CityBeat | Nov. 11, 2009

Page 1


CONTENTS

513-281-8400

VOLUME 16 • ISSUE 1

VOICES

07

TO DO PICKS

18

MUSIC

25

ARTS

33

DINER

37

FILM

43

CLASSIFIEDS

46

NEWS 11

Negative Energy:

Why the effects of mountaintop removal mining aren’t worth what little energy it produces.

On the cover: Photo illustration and design by Jason Kidwell

ONLINE CITYBEAT.COM HIKE OF THE WEEK

This week’s featured hike: Germantown MetroPark

BLOGS

on sale Friday!

Protesting the Catholic Church over anti-gay campaign in Maine, Moby-Dick reading spots available, CEA Music voting wraps up

PODCASTS

#35: Jazz at Schwartz Point in Over-the-Rhine

march 9 • doors 6pm the DeVil wears praDa & all that remains w/ story of the Year, haste the Day

nov 25 • 7pm

all time low

Glamour Kills tour featuring w/ we the Kings, hey monday, the Friday night Boys

nov 28 • 7pm

insane Clown posse w/ (hed)p.e., the Dayton Family, Dead Dirty Carnies

nov 29 • 7pm

november 11-17, 2009

matisYahu w/ soja dec 3 • 8pm an evening with emilie autumn fri • dec 4 • 8pm 96 rock sickest Xmas ever featuring siCK puppies

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w/ rev theory, adelitas way

dec 15 • 7:30pm

For a Complete list oF shows, Visit liVenation.Com charge by phone: 1-877-598-8703 • bogart’s box office is now open every mon-fri from 12-5pm & always open on show days at 2pm • tickets also available at shake it records

MULTIMEDIA SHOWS

Guided tour of Roaring Tiger, Leaping Carp with Cincinnati Art Museum Curator Hou-Mei Sung

PHOTO GALLERIES

Election Day/Night coverage, burlesque show at FB’s, The Stand’s anniversary party

ONLINE COLUMNS

I Shall Be Released: New CDs from Dashboard Confessional, Morrissey, Echo & the Bunnymen and Bon Jovi On Second Thought: Federal bailout of the newspaper industry is a terrible idea

MUSIC TOWN MESSAGE BOARD

Getting your casino band together, talking up a new amp and loving them some UC football

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Cincinnati CityBeat is published every Wednesday by Lightborne Publishing Inc., Thomas R. Schiff, Chief Executive Officer. CityBeat covers news, public issues, arts and entertainment of interest to readers in Greater Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky. The views expressed in these pages do not necessarily represent those of the publishers. One copy per person of the current issue is free; additional copies, including back issues up to one year, are available at our offices for $1 each. Entire contents are copyright 2009 Lightborne Publishing Inc. and may not be reprinted in whole or in part without prior written permission from the publishers. SUBSCRIPTIONS: $70 for six months, $130 for one year (delivered via first–class mail).

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november 11-17, 2009

03


04

november 11-17, 2009


CITYBEAT’S BENGALS

FAN OF THE WEEK FAN OF THE WEEK POST GAME INTERVIEW WITH WINNER

LINDSAY VOSKA

You were under a lot of pressure tonight. What advice would you give other athletes who want to keep cool in extreme sports such as Bengals Football Bolo Toss? Get knocked up. Is there anyone who you would like to thank who may have played a small role in your victory tonight? My husband and the Bud Light Girls. What kind of training does it take to pull off such a stunning win like the one you had here? Daily foot rubs and weekly back rubs from my husband. In three words or less, tell the people what it feels like to be a Bengals Fan? Frustrated and elated. As one quarterback to another, what would you, as a champion, tell Carson Palmer he should work on if he wants to wear a Super Bowl ring in February? He needs more bobbing and weaving. Did you dream of being a Bengals Football Bolo Toss winner as a child? Every day I do. What is your favorite color? Black or Orange? Orange. Tell me how a Bengals Football Bolo Toss winner prepares to attend a Bengals game? Stretching, weight lifting, buying beer. What Bengal do you most want to have over at your house for dinner? Peko. How do plan on winding down after such a rough game like the one you just dominated? Laying on the couch getting a foot massager (woot.com?). What team you think the Bengals will face in the Super Bowl this year? Vikings.

The Difference is Drinkability.

Do you plan on painting your face for the game? Absolutely. november 11-17, 2009

WWW.BUDLIGHT.COM

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06

november 11-17, 2009


4PORKOPOLIS BY KEVIN OSBORNE

Health Care Reform and Our New President If someone manages to shut up self-indulgent U.S. Sen. Joe Lieberman long enough and the current health care reform bill approved by the House makes it through the Senate more or less intact, no doubt President Obama will be spinning it as a major victory. It might be a victory for Obama’s administration, but I’m not sure it will be a victory for the American people. The plan passed by the House Nov. 7 mandates that most employers provide health care coverage for their workers or face a tax penalty — up to 8 percent of their payroll, according to news reports. Also, it would provide subsidies for middleincome people to buy insurance from private companies and create a national insurance exchange where people could shop for the best policy. If approved, the plan would provide coverage to about 36 million people who are currently uninsured. Laudable, but let’s recall that there are an estimated 46 million people uninsured in the United States, including 9 million children. After all this time and effort, and we can’t even get it right? The plan is estimated to cost $1.1 trillion over a decade, paid mostly by new taxes on the rich (individuals earning more than $500,000 annually, couples earning at least $1 million annually) and cuts in Medicare. The drawback here — besides not solving the problem of the uninsured — is that almost all Americans will be forced to have insurance from a “qualified” private company, or face penalties. Without a viable public option, a government-backed insurance plan that would provide competition to private companies and help lower costs, the plan will end up as a boon to those private companies and provide them with a new pool of customers, without lowering costs. Russell Mokhiber of Single Payer Action wrote that the plan is flawed “because it keeps the insurance industry in the game, it will cost a trillion dollars over 10 years, it won’t cover tens of millions of Americans, it won’t control costs and it’s a bailout for the insurance industry. “Only a single-payer — everybody in, nobody out — national health insurance bill will hit the grand slam — cover everyone, save money, control costs, and fix a broken health care system,” Mokhiber added. So, once again, a bill designed to curb the excesses of an industry will actually help boost its profits. We all should’ve known not to expect a meaningful effort at reform when — despite Obama’s promises to the contrary

— much of the nitty-gritty committee work to hash out the bill wasn’t open to the public. That’s when insurance industry lobbyists did their voodoo, pressuring lawmakers to delete provisions that might cut too deeply into their exorbitant profits, while seeking perks to shore up their place in the market. There are six lobbyists for each of the 535 members of Congress, more than three times the number of people registered to lobby for the defense industry, according to Bloomberg News. Those groups spent $263.4 million during the first six months of the year. If Obama had taken a more direct role in shaping the health care reform plan early on, listing broad guidelines for Congress that weren’t negotiable, while better outlining the eventual pitfalls of the current system, we might have had true reform. Instead, Obama let a multitude of plans emerge from congressional committees, confusing the public even further. Worse, in his futile quest for “bipartisanship,” the president backed off from his initial deadline of wrapping up debate before Congress’ summer break, letting obstructionist Republicans dominate the media with their phony Town Hall meetings. Obama needs to sharpen up and get tougher going forward, or he will lose the core of his constituency. Although he had crossover appeal to some Republicans and independents, he will never make it to a second term without Democratic support. It’s time to lessen the influence of Chief of Staff Rahm Emanuel and fire both Treasury Secretary Tim Geithner and economic adviser Lawrence Summers. All are practitioners of old-style politics and helped create the mess we’re in. The president should borrow a page from Lyndon Johnson’s playbook and get more engaged with Democrats in Congress, alternately wooing them and bullying them, as circumstances warrant. The novelty of Obama’s place in history as the first AfricanAmerican president has long since worn off, and his knack for looking handsome and giving great speeches only can carry him so far. Mr. President, show some self-control and stay off The Today Show, 60 Minutes, The David Letterman Show and other programs that focus on your personality and penchant for M&Ms. We don’t need to see your grinning face all the time, and absence truly does make the heart grow fonder. Get to work, and take another look at those detainee policies. In a recent episode of Mad Men, a TV drama set in the 1960s, one character reacted to President Kennedy’s assassination

VOICES by stating, “It felt for a second like everything was about to change.” Obama shouldn’t squander his historic opportunity. He promised change, but he needs to remember it only occurs with brave, bold action. ✽✽✽✽✽ Voters in the state of Maine last week approved the passage of “Question 1,” which overturned the law allowing marriage of same-sex couples there. (Hang on, there’s a surprising local connection coming up.) Just as the Mormon Church played a pivotal role in funding the notorious Proposition 8 campaign last year in California, organized religion gave significant amounts of cash to the Maine effort. In fact, it might have been some of your money. As local activist Will Kohler discovered, contributions from the Catholic Church to the anti-gay campaign totaled more than $553,000. Records show that cash flowed in from archdioceses across the nation — including $1,000 from Cincinnati. The money, in turn, was sent to the National Organization for Marriage, which used a campaign of fear, lies and distortions to get equal marriage repealed in Maine. This was money that parishioners donated to the Catholic Church that could’ve been used to fill food pantries for the hungry or to buy blankets for the homeless and medicine for the poor and sick. No matter where we live or whether we are gay or straight, the church needs to be exposed and held accountable for supporting intolerance and shouldn’t be using parishioners’ offerings to fund them. On the Archdiocese of Cincinnati’s Web site, this is how they ask for donations: Every day, thousands of people in our region are in need of miracles, large and small. And thanks to the Catholic ministries of the Archdiocese of Cincinnati — ministries made possible by you — these miracles happen. There are so many reasons to be grateful. I have to wonder if all parishioners who gave money to their church would approve of it being spent this way. Hell, I have to wonder if Jesus would approve. PORKOPOLIS TIP LINE: 513-665-4700 (ext. 147) or pork@citybeat.com

november 11-17, 2009

07


4living out loud

Six Years of Watching

november 11-17, 2009

This past spring, I had a book come out with the same title as this column. This was mainly because a lot of the material in the book first appeared here. This sparked some questions at book signings and in interviews as to how long this column has been around. Each time I was asked, I had to guess. I lose track of time. A couple days ago, I got curious as to the actual date we got started here and decided to look it up. The first LOL column appeared on CityBeat’s Web site Nov. 12, 2003 — so we’ve been at it for six years. This week’s column basically starts our seventh year. Well, sort of. When Brandon Brady, my first editor, came up with the idea for a Web column — and that’s what we were at first — he wanted to call it “Webitorial.” That actually appeared on Nov. 5, 2003. I was to be one of the principal writers for the column, but I didn’t like the name of it, thought it was too limiting. I told Brandon if I had to write an actual opinion piece week after week, I would dry up pretty quickly. I wanted to widen the scope. While talking to Brandon about a different title for the column, I mentioned a movie I saw some years earlier starring Holly Hunter. The movie was called Living Out Loud. Hunter played a newly divorced New Yorker trying to get her life back on track. She poured her heart out to basically anyone who would listen and questioned all the changes going on in her life, talking to herself — and sometimes answering herself — out loud and often. While the movie was only so-so, I loved the title of it. It implied living and paying attention to life, even the little things. I told Brandon I was a watcher of people, what they do and how they act in everyday life and this was something I wanted to explore in a column. Brandon liked the idea. The next week, we changed the name of the column, ripping off the movie title and I’ve been watching ever since. Of course, things have changed over the years. Brandon left the paper, somehow I got put in charge of this space — either writing or editing it — and we’re no longer Web-only. After a couple years on CityBeat’s Web site, we started appearing in the print edition of the paper once a month, then twice a month, then, at the beginning of 2008, in print every week. Being in print every week enabled me to attract more professional writers to the column,

08

by larry gross

and having to adhere to a strict word count every week, I think, has made the column stronger — or at least that’s what the increase in mail indicates. While I’ve written about good people and/or odd characters I’ve encountered at bus stops, in bars, at the grocery store or in various other places over the years, many of you can’t help but make observations. Yes, you’re noticing me while I’m noticing you. Some of you think I spend too much time in bars (guilty as charged) and that I drink too much in them (actually, I don’t think I drink enough). I also get asked how many bus stories I’ve written over the years (please don’t make me count), why I reference my smoking habit a lot (because it’s part of who I am) or why I write so honestly about myself (my therapist thinks it’s good for me). I get hate mail, of course. Even some local blogs here in town take notice of my views and opinions. Some don’t like it when I get down on Cincinnati and business closings. Others get angry when I say the city is unfriendly or talk about bad parenting skills I’ve witnessed while minding my own business. Many will never forgive me for those terrible things I said last November about the people who work at a certain bar on Seventh Street downtown. People ask me if getting negative comments about myself bother me. Answer? Not really. Just spell my name right. Oddly enough, one question I never get asked as a writer is if I’m superstitious about my work. The answer might surprise you. Whenever I finish a column and get ready to send it off to CityBeat, I always review the word count. Columns are to be between 900 and 950 words. I want my word count to always be an even number. For example, if a column comes in at 937 words, that’s not good. I’ll go back and take out a word to make it 936. Whatever the editors do at the office is their business, but when it leaves my desk, I want that word count to be even. Now, we’re starting our seventh year. Seven is an uneven number. Yes, I’ve heard the term “lucky seven,” but I’m not sure. I have a feeling for the next 12 months I’m going to be a bit uneasy. I’ll feel better when that odd number seven turns to an even number eight. In the meantime, while I wait for that to happen, I think I can speak for the other writers who contribute here when I say thanks for reading us for all these years. Time really does fly when you’re having fun, and life is short. We all really do need to live it out loud. And, oh yeah, when this column left my desk, we were at 938 words. Just wanted you to know that. contact larry gross: lgross@citybeat.com

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Worst Week Ever! 4by danny cross

WEDNESDAY NOV. 4 It’s pretty clear that no one is ever going to solve the whole chicken or the egg thing (the notion of existence is waaay too absurd). But that’s not going to stop Kentucky legislators from working through their own version of this existential dilemma, as Ohio’s legalization of casino gambling has forced them to rethink their casino-gaming chicken and horse-racing egg (or is it the other way around?). According to The Enquirer, the state’s horse industry has long argued that slots are necessary to keep people from going to surrounding states’ casinos, even though the existence of casinos in the Kentucky could negatively impact current horse business. House Speaker Greg Stumbo in June attempted to aid the horse industry by proposing a bill to allow racetrack slots without casinos but the Republican-held Senate took it into committee and pooped on it.

THURSDAY NOV. 5

It doesn’t take a lot of experience to succeed in today’s American political system — just look at how Barack Obama won the presidency with his smooth talking and impressive graphic designers. Local Cincinnati Tea Party organizer Mike Wilson today announced his intention to follow in Obama’s footsteps and run for an Ohio House seat. The 32-year-old Wilson, whose political experience pre-Tea Party was limited to organizing the office coffee fund at his Springfield Township IT job (“25 cents a cup — God hates a thief!”), must first win the Republican primary against several candidates whose names have appeared on ballots before. Wilson acknowledged that his inexperience could be a detriment to the campaign but said he’s confident that his “Change Things Back” platform will be even more successful than Obama’s original.

FRIDAY NOV. 6 Generational differences have frustrated American adults since the earliest days of the nation (many of Thomas Jefferson’s letters describe his kids running around with their trousers hanging half off their asses). But today’s parents and high school rule-makers are facing an even more complicated situation: whether or not kids should come to school dressed as the opposite gender if they feel more comfortable that way. The New York Times today described recent instances of kids being sent home for wearing girls’ wigs or boys’ suits. Though many schools have chosen to institute dress codes to avoid the issue, psychologists have warned against making both genders wear khakis because girls’ and boys’ butts look the same in them and then the straight kids start to wonder if they’re gay.

With the economy contributing to huge deficits for lawmakers across the state, Ohio officials are being forced to make really difficult decisions regarding their 2010 budgets (Simon Leis even agreed to try to squeeze his huge head into an XXL motorcycle

SUNDAY NOV. 8 The AP reported today that George Bush’s political enemies over at FEMA are back at their not-so-hilariously incompetent ways — this time under Obama’s watch — as new homeland security rules are threatening to waste millions of dollars-worth of equipment. The problem, according to a surprisingly well-researched Enquirer story, is that the new rules have shifted the maintenance cost for existing equipment to local jurisdictions, which are more likely to use federal grants to buy new stuff than spend their own money fixing old shit. County Commissioner David Pepper, whose father taught him the value of a dollar by making him pay his own cable bill in college, said the situation is ridiculous and then misquoted Kanye West trying to insult FEMA.

MONDAY NOV. 9 We at WWE! have never had an abortion so we can’t really comprehend the emotions involved in the process — but we once traded a Ken Griffey, Jr. rookie card right before the Reds got him so we fully understand loss and regret. The U.S. House of Representatives today moved to limit such emotional decision-making by including in its most recent health-overhaul bill a restriction of government health care tax credits to insurance plans that don’t cover abortions. Abortion-rights activists say this disproportionately affects lower-income women because rich people’s parents can pay for their abortions out what’s left in their pockets after paying higher taxes to support lower-income people’s babies who weren’t aborted because of the insurance.

TUESDAY NOV. 10 If you can look at a picture of a centaur and not immediately scream, “UGH MAN! LOOK AT THAT FREAK!” then there’s something wrong with you. There’s also something not right about scientists in England, who today began a new study to determine what the boundaries should be for putting human DNA in animals. The scientists say there are good reasons for growing human ears on a mouse’s back or giving a rat Down’s Syndrome and trying to cure it, though they recognize that it might upset some people who fear the discussion that could take place if cows are given too many human bran cells and begin to talk about what really happens on farms. electronic mail: dcross@citybeat.com

november 11-17, 2009

SATURDAY NOV. 7

Naw man

helmet next year instead of ordering his custom 4X). The AP today reported that the new budget has hit Ohio’s adoption services pretty hard, reducing their funding by 40 percent over the next two years. The agency also suffered from a reduction in subsidies for foster parents and said people really should adopt instead of assuming that their own kids will look like them or be good at the same sports they were in high school.

09


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4 letters to the editor

Don’t Hate on 275 Some things are best in small doses. For instance, I hate reality television, but for some reason I can’t turn away when America’s Fattest Crybabies is on. I also recommend hanging out with Northside hipsters in the smallest amounts possible. Now, I’d like to add Worst Week Ever to that list. Don’t get me wrong, I like the column when it’s one page long, but I don’t think you’re doing anybody any favors by expanding it to eight pages and calling it “Best of I-275.” The “article” wasn’t an article at all. It was some people driving around, while drinking beer and making fun of the suburbs. If this is going to be your brand of “journalism” in the future, might I suggest a few new categories for your next Best of Cincinnati issue? There are, of course, advantages and disadvantages that go along with any place a person may choose to live. The eight pages in question seemed to only point out what’s wrong with living on the outskirts of the city, instead of including what’s right.

In his intro, Danny Cross says they’re doing this because “the suburbs don’t get the love they deserve in CityBeat’s annual Best of Cincinnati issue.” If this is how you show love, I’d like to suggest a few new categories for the next best of issue: • Best place to step in a puddle of police horse piss • Best place to see $2500 worth of rims on $500 worth of car • Best private takeover of a public space (hint: there’s a fountain) • Best T.G.I. Friday’s with a mechanical bull (hint: there’s a Cadillac) Thank you for your time, — Garry Zink, Taylor Mill, Ky.

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NEWS

Blowing Their Tops Local activists fight mountaintop removal mining, raise awareness 4By Jacob Baynham

V

icco, Ky. — Picking his way through the mountain laurel near his Appalachian home, McKinley Sumner explains that all he ever wanted was a peaceful life on his family’s land where he was born and raised. “I live out here in the boondocks and that’s how I like it,” says Sumner, 76, stepping over the remains of a rusted fence that his father built in the 1930s. It’s not hard to imagine why. The oak forest around him is thick and silent, dappled with autumn sunlight. But the serenity stops abruptly at a cliff on the edge of Sumner’s 63 acres. It’s been six years now since his neighbor sold out to the International Coal Group and the mountaintop removal mining began, but Sumner’s eyes still flash at the sight. The mountains in front of him have been turned inside out. Giant bulldozers (“monsters,” Sumner calls them) have shorn away the forest and chiseled the mountaintops into vast, dusty plains that dwarf a handful of 18-wheeler trailers parked antlike on their surface. The mountainsides are strewn with rock and rubble, and sediment ponds in the valleys brim with wastewater. It is a standard scene of mountaintop removal mining in the heart of America’s coal country, but familiarity hasn’t made the sight any more tolerable for Sumner. “This is a disgrace to the human race and a disgrace to God’s creation,” he says, jabbing a finger at the devastation in front of him. “I’ll never give up fighting mountaintop removal mining. I hope it stops in my lifetime.” Sumner comes to this cliff a lot. Sometimes he’s alone, but more often he’s guiding a group of college students, journalists, activists or anyone else who’s interested in seeing firsthand the effects of mountaintop removal mining. Today, Sumner is guiding a group from the Cincinnati chap-

PHOTO: JACOB BAYNHAM

McKinley Sumner shows activists from Ohio Citizen Action his land, including areas affected by mountaintop removal mining that are bare and can no longer grow trees. ter of Ohio Citizen Action (OCA), which launched a campaign in September 2008 to fight this type of mining. OCA is mobilizing support in Cincinnati for the Clean Water Protection Act, a bill that would effectively prohibit mountaintop removal mining of coal. The group’s 80,000 members helped push Congressman

Steve Driehaus (D-Price Hill) of Ohio’s 1st District to become the 158th co-sponsor of the bill in October. “It’s outrageous to have the oldest mountains in America CONTINUES ON PAGE 124

4 winners and losers The Enquirer: Now that the election is mercifully over, we must pause to reflect on The Cincinnati Enquirer’s hodge-podge of endorsements for City Council. The paper’s slate included two Democrats, three Republicans, two Charterites, one Charter-Democrat and one independent. The candidates’ views fell all over the spectrum, and two (we’ll be kind and not identify them) barely said anything substantive in their campaigns, making them either cagey or stupid. The topper, though, was endorsing the Rev. Charlie Winburn and calling him “an innovative, high-energy charmer who delves into issues with exhaustive research.” Oh, that’s rich. This reminds us of Amy Poehler’s old bit on Saturday Night Live, “You endorsed Charlie Winburn? Huh. Really? The exorcist guy? REALLY? C’mon!”

Greg Harris: Although the Price Hill Democrat finished in 10th place last week and missed a return to City Council by about 3,400 votes, we commend Harris for staying true to his principles in a campaign filled with rhetoric, fearmongering and petty, small-minded attacks (See: Kuhl, Mary). He provided the fifth vote for Mayor Mark Mallory on tough budget issues. In years past, he accepted the unenviable task of running against Republican Congressman Steve Chabot, long before the 2006 turnaround year for Dems. Let’s hope Democratic Party Chairman Tim Burke remembers Harris’ loyal service over the years when an appropriate opportunity arises, instead of bending over backwards to lure a corporate candidate who has pals with deep pockets.

At-Large Elections: If you think Cincinnati’s system for electing City Council members isn’t dysfunctional, one look at this year’s results should cure you of that delusion. Two center-left Democrats finished at the top, followed by five conservatives or right-leaning candidates, followed by two left-leaning candidates. The results are all over the board not just in terms of partisanship, but also on where candidates stand on the issues. Other than top finisher Roxanne Qualls, none of the winners received more than eight percent of the vote and many got far less. At-large, citywide balloting tends to dilute votes and favor incumbents, leading to mediocre candidates winning time and again. Perhaps we need a serious look at switching to an either partial or total use of district elections.

november 11-17, 2009

Jeff Cramerding: The Charter Committee’s former executive director now has his own political consulting business, and it’s scored some home runs right out of the gate. As the adviser on the successful “No on 9” campaign, which prevented putting more restrictions on local rail-related funding, and on the reelection bid of Cincinnati City Councilman Chris Bortz, Cramerding already has some impressive credentials to put on his resume. We’re betting Hamilton County Commissioner David Pepper brings him on board for his campaign to become Ohio auditor next year. He’s sure come a long way since managing Christopher Smitherman’s first campaign for City Council way back in 2003. (Something tells me that one will be stricken from Cramerding’s resume.)

by kevin osborne

11


4BLOWING THEIR TOPS: FROM PAGE 11

devastated for allegedly cheap energy,” says OCA canvasser Nathan Rutz. Rutz is a long-haired, 22-year-old philosophy major and Cincinnati native. Rachael Belz, executive director of OCA’s education fund, calls him “the most passionate person about mountaintop removal mining that I’ve ever met off the coal fields.” When President Obama came to Coney Island on Labor Day, Rutz had his hand raised during the entire 30-minute speech to ask the president what he was doing to stop mountaintop removal mining. Obama didn’t take any questions.

Devastating Bullies

november 11-17, 2009

OCA staff say they are fighting mountaintop removal mining because of the devastation it wreaks on the environment, the toxic waste to which it exposes nearby residents and the bully tactics coal companies use to circumvent local opposition and the law. They say this is an important campaign for their group because much of Cincinnati’s — and Ohio’s — electricity is generated by burning mountaintop coal from Appalachia. “I’m going to feel guilty turning the lights on now,” OCA canvasser Mike Kosciecek said after seeing the devastation. So far, it’s believed that the mining technique has destroyed about 470 Appalachian peaks and polluted more than 1,200 miles of streams, according to the Institute for Southern Studies. Melissa English, OCA’s Southern Ohio campaign director, says the true cost of mountaintop removal mining is borne by the public, not the coal companies. “We pay with the loss of our landscape and tourism income,” she says. “It’s not benefiting anybody except the coal companies, for a very limited time.” But within the communities affected

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PHOTO: JACOB BAYNHAM

Once mountaintops are blasted to retrieve coal, the site is difficult to restore. by mountaintop removal mining, opinion is divided. Dilapidated mobile homes line the winding road through the hollow from Kentucky Highway 15 to Sumner’s property. Outside one

home, a set of bald tires and a rusting oven sit next to a “For Sale” sign. Beside another home is a sign reading, “Who is Barack ‘Hussein’ Obama, Really?” The sides of the hollow are choked with kudzu vine, which seems to be


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McKinley Sumner, 76, says a coal company keeps encroaching onto his property. bearing down on the houses themselves. In this remote, impoverished corner of Kentucky, many residents fear that activists will push out the region’s only reliable employer — the coal companies. Activists maintain that they are against mountaintop removal mining, not against coal. “Coal is a legitimate part of the heritage of people who live here,” English says. But Sumner and a rising tide of opposition say coal companies make poor neighbors who aren’t worth courting any longer. Sumner is tired of seeing the region’s standard of living remain dismal as more of the area’s natural resources are extracted. “Somehow, something tells me we are being exploited,” he says. Sumner has watched as the mountains around his property are scraped of their topsoil, and then blown apart for easy access to coal seams that are sometimes only 12 inches wide. Coal from mountaintop removal mining makes up a mere five percent of the country’s electricity supply, according to the nonprofit Appalachian Voices. “I don’t know why anyone would want to do this amount of devastation for that amount of coal,” he says. “The blasting knocked the pots and pans off of my cabinets.” A neighbor had chunks of rock fall into his kids’ aboveground swimming pool. “That’s how they treat people in Eastern Kentucky,” Sumner says.

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The coal companies say they reclaim the mountaintop removal mining sites by planting trees and grasses when they’re finished with them. One company that uses the technique, Massey Energy of Richmond, Va., says it’s planted millions of trees and successfully reclaimed thousands of acres in West Virginia, Kentucky and Virginia. As evidence, Massey points to awards from the Society of American Foresters, the Appalachian Regional Reforestation Initiative and government agencies.

“One misconception about land reclamation is that the new forests and wildlife habitats are flat. In fact, most reclamation areas are returned to rolling hills. When land is left flat after mining, it is usually so that the land can be employed in some productive way such as the creation of public schools, industrial and commercial,” Massey states on its Web site. But often the mountains’ valuable topsoil lies at the bottom of vast heaps of slate, and reclamation is next to impossible. Sumner points out a nearby mountain that was mined and reclaimed 20 years ago. It remains bald, but for a few Russian olives. “There is no way you’re gonna turn this back to the way it was,” he says. “We don’t need mountains without trees.” Sumner lives in the house his father, a coal miner, built before he was born. His mother’s old belongings clutter the interior. As peaceful as the property seems, Sumner feels besieged. He’s already found International Coal Group bulldozers trespassing on his property and uprooting his trees. Several stakes marking his property line have disappeared. The coal companies have repeatedly tried to buy him out. Their latest offer was $300,000. But Sumner has no plans of selling. “Dad and Mom didn’t want anything happening to the property,” he says. “That’s why I’m fighting.” Sumner, a former hospital janitor who turned down a management position because he didn’t like the idea of telling people what to do, stands outside his front door, near a patch of black-eyed Susans that have withered in the cold. Near them a sparse clump of Mexican sunflowers are barely blooming. “I’m still here,” Sumner sighs, looking around his land. “I don’t know how long I’m gonna be able to hold out, but I’m going to try to keep it.” ©

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PHOTO archives

Planners want opinions on how Cincinnati should grow and change in coming decades.

I

t’s the last day of September and Corryville’s Recreation Center is packed. All seating in the center’s large assembly area is filled, and a standing-room-only crowd shares the space with video cameras and lighting, waiting with a barely-contained buzzing for a short video about city planning. It’s not a subject that usually occasions such levels of excitement, but the first Community Informational Meeting for the city’s new Comprehensive Plan effort has drawn a large and eager crowd from surrounding

neighborhoods. After the presentation, the group is asked to provide input. Everyone is posed a few openended questions about what makes cities great and issues facing Cincinnati, then is given time to formulate answers before a moderator at each table opens up discussion. A facilitator at each table writes down each resident’s ideas. A couple tables filled with students from University of Cincinnati’s Urban Planning Department eagerly offer opinions about what the city needs most. The streetcar project is mentioned often, as is the Banks project and

the need for more nightlife options. Other tables exhibit different priorities, with affordable housing and equitable, reliable public transit put at a premium. PlThroughout the meeting, the importance of community involvement in the planning process is stressed. “This is not our plan, or the planning department’s plan,” Charles Graves, Cincinnati’s planning director, tells the crowd. “This is your plan.” It’s a great moment in the room, inspirational and energizing. But beyond the excitement


of the committee focused on neighborhood involvement may have their work cut out for them. Just days after the energized Corryville meeting, a different scene unfolds in Price Hill. It’s early evening and the meeting room at Price Hill’s Community Recreation Center is still only about half-full. More people trickle in soon after the opening presentation begins, but a few tables remain empty throughout. Most in attendance are from other areas — downtown, Northern Kentucky, Clifton. During the discussion session, Gerry Baker of neighboring Sedamsville seems to be one of the few voices from the area. A life-long resident, Baker lives in the same house she was born in, which she says once belonged to her grandmother. Baker’s got a lot of ideas about the city and her part of town. “I think lack of education is a big problem,” she says. Graves recognizes concerns about the somewhat patchwork nature of the community involvement efforts currently underway. “We’ve gone out to neighborhood organizations, and we’ll be going back out to these organizations,” he says. “We’re doing everything we can to make ourselves available.” The Planning Commission is working with organizations active in all communities, such as school administration boards. “Recent neighborhood plans will also be incorporated into the citywide plan,” Graves says, so neighborhood-focused planning efforts such as those in places like West End wouldn’t be usurped by the larger Comprehensive Plan. Despite these assurances, it remains to be seen how many residents in various parts of the city will be represented by the planning efforts, but there will be other opportunities. The Community Informational Meetings, which took place in Madisonville and College Hill as well as Corryville and Price Hill, are just the first step in a long, multifaceted process stretching well into 2011. Next on the Planning Commission’s agenda is the Neighborhood Summit, which takes place Feb. 26-27. The commission will have basic goals drafted based on the feedback at the community meetings. Those goals will guide work groups, which will be open to those with an interest in the various areas of the Comprehensive Plan. Faux urges more residents to get involved. “I hope you think about the city, and how it fits into the region and the country,” he has said at the community meetings. “Look beyond your own neighborhood, beyond the present.” It still remains to be seen, though, how many residents in various parts of the city will find themselves engaged enough by the process to consider that big picture. ©

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of the large crowd, video presentations, and group discussions, what does it mean for a city to start a Comprehensive Plan? Like a living organism, a city is made up of interdependent systems. Roads and public transit circulate lifeblood pumped from business districts and centers of employment. Neighborhoods give the city personality while cultural and educational institutions produce its intellect. Zoning is the genetic code that ties it all together, deciding what goes where and how the skin of the city will look. A Comprehensive Plan, as the name suggests, is a big-picture approach to these and other issues attempting to consider the entirety of a city and how its various systems can better function together. This is not the first time Cincinnati has undertaken this enormous task. In fact, the city has an impressive history with Comprehensive Plans, penning the first to be passed by a City Council in 1925. Since this pioneering step, Cincinnati has drawn up just two more — one in 1946 and one in 1980. Now a new one is being started. At the helm of this massive effort is Graves, who wields considerable experience. He oversaw the 2005 Comprehensive Plan for Washington, D.C., and has also served as planning director for Baltimore and Atlanta. Graves has prior planning roots in Cincinnati as well, serving as senior planner from 1981-86. Of equal importance will be a 40-member steering committee charged with setting the tone of the Comprehensive Plan and guiding its priorities and goals. Co-chaired by Planning Commission Chairman Caleb Faux and Michaele Pride, Director of UC’s School of Architecture and Interior Design, the committee will be composed of Cincinnati residents representing area businesses, non-profit groups and community leaders, each in an approximately one-third proportion. One of these committee members is Evanston Community Council President Anzora Adkins. A whirlwind of activity, Adkins spends much of her time working as an advocate for the neighborhood where she’s lived for the past 40 years. She’s been a major proponent of the proposed King Records studio and museum in Evanston as well as helping with a not-forprofit community art studio called Flavor of the Arts. Adkins is excited by the process. “I feel the Comprehensive Plan will serve as a catalyst for growth,” she says. Adkins, who will be working with a committee focused on neighborhood involvement, says she’s interested in the plan’s impact on Cincinnati as a whole, but hopes it also has positive impacts on Evanston. “My goal is to enhance quality of life in Evanston by eliminating the blight,” she says. “I think this plan can help us rebuild the neighborhood.” All these elements — an experienced planning director, a strong and involved steering committee, the city’s history of pioneering in planning — are certainly a plus. Some signs, however, show Adkins and the other members

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TO DO

(L-R) Kerry O’Malley, Stephen Bogardus, Jeffry Denman, Meredith Patterson and the Broadway Comapny of Irving Berlin’s White Christmas

CBRECOMMENDS

THURSDAY12 4

PHOTO: Joan Marcus

WEDNESDAY11 4

COMEDY: TROY BAXLEY For Troy Baxley, comedy wasn’t a life-long ambition so much as it was a survival tool. “I started school very early,” he explains, “so I was smaller than other kids. Growing up, I had to be funny and a smart ass to protect myself.” He finally did hop on stage and delivered what he now describes as the “worst comedy ever. I have yet to see someone as bad as my first set,” he insists. “Totally uncomfortable and shaky and nervous and hungry and dizzy.” Of course, he got better to the point where he is now considered a “comedian’s comedian.” Not bad for a self-described “lifetime C student,” a group who’s cause he still champions. “To lower one’s expectations is only admitting victory,” he says. “And people who attend my show will be given free motivational bracelets that remind them of that everyday.” So who or what makes Baxley laugh when he’s off-duty? “All things great and small,” he says. “Just looking around is funny. I like to watch Sesame Street. Did you know that one asshole is still living in that trashcan? He’s the champion C student of all time.” Troy Baxley performs at Go Bananas Thursday-Sunday. Tickets are $8-$12 ($4 Thursday with college/military ID). www.gobananascomedy.com. — P.F. WILSON

Musical, based on the classic film. It’s been around for several years, including a positively reviewed Broadway run late last year, so it’s on the road to several cities as ART: THE CARNEGIE VISUAL AND PERFORMING ARTS a seasonal offering for 2009. Bing, Danny, Rosemary and CENTER hosts Something for Everyone, a collection of six Vera-Ellen are no longer available, but some reasonable new exhibits including solo shows and a group show by the facsimiles — not to mention some very familiar tunes, Clay Alliance. See review on page 33. including “Count Your Blessings,” COMEDY: DAVE WAITE, Cincinnati comedian, makes “Blue Skies,” “Sisters” and the his television debut on Comedy Central’s Live at Gotham ART: ART ACADEMY This is the ever-popular title song — make tonight. See Arts on page 36. final weekend to see a lovely, this an entertaining evening at delicately conceived show of Built the Aronoff. Through Nov. 22. ART: THE BLDG GRAND OPENING Banksy should be Drawings by George Schmidt, a $24.50-$64.50. 800-982-2787. shaking in his rebellious artist boots as PREFAB77’s first native Cincinnatian now living Meanwhile, at the Playhouse, U.S. exhibit, Shot at from Both Sides at The BLDG (30 in Brooklyn, at the Art Academy there’s Sanders Family Christmas: W. Pike St., Covington), is sure to draw attention to the of Cincinnati’s Pearlman More Smoke on the Mountain, the U.K’s urban art scene. These former street artists, who Gallery. The show consists of fifth visit for that Gospel-singin’, transcended the brick walls of Newcastle up to the gallery, 26 sculptures, drawings, oil hands-aportray images of politics, war, religion paintings and prints that together clappin’, everand sexuality. The PREFAB77 collection present an environment of lovin’ Sanders draws inspiration from both sides of imagined architecture that is clan to the the pond with pieces in many different elegant, playful, precise, organic Shelterhouse mediums, including acrylic, varnish, and dreamlike. The long blue Theatre. There spray-paint and ink. The exhibit is “Meeting House,” placed atop PHOTO courtesy art academy of cincinnati’s pearlman gallery are actually sure to challenge the idea of what Pop a tripod-like pedestal, could “Meeting House” and “On the Side Porch” three different Surrealism art means in our modern serve as a covered bridge from by George Schmidt Sanders Family world. The show, which opens at 8 p.m. the world of the real to a more shows (the Playhouse has produced Friday, runs through Dec. 31. This will be illusory one. Schmidt especially shows the influence of them all), but this one (previously the grand opening of The BLDG, formerly sculptor Martin Puryear, who uses similar materials and seen in 1999) might be the most fun, known as the Jim Amann Gallery, has a shared interest in forms that are perched between especially when tuneless daughter June whose mission is to be “a place, a the abstract and the figural. The show closes Sunday at the interprets Christmas carols through her process, and a collaboration, creating Academy, 1212 Jackson St. in Over-the-Rhine. Visit www. own version of sign language. But it has and exhibiting diverse, provocative art artacademy.edu or call 513-562-6262. — STEVEN ROSEN its share of drama and serious emotion, that challenges patrons to thought and too, as it’s set on Christmas Eve 1941, introspection.” For more information on ONSTAGE: IRVING BERLIN’S WHITE CHRISTMAS and just a few weeks after the bombing of the gallery and the exhibit, visit www. SANDERS FAMILY CHRISTMAS It’s not yet Thanksgiving, Pearl Harbor. Nevertheless, this is a bldgrefuge.com. — ERIC JOHNSON but the holiday shows are already upon us. Have you even feel-good show that will entertain young, taken down your Halloween decorations? Regardless, if old and in-between. The humor is sweet ONSTAGE: ANTHRO(POP)OLOGY you’re one of those people who can’t get enough of yearand the music is infectious. This one Columbus is not too far away to go see end festivities, you can get a head start this week with two runs until New Year’s Eve. $45- $70. an evening of performance art that eases shows. Broadway Across America is presenting a two-week PHOTO courtesy the Bldg 513-421-3888. — RICK PENDER into modern dance. This weekend I’ll be run of a touring show Irving Berlin’s White Christmas: The From the PREFAB77 collection going to see Anthro(pop)ology, a variety

november 11-17, 2009

FRIDAY13 4

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show that has invited three different groups to critique and consider the positive, negative and ambiguous effects of pop culture in society. In particular, I’ll be there to see cocoloupedance’s click here for slideshow or 6-8 character limit, with choreographer Coco Loupe. On her blog, Loupe writes about the process of creating the piece: “Suddenly we had it. A string of solos. A parade of singularities. A gallery of personalities. A slideshow on a stage. All linked together and contextualized by the old prophetess who’s been taken out of the real action and has to ‘dance’ her way around the web.” By “web,” she is referring to the Internet, which is central to the work’s form, as she and her dancers blogged their way through the past six months of choreography. Anthro(pop)ology is presented at the Columbus Dance Theatre, 592 E. Main St. 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday and 3 p.m. Sunday. Buy tickets for $10 by clicking on “store” at www.amerifluff.com. — MATT MORRIS

CONTINUES ON PAGE 204

november 11-17, 2009

EVENT: MOERLEIN KEG TAPPING For this winter season, the Christian Moerlein Brewing Co. and the GermanAmerican Citizens League are having a ceremonial keg tapping party of Christian Moerlein’s Christkindl Winter Warmer Ale, a large malt-bodied brew with some chocolaty sweetness, subtle spice flavors and a hoppy finish. Consider it a celebration of Cincinnati’s German heritage and a fight against seasonal depression. Christian Moerlein’s Christkindl Winter Warmer Ale is brewed and released annually and is inspired by the German spirit of holiday gift-giving, so admission is free! The festivities begin at 4 p.m. with the keg tapping at 7 p.m. and the party will go until midnight at Cincinnati Central Turners Club House, a quaint lake-view clubhouse at 2200 Pinney Lane in Mt. Healthy. The clubhouse itself is worth the trip. It looks like it was designed by men for men with two bars — one on the first floor, another in the basement — and congregating areas with card tables and folding chairs sitting in front of a woodburning fireplace. Some shelter, a natural view, a place to sit and a place to set your beer, plus maybe some old timers. Sounds like a great Friday. For more information go to www.chistianmorelein. com or the German-American Citizens League Web site at www.gacl.org. — PETER ROBERTSON

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Stills & Nash and Simon & Garfunkel, support their latest release, Aptos, at the Southgate House with Why? and Jason Snell. See Sound Advice on page 31.

photo courtesy queencitybrass.com

MUSIC: MAN OF MUSIC: A TRIBUTE TO MICHAEL W. RILEY takes place at the Clifton Cultural Arts Center. See Music on page 29.

THURSDAY12 4 ONSTAGE: QUEEN CITY BRASS For the past two decades, the Queen City Brass has been one of the area’s most renowned wind ensembles as well as one of the busiest. QCB has appeared throughout the Midwest, including on broadcasts of Garrison Keillor’s A Prairie Home Companion, the Charles Kurault television series The History of Cincinnati, in performance with the CSO, the Pops Orchestra and as a part of the Taft Museum Chamber Music Series. The group was also Xavier University’s first Ensemble in Residence and has even appeared at a Japanese festival. The Queen City Brass brings their diverse repertoire of Classical, Dixieland Jazz and adapted movie themes (from Jaws this time) to the equally diverse Carnegie in Concert series this Thursday for the second of six performances in the Carnegie’s 2009-10 season. The 7:30 p.m. show takes place at the Carnegie’s acoustically superior Otto M. Budig Theatre (1028 Scott St., Covington). Tickets are $18. Call 859-491-2030 or visit www.thecarnegie.com for more details. — BRIAN BAKER

4TO DO: FROM PAGE 19

Sports: Football It seems like no one ever takes it seriously when you say you can’t do something because there’s a big important sports game you have to watch. This weekend football fans throughout the Tri-state will be canceling plans all over the place, as three local college football teams attempt to continue their undefeated seasons. The No. 5 UC Bearcats (9-0, 5-0 Big East) will host No. 25 West Virginia (7-2, 3-1) at 8 p.m. Friday with only this game and a season-finale against Pitt Dec. 5 between them and a perfect Big East season. The game will be on ESPN 2 so a national audience can see all the awesome quarterbacks the Bearcats have. Over on the West Side, two nationally ranked Division III teams will play in the annual Bridge Bowl when No. 17 Mount Saint Joseph takes on No. 10 Thomas More at 1 p.m. Saturday at the Mount’s Schueler Field, which is a pretty cool place to watch a football game. If you have any trouble getting your significant other to cancel Friday date night or that wedding you were supposed to go to on Saturday, just promise to do something nice for him or her in the near future. (But don’t say you’ll do it on Sunday because they’ll know you’re lying — the Bengals play the Steelers at 1 p.m.) www.sports.com. — Danny Cross

SATURDAY14 4

november 11-17, 2009

MUSIC: THE MOORE BROTHERS, a Folk/Pop duo that stands shoulder to shoulder with the likes of Crosby,

20

MUSIC: NERDPOW!, the Great Lake Region’s first and only Nerdcore and video game music concert, takes over the Sharonville Holiday Inn. See Music on page 25. MUSIC: CHEAP GIRLS bring their vibrant Power Pop/PopPunk with heavy ‘90s Alt/Indie Rock vibes to the Bikehaus with Failures’ Union, Knife the Symphony and Army Coach. See Sound Advice on page 31. MUSIC: BAD VEINS AND YOU, YOU’RE AWESOME Local Indie Pop duo Bad Veins has been steadily touring the country since the summer release of its self-titled debut on Dangerbird Records (though they did have to cancel some dates toward the end of a recent jaunt due to van problems). The Veins get a little break now, but they will be performing Saturday at aliveOne in Mt. Adams with Electro pals You You’re Awesome (fresh off an appearance at the CMJ conference in New York City). DJ Matt Joy and DJ K-Smuv will spin at the event. The free 11 p.m. show is in celebration of aliveOne’s seventh anniversary. The club — which has a sister venue in Chicago — boasts a unique jukebox featuring only live tracks from various Rock artists, and also showcases live bootleg recordings and “live music”-related art. 531-721-6977. — MIKE BREEN LIT: MOBY-DICK MARATHON READING In order to celebrate the success of its exhibit, Chasing the Whale in Northern Kentucky, Gallerie Zaum (811 Monmouth St., Newport) is hosting a two-day marathon reading of Herman Melville’s classic, Moby-Dick (the novel turns 156 years old Saturday). According to the press release, as far as Gallerie Zaum knows, “this will be the first Moby-Dick Marathon anywhere in which the entire book is read in the presence of an art exhibition solely devoted to interpreting the novel.” It usually takes 24 hours to get from “Call me Ishmael” to the end of the book, so Gallerie Zaum will be dividing the readings over the weekend with sessions from 9 a.m.-9 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday. Each reader will be given a 20-minute slot where they can read from their own copies of the American classic or from the gallery’s “official” copy, the Longman Critical Edition illustrated by George Klauba


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and Kathleen Piercefield. Along with literature and art, there will be food and drinks, including Mrs. Hussey’s clam chowder and Aunt Charity’s ginger cider. And anyone present for the entire marathon will receive their own copy of the Longman Critical Edition. For more information or to check available reading slots, contact Adam at ashelton@ galleriezaum.com. — MAIJA ZUMMO

MONDAY16 4 MUSIC: HEAVY TRASH, originally a twosome featuring Jon Spencer and Matt Verta-Ray, is now a full-fledged band on tour supporting their album Midnight Soul Serenade. They play the Northside Tavern. See Sound Advice on page 31.

SATURDAY14 4 EVENTS: CARNIBALL On Saturday the Art Academy will host its biannual Beaux Arts Ball, the fantastical Carniball, at an incongruousseeming location, The Gameday Café (537 E. Pete Rose Way, Downtown). Fusing the bizarre extravagance of a carnival with the artistic flair of the Academy, Carniball promises to be “the most outlandish fundraising event of the year.” The night will be packed with sideshow acts, including entertainment by Dante’s Gypsy Belly Dancers, the Pickled Brothers, an aerial show, an escape artist and fire breathers. And, as this is an Art Academy event, expect to see artworks like oneof-a-kind puzzle games by Thom Shaw, C.F. Payne. Jay Bauer, John Ruthven and others in a live auction, along with original circus posters by Art Academy students. There will also be live music from Buckra, body painting, hors d’oeuvres, desserts and a cash bar. $50. Reservations are recommended, but not required. 7 p.m.-midnight. For more information, contact jennifergrote821@hotmail.com. — MAIJA ZUMMO

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Holiday plays are already sneaking their way into Cincinnati’s theater scene. We’ve got the Sander’s Family Christmas at the Playhouse until Dec. 31 and IRVING BERLIN’S WHITE CHRISTMAS is playing at the Aronoff until Nov. 22. Read Rick Pender’s review of WHITE CHRISTMAS next week. … Also, big news for all you long-hairs out there: PHISH is coming to U.S. Bank Arena on Nov. 20 and 21. Go to the show or just drop some acid and eat warming-plate grilled cheese in the parking lot. … SCARY! The HORRORHOUND WEEKEND is stopping by the Sharonville Crowne Plaza Nov. 20-22 with all sorts of horror film screenings and special celebrity guests like ELVIRA, MISTRESS OF THE DARK (pictured).

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241-3301 317 W 4th street • Downtown

11/19-22

John Henton The Hughleys, Living Single, The Rosie O’Donnell Show, Showtime at the Apollo, The Tonight Show

Bert Kreischer Premium Blend, Shorties Watchin Shorties, Hurt Bert, The Shield, Last Comic Standing 2, Jimmy Kimmel Live

november 11-17, 2009

Gift CertifiCates available!

www.premiumtickets.net

WE HAVE TICKETS TO NEW MOON! If you want them or you know a teenager who does, head over to citybeat. com and click on FREE STUFF to register to win two passes to a screening on Nov. 18. … Also, hurry up and register to get tickets to 2012, a scary movie about the coming apocalypse with John Cusack, who looks pretty scary in general these days. He’s getting weird Nicholas Cage hair. … More movie stuff! CINCY WORLD CINEMA does it again. This week head to the Carnegie in Covington to check out another duo of international films. Juliette Binoche stars in THE SUMMER HOURS on Sunday and Tuesday, and WHAT A WONDERFUL WORLD from Morocco plays on Sunday and Wednesday.

21


13th Annual The Red Carpet Return of the

22

Vote now at CEA.Citybeat.com

november 11-17, 2009

Trashie Fashion Awards presented by

Fairmount Girls

Cincinnati Entertainment Awards

November 22, 2009.

Madison Theater Doors at 6pm. $15 advance. $18 day of event.

Tickets on sale at www.CEA.Citybeat.com

includes access to the exclusive CEA Afterparty at MadHatter presented by Dewey's Pizza

proceeds benefit the Cincinnati USA Music Heritage Foundation


november 11-17, 2009

23


24

november 11-17, 2009


MUSIC

4SPILL IT By mike breen

New Local Releases

contact mike breen: mbreen@citybeat.com

PHOTO COURTESY SUPER 8 BIT BROTHERS

Super 8 Bit Brothers and other “video game music” artists unite for NerdPow!

Nerds of a Feather The inaugural NerdPow! celebrates better video gaming through music 4By REYAN ALI

W

ith game developers taking frequent technological leaps and the popularity of Rock Band and Guitar Hero nearing the point of cultural oversaturation, current video game music is light years removed from the tinny din and clunky MIDI palettes of yesteryear. However, there’s much more gaming-related audio out there than what WASSUP makes it to consoles. NERDPOW! will be held at the The Internet is overflowing with musicians both paying Sharonville Holiday Inn at 275 North homage to all types of game (3855 Hauck Road) on Saturday. For titles and using antiquated more info, see www.aandgohio.com. equipment to build original compositions. In a cursory sweep of the content available, you can find groups recreating game soundtracks (like The NESkimos, who exclusively tear out Nintendo tunes), Nerdcore rappers filling songs with pop cultural minutiae, entire tribute compilations to well-known artists using ’80s-era synths (Weezer: The 8-Bit Tribute came out in the summer) and hundreds of songs redone and available for free download at OverClocked ReMix (ocremix.org). Though there is a vast audience for video gamerelated music (what else could prompt a Miles Davis

ode called Kind of Bloop?), the sounds’ architects are scattered across the country and beyond, meaning the odds of catching any performances in Cincinnati aren’t so hot. To repair this dilemma, two gaming aficionados have founded NerdPow!, an affair touted as “The Great Lake Regions’ first and only Nerdcore and video game music concert.” Animation & Gaming (A&G) Ohio members Josh Farley and Jason Taylor came up with NerdPow! after noticing the drought of local gaming music-themed events. “You might see one band at an anime or video game convention,” says Taylor. “Short of that, there are no events that have a big draw of people from the genre.” This dearth also affects artists playing such music. “Trying to get people to come out to see one local Nerdcore band doesn’t do well,” Taylor says. “A lot of them are stuck doing acoustic performances in a Hot Topic once in a while. We want to break that mold.” Because NerdPow!’s organizers have held previous conventions, assembling a roster of musicians wasn’t too difficult. The real problem proved to be funding. “We’re pretty much running it on no budget at all,” CONTINUES ON PAGE 284

november 11-17, 2009

• Local Pop/Rock foursome Giant Wow celebrates the release of Hey Girl this Saturday at the Southgate House’s Parlour room with guests Bootleg Rider and Goose. The disc is an EP … sorta. The band — which expanded to a four-piece after drummer Keith Adams moved to guitar and Kevin Sturgill came in to take over drums — has crafted Hey Girl as an enhanced CD, meaning you’ll also get five bonus songs (on top of the five “regular” songs on the disc), a video for lead track “Cosmonaut,” photos and extra liner notes when you put the disc in your computer. Giant Wow has gotten noticeably better in the few years they’ve been playing, with Hey Girl being the pinnacle so far. The solid songwriting (of the melodic Pop/Rock variety) is enhanced by Jesse Gilsinger’s always-impressive and imaginative guitar work (dueling with Adams’ own crafty fretwork) and superb harmonies. “Wicked Girl” is a standout track, a love-vengeance tale with irresistible hooks and driving, spiraling rhythm, sounding like Queens of the Stone Age minus the machismo. (giantwow.com) • Local power trio Sparrow Bellows celebrates the release of its solid self-titled debut, a collection of well-played, soulful and tuneful Rock & Roll songs, this Friday at Stockyard Café (on Spring Grove Ave., just before you get to Northside). The show also features some excellent openers with SB (or rather SB bassist) connections, Cash Flagg is fronted by Shawn Bracken, Bellows singer/bassist Sammy Wulfeck’s brother in late Roots Rock faves The Stapletons, while Goose features Wulfeck on bass. (myspace.com/sparrowbellows) • Tickled Pink — a Cincinnati-based trio featuring local scene veterans Scott Covrett (vocals/guitar), Bob Nyswonger (bass/vocals) and Bam Powell (drums/vocals) — celebrates the release of its latest CD, a self-titled affair, Friday and Saturday at Sidebar in Covington. The disc contains 14 diverse, hook-laden tracks, with songwriting credits equally distributed between the three gifted and experienced musicians. Fans of the pyschodots/raisins/bears school of Rock (Nyswonger has been involved in all three, while Powell was an early member of the raisins) take note — Tickled Pink picks up the Pop/Rock torch and sprints to the finish line with this superb effort. The musicianship is expectedly flawless (all three have done extensive session work), but it’s the eclecticism (the songs veer from Blues to Roots Rock to Power Pop) and songwriting that’ll have you coming back for more. (myspace.com/tickledpinktunes) • Last but far from least, Indie Pop collective The Minor Leagues return with the new This Story is Old, I Know, But It Goes On (released by Chicago/Cincy imprint, datawaslost), another dazzling, epic album that revolves loosely around a concept/ storyline, yet lacks all the pompousness of a “Rock Opera.” The Leagues take the history of Pop Rock music (from The Kinks to Blur to Apples in Stereo) and shape it into their own image, sounding a little like everything and a lot like nothing you’ve heard. The group’s live shows have become rare (the band’s MidPoint showcase this September was its first since 2007), but remain must-sees, as the already-large lineup (around seven members in all) is often augmented by additional friends. For the release show this Saturday at Northside’s Mayday (the old Gypsy Hut) with openers Slant, Koala Fires and Cougar Ace, expect the band to pull out all the stops. With output as strong as This Story, The Minor Leagues should be getting called up to the bigs soon, if there is any justice in the world. (minorleaguesmusic.com)

25


& JBM PROMOTIONS present

Southgate houSe 24 E 3 rd St • N ewpor t, KY

Robbie fulkS & band with Nathan Holscher & The Ohio 5

November 13 @ 8:30pm

Michelle Shocked November 22 @ 8:00pm

toMMy caStRo band November 29 @ 8:00pm

chuck PRoPhet & band December 2 @ 8:30pm

WoRkS PRogReSS adMiniStRation featuring Glen Phillips, Sean Watkins,

Luke Bulla, Sebastian Steinberg

December 9 @ 8:00pm

www.jbmpromotions.com Tickets/Info 513-779-9462

4music listings

Glendale Cock & Bull English Pub — The Turkeys. Acoustic. Free. Havana Martini Club — The Fathead Davis Trio (Jazz with Chris Comer Trio

at 5 p.m.). Blues/Reggae. Free.

CityBeat’s music listings are free. Send info to MIKE BREEN via email at mbreen@citybeat.com or fax at 513-665-4369. Listings are subject to change. See Club Directory for all club locations. H is CityBeat staff’s stamp of approval.

Concerts Steely Dan — Rock/Classic Rock/Progressive. Wednesday,

H

November 11. 7:30 p.m. Taft Theatre, 317 E. Fifth St., Downtown. $57.50-$133. 513-721-8833.

Robbie Fulks | Nathan Holscher & the Ohio 5 — Folk/Roots Rock/Singer/Songwriter. Friday, November 13. 8:30 p.m. Southgate House, 24 E. Third St., Newport. $13/$15 day of show. 859-431-2201.

Daughtry — Rock. Friday, November 13 7:30 pm. The Bank of

Kentucky Center, 500 Nunn Dr.,Northern Kentucky University Highland Heights, $31.50-$41.50. 513-562-4949

“NerdPow! ‘09” with Super 8 Big Brothers, The Protomen, MC Router, Arm Cannon, My Parents Favorite H Music, Dual Core, Screaming Mechanical Brain and MC Cool Whip (11 a.m. start) — Alternative (see story, page 25). Saturday, November 14. 11 a.m. Holiday Inn, Sharonville, 3855 Hauck Rd., Sharonville. $20. 513-229-8500. Why? | The Moore Brothers | Jason Snell (Chocolate Horse) — Rock/Indie (see Sound Advice, page 31). Sat-

H urday, November 14. 9 p.m. Southgate House, 24 E. Third St., Newport. $10/$13 day of show. 859-431-2201.

Big D and the Kids Table | Ill Scarlet | Atomic Potato | Jack! Bandit | Apathetic Epidemic — Rock/Pop. Monday,

November 16. 6 p.m. Mad Hatter, 620 Scott St., Covington. $10/$12 day of show. 859-291-2233.

Clubs Wednesday November 11 Arnold’s Bar and Grill — Ricky Nye and Dottie Warner. Blues. Free. Blue Wisp Jazz Club — Blue Wisp Big Band. Jazz/Big Band.

$15/$10 for students.

Carlo & Johnny — Jeff Henry. Acoustic. Free. Charlie’s Throttle Stop — Open Jam with Sonny Moorman Group.

Rock/Blues. Free.

Chez Nora — Ricky Nye and Bekah Williams. Blues/Boogie Woogie. Free.

Dirty Jack’s — Slum Muzik Entertainment. Hip Hop. Cover. Greenwich — “Midnight Sun Cafe” and Open Mic. Open mic. Cover. Havana Martini Club — Free Salsa Lessons and DJ Rudy Alvarez.

Latin/Salsa. Free.

HD Beans And Bottles Cafe — Open Mic. Open mic. Free. Jefferson Hall — Naked Karate Girls. Rock. Cover. Knotty Pine — Dallas Moore. Outlaw Country. Free. Mahogany’s Coffeehouse Bar & Grill — Open jam with Dick and the Roadmasters. Blues. Free.

Northside Tavern — The Tempers | Cletus Romp. Rock/Roots. Free. Southgate House (Lounge) — Michael and Travis from Frontier Folk Nebraska. Folk/Roots Rock/Singer/Songwriter. Free.

Stanley’s Pub — Super-Massive. Reggae. Cover.

The Sandbar — Blue Birds Trio. Classic Rock/R&B. Free. The Stand — DJ Jahson. Hip Hop/Dance/Various. Free. Uncle Woody’s — Open mic with John Redell. Open mic. Free.

Jeff Ruby’s — Kelly Red and The Hammerheads. Blues/R&B. Free. Jefferson Hall — The Brave Youngster. Rock. Cover. Jim and Jack’s on the River — The Dukes. Oldies. Cover. Knotty Pine — Bad Habit. Rock. Cover. Mad Hatter — Solid Six (CD release show) with Last Dayz, Session 9,

8Kount, Another Tragedy, The Junkards and Watchfire . Rock/Metal. Cover.

Madison Theater — The Movement | Super-Massive. Rock/Hip Hop/ Reggae. $10.

Thursday November 12

Mainstay Rock Bar — Just Like Monsters | The Shy Spots | Super Tuesday.

Club Bronz — That Digital Kid | DJ Flex. Dance. Cover. Cosmo’s — The Turkeys. Rock/Folk. Free. Dee Felice — The Lee Stolar Trio. Jazz. Free. Dilly Deli Cafe, Wines & Gourmet — Steve Barone (6 p.m.). Jazz/

Mansion Hill Tavern — Blue Ravens. Blues. Cover. Molly Malone’s Irish Pub (Pleasant Ridge) — Fish Head. Rock/

Guitar. Free.

Dirty Jack’s — Celebrity Status Ent. presents J-Kwon. Hip Hop. $10. Dollar Bill Tavern — Old Shoes. Pop/Dance. Free. Grandview Tavern & Grille — Jeff Henry. Acoustic. Free. Havana Martini Club — Latin Mix Thursdays with DJ Rudy Alverez. Dance/

Latin. Free.

Jeff Ruby’s — Storyline. Pop/R&B. Free. Jefferson Hall — Fourth Day Echo. Rock. Cover. Mad Frog — Super-Massive. Reggae. Cover; ladies are free. Mill Street Sports Bar and Grill — The Jones’s. R&B/Soul. Free. Northside Tavern — Gregory Morris Group (front room). Rock/Folk. Free. Shady O’Grady’s — VIP Jam with Sonny Moorman Group. Rock/Blues/

Open jam. Free.

Southgate House (Lounge) — Mt. Pleasant String Band. Bluegrass. Free. Stanley’s Pub — Mike Connelly, Kyle Smith and The Weekenders. Rock/

Acoustic. Cover.

Stockyard Cafe — Open Mic With John Redell. Open mic. Free. The Greenwich — Windau Jazz’tet. Jazz. Cover. The Redmoor — Eddie Brookshire Quintet. Jazz. $7. The Stand — DJ Gerald . Dance/Electronic/New Wave/Various. Free. WIllie’s Sports Cafe (Hidden Valley) — Bob Cushing. Rock/Acoustic. Free.

Zola — The Turkeys. Rock/Folk. Free.

Friday November 13 Anderson Bar & Grill — Basic Truth. Funk/R&B/Soul. $5. Bella Luna — Blue Birds Trio. R&B/Soft Rock. Free. Blue Wisp Jazz Club — Nancy James Trio. Jazz. Cover. Chez Nora — Gary Gorrell Trio. Jazz. Free. Club Bronz — “d:Evolution 80s Night” with DJ Victim. Dance/80s. Cover

(after 11 p.m.)

Dee Felice — The “New” Sleepcat Band. Jazz/Swing. Free. Dirty Jack’s — Taylor Bean Benefit with Torment the Suffering, Total Dudes,

Drugstore Valentine and Situation Red. Rock. $10.

Doc’s Place — The Medicine Men. Blues. Free. Dollar Bill Tavern — Last Call. Pop/Dance. Free. Finish Line — Inside Out Band. Classic Rock/Country/Southern Rock. Free.

Rock. Cover.

Blues. Free.

Northside Tavern — You, You’re Awesome | The Bloodsugars | The Harlequins. Indie. Free. Phat Daddy’s — The Jones’s. R&B/Soul. Free. Play by Play Rock Cafe — “Sixth Annual Toys for Tots Benefit” with

H

Chakras, Blacklight Barbarian, Rosemary Device and Mission Hill . Rock. Cover.

R.P. McMurphy’s Irish Pub & Coffee House — Kevin Fox. Rock. Cover. Rick’s Tavern & Grille — The Snow Shoe Crabs. Rock. Cover. Scotty’s Pub — The Nine and a Half. Rock/Jam/Reggae. Cover. Seecretz Sports Lounge & Grill — The Jones’s. Jazz/R&B/Soul. $5. Shady O’Grady’s — Blue Merchants. Blues. Free. Sidebar — Tickled Pink (CD release party). Rock/Pop (see Spill It, page

H25). Free.

Southgate House (Lounge) — Ricky Nye Inc.. Blues/Boogie Woogie. Free. Southgate House (Parlour) — 500 Miles to Memphis | Shotgun Lover. Rock. Cover.

Stanley’s Pub — Headband | Crazy Legs. Rock/Funk/Jam. Cover. Stockyard Cafe — Sparrow Bellows (CD release party) with Goose

Hand Cash Flagg. Rock (see Spill It, page 25). $5.

Terry’s Turf Club — Eric Campbell & The Bevadors. Jazz. Free. The Redmoor — Mike Wade and DJ Perry Simmons. Jazz. $7. The Stand — DJ Ice Cold Tony C. Dance/Various. Free. Wine Cellar — Jeff Henry and the Hollowbodys. Acoustic. Free. Woodies Tavern — Corner Pocket. Rock. Cover.

Saturday November 14 aliveOne Cincinnati — Seven Year Anniversary Party featuring Bad HVeins and You You’re Awesome. Rock/DJ/Electronic. Free. Behle Street Cafe — Jeff Henry. Acoustic. Free. Bella Luna — Blue Birds Trio. R&B/Soft Rock. Free. Bikehaus — Cheap Girls | Failures’ Union | Knife the Symphony | Army

HCoach. Rock/Pop (see Sound Advice, page 31). Free.

Blue Wisp Jazz Club — Rusty Burge/Phil DeGreg Quartet. Jazz. Cover. Chez Nora — Gary Gorrell Trio. Jazz. Free. Clifton Cultural Arts Center — “Man of Music: A Tribute to

H

Michael W. Riley” (6 p.m. start). Various. $10 (donation to the Disc Dr. Foundation).

Club Bronz — “Indie/Electro Night” with That Digital Kid. Dance/Electronic/

Indie. Cover.

Cobblestone Tavern — “Benefit for the Family of Boyd Cunnagin” with The

We’re offering our biggest discounted rates ever!

november 11-17, 2009

Print - Online - Eblasts

26

New for this year, both our gift guides are going glossy! Your ads will never look better than in full color on magazine stock. The first gift guide will be included in our Holiday Issue on November 24 and the Last Minute Gift Guide will be in the December 09 issue.

Call your CityBeat advertising rep about our holiday advertising options.

513-665-4700


Nine and a Half and more. Rock. Cover.

Dee Felice — The “New” Sleepcat Band. Jazz/Swing. Free. Dirty Jack’s — Jeremy Vogt Band | Yung Blaze | The Shy Spots | Money-

trees River. Rock. Cover.

Dog Haus — Ralph & The Rhythm Hounds Band featuring Noah Cave. Blues.

Free.

Dollar Bill Tavern — Sheer Fantasy. Pop/Dance. Free. Finish Line — Inside Out Band. Classic Rock/Country/Southern Rock. Free. Guitar Lovers Store — Sonny Moorman (4 p.m.). Blues. Free. Havana Martini Club — House Party. Dance/80s. Free. Jefferson Hall — The Rusty Griswolds. Rock/Pop/80s. Cover. Jim and Jack’s on the River — Hot Wax. Oldies. Cover. Jim Dandy’s Family BBQ — The Blues Merchants. Blues. Free. Knotty Pine — Bad Habit. Rock. Cover. Mad Hatter — The Creation Museum | The Strongest Proof | The Brothers and the Sisters. Rock/Indie/Various. Cover.

Madison Theater — Luke Bryan. Singer/Songwriter. $15. Mainstay Rock Bar — Stereo Deluxe | Miggs | Gareth Asher. Rock. Cover. Mansion Hill Tavern — II Juicy. Blues/R&B. Cover. Mayday — The Minor Leagues (CD release party) with Cougar Ace, Slant

Hand Koala Fires. Rock/Pop/Indie (see Spill It, page 25). Free.

Molly Malone’s Irish Pub (Pleasant Ridge) — Woodchuck Wooler-

ies. Rock/Blues. Free.

Northside Tavern — The Lions Rampant | Tight Phantomz. Rock. Free. Poppy’s Tavern — Richie and the Students. Oldies. Free. R.P. McMurphy’s Irish Pub & Coffee House — Fibbion Handful.

The Greenwich — J-Flux. Jazz/Rock/Latin. $5. The Stand — DJ Matt Joy. Rock/Hip Hop/Dance/Funk. $5. Willie’s Sports Cafe Covington — The Groove. Pop. Free. Woodies Tavern — Stitch Jones. Rock. Cover.

Sunday November 15

Deez. Rock/Indie. $10/$13 day of show.

Hop. Cover.

Mansion Hill Tavern — Open Blues Jam with Them Bones. Blues. Free. Sonny’s All Blues Lounge — Sonny’s All Blues Band featuring Lonnie

Stanley’s Pub — Rocky Cash | Pharaoh Loosey. Rock/Americana/Jam. Stockyard Cafe — Oso Bear | Lovely Crash. Rock/Indie. $5. Terry’s Turf Club — Eric Campbell & The Bevadors. Jazz. Free. The Celestial — Frank Vincent Trio. Jazz/Standards. Free. The Comet — The Prohibitionists | J Dorsey Blues Revival | Walking Ghost. Rock/Blues/Garage. Free.

Molly Malone’s of Covington — Roger Drawdy. Celtic/Irish. Free. R.P. McMurphy’s — Open mic. Open mic. Free. Southgate House — Bishop Allen | Throw Me the Statue | Darwin Southgate House (Parlour) — Passafire | Super-Massive | The Pinstripes. Reggae/Ska. Cover.

Stanley’s Pub — Rumpke Mountain Boys. Bluegrass. Cover. WIllie’s Sports Cafe (Hidden Valley) — Sonny Moorman. Rock/ Blues. Free.

Zola — The Northern Kentucky Bluegrass Band. Bluegrass. Free.

y’s nler! a t S te w it llo tw Fo on

$1.00 Bottle s Mon-F ri 4-6pm

Every Wednesday

Reggae Night w/SupeR MaSSive THU 11/12 • Acoustic Rock

Mike CoNNelly, kyle SMith, & the WeekeNdeRS Every Friday • 6-9p • Acoustic Mike holMeS FRI 11/13 • Jam/Rock

headbaNd

w/CRazy legS

SAT 11/14 • Americana/Jam

RoCky CaSh W/ phaRaoh looSey SUN 11/15 • Acoustic aaRoN ziMMeR Every Monday

Jazz Night w/Wade bakeR baNd Every Tuesday • BlUEgRASS

RuMpke Mt boyS 323 Stanley Ave • 513-871-6249 One Block East of The Precinct

Bennett. Blues. Free.

Stanley’s Pub — Aaron Zimmer. Acoustic. Free. Yardbirds Southern BBQ — Sonny Moorman Group (6 p.m.). Rock/ Blues. Free.

Zion United Church of Christ Norwood — Leo Coffeehouse featuring

Monday November 16

Cover.

Dee Felice — The 7 Piece Royal Palm Orchestra. Jazz. Free. Havana Martini Club — Fathead Davis Trio (shows at 5:30 p.m. and

Boswell Alley — Wild Mountain Berries (6 p.m.). Blues. Free. BunkSpace — Grooms | Rocket0000 | White Walls. Experimental/Indie. $5. Cardi’s Bar & Grill — Bob Cushing. Rock/Acoustic. Free. Club Bronz — That Digital Kid. Dance. Free. Cock ‘N Bull — The Turkeys. Rock/Country. Free. Comet — Comet Bluegrass Allstars. Bluegrass. Free. Dirty Jack’s — Cali D. Productions presents “Sweat It Out Sunday”. Hip

Jazz. Cover.

Greg Hansen and Raison D’etre, plus open mic. Acoustic. Cover.

HGoose and Bootleg Rider. Rock/Pop (see Spill It, page 25). Cover.

Industrial. Free.

8 p.m.). Blues/Reggae. Free.

Rick’s Tavern & Grille — The Snow Shoe Crabs. Rock. Cover. Sidebar — Tickled Pink (CD release party). Rock/Pop (see Spill It, page Silverton Cafe — Oh La La. Rock. Free. Southgate House (Lounge) — Michael Miller. Rock. Free. Southgate House (Parlour) — Giant Wow (EP release party) with

Blue Wisp Jazz Club — Jack Finucane Quartet. Jazz. $5. Club Bronz — “Invasion” with DJ-Chuck_G & DJ Victim. Dance/Goth/

Allyn’s Cafe — Blue Birds Big Band. Classic Rock/R&B. $3. Blind Lemon — Jeff Henry. Acoustic. Free. Blue Wisp Jazz Club — Play It Forward presents the Jack Finucane Quartet.

Rock. Cover.

H25). Free.

Tuesday November 17

Blue Wisp Jazz Club — Open Jam Session Hosted by Sandy Suskind.

Jazz. $5.

Mad Frog — Tropicoso. Latin. Cover. Mainstrasse Village Pub — The Turkeys. Rock/Folk. Free. Molly Malone’s of Covington — Scott Risner. Bluegrass. Free. Northside Tavern — Heavy Trash | The Sundresses. Blues/Rocka-

Hbilly/Roots Rock (see Sound Advice, page 31). Free.

Sitwell’s — The Marmalade Brigade. Acoustic. Free. Southgate House (Lounge) — Open Mic Night: Mike Kuntz. Rock/Singer/ Songwriter/Various. Free.

Stanley’s Pub — Open Jazz Jam with Wade Baker. Jazz/Jam. Free.

stockyard Cafe

Music, Food & Drinks $2 PB R s! Bottle

EVERY WEDNESDAY • 7-11

Karaoke

EVERY thuRSDAY • 7-10

Open Mic w/ John Redell

$ Guin 3 Bott ness les!

fRiDAY, NoVEmbER 13 • 9pm $5

w/ Goose, Cash Flagg SAtuRDAY, NoVEmbER 14 • 9pm $5

Beau alquizola

w/ lovely Crash, Boldface, Oso Bear (rock)

www.myspace.com/stockyardcafe

3112 Spring Grove Ave . Cincinnati, OH 45225

513-591-2233

november 11-17, 2009

Sparrow Bellows CD ReleaSe PaRty!

27


4NERDS OF A FEATHER: FROM PAGE 25

4 club directory aliveOne Cincinnati — 941 Pavilion St., Mount Adams. 513-721-6977. Allyn’s Cafe — 3538 Columbia Parkway, Columbia-Tusculum. 513-871-5779.

Anderson Bar & Grill — 8060 Beechmont Ave., Anderson Twp. 513-474-2212.

Arnold’s Bar and Grill — 210 E. Eighth St., Downtown. 513-421-6234. Behle Street Cafe — 50 E. Rivercenter Blvd., Covington. 859-291-4100. Bella Luna — 4632 Eastern Ave., Linwood. 513-871-5862. Bikehaus — 1308 Clay St., Over-the-Rhine. 513-000-0000. Blind Lemon — 936 Hatch Street, Mount Adams. 513-241-3885. Blue Wisp Jazz Club — 318 E. Eighth St., Downtown. 513-241-9477. Boswell Alley — 1686 Blue Rock Street, Northside. 513-681-8100. BunkSpace — 1818 John St., Over-the-Rhine. 513-433-2212. Cardi’s Bar & Grill — 101 Bacher Square, Fairfield. 513-889-3952. Carlo & Johnny — 9769 Montgomery Road, Montgomery. 513-936-8600. Charlie’s Throttle Stop — 7121 Dixie Hwy., Fairfield. 513-874-6111. Chez Nora — 530 Main St., Covington. 859-491-8027. Clifton Cultural Arts Center — 3711 Clifton Ave., Clifton. 513-497-2860.

Club Bronz — 4029 Hamilton Ave., Northside. 513-591-2100. Cobblestone Tavern — 4737 Dixie Hwy., Fairfield Township.

859-581-0100.

Mayday — 4227-4231 Spring Grove Ave., Northside. 513-807-3509. Mill Street Sports Bar and Grill — 101 Mill St., Lockland. 513-761-1587.

Molly Malone’s Irish Pub (Pleasant Ridge) — 6111 Montgomery Road, Montgomery. 513-531-0700.

Molly Maloneís of Covington — 112 E. Fourth Street, Covington. 859-491-6659.

Northside Tavern — 4163 Hamilton Ave., Northside. 513-542-3603. Phat Daddy’s — 7655 Reading Road, Roselawn. 513-761-3525. Play by Play Rock Cafe — 6923 Plainfield Road, Silverton. 513-793-3360.

Poppy’s Tavern — 5510 Rybolt Road, Dent. 513-574-6333. R.P. McMurphy’s — 2910 Wasson Road, Hyde Park. 513-531-3300. Rick’s Tavern & Grille — 5955-5 Boymel Dr., Fairfield. 513-874-1992.

Scotty’s Pub — 22 Donald Drive, Fairfield. 513-939-3333. Seecretz Sports Lounge & Grill — 10088 Springfield Pike , Woodlawn. 513-771-5800.

Shady O’Grady’s — 9443 Loveland-Madeira Road, Loveland.

Cock ‘N Bull — 601 Main St., Covington. 859-581-4253. The Comet — 4579 Hamilton Ave., Northside. 513-541-8900.

Sidebar — 322 Greenup St., Covington. 859-431-3456.

513-561-5233.

Dirty Jack’s — 5912 Vine St., Elmwood Place. 513-242-2800. Doc’s Place — 12 W Mulberry St , Lebanon. 513-932-0287. Dog Haus — 494 Pedretti Ave., Delhi Twp. 513-921-2082. Dollar Bill Tavern — 8074 U.S. 42, Florence. 859-746-3600. Finish Line — 4351 Dixie Highway, Elsmere. 859-342-7887. Glendale Cock & Bull English Pub — 275 E. Sharon Road, Glendale.

513-791-2753.

Silverton Cafe — 7203 Montgomery Road, Silverton. 513-791-2922. Sitwell’s — 324 Ludlow Ave., Clifton. 513-281-7487. Sonny’s All Blues Lounge — 4040 Reading Road, North Avondale. 513-281-0410.

Southgate House — 24 E. Third St., Newport. 859-431-2201. Southgate House (Lounge) — 24 E. Third St., Newport. 859-431-2201.

Southgate House (Parlour) — 24 E. Third St., Newport. 859-431-2201.

The Greenwich — 2442 Gilbert Ave., Walnut Hills. 513-221-1151. Guitar Lovers Store — 7342 Kenwood Road, Kenwood. 513-793-1356. Havana Martini Club — 441 Vine St., 5th & Race, Downtown. 513-651-

513-591-2233.

859-491-6200.

Jim and Jack’s on the River — 3456 River Road, Riverside. 513-251-7977.

Jim Dandy’s Family BBQ — 2343 E. Sharon Road, Sharonville. 513-771-4888.

Knotty Pine — 6947 Cheviot Rd., White Oak. 513-741-3900. Mad Frog — 1 E. McMillan St., Corryville. 513-784-9119. Mad Hatter — 620 Scott St., Covington. 859-291-2233. Madison Theater — 730 Madison Ave., Covington. 859-491-2444. Mahogany’s Coffeehouse Bar & Grill — 3715 Winston Avenue,

YOu & A GuEST ARE INVITEd TO ATTENd AN AdVANCE SCREENING Thursday, November 12 at 7:00pm Springdale 18: Cinema de Lux Register for your chance to receive a complimentary pass at Must be 13 or older to enter. For complete details, visit www.citybeat.com and click on FREE STuFF

513-871-6249.

Stockyard Cafe — 3112 Spring Grove Ave., Camp Washington.

2800.

admits Taylor. They wanted to hold the concert in a place that would give the organizers control of their own venture and attendees a comfortable allotment of parking, which ruled out a plethora of venues. Their resulting choice was a Holiday Inn in Sharonville, a decision that might seem strange to concertgoers but one that Taylor is certain to be the best considering the nature of the event and the history of Holiday Inn as part of A&G. The pair spent eight months preparing the concert. Similar in approach to Florida’s Nerdapalooza, the show consists of around 10 acts taking turns at sets all day long. (Taylor expects the hours to run from approximately 11 a.m. to midnight.) This gives NerdPow! a festival-style feeling, a concept aided by the weekend’s other activities: subculture-chronicling documentary Nerdcore Rising screened at the Little Art Theatre in Yellow Springs the Friday before; an after-party follows the end of NerdPow!; and there will be games to play as musicians rotate between performances. For a debuting event, the NerdPow! Roster is admirably diverse. The Chicago-based Super 8 Bit Brothers produce absurd Electro tracks with names like “Goodbye Cruel World of Warcraft” and “Cyberspace Sirens/Computer Casanovas” while Buffalo, N.Y., quintet Armcannon makes grandiose but good-natured Metal. Moving on to Hip Hop, Houston’s MC Router is a tattoo-coated lass delivering profane rhymes with a soft, unthreatening voice, Cincy duo Dual Core sounds like a laidback version of Atmosphere, and Shammers waxes vaguely poetic about Pokémon. The most com-

Stanley’s Pub — 323 Stanley Ave., Columbia-Tusculum.

513-771-4253.

HD Beans And Bottles Cafe — 6721 Montgomery Rd, 513-793-6036. Jeff Ruby’s — 700 Walnut St., Downtown. 513-784-1200. Jefferson Hall — 1 Levee Way ,Newport on the Levee, Newport.

november 11-17, 2009

431-5552.

Mansion Hill Tavern — 502 Washington Ave., Newport.

513-892-7500.

Cosmo’s — 604 Main Street, Covington. 859-261-1330. Dee Felice — 529 Main St., Covington. 859-261-2365. Dilly Deli Cafe, Wines & Gourmet — 6818 Wooster Pike, Mariemont.

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Mainstrasse Village Pub — 619 Main Street, Covington. 859-

pelling NerdPow! guests are The Protomen, a shadowy Nashville cabal that crafts conceptual Rock based on stories from the Mega Man saga. Putting a bill like this together over the better part of a year is quite the investment. What attracts Farley and Taylor towards this niche to begin with? “It’s really something different,” attests Taylor. “You hear music and now, how many years down the road, people are remixing it and making stories about the game you used to play. There’s a lot of talented artists but they don’t get any recognition because it’s so small a genre. It’s why so many of them get stuck playing small venues or trying to get paired up with bands that won’t help them too much.” The passion of the fans is another major motivator. “There’s a big cult following (for) this stuff,” Taylor says. “It’s a work-in-progress this year. We’re just throwing the idea out there to get the community together.” While the men behind NerdPow! remain committed to their concept and the music, Taylor’s unsure of the long-term viability of video game music. “That’s really hard to tell. I don’t know what the turnout will be like this year, to be honest,” he admits. If the first NerdPow! performs well, Farley and Taylor are aiming to be able to maintain a budget for the next one so they can invite Nerdcore heavyweights like MC Chris and MC Frontalot. “We want to go on to do at least a two-day event and make an atmosphere rather than just a concert,” says Taylor. “If the music’s good and people enjoy it, it’ll eventually grow.” ©

Terry’s Turf Club — 4618 Eastern Ave., Linwood. 513-533-4222. The Celestial — 1071 Celestial St., Mount Adams. 513-241-4455. The Redmoor — 3187 Linwood Ave., Mount Lookout. 513-871-6789. The Sandbar — 4625 Kellogg Ave, California. 513-533-3810. The Stand — 3195 Linwood Ave., Mount Lookout. 513-871-5006. Uncle Woody’s — 339 Calhoun St., Corryville. 513-751-2518. WIllie’s Sports Cafe (Hidden Valley) — 19325 Schmarr Dr., Lawrenceburg. 812-537-0512.

Willie’s Sports Cafe Covington — 401 Crescent Ave., Covington. 859-581-1500.

Wine Cellar — 1101 Saint Gregory St., Mount Adams. 513-241-9009.

Woodies Tavern — 10020 Demia Way, Florence. 859-282-1264. Yardbirds Southern BBQ — 932 W. State St., Trenton. 513-9889690.

Zion United Church of Christ Norwood — 2332 Sherwood

Latonia. 859-261-1029.

Lane, Norwood. 513-531-5400.

Mainstay Rock Bar — 301 W 5th St., Downtown. 513-721-7625.

Zola — 626 Main St., Covington. 859-261-7510.

NEW POLICY FOR PASSES: Valid identification must be provided in order to redeem a pass. Limit 1 (admit 2) pass per person, per 30-day period. No purchase necessary. Void where prohibited or restricted by law. Employees of promotional partners are not eligible. Twenty-five winners will be chosen at random. Ad presentation does not guarantee a ticket. Seating is not guaranteed. This film is Rated PG-13 for intense disaster sequences and some language.


4music

The Life of Riley

Big ol’ Good Ones Served Here Wednesday November 11th

Michael Riley’s extraordinary love of music is the focus of an upcoming tribute

Free Play on Our Jukebox the only vinyl juke in Northside

4by brian baker

D

Thursday November 12th • 10p-2a

Farrell’s relationship with Riley goes back to 1975, when both had WAIF radio show slots, his dedicated to Rock, Punk and New Wave, hers to Jazz. “I wanted to meet him and he wanted to meet me because we liked each other’s shows,” Farrell recalls. “We couldn’t believe how much we loved and knew about music, and found that we liked the same things and really hit it off.” One of the pair’s biggest common interests was live music. Between the clubs on Short Vine and the eventual rise of Newport’s Jockey Club, Riley and Farrell were fixtures in nearly every audience in the area and they traveled to a good many more shows out of state. “We found that the only people that wanted to go to the same shows all the time was the two of us,” says Farrell with a laugh. “Some friends would go to some shows but we went to every one we wanted to go to. We went all over the U.S. to see shows.” Another of Riley’s frequent companions around town was his longtime friend Jim Chronis. Like so many, he met Riley at Mole’s, and from there they forged a lasting friendship based on musical commonalities, which led to a number of wild experiences. “In 1978, we went to five or six cities to see The Rolling Stones when they were out with Some Girls,” says Chronis. “That famous picture of Michael with Keith Richards? I was right next to him. When they blew it up, I was gone. I’m like the ghost in that picture. But that was two in the morning in front of the Whitehall Hotel in Chicago. The Stones were playing Soldier Field and he knew their keyboard player, Ian McLagan, peripherally, and the afternoon before the show, somehow Michael knew that he would be out shopping for birthday cards for his kids. It was almost mystical. If you hung back under Michael’s wing, more interesting things might happen, that was my feeling. “What ultimately came of that was he found out that some of the Stones were going to see Muddy Waters at a club called the Quiet Night. We went to the club and we noticed tables with chairs turned up so we located next to that one. Muddy Waters came on and eventually most of the Stones came in and we were right next to them, buying them drinks all night. It was a once in a lifetime thing. I could never have pulled that off without being in Michael’s shadow.” Over the years, Chronis had taken Riley to several of his own family functions and noted that Riley was always mentioning how much he enjoyed those gatherings. “We’re not talking about every Sunday dinner; over the years, it was a handful of times,”

Bacteria Lounge featuring DJ D Cupp

Friday November 13th • 10p-2a

Pris Gets Down

Saturday November 14th • 10p-2a

Rock N Roll Karaoke w/ KEEH

FREE Wi-Fi

myspace.com/thecompletedivenorthside

1714 Hanfield Street • 513-541-9881

PHOTO courtesy: tebbe farrell

Michael Riley says Chronis. “But Michael really appreciated that. As much as Michael loved music and everything associated with it, it wasn’t as important as his friends and people he knew. And that made him fragile. That was the great contradiction.” Friend and occasional co-worker Ric Hickey had a long association with Riley, which resulted in an odd occurrence just two weeks ago. “He was a big brother and mentor to me,” says Hickey. “I think about him and mourn him every day. Last week, in fact, I had a very vivid dream about him, wherein he smiled and assured me, ‘Don‘t worry about me, Ric, I’m all right!’ I seriously woke up in tears.” It was Hickey who organized Riley’s 60th birthday party, an informal gathering of a few of Riley’s good friends back in February. At one point during the party, Riley and I sat together and the stories began — the Stones, Bette, Bogart’s, Mole’s. They rolled into one another seamlessly and I finally said, “Michael, you really should write this shit all down somewhere. It’d make a great book.” Riley dismissed the notion with that patented hand wave. “Who’d read that? You and me?” I laughed and responded, “Wouldn’t that be enough?” He thought for a moment, then smiled broadly and said, “I guess it would.” For Michael Riley, the love of music was always enough. MAN OF MUSIC: A TRIBUTE TO MICHAEL W. RILEY takes place 6 p.m. Saturday at the Clifton Cultural Arts Center.

november 11-17, 2009

ichotomy was the watchword in Michael Riley’s life. He was an imposing mountain of a man who was relatively soft spoken and gentle hearted; he was generous unless you were among the unfortunate number he had written off for personal reasons; and he was a lovable curmudgeon, equally quick with a laugh or growled dismissal. He was devoted to his mother, five sisters and brother, but kept his family life private and rarely talked about the father who abandoned them, making Michael the de facto head of the clan. Riley’s résumé was equally diverse: He studied African-American culture at the University of Cincinnati before a curriculum existed; he was the long-tenured counter guy at Mole’s Records and Buzz Coffee Shop’s music store; he worked the door/ticket window at Bogart’s and helped book New Wave and Punk acts there in the ’70s and ’80s; his long running WAIF radio show, Danceable Solution, and his Dancin-NDancin DJ gigs (with longtime professional and personal companion Tebbe Farrell) exposed his listeners to a wide spectrum of new music; and he was crucial in the career resurrection of Jump Blues piano master H-Bomb Ferguson. Music was always at the center of Riley’s universe. He had seen the Rolling Stones 32 times. He loved The Clash, Mekons, Jazz, Blues, Reggae, Country and Punk (anything, really, as long as it was authentic), but he was also completely smitten with Bette Midler and Carole King. He was at Woodstock in 1969, he saw the Sex Pistols in Memphis in 1978 and he went to England to see the infamous Sham 69 gig/riot. “There was a picture of him in the London paper,” Farrell says. “It was a mass crowd shot — the whole crowd’s looking one way and Michael’s the only one looking the other way. That’s just how he is.” When Riley died this past June from a massive stroke, it was clear his passing would leave a gaping hole in the Cincinnati scene and that his life and talents were worthy of significant tribute. Farrell has been planning that tribute for months, and it comes to fruition this Saturday with “Man of Music: A Tribute to Michael W. Riley.” Here’s where dichotomy gives way to irony — the DJ blasting out the set at Man of Music will be intimately aware of Riley’s most passionate musical loves, because the DJ will be Riley himself. “It’s a multimedia montage,” Farrell says. “It’s his playlists, artwork, poetry and music notes, and playing will be his radio shows and music mixes, with his voice and all kinds of IDs, from Ronnie Spector to Gang of Four.”

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4locals only

Sun Shines’ State The Happy Maladies make spunky jazzy Gypsy Folk Rock 4interview by c.a. macconnell

W

www.madisontheateronline.com

Friday November 13

The Movement w/Supermassive & Buckra

Saturday November 14 Miller Lite Presents

Luke Bryan

w/Fast Ryde

Friday November 20 The Endgame Tour

Megadeath

w/Machine Head, Suicide Silence, Arcanium

From Chicago: Petra van Nuis, Andy Brown, Joe Policastro Quintet Fri & Sat, November 27-28

Sunday November 22 13th Annual

Cincinnati Entertainment Awards

Benefiting Cincinnati USA Music Heritage Foundation

Guitarist Dan Faehnle Band Sat, December 5

Sunday November 29

Stocking Stuffer Ball

w/Wanda Kay’s DJ & Karaoke, Dr. Brian Wiess w/ Raygun Massacre, Blues in the Schools kids blues band, Author Murray Dancers, Elvis by Paul Haiverstad, Bobby Mackey & the Big Mac Band, Dick & the Roadmasters

NYC flutist Jamie Baum

Friday December 18

Wed 11/11 8:30pm • Blue Wisp Big Band $10

94.1 XMas Show w/Gym Class Heroes

Saturday December 19

november 11-17, 2009

Robin Lacy & DeZydeco New Orleans Christmas

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w/Ricky Nye

Wednesday January 27

Owl City

w/Lights, Deas Vail

730 Madison Ave | Covington, KY 859-491-2444

Fri & Sat, December 11-12

Thu 11/12 6:30pm • $25 Minimum Donations

Cincinnati Bar Foundation Presents “Bar Idol.” Music Performances by Local Lawyers Who Play and Sing For Charity Fri 11/13 4:30pm • Blue Wisp All-Star Young Lion Jazz Band--Free 8:30pm • Vocalist Nancy James w/Trio $10

11:59pm • Delbert Williams play/sings Blues-suggested donation $5 Sat 11/14 3:00pm • Baoku Rehearsal 11:59pm • Midnight til 2am: Soft Romantic Jazz

Sun 11/15 7:00pm • Play It Forward Presents Jack Finucane

Quintet $5 donation

Mon 11/16 8:30pm • Jazz Jam Session w/host Sandy Suskind Tue 11/17 8:00pm • Jack Finucane Quartet $5

318 E 8th St • 513-241-9477

thebluewisp.com

afternoon, evening or a few arm, cozy, sleepy. days with us recording for Eyelids droopfree and playing beautifuling. That’s Rohs ly,” he says. “It’s really cool Street Café this autumn to have that extra someday. I consider joining the thin’ somethin’.” couch-napping man, but Thomas adds, “We decide that’d be creepy. didn’t really mess with our Anyway, we’re talking normal live sound, besides about a fiery family feel adding extra instruments mixed with an airborne or doubling voices, making artistic bug, much like a layered effects. For the group of bandmates’ close most part, you get to take vibe. Like smokes, wolves, illustration: ryan evans cards, a musical gang in The Happy Maladies’ new CD home the band after you see us.” a pack. With big curls, glasses One by one, The and wearing big stripes, Happy Maladies calmly Peter Gemus (double bass) says, “The effects, stroll in. Dripping with talent and training, all none of them are really electronic. At one point five have done time at Cincinnati’s College Eddy sang through tinfoil, which gave an efConservatory of Music. And they all shack fect, but most things are handmade. Everyone’s up together except guitarist/vocalist Ben a musical voice and it’s just multiple voices Thomas, who lives down the street by his conversing with each other.” lonesome. Five cats roam the band house, Stephen Patota (mandolin) wanders in last, and even the cats contribute on “Animal hurrying in his New Balance sneakers, sporting Welcome,” one of 11 songs on the band’s an orange T and brown cords. On recording, debut full-length album, Sun Shines the Patota says, “It may have started as one perLittle Children. son’s idea, but the end is a different product.” Last time we talked, Thomas (guitar, Since spring of 2008, they’ve hit the road voice) was a couch surfer/crasher. Now he’s hard. Travel is tight. Setting forth in Thomas’ got a pad, but he still has that wild-haired, Honda Odyssey, the bass neck hogs the front stubble-face look. Instead of books, he seat. First selling bootleg CDs, they later carries around an Ernie Ball guitar pedal. rocked out an underground, packed “CD leak Thomas says, “We’re hoping to spread roots party” in The Marburg basement. “It was so with people we know and who like our hot. There were so many bodies,” Cox says, music around the Midwest. Hopefully, once grinning. The official CD release party went that’s progressed, (we’ll) push out further. down at Rohs Street Café. I think the most rewarding part is that the The band’s spontaneous road addiction is music makes that connection. That happens strong. In South Carolina, they went midnight everywhere.” swimming in the ocean each night. In New But while home, the band members live, York, a tango teacher recruited them to improwork and play inside The Marburg Hotel vise and dance with strangers in Washington in Clifton, where they recorded nearly the Square Park. entire album. Here, traditional roots do a Of touring, Cox says, “It was like shaking headstand, resulting in a Punk-playful, Jazzthe dust off, doing something totally abnorsmart blend of Gypsy Folk Rock. Recorded mal.” by Jazz drum major Ben Sloan and piano Along with souped-up school résumés, The performance major Adam Petersen, the Happy Maladies have a taste for the strange album was mastered by fellow friend/musiand beautiful, a quirky feel that leaks into the cian Aaron Modarressi. tunes. The outcome is a homemade soup made Comfort was key. Brunette vocalist Abby of Jazz, Folk, tinfoil and cats, mixed with ramCox laughs and says, “We recorded a couple bunctious instrumental interludes. songs in the bathroom, standing in the Cox nails it when she says, “It’s like these shower.” She’s the one in the red plaid skirt songs are something wild that we tried to made out of a shirt, black tights and boots. catch, and we caught them, and now they’re Edgy, yet soft-spoken, Eddy Kwon (viotangible. So now that we have this to put in our lin, vocals) has a slight build, black jeans and back pockets, we can catch other wild things worn Chucks. Eating kale and hummus, he that are out there.” gives a shout to his CCM friends, who kind of serve as built-in studio musicians. “We’re lucky to have so many friends that Check out THE HAPPY MALADIES’ tour dates and CD info at www. are super talented and willing to spend the myspace.com/thehappymaladies.


4 sound advice

CBrecomMends

The Moore Brothers

photo courtesy paper + Platick

The Moore Brothers with Why? and Jason Snell Saturday • Southgate House Thom and Greg Moore have done time in a number of worthwhile outfits (the former in Chicken on a Raft and Nedelle and Thom, the latter in Sandycoates and Owl & the Pussycat), but they clearly save their best efforts for their own project together, the appropriately bannered Moore Brothers. The Moores’ early work was more traditionally structured guitar/bass/keys/drum Pop/Rock, but around the time of 2004’s Now is the Time for Love, the sibs decided to strip things back to acoustic guitars and their otherworldly harmonic tenors and that’s when things got really interesting. The Moores’ last release, 2006’s excellent Murdered by the Moore Brothers, and their latest, the recently released Aptos, shimmer with a Folk/Pop vibe that stands shoulder to shoulder with the likes of Crosby, Stills & Nash and Simon & Garfunkel, and that’s pretty lofty company by any yardstick. At the same time, there are elements of the off-kilter Pop of John Wesley Harding, the sparse vulnerability of Nick Drake and the heart-sleeved passion of Iain Matthews. All of it is filtered through the Moores’ pristine ’60s AM radio Pop sensibility, which drifts out of the speakers like Joe Pernice collaborating with Scott Miller on Game Theory demos. There are so many fascinating and discernible points of reference on the Moore Brothers’ albums. It’s tempting to use them as the basis for a drinking game — “First one to hear the Everly Brothers takes a shot” or “First one to identify which Revolver track this sounds like takes two.” But that might give the impression that the Moores are Pop parrots with no original ideas, and that would be a big mistake. At first blush, these sonic signposts seem obvious, but repeated listening reveals just how much vibrancy and creativity the Moores are bringing to this beautifully familiar soundtrack. (Brian Baker)

music news tid-bits and other morsels of relative insignificance

photo: Alli Mitchell

My Roaring 20s, the band’s second full-length, was released last month. The disc has remarkably pristine production for a band creating this sort of music and indicates that Cheap Girls are serious about getting their material out there. “We don’t go out of our way to make it the next best thing,” says Graham of Cheap Girls’ work. “We just put our ideas out there.” (Reyan Ali) Heavy Trash Monday • Northside Tavern When Jon Spencer and Matt Verta-Ray began the process of writing their third Heavy Trash album, Midnight Soul Serenade, they had no intention of detailing the tragedies and triumphs of love. But after recording and finishing 30 songs within and beyond their Blues/Rockabilly style and winnowing the tracks down to the set they wanted to comprise the record, they recognized an emerging theme. “The songs I was wanting for the album, the ones that kind of fit together and gelled, were different Heavy Trash sounding, some of them were slower, they were different styles and they all thematically seemed to fall together in this group about love,” says Spencer. “But it’s not just love. It’s devotion, adoration, sexual obsession, infatuation — there are many different facets of love and attraction and relationships. It’s not all good, it’s not all bad. I don’t think this record is about, ‘Love is a bummer.’ Not at all.” Midnight Soul Serenade definitely shows different facets of Heavy Trash, which started as a side project for Spencer and Verta-Ray in 2005, but quickly morphed into a full-fledged band. Heavy Trash has evolved photo courtesy Press Here over the past four years, from two-man stripped down Rockabilly mayhem to a more measured and mature incorporation of a variety of other styles. The twosome brought Simon Chardiet on double bass and Sam Baker, previously of Lambchop, on drums to round out the live show. “Around the time of the second record, we found out we could make it work as a live entity,” says Spencer. “It was a challenge, which Matt and I took upon ourselves, to pick the guys and make it work. We threw out a lot of old songs and focused on the new album to make a new show. That’s ongoing and we’re still figuring it out, but it’s very enjoyable and very exciting.” (BB)

Bittersweet Emotion We here at Minimum Gauge were very conflicted when we heard the news that Steven Tyler was leaving Aerosmith. On the one hand (the bigger, more convinced one), the dissolution is overdue and they should have stopped about 10 years ago after they made all that money and tarnished their legend with such non-classics as “Love in an Elevator” and “Crazy” (or “Amazing” or whatever other song they replicated like a cheesy ballad factory at the height of cheesy ballad season). Still, we appreciate what the band did while they were on drugs, so if Aerosmith does die, we’ll listen to our scratched vinyl copy of Toys in the Attic (one of the best American Rock albums ever) and have an O’Doul’s in the members’ honor. Then we heard that guitarist Joe Perry (who himself once left Aerosmith for a pretty unremarkable, definitely unsuccessful “solo” career) plans to at least explore the option of carrying on Aerosmith with a new singer. We thought that ad in CityBeat’s classifieds last week sounded familiar — “Successful elderly musical ensemble seeks largelipped crooner. Must have colorful, extensive scarf collection, working knowledge of every Mick Jagger stage move and little to no shame. Early-bird dinner provided. Hot daughter optional.” P.S. Also, Please Write Good Songs Again Some die-hard AC/DC fans are asking the band to cease being boring. The fan site acdcfans.net posted an open letter to the group members, asking (remarkably politely … mostly) for the band to stop playing the exact same set at every tour stop. Devotees who follow AC/DC and see multiple shows (aka “nerds”) are becoming bored by the immovable set list, so the note pleaded with the group to throw in something for the fans who “eat, sleep and shit AC/DC” (note to superfans: call and make an appointment with your doctors immediately if anal AC/ DC discharge continues). The note also suggested that perhaps even Angus and the other AC/DC dudes might enjoy the shows more. We continue to suspect the band is merely a cleverly constructed robot gang built out of refurbished Chuck E. Cheese animatronic “musicians.” So looking for things like spontaneity, unprogramed memories and human emotion from the band members is pretty futile. Going Gaga for Hair In the past few months, Minimum Gauge has “reported” on way too many stories about famous hair, from auctions selling what was allegedly Elvis’ shorn locks to a jeweler who was taking fibers from Michael Jackson’s hair and, again allegedly, putting the carbon into diamonds. Now Pop music weirdo du jour Lady Gaga has jumped on the trend. The singer’s Christmas-cash-in reissue of her album The Fame will include an edition that comes with a “special art book” and a lock of Ms. Gaga’s hair. Well, a lock of Ms. Gaga’s wig, anyway (because real hair would be weird?). All this for only $115! This is going to be the best Christmas ever!

november 11-17, 2009

Cheap Girls with Failures’ Union, Knife the Symphony and Army Coach Saturday • Bikehaus When three guys heading toward their twenties formed Cheap Girls two and a half years ago, the project was intended to be something that they wouldn’t take too seriously. Each of them had been in other groups before, and this one was supposed to have a good time without hitting the highways. “We were going to be a party band,” recalls drummer Ben Graham. One party quickly led to another and Cheap Girls quickly gained impressive momentum — so much that they reconsidered that original plan. The Lansing, Mich.-based group — starring brothers Ben and Ian Graham (the latter handles bass and vocals) and guitarist Adam Aymor — turns out vibrant Power Pop/Pop-Punk with heavy ‘90s Alt/Indie Rock vibes. “We went into it with the idea not to follow anything that’s too mainstream these days, but more what influences us,” says Graham, citing Dinosaur Jr., Superchunk and Gin Blossoms as primary inspirations. “It’s weird to us that people are like, ‘You guys remind me of what I used to listen to 15 years ago when I was a kid’ or in college or whatever.” Graham sees these evocations as compliments as those bands are likely what led the Girls into unearthing more off-the-radar sounds. “We listened to (this style of music) when we were kids,” he says. “The last 15 or 20 years is what pure Rock &Roll is to us. It’s not really commercialized. It’s what speaks to us.”

Cheap Girls

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ARTS

CURTAIN CALL BY RICK PENDER

CCM is Broadway’s Farm Team

CONTACT RICK PENDER: rpender@citybeat.com

PHOTO: keith Averbach

Keith Averbach’s “Intimate Moment”

The Carnegie’s Haul Solo shows at the Covington Carnegie Art Center worth exploring 4review by selena reder

A

mong the six new exhibits at Carnegie Visual and Performing Arts Center in Covington are outstanding solo ones by artists Keith Auerbach, Jessica Grace Bechtel, Ken Page and Eric Ruschman. They’re collected with a Clay Alliance group show called Feast or Famine and a group show featuring works by WASSUP children. These shows are on display at THE Bechtel focuses primarily CARNEGIE, 1028 Scott St. in Covingon the human form, and more ton, through Nov. 25. For information specifically the human limbs. Often she crops the faces out about hours call 859-491-2030 or of her large paintings while visit thecarnegie.com arms, legs, hands and feet take on expressive qualities. The works of Auerbach, Page and Ruschman all emphasize how humanity relates and interacts with the animal world. All three artists use clever and humorous titles to interpret nature with a childlike wonderment. Page’s work is illustrative, narrative and surreal. He depicts scenes from rural farm life: Men at work in the field, bricklayers, handymen, birds and cows — lots and lots of cows. In fact, cows are so prevalent in this

work that they become stand-ins for humans. They go sightseeing at Mount Rushmore, they confront their emotions and they search for a lost member of the herd. Most of all they ponder the great mysteries of life. For Page, these mysteries actually become unexplained phenomena, such as a giant trap door leading to nowhere in the middle of a pasture. Two cows stand at a distance, wondering if they should investigate. In “Presidents Out to Pasture,” cows are at the foot of Mount Rushmore. As the title suggests, the presidents are really the ones put out to pasture because they are long dead. Like surrealist painters Salvador Dali and Renee Magritte, Page uses clever titles and double entendre. Also like Magritte, Page depicts impossibly blue skies with perfect clouds, men in hats that obscure their faces, birds and trompe l’oeil. The images leap off of the artwork because these wooden canvases are not square or even symmetrical. They are cut out in the shape of the subjects and the landscape. This allows for unusual shadows to cast on the wall, giving the subjects a three-dimensional appearance. In trompe l’oeil, unexpected sights fool CONTINUES ON PAGE 354

november 11-17, 2009

The University of Cincinnati’s College-Conservatory of Music — familiarly known as “CCM” — is one of the best musical theater training programs at any American university. The program was established slightly more than four decades ago and its first graduate burst forth in 1969. That was Pamela Myers, a voice student of Helen Laird, who spent most of her time preparing opera singers. Laird saw in Myers a talent that needed a different kind of training, perhaps a whole new kind of program. She convinced CCM’s powers-that-were to begin to help students find work on the stages of Broadway and beyond. Myers proved it was worth it: She went straight from UC to New York City and within a year landed a Broadway show, securing a role in the original cast of Stephen Sondheim and George Furth’s groundbreaking musical Company. For her work, Myers was nominated for a 1970 Tony Award. That kind of success has been replicated by dozens of CCM grads for four decades. Karen Olivo picked up a 2009 Tony as Maria in the Broadway revival of West Side Story. She’s a former CCM student, too. How does CCM make this happen? For starters, they choose carefully. Each first-year class of 20 or so is filled by auditioning approximately 800 aspiring young performers from across the United States. Admission to this program is as elite as playing big-time college football or basketball. Once aspiring performers arrive in Cincinnati, they are immersed in a rigorous program. Aubrey Berg, chair of musical theater for 23 years, says, “I believe in the ‘triple-threat’ approach to musical theatre training, preparing young performers to sing and dance and act with equal accomplishment. We seek to liberate the special qualities within every one of them. We do not favor a cookie-cutter approach to training.” Erin Ortman (a 2000 grad) grew up in Montana, but as a teenager she saw a few Broadway shows and knew what she wanted to do. She noticed CCM grads in many casts and decided it was the school for her. When she got in, others told her, “If you can make it through this program, New York will feel easy.” That might be a bit of an overstatement, but if you see Broadway productions or touring shows, the CCM credit shows up over and over. Sharon Wheatley (1989) was in the original cast of Avenue Q. Ashley Brown (2004) played the title role in the original Broadway production of Mary Poppins; she’s now PHOTO: Joan Marcus performing in Los Angeles and Ashley Brown, one could be leading the tour when of many CCM grads it reaches Cincinnati next April. Christy Altomare (2008) plays to star in Broadway the leading role of Wendla in shows, plays Mary Spring Awakening, which we’ll Poppins. see at the Aronoff in January. Faith Prince (1979) says, “CCM gave me everything.” She won a Tony Award for best actress in the 1992 revival of Guys and Dolls and nominations for Bells Are Ringing (2001) and A Catered Affair (2008) in which 1999 CCM grad Leslie Kritzer played her daughter. If you’re a fan of the touring musicals at the Aronoff, you should be going to CCM on a regular basis. It’s Broadway’s farm team, training tomorrow’s stars. I’m grateful for Helen Laird and her great idea and for CCM’s dedication to sustaining it.

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4calendar listings

4literary

No Direction Home

To be included: Submit information for CityBeat calendar listings in writing by noon Wednesday, seven days before publication. Mail to: Maija Zummo, Listings Editor, CityBeat, 811 Race St., Fifth Floor, Cincinnati, OH 45202. Phone: 513-665-4700, ext. 145 Fax: 513-665-4369. e-mail calendar@citybeat.com

Dan Chaon discusses his latest novel, Await Your Reply

Please include a contact name and daytime phone number. Due to space considerations, we cannot guarantee that all submitted information will make it to print. H is CityBeat staff’s stamp of approval.

4interview by jason gargano

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an Chaon’s new novel, Await Your Reply, is both an entertaining thrill ride and an incisive look at the way we live today, a world in which technology has fractured our existence and called into question the ever-mutating nature of identity. Existential dread permeates every page. The serpentine, intertwining narrative centers on three people searching to transcend their unfulfilled existences: Miles Cheshire, a thirtysomething drifter forever on the lookout for his brilliant but shifty long-lost twin brother, Hayden; Lucy LatDan Chaon timore, a recently orphaned 18-year-old who goes on the lam with her English teacher, George Orson; and Ryan Schuyler, a college drop-out who fakes his own death and falls into the netherworld of technologically aided identity theft. Chaon — an English professor at Oberlin College and the author of multiple works of fiction, including the National Book Award finalist You Remind Me of You — recently talked to CityBeat about everything from his Alfred Hitchcock fixation to the questionable existence of Sarah Palin.

november 11-17, 2009

CityBeat: Given the non-linear, kind of circling nature of the narrative and the various references to other literary touchstones like The Talented Mr. Ripley, reading the book is like being in a perpetual state of déjà vu. There are also these overt references to Hitchcock’s Psycho and Vertigo. Dan Chaon: I wish Hitchcock was still alive so he could direct the film version (of the book). But, of course, he’s been dead for 30 years (laughs). I’m a huge Hitchcock fan, and he is sort of all over in there.

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CB: So did these references surface organically, or were you intent on getting them in there? DC: I was definitely aware that they were in there. To the extent that I started writing this novel and I knew that I would be tipping my hat to all of these things, I had to decide whether it was going to be self-aware or not. I guess I decided that it was going to be part of the texture of the book, that it was going to

all sort of be there, and that readers who knew the references would get them, and readers that didn’t know the references it wouldn’t necessarily bother them one way or the other. Although I figured, just because all of this stuff is in the air, that there would be this sense of déjà vu. CB: Another reference that kept coming to mind was Bob Dylan in the sense that all of the characters are intent in reinventing themselves. PHOTO: Philip Chaon Why are you so interested in exploring the idea of reinvention? DC: There are personal roots to it. I was adopted as an infant, so I think I grew up with the idea that your life in some ways could have ended up in a lot of different ways, and in some ways who you are is somewhat random rather than fated. I’ve also gone through a lot of big transformations in my life between growing up in small-town Nebraska to going to Northwestern as an undergrad and then ending up here in Ohio as a college professor. I feel like I’ve gone through a lot of my own permutations. That process is really interesting to me I think partially because my parents seemed like they really took on one life and really stuck with it, and it seems like people do that a little bit less these days. Or at least that’s my experience. We don’t necessarily stay in one place, in one job or with one set of friends on for the entirety of our life. CB: The other big theme of the book is how technology has fractured reality to the point that we’re never sure what’s authentic and what isn’t. I mean, it’s crazy to me that Sarah Palin can post something on her Facebook page and immediately impact an election in upstate New York. I wouldn’t be surprised if her page is actually written by some conservative operative. DC: Oh, I can’t imagine that she does her own Facebook page. I don’t even think that there is a real Sarah Palin. She’s just an avatar.

4art Openings The BLDG — Shot at From Both Sides features the artwork of H PREFAB77, British street artists. It will be a collection of original pieces and prints which draw inspiration from both sides of the Atlantic, with artistic

mediums including a mixture of acrylic, spray-paint, varnish and inks, mainly on wood or paper. Opening reception: 8 p.m.-midnight Nov. 13. 1-6 p.m. TuesdayFriday. Through Dec. 31. 30 W. Pike St., Covington, 859-491-4228.

CS13 — The Text Show features the work of ten artists and poets focusing on the potential for language to serve as an artistic form. Closing reception: 7-10 p.m. Nov. 13. 1219 Sycamore St., Over-the-Rhine, contemporaryspace13

Closson’s Gallery — Celebrate maritime artist John Stobart’s 80th birthday with this two-day celebration featuring historically accurate, original paintings of America’s greatest river ports. 5-8 p.m. Nov. 13; noon-3 p.m. Nov. 14. Closson’s Gallery, 3061 Madison Road,Montgomery Oakley, 513-762-5510. Kennedy Heights Arts Center — Holiday Treasures Guild Show

features one-of-a-kind handmade treasures created by local artists. Work includes paintings, photography, jewelry, ceramic works, fiber creations, mosaics and sculpture. Opening reception: 6-8 p.m. Nov. 14. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Mondays-Saturdays. Through Jan. 9. 6546 Montgomery Road, Kennedy Heights, 513-631-4278.

Miller Gallery — Dale Lamson, Cincinnati graphic designer, makes his grand entrance into the world of fine art with a joyous, playful look at the summer pleasures of the swimming pool. Opening reception: 7 p.m. Nov. 12. 10 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Tuesday-Saturday; 11a.m.-3 p.m. Sunday. Through Nov. 22. 2715 Erie Ave., Hyde Park, 513-871-4420. Northern Kentucky University Art Galleries — Senior Exhibitions

include artworks from seniors Amanda Verrette, Rebecca Wilson, Keith Richter, Jeremy Ross, Natalie Brown, John Overwine and Kyle McGill. Opening reception: 5-8 p.m. Nov. 12. 9 a.m.-9 p.m. Monday-Friday. Through Nov. 20. Fine Arts Center, Nunn Drive, Highland Heights, 859-572-5148.

Red Tree Gallery and Coffee Shop — The November Art Show

features multiple artists. Opening reception: 6-9 p.m. Nov. 13. 7 a.m.-6 p.m. Monday-Friday; 8 a.m.-6 p.m. Saturday; 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Sunday. Through Dec. 5. 4409 Brazee St., Oakley, 513-321-8733.

Galleries & Exhibits Aisle Gallery — Pairs Well With: Recent Objects and Installations H by Matt Morris is a multimedia solo exhibition in response to nature and idiosyncrasies of Aisle Gallery’s space. 1-4 p.m. Monday-Friday. Through Dec. 31. 424 Findlay St., Third Floor, Over-the-Rhine, 513-241-3403.

Art Academy of Cincinnati — Hank Willis Thomas is the third

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annual Lightborne Artist in Residence. See his photos on display at the Convergys Gallery. 9 a.m.-9 p.m. Monday-Friday. Through Nov. 15. 1212 Jackson St., Over-the-Rhine, 513-562-6262. Art Academy of Cincinnati — Built Drawings features 26 sculptures, drawings, oil paintings and prints that challenge traditional concepts of architecture, habitation and sense of place by George Schmidt. 9 a.m.-9 p.m. Monday-Friday; 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday-Sunday. Through Nov. 15. Art Academy of Cincinnati, 1212 Jackson St., Over-the-Rhine, 513-562-6262.

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Betts House — Revisit recent Cincinnati history through this exhibit of

photographs by Sherman Cahal, Craig Moyer and Ronny Salerno in Exploring Cincinnati. The exhibit focuses on the social and economic challenges that Cincinnati’s urban areas have weathered over the fast few decades. $2. 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Tuesday-Thursday. Through Nov. 19. 416 Clark St., West End.

Carl Solway Gallery — Walls, Floors & Ceilings features largescale installations by 16 artists from across the country. Free. 9 a.m.-5 H p.m. Monday-Friday; noon-5 p.m. Saturday. Through Dec. 23. 424 Findlay St., Over-the-Rhine, 513-621-0069.

Carnegie Visual & Performing Arts Center — Something for Everyone celebrates the works of The Clay Alliance, Keith Auerbach, Ken Page, Eric Ruschman, and Jessica Grace Bechtel. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. MondayFriday; noon-3 p.m. Saturday. Through Nov. 25. 028 Scott Blvd., Covington, 859-491-2030.

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Cincinnati Art Club — Viewpoint 2009 is a 41st annual National Juried Art Competition. 2-5 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays. Through Nov. 22. 1021 Parkside Place, Mount Adams, 513-241-4591.

Cincinnati Art Galleries — Blue Nocturn features 40 paintings by local Cincinnati artist Tarrence Corbin, an Associate Professor of Fine Arts at the University of Cincinnati. 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Monday-Friday; by appointment Saturday. Through Nov. 12. 225 E. Sixth St., Downtown, 513-381-2128.

Clay Street Press Gallery — Abrade is a new series of prints by mixedmedia artist and sculptor Tony Luensman. Noon-4 p.m. Saturdays. Through Dec. 12. 1312 Clay St., Over-the-Rhine, 513-241-3232.

group show featuring art jewelry. The exhibit is inspired by the art museum’s Imperishable Beauty: Art Nouveau Jewelry exhibit. 11 a.m.-8 p.m. MondayThursday; 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Friday; 1-4 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. Through Nov. 14. 334 Thomas More Parkway,Thomas More College Crestview Hills, 859-344-3302.

Farbach-Werner Nature Preserve — View and purchase framed and unframed Charley Harper prints. 1-5 p.m. Wednesday, Friday-Sunday; 1-7 p.m. Thursday. 3455 Poole Road, Colerain, 513-521-7275. Iris Bookcafe — Bill Davis: Exemplars exhibits examples from three H bodies of his work: Manifest Rites, Palimpsests, and Canopies. He is currently teaching Photography and Digital Imaging at Western Michigan University in Kalamazoo. 8 a.m.-10 p.m. Monday-Friday; 11 a.m.-10 p.m. SaturdaySaturday. Through Dec. 12. 1331 Main St., Over-the-Rhine, 513-381-2665.

Know Theatre of Cincinnati — Room Service tells the story of three hotel rooms through the photographs of Deogracias Lerma. 11 a.m.-6 p.m. daily. Through Nov. 20. 1120 Jackson St., Over-the-Rhine, 513-300-5669. Madison Clayworks — The show and sale presents functional and decorative pottery from table ware to sculpture by Lisa Hueil Conner, Yvonne Cooper, Bob Gantzer,Sandy Gantzer, Jane Goepper, Pat Holm and Leslie St. Clair. 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Monday-Friday; 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday-Sunday. Through Dec. 12. Madison Clayworks, 6501 Madison Road, Madisonville, 513-321-4458. Manifest Creative Research Gallery — Shaped features 13 works by the following 10 artists from eight states and Alberta Canada that break outside the expected, traditional, monotonous shapes of manufactured systems. ... Pause is an exhibit of Contemporary Still-life. 2-7 p.m. Tuesday-Friday; noon-5 p.m. Through Dec. 4. 2727 Woodburn Ave., Walnut Hills, 513-861-3638.

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NVISION — Julie Lonneman and Saad Ghosn exhibit their prints. Julie exhibits An Artist’s Eye on Knowlton Street, a collection of prints communicates her fascination with this area of Northside. Ghosn exhibits his print collections in The Observer and Animalia. In The Observer, view nine woodcut prints that reminds us not to be passive observers. In Animalia, see 10 prints of chimeric animals. 2-9 p.m. Wednesday-Sunday. Through Dec. 6. 4577 Hamilton Ave., Northside, 513-542-4577. Park + Vine — Bird Series is a collection of paintings by Angie Unger, featuring lush images of birds in various settings using re-purposed materials from the Zero-Landfill Cincinnati Project. 11 a.m.-7 p.m. Monday-Friday; 10 a.m.-7 p.m. Saturday; 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Sunday. Through Nov. 22. 1109 Vine St., Over-the-Rhine, 513-721-7275. Philip M. Meyers, Jr. Memorial Gallery — Form from Form: Art from Discovery features the new creations of seven noted living artists (all doing new Darwin-inspired works). Noon-5 p.m. Monday-Friday; noon-4 p.m. Saturday. Through Nov. 23. Steger Student Life Center, Room 465,University of Cincinnati campus Clifton, 513-556-3088.

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Phyllis Weston-Annie Bolling Gallery — Harry Shokler: In the

Footsteps of Duveneck features oil paintings and serigraphs inspired by Frank Duveneck. 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Tuesday-Saturday. Through Nov. 21. 2005 1/2 Madison Road, O’Bryonville, 513-321-5200.

Raymond Walters College — Natural Selections is an art exhibit inspired by the work of Charles Darwin featuring botanical, geological and zoological interpretations related to Darwin’s work. 7:30 a.m.-9 p.m. MondayThursday; , 7:30 a.m.-5 p.m. Friday; noon-4 p.m. Sundays. Through Nov. 25. 9555 Plainfield Road, Blue Ash, 513-745-5600. Row House Gallery — Art Harvest: The Art of Ken Snouffer is an exhibit

and sale featuring a minimum of five new paintings per week. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday-Friday; 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday. Through Nov. 30. 211 Main St., Milford, 513-831-7230.

Sandra Small Gallery — New Paintings by Bukang Kim feature a new group of paintings she calls “The Ocean Series.” These paintings are the culmination of a career which has included numerous exhibitions in New York, Las Vegas, Prague and Korea. 1-7 p.m. Thursday; 1-5 p.m. Friday-Saturday. Through Nov. 24. 124 W. Pike St. , Covington, 859-291-2345. Semantics Gallery — Touch Faith features an exhibition of abstract works by a variety of artists and curated by Jeffrey Cortland Jones. Noon-4 p.m. Saturdays. Through Nov. 28. 1107 Harrison Ave., Brighton, 513-207-5262. Sidewinder Coffee & Tea — Doodles features little cartoonish doodle cut-outs from Gary Weissman. 7 a.m.-10 p.m. Monday-Friday; 8 a.m.-10 p.m. Saturday-Sunday. Through Nov. 15. 4181 Hamilton Ave., Northside, 513-542-8321. Synthetica Gallery — Post Forward features photo sculpture by Mark

Gergen, sculpture by Christopher Daniels, art and jewelry by Charlotte Conway, paintings by Stephen Anthony Fulton and paintings by Richard Eyman. Hours by appointment. Through Nov. 28. 2157 Central Ave., Brighton, 513-602-2574.

The Architectural Foundation of Cincinnati — The H Architectural Foundation is hosting an exhibition of Frank Lloyd Wright photographs, artifacts and designs associated with the house he created

in West Lafayette, Ind. for Dr. John E. Christian. It is a mature example of a Usonian home. $10. Hours by appointment. Through Nov. 17. 127 W. Ninth St. , Downtown, 513-421-4469.

Country Club — Kingdom of Nature is an exhibition of new and recent paintings and works on paper by L.A.-based artist Aaron Morse. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday-Saturday. Through Dec. 19. 3209 Madison Road ,Second Floor Oakley, 513-792-9744.

U-turn Art Space — Don’t Be Scared Be Prepared features recent drawings and other solutions on paper and walls by Jessie Bowie. Noon-4 p.m. Saturdays. Through Nov. 28. U-turn Art Space , 2159 Central Ave., Brighton, u.turn.artspace@gmail.com. Upstairs at the Greenwich — Perspective is a collection of surrealist

DAN CHAON reads from and discusses his fiction 7 p.m. Thurs-

Eisele Gallery of Fine Art — Queen City Artists Past and Present features fresh acquisitions of Cincinnati’s “Golden Age” painters and living artists whose works are in harmony with this earlier period. 11 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Monday-Friday; 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturday. Through Dec. 1. 5729 Dragon Way, Fairfax, 513-791-7717.

day in Tangeman University Center room 427 on UC’s campus.

Eva G. Farris Gallery — L’art de la Joaillerie, The Art of Jewelry, is a

and abstract work varying in styles and mediums. 7-10 p.m. Monday-Thursday; 7 p.m.-midnight Friday and Saturday. Through Dec. 5. 2442 Gilbert Ave., Walnut Hills, 513-221-1151.

Art Gallery — “I’ll Just Ask Dad” features low-tech instalHWeston lations by Ryan Mulligan inspired by dark comedy and the mythology of


his everyday life. ... Form as a Cognitive System features whimsical frescoes by New Mexican artist Michael Sharber. ... Virtue in the Struggle features an installation and works on paper by Casey Riordan Millard motivated by fear, anger and despair. 10 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Tuesday-Saturday; noon-5 p.m. Sunday. Through Dec. 6. 650 Walnut St., Downtown, 513-977-4165.

YWCA Women’s Art Gallery — Reflections Over Afternoon Tea features

realistic paintings of MaryBeth Karaus and ceramics by three outstanding ceramicists: Jancy Jaslow, Pam Korte and Brenda Tarbell. 9 a.m.-5 p.m. MondayFriday. Through Jan. 15. 898 Walnut St., Downtown, 513-241-7090.

York Street Cafe — Gone Baby Gone is the final exhibit of photographer

of Linda Tabler before she moves. Look for images of classic cars, the Red River Gorge, Arizona and more. 11 a.m.-9 p.m. Tuesday-Saturday. Through Jan. 10. 738 York St., Newport, 859-261-9675.

Museums Cincinnati Art Museum — Roaring Tigers, Leaping Carp: Decoding H the Symbolic Language of Chinese Animal Painting is a ground-breaking exhibition featuring approximately 100 Chinese paintings and objects depicting

Irving Berlin’s White Christmas — Enjoy the Broadway show that embodies the Christmas spirit and features great holiday music. $24.40-$64.50 8 p.m. Nov.10-13; 2 and 8 p.m. Nov.14; 1 and 6:30 p.m. Nov.15; 8 p.m. Nov.17-20; 2 and 8 p.m. Nov.21; 1 and 6:30 p.m. Nov.22. Aronoff Center for the Arts, 650 Walnut St., Downtown, 513-721-3344.

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One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest — Adapted from Ken Kesey’s novel, Randle P. McMurphy is charming rogue who contrives to serve a short sentence in an airy mental institution rather in a prison. $21; $19 seniors/students. 8 p.m. Thursday-Saturday; 2 p.m. Sunday; 8 p.m. Nov. 11. Through Nov. 15. Covedale Center for Performing Arts, 4990 Glenway Ave., Covedale, 513-241-6550.

Play with Your Lunch — See theater with lunch by Wyoming’s Half Day Cafe. The plays being presented will be by Thornton Wilder, James Thurber, Frank Gilroy and last season’s favorite, Fred Stroppel. These very funny works will be read and performed by some familiar faces around Cincinnati. $22. Noon Nov. 11; 3 p.m. Nov. 15. Wyoming Civic Center, 1 Worthington Ave., Wyoming, 513-821-5423.

animals. $10; free for members. Through Jan. 3. ... Famous Faces, Average Joes: The Work of C.F. Payne features editorial illustrations and portraits of athletes, celebrities, politicians and the like. Through Jan. 10. ... Don Lambert: Supernova Terra Firma features the winner of the inaugural fourth floor award. Lambert creates installations that explore the shifting perception of space, be it geographic, public/private or physical. Through Nov. 29. 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Tuesday-Sunday, 953 Eden Park Drive, Mount Adams, 513-721-2787.

Sanders Family Christmas — The Sanders family is back! H The sequel to one of the Playhouse’s most popular and beloved comedies, Smoke on the Mountain, returns after 10 with 28 standard

Contemporary Arts Center — Marilyn Minter: Chewing Color is a H solo exhibition of recent paintings and photographs that reveal the sometimes flawed side of glamour. $7.50 adults; $6.50 seniors; $5.50 students.

Three Sisters — Three Sisters, adapted by Sarah Ruhl, is Anton Chekov’s tale about three sisters tuck in a backwater town, who long to get to Moscow where they imagine their lives will be transformed and fulfilled. $28-$63. 7:30 p.m. Tuesday-Wednesday; 8 p.m. ThursdaySaturday; 4 p.m. Saturday; 2 and 7 p.m. Sunday. Through Nov. 21. Cincinnati Playhouse in the Park, 962 Mt. Adams Circle, Mount Adams, 513-421-3888.

10 a.m.-9 p.m. Mondays; 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Wednesdays-Fridays; 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays.Through May 2. Contemporary Arts Center, 44 E. Sixth St., Downtown, 513-345-8400.

4onstage Theater A Tuna Christmas — Ed Howard, Joe Sears and Jaston Williams’ hilarious sequal to Greater Tuna. It’s Christmas in the third smallest town in Texas and stuff is happening. $17. 8 p.m. Nov. 6, 7, 12 13, 14, 19, 20; 7 p.m. Nov. 8; 2 and 7 p.m. Nov. 15; 4 and 8 p.m. Nov. 21; 2 p.m. Nov. 22. Walton Creek Theater, 4101 Walton Creek Road, Mariemont, 513-684-1236.

All’s Well That Ends Well — A breathless chase featuring H some of the cleverest and most manipulative female characters in all of Shakespeare. $20-$26. 7:30 p.m. Thursday-Saturday; 2 p.m. Sundays.

Through Nov. 15. Cincinnati Shakespeare Company, 719 Race St., Downtown, 513-381-2273.

Guys and Dolls — Musical and comedy stories based on the stories of

Damon Runyan. $20.50. 7:30 p.m. Wednesdays-Thursdays; 8 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays; 2:30 p.m. Sunday. Through Nov. 14. Aronoff Center for the Arts, 650 Walnut St., Downtown, 513-721-3344.

Hair — CCM presents the essence of the 1960s hippie counter-culture in

Christmas carols and gospel songs. $49-$54. 7:30 p.m. TuesdayWednesday; 8 p.m. Thursday-Friday; 4 and 8 p.m. Saturday; 2 and 7 p.m. Sunday. Through Dec. 31. Cincinnati Playhouse in the Park, 962 Mt. Adams Circle, Mount Adams, 513-421-3888.

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Classical Music Linton Chamber Music — Linton regular Peter Wiley brings

together good friends for a program of double identities- violinists with a viola twist. Listen for Mozart, Dvorak and Mendelssohn. $30; $10 students day-of. 4 p.m. Nov. 15. First Unitarian Church, 536 Linton St., Corryville, 513-961-2998.

Organ Recital — Bryan Mock presents an organ recital. Free. 5 p.m. Nov. 15. Christ Church Cathedral, 318 E. Fourth St., Downtown, 513-621-1817. Queen City Brass — Performs and evening of Dixieland Jazz, operatic arias and the theme music to Jaws. $18; $15. 7:30 p.m. Nov. 12. Carnegie Visual & Performing Arts Center, 1028 Scott Blvd., Covington, 859-491-2030.

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The Catacoustic Consort — Presents a program for viola da gamba ensemble. $20; $7 students. 7:30 p.m. Nov. 14. North Presbyterian Church, 4222 Hamilton Avenue, Northside, 513-681-1400. ... Presents a program for viola da gamba ensemble. $20; $7 students. 3 p.m. Nov. 15. St. Gabriel Church, 48 W. Sharon Ave., Glendale, 513-681-1400.

this famous musical. $28-$17. 2:30 and 7 p.m. Nov. 15; 8 p.m. Nov. 18-20; 2:30 and 8 p.m. Nov. 21. College-Conservatory of Music (CCM), 3840 Corbett Bldg.,University of Cincinnati campus Clifton, 513-556-4183. ... Celebrate CCM with an opening night gala performance of Hair with the Friends of CCM Gala. $125. 7 p.m. Nov. 14. College-Conservatory of Music (CCM), 3840 Corbett Bldg.,University of Cincinnati campus Clifton, 513-556-4183.

Vogler Quartet — The Vogler Quartet celebrates Chamber Music

4THE CARNEGIE’S HAUL: FROM PAGE 33

moment of his time with his mother. She is smiling, with her hands folded in her lap, looking at her son as if she is ready to say something. This scene of mother and son sitting together is reflected an infinite number of times in the mirrors on the wall and ceiling. In the mirror is a glimpse across the table. Slouched in a chair, with his chin in his hand and a camera propped on a book, is the artist, taking a picture of his mother. In the main gallery, the Clay Alliance exhibition Feast or Famine pays homage to the spirit of giving and to a deceased member of the group, Joyce Clancy. A retrospective of Clancy’s pottery is on display in the center of the gallery. As a member of the Alliance, she chaired Empty Bowls, a yearly service project raising money for the Freestore Foodbank Kids Café. A small collection of the hundreds of bowls artists fired for the Empty Bowls project is also on display at the Carnegie. The Empty Bowls campaign is held annually at the Baker Hunt Foundation in Covington (see clayalliance.org for more info). Donations to the Kids Café can still be made by contacting the Freestore Foodbank. ©

MORE ON PAGE 364

november 11-17, 2009

the eye. In Page’s work, hooks hold the sky up, men drive stakes along a fault line to split the earth in half and they lay bricks in the sky. Photographer Auerbach also explores rural settings and the connection between humans and animals. In “Chartres Dog,” a dog sits on a windowsill lazily dangling its legs. In “Mother Duck and Ducklings,” a boy swims in a pool with his head out of water. On the side of the pool, a concrete duck leads a row of three concrete ducklings. The boy lines up perfectly with the ducklings, as if he too is following behind the mother. “Intimate Moment” and “Look Back” are two companion pieces. In both, a black dog and a white dog sit facing a lake. If the dogs were human, we may think of them as friends, siblings or lovers. The nature of their relationship is inconsequential but there is a relationship between them — that’s what matters. Like two humans staring off at the water, there is some connection that brought them together. “Portrait of My Mother Six Months Before She Died of Cancer” can be seen as a self-portrait. In a dining room with mirrored walls and ceiling, Auerbach has snapped a single, brief

Cincinnati’s 80th season with a program featuring Haydn, Schulhoff, Dvorak and Schumann. $25; $10 for students. 8 p.m. Nov. 17. CollegeConservatory of Music (CCM), 3840 Corbett Bldg.,University of Cincinnati

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4arts

onstage

Waite Gain

campus Clifton, 513-556-4183.

Local comedian Dave Waite makes national TV debut this week

Comedy

4interview by p.f. wilson

november 11-17, 2009

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hat’s this? Another Cincinnati comedian is appearing on national TV? It’s becoming almost commonplace, as the Queen City’s Dave Waite makes his television debut this week on Comedy Central’s Live at Gotham. It was Cincinnati’s own Josh Sneed that got him the slot at an audition held at the Columbus Funny Bone. Batting fifth, and doing a mash-up of “greatest hits,” Waite impressed the Gotham scouts. Of the 19 comedians that performed, only he was chosen to go to New York, which actually surprised him. “There were a lot of talented people,” he says. He describes the taping of the program as a “whirlwind,” Dave Waite and a bit unsettling at first. “I was so nervous about being on TV,” he says. “Cameras everywhere, they put makeup on you.” Once he hit the stage though, he quickly calmed down. “There was one joke I told that got a really big reaction and that put me at ease. ‘All right, it’s like regular set, just because there are cameras here it’s not a big deal.’ I didn’t say that, I just thought it,” he says with a laugh. Waite started doing stand-up about five years ago after taking the comedy class Jeff Jenna held at The Funny Bone on the Levee in Newport. From there he started performing at Go Bananas Wednesday Pro/Am nights and other places around the town. Two years later he quit his day job. “I was working in an office doing clerical work and stuff like that. Data entry. Opening mail. I gave it all up for this,” Waite says. Despite what we see on The Office, the mundane work existence that Waite was in never really provided a lot of comic fodder. It did, however, offer something else that helped his budding comedy career. “It definitely amped up the drive to do this,” he says. “I wasn’t on any sort of corporate track, I was just at a job. It wasn’t a career and I had no idea what I wanted to do. Once I started doing comedy I was like ‘Oh, this is what I want to do,’ and I actually started to work hard at something.” Up until now Waite has mostly been featuring for other comics (featuring is stand-upspeak for “opening”). He is starting to headline more and more, though. It’s a slightly different mindset between the two slots. “It seems like the expectation level is differ-

Xavier Classical Piano Series — This month check out concert soloist, pianist and composer Spencer Myer, who enjoys giving back by supporting young musicians. Season subscription $120-$110; single tickets, $19-$17; seniors $16-14, students $3. $3-$19. 2:30 p.m. Nov. 15. Xavier University Gallagher Student Center, 3800 Victory Pkwy., Evanston, 513-745-3161.

productive and enlivened community garden? If so the Civic Garden Center has a series of classes that may just what you need! To receive a certificate 10 of the 12 classes must be attended, and the required volunteer hours completed. CGDT participants who have met certificate and site/program requirements are eligible to apply for financial (up to $1,500) and technical support for their new community garden project. Registration required. Free. Through Apr. 24. Civic Garden Center, 2715 Reading Road, Walnut Hills, 513-221-0981 ext.16.

Holiday Porch Pots — Learn how to create evergreen and weather-hardy natural floral displays in pots. 6:30 p.m. Nov. 16. Monforts Heights Branch, 3825 West Fork Road, Monfort Heights, 513-369-4472.

Traditional Vegan Thanksgiving — Culinary Olypmic awardH winning chef Mark Stroud leads a hands-on cooking class on how to prepare a wholesome vegan Thanksgiving. $36. 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Nov. 14. Park + Vine, 1109 Vine St., Over-the-Rhine, RSVP anna

Troy Baxley — Twice a finalist at the prestigious HBO Comedy

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Festival, Troy Baxley is already well-known in comedy circles. $8-$12. 8 p.m. Thursday-Sunday; 10:30 p.m. Friday-Saturday. Go Bananas Comedy Club, 8410 Market Place Lane, Blue Ash, 513-984-9288.

Dane Cook — America’s favorite douchebag brings his “ISolated INcident: Global Thermo” comedy tour to the Tristate. $30-$100 8 p.m. Nov. 15. The Bank of Kentucky Center, 500 Nunn Dr.,Northern Kentucky University Highland Heights, 513-562-4949. Bert Kreischer — While attending Florida State University, he was

discovered by Rolling Stone Magazine and given the title “The #1 Party Animal in the Country.” $12-$14. 8 p.m. Thursday; 8 and 10:15 p.m. Friday; 7:30 and 10 pm. Saturday; 7:30 p.m. Sunday. Funny Bone on the Levee, One Levee Way ,Suite 3124 Newport, 859-957-2000.

Mixed Media Bad to the Bone — Bad to the Bone will give audiences a fun spin on the

macabre, with a night full of sketches dedicated to silly thrills and hilarious chills! 7:30 p.m. Thursday and 7:30 and 10 p.m. Friday and Saturday. Through Nov. 28. Shadowbox Cabaret, 1 Levee Way, Newport, 859-957-7625.

The Lunchbox — Designed to showcase Shadowbox’s up-and-comers and

get them ready for the Shadowbox evening productions, The Lunchbox features past-hit sketches and live Rock from the ensemble-s 12-year history. $10; $5 students/seniors. Noon Fridays. Shadowbox Cabaret, 1 Levee Way, Newport, 859-957-7625.

Vocal Arts PHOTO courtesy dave waite

Hope Sings Eternal: The Women Gather — Artistic director Dr. Catherine Roma lead MUSE in concert with writer/poet Kathy Y. Wilson and multi-instrumentalist Liz Wu. $15. 8 p.m. Nov. 14; 3 p.m. Nov. 15. St. John’s Unitarian Church, 320 Resor Ave., Clifton, 513-961-1938. Kristin Chenoweth with the Cincinnati Pops — This Tony and

ent (when you headline),” he says. “You’re the star of the show. People will accept what you do a little bit more, where as if you’re in the middle spot they still can make decision on you — yes or no — because they know there’s another guy coming.” Headlining means more material, of course, and that’s an area that’s challenging for any comic. “Writing material for the first couple of years I did comedy, I had a job, outside stimulus,” Waite explains. “Stuff that would happen during my day. Writing becomes more difficult once you don’t have a ‘normal’ life.” Perhaps that’s why Waite is looking inward and to past experiences for bits. “It’s weird, the longer you do comedy the more mature you can be about talking about your life,” he says. “You can open up and start talking about yourself. With high school, I have enough perspective on that now that I can talk about it. The shit that’s happened to me this year I can probably talk about it in, who knows, a couple of years?” Local fans can catch Dave Waite Christmas week when he co-headlines Go Bananas with another area favorite, Ryan Singer. “Hopefully, friends I haven’t seen in a while will be in town and come out,” Waite says. DAVE WAITE performs on Comedy Central’s Live at Gotham Friday at 11 p.m.

Emmy Award-winning, Golden Globe-nominated, pint-sized powerhouse makes her much anticipated return to Music Hall in a program packed with popular favorites, including the Broadway smash, Wicked. Tickets start at $26. 8 p.m. Nov. 13 and 14; 3 p.m. Nov. 15. Music Hall, 1243 Elm St., Over-the-Rhine, 513-744-3344.

Rhythm n’ Blue Ash: Kathy Wade — Cincinnati’s treasured vocalist returns to the stage to share an unforgettable selection of classic hot Jazz and soulful Blues. $10; $12 at the door. 8 p.m. Nov. 14. Raymond Walters College Theater, Cincinnati, Blue Ash, 513-745-5705.

4events Christian Moerlein Tapping — Come celebrate the tapping of H Christian Moerlein Winter Warming Ale at the Cincinnati Turner’s Club. This event benefits the German-American Citizens League. 4 p.m.-midnight Nov. 14. Cincinnati Central Turners, 2200 Pinney Ln., Mount Healthy, www. christianmoerlein.com.

Cincy World Cinema: The Summer Hours — Juliette Binoche stars

in director Olivier Assayas’s film imbued with sadness, and joy; despair and illumination. $11. 6:30 p.m. Nov. 15 and 7:30 p.m. Nov. 17. Carnegie Visual & Performing Arts Center, 1028 Scott Blvd., Covington, 859-491-2030.

Cincy World Cinema: What a Wonderful World — Moroc-

can actor-director Bensaidi’s sexy, stylish, and gleefully hip film is et in a modern-day Casablanca that is inextricably caught up in a “worldwide web” of associations and consequences. $11. 4 p.m. Nov. 15 and 7:30 p.m. Nov. 18. Carnegie Visual & Performing Arts Center, 1028 Scott Blvd., Covington, 859-491-2030.

Thanksgiving on the Frontier — Experience Thanksgiving in a whole

new way. Step back 200 years and do it like Davy Crockett. Yaw! This event includes reenactments and sampling of food from the era. Free. 2-6 p.m. Nov. 14. Shawnee Lookout Park, 2008 Lawrenceburg Road... The Art Academy’s Carniball — The Art Academy of Cincinnati’s Alumni Association announces its biannual Beaux Arts Ball, “Carniball.” This festival fuses the performance aspects of the circus carnival with the Art Academy’s own artistic talent and flair. $50. 7 p.m.-midnight Nov. 14. Gameday Sports Cafe, 537 E. Pete Rose Way, Downtown, RSVP to jennifergrote821

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4classes Civic Garden Center — Do you know a boy or girl scout troop looking

to earn their craft or Indian Lore badge? Bring them to an exciting class on making cornhusk dolls, much like Native American children made and played with. Learn the legend of the cornhusk doll while learning a new Thanksgiving tradition. Free. 10-11:30 a.m. Nov. 15. ... Are you interested in growing your own food and would like to learn more about healthy gardening practices? Or is there a vacant lot you and your neighbors would like to transform into a

4get involved Art Opportunities Secret ArtWorks — ArtWorks needs volunteers for their annual fundraiser. E-mail allyson 30-10 p.m. Nov. 20. ArtWorks Gallery, 811 Race St., Downtown, 513-333-0388.

Theater Opportunities Covedale Center for Performing Arts — The Covedale holds

auditions for Singin’ in the Rain. Must have a performance resume to audition. 7-10 p.m. Nov. 16 and 17. Covedale Center for Performing Arts, 4990 Glenway Ave., Covedale, 513-241-6550.

4holiday Greater Cincinnati Holiday Market — Shop more than 100 displays from boutiques and specialty retailers from across the country all in one location. There will be women’s apparel and accessories, gourmet food, personalized items, handmade pieces and more. $8. 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Nov. 13 and 14; 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Nov. 15. Duke Energy Cincinnati Convention Center, 525 Elm St., Downtown, 513-352-3750.

4literary Readings, Signings & Events Michael Banks — Author of Before Oprah: Ruth Lyons The Woman Who Created Talk TV, Michael Banks will be discussing and signing his new book. 6:30 p.m. Nov. 16 Symmes Township Branch Library, 11850 Enyart Road, Loveland, 513-369-6001. Dan Chaon — Novelist and short story writer Dan Chaon will be reading his new book Await Your Reply, at TUC 427. 7 p.m. Nov. 12. University of Cincinnati, 2624 Clifton Ave., Clifton Heights, 513-556-6000.

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Richard Paul Evans — A best selling author Richard Paul Evens will be discussing and signing his now book The Christmas List. 1 p.m. Nov. 12. Joseph-Beth Booksellers, 2692 Madison Road, Norwood, 513-396-8960. Will Hillenbrand — Author Will Hillenbrand will be signing and reading his new book Sleep, Big Bear, Sleep!. 11 a.m. Nov. 4. Joseph-Beth Booksellers, 2692 Madison Road, Norwood, 513-396-8960. Barb Johnson — Barb Johnson is introducing her debut novel More of

This World of Maybe Another. 7 p.m. Nov. 12. Joseph-Beth Booksellers, 2692 Madison Road, Norwood, 513-396-8960.

Literary Journeys: The Updike Tour — Discuss Updike’s themes in Roger’s Letters, his modernization of Hawthorne’s The Scarlet Letter. $10 members; $15 others. 6-7:30 p.m. Nov. 12. Mercantile Library, 414 Walnut St., Downtown, 513-621-0717. Marathon Reading of Moby-Dick — In celebration of the continuing exhibition Chasing the Whale in Northern Kentucky, the gallery will be reading Moby-Dick. To be part of the team you can go on www.doodle.com/ gu8rdzyv5bhe6cpp to sign up for a 20-minute reading slot. 9 a.m.-9 p.m. Nov. 14 and 15. Gallerie Zaum, 811 Monmouth St., Newport, 859-441-3838.

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The Encyclopedia of Northern Kentucky — Dr. James Claypool and Dr. Paul Tenkotte will discuss and sign their new book which catalogues the people, places, history and rich heritage of Northern Kentucky in 2,000 entries, 170 images, 13 maps and 1,032 pages. Noon-2 p.m. Nov. 14. Kentucky Haus Artisan Center, 411 E. 10th St., Newport, 859-261-4287.

4sports Spectator Cincinnati Bearcats vs. West Virginia Mountaineers — The Bearcats and Mountaineers play football at night. Must be important! $42-$56. 8 p.m. Nov. 13. Nippert Stadium, 2624 Clifton Avenue, Clifton, 513-556-2287.

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Cincinnati Cyclones Vs. Trenton Devils — ECHL homeboys stand up

to the other New Jersey Devils. $12-$24.50. 10:30 a.m. Nov. 17 and 7:30 p.m. Nov. 18. US Bank Arena, 100 Broadway, Downtown, 513-421-4111.

more listings at citybeat.com Find information on classes, volunteer opportunities and ongoing area attractions in our searchable listings online


DINER

THE DISH By HEATHER SMITH

Work-Friendly Coffeehouses If you work from home, you’ve probably done the coffeehouse circuit. It’s a reason to put on civilian clothes and cast off the tired sweats that self-employed people sometimes come to resent. So when you make the trek in your best pair of jeans, where are the best places to find peace, quiet and instant Wi-Fi? Here are some suggestions.

Koka, Mt. Adams There’s no better place to chat it up with the friendly baristas and get a fair degree of quietude than Koka in Mt. Adams. The baristas know what they’re doing and the food is good — lively sandwiches made with love and bread from Shadeau bakery. As far as setting up your makeshift office, you’ll find several electrical outlets and fairly comfortable tables with a view of St. Gregory. What you probably won’t find are obnoxious people talking loudly on their cell phones. Just make sure to keep ordering if you camp out for a few hours — at least a couple of coffee drinks, lunch and dessert. 513-381-5652.

Enzo’s, Downtown Enzo’s could be your downtown Over-the-Rhine satellite office. They offer up a great latte and the staff is friendly and down to earth. The storefront lets in plenty of natural light and the bright orange décor has a contemporary and airy vibe. As far as food, you won’t be disappointed. Like Koka, Enzo’s offers sandwiches that are just as good as those you’d find in most lunch places downtown (some are better). Try the Curry Chicken Salad ($6.95) with cranberries PHOTO: keith rutowsk and walnuts, one of the best I’ve had, and the OTR Turkey Reuben Enzo’s ($6.95). Just make sure you charge your laptop before going. While there are usually plenty of tables, there are only a couple of outlets. 513-579-1106.

Sitwells, Clifton If you like to people-watch while you work, there’s no better place than Sitwells. A bit more chaotic than Koka and Enzo’s, Sitwells has an artsy and academic vibe that’s good for unleashing creativity. Service can be slow, but if you’re camping out there, that can be a good thing. Noise level is moderate and if it’s a tough afternoon you can always spike your coffee with one of Sitwells specialty drinks, like the Lucky Coffee with sambuca ($5.50), or go for a signature cocktail like the Multiple Orgasm ($6). Pair that with some comfort food like the homemade soup ($3.50), the Three Cheese Melt ($5.50) and a baked potato. 513-281-7487.

Tazza Mia, Downtown and West Chester

CONTACT heather smith: hsmith@citybeat.com

She Says, She Says Two different views of Wooster Tavern in Mariemont 4REVIEWS BY DIANA DAY AND HEATHER SMITH

Everything’s Better with Stella

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word to the wise: When you go visit a neighborhood tavern known for its cheeseburgers and wings, that’s probably what you should order. My recent trek to Wooster Tavern is a case in point. Ready to enjoy a meal out without the kiddos, my husband and I easily found Wooster Tavern (a.k.a. WooTav WOOSTER TAVERN to the locals) tucked neatly Go: 6309 Wooster Pike, Mariemont between Mariemont and Fairfax. Call: 513-271-8616 The building resembled a remodHours: 11 a.m.-2:30 a.m. Mondayeled house from the outside and Friday; noon-2:30 a.m. Saturday; and parking looked like it could be noon-9 p.m. Sunday. tricky, but we were relieved to Entrée Prices: $6.49-$13 find ample spaces behind the Payment: Most major credit cards building. Perhaps too much Red Meat Alternatives: Plenty available parking for 7 p.m. on a Accessibility: Fully accessible Saturday, but it was Halloween, so maybe the crowd was late that night. The sports bar atmosphere inside reinforced the “local favorite” image I had begun to conjure. The bar was

both warm and welcoming on a chilly autumn night. As we took in the all the big screens, we chose a seat and were immediately greeted by a pleasant waitress dressed as a cat. She quickly plunked down menus and disappeared to the kitchen to pick up an order called out by the cook. Our friendly feline server reappeared to take our drink order. I inquired about their selection of draft beers and was surprised to learn they had more than domestic varietals on tap. We each ordered a brew (Sam Adams and Stella Artois, $4.75 each) and I made a hasty selection from the appetizer menu, as our kitty seemed to be in quite a rush. The good news was that our beer arrived quickly and was refreshing, even though it was not served with the head one hopes for on a Stella. The appetizer selections I breezed through were standard pub fare: nachos, Buffalo wings, onion rings. Always looking to sample something different, the Tavern Oysters (deep fried goetta patties with honey mustard dressing, $6.99) caught my attention. They CONTINUES ON PAGE 404

november 11-17, 2009

If you’re looking for more of a corporate downtown vibe, great food and some really delicious cookies, look no further than Tazza Mia. The upstairs lounge has comfy chairs for a casual afternoon of working. Tazza has Downtown and West Chester locations and will soon open a spot in Covington. 513-381-1388.

PHOTO: keith rutowski

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4RESTAURANT PICKS Compiled from CityBeat’s 2009 Where to Eat Dining Guide plus recent restaurant reviews, these capsules are listed by area of town. Menues and times are subject to change. “Best of Cincinnati” readers pick winners are listed, as are review dates and reviewers’ initials if applicable. Contact Maija Zummo at CityBeat, 811 Race St., Fifth Floor, Cincinnati, OH 45202. Phone: 513-665-4700. Fax: 513-665-4369. Check out the searchable Dining Guide online at citybeat.com and the restaurant section of our “Best of Cincinnanti” Web site at bestofcincinnati.com.com

North Padrino — Hunter, Richard and Court Thomas, owners of 20 Brix

American Fare Also Offered

Voted Best German Restaurant ~ Cincinnati Magazine

Tuesday-Friday 11am-10pm | Saturday 4-10pm

151 W McMillan - Clifton Heights

513-281-3600

www.christysandlenhardts.com

DUSMESH 6 OFF

Second Dinner Entree Buy 1 Dinner Entree at Regular Price & Get 2nd Dinner Entree for $6.00 Off

Limit 2 coupons per party. Expires 12/11/09

$ 50

Purchase of One Buffet

Pomodori’s Pizzeria & Trattoria — Wood-fired pizzas take a

Limit 2 coupons per party. Expires 12/11/09

M-F Lunch 11am-2:30pm • Dinner 5pm-10pm • Sat & Sun 11:30am-10pm

Carryout Available • Catering For All Occasions • FREE PARKING A Great Variety of Dishes - Seasoned to Your Taste!

november 11-17, 2009

944 Ludlow Avenue • 513.221.8900

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Roberto’s — An ambitious and surprising menu with dishes from Russian and Eastern European to Mediterranean, Latin American and Caribbean. For appetizers, try the empanadas or the patacones, flattened and battered discshaped patties of seasoned plantain. The paella is delicious and flavorful, a heaped and generous order of slow-cooked rice filled with roasted red peppers, pork, chicken, spicy pieces of chorizo sausage, shrimp and clams served in their shells. When you’ve had enough of the Subway and McDonald’s franchises that dominate Loveland, Roberto’s is a great spot for a paella and a glass of wine. Entrees: $12-$29. 5-10:30 p.m. Tuesday-Saturday. 784 Loveland-Miami Road, Loveland, 513-683-9882.

also offers a broad menu of traditional favorites influenced by countries where polo is popular. Look for Pan Roasted Pork Tenderloin, Tandoori Chicken Pizza and Steak Churrasco, a marinated grilled skirt steak, served with garlic chimichurri sauce, tomato salsa and yucca fries.Service is friendly and efficient. The restaurant is spacious and airy, and decorated with polo memorabilia in tribute to the Cincinnati Polo Club, which occupied the site for over 20 years. Entrees: $7-$30. 11 a.m.-10 p.m. Monday-Thursday; 11 a.m.-11 p.m. Friday;noon-11 p.m. Saturday; 10 a.m.-9 p.m. Sunday. 5035 Deerfield Circle, Mason, 513-701-7656.

3 OFF 1 OFF

Purchase of Two Buffets

Padrino — Hunter, Richard and Court Thomas, owners of 20 Brix in Milford, have done what any good financial manager advises: diversify. Last March they opened Padrino a few doors down from 20 Brix. Padrino occupies the space that formerly housed DeMeo’s, another family-owned Italian restaurant. Padrino (pronounced “pad-reeno”) is Italian for “godfather,” and while the establishment riffs of this connection, the space doesn¬ít embody a “gangster” feel. The food itself is good quality, stickto-your ribs Italian fare. Padrino offers salads, subs, pasta and pizza. The cuisine and executive chef aren¬ít the only Italian things about Padrino’s. The wine list is 99 percent Italian. (LA 6-17-09). Entrees: $8-$15. 11 a.m.-10 p.m. Monday-Saturday; 11 a.m.-8 p.m. Sunday. 111 Main St., Milford, 513-965-0100.

Polo Grille — Featuring a focused, fairly priced wine list, Polo Grille

Dine in Only. Carryout $5.00 Off 2nd Entree. Limit 2 coupons per party. Expires 12/11/09

$ 00

with creamy pineapple juice and brewing with Stoli Vanilla vodka, Chambord and champagne, it would be remiss not to mention the drinks at Relish Modern Tapas first. Besides, Relish’s martinis are so filling they can be meals in and of themselves. If you’re a more traditional sort looking for something heartier than martinis for dinner, the menu at Mason’s Relish Modern Tapas probably has something for you, no matter your taste. Rather than traditional Spanish tapas, Modern Relish offers New Age tapas, familiar dishes from around the world, but with an emphasis on American and Asian fare with a little Mediterranean and Italian thrown in for good measure (HS 7-30-08). Entrees: $12.25-$16.25. 11 a.m.-9 p.m. Sunday-Thursday; 11 a.m.-11 p.m. Friday-Saturday. 5947 Deerfield Blvd.,Deerfield Towne Center Mason, 513-204-6925.

family-friendly eatery serves simple, delicious Italian food. Old favorites like spaghetti and homemade meatballs are light and flavorful, and specials are tasty and filling. Pitrelli’s also serves a good pizza with a light crust and toppings that include pancetta and spicy olives. Neither slick nor chic, Pitrelli’s offers instead a bona fide Mom and Pop experience. A reason is the family that runs it: Jim and Linda Pitrelli are wonderful people, retired grade school teachers who make you feel like you’re a guest in their home. The tortellini is always great and be sure to check out Couples Night on Thursdays—a meal for two including salad, wine, pasta and meatballs for $45. Entrees: $14-$18. 5-9 p.m. Tuesday-Thursday; 5-9:30 p.m. Friday-Saturday. 312 Reading Road, Mason, 513-770-0122.

$ 00

B

BYO

Relish Modern Tapas — With martinis such as the French Kiss topped

in Milford, opened opened Padrino, a family-style Italian restaurant, a few doors down from their other restaurant. Padrino (pronounced “pad-reeno”) is Italian for “godfather,” and while the establishment riffs of this connection, the space doesn’t embody a “gangster” feel. With good quality, stick-to-your ribs Italian fare, Padrino offers salads, subs, pasta and pizza. The cuisine and executive chef aren’t the only Italian things about Padrino’s. The wine list is 99 percent Italian (LA 6-17-09). Entrees: $8-$15. 11 a.m.-10 p.m. Monday-Saturday; 11 a.m.-8 p.m. Sunday. 111 Main St., Milford, 513-965-0100.

Pitrelli’s Italian Deli and Cafe — This independently owned,

LUNCH BUFFET Daily • DINNER ‘til 10pm • Across from Cincinnati State

Montgomery, 513-794-0080.

little longer to bake, but dang are they worth it. Honey-tasting, flakey crust and scrumptious sandwiches along with pastas and salads make this more than a sit-down pizza joint. Perfect for dates and those who enjoy real garlic on their garlic bread. Comfortable and welcoming with a warm wood-burning fireplace and plenty of window seating to people watch if the date goes bad. Entrees: $9-$13. 11 a.m.-11 p.m. Monday-Thursday, Sunday; 11 a.m.-midnight Friday-Saturday. 7880 Remington Road,

Rue Dumaine — The much-anticipated new restaurant from chef/owner

Anne Kearney, a local who made a name for herself in New Orleans working with celeb-chef Emeril Legasse and then running her own place, Peristyle. The French-inspired bistro menu is tightly focused, with just nine starters and six main courses. Weekly and daily specials round out these selections with dishes made from seasonal, local ingredients. The wine list is outstanding, and the service is attentive and professional (MS 1-23-08). Entrees: $16.50-$21. 5-10 p.m. Tuesday-Saturday. 1061 Miamisburg-Centerville Road, Centerville, 937-610-1061.

Central p.F. Chang’s — This national chain offers an unusual selection of Chinese dishes including a variety of seafood, chicken, beef, vegetarian and noodle dishes such as Spicy Chicken in Lettuce Wraps and Kung Pao Scallops. Or try the Mongolian Shrimp or the grilled lemongrass prawns. Steak eaters will appreciate the soy-and-mild-chile-marinated N.Y. Strip served with bok choy. The hip, fashionable decor provides an excellent backdrop for a night out on the town. Unlike most of the other popular chains, they take reservations. Winner of “Best Chinese” Entrees: $7-$20. 11 a.m.-11 p.m. Sunday-Thursday; 11 a.m.midnight Friday-Saturday. 2633 Edmondson Road , Norwood, 513-779-5555. Parkside Cafe — Housed in a former Frisch’s Big Boy, Parkside Cafe keeps

it real and versatile with its own drive-thru window, soup and salad bar and what seems to be the original Frisch’s furniture. They must still have the same ice machine, too, because the ice was Frisch’s ice. You know the stuff- it falls somewhere between Slushie ice and ice cubes. Their menu is pretty standard for a breakfast and lunch joint, but they have a nice variety of choices nonetheless. It’s vibe is a mix between old school and a little modern (free WiFi), comfortable and not too high-paced. Parkside Cafe, a Greek establishment, also offers a purportedly famous Gyro, flatbread and pita sandwiches and even

a Greek omelet (BC 3-11-09). Entrees: $4.95-$6.95. 8 a.m.-4 p.m. MondayFriday; 8 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturday-Sunday. 
 1026 E. McMillan St., Walnut Hills, 513-221-2026.

Pomodori’s Pizza — Pomi’s might have been the first area pizzeria to offer a wood-fired pie, and they are still one of the best. There are lots of interesting choices like the Figs and Prosciutto with Turkish figs, the Gorgonzola Walnut with tomatoes and pesto and the Bianco with sauteed artichoke hearts, red onions, mushrooms, garlic, mozzarella and provolone. And if these don’t make you salivate, an Apple Dessert Pizza might. Pomi’s makes all their noodles onsite and offers spaghetti, linguini and fettuccini. The serving staff was helpful, friendly and sincere. Sometimes old friends are the best (LA 5-14-08). Entrees: $9.50-$13.95. 11 a.m.-11 p.m. Monday-Thursday, Sunday; 11 a.m.-midnight Friday-Saturday. 121 West McMillan Street, Clifton Heights, 513-861-0080. Portofino Pizza and Deli — In addition to traditional pizzas and hoagies, Portofino’s offers Mediterranean and Middle Eastern items such as falafel sandwiches, gyros and spanikopita. Or combine flavors with a Greek pizza. A true neighborhood joint with friendly staff and bicycle delivery from Flying Food (513-591-FOOD). Entrees: $3-$17. 10 a.m.-10 p.m. Monday-Saturday; noon7 p.m. Sunday. 1609 Chase Ave. , Northside, 513-542-5858.

Potbelly Sandwich Works — Not your average brown-bagged sandwich.

Potbelly sandwich choices range from turkey breast with Swiss cheese to what they call A Wreck: salami, roast beef, turkey and ham with Swiss cheese. To accompany the made-to-order sandwiches, they have shakes, malts and smoothies to help tame the post-lunch sweet tooth. Soups and chili are also available as sides. For a group lunch, try a Box O’ Sandwiches and each hungry mouth gets a sandwich, chips and a chocolate chip cookie. This Chicago-based chain is starting down the path Friday’s blazed before that organization became obsessed with “flair.” The interiors are a burst of energy and imagination, from the pressed tin ceilings to the “music porch” from which guitarists occasionally serenade customers. Entrees: $4-$5. 11 a.m.-10 p.m. daily. 210 Calhoun St.,#228 Multiple Locations, 513-961-1500.

Qdoba Mexican Grill — Serves fast, fresh, quality Mexican fare. Try the

Chicken Mole Burrito (marinated grilled chicken flavored with a rich, slightly spicy mole sauce) or the Poblano Pesto Burrito, made with marinated grilled chicken and covered with an excellent poblano pesto sauce made of roasted poblano peppers, cilantro, almonds and pine nuts. Decor is faux-minimalist modern, with desert colors and open space to carry your finely crafted burrito to a seat. Entrees: $5-$6. Hours vary by location. 9749 Kenwood Road, Multiple Locations, 513-984-2629.

Quatman’s Cafe — Known for its burgers, which are a 1/2-pound of grilled beef served with a fat slice of onion and pickle. Additional dinner or lunch options include its famous mock turtle soup, cheeseburgers, ham and cheese, roast beef, corned beef and turkey sandwiches and fish on Fridays. The chicken and ham salads are top notch. An authentic Norwood experience if you’re looking for one — and who isn’t? Filled with regulars and characters of all makes, Quatman’s is a burp from the ‘50s with neon beer signs, checkered tablecloths and paper plates. Entrees: $5-$10. 11 a.m.-10:30 p.m. Monday-Saturday. 2434 Quatman Ave., Norwood, 513-731-4370. Ray’s Northside Grille — Serves home-cooked meals for breakfast,

lunch and dinner. Ray”s also has ribs, salmon croquettes, baked beans and cornbread. There are daily specials, including liver and onions, baked chicken and meatloaf. Entrees: 6-$19. 3938 Spring Grove Ave., Northside, 513-5911111.

Rohs Street Cafe — Rohs Street Cafe offers an unparalleled quality

in their coffee. Their selections are all fair trade and are roasted locally by artisan roaster La Terza. Some of the baristas have even competed in national barista competitions. Add fresh homemade pastries and soups to this lineup and you’ve got a true top-caliber cafe. The spacious and comfortable space serves as a bookstore, an art gallery, a performance venue and a place for community and conversation. Rohs Street is about more than great coffee; they are committed to making a difference locally and globally through their socially conscious practices. Entrees: $1.50-$4.25. 7 a.m.-7 p.m. Monday-Wednesday; 7 a.m.-midnight Thursday-Friday; 9 a.m.-midnight Saturday. 245 W. McMillan


St., Clifton Heights, 513-238-7647.

p.m. Sunday. 7832 Glendale-Milford Road, Camp Denison, 513-321-1205.

Rookwood Bar & Restaurant — Nothing fancy, just honest fresh food. The menu offers lots of options, from salads and sandwiches through full meals, all of which are created in house by a helpful, eager staff. A nice, city dining experience that works for the whole family, a good value and parking. Several levels, with the far end overlooking the bar and an even higher perch above both lower levels that’s fitted with a pool table and leather couches. Sit inside one of the kilns if you want to. Entrees: $14-$17. 11 a.m.-10 p.m. Tuesday- Thursday, 11 a.m.-11 p.m. Friday-Saturday (bar open until 2 a.m.) and 11 a.m.-9 p.m. Sunday. 1077 Celestial St., Mount Adams, 513-421-5555.

Quarter Bistro — The sangria is a smashing way to start your evening,

Downtown Palomino — Specializes in fresh fish, pasta and rotisserie meats as well

as delicious pizza and salads. The restaurant definitely takes fish seriously; their Cedar Wrapped Salmon and Sole Saltimbocca are divine. They also have a great wine list with daily happy hour specials and exciting appetizers like Grilled Prawns.The restaurant occupies one of the best spots downtown. From its second-story perch above Fountain Square, the city glitters, the fountain fizzes and you can forget yourself in the bright lights and clinking glasses. An open kitchen lets you see the buzz and energy that keep the food coming fast. Winner of “Best Business Lunch.” Entrees: $8-$35. 11 a.m.-10 p.m. MondayThursday; 11 a.m.-11 p.m. Friday-Saturday; 3 p.m.-11 p.m. Sunday. Bar: 11 a.m.-11 p.m. Monday-Thursday; 11 a.m.-midnight Friday-Saturday. 505 Vine St., Downtown, 513-381-1300.

Paula’s Cafe — Offering hot and cold sandwiches, oversized salads and filling homemade soups, Paula’s is more than a cafe — it’s an institution. The food here never fails to satisfy; just try the Cuban Sandwich: roast pork loin, ham and melted Swiss cheese pressed between slices of dense, fresh Shadeau Bakery bread to see just how good a sandwich can be. This year, a bustling new downtown storefront joined its older sibling, still located in the heart of Findlay Market. At either spot, grab something on the run or hunker down for a well-deserved break from work or shopping. Entrees: $4-$8. 7 a.m.-3 p.m. Monday-Friday. 41 E. Fourth St. , Downtown, 513-381-3354. Rock Bottom — This microbrewery always has fresh ales to quench the beer thirst and a menu to cure any hungry appetite. Some of the most popular specialty dishes include Brown Ale Chicken with shiitake mushrooms, Mahi tacos served with a pineapple slaw and black beans and jambalaya with shrimp, sausage and chicken. Steaks, burgers and lighter salads are also offered. Great meeting place for before or after a Reds or Bengals game. Rock Bottom’s location also is a great place to take out-of-town guests or just for a night on the town. Entrees: $10-$16. 11 a.m.-10 p.m. Monday-Saturday; noon-9 p.m. Sunday. 10 Fountain Square, Downtown, 513-621-1588.

East Pirates Cove Tropical Bar and Grill — Calling itself “Cincinnati’s

Tropical Paradise,” Pirate’s Cove Tropical Bar and Grill is pretty much just that. One half expects Ricardo Montalban to show up in his finely tailored white suit and say something exotic like, “Would you like to try one of our Tropical Appetizers? They’re deeeelicious.” Nestled amid hundreds of boats and lush green trees, the cove is something of a floating oasis complete with a wellstocked bar (the Red Ale is excellent), live music and a dance floor. Hungry? No problem: The menu offers everything from a vast array of tasty appetizers and salads to wraps and specialty dishes like the Barbequed Pork Ribs or the Island Tilapia and Shrimp. And how about this for another unique enticement: Smokers are always welcome. Entrees: $8.95-$13.95. 11 a.m.-10:30 p.m. Monday-Thursday; 11 a.m.-1 a.m. Friday-Saturday. 4609 Kellogg Ave., Columbia-Tusculum, 513-871-1820.

Production Line Cafe — One of the first gourmet carryouts in the area, the Production Line serves up breafast, lunch, Sunday brunch and homecooked dinners to go. For supper just call in an order, swing by to pick it up, drop the briefcase and prop up your feet. Entrees: 13-$22. 8 a.m.-4 p.m. Monday-Thursday; 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Friday; 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday; 10 a.m.-2

perhaps with the popular Tuna and Smoked Scallop Martini appetizer. Although there are lots of elegant entrees, don’t overlook the menu’s sandwiches and pizzas section that includes the Serious Burger, crab cakes and the Torta Cubana, crispy ciabatta stuffed with roasted pork, ham, chorizo, chihuahua cheese, avocado, lettuce, tomato and spicy mayo.A see-and-be-seen scene with mirrors on the walls in case you miss anyone. And before you ask, the bathrooms are next door at the movie theater. Entrees: $16-$35. 5-10 p.m. Monday-Thursday; 5-11 p.m. Friday-Saturday; 5-9 p.m. Sunday. 6904 Wooster Pike, Mariemont, 513-271-5400.

Red — Start your meal with mussels mariniere or exquisite beef carpaccio,

garnished with the wonderful tempura onion petals, and then try a steak with a side of pesto mashed potatoes. They’re the best you’ve ever eaten. On the pricey side, this is a see-and-be-seen bistro in front, cozy date banquettes in back and eponymous Red touches throughout. Very friendly service, excellent steaks and seafood. Entrees: $8-$65. 5:30-10 p.m. Sunday-Thursday; 5:30-11 p.m. Friday-Saturday. 2724 Erie Ave., Hyde Park, 513-871-3200.

Ruthai’s Thai Kitchen — The specialty of this kitchen has to be the noodle dishes, which come with your choice of vegetables and meat (chicken, pork, beef or seafood). If you don’t favor soy sauce or chewy noodles, try the curries, sushi or the interesting Green Papaya Salad. No worries for picky eaters; Ruthai’s has an extensive menu that can fit any palate and there’s plenty for vegetarians. Tucked into a small space on Mount Lookout Square, Ruthai’s offers comfy seating among Asian knick-knacks and posters. With room to seat only 25, carryout is a bustling business here. Entrees: $9-$15. Lunch: 11:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m. Tuesday-Saturday. Dinner: 5-10 p.m. Tuesday-Sunday. 3162 Linwood Ave., Mount Lookout, 513-871-7687.

Northern Kentucky Cafe Istanbul — Offers the expanse of Mediterranean cuisine with everything

from the enticing Doner Kebab, an Istanbul street eatery staple consisting of thinly sliced lamb slow-cooked on a vertical spit and served with rice pilaf and vegetables, to Vegetarian Lasagna and Grilled Apple Salmon. The signature dish is Iskender kabob, a lamb kabob over pita bread cut in strips and cooked in garlicky tomato sauce. New to the menu are spicy apricot chicken, shrimp kabobs and halibut. The decor evokes a distinctly Middle Eastern tone with tapestries on the walls and ornate pewter smoking pipes. Entrees: $12-$25. Sunday-Thursday 11:30 a.m.-10 p.m.; Friday and Saturday 11:30 a.m.-11 p.m. Newport on the Levee, Newport, 859-581-1777.

Chalk Food + Wine — Lots of local ingredients used to make tasty and creative food and lovely presentations. Slightly quirky menu, but there are treasures here — especially in the “start” section of appetizers. Calamari comes two ways: grilled on a skewer and minced into a “calamari cake” with scallion and celery. Desserts are brilliant, thanks to talented pastry chef Summer Gemetti. An ideal upscale neighborhood restaurant, perfect for a stroll to or from the Licking Riverside historic district or the new Ascent. Chalk is a great place to enjoy a glass of wine and JeanRobert de Cavel’s cuisine in a casual setting. Entrees: $6-$28. 11:30 a.m.-9:30 p.m. Monday-Thursday; 11:30 a.m.-10 p.m. Friday; 5:30-10 p.m. Saturday. 318 Greenup St., Covington, 859-643-1234. Chart House — This riverside restaurant serves steak and seafood spanning New England, Caribbean and Southern influences. Start with New England clam chowder, shrimp cocktail or seared ahi. Signature entrees include macadamiaencrusted mahi mahi, snapper “Hemingway” and slow-roasted prime rib. Massive windows offering a panoramic view of the bridges straddling the Ohio give this dining room an upscale feel. Even better is the view from the patio. Entrees: $12$40. 5-10 p.m Sunday-Thursday; 5-11p.m. Friday-Saturday. 405 Riverboat Row, Newport, 859-261-0300. Pepper Pod — All the food is homemade here, and so is the staff, with several of founder Eddie Barton’s grandsons now working at the restaurant, located in Newport since 1970. The menu includes chili, mozzarella cheese sticks, meatloaf, potato soup with cheddar cheese and all-day breakfast. Better still,

it’s open 24 hours a day, so it doesn’t matter if you want your breakfast at 3 p.m. or 3 a.m. The meatloaf goes quickly in the evening. The wallto-wall fluorescent lights are really bright, the kitchen is a whirlwind and friendly waitresses do laps around the center island to get to their tables. Specials are magic-markered on paper and stuck to the wall. Entrees: $2-$8. Open 24/7. 703 Monmouth St., Newport, 859-431-7455.

6 0FF

$ 00 2nd Dinner Entree

Pergo — CLOSED. 15 N. Fort Thomas Ave., Fort Thomas, 859-442-

5555.

Eat in Only • Not Good Fri & Sat Good Only at Ambar India Only 2 Coupons Per Party, Per Table

Pompilio’s — The tomato sauce that memories are made of and the sausage that would make Junior Soprano proud. Homemade pasta, veal parmigiana, meatballs, minestrone — whatsa matter f’you? Eat! Traditional Italian in the heart of Newport, and we do mean heart. This is old school — no shiny Levee chain stuff here. Winner of “Best Italian.” Entrees: $8-$13. Entrees: $8-$13. 11 a.m.-10 p.m. Monday-Thursday; 11 a.m.midnight Friday-Saturday; 11 a.m.-10 p.m. Sunday. 600 Washington Ave., Newport, 859-581-3065. Reserve Restaurant and Piano Lounge — CLOSED. 1 Levee

Way, Newport, 859-431-7373.

Rio Grande — Tucked into an unassuming strip mall in Newport is one of the most popular restaurants in the area, Rio Grande. Rio Grande needs no review. And no introduction. Apparently it just kind of exists. The best fajitas in town. (HS 10-14-09). Entrees: $6.99-$11.49. 11a.m.-9:30 p.m. Monday-Thursday; 11 a.m.-10:30 p.m. Friday; 11:30 a.m.-10:30 p.m. Saturday; 11:30 a.m.-9 p.m. Sunday. 34 Carothers Road, Newport, 859-525-8222.

Expires 12/11/09

3 0FF

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BEST INDIAN

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350 Ludlow • 513-281-7000

Additional Parking Available in Clifton Business Lot (next to IGA)

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Riverside Korean Restaurant — The menu ranges from comfort-

food dishes like the ever-popular rice-based Dolsot Bi Bim Bop through the Adventure dinners, a category that includes many of the more authentic dishes the restaurant offers such as Hong Uh Hwe, spicy raw skate fish and vegetables garnished with Korean pear, and Gob Chang Jun Gol, spicy beef intestine soup with dumplings and vegetables. All are accompanied by spicy side dishes (ban chan) like kim chee, dried radishes and shitake mushrooms. Riverside Korean doesn’t seem to change much over the years. The restaurant, which opened in 1995, has five floor tables and five grill booths (put into action if you order a grilled dish for two or more people) along the opposite wall for dining. What is new, however, is the space called Cafe Riverside that the restaurant uses for lunch and extra seating space for dinner on busier nights. Entrees: $12-$36. Lunch: 11:30 a.m.-2 p.m. Tuesday-Friday. Dinner: 5-9 p.m. Tuesday-Thursday, Sunday; 5-10 p.m. Friday-Saturday. 512 Madison Ave., Covington, 859-291-1484.

Eat in Only Good Only at Ambar India Only 2 Coupons Per Party, Per Table

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The Pub — Once upon a time, the sun never set on the British empire

— so the pub calls all the world’s food British, including cheeseburgers, chicken wings and ahi tuna satay. Whatever. Still, there are bangers and mash! And in spite of the dubious links to the peerage, it’s good, well prepared bar food. Happy hour is 3-7 p.m. and 9 p.m. until close weekdays. Fun, casual atmosphere in the popular Crestview Hills mall, the Pub gets a good young professional crowd. Great selection of beers and ales imported from Scotland, England, Belgium and Ireland. Entrees: $8-$26. 3 p.m.-1 a.m. Monday-Wednesday; 11 a.m.-1 a.m. Thursday; 11 a.m.-2 a.m. Friday-Saturday; noon-11 p.m. Sunday. 2853 Dixie Highway, Crestview Hills, 859-426-7827.

24 East 6th Street • 513-723-1300

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West

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Chung Ching — The amount of food and variety of Chinese dishes here makes sharing easy, and the menu offers plenty of unusual dishes as well as classic Chinese. With a decidedly Asian decor, Chung Ching boasts a healthy number of regulars. The mom-and-pop atmosphere makes you feel like you’re eating at someone’s home rather than in a restaurant. Entrees: $7-$10. 11

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3120 Madison Road • 513-321-1600 2331 Buttermilk Crossing Crescent Springs, Kentucky 41017

Thai Cuisine and sushi Bar

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http://www.sweetbasilnky.com

$ 00 2nd Dinner Entree

859-331-0666

Kanak IndIa

(by Ambar India Restaurant)

Lunch Buffet Daily

Expires 12/11/09

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10040-B Montgomery Road • 513-793-6800 Across from Montgomery Kroger

november 11-17, 2009

Now Full Bar!

Eat In Only • Not Good Fri & Sat Good Only at Kanak India Only 2 Coupons Per Party, Per Table

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4SHE SAYS, SHE SAYS FROM PAGE 37

were brought to the table with lightning speed and were sizzling hot after a bath in the fry daddy. The positives about this dish end there, as the content was not easily discernable as actual goetta. Our server said they serve Covington’s favorite goetta, Glier’s, but the heavy, grease-laden breading overpowered the meat, making it impossible to enjoy the trademark flavors. One disappointment does not the dining experience make, so I shook it off and eagerly dipped into my House Salad with Cusabi (cucumber wasabi) dressing while my husband sampled his bowl of chili. My salad consisted of iceberg lettuce with shredded cheddar and massive croutons. And the chili? Well, if you like Campbell’s tomato soup, then I have just the chili for you! Bland and flavorless, no amount of shredded cheese and sour cream piled on top could make up for what was missing in the bowl. For dinner I had the 7-inch Tavern Pizza ($8.49). A house specialty, it is a thin, chewy crust pizza with the homemade ranch dressing used as the base sauce. Toppings of chicken, bacon, black olives and jalapenos rounded out the pie. The pizza was ok, but I probably would not order it again. Husband had the Miguelitto Burrito, which was decent although maybe a little pricey at $9.99. Picture a ginormous flour burrito, stuffed

with what had to be a full pound of shredded chicken, bathed in a sweet barbeque sauce and served with a side of ho-hum tortilla chips. I definitely think WooTav has potential and plan to stop back for another go ’round on a Tuesday to experience “Burger Madness” for discount burgers with all the extra toppings you want on the house. (DD)

Some Times You Wanna Go Where Everybody Blesses You When You Sneeze Last Saturday night, a good friend and I headed to Wooster Tavern for the pizza because it’s gotten a reputation. The UC football game was in full swing and we could barely find a parking spot. We walked in to find it standing-room only. Granted, it was 10 p.m. on a Saturday night and UC was winning. No one had plans to leave anytime soon. We managed to find one table left in the ancillary room that felt a bit tacked on to the rest of the bar. There was a great view of the game on the big screen and our waitress served us right away. Our drinks came quickly — a Sam Adams ($4.75) and Guinness ($5) draft. We all know how many things can go wrong with a draft — too many times it comes flat and stale from poor pressure and dirty lines. Because it’s a risk, I usually avoid it. But my Sam Adams was

fresh and flavorful. We ordered the small pizza ($6.49) as an appetizer. It came out a speedy 12 minutes later, hot and smothered in cheese, fresh mushrooms and crunchy onions and peppers. (I’m always worried restaurant pizza will feature recycled, old produce, but not Wooster). The crust was light and crispy and we both spent a quiet moment in pizza heaven. My picky friend ordered the Fish Sandwich ($7.99), which I advised against because he deconstructs the seafood in every restaurant. I ordered the Shroomarito ($9) with plenty of cheese, mushrooms and salsa. Unfortunately, I’m allergic to tomatoes and had to get it without the salsa. When the Shroomarito came, it didn’t taste as good as I remembered it when I used to order it with the salsa. I found myself wishing for some spices with those mushrooms or some green peppers and onions to add a little kick. My friend thought his Fish Sandwich was fine, although he found it overdone and dry on the edges. I did notice, however, that he ate it all. Midway through the meal, I had a sneezing attack, probably brought on by crushed red peppers. The table 10 feet away somehow heard me above the din of sports ecstasy and managed to yell a “bless you” my way, and then we joked around for a while. It occurred to me that this is why you go to Wooster — good pub fare and beer, a warm neighborhood Cheers vibe and a group of folks that will bless you when you sneeze. ©

Now Open! One of Cincinnati’s First “GREEN” Restaurants • Saturday and Sunday Brunch: 9 a.m.–3 p.m. • Lunch: Tuesday–Friday • Dinner: Tuesday–Saturday

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restaurants a.m.-9 p.m. Tuesday-Thursday, 11 a.m.-10 p.m. Friday, noon-10 p.m. Saturday, 5-9 p.m. Sunday. 5842 Hamilton Ave., College Hill, 513-541-1243.

Primavista — Genuine flavors and tastes of Italy, from the roasted garlic

cloves that come with your bread basket to the blissfully rich osso bucco Milanese, served with orzo pasta and a tiny fork to scoop out the rich bone marrow. Shrimp Antoinette is served atop warm croutons in a wonderful, garlicky sherry sauce. Gnocchi sauteed in butter with prosciutto and basil melts in your mouth, and the bread pudding is the best we’ve ever had. High atop Price Hill overlooking the new “Cincinnati” convention center sign. The decor is subdued and rich drapes soften the rooms. A stone accent wall, fresh crisp linens and (most of all) the view make it distinctive. Winner of “Best Restaurant With a View.” Entrees: $16-$36. 5:30-9:30 p.m. Monday-Thursday; 5:30-10 p.m. Friday; 5-11 p.m. Saturday; 5-9 p.m. Sunday. 810 Matson Place, Price Hill, 513-251-6467.

refurnished with white tablecloths, candles and fresh flowers. Dinners (none cost more than $9.50) range from a selection of grilled entrees to Eastern European dishes like goulash to 3-ways and hamburgers.The restaurant is owned by Tase Palitov and his wife Mary. According to the blurb on the menu, the restaurant is named for her. What the restaurant lacks in terms of a food experience, it certainly makes up for as an interesting dining experience. (LA 9-30-09). Entrees: $5.99-$9.50. 8 a.m.-10 p.m. Monday-Saturday; 7:30 a.m.-8 p.m. Sunday. 4050 North Bend Road, Cheviot, 513-661-8400.

Ron’s Roost — There’s plenty of chicken here (baked, barbecued and fried) but the menu has other options like filet mignon, barbecued pork ribs and the popular Oktoberfest Sauerbraten. And don’t forget the hot bacon slaw, mock turtle soup and homemade cream pies. With the giant Fiberglass rooster on the roof, the restaurant has been a West Side institution for more than 45 years. Inside is filled with chicken decor (it is too a style!) and sports memorabilia. The mom-and-pop joint almost always has a wait, so come in early or stop by late to avoid the rush. Entrees: $10-$20. 11 a.m.-9:30 p.m. Monday-Thursday; 11 a.m.-10 p.m. Friday-Saturday; 10 a.m.-9 p.m. Sunday. 3853 Race Road, Bridgetown, 513-574-0222.

Visit us for lunch, dinner, or catch a game on our Big Screens. Come see why our burgers are on the “Best Burger in Cincinnati” list!

Queen Mary Family Restaurant — The Queen serves breakfast, lunch and dinner in a space that might have once held a Denny’s, but it is nicely

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amolindia.com • 354 ludlow ave • 961-3600

Mon.-Sat. 10:30a - 9:30p | Sun. 12:00 - 9:00p

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8th & York Streets • Newport KY 859-261-9675

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Dinner 3-10 p.m. Monday thru Saturday & Bar Open Late Night

Corner of 5th & Monmouth St. • Newport , KY

859-581-3700 • www.mokkaandthesunsetbarandgrill.com

is Back!

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Balboa’s in O’Bryonville is like no other in Cincinnati, known for it’s New York style pizza and Philly cheesesteak. sun-Wed 11a-12a | Thu-sat 11a-2a

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2038 MadIsoN Rd • o’bRyoNvILLE 513-321-4711 • Fax: 513-321-4733

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november 11-17, 2009


FILM

4OPENING FILM By JASON GARGaNO

Dig Deeper I know we’re in the midst of an economic recession not seen since before The Wizard of Oz — but we only have one Hollywood studio release this week? And the one is 2012, the latest effects-driven, apocalyptic nonsense from Roland Emmerich? I thought movies were supposed to do well during tough times? I thought they were supposed to provide escape? Despite the studios’ diversionary tactics when it comes to box-office receipts (ever heard of inflation, guys?), it appears the days of the masses salving their collective loathing in a darkened theater are on the wane. Or at least that would be the deduction based on the number of — and kind of — films that are currently being dropped on us via the studio system, a creatively stunted collection that largely attempts to do one thing: generate box office. I don’t have the space or patience right now to get into what constitutes an official “Hollywood” release, but believe me when I say the options have been meager over the last year. (The one recent exception is Warner Brothers’ Where the Wild Things Are, a film that was initially set up in another time and universe.) And it’s getting worse: Disney recently announced that Miramax, once a thriving entity that championed the films of everyone from Quentin Tarantino and Peter Jackson to Wong Kar Wai and Pedro Almodovar, is essentially dead. Yet the dearth of Hollywood films — in terms of both quality and quantity — only puts more of a premium on the unique fare of smaller distributors like Sony Pictures Classics, Music Box, Magnolia Pictures and Overture Films, all of which have released films here in recent weeks (see the reviews below for worthwhile examples). Then there are the dedicated folks over at Cincinnati World Cinema, whose Global Film Series continues with a pair of acclaimed dramas making their local premieres, French filmmaker Olivier Assayas’ Summer Hours (see review on page 44) and Moroccan filmmaker Faouzi Bensaîdi’s What a Wonderful Life. (For more on CWC’s screening details, go to www.cincyworldcinema.org.) The moral of this story, film fans? Dig deeper. THE DAMNED UNITED — In his portrayal of famed British soccer team manager Brian Clough, Michael Sheen (The Queen) solidifies his status as this generation’s Laurence Olivier in Tom Hooper’s enthralling adaptation of Peter Morgan’s 2006 book The Damned Utd. Hooper works effortlessly with MORE ON PAGE 444

‘One Big Sinking Ship’ Richard Curtis’ Pirate Radio is superficial and unrevealing 4review by steven rosen

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remember how excited I was when the movie FM came out back in 1978. At last, here promised to be a really hip movie about the growth of freeform Rock radio and the commercial pressures that threatened and destroyed it. Then FM turned out to be the broadest and hoariest of underdogs-against-theWASSUP system clichés, so generic in its understanding and character Go to citybeat.com for comprehendevelopment as to insult those sive times and reviews, including our who went to see it wanting take on 2012. insight on the subject. And the music wasn’t even that good. Some 30-plus years later, I was just as excited about Pirate Radio — and even more disappointed. FM at least was a youth-culture movie; this has the imprimatur of one of Britain’s top comic writer/directors (Richard Curtis) working with a major cast, but he doesn’t know what to do with his material. It’s based on a fascinating, culturally crucial piece of Rock-radio history. In Britain in the mid-1960s, sensing that youth weren’t being served by BBC’s limited youth programming, entrepreneurs set up stations on ships

off the coast to play the music of the day: The Beatles, The Rolling Stones, The Who, The Kinks, The Yardbirds, etc. These pirate stations, primarily Radio Caroline and Wonderful Radio London, were as much a part of Swinging London as Revolver and “My Generation.” The announcers had vibrant, youthful, wild personalities — some came from U.S. Top 40 radio. And in a deejay named John Peel, who had one of the first Album-Rock radio shows anywhere, the pirates pointed toward the musical future. It wasn’t long before the British government tried and ultimately succeeded in outlawing them. Great stuff for a movie, and director/writer Curtis would seem up to the task — old enough to remember the pirate stations, he wrote Four Weddings and a Funeral and Notting Hill and went on to write and direct Love, Actually. He’s proven himself especially deft at working with groups of comic oddballs (Hugh Grant’s pals in Notting Hill) and in getting the best out of Bill Nighy (Love, Actually), the wonderfully droll British actor who projects prideful insecurity in such a singular way. CONTINUES ON PAGE 454

november 11-17, 2009

PHOTO: ifc

(L-R) Jérémie Renier, Juliette Binoche and Charles Berling in Summer Hours

PHOTO: alex bailey

(L-R) Philip Seymour Hoffman, Rhys Ifans and Emma Thompson in Pirate Radio

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opening film Morgan’s unconventionally formatted screenplay that flips between eras to explore Clough’s dynamic personality that took him from managing teams in Hartlepool and Derby to a doomed six-week tenure managing the Leeds United reigning champions. Don Revie (Colm Meaney), Clough’s sworn rival, previously managed The Leeds team. With his trusted and gifted assistant Peter Taylor (persuasively played by Timothy Spall) by his side, Clough attempts to transform soccer from a cheater’s game to a fun sport played with integrity by real champions. You can smell the damp air in Hooper’s stylistically authentic framing that benefits from a great ensemble team of filmmakers that includes cinematographer Ben Smithard, production designer Eve Stewart and costume designer Mike O’Neill. Even non-soccer fans will find themselves swept up in the drama of one man’s bold attempt to reinvent an entire sport against a tidal wave of opposition. The Damned United is one damned entertaining movie. (Opens Friday at Esquire Theatre.) — Cole Smithey (Rated R.) Grade: A PIRATE RADIO — Filmmaker Richard Curtis has used a true-life premise — the British pirate radio stations of the 1960s — as little more than an excuse for tried-and-true sitcom scenarios. Worse, while he has kept this a period piece (it wouldn’t make much sense if he didn’t) he has given all the characters a modern sensibility more fitting for Superbad than the ’60s. (Read full-length review on page 43.) (Opens Friday at Esquire Theatre.) — Steven Rosen (Rated R.) Grade: CSUMMER HOURS — Olivier Assayas, one of the foremost contemporary French writer/directors, has woven together in Summer Hours a tapestry of a family drama that has great depth and power, but is also unencumbered by portentous melodrama and stylistic overstatement. The film has such an understated touch that the enormity of its message, about how time unsentimentally turns the present into history, sneaks up on you. And it leaves you deeply moved, not because it’s manipulative (it isn’t at all) but because it so clearly rings of truth. Helene (Edith Scobe), the 75-year-old matriarch of a family, lives in the countryside home of a deceased uncle, a painter, whose belongings are everywhere. It is a living shrine. But she knows it can’t always stay that way, so at a family gathering she pulls away her son Frederic (Charles Berling), a Parisian university professor, to point out where the valuable objects should go when she dies. And soon she is dead. Frederic tries to get sister Adrianne (Juliette Binoche), a New York designer, and brother Jeremie (Jeremie Renier), a businessman in China, to agree to preserve the estate. It’s not that they’re hostile, but their lives are global (a key point of the movie) and that’s just not a priority. The film, which features wonderfully naturalistic performances throughout, intelligently watches how all this plays out — including the treatment of Helene’s longtime cook/housekeeper. (Presented by Cincinnati World Cinema, Summer Hours screens 6:30 p.m. Sunday and 7:30 p.m. Tuesday at the Carnegie Arts Center (1028 Scott St., Covington). Go to www.cincyworldcinema.org for more information. — Steven Rosen (Not Rated.) Grade: B+ 2012 — Big-budget, event-movie hack Roland Emmerich (Independence Day, Godzilla, The Day After Tomorrow) is back with more effects-driven, apocalyptic nonsense. The one silver lining might an intriguing cast that includes the likes of John Cusack, Amanda Peet, Chiwetel Ejiofor, Thandie Newton, Oliver Platt, Danny Glover and Woody Harrelson. (Opens wide Friday.) — Jason Gargano (Rated PG-13.) Review online Friday at citybeat.com

continuing film AMELIA — (Grade: C-) When Amelia Earhart gazed upon a plane taking off into the heavens as a young girl in Kansas, she decided right then and there that there could be no other place for her. We know this because Earhart (Hilary Swank) tells us in voice-over narration. The clearly enunciated thoughts lack the natural flow of conversation or the deep stirrings of sense memories. That flaw points to the hand of screenwriter Ron Bass and co-scenarist Anna Hamilton Phelan, who give us only brief glimpses into the psyches of Earhart. And we need more because most of us don’t have any experience with Earhart as an icon; she is not Ray or Ali, someone we can fill in the gaps left by the script. (AMC, Mariemont Theatre, multiple Showcase Cinemas.) — tt stern-enzi (Rated PG.)

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ASTRO BOY — (Grade: D+) Sometime in the future, the lucky humans of Metro City live in a floating paradise above the post-apocalyptic surface of the Earth, slaved over by armies of sentient, emotional robots who present happily subservient faces while grumbling to themselves about how they “hate” their jobs. It’s creepy and weird, and it’s something like a mecha minstrel show, particularly in how the film pretends to care about a “robots are people too” theme yet fails itself to treat them as such. I’m not familiar with the 1960s Japanese cartoon that is the basis for this American retread, but I’m guessing it wasn’t this icky. The only excuse that can be made for Astro Boy is that it obviously has no idea how unsettling it is. (AMC, multiple Showcase Cinemas.) — MaryAnn Johanson (Rated PG-13.) THE BOX — (Grade: C+) Richard Kelly certainly doesn’t suffer from a lack of ambition. The 34-year-old filmmaker’s latest apocalyptic thriller is rife with impressive production design, a genuine sense of creepy foreboding and an overarching seriousness rare in contemporary genre films. The guy clearly knows his Hitchcock and Kubrick. It’s 1976 in suburban Virginia where middle-class white-collar couple Norma (Cameron Diaz) and Arthur Lewis (James Marsden) is presented with an ethical dilemma: Should the couple let someone they don’t know die in exchange for $1 million? Loosely based on Richard Matheson’s 1970 short story “Button, Button,” The Box, as conceived by Kelly, turns into a sometimes compelling, borderline preposterous puzzle with a clear worldview: the human race is doomed, corrupted by its self-involved nature. (AMC, multiple Showcase Cinemas.) — Jason Gargano (Rated R.) BRIGHT STAR — (Grade: B) Jane Campion’s affecting love letter to the brief H but passionate romance between poet John Keats (Ben Whishaw) and his neighbor Fanny Brawne (Abbie Cornish) does its best to combat the inherent

limitations of the biopic genre, breathing life into characters whose unfortunate fates are known from the get-go. Much of the credit goes to Cornish, whose feisty, full-blooded performance brings heat to a love story free of bare flesh and dirty talk — this was an affair of the heart and mind. While the era’s class-related mores kept them apart in terms of marriage, nothing could dampen a relationship that only grew stronger after Keats left in an effort to improve his financial standing. The fact that his poetry couldn’t generate a sufficient living and ultimately led to his health-related downfall only heightens their story’s cruel irony. (Esquire Theatre.) — Jason Gargano (Rated PG.) A CHRISTMAS CAROL — (Grade: C+) Robert Zemeckis, the writing-directing wizard who has thrilled and captivated audiences with rousing adventures like

the Back to the Future trilogy and then shifted gears dramatically with Forrest Gump and Cast Away, has been bewitched by the siren call of motion-capture technology. His remake of Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol follows on the heels of The Polar Express and Beowulf and strives to bring real human three-dimensional aspects to the characters, ideally to move us beyond videogame-styled computer generated images. But Zemeckis and his crew have struggled to fully render soulful eyes complete with an intangible sense of movement behind the reflective surfaces. (AMC, multiple Showcase Cinemas.) — tts (Rated PG.) COCO BEFORE CHANEL — (Grade: B-) Coco Before Chanel is like La Vie En Rose without the self-destructive bent. Edith Piaf (Marion Cotillard) and Gabrielle Chanel (Audrey Tautou) are street urchins, original old-school hustlers who survive by their seemingly meager charms and their wiles, both feminine and performative. The main difference that separates these two women, and might end up distinguishing the films based on these two remarkable people, is that while Piaf had a more addictive and obsessive element to her personality, Gabrielle is so tightly focused that she’s like a needle pulling thread, stitching together a life hemmed by inevitability. Anne Fontaine’s film is much like its protagonist: an assured bit of filmmaking that keeps us at a distance when we would rather come closer to the flame. (Esquire Theatre.) — tts (Rated PG-13.) COUPLES RETREAT — (Grade: D) — If ever there was need for an example of the whole not adding up to the sum of its parts, then let Couples Retreat hereby stand as Exhibit A. How can you get a sub-par movie if you take the comic motor-mouth that is Vince Vaughn, pair him with his swinging buddy Jon Favreau — both in front and behind the camera as co-writers — add Jason Bateman to the mix and drop them in a tropical paradise? Leave them to their own devices without any sense of direction, that’s how. The movie assembles four couples in relationships in various stages of duress and quickly trots them off to an island where all of their problems will be solved — but not before they go out of their ways to make things much worse for both themselves and the audience. (AMC, multiple Showcase Cinemas.) — tts (Rated PG-13.) FAME — (Grade: B-) Back in 1980, Alan Parker and Christopher Gore introduced audiences to a collection of incredibly talented students attending a New York City high school for the performing arts. As the saying goes, everything old is new again. The new Fame kicks off with a series of auditions for the host of new faces that will constitute the latest generation of creative aspirants. The new movie sketches their stories in quick verses tied together with a host of fully realized performing sequences. The resulting formula adheres to the notion that talent lives forever because there will always be kids willing to work hard and sacrifice for dreams of something other than mere fame. (AMC, multiple Danbarry Cinemas.) — tts (Rated PG.) THE FOURTH KIND — (Grade: D+) While all of the promotional efforts leading up to the release of Olatunde Osunsanmi’s movie seemingly wanted to capitalize on the similarities to Paranormal Activity, the true kindred spirit for this tale of alien abduction is The Mothman Prophecies. But Osunsanmi can’t even generate the first, most basic kind of spooks Mark Pellington created in a simple phone call from beyond. Milla Jovovich, Elias Koteas and Will Patton are game participants in the proceedings, but once the ball starts rolling, we know right away that there’s nothing “real” going on here, just a series of would-be documentary-framed shenanigans hoping to goose a few dollars out of pockets. (AMC, multiple Showcase Cinemas.) — tts (Rated R.)


G-FORCE — (Grade: D) Advanced, specially trained guinea pigs voiced by the likes of Nicolas Cage, Sam Rockwell, Jon Favreau, Penelope Cruz, Steve Buscemi and Tracy Morgan attempt to defeat a nefarious plot to take over the world in this live-action 3-D adventure. G-Force strains the Jerry Bruckheimer brand model past the breaking point by creating a kid’s film with no real kids, using the animals as stand-ins, I suppose, but there’s nothing particularly kid-friendly about them. Nor, to be brutally honest, is there anything engaging about them on a pop-cultural level for adults. But the worst offense in this dud of a comic caper is the uninspired vocal work. (Multiple Danbarry Cinemas.) — tts (Rated PG-13.) THE HANGOVER — (Grade: B-) Director Todd Phillips (Old School) is nothing if not relentless in his pursuit of a full sack of masculine stupidity at the hand of drink, drugs and the dubious charms of Las Vegas. In the interest of their soon-to-be-wedded pal Doug (Justin Bartha), best friends Phil (Bradley Cooper) and Stu (Ed Helms) let future brother-in-law Alan (Zach Galifianakis) come along for the ride to Vegas where the circumstances of their bachelor party celebration spiral out of control. A drunken night of childish carousing leaves the group missing a prime member, and sends the remaining trio on a humor-riddled mission to reconstruct the night’s events. To its credit, The Hangover transfers to the audience the smelly, still-inebriated state that the title promises. (Multiple Danbarry Cinemas.) — Cole Smithey (Rated R.) HARRY POTTER AND THE HALF-BLOOD PRINCE — (Grade: B+) Without a doubt, H J.K. Rowling brought all of her forces to bear on the page, borrowing from Lord of the Rings — I mean, really, Gandalf as a headmaster at a school for wizards? — while

weaving it all into a vaguely contemporary world for young readers who might never make their way to the mythic sources. But the Harry Potter films, by necessity, trim much of the binding away, leaving us with Daniel Radcliffe, Rupert Grint, Emily Watson and the stellar cast of Brits (the Hogwarts Royals). Fortunately, they are at the service of David Yates, a British television veteran who has the studied commitment of a wizard in hiding ready to burst on the scene. The Half-Blood Prince is not a half-hearted effort, despite my misgivings. The magic here is in making me forget those qualms as I sit back and enjoy the titillating wonder of being a boy wizard. (Multiple Danbarry Cinemas.) — tts (Rated PG-13.) THE HURT LOCKER — (Grade: A) Kathryn Bigelow’s The Hurt Locker jettisons the contentious politics, clichéd caricatures and/or post-deployment home-front dramatics that have hampered previously themed movies in favor of a more visceral approach. Viewers are thrown into the tension-riddled Iraq fray from the get-go, as we follow the exploits of Bravo Company, a trio (Anthony Mackie, Jeremy Renner and Brian Geraghty, all excellent) of U.S. specialists who disarm roadside bombs (or IEDs) in Baghdad. Based on the first-hand reporting of journalist and screenwriter Mark Boal, The Hurt Locker is an unrelenting, impressively self-contained pressure cooker that feels both deeply authentic and appropriately unsettling. It shows how war inevitably, often irreversibly, transforms those within its midst. (Multiple Danbarry Cinemas.) — JG (Rated R.)

H

INFORMANT — (Grade: A) Conventional wisdom recognizes that The HTHE Informant is a breezy take on the case of Mark Whitacre (Matt Damon), a whistleblower from the early ’90s who ratted out his global agribusiness firm to the

federal government as part of a price-fixing investigation, while embezzling millions of dollars and lying through his teeth like a bad hairpiece and tie (both of which he wore everyday to glorious effect). As the story unfolds, it becomes obvious that Whitacre was crazy as a loon, an unbelievably comic figure narrating his own downfall on hundreds of tapes to the FBI. Never one to fuss over his appearance, Damon simply settles into the look and feel of his version of Whitacre and never lets us forget that the man is an unhealthy blend of intelligence, foolishness and certifiable mental instability. It is a highly informed performance from an actor working at the very top of his game. (Multiple Showcase Cinemas.) — tts (Rated R.) INGLOURIOUS BASTERDS — (Grade: B) Inglourious Basterds does its level best H to earn its advanced buzz with a slow-burn opening in a French farmhouse during the German occupation as Col. Hans Landa (Christoph Waltz), aka The Jew Hunter,

conducts an interrogation in support of a search for a family of Jewish farmers on the run. The dialogue crackles as the temperature rises, and audiences will enjoy being in the hands of a master at work doing what he does best. Yet by the time the sequence ends — with the escape of Shosanna Dreyfus (Melanie Laurent) from Landa — Quentin Tarantino seemingly has nowhere else to go but down, down, down. Although even when he slips and falls, he does so spectacularly. The introduction of Lt. Aldo Raine (Brad Pitt) and his Basterds, the underground Jewish freedom fighters striking fear into the hearts of the Nazis, serve as another singular flashpoint worthy of praise. But for all the explosive violence and jive talking, there’s little point to the whole affair. (Multiple Danbarry Cinemas.) — tts (Rated R.)

4ONE BIG SINKING SHIP: FROM PAGE 43

LAW ABIDING CITIZEN — (Grade: B-) F. Gary Gray’s surprisingly engaging Law Abiding Citizen centers on a loving father and husband (Gerard Butler) who survives the vicious home invasion that takes the lives of his wife and young daughter. The more brutal of the two perps plays the system and escapes with relatively little punishment for his heinous crimes and the husband comes to blame that miscarriage of justice on the fast-rising assistant district attorney (Jamie Foxx) who is seemingly far more interested in protecting his conviction percentage. As with these kinds of scenarios, hubby was much more than a regular working stiff — he was a highly trained spy above spies, a big killer brain capable of devising Saw-like plots to strike fear into the hearts of the most heartless. (AMC, multiple Showcase Cinemas.) — tts (Rated R.) THE MEN WHO STARE AT GOATS — (Grade: C+) Director Grant Heslov and screenwriter Peter Straughan adapt Jon Ronson’s nonfiction book, turning Ronson into reporter Bob Wilton (Ewan McGregor), who heads to the Middle East in 2003 to cover the Iraq War. Instead, he finds Lyn Cassady (George Clooney), who was part of a 1980s military program launched by idealistic Vietnam veteran Bill Django (Jeff Bridges) to develop “Jedi Warriors” — soldiers with psychic abilities. For the next hour, the narrative swings back and forth between Wilton and Cassady’s Middle East misadventures and the history of Django’s “First Earth Battalion.” Heslov approaches both parts with the same surreal sensibility, resulting in comedy that’s often as entertaining as it is bizarre. But that same lightness becomes a hindrance to the film really going for the satirical jugular vein. (AMC, Esquire Theatre, multiple Showcase Cinemas) — SRe (Rated R.) NEW YORK, I LOVE YOU — (Grade: C-) Inspired as an American reply to his earlier story-collage movie Paris, je t’aime, producer Emmanuel Benbihy extends his anthology oeuvre with another collection of directors contributing a story set in a particular urban environment. Like Paris je t’aime, New York, I Love You unrolls as a hit-and-miss proposition of weighing each (would-be) charming vignette against the last one in succession. Brett Ratner pulls out a plumb with his romantic coming-of-age segment staring Anton Yelchin, James Caan and Olivia Thirbly. Director Yvan Attal kicks out a winner with his romantic reverie starring Maggie Q, Ethan Hawke, Chris Cooper and Robin Wright Penn. However, the less favorable efforts throw off the film’s otherwise innocuous sequence of mildly interesting dramatic bubbles. Grab bags are always fun, but the junk outweighed the goodies with this one. (Esquire Theatre.) — CS (Rated R.) PANDORUM — (Grade: C) In the distant future, mankind has completely destroyed all of the resources on the planet and nearly wiped out all life as we know it, so after a space probe discovers a suitable planet for habitation, the last ragtag human survivors set out to lay waste to this new world in typical fashion. Of course, before they arrive, something happens to them aboard their space ark, The Elysium. This sci-fi horror mash-up of Alien, Event Horizon and Resident Evil exploits solid performances from Dennis Quaid and Ben Foster, both of whom play to our expectations of their traditional character types, and has more than enough of the industrial gloom and doom to generate a sense of mental instability. But the story lacks the clarity and cohesion necessary to make it truly buzzworthy. (Multiple Danbarry Cinemas.) — tts (Rated. R.) PARANORMAL ACTIVITY — (Grade: C+) Katie (Katie Featherston) and Micah (Micah Sloat) have a perfectly anonymous and quite ordinary life: a condo in an upscale community, the student/financial industry professional upwardly mobile work dynamic and the lurking questions regarding the next step in their relationship? But there’s also an 800-pound gorilla (metaphysical/meta-spiritual, if you will) that is taking over their lives. Writer/director Oren Peli has crafted an engaging micro-budget feature that sucks you in and creeps you out until you leave the insulated confines of the multiplex and start asking questions about these two crisis-laden simpletons. Questions — like where are their friends and why don’t they ever leave the place? — that, as they begin to mount, will leave you with the realization that they got exactly what was coming to them. (AMC, multiple Showcase Cinemas.) — tts (Rated R.) SAW VI — (Grade: B) Even though Jigsaw (Tobin Bell), the psychopathic puppet H master pulling the deadly strings in this franchise, has been dead for a few installments now, something about the trailers for the latest torture-porn extravaganza

photo courtesy columbia pictures

THIS IS IT — (Grade: B+) The cynics among us will decry This Is It as a money grab, the latest step in the exploitation of dead superstars to enrich the coffers of this or that financial entity. Michael Jackson, though, was a different media creation altogether. Jackson, as a pop-cultural house of mirrors in his own twisted Neverland, existed as child prodigy, record-breaking space-dancing phenomenon, assumed child molester and man-child in exile. This last label, a decade in the making, was on the verge of being expunged. This rehearsal footage, intended for Jackson’s private archives, captures the final preparations for a series of sold-out comeback performances that sadly weren’t meant to be (and it suffers due to the lack of a satisfying ending), but this lovingly edited document serves a higher, and oddly innocent, purpose. (AMC, multiple Showcase Cinemas.) — tts (Rated PG.)

pageantry of mythic torturous machinations. Hopefully not lost in the easy titillation of violence and mayhem is the sense that the makers want us to question our own morality and social issues as we celebrate the devious nature of a good deathtrap. (AMC, multiple Showcase Cinemas.) — tts (Rated R.) A SERIOUS MAN — (Grade: A) Larry Gopnick (Michael Stuhlbarg) wants H somebody to love him, or at the very least he wants to know that God or whatever higher power in existence doesn’t have some ancient vendetta against him. His wife

Judith (Sari Lennick) is having an affair with one of their friends (Fred Melamed), while Larry’s tenure review is in jeopardy because a student is blackmailing him for a better grade. The resulting crisis of faith has sent him in search of answers from the three local rabbis who aren’t giving him much advice. In the past, the Coen brothers have used noir and the crime milieu to address such fateful consequences, but here, in the everyday world of a 1967 Midwestern Jewish academic, the stakes couldn’t be higher because audiences will immediately realize that Larry’s Everyman wants the same answers as the rest of us, and the film seriously considers and delivers a stunningly measured response worthy of its Job-like subject. (Mariemont Theatre.) — tts (Rated R.) THE STEPFATHER — (Grade: D) First off, you know this is a remake of a relatively effective 1987 thriller focusing on the horrors within broken domestic situations. The update sticks closely to that dynamic. Secondly, there’s never any doubt about the scenario because we see Dylan Walsh’s psycho calmly walk away from one family that he’s either broken or frozen in deadly perfection (take your pick) before he saddles up to Sela Ward’s newly divorced sexy mother of three in a grocery store. The plot hinges on the wayward oldest son (Penn Badgley) and his maturation into his role as the new protector of the family. Things step off quickly, and Badgley connects the rather large dots, but there is never any sense of true sleaze — definitely not even enough to inspire audiences to shout back at the screen. (AMC, multiple Showcase Cinemas.) — tts (Rated PG-13.)

speaks to a return to grisly form for the series. He lords over the proceedings as if, in death, he has found an even greater moral imperative for the continuation of his rich

UP — (Grade: A) Pixar grow up in the animation studio’s 10th feature, writer/ H director Pete Docter’s Up. Fittingly, the maturation springs from the story of Carl Fredrickson (voice of Ed Asner), a 78-year-old widower whose life and sense of adventure

Dare and Judd Apatow. It rings so false. There’s also the filmmaking to consider — there are too many cornball reaction shots of teenage girls or office workers on the mainland, dancing gleefully or tittering about something outrageous that a deejay says on the radio. Curtis’ reputation is such that he can command a boatload of hot and prestigious actors — Mad Men’s luminescent January Jones even turns up briefly as a woman who marries one of the deejays under false pretenses. But, unfortunately, he has some Oscar-worthy actors (Philip Seymour Hoffman, Kenneth Branagh and Emma Thompson) lending their good names to an enterprise that runs aground. (Although Thompson, as a snooty, aristocratic lady unashamed of her randy past, is a bright presence.) The merry band of radio pirates includes

Hoffman (who once played wise Rock critic Lester Bangs in Almost Famous) as The Count, a low-voiced rebel unafraid to say a dirty word on the air when opportunity arises. His on-ship rival is hard-living, cutting Gavin (a colorful if underused Rhys Ifans), and their macho rivalry leads to a preposterous scene of them climbing the ship’s masts while others look on as if the dangerous action is just a friendly frat-initiation stunt. Other deejays include the sexually blunt Dave (Nick Frost), the sexually naïve and self-doubting Simon (Chris O’Dowd) and the older, more intellectual, Peel-like Smooth Bob (Ralph Brown), who has an overnight AlbumRock show where he says things like, “Here’s a guitarist who’s quite good, actually,” and then plays a Jimi Hendrix song. There’s also the ship’s cook, a sweet-natured lesbian named Felicity (Katherine Parkinson) who is treated

have seemingly passed him by. Enter Russell (Jordan Nagai), a young Wilderness Explorer who is one assignment away from collecting all of his merit badges. He only needs to help an elderly person, and who needs more help than Carl, a man living with a house outfitted with enough individual balloons to uproot the structure for a trip to the great falls he and Ellie always dreamed of seeing and relocating to together. (Multiple Danbarry Cinemas.) — tts (Rated PG.) WHERE THE WILD THINGS ARE — (Grade: B) To say that Spike Jonze’s adaptation H of Maurice Sendak’s Where the Wild Things Are sometimes plays like a wrenchingly melancholy, Bergman-esque domestic drama with furry creatures isn’t much help to

people who want to know if children will like it. The answer to that is, “Got me.” It’s not much like current children’s movies. There are no cutesy, funny pop-culture references a la Shrek, and it’s not about delivering an uplifting life lesson on the order of Up!. It’s also basically not an animated film — the creatures are actors in vividly expressive Jim Henson Creature Shop-designed costumes, though the facial movements are computergenerated. All I can say is that it’s a very interesting movie for adults in the way it uses childhood fantasy to explore issues of loneliness, sadness, alienation and forgiveness. (AMC, multiple Showcase Cinemas.) — Steven Rosen (Rated PG-13.) ZOMBIELAND — (Grade: B) Perhaps conceived to ride the coattails of Twilight, H True Blood and other current living dead offerings (not to mention decades of George A. Romero’s genre-defining entries), this juicy piece of pop culture pleasure

features the unlikely duo of Jesse Eisenberg and Woody Harrelson as humans with differing philosophies about how to eradicate zombies from their seemingly human-free United States of America. Along the way they meet up with a pair of sisters (played by a gothed-out Emma Stone and a rapidly maturing Abigail Breslin), a well-known Hollywood star in meta-cameo mode and, of course, piles of stupid (though relatively fast-moving) zombies. Ruben Fleischer’s directorial debut is a nice entry into the genre: crafty, well cast, funny and even oddly touching at times. (AMC, multiple Showcase Cinemas.) — JG (Rated R.)

by everyone like a kid sister as they root for her to find a girlfriend. Curtis tries hard to make us empathize with Carl (Tom Sturridge), a teen whose mom (Thompson) has sent him to live with godfather Nighy in order to gain maturity, which of course means falling in love with his godfather’s beautiful and sexually liberated niece (Talulah Riley). Meanwhile, on the mainland, a grim, glum and mean British official (Branagh) conspires to get the station off the air — even if it means killing them. Curtis throws all illusions of realism overboard at the end, when the climax turns into a lazy Titanic/A Perfect Storm parody. As the ship goes down, Carl tries to save Smooth Bob, who apparently prefers to drown while clutching his beloved Incredible String Band album. By this point, Pirate Radio is all too literally one big sinking ship. Grade: C-

november 11-17, 2009

Well, he has Nighy in Pirate Radio — he’s the North Sea-anchored station Radio Rock’s beleaguered owner — but it doesn’t help much; he’s superfluous to the story’s flow. And there are some well-written wisecracks, as well as good songs sprinkled throughout the soundtrack. But overall the film is superficial and unrevealing. Curtis, like FM 30 years ago, has used the premise as little more than an excuse for tried-and-true sitcom scenarios. Worse, while he has kept this a period piece (it wouldn’t make much sense if he didn’t) he has given all the characters a modern sensibility more fitting for Superbad than the 1960s. In the way they respond to each other’s (and their own) sexuality, nudity, language and bathroom habits, they all seem to have studied Madonna’s Truth or

cbrecommends

JULIE & JULIA — (Grade: C+) Meryl Streep continues to delight in an effervescent turn as cooking legend Julia Child, whose biography makes up half of this fact-based trifle from writer/director Nora Ephron. Her counterpart is Julie Powell (Amy Adams), a frustrated would-be novelist in 2002 Manhattan. Seeking her own inspiration and release from monotony, she turns to her avocation for cooking, opting to launch a blog in which she’ll chronicle preparing all 524 recipes from Julia Child’s seminal cookbook. While Ephron acknowledges the quirks at the heart of Julia’s personality, there’s very little in the way of actual drama in Julie & Julia. Still, Streep is so thoroughly engaging that she brings spice to a sometimes bland dish. (Multiple Danbarry Theatres.) — SRe (Rated PG-13.)

45


Classifieds Automotive JUNK CARS WANTED. Clunkers, Junkers, Motorcycles, Wrecked Unwanted Vehicles, Cars Needing Repair. Fast service. $100 - $150 or more CASH paid! Barry 513257-8373

Business Opportunities BE YOUR OWN BOSS! Vast opportunities to own your own business. Franchising. www. rmcfranchiseconnect.com - Email info@rmcfranchiseconnect.com EARN $75 - $200 HOUR. Media Makeup Artist Training. Ads, TV, Film, Fashion. One week class. Stable job in weak economy. Details at http://www. AwardMakeUpSchool.com 310364-0665 (AAN CAN) EARN EXTRA MONEY Looking for another stream of income? Sales. P/T, F/T. Perfect for mothers w/kids in school. Call Sharon for details. 513-319-1961 MOVIE EXTRAS NEEDED. Earn $150 to $300 Per Day. All Looks, Types and Ages. Feature Films, Television, Commercials, and Print. No Experience Necessary. 1-800340-8404 x2001 (AAN CAN)

Attorney/Legal DISSOLVE YOUR MARRIAGE Dissolution: An amicable end to marriage. Easier on your heart. Easier on your wallet. Starting at $500 + court costs. 12 Hour Turnaround. Bertha Helmick, Esq 651-9666

Computer Bytes MYSUPPORTANYWHERE.COM Your Virtual Help Desk. Monday thru Saturday: 24/7 ON Call Support. (513) 783-5420 or (513) 557-0213 or (877) 55V-IRUS

Stuff for Sale DINING TABLE & CHAIRS Solid Maple Dining Set with 6 chairs. 60” Table extends to 84” w/2 leaves. Excellent Condition. $250. Mike @ 859 912 0179 GET DISH - FREE Installation–$19.99/mo HBO & Showtime FREE-Over 50 HD Channels FREE Lowest Prices–No Equipment to Buy! Call Now for full Details- 1-877238-8413 (AAN CAN)

4 musicians exchange

& C

LEAR

LO U D

Rehearsal Spaces

INC

BAND ROOMS AVAILABLE

Rehearsal rooms available in bldg. with security system.

Call 513-421-0488

Studios SMALLWOOD STUDIO A studio created for musicians. Located in a relaxed, country setting. Starting at $25/hr. 24-Track Recording: Acoustic musicians to full bands. Full CD duplication service. Visit us on the web: www. handlebarproductions.com. Jaw with us: 937-289-1320. Text us through email: malkum@ handlebarproductions.com

Instruction GUITAR LESSONS Nicholas Tuttle Guitar Studio in Mt. Adams. All levels. Latin & Classical training available. 513-929-4462. www. nicktuttle.com LEARN GUITAR AT HOME In Home Guitar Lessons for individuals or groups. All music, all ages. 513297-1383 BeAGuitarPlayer.com FREE trial lesson!

Want to Buy/Trade DIAMONDS, GOLD & WATCHES: Top dollar paid. SELL GOLD WHILE PRICES ARE HIGH. Near Tri-County. We also sell many antique items. Call 513-884-3001. 137 E. Kemper Rd.

Miscellaneous GET DISH - FREE Installation–$19.99/mo HBO & Showtime FREE-Over 50 HD Channels FREE Lowest Prices–No Equipment to Buy! Call Now for full Details: 1-877-238-8413 (AAN CAN)

Events PROFESSIONAL BELLY DANCER Amy McIntosh. Murray Ave Coffee House. Nov 13, 7:30-10pm. 20 yrs exp. Performs w/Habeebas. Coffee/desserts. 513-218-2128 WHO ARTED? Twisted ART sale & exhibit. CALL TO ARTISTS: Come ART with us using 12” vinyl record. Raise money for charity. whoarted. billytackett.com

Non-Profit/ Volunteers THANKSGIVING DINNER For students. Hosted by Antonelli College Philanthropy Club. Nov 19, 5-7pm. Now accepting donations. WE NEED YOUR HELP. Make checks payable to Beth Feichtner. Call Kurt Naish for more info or to schedule pick up: 513-969-9151

HIGH SCHOOL DIPLOMA! Fast, Affordable & Accredited. FREE Brochure. Call NOW! 1-800532-6546 Ext. 97 http://www. continentalacademy.com (AAN CAN)

Announcements GAIN NATIONAL EXPOSURE. Reach over 5 million young, active, educated readers for only $995 by advertising in 110 weekly newspapers like this one. Call Jason at 202-289-8484. (AAN CAN)

5 MINUTES FROM DOWNTOWN 1, 2 & 3 BR in spacious, restored Victorians. 1-2 BA’s, dining room, office, laundry room, porch, carpet/hdwd, all new equip kitchens. All new wiring, plumbing & hvac. Off street pkng. Must see. $400-$850/mo. 513-471-1530 or www.244-RENT.COM

LOOK

HERE

1 Bedroom near Mt. Adams. $475. Heat paid, parking, laundry on site. No lease month to month.

10% OFF First Months Rent! Call 513-652-5454

1&2 Bedroom Apartments 513-861-9037

4 wellness Wellness

Adoption

BEST BRAZILIAN BIKINI WAX Alesia was voted “Best of Cincinnati 2009” by CityBeat! Over 20 years experience! www. cincyspa.com. Please call for your appointment 513-321-8252.

PREGNANT? CONSIDERING ADOPTION? Talk with caring agency specializing in matching Birthmothers with Families nationwide. LIVING EXPENSES PAID. Call 24/7 Abby’s One True Gift Adoptions 866-413-6293 (AAN CAN)

VIAGRA - SAVE $500! 44 Pills for $99.00. Satisfaction guaranteed or your money back. Call Now! 888-272-9406 (AAN CAN)

studios $300

Clean, Quiet, Affordable Close to uC, Clifton, CorryVille Only 2 miles away email: brookwood@fuse.net

513.481.1900

CLIFTON 1BR Available Now. Across from U.C. $475/month. 513-732-2432 or 513-535-2154 CLIFTON 3BR, 2BA. Many upgrades. Short walk to U.C. A/C, DW. Off street parking. $850/mo. 513-732-2432 or 513-535-2154 CLIFTON/FAIRVIEW Spacious 2BR. 14ft ceilings, hdwd flrs, exp brick, FP, A/C, new carpet, 2 patios, prkg, storage, water paid, W/D. $725 513-290-6357 CLIFTON/UPTOWN APTS & HOUSES 1 & 2 rooms. $350$425. 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 & 6 BR houses & apts. UC/CLIFTON/UPTOWN, Evanston, S. Fairmount, Camp Washington, Walnut Hills, Price Hill & Cumminsville. PETS OK. 859341-6050, 513-251-6050 COVINGTON Large 2BR, 2 Full BA. Spectacular Riverfront View. Luxury Apartment with Patio. Pool. Heat & Water Paid. Laundry. Quiet, secure building. $950/mo. 859291-1414 COVINGTON Move home for the Holidays. Beautiful, affordable river view apartments. Secure building. Heat/Water paid. 1BR: $450/ mo. 2BR, 2BA: $925/mo. (859) 291-1414

Valley View Condominiums Crestview Hills Kentucky

2 or 3 BR, 2 BA, Free Cable/Water $200 off 1st month lease. A+ units. www.liveatvalleyview.com

859-341-3360 Open Mon - Sat

DOWNTOWN NEAR 2BR. Beautiful historic renovation. 950 sq. ft. Deck with view. Wood floors. Coin lndry. Near UC & Hopsitals. On Bus. $750. 513-723-0522 DOWNTOWN OTR 400 - 2700 sf. $275-2600/mo. Fabulous apartments, lofts & townhouses. Large open spaces. www. urbansites.net - Kris: 513-6216246, kris@urbansites.net — Condos available by contacting: gatewayquarter.com GLENDALE Historic 2 family. 1st flr. 3BR, 1BA. Basement storage, gar. Tall ceilings. Water paid. No smoking or pets. $1050+Utils+Dep. 513-2971575 HISTORIC COLUMBIA TUSC. 2BR twnhse. New kitchen, DR, d/w, w/d, gar, lots of closets. 1.5 blocks to Starbucks/Exp bus. Cats OK. $725+G&E 513-379-5166 HYDE PARK / OAKLEY 1BR in brick 4 family. Equipped, Air, Hardwood, Laundry, Garage, Heat & Water Included. $575+Dep. 513-290-5206 LOWER CLIFTON Renner St. Large 4BR, 2BA & 2BR, 1BA. Quiet street. Newly decorated. $550/ mo (4BR). $400/mo (2BR). 513474-0880 513-551-8714 MOUNT ADAMS: 1BR on estate. $475/mo. 10% OFF 1st month’s rent! Heat paid, no lease. Month to month. Laundry on site. Call 513-652-5454 MOUNT LOOKOUT / TUSCULUM Large 1BR. Eat in kitchen. W/D. Dishwasher. Off -street parking. Cats OK. $550 + G & E. 513379-5166 N. FAIRMOUNT Baltimore Ave. 2 BR, newly renovated, new appliances, near bus stop, off street prkg., laundry room. $450/ mo. 513-474-0880 513-5518714 WAREHOUSE LOFT APTS Available from Middle Earth Developers in Cincinnati & Newport, KY. Unique spaces from $795/mo. medevelopers.com 513.621.0808

Land for Sale BRUNER LAND CO, INC BRACKEN COUNTY, KY. 46 miles from I-275W, Exit 77! 26+ acres, creek, woods & open. $57,900. 740459-9031 www.brunerland.com

Business/ Office Space

WESTSIDE FREE RENT Thru January. Newly remodeled. Ideal for Attorney, Accountant, etc.

513-451-3400

Condos for Rent AVONDALE / N. AVONDALE Spacious 3-Level Condo. Close to UC, XU & Hospitals. 3BR, 2.5BA. Attached garage & deck. $1,200/ mo+Dep. 513-315-1785

Houses for Rent ALL AREAS - HOUSES FOR RENT. Browse thousands of rental listings with photos and maps. Advertise your rental home for FREE! Visit: http://www. RealRentals.com (AAN CAN)

Roommates ALL AREAS - ROOMMATES. COM. Browse hundreds of online listings with photos and maps. Find your roommate with a click of the mouse! Visit: http://www. Roommates.com. (AAN CAN) CLIFTON SWPM seeks roommate to share a new house. Furnished 2 Bedroom/2 Bath. Off street parking. Yard. OTR. $250/month. Call 513-258-3871.

Musicians Seeking Musicians OPEN MIC SONGWRITER CONTEST All original, acoustic music. Every Wednesday, 8-11 p.m. Grand Prize: $100 + 4 hour Vision Recording Studio session. The Cottage: 859-781-1619 LEAD GUITAR WANTED Liquid Fire. We have shows to do. Classic & country. Originals also. Check Liquid Fire, Jeff Lewis on MySpace. 513-325-4144

Want to Stop Smoking... But Nothing Helps? It’s Time To Do Something Different!

The Great American Smokeout is November 19 Let It Be Your Day to Stop! Customized Sessions Using Hypnosis & EFT

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call 513-665-4700 ext 118.

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4 employment Employment Opportunities

Hypnotic Solutions

Certified Medical Hypnotist & RN Margaret Arthur Can Help! november 11-17, 2009

Rentals

COVINGTON Historic 1BR. Central Air. 1st flr. Cable ready. Ceiling fans. W/D hookup. $695+Util. Non-smoking. Ask about manager special. 859-801-6541

DRUM LESSONS Elmer Monk, formerly Makin’ Music. Now accepting students in Beechmont studio. All ages, all levels. 5283786 rockdrumming.com

SEEKING PRO FEMALE SINGER Well established wedding & corporate event band. $100-400/ show. www.above-the-bar.com Call Randall at 859-393-2230

46

4 real estate, rentals & roommates

FULL TIME TELLER / CUSTOMER SERVICE REP. New Horizons Credit Union, Inc. Landen/ Loveland. M-Sat 40 + hrs weekly, 1-2 yrs cash handling experience, bi-lingual preferred, excellent customer service skills. We offer a competitive salary & benefits, Macy’s discount. Email resumes to jlafollette@newhorizonscu.com or fax to 513.562.6629 EOE

FULL TIME TELLER / CUSTOMER SERVICE REP. New Horizons Credit Union, Inc. Cincinnati. OH M-S approx. 40 hours weekly, 1-2 yrs cash handling experience, bi-lingual preferred, excellent customer service skills. We offer a competitive salary, Macy’s discount and discounted parking. Email resumes to jlafollette@ newhorizonscu.com or fax to 513.562.6629 EOE $$$HELP WANTED$$$ Extra Income! Assembling CD cases from Home! No Experience Necessary! Call our Live Operators Now! 1-800-405-7619 EXT 2450 http://www.easywork-greatpay.com (AAN CAN) LIVE & WORK in Buddhist community, northern CA, Meaningful work, learn new skills, spiritual

interests. Room, board, stipend. Info & application 510-809-2014 books@ratnaling.org UNDERCOVER SHOPPERS Get paid to shop. Retail & Dining establishments. Need undercover clients to judge quality & customer service. No experience required. Please call 888-720-1127

Jobs Wanted TALENTED, YOUNG LOOKING senior seeks P/T, flexible job opp. Excellent people person. Super listening person for the executive. Heavy sales & mgmt exp. Pro actor. bobgelkins@fuse.net 859-4683115 bobelkinsactor.com

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4 adult

100S OF HOT LOCAL SINGLES are waiting for you to call. QUEST! It’s FREE to try! 18+ 513-766-1111 937-913-1111 614-930-1111 ALL MALE HOT GAY HOOKUPS! Call 513-766-6006 or 800-777-8000 FREE w/code 6696 InteractiveMale.com

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RELAXING BODY RUB 10am-8pm 7 days a week. No blocked calls or text messages. Telephone 513478-0278 by appointment. WILD LOCAL DATELINE Browse & Respond FREE! 513-821-5050 Straight; 513-821-4500 Gay & Bi. Use Free Code 7028 Visit MegaMates.com, 18+. FUN FLIRTY CHAT! Try Free! Use Code 5230 513-766-6000 or call 800-210-1010 www.LiveLinks.com

Drop It Like Its Hot Entertainment Bachelor/Bachelorette Parties Private Shows 27/7 ~ Prompt Service Male on Male Shows Always Hiring

859*409*7729

ATTENTION ADULT ADVERTISERS! *All adult line ads must contain the exact phrase “Body Rubs” and/or “Adult Entertainment.” Illegal services may not be offered in any ad. Cincinnati CityBeat does not accept, condone or promote advertisements for illegal activity. *Every ad purchase includes ONE phone number or e-mail address listing. Additional phone numbers & e-mail addresses can be printed for $10 each. *Ad copy & payment must be received by MONDAY AT 5:00 P.M. for the Wednesday issue.

We’re offering our biggest discounted rates ever!

Print - Online - Eblasts New for this year, both our gift guides are going glossy! Your ads will never look better than in full color on magazine stock. The first gift guide will be included in our Holiday Issue on November 24 and the Last Minute Gift Guide will be in the December 09 issue.

We appreciate your attention to these small, but important details. CityBeat thanks you for your business!

Call your CityBeat advertising rep about our holiday advertising options.

513-665-4700

november 11-17, 2009

*All ads must be PRE-PAID with a VALID credit card or in cash/money order. If a credit card is declined for any reason, the ad will be pulled from the paper and online.

47


Floral Connection By Thorn 1175 W Galbraith Rd. • Cincinnati, OH 45231 Funerals, Weddings, Exotic Plants & Tropical Arrangements “Multi-Award winner of the Cincinnati Flowers Show” Specializing in Weddings, Events, Funeral & High-Style with 15 years of designing experience

513.522.1719 • FlowersByThorn.com

15% OFF with ad expires 10/31/09

BODY JEWEL

TATTOO & PIERCING LOCATED IN 3 MALLS

4 backbeat ACTING CLASS

PHANTASY EMPORIUM

8 wk class. Beginners, intermediates and exp. actors. See yourself on film. Contact: Bob Elkins, www. bobelkinsactor.com, 859-468-3115 or Jay Goldfarb, jgoldfarb@cinci.rr.com, 513-213-4579.

“There would be days like this, Mama said.”

CHARGED WITH A CRIME?

4179 Hamilton Ave., 45223 - 513.541.4668

Criminal Defense Attorney, 20 years experience. All Criminal and Driving Cases. Credit Cards accepted. Downtown Location. Call Ed Felson 513-310-3839

Waxing; Cuts; Color

DISSOLVE YOUR MARRIAGE

Bring this ad! $5 off salon services-Sun/Mon 12-5

Dissolution: An amicable end to marriage. Easier on your heart. Easier on your wallet. Starting at $500+court costs. 12-Hr Turnaround. Bertha Helmick, Esq 651-9666

TRY THIS STUDIO FOR $25 Steve’s Recording & Audio

EcoScaping Landscape & Tree Care

www.myspace.com/srastudios

Now’s the time to plant and prune! Call 513-364-5226

LEARN BARTENDING- 2 WEEK COURSE 1-800-BARTEND Day, eve, weekend classes. Job Placement Assistance

Pinnokios Hair Studio [pi-nö-kë-yos]

NEW Sunday & Monday Hours - 12 to 5 Home of: Tina, Ashley, & Megan

(513) 368-7770 (513) 729-2786 sfstevemusic@aol.com

WANTED: CLUNKERS, JUNKERS, UNWANTED CARS, TRUCKS & MOTORCYCLES. $100 - $150 or more CASH PAID for Junk Cars. Beautify the Earth! 513-257-8373

1686 Blue Rock St. OH#07-07-1831T. Cincy Bartending

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• TRI-COUNTY MALL

The BEST seats @ the BEST price

Learn to Record in 10 wks for $295

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10 3-hour sessions once per week with an engineer with over 20 years experience. Learn the secrets of

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lower level in Macys wing

next to Dillards

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how to use all that stuff and make GOOD recordings. Ric Hopkins 513-607-9855 www.soundworkshop.net

COLLEGE APPLICATION STRESS? We can help. One-on-one admissions essay guidance.

foodcourt area

937-567-791

If you currently use crack or cocaine and are interested in participating in a research study, please call the University of Kentucky for a confidential interview to see if you qualify. CALL TOLL FREE:

DO YOU LIKE TO EAT OUT?

november 11-17, 2009

We’ve Got Your Stimulus Package! Save 40% When You Dine Out

For Example: Load $12 onto your Best of Cincinnati® Card using your Visa/MC/Amex and get $20 in credit to enjoy at any participating restaurant!

48 Check out BestOfCincinnatiCard.com for all the details.

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The purpose of this study is to test a new medication for cocaine abuse. You must be willing to stay in the hospital for up to four to five weeks. You will be paid for your participation and reimbursed for travel expenses.


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