Squared

Squared

In this week’s issue:
* Cool Cleveland Party @ Shaker Square on 3/30 Get tickets here
* Cool Cleveland Interview with embattled Case President Dr. Ed Hundert
* Cool Cleveland Previews of CHABAM and Kem & Leela James
* Cool Cleveland Sounds In The Shadow by Cletus Black
* RoldoLINK Mayor Jackson off to a slow start
* Cool Cleveland Kids podcast click here, CC podcast click here, CC Blog click here

Cleveland’s not so square as some people make it out to be. Check the stellar line-up of great events below and then ask your out-of-town friends what’s on their plate for the coming week.

If you’ve been paying attention, you know that you can get your best deal on a Cool Cleveland party the first week we announce it. Well, that would be this week, as we announce our first-ever Cool Cleveland party on Shaker Square later this month. Mouthwatering snacks, complimentary beer, and your choice of a movie (with popcorn) all add up to a very Square affair that promises to be anything but square. Take a friend and get tix here.

This week, lots of art, film, dance, a session on Cleveland poverty, a marketing talk, a Black HIV awareness expo, an international folk festival, a peace mandala in the park, a meeting for non-profit professionals, and a success event for entrepreneurs. I hope you’re rested up. It’s going to be a big week. –Thomas Mulready

Cool Cleveland Party
CC Squared: 3/30
Get discount tix here!

Step Out Between the Lines at the next CC Party at Shaker Square on Thu 3/30. Catch a comp flick and schmooz with your circle while noshing on the Square’s finest. Party Central starts at 5:30PM at the Cleveland Museum of Art’s Store on the Square. Toast the evening with a glass of red or white or enjoy unlimited beer provided provided by Thirsty Dog – the mega award-winning froth you raved about at our holiday gig. Get there early for an eclectic selection of: tacos and burritos from Luchita’s Mexican Restaurant, Sushi from Sushi on the Square, Chicken fingers, fresh fruit and cheese from Yours Truly Restaurant, Veggie and Pepperoni Pizza from Captain Tony’s, Mini Ice Cream Cones from East Coast Original Custard, assorted take-you-over-the-edge Brownies that include Speedball Mocha, Triple Choc, Cayenne Pepper-Pecan, and Buster Peanut Butter from Dewey’s Fair Trade Coffee, and more goodies from Dave’s Supermarket. Continue your evening with a complimentary popcorn and film of your choosing at the Cleveland Cinemas‘ six-screen multiplex including CSA: Confederate States of America and Inside Man. Then get the total experience by checking out the shops and restaurants on the Square. Be there or be uncool. Get your discount tix here. Get map here.

Get your discount tix now: http://www.coolcleveland.com/tickets/033006

Cool Cleveland Interview
Dr. Edward Hundert, President, Case

One of the region’s key leaders, Dr. Edward Hundert, the President of Case Western Reserve University, is under the gun. Last week, the faculty of the College of Arts and Sciences sent a vote of “no confidence” in his administration, due to severe fundraising shortfalls, a growing budget deficit and issues with his leadership. While it is not binding, it brings into question his ability to lead the institution forward and regain financial footing. Dr. Hundert’s administration kicked off in 2002 with a promising conference on “Great Universities and Their Cities,” featuring the Mayor and a lively discussion about the impact a university like Case could have on Cleveland. But his tenure has been challenging. From the college’s name change to “Case,” which alienated Western Reserve College alums, to his often contentious interaction with faculty and the University Circle community, Dr. Hundert’s personal style has drawn criticism. Cool Cleveland’s Thomas Mulready spoke F2F with Dr. Hundert on 01.26.06 about a wide range of issues facing the university and the city at large. In today’s issue, we present chunks 1, 2 & 3 of the interview, with additional chunks to follow.

#1: On the “Great Universities” conference (PC) (Mac)
#2: On neighborhood development (PC) (Mac)
#3: On Case’s greatest opportunity (PC) (Mac)

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Fit for Royalty The townhouse-style condos at Kings Terrace Phase II offer great views of Lake Erie and downtown from a fourth-floor roof deck. Living in the heart of Detroit Shoreway, one of Cleveland’s up-and-coming neighborhoods, you’ll be able to enjoy 2,400 square feet of living space, a large kitchen, open floor plan, 2 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, 2 car attached garage and tax abatement. Over 50% Sold! Priced from $249,900. The model townhome at Kings Terrace is located at 5413 Herman (off of W. 54th, just north of Detroit) and will be open this Sun 3/12 from 2-4PM. While in the neighborhood, make sure that you check out the other open houses in PURE’s Detroit Shoreway open house event. Visit the open houses section of our website to learn about which homes will be open. For a complete list go to www.progressiveurban.com.
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NewsLINKS

• Memorial Day volunteers There are more than 120,000 veterans buried within the borders of Cuyahoga County. The Memorial Day Association of Greater Cleveland wants to pay honor to those who have sacrificed their lives in service to their country by clearing headstones and planting flags at gravesites. A troupe of 1000 plus volunteers is required to handle this monumental task. Volunteers can either be assigned to a group, or coordinate their own groups. Call 378-0535 to sign up or visit http://www.mdaogc.org for more info.
• Quit Staring at Me! Yes, this is your computer talking and yes, I’m talking to you through a paid advertisement in Cool Cleveland. It’s about time we talked . . . because you sit in that chair and stare at me for hours at a time. Blink, for God’s sake! Then get up and do some of the things you’re reading about. Isn’t that why you subscribed in the first place? For the love of God, live a little. [To learn more about advertising in CC, and how to get your computer off your back, click here.]
• United Way convenes United Way of Greater Cleveland will hold its Annual Meeting at the Cleveland Renaissance Hotel on Public Square on Fri 3/10 from 11:45AM to 1:30PM. Mayor Frank Jackson will speak at the event, as will new Chairman of the Board and Chief Volunteer Officer, Henry Meyer, Chairman and CEO of KeyCorp. Meyer will outline his vision for the future direction of UW and the 2005 Campaign results will be announced. Call 436-2121 or visit www.uws.org for tickets.

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Rockport Square Celebrates Grand Opening Model Townhomes are now complete at Rockport Square! Celebrate our Grand Opening today, Wed 3/8, 5-8PM at 11917 Detroit (west of W. 117th). Enjoy wine, appetizers and register to win exciting prizes, then tour the dramatic new townhomes and preview the Avenue Lofts. Townhomes priced from the mid $200’s offer 2-3 bedrooms, 2 baths, expansive windows, open floor plan, 2 car attached garage, granite countertops and rooftop terrace. Lofts priced from the $180’s include open floor plan, 1-3 bedrooms, granite countertops and concrete balconies with metal railings. Five year tax abatement and reduced rate financing. Preconstruction pricing is available on the lofts, and for a limited time, a $10,000 bonus in free upgrades. The sales center is open daily from 12-5PM at 1422 Hopkins Rd. Contact (216) 226-5919 or www.Rysar.com.
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NewsLINKS

• Be a Public TV star It’s time for one of our favorite annual events – the 39th Annual WVIZ/PBS Televised Auction. Show your love for WVIZ and 40 years of awesome programming, and perhaps get your mug in lights, by volunteering for the event. Volunteers are needed to acquire auction donations, to prepare for the event, to keep things running smoothly before and during airtime, take calls and organize bids. Visit here to learn more. The auction will be televised live over two weekends – Fri 4/21 to Sun 4/23 and Fri 4/28 to Sun 4/30.
• Profits are not enough A January 2006 global survey in the McKinsey Quarterly discovered that executives world-wide realize their obligation to society (providing quality jobs, philanthropic endeavors, protecting the environment, etc.) is just as crucial as their obligation to investors. While many corporations are “stepping up,” many execs feel it is more about creating great PR than that warm and fuzzy feeling. Does it matter why they do it? Read here. Letters@CoolCleveland.com
• Why do Ohioans have so much MS? One out of every 1,000 Ohioans has been diagnosed with multiple sclerosis. The disorder usually strikes one in “the prime of life” and can cause blurred vision, loss of balance, slurred speech, tremors, extreme fatigue, problems with memory and concentration, paralysis and blindness – often robbing one of financial independence. The reason for the high occurance rate in Ohio is the subject of research being done by Ohio State University and Cleveland Clinic. You can show your support for victims of MS during the month of March, MS Awareness Month, and every day of the year. Visit http://www.msohiobuckeye.org or call 1-800-667-7131 to learn how you can help, and about the importance of early diagnosis.

Emissions from the blogsphere Norm Roulet posts about Cleveland Oscar Night America and the film industry in Northeast Ohio. Bridget Ginley posts the images and bio of this month’s artist showing in the AIV@5700 gallery. Matt Bakaitis compares a Cleveland Original to a faux Irish pub at a lifestyle center. Gloria Ferris with more on the ODOT meeting on The Trench. Scott Muscatello posts about the new construction at 4600 Euclid Avenue. Check the Cool Cleveland weblog here, then add your own comments, questions and attitude. Letters@CoolCleveland.com.

Died and Gone to Cleveland
by Barry Smith

A few years ago I landed a part-time gig as a traveling AV Guy. I get to work with cool people and get sent cool places, like Vegas and New York. And, most recently, Cleveland. I’ve never been to Cleveland, so I have nothing against it, but it just sounds like a punch line to me. As I inform friends that I’ll be leaving town soon, hesitatingly adding the Cleveland part, each response is the same: “Wow! New York, Vegas …and Cleveland! What an exciting life you lead. Ha ha.” Each time I laughed as if they were the first ones to say this, because that’s how you keep friends. Whatever. It’s a gig, and I’ll spend the better part of my time working in a hotel conference room anyway, so Cleveland could be anywhere. Still…Cleveland – HA!

I arrive on a Wednesday afternoon, taxi to the hotel and stroll out to grab a quick lunch. A restaurant I pass, Fat Fish Blue, looks like a good dinner choice because it’s so close to the hotel and, according to the menu posted outside, they have catfish – sold! We spend the next few hours setting up our AV gear, finishing about 9:30 p.m., and my co-worker Sean and I head around the corner for dinner. There’s a band playing at Fat Fish Blue…
Read Gone To Cleveland by Barry Smith here

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The Wrecking Crew Comes to the Rock Hall – Hal Blaine, Carole Kaye, Tommy Tedesco, Glen Campbell – these are a few members of the “Wrecking Crew.” Tedesco’s son, Denny Tedesco filmed his father and other members of the Wrecking Crew to capture their story firsthand. On Wed 3/15 at 7PM, Denny will be joined by Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Inductee Hal Blaine for a discussion about the Wrecking Crew and a special showing of select footage from Tedesco’s soon-to-be-released documentary. You heard them playing on the Beach Boys hits, on Phil Spector’s productions, on the Mamas and the Papas’ recordings, on Frank Sinatra records, and on Monkees’ singles. They have performed on more number one singles than the Beatles. They were one of rock and roll’s most legendary bands. Email education@rockhall.org to RSVP. If you do not have access to email, please call 216.515.8426. For more info go to www.RockHall.com.
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Cool Cleveland This Week
3.08-3.15

Send your cool events to: Events@CoolCleveland.com

HOT PICK Generational Marketing & Advertising Strategy For the first time in American history, we have 5 living generations. Each generation has its own unique core values. And thus, each holds its own attitudes toward consumer decisions. Therefore, marketers must understand generational influences in order to reach and persuade their target markets. Chuck Underwood, one of the nation’s leading authorities on generational marketing strategies will teach marketers to connect with Generation X on Wed 3/8 at 5:30PM. Call 371-9979. Hilton Garden Inn, 1100 Carnegie Avenue. www.GenImperative.com.

Cool Cleveland Kids Wondering what 10-year-old Max is recommending for you and your family this week? Listen on your computer or download to your iPod: your kids will thank you. Click here. Get podcast software here.

Vienna Philharmonic Who’s the best orchestra in the world? By anyone’s standards the Cleveland Orchestra and the Vienna Phil are in the Top 5. Come hear for yourself in the incomparable Severance Hall on Wed 3/8 at 8PM as maestro Riccardo Muti leads the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra in Schubert, Strauss’ Death and Transfiguration, and Mozart’s #35, in celebration of the Austrian composer’s 250th anniversay. Call 231-1111 or visit www.ClevelandOrchestra.com.

Cash for Your Trash Carl Zimring will be on hand to sign his book Cash for Your Trash: Scrap Recycling in America on Thu 3/9 at 3PM. The book revisits the last 200 years of recycling history. Check the book out here. Call 440-774-7722 for more info. Oberlin Bookstore, 37 West College Street, Oberlin.

Poverty in Cleveland: Finding the High Road for Ohio’s Working Families is the subject of this Cleveland Social Venture Partnership education forum on Thu 3/9 which begins with an opening reception at 6PM – the program begins at 7PM. Guest speaker, Amy Hanauer, of Policy Matters Ohio, will address the impact of wages, work hours, productivity, education and benefits on Ohio’s workers. Register here for the event or call 231-2300 for info. The League House, 10819 Magnolia Drive, University Circle. http://www.clevelandsvp.org/.

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See It For Yourself – Uncut and Unedited! Witness the live broadcast (with unedited performances) of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame’s Induction Ceremony Mon 3/13 at 8PM. Visitors will see the Ceremony, in its entirety, including all of the comments that were cut from the television broadcast for only $10. Tickets are on sale through Ticketmaster and the Museum Box Office. The 2006 Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Inductees are Black Sabbath, Blondie, Miles Davis, Lynyrd Skynyrd, Sex Pistols, Herb Alpert and Jerry Moss. Presented by Miller Light, Sima Products and WNCX 98.5FM. For more information contact 216-781-7625 or www.RockHall.com.
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CC KIDS Inlet Dance Theatre Inlet Dance Theatre will showcase unique works that address both social issues and the human condition Thu 3/9 at 7:30PM, Fri & Sat at 8PM, with special matinees on Sat and Sun at 3PM geared especially for families. Don’t miss the world premiere of The Door, a suite of dances to Brahms Variations about redemption and transformation. See Skirting the Heart, a tanztheater (modern German expressionist dance) piece about a personal journey toward wholeness, an Ohio premiere. This Could Hurt is an all-male quartet piece that celebrates masculinity, brotherhood and athleticism. Ascension positively explores the transformative nature of passing on one’s legacy. Call 631-2727 or visit www.cptonline.org for tickets. Cleveland Public Theatre, 6415 Detroit Road. http://www.InletDance.org.

Michael Tilson Thomas Leads Cleveland Orchestra Michael Tilson Thomas, music director for the San Francisco Symphony, will conduct the Cleveland Orchestra in concerts featuring Beethoven’s Symphony No. 3 (“Eroica”) and music by Aaron Copland, new to the Cleveland Orchestra repertoire. Catch this concert on Thu 3/9 and Sat 3/11 at 8PM and Fri 3/10 at 11AM. Call 231-1111 or visit www.ClevelandOrchestra.com. Severance Hall.

Cool Cleveland Podcast The hottest things to do this week in Cleveland, at the click of a button. Click here. Need podcast software at no charge? Get it here.

HOT PICK Herb Ascherman, Jr. Exhibit Convivium33 Gallery will exhibit a Mythology Series of Platinum prints by notable Cleveland photographer Herb Ascherman Jr., internationally recognized for his black-and-white and platinum portraiture and photographs, and a familiar face to Cool Cleveland party-goers. Ascherman’s exhibit, featuring local models, sans apparel, will open to the public on Fri 3/10 at 6PM and will run through Sun 4/23. Leave the kiddies at home for this one. Call 881-7838 for info. Convivium33 Gallery at Josaphat Arts Hall, 1433 East 33rd Street. http://www.JosaphatArtsHall.com.

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Read, Rock and Recycle with Phil Yeh on Sat 4/8 at 2PM. Don’t miss The Cleveland Museum of Natural History’s special opening of the new exhibit Dinosaurs Across America with cartoonist Phil Yeh and earn “Read! Soar! Explore!” points. Bring the entire family to explore the adventures and inventions of Theo the Dinosaur. Through storytelling and sketching, Yeh will guide you through an exploration of the power of the arts and the creative process. Travel with Dinosaurs Across America and discover how you can avoid extinction through reading, cycling and recycling. Yeh will sign his books following the presentation. Register now. Members $7; nonmembers $14. Go to www.CMNH.org for more info.
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Tremont ArtWalk on Fri 3/10 from 6-10PM features the City Work Juried Show at Kelly-Randall; UCC presents a show from the Women’s Shelter, Out of the Box, at Pilgrim Congregational; The Death of Frank, presented by Dobama in the Theater; at Inside-Outside – Steven B. Smith’s Last American Art Show before he heads to Europe with his true love. Asterisk* has Mixed Media – Collage by Joseph Day. The Flying Monkey continues Work by Garrett Weider; Brandt Gallery presents . . . I would break into blossom . . ., photography by Steve Mastrioanni; Pretentious Tremont Artists, life drawings, in the back room at The Literary Cafe, and a host of other offerings. Call 522-0006 or visit http://www.TremontArtWalk.org.

Slam U! Semi-Finals Cleveland-area high schools students have been developing their artistic chops in Slam U! workshops designed to hone both their writing and performance skills. The program gives teens the resources needed to express themselves creatively while preparing them to compete for a spot on the Cleveland National Youth Poetry Slam Team which will travel to the national teen slam festival in New York City in April. The semi-finals happen on Fri 3/10 at 7PM; pizza will be served at 6:30PM. Call 348-7909 to reserve a spot. Learn more here. Idea Center, Playhouse Square, 1375 Euclid Avenue.

Tremont Independent Film Festival Stop in during the Tremont ArtWalk and enjoy four short films by local filmmakers on Fri 3/10 at 7PM & 8:30PM or Sat 3/11 at 1PM, 7PM or 8:30PM. The line-up includes Shakin’! a go-go!; 44 Robbers; Home of the Free and Comedy Sketches. Filmmakers should also submit their short films and video for inclusion in future festivals. Visit http://www.TremontIndependent.com to learn more. The Liminis, 2438 Scranton Road, Tremont.

Don’t Tell Your Head Come experience two video installations by NEO-award winning artist Ben Kinsley and Steve Probert at Hyacinth – a new art space in the St. Hyacinth neighborhood of Slavic Village. The exhibition opening is Fri 3/10 from 6-9PM. Get your groove back with rare soul tracks spun by DJ Iceburg. Stick around for music from Genders (Detroit), GirlTalk (Pittsburgh) and Ghostman/Sandman (Cincinnati). The event costs zippo and the bar is open, so you are all out of excuses. Hyacinth, 3030 East 63rd Street. http://www.HyacinthArt.com.

Prison Break Steven B. Smith, the Agent of Chaos is about to hop the pond with his beloved; but before he departs for Europe he will be selling 40 years worth of his art – collage, urban assemblage and sculpture – in his last American Show. Get incredible art at greeting card prices during the opening reception on Fri 3/10 from 6-9PM and enjoy Couple/ts from the wound of my mouth with Mary Weems, Wendy Shaffer, Kate Sopko, R. A. Washington, Kathy Ireland Smith, Steven B. Smith, part of the Labor Poetry Series, at 8PM. Inside Outside Gallery, 2688 West 14th Street. http://InsideOutsideGallery.com/.

The i’s of March Help MOCA launch the intro of its new CyberLounge and ArtCast programs with a party on Wed 3/15 from 7 – 10PM. Designed as an on-site resource for Museum visitors, the CyberLounge and ArtCast feature downloadable interviews of the eight international artists featured in the current MOCA exhibit, All Digital; links to other exhibitions, and sites of computer-generated art. Explore these new cyber resources while you enjoy complimentary hors d’oeuvres and a donations bar. An iPod will be given away during the event – just keep the volume down. Learn more at www.MocaCleveland.com.

Patrick Haggerty Exhibit Explore the quintessentially-Cleveland atmosphere of the manufacturing era and its residual legacy in a series of abstract industrial portraits by the local artist. Simultaneously evoking both haunting, deserted landscapes and the immediacy of urban graffiti art, Pat Haggerty brings a fresh artistic perspective to a familiar scene. Meet the artist during a wine and cheese reception on Fri 3/10 from 6-9PM. The exhibition runs through Sat 4/8. Arts Collinwood Gallery, 15605 Waterloo Road. http://www.ArtsCollinwood.org.

On a Pedestal See the work of 19 Ohio artists, representing cities from Lakewood to Cincinnati in a 3D sculpture exhibition juried by celebrated sculptor and designer, Viktor Schreckengost, beginning Fri 3/10 from 5 – 9PM. Many of the pedestal-sized sculptures in wood, glass, ceramics, stone, and metals, are for sale. Visit http://www.SculptureCenter.org. The Sculpture Center, 1834 East 123rd Street.

HOT PICK N*W*C*, The Race Play is both provocative and enlightening. This explosive new hit comedy about race turns the tables on racial stereotypes with a series of vignettes that traces the search for identity and positive self-image, delivering a fresh message of tolerance. Get tickets for Fri 3/10 or Sat 3/11 performances at 8PM here. Ohio Theatre, Playhouse Square Center.

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Experience The Temptations 4/23 at the CSU Alumni Association’s Second Annual Star-Studded-Extravaganza, which is open to the public! Enjoy the chart-topping hits that include “My Girl,” “Just My Imagination,” and “The Way You Do the Things You Do” — a true part of our musical heritage. On Sun 4/23, The Temptations, will headline the Cleveland State University Alumni Association’s second annual Star Studded Extravaganza, a scholarship fund-raiser for current and future CSU students. This much anticipated event takes place in Downtown Cleveland’s prestigious House of Blues. Opening for The Temptations are Kristine Jackson’s Basically Blue and WMJI’s Jimmy Malone. For ticket information visit www.CSUohio.edu. Tickets are limited! Act before they sell-out! The 2006 Star-Studded Extravaganza is supported by Parker-Hannifin, Medical Mutual of Ohio and The Plain Dealer.
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Cy Coleman: Hey Look Me Over Delight to the sweet sounds of classics like Big Spender, The Best is Yet to Come and It Amazes Me, on Fri 3/10 at 8PM, during this rousing tribute to the music of celebrated American composer, songwriter and jazz pianist, Cy Coleman – hosted by Joe Hunter and Bill Rudman and featuring vocalists Susan Hesse and Patrick Johnson. Call 987-4400 or purchase tickets at www.TriCPresents.com. Tri-C Metro Campus, Main Stage Theatre, 2900 Community College Avenue.

Maple Sugaring Weekend Start the day with a hearty pancake breakfast on Sat 3/11 or Sun 3/12 from 9AM to 1PM, then take a horse-drawn wagon ride to the sugarhouse to see maple syrup being made. Make maple stirs, sample maple candy and learn to make maple syrup in your own backyard. Call 800-366-3276 for price info. Lake Metroparks Farmpark, 8800 Chardon Road, Kirtland. http://www.LakeMetroparks.com.

Black HIV Awareness Expo The inaugural annual event, on Sat 3/11 beginning at 11AM and Sun 3/12 starting at 1PM, will be a two-day education and preventive initiative that will explore how this pandemic is impacting the African American community, locally, statewide, nationally and globally. The Karamu production of the award-winning drama, Before It Hits Home, will take center stage at the expo on Sat 3/11 at 8PM and Sun 3/12 at 3PM. Tickets to a VIP pre-show reception with Mayor Frank Jackson and Commissioner Peter Lawson Jones are available by calling 255-6822. Karamu Performing Arts Theater, 2355 East 89th Street. www.Karamu.com.

CC KIDS Tiger Tots is a Martial Arts program developed especially for 3-5 year olds. The program was originally developed by California sensei, Dawn Barnes, but has been adapted by psychologist and Tae Kwon Do Black Belt, Michelle Martin, to help tots learn the same self-discipline and respect that older participants usually derive from Martial Arts. The first class is being offered without charge. The next session begins Sat 3/11 at 1PM. Call 765-4470 for more info. The Insight Learning & Wellness Center, 25901 Emery Road, Suite 112, Warrensville Heights.

Salute to Spring is the Annual Board Members Show at the Parma Area Fine Arts Council. The public is invited to view the work of some of Parma’s most talented artists on Sat 3/11 from 1-4PM. Email sniderta@mcosm.net with questions. PAFAC Gallery, 2nd Floor of the Schaaf Community Center, 5983 West 54th Street, Parma.

Honor the Unsung Cultural Heroes – Celebrate the contribution of African American Architects and the Cleveland Restoration Society on Sat 3/11 at 2PM. Featuring presentation and book signing with editor Dreck Spurlock Wilson, African American Architects: A Biographical Dictionary, 1865 – 1945 and honoring Cleveland’s own Robert P. Madison. Call 426-3107 or visit http://www.ClevelandRestoration.org Western Reserve Historical Society, 10825 East Boulevard.

Revelry at Second Saturday Coffee House Put on your dancing shoes and head to Second Saturday Coffee House on Sat 3/11 for the vivacious folk music of Revelry, combining Women’s History and Irish History month in a celebration of sound. Make no mistake this trio is serving up folk with fire – original tunes inspired by the Emerald Isle. Free childcare on site. The fun starts at 6PM and talent takes the stage at 7:30PM. Immanuel Presbyterian Church, 326 East 156 St.

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Wow! Up to Half Off? Check out C-Tix for mega discount tickets to some of the best shows in town. This service was created for you – Clevelanders who want great discounts to great shows. There’s absolutely no cost for you to sign up, just go to www.CTix.org and be the first (every week!) to get the news about what’s discounted, how much and where it’s playing. See the coolest performances at Playhouse Square, Great Lakes Theater Festival, Cleveland Opera, Cleveland Play House, Beck Center, Cleveland Public Theater and more. A service of the Convention & Visitors Bureau of Greater Cleveland. For more information about attractions and events in northeast Ohio visit www.TravelCleveland.com.
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Cleveland Central Philharmonic Orchestra Violin virtuoso, Jin-Joo Cho will solo with the 30-member ensemble, led by conductor, Gabriel Hwang, on Sat 3/11 at 7:30PM. Unique in Cleveland, this ethnic orchestra is comprised of artists of Japanese, Chinese and South Korean descent. Call 403-2341 for ticket info. Tri-C West Campus, 11000 Pleasant Valley Road, Parma.

Hawken Chorale Goes Global Join the Hawken School Chorale for a performance of Rutter’s Mass for the Children, in its entirety, accompanied by the Western Reserve Chorale, on Sun 3/12 at 7:30PM – before they travel to London, from 3/22 – 3/26, to perform in a series of concerts, including one in Canterbury Cathedral. St. Ann’s Church, 2175 Coventry Road. www.Hawken.edu.

CC KIDS International Folk Festival Sing and dance around the globe with more than 250 performers dressed in an array of colorful, ethnic garb, as they share the dances and music of their heritage on Sun 3/12 at 3PM. Tickets are just $10 for the family-friendly festival. Purchase tickets at 241-6000 or www.PlayhouseSquare.com. Allen Theatre, 1407 Euclid Avenue.

Neotuba Concert Enjoy a selection of both classical and popular music played by the Neotuba Quartet featuring Ron Bishop & Bill Ciabattari , Tubas, and Travis Scott & J.C. Sherman, Euphoniums, on Sun 3/12 at 7PM. Call 751-2320 for tickets. First Unitarian Church, 21600 Shaker Boulevard, Shaker Heights. http://www.FirstUnitarianCleveland.org.

CC KIDS Kids Rock Show Check out this wild, all ages rock tour on Mon 3/13 at 6PM that features songs about Harry Potter and enough sock puppets for everyone. Harry and the Potters, an amazing rock duo, will perform songs from the perspective of Harry Potter and opening act Uncle Monsterface, is a rock trio that features giant dancing prairie dogs and a sock puppet show. Wizards and Prairie Dogs – rock on! Barking Spider, 11310 Juniper Road.

Urban Coyotes – finding the truths, debunking the myths is an adult program led by Dr. Stan Gehrt, Assistant Professor of Wildlife Ecology at Ohio State University. He has been conducting research on urban coyotes for the past six years. With continual development and an increasing human population, conflicts between coyotes and people are increasing. Dr. Gehrt will present results of his research, on Tue 3/14 at 10AM, and address myths and truths about this amazing carnivore. Discussion topics include movements, social behavior, survival, and food habits. Nature Center at Shaker Lakes, 2600 South Park Boulevard. www.ShakerLakes.org.

HOT PICK NEO Nonprofit Professionals Network All entry-level and mid-level non-profit professionals are invited to attend the Tue 3/14 meeting from 4:30 – 6PM. Present information on your organization and learn about other non-profit organizations in Northeast Ohio during this informational and networking event. Call 687-5492. Cleveland State University Campus, Sweet Seminar Room, UR241, Maxine Goodman Levin College of Urban Affairs, 1717 Euclid Avenue.

Mandalas for Peace Donna Tiroly will guide participants in creating Mandalas for Peace on Tue 3/14 at 7:30PM. Since everything is energy, our creations have the intention and potential for both personal and global transformation. This is an opportunity to follow Ghandi’s teaching to “Be the change you wish to see in the world.” No artistic experience is needed, only a willingness to explore and trust a Higher Guidance which opens the Heart Center to light, joy and wholeness. Call 556-5683 or visit http://www.ShadyBrook.org. The Nature Center at Shaker Lakes, 2600 South Park Boulevard, Shaker Heights.

John Hay Benefit Auction The Cleveland Restoration Society is gearing up for some serious online auction action. Check out the goods and get your bids in starting Wed 3/15. Be there live on Sat 4/29 to collect your auction booty! From objet d’art to once-in-a-lifetime experiences, there is something for everyone in the John Hay Benefit Auction! Preview it all at https://crs-johnhay.cmarket.com and support the restoration of John Hay High School’s historic WPA murals. Cleveland Restoration Society, 3751 Prospect Avenue.

Crisis Communications Get the dirt from the man behind the crisis communications of the Sago Mine disaster. Join Matt Barket of Dix and Eaton’s Crisis Communications Practice on Wed 3/15 at noon for the sharing of first-hand, front-line experience at the IABC Cleveland presentation. Reservations can be made online at http://www.iabccleveland.com or by emailing iabc49@cs.com, or calling 226-7013. The Forum, 1375 E. 9th Street.

HOT PICK Entrepreneurship Event The Wed 3/15 event at 6PM, Does Money Grow on Trees?, will feature three successful and innovative entrepreneurs from Northeast Ohio – Lou Schneeberger, Entrepreneur/Chairman of Jumpstart; Tim Curtiss, President of Liquid Resources, LLC and Geoffrey Thrope, President of NDI Medical – in a panel discussion. The event is open to the public without cost and a reception will immediately follow. Reservations required at tleland@kent.edu. Kent State University, KIVA Auditorium. www.kent.edu.

WCLVnotes This coming Sat 3/11, WCLV 104.9 FM is back at Severance Hall for a live broadcast by The Cleveland Orchestra. The guest conductor is classical super-star Michael Tilson Thomas. He conducts two classics by Aaron Copland: a suite from film score for “Our Town” and “Symphonic Ode.” After the intermission, it’s everbody’s favorite, Beethoven’s Symphony No. 3, “Eroica.” There are two Cleveland Orchestra broadcasts each week on WCLV, Saturdays from Severance at 8PM, many of them live; and the traditional Cleveland Orchestra on the Radio on Sunday afternoons at 4PM. Complete details on all of WCLV’s programming are available at www.WCLV.com . WCLV is a Cool Cleveland partner.

Send your cool events to: Events@CoolCleveland.com

Cool Cleveland Preview
CHABAM First Anniversary

What makes an advisor on security and emergency preparedness issues get into early childhood development and education? It sounds a little reminiscent of “Kindergarten Cop,” no? CHABAM co-founder Jim Levine laughs when posed the question, but the answer lies in having children of his own, a decision that ultimately brought him and his family back to Cleveland.

First, a little background: Levine is one of the most knowledgeable security professionals in the industry. He is the co-founder of Vance International, a Washington, DC-based security company offering protection, training, and consulting services all over the world.

He sold that business after ten years and found himself at a crossroads: What to do next?

“My wife said, ‘So now what are you going to do? Why don’t you consider doing something for kids?’ It made perfect sense. I love my kids to death and the idea of doing something for kids was very appealing…”
Read the preview by Peter Chakerian here

Check out CHABAM this Sun 3/12 between the hours of 11AM – 2PM for a no-cost, family festival birthday bash! This event, appropriate for families with pre-teen children (4 months-12 years), will provide a multitude of FUN activities for the whole family. CHABAM, 28700 Chagrin Blvd, Woodmere OH 44122. http://www.CHABAM.com, 216-464-8500.

Cool Cleveland Preview
Kem & Leela James

Never heard of them have you? Well, if you miss real music – the silky, expressive jazz-laden stylings of vocalists like Al Jareau and the gritty, powerful tunes of soul icons like Aretha Franklin, Sam Cooke and Tina Turner – you won’t want to miss this pair in concert.

Kem’s debut album in February of 2003, Kemistry, was an instant classic deserving of the heavy rotation it received on the radio, and in the CD carousels of R&B and jazz fans. Kem’s heartfelt lyrics resonate with listeners, giving us an open window into his soul. The artist kept true to his formula of true R&B which tells the story of love, life and the struggle of relationships for his sophomore effort, Album II.

Leela James, debut CD, A Change is Gonna Come, has earned its place at the head of my CD collection. The tiny-framed powerhouse, with an afro about as tall as she is, offers powerful lyrics and strong vocals mixed with infectious, funk, classic soul and blues-inspired music that is everything you loved about this music in the past, yet refreshingly current.

Kem & Leela James offer bonafide talent and artistry, not dependent on collaborating MCs, scanty clothing or gimmicks of any sort (unless of course you count a woman less than 5 feet tall with a 4 foot afro). Their soulful, yet contemporary music pays hommage to the music legends that they admire, with a style all their own.

Discover Kem at http://www.KemMusic.com. Meet Ms. James at http://www.LeelaJames.com/site.html. Make a date with the duo here. See you there.

From Cool Cleveland contributor Roxanne Ravenel roxanneATcoolcleveland.com

Cool Cleveland Sounds
In The Shadow
Cletus Black
Night Wax Records

“I need some darkness to make things right…” Cletus Black deadpans on Switch On The Darkness (“and turn out the light”), a standout cut from his new disc, In The Shadow. The next song, Love to Love begins, “waiting in the darkness, pacing room to room…” Are you starting to sense a theme? Call it roots, Americana, alt country or just good driving music, as WRUW-FM DJ Cuzin’ Dave Wilson calls it. But Black’s vision is black, tempered by mature, measured reflections on life. The most excited he gets is on Give It A Shot: “So I’m saving my money to blow this town, somehow we’re gonna make it, somehow we’re gonna fake it…” As a bonus, Black resurrects Van Morrison’s Tupelo Honey and Neil Diamond’s Solitary Man, referencing some of the best and most versatile contemporary songwriting, and adding that familiarity that covers serve in a live set. Upon first listen, your initial impression is a guy strumming a guitar and singing, but even with the tasteful backing of a surprising number of musicians playing dobro, harmonica, accordion, sax, clarinet, mandolin and percussion, Black succeeds in keeping the focus on his flat, dry vocals, no doubt thanks to co-production by multi-instrumentalist Dave Morrison. The disc rewards repeated and close listening. What more can you ask?
Catch the CD release party this Sat 3/11 at 9PM at Tequila Blues, 445 Avon-Belden Road in Avon Lake, a new club focusing on original roots music. http://www.CletusBlack.com

Wanna get reviewed? Send your band’s CD (less than 1 year old) to: Cool Cleveland, 14837 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.

RoldoLINK
Jackson Goes Slowly & That’s Not Bad
By Roldo Bartimole

Mayor Frank Jackson has had a slow start.

That’s not a criticism.

He’s a most careful guy. It’s showing.

A veteran of many city administrations agrees about the slow start. However, he does not believe it will hurt.

“He is very sincere and I’ve enjoyed his demeanor so far,” says this high official.

“I think what I have observed so far that I like best is that he asks questions and actually listens when you respond. So he’s engaging in that way,” he adds.

However, Jackson is not averse to taking chances. Naming of Martin Flask as Safety Director is an example. Jackson has a white police chief and now a white safety director…
Read RoldoLINK here

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

UPDATE: THE DARK ROOM @ ORTHODOX, 3/9 It’s been a year since we started The Dark Room, our monthly open mike new works cabaret sponsored by the Cleveland Theater Collective. From the beginning it was an act of faith. Would there be enough people in Cleveland interested in new performance to show up the 2nd Thursday of every month, rain or slush or sunshine, to make an evening of new writing performed in the raw? Can getting writers and actors and poets and dancers and musicians in a room with an audience actually make a difference? We don’t have all the answers yet — so far audiences have been sparse — but we do have more than a couple of things to show for it:
MIXING IT UP. We’ve hosted performances of nearly every imaginable genre: short plays, excerpts of longer works, monologues, musicals, memoirs, poems, songs, stories, dance. Our mix-it-up, “no shame” format has let artists stretch: poets and actors starting plays, playwrights experimenting with poetry.
FROM PAGE TO STAGE. Some of what we’ve worked on in the Dark Room has already gotten on its feet. Mike Sepesy and I had our Christmas musical revue Holiday Hotline staged by Detroit Avenue Arts. Margy Haas used the opportunity to tweak scenes from her play Sacred Hearts before its January production at Clague Playhouse. This July, short pieces by Dark Room writers will be represented in the 2006 Ingenuity Festival of Art & Technology.
IN DEVELOPMENT. Connections are being made. Former L.A. songwriter Milian France had a reading of her musical Warm Spanish Men at Weathervane Playhouse in Akron — with an audience of over 70, it was the best attended reading in their history. Kim Ceja’s musical Pale Mary is also getting a reading there in April.
PROCESS. We’re changing expectations. Pat Stansberry says, “Before the Dark Room, I came from the universe of fiction writing and the Iowa method of workshopping — group critique that can be at once constructive and destructive. After Dark Room, I’ve found that there’s another approach. The writer writes, of course, but the piece is only finished when we all take part in staging, critiquing, and applauding. Hearing people perform your words… well, that’s enough to keep you motivated.” From Kim Steele, who calls herself “the Bisexual Poet”: “I attended the very first showcase in March of 2005 and I’ve been hooked ever since. Can’t shout The Dark Room’s praises enough – you just have to come and see for yourself!”
The Dark Room, Orthodox, 6203 Detroit Ave., Cleveland, March 9 & 2nd Thursday of each month, 8 pm. http://www.detroitavenuearts.org. Participating artists: sign up by 7:30. Only rules: new work under 10 minutes, writer in the room. Bring enough copies for people to read or perform yourself. Suggested donation $5, $2 for CTC members.
Cool Cleveland contributor Linda Eisenstein is a founding member of the Dark Room. LindaATcoolcleveland.com

The Mad Mask Maker of Maigh Eo @ CPT 3/5
What: Christopher Johnson’s Yeats-inspired verse play based on Irish legends, with dances choreographed by Sarah Morrison and impressive masks by Scott Radke.
Reasons to go: There are some powerful images: Morrison’s opening solo as a dual-faced spirit is stunning, as is the appearance of a large demon puppet. Earthy Meg Chamberlain & fiery Derdriu Ring handle Johnston’s verse admirably, with Chamberlain adding needed humor to the dense text. Trad Burns’ lights are dramatic. All three actors move well, sometimes with more effect that the MorrisonDance company.
Caveats: As the embittered mask maker, actor Andrew Narten’s performance is far too small & internal for the large space; much of the time he’s barely audible, which greatly hampers comprehension of Johnston’s text. Though it’s an interesting idea for a collaboration, right now the dance sections are underdeveloped: other than the two major pieces that bookend the play, there’s not enough dance in this dance play. The effectiveness of the opening solo ultimately works against the play — it makes the long text sections feel wordy and static.
Backstory: Though it was included in DanceWorks, kudos go to both Johnston and Morrison for major do-it-yourself fundraising to get this on stage. Besides individual supporters, the sponsors include an armful of area Irish pubs.
Target audience: Audiences open to an unusual mixture of dance and theatre.
Details: Cleveland Public Theatre, 6415 Detroit Ave., Cleveland. 216-631-2727. http://www.cptonline.org. from Cool Cleveland contributor Linda Eisenstein LindaATcoolcleveland

Piano-Violin Recital @ Hanna Perkins Center 3/2 It’s always exciting to find a new venue for recitals or small-scale concerts. When this new venue presents impressive emerging artists, it’s an occasion for cheering. Such was the case last Thursday evening at the Hanna Perkins Center (formerly Malvern Elementary School) in Shaker Heights. Billed as ‘Magnificent Music’ the hour-long recital featured pianist Albert Mamriev and violinist Liana Gourdjia in a mixture of solos and duets. Although still young, these two musicians clearly have a busy musical future ahead of them.

Mr. Mamriev is currently a resident of Germany, and has been invited to play for that country’s new Chancellor in an upcoming concert. This recital was partly a tune-up for that anticipated gala event. He began with an authoritative performance of Santo Spirito Cavaliere by Franz Liszt. As one might expect, this is a bravura piece (a fantasy on motifs from Wagner’s Rienzi) requiring strict attention on the part of the soloist. Mr. Mamriev played all the cascading octaves crisply, while not neglecting the graceful interludes…
Read the review by Kelly Ferjutz here

Dueling Divas @ CIM 3/1 It is entirely possible that the real rivalry at the time of Mozart and Salieri was whether Italian or German was the better linguistic choice for opera. For an important state reception in honor of a visiting dignitary of the Netherlands on February 7, 1786, Austrian Emperor Joseph II commissioned a one-act opera from each of the two composers to be written in their respective languages. He also specified the theme.

Both are back-stage operas that feature opera singers auditioning for the same roles. Mozart came up with the brief Der Schauspieldirektor (The Impresario), K.486, a Singspiel or “play with music” and was of course, in German. It had singing roles for a vocal quartet, plus seven non-singing actors. Salieri produced Prima la Musica, Poi le Parole (First the Music, Then the Words)—a theatrical divertimento—for a vocal quartet that sings in Italian…
Read the review by Kelly Ferjutz 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 Wal-Mart & McDonald’s (See Wal-Mart & McDonalds employees on welfare & Medicaid here) Although the thought of employees not earning sufficient funds for basic living expenses is disgusting. There are basic economics to consider. We are in an “At Will” state. Employees are under no obligation to remain with any company or organization that doesn’t provide sufficient income, benefits and/or career path. If you don’t like the working conditions, seek alternatives. Regardless of limited alternatives available to the work force, companies cannot base compensation solely on local economic conditions or educational levels of the immediate market. Companies can only survive by meeting the demands of the consumers. Based on the desire for a low cost provider, consumers are driven to these stores. Would the consumers be willing to pay more or purchase less? Should the consumer families bear social burdens? The very reason these stores are popular and continue to grow is based on the ability of families to purchase items they could not previously afford. One could arguably suggest that the life style of middle America has improved as the direct result of these low cost providers. Companies and organizations must be profitable in order to support future growth,. Historical examples of societies that attempted to reallocate resources or wealth distribution have failed. Socialist economies limit risk takers, inventions and all but eliminate the entrepreneurial spirit. Who or what organization would invest in the pharmaceutical or health care industry if society dictated your return on investment. Society controlling the return or benefit of risk taking without limiting the potential loss will eliminate the very economy that is the envy of the world. The USA retains a 120 to 1 ratio of patents filed, as well as a significant advantage in new business creation. Limiting the return without a corresponding limit on the loss will not support a dynamic society. A social conscience should be based on all stakeholders, employees and the consumers. Let the voices of all stakeholders be heard with equal value.
from Cool Cleveland reader John Vincent PNJZATaol.com

I guess that coupled with the health care issues we are supposed to be shocked right? I find it interesting if not intellectually dishonest that the article does not show 1) where Wal-Mart and McDonalds fall on the list of the top 10 private employers in the state and 2) the percentage of employees of those companies that are part time workers. I think it is also dishonest that there is no mention of the volume tax dollars these companies pay into the system. I am neither a stockholder, employee or supplier to either of these companies and in point of fact, I do not patronize either with regularity but, you can not compare these giants who are career entry businesses (despite the fact that many are employed there because there are few alternatives) to employees of the State of Ohio, hospitals or high skilled industries. This is analogous to comparing Kmart with Nordstrom. We sure like to pile on don’t we?.
from Cool Cleveland reader Richard Boothroyd rboothroydATopusdesigninc.com

The Ohio Department of Job and Family Services issued a report Feb. 24 itemizing how many employees and their families use public benefits at 40 Ohio employers that appeared most frequently in the department’s data. The report covered Medicaid, food stamps and cash assistance in 2004 and 2005. Policy Matters Ohio, which had sought such data, reviews some of the highlights in a new report. Among the findings: 1) The state of Ohio is paying about $90 million a year to cover Medicaid costs for these 40 employers. 2) These 40 employers account for nearly one in 12 of those receiving family and children’s Medicaid coverage in Ohio. 3) Roughly 7 percent of Wal-Mart’s Ohio employees were receiving Medicaid in 2005. A greater share of families with Wal-Mart employees was receiving Medicaid once you include children who receive benefits when their parents do not. You can read our report, find a link to the ODJFS report, and read about our efforts to obtain such data here: http://www.policymattersohio.org/public_benefits_2006_03.htm.
from Cool Cleveland reader Jeff Miller, Policy Matters Ohio jmillerATpolicymattersohio.org

I would like to thank you for featuring my letter about the things I would miss about Cleveland if I had to relocate from here. I read the column about employees of McDonald’s and Wal Mart winding up on Medicaid. This has been going on for a long time and will continue until our policical leaders decide to do something about the nation’s health insurance problem. On that subject I can speak with authority. I currently work as an independent benefit specialist conducting employee benefit enrollments, meetings and advising employers about their employee benefit programs. I have been in the insurance business almost 30 years…
Read the letter from Lee Kamps here

On Regionalism (See Jackson pushes regionalism here) I think its an excellent idea. The only way for the region to compete globlally is through regional cooperation. We need to stop looking at Cleveland and surrounding suburbs as separate sovereign entities. Regionalism is the key to future economic prosperity.
from Cool Cleveland reader Doug Nobles sir2geesATyahoo.com

You are not seriously suggesting that the Mayor’s proposal is designed to benefit Akron or Youngstown. This is a money grab and until the city improves education, political process and services, no one is going to want to move companies with highly stratified compensation to Cleveland.
from Cool Cleveland reader Richard Boothroyd rboothroydATopusdesigninc.com

On WIRE-Net (See WIRE-Net tops in the US here) Thanks for picking up on the kudos to WIRE-Net. PolicyLink also recognized other Cleveland successes – the City’s landbank program for reutilizing vacant residential and commercial property for example, which is now being adapted by the Cleveland Department of Economic Development for business redevelopment of vacant/under utilized industrial property. While we appreciate the recognition that the Community Development Partnership’s Network gave us, the emphasis was clearly on just one aspect of our work – workforce development, training and job placement for adults. Our job placement and training work is only as strong as our relationships with over 200 manufacturing and related businesses, our understanding of their needs and opportunities, and our response to those needs with the right expertise, connections and support at the right time. This includes working with firms to enhance their competitiveness, and innovation, and work with City, State and other public sector partners to make sure that there are quality, connected urban business sites supported by modern infrastructure. This approach makes a great deal of economic and social sense, particularly in a slow or no-growth region like NE Ohio, where spraw just creates a more expensive development pattern supported by fewer residents and businesses.
from Cool Cleveland reader John Colm, President & Executive Director WIRE-Net johnATwire-net.org

On casinos (See Here come the casinos here) The idea of Casino’s concerns me. I understand the perceived benefits regarding increased revenues and keeping money at home that goes to Canada and Detroit. but have you gambled in Detroit? It is not pleasant and in no way has the fun and energy associated with a place like Las Vegas. In a town that is on the brink, but rising, like Cleveland, we should focus on opportunities to improve the arts, downtown, restaurants, shopping and bars. Positive ways to spend our money and our time in Cleveland is where are focus should be maintained. Gambling brings with it a whole host of problems. Spend some time in Detroit and feel the energy at the tables. Many of these people are playing for their lives and when they lose, they are not losing money on vacation or money they planned to lose; they are losing food money and money for their kids. I believe gambling in Cleveland can only lead us to this alternative. Personally, I do not want to head down the same path as Detroit. Let us continue to head down the path of towns like Louisville where they have 4th Street Live. Bringing in unique restaurants like Maker’s Mark and unique fun opportunities like a hip downtown bowling alley and bar. We are doing many of these things today with our own new area at 4th street. Let us be creative and positive. Let us not fall for the lowest common denominator by brining in Casino’s and all the problems they will bring. Staying focused on the Euclid project and other ways we are improving our town need time to bloom. Let us stay the course!
from Cool Cleveland reader Keith Garner tkgarnerATwowway.com

On the Sex Pistols in Cleveland (While the Sex Pistols are being inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, they are considering boycotting the ceremony in NYC because tix for their guests & families cost $2500 each. –TM) Is there any way Cleveland can get the Sex pistols to come to Cleveland for their induction to the Rock Hall of fame as part of their protest against their ill treatment at the NY ceremony? It would be a big plus for the Cleveland, and a foot in the door to get other artists to accept their honors here at the rock hall.
from Cool Cleveland reader Glenn Murray lgmurrayATnetzero.net

On Cleveland’s residency requirements No mention of these employees who signed the residency agreement when they were hired, now they say its “unconstitutional”? Did someone hold a gun to their head telling them if they wanted to be employed by the city of Cleveland they need to sign the agreement?
from Cool Cleveland reader Kevin Kubovcik kkubovcik1ATyahoo.com

On… well, actually… everything Fantastic site/concept/only emailed newsletter I have not banned to the perpetual spam box and continue to receive and read weekly/etc – in a nutshell – You’re bloody brilliant! Now, on to ME! I just had a couple ideas. Since it seems quite a few of my fellow readers insist on piping up only when they have negative things to share or to put someone in their place for whichever pompous reason of the moment, I’d like to see a collaborative story of sort made up of a top 10 list for the major cities across the nation people have actually lived – and it could serve a few purposes from idea sharing to what not to do to just saying, hey Clevelanders, this is why people belonging to so and so city think it’s pretty great, too…
Read the letter from Maria Vourliotis here

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) Cool Cleveland Commentary What reader Lee Kamps would miss.
www.CoolCleveland.com

2) Tix so Cool They’re Hot Another Cool Cleveland advertiser makes the Top 5!
http://www.ctix.org

3) Convention Center report available here
www.IAEM.org

4) Roldo blogs on poverty
http://www.squeakywheels.blogspot.com

5) Wal-Mart & McDonalds employees on welfare & Medicaid So the report says.
www.Cleveland.com

The Hard Corps are looking forward to the next party. They’ve been hard at work bringing you this issue. Well, every issue. Thanks to Peter Chakerian, Roxanne Ravenel, TL Champion, George Nemeth, Linda Eisenstein, Kelly Ferjutz, Roldo Bartimole 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. 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.

Are you getting squared?

–Thomas Mulready
Letters@CoolCleveland.com

all contents ©2006 MulreadyGROUP all rights reserved
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