Taking Flight

9.26-10.3.07
Taking Flight

In this week’s issue:
* Party 50% off tix for Akron-Canton this Fri
* CityScape A Unique Look at the Euclid Corridor Project
* BFD NEOSA founder Jim Cookinham retires
* Edge FX Brad Masi and Finding New Solutions in that Space Between Things
* Ingenious Meet Matthew Sprosty, playwright, Malicious Bunny
* Sounds Monet’s Orbit from Susan Weber
* Preview Iron Floral Arranger @ Cleveland Botanical Garden
* Comment Trinity Cathedral Celebrates its Centennial
* Straight Outta Mansfield The Power of the Net
* Cool Cleveland Kids podcast click here, CC podcast click here, Brewed Fresh Daily here

Is this region taking flight? Certainly by the looks of our regional airports, it is. Continental recently announced a major expansion at its Cleveland hub, while some talk of an “aerotropolis” around Burke Lakefront. And healthy competition from Akron-Canton Airport has kept airfares affordable. Experience regionalism in action this Fri 9/28 as Cool Cleveland invites you to join us for open bar, hors d’oeuvres, and a Latin-flavored concert by deSol. We’ve dropped the price to an incredible $12.50, and someone will walk away with a pair of airline tix and hotel for their choice of 6 hot locations, which they can use anytime in the next year. Also taking off is the Euclid Corridor Project— we’ve got an update from Lee Chilcote. Claudis Taller helps celebrate Trinity Cathedral’s 100th b-day, and Mansfield Frazier embraces the power of the Net. Roy Berko profiles Westlake playwright Matthew Sprosty, while Kelly Ferjutz interviews actor John deLancie, performing Peer Gynt with the Cleveland Orchestra this weekend. We review Susan Weber’s new CD, serve up a passel of kids stuff, and spotlight a slew of BizTech news & events. Taking flight? If you’re paying attention, you’ll find that we certainly are. —Thomas Mulready


Party in Akron-Canton: 50% Off Today ONLY!
Winning flights can be used anytime in next 12 months
Super low $12.50 price until Midnight TONIGHT here!

We’ve lowered the price to an unbelievable $12.50

Plus you get 12 months to use your winning airline tix and hotel package. You don’t have to pack your bags or leave for your trip this weekend. You select your getaway dates & destination!

But this offer expires at Midnight Thu 9/27 when you order online here!

You Get All This for $12.50:

  • Cool Cleveland Party at Akron-Canton Airport, 5:30 – 7:30PM this Friday 9/28
  • Open bar Unlimited beer & wine. Good deal, eh?
  • Delicious hors d’oeuvres including Salmon Pinwheels, Cajun Chicken Puffs, New England Crab Cakes, Stuffed Mushrooms with Goat Cheese, Zucchini Napoleon, Steak and Portabello Satays.
  • Winning ticket for two (hotel and round trip airfare) to YOUR CHOICE of: Las Vegas, Boston, New York, Orlando or Tampa to be used at your discretion in the next 12 months! Some blackout dates apply. We’ll draw the winning name at 7PM, and it could be YOU!
  • iPhone/iPod winner also announced (attendance not necessary).
  • VIP ride from Cleveland to CC/Akron party on a complimentary bus departing from the Warehouse District
  • Live concert by deSol Latin rock band from NJ. Get your groove on amidst a collection of vintage aircraft, including a F-14 Tomcat and a Soviet MiG in the Military Aviation Preservation Society museum in an airplane hangar at 7:30PM
  • There is no charge for parking in the Short Term or Economy lots at the airport. Hop aboard one of the complimentary parking shuttles to the main entrance and follow the signs to the party.
  • Details & map link here

ACT NOW: The $12.50 discount expires at Midnight Thu 9/27 Get your tix here: https://CoolCleveland.net/tickets/092807/index.php

Midtown’s Momentum
A Unique Look at the Euclid Corridor Project

What’s behind the orange barrels, anyway? It’s a question asked by anyone who frequents Euclid Avenue these days. As crews start to clear the barrels away and a rejuvenated streetscape is unveiled, everyone’s wondering if the project will deliver the promised bang for the buck. Lower Euclid is showing a pulse, with the House of Blues lighting up a stretch of dark, historic buildings, and in Fairfax, ever-present cranes hover above the new Cleveland Clinic Heart Center.

In the middle of it all is Midtown. There are acres of vacant land between East 55th and 79th Streets along Euclid, in the heart of the Corridor. It’s like an eerie urban frontier – like an old Western movie set, minus the tumbleweed. Most of all, Midtown is a place that makes you wonder – if you build it, will they come…?

Read more from Lee Chilcote here

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


You’ve been cheated by a sneaky Ohio legislature. Now you can Fight Back
Lakewood fights No Child with Kucinich NCLB unfair to diverse urban schools- you can help Read & Act
Continental’s planned 40% expansion of Hopkins adds 700 new jobs, 27 flights to 12 new destinations Read
Burke airport could anchor an “aerotropolis” of aviation development Read

If You’re Interested in writing for Cool Cleveland, drop us a line. We’d love to hear from you. Letters@CoolCleveland.com.

Online Mayoral debate hosted by Lakewood Observer, with questions from 3 Lakewood-based journalists: Michael Gill from Free Times, Pete Kotz from Scene, and Cool Cleveland’s Thomas Mulready, an interesting and useful application of local and citizen journalism, not without controversy. http://www.LakewoodObserver.com

Monte Ahuja is feat. speaker at McDonald Business Forum Wed 9/26 at 7:30AM at Embassy Suites Rockside, Independence. Call 216-229-5757 or register onsite.
AAF Clambake feast adv networking event Wed 9/26 at 5PM. Register
Cisco’s SVP Howard Charney talks “Collaboration: Maximize Business Interactions and Increase Productivity” on Thu 9/27 from 8AM – 3:15PM at the State Theatre. Register
Redesign Transforming CD-based software to a web-based product is subject of latest NEOUPA event Thu 9/27 from 6 – 8:30PM. Register
Make the B2B Connection w/ no-cost B’wood COC show Mon 10/8 starting at 2:30PM. Hilton Cle East, 3663 Park East Dr., Beachwood. Call 831-0003, e-mail mail@beachwood.org. More
Maia Beatty asks “Are You Engaging Your Circle of Influence as Powerfully as You Can?” Wed 10/10 Details
Iris A. Cooper of ODOD Economic Development Division and founder/owner of Glory Foods, Inc. speaks Thu 10/18 at 6PM at MCBAP/Akron Urban League Networking Event. Call 234-542-4149 for info.
Crain’s CFO of the Year Awards hit the Hyatt at the Arcade d’town Thu 10/25. Register
2007 Entrepreneur of the Year Awards, Marriott Downtown at Key Center Fri 11/2 at 6PM Details
Crain’s 2007 40 Under 40 Reception hits Mon 11/19 at 6PM at Landerhaven in Mayfield Hts. Register

Cool Cleveland Podcast You know how to do it. Click here to listen: Link. iTunes or other.
To ensure you receive Cool Cleveland every week, take a moment now and add CoolCleveland@CoolCleveland.com to your address book, trusted sender list, or corporate white list.

Mansfield Frazier’s video interview with Cool Cleveland’s Thomas Mulready, covered the range of topics, from his perspectives on urban life in Cleveland, to controversial techniques for incentivizing inner-city students to students (pay them for good grades as they are trying in NYC), the importance of Cuyahoga County’s fatherhood initiative, and why he wishes he could write about bike riding and gardening. This video interview with Cool Cleveland columnist Mansfield Frazier, which was featured in last week’s issue of Cool Cleveland, ran slow on some computers. We’ve regenerated the video for you here: PC version. Mac version.

SPONSORED: Get Your Future On! And learn about the hottest careers of the future at Exciting Careers in the 21st Century, an up-close, interactive event for anyone who wants to brighten their professional future. Join us Fri 10/19 and Sat 10/20 from 10AM to 3PM in Cleveland State’s Woodling Gym and Recreation Center. Dozens of innovative companies will show off their latest inventions and demonstrate hot careers in CSI forensics, software design and development, video gaming, 3-D visualizations, biotechnology, medical imaging, digital communications, engineering, manufacturing and more. Discover what it takes to be part of these new technologies! Brought to you by Cleveland State University’s Career Services Center. For details, call (216) 687-2233 or visit www.csuohio.edu/career.

Send your cool events to: Events@CoolCleveland.com

CIM Hits 07-08 Stride The Cleveland Institute of Music Orchestra will perform at at CIM on Wed 9/26 at 8PM, with Carl Topilow conducting and violist Amanda Verner as soloist. For a full and updated list of CIM events, visit cim.edu. If you would like to receive a Concert Guide to the 2007-2008 season, please email music@cim.edu.

deSol Curious about the band performing at the Cool Cleveland “Pack Your Bags” party at CAK? Check them out Wed 9/26 at 8:30PM at Wilbert’s Food & Music downtown. Straight outta Asbury Park, NJ, this bilingual-flavored Latin rock band is scheduled to jam for us in the huge MAPS (Military Aviation Preservation Society) museum hangar. Get your groove on! http://www.wilbertsmusic.com.

Life is a Mystery Remember the old saying: “I know that 50% of my advertising dollars are wasted, I just wish I knew which 50% it was.” Clear out the cobwebs and consider an online approach that will give you an integrated mix, drive traffic to your site and deliver the audience you’re looking for. For more info about advertising contact us at Info@CoolCleveland.com.

A MidTown Cleveland Fest Check out this 25th anniversary celebration of MidTown Cleveland, Inc. at the Agora Thu 9/27 starting at 5:30PM. There will be great food, music, fun, and tours of the new RTA Silver Line buses that will soon be scooting down the newly revamped Euclid Corridor Project. Read more from Lee Chilcote in this week’s issue about the Euclid Corridor Project and MidTown. Click here for more info on the event. Agora Theatre and Ballroom, 5000 Euclid Ave.

Visible Voice Books, located at 1023 Kenilworth Ave. in the Tremont neighborhood, hosts a celebration of the local poetry tabloid, The Cleveland Reader this Thu 9/27 at 7:30PM. Highlighting poets whose work appears in the 1st and 2nd editions, poets and writers are encouraged to attend and bring their work for an open mic segment. Material presented could find its way into the 3rd edition of the tabloid — a no-cost quarterly poetry pub. Submit work to the Cleveland Reader at 2136 Murray Hill Rd. http://www.myspace.com/theclevelandreader. And while you’re there, check out VV’s incredible selection of books. http://www.visiblevoicebooks.com.

Moving Full Speed Ahead with Cleveland+ Where are we now? What are the “next steps” to take, since the launch of Cleveland+? With the convention center and medical mart projects moving ahead, where should the conversation go from here? Find out more in a panel discussion with Rick Batyko, vice president, Greater Cleveland Partnership and Cleveland+ brand champion; Tom Waltermire, CEO, Team NEO; and Dennis Roche, president, Convention & Visitors Bureau. It’s happening Thu 9/27 with a lunchtime presentation at The Forum Conference Center downtown. For more info and to register, visit http://www.iabccleveland.com or contact chapter administrator Pam Tallant at iabc49@cs.com.

View From Pluto Check out this cool reception/ luncheon with acclaimed sports writer Terry Pluto at Nighttown 12387 Cedar Road, Cle Hts (the top of Cedar Hill) on Thu 9/27 at 11:30AM. Everyone who attends will receive a complimentary copy copy of Terry’s book, View From Pluto, courtesy of Gray & Co. Pluto has been nominated for a Pulitzer Prize twice, and has been named Ohio Sportswriter of the Year eight times. He is also the author of over 20 books and a graduate of Benedictine High School. Call 440-899-1222 for more info.

HOT Cityscapes with Robert Bruegmann The visiting fellow from the University of Illinois at Chicago and author of Sprawl: A Compact History, will present “Cleveland and Sprawl: A Global Perspective” on Thu 9/27 at 4:30 PM at the Thwing Center Ballroom at 11111 Euclid Ave. Part one of a four-part series Baker-Nord Center for the Humanities of Case Western Reserve University. Learn more about this event and other Cityscapes programming at http://www.bakernord.org.

SPONSORED: Master the Nonprofit Field and get a great education! Introducing Levin College’s new Master of Nonprofit Administration and Leadership (MNAL) degree beginning Fall 2007. Get a master’s degree in a career field in high demand. The MNAL provides students with tools to build management skills and knowledge of nonprofits to improve their employment opportunities, advance in their organization, or make a career change. This two-year degree is an interdisciplinary collaboration of Cleveland State’s Maxine Goodman Levin College of Urban Affairs, College of Business, and School of Social Work. For more information visit www.urban.csuohio.edu

HOT Iron Floral Arranger You’ve heard of “Iron Chef,” now get ready for “Iron Floral Arranger,” Cleveland Botanical Garden’s 1st ever amateur floral arranging competition featuring local celebs. Special live commentary will be provided by Cle’s most celebrated floral designer, Don Vanderbrook. Enjoy Tuscan wine tastings and more! 11030 East Blvd. http://www.cbgarden.org.

Old School Underground Music Photographs This exhibition by fotomeister Tom Trainer at Standing Rock Cultural Arts features LA Hardcore and British Post Punk icons Exene, Rollins, Bauhaus and more. Trainer focuses in on “What VH1 didn’t remember” about the 80’s. The opening reception hits Fri 9/28 at 8PM; exhibition runs through 10/20. North Water Street Gallery, 257 N. Water St., Kent. Call 330-673-4970 or visit http://www.standingrock.net for updates.

23rd Annual Fine Print Fair hits this Fri 9/28 at 5:30PM with an opening night celebration. A benefit for the Department of Prints of the Cleveland Museum of Art, this Fair is sponsored by the Print Club of Cleveland, a non-profit adjunct organization dedicated to supporting the Museum’s print collection. Enjoy hors d’oeuvres, a cash bar and get a shot at some super cool art works on paper before the Fair opens to the public on Sat 9/29. Corporate College East, 4400 Richmond Rd., Warrensville Hts. For details, call 707-2579.

HOT Nature Moves 3 Verb Ballets presents a program of four dances in the Murch Auditorium at the Cleveland Museum of Natural History called Nature Moves 3, marking Verb’s third consecutive program at the CMNH. It features new works by Verb’s Artistic Director Hernando Cortez and by Danish Choreographer William Anthony, along with two works choreographed by the late Heinz Poll. The program will take place on Fri 9/28 and Sat 9/29 at 8PM. Cleveland Museum of Natural History, 1 Wade Oval Dr., Univ Circle, http://www.cmnh.org. http://www.verbballets.org.

Kalman & Pabst Fine Art Sale Celebration The Kalman & Pabst Photo Group transforms its photography studio space into an art gallery for a splendid reception Fri 9/28 starting at 5PM. Celebrating their 20th anniversary as a commercial studio, they offer an evening of tasty hors d’oeuvres and live musical entertainment and fine art. A photographic raffle with proceeds benefitting Flashes of Hope rounds out the evening. Kalman & Pabst Photo Group, 3907 Perkins Ave.

Peelander Z It’s a tired cliche, we know, but this NYC-Japanese trio has to be seen to be believed. Like a comic book come to life, the uproarious punk pranksters play three chords and a cloud of dust, pull fans on-stage to play with them and go for a completely-costumed, interactive rock event — complete with an episode of Human Bowling at the end. You’ll laugh, you’ll cry. It’s better than Cats. You’ll want to see them again and again. They’re supported by Birthday Suits and Argyle Denial at the Beachland Ballroom and Tavern this Fri 9/28 at 9PM. http://www.peelander-z.com. http://www.beachlandballroom.com.

Holy Ghosts Beck Center for the Arts presents this dark comedy written by award-winning playwright, Romulus Linney starting Fri 9/28 at 8PM in their Studio Theater. Directed by Matthew Wright, Holy Ghosts centers on a Southern Pentecostal religious sect whose members speak in tongues and practice snake handling as the ultimate test of their faith. The play’s central story involves a young woman’s struggle to escape her mistake-of-a-marriage to a broken and thoughtless man. She runs away seeking refuge amongst the members of a fundamentalist religious group in the rural South. Sure to churn up plenty of post-show discussion. Through 10/21. http://www.beckcenter.org.

Outdoor Charlie Evans The CEO for FLW Outdoors, the world’s largest tournament-fishing organization, will speak on the impact professional fishing and the successful revitalization of Lake Erie’s fish population have on economic development, tourism, and lakefront development efforts in Cleveland at noon on Fri 9/28 at The City Club of Cleveland. Evans is in Cleveland for the FLW Walleye Tour Championship, which is taking place at Voinovich Bicentennial Park September 27-30, 2007. For environmentalists, sportsfolk and economic development fans alike. http://www.cityclub.org.

SPONSORED: WCLVnotes Tonight, Wed 9/26, Kulas Hall will be the scene of the second of this season’s CIM Live concerts. Carl Topilow conducts the CIM Orchestra in the Suite for Viola by Ernst Bloch and the Symphony No. 6 of Prokofiev. Most people are familiar with some of the music from Grieg’s “Peer Gynt” Suites. Well, there’s lots more that you normally don’t hear. But you will have a chance this Sat 9/29, when Vladimir Ashkenazy conducts The Cleveland Orchestra in the complete Incidental Music from “Peer Gynt,” carried live on WCLV beginning at 8PM. And don’t forget that “From the Top” with Chris O’Riley, which features outstanding teenage musicians, will come to CIM on Fri 12/14 to record a program for later broadcast. The event will take place in the new Mixon Hall, but tickets are limited. Act now. Call (216) 791-5000, ext 411. “From the Top” is heard on WCLV 104.9, Saturdays at 5PM. Contact www.wclv.com.

HOT Tango Buenos Aires launches the Cleveland Museum of Art’s VIVA! & Gala Around Town Sat 9/29 at 7:30PM at the State Theatre, Playhouse Square. Considered by many as the world’s “most seasoned and authentic tango company,” this group has taken the world by storm with its intoxicating rhythms and flawless coordination among dancers. For a complete schedule and ticketing info, visit http://www.clevelandart.org/viva.

The Deadward Goreys is a new band that debuts at Cleveland Public Theatre on Sat 9/29 at 9PM. The group is bringing back to life “old-school” goth favorites (Siouxsie, Bauhaus, Joy Division, etc.) with a name inspired by the late artist Edward Gorey and his macabre illustrations. The members of the band include Chris Foldi (State of Being), Alison Garrigan (ex-Queue Up, CPT resident artist), Richard Kline (Diamond Dogs), Timothy Keo (The Bel-Airs), and Fitz Keo. 6415 Detroit Ave. (corner of W. 65th and Detroit). http://myspace.com/deadwardgoreys.

Lines Ballet Alonzo King’s heralded ballet troupe kicks off the 2007-08 DANCECleveland season with a performance of their celebrated pieces “The Moroccan Project,” “Following the Subtle Current Upstream” and the pas de deux from “Migration” at The University of Akron’s E.J. Thomas Hall on Sat 9/29 at 8PM. The San Francisco-based group’s performance marks the first collaborative event between DANCECleveland, The University of Akron’s Dance Program and E.J. Thomas Hall. http://www.linesballet.org. http://www.dancecleveland.org. http://www.uakron.edu/dtaa.

HOT Roots of American Music The Cleveland Heights-based non-profit music- and history-education organization presents its 7th annual live-music benefit concert and party on Sat 9/29 from 7 – 11PM at the Beachland Ballroom, 15711 Waterloo Rd. This year’s theme is “Rock (and Roll) Of Ages,” featuring live music from several rock eras and gourmet fare reflecting those eras. Music will be provided by four exciting bands, covering different periods of rock history: Eddy & the Edsels, Steve Jochum (formerly of Wild Horses and author of their late-‘70s local hit, “Funky Poodle”), the Jack Fords, and Billy Morris. For more info, call ROAM at 321-9350 or visit http://www.rootsofamericanmusic.org.

Susan Weber Join Weber and her band for a sweet night out Sat 9/29 at 7PM when they celebrate her new CD, Monet’s Orbit. John McGrail, singer/songwriter, guitarist and member of Weber’s band, will open the evening of music, yummy hors d’oeuvres, door prizes and more. The B-Side (under the Grog Shop) 2785 Euclid Hts Blvd, Cle Hts. Read Peter Chakerian’s review of the CD in this week’s issue! http://www.susanweber.com.

Penn Masala The premier Indian a cappella group, Penn Masala is the world’s first and has released 5 full albums to critical acclaim. The group has performed all across the UK, NYC and India and offers a rare Asha for Education benefit performance at Tri-C’s Metro Auditorium Sat 9/29 at 7PM. Asha for Education is a volunteer-based, non-profit organization; all proceeds from the concert go towards supporting education of underprivileged children in India. http://www.ashanet.org/cleveland.

SPONSORED: Do Proper Ladies know how to shoot a gun, break a horse, and snap a chicken’s neck for dinner? Marie Arana, author of the memoir, “American Chica,” and the highly regarded 2006 novel, “Cellophane,” was born in Peru of a Peruvian father and an American mother. She shuttled easily between these deeply separate cultures for years, but when she immigrated to the U.S. she realized she was a hybrid American, whose cultural identity was split in half. Arana, Book Editor of The Washington Post, will launch this fall’s Cleveland Public Library’s Writers and Readers Series on Sun 9/30 at 2PM to commemorate Hispanic Heritage month. No fee, open to the public. Main Library (E. 6th and Superior). For more information, contact www.cpl.org or (216) 623-2800.

HOT Trinity turns 100! Trinity Episcopal Cathedral, located at the corner of E. 22nd and Euclid, celebrates the centennial of its building and a century of ministry on Euclid Sun 9/30 starting at 10AM. Included is a Festival Eucharist; dean of the Cathedral, the Very Rev. Tracey Lind, will preach. The sealing and burying of a 50-year time capsule and a reception is also part of the festivities. The Cathedral’s English Perpendicular Gothic building, designed by Charles F. Schweinfurth, was consecrated on September 24, 1907 and has played host to a wide variety of artists, musicians and Cle creatives over the years. Come and celebrate! And read Claudia J. Taller’s feature on Trinity in this week’s Cool Cleveland. http://www.trinitycleveland.org.

Tower Towne & Country Farmers’ Market opens Sun 9/30 from 9AM – 2PM in the Charter One parking lot at W. 116th and Clifton, and will remain open each Sunday through Sun 10/21. Fresh produce, florals, music and delicious/auspicious wares should make this a spectacular fall stop; walk/bike/drive down and support them. Once it gets cold, you’ll wish you did more of this.

Barbara Nissman and AIDS Awareness The acclaimed pianist, hailed by one New York critic as among “the last pianists in the grand Romantic tradition of Liszt, Rachmaninoff, and Rubinstein,” performs a no-cost concert Sun 9/30 at 8PM in Finney Chapel at Oberlin College. The program includes Johannes Brahms’ Symphony No. 1 in C Minor, Op. 68. Portions of the AIDS Memorial Quilt will be displayed in Finney Chapel during the concert; following the concert, the AIDS Quilt will be moved to Oberlin’s Student Union, in Wilder Hall, where it will be on view through Sun 10/6 39 West College Street, Oberlin. http://www.oberlin.edu/con.

SPONSORED: Deadline: Tomorrow 9/27 at 6PM! John de Lancie, known for his portrayal of “Q” in Star Trek, narrates for the Cleveland Orchestra with special 2-for-1 tix to see a rare performance of Edvard Grieg’s “Peer Gynt” on Fri 9/28 at 8PM. See The Cleveland Orchestra at Severance Hall with Vladimir Ashkenazy conducting. It’s a fantastical voyage that traces the exploits of Peer Gynt around the world with action-packed musical scenes and theatrical staging for scenes like “In the Hall of the Mountain King” (watch out for those trolls!). This special offer for CC readers allows you to bring a friend/sig other at no charge. Limit 4 tickets per customer at 2-for-1 price. Use promo code 4076. Contact 216 231-1111 or www.clevelandorchestra.com. Hurry! Offer expires 9/27 at 6PM!

HOT The Artist as an Entrepreneur Institute This forward-thinking program occurs twice a week, for the first three weeks in October starting Mon 10/1 and Wed 10/3 from 6-10PM. A program of Community Partnership for Arts and Culture (CPAC), this can help beginning, mid and long-term career artists facing biz-related issues (e.g. pricing your work, understanding copyrights, legal representation, expenses, marketing, et. al). Program continues October 8, 10; October 15, 17. Tower Press, 1900 Superior Ave. http://www.cpacbiz.org/business/ent.shtml.

New Rules for New Media Join the Cleveland Chapter of the Society of Professional Journalists at noon Mon 10/1 at the City Club of Cleveland as two local attorneys and a web media editor discuss how developments in media law are rewriting some rules for handling postings by “citizen journalists” and blog commenters on the web. Mark Avsec, partner at Benesch, Friedlander, Coplan & Aronoff LLP and Jayne Juvan, a Benesch associate provide an overview of libel law and discuss the Communications Decency Act and the Digital Millennium Copyright Act. Denise Polverine, executive editor of Cleveland.com, will talk about what it is like to run a web organization with vigorous citizen commentaries. RSVP by Fri 9/29 tp Tom Moore at 440-333-7382 or by e-mail at tmoore56@msn.com.

Send your cool events to: Events@CoolCleveland.com

As John Lennon Said, “All You Need is Love” (and Internet access) to get the good stuff we deliver each week. Spread the feelin’ and share it with a friend, colleague or marital counselor by encouraging them to sign up and you’ll both be eligible to win an iPhone or video iPod! Add your personal message in the subject line and sign up here. Winners announced in future issue.

Coventry Crawl Not to be confused with a pub crawl, this family-friendly event hits Sat 9/29 at noon with local favorite musicians Reuben’s Train appearing at the corner of Lancashire and Coventry. Something Dada, the improv comedy troupe follows at 1PM in front of Grog Shop at the corner of Euclid Hts. With merchant sidewalk sales, outdoor dining and a balloon clown, this sidewalk event differs from Coventry Street Arts Fairs where Coventry is closed to traffic. Just the same, 20+ outside vendors representing bakers, jewelers and other artists will showcase their wares on the sidewalk alongside the Coventry businesses. Rain or shine, no-cost, open to the public. Coventry Village. Call 556-0927 or email coventryroad@earthlink.net for more info.

Need a Date Night?? Thought that might get your attention. Parents, CHABAM (Children Have Active Bodies and Minds) features “Sensational Saturday” for children ages 3 – 8 years during the fall is offered starting on Sat 9/29 from 5:30 – 8:30PM (and again on 10/13, 11/3, 12/1, 12/15). The 3-hour program includes music, art and movement activities facilitated by the degreed education team plus dinner including pizza, fresh fruit and milk, bedtime snack and all programming supplies! Registration is requested by 12PM the Friday before each program is offered. Call 464-8500 to register. CHABAM, 28700 Chagrin Blvd., Woodmere. http://www.chabam.com.

HOT Art House 5Alive Community Open House This 5th anniversary party hits Sat 9/29 from 3 – 6PM at Art House, 3119 Denison Ave. The nonprofit art center in historic Brooklyn Centre will feature tasty food, arts activities, music from the FireSide Symphony trio (Brandon Kocher, Mike Minnaugh and Shai Azulay), and a kite flying demo at Denison School — right across the street. All are welcome to attend this family friendly, free event. For more information on the event, call Art House at 398-8556, or visit http://www.arthouseinc.org.

SPONSORED: Creative Genius Fall is a great time to enroll in studio classes at the Cleveland Museum of Art! Sign up now for 6 Saturdays, 10/13 – 11/17, either morning 10-11:30AM or afternoon 1-2:30PM. Classes are taught for children and teens ages 3 to 17. Some examples are: “Mini- Masters” (ages 4 & 5), “Animal Safari” (ages 5 & 6), “Color Your World” (ages 6-8), “Teen Drawing” (ages 13-17) and many more. The six week session is $72 for non-members or $60 for CMA members. Register at the Ticket Center in person or by phone: 216-421-7350 or 1-888-CMA-0033. For more info go to www.clevelandart.org.

One World Day Festival Celebrate at the Cleveland Cultural Gardens’ annual “parade of nations” and Federal naturalization of new US citizens hits Sun 9/30 at 10AM. There will be music, dancing and food at no-cost for all, with no-cost parking and an event shuttle from Veterans Administration (Magnolia & E. 105th parking lot). Open to the public. Cleveland Cultural Gardens Slovak Garden, Martin Luther King, Jr. Dr. Click here for more.

Sing for your Scholarship The Singers’ Club of Cleveland will hold the seventeenth annual S. Livingston Mather Scholarship Competition on Sun 9/30 at 1PM in the ballroom of Judson Manor, 1890 East 107th St. The competition is no-cost, open to the public, and secure free parking is available at Judson. The top prize is the S. Livingston Mather Scholarship, a $1,500 award; a few additional awards come pretty close to that amount, at the discretion of the panel of judges. Completed applications must be received by The Singers’ Club no later than TODAY Wed 9/26. Contact the Club answering service at 556-4405), or visit http://www.singersclub.org/scholarship for an app.

Harry Potter Prepare your charms, spells and grab your magic wand! Starting Tue 10/2, moviegoers will be spellbound when they join the ranks of Dumbledore’s Army and see Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix on the giant Omnimax screen at the Great Lakes Science Center. Be transported inside the film to experience the action, drama and wonder of Harry Potter as never before. Back by popular demand, the Science Center will also host Nights on Lake Eerie, where kids can eat in the Great Hall at Hogwarts School, explore the science of magic and load up on Potter Trivia. http://www.greatscience.com.

You don’t want to miss what 11-year-old Max has for you and your family this week. Listen here: http://www.coolcleveland.com/files/audio/CoolClevelandKids09.28.07.mp3. Click here to subscribe: iTunes or other.


This week’s most active post on BrewedFreshDaily.com, run by Cool Cleveland’s George Nemeth,

Jim Cookingham is a remarkable person who has done an extraordinary job, but now he’s retiring from COSE.

Comments:

  • Single handedly, Jim Cookinham fired up the passion of the region, and the people that followed him, that a tech-based economy could emerge and prosper in Northeast Ohio. When all the naysayers said it couldn’t, Jim boldly and continually said it could. comment by Jim Cossler
  • In a region where leadership worries needlessly about protecting invisible boundaries, Jim is one of the few boundary spanners around. Indeed, he is the master. At REI, we developed a social network map that proves the point. Jim is the most connected development professional in the region. comment by Ed Morrison
  • I believe Jim has done as much as anyone to help Northeast Ohio paint a new future dramatically different from its past. comment by Chris Thompson
  • MTB needs to do an exit interview with Jim. comment by Doug Craver

Read and add your comment here

SPONSORED: The Big Bang anniversary exhibition is on view now at SPACES, featuring CIA graduates of the past ten years. Texas-based artist Libby Black (’99) returns to Cleveland as part of this celebration. Join this up-and-coming artist for a discussion about her work and emergence onto the contemporary art scene Wed 9/26 at 4PM in the Aitken Auditorium. This event has no admittance fee and is open to the public. The Cleveland Institute of Art: Celebrating 125 Years of Excellence in Art and Design Education, 11141 East Boulevard. Visit www.cia.edu for special gallery hours.

Finding New Solutions in that Space Between Things

In ecology, the edge effect describes the result of two different ecosystems converging. In

undisturbed areas, such as natural estuaries or the shallow shores of wetlands, these edges tend to have the higher levels of species diversity. As our edges have hardened through the impacts of agriculture, housing development, and urbanization, we have seen a negative edge effect that has reduced diversity and created conflict. Managing our edges mindfully is one of the ultimate challenges to regionalism and, if done in the right way, can actually generate new solutions by integrating the diverse perspectives along the edge.

Check it out! Tom Kondilas interviews Councilman Joe Cimperman about the benefits of turning blacktop into gardens in the city as sister-team Jessica and Emmy Levine lead an effort to build an asphalt garden near E. 55th and St Clair: Click Here.

About a year ago, a group of us from the City Fresh program toured an old machine shop along Fulton Road. We were approaching the 150,000 square foot old brick building as a potential site to stimulate the local food economy. As we walked through the brick-lined corridors and cavernous rooms, we envisioned the possibilities for local food processing, distribution, and even turning the immense flows of food waste in the city into compost. With more than $3 billion spent each year on food in Cuyahoga County alone, we thought about local food as perhaps the lowest hanging fruit for economic development in the region- ripe for the picking…

Read more from Brad Masi here

SPONSORED: AutoTech, CleanTech and DefenseTech? Check out the Nano App Summit, running from Mon 10/22 – Thu 10/25, Ritz Carlton, Cleveland, www.nanoappsummit.com. And find out why Nano App 2007 is the most applications-focused nanotechnology event of the year, addressing industry-specific applications in Automotive, CleanTech and Defense sectors. You will hear major manufacturers, leading nanotechnology product developers, and industry experts share product enhancements, insight on current market demands, commercialization opportunities, and much more. For more information, contact Andrea McDonald at 216-363-6881 or amcdonald@nortech.org. For sponsorship opportunities, contact Sean Murdock at 312-593-0293 or sean@nanobusiness.org


Meet Matthew Sprosty
The playwright’s got a Malicious Bunny in his pocket

Matthew Sprosty is a class of 2000 graduate of Westlake High School. Matthew Sprosty is a successful playwright. His play, Malicious Bunny, was just staged by Fourth Wall Productions. Sprosty, who is the son of Lucille Parsell and Allan Sprosty, both of Westlake, graduated from Ohio University in 2004. He was active in the OU Playwriting Program, one of the few curriculums in the state centering on theatre script preparation.

In speaking of his high school days, Matthew credits Mr. Hoty, his television teacher for getting him interested in the media and Mrs. Sptizer for getting him involved in theatre. Malicious Bunny is one of four plays he wrote while in college. He also penned nine screen plays. Bunny had a workshop in Columbus and has been written and rewritten based on input of friends and the workshop audience.

By last count, this version is the ninth draft…

Read more from Roy Berko here

John de Lancie
Narrating the Cleveland Orchestra’s performance of Grieg’s Peer Gynt

As the son of a famous orchestra musician who also loved theater, it’s hardly to be wondered at that John de Lancie would share these qualities with his father. (The elder de Lancie was not only the principal oboist of the Philadelphia Orchestra for some twenty-three years, fondly remembered by audiences world-wide for the many orchestral and solo recordings he made there, he was also the inspiration for the well-known Oboe Concerto by Richard Strauss.)

The younger de Lancie came to music and theater in a much different manner. Oh, of course he studied piano and oboe, learning to read music in the process. “In my house,” he says, “if you weren’t planning to be a professional musician, you might as well have been one of the great unwashed.” Then he laughs. He remembers seeing and hearing Danny Kaye and Harpo Marx when they appeared with the orchestra, but sometimes, even so, as a little boy, he was bored. As he listened to the music, he’d make up stories in his head, which were most enjoyable. But then it came time for him to move onward. And he did–in many directions…

Read the interview by Kelly Ferjutz here

SPONSORED: Techies: Unite! The Nanotechnology Manufacturer’s Forum is a program designed to explore nanotechnology applications in the traditional manufacturing industry. The half-day symposium will encourage collaboration between nanotechnology experts and traditional manufacturers to develop more efficient ways to make products through applications of the small science. Nano Manufacturer’s Forum is Fri 10/26 at DeYor Performing Arts Center, Youngstown (260 Federal Plaza West). Contact www.nano-network.org/nmf2007.

Links to interesting NEO blogs
A good example of a government system that’s badly in need of reform.
George Nemeth answers a few questions from Joel Libava.
The airport should pay for its own cops. And they should be City police officers.
A former resident is moving back to Cleveland, does a recon, shares her intel.
The gauntlet at Hopkins past Customs and Immigration is strictly third rate, in Ed Morrison’s opinion.

Monet’s Orbit
Susan Weber
Self-Released

Susan Weber delivers her art with palpable emotion. Whether live on stage or in recorded form, with a full band or solo, Weber’s true grit, bluesy swagger and first-person lyrical insight offers vivid, in the moment narratives and true, present tense clarity. Sounds like a mouthful? Sure is. Grafting vines as disparate as Gordon Downie, Patti Smith and Chrissie Hynde, her candor is what brings Monet’s Orbit (also the name of her backing band) front-and-center for the listener. We’ve said before that she is a huge local talent and we’re not kidding; you know you’re in for a treat when she goes straight for the jugular with the leadoff track “Buffalo” — a finger wag at everything from The Culture of Fear and cult of personality in politics, to the military industrial complex and class warfare in society. It’s an awful lot to cram into one song, but given Weber’s successfully world-weary delivery, it says a great deal about her. And that’s saying nothing of her very capable band and their unique ability to follow her every move.

Any songwriter who can find a way to invoke Agamemnon, Aphrodite, the Pharoahs, Columbine and can roll out a line like She is the child of Gaza stripping Walter Cronkite’s paradigm is bound to draw in the listener. And with that voice that tonally suggests Smith in a post-punk flight of empowered reflection? Wow. Powerful Stuff. I don’t get the progressive rock sensibility that some critics in town have shouldered her with; but that kick-in-the-breadbasket, tough Midwestern girl with a chip on her shoulder thing? Yes, definitely. Monet’s Orbit is a solid, 11-track effort that sinks and shudders and soars with harrowing spiritual nakedness. Highlights from this set include “”Take Me High,” “Painted Moon” and a very direct “Carnival.” But the set closer “She is Here” cinches it for this reviewer. Weber rides the rails of feminism with her protagonist’s naked power bleeding, heading to a could-be-good, could-be-bad end. She can drown on ritalin/ She can drive a nine inch nail/ She can dream on borrowed time/ She will find her holy grail. Note to Trent Reznor: steer clear of the female subject in this song. The one in “She is Here” is likely to drive you to rhyme “hole” and “soul” yet again.

Susan Weber releases Monet’s Orbit with a CD release party and concert Saturday, September 29 at 7PM at the B-Side Liquor Lounge, 2785 Euclid Heights Blvd., Cleveland Heights. Visit Weber online at http://www.susanweber.com.

From Cool Cleveland Managing Editor Peter Chakerian peterATcoolcleveland.com

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

SPONSORED: Cheers to Nature’s Brew, the beer tasting event featuring samples of Great Lakes Brewing Company and Heidelberg Distributors’ premium beers at Holden Arboretum on Sat 10/13 with live music by Crazy Joe and Mad River Outlaws. Two ways to go: Reserve Tasting from 4-5PM, cost $40 members; $45 non members (includes General Tasting). Or General Tasting from 4-7PM, $20 members, $25 non members. The Great Lakes Brewing Co. is an environmentally and socially conscious brewer. Relax in the garden, surrounded by nature’s beauty while learning all sorts of things including which foods go with your favorite beers and area efforts to improve ecology and sustainability of natural resources. Rain or shine – dress appropriately! Nature’s Brew reservations deadline: Tue 10/8, call 440.946.4400, X224. For more info contact www.holdenarb.org.

Iron Floral Arranger @ Cleveland Botanical Garden

Eat your heart out, Iron Chef. Think that pitting celebrity chefs against each other is a thrill to watch? The Cleveland Botanical Garden is upping the ante with a floral arrangement event this Fri 9/28 at 6PM. A flipside, so to speak, on their world-class, biennial flower show which features floral arranging, Iron Floral Arranger pits local celebs against each other in teams of two in an effort to see whose designs reigns supreme. Celebrity contestents include Dee Perry of 90.3 WCPN-FM and WVIZ-PBS ideastream, Jimmy Malone of WMJI-FM’s “Lanigan and Malone” morning show, rocker Donnie Iris (he of the Cruisers) and artist Hector Vega. Cleveland’s most well-known floral designer Don Vanderbrook will be providing commentary; professional judges will train their seasoned eyes on the celebs and rank how well they’ve done at the conclusion of the event. This fun and engaging event also features a delectable Tuscan wine tasting. In all, this is a perfect opportunity to enjoy the last flashes of summer and to hit the CBG — a precious treasure in our region, and beautiful any time of year. There’s but one thing left to say: “Allez les Fleurs!!”

To learn more, visit the Cleveland Botanical Garden’s Iron Floral Arranger page here.

From Cool Cleveland Managing Editor Peter Chakerian peterATcoolcleveland.com

Trinity Cathedral Celebrates its Centennial
You may ask, “so what?”

But have you been in any of the beautiful old churches in Cleveland? It’s not as good as going into Notre Dame in Paris or St. Peter’s Church in Rome, but almost. When you enter one of the old churches in the inner city of Cleveland, you experience our history of immigrants and industrialist, of poverty and wealth, of piety and show. Our churches are the historic heart of Cleveland because our culture and the lives of our forefathers were rooted in their religious beliefs. The English Perpendicular Gothic building of Trinity Cathedral was designed by Charles F. Schweinfurth and completed in 1907.

In today’s world, when many of us do not attend church regularly, it’s hard to imagine how influential the churches were in the communities of the past. Many people at the turn of 20th century, especially women, found the church to be their only connection with the outside world. It was a place to socialize with others, work on community projects, and experience art and beauty, as well as a place of worship. Trinity Cathedral was built when the barons of Cleveland lived in mansions on Millionaire’s Row—this was the church of Millionaires. Trinity’s 100th birthday was celebrated in grand old-fashioned style at the Centennial Gala and Auction that took place on Saturday, September 15. The event celebrated the past, present and future of one of the Cleveland historic landmarks…

Read more from Claudia Taller

SPONSORED: Back by Popular Demand: “Nights on Lake Eerie” with “The Order of the Phoenix” Harry Potter movie on the Omnimax screen. Choose between “Almost Overnight” packages on Sat 10/20, Fri 10/26, Sat 10/27 and Fri 11/2 and “Overnight” Packages Fri 10/19, Sat 11/3, Fri 11/9 at the Great Lakes Science Center – transformed into wizardry school for the evening! Call 216-621-2400 to make your reservation for packages of activities that include “The Order of the Phoenix,” creating and testing potions, Science of Magic experiences, Wizard Trivia, a Snack in the Great Hall, access to over 400 Hands-on Science Exhibits, a chance to sleep among the exhibits with continental breakfast and a tour of the Mather in the morning. Score! Pre-registation is a must. Contact 216-696-2400. For more info www.GreatScience.com.

The Power of the Net

Reed Walter, the LaSalle Parish, LA prosecutor is either a damn fool, a liar, or — most probably — both. For him (and the other White residents of Jena, and indeed the rest of the country) to continue to maintain, in the face of overwhelming evidence to the contrary, that the genesis of the case that is generating so much controversy was not racial in beyond mind-boggling… it’s actually laughable.

There were many opportunities for community leaders in Jena to diffuse the situation before it mushroomed into this monster case that is now attracting worldwide attention, but, similar to most Whites when confronted with America’s racial past, they wanted to simply ignore the storm clouds that continued to gather…

Read more from Mansfield Frazier here

SPONSORED: You’ve Got Two Chances to see “The War” as it continues on WVIZ/PBS: First, don’t miss Ken Burns’ epic film as it wraps up its premiere week with episode #4 tonight, Wed 9/26 at 8PM and 10:30PM, with the final three episodes airing over consecutive nights beginning Sun 9/30 at 8PM. Also, catch up on any parts you’ve missed on Sun 9/30 when episodes 1-4 will be replayed back-to-back starting at 11AM. More about “The War” can also be found online at our extensive local website highlighting national and local programs and activities. Log on to www.wviz.org and click on “The War” icon. At this site, you can share stories from WWII and read, listen and view other stories posted, both local and national.

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

Man of La Mancha @ Cleveland Play House 9/19 Just. Wow! Imagine the love-child of Rent as sired by Jesus Christ SuperStar and you’ve got the stunning, raucously provocative Cleveland Play House production of “Man of La Mancha.” Director Amanda Dehnert has placed Miguel De Cervantes (1547-1616) squarely in an Abu Ghraib. In this prison, standard procedure includes vicious beatings, torture, despair, authority figures casting huge shadows, blackness, disregard for human dignity–the whole panoply of horrors either enacted or suggested.

The story turns on Cervantes’ defense when his fellow prisoners put him on trial (while he awaits trial by Spanish Inquisition judges). Reading from his manuscript (pages tossed all over the stage), the author sketches a noble knight, Don Quixote de la Mancha, who seeks to right wrongs by fighting windmills and idealizing Aldonza, the local whore.

The first-rate cast shows such energy and fire in the 90-minute production (no intermission) that the time flies. Philip Hernandez as Cervantes/Don Quixote handles the considerable acting and vocal demands with ease and grace. Never was there a better Sancho Panza than Jamie La Verdiere’s witty, plain-speaking servant.

An astonishing Rachel Warren plays Aldonza/Dulciana as an elemental force, an animal tamed only by Don Quixote’s mad altruism. Josh Foldy as Pedro/Captain showed how evil can be embodied in human form. All the voices in this strong ensemble cast deserve praise for making the story live.

A handful of musicians deployed on the stage, above it, and to the side, make smooth and sweet work of the score. Imaginative lighting and staging add to the tension and enforce the contrast between light and dark that permeates story and score. (The great prison door might have clanged shut a few times less; shock is only good for one or two times.)

This is not your sentimental “Dream the Impossible Dream” version of the 1960’s where one smiles at the deranged knight and thinks, “Aww, wouldn’t it be lovely if we could all get along.” Instead we are left pondering Don Quixote’s insistence that “facts are the enemy of truth” as he gleefully embraces insanity. It is a riveting evening of theatre not to be missed.

From Cool Cleveland contributor Laura Kennelly lkennellyATgmail.com

Man of La Mancha @ Cleveland Play House 9/19 While visiting New York in 1965, a friend said he had tickets for a new show being staged at the Anta Theatre that had opened several days before. He knew nothing about the play, but asked whether I was willing to attend. Always the theatre adventurer I said, “Sure.” The show? Man of La Mancha My reaction? I sat transfixed as Richard Kiley and Clevelander Joan Diener rolled out what has since been dubbed the “right the unrightable wrongs” musical. It was one of the greatest nights I have ever spent in the theatre. So great, that for many years, I refused to go to see any other production of the show. I didn’t want to ruin the “perfect” experience.

Man of La Mancha centers on Miguel de Cervantes, an aging failure in his varied careers as playwright, poet and tax collector, who has been thrown into a dungeon to await trial by the Inquisition for the offense of collecting taxes from the Catholic Church. Fellow prisoners attempt to steal his possessions, including an uncompleted novel entitled Don Quixote. Seeking to save the manuscript, he proposes to tell the tale as a play to entertain his self-appointed convict jury.

Through such songs as “The Impossible Dream,” “I Really Like Him,” and “Man of La Mancha (I, Don Quixote),” the play celebrates the human spirit. In this present age of depletion of personal freedoms, a misguided march into another country for “their own good,” of certain religious groups attempting to set their agenda for all, the concept of individual human spirit is as relevant today as when it was originally story was written.

Man was originally a non-musical teleplay. Writer Dale Wasserman did not do an adaptation of the famous novel, but focused on a major theme, “Only he who attempts the ridiculous may achieve the impossible.”

Years later Wasserman was requested to turn the idea into a musical. With lyrics by Joe Darion and music by Mitch Leigh, it opened in 1964 at the Goodspeed Opera House in Connecticut starring Rex Harrison. The musical challenges soon dissuaded Harrison from continuing in the role when the play went to New York. Enter Richard Kiley, whose career soared after portraying the dual roles of Cervantes and Don Quixote.

The 1966 production won five Tony Awards, including Best Musical and best actor for Kiley. It was revived on Broadway in 1972, 1977, 1992 and 2002.

It was with positive anticipation that I went to see the Cleveland Play House’s production. Since it was being staged by Amanda Dehnert, who directed last season’s remarkable My Fair Lady at CPH, I expected to be blown away. I was not blown away. In fact, though I think many of those who see the production will react positively, there were just too many gimmicks, and moving off-center of the story line, to make for my loving the production.

Dehnert has reinvented some of the script, the music and the concept. I am not opposed to innovation if it enhances the over-all effect and doesn’t move from the author’s intent and purpose. I remember sitting at the original production, eyes welling, awed by the pinspots of light on Kiely’s face as he sang the reprise of “The Impossible Dream” at the end of the show. I sat in my seat at the end, unable to move. At CPH, there was no emotional high. I left, basically psychologically unmoved.

This is supposed to be an intense, intimate and emotional theatrical piece. In spite of the small theatre space which was ideal for the staging, I found the intimacy largely lost. Many of the songs were sung directly to the audience, rather than aimed at the person on stage to whom the lyrics are aimed. I question the casting of a man to play the housekeeper in drag. It was distracting. It got a laugh, but how did it move the plot along? There was a lack of choreography which had enveloped me in previous productions. I missed being carried on the quest when Don Quixote and Sancho “rode” into the battle. The ending in which Cervantes says goodbye to the corpse rather than Sancho left me confused. The rape scene was lacking the needed intensity. The scene was rushed, the horror not totally developed, the attack was brutal but not evil enough. The explicitness was necessary as we realize later that Quixote’s effect on Aldonza is so complete that even the horrific rape does not erase the respect for self that he has instilled in her. That he has, in fact, achieved the impossible dream, at least as it relates to her.

The production does have many positive aspects. Philip Hernandez is very credible as Cervantes/Don Quixote. He makes “The Impossible Dream” his own, not doing an imitation of those who proceeded him in the role. “Knight of the Woeful Countenance” gets an excellent interpretation. Rachel Warren is Aldonza. Her final scene is excellent as is her interpretation of “Aldonza.” Jamie La Verdiere is delightful as Sancho. His “I Really Like Him” was so pure of innocence and belief that it told the whole story of why some people do what they do, purely out of loyalty. The clarity of the spoken word by the entire cast helps the audience understand the story.

The musicians are good, though, at times, they got a little carried away and drowned out the vocals. Some viewers might be distracted by the musicians doubling as cast members. The question, again must be raised as to what that device did to further the plot.

Some of Dehnert’s “new” production elements, which are touted in the public relations and the program, aren’t that original. We’ve seen cast members playing musical instruments in the recent Broadway restagings of Sweeny Todd and Company. And, doing this script as a one-act/intermission-less show, has been done before, as has gender role reassignment.

”Capsule judgement: I predict that most audience members will enjoy and have a positive experience at CPH’s production. My concern is that sometimes in the guise of being innovative, the message of the writer and the emotional responses of the viewer are set aside for the sake of gimmicks and for trying to be part of a new wave”.

From Cool Cleveland contributor Roy Berko royberkoATyahoo.com

Roy Berko’s blog, which contains theatre and dance reviews from 2002 through 2007, as well as his consulting and publications information, can be found at http://royberko.info

The Pros and Cons of Non Food Supplements @ Wellington Catering 9/20 Focus if you would for a moment on an innovative local group that is providing education about complementary health. Now, I would like to introduce, and tweak your interest in a pioneering local group, Mind Body Spirit Connected. No health topic is more controversial and politically tenuous with the public right now, than the government control of herbs and supplements and their use by the American consumer. As some of might have heard, the purchase of these types of products is a multibillion-dollar market in the United States. Fraught with a dizzying array of choices, it is vital that accurate and honest information reach all of us so we can make wise decisions concerning our health. Luckily for me, I was one of the attendees able to get a sold out dinner ticket to hear Tanya Edwards, MD, Medical Director of the Integrative Medicine Department at the Cleveland Clinic, speak Thursday night at Wellington Catering in Highland Heights. Dr. Edwards presented a lecture “The Pros and Cons of Non Food Supplements” sponsored by Mind Body Spirit Connected. Sound like a snoozer? Think again.

In this excellent lecture, Dr. Edwards covered the bases on some powerful ways to help prevent diseases that we all fear and dread including Alzheimer’s Disease, Hypertension, Arthritis, Depression, Cancer, Pain and Heart Disease. Laying the groundwork with diet and supplements, we could all stave off these debilitating diseases. Dr Edward’s informal style coupled with extensive knowledge of her subject, clarified much of the confusion we all get from quick fix advertising. I had a chance to speak with Dr. Edwards following her lecture, and was able to discuss some of the most important issues she wants the public to know about herbs and supplements.

“Dr Edwards, What is Integrative Medicine?”

“Integrative Medicine, as defined by The National Center for Complementary and Alternative (CAM) Medicine, combines mainstream medical therapies and CAM therapies for which there is some high-quality scientific evidence of safety and effectiveness.”

“So your practice at CCF combines the medical training all physicians undertake, and blends preventive and complementary therapies to provide a wellness approach to care before disease can strike, as opposed to after?”

“Prevention is a large part of Integrative Medicine, but even after disease has taken a foothold, lifestyle changes and complementary therapies can vastly change the course of a patient’s long-term health combined with traditional medical therapies as well.”

“In regard to your lecture, how many Americans are using herbs and supplements?”

“50% of American adults are using some type of supplements; it is the fastest growing segment in CAM.”

“The American public has recently been up in arms about FDA regulation of herbs and supplements, can you tell us about new regulations the FDA has implemented?”

“The regulations that take effect in June of 2008 are called Current Good Manufacturing Practices/Final Rule. This states that: Supplements must be processed in a consistent manner and meet quality standards; testing will ensure that supplements are free from contamination and are accurately labeled; imported and some domestic supplements have been found to be contaminated and have caused some deaths. It is hard to believe, but heretofore there has not been strict control of the quality and standards of the ingredients in supplements. This is an important step when you see the explosion of this market and the potential exposure to adults and children as well.”

“What do we need in supplementation?”

“Each patient needs to be evaluated individually based on their health issues and family history, but as a basis for supplementation, I recommend for adults: a Multivitamin with minerals, preferably one made from whole foods; Vitamin C 250-500 mg/day; Fish oil 1,000-8,000mg/day; Vitamin D (D3 form) 1,000-2,000 units/day.”

“In your lecture you discussed the destructive nature of inflammation to cause disease, can you suggest some ways to stop inflammation that is so damaging to our health?”

“This is a topic that could take up an entire article, but some of the ways we can prevent inflammation is by following an Anti-Inflammatory Diet. This would include eating: Fish nuts, seeds, and beans; 8-10 servings of fruits and vegetables per day; Curry (turmeric), basil, rosemary, ginger; Tea (white, green, black); whole grains with the highest fiber content.”

Dr. Edwards is also the board president of Mind Body Spirit Connected. This group is unique, and innovative not only in Ohio, but the country. MBSC consistently provides information and programming that takes the “quackery” out of complementary health products and services. Providing the Northeastern Ohio public accurate, up to date information on these confusing, glamorized, and also much aligned health therapies is MBSC’s goal. Its purpose is to sort out hype and present facts. Donna Nowak, Executive Director of MBSC is currently heading the organization of Mind Body Spirit Connected’s Annual Masquerade Ball, October 27th. The theme for this year’s event including dinner, dance, and silent auction is “Manifest Your Dream.” This event is designed to showcase this local group and it is importance in the healthcare community. Do not miss this opportunity to “masquerade” and dance the night away while supporting a pioneering organization in our region. For More Information About Mind Body Spirit Connected, check their website at http://mbsconline.org.

From Cool Cleveland contributor Deb Dockery dddockeryATaol.com

Act a Lady @ convergence-continuum 9/21
Reasons to go: Jordan Harrison’s gender-bending farce-with-serious-undertones is really a valentine to theatre, and how it transforms even the unlikeliest folks: in this instance members of a 1921 Elks Club who don women’s clothes to stage a French Revolution verse play. Denise Astorino is luminous as a former Hollywood makeup girl, Stuart Hoffman brings subtlety to his closeted young farmer, Clyde Simon goes hilariously over-the-top as a knife-wielding duchess-zombie, and Lucy Bredeson-Smith’s accordion-playing Christian wife gets some laughs.
Caveats: Harrison’s script has some convolutions — besides the goofy play-within-a-play, the 3 women also play the 3 men’s other selves, which confuses more than it illuminates. Director Arthur Grothe’s penchant for making everything cartoonish misses some of the play’s levels.
Details: Thru 10/20 at The Liminis, http://www.convergence-continuum.org
from Cool Cleveland contributor Linda Eisenstein LindaATcoolcleveland.com

Act a Lady @ convergence-continuum 9/21
Reasons to go: Jordan Harrison’s gender-bending farce-with-serious-undertones is really a valentine to theatre, and how it transforms even the unlikeliest folks: in this instance members of a 1921 Elks Club who don women’s clothes to stage a French Revolution verse play. Denise Astorino is luminous as a former Hollywood makeup girl, Stuart Hoffman brings subtlety to his closeted young farmer, Clyde Simon goes hilariously over-the-top as a knife-wielding duchess-zombie, and Lucy Bredeson-Smith’s accordion-playing Christian wife gets some laughs.
Caveats: Harrison’s script has some convolutions — besides the goofy play-within-a-play, the 3 women also play the 3 men’s other selves, which confuses more than it illuminates. Director Arthur Grothe’s penchant for making everything cartoonish misses some of the play’s levels.
Details: Thru 10/20 at The Liminis, http://www.convergence-continuum.org
from Cool Cleveland contributor Linda Eisenstein LindaATcoolcleveland.com


Cool Cleveland readers write
All letters must include your full name (required) and you may include your e-mail address (optional).
Send your letters to: Letters@CoolCleveland.com

On why Cleveland is so cool This past weekend, I had the pleasure of attending the “Sparx in the City” art walk in Cleveland, and I was simply stunned by the awesome level of talent and creativity that I witnessed in the Tremont, Little Italy, University Circle, and Superior Corridor art houses. It was a truly eye-opening experience for me, because I have lived in Northeast Ohio my entire life, and simply had no idea that the region — and Cleveland specifically — harbored so much depth in terms of art and the impressive talent behind it. We talk so much about finding ways to ignite a genuine renaissance in Cleveland and the region. I honestly think it’s already here. We just need to get the word out about it!
from Cool Cleveland reader John E. Stegall Jr.

Send your letters to: Letters@CoolCleveland.com

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

1) The Lake Front Ghost Tour Bone chilling ghost stories and local folklore that even keep true sailors awake at night.
www.HauntedCleveland.net

2) RoldoLink Reporters Snooze to Avoid Displeasure of Bosses.
www.CoolCleveland.com

3) 10th Annual Taste of Little Italy Benefit Delectable foods and wines from Cle’s finest Italian restaurants, bakeries and distributors. Live Italian music, traditional folk accordian and Cle legend Rocco Scotti.
www.Montessori-HolyRosary.org

4) Interview Cool Cleveland columnist Mansfield Frazier.
www.CoolCleveland.com

5) CityScape Taking the terminal out of Cle’s most prominent address.
www.CoolCleveland.com

Soaring high this week is Peter Chakerian, TL Champion, George Nemeth, Mansfield B. Frazier, Roy Berko, Lee Chilcote, Kelly Ferjutz, Linda Eisenstein, Claudia J. Taller, Laura Kennelly. We’re also proud to introduce Deb Dockery and Brad Masi. This issue was powered by Arabica green tea. And lastly, though certainly not least, thanks to our readers and everyone who partners with us. Want to volunteer and contribute your writing to Cool Cleveland? Send your reviews, articles, or story ideas to: Events@CoolCleveland.com. And don’t forget—be safe out there.

Download the Cool Cleveland podcasts and videos each week at http://www.CoolCleveland.com
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Spread yr wings, Cleveland,
–Thomas Mulready
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