Cool Cleveland 02.25-03.01.04 <<Endorsements?

Cool Cleveland endorsements for March 2 election

For County Commissioner: Tim McCormack Let's face it, either challenger (and former Commissioner) Tim Hagan, or incumbent Tim McCormack would do well for Cuyahoga County in the County Commissioner position. Both are conscientious, decent people who want the best for the county. Both possess solid experience and knowledge. But this race comes down to style of leadership. Hagan feels most comfortable with the deal-making approach that brought us Gateway and Browns Stadium, both valuable public assets that the community now wishes our public officials had negotiated more effectively for (Gateway just recently re-wrote a lease that was disasterous for the public, and no one likes the Stadium taking up valuable lakefront land for 13 events a year). While McCormack is rightly criticized for his prickly personality, his community-based approach and his instincts to question publicly last year's ill-advised convention center proposal have created ire amongst the banks and big-money business interests who are now trying to defeat him by backing Hagan (after they spent $15 million against Hagan in his recent bid against Bob Taft for Governor). In retrospect, McCormack was right on the biggest recent issue to face our community (the convention center), and, interestingly, those who supported Taft against Hagan are probably regretting that decision. Tim Hagan would make a great Governor, and maybe if Taft continues his downward slide...

Vote YES on Issue 30 Nothing is more important to the county than our health and human services, and the best part of this levy is that it will generate $57 million a year for job training, home health care for seniors, children and family services, and mental health treatment, all without raising a cent of your taxes. This is a renewal levy, and it is desperately needed because of recent federal and state cuts.

Vote YES on Issue 31 Let's see, an economic development issue that promises to promote entrepreneurship (in this town that desperately needs to develop small & mid-sized businesses), cleans up brownfields (what's our alternative-- rip down more soybean fields and ship more jobs overseas?) and supports arts and culture (our region's greatest assets), and it will cost the owner of a $100K home less than $2 a month? I'm sorry, if you can't figure this one out on your own, reading Cool Cleveland ain't going to help you.

Vote YES on your library levy Not every community is a part of the Cuyahoga County Library system, so this issue won't be on everyone's ballot, but those who are should support this necessary measure. Cleveland has recently been ranked tops in the country in the quality of our libraries, and this is exactly the type of quality-of-life issue that has a positive effect on everyone. Children have an alternative to junk pop culture and the street, parents find an affordable place for books, magazines, videos and entertainment, small business owners take advantage of top quality research. If you live in most areas of Cuyahoga County, Akron-Summit County, Portage County, Elyria, Fairport Harbor, North Ridgeville, and Willoughby/Eastlake, you should support your local library.

Vote YES on your school levy Because of Ohio's unconstitutional method of funding schools, these levys are always necessary, and usually it is recommended that the community vote for them. Occasionally, a school district gets off track and the community is right to turn their tax request down (as happened in the last election in Cleveland Hts/University Hts), but this time around, few controversies exist. If you live in Brecksville/Broadview Hts, Euclid, Garfield Hts, Independence, Lakewood, Parma, South Euclid/Lydhurst, or Cleveland Hts/University Hts, we recommend voting YES on your school levy. Nothing else has such a direct impact so close to home. Lakewood in particular has done an outstanding job of working in a three-year long, community-wide effort to determine their needs and craft a solution.

Vote YES on Lakewood Issue 10 Last year, Lakewood city leaders blundered by using the threat of eminent domain to take property for a necessary economic development initiative known as the West End Project. By designating desireable area as "blighted," they succeeded in enlarging opposition from a handful of residents to over 50% of the electorate, who defeated the project last fall. Now comes the revenge, with an initiative to remove the "blight" designation. Voting YES will remove the designation and allow the community to take a new approach to collaborative economic development. Maybe they should ask their schools how to do it.

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I Love Downtown! Check out a dozen exciting housing projects in or near Downtown Cleveland, plus enjoy brunch or dinner at several restaurants on Sun 2/29 from 1-5PM. Tickets for this trolley tour are available by calling 771-1994, or at the start of the tour which will depart Sun 2/29 at 1 PM at Fat Fish Blue. ou can also just show up at the open houses! Get a sneak peak at the Pointe at Gateway, 1 and 2 bedroom condominiums at 750 Prospect Ave that are the newest addition to this downtown neighborhood. One bedroom units start at $77,900 and two bedroom units start at $129,900. Next, check out the Grand Arcade at 408 W. St. Clair; these nearly-sold-out 1 and 2 bedroom condos offer exposed brick, central air and lofted bedrooms starting at $79,900. Then, stop in at the Sincere Building at E. 4th/Prospect (after Sunday brunch at Pickwick and Frolic!). You can catch great views from the large windows, and there are marble baths, oak hardwood floors, plus two bedrooms and two baths. Starting at $269,900, these units place comfortable luxury within reach. http://www.progressiveurban.com
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A Cool Cleveland exclusive: Mayor Campbell supports Issue 31''' At 3PM today, Mayor Jane Campbell is expected to make a public announcement in support of Issue 31, according to Chief Public Affairs Officer Lorna Wisham. Her support makes perfect sense since a majority of arts and culture institutions are within city limits. She delayed the announcement of her support because she was waiting for the Commissioners to outline their plan for the specifics of Issue 31, which they did at their meeting on 2/24. The Mayor should find reciprocal support from the arts community for her Cleveland Public Schools measure, which will be on the ballot in November.

The regional economic impact of arts The arts are a powerful economic source, attracting out-of-county visitors which generated $94 million in regional economic impact and more than 2,200 jobs. "I think this information will help us pass Issue 31. It illustrates in raw numbers the real economic impact the arts have on Cuyahoga County and its job base," said campaign manager Chris Carmody. More info here.

Big business backs Hagan with $154,925 and $100,000 of it spent on one TV ad. National City CEO Dave Daverko, Progressive's Chairman Peter B. and Gordon Gund all ponied up $10K a piece. Invacare's Mal Nixon added $5K to the pot. Arm twisting at NCB also netted Hagan an additional $12,500. More info here.

Why is Nader running? If Kucinich and Nader are such good friends, why is Nader running as an independent candidate for the White House? Because Kucinich has stayed in the field as a Democrat, he has kept the left in the party. Nader will have less appeal in '04 than he did in '00, since so many people are intent on an "electable" alternative to Bush. More info here.

We heart Kucinich here "I still believe I've got a shot at this," Kucinich said last week, but his campaign is no longer about being the Democratic nominee for president. His opportunity is to attract and retain voters, and to influence the Democratic platform. Rather than berate him, the Democratic party should thank him and work with him to keep him from bolting and mounting an Independent candidacy. here.

Free Times election endorsements Don't just pay attention to TV ads and the major media. When you go to vote, read everything you can, including the endorsements of alternative sources as well. The Free Times comes out in favor of Issues 30 & 31, & John Kerry for Prez. Read their endorsements here. And read their profiles of County Commissioner candidates Tim Hagan here, and Tim McCormack here.

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Progressive politics and culture abound this spring at Trinity Cathedral. Hear Ray Suarez, senior correspondent for PBS's NewsHour and former host of NPR's Talk of the Nation speak on "Politics and Religion: The Two Forbidden Topics" Wed 3/3; tickets are $12, $10 for public radio and TV members, and $5 for students. Get ready for Sister Helen Prejean, the anti-death penalty activist who was played by Susan Sarandon in the Oscar-winning film Dead Man Walking; she's preaching Sun 4/4 at 11:15AM on Palm Sunday. Jay Walljasper, the editor of the progressive monthly Utne will give a talk Wed 5/12 at 7:30PM. If music's your thing, show up for a discussion of God in the music of the legendary band U2, Tuesday evenings at 7PM beginning Tues 3/2 thru 4/6. Trinity Cathedral, E. 22nd & Euclid, 771-3630. Free lighted parking, adjacent to the building off Prospect. www.TrinityCleveland.org
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Preserving resources Officials agree on how to proceed with one of the largest urban stream restorations ever attempted in the country. Plans involve returning two miles of Doan Brook into a free-flowing waterway along Martin Luther King Jr. Drive from University Circle to Lake Erie. More info here.

Arts orgs and patrons carrying the burden If Issue 31 passes, the region can thank Cleveland's major arts organizations for the ensuing positive economic impact. While the Commissioners are pushing hard for Issue 30 Health & Human Services, Issue 31 has been in the hands of the arts community. And they have come through with cash contributions to the campaign: Playhouse Square Foundation contributed $50K, the Rock Hall $25K, Great Lakes Science Center $15K, and the Cleveland Play House $5K. All told, over 187 individuals have made significant contributions as well. If Issue 31 passes, look to the arts as the new up-and-coming power base in the region. More info here.

Privacy is paramount Citizens should know about investigations supported by the U.S. Patriot Act that not only subjects library patrons' records to scrutiny, but also keeps librarians from revealing such investigations. "This is a horrible thing to do to public libraries and bookstores and the American public," said Pamela Bonnell-Mihalis, director of the Elyria Public Library. More info here.

Roldo bounces back Cleveland writer and Cool Cleveland columnist Roldo Bartimole called to say he is "doing pretty well, surprisingly so..." since he underwent major heart surgery last Friday. Best wishes for a speedy recovery.

Michigan Cool Cities Wake up, Cleveland! We should be doing a survey like this one Michigan put out to attract young professionals. See www.MichiganCoolCities.com

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It's a BlackCoat blowout! Designed in Cleveland and made in the USA, Koyono's mysteriously new BlackCoat is the ultimate raincoat/overcoat alternative for (Cool) Cleveland's mobile and creative professional. Its uncompromising simplicity and quality balance Style, Performance and Utility. It can be worn for business or casual, has great adaptability with its 3-in-1 design, and is equipped with 11 compartments to hold everything from your PDA, mobile phone, MP3 player, airline tickets, and even a small laptop. Koyono will be selling the Black Coat? a la carte (shell and vest liner separate), as well as the already popular Slimmy wallet (The Slimmest Wallet on Earth) at Beachwood Mall until the middle of March. For a limited time only, buy the BlackCoat Hytrel shell for $199.00 and get the vest for FREE. That's a $200 savings! PS - word on the street is that the BlackCoat may be on TV and/or in a movie or two. Now get movin'! Call 556-0802 or 496-3702 http://www.koyono.com
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AFL-CIO and UAW on board with Issue 31 Unions are jumping in at the last minute to support Issue 31, endorsing it even though they are in disagreement over the county commissioner race. More info here.

Momentum sought in campaign for arts, development tax County Commissioners want to find ways to create a countywide cultural district, allowing greater control over future levies and funding mechanisms for arts and culture in our region. We should have done this years ago. More info here.

Building in the Flats Cleveland developer Doug Price and K&D Group Inc. partner Bob Corna are planing to build a 100,000-square-foot structure in the Flats at the northeast corner of Center Street and Washington Avenue. More info here.

One woman speaks out Women are taught to trust and believe in their physicians. When that trust is broken, it affects not only the doctor/patient relationship, but all subsequent interactions on an intimate and psychological level. Read the PD's Regina Brett's incredible local story of abuse of that trust, affecting over 100 women. More info here.

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Induction party in Cleveland Tired of watching the censored 1-hour version of the Rock Hall Induction Ceremony on TV with all the good parts edited out? Come down to the the center of it all on Mon 3/15 for a live simulcast of the 19th Annual Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony, available only in Cleveland. Catch the warm-ups and the screw-ups, the sound checks and the air checks. Catch all the colorful commentary, celebrity cameos, and the complete 4-hour show, including unedited performances by inductees and presenters. At the Rock Hall, you'll be the first to see the 2004 Inductee exhibit and party in style. Tickets are only $10. The broadcast begins at 8PM, doors at 7PM. 241-5555 www.RockHall.com
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The Art Fix: call for artists It's an electronic bulletin with no other purpose than becoming a venue of free and alternative promotion and distribution of art and literature. It is not a representing art agency, nor does it charge fees for promotion. They don't sell or get commissions for the sales of artwork, books, bobbleheads, washing machines, kitchenware or puppies resulting from their efforts. Art Fix is created by and brought to you by Augusto Fine Art. For info contact aborelois@parkworks.org.

RTA plans public hearings The Greater Cleveland Regional Transit Authority has scheduled three community meetings in early March to discuss plans for its Euclid Corridor Transportation Project. Ground is to be broken late this year on the reconstruction of Euclid Avenue, which will involve building bus-only and bicycle-only lanes. The first meeting is Wed 3/3, 5:30-7PM, RTA's Hayden Garage, 1661 Hayden Ave., East Cleveland. The last two meetings will be in Cleveland Thu 3/4, 4-5:30PM, at RTA headquarters, 1240 West Sixth St., and Thu 3/11, 6-7:30PM, at Liberty Hill Baptist Church, 8206 Euclid Ave. More info here.

Moving Minds: Verse and Vision Project poetry call out. The Regional Transit Authority and PWLGC are working creating a series of bus cards to be displayed in 700 buses that travel the city each day. Each written piece will be accompanied by artwork designed by the American Institute of Graphic Arts Cleveland Chapter. Writers can submit four to six pieces, not to exceed eight lines each, legibly typed on standard 8.5x11 white paper (no email submissions). Include author's name, address, phone number, and email address on each page. If the submitted writing has been previously published, please indicate where and when. Twelve entries will be selected in this pilot series and will be the first of several bus card projects with the RTA. Work will not be returned. For notification of selected writers include a SASE. Deadline for entries is Mon 3/15 Mail to: RTA Bus Cards, c/o Poets' and Writers' League of Greater Cleveland, 12200 Fairhill Road, Townhouse 3A, Cleveland, OH 44120.

Film Fest features Cleveland filmmakers The "Local Heroes" section of the Cleveland International Film Festival (coming up 3/18 to 3/28) will feature 10 filmmakers who grew up in our region. Let's hope there's not another network-broadcast reality show sponsored by the U.S. government to compete with the Film Fest this year. Last year, opening night fell on the evening of the opening day of the U.S. invasion of Iraq. More info here

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Mobsters and Molls: don't be sold-out! Now you can do good while having fun in your finest gangster wear at the Jump Back Ball. For 13 years, it's been Cleveland's #1 fundraiser for young professionals, benefiting Playhouse Square. Enjoy dinner, fine cocktails and ongoing entertainment throughout the evening Sat 2/28 at the State Theatre where you'll jive to the Cleveland Jazz Orchestra, the Dukes of Wail, Redline, and DJ Scott E. Jones. Black tie is optional! You'll have the chance to rub shoulders with all the hip and busy movers and shakers of Cleveland. Lead sponsors are National City and Armada Funds. Order tickets now, as the Jump Back Ball sells out every year. Send e-mail to <a href="partners2@playhousesquare.com partners2@playhousesquare.com]] or call the Jump Back Ball hotline at 216-348-5267, or visit www.playhousesquarepartners.com
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A firmer foundation Northeast Ohio foundations have always pumped millions into the region's art, education and social welfare projects. However, they are realizing that their money is ill-spent unless it can help impact the regions ecconomic climate. So, for the first time ever, they are working together to determine a region-wide agenda and throw some serious money into it. And remember, foundations can do whatever they want with their money, so they are relatively nonplussed by current political or popular opinion. More info here.

Students visit Cleveland Convention & Visitors Bureau of Greater Cleveland employee Kathy Toth relayed that much of the recent tourist growth spurt in Cleveland was due to an increase in student travel, which now represents about half of the local market. "I think after 9/11, we're considered safe and midwestern," she said. More info here.

Art profoundly impacts the brain Scientists know that art deeply affects activity of the human brain. Exactly what that activity signifies, and what it says about art or about humans, is an open question. "Neuroaestheticians... imagine that, over time, these kinds of studies will become more and more precise: They hope to get ever-finer detail about what happens in the brain in an ever-growing range of aesthetic situations." Read it at www.WashingtonPost.com

State of the City? Not many were inspired by Mayor Jane Campbell's State of the City address last week. While admirably keeping the focus on visionary development of the Lakefront, the upcoming Euclid Corridor project linking Downtown and University Circle, and necessary Downtown housing, many felt the speech was weak on motivation and specifics, especially in the short-term. More info here.

Psychologist finds answer to why luck happens Why do some people get all the luck while others never get the breaks they deserve? Read about the findings a psychologist says he has discovered. More info here.

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Issue 31 for museums, theatre, music & dance It'll provide vital support for Cuyahoga County's arts and culture community, and Issue 31 includes money for economic development projects that will create and preserve jobs in our region. Passing the levy will help us: * Clean up contaminated land so local businesses can stay here and continue to grow; * Assist local businesses who want to invest in new jobs here with low interest loans; * Help small businesses invest in developing new products; * Bring new dollars to our community by making it a destination for the world. According to County Commissioner Jimmy Dimora, "Northeast Ohio must rebuild our region with a diverse employment base if we are to survive and stem the tide of jobs leaving our local economy. Economic development is the only sure cure to future growth." On March 2, vote FOR Issue 31 and visit www.Issue31.org
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Cool Cleveland This Week
'2.25-3.3'

The Czech Nonet Celebrating their 80th Anniversary, the nine member ensemble is one of the oldest chamber ensembles touring today. Renown for their long and successful history and instrumentation, the ensemble formed in 1924 at the Prague Conservatory, providing a colorful supply of dramatic sonority of chamber orchestra with the intimacy of a string quartet Wed 2/25 at 7:30PM. For info 888-CMA-0033. Cleveland Museum of Art, 11150 East Blvd. http://www.clevelandart.org

Wick Poetry Reading Series with Herbert Woodward Martin, providing poetry reading and a performance of "Paul Laurence Dunbar: The Eyes of a Poet" Wed 2/25 at 7:30PM. This event is free and open to the public. Kent State University, African Community Theatre at Oscar Ritchie Hall. Get more info on Cleveland's poets and the Wick Poetry reading series at http://dept.kent.edu/wick

Walls, Wires, Wells exhibition explores the elements of a relationship; see Cleveland's own Brenda Stumpf unveil her new multi-media effort The Passage comprised of piano keys, miscellaneous piano parts, plant matter, acrylic, oil and sand. It's guaranteed to jump start your perceptions of art Thu 2/26, show runs till 3/21. Pavanna Gallery, 2250 Professor St. 771-9811

Reinventing the Economy of Northeast Ohio Join Case Weatherhead and local leaders in crafting solutions to the revitalization of NE Ohio; it's your opportunity to impact the future of our region. Start it off with lunch and keynote address from Ronnie Bryant, expert on regional development and President and Chief Operation Officer of the Pittsburg Regional Alliance. Panel discussion moderated by Ed Morrison includes Paul Alsenas, Director, Cuyahoga County Planning Commission representing Sustainability and Thomas Mulready, creator of Cool Cleveland representing Arts and Entertainment; be there Fri 2/27 starting 11AM-5PM; following the panel will be breakout discussions. The Sheraton Cleveland City Center Hotel, 777 St. Clair Ave. Call 800-321-1090. http://www.weatherhead.case.edu/wbs

Leadership for a Changing World hosting an online event and interview with Lily Yeh from Washington, DC - join in on Leadership Talks for a live, online interview with 2003 Leadership for a Changing World awardee Lily Yeh, Founder and Executive Director of the Village of Arts & Humanities. The Village is a multi-faceted, community-based organization using arts and the art of leadership to help people transform communities. The Village has refurbished abandoned homes, constructed new ones, created after-school programs, a youth theater, a crafts center, and 14 parks. Get involved Fri 2/27 at 1PM. For info sbobb@advocacy.org call or 202-777-7563.

Friends Program: Annual Fireside Dinner Join the Friends of the Nature Center for the annual Fireside Dinner. Gather around the fireplace with delicious food and community of friends Fri 2/27 at 6:30PM; bring a side dish to share, drinks and main dish are provided. It's open to the public, and last year's event was sold out so register early. RSVP required. Call 321-5935 ext. 236 to sign up, to tell us what you will bring and/or if you'd like to help. http://www.shakerlakes.org

Curve Series Installation by Kori Newkirk, a Los Angeles artist who has gained critical acclaim for his mixed media paintings and sculpture installations of urban landscapes. Created with products of various cultural signifiers most often associated the with African American community, he'll mold hair pomade to create artful murals Fri 2/27 6-9PM at MOCA. For info call 421-8671. 8501 Carnegie Ave. http://www.MOCAcleveland.org

Glengarry Glen Ross? from Charenton Theatre Company which produced the Cemetery Tour all over Cleveland last summer is making a couple stops as part of its Business Tour. See free performances of David Mamet's startling Glengary, Glen Ross? Fri 2/27 and Sat 2/28 starting 8PM. Charenton will resourcefully transform the Center's facility into the backdrop of the play. Seating is limited, and the show gets packed - it's first-come, first-served only. The Lesbian Gay Community Center, 6600 Detroit Ave. For info visit http://www.charenton.org

Small Monuments @ The Sky Lounge Check out the inaugural exhibitions with small format paintings and drawings exposing the relationship between monuments, as well as private and public spaces Fri 2/27 from 6-9PM. MOCA, 8501 Carnegie Ave. 421-8671 http://www.MOCAcleveland.org

African American Organizations Entrepreneurial Empowerment Circle meeting, with topics focusing on Minority Certification. Panelists include Lee Fields, Dominion East Ohio, Carolyn Lee, National City Bank and Alexis Clark-Amison, Charter One Bank and NOMBC representative. Woodrow Marcus will speak on 3D Visual Concepts and refreshments will be provided Fri 2/27 starting 9:30AM. It's the first EEC meeting for the 2004 season; for those who have never attended the EEC meeting before, call 774-2282 to receive info on location. http://www.caao.net

Affordable Housing Design: Can It Be Green? Find out about incorporating green building techniques while reducing operating and maintenance costs and making housing healthier. Participants will learn from affordable housing projects that incorporate green building techniques, with discussions on site selection through design, financing, permitting, construction and tenant education. Local resources will be showcased including organizations, contractors and lenders promoting and/or working with green buildings Fri 2/27 from 8:30AM-12PM. Free and open to the public, but registration is required at urban.csuohio.edu/forum/housing or register by calling 523-7330. The Atrium, Maxine Goodman Levin College of Urban Affairs, Cleveland State University, 1717 Euclid Ave

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Making Change The team at REI@Weatherhead includes researchers and consultants who work with engaged members of the public on key economic development initiatives. At Case Western Reserve University's Center for Regional Economic Issues, we're making change. Coming up, a Making Change Workshop at the brilliant Peter B. Lewis Building, following up on the 11/20/03 meeting on Making Change: Networks for our Innovation Economy. Not a typical discussion of the problems of the region, but a workshop for getting things done in Northeast Ohio. Join in a collaborative, open-source process for developing creative solutions along with others determined to support innovation through dialogue and inclusion. Join us Fri 3/12 from 11am to 4PM in Room 21 of the Peter B. Lewis Building on the campus of CWRU. For more info, send e-mail to . Visit http://weatherhead.case.edu/rei
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Issue 31 party at Touch Join your fellow arts supporters at the dance party of the week! Free admission! Featuring the talents of DJ Go, DJ Impure and DJ Whatever, the sublime environs of Touch Supper Club will be host to a happening scene of dancing, great food and discount drinks. Hang out and support Issue 31 at the same time Sat 2/28 from 9PM-2AM. Touch Supper Club, 2710 Lorain Ave, 631-5200 www.TouchSupperClub.com

Mindo's Cloud Forest Mindo is located in Ecuador's cloud forests and it's one of the most diverse and breath-taking ecosystems in the world. Join naturalist Tim Krynak for a visit to Reserva Las Gralarias, a private reserve set aside to protect endemic birds. Tim will speak about his adventure and share his experiences as a volunteer Sat 2/28 from 7:30-9PM. For info 440-449-0511. North Chagrin Nature Center at North Chagrin Reservation, off Sunset Lane, off Rt 91 in Mayfield Village. www.CleMetParks.com

ART-Y GRAS Benefit includes a "Saint or Sinner" costume contest with grand cash award, but show up for the great food spread, mojo, libations, live bands and art while mixing it up with the artists Sat 2/28 from 8PM till midnight. And if you're an artist, bring an art piece to sell. If interested in displaying your art, bring it to the Whatnot Coffee Shop (16001 Waterloo Rd.) by Feb 25th or 26th. Call Joan for details 383-9468. The Bratenahl Community Center, 10300 Brighton Rd.

Jump Back Ball Mobsters and Molls 13th Annual Jump Back Ball is Playhouse Square Partners' primary annual fundraising event. It's a creative black tie affair with a reputation that has grown to become one of the "hottest" events in town wrapped in a creative spirit of irreverence. Boasting sell-out crowds for the past five years, it's become one of the most anticipated events of the season and is an exciting event the whole community can be involved in. Get in on Cleveland's most amazing event of the year on Sat 2/28. Playhouse Square Center, 1501 Euclid Ave. For info 348-5267 http://www.playhousesquare.com

Amy's View Cleveland premier Can a marriage of theatre and film survive in our time? Find out as David Hare's acclaimed drama explores the conflicts between three generations while weighing the impact of the arts on relationships. The Times calls it "A diffuse, incisive, funny, moving, difficult, fascinating play." See it Sat 2/28 at 8PM; show runs thru 3/21. 1846 Coventry Rd in Cleveland Hts. For reservations call 932-3396 and visit http://www.dobama.org

31 Hours of Artists At Work for Issue 31 Location is still being discussed, but the artists are ready to go for 31 hours straight to support Issue 31. Artists confirmed include: the band Cats On Holiday, Cleveland Shakespeare Festival, Great Lakes Theater Festival, a group of Actors Equity Association members, Ensemble Theatre, Cleveland Contemporary Dance Theatre, Bodwin Theatre Company, Bad Epitaph Thatre Company, Cleveland Play House, Red Hen Productions, plus Flanagan's Wake and Irish musicians, All Others Theatre (Tony Sias), Living Legacy (Rasheryl McCreary), jazz singer Shirley Cook, Bluescasters blues band, muralist John Rivera Resto, Ukranian dance troupe and egg painter, Prester Pickett of the CSU African American studies, and New World Performance Lab. Stay tuned for details. www.Issue31.org

Erykah Badu swings onto the stage with her smooth vocals, indefinable style and bluesy vibe that will move you out of your winter funk Sun 2/29 starting 7PM. Opening act is the British duo Floetry. State Theatre at Playhouse Square, 1501 Euclid Ave. Call 771-4444. For online tickets go to http://www.tickets.com

Russian Blue Assistant Concertmaster of the Cleveland Orchestra, Lev Polyakin, stretches out with his Jazz Quintet, Russian Blue. Polyakin has appeared as soloist with the Moscow Chamber Orchestra, London Mozart Players, Royal Philharmonic, and the Cleveland Orchestra. He's also released two jazz albums with the group; check it Sun 2/29 at Night Town. 12383 Cedar Rd in Cleveland Hts. 795-0550. http://www.nighttowncleveland.com

Soulstice Celebrate leap year with the rare live performance of Gina Rene and dj Mei Lwun bringing in their San Francisco electronica for a sexy and soulful evening Sun 2/29 starting 9PM. Twist Social, 11633 Clifton Blvd. 221-2333. http://www.om-records.com/artist_bios/soulstice.html

Big Bop Nouveau featuring Maynard Ferguson rolling into Night Town; he's one of the all time masters of the trumpet and of the Big Band format. Ferguson, at 75, is stronger than ever, playing over 200 concerts a year and performing all over the world. He first emerged on the jazz scene as a star soloist with Stan Kenton's band in the early 50's. Don't miss this dynamic night of jazz Mon 3/1 for two shows at 7PM & 9PM. 12387 Cedar Road in Cleveland Hts. For tickets or info 795-0550. http://www.nighttowncleveland.com

What's your story? Everyone listens to a good story, and if you'd like to know how to tell yours so that your employees, clients and potential clients will listen, come to the March Ryze Cleveland business mixer. Professional storyteller Chris King of Creative Keys will be leading a discussion titled "How to Develop and Tell Your Business Story". This cool networking event is being held at one of Cleveland's hottest spots - Moda Nightclub on Wed 3/3 from 5:30-9PM. As if that weren't enough, there'll also be appetizers by Kimo's Sushi Shop. For details, visit http://clevelandevent.ryze.com.

What's the top rated program on WCLV 104.9? Consistently, it's Karl Haas' "Adventures in Good Music", weekdays at 10AM. During this hour-long "armchair musicology" show, Karl communicates his knowledge and love of music in his unique, engaging manner. You don't have to know anything about classical music to enjoy AIGM, and you will probably come away with a better appreciation of what it's all about. Karl has been doing his thing on WCLV since 1970, although he started it all on WJR in Detroit in 1959. Over the years, he's garnered two Peabody Awards (the Oscars of broadcasting) and the National Endowment for the Humanities Charles Frankel Award. There's more information about Karl Haas on WCLV's web site http://www.wclv.com. Click on "Karl Haas". a Cool Cleveland partner

Blog's Eye View
What are cool Clevelanders writing on the web?

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Ed Sotelo, the guitarist of Cobra Verde blogs at http://ulysses1970.blogspot.com: 'We begin the arduous task of hauling the heavy boxes that make our rock n' roll job possible...I only mention this particular act of kindness not because it's unheard of, but becoming rarer and rarer by the day in the world of rock music which I inhabit. I can nod my head somewhat reluctantly as I agree with critics that "rock is back", but at this point it's one big hungry showbiz fish devouring another little one. It used to be we were all in this together. I'm not a big advocate of 'scenes', or the even more dusty axiom of 'unity in the scene', but I miss the bonhomie (a new word I learned from NPR. Thanks, guys!) of playing music that's so remote from most people's internal jukebox that we were forced to stick together. I think of rock music as a shared culture—as when I hear old-time punk rockers talk about the good old days of touring, drinking, fighting, smoking, or what have you, and in turn feeling part of the same historical contiuum and/or tradition...

Read Blog's Eye View this week

Tuning In: Art Rock

Lyz Bly has labored to bring quality visual arts exhibitions to the campus gallery environs, featuring opening night festivities replete with DJs, spoken word and movement artists (these used to be called poets and dancers) and delightfully hard-rocking bands. Art Rock Cleveland is the latest exhibition at BK Smith gallery and ups the volume level once again with visual art pieces produced by Cleveland-based band members, curated by lyricist/vocalist Jason Byers of the thrashingly sonic Disengage. For fans of rock accustomed to hearing their fave local bands generate sounds, experiencing such visual creations as surveillance-camera installation, plush covered television sets, war tanks made from suet, or paintings both beautiful and disturbing should prove an entertaining enigma.

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Issue 31 needs your help! Want to be in on the inside of the region's most important new initiative? Raise your hand to volunteer. The campaign needs your energy and enthusiasm. Do you have a mailing list? Send a message to your list on Mon 3/1 to remind them to vote on Election Day: Tues 3/2. Write a letter to the editor of your local newspaper. Send your contributions to: Cuyahoga County Cultural Committee, c/o Andrew E. Randall, Treasurer, US Bank, 1350 Euclid Avenue #1100, Cleveland, Ohio 44115. Or, you can even donate directly on the web site. On March 2, vote FOR Issue 31 and visit: http://www.Issue31.org
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Kucinich Beat

If You Don't Vote for Dennis, Your Vote Might Not Count at All

Read Kucinich Beat by Charlene Coates

Cool Cleveland Interview: Seth Gordon

Cool Cleveland contributor Tom Perrino talks with native New Yorker and Cleveland transplant Seth Gordon, Director of New Play Development at the Cleveland Playhouse.

Do you feel that a vibrant arts scene can resuscitate a great, old midwestern dame like Cleveland? Seth Gordon: Absolutely! It's been proven in the past that the arts are what people are looking for when they decide what city they want to live in. They're looking for livability and fun, interesting and provocative things to do. The arts definitely fall into that category. People want a museum they can go to, people want an orchestra they can go to, people want theatres they can go to, people want places they can take their children, a place they can feel good about raising children. And the arts also make people better individuals....

Read Tom Perrino's interview with Seth Gordon

Instant Karma Qwik reviews of last week's events

Vincent in Brixton A touching and peculiar love story of Vincent van Gogh and Ursula Loyer...the story helps us imagine Vincent before he started painting, before he "eventually turned into someone who would become first of all a genius and second of all an emotionally desperate person." This desperate personality is evident early in the play and contributes to Vincent's romantic attachment..."

Read the review by Tom Perrino

Why Wi Fi? @ City Club 2/18 Once again the mystery and magic of the ubiquitous Wi Fi? attracted a standing room throng at the City Club to find out how this cutting edge technology can translate into a good business practice, and more importantly, profits. With co-sponsorship of the event by Cleveland.com and Bright.net, the multitude was further ensured, but it was the advertised full title, "Why Wi-Fi: How the wireless Internet will transform your business" that really brought the curious crowd...

Read the review by Steve Goldberg

Creative Arts & Industries at REI@Weatherhead 2/20 Eye opening presentations of digital technology applied by Cleveland companies to real world situations were witnessed by a fortunate 15 people who attended the Creative Arts & Industries 2004 forum. Held at the Weatherhead School of Management Peter B. Lewis Building on Fri 2/20, it was the first of three days of activities co-sponsored by New Center for Art and Technology (NewCAT) and Weatherhead's Center for Regional Economic Issues (REI). The finale, on Sun 3/22, was the opening of a digital art show, bits&pieces@PBL. Co-sponsored by NewCAT and BizArt, a Weatherhead student art group, the show is open for public viewing between 1-4PM on Saturdays and Sundays. A "Making Change" event, this was the first of Weatherhead's Interactive Design & Technologies Forum planned to be held quarterly...

Read review by Lee Batdorf

Redheaded Step Child 2/21 @ Riders Inn A raw, edgy, full bodied voice reminiscent of Janis Joplin, Redheaded Stepchild's lead singer, Kathryn Koch kicked off the first song on the last stop the band would make before returning to their home in Buffalo, New York. Known for their blending of old folk, blues, jazz and bluegrass, Kathryn, along with partner David Nanni and guest bass play Jim Kuras flawlessly blended traditional folk tunes, (many which were discovered in the local library), with original ballads and lively bluegrass tunes like Lady with the Blue Dress On.

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Little Steven's Underground Garage @ Beachland Ballroom 2/21 Coming so close to the anniversary of the Moondog Coronation Ball and the Beachland's own fourth birthday, it would have been nothing less than shocking had the road show version of Little Steven's syndicated radio program not delivered the goods. From the psychedelic light show lashing on the walls to the prominently displayed go go dancers (actually dancers from the Badda Bing Gentlemen's Club sans brass poles, but you had to admire their, um, enthusiasm), the night was full of surprises. What made the night memorable to the sold out crowd, however, was not the bare midriffs and lava lamp visuals, but primal rock served by devotees of three chord poetry.

Read review by Sean Rapacki

Yr Turn Cool Cleveland readers write

On Cool Cleveland "Once again, you make my day!! Where to begin, I really treasure the days that Cool Cleveland arrives in my e-mail box. Having grown up in Northeastern Ohio and gone to college with many Clevelandites (KSU —Rah, Rah— and yes I was there while the Robert Smithson work was still intact!!) I still feel a melancholy attachment to the "big" city we would visit often as children. Mr. Jing-a-Ling and Captain Penny (oh right, and Woodrow the Woodsman) aside; Cleveland is so much a part of my upbringing in Ohio it is like being Italian and Catholic and an honorary Clevelander at all once. A staggering combination to be sure. Thank heavens for my winning personality and my Sicilian charms... Keep up the good work, you have given us all a reason to log in on any day!!" from Cool Cleveland reader Susan dePasquale, Director, Visual Arts Program, Ohio Arts Council, Columbus Susande@columbus.rr.com

Top 5

We use IdeaStar.com tools to track which articles were clicked the most. Here are the Top 5 from last week's issue, with one more chance for you to click.

1) Back to the city Just six months after moving to the suburbs, one couple is headed back to Cleveland. Find out why here

2) Exclusive interview with Antwone Fisher Author, poet, screenwriter and Cleveland native Antwone Fisher attracted more than 400 people to Shaker Heights Public Library on February 4 to celebrate the selection of his book Finding Fish by the North Coast Neighbors Share a Book program. Read it here

3) Who to vote for for those of you who can't decide, visit www.residentmatch.com http://www.presidentmatch.com/Main.jsp2?cp=main, take the test, and send Cool Cleveland your results.

4) Downtown plan drafted by Rocky River planners "If Lakewood's not interested in developing it's West End," neighbor Rocky River seems to be saying, "we'll do it right across the River." See it http://www.cleveland.com/news/plaindealer/index.ssf?/base/cuyahoga/1076585421210600.xml.

5) National City to buy Provident Financial In an "eat or be eaten" world, it's nice to be on the eating end for a change. http://www.thestreet.com/markets/matthewgoldstein/10143862.html

Cool Cleveland continues to grow weekly. Why? Because you're turning your friends onto CC. If you know someone who doesn't yet receive it, tell them where to go: http://www.CoolCleveland.com or have them send an e-mail to Signup@CoolCleveland.com

Developing your marketing plans? Cool Cleveland is a proven way to reach thousands of influential people in the area. Find out more by dropping us a line, then check the packages we've put together with Cleveland Magazine, WCLV radio and Cool Cleveland. Drop us a note to Info@CoolCleveland.com and let the cool Clevelanders hear from you.

The Hard Corps kick it off getting Cool Cleveland to you. Thanks to Deb Remington, Lee Chilcote, Tisha Nemeth, Charlene Coates, Steve Goldberg, and George Nemeth who are just a few of the writers and contributors collaborating to bring you Cleveland's coolest content. Want to volunteer and contribute your writing to Cool Cleveland? Send your reviews, articles, or story ideas to: EventsAtCoolClevelandDotCom

See the Cool Cleveland column each month in Cleveland Magazine. Listen to Cool Cleveland on WCLV-FM 104.9 twice each Friday during drive time. Read Thomas Mulready's column Up Front in the Free Times. Send your cool events to: EventsAtCoolClevelandDotCom For your copy of the free weekly Cool Cleveland e-mail newsletter, go to http://www.CoolCleveland.com

Mark your calendar
for Tuesday, March 2
Election Day (:divend:)