Ingenuity Launches

7.13-7.20.05

Ingenuity Launches

In this week’s issue:

* Ingenuity Festival of Art & Technology announces schedule here
* Cool Cleveland Interview with Melanie Hershberger and Kevin Neudecker
* Cool Cleveland Kids podcast click here, CC podcast click here, CC Blog click here
* RoldoLINK on Publish or Perish? The PD Does Neither
* Cool Cleveland Sounds: Waterband
* Birol’s Business: Hey Joe, Give It a Go!

Ingenuity announces Labor Day weekend events

Nearly 200 cool art and tech events featuring more than 70 Cleveland organizations have been announced for the first annual Ingenuity Festival of Art and Technology that debuts Thu 9/1 through Sun 9/4 during Labor Day weekend in over 20 venues along Euclid Avenue from Public Square to East Ninth Street and East 4th Street from Euclid to Prospect. Co-directed by Cool Cleveland’s Thomas Mulready and Cleveland Public Theatre founder James Levin, the Ingenuity schedule is jam-packed with “performances and displays, which range from cutting-edge computer-based creations and multimedia events to classical works and family fare.” See story here. Check the slick website by Liggett featuring our art/tech mascot-robot, built by IMG, who still needs a name. Get a complimentary pair of all-day all-access passes simply by suggesting a robot name here. Also check the slick map of the Ingenuity district, a download of the complete schedule, and a place where you can volunteer to get involved. http://www.IngenuityCleveland.com

Ingenuity Salon Des Refuses The Ingenuity Festival of Art and Technology is soliciting artists for the Ingenuity NEO Salon Des Refuses Exhibition, to be held in conjunction with the Ingenuity Festival during Labor Day weekend 2005 at the Galleria in downtown Cleveland. The exhibit, which will feature artists from Northeast Ohio whose work was rejected from the NEO Show at the Cleveland Museum of Art, joins other online and gallery exhibits in expanding exhibition opportunities for regional visual artists in Northeast Ohio. By focusing on artists and works from the over 1210 area artists whose works were submitted to the CMA and not acepted for the NEO exhibition, this Salon Des Refuses exhibition is attempting to create both an awareness of the breadth and depth of artistic expression in the region, as well as a dialogue about the art of the region. Interested artists should contact Joan M. Perch, Visual Arts Coordinator at ArtPower@Yahoo.com or by calling 696-1942 for detailed participation information. Participation will be limited by space and selections will be made as work is submitted. The deadline for submissions is Sat 7/30. ArtPower@Yahoo.com.

Cool Cleveland Interview
Melanie Hershberger and Kevin Neudecker of Music Saves
By Pete Chakerian

What’s in a name? In the time-honored tradition of double-entendre, no one co-opts figures of speech better than the denizens of rock music. The words “music saves” evoke innuendo, both in the powers of salvation and testimony found in indie rock… and in finding one hell of a good rock buy. For Melanie Hershberger and Kevin Neudecker, co-owners and operators of the record shop Music Saves, that stands to reason. The two self-professed music junkies started off with nothing more than a casual idea for the business as they were co-hosting a college radio show. Cool Cleveland recently talked to Hershberger and Neudecker about the pleasure, pain and salvation of the past 365 days in business.

Cool Cleveland: To some, opening up an record shop might seem like a radical idea in such an era of technology and downloading. What was the appeal? What made you decide to own and operate a record shop?
Melanie Hershberger: Well, we were in our fifth year of college, our last year at Bowling Green, and we were doing a show together on WBGU called “The Seventeenth Grade.” Basically, there were two radio stations on campus and one of them was relatively mainstream—playing stuff that you would already hear elsewhere anyway. It was not your idea of a “college radio station” at all. And at WBGU, we had the freedom to play everything the other station wasn’t. Free-format, more independent, more unknown bands. We had a lot of fun doing it and just started throwing around the idea of doing a store then. It felt natural.”’

Kevin Neudecker: Yeah, you know, why not open up a “lo-carb” store? (laughs) When we talked about opening up a record store, we knew we didn’t want it to be just some anesthetized store in a strip mall. I’ve been to a lot of other cities where record stores were located next to a concert venue—like [Hi-Fi] which is right next to the Metro in Chicago—and they carried stuff the venue was actually bringing into town. That was as close to a business model for us as anything…
Read the Cool Cleveland Interview here

Cle Hts ‘Good Neighbor’ classes for Section 8 renters See story, comments and related articles here. What are your thoughts on asking Section 8 renters to take civics classes? Letters@CoolCleveland.com.

Rating the neighborhoods Typical neighborhood ratings surveys usually add up big for big money suburbs that specialize in drawing an invisible line that keeps lower income residents just over the fence. However, David Beach of EcoCity Cleveland believes that a more equitable process should reward suburbs that offer a range of housing prices and opportunities. Read the Free Times article here and the results here to find out which neighborhoods come out winners when diversity, walkability, neighborhood identity and best return on investment are added to the mix. Hint: Do you agree with the results? Send your thoughts to Letters@CoolCleveland.com.

Lakewood smoking ban Were residents deceived in order to garner signatures for the Lakewood Hospitality Association’s petition? Councilman Ryan Demro believes so. He filed a formal complaint with the Cuyahoga County Board of Elections on 6/30 stating that the petition was misleading and that the association did not comply with election law when filing required paperwork. Meanwhile, the Lakewood Hospitality Association is closing in on obtaining signatures totaling 15% of the last mayoral election, enough to bypass council and get the initiative on the ballot as currently worded, which would prevent council from making modifications. Read the story here then send your thoughts to us here: Letters@CoolCleveland.com .

Metroparks to the rescue? The continuing tug of war over Whiskey Island and the ever sinking quality of care our waterfront parks are currently receiving have brought a new idea to light. Why not have Cleveland Metroparks, the largest landowner in the county, care for our lakefront properties? They’ve already been called in to save the Zoo, and Seneca Golf Course. The Metroparks long track record of first rate management would be a shot in the arm for our neglected lakefront. Check out the PD story here then tell us what you think at Letters@CoolCleveland.com.

Campbell drops casinos Mayor Jane Campbell’s push for a statewide vote on casinos in this November’s election has been tabled…for now. The mayor cites insufficient signatures and insufficient funds to get those signatures by August 10th, despite the fact that there is strong support for casinos here in Ohio. Critics feel that the mayor’s plan was ill-conceived, allowing casinos to spring up like mushrooms all over the state with little supervision. There is a growing effort to get a plan on the November 2006 ballot that will provide for Vegas style gambling, but only in bigger cities. Read the story here. Send your thoughts on a revised casino plan to Letters@CoolCleveland.com.

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Taking Luxury Living to the Next Level Don’t miss the Grand Opening party for the Townhomes of Ohio City on Thu 7/21 from 5-8PM at 1517 W. 32nd St. (W. 32nd and Clinton Ave.) in the heart of Ohio City. These luxury townhomes feature a stunning brick and sandstone exterior, 2+ bedrooms, 3.5 baths, a bonus room on the lower level with full bath, a large 2 car garage, gourmet kitchen with granite counters, glamour bath, hardwood floors, ceramic tile, gas fireplace, 1 1/2 story living room and two rooftop decks. Starting in the upper $400’s, these luxury townhomes also offer 15 year 100% tax abatement and special financing. Visit our website at progressiveurban.com for a complete list of properties and open houses.
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Dan Moore’s vision His aspirations of winning a bid for Cleveland mayor this time around may have been dashed, but Moore isn’t taking it lying down. He plans to have a huge impact on the upcoming campaign and promises that candidates that don’t support the issues will suffer from a campaign contributions drought which he will orchestrate. The millionaire entrepreneur is willing to lay down the cash to expose any candidates who are not actively working to resolve key issues. He’s already sent a list of proposals to all of the candidates, including Mayor Jane Campbell, encouraging them to either endorse the ideas or come up with better ones. Is this high stakes bullying or a true intense passion for our city? PD columnist Sam Fulwood III calls Moore on his “colonialism, where people try to manage the city’s affairs from a comfortable distance,” and invites Moore to move to Cleveland here. But if we limit the conversation to the people who live within city boundaries, we’re right back where we started. We need more engagement between city and ‘burbs, not less. Read the story here then send your thoughts here: Letters@CoolCleveland.com .

The Saga of Whisky Island Can’t quite keep up with recent developments in the ever evolving Whiskey Island saga? Check out the latest installment of the Bruce Blog here to get up to speed. Then write us a note: Letters@CoolCleveland.com.

Cool Cleveland Kids Tired of boring, dumbed-down children’s events? There’s no need to settle for anything less than the best in Cleveland, where world-class institutions host excellent, educational and fun stuff for your cool Cleveveland kids every week. We’ve pointed out a few with the CC KIDS tag in Cool Cleveland This Week below. And listen to 9-year-old Max Mulready, our Cool Cleveland kids correspondent, as he highlights a few choice kid-friendly events for your family this week in his regular Cool Cleveland Kids Podcast by clicking here, no special software necessary. Interested in sponsoring Cool Cleveland Kids? Contact us at Info@CoolCleveland.com.

School accountability The cash strapped Cleveland Public School District is suffering from huge deficits which have resulted in massive lay-offs and the closing of several school buildings. Could unorthodox investment procedures by Cleveland School officials be contributing to the shortfall? Now it comes out that two banks who contributed 3X what others did to the school’s ballot campaign, KeyBank and National City Bank, have subsequently hit the investment jackpot with CMSD while the district is coming up a bit short, compared to the return on investment that could have been earned elsewhere. Even the editorial staff of the PD urges the schools to stop dealing with KeyBank because they hired the CMSD’s former CFO. See op-ed here. Find out why the selection criteria seems to have been stacked in these financial institutions’ favor and how other Ohio school districts have fared by utilizing investment consultants. Get the details here then send your comments to Letters@CoolCleveland.com.

A beautiful relationship For 10 years beginning in Jan ’07, the world renown Cleveland Orchestra will be playing at its home away from home. No, not Blossom – the new Performing Arts Center in Miami, FL. Read about it after completing the free registration here

Alternative spirituality study Dr. Louis Busacca, a researcher in couseling and human development affiliated with Cleveland State University is currently conducting an Alternative Spirituality and Wellness Project Research Study to assess the beliefs, practices, spiritual and lifestyle wellness of individuals who practice alternative forms of spirituality. This underrepresented population includes practicers of divination, alternate reality, energy healing, spirit communication, psychology, body-work, meditation, earth-based practices, paganism, martial arts, creative arts, and complementary medicine. The info collected will be used to address current myths and stereotypes that may be associated with the alternative spiritual community. Learn more and take the survey here. For questions contact Dr. Busacca at lb@drbusacca.net. The survey deadline is Sun 7/31.

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“Rize” and Join the Fun as DANCECleveland presents “Illstyle and Peace Productions,” a Live Hip-Hop dance event that will get you jumpin’. Check out two heart-thumpin’ performances of “Illstyle and Peace”: Thu 7/21 is a lecture-demo geared for young audiences at 1PM and Fri 7/22 is a full length performance at 8PM, both at Cain Park. Illstyle & Peace Productions is a multicultural, male and female dance theatre company that fuses hip-hop, tap, beatboxing, DJing, Turntablism and much more. The New York Times says, “A Hip-hop revue with raucous humor and killer dancing.” And the Washington Post states, “The turns, drops, and gestures . . . resemble a fast forward speed loop, culminating in an action packed crescendo.” Crazy fun is guaranteed with an E rating for “e”veryone. Cool Cleveland subscribers receive $7 off per ticket with this offer. Contact 440-914-0744 or skeyes@dancecleveland.org before Mon 7/18 to receive the discounted rate or call Cain Park 371-3000 after July 18. Co-presented with Cain Park/the City of Cleveland Heights.
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Cleveland SVP invests in Hard Hatted Women Cleveland Social Venture Partners sought to fund a Cuyahoga County nonprofit organization that improved the skills of individuals from disadvantaged backgrounds in a way that would contribute to the economic growth of our region. HHW, an organization that supports the economic empowerment of women, is leading this effort and will therefore receive an investment of $25,000 and volunteer consulting services to help further the development their organizational capacity and operating efficiency. HHW joins Near West Theatre (NWT) and Youth Opportunities Unlimited (Y.O.U.) in their 2nd and 3rd years of sponsorship, respectively. To learn more about these organizations and their missions visit www.ClevelandSVP.org.

Artefakt moves to Cleveland Jean Zimmer, the 26-year-old painter and journalist who started the no-cost arts magazine back in 2001, is moving to Cleveland from Buffalo. Artefakt, serves areas surrounding Lake Erie, Cleveland; Buffalo, NY; and Erie, PA, particularly and Zimmer, a champion of regionalism, wants to get to know all of the neighborhoods of Cleveland, the largest metropolitan currently served by the magazine. Artefakt focuses efforts on unfamiliar artists and galleries while also paying homage to well-known institutions in an effort to serve the arts and artisans in the region. If you haven’t already read a copy of Artefakt, pick one up at a coffeehouse, library, bookstore or art venue in one of the three areas served. Learn more about Zimmer and Artefakt here.

Cleveland’s UCC allows gay marriage Cleveland-based United Church of Christ voted this week to approve a resolution endorsing equal marriage rights among it’s 5700 congregations and 1.3 million denomination. Last year, CBS and NBC rejected UCC TV spots that stressed tolerance and featured a gay couple being excluded from another church. The UCC was the first church to ordain a gay minister in the early 1970’s. See story here and here.

Street legal solution Street racing has grown in popularity in Lorain, Cuyahoga and surrounding counties. Racers pose a serious threat to local citizens, spectators and themselves for the thrill of racing their tricked out cars on local roadways. Lorain Speedway has stepped up to help make the streets safer again by supplying a controlled environment where racers can safely experience the need for speed in their street legal cars. Parking Lot Drag events will be held at the track with the winner of each heat advancing to the next round until a winner is crowned. If your ride and your nerves are up to the challenge, call 447-7888 for info or visit http://www.LorainSpeedway.com. The Speedway is located on Rt. 58 south of Rt. 113 in Amherst.

Raise Your Cool Quotient Promote your products and services (or your client’s) with the edgy, weekly e-newsletter that delights the senses, ruffles the feathers and gets down with Cleveland’s cool like no other. Our clients love us: “There wouldn’t be enough money to put into other forms of advertising that could have created the buzz that Cool Cleveland gave our MOMIX performance in January! You knocked our socks off! Thanks for making our performance a success. It was more than we ever expected and meant the world to us.” — Pam Young, Dance Cleveland. To request info on sponsorship and advertising, drop a note to: Info@CoolCleveland.com

OAC chief retires Wayne Lawson, the Ohio Arts Council’s executive director, has made the decision to retire in March 2006 after 27 years of serving the needs of the arts in Ohio. His impact on OAC and Ohio has been tremendous. Innovative programs, hailed by supporters as “benchmarks” for other organizations around the country, and his skillful direction have brought the OAC national distinction. Read the story here.

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Our homeowners say it best! Here’s what they are saying: “We love the convenience of living in the Courtyards of Severance . . . it’s only a 10-minute drive to University Circle and living here gives us freedom from yard work and access to the things we love.” “Courtyards caught our attention because of its location and the first floor owner’s suites. It’s the perfect place for young professionals, the central location makes shopping a breeze.” “Anyone looking for great value in a new home should consider The Courtyards of Severance!” Why not see for yourself what everyone is talking about? Off Mayfield Road between Warrensville Center and South Taylor Roads in Cleveland Heights, The Courtyards of Severance is open Saturday through Wednesday, 1–5PM, and by appointment, or visit www.TheCourtyardsofSeverance.com.
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Business Plan Assistance What’s holding you back from owning your own business? While many of us entertain thoughts of striking out on our own; the idea of starting one’s own business can be quite daunting, beginning with the intimidating Business Plan. The Women’s Business Center will help participants break down the process in their upcoming Business Plan Summer Series running from Tue 7/19 through Thu 9/22. Get help developing your research and marketing plan and developing your financial projections. Regardless of your area of interest this dynamic series of business classes will help you to decide whether you’ve got what it takes to own your own business while giving you practical tools to help you get the ball rolling. Email wbc.alexcdc@sbcglobal.net or call 707-0777. Those who register by Fri 7/15 and purchase the entire series will receive a discount.

Call for Art Elevation Art will host its 4th annual Art for Children’s Sake on Fri 9/23. Artists are called upon to submit their work to either the auction or juried show where cash prizes ranging from $500-$1000 will be awarded. The event will benefit The Littlest Heroes, an organization dedicated to promoting spiritual, emotional, physical and social healing of children living with cancer and their families. The funds raised will be used to fund complimentary medicine therapy programs. Those interested in submitting their work, sponsoring the event or purchasing tickets should call 440-729-5200 or visit here. Visit http://www.TheLittlestHeroes.org/ for more information on programs offered.

What’s your favorite Cleveland blog? We think the Cool Cleveland blog by Peter Chakerian is fantastic [click on the CC Blog here], with his perspectives the Cool Cleveland Night Out at Blossom, his recent look at pop culture, people living with HIV+ and the people who fear them, hitting the question “Why stay in Cleveland?” and even the recent London bombings. We were also surprised to see a post from someone in the UK! Check the Cool Cleveland weblog here, then click on the blog to add your own comments, questions and attitude. To review other NEO blogs, check Cool Cleveland information officer George Nemeth’s www.BrewedFreshDaily.com and find links to over 195 blogs originating from Northeast Ohio! Let us know your favorite: Letters@CoolCleveland.com

Blossom party photos What a beautiful evening, with delicious snacks, beer and wine, and a whole pavilion full of beautiful Cool Cleveland guests. Jahja Ling led a rock and roll version of Pete Tchaikovsky’s 4th that blew away the bats in the Blossom pavilion. The difference between his 1812 Overture and his 4th Symphony? The 4th doesn’t need any fireworks to blow your head off. The standing “O” was well-deserved. See party photos here.

Cool Cleveland This Week
7.13-7.20

Send your cool events to: Events@CoolCleveland.com

Imagination Writers’ Conference Aspiring writers can pump up their professional style at Cleveland State University’s nationally known Imagination Writers’ Workshop and Conference. The workshop’s focus is on strong, imaginative writing without genre bias or boundaries, from science fiction to poetry, from playwriting to nonfiction to the novel. Now in its 15th year, Imagination takes place Tue 7/12 thru Sun 7/17 at Trinity Commons, across the street from the Cleveland State campus at 2230 Euclid Avenue. This year, Creative Writing Program director Neal Chandler has brought together an outstanding group of award-winning writer/teachers from Northeast Ohio, across the nation, and beyond. http://www.csuohio.edu/poetrycenter/imagination/imagoverview.htm

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WOW! Yourself with Live Music, Museum Hopping, Food and Drink at Wade Oval Wednesdays in University Circle. University Circle Incorporated (UCI) is teaming up with Several Circle museums to make Wednesdays sizzle this summer. Throughout July and August the Cleveland Botanical Garden, Cleveland Museum of Art, Cleveland Museum of Natural History and Western Reserve Historical Society will remain open Wednesday evenings. Cleveland Museum of Art will offer free concerts in their courtyard and to add to the fun UCI will present free lunchtime and evening concerts on Wade Oval, the park in the heart of the Circle. The free evening concerts from 5:30-7:30 PM feature: 7/13 – Robert Lockwood Jr.; 7/20 – Ernie Krivda; 7/27 – Anne E. DeChant; 8/3 – Carlos Jones; 8/10 – Dance Afrika Dance; 8/17 – Sammy DeLeon; 8/24 – Prayer Warriors; and 8/31 – Colin Dussault’s Blues Project. For more information contact 707-5033 or www.universitycircle.org.
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JumpStarting the Future through Technology and Innovation is a celebration of entrepreneurship and innovation in Northeast Ohio. Two leading thinkers in this area will share their views on economic development through technology and innovation. Meet both serial and aspiring entrepreneurs, those who support the efforts of entrepreneurship, community and business leaders, dealmakers and investors in Northeast Ohio during this premier networking event. Mix it up, make new connections and gain a wealth of knowledge as you sample an assortment of drinks and delicious hors d’oeuvres on Wed 7/13 from 6-9PM. Click here to register or email Laura.Hummer@jumpstartinc.org with questions. University of Akron Student Union, Ballroom A (Map and Instructions here)

CC KIDS Meet Me On Mall Remember the Parties in the Park? Well, now it’s Meet Me On The Mall, a regular series of music events, film screenings, and special events featuring area bands, recent films and other fun stuff like Not Your Daddy’s Cleveland. This Thu 7/14 at 6PM on Mall B, come down and party with Playhouse Square Partners and Cool Cleveland faves Cats On Holiday. Come early and stay late! http://www.ParkWorks.org/mallschedule.htm

Non-Profit Web Site Workshop EcoCity Cleveland is offering its second in a series of workshops designed to guide technophobic non-profits into the Internet Age on Thu 7/14 from 9-11AM. EcoCity’s web editor will teach non-profit personnel the basics of maintaining an effective web site. There are just a few spots remaining so e-mail webmaster@ecocitycleveland.org or click here to register. Cleveland Environmental Center, 3500 Lorain Ave

Theology on Tap is an unconventional lecture series on religious issues. Jim Hogan, Theology teacher at St. Ignatius High School, will address “Apologetics- Defending Our Faith in Jesus”. Event will begin Thurs 7/14 at 6:30pm with a cash bar, followed by the lecture at 7:30PM. Call 696-6525 ext 1049 or email lalduk@dioceseofcleveland.org for info. Buffalo Wild Wings, 20412 Center Ridge Rd, Rocky River

CC KIDS Coventry Street Fair Billed as one-quarter mile of something for everyone, this second installment of the Coventry Street Fair on Thu 7/14 from 6-9PM will prove to be a day of fun for the entire family. Hear live music from The JiMiller Band and Reuben’s Train, sample incredible edibles at a variety of outdoor cafes, and peruse a number of unique artistic creations at outdoor sidewalk sales. Mac’s Backs will feature a fantasy art installation by Isaac Coblentz in preparation for the 7/16 release of Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince. Kids can participate in origami, paper sculpture and wand-making and there will be magicians, clowns, balloon sculptors and jugglers entertaining fair goers of all ages. Visit http://www.CoventryVillage.org/ for more info. Coventry Road, Cleveland Heights

Human Enhancement Technologies: Through the Looking Glass of Drama The Center for Literature, Medicine and the Health Care Professions at Hiram College will sponsor the symposium in collaboration with Cleveland State University and the Bioethics Network of Ohio from Thu 7/14 to Sun 7/17. The program uses a unique approach to discuss volatile subjects like improving one’s self and one’s children by means of human enhancement technologies and cloning; such issues will be explored through four plays, several short stories, and excerpts from classic works. Learn more about this unique program here. Email questions to bryanta@hiram.edu or call 330-569-5288. Cole Center for Continuing Education, CSU Campus

Music Saves 1st Anniversary You got to know them in Peter Chakerian’s interview this week; now you can join the celebration of Melanie Hershberger and Kevin Neudecker’s 1st year in business selling independent rock and americana on both new and used CDs and vinyl. The celebration begins on Fri 7/15 at 9PM with anniversary cake, a preview of the new Music Saves t-shirts and the launching of http://www.MusicSaves.com. Next it’s on to the Beachland Ballroom where their friends will give them one heck of a party. The rockin’ concert will begin at 10PM and features The Constantines (from Canada), Oxford Collapse and Coffinberry. Purchase tix here . For more information or store hours, call 481-1875. 15801 Waterloo Road, Cleveland

CC KIDS TOPS KidsFest It’s time again for Cleveland’s only interactive festival created just for kids. There will be lots to see and do for young and old alike in this ultimate outdoor playground featuring more than 40 pavilions. Topics of edutainment offered will include safety, health, sports, arts, dance, music, crafts and much more. So pack up your little rascals and take them for a day of fun just for them. This year’s event will be held Fri 7/15, Sat 7/16, and Sun 7/17 from 10AM-5PM. Call 440-247-4FUN for info. Tower City Amphitheater, 1887 W. Third Street http://www.cleveland.com/kidsfest/

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$5 Buys You Cool Downtown Street Life, and Maybe New Wheels Buying a $5 Sparx in the City raffle ticket helps ensure summer weekends feature more top-notch performers on the open sidewalks. At the same time, you’ll earn a chance to win one of those funky futuristic 2-wheel human transporters! Watch people’s heads turn as you roll to meetings, walk the dog, or even explore the region’s parkways while riding an environmentally-friendly Segway of Cleveland, valued at $5,000! Purchase singles or bundles of raffle tickets online through Segway of Cleveland and see why these all-electric, low maintenance, indoor/outdoor approved units are even being used by large corporations to improve their operations. Raffle proceeds support the Sparx in the City mission to stimulate downtown commerce by creating street-level activities that showcase Cleveland area artists and arts-based businesses. For more information or to purchase your raffle tickets now online, contact www.Cleveland.com/Sparx.
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CC KIDS Painesville Party In The Park Check out area bands and cult favorites from outside the region: The Smokin Fez Monkeys, Joe’s Garage, Lords of The Highway, Xe La, Vanity Crash, the Whiskey Island Ramblers, Redheaded Stepchild, Tabloid Twangers and don’t forget the sweet Kidzone with obstacle course, mountain climbing, a climbing wall and a mountain slide. http://PainesvillePartyInThePark.com

Wine and Win for Cleveland Sample fine wines from all over the world while tasting scrumptious food, playing great games and winning fabulous prizes during an evening of entertainment for everyone on Fri 7/15 from 5:30-10PM. This fun-filled event will benefit the revitalization of Downtown through the efforts of merchants, entrepreneurs and arts and culture advocates. Call 771-8403 or visit here to purchase tickets. Star Plaza, 1302 Euclid Avenue

CC KIDS Disney’s Aida This epic tale of love, loyalty, betrayal and courage in exotic lands is fueled by the Tony and Grammy award-winning score by Elton John and Tim Rice. Witness the love triangle between Aida, a Nubian princess kidnapped from her homeland, Amneris, an Egyptian princess and the soldier they both love, Radames beginning Fri 7/15 at 8PM and running through Sun 8/14. Call 521-2540. The Beck Center for the Arts, 17801 Detroit Avenue http://www.BeckCenter.org

Friday Night Live Engage in a vital dialogue about contemporary art while sampling original experimental music, dance, theatre, video and performance art all in the same evening. SPACES’ relaxed and creative environment will be the scene of a creatively inspiring social event on Fri 7/15 from 8-11PM. This week’s event will include video performers, Karmapoint and Josh Kanney; and audio performers The Record Exchange and fluxmonkey. See www.SpacesGallery.org or call 621-2314 for info. SPACES Gallery, 2220 Superior Viaduct

CC KIDS Kangaroos and Didgeridoos Hop on over to Cleveland Metroparks Zoo for “Halfway To Australia Day” on Sat 7/16. There will be special Australian shows, games and activities taking place in Australian Adventure from 10AM-4PM. Learn incredible facts about the Land Down Under while enjoying activities like “Nest Fest,” “Turtle Power,” and “Didgeridoo.” There is fun to be had by all so round up a bunch of your mates and don’t forget the ankle-biters! Call 661-6500. Cleveland Metroparks Zoo, 3900 Wildlife Way http://www.CleMetZoo.com

Akron Exposed See a side of Akron that you’ve been missing on Sat 7/16 at 3PM. Take an exclusive tour of some of Akron’s underground art gems while enjoying cocktails and hors d’oeuvres along the way. Call 330-376-9186 x213 or visit http://www.art-cetera.org/upcoming.aspx to register. The tour will start from the parking lot between Broadway and Summit Streets in downtown Akron.

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A Novel Idea What does it take to become an award winning author? Find out at the Writers After Hours author series held at the Cuyahoga County Public Library on Tue 7/19 at 6PM when Thrity Umrigar, a highly acclaimed writer of Bombay Time and whose newest work, Thicker Than Water, is expected out in winter 2006. On Tue 8/16, also at 6PM, see George Guidall, an outstanding narrator of audio books. His talent and captivating voice makes him the most outstanding narrator of audio books. His projects include Frankenstein and The Killer Angels. See both authors at The Plain Dealer, 1801 Superior Avenue. Tickets are $15, must be purchased in advance and include wine, hors d’oeuvres and book signings. Limited seating. For tickets contact 749-9486. For details visit CuyahogaLibrary.org
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AllGoSigns Inspire and be inspired during this high energy creative montage on Sat 7/16 from 5PM to 2AM. Experience varying degrees and genres of artistic expression as you peruse sensational art for sale by the artists, hear live performances from an eclectic mixture of performers and see dancers perform. Visit http://www.AllGoSigns.com or call 659-4528 for more info. Cleveland Public Theatre, 6415 Detroit

Interactive Benefit is the theme for Cleveland Hearing and Speech Center’s annual benefit. Enjoy great food, live jazz, and an open bar with cocktails on Sat 7/16 from 7-11PM. Fabulous trips, tickets to sporting events, autographed items and more will be up for grabs during the live and silent auctions and all proceeds will benefit the programs and services of CHSC. Call 231-8787 x263 for ticket information. HealthSpace Cleveland, Brain Theatre, 8911 Euclid Ave http://www.chsc.org/

Garden Party: Sweet 16 The summer’s most outrageous event returns on Sat 7/16 at 7:30PM. This annual benefit for the Lesbian / Gay Community Center of Greater Cleveland will feature fabulous food, exciting live and silent auctions and dazzling entertainment. Don’t miss ultra-hot performances by both the Verb Ballets and Rick & Sharona and appearances by “special guests” throughout the evening. Contact info@lgcsc.org or call 651-5428 x16 for pricing and reservations. Signature, “the best GP venue of all time” is a denim-free zone; so pull out all the stops and party till you drop. Signature, 39000 Signature Drive, Solon http://www.lgcsc.org

Bebop Burrito Jazz it up or dress it down for this evening of mucho margaritas (eight varieties, to be exact), tapas and musica excellente on Sun 7/17 from 5PM until. Enjoy the sizzling flavors of premier Mexican cuisine and the infinitely cool sounds of the fabulous Joe Hunter Trio; then snag irresistible packages in both silent and live auctions. This fiesta benefits the awesome non-profit community arts association Heights Arts. Call 371-3344 to order tickets. Lopez Bar & Grille, 2196 Lee Road, Cleveland Heights http://www.HeightsArts.org

Cooked to Perfection and Falling Off the Bone Spend an evening enjoying a musical smorgasbord compliments of the High Anxiety Bones, a talented trombone quartet featuring members of the Cleveland Orchestra and Akron Symphony Orchestra on Sun 7/17 at 6:30PM. The musical menu will range from the classics to light jazz. Experience the variety of surprisingly silky tones of the trombone and the outstanding musicianship and technical virtuosity of these musicians. Visit www.Botzum.org, email info@botzum.org or call 330-867-6681 for more information. The Conrad Botzum Farmstead, 3486 Riverview Rd

WCLVnotes Live from Cleveland Heights…It’s Broadway Tonight, the annual gala variety show for the benefit of Musical Theatre Education Programming presented at the Alma Theatre at Cain Park on Saturday, June 18th. MTEP, among other things, supports WCLV’s broadcast of Footlight Parade with Bill Rudman, heard Saturdays at 6PM. The two-hour long mélange of theatre and film songs and comedy skits will be broadcast over WCLV 104.9 this Fri 7/15th at 9PM. Featured are a number of top notch local singers and actors – Eric Coble, Jessica Cope, Daniel Hahn, Erin Kufel, Maryann Nagel, Scott Plate, Tina Stump and Greg Violand. Hosting are Bill Rudman and Robert Conrad. The capacity audience enjoyed comedy skits by Cleveland’s noted author Eric Coble that portrayed Donald Trump as presenting The Musical Apprentice, another relative of The Wicked Witch of the West – her niece, The Wicked Witch of the Northwest, and a lost musical of Rodgers and Hammerstein – South Dakota. For more info visit www.WCLV.com a Cool Cleveland partner

Starwood Festival The silver anniversary of this festival will feature more than 15 performances of music, drumming, dance and theatre. There will be over 150 classes, workshops and ceremonies offered by teachers in a variety of fields, disciplines and cultures during this clothing optional family camping event. Sample a variety of foods in the food court, take part in costume parades and jam sessions. Little campers will enjoy Kid Village and parents will enjoy the co-op child care. Visit http://www.rosencomet.com/starwood/2005/ and find out what other activities await you from Tue 7/19 through Sun 7/24 in Sherman, NY, just 30 minutes east of Erie, PA. Map and directions available here.

Writers After Hours Highly acclaimed writer, Thrity Umrigar, will appear at this month’s installation of this exciting Summer Author Series. Enjoy wine and hors d’oeuvres on Tue 7/19 at 6PM before listening to the author discuss her novel, Bombay Time, which has been praised for its rich character portraits and pitch perfect dialogue and her newest work, Thicker Than Water, which is expected out in the Winter of 2006. Copies of Bombay Time will be available for signing afterward. Call 749-9489 for ticket info. The Plain Dealer, 1801 Superior Avenue www.CuyahogaLibrary.org

Summer In The City at the Rock Hall Be entertained by Houseguest just for French Kicks at this 2nd in the series of Summer in the City concerts. Food and beverages of varying intensities will be available for purchase but the music won’t cost you a thing. Call up your pals and meet Downtown in Key Plaza, right outside the Rock Hall on Wed 7/20 from 6-9PM. See the entire schedule at www.RockHall.com. Key Plaza

Celtic Woman The distinct, haunting sound of the pure and graceful voices of these women will stay with you long after you’ve left the theater. Vocalists Chloe, Lisa, Méav, and Órla will be accompanied by exciting young violinist, Máiréad Nesbitt. Hear their enchanted solos and soul-stirring ensembles that capture the essence of traditional and contemporary Irish music on Wed 7/20 at 7:30PM. Call 241-6000 for tickets or click here. Palace Theatre – Playhouse Square Center, 1615 Euclid Ave www.PlayhouseSquare.com

Send your cool events to: Events@CoolCleveland.com

RoldoLINK
Publish or Perish? The PD Does Neither
By Roldo Bartimole

Well, The Plain Dealer did it again.

Our monopoly daily apparently has invented a new form of reporting, or not – avoidance journalism.

Some hard choice comes up. Avoid it.

Isn’t that what they did when Publisher Alex “Snake” Machaskee did not go along with the paper’s editorial board decision to endorse John Kerry? They evaded the confrontation by avoiding an endorsement.

It was an embarrassing episode in a long history of embarrassing occurrences.

Now, the PD has, according to Editor Doug Clifton, “two stories of profound importance languish(ing) in our hands.” The paper decided that it would remain silent on both stories in fear that reporters or others could go to jail if the pieces were published. [Originally published in the PD here].

“The public would be well served to know them, but both are based on documents leaked to us by people who would face deep trouble for having leaked them,” wrote Clifton.

I hadn’t seen Clifton’s column until last Friday when alerted by someone. This is a national story, I said to myself, and alerted Editor and Publisher. E&P ran a piece online and The New York Times, now in the exact situation the PD wants to avoid, ran an even longer piece….
Read RoldoLINK here

Cool Cleveland Sounds
Waterband
Waterband
Cool & Groovy

I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again: in some circles, retro is a dirty word. Some people want new, fresh music, not derivative of anything that came before it. Good luck, Jim. At this point in time, that’s almost impossible, as just about any band you can name has had some kind of influence on their writing and style by someone who came before them. Waterband (guitarist Tom Denk, bassist David McDougald and drummer David Keen) bill themselves as

“folkadelicfunkpop,” which gives you a fair idea where they’re coming from right off the bat. The influences here on their second release come straight out of the turbulant 1960’s, with a modern filter of their styles shown at various times. “Pictures Of Me & U” has that touch of soul Stax Records did four decades ago, as does “How Could It Be,” although the latter leans a bit more into the funk end of the gene pool. “More Than Anything” has an underlying layer of ska while “Natural” rides a reggae riff, helped along by Denk cracking off a good guitar solo. Speaking of guitar solos, best of the deck has to be the one Denk does during “In Bed All Day,” his writing contribution to the project. Odds the latter tune is the most commercial number on WATERBAND and it would get airplay in town, if commercial radio play lists weren’t so tight lipped at the moment. Using only percussionist Mike Blair and Cleveland diva Debi Lewin for back-up when recording this effort at 3rd Ear Studio in Berea, the arrangements stay sparse and lean, although things branch off to heavier turf via “Freek” and “Everyday,” where the band starts channeling early Grand Funk Railroad, among others from that era. Only thing I don’t like on WATERBAND is my running pet peeve: the hidden track. I really hate it when one puts a disc in to play and the read out comes up with more track numbers than listed on the sleeve. Down on track 42 here is an unnamed instrumental that is basically a throw away and waste of time. Why it is there, I have no idea. And it was not germane to the rest of the disc, so why bother. Waterband is trying to recreate the peace/love/dove era of music and, if you’re into that, you’ll like WATERBAND. I’d say the music here has a good flow to it, but that would be a cheap ending to the review. Visit their website – http://www.waterband.com
From Cool Cleveland contributor Peanuts hostofthenorthcoast@yahoo.com

Wanna get reviewed? Send your band’s CD (less than 1 year old) to: Cool Cleveland, 14387 Detroit Avenue, #105, Lakewood, OH 44107

Hey Writers! Wanna write about Cleveland music? We’ve got a slew of recently-released CDs and DVDs by Cleveland-area musicians that could use your critical commentary for Cool Cleveland Sounds. If you’re interested, send us a note at Letters@CoolCleveland.com.

Birol’s Business
Hey Joe, Give It a Go!
By Andy Birol

While I am usually keen on most business’ growth prospects and would defend any owner’s right to choose his or her own destiny, sadly, I am seeing too many owners abusing this. Over the last six months a number of companies with fabulous growth opportunities are selling out to larger corporations just when their ships can start coming in. For example:

• A software services firm pulls up its stakes, abandons it vendors, and sells out to a national player leaving many constituents, their money and needs high and dry…
Read Birol’s Business here and here, and your letters here: Letters@CoolCleveland.com.

Instant Karma
Quick reviews of recent events
Going out this weekend? Take along your PDA and your digital camera. Scratch out a few notes to send us with a picture of it for our Instant Karma real-world reviews of what’s really happening. We’d love to hear from you. Send your stuff to Events@CoolCleveland.com

Tales of the Lost Formicans @ convergence-continuum 7/9
What: Constance Congdon’s surreal comedy-drama about the tribulations of a suburban family observed by aliens.
Reasons to go: Clyde Simon’s smart production brings out all of the play’s off-center humor while making us feel for the beleaguered characters, whose world has suddenly become dangerously strange. As Jim, a construction worker with sudden dementia, Wes Shofner is gentle as a big teddy bear, with the superb Lucy Bredson-Smith as his angular, overwhelmed wife. Christine McBurney is tart and funny as the earthy divorcee neighbor, and Arthur Grothe is a charming alien narrator. Media designer Eric Wahl’s sophisticated use of video makes for a unique experience –- with many filmed backgrounds, and actors interacting with their on-screen doubles.
Caveats: convergence-continuum’s ensemble philosophy means that not all roles are ideally cast: Amy Bistok and Robert A. Walker are too close in age to be mother and teenage son, and Geoffrey Hoffman is too hunky for the tabloid-paranoid neighbor. Nevertheless, the acting is strong enough to make for a compelling show.
Backstory: Artistic Director Simon has chosen so many “space alien” shows over the past three seasons –- by Shepard, Wellman, & Congdon — that he’s included an explanatory program note. But the off-beat scripts perfectly suit his company’s performance style.
Target audience: Anyone who wants to see top-notch renditions of contemporary scripts in an intimate setting.
Details: thru 8/6 at convergence-continuum, The Liminis, http://www.convergence-continuum.org
from Cool Cleveland contributor Linda Eisenstein Linda@coolcleveland.com

She Loves Me @ Lyric Opera Cleveland 7/10
What a romantic bon-bon is SHE LOVES ME! Lighter than air, sweeter than candy, more innocent than most of us can remember, Hungarian Miklos Laszlo’s story has certainly exceeded expectations in several directions. In addition to its original incarnation as a play, it has since been the basis of three movies and a musical. No matter. Lyric Opera Cleveland hit the jackpot with their version; an intimate production with a terrific cast that could not look or sound better, an excellent chamber orchestra in the pit, colorful yet sensible costumes and a versatile set that transforms itself easily and quickly from perfume shop/back room to nightclub to hospital or bedroom as needed…
Read the review by Kelly Ferjutz here

The Boys Next Door @ Porthouse 7/10
What: Tom Griffin’s sentimental comedy about a group home for mentally handicapped adults, and the burned-out social worker who supervises them.
Reasons to go: Several performances elevate the problematic script. As the anxious, chatterbox Arnold, Brian Zoldessy displays enough tsuris to make Woody Allen seem mellow. Chuck Ritchie and Megan Elk have a marvelous, natural chemistry together as the doughnut-eating Norman and the shy Sheila, whom he meets at a dance.
Caveats: Although audiences everywhere seem to eat it up, I found Griffin’s script unpalatably fake: going from broad “laugh at the cutesy retards” sitcom to preachy heart-tugging. Director John Woodson pumps up the sitcom elements, which makes narrator Michael James Anderson seem more Borsht Belt straight man than social worker. Your mileage may vary.
Backstory: Former Cleveland Play House Artistic Director Josephine Abady directed the 1987 off-Broadway premiere of Griffin’s comedy.
Target audience: The more you like sitcoms, the more you’re likely to enjoy this.
Details: Porthouse Theatre, Blossom Music Center, Cuyahoga Falls. Thru 7/23. http://www.porthousetheatre.com
from Cool Cleveland contributor Linda Eisenstein Linda@CoolCleveland.com

4th Wall Productions @ CPH Brooks Theatre 7/9
It is hard to deny that theater has lost popularity as a form of entertainment for today’s younger generations. To many of us, theater either means over-the-top Broadway musicals or college productions of Shakespeare. Despite the fact that the world of theater encompasses so much more, none of it has really succeeded in attracting those of us from the high-tech, digital generation. Enter 4th Wall Productions, a small theater troupe of recent OU grads with big ideas to make theater more relevant, accessible and enjoyable for people their own age…
Read the review by Vanessa Lange here

Otters and Pinwheels @ Ambler Park 6/25
A “Whak Indie-Rock & Free Jazz” music-dance-art festival between 5:30 and 7:30PM on Sat 6/25 rocked a natural amphitheater among the glacier-tumbled boulders of the little-known Ambler Park in the wooded “Roxboro Ravine.” This is between North Park Boulevard and Fairhill Road along the Cleveland Heights-Shaker Heights boarder and is reached from North Park Blvd. at Delaware Road. An audience of about 30 stood or sat on the ground or perched on boulders and the hillside. They were captivated by the spectacle of an amplified quartet playing on a large rock high above Doan Brook. The tunes were rocking and the interludes soothing while mud-covered dancers moved to “reacclimatize to the primordial ooze from whence we came,” as described in the flyer. They tumbled, clung and stretched to soft interludes between intense and maniacal music. Surrounding this scene were paintings hanging in trees. A TV monitor near the band showed scenes from homemade videos…
Read the review by Lee Batdorff here

Yr Turn
Cool Cleveland readers write
We encourage our readers to speak out by sending us letters and commentary. Send your letters to Letters@CoolCleveland.com. You must include your full name (required) and you may include your e-mail address (optional). You may also create a new Hotmail, Yahoo or Gmail e-mail address and submit it with your letter. Letters submitted to Cool Cleveland, or edited portions, may be published in an upcoming issue of Cool Cleveland at our discretion.

Send your letters to: Letters@CoolCleveland.com

On the new County Administration location (See Tower City backs out of Convention Center contention here) Great Choice! It will provide a solid anchor for that downtown sector which is needed.
from Cool Cleveland reader S.R. Catania srcataniaATameritech.net

a better use for the former Ameritrust Corp. headquarters… as a green architect… i’d like a chance to re-vision the project so the county could do both – occupy the site (build a new tower per the original breuer concept) and retain the tower (for residential as discussed in the attached ny times article) here.
from Cool Cleveland reader David Roth Senior Associate http://www.ForumArc.com DRothATForumArc.com

On the convention center (See Who pays for Convention Center? here) A new Convention Center is just the latest ongoing boondoggle to be perpetrated on Cuyahoga County residents. We now have two stadiums that sit empty half the year, and an arena that can’t pay for itself. The idea that, “if we build it, they will come,” is sheer nonsense. As great as our city is, it’s not, nor will it ever be, a destination city. We do indeed have world-class museums, the Cleveland Orchestra, Playhouse Square, and the Rock Hall, but unless we can change our location and climate, people are not going to flock here for conventions, no matter how many facilities and hotel rooms we muster. Orlando is paying conventions to come there, despite its good weather. Tradeshow and convention attendance is never going to return to the levels of a few years ago, and with an over-abundance of space and facilities throughout the country, it’s crazy for Cleveland to add to th! e glut. Almost without exception, every new mega-convention center built around the country has become a white elephant; ask Pittsburgh or Indianapolis. As usual, the only people who would make out if a new facility is built are the developers and contractors, who would be laughing all the way to the bank, while hard-pressed residents are footing yet another unnecessary bill for yet another huge building that will sit vacant.
from Cool Cleveland reader Denise Donaldson ddonaldsonATpenton.com

So, Joe Mysak says that all cities in America should just dash their convention hopes and just let Las Vegas take over the whole damn tourism industry, because it already has more hotels than apparently New York and Chicago put together. Somehow that notion is supposed to have special significance for Cleveland, which is at last coming out of the Dark Ages and has the audacity to attempt to renew its existing convention center into something that’s actually usable, something that would further connect the downtown to the lake, something to juice up a dried-up portion of the city center, something that would spur retail growth, something to further stop conventions that run NOT just to New York, Las Vegas or Chicago, but to Columbus, Indianapolis, Pittsburgh and Detroit. It’s easy for these neysayers to count hotel rooms and point to the obvious signs urban blight. The hard part is to come up with inventive ideas to rebuild a city that’s suffered from a half-century downward spiral in industrial America. Neither the Windy City nor the Big Apple decided to fade away because of Las Vegas’ convention dominance. (Of course, 9/11 had nothing to do with the decline of these cities’ convention businesses, did it?) As Mysak himself admits, Chicago has steadily expanded McCormick Place, which is still the nation’s largest convention center, at 2.2 million square feet, while New York City recently embarked upon a five-year, $1.4 billion plan to double the size of its Jacob K. Javits Convention Center, to 1.4 million square feet. I hardly think these cities think from week to week, like a journalist batting off another column. They think in terms of decades. They have no choice but to speculate on a positive future. That’s the only way a city can really prosper.
from Cool Cleveland reader Howard Gollop howieegAThotmail.com

It is ridiculous that Cuyahoga County is even talking about being involved in building a new Convention Center when only the City of Cleveland will benefit from it…why should the rest of the County have to pay anything for it?. We’re already stuck paying for the the stadiums and arena. As Roldo wrote… “Reidy said that Cleveland would be the big winner with a new convention center. He added that “suburbanites and visitors” would pay for it. I’m sure they will be happy to hear that.” [See Roldo’s column, Fake Authority, Fake Meetings, Faked Out Public here]. Let those who will benefit pay for it…he City of Cleveland should place a tax on the revenues of hospitality (hotels, restaurants, enterainment) businesses that will benefit, and pledge all incremental income tax revenue from increased employment in the hospitality industry after the Center opens to service the debt. If the increased revenue streams from the promised increase in tourist dollars and employement doesn’t provide enough money…WHY IS A NEW CONVENTION CENTER BEING CONSIDERED???
from Cool Cleveland reader James Hammer jhammer1ATcore.com

I have a friend who tells the story of setting up a company booth for a regional trade show at the Cleveland Convention Center. The service was poor and getting it involved extra unpublished costs. It left such a bad taste in his mouth that he swore that he would never again exhibit at that hall. He did continue to exhibit regularly at the IX Center where he felt he was treated fairly and professionally. What concerns me about the story, is that if it is indeed poor service that keeps the Cleveland Convention Center from being booked to capacity, then an expensive new building run the same way is doomed to fail. Does anyone know how this problem is being addressed?
from Cool Cleveland reader Bill Bruml brumlATalum.mit.edu

On America in Bloom (See Cleveland vs. NYC here) My favorite public garden is the Cleveland Restoration Society’s Volunteers’ Garden that was open to the public in 2003. The garden is right next to our headquarters, the Sarah Benedict House, and creates a nice serene space in an area otherwise given over to parking lots. The garden design was a collaboration between Cleveland landscape designer Jim McKnight and Columbus artist Malcolm Cochrun and features a fireplace fountain, granite pavers set in a 3-dimensional baby block pattern and a wire mesh trellis that is planted with vines and roses to form an enclosure that gives the garden the feel of an outdoor room. We invite people to bring their lunches and check it out. We’ve been planning to have the granite and fountain resealed in the near future, so we’ve had the fountain off, but hopefully we’ll get that resolved soon so that folks can enjoy the garden in all its splendor.
from Cool Cleveland reader Deanna Bremer Fisher, Director of Marketing, Cleveland Restoration Society dbremerATclevelandrestoration.org

Regarding the America in Bloom competition, there is an organization called the National Wildlife Federation. They have started a program called Backyard Certification which includes specific criteria for encouraging wildlife (birds, insects, small mammals, etc.) to nest and live in urban/suburban settings. If Greater Cleveland were to get involved in promoting this program, which has been successful in other metropolitan cities, then this would bring (at the very least) greater recognition for Cleveland in a competitive situation. What do you think? Email me if you wish to find out more info.
from Cool Cleveland reader Kathleen Shea Wickes kswickesATsbcglobal.net

Hi. I just wanted to thank you for promoting Cleveland’s participation in America In Bloom and the fact that the national awards will be here in September. I’ve enclosed a pdf of the brochure for the symposium (here), which is at the printer right now. You have the scoop!
from Cool Cleveland reader Delilah Onofrey donofreyATmeistermedia.com http://www.greenhousegrower.com

On cool Akron (See Cool Akron here) I absolutely think that Cleveland could learn from Rebecca Ryan. They can’t take Akron as a direct study, but there are many lessons to be learned, such as openess and diversity. I went to her open house event, where she exhibited her “handprint” for Akron, and I had a great time, just being with hundreds of other like minded people and learning more about what was out there for me. I’ve lived around Akron my whole life, and I found out about groups and activities that night that I’ve never heard of before. I applaud Mayor Plusquellic and other leaders for being willing to listen to new perspectives. Now there are many that misunderstand what it means to make Akron “cool.” No one is saying that Akron should be leveled and started again. But I can see how Ryan’s suggestions make downtowns more liveable and how they are very attractive to young people. My brother lives in downtown Akron, and within a short walk, he can attend an Aeros game, go to the library, visit several quality restaurants, walk home from the bars, and access the Ohio & Erie Canal Trail. Now isn’t that worth it? The nay-sayers should realize that the more people we can get in Ohio, the better for everyone, regardless of living in downtown or suburbs.
from Cool Cleveland reader Laura Neidert lneidertATkent.edu

On not-cool Cleveland (See Blossom Party here) Cool Cleveland is becoming part of the problem. Its June 6th and I have read only the first five articles of “Cool Cleveland”, after the advertisement for one of the happy hour events, and every single one of them bitches and whines about Cleveland. “County Building Controversy” “Who pays for the convention center”…(or rather how they will get us to pay) for a new Convention center “Convention Center is an uphill battle”…Can Cleveland stack up? “Cleveland vs. NYC”…While NYC certainly has the advantage… “Cleveland population trends”…..Cleveland has lost nearly 20,000 residents since 2000. This is all before Roldo’s weekly trashing of everyone and everything in Cleveland. Cool Cleveland used to be different. It served the niche for people who wanted to hear about the good things going on in the city, reasons to be exited about what a great and under-appreciated city Cleveland truly is. I truly hope in the future that Cool Cleveland can stay true to its initial vision.
from Cool Cleveland reader Patrick Staunton patrickstaATyahoo.com

Send your letters to: Letters@CoolCleveland.com

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

1) Cleveland population trends The problem is bigger than Brain Drain and needs bigger solutions. www.Cleveland.com

2) IdeaCenter ready to rock And rock it will with Bebe Neuwirth (AKA Lilith Crane on Cheers) and a 44-piece orchestra. www.WVIZ.org

3) Cool Cleveland People Another chance to read an interview with Michael Seifert, a twentysomething award winning producer/engineer about his own recording studio, Ante Up Audio. www.CoolCleveland.com

4) Cool Akron Is cool consultant Rebecca Ryan help or hype? You decide. www.Cleveland.com

5) Convention center is an uphill battle That’s right. Cities all over the country are fighting the same battle we are. www.Bloomberg.com

Hard Corps heroes With their frenetic weekly contributions, they deliver abundant events, critical reviews and cultural content with aplomb, thanks to Peanuts, Roxanne Ravenel, Pete Chakerian, TL Champion, Tisha Nemeth, Roldo Bartimole, Andy Birol, George Nemeth, Kelly Ferjutz, Linda Eisenstein 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

Download the Cool Cleveland podcast each week at http://www.CoolCleveland.com. Click on the Cool Cleveland Blog here. Read the Cool Cleveland column each month in Cleveland Magazine here. Listen to Cool Cleveland on WCLV-FM 104.9 twice each Friday during drive time. See the Cool Cleveland TV Update on WKYC NBC TV by clicking here. Send your cool events to: Events@CoolCleveland.com, and your letters to: Letters@CoolCleveland.com. For your copy of the free weekly Cool Cleveland e-zine, go to http://www.CoolCleveland.com.

How ingenious is Cleveland?

–Thomas Mulready
Letters@CoolCleveland.com

all contents ©2005 MulreadyGROUP all rights reserved
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