus member Kathleen Sullivan took a solo bow for appearing with her accordion in one number.

Some of the songs were sung with no accompaniment, and that worked fine, too. Breaths had a slightly Latin rhythm, while Cielito Lindo was sung in Spanish. Watah Come a Me Eye was Jamaican in origin and flavor, while the humorous Last Night on the Back Porch showed off a touch of barbershop close-harmony singing. No Call for Mercy was bluesy, even as the lyrics proclaimed ‘my heart will survive.’

The second half was a bit more unbuttoned, if you will, beginning with Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy that featured Ms. Tooley in some dandy piano riffs, followed by another classic from that same era–Big Noise from Winnetka, showing off the bass and percussion, while some members of the chorus whistled the famous tune, rather than singing it.

Big Boned Gal featured unusual guests – the Rainbow Wranglers in a smaller version of line dancing in the church’s center aisle. The six cowpokes were appropriately garbed in jeans, plaid shirts, boots and big black Stetsons. Of course, there was also a bandanna dangling from a rear pocket.

Fair Warning is the musical version of the famous poem ‘when I am old I shall wear purple! and the women really got into it. Perhaps it was a great warm-up for the rousing conclusion, Duke Ellington’s great song It Don’t Mean a Thing. There was no recourse except to do it again as the encore. The full house would accept no less.

The chorus has a new website to provide easier communication: http://www.windsongchorus.org. Here you will find information on joining the chorus, its next concert, or sponsorship opportunities.

From ‘Cool Cleveland” contributor Kelly Ferjutz artswriterATroadrunner.com

Apollo’s Fire: Scotch Snap @ Baroque Music Barn 6/1 For the 10th season of Countryside Concerts, Apollo’s Fire turned to its associate concertmaster David Greenberg, for a program close to his heart and geography – Scottish-tinged fiddle music with strong connections to his native Cape Breton, Nova Scotia. Subtitled From Folk to Baroque this was truly country music at its finest! However, I’ll bet the original performances of this enchanting repertoire didn’t have to contend with motorcycles racing up and down the road just outside the open windows of the performance venue. That’s a very minor risk one takes when performing in the countryside, even in the charming confines of the Baroque Music Barn. With no trouble at all, the music far surpassed the extraneous noises.

Along with the superlative fiddler, the standard corps of Apollo’s summer troupe were all present and accounted for: soprano Sandra Simon, Tina Bergmann on hammered dulcimer, Kathie Lynne Stewart, flute and penny whistle, René Schiffer, cello, Paul Shipper, guitar and lute, with music director Jeannette Sorrell at the harpsichord.

After the brisk and very lively Old Sir Symon, for the instrumentalists, Mr. Greenberg informed us we were in for a combination folk and art song festival. And so it was. Traditionally, tunes are grouped together in medley form, featuring two to six or so affiliated works. In some instances, it was the same piece, but from a different vantage point—different arranger or instrumentation. The first set, however, was three works by the same composer, James Oswald, who lived in the early-mid 1700s. The outer two works (St. Martin’s Church Yard and The Thistle) were in standard sonata form, while the inner one Three Sheep Skins was a bit more rowdy!

The sweet sounds of the hammered dulcimer were heard in the Dulcimer Set: Clarke’s, a reel; Foxhunter’s, a jig and Ships Are Sailing, another reel. Ms. Bergmann is willowy and graceful, bending to the melody, like a daisy in a gentle breeze. She was accompanied by Mr. Schiffer’s cello, mostly playing the drone role (not his usual thing) and Mr. Shiffer on both guitar and lute.

Johnnie and Tibby put Sandra Simon’s extraordinary voice and dialect skills to work, first in the ballad Johnnie Cope and later in Tibby Fowler. In between were an air and two strathspeys on similar themes, all dating from the 1700s, including one arrangement by Franz Josef Haydn.

A set of dances (some named for Miss L. Johnson – the belle of the ball) mixed with a marching air and jigs for the delightful Callam.

After intermission, (during which Donald B. Willis entertained with his bagpipes) another lively set of reels was titled Swinging in Cape Breton. This was followed by the beautifully wistful Katharine Ogie, tenderly performed by Ms. Simon, whose beguiling smiles made it very life-like. Ms. Sorrell gave us a different version on the harpsichord. Ms. Stewart and Mr. Greenburg then indulged in a friendly duel over The Morning Dew (it was a draw!), then all joined in for George White’s Favorite Reel.

Mr. Greenberg provided spoken program notes as the music continued, remarking that usually gut strings went sharp in warm, humid weather such as had been the case during the earlier concerts, but Sunday afternoon was so lovely, the string were going flat instead! This made for rather a lot of tuning, but it was more than worth the wait! In a slight divergence from his fiddler mode, he then turned into a violinist for the Sonata of Robert Mackintosh for violin, cello, lute and harpsichord. This piece could well have graced many a drawing room, whereas the remainder of the program was more suited to the dance or music hall performance. Of course, it would never have been so well done as the version we heard!

The traditional Morag of Dunvegan allowed Mr. Greenberg to sit out and catch his breath while Ms. Bergmann played the piece that was almost a lament. It was gorgeous, and not at all like the lively renditions that came before and after.

Of course, tradition has it that the spring and summer are the times for weddings, and this was no exception. The final set Hey Johnnie Lad! featured Ms. Simon in Hey How My Johnnie Lad, and how he first took advantage of life’s opportunities, before possibly becoming a member of the wedding. The Cape Breton Wedding Reels featured lots of fiddling along with the other instrumentalist. In the audience, heads nodded, hands clapped and feet tapped right along with the rhythmic and infectious music. After their superb effort, the musicians kindly granted an encore, due to the enthusiastic response from the audience. Marvelous!

Next year, the Countryside Concerts will feature Come to the River – an early American gathering. Information about the these events, plus the upcoming season will be available shortly at the website: http://www.apollosfire.org. Call 320-0012 for more information.

From Cool Cleveland contributor Kelly Ferjutz artswriterATroadrunner.com

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On composting in Slavic Village (see Brad Masi’s piece Better Living Through Garbage here) Brad, thanks for your great article in CoolCleveland this week on composting. Here in Slavic Village (near our buddy Greg Balbierz), my family has been practising it for years–long before it was cool (back when we started it was a Malabar Farm/Louis Bromfield inspiration–not a LEEDS/Green building concept–yikes, I’m getting old!). One result: a weekly trash total that barely fills a single Dave’s Supermarket bag, when everyone else’s on our street overloads several large containers, super-sized bags, etc. (I keep thinking people are moving, they have so much trash! How is this possible every week?) The other result: the soil of our backyard vegetable is utterly friable, the consistency of buttery oatmeal–an absolute pleasure to work and totally opposite the awful clay that plagued my gardening days in the suburbs. When you start a compost pile, it’s hard to believe anything will come of it. The results are always amazing and amazingly easy–basically nature does its thing. A great, rich way to live.
from Cool Cleveland reader Charles Gliha civitascleATyahoo.com

Send your letters to: LettersATCoolCleveland.com

Most clicked
Here are the Top 5 most clicked links from last week’s issue, with one more chance for you to click.

1) Better Living Through Garbage Watch the video & read the story.
City Fresh video and Read the story by Brad Masi

2) RoldoLINK Downtown Jobs Fight Not Simple as PD Describes
www.CoolCleveland.com

3) Cleveland City Living has picked up on Cleveland’s latest edge neighborhood.
ClevelandCityLiving.blogspot.com

4) Vote for your fave Cle nosh & watering holes simply by clicking.
CitysBest.aol.com

5) Burning River Fest is back, once again.
http://www.BurningRiverFest.org

Strictly a Matter of Craft? Cheers to the Hard Corps for balancing the art and craft in this week’s issue. Best to Peter Chakerian, T.L. Champion, George Nemeth, Claudia J. Taller, Linda Eisenstein, Deb Dockery, Kelly Ferjutz, Mansfield B. Frazier, Roldo Bartimole and Susan Petrone. And lastly, though certainly not least, thanks to our readers and everyone who partners with us. Want to volunteer and contribute your writing to Cool Cleveland? Send your reviews, articles, or story ideas to: Events@CoolCleveland.com.

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