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NEWS NEWS

More men are considering vasectomies, doctors say. P H O T O : PAV E L D A N I LY U K , P E X E L S

Men in Greater Cincinnati Are Lining Up for Men in Greater Cincinnati Are Lining Up for Vasectomies in the Wake of Roe v. Wade Vasectomies inbecoming the Wake ofuncertain Roe inv.OhioWade With the legality of birth control more and more and Kentucky, local seeingcontrol an uptick in appointments. With urologists the legalityare of birth becoming more and more uncertain in Ohio and Kentucky, BY M Aurologists DELINE FEN I N Gseeing an uptick in appointments. local are BY M A D E L I N E F E N I N G

osh Rammel and his wife Megan planned on Josh getting a vasecosh Rammel and his wife Megan tomy after the birth of their first planned on Josh getting a vasecchild. tomy after the birth of their first “We discussed it even before our son child. was born,” Rammel tells CityBeat. “Here “We discussed it even before our son recently with stuff changing, it’s like, was born,” Rammel tells CityBeat. “Here OK, now’s the time to do it. Things aren’t recently with stuff changing, it’s like, looking good for how things could go OK, now’s the time to do it. Things aren’t from now into the future.” looking good for how things could go Rammel, of Perrysburg, is referring to from now into the future.” the U.S. Supreme Court’s June 24 overRammel, of Perrysburg, is referring to turn of Roe v. Wade, which has caused the U.S. Supreme Court’s June 24 overa wave of laws outlawing abortion care turn of Roe v. Wade, which has caused across the country. Immediately after a wave of laws outlawing abortion care the court’s decision, Ohio decreased across the country. Immediately after legal abortion access to six weeks gestathe court’s decision, Ohio decreased tion, before many people even know legal abortion access to six weeks gestathey are pregnant. tion, before many people even know The Supreme Court decision, which they are pregnant. was previewed in a leaked draft opinion The Supreme Court decision, which in May, seems to have caused a spike was previewed in a leaked draft opinion in vasectomy appointments. In June, in May, seems to have caused a spike The Urology Group, a Cincinnati-based in vasectomy appointments. In June, urology practice, performed an 18.8% The Urology Group, a Cincinnati-based increase of vasectomy procedures over urology practice, performed an 18.8% that same month last year, according to increase of vasectomy procedures over data from the provider. July’s scheduled that same month last year, according to data from the provider. July’s scheduled

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vasectomies will be a 59.6% increase over those performed in July 2021, the vasectomies will be a 59.6% increase medical provider says. over those performed in July 2021, the Andrew, from Independence, Kenmedical provider says. tucky, is part of the wave of vasectomy Andrew, from Independence, Kenappointments being scheduled. His tucky, is part of the wave of vasectomy wife had a rough time during her last appointments being scheduled. His pregnancy, and she has an intrauterine wife had a rough time during her last device (IUD), a form of birth control that pregnancy, and she has an intrauterine he says carries an added risk for ectopic device (IUD), a form of birth control that pregnancy (the Mayo Clinic says that he says carries an added risk for ectopic becoming pregnant with an IUD in place pregnancy (the Mayo Clinic says that can increase the chance of an ectopic becoming pregnant with an IUD in place pregnancy). In an ectopic pregnancy, a can increase the chance of an ectopic fertilized egg lands outside the uterus pregnancy). In an ectopic pregnancy, a and becomes life-threatening for the fertilized egg lands outside the uterus pregnant person, Cleveland Clinic says. and becomes life-threatening for the “I feel like I have to make the right pregnant person, Cleveland Clinic says. choice for my family,” says Andrew, who “I feel like I have to make the right has requested that CityBeat withhold his choice for my family,” says Andrew, who last name. has requested that CityBeat withhold his Even though Andrew finds that his last name. vasectomy could be a safer option for Even though Andrew finds that his family planning, the IUD his wife curvasectomy could be a safer option for rently uses may no longer be an option family planning, the IUD his wife curin the future. rently uses may no longer be an option Like Andrew, Rammel also is thinking in the future. ahead. Like Andrew, Rammel also is thinking ahead.

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“I went to law school, so I can look at this and kinda see the reasoning for the “I went to law school, so I can look at reversal for Roe v. Wade and see how it this and kinda see the reasoning for the can impact other things,” Rammel says. reversal for Roe v. Wade and see how it “Certain forms of birth control are a poscan impact other things,” Rammel says. sibility to not be around in the future.” “Certain forms of birth control are a posAn Ohio lawmaker recently introsibility to not be around in the future.” duced a bill that broadly defines a fertilAn Ohio lawmaker recently introized egg as a person, raising questions duced a bill that broadly defines a fertilabout the future of certain forms of birth ized egg as a person, raising questions control that could prevent implantation about the future of certain forms of birth of an embryo (the science and medical control that could prevent implantation communities do not have consensus on of an embryo (the science and medical when personhood begins). communities do not have consensus on when personhood begins).

Vasectomy, reversal and Roe v. Wadereversal and Vasectomy,

Vasectomies typically are quick proRoe v. Wade cedures that allow the patient to stay Vasectomies typically are quick proawake and drive home after. In contrast, cedures that allow the patient to stay forms of sterilization for uteruses, such awake and drive home after. In contrast, as tubal ligation, often are much more forms of sterilization for uteruses, such involved and require a longer healing as tubal ligation, often are much more period. Tubal ligation is also considered involved and require a longer healing permanent; any attempt at a reversal period. Tubal ligation is also considered is considered major surgery, according permanent; any attempt at a reversal to the Mayo Clinic. Vasectomies, on the is considered major surgery, according to the Mayo Clinic. Vasectomies, on the

other hand, have a greater chance of being reversed. other hand, have a greater chance of With the right to full abortion care being reversed. diminishing and the right to birth With the right to full abortion care control coming into question since the diminishing and the right to birth fall of Roe, some urologists worry that control coming into question since the patients may seek vasectomies hastily fall of Roe, some urologists worry that and attempt to reverse the procedure patients may seek vasectomies hastily down the road. and attempt to reverse the procedure “What we tell everybody is this down the road. should be considered a form of perma“What we tell everybody is this nent sterilization,” says Dr. Ryan Flynn should be considered a form of permawith The Urology Group. “I had a young nent sterilization,” says Dr. Ryan Flynn guy who came into my practice and with The Urology Group. “I had a young said, ‘I’ll just get my vasectomy now guy who came into my practice and and when I’m ready to have kids I’ll just said, ‘I’ll just get my vasectomy now get it reversed,’ and I tell them that is and when I’m ready to have kids I’ll just not the way to go.” get it reversed,’ and I tell them that is Flynn says a vasectomy, while techninot the way to go.” cally reversible, is not designed to be Flynn says a vasectomy, while technitemporary. cally reversible, is not designed to be “A vasectomy is a medical procedure temporary. in which we remove part of the vas def“A vasectomy is a medical procedure erens, which is the tube that connects in which we remove part of the vas defthe testicles to the outside world,” Flynn erens, which is the tube that connects says. “Cutting out that segment and the testicles to the outside world,” Flynn cauterizing, we want to make it as difsays. “Cutting out that segment and ficult as possible for things to find their cauterizing, we want to make it as difficult as possible for things to find their

way back together, even with medical help.” way back together, even with medical Dr. Shane Russell, who runs the help.” Vasectomy Reversal Center of Ohio, Dr. Shane Russell, who runs the says reversals can be successful. Vasectomy Reversal Center of Ohio, “It is reversible in the majority of says reversals can be successful. people successfully, but it’s never “It is reversible in the majority of a guaranteed success,” Russell tells people successfully, but it’s never CityBeat. “It’s still recommended that a guaranteed success,” Russell tells people consider it a permanent form CityBeat. “It’s still recommended that of birth control. But 5-8% of people do people consider it a permanent form change their mind, historically. But that of birth control. But 5-8% of people do number might go up in the future when change their mind, historically. But that people have a different equation in number might go up in the future when their mind for wanting to get a vasecpeople have a different equation in tomy or their reasons for getting one.” their mind for wanting to get a vasecRussell, whose practice is the only tomy or their reasons for getting one.” reversal center in Ohio, says the odds Russell, whose practice is the only of a successful reversal are partially reversal center in Ohio, says the odds dependent on how much time has of a successful reversal are partially passed since the vasectomy, but the dependent on how much time has training of the doctor performing the passed since the vasectomy, but the reversal is the biggest factor. training of the doctor performing the “All urologists learn how to do vasecreversal is the biggest factor. tomies. It’s a pretty straightforward “All urologists learn how to do vasecprocedure to do an actual vasectomy,” tomies. It’s a pretty straightforward Russell says. “A vasectomy takes 15 or procedure to do an actual vasectomy,” 20 minutes; a reversal takes two and Russell says. “A vasectomy takes 15 or a half to three hours and is just very 20 minutes; a reversal takes two and meticulous microsurgery. You really a half to three hours and is just very only learn how to do that if you do meticulous microsurgery. You really advanced fellowship training after your only learn how to do that if you do urology residency. Only about one peradvanced fellowship training after your cent of urologists choose to do that.” urology residency. Only about one perThe advanced fellowship training cent of urologists choose to do that.” gives the urologist a chance to learn a The advanced fellowship training vas-to-epididymis connection, a procegives the urologist a chance to learn a dure Russell says is less effective than a vas-to-epididymis connection, a procetypical reversal but usually only offered dure Russell says is less effective than a by reversal specialists. typical reversal but usually only offered “If you see the unfavorable fluid by reversal specialists. when you’re doing a reversal and you “If you see the unfavorable fluid don’t know how to do a vas-to-epiwhen you’re doing a reversal and you didymis connection, well, that side is don’t know how to do a vas-to-epiguaranteed not to work. So, there goes didymis connection, well, that side is half your chance,” Russell says. guaranteed not to work. So, there goes The “unfavorable fluid” Russell menhalf your chance,” Russell says. tions is semen that doesn’t contain The “unfavorable fluid” Russell mensperm. Russell says professionals don’t tions is semen that doesn’t contain know if a patient will need a vas-tosperm. Russell says professionals don’t epididymis reversal until they’re doing know if a patient will need a vas-tothe procedure. epididymis reversal until they’re doing “What we do is we open up that end the procedure. that has been tied or clipped off in the “What we do is we open up that end vasectomy, and we look at the fluid that that has been tied or clipped off in the comes out of that tube and examine vasectomy, and we look at the fluid that it microscopically,” Russell explains. comes out of that tube and examine “If you see favoriable fluid – like [that] it microscopically,” Russell explains. contains sperm or sperm parts – awe“If you see favoriable fluid – like [that] some, you can do the more successful contains sperm or sperm parts – awevas-to-vas. If you see the unfavorable some, you can do the more successful fluid – like thick, creamy fluid with vas-to-vas. If you see the unfavorable no sperm – that’s when you have to fluid – like thick, creamy fluid with go to the epididymis and find sperm no sperm – that’s when you have to there, and that’s where you make your go to the epididymis and find sperm connection.” there, and that’s where you make your The epididymis is the structure that connection.” wraps around the side of the testicle The epididymis is the structure that where sperm matures, and a vas-to-epiwraps around the side of the testicle didymis connection is a last-ditch effort where sperm matures, and a vas-to-epiRussell can offer patients who want to didymis connection is a last-ditch effort try for a pregnancy. The more typical Russell can offer patients who want to try for a pregnancy. The more typical

vasectomy reversal, the vas-to-vas connection in which the severed tubes are vasectomy reversal, the vas-to-vas conreconnected, has a 90-95% success rate nection in which the severed tubes are in Russell’s practice. reconnected, has a 90-95% success rate Flynn cautions patients who believe in Russell’s practice. in the promise of successful vasectomy Flynn cautions patients who believe reversals. in the promise of successful vasectomy “There are reversals out there but reversals. there’s no guarantee to them, it’s all “There are reversals out there but cash-based so there’s not coverage for a there’s no guarantee to them, it’s all reversal,” Flynn says. cash-based so there’s not coverage for a Insurance companies tend to fully or reversal,” Flynn says. partially cover a vasectomy, Flynn says, Insurance companies tend to fully or but a reversal generally is not covered partially cover a vasectomy, Flynn says, and will cost thousands of dollars out but a reversal generally is not covered of pocket. A reversal at one of Russell’s and will cost thousands of dollars out offices in Cincinnati, Dayton or Columof pocket. A reversal at one of Russell’s bus costs about $6,300. offices in Cincinnati, Dayton or Colum“People do these really cheap reverbus costs about $6,300. sals that you can find on the internet, “People do these really cheap reverbut it’s really scary because they’re not sals that you can find on the internet, even urologists usually,” Russell says. but it’s really scary because they’re not Urologists like Flynn take their time even urologists usually,” Russell says. counseling patients, especially when Urologists like Flynn take their time discussing the future with patients who counseling patients, especially when are looking at a vasectomy as temporary discussing the future with patients who birth control in light of Roe. are looking at a vasectomy as temporary “I think it might be possible that we birth control in light of Roe. start to see that,” Flynn says. “From “I think it might be possible that we our side it’s going to come down to start to see that,” Flynn says. “From more counseling. I’m a big proponent our side it’s going to come down to of people making their own decisions. more counseling. I’m a big proponent I’ve done [vasectomies] on 25-year-olds of people making their own decisions. who have no kids, but those are longer I’ve done [vasectomies] on 25-year-olds counseling sessions than 38-year-olds who have no kids, but those are longer with two or three kids.” counseling sessions than 38-year-olds Flynn also addresses myths and miswith two or three kids.” conceptions about vasectomies during Flynn also addresses myths and misthese counseling sessions. conceptions about vasectomies during “It doesn’t affect your ejaculation at these counseling sessions. all. It doesn’t affect your testosterone “It doesn’t affect your ejaculation at because it’s not affecting the testicle or all. It doesn’t affect your testosterone the blood supply to the testicle, which because it’s not affecting the testicle or is where that testosterone comes from the blood supply to the testicle, which and doesn’t change anything as far as is where that testosterone comes from erections, orgasms or the like,” Flynn and doesn’t change anything as far as says. erections, orgasms or the like,” Flynn Rammel, the patient who is trying for says. a child with his wife, did his homework Rammel, the patient who is trying for before scheduling a vasectomy appointa child with his wife, did his homework ment, and he’s not afraid to talk about before scheduling a vasectomy appointhis decision with friends or family. ment, and he’s not afraid to talk about “People say this all the time when his decision with friends or family. they don’t actually do it, but do your “People say this all the time when research with it,” Rammel says. “If you they don’t actually do it, but do your look at the right places and read the research with it,” Rammel says. “If you right stuff, it’s nothing to be worried look at the right places and read the about. It’s not the loss of your manright stuff, it’s nothing to be worried hood, which I know I remember hearabout. It’s not the loss of your maning growing up.” hood, which I know I remember hearIn his early years, Andrew also was ing growing up.” exposed to media that poked fun at the In his early years, Andrew also was procedure. exposed to media that poked fun at the “I think even in the ‘90s, on [TV procedure. show] Home Improvement, there’s an “I think even in the ‘90s, on [TV episode where Tim was going to do it show] Home Improvement, there’s an and people were ribbing him,” Andrew episode where Tim was going to do it says. and people were ribbing him,” Andrew “Do you lose part of your manhood? says. As a dad, as a husband, doing the things “Do you lose part of your manhood? that keep your family safe is what manAs a dad, as a husband, doing the things hood should be about.” that keep your family safe is what manhood should be about.”

The Cincinnati Bengals have a new alternate helmet. P H OTO : B E N GA LS. C O M

The Cincinnati Bengals have a new alternate helmet.

Cincinnati Bengals Unveil New Cincinnati Bengals Unveil New ‘White Tiger’ Helmet BY A L L I S O NTiger’ BA B K A Helmet ‘White

P H OTO : B E N GA LS. C O M

BY A L L I S O N BA B K A

T T

he Cincinnati Bengals recently debuted a glimpse he Cincinnati Bengals of the team’s highly anticirecently debuted a glimpse pated white helmet that will be of the team’s highly anticiused in games for the first time pated white helmet that will be during the 2022-2023 season. used in games for the first time The helmet is virtually identical during the 2022-2023 season. to the Bengals’ current helmet of The helmet is virtually identical orange with black “tiger” stripes to the Bengals’ current helmet of but instead uses white for the orange with black “tiger” stripes background. but instead uses white for the The white helmet is considered background. an alternate and will be used The white helmet is considered only occasionally, leaving the an alternate and will be used orange helmet as the team’s main only occasionally, leaving the headgear. orange helmet as the team’s main Earlier in July, the team had headgear. announced that white helmets Earlier in July, the team had would be coming this season but announced that white helmets did not share a photo of the new would be coming this season but protective gear. As of press time, did not share a photo of the new the Bengals have not indicated protective gear. As of press time, which games will feature the new the Bengals have not indicated color. which games will feature the new On Twitter, the team promised color. a look at the white helmets if a On Twitter, the team promised photo of Bengals quarterback Joe a look at the white helmets if a Burrow at practice earned 10,000 photo of Bengals quarterback Joe likes. Once that milestone was surBurrow at practice earned 10,000 passed, the Bengals followed up on likes. Once that milestone was surJuly 22 with a 10-second gif of the passed, the Bengals followed up on striped white helmet resting atop a July 22 with a 10-second gif of the rotating black platform, saying, “A striped white helmet resting atop a deal’s a deal.” The NFL responded, rotating black platform, saying, “A “They’re here and they’re perfect.” deal’s a deal.” The NFL responded, The Bengals also have posted “They’re here and they’re perfect.” videos highlighting the new helmet The Bengals also have posted on the team’s website. One video videos highlighting the new helmet features a person applying black on the team’s website. One video stripe decals individually to a features a person applying black white helmet in a precise pattern stripe decals individually to a according to a diagram. white helmet in a precise pattern The white helmet arrives shortly according to a diagram. The white helmet arrives shortly

after the Bengals debuted new uniforms in the 2021-2022 season for after the Bengals debuted new unithe first time in 17 years. The team forms in the 2021-2022 season for did not change the iconic orange the first time in 17 years. The team helmet at that time, however. did not change the iconic orange In January 2021, the NFL helmet at that time, however. announced that it would finally In January 2021, the NFL lift a long-held rule that prohibannounced that it would finally ited secondary helmets. NFL.com lift a long-held rule that prohibwriter Kevin Patra wrote at the ited secondary helmets. NFL.com time that the rule was in place for writer Kevin Patra wrote at the safety. The alternate helmets must time that the rule was in place for be identical to primary helmets safety. The alternate helmets must except for color and must be worn be identical to primary helmets during practices before the game except for color and must be worn in which they’ll be used. during practices before the game The 2022 season will be the first in which they’ll be used. in which the secondary helmet ban The 2022 season will be the first is gone. Franchises had until July in which the secondary helmet ban 31 of last year to inform the NFL of is gone. Franchises had until July their intent to use the additional 31 of last year to inform the NFL of helmet option for this season. their intent to use the additional The Cincinnati Bengals went to helmet option for this season. Super Bowl LVI in February, falling The Cincinnati Bengals went to 20-23 to the Los Angeles Rams in Super Bowl LVI in February, falling the Bengals’ first shot at the Vince 20-23 to the Los Angeles Rams in Lombardi trophy since 1989. The the Bengals’ first shot at the Vince team earned a 10-7 regular-season Lombardi trophy since 1989. The record for 2021-2022, won the team earned a 10-7 regular-season AFC North, and pulled out magirecord for 2021-2022, won the cal win after magical win in the AFC North, and pulled out magipost-season — including the AFC cal win after magical win in the Championship. Shortly after the post-season — including the AFC Super Bowl, the Bengals extended Championship. Shortly after the head coach Zac Taylor’s contract Super Bowl, the Bengals extended through 2026. head coach Zac Taylor’s contract The Bengals’ 2022-2023 season through 2026. kicks off against the Pittsburgh The Bengals’ 2022-2023 season Steelers on Sept. 11 at Paul Brown kicks off against the Pittsburgh Stadium and will end on Jan. 7 or Steelers on Sept. 11 at Paul Brown 8 in a battle with the Baltimore Stadium and will end on Jan. 7 or Ravens in Cincinnati. The full 8 in a battle with the Baltimore schedule is at bengals.com. Ravens in Cincinnati. The full schedule is at bengals.com.

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In Kentucky Kentuckians also have access to emergency mental health services by dialing 988. “Backup coverage is essential to quickly responding to individuals in crisis, and we are positioned to handle these calls, even as they increase,” Angela Roberts, 988 program administrator, says in a release. If one of the 13 call centers in Kentucky is unable to take a call, the call is automatically routed to a national backup center in Florida or New York, according to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. Officials in Kentucky anticipate that the easier-to-remember number and text capabilities will lead calls to quadruple by June 2023. The switch in Kentucky was made possible by a two-year, $1.16 million grant sourced from American Rescue Plan dollars, that release also states. In addition, Kentucky’s upcoming budget includes $19.6 million over a two-year period to boost infrastructure for 988 and to fund mobile crisis services. According to Axios, Kentucky is one of the states that has enacted long-term funding for 988. By calling 988, people with urgent needs can reach help quickly.

A new number for the nation

P H O T O : PA U L H A N A O K O , U N S P L A S H

New 988 Hotline Connects Callers with Mental Health Professionals in Ohio and Kentucky BY M A D E L I N E F E N I N G A N D A L L I S O N BA B K A

hio, Kentucky and the rest of the United States have a new option for accessing mental health resources. The country recently rolled out its long-developing 988 program, which directs callers to suicide prevention counselors, addiction specialists and other mental health resources. The National Suicide Prevention Hotline has been in operation since 2005 but recently shortened its phone number from a 10-digit 800 number to the present three-digit number. People in distress now can call or text 9-8-8. National leaders expect 988 to become a hub for mental health resources the way 911 is for emergency resources, saying it’s easier to remember and is faster to receive care. 988 is federally mandated by the Federal Communications Commission, but each state is responsible for setting up its own system. Like most states, Ohio and Kentucky transitioned to the 988 system on July 16. When a person calls 988, they are routed to mental health professionals at a local or state call center. National

call centers will step in if local centers are not available. There are more than 200 call centers throughout the United States, so callers will never encounter a busy signal, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services says. HHS adds that in 2020, one person died by suicide every 11 minutes.

In Hamilton County Talbert House, a local nonprofit network that provides suicide prevention counseling, housing, addiction and other services, serves as the 988 call center for Hamilton County. It also accepts backup calls from other parts of the state and country when other centers’ lines are busy. During 988’s first two days, Talbert House received 93 local calls and 108 national calls, according to data Talbert House provided to CityBeat. “It’s so important for people to have quick access when they are in crisis,” Teri Nau, vice president of community and donor relations for Talbert House, tells CityBeat. Cincinnati’s Emergency

Communications Center also works with Talbert House to forward 911 calls to the 988 counselors when the situation calls for it. Counselors may be conferenced into police calls to help de-escalate heightened situations. Currently, the Cincinnati 988 program is available 40 hours per week and will later expand to 60 hours per week.

In other parts of Ohio The 988 program now is available throughout Ohio. A release from the Ohio Mental Health & Addiction Services department says that callers will be routed to local or regional counselors based on their area code. The department adds that it has funding in place for one year of 988 operation, but national news outlet Axios reports that Ohio is not one of the states that has enacted long-term funding for the project. Currently, Ohio has allocated $20 million to 988 efforts at 19 state call centers.

The 988 lifeline is part of a nationwide departure from the 10-digit National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, which will remain available even after the transition to 988; callers to the original number will be routed to local or regional call centers as if they’d called 988 in the first place. 988 is available 24/7 for counselors to respond to calls, chats or text messages directly. The service also is available to those who are concerned about a loved one who may need crisis support. In 2020, former U.S. President Donald Trump signed bipartisan legislation allowing a three-digit number for mental health crises. The Federal Communications Commission later assigned 988 as the phone number for the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline. Current U.S. President Joe Biden’s administration since has provided $432 million in federal funding towards building call centers and adding other resources to the 988 effort, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services says. 988 is available in all U.S. states and five major territories. The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline’s original number of 1-800-273-TALK remains in effect. To accommodate the 988 effort, Greater Cincinnati phone carriers have begun requiring area codes when dialing numbers within the region.

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the Drinking issue 25 bars we’re loving right now and what to order there BY CITYBEAT STAFF

he joke is that “it’s always 5 o’clock somewhere.” That’s certainly true in this Drinking Issue, dedicated to appreciating Cincinnati’s bar scene.

Inside, CityBeat staffers have compiled 25 places they’re drinking right now, from hot spots to favorite dives, and what to order there. You don’t need to consume alcohol to have fun — that’s not what this list is about. Instead, this collection recognizes those third places, separate from work or home, where people come together to socialize, celebrate and commiserate, all while enjoying the atmosphere and, yes, the libations.

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BAR SAESO Bar Saeso offers a transportive experience in Pendleton. Stepping through the skinny front doors into the petite space feels a bit like you’re stepping into a different city — a different country — entirely. Replete with flickering candles, exposed brick, plenty of plants and a terracotta color palette, it very much gives an old-world Barcelona vibe. Co-owner Christy Wulfson once told CityBeat, “Everyone who walks in here [says] it reminds them of somewhere they’ve been, and no one ever says the same place — Argentina, Mexico City, Lisbon, Rome, all across the globe.” What to order: The Condesa. Named after the hip La Condesa neighborhood in Mexico City, this drink is smoky, spicy and sweet featuring mezcal, lemon, hot honey and a Tajindusted orange slice. (Maija Zummo) 1208 Sycamore St., Pendleton, barsaeso.com. Bar Saeso's Condesa cocktail. Photo: Catie Viox for Zest Cincy

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ALICE If Somerset and Mecca had a baby who was always grounded for sneaking out, her name would be Alice. While Alice is new to the scene, the bar is already cemented on my rotation. Rarely do true craft cocktails and dancing fall under the same roof, let alone in such an artfully designed space. The environment casts a happy-go-lucky vibe that makes it easier to bond with strangers. What to order: I’m always looking for some kind of Last Word variation, so I’m in love with Death of a Clown. It’s Chartreuse-forward with Vinho Verde, fennel, lemon and Ango, garnished with red bell pepper. Refreshing and fancy at just $10, so it doesn’t break the bank the way Chartreuse cocktails often can. (Madeline Fening) 1432 Main St., Over-the-Rhine, aliceotr.com.

BARBAR OTR As the name suggests, this bar is just a bar bar. It’s small and dive-y, but it’s not exactly a hole in the wall. The beautiful mirrored bar is illuminated by bright pink lights, while a whole canoe and giant moose head mounted on the wall give a mountain lodge feel. What to order: Lean into the dive-bar vibe and go with a Boilermaker: a shot and a beer. Wild Delight is very Cincinnati — a shot of Wild Turkey 101 and a can of Hudy Delight. (Brian Cross) 1709 Race St., Over-the-Rhine, barbarotr.com.

BAR AT PALM COURT It’s no secret that the Bar at Palm Court is one of the best places in the city to grab a cocktail, blending artful alcohol creations with awe-inspiring Art Deco décor. Sidle up to the bar — if you’re lucky enough to find a stool — and enjoy some live jazz while you drink. What to order: The NP is a best-of-both-worlds cocktail that pairs bourbon with something bubbly. Named after the Hilton Cincinnati Netherland Plaza (the hotel which houses the bar), the cocktail features Four Roses bourbon, lemon, ginger, bitters and sparkling wine. It’s light, refreshing and still packs a boozy kick. (MZ) Hilton Cincinnati Netherland Plaza, 35 W. Fifth St., Downtown, orchidsatpalmcourt.com.

THE BIRDCAGE Downtown LGBTQ+ nightclub The Birdcage is one of the best places to be yourself, sing or dance your heart

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out and, of course, drink. This spot is always a good time, with weekly events like karaoke night, DJ dance parties and tons of drag performances. If you’re broke (like me), the bar offers drink specials including $3 White Claw Wednesdays, $5 Absolut Vodka on Thirsty Thursdays and $5 Screwballs on Screwball Sundays — the perfect way to finish off brunch. What to order: Obviously try any of the drinks on special, but the bar is also known for its bird-themed cocktails. My favorite is the Orange Sparrow Spritzer, made with Jameson Orange and Sprite and topped with an orange wedge. (Maggy McDonel) 927 Race St., Downtown, thebirdcagecincinnati.com.

BROMWELL’S HÄRTH LOUNGE This jazz-club-turned-coffee-lounge is only open for boozing on Friday and Saturday nights for now but remains committed to quality classic cocktails. The newly redesigned space brings the attached, historic Bromwell’s retail fireplace brand to life, immersing you in cozy, dark hues accented by charred wood installations and working fireplaces. What to order: An Old Fashioned, made the right way — stirred and strained, not shaken. Great coffee and mocktails top off the menu for nondrinkers. (BC) 125 W. Fourth St., Downtown, facebook.com/harthloungecinci.

DEE FELICE CAFE Dee Felice Cafe is Covington’s understated jazz speakeasy with New Orleans-inspired cuisine. Behind the bar is an elevated stage with a piano and drum kit; some days, a three-piece band booms, other days, it’s a solo pianist. Something about the ambiance makes you want to sip a martini in a sequined dress, mysterious and alone at the bar, tapping your foot to the music while the hum of conversation buzzes in the background. What to order: An Orange Creamsicle Martini. The drink is smooth and sweet with a simple orange slice garnish. Every Friday, martinis are $5 and as long as the doors are open, live music is playing. (KG) 529 Main St., Covington, deefelicecafe.com.

GASLIGHT BAR & GRILL Clifton’s nicest restaurant also has the neighborhood’s most welcoming bar. With more than a dozen bar stools and a few high-top tables, it has happy

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Alcove's indoor bar and lounge. Photo: Hailey Bollinger

ALCOVE MadTree’s renovation of the historic Wielert’s Café in Over-the-Rhine — where legendary Boss Cox once manipulated local politics in the 19th century — takes a step beyond the Oakley brewery’s crowd-drawing beers with some great specialty cocktails as well as smashes and sangrias. Alcove offers three distinct spaces: an indoor bar and lounge with a phenomenal wall of living foliage; an outdoor patio with trees, string lights and widely-spaced tables; and a glassed-over, year-round Greenhouse Bar. In addition to drinks, the food menu has lots of shareables and snacks. What to order: You can’t go wrong with a negroni — gin, sweet vermouth and Campari, with an orange peel garnish. (Rick Pender) 1410 Vine St., Over-the-Rhine, madtreebrewing.com/alcove.

hour discounts ($4 off everything on the cocktail list) from 2-6 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday. In good weather, you can imbibe upstairs on the comfortable rooftop patio. What to order: Puck’s Fizz is a refreshing summer drink with Ketel One peach and orange blossom vodkas, white wine and “seasonal fruit” — most likely peach puree. Or try Holly Golightly — a mint and cucumber martini. But the hidden gem on this drinks list is a glass of the dessert wine, Boston Bual Madeira: subtly sweet with cinnamon-clove spice and an enticing orange-scented bouquet. (Pama Mitchell) 351 Ludlow Ave., Clifton, gaslightbarandgrillclifton.com.

HOLIDAY SPIRITS This hip and unpretentious spot offers a variety of activities. Have Zoltar tell your fortune, play Skee-Ball or pinball, nuzzle up to your sweetie in the photobooth or shoot a game of pool, or you can enjoy delicious Middle Eastern delights from the on-site food window, Forty Thieves. What to order: On a hot summer day, the frozen concoction that helps me beat the heat is the Frozé (frozen rosé). The pink slushy wine cocktail

is tart, sweet and refreshing. (BC) 1538 Race St., Over-the-Rhine, holidayliquorbar.com.

JUNKER’S TAVERN Junker’s is the center of the universe, or at least the center of the Cincinnati rockand-roll universe. Luckily, it is mostly untouched by time and trends. It is also one of the best live-music venues in the city and has one of the best jukeboxes. What to order: Anything — it’s all cheap; cash only with heavy pours and cheaper prices. A classic lager will work nicely, or, if you’re feeling adventurous, a Stella Artois or Grolsch. Anything will complement a re-listen of The Stooges’ Fun House on the jukebox. (Brent Stroud) 4156 Langland St., Northside, facebook.com/northsidecincy.

THE LITTLEFIELD The Littlefield is a Northside bourbon bar and bistro known for seasonal eats, craft cocktails — including a drink of the month to benefit a local cause — and a lovely patio. What to order: The Littlefield’s Mad Anthony now goes by the name Fergus, honoring another one of Northside’s streets, but — thank,

Bacchus — it’s still the same fabulous blend of Evan Williams bourbon, basil syrup, homemade ginger beer and balsamic vinegar, topped with basil leaves. (Anne Arenstein) 3934 Spring Grove Ave., Northside, littlefieldns.com.

MADONNA’S BAR & GRILL Open since the mid-1990s, this downtown dive is a Cheers-style antithesis to many of the area’s newer concept-bar destinations. It certainly isn’t fancy, but it’s super fun, extremely laid-back and offers surprisingly delicious food. (Also, full disclosure, my uncle is a bartender here, so that’s a bonus. He’s very funny). What to order: It’s kind of a beer-anda-shot spot, but you can certainly ask the staff to make you your favorite cocktail. I typically just get a vodka soda. Cheap. Good. (MZ) 11 E. Seventh St., Downtown, facebook.com/madonnasbarandgrill.

MECCA The original OTR garden bar with plants

everywhere. Nestled between buildings on 15th Street, you’d miss it if you didn’t know it was there. It’s a relaxing, secret hideaway in the early evening hours but comes alive at night, attracting crowds of in-the-know revelers. Staffed by artists and musicians, colorful surrealist art covers the walls inside and the vibes are immaculate. What to order: The signature drink is the Chunker, an airline-sized mini-bottle of liquor inverted in the mouth of a can of fizzy water, served with a straw. Try 1800 Silver Tequila in a can of orange San Pellegrino, or keep it classic with vodka and LaCroix. (BC) 1429 Walnut St., Over-the-Rhine, meccaotr.com.

MID-CITY RESTAURANT Mid-City is more of a dining destination than a bar, but it’s from the team behind Over-the-Rhine’s Longfellow, so you know the cocktails and atmosphere are excellent. It’s a perfect spot for older millennials who still enjoy a hip night out, but who also enjoy sitting in chairs and not shouting over loud music/loud humans. What to order:

The drink menu is a list of quintessential mixology, with options ranging from a Manhattan made with 120-proof bourbon to a tequila sunrise. I like an ice-cold Gibson, featuring London dry gin, French vermouth and cocktail onions. And the bread with housemade pickle butter. (MZ) 40 E. Court St., Downtown, midcitycinti.com.

an Irish Car Bomb. A touch of culinary magic infuses different whiskeys into the fluffy mixture. For optimal enjoyment, the shot is served with cookies for dipping, which is the recommended slowand-steady route of consumption. (KG) 520 Main St., Covington, searchable on Facebook.

MUSE CAFÉ

Need a quick trip down to Key West? This is the cocktail bar for you, complete with theme and décor to evoke Ernest Hemingway, the hard-drinking, toughtalking novelist. In fact, it’s named for his beloved 38-foot fishing boat, and a replica of its stern overhangs the bar. There are pink, yellow and blue picnic tables for outside seating, where you can sip drinks while surveying the renovated Court Street Plaza. What to order: Up in Michigan, named for the first short story that Hemingway published, uses Tito’s Handmade Vodka, lime juice and housemade grenadine, garnished with a lime. Plenty of tropical daiquiris support the South Florida vibe, too. (RP) 56 E. Court St., Downtown, pilarcincinnati.com.

Now celebrating its fifth anniversary, Muse Café has received accolades as perhaps the primary catalyst to Westwood’s revival. Owner Shawnteè Stallworth Schramm has created a selection of cocktails named after the nine Greek muses: mythological goddesses considered the source of human creativity, especially poetry and music. You can enjoy cocktails, coffee drinks and a choice of wines by the glass or bottle while listening to acoustic, jazz or blues performances most evenings. What to order: Euterpe (the muse of music and song), with Bulleit bourbon, ginger, pear and orange. Or Clio (the muse of history), a gin or vodka drink with peach, lavender and lime. (PM) 3018 Harrison Ave., Westwood, musecafecincy.com.

OAKLEY WINES

A bartender makes the Monmouth Mango cocktail at Coppin's Restaurant & Bar.

As the name suggests, Oakley Wines is primarily a wine bar and bottle shop, but it does have a nice, streamlined cocktail menu. Owned by the same people who run The Rhined in Findlay Market, the shop offers small plates, great cheese and frequent food popups. In the colder months, head to the speakeasy-style basement for some raclette — hot cheese scraped over meat, potatoes and vegetables. What to order: An Aperol spritz to enjoy in the outdoor “Alley” patio. Follow that up with a build-your-own wine flight. The expert bartenders will help select the pours. (MZ) 4011 Allston St., Oakley, oakleywines.com.

Photo: Katie Griffith

COPPIN’S RESTAURANT & BAR Coppin’s, located in the boutique Hotel Covington, has a glamorous, modern bar that manages to boast an approachable vibe with serious mixology flair. The seasonal drink menu is always distinctive and innovative. This summer, the bar staff picked five ingredients out of a hat and each employee had to use the spontaneous list and an assigned spirit to craft a one-of-a-kind cocktail. Every drink name is locally inspired, a complement to the locally-sourced ingredients. What to order: The Monmouth Mango is a refreshing lavender- and nectarine-infused gin concoction with a lavender-sugar rim. A bite from the mango skewer finishes the crisp and fruity but not-too-sweet drink. (Katie Griffith) Hotel Covington, 638 Madison Ave., Covington, hotelcovington.com.

PADDY’S ON MAIN Paddy’s on Main offers the self-proclaimed largest selection of Irish whiskey in the city. Tons of top-shelf, iconic options like Redbreast 27-year whiskey are available, among familiar selections that frequently take a backseat to bourbon in other area drinkeries. Stop by for \a cold-brewed Irish coffee and stay for a tall tale about the owner’s great, great, great grandfather’s dog, Paddy Seamus Ryan. What to order: The Pudding Shot is a must-have. It’s a boozy, chocolate pudding boasting a flavor similar to

PILAR

SOMERSET Somerset is basically a giant urban oasis in Over-the-Rhine. It has two indoor bars — a cozy library-lounge and a large light-filled conservatory — but the main attraction is the back patio, which boasts a collection of the owners’ architectural treasures collected from across the globe. It feels like a Moroccan riad, with unique seating areas like out-of-commission tuk-tuks. What to order: The cocktails are made with house-infused spirits, like peach-Thai basil vodka, and all are delicious. But the mocktail menu is equally unique. The Ziggy Stardust is a favorite, with coconut milk, pineapple, lime and hibiscus. (MZ) 139 E. McMicken Ave., Over-the-Rhine, somersetotr.com.

OTR STILLHOUSE OTR StillHouse is home to the Knox Joseph Distillery, where gin, bourbon and blended whiskeys are created in a shiny copper still. It opened in 2021 in a century-old structure that once housed an ice manufacturer. Fresh pure groundwater from aqueous underground caverns was frozen for ice back then. Today, it’s used to make award-winning spirits. What to order: The smoky-sweet Ezzard Charles Patio Punch, a blend of James Scott Whiskey, Laphroaig Scotch, spiced cranberry demerara, Montenegro amaro and orange juice. More than a dozen

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housemade beers and non-alcoholic sodas offer additional options. (RP) 2017 Branch St., Over-the-Rhine, otrstillhouse.com.

SYMPOSIUM A new entry in the café-by-day, bar-bynight trend, this East Walnut Hills spot aims to be a neighborhood hangout but is worth the drive from farther away. Though it bills itself as a wine bar, there’s actually only a small selection of glass pours. Instead, go for the fun cocktails. Sit in the pretty corner called The Nest, featuring easy-chairs arranged for conversation with the people you came with, or maybe with a perfect stranger. Small plates include truffled grilled cheese and tiny sweet peppers stuffed with goat cheese or tuna. What to order: Magpie Gin & Tonic combines Empress 908 gin, lime bitters and elderflower tonic over a giant ice cube encasing a colorful flower. The house Old Fashioned has a few captivating grace notes, too. (PM) 2835 Woodburn Ave., East Walnut Hills, symposiumcincinnati.com.

SUNDRY AND VICE These bartenders are nothing short of artists working in the medium of booze. Grab a spot at the bar and be mesmerized watching them create drinks with equal parts precision and passion. The cocktail menu organizes your choices as “Fresh & Playful,” “Light & Elegant,” “Lively & Restorative” and “Spirit Forward & Timeless.” Good luck narrowing it down. What to order: I can’t resist a Penicillin; whether or not it’s on the current menu, the bartenders will make a killer version of this classic combo of blended Scotch, ginger, honey and lemon. Night Cure, a bourbon drink, also has been a standout here since day one. (PM) 18 W. 13th St., Over-the-Rhine, sundryandvice.com.

WONDERCADE While you can absolutely get a few drinks, Wondercade is a pinball and video game arcade more than it is a bar. That’s a good thing if your nightlife needs a change of pace. Wondercade created a neon-bright playspace for all ages in Westwood (though no kids are allowed after 9 p.m.). For a flat fee of $8 you can play all day and even leave and re-enter later if you get your hand stamped. What to order: Keep it simple with canned local beer. Wondercade offers a solid selection from local breweries, including West Side Brewing, which is just down the street. (Sean Peters) 3143 Harrison Ave., Westwood, wondercadecincy.com.

Where Bar Owners Drink

In addition to CityBeat staffers, we also asked some of our favorite local bar owners where they like to drink when they aren’t imbibing at their own establishments.

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Co-owner, Lost & Found Hart & Cru. The wine list is thought out with heart and a lot of options. Walking in, it feels like you’ve entered someone’s home. It’s cozy and no-frills with the most knowledgeable staff the city has to offer. They are wine “producer” driven, supporting winemakers all over the world that greatly care about the grapes they grow and methods in making. And MOTR Pub. It always feels safe to be yourself here. Though it’s not a “cocktail” bar, MOTR is a place to blow off some steam over a beer, look at some different art on the walls and see someone you know while being easy on your wallet. Hart & Cru, 1206 Broadway St., Pendleton, hartandcru.com. MOTR Pub, 1345 Main St., Over-the-Rhine, motrpub.com.

S A R A H F IN N E Y Co-owner, 1215 Wine Bar & Coffee Lab

say The Hub. This rebellious little bar is still causing trouble in OTR, bullying Dusty Rhodes off Twitter and hosting all sorts of wild events like mud-wrestling fundraisers, live dating games and fringe original music. There’s a pool table and a serious collection of questionable taxidermy. I like to go for happy hour when it’s chill and you can sometimes catch the owner, Lindsey, behind the bar. What to order? Habanero-infused tequila, beers, shots, rinse, repeat.

Photo: Hailey Bollinger

quick trip away from OTR with a diverse crowd, nice vibe and great cocktails. What I order changes pretty regularly, because I like to switch things up, but my go-to drink there is the “Sunday Kind of Love” — light, refreshing and I stan a great cocktail name. Comfort Station, 793 E. McMillan St., Walnut Hills, comfortstationcincinnati.com.

The Hub, 1209 Main St., Over-the-Rhine, totallythehubotr.com.

JU L IA P E T IP R IN Owner, HomeMaker’s Bar and Fifty Fifty Gin Club

My favorite place to grab a drink is The Loon (formerly the Listing Loon). This neighborhood bar is dark and cozy, and it might just be the most chill spot in Northside. They have a perfectly secluded patio, with a firepit going during the colder months. While they have a good wine selection, my personal go-to is the “blip and sip” — a shot of liquor and a tall can of beer. It’s a great deal and pairs perfectly with the laid-back atmosphere, made for catching up with friends.

La Ofrenda is a hidden gem tucked away next to Findlay Market. This tequila and mezcal bar is truly authentic and owned by la familia Treviño (Jacob Trevino of Gorilla Cinema Presents). It has a great outdoor space and live Latin music on the weekends. Try their tacos if you need a snack to chase your agave spirit. You can’t go wrong with any of their margaritas. I’m a sucker for a classic and they let you put a Tajin rim on any of them, but what I love the most at La Ofrenda is getting a cerveza and neat pour of anything from their tequila or mezcal list with a side of their house Sangrita. Yummy!

The Loon, 4124 Hamilton Ave., Northside, theloonwinebar.com.

La Ofrenda, 30 Findlay St., Over-the-Rhine, laofrendatequila.com.

S T U A R T M A C K E N Z IE

T A M M IE S C O T T

Co-owner, Northside Yacht Club and Jerry’s Jug House

Owner, Nostalgia Wine & Jazz Lounge

This is hard because I love all bars — and pretty much anywhere that serves alcohol — but right now I’m going to

A bartender makes a cocktail at Walnut Hills' Comfort Station.

When I have time away from Nostalgia and have a chance to meet up with friends for a drink or catch some time alone, Comfort Station is my spot! It’s a

JA C O B T R E V IN O Owner, Gorilla Cinema Presents (Tokyo Kitty, La Ofrenda, Overlook Lodge, Tiki Tiki Bang Bang, Lonely Pine Steakhouse, Cosmic Gorilla) When I am not drinking at one of my establishments, I really like to support the other bars of people who have built me up over the years, either through their mentorship or friendship. My favorites are Gas Light Cafe in Pleasant Ridge, Goose & Elder in Findlay Market, HomeMakers Bar with Julia Petiprin, Japp’s with Molly Wellmann* and Lost & Found with Steven Clement. Gas Light Cafe, 6104 Montgomery Road, Pleasant Ridge, facebook.com/gaslightcincy. Goose & Elder, 1800 Race St., Over-the-Rhine, gooseandelder.com. HomeMakers Bar, 39 E. 13th St., Over-the-Rhine, homemakersbar.com. Japp’s, 1134 Main St., Over-the-Rhine, jappsotr.com. Lost & Found, 22 E. 14th St., Over-the-Rhine, lostandfoundotr.com. *Editor’s note: Molly Wellmann recently sold Japp’s to 4EG.

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ARTS & ARTS & CULTURE CULTURE

Bootlegger George Remus is said to have inspired The Great Gatsby. P H OTO : P U B L I C D O M A I N

The Carnegie Brings Cincinnati Bootlegger The Carnegie Brings Cincinnati Bootlegger George Remus’ Story to Life in Covington George Remus’ Story toGatsby? Life in Covington Was Remus’ lavish life the inspiration for The Great BY R IRemus’ C K P E N Dlavish ER Was

life the inspiration for The Great Gatsby?

BY R I C K P E N D E R 16

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Maggie Perrino is The Carnegie’s theater director.

Mike Sherman portrays George Remus.

P H O T O : P R O V I D E D BY T H E C A R N E G I E

P H OTO : M I K K I S C H A F F N E R P H OTO G R A P H Y

Maggie Perrino is The Carnegie’s theater director.

T T

P H O T O : P R O V I D E D BY T H E C A R N E G I E

he outrageous life of bootlegger George Remus will be recounted he outrageous life of bootlegger onstage in August at The George Remus will be recounted Carnegie in Covington. The Carnegie’s onstage in August at The theater director Maggie Perrino is stagCarnegie in Covington. The Carnegie’s ing George Remus: A New Musical, one theater director Maggie Perrino is stagof three shows presented in a summer ing George Remus: A New Musical, one repertory season that includes Stephen of three shows presented in a summer Sondheim’s Into the Woods and Jonarepertory season that includes Stephen than Larson’s Rent. Sondheim’s Into the Woods and JonaPerrino tells CityBeat that she met than Larson’s Rent. composing team Mark Friedman and Perrino tells CityBeat that she met Janet Yates Vogt when she directed the composing team Mark Friedman and November 2017 production of their Janet Yates Vogt when she directed the musical Tenderly: The Rosemary ClooNovember 2017 production of their ney Musical at The Carnegie. musical Tenderly: The Rosemary Cloo“It was a really merry crew on that ney Musical at The Carnegie. show,” Perrino says. “They mentioned “It was a really merry crew on that they were working with local playshow,” Perrino says. “They mentioned wright Joe McDonough on a show they were working with local playabout George Remus.” She adds that wright Joe McDonough on a show she offered to give it a workshop at The about George Remus.” She adds that Carnegie, and they agreed. she offered to give it a workshop at The Perrino’s plan was to see how it Carnegie, and they agreed. worked with a reading in 2020; of Perrino’s plan was to see how it course, the worldwide pandemic made worked with a reading in 2020; of that impossible. But Perrino’s inventive course, the worldwide pandemic made management of theater offerings during that impossible. But Perrino’s inventive 2021 afforded another possibility. management of theater offerings during “We did a mini-season of short per2021 afforded another possibility. formances at the new Covington Plaza “We did a mini-season of short peron the Ohio River shore,” Perrino says. formances at the new Covington Plaza “Mark, Janet and Joe liked the idea of a on the Ohio River shore,” Perrino says. staged reading, and the location by the “Mark, Janet and Joe liked the idea of a Suspension Bridge made sense, since staged reading, and the location by the Remus’s bootlegging career was based Suspension Bridge made sense, since in Covington and Cincinnati, both visRemus’s bootlegging career was based ible from the plaza.” in Covington and Cincinnati, both visWith a dozen performers, Vogt on ible from the plaza.” piano with a drummer, and a bit of choWith a dozen performers, Vogt on reography, the reading happened twice piano with a drummer, and a bit of cholast August. reography, the reading happened twice “We had surprisingly good crowds last August. — 450 tickets were sold for each night. “We had surprisingly good crowds People seemed interested in Remus’s — 450 tickets were sold for each night. story, and we were able to see more of People seemed interested in Remus’s story, and we were able to see more of

what worked and what needed more work,” she says. what worked and what needed more Their refinements continued for work,” she says. another year — the show has had “some Their refinements continued for 20-odd drafts,” according to Perrino, another year — the show has had “some and now it’s ready for a full-fledged 20-odd drafts,” according to Perrino, performance this summer. and now it’s ready for a full-fledged Perrino didn’t know much about performance this summer. Remus before she began work on the Perrino didn’t know much about show. She says she learned that he died Remus before she began work on the in 1952 at age 74 in a modest home just show. She says she learned that he died a few blocks from The Carnegie. That in 1952 at age 74 in a modest home just was a significant comedown from his a few blocks from The Carnegie. That heyday in the 1920s when his megawas a significant comedown from his mansion “The Marble Palace,” located heyday in the 1920s when his megaat 8th and Hermosa in Price Hill, was mansion “The Marble Palace,” located the scene for legendary parties, in part at 8th and Hermosa in Price Hill, was due to its $100,000 indoor swimming the scene for legendary parties, in part pool. due to its $100,000 indoor swimming Remus showered his prestigious pool. guests with gifts, including diamond Remus showered his prestigious stickpins and brand-new cars, accordguests with gifts, including diamond ing to the Price Hill Historical Society. stickpins and brand-new cars, accordAlthough Remus was not a drinker, his ing to the Price Hill Historical Society. expansive Prohibition-era bootlegging Although Remus was not a drinker, his empire afforded him a lavish lifestyle. expansive Prohibition-era bootlegging According to various biographies empire afforded him a lavish lifestyle. and accounts, his life was full of ups According to various biographies and downs, coming to the United States and accounts, his life was full of ups from Germany as a child in 1882 and and downs, coming to the United States settling in Chicago. Remus earned a from Germany as a child in 1882 and pharmacy degree in 1897 but became settling in Chicago. Remus earned a a criminal defense attorney by 1902, pharmacy degree in 1897 but became making his name by defending a man a criminal defense attorney by 1902, in a sensational murder case. By 1920 making his name by defending a man Remus earned $500,000 annually with in a sensational murder case. By 1920 high-rolling clients. Remus earned $500,000 annually with When Prohibition was imposed in high-rolling clients. 1920, Remus’ legal knowledge paved When Prohibition was imposed in the way to an illicit career producing 1920, Remus’ legal knowledge paved and distributing alcohol under the the way to an illicit career producing guise of medicinal purposes. He moved and distributing alcohol under the to Cincinnati to be closer to whiskey guise of medicinal purposes. He moved manufacturers and built up a busito Cincinnati to be closer to whiskey ness with more than 3,000 employees. manufacturers and built up a busiRemus became a multi-millionaire ness with more than 3,000 employees. Remus became a multi-millionaire

Mike Sherman portrays George Remus.

P H OTO : M I K K I S C H A F F N E R P H OTO G R A P H Y

with a reputation as “The King of the Bootleggers, per a post from online with a reputation as “The King of the project Immigrant Entrepreneurship: Bootleggers, per a post from online German-American Business Biograproject Immigrant Entrepreneurship: phies, 1720 to the Present. German-American Business BiograRemus’ notorious career eventually phies, 1720 to the Present. landed him in prison. While he was Remus’ notorious career eventually incarcerated, his wife Imogene had an landed him in prison. While he was affair with an undercover prohibition incarcerated, his wife Imogene had an agent, and they pillaged his fortune. affair with an undercover prohibition Following Remus’s release, Imogene agent, and they pillaged his fortune. reportedly was on her way to the Following Remus’s release, Imogene courthouse to divorce him when he reportedly was on her way to the gunned her down in Eden Park near its courthouse to divorce him when he Victorian gazebo. Remus was acquitted gunned her down in Eden Park near its of murder under a temporary insanVictorian gazebo. Remus was acquitted ity defense, according to a post on the of murder under a temporary insanCincinnati Public Library’s website. ity defense, according to a post on the Remus’ history covers a lot of ground. Cincinnati Public Library’s website. But Perrino says Friedman and Vogt’s Remus’ history covers a lot of ground. score for George Remus: A New Musical But Perrino says Friedman and Vogt’s appropriately matches the era. score for George Remus: A New Musical “It’s in the style of Golden Age theater appropriately matches the era. with some lovely ballads and wistful “It’s in the style of Golden Age theater romantic songs. It also has a splash of with some lovely ballads and wistful Jazz-Age, post-Ragtime numbers,” Perromantic songs. It also has a splash of rino says. Jazz-Age, post-Ragtime numbers,” PerShe calls the show a “musical drama” rino says. about the astounding events of Remus’s She calls the show a “musical drama” life, adding “It’s a sensational story told about the astounding events of Remus’s as realistically as possible.” life, adding “It’s a sensational story told The Carnegie’s content advisory for as realistically as possible.” the show warns of “adult themes and The Carnegie’s content advisory for language” and adds that it is “not suitthe show warns of “adult themes and able for young children.” language” and adds that it is “not suit“Al Capone is in the show, and he able for young children.” certainly uses a bit of bad language,” “Al Capone is in the show, and he Perrino says. certainly uses a bit of bad language,” Mike Sherman, an actor and theater Perrino says. teacher at Walnut Hills High School, Mike Sherman, an actor and theater will play Remus, returning to the teacher at Walnut Hills High School, colorful role he filled in last summer’s will play Remus, returning to the workshop. He’s joined by Kate Mock colorful role he filled in last summer’s Elliott, another returning performer workshop. He’s joined by Kate Mock from 2021, in the key role of Mabel Elliott, another returning performer Walker Willebrandt, an assistant U.S. from 2021, in the key role of Mabel Walker Willebrandt, an assistant U.S.

attorney general in charge of Prohibition prosecution who doggedly pursued attorney general in charge of ProhibiRemus’s illegal activity. tion prosecution who doggedly pursued Kyle D. Taylor plays the tale’s narrator Remus’s illegal activity. as F. Scott Fitzgerald. As The Carnegie Kyle D. Taylor plays the tale’s narrator states in the synopsis of the show on its as F. Scott Fitzgerald. As The Carnegie website, it’s commonly believed that states in the synopsis of the show on its Remus was an inspiration for Fitzgerwebsite, it’s commonly believed that ald’s The Great Gatsby, the 1925 novel Remus was an inspiration for Fitzgerabout a mysterious millionaire with ald’s The Great Gatsby, the 1925 novel shady business connections. Perrino about a mysterious millionaire with says the narrator helps the audience shady business connections. Perrino follow Remus’s timeline, up to his death says the narrator helps the audience in the 1950s. follow Remus’s timeline, up to his death Perrino’s summer season with in the 1950s. shows in rotating repertory employs a Perrino’s summer season with single set that can be tailored for each shows in rotating repertory employs a production. single set that can be tailored for each “The set can easily be Remus’s wareproduction. house,” Perrino says. “We’re creating “The set can easily be Remus’s warehis mansion using great photography house,” Perrino says. “We’re creating from the era, and we use many other his mansion using great photography projections to indicate time and place, from the era, and we use many other for example as he moves from Chicago projections to indicate time and place, to Cincinnati in 1917 and to Covington for example as he moves from Chicago in the 1950s.” to Cincinnati in 1917 and to Covington Her reconfiguration of the season has in the 1950s.” reduced costs. It’s been a useful experiHer reconfiguration of the season has ment, she says. reduced costs. It’s been a useful experi“We’re learning as we go,” she says. ment, she says. “Subscriptions have been strong. You “We’re learning as we go,” she says. can still buy one in August and see all “Subscriptions have been strong. You three shows.” can still buy one in August and see all Perrino’s multi-show approach three shows.” has offered diverse opportunities for Perrino’s multi-show approach local theater performers and designhas offered diverse opportunities for ers training at University of Cincinlocal theater performers and designnati’s College-Conservatory of Music, ers training at University of CincinNorthern Kentucky University and nati’s College-Conservatory of Music, Xavier University. Lighting designers Northern Kentucky University and from CCM are providing sophisticated Xavier University. Lighting designers illumination for each production. from CCM are providing sophisticated illumination for each production. George Remus: A New Musical will run Aug. 13-28 at The Carnegie, 1028 Scott George Remus: A New Musical will Blvd., Covington. Info: thecarnegie.com. run Aug. 13-28 at The Carnegie, 1028 Scott Blvd., Covington. Info: thecarnegie.com.

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C I T Y B E AT. C O M

CULTURE

Milford’s PAUSE OFF Artist Collective Is Ready to Press Play BY K AT I E G R I F F IT H

(L-R) Chris Clements, Lindsey Clements and Noelle Dumont recently launched PAUSE OFF. P H O T O : K AT I E G R I F F I T H

ehind the colorful sliding doors of a historic barn on Wooster Pike in Milford, an explosion of contemporary art is thriving. The building’s interior walls are a conglomerate of wood, perfuming the space with scents of cedar and sandalwood. The Little Miami River rushes through the backyard, adding even more ambiance to the space. These cozy attributes are now home to the new artist collective PAUSE OFF, owned by three Milford natives who curated the vibrant space and installed five working studios plus a gallery. The collective’s name refers to hitting “play,” as in lifting a pause. As three friends from high school, PAUSE OFF’s owners materialized their dream of creating space for artists and for people to experience and make art. Husband and wife Lindsey and Chris Clements graduated from The Art Academy of Cincinnati with sculpting degrees, while Noelle Dumont is self-taught. The trio worked with collective members Sam Zachary and Corey Schultz to bring the space to life and promote a creative, functional gallery and studios. Together, the group represents artistic styles like sculpting, painting, pottery, quilting, writing and photography.

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PAUSE OFF opened to the public in May and is gearing up for a second gallery exhibition to open in August. “If you’re not paused, you’re playing. It’s an active place,” Lindsey Clements says of the meaning behind the name of the collective. “We’ve always dreamed of some sort of collective. We all have a shared interest in continuing to practice and make work all the time and in one building. We’ve rented studios before – lots of places – and so we’ve always liked the idea of working with multiple artists in one building, but we never had the space or knew where to find it.” It turns out, the space they’d hoped to discover has been a working part of their community since the 1900s. The barn housing PAUSE OFF served Milford as The Reihle Planing Company from 1930 until the mid ’60s, according to the Greater Milford Area Historical Society. Before that, it was a stable. The structure went on to house a local cabinet maker and woodworker. Carolyn Sue Johnston bought the barn in 2010 with the hopes of preserving it and giving it an artistic purpose. After she passed in 2018, the building went to her son, Adam Smith. That’s where Chris Clements and the vision for PAUSE OFF came in.

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Even though the collective didn’t aim to create sales, the outpouring of community support led to multiple transactions and private donations. Karen Dorn, a regular customer at The Governor — where Chris and Dumont work — attended the opening and bought a painting from Lindsey. “We felt that [Johnston] would have been so happy after the woodworker moved out that an artistic group moved in there,” says Darryl Donovan, barn landlord of four years and Johntson family friend. “She was very

much a person that believed in artistic expression.” “Chris was the first person I met when I moved to Milford, and he showed up one day and was talking to Adam about renting it,” Donovan continues. “And so Adam and I talked, and we both agreed that they were the perfect fit. Chris had this exuberance about what they wanted to do with it, and when they moved in, they did nothing but improve it.” The PAUSE OFF team has been renting the building for about two years now, but they’ve spent most of that time cleaning and renovating the space. They’ve built a few walls and put a lot of effort into clearing scrap wood, sawdust and rogue nails. The custom studio spaces are works of art themselves, each with its own personality and colorful flair. The open floor plan allows visitors to roam freely, but the different personalities of the artists are apparent when entering a new space. Shultz has cultivated a cozy corner of the barn – a tidy area with a typewriter and poetry on the walls. Dumont’s studio is adorned with organized fabric and yarn, some quilt plans above her desk and a collage of polaroids cascading from the ceiling.

The collective makes use of leftover wood planing machines that are too heavy to move; Dumont especially enjoys the one closest to her workspace, as it doubles perfectly as an iron for her fabric. “I think it’s just like with any old building – all the character and all the little bits of who’s walked here and why things are the way they are,” Chris Clements says. “It’s the only barn left in Old Milford. I think when you walk in, you feed off of all the things that have happened in here.” “It’s always been a functional building; it had a purpose of making things,” he continues. “Like, when it was a woodshop, it was planing boards for houses. It was being functionally important to the community. I think now [that] we are making something, we are giving the community art, we are feeding it in a different way.” PAUSE OFF opened its doors to the public on May 27 with the debut exhibit Refills, which honors the five members’ shared professional experience in the restaurant industry. Refills is still on view for a limited time.

Among the installations and textile art in the Refills exhibit, Lindsey Clement’s sculptures are the brightest of the bunch, literally. A deflated ball masked with reflective disco tiles and draped with neon-pink chains titled “Nothing Good Happens After 10 p.m.” hangs next to a one-of-a-kind pair of earrings called “Narry’s Nightmare Nails.” For that, the artist joined acrylic nails to create three-foot long, flamboyant earrings. The collective members already are well-known in Milford, having managed and served at local establishments like The Governor and 20 Brix. “Refills was a play on our roles in our jobs,” Chris Clements says. “And also like, here’s a refill, here’s something to refresh you. But it wasn’t a typical gallery show. We didn’t put up prices or anything like that. We really just wanted people to experience it. It was really just a taste of everybody’s aesthetic.” Even though the collective didn’t aim to create sales, the outpouring of community support led to multiple transactions and private donations. Karen Dorn, a regular customer at The

Governor — where Chris and Dumont work — attended the opening and bought a painting from Lindsey. “I feel like it’s a model that we don’t see very often here. I have some experience with the arts community here in Cincinnati. Pendelton is kind of a good example of a studio-slash-gallery workspace in Cincinnati, but when you get outside of the urban core, you are not seeing much of that,” Dorn says. “I think the concept fills a gap in the city but especially outside of downtown proper. Community-wise, it was incredible to me when we went out for the opening to see the number of people from the Milford community and elsewhere.” PAUSE OFF is part of Milford’s renaissance, with Main Street just around the corner seeing significant growth over the past few years thanks to the addition of Little Miami Brewing Company, various restaurants and shops and the 2019 creation of a Designated Outdoor Refreshment Area (DORA). “Milford is now becoming cool. It’s crazy,” Chris Clements says. “I’ve waited my whole life for it. You have nature everywhere, the river, this little

hometown Main Street with cute buildings. The community is really great, and if there’s more places like this, we get to keep those talented people here. If you would have seen Milford 10 years ago, the transformation is crazy.” The collective is preparing for its upcoming exhibition Body, an allfemale-identifying show that’s scheduled to open Aug. 19. Chris Clements says it is especially important to the collective to promote women’s points of view, with reproductive health and rights taking permanent spots in the current news cycle. PAUSE OFF is dedicated to hosting shows monthly, with an exception in winter. PAUSE OFF renovations will be completed in the coming year, and the space eventually will function as an art center that offers classes, summer camps and space for individual artists. PAUSE OFF. An Artist Collective is located at 24 Wooster Pike, Milford. For information about the artist collective and upcoming exhibitions, visit pauseoffanartistcollective.com.

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C I T Y B E AT. C O M

ONSTAGE ONSTAGE

C C

Cincinnati Chamber Orchestra’s Summermusik Festival is Cincinnati Chamber Orchestra’s Summermusik Festival Bringing Award-Winning Compositions to the Queen Cityis BY A N N E A R E NAward-Winning ST E I N Bringing Compositions to the Queen City BY A N N E A R E N ST E I N

incinnati Chamber Orchestra’s Summermusik festival is back incinnati Chamber Orchestra’s to liven August’s dog days with Summermusik festival is back a packed schedule of events. After a to liven August’s dog days with canceled 2020 season and abbrevia packed schedule of events. After a ated season performed outdoors in canceled 2020 season and abbrevi2021, CCO’s music director Eckart Preu ated season performed outdoors in shares every artistic director’s eager2021, CCO’s music director Eckart Preu ness to return to normal. shares every artistic director’s eager“I wanted a grand return to our ness to return to normal. indoor season,” Preu tells CityBeat, “I wanted a grand return to our speaking from his home in New York. indoor season,” Preu tells CityBeat, “Some of the pieces scheduled are speaking from his home in New York. familiar, arranged for chamber orches“Some of the pieces scheduled are tra or completely re-imagined. And familiar, arranged for chamber orcheswe’re also working with exciting new tra or completely re-imagined. And venues for our afternoon series and pub we’re also working with exciting new crawls.” venues for our afternoon series and pub Beyond classic works by Guscrawls.” tav Mahler, Hector Berlioz, Claude Beyond classic works by GusDebussy, and Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky, tav Mahler, Hector Berlioz, Claude Preu has selected music by women, Debussy, and Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky, Asian, Latino and Black composers, Preu has selected music by women, extending over four weekends. With Asian, Latino and Black composers, just one exception, every piece is a CCO extending over four weekends. With premiere. just one exception, every piece is a CCO The season is a sampler of world premiere. music ranging from sensuous tango, The season is a sampler of world water percussion and Bossa Nova to music ranging from sensuous tango, a battle of the bands. Each weekend water percussion and Bossa Nova to series includes a full orchestral concert a battle of the bands. Each weekend at the School for Creative and Performseries includes a full orchestral concert ing Arts, a Sunday afternoon concert at the School for Creative and Performand evening pub crawls, with many ing Arts, a Sunday afternoon concert events already sold out. and evening pub crawls, with many The sounds of Argentina and Peru events already sold out. open the season on Aug. 6, featuring The sounds of Argentina and Peru Grammy Award-winning musician open the season on Aug. 6, featuring and composer Héctor del Curto who Grammy Award-winning musician performs Astor Piazzolo’s vibrant conand composer Héctor del Curto who certo for bandoneon, Aconcagua. Tony performs Astor Piazzolo’s vibrant conwinner Fernanda Ghi and her partner certo for bandoneon, Aconcagua. Tony Silvio Grand take the stage, dancing to winner Fernanda Ghi and her partner three tangos by Piazzola. On Aug. 7, Del Silvio Grand take the stage, dancing to Curto, Ghi and Grand join a quintet of three tangos by Piazzola. On Aug. 7, Del CCO musicians at Mount Notre Dame Curto, Ghi and Grand join a quintet of Academy in Park Hills, Kentucky, for CCO musicians at Mount Notre Dame tango in a more intimate setting. Academy in Park Hills, Kentucky, for Harpist Ina Zdorovetchi headlines tango in a more intimate setting. a weekend of music on Aug. 13 and 14 Harpist Ina Zdorovetchi headlines that pushes the harp and the orchesa weekend of music on Aug. 13 and 14 tra out of the celestial spheres. She that pushes the harp and the orchesperforms Arturo Marquez’s Concerto for tra out of the celestial spheres. She Harp (Mascaras) and Gyorgy Liegeti’s performs Arturo Marquez’s Concerto for Concerto Romanesc. Harp (Mascaras) and Gyorgy Liegeti’s “This is not your average harp Concerto Romanesc. concerto,” Preu says. “Mascaras is very “This is not your average harp difficult and calls for a virtuoso, which concerto,” Preu says. “Mascaras is very Ina is. Audiences are amazed at what difficult and calls for a virtuoso, which the harp and this harpist can do.” Ina is. Audiences are amazed at what That may not be the only music the harp and this harpist can do.” to amaze audiences. The CCO will That may not be the only music perform Berlioz’s classic drug dream to amaze audiences. The CCO will Symphonie Fantastique that Preu calls perform Berlioz’s classic drug dream a funky reimagination arranged by Symphonie Fantastique that Preu calls French composer Arthur Lavandier on a funky reimagination arranged by French composer Arthur Lavandier on

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A performance by Hector Del Curto will open the festival. P H OTO : S E R G I O R . R E Y E S

Fernanda Ghi dances to three tangos during Summermusik. P H O T O : P R O V I D E D BY C I N C I N N AT I C H A M B E R O R C H E S T R A

Harpist Ina Zdorovetchi headlines a weekend of music. P H O T O : P R OV I D E D BY C I N C I N N AT I C H A M B E R O R C H E S T R A

Harpist Ina Zdorovetchi headlines a weekend of music.

P H O T O : P R OV I D E D BY C I N C I N N AT I C H A M B E R O R C H E S T R A

Percussionist Yuri Yamashita headlines one of CCO’s pub crawls.

Silvio Grand is Ghi’s tango partner.

P H O T O : P R O V I D E D BY C I N C I N N AT I C H A M B E R O R C H E S T R A

Percussionist Yuri Yamashita headlines one of CCO’s pub crawls.

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Silvio Grand is Ghi’s tango partner.

Acclaimed pianist Vijay Venkatesh will perform Clara Schumann’s Piano Concerto. P H O T O : P R O V I D E D BY C I N C I N N AT I C H A M B E R O R C H E S T R A

Aug. 13. The show will take place at the School for Creative & Performing Arts’ Aug. 13. The show will take place at the Corbett Theatre downtown. School for Creative & Performing Arts’ “With a smaller orchestra, the Corbett Theatre downtown. sound world opens up and you can “With a smaller orchestra, the hear more of the orchestral textures,” sound world opens up and you can Preu explains. “Lavandier includes a hear more of the orchestral textures,” synthesizer, an electric guitar, an amaPreu explains. “Lavandier includes a teur wind band joining the orchestra synthesizer, an electric guitar, an amaonstage and an alpine horn.” teur wind band joining the orchestra “The electric guitar solo fits in beautionstage and an alpine horn.” fully, as does the synthesizer. We’re “The electric guitar solo fits in beautibringing in a [University of Cincinnati fully, as does the synthesizer. We’re College-Conservatory of Music] alum bringing in a [University of Cincinnati living in Chicago to do the alpine horn College-Conservatory of Music] alum solo. It’s complicated but a lot of fun,” living in Chicago to do the alpine horn he adds. solo. It’s complicated but a lot of fun,” Harp wizardry continues during “A he adds. Little Afternoon Musik” series with Harp wizardry continues during “A selections inspired by works in the Little Afternoon Musik” series with CAM’s collection. selections inspired by works in the The Power of the Muse, performed CAM’s collection. at the School for Creative & PerformThe Power of the Muse, performed ing Arts’ Corbett Theatre on Aug. 20, at the School for Creative & Performexplores music written and inspired ing Arts’ Corbett Theatre on Aug. 20, by women. “There are such powerful explores music written and inspired stories associated with the muses we’re by women. “There are such powerful featuring, and it’s important to share stories associated with the muses we’re these stories,” Preu says. featuring, and it’s important to share “Lili Boulanger is one of music’s these stories,” Preu says. great losses—she died at 24 with so “Lili Boulanger is one of music’s much music in her. Clara Schumann great losses—she died at 24 with so maintained an astounding career as a much music in her. Clara Schumann pianist and her music is finally being maintained an astounding career as a heard,” he continues. “Fanny Mendelspianist and her music is finally being sohn Hensel, too, is recognized as an heard,” he continues. “Fanny Mendelsoutstanding performer and composer. sohn Hensel, too, is recognized as an And Alma Mahler is probably the most outstanding performer and composer. famous of musical muses.” And Alma Mahler is probably the most Clara Schumann’s Piano Concerto famous of musical muses.” in A minor will be performed by Clara Schumann’s Piano Concerto acclaimed pianist Vijay Venkatesh. in A minor will be performed by Soprano Victoria Okafor is the soloist acclaimed pianist Vijay Venkatesh. for a chamber arrangement of Mahler’s Soprano Victoria Okafor is the soloist Symphony No. 4. Both soloists appear for a chamber arrangement of Mahler’s Symphony No. 4. Both soloists appear

for a performance on Aug. 21 at Pleasant Ridge Presbyterian Church. for a performance on Aug. 21 at PleasLeading up to the Muse weekend is ant Ridge Presbyterian Church. a screening and discussion of the 2000 Leading up to the Muse weekend is film Chocolat that features a criticallya screening and discussion of the 2000 praised score by Rachel Portman. The film Chocolat that features a criticallylively discussion will take place at praised score by Rachel Portman. The Esquire Theatre in Clifton on Aug. 18. lively discussion will take place at Water is the final weekend’s Esquire Theatre in Clifton on Aug. 18. theme. Strauss’s The Blue Danube Water is the final weekend’s and Debussy’s La mer are joined by theme. Strauss’s The Blue Danube Chinese American composer Tan Dun’s and Debussy’s La mer are joined by Water Concerto and percussionist Yuri Chinese American composer Tan Dun’s Yamashita. Water Concerto and percussionist Yuri Yamashita also happens to sing bossa Yamashita. nova, a style of samba developed in Yamashita also happens to sing bossa Brazil. She headlines the final pub crawl nova, a style of samba developed in at the Redmoor on Aug. 26. The popular Brazil. She headlines the final pub crawl series ventures to new venues includat the Redmoor on Aug. 26. The popular ing the Newport Aquarium, New Riff series ventures to new venues includDistilling and Fretboard Brewing Coming the Newport Aquarium, New Riff pany. As of press time, the Aquarium Distilling and Fretboard Brewing Comand New Riff shows are sold out; check pany. As of press time, the Aquarium for availability. and New Riff shows are sold out; check Preu is confident that CCO’s musifor availability. cians will be on point for the return to a Preu is confident that CCO’s musipacked month of performances. Aside cians will be on point for the return to a from the high level of professionalism, packed month of performances. Aside there’s the vibe of a welcome family from the high level of professionalism, reunion, he says. there’s the vibe of a welcome family Preu admits that last year’s outdoor reunion, he says. experiences lacked the connection he Preu admits that last year’s outdoor wants for the orchestra, for audiences experiences lacked the connection he and for himself wants for the orchestra, for audiences “We’re not all the way back to norand for himself mal, not yet, but the feeling of together“We’re not all the way back to norness is one of the great special things mal, not yet, but the feeling of togetherabout this orchestra. I’m really looking ness is one of the great special things forward to that,” Preu says. about this orchestra. I’m really looking forward to that,” Preu says. CCO’s Summermusik festival takes place from Aug. 6-27 at various locations CCO’s Summermusik festival takes throughout the Greater Cincinnati place from Aug. 6-27 at various locations area. Complete schedule and ticket throughout the Greater Cincinnati information: www.ccocincinnati.org. area. Complete schedule and ticket information: www.ccocincinnati.org.

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FOOD FOOD & DRINK & DRINK

Cocktail bar Anjou is located in East Walnut Hills.

Head to East Walnut Hills’ Branch for inventive pasta dish

P H OTO : H A I L E Y B O L L I N G E R

Cocktail bar Anjou is located in East Walnut Hills.

Head to East Walnut Hills’ Branch for inventive pasta dish

O’Bryonville’s The Bonbonerie is one of the most beloved bakeries in Cincinnati. P H O T O : FA C E B O O K . C O M / B O N B O N E R I E

O’Bryonville’s The Bonbonerie is one of the most beloved bakeries in Cincinnati.

Madison Road Features Top Dining Destinations Madison Road Features Dining Destinations A stretch between East Walnut Hills and O’BryonvilleTop offers inventive meals, desserts and drinks.

P H O T O : FA C E B O O K . C O M / B O N B O N E R I E

R V I E W BYbetween PA M A M IT C H EWalnut LL AEstretch East

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R E V I E W BY PA M A M IT C H E L L adison Road – a major artery in Cincinnati – runs adison Road – a major from Victory Parkway in artery in Cincinnati – runs Avondale out to Madisonville, passing from Victory Parkway in through many neighborhoods along Avondale out to Madisonville, passing the way. And on a particular one-mile through many neighborhoods along section between East Walnut Hills and the way. And on a particular one-mile O’Bryonville, locals can find some of section between East Walnut Hills and the best eats and drinks in town. O’Bryonville, locals can find some of Here, there are a couple of wine the best eats and drinks in town. bars, a cocktail lounge, sweet treats, Here, there are a couple of wine creative burgers, excellent coffee, bars, a cocktail lounge, sweet treats, authentic Asian and South Americreative burgers, excellent coffee, can food and a young chef producauthentic Asian and South Ameriing inventive pasta dishes for every can food and a young chef producseason. ing inventive pasta dishes for every season.

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Hills and O’Bryonville offers inventive meals, desserts and drinks.

That would be Alessandro Urbisci, executive chef at Branch (1535 MadiThat would be Alessandro Urbisci, son Rd., eatatbranch.com) since last executive chef at Branch (1535 Madifall. His pasta creations range from son Rd., eatatbranch.com) since last light and refreshing to hearty and fall. His pasta creations range from filling, always with a careful eye on light and refreshing to hearty and the season. Summer menu standfilling, always with a careful eye on outs include gnocchi with sun-dried the season. Summer menu standtomato pesto, house ricotta and outs include gnocchi with sun-dried preserved lemon, as well as spinach tomato pesto, house ricotta and tagliatelle sauced with gorgonzola, preserved lemon, as well as spinach braised pork and toasty breadcrumbs tagliatelle sauced with gorgonzola, gently seasoned with Calabrian chili. braised pork and toasty breadcrumbs The latter is plate-licking good. gently seasoned with Calabrian chili. Urbisci has a talent for sauces of all The latter is plate-licking good. kinds, and not only on pasta dishes. Urbisci has a talent for sauces of all kinds, and not only on pasta dishes.

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Even the whipped balsamic butter served with toasted bread from Allez Even the whipped balsamic butter Bakery had us asking for more. And served with toasted bread from Allez I loved the tomato-based concocBakery had us asking for more. And tion that accompanied an entrée I loved the tomato-based concocof branzino, although I would have tion that accompanied an entrée preferred the fish filet served whole of branzino, although I would have rather than cut up into pieces. New preferred the fish filet served whole York strip steak and pork ribs are two rather than cut up into pieces. New meaty main courses, if you’re looking York strip steak and pork ribs are two for something more substantial. meaty main courses, if you’re looking Across from Branch on Madison is for something more substantial. another highly regarded eatery, the Across from Branch on Madison is Japanese restaurant and bakery Café another highly regarded eatery, the Mochiko (1524 Madison Rd., cafeJapanese restaurant and bakery Café mochiko.com). Running for less than Mochiko (1524 Madison Rd., cafemochiko.com). Running for less than

a year, the bakery often attracts long lines on the four mornings a week the a year, the bakery often attracts long walk-up window is open. With the lines on the four mornings a week the easing of COVID-19 pandemic restricwalk-up window is open. With the tions, the café itself usually is availeasing of COVID-19 pandemic restricable, as well, if you want to sit and tions, the café itself usually is availscarf up some of the sweet and savory able, as well, if you want to sit and treats along with a cup of strong cofscarf up some of the sweet and savory fee or other drink. treats along with a cup of strong cofThe ube halaya croissant that bursts fee or other drink. with purple yam jam and cream is The ube halaya croissant that bursts killer, and it’s so large and decadent with purple yam jam and cream is that I’ve always had to cut it into slices killer, and it’s so large and decadent and share with at least one other perthat I’ve always had to cut it into slices son. During evenings, Mochiko serves and share with at least one other perwhat its website calls “Japanese café son. During evenings, Mochiko serves what its website calls “Japanese café

O’Bryonville’s Bean & Barley is a neighborhood staple for coffee and drinks. P H O T O : FA C E B O O K . C O M / B E A N A N D B A R L E YO B R YO N V I L L E

e pasta dishes.

Obryonville’s Ché Empanadas y Mas features empanadas. P H O T O : FA C E B O O K . C O M / C H E C I N C I N N AT I

Symposium is one of the newest additions to Madison Road. P H OTO : H A I L E Y B O L L I N G E R

fare,” from excellent ramen to an entree I loved called Shitake Don—a tasty fare,” from excellent ramen to an entree mushroom dish served over Tamaki I loved called Shitake Don—a tasty Gold rice. mushroom dish served over Tamaki The newest addition to this stretch of Gold rice. Madison is a corner café called SympoThe newest addition to this stretch of sium (2835 Woodburn Ave., symposiumMadison is a corner café called Sympocafe.com). Helmed by chef Aaron Owen, sium (2835 Woodburn Ave., symposiumSymposium bills itself as a cantina as cafe.com). Helmed by chef Aaron Owen, well as a wine bar. It’s only been around Symposium bills itself as a cantina as for a couple of months and recently well as a wine bar. It’s only been around closed for two weeks to give staff a for a couple of months and recently summer vacation while Owen went closed for two weeks to give staff a overseas for his wedding and to tour summer vacation while Owen went overseas for his wedding and to tour

Italian wine regions. Owen has been experimenting with Italian wine regions. a variety of small plates to accompany Owen has been experimenting with daytime coffee drinks and evening a variety of small plates to accompany libations. I’ve enjoyed a few of the daytime coffee drinks and evening house cocktails but was disappointed libations. I’ve enjoyed a few of the in the small selection of wines by the house cocktails but was disappointed glass. Symposium has a lot going for in the small selection of wines by the it, including a large covered patio and glass. Symposium has a lot going for well designed indoor seating. But the it, including a large covered patio and “wine bar” label may not apply if, as well designed indoor seating. But the we discovered one Friday night, an “wine bar” label may not apply if, as establishment offers only one red, one we discovered one Friday night, an white and a Prosecco by the glass. establishment offers only one red, one white and a Prosecco by the glass.

Japanese restaurant and bakery Café Mochiko has a notable ube halaya croissant. P H OTO : M AG G Y M C D O N E L

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Hello Honey recently opened its East Walnut Hills location. P H O T O : FA C E B O O K . C O M / H E L L O H O N E Y I C E C R E A M

For what I think of as a true wine bar experience, head a mile east to O’Bryonville and try Tim Shumrick’s new bar and retail wine shop, Annata (2021 Madison Rd., searchable on social media). Shumrick spent the past year or more renovating and updating the building that once housed Chateau Pomije, which he also owned. At Annata, you can select from a couple dozen wines by the glass or bottle, with or without cheese, Mediterranean or charcuterie plates. House-smoked meats and fish add a special touch to those plates. Create your own wine flight by choosing three three-ounce pours of any of the wines on the list. I found the staff to be knowledgeable not only about the glass pours but also when we browsed the adjacent retail room. You can sit inside in the air conditioning or on a pleasant elevated back deck on the shadier side of the building. The best-known place in O’Bryonville has to be The BonBonerie (2030 Madison Rd., bonbonnerie.com), possibly the most famous bakery in Cincinnati. Co-owned by Mary Pat Pace and Sharon Butler for more than 30 years, BonBonerie’s opera cream torte has graced many tables for birthdays, anniversaries and other occasions. I remember my best friend and I took our mothers to Bonbonerie for afternoon tea with all the trimmings 15 or 20 years ago, and you can still do that in the BonBonerie Café and Tearoom. The holiday goodies are phenomenal, for Thanksgiving, Christmas, Hanukkah or Easter. Brunch/ lunch is served six days a week, so it doesn’t have to be a special occasion to partake. Another recent addition is the O’Bryonville location of Over-theRhine’s empanadas house, Ché Empanadas y Mas (3009 O’Bryon St.,

cheempsymas.com). The business has done a beautiful job transforming the interior of a nondescript building into a truly convivial restaurant and bar. One of my favorite café/bar combos is Bean & Barley (2005½ Madison Rd., beanandbarley.co), also in O’Bryonville. About a year before the COVID-19 pandemic, a couple of local entrepreneurs gutted and renovated the B&B building on Madison, creating an open, airy space with outdoor seating and a thoroughly modern ambiance. It’s a pleasant place to hang out, and the emphasis on what its website calls “the craftmanship of local coffee roasters, brewers, bakers and artists” definitely adds to its charms. Bean & Barley is one of those neighborhood places you wish was in your ‘hood and that you will go out of your way for when the opportunity arises. Also of note is a new branch of the ice cream shop Hello Honey (1530 Madison Rd., hellohoneyicecream. com), which closed a downtown location around the time it opened in East Walnut Hills. I’ve learned not to fall in love with a particular flavor there because the flavors change with lightning speed. I’ve also learned to have them pack a pint or two of a heartthrob flavor. Heyday (1527 Madison Rd., heyday. menu), next door to Branch, dishes out burgers, fries, and slices of seriously good pie – as you’d expect from an establishment hailing from the owners of O Pie O. Around the corner on Woodburn, check out the classy little cocktail bar Anjou (2804 Woodburn Ave., anjoucinci.com) as well as Woodburn Brewing (2800 Woodburn Ave., woodburnbrewing.com), which along with highly regarded beer also features spirits made by Cincinnati Distilling plus a terrific cocktail list.

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EATS EATS

Cincinnati Restaurateurs Reluctantly Weave Inflation Cincinnati Restaurateurs into Ordering, Pricing Reluctantly Weave Inflation BY S E AOrdering, N M . P E T E RS Pricing into BY S E A N M . P E T E RS

Jose Salazar is a James Beard Award-nominated chef and owner of many Queen City establishments, including Goose & Elder and Salazar Restaurant. P H O T O : G I N A W E AT H E R S BY

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rices are up just about everywhere these days and, as rices are up just about everya result, the effects range where these days and, as from mildly irritating to downright a result, the effects range untenable. from mildly irritating to downright Yes, gasoline prices have increased untenable. nearly 60% over a 12-months period, Yes, gasoline prices have increased but American spending also has been nearly 60% over a 12-months period, hit hard at the grocery store, where but American spending also has been overall food costs have risen by 10.4%, hit hard at the grocery store, where the most significant annual rise since overall food costs have risen by 10.4%, 1981, according to data that the U.S. the most significant annual rise since Bureau of Lator Statistics released July 1981, according to data that the U.S. 13. Bureau of Lator Statistics released July Consumers across the board are 13. affected when food costs more at the Consumers across the board are grocery store, but local restaurateurs affected when food costs more at the face difficulty on a much larger scale in grocery store, but local restaurateurs an industry known for razor-thin profit face difficulty on a much larger scale in margins. Below, three notable Queen an industry known for razor-thin profit City culinary tastemakers tell CityBeat margins. Below, three notable Queen about how they’re navigating steep City culinary tastemakers tell CityBeat inflation. about how they’re navigating steep inflation.

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JOSE SALAZAR Jose Salazar has earned the respect JOSE SALAZAR and admiration of Cincinnati diners Jose Salazar has earned the respect and beyond with his culinary talent, and admiration of Cincinnati diners managing some of the city’s most and beyond with his culinary talent, highly acclaimed restaurants. The managing some of the city’s most James Beard Award-nominated chef highly acclaimed restaurants. The soon will open Daylily, a coffee-deliJames Beard Award-nominated chef bodega in Columbia Tusculum and is soon will open Daylily, a coffee-delithe proprietor of Mita’s (Spanish-style bodega in Columbia Tusculum and is tapas and ceviche), Goose & Elder the proprietor of Mita’s (Spanish-style (old-school American) and the titular tapas and ceviche), Goose & Elder Salazar Restaurant (inventive-yet(old-school American) and the titular familiar takes on farm-fresh seasonal Salazar Restaurant (inventive-yetingredients). familiar takes on farm-fresh seasonal “We’re really not turning a profit. It’s ingredients). because of the increased cost of goods “We’re really not turning a profit. It’s and labor — basically, everything. You because of the increased cost of goods need a piece of equipment repaired? and labor — basically, everything. You It’s 30% more than it was a year or need a piece of equipment repaired? two ago. You need a new refrigerator, It’s 30% more than it was a year or it’s 50%. It’s all related,” Salazar tells two ago. You need a new refrigerator, CityBeat. “Gas prices, for the labor, it’s 50%. It’s all related,” Salazar tells for those folks that are making the CityBeat. “Gas prices, for the labor, for those folks that are making the

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fridges and repairing the fridges, all those things are coupled with the cost fridges and repairing the fridges, all of goods for us in our business. So, it’s those things are coupled with the cost super, super difficult.” of goods for us in our business. So, it’s How to handle the increased cost super, super difficult.” of goods is tricky and can be a matter How to handle the increased cost of optics, Salazar says. After talking of goods is tricky and can be a matter with other local chefs, he says there’s of optics, Salazar says. After talking a lot of hesitation to significantly raise with other local chefs, he says there’s prices to meet cost of goods and labor a lot of hesitation to significantly raise because restaurateurs risk pricing prices to meet cost of goods and labor themselves out of the market. because restaurateurs risk pricing “It’s a terrible Catch-22 because themselves out of the market. we’re basically operating net or at “It’s a terrible Catch-22 because a loss in many cases, and the prices we’re basically operating net or at should be substantially higher,” Salaa loss in many cases, and the prices zar says. “But I get it as a consumer should be substantially higher,” Salamyself. It’s not like us restaurant zar says. “But I get it as a consumer tourists don’t go out to eat and don’t myself. It’s not like us restaurant go to the grocery store and don’t go tourists don’t go out to eat and don’t to the gas tank and all that stuff. So, go to the grocery store and don’t go we totally understand that sticker to the gas tank and all that stuff. So, shock when you go into a restaurant we totally understand that sticker and see a $30 entree or you see an shock when you go into a restaurant and see a $30 entree or you see an

$18 sandwich. The reality is that $18 sandwich should be a $24 sandwich in $18 sandwich. The reality is that $18 order for us to be profitable.” sandwich should be a $24 sandwich in Salazar says he has had to shop order for us to be profitable.” around a lot more to find reasonable Salazar says he has had to shop prices for ingredients, especially with around a lot more to find reasonable his menus’ emphasis on quality fresh prices for ingredients, especially with fish. While Salazar previously was his menus’ emphasis on quality fresh able to depend on various sources fish. While Salazar previously was consistently, he’s now directly dealing able to depend on various sources with fishers in Florida and on the East consistently, he’s now directly dealing Coast for the best prices, meaning with fishers in Florida and on the East he’s putting more work into procuring Coast for the best prices, meaning the same standard of ingredients he’s he’s putting more work into procuring known for. the same standard of ingredients he’s known for.

HIDEKI “KIKI” HARADA

HIDEKI “KIKI” HARADA Hideki Harada is owner and chef of the ramen and Japanese comfort food Hideki Harada is owner and chef of spot Kiki College Hill and proprietor the ramen and Japanese comfort food of the newly opened Sen by Kiki, a spot Kiki College Hill and proprietor fish stand at Findlay Market. Harada of the newly opened Sen by Kiki, a mentions cost-related issues raised by fish stand at Findlay Market. Harada mentions cost-related issues raised by

Salazar and notes that food distributors have increased the minimum Salazar and notes that food distribucost of orders to be delivered to the tors have increased the minimum restaurant. cost of orders to be delivered to the “The heartache I have with some of restaurant. my old purveyors is, all of a sudden, “The heartache I have with some of they [previously] had a $150 minimy old purveyors is, all of a sudden, mum; it now is, like, a $300 minimum. they [previously] had a $150 miniAnd I’m not going to be able to do mum; it now is, like, a $300 minimum. that,” Harada says. “At Kiki, we’re a And I’m not going to be able to do 65-seat restaurant. We’re not going to that,” Harada says. “At Kiki, we’re a meet those minimums every day or 65-seat restaurant. We’re not going to every week. I can’t just buy everything meet those minimums every day or at the beginning of the week and then every week. I can’t just buy everything have my fingers crossed to sell everyat the beginning of the week and then thing by the end of the week. We can’t have my fingers crossed to sell everyrely on that.” thing by the end of the week. We can’t As a result of those high-priced rely on that.” minimum orders, Harada and ownAs a result of those high-priced ers/chefs at other similarly sized minimum orders, Harada and ownrestaurants have had to disengage ers/chefs at other similarly sized with several companies they once restaurants have had to disengage depended upon for ingredients. with several companies they once Harada figures the distributors have depended upon for ingredients. increased the minimums because of Harada figures the distributors have a shortage of delivery drivers coupled increased the minimums because of with higher gas prices, and the “little a shortage of delivery drivers coupled guys” have no chance to compete with with higher gas prices, and the “little larger corporate restaurants. guys” have no chance to compete with “They just keep feeding the big larger corporate restaurants. giants and then little people just “They just keep feeding the big resort to [buying] from local places. giants and then little people just Maybe we’re paying a little more resort to [buying] from local places. premium, but you can also handpick Maybe we’re paying a little more your items as well. So there might be premium, but you can also handpick a good trade off,” Harada says. “It’s your items as well. So there might be turning into, I think, a more locala good trade off,” Harada says. “It’s ized economy when you have these turning into, I think, a more localproblems that happen. It makes sense ized economy when you have these for me to just walk over to Roth Proproblems that happen. It makes sense duce to grab lemons. It’s great to have for me to just walk over to Roth Prothis little ecosystem here. And, you duce to grab lemons. It’s great to have know, I know a lot of other vendors or this little ecosystem here. And, you businesses do the same thing, so it’s know, I know a lot of other vendors or kind of cool. It might be a little more businesses do the same thing, so it’s expensive than buying half a case of kind of cool. It might be a little more lemons and sitting on it, but I get to expensive than buying half a case of pick every lemon that I use. Somelemons and sitting on it, but I get to times [distributors] would deliver a pick every lemon that I use. Somerotten case and you can’t do anything times [distributors] would deliver a with that.” rotten case and you can’t do anything with that.”

RYAN MORGAN

RYAN MORGAN Head baker for Sixteen Bricks Bakery, which has provided nationally Head baker for Sixteen Bricks Bakacclaimed artisanal bread for the past ery, which has provided nationally eleven years, Ryan Morgan also is acclaimed artisanal bread for the past opening a bakery/pizzeria in College eleven years, Ryan Morgan also is Hill called El Camino in the restaurant opening a bakery/pizzeria in College space formerly occupied by Red Rose Hill called El Camino in the restaurant Jems Pizzeria. space formerly occupied by Red Rose According to the U.S. Bureau of Jems Pizzeria. Labor Statistics, the price of flour has According to the U.S. Bureau of risen by nearly 20%, but Morgan is Labor Statistics, the price of flour has risen by nearly 20%, but Morgan is

Hideki Harada owns Kiki College Hill and Sen by Kiki. P H OTO : M AG G Y M C D O N E L

staying a step ahead with the ability to mill his own grain. staying a step ahead with the ability to “Flour — white commodity bullshit mill his own grain. flour — is now more expensive than “Flour — white commodity bullshit whole grain grown in Kentucky,” says flour — is now more expensive than Morgan, who is a proponent for eating whole grain grown in Kentucky,” says locally. “[Inflation] is an interesting Morgan, who is a proponent for eating opportunity because I can keep prices locally. “[Inflation] is an interesting down while feeding people real food.” opportunity because I can keep prices Morgan says that commercially down while feeding people real food.” available white flour from grocery Morgan says that commercially stores loses all of the unique flavor available white flour from grocery profiles that are found in stone milled stores loses all of the unique flavor whole grains and that commodity profiles that are found in stone milled flour’s nutrition is diminished as a whole grains and that commodity result of processing. He also notes flour’s nutrition is diminished as a that local agriculture isn’t as seriously result of processing. He also notes affected by international crises. that local agriculture isn’t as seriously “It’s a huge opportunity to get affected by international crises. people back to understanding what “It’s a huge opportunity to get comes from me, rather than what people back to understanding what comes from the fucking Ukraine on a comes from me, rather than what boat,” Morgan says. comes from the fucking Ukraine on a While Morgan’s business relies on boat,” Morgan says. much more than just flour, the price While Morgan’s business relies on of locally produced goods is not as much more than just flour, the price devastatingly inflated as items that of locally produced goods is not as depend upon frequent or long-disdevastatingly inflated as items that tance transportation, he says. depend upon frequent or long-distance transportation, he says. Salazar, 1401 Republic St., Over-the-Rhine, salazarcincinnati.com Salazar, 1401 Republic St., Kiki College Hill, 5932 Hamilton Over-the-Rhine, salazarcincinnati.com Ave., College Hill, kikicincinnati.com Kiki College Hill, 5932 Hamilton Sixteen Bricks Bakery, 4760-B Ave., College Hill, kikicincinnati.com Paddock Road, Bond Hill, Sixteen Bricks Bakery, 4760-B sixteenbricks.com Paddock Road, Bond Hill, sixteenbricks.com

Ryan Morgan is head baker for Sixteen Bricks Bakery. P H O T O : A A R O N C O N W AY

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EATS

Sip, Swirl and Savor at Annata Wine Bar in O’Bryonville BY B R I A N C RO S S

Annata Wine Bar and Cellar offers 25 wines by the glass, craft beer and light bites. P H OTO S : M AG G Y M C D O N E L

incinnati is not as well known for its wine production as it is its beer, but thirsty locals are cultivating a maturing wine scene that has seen some great additions recently. In May, a local wine veteran popped the cork on his new venture, Annata Wine Bar and Cellar in O’Bryonville. Owner Tim Shumrick has been in the wine industry for 40 years in the roles of restaurant and wine shop owner, distributor’s sales rep and retail manager. Notably, he owned and operated the wine shop and restaurant Chateau Pomije for over 30 years in the same space as Annata. Eventually, Shumrick wanted a change of pace.

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“After being in the restaurant business for many years, I got burned out on it and I sold the business to The Art of Entertaining,” Shumrick tells CityBeat by email. “They occupied the space for about 15 years until COVID19 came along and put an end to that.” Since Shumrick owned the building, he was left with a couple of empty storefronts and no prospective tenants. Falling back on what had worked before, he decided to revive the retail wine shop concept, opting for a wine bar in the additional space instead of a full restaurant. “My concept has been all along that I want it to be a neighborhood stop – more along the lines of a wine

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Cheers-type place,” he says, referring to the 1980’s TV sitcom bar “where everybody knows your name.” Annata’s bar currently features about 25 wines by the glass plus a few craft beers and bottled domestic beers. To make the lineup, Shumrick says they not only have to taste great but also should represent the varietal well and be a good value. “We taste everything that we put on the bar and select them due to the quality, value and uniqueness of the wine, like the Voché Reserva,” Shumrick explains. The wine he mentions [Voché Reserva Rioja 2014] is a Spanish red made from 100% graciano, an

uncommon grape from the Rioja region that’s even more rare to find bottled on its own. The wine is not just unique; it also represents a fantastic value at $15.99 per bottle. Enjoy a glass of it at the bar for $11. Shrumick enjoys the thrill of the hunt for these interesting and affordable wines, and he wants to share that experience with his customers. “It would be easy to just pour expensive wines that all taste great, but the fun part is finding that value wine that no one has ever heard of,” Shumrick says. Patrons don’t have to choose only one wine at a time. Annata’s Wine Flight provides 3-ounce servings of three

Cheese plates and charcuterie boards are big draws at Annata. P H OTO : M AG G Y M C D O N E L

Visitors are encouraged to meander the bar and connected retail shop while sipping their libations of choice. wines for $15. Wines by the glass also are offered in 6- or 9-ounce pours, with 6-ounce glasses ranging $9-$14 and the larger servings ranging $13-$20. The main space features a large U-shaped bar crowned by an array of stemware hanging above the center. Visitors are encouraged to meander the bar and connected retail shop while sipping their libations of choice. There’s also a roomy two-level patio at the rear that’s perfect for socializing. Shumrick says the retail shop offers over 400 different wines and that the collection eventually will grow to more than 500. The food menu at Annata mostly is limited to items that require no cooking, except for a couple of grilled or smoked ingredients. Shumrick chooses the food options with the same care that goes into choosing wines. “The charcuterie boards are made in house with a focus on using as much local Salami, cheese and produce as possible,” he says. “Currently, I’m doing the boards with one other person in the kitchen.”

The cheese plate features a selection of local cheeses from the likes of Kenny’s Farmhouse in Austin, Kentucky, and Capriole Farm in Greenville, Indiana. A whole sliced baguette accompanies the cheeses, along with figs, dried cranberries, olives, cornichons, pistachios and membrillo ($19.95). The charcuterie board includes the same bites as the cheese plate plus a couple of local meats and a mustard ($24.95). Shumrick says the selections aren’t set in stone, and patrons can expect new flavors from week to week. Shumrick says the Mediterranean platter was a crowd pleaser at Chateau Pomije, so he brought it back for Annata. The shareable spread consists of house-made hummus, baba ganoush, Feta cheese, Greek olives, grilled vegetables and toasted pita ($14.95). A tossed salad with optional meat addition ($5.95/$11.95) and a rotating local dessert ($8.95) round out the food menu. The new concept is catching on with the neighborhood locals, Shumrick says. “They have been watching [the bar] being built for the last year, and they want their ‘own’ wine bar,” he says. “People have been very excited about it and think it’s a great addition to the neighborhood.” Annata Wine Bar, 2021 Madison Rd., O’Bryonville. Info: annatawinebar.com.

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MUSIC MUSIC

Arlo McKinley P H O T O : E M M A D E L E VA N T E

Arlo McKinley Ends His Bad Luck with Arlo McKinley Ends His Bad Luck with This Mess We’re In This Messstreak, We’re In singer/songwriter’s latest album is something special. After an unfortunate the Cincinnati BY B R an I A Nunfortunate BA K E R After

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BY B R I A N BA K E R

streak, the Cincinnati singer/songwriter’s latest album is something special.

incinnati-born musician Arlo McKinley has been guided by incinnati-born musician Arlo one rule, a subset of Murphy’s McKinley has been guided by Law that could be dubbed McKinley’s one rule, a subset of Murphy’s Codicil: If something good happens, Law that could be dubbed McKinley’s expect a swift kick in the teeth to follow. Codicil: If something good happens, McKinley’s 2022 album This Mess expect a swift kick in the teeth to follow. We’re In seems to turn the bad luck McKinley’s 2022 album This Mess around, but the musician had a hard We’re In seems to turn the bad luck run once he landed at the record label around, but the musician had a hard of his dreams. run once he landed at the record label After endless local, regional and of his dreams. national gigging in the wake of 2014’s After endless local, regional and national gigging in the wake of 2014’s

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debut release Arlo McKinley & the Lonesome Sound, a series of fortunate events debut release Arlo McKinley & the Lonebegan to unfold. McKinley had just some Sound, a series of fortunate events recorded his sophomore album, 2020’s began to unfold. McKinley had just Die Midwestern, and was considering a recorded his sophomore album, 2020’s self release when he received a call from Die Midwestern, and was considering a Jody Whelan, the son of John Prine and self release when he received a call from Fiona Whelan Prine and the head of his Jody Whelan, the son of John Prine and father’s Oh Boy Records. Whelan had Fiona Whelan Prine and the head of his heard McKinley’s music and asked him father’s Oh Boy Records. Whelan had to play Nashville’s annual AmericanaFheard McKinley’s music and asked him est, which turned out to be a major to play Nashville’s annual AmericanaFturning point. est, which turned out to be a major turning point.

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“John Prine had a little pop-up bar for the weekend, and Jody invited me “John Prine had a little pop-up bar down for one of the nights,” McKinley for the weekend, and Jody invited me tells CityBeat during a phone interdown for one of the nights,” McKinley view. “I did the show and met Jody, tells CityBeat during a phone interbut I didn’t believe they were thinking view. “I did the show and met Jody, anything of it. I was thinking, ‘That was but I didn’t believe they were thinking a cool thing to do.’” anything of it. I was thinking, ‘That was “Some time went by, and there was a cool thing to do.’” talk that my music got passed along to “Some time went by, and there was John and there was interest in working talk that my music got passed along to together. I still didn’t let myself get too John and there was interest in working overboard excited [then],” McKinley together. I still didn’t let myself get too overboard excited [then],” McKinley

continues. McKinley needn’t have worried at continues. that point; he signed a contract with McKinley needn’t have worried at Oh Boy on his birthday in 2019 after that point; he signed a contract with meeting with the label’s brain trust at a Oh Boy on his birthday in 2019 after gig at the High Watt in Nashville. meeting with the label’s brain trust at a It was a classic McKinley moment. gig at the High Watt in Nashville. “Jody introduced me to his mom It was a classic McKinley moment. and I knew she was a part of Oh Boy, “Jody introduced me to his mom so I wanted to be attentive to our and I knew she was a part of Oh Boy, conversation. Finally Jody said, ‘Well, I so I wanted to be attentive to our would introduce you but I don’t think conversation. Finally Jody said, ‘Well, I he needs an introduction,’” McKinley would introduce you but I don’t think he needs an introduction,’” McKinley

recalls. “Then I realized John [Prine] had been standing next to me the recalls. “Then I realized John [Prine] entire time. I almost freaked out.” had been standing next to me the “He told me that ‘Bag of Pills’ was a entire time. I almost freaked out.” good song, and then he said, ‘I’m really “He told me that ‘Bag of Pills’ was a looking forward to seeing you play,;” good song, and then he said, ‘I’m really McKinley adds. “People ask if I have looking forward to seeing you play,;” any John Prine stories and I don’t – just McKinley adds. “People ask if I have that one and that’s good enough. The any John Prine stories and I don’t – just fact that he came out to see me that that one and that’s good enough. The night – I don’t think I’ll have a thing fact that he came out to see me that that I will look at as more successful night – I don’t think I’ll have a thing than that.” that I will look at as more successful After becoming an Oh Boy artist, than that.” Prine and Whelan offered McKinley After becoming an Oh Boy artist, the choice of re-recording Die MidPrine and Whelan offered McKinley western or releasing it as it was. He the choice of re-recording Die Midchose to hit the studio, saying that he western or releasing it as it was. He wanted to work with studio musicians chose to hit the studio, saying that he and a producer. wanted to work with studio musicians “They were throwing out producers’ and a producer. names – some were well known, some “They were throwing out producers’ names – some were well known, some

were not. One was Matt Ross-Spang. I looked into him and realized he had were not. One was Matt Ross-Spang. engineered a lot of albums I was listenI looked into him and realized he had ing to. He’d done a lot of Jason Isbell engineered a lot of albums I was listenstuff, and he won a Grammy for his ing to. He’d done a lot of Jason Isbell work with Margo Price,” McKinley says. stuff, and he won a Grammy for his “We ended up at Sam Phillips Recordwork with Margo Price,” McKinley says. ing in Memphis with Matt as producer, “We ended up at Sam Phillips Recordand he put together an amazing studio ing in Memphis with Matt as producer, band, and that was that.” and he put together an amazing studio But then McKinley’s “rule” reared its band, and that was that.” ugly head. In rapid succession, McKinBut then McKinley’s “rule” reared its ley lost a good friend to an opioid ugly head. In rapid succession, McKinoverdose, an addiction McKinley himley lost a good friend to an opioid self had dealt with (he subsequently overdose, an addiction McKinley himreleased the non-LP single “The Ghost self had dealt with (he subsequently of My Best Friend” in response), folreleased the non-LP single “The Ghost lowed by the passings of his avowed of My Best Friend” in response), folnumber-one fan, his mother, and Prine lowed by the passings of his avowed at the beginning of the COVID-19 pannumber-one fan, his mother, and Prine demic in the spring of 2020. at the beginning of the COVID-19 panMcKinley was devastated but demic in the spring of 2020. McKinley was devastated but

became convinced that his tour to promote Die Midwestern was the tonic became convinced that his tour to he needed. promote Die Midwestern was the tonic “Anytime I had a new song to record, he needed. she’d want to hear it,” McKinley recalls “Anytime I had a new song to record, about his mother. “In every way, she she’d want to hear it,” McKinley recalls greatly impacted me. Everyone was about his mother. “In every way, she thinking I was going to cancel [the greatly impacted me. Everyone was tour], but I was the complete opposite,” thinking I was going to cancel [the says McKinley. tour], but I was the complete opposite,” “I thought it was the best thing for says McKinley. me – just continue doing things and “I thought it was the best thing for not sit and think. Then all of a sudme – just continue doing things and den, I’m stuck. I compare my experinot sit and think. Then all of a sudence with the pandemic to the movie den, I’m stuck. I compare my experiGroundhog Day. It was like, ‘Okay, [at] ence with the pandemic to the movie 5:30 today, I’m going to have my daily Groundhog Day. It was like, ‘Okay, [at] breakdown. At 9, I’m going to put on 5:30 today, I’m going to have my daily a record,’” McKinley recalls. “How can breakdown. At 9, I’m going to put on you learn to navigate without a key figa record,’” McKinley recalls. “How can ure in your life when you don’t have a you learn to navigate without a key figchance to do anything? So I just started ure in your life when you don’t have a writing songs – a lot.” chance to do anything? So I just started This became the crucible where This writing songs – a lot.” Mess We’re In was forged. Over the This became the crucible where This years, McKinley’s plain-spoken lyrics Mess We’re In was forged. Over the have therapeutically addressed issues years, McKinley’s plain-spoken lyrics in his life, and his spartan arrangehave therapeutically addressed issues ments have been the perfect vehicle in his life, and his spartan arrangefor them. Initially, McKinley was writments have been the perfect vehicle ing to occupy his time and mind, but for them. Initially, McKinley was writeventually he turned a corner toward ing to occupy his time and mind, but specificity. eventually he turned a corner toward “When I wrote either ‘Stealing Dark specificity. from the Night Sky’ or ‘Rushintherug,’ I “When I wrote either ‘Stealing Dark realized I was writing a record,” McKinfrom the Night Sky’ or ‘Rushintherug,’ I ley says. “I knew I was going to call it realized I was writing a record,” McKinThis Mess We’re In, and that’s when all ley says. “I knew I was going to call it the pieces came together.” This Mess We’re In, and that’s when all As the COVID-19 pandemic eased a the pieces came together.” bit, McKinley began making plans for As the COVID-19 pandemic eased a recording his third album, his sophobit, McKinley began making plans for more release for Oh Boy. The only recording his third album, his sophoreal plans he had were to record with more release for Oh Boy. The only the same creative team that shaped real plans he had were to record with Die Midwestern and to avoid makthe same creative team that shaped ing a genre album by following some Die Midwestern and to avoid makof the muses in his recent listening ing a genre album by following some experiences. of the muses in his recent listening “I didn’t want to be in a country experiences. mindset, but I didn’t want to be in any “I didn’t want to be in a country mindset of ‘This is what we’re doing.’ mindset, but I didn’t want to be in any Let’s just do it,” McKinley says. “I mindset of ‘This is what we’re doing.’ wanted more of an indie sound. I was Let’s just do it,” McKinley says. “I listening to Nick Drake, and I kind of wanted more of an indie sound. I was used Wes Anderson soundtracks as a listening to Nick Drake, and I kind of reference.” used Wes Anderson soundtracks as a “I wanted something visual in a way, reference.” which was easy because I was com“I wanted something visual in a way, ing in with these acoustic songs and which was easy because I was comyou could turn them into anything,” ing in with these acoustic songs and he adds. “The main thing is I wanted you could turn them into anything,” it to be different and show growth he adds. “The main thing is I wanted musically.” it to be different and show growth McKinley’s instincts and Rossmusically.” Spang’s expertise once again doveMcKinley’s instincts and Rosstailed into a spectacular finished Spang’s expertise once again dovealbum. McKinley set out to create an tailed into a spectacular finished album that had the feeling of a movie album. McKinley set out to create an soundtrack, where the music created album that had the feeling of a movie an atmosphere for the lyrics the way soundtrack, where the music created background music sets the mood for an atmosphere for the lyrics the way background music sets the mood for

particular scenes in a film. McKinley’s intimate songs of loss, loneliness, particular scenes in a film. McKinley’s regret and heartbreak somehow are the intimate songs of loss, loneliness, perfect set pieces for the cinemascopic regret and heartbreak somehow are the backdrop created by Ross-Spang and perfect set pieces for the cinemascopic his guns-for-hire (renowned guitarist backdrop created by Ross-Spang and Will Sexton, Lucero keyboardist Rick his guns-for-hire (renowned guitarist Steff, session bassist Dave Smith, exWill Sexton, Lucero keyboardist Rick Wilco drummer Ken Coomer, violinist Steff, session bassist Dave Smith, exJessie Munson and harmony vocalist Wilco drummer Ken Coomer, violinist Reba Russell). Jessie Munson and harmony vocalist “I’m comfortable with them but Reba Russell). I don’t think I’ll ever get used to it,” “I’m comfortable with them but McKinley says. “On this album, I was I don’t think I’ll ever get used to it,” looking around and I’d heard of these McKinley says. “On this album, I was people way before I met them, and looking around and I’d heard of these now here we are, recording my second people way before I met them, and record with them. It was crazy. I’m now here we are, recording my second doing a lot of things I never thought I’d record with them. It was crazy. I’m do.” doing a lot of things I never thought I’d With mini-tours of the East and West do.” Coasts and a handful of European dates With mini-tours of the East and West completed, McKinley is in the midst Coasts and a handful of European dates of a short Midwestern run through the completed, McKinley is in the midst end of August. He’s had time to reflect of a short Midwestern run through the on everything that’s happened to and end of August. He’s had time to reflect around him, and he’s recognizing the on everything that’s happened to and growth he wanted to display on This around him, and he’s recognizing the Mess We’re In. McKinley says he’s more growth he wanted to display on This confident in his performance – he notes Mess We’re In. McKinley says he’s more that eight years ago, it took him half a confident in his performance – he notes set to feel at home on stage, but he’s that eight years ago, it took him half a over that now – as well as in his songset to feel at home on stage, but he’s writing abilities. over that now – as well as in his song“I used to have a problem with my writing abilities. songwriting because I thought it was so “I used to have a problem with my basic and specific. I wasn’t using crazy songwriting because I thought it was so words or being all poetic, but that’s one basic and specific. I wasn’t using crazy of the things people ended up enjoying words or being all poetic, but that’s one the most,” McKinley says. “I can’t catch of the things people ended up enjoying up with all the letters and emails we the most,” McKinley says. “I can’t catch get from fans where songs have helped up with all the letters and emails we people in ways I never would have get from fans where songs have helped imagined. These songs are very specific people in ways I never would have to certain times and situations, but I’m imagined. These songs are very specific glad other people are getting what they to certain times and situations, but I’m need out of it. That’s a good feeling.” glad other people are getting what they Interestingly, McKinley feels as need out of it. That’s a good feeling.” though his growth has taken place Interestingly, McKinley feels as within the parameters of his original though his growth has taken place influences of the Baptist choral tradiwithin the parameters of his original tion, his father’s bluegrass records, his influences of the Baptist choral tradiearly punk roots (he references Black tion, his father’s bluegrass records, his Flag and says he tries to keep his songs early punk roots (he references Black short) and his long musical relationFlag and says he tries to keep his songs ship with fellow local songsmith Jeremy short) and his long musical relationPinnell. ship with fellow local songsmith Jeremy “I write songs that are structured like Pinnell. the hymns I sung in church when I was “I write songs that are structured like a kid. They’re not necessarily bluegrass, the hymns I sung in church when I was but they are basic three chord singer/ a kid. They’re not necessarily bluegrass, songwriter stuff,” McKinley says. “And but they are basic three chord singer/ Jeremy just did some shows with me, songwriter stuff,” McKinley says. “And and I will forever give him the credit he Jeremy just did some shows with me, deserves. He was the first person that and I will forever give him the credit he I heard that wrote in that direct way, deserves. He was the first person that which I took on, being honest about I heard that wrote in that direct way, myself.” which I took on, being honest about myself.” Purchase Arlo McKinley’s This Mess We’re In and watch for upcoming Purchase Arlo McKinley’s This Mess tour dates at arlomckinley.com. We’re In and watch for upcoming tour dates at arlomckinley.com.

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C I T Y B E AT. C O M

SOUND ADVICE SOUND ADVICE

Elvis Costello

ELVIS COSTELLO AND THE IMPOSTERS ELVIS COSTELLO AND THE IMPOSTERS Aug. 6 • Rose Music Center

ANDREW BIRD AND IRONBIRD & WINE ANDREW WITH MESHELLE AND IRON & WINE NDEGEOCELLO WITH MESHELLE NDEGEOCELLO August 8 • PNC Pavilion

If you missed the legendary Elvis Aug. 6 • Rose Music Center Costello’s show in Cincinnati last fall, If you missed the legendary Elvis you’d best take this current opportunity Costello’s show in Cincinnati last fall, for a short road trip to see him. you’d best take this current opportunity Costello and his longtime band the for a short road trip to see him. Imposters will kick off a month-long Costello and his longtime band the tour celebrating 2022 album The Boy Imposters will kick off a month-long Named If at Rose Music Center in tour celebrating 2022 album The Boy Huber Heights, about an hour north Named If at Rose Music Center in of Cincinnati. The album — Costello’s Huber Heights, about an hour north 32nd in the studio — includes songs of Cincinnati. The album — Costello’s that were first performed during the fall 32nd in the studio — includes songs theatre tour and has received nearthat were first performed during the fall universal acclaim from critics. theatre tour and has received nearA Costello concert is a great catch no universal acclaim from critics. matter what, but there’s an additional A Costello concert is a great catch no lure to this show. Despite being a resomatter what, but there’s an additional lutely forward thinker when it comes to lure to this show. Despite being a resomusic and politics, Costello has been lutely forward thinker when it comes to reminiscing lately about past times music and politics, Costello has been – most recently about being part of the reminiscing lately about past times duo Rusty. In the early ‘70s – back when – most recently about being part of the Costello still was known as Declan Macduo Rusty. In the early ‘70s – back when Manus – he and Allan Mayes performed Costello still was known as Declan Macunder that name in Liverpool clubs, Manus – he and Allan Mayes performed taking on songs written by none other under that name in Liverpool clubs, than songwriter and producer extraortaking on songs written by none other dinaire Nick Lowe. In June, Costello and than songwriter and producer extraorMayes teamed up once again to release dinaire Nick Lowe. In June, Costello and the album The Resurrection of Rust, “the Mayes teamed up once again to release record we would have cut when we the album The Resurrection of Rust, “the were 18, if anyone had let us,” Costello record we would have cut when we says on his website. It’s a mix of the were 18, if anyone had let us,” Costello duo’s reworked original songs as well as says on his website. It’s a mix of the covers of Lowe and Neil Young tunes, duo’s reworked original songs as well as among others. Chances are, Costello covers of Lowe and Neil Young tunes, will highlight a Rusty song or two in among others. Chances are, Costello Huber Heights. will highlight a Rusty song or two in Speaking of Lowe, the man who Huber Heights. helped prop up some of music’s most Speaking of Lowe, the man who prolific new wave and post-punk helped prop up some of music’s most prolific new wave and post-punk

Andrew Bird and Sam Beam (aka Iron August 8 • PNC Pavilion & Wine) seem like guys who should’ve Andrew Bird and Sam Beam (aka Iron known each other going back to at least & Wine) seem like guys who should’ve the mid 2000s — an era when each known each other going back to at least became a distinctive presence on the the mid 2000s — an era when each indie folk landscape. Each is a writer became a distinctive presence on the and performer of particular acumen indie folk landscape. Each is a writer — acoustic-based songs driven by and performer of particular acumen incisive lyricism and deceptively simple — acoustic-based songs driven by melodic structures. Each is in their late incisive lyricism and deceptively simple 40s. Each a visual curiosity — Beam melodic structures. Each is in their late set apart by his impressively rendered 40s. Each a visual curiosity — Beam beard, while Bird’s pencil-thin frame is set apart by his impressively rendered often clad in uniquely natty attire. And beard, while Bird’s pencil-thin frame is each now sports a hearty discography often clad in uniquely natty attire. And — Bird recently released his 14th solo each now sports a hearty discography studio album, Inside Problems, while — Bird recently released his 14th solo Beam’s most recent effort, 2019’s Years studio album, Inside Problems, while to Burn, is a collaboration with the likeBeam’s most recent effort, 2019’s Years minded dudes in Calexico. to Burn, is a collaboration with the likeYet Bird and Beam didn’t meet until minded dudes in Calexico. a few years ago. They hit it off so well, Yet Bird and Beam didn’t meet until they wanted to tour together. But then a few years ago. They hit it off so well, the pandemic hit. they wanted to tour together. But then “It will have been more than two the pandemic hit. years of being grounded when we “It will have been more than two finally embark on the ‘Outside Probyears of being grounded when we lems’ summer tour,” Bird said in a statefinally embark on the ‘Outside Probment when their collaborative effort lems’ summer tour,” Bird said in a statewas finally announced last December. ment when their collaborative effort “I only wish it could happen sooner. was finally announced last December. I’m not sure why it took so long for me “I only wish it could happen sooner. to meet Sam Beam. His music I have I’m not sure why it took so long for me known and admired for many years to meet Sam Beam. His music I have now. What a lovely guy. The kind of guy known and admired for many years that would help you move.” now. What a lovely guy. The kind of guy If the tour’s recent stop at the iconic that would help you move.” Red Rocks Amphitheatre in Colorado If the tour’s recent stop at the iconic is any indication, expect a full set from Red Rocks Amphitheatre in Colorado each guy, punctuated by a collaborative is any indication, expect a full set from section during which Beam joins Bird’s each guy, punctuated by a collaborative section during which Beam joins Bird’s

P H OTO : M A R K S E L I G E R , S H O R E F I R E MEDIA Elvis Costello P H OTO : M A R K S E L I G E R , S H O R E F I R E MEDIA

Willie Nelson P H OTO : A M E L A S P R I N G ST E E N

Willie Nelson

P H OTO : A M E L A S P R I N G ST E E N

WILLIE NELSON WITH ZZNELSON TOP, GOV’T WILLIE MULE AND LARKIN WITH ZZ TOP, GOV’T POE MULE AND LARKIN July 30 • Riverbend Music Center POE

Willie Nelson is 89 years old, and he just July 30 • Riverbend Music Center can’t stop playing music. Willie Nelson is 89 years old, and he just The Texas native’s latest album, A can’t stop playing music. Beautiful Time, which dropped back in The Texas native’s latest album, A April, is his 72nd studio effort, a mindBeautiful Time, which dropped back in boggling number that is likely to grow at April, is his 72nd studio effort, a mindany moment now. Even more impresboggling number that is likely to grow at sive is Willie’s dedication to delivering any moment now. Even more impreshis music in a live setting. Nelson has sive is Willie’s dedication to delivering toured extensively over the last five his music in a live setting. Nelson has decades, each jaunt another opportutoured extensively over the last five nity to deliver the Southwest-flavored decades, each jaunt another opportucountry and western music he grew up nity to deliver the Southwest-flavored on — an eclectic meld of folk, bluegrass, country and western music he grew up rock and jazz. on — an eclectic meld of folk, bluegrass, A Beautiful Time is classic Willie, a rock and jazz. timeless mix of originals and a few cover A Beautiful Time is classic Willie, a tunes anchored by his weathered, evertimeless mix of originals and a few cover expressive voice, straightforward phrastunes anchored by his weathered, evering and elegiac guitar playing. In fact, expressive voice, straightforward phrasperhaps expectedly at this point in his ing and elegiac guitar playing. In fact, long and winding career, Nelson’s voice perhaps expectedly at this point in his seems more fragile and affecting than long and winding career, Nelson’s voice ever. The sweetly swaying album opener seems more fragile and affecting than “I’ll Love You Till the Day I Die” seems to ever. The sweetly swaying album opener look back at a one-time encounter that “I’ll Love You Till the Day I Die” seems to lingers to this day: “I only saw you once/ look back at a one-time encounter that lingers to this day: “I only saw you once/

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And that was a long, long time ago/You probably don’t remember me/But I And that was a long, long time ago/You thought I’d let you know/That one short probably don’t remember me/But I conversation/Is still reason why I’ll love thought I’d let you know/That one short till the day I die.” “Dusty Bottles” is just conversation/Is still reason why I’ll love as bittersweet, reflecting on a life well till the day I die.” “Dusty Bottles” is just spent: “But there’s something to be said as bittersweet, reflecting on a life well for getting wrinkles/Every song worth spent: “But there’s something to be said singing’s got those lines.” for getting wrinkles/Every song worth The two high-profile covers — Leonsinging’s got those lines.” ard Cohen’s “Tower of Song” and The The two high-profile covers — LeonBeatles’ “With a Little Help from My ard Cohen’s “Tower of Song” and The Friends” — are faithful but unique, the Beatles’ “With a Little Help from My latter finding Willie’s voice in rare playful Friends” — are faithful but unique, the form as he sings, “I get high with a little latter finding Willie’s voice in rare playful help from my friends.” form as he sings, “I get high with a little Nelson’s tour, dubbed “Outlaw Fest,” help from my friends.” features an impressive, revolving crew Nelson’s tour, dubbed “Outlaw Fest,” of supporting artists, from Jason Isbell features an impressive, revolving crew and the 400 Unit and Steve Earle & the of supporting artists, from Jason Isbell Dukes to The Avett Brothers and Chris and the 400 Unit and Steve Earle & the Stapleton. The Cincinnati stop features Dukes to The Avett Brothers and Chris fellow Texans ZZ Top — curiously one of Stapleton. The Cincinnati stop features the few artists on the tour that, like Wilfellow Texans ZZ Top — curiously one of lie, has been kicking around for 50-plus the few artists on the tour that, like Wilyears — as well as Gov’t Mule and Larkin lie, has been kicking around for 50-plus Poe. years — as well as Gov’t Mule and Larkin Willie Nelson plays Riverbend Music Poe. Center at 4:25 p.m. July 30. Doors open at Willie Nelson plays Riverbend Music 4 p.m. There are no COVID-19 protocols Center at 4:25 p.m. July 30. Doors open at in place for the event. Info: riverbend. 4 p.m. There are no COVID-19 protocols org. (Jason Gargano) in place for the event. Info: riverbend. org. (Jason Gargano)

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stalwarts and who has traded songs with Costello as if they were Pokémon stalwarts and who has traded songs cards just swung through the Queen with Costello as if they were Pokémon City with Los Straitjackets, a Nashville cards just swung through the Queen surf-rock band whose members sport City with Los Straitjackets, a Nashville suits and Mexican wrestling masks. surf-rock band whose members sport Lowe will be performing with Costello suits and Mexican wrestling masks. on select tour dates, but not here – local Lowe will be performing with Costello fans instead will see indie crooner on select tour dates, but not here – local Nicole Atkins. fans instead will see indie crooner Elvis Costello and the Imposters play Nicole Atkins. Rose Music Center at 8 p.m. Aug. 6. Elvis Costello and the Imposters play Doors open at 6:30. Nicole Atkins will Rose Music Center at 8 p.m. Aug. 6. open the show. No information about Doors open at 6:30. Nicole Atkins will COVID-19 protocols is available. Info: open the show. No information about rosemusiccenter.com. (Allison Babka) COVID-19 protocols is available. Info: rosemusiccenter.com. (Allison Babka)

Wilco P H OTO : A N TO N C O E N E

Wilco

P H OTO : A N TO N C O E N E

band for a series of songs that is likely to include at least one cover (Bill Withers’ band for a series of songs that is likely to “Just the Two of Us” was the choice at include at least one cover (Bill Withers’ Red Rocks). “Just the Two of Us” was the choice at As Beam described the situation Red Rocks). recently via his Twitter account: “SpeAs Beam described the situation cial set of Iron & Wine and Andrew Bird recently via his Twitter account: “Speperforming together each night — stay cial set of Iron & Wine and Andrew Bird for full show to be surprised when it performing together each night — stay happens.” for full show to be surprised when it Andrew Bird and Iron & Wine play happens.” PNC Pavilion at 7:30 p.m. Aug. 4. Doors Andrew Bird and Iron & Wine play open at 6:30 p.m. Meshelle NdegeoPNC Pavilion at 7:30 p.m. Aug. 4. Doors cello will open the show. There are no open at 6:30 p.m. Meshelle NdegeoCOVID-19 protocols in place for the cello will open the show. There are no event. Info: riverbend.org. (JG) COVID-19 protocols in place for the event. Info: riverbend.org. (JG)

WILCO WILCO August 16 • PromoWest Pavilion

at Ovation August 16 • PromoWest Pavilion It’s not likely that Jeff Tweedy’s conat Ovation sciously stated goal after the imploIt’s not likely that Jeff Tweedy’s consion of Uncle Tupelo was to cobble sciously stated goal after the implotogether one of the most influential sion of Uncle Tupelo was to cobble and experimental bands in the history together one of the most influential of rock and roll. Tweedy had already and experimental bands in the history been down the dusty road of influenceof rock and roll. Tweedy had already without-reward; UT had been heralded been down the dusty road of influenceas the architect of alternative country without-reward; UT had been heralded (a mantle they refused to accept) but as the architect of alternative country were commercially ignored until their (a mantle they refused to accept) but catalog was reissued after the subsewere commercially ignored until their quent successes of Tweedy, Jay Farrar catalog was reissued after the subseand Mike Heidorn. quent successes of Tweedy, Jay Farrar It is clearly Tweedy’s triumph with and Mike Heidorn. Wilco that has resonated the loudest. It is clearly Tweedy’s triumph with While Wilco’s first three albums – 1995’s Wilco that has resonated the loudest. A.M., 1996’s Being There and 1999’s While Wilco’s first three albums – 1995’s summerteeth – reflected at least some A.M., 1996’s Being There and 1999’s of their personal and professional strife summerteeth – reflected at least some and achieved modest critical and comof their personal and professional strife mercial success, they still moved the and achieved modest critical and comneedle on what constitutes Americana mercial success, they still moved the and rootsy rock. Then came the fourth needle on what constitutes Americana and rootsy rock. Then came the fourth

Wilco album, the contentious and noisy Yankee Hotel Foxtrot, the release that Wilco album, the contentious and noisy got the band bounced from their label, Yankee Hotel Foxtrot, the release that inspired a film documentary about its got the band bounced from their label, creation and went on to become their inspired a film documentary about its best selling album to date. creation and went on to become their The quality that remains consistent best selling album to date. through Wilco’s catalog, including The quality that remains consistent this year’s Cruel Country – their 12th through Wilco’s catalog, including studio album – is an unshakable and this year’s Cruel Country – their 12th fearless sense of sonic adventure. studio album – is an unshakable and Their Grammy-winning 2004 album, A fearless sense of sonic adventure. Ghost is Born, featured “Less Than You Their Grammy-winning 2004 album, A Think,” a three-minute ballad followed Ghost is Born, featured “Less Than You by a 12-minute electronic shitstorm Think,” a three-minute ballad followed intended to represent the migraines by a 12-minute electronic shitstorm that Tweedy was suffering during the intended to represent the migraines sessions. Since that album, Wilco’s that Tweedy was suffering during the lineup has been stable, which has sessions. Since that album, Wilco’s strengthened and intensified the chemlineup has been stable, which has istry between the players (guitarist/ strengthened and intensified the chemvocalist Tweedy, bassist/vocalist John istry between the players (guitarist/ Stirratt, guitarist Nels Cline, keyboardvocalist Tweedy, bassist/vocalist John ists Pat Sansone and Mikael Jorgensen, Stirratt, guitarist Nels Cline, keyboarddrummer Glenn Kotche), giving them ists Pat Sansone and Mikael Jorgensen, the confidence to expand their creative drummer Glenn Kotche), giving them parameters. the confidence to expand their creative At Wilco’s core is Tweedy’s artistic parameters. restlessness, a constant need to evolve At Wilco’s core is Tweedy’s artistic and move beyond what has been done restlessness, a constant need to evolve to explore what has yet to be accomand move beyond what has been done plished. Through his diverse collaboto explore what has yet to be accomrations and newly minted solo work, plished. Through his diverse collaboTweedy has pointed his songwriting rations and newly minted solo work, telescope at new musical galaxies, but Tweedy has pointed his songwriting the observatory where the bulk of his telescope at new musical galaxies, but discoveries have been made and underthe observatory where the bulk of his stood is Wilco, his longest standing and discoveries have been made and undermost creatively malleable entity. stood is Wilco, his longest standing and Wilco plays PromoWest Pavilion at most creatively malleable entity. Ovation at 5:30 p.m. Aug. 16. There are Wilco plays PromoWest Pavilion at no COVID-19 protocols in place for the Ovation at 5:30 p.m. Aug. 16. There are event. Info: promowestlive.com. (Brian no COVID-19 protocols in place for the Baker) event. Info: promowestlive.com. (Brian Baker)

J U LY 2 7 - A U G U S T 9 , 2 0 2 2

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J U LY 2 7 - A U G U S T 9 , 2 0 2 2

C I T Y B E AT. C O M

J U LY 2 7 - A U G U S T 9 , 2 0 2 2

WHY BE CROSS CROSSWORD

BY B R EN DA N E M M E T T Q U I G L E Y W W W. B R E N DA N E M M E T TQ U I G L E Y.C O M

Across 1. Droops in the middle 5. “Dad blast it!” 9. Cartoonish 14. Blood rival 15. Help incorrectly 16. Indian-style jacket 17. Dignitary from 10-Down 18. Do a floor job in California? 20. Shiraz resident 22. Curved in the air 23. Purr of approval from a tailless cat? 26. Sea snakes 30. Sault-___ Marie 31. Total a-hole 32. “___ Train” (2022 Brad Pitt movie) 34. Distinctive atmosphere 37. Out in front 38. Lunch stuffed with circulars and letters? 43. Haymaking tool 44. Comic actress McClurg

45. 47. 49. 52. 53. 57. 59. 60. 65. 66. 67. 68. 69. 70. 71.

Down 1. Screens on stage 2. Landing spot for the great flood 3. Movie in the joke that lead to the Will Smith/Chris Rock fight 4. Big name in shapewear

38. Sheet glass 39. Twee shoppe adjective 40. One who says “Wow! You’re drinking THAT?” 41. Circle of power? 42. Two, in Toulouse 43. Get in on the auction 46. Food unsuitable for a silly rabbit 48. “Do you even lift, ___? 49. Like good sourdough starter 50. Scrapes off the windshield in February, say 51. Climber’s job 54. Come as a result 55. Guitarist Kravitz 56. Garb for a griller 58. Whirl pool 60. Small shots 61. Small river 62. On the money 63. Bolted down 64. Space station escape vehicle LAST PUZZLE’S ANSWERS:

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5. Unprepared? 6. Org. for partners 7. One with a “Keep Austin Weird” bumper sticker, likely 8. Bird on baby announcement cards 9. Pre-hand wager 10. City with the financial district Rajiv Chowk 11. With 12-Down, they get many returns 12. See 11-Down 13. Use some scissors 19. Golden State sch. whose athletes are the Gauchos 21. “___ a feature, not a bug” 24. Helicopter Shark, e.g. 25. Treat terribly 27. Charge to a charging station: Abbr. 28. Actress Remini 29. The clap, for one 33. Grp. for some machinists 35. Awesome 36. Author Diamant

Seeing red? Bathroom centerpiece Org. for those expert in calculus Big bucks? Ease up on fun runs? River past Notre Dame Sight-related Selfie of a no-name product? Burrito base Two-legged stand Render ___ Caesar Hot chamber Waited in the vicinity Looked (over) Spot to prepaare eggs

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J U LY 2 7 - A U G U S T 9 , 2 0 2 2