BIG C OMMUNIT
WHY LITTLE ARABIA AND ITS MELTING POT OF CUISINES IS ONE OF CLEVELAND'S BEST DINING DESTINATIONS
UPFRONT
Get Pulled Over by Cleveland Police?
You Might Get a Recruitment Card to Join the Force Along With Your Ticket
FOR THE PAST TWO YEARS, Mayor Justin Bibb’s administration has worked hard to boost the number of active Cleveland police officers as part of its Raising Investment in Safety for Everyone initiative.
In August 2023, Bibb debuted City Hall’s multi-pronged effort to replenish the understaffed ranks — about 300 officers short of the recommended staffing—that included kiosk ads around the city, commercials on TV20 and local airwaves, posters around Tower City Hall, myriad social media campaigns, and hiring events.
Another low-tech effort is apparently involved: Handing out recruitment cards to people pulled over for traffic violations in the city.
That’s what happened to one Northeast Ohio man last week after he was stopped for rolling a stop sign. The cop handed over a ticket, and along with it, a card. On one side, a QR code for a survey soliciting feedback on the interaction with the cop. On the other, text that read “Be A Guardian For Your City” and “Join Our Team” with a phone number and url linking to public safety careers.
“It took me a second to register what he handed to me,” the man told Scene. “But it made my blood boil. Even more so than just getting a traffic ticket. I actually said ‘What the fuck?’ out loud to myself.”
“It felt like getting mugged, then having the mugger ask me if I wanted to hang out later,” he added. “I would have thrown it on the ground if I didn’t hate littering, and if I weren’t convinced he would give me another ticket.”
“This is not just a ‘recruitment card’ as you suggested,” Sgt. Freddy Diaz, a spokesperson for CPD, told Scene in an email. These cards have been handed out, he said, for the past two years.
“These are customer service cards that officers hand out to individuals during various community interactions,” Diaz said, “where they
can scan the QR code to fill out a survey to provide feedback on said interactions.”
Sharena Zayed, a member of the newly-refreshed Cleveland Community Police Commission of 13, told Scene she feels the push to fill the graduate gap outweighs the method in which police are recruited.
“It’s alarming, yes. But I think it just speaks to the need Cleveland has for officers,” Zayed said. “I mean, being pulled over doesn’t mean you’re not qualified for getting a job.”
As for the recipient:
“I’m not unfamiliar with the gross history of this particular police department, having seen some of that grossness firsthand, so it’s particularly grating to have this happen,” they told Scene. “However, it gave me some satisfaction that if they’re looking in this particular barrel, that they’re probably scraping the bottom of several others.”
Cleveland officers have been fleeing to suburban departments since the pandemic, in search of higher pay and less of the troubles that come with working in the city. Part of Bibb’s solution was salary-driven: he would shift city funds to give patrol officers an 11-percent pay increase over a three-year span. New officers, a flyer for a hiring event in June announced, could make up to $86,918 a year. (With a $5,000 sign-
on bonus and three months of guaranteed parental leave.)
A pay hike that may actually be working. CPD saw an average of 57 new recruits added to Cleveland’s force from 2020 to 2023. Come 2024, the first full year of RISE raises, it saw 134 new recruits added to the ranks, a 135-percent increase.
And in early June, the city’s 156th Academy class graduated 91 new recruits, which could signify that this year outpaces 2024’s numbers.
All which begins with getting the word out. Even if that comes after handing a driver a $180 traffic ticket.
– Mark Oprea
People’s Budget CLE to Launch
$100,000 Participatory Budgeting Pilot Program in Slavic Village
Slavic Village, one of the oldest neighborhoods in the city, will be the center of a resurrected attempt to convince Clevelanders that participatory budgeting can be a thing here—and Slavic Village is the place to prove that.
People’s Budget Cleveland, the organization behind the failed 2023 ballot initiative to bring participatory budgeting to Cleveland, announced Friday that Slavic Village was picked amongst a dozen other neighborhoods for a $100,000 pilot
program next summer.
The goal is to let the community choose something of value to them -- a playground, an arts program, etc. -- and it almost doesn’t matter what exactly is chose.
To Jonathan Welle, a community organizer working with PBCLE, the more important takeaway is how the project is chosen: Slavic Village residents, after all, will vote on whatever they want to spend the six figures on—and not City Council members who traditionally have final say in capital projects.
“It’s people sort of trying to adopt a new mental model to who should have power in this equation,” Welle told Scene. “And to be clear: it’s residents who should have power—that will have power through this process.”
Although Welle and PB CLE’s dream of diverting $14 million of Cleveland’s general fund to a pool of money controlled by voters fell short at the ballot, participatory budgeting efforts have succeeded in other Midwestern cities. Often with pilot projects, using donor funds, that draw up trust to eventually deploy people’s budgets on a larger scale.
Earlier this year, Milwaukee’s City Council agreed to send $600,000 to a people’s budget fund, to be used however voters please later this year. The driving force behind the move,
Vince Grzegorek
advocates say, began when Milwaukee’s African American Roundtable kickstarted a $100,000 private pilot. (Which funded violence prevention projects.)
Similar neighborhood tests in Detroit in Chicago give Welle, and the project’s program manager, Najah Muhammad, confidence that Clevelanders might give PB CLE another shot, say, before the end of the decade.
Where, Welle said, “residents all across the city have the opportunity” to vote.
With some 21,000 residents, Slavic Village seems like a worthwhile spot for PB CLE’s $100,000 experiment.
It’s long been a hotbed for out-ofstate investors gobbling up houses cheapened during the Great Recession, then a symbol of bygone retail corridors like Fleet and Broadway avenues that have welcomed new cafes and bike lanes despite vacant storefronts.
Ward 12 Councilwoman Rebecca Maurer knows Slavic Village, which occupies about a third of her ward, can use all it can get. Whether that be using American Rescue Plan Act dollars to wake up businesses on Fleet Ave., or, like in 2023, bringing the Stella Walsh Rec Center gym into the 21st century.
As for what $100,000 more can do?
“I mean, I’d start with everything on the menu,” Maurer, who supported the PB CLE ballot initiative, said. “Park renovations. We don’t have chairs right now at Warsaw Pool. There are no chairs! Can you believe that?”
Though she supported the PB CLE ballot initiative in 2023, Maurer, like any other City Council representative, sits in kind of a strange position when it comes to participatory budgeting.
Traditionally, every one of Cleveland’s 17—soon to be 15—council members has access to a pool of public funds, either from the Feds or from JACK Casino revenue, that they can use to better their ward as they see fit.
But PB CLE isn’t Maurer’s wheelhouse. The decision, whether to clean up mattresses on Fleet or give pool-goers chairs to lay out on, is not hers. It’s, come next year, Slavic Village’s.
A principle that Maurer believes may actually affect something she is a part of: a citywide election, in September and November.
“My biggest hope is that this reconnects something we’ve lost in our democracy,” she said, “which
is people’s sense that their engagement matters and that if they show up and get involved, they can make a difference.”
– Mark Oprea
Cleveland State University Working to Bring Back U-Pass RTA Program in New Optional Form Following Backlash
Cleveland State University President Laura Bloomberg last week announced that the school would be ending the U-Pass program, which provided RTA passes to all students paid for by a nominal fee of $57.50 per semester charged to every student taking at least one credit hour, effective at the end of August.
The backlash to the prospect of students looking at $95 a month for fullfreight RTA passes was swift and immediate.
Students, many of whom don’t own cars or can’t afford monthly parking passes, criticized the move, which CSU framed as a necessary cut due to state budget changes. (DeWine’s press secretary today said that the school’s reading of the law was “ridiculous,” while reports noted it was the only university in Ohio to leave the U-Pass program.)
Meanwhile, Clevelanders for Public Transit, the local advocacy group, launched a petition that quickly garnered thousands of signatures.
“Eliminating this program will have a detrimental impact on students,” CPT wrote. “Class attendance, access to internships, campus involvement, and student retention will suffer.”
The pressure seems to have worked, as Bloomberg announced this week that CSU is working with RTA to bring back the U-Pass program in a new, optional form.
“We are now working toward a solution where students will have the choice whether or not they would like to opt in to the U-Pass fee,” she wrote in a letter to the CSU community on Tuesday. “Students who choose not to opt in will no longer be charged a U-Pass fee on their semester bill. This will result in financial savings for our students who do not use the U-Pass.”
The program was widely popular and helped CSU manage its limited spaces for cars, the upshot being “lessened demand for on-campus parking,” the university’s webpage read in 2008.
RTA, for its part, said in a statement that it “continues to collaborate with CSU to find a solution for their students.” – Vince Grzegorek
CLEVELAND WING WEEK
AUGUST 25–31
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FEATURE
LITTLE NEIGHBORHOOD, BIG FLAVORS
Why Little Arabia and its melting pot of cuisines is one of Cleveland’s best dining destinations. By
“I MOVED TO THE AREA in 2007 and one of the earliest memories I have is when my dad brought me here and said, ‘This is Little Arabia,’” says Omar Kurdi. “This is where I got my first haircut, my first Arabic meal outside of home. This is definitely the spot I come to whenever I am missing the homeland.”
Kurdi wears many hats professionally, but it’s his role as co-founder and president of Arab Americans of Cleveland Young Professionals Network that inspired me to reach out. Selfishly, I was eager to try a new Yemeni restaurant, and I was looking for an enthusiastic dining partner. Kurdi, who was born in San Francisco but spent most of his formative years in Oman and Jordan, more than fit the bill.
Reef al Yemen opened last sum-
Douglas Trattner
mer in the heart of Cleveland’s Little Arabia neighborhood. Like other unofficial ethnic enclaves, the district has no definitive borders, just a heavy concentration of Arab American-owned shops, markets and restaurants. If we pushed pins onto a map, they would cluster along and around Lorain Avenue between W. 117th and W. 130th streets.
Yousef Qartit opened Reef al Yemen last summer, in a space that had been home to a Dominican restaurant. It returned to the area a source for traditional Yemeni cuisine following the untimely departure of Yemen Gate, whose opening coincided with the arrival of Covid. When I reviewed that restaurant in the summer of 2020, I did so based on a meal that was packaged up, driven across town, and consumed in a quiet resi-
dential dining room. That is not how Arabic meals are meant to be enjoyed.
“We come together around food,” explains Awatef Assad, a member of the family behind the heavenly Assad’s Bakery in Little Arabia. “It is the most beautiful thing. These recipes have been in our families for generations and when you eat something that goes back hundreds and hundreds of years, you can sense your ancestors. That connection with your roots, your heritage…”
I’m still thinking about that meal at Reef al Yemen. For many years, our Middle Eastern food experiences in Greater Cleveland have been dominated by hummus, baba ghanoush, falafel, shawarma and pita bread. But as demographics continue to shift, and new waves of immi-
grants and refugees settle here, the food offerings expand in beautiful and delicious ways.
With Kurdi’s guidance, we placed our order. While he and I were getting to know each other, a server brought out cups of marak, an aromatic broth made from long-simmered lamb bones. I would return simply for another sip of this savory, expertly spiced soup. The broth is a traditional accompaniment to lamb mendi, fall-off-the-bone tender meat that arrives on a mountain of fragrant long-grain rice. Kurdi pointed to a tomato-based condiment that appeared on the table and explained that it was sahawiq, meant to be eaten with the lamb and rice. Fahseh, a savory lamb stew, arrives in a stone pot, still sizzling from the kitchen. Another platter holds expertly char-
The Holyland Supermarket near the intersection of West 117th and Lorain Ave.. | Mark Oprea
grilled shish kebab, shish tawook and shish kofta. On the side is a serving of malawah, buttery flatbread the size of a hubcap.
When I spoke to Qartit soon after he opened Reef al Yemin, we briefly discussed the restaurant turnover that the area has experienced over the past five or so years. He seemed unconcerned.
“If you have good food, something different, people will come and try it,” he told me.
In 2020, as a way to assist struggling owners and operators, Kurdi and his colleagues launched a database of Arab American-owned businesses that the community could support through take out and other measures. Even he was surprised by the numbers.
“It was shocking how many places I wasn’t aware of,” he says. “These were restaurants, yes, that served Middle Eastern or Arabic food, but there were also Arab-owned restaurants that served American food that you might not think were Arab owned.”
Because Arab Americans were not specifically counted on the U.S. census until 2020 – instead being lumped into the category of racially white – accurate numbers are difficult to come by. By Kurdi’s best estimates there are about 170,000 Arab Americans living in Ohio, with roughly 60,000 of them calling Northeast Ohio home.
If you’re in search of the seed that grew into the thriving tree that is now Little Arabia, you’ll find it at the corner of West 128th and Lorain. That’s where brothers Fred and Mike Assad opened Assad’s Bakery
35 years ago after the family settled here from Palestine via Dearborn, Michigan.
“We’re the original,” Mike says. “We’ve been here since 1990. When we started, there was nothing of Middle Eastern descent.”
But before there was Assad’s, there was Middle East Foods on West 25th Street in Ohio City.
“In 1979, my brother opened an Arabic food store because he didn’t see anything in Cleveland at that time,” Mike explains. “He was doing very well, and he was buying a lot of bread from Aladdin’s (the bakery not the restaurant). He had the idea to get his own pita bread oven and make his own pita bread.”
In the late-1980s, a group of family members travelled to Jordan, Syria and Lebanon to research baking techniques and equipment. After returning home with everything they needed, they opened a bakery on Cleveland’s near-west side. In 1990, the first batches of warm, fresh pita were rolling down the line, where it is still baked today in the rear of Assad’s Bakery on Lorain.
Given the importance of pita, Assad’s Bakery made the area very appealing to other Arab American families. The bread is served with most meals and store-bought brands – if at all available – pale in comparison to fresh-baked. From early on, the Assads supplemented the bakery items with imported retail products and prepared foods. But as the neighborhood continued to expand, so too did the offerings.
“In 2010, we wanted to do something a little different,” says Mike. “We were doing hummus, baba,
grape leaves and pies – we’ve always been doing that – but we started doing sandwiches and grilled items. Now, we have people from all over the city that come here for the falafel, our shawarma…”
With the continued arrival of Muslim immigrants into the area from places like Lebanon, Syria, Jordan, Palestine, Egypt and Yemin, markets specializing in halal foods began to spring up. Today, shoppers have their pick of well-stocked grocery stores like Holyland, West Town Village, Almadina Imported Foods and Arabian Village, all located within walking distance from one another.
“Before we opened our own shop, my go-to store was Holyland,” says Fasih Syed, who opened Cleaveland Grocers in Brook Park in 2021. “With the influx of immigrants into our community, the demand for halal products has definitely gone up – and the demand for different products.”
You don’t have to keep halal to appreciate the selection of fresh goat, lamb, chicken, beef – not to mention hard-to-find specialty items like lamb fries, sweetbreads and liver –available at most of these markets. Like any grocery store, those items are joined by a dizzying selection of fresh produce, yogurts, cheeses, olive oils, nuts, rice, spices, canned and jarred goods, flatbreads and candy. I had my first taste of Dubai chocolate after purchasing a bar as an impulse item while checking out at West Town.
At most of these markets you can do your shopping and walk out the door with a hot wrap filled with
falafel, shawarma or shish tawook. Or simply grab one of the ready-toeat pastries like spinach pies, cheese turnovers or mincemeat-topped flatbreads that also are commonly stocked at most markets.
One of the newer additions to the area is Levant, a popular shawarma restaurant that Adib Toubya opened in 2024. After attending culinary school at home in Syria, he worked as a professional chef for nearly 20 years before landing in Cleveland a decade ago. His goal at Levant, he explains, is to offer wholesome food at affordable prices.
“I want people to eat healthy,” he says. “For almost the same price of McDonald’s you can eat healthier. I don’t like expensive items.”
Each day, Toubya arrives hours before opening to make the shawarma cones from scratch. Two types are available, chicken and beef/lamb. The meat is thinly sliced, seasoned and meticulously stacked on a vertical spit to form the characteristic inverted-cone shape. Come mealtime, the lightly charred meat is shaved from the exterior as it cooks. Diners have their choice of wraps filled with meat, veggies, pickles and sauces, customizable platters and bowls. Order your shawarma wrap “Arabic-style” and it arrives in tidy bite-size pieces.
In addition to the shawarma, Toubya makes hummus, baba ghanoush, tabbouleh and falafel from scratch. His mother Noura makes the cheese pies, kibbe and stuffed grape leaves. Perhaps due to the same ever-shifting demographics that make Little Arabia a great place to eat, shop and stroll, the area has struggled
LEFT: Chefs Raid Mohammed and Talet Alazem making beef shawarma at Assad’s Bakery. RIGHT: Cooks at Levant Shawarma serving up falafel sandwiches and fries. | Mark Oprea
Cleveland Wing Week AUG 25–31
A Rub: 6 bone-in, boneless or cauliflower wings. Middle Eastern dry-rubbed wings seasoned with a bold blend of za’atar, sumac, garlic, and salt. Served with a creamy toum-style yogurt sauce and pickled turnips on the side.
Hot Tamale Wings: 6 bone-in, boneless or cauliflower wings. A sweet and spicy cinnamon candy glaze with a touch of mild red pepper heat—nostalgic and bold, like the treats you’d find at grandma’s house.
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with restaurant turnover over the past few years. Despite spectacular food and service, Yemen Gate shuttered a few months ago. Damas Eatery, a lovely Syrian restaurant that opened in 2022, closed last year. But turnover suggests rebirth, and there are always fresh restaurants in the area to explore. Saffron Restaurant, which specializes in Afghan cuisine, took the spot formerly home to Damas Eatery. Damascus Gate and Dar Al Yemen both are new dining options in the neighborhood.
Of course, it’s not just Arab American restaurants that call Little Arabia home. The area has long been a hub for Latin-owned spots like Mi Pueblo Taqueria and Mercado, which enjoyed a 20-year-run on Lorain until it closed a decade ago. Tapatia’s Taqueria has been attracting diners for eight years thanks to tasty tacos, tortas, sopes, tostadas and burritos – all washed down with refreshing micheladas. That neighborhood staple has recently been joined by J-G Taqueria el Milagro and Los Abuelitos, a Salvadoran restaurant. City Slice, a Latina-owned pizzeria, has been slinging mega NY-style slices since 2022.
Given the neighborhood’s rich history, culture and wealth of culinary assets, it’s natural to compare it to other ethnic enclaves in town like Little Italy or Asiatown. But for reasons unknown – perhaps because it is such a melting pot of immigrants and cultures from all around the world -- Little Arabia hasn’t received the same public or media attention. Despite generations of immigrants and Arab Americans settling in the area, it drew little notoriety as a dining or cultural destination — the first appearance of “Little Arabia” in the Plain Dealer didn’t come until 2001.
And stakeholders say they’re still fighting for respect.
Last year, the Westown CDC, the community development corporation that operates in that area, hosted the Ward 11 Street Fest. Most of the Arab American business owners that line those same streets say that they were not asked to participate, a slight that some suggest as indifference or worse.
“We need city representatives to see the opportunity to invest in the neighborhood and the brand,” states Kurdi. “We’re an economically thriving community. We’re a diverse community too. I do invite city officials to consider rebranding the neighborhood officially to Little Arabia, consider engaging with the business owners and community leaders, and
not ignore this important population.”
Spend a few minutes inside Assad’s and you’ll likely observe owner Mike devoting half his time to doing his tasks and the other half to chatting up shoppers. He prides himself on being able to greet most customers by name and in their native tongues, of which there is an impressive diversity.
“At least half my customers are non-Arabic,” he says. “Over the past 15 years there has been a lot of immigration from Afghanistan, from India, from Africa, from all over –and I have met people from almost every culture and nationality known to man.”
But just as those new families move in, many Arab American families have been moving out. Over the past decade or so, there has been a mini-diaspora in Northeast Ohio, with many Arab Americans relocating to places like North Olmsted, where a second Little Arabia is forming. Brookpark Road Extension has long been home to Middle Eastern hubs like Olive Tree Middle East Food and Ya Hala Bakery & Grill, but those businesses have since been joined by Arab American owned places like the Nut Shop, Cocky’s Bagels, CREPEscape and Shibam, a Yemeni coffee spot. After calling Cleveland’s near-west side home for 40 years, the Palestinian cultural center Beit Hanina also is relocating to North Olmsted.
“I’m a little concerned about the status of Little Arabia with a lot of the businesses opening on the west side, but I feel like after Levant and the Yemeni restaurants opened, they brought in a lot of hype to this area,” Kurdi says.
To Mike Assad, who has been watching the neighborhood’s ebbs and flows for 35 years, the perpetual metamorphosis is part and parcel of living in a welcoming, affordable, immigrant-rich community.
“I think this is one of the best melting-pot neighborhoods in Cleveland,” he says. “I think right now, the neighborhood is the best it’s ever been with variety, with diversity. I love the way the neighborhood has grown and improved. You have new refugees moving into the area and when they become more successful, they move out of the area. And that person will be replaced by another one. Everybody wants the American dream.”
scene@clevescene.com @clevelandscene
GET OUT
WED 08/13
Beetlejuice
Based on Tim Burton’s film, this musical centers on a teenager who “meets” a recently deceased couple and a demon with a thing for stripes. Tonight’s performance takes place at 7:30 at the State Theatre, where performances continue through Aug. 17.
1519 Euclid Ave., 216-241-6000, playhousesquare.org.
Guardians vs. Florida Marlins
The Guardians get a break from a tough August schedule to take on the lowly Florida Marlins, one of the worst teams in baseball, in a threegame series. First pitch is at 6:40 tonight.
2401 Ontario St., 216-420-4487, mlb.com/guardians.
Wade Oval Wednesdays
Featuring an eclectic mix of local bands, the popular concert series returns to Wade Oval. It takes place from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m., and the concerts continue through Aug. 20.
10831 Magnolia Dr., 216-791-3900, universitycircle.org.
THU 08/14
Feast of the Assumption
The annual Feast of the Assumption takes place today through Sunday in Little Italy. Once again, Holy Rosary Church’s parish hosts this free, family-friendly festival. Starting and ending with religious processions celebrating the Virgin Mary being taken into Heaven, the Feast includes classic festival staples as well as fireworks, a raffle, and observances and services for those who celebrate the Catholic Holy Day. littleitalyfeast.com.
Yo Gabba Gabba Live!
The live show features Kammy Kam, along with beloved Gabba characters Brobee, Foofa, Muno, Toodee, and Plex. The iconic group of characters will come together along with some special guests to create “an unforgettable immersive musical experience.” The performance begins at 5 p.m. at the Agora.
Everything to do in Cleveland for the next two weeks
5000 Euclid Ave., 216-881-2221, agoracleveland.com.
FRI 08/15
Guardians vs. Atlanta Braves
Led by future Hall of Famer Ronald Acuna Jr., the Atlanta Braves visit Progressive Field for the first and only time this regular season. The Braves played poorly at the season’s start, but got have gotten back into the playoff race. First pitch is at 7:10 p.m., and the series continues through Sunday.
2401 Ontario St., 216-420-4487, mlb.com/guardians.
SAT 08/16
Elgar’s Enigma Variations
Associate Conductor Daniel Reith leads the Cleveland Orchestra tonight at Blossom as it plays Elgar’s Enigma Variations, a piece which pays tribute to his friends. The concert begins at 7. 1145 W. Steels Corners Rd., Cuyahoga Falls, 216-231-1111, clevelandorchestra.com.
Tennis in the Land
The annual tennis tournament featuring some of the top women pro tennis players begins today and continues through Aug. 23 at Jacobs Pavilion. Consult the website for a complete schedule and more info.
2014 Sycamore St., 216-861-4080, tennisintheland.com.
SUN
Reggae Sundays
08/17
This special Reggae Sunday Happy Hour Concert series is a summer highlight. The indoor/outdoor concert series will take place rain or shine with live music from 4 to 7 p.m. at the Music Box. The venue will also offer food and drink specials exclusive to the series., free.
1148 Main Ave., 216-242-1250, musicboxcle.com.
MON 08/18
Memorial Monday
Every Monday through Sept. 30, Fort Huntington Park hosts food tracks and live music between 11:30
a.m. and 1:30 p.m. for this special event. Admission is free, but the food will cost you.
West 3rd St. and West Lakeside Ave., downtowncleveland.com.
TUE 08/19
RuPaul’s Drag Race
Werq The World 2025
Expect to see Daya Betty as Lady Gaga, Derrick Barry as Britney Spears, Jaida Essence Hall as Beyoncé, Jorgeous as Ariana Grande, Kim Chi as Mariah Carey, Vanessa Vanjie as Rihanna, and surprise guests including finalists from Season 17 of RuPaul’s fabulous TV show at this event that takes place at 8 p.m. at the State Theatre.
1519 Euclid Ave., 216-241-6000, playhousesquare.org.
WED 08/20
The 10 X 3 Songwriter Band Showcase Hosted by Brent Kirby
The concept of 10x3 is a pre-arranged line up with 10 songwriters/ bands performing three songs each.
The Feast of the Assumption returns to Little Italy. See: Thursday, Aug. 14. | Emanuel Wallace
Two of the them required to be original, and the third can be the artist’s choice. Local singer-songwriter Brent Kirby hosts the event, which runs from 7 to 9 tonight at the Bop Stop. Admission is free.
2920 Detroit Ave., 216-771-6551, themusicsettlement.org.
THU 08/21
Chopin & Rachmaninoff
Dima Slobodeniouk leads the Cleveland Orchestra as it plays Rachmaninoff’s Second Symphony and pianist Nobuyuki Tsujii performs Chopin’s Second Piano Concerto at this special concert at Mandel Concert Hall. It begins at 7 p.m. at Mandel Concert Hall.
11001 Euclid Ave., 216-231-1111, clevelandorchestra.com.
Standoperos Chisteando
Created by comedians Erick Bonilla, Cristina Sánchez and Titito Sánchez, this troupe started the longest-running weekly comedy show in Puerto Rico until its conclusion in December 2024. Now, the Spanish-speaking comedy has taken the show on the road. It performs at 7 tonight at the Funny Bone.
1148 Main Ave., 216-696-4677, clevelandfunnybone.com.
FRI 08/22
Bobby Lee
Bobby Lee is the black sheep of his very Korean family. He was supposed to take over the family clothing store, but instead he played in some bands and decided to become a comedian. His parents often tell him how ugly he is, and every girl he brings home hears all about how he ate dog poop when he was a kid. He performs tonight and tomorrow night at 7 and 9:45 at Hilarities. 2035 East Fourth St., 216-241-7425, pickwickandfrolic.com.
SAT 08/23
Cleveland Garlic Festival
The Cleveland Garlic Festival takes place this weekend at Shaker Square, home to the weekly North Union Farmers Market. The annual event will be held from noon to 8 p.m. today and from noon to 6 p.m. tomorrow. This year, there will be over 40 varieties of garlic from area farms and vendors. Highlights include Zanzibar’s garlic shrimp, Edwin’s
garlic chicken wings, and Mitchell’s garlic ice cream in addition to garlic grill offs and live music. Proceeds benefit the North Union Farmers Market.
clevelandgarlicfestival.org.
Mendelssohn’s Scottish Symphony
Mendelssohn found inspiration for his Symphony No. 3 in the ruins of Edinburgh’s Holyrood Chapel. Tonight at 7 at Blossom, the Cleveland Orchestra plays the piece along with selections by Britten and SaintSaëns.
1145 W. Steels Corners Rd., Cuyahoga Falls, 216-231-1111, clevelandorchestra.com.
SUN
One World Day
08/24
Since 1945 the Cleveland Cultural Gardens Federation (CCGF) has celebrated this event that exemplifies the theme of Peace through Mutual Understanding. With the streets closed to traffic, visitors can stroll, bike, scoot or ride the free shuttles throughout the 250-acre area and visit many of gardens. Admission is free.
clevelandoneworldday.org.
MON 08/25
Guardians vs. Tampa Bay Rays
A team with a low payroll that somehow always finds a way to be competitive, the Tampa Bay Rays come to Progressive Field today for a three-game series. First pitch is at 6:40 p.m.
2401 Ontario St., 216-420-4487, mlb.com/guardians.
TUE 08/26
Lyrical Rhythms Open Mic and Chill
This long-running open mic night at the B Side allows some of the city’s best rappers and poets to strut their stuff. The event begins at 8 with a comedy session dubbed 2 Drinks & a Joke with host Ant Morrow. The open mic performances begin at 10 p.m. Tickets cost $5 in advance, $10 at the door.
2785 Euclid Heights Blvd., Cleveland Heights, 216-932-1966, bsideliquorlounge.com.
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Something Good and Little Cloud offer even more delightful options between bread for Clevelanders
By Douglas Trattner
SANDWICHES HAVE ALWAYS been a staple of the American diet, but recently they seem to be overtaking the marketplace thanks to increased demand for fast-casual dining and the proliferation of quality shops. Two new Cleveland spots are vying for attention in that arena.
Something Good Social Kitchen
Something Good Social Kitchen opened this spring in the kiosk that sits on the Playhouse Square Plaza and the bill of fare is, by design, concise. There are all-beef hot dogs, chopped cheese sandwiches and seasonal salads.
I met a pal there for lunch recently and arrived to find a sun-soaked patio, live music and a beehive of activity. While the plaza is the site of many summertime events, the kiosk has remained dark since Zack Bruell’s Dynomite Burgers closed in 2020. Ricky Smith, the local personality behind Random Acts of Kindness Everywhere (R.A.K.E.), opened Something Good in spring and despite his lack of restaurant experience, he has settled into a tasty groove.
What Smith calls “burgers” are actually chopped-cheese sandwiches – and they are mega-delicious. Picture a Philly but with ground beef that gets chopped and cooked on the griddle with a variety of ingredients, loaded into a soft potato bun and topped with condiments and sauces. Customers can order one of three pre-designed builds or design their own from a list of mixins and toppings.
The Melt Down is a melty-savory mix of beef, mushroom, onions, banana peppers and cheese. Unlike the typical foot-long Philly, these are packed into manageable 8-inch hoagie buns, making them more affordable and less wasteful. Sloppy Good is a sweet/smoky sloppy joe with beef, BBQ sauce, peppers and onions. If you took a Big Mac, chopped it into bits and pieces and laid it to rest in a hoagie bun you’d wind up with something like the Good Mac. This one combines beef, lettuce, pickles, onions, cheese and a chef’s kiss of special sauce.
All burgers cost $10.50 (except BYO models which vary) and come with rosemary and truffle seasoned chips – but you’ll want to trade up to the crispy straight-cut fries ($2.50).
The crisscross-cut all-beef hot dogs ($7.50) are like edible billboards for Cleveland food products, with Cleveland Kitchen, POP Mustard, Cleveland Ketchup and others making appearances. Options include the Sunshine, with ketchup, whole-seed mustard and sweet relish, the Hug, with BBQ sauce, bacon and crispy onion straws, and the Big Warm, a chili cheese dog.
Smith incorporates kindness, positivity and whimsy at every turn. Instead of taking names for orders, staffers ask about your favorite childhood toy. So instead of hearing “Ann” “Seth” and “Doug,” you hear “Barbie Doll,” “Ricochet Racers” and “Atari.” A joke of the day comes free
of charge as does a sucker. But the biggest kindness is the free meal that gets donated for every one purchased, a staple gesture of R.A.K.E.
1302 Euclid Ave., Cleveland somethinggoodcle.com
Little Cloud Sandwiches
If you’re noticing more breakfast sandwiches than ever, you’re not alone. These portable brunches are popping up everywhere, including places one might not typically expect. And at the heart of many of them is an egg patty, which essentially has edged out the fried egg.
One such place is Little Cloud Sandwiches, a sunny new spot in Ohio City. Open since May, the colorful, mostly carry-out, cafe is located on West 25th Street by Bookhouse Brewing. The menu offers four breakfast sandwiches – two vegan – that are available all day. The Egg and Cheese ($8) arrives on a poofy, honey-slicked brioche bun. While the soft egg patty offers convenience, consistency and tidiness, it can never replace the gooey indulgence of a runny yolk.
Little Cloud also offers a Steak and Egg sandwich that comes topped with the shop’s uber-crispy hashbrown patties. You can order them on the side for $2 – and you should. Diners can “plus up” any breakfast sandwich with add-ons like avocado, dressed greens, bacon
or pork roll.
In the Classic Sammies category are staples like Turkey and Brie with sliced apples, a Philly-style cheesesteak with peppers, onions and provolone, and La Nonna ($15). Little Cloud’s version of an Italian hoagie is a many layered affair with mortadella, prosciutto, pepperoni and salami, mozzarella, greens and pepper relish. Enjoyed quickly, it’s a hearty, satisfying delight but over time the griddled pepperoni and salami tend to dry and stiffen.
A handful of seasonal sandwiches give regulars something new to look forward to. I couldn’t resist the Fried Green Tomato BLT ($15), which featured warm, crisp breaded and fried tomatoes, bacon, shredded lettuce and plenty of roasted garlic aioli. Chef David “Skippy” Rutherford always has a few vegan and/or vegetarian seasonal sandwiches as well.
Fries ($4) come by the bagful and they are hot, crisp and assertively spiced (if you order house seasoning). There’s no such thing as too much sauce ($1), and Little Cloud has a great lineup for dipping, dunking and drizzling that includes dilly ranch, chimichurri, peppadew aioli and others.
1512 West 25th St., Cleveland littlecloudsandwiches.com
Photo dtrattner@clevescene.com t@dougtrattner
Courtesy
BITES
Little Rose Tavern in West Park debuts new Greek-style pub menu
By Douglas Trattner
SINCE OPENING HER WEST
Park bar Little Rose Tavern (14206 Lorain Ave., 216-331-1441) in 2019, Roseanna Safos has recruited a string of cooks, chefs and pop-ups to keep her patrons well fed. Following a large kitchen renovation, chef John Hagerty debuted his popular Green Kitchen, a vegan gastropub concept. After a few good years, Hagerty moved on to do his own thing while his sous chef, Trevor Fuhrmann, stepped up to fill his shoes at Little Rose.
But now, it’s Safos herself who is manning the stoves at her “Nothing fancy but not too shabby” west-side bar. “I’ve been wanting to do this from the start back in 2019,” she explains. “It just took me a sec.”
Safos describes the menu as “fun Greek-style bar food.” On offer is a whipped feta dip with pita; orzo, chickpea and arugula salad; seasoned fries served with a side tzatziki; beef-and-lamb smash burgers; spinach pies; and Safos’ personal favorite, honey-drizzled loukoumades.
“Everything is pretty great but the item I’m most excited about are the loukoumades -- Greek donuts,” she explains. “I make them myself and they’re made to order. They rule and make the place smell like a Greek festival.”
As usual, there are many vegan and/or vegetarian options.
The bar offers food every day that the doors are open but the “taverna” menu is available only Thursday through Saturday. Wednesday and Sunday are wing nights and then there’s Taco Tuesday.
Shah’s Halal to Open in Former Lefty’s Cheesesteak Spot in University Heights
A little more than one year af-
ter opening, the Deshaun Watson-backed cheesesteak restaurant Lefty’s in University Heights has closed. The Detroit-based fast-food chain is in the midst of a major contraction, shuttering two dozen locations in multiple states. The University Heights shop was the only Ohio restaurant.
But the east-side property already has been spoken for. Shah’s Halal, a halal-certified Middle Eastern restaurant with more than 110 locations, will soon be opening. That
new brewpub in spring of 2024 after investing considerable amounts of time, money and effort to buff up the 120-year-old railcar repair depot.
“As you can imagine, this is pretty tough for my family, we really put our hearts in this one over the last two and a half years,” Ehasz said. “We just never found a way to be profitable and I was trying to do it all on my savings after a military career so not much to work with! We never truly had the budget to really
new location will be joining a pair of existing ones downtown near Public Square (2013 Ontario St.), which opened a few weeks ago, and in Strongsville (14228 Pearl Rd.).
Often billed as “the McDonald’s of halal,” Shah’s continues to proliferate since launching in 2005 with a single Queens, NY-based foot cart. The menu features fresh, flavorful food with many vegan and vegetarian options. Popular items include build-your-own salads, meat-andrice platters, pitas stuffed with lamb gyro, chicken, fish or falafel, burgers, chicken sandwiches and chicken or beef cheesesteaks.
Tricky Tortoise Brewing in Willoughby Has Closed Tricky Tortoise Brewing Co. (4057 Erie St.), which reactivated the massive Willoughby Brewing space after four years of dormancy, has permanently closed as of last weekend. Bobby Ehasz opened the
of the challenges over the last year have made it impossible for us to keep operating sustainably.
“To our loyal customers, thank you. You believed in us, drank with us, and made our family brewery feel like home. To our staff — our heart and soul— we are endlessly grateful for your dedication and hard work. You poured your energy into every pint, every event, and every interaction. “While this chapter is ending, we remain proud of what we built and even more proud of the community that gathered around it.”
Red Chimney Restaurant in Slavic Village Closed for Foreseeable Future Following Fire
A fire broke last week at the Red Chimney Restaurant on Fleet Avenue in Slavic Village. Fortunately, there were no injuries. Unfortunately, the restaurant will be closed for the foreseeable future, according to its owners.
“As many of you are aware, The Red Chimney suffered a devastating fire earlier today. While the loss is immense and heartbreaking, we are profoundly grateful that no one was injured. The outpouring of support from our incredible community has been nothing short of overwhelming. We’ve been deeply touched by the visits, the kind words, and the unwavering loyalty shown by so many customers, friends, and family members who have rallied around us. Knowing the depth of affection you all hold for The Red Chimney makes this setback even more poignant.”
make it great!”
After months of work, the former Willoughby Brewing Co. building looked lighter, brighter and more welcoming than it had in ages. Walls were removed, flooring replaced, booths extracted, lighting updated, and fixtures and furniture upgraded.
On the beer side, Caleb Brown, a brewer who worked at Platform/AB and Thirsty Dog, put together a tasty roster of beers that leaned into well balanced classics and originals.
“Running this brewery has been one of the greatest adventures of our lives,” Ehasz added. “We opened our doors with passion, community spirit, and a deep love for craft beer. For a time, it felt like magic — the laughter in our taproom, the clink of glasses, the pride of creating something that brought people together.
“But as many of you know, this industry can be as challenging as it is rewarding. Despite our best efforts, the financial strain
The owners vow to return to business as soon as possible.
“The road ahead will undoubtedly involve challenges, but the love and support you’ve shown us fuels our determination to rebuild. We are committed to returning, stronger and better than ever, and we’ll keep you updated on our progress every step of the way.”
Ward 12 Councilwoman Rebecca Maurer, who personally surveyed the scene, noted on Instagram the community support the family and business will undoubtedly receive in the coming months.
“I am devastated with this news. The Red Chimney is a Cleveland staple. I’ve had countless meals here and I know you have too. Please keep Pete, Lou, and Manny in your thoughts. I know my office and Slavic Village community will do everything in our power to help them rebuild.”
dtrattner@clevescene.com
t@dougtrattner
Courtesy Photo
MUSIC
Picking Up Traction
High school punk rockers SABON celebrate debut album’s release with Grog Shop show
By Jeff Niesel
THOUGH SHE’S ONLY
16, Sophia Parke, who fronts the local ska-punk band SABON, says playing and recording music is a priority in her life. A junior in high school, she’s not certain she’ll attend college right after graduating since it might disrupt the momentum the band has picked up since forming two years ago.
“Three out of the four of us don’t have any plans to go to college,” she says one afternoon from Six Shooter Coffee in Collinwood. SABON performs at 9:30 p.m. on Saturday, Aug. 16, at the Grog Shop in Cleveland Heights at a release party for its debut album, They Call Me. Quick Mystery opens. “If we do go to college, it’ll be in the local area so we can still play shows. College doesn’t lineup with my life plan right, and the band is really picking up traction. We’re hoping we can start to do that on a national level.”
The group first formed a couple of years ago when members met at a music camp.
“My sister and I just knew we wanted to be in a band,” Parke says. “We were on a mission. When we met our bassist and drummer, we thought they were perfect. They matched on style, and it worked out because we got along as friends too. We talked about [the ska band] Buck o Nine and wanted to be Scant a Buck o Nine. That turned into SABON, which is the acronym. We thought it was cool enough. It’s really stupid, but it works for us and it’s a good trademark because no one around here has a name like that.”
Horns are an important part of
SABON, Quick Mystery | 9 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 16 | Grog Shop 2785 Euclid Heights Blvd. | 216-321-5588 | Tickets: $12.59 | grogshop.gs
ska-punk, and Parke and her sister provide that aspect of the music, delivering Fishbone-like songs that translate into visceral punk anthems onstage. Sophia Parke plays saxophone and her sister Sylvia plays trombone.
“I was forced against my will to learn alto saxophone for middle school band,” says Parke. “When I quit band and didn’t have to learn the classic music, I discovered ska and decided I really liked it. I switched to tenor saxophone because my alto got broken at a show. I like it better. I think it suits our band better.”
Parke cites ska-punk bands from the ’90s as influences simply because they made up the bulk of her dad’s record collection.
“I adopted my dad’s music and his love for Warped Tour bands. He indoctrinated me into that music,” she says. “There aren’t a lot of these types of bands in the area, and our guitarist listens to reggae.”
The band’s first gig was trial by fire. Last year, the group played at the Beachland Tavern, where it opened for the local metal band
Olathia.
“We follow Olathia around and was talking to their singer Chris E. Olathia,” Parke says. “They’re super-nice. I was talking to Chris and told her that we were ready to play shows. She let us open for them. A lot of friends and family came because it was our first show. It was a decent turnout, and I felt like the audience did enjoy us. They gave us a lot of energy, but it was a lot different than playing punk shows.’
After opening for acts such as Catch 22 and CATBITE earlier this year, the group got onto the radar of local venues such as the Grog Shop in Cleveland Heights and Mahall’s 20 Lanes in Lakewood.
“I don’t know if it was luck or persistence,” says Parke. “We were lucky to have both of those opportunities.”
Prior to They Call Me, the group hasn’t released any music other than live performances.
“Some of our earlier songs we had for two years maybe longer,” she says. “The album has been a long time coming. It was a matter of ac-
cumulating all the music. And then, our drummer quit two weeks before we were going to record, so that was a big obstacle. But we got it corrected and started with a new drummer. The album really reflects our nostalgia for early 2000s and late 1990s ska-punk. Our songs are upbeat and inspiring. We really want to connect to the community.”
For the live show, the band plans to play the new album in its entirety in order. It’ll also tease new songs from it what it hopes will be its second album.
“We have amped up the ska for the live show,” says Parke. “Our first album was a lot of punk. We wanted to include more horn parts. I honestly sucked at saxophone when we started, but the music has become more complex as we’ve gone on. We aspire to be like Less Than Jake since everyone is having so much fun on stage when we play live.”
jniesel@clevescene.com t@jniesel
Courtesy of SABON
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THU 08/14
Lil Wayne: Tha Carter VI Tour Celebrating 20+ Years of Carter Classics
This rapper from the Dirty South became a huge sensation in the 2000s when his mixtapes were ubiquitous. His 2004 album, Tha Carter, established him as a hip-hop superstar and has spawned many sequels. He brings his anniversary tour celebrating 20 years since Tha Carter’s release to Blossom. Tyga and Belly Gang Kushington open, and the show starts at 8 p.m.
1145 W. Steels Corners Rd., Cuyahoga Falls, 216-231-1111, livenation.com.
Whitney
Formed in Chicago in 2015 by former Smith Westerns guitarist Max Kakacek and Unknown Mortal Orchestra drummer Julien Ehrlich, Whitney quickly gained acclaim with its debut album, 2016’s Light Upon the Lake. The current tour supports the forthcoming Small Talk. First single “Dandelions” recalls classic singer-songwriters from the ‘70s. The group performs at 7 p.m. at Globe Iron. Folk Bitch Trio opens. 2325 Elm St., globeironcle.com.
FRI 08/15
BabyTron
The rapper straight out of Ypsilanti, MI comes to the Agora Theatre. ShittyBoyz, a hip-hop group of which BabyTron is a member, open the show. BabyTron has personality to spare and makes funny videos with a Beastie Boys-like vibe. His rapid-fire raps and spastic beats will undoubtedly energize the crowd. Doors are at 7 p.m.
5000 Euclid Ave., 216-881-2221, agoracleveland.com.
Morgan Wallen
The controversial country singer brings his I’m the Problem tour to
Real music in the real world
Huntington Bank Field for a twonight stand. A talented songwriter, Wallen has delivered 19 No. 1 singles at country radio in just five years. I’m the Problem finds him capably exploring country rock on the title track and hip-hop in “Miami,” a song that features Lil Wayne and Rick Ross. Singer-songwriters Miranda Lambert and Ella Langley open today’s show. Thomas Rhett and Langley open tomorrow’s show. Doors are at 4:30 p.m.
100 Alfred Lerner Way, 440-891-5000, huntingtonbankfield.
Neil Young and the Chrome Hearts — Love Earth
The musically restless rock icon returns to Blossom with a new band in tow. Young and the group just released Talkin’ to the Trees, a collection of new tunes that find his distinctively high-pitched voice in great shape. The album alternates between gritty rockers such as “Dark Mirage” and gentle folk numbers like “First Fire of Winter.” The show begins at 7:30 p.m.
1145 W. Steels Corners Rd., Cuyahoga Falls, 216-231-1111, livenation.com.
SAT 08/16
Clipse
For the new album, Let God Sort Em Out, the Clipse — brothers Pusha T and Malice — enlisted an all-star team comprised of longtime collaborators, including hip-hop/pop superstar Pharrell Williams. Songs such as “Chains & Whips” and “All Things Considered” possess a real urgency and draw from electronica, rock, jazz and hip-hop. The tour in support of the album comes to the Agora tonight. Earthgang opens, and doors are at 7 p.m. 5000 Euclid Ave., 216-881-2221, agoracleveland.com.
Maxwell: The Serenade 2025
Born in Brooklyn to a Haitian mother and a Puerto Rican father, Maxwell started writing songs as a teenager. By the early 2000s, Maxwell had established himself as a major star in the R&B world. The neo-soul singer comes to Rocket Arena and
performs tonight at 8. One Center Court, 216-420-2000, rocketarena.com.
SUN
Silversun Pickups
08/17
With their debut EP, 2005’s Pikul, Sliversun Pickups immediately put themselves in a musical place that defies categorization. Singer-guitarist Brian Aubert’s upper-register vocals and distorted guitars recalled Smashing Pumpkins, but the band comes off a bit heavier. The indie rock band attained a cult following nevertheless. Tonight at 7, it returns to House of Blues.
308 Euclid Ave., 216-523-2583, houseofblues.com.
MON
08/18
Jesse & Joy: El Despecho Tour
With a career that goes back two decades, this pop duo from Mexico has attained an international following. Joy Huerta, the first Latina to compose the soundtrack for a Broadway musical, Real Women Have Curves, has a soulful voice. She puts her
Morgan Wallen takes over Huntington Bank Field for two nights. See: Friday, Aug. 15. | Spidey Smith
voice on display on the new album, Lo Que Nos Faltó Decir. The group performs tonight at 7 at House of Blues.
308 Euclid Ave., 216-523-2583, houseofblues.com.
Jessie Murph
The singer-songwriter performs tonight at 7 at Jacobs Pavilion. On her new album, Sex Hysteria, Murph explores themes of sexuality, inherited trauma, and personal awakening with “unprecedented candor and artistic maturity,” as it’s put in a press release. Her husky voice brings a real intensity to tunes such as “Gucci Mane” and the Amy Winehouse-like “1965.”
2014 Sycamore St., 216-861-4080, jacobspavilion.com.
TUE 08/19
Shinedown: Dance, Kid, Dance
The hard rock band brings its Dance, Kid, Dance tour to Rocket Arena. Known for its bombastic rock anthems, the group has consistently delivered on that front. The latest single, “The Killing Fields,” features a catchy refrain and comes off as Bon Jovi-like rock. The show begins at 7 p.m. For the tour, the group has teamed up with Musicians on Call and will be donate $1 for every ticket sold for the tour to the charity, the “leading provider of live music in hospitals,” as it’s put in a press release.
One Center Court, 216-420-2000, rocketarena.com.
WED 08/20
Styx & Kevin Cronin + Don Felder: The Brotherhood of Rock Tour
In this classic rock extravaganza, Styx will perform its hit album The Grand Illusion in its entirety, and the Kevin Cronin Band will play REO Speedwagon’s platinum-selling Hi Infidelity in its entirety. Singer-guitarist Don Felder will deliver hits from his time with the Eagles. It’s a dream lineup for Baby Boomers. The show starts at 6:45 p.m. at Blossom.
1145 W. Steels Corners Rd., Cuyahoga Falls, 216-231-1111, livenation.com.
THU 08/21
Jefferson Starship
The group brings its 50th anniver-
sary tour to the Kent Stage. A major part of the San Francisco scene in the ‘60s and ‘70s, the group has undergone significant change over the years and now features singer-guitarist Cathy Richardson (who joined in 2008) as frontperson. The show begins at 7 p.m. at the Kent Stage.
175 E. Main St., Kent, 330-677-5005, kentstage.org.
FRI 08/22
The Black Keys: No Rain, No Flowers
The group with Ohio roots returns to Blossom. The duo famously booked a 2024 tour that it scrapped after receiving what it called bad advice from its management. These dates support last year’s Ohio Players, another well-crafted collection of garage-blues tunes that draw equally from the arty indie rock of Beck and the gritty blues of Junior Kimbrough. The show starts at 7:30 p.m., and bluesman Gary Clark Jr. opens.
1145 W. Steels Corners Rd., Cuyahoga Falls, 216-231-1111, livenation.com.
SAT 08/23
18th Annual Multi Music Fest
Boney James, Avery Sunshine, Forecast and Stokely perform at this annual jazz festival. If the lineup just included sax man Boney James, a smooth jazz sensation whose career stretches back decades (he got his start in the 1970s), that would’ve been worth the price of admission. The show starts at 5 p.m. at Jacobs Pavilion.
2014 Sycamore St., 216-861-4080, jacobspavilion.com.
TUE 08/26
Benson Boone: American Heart World Tour
The singer-songwriter known for his backflips has made quite an impression with his sophomore album, American Heart. The thing keeps producing chart-topping singles. The hard rocking, Queen-like “Mr. Electric Blue,” the latest track to hit the charts, finds Boone writing about his father. The pop superstar comes to Rocket Arena tonight at 8. One Center Court, 216-420-2000, rocketarena.com.
jniesel@clevescene.com t@jniesel
Jerk seasoning • garlic aioli • sweet chili
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SAVAGE LOVE
BLOOD SPORT
by Dan Savage
DEAR READERS:
I’m away on my last reconnecting-with-family trip of the summer. This column originally appeared in 2018. Back with an all-new, action-packed Savage Love Quickies column next week. — Dan
I’m a professional dominatrix, and I thought I’d seen everything in the last five years. But this situation completely baffled the entire dungeon. This middle-aged guy, seemingly in fine health, booked an appointment with me and my colleague for one hour of some very light play and a golden shower to finish off with. We did no CBT, no cock rings, no trauma to the dick area at all, no ass play, no sounding or catheters, no turbulent masturbation, nothing that could have caused this reaction. We brought him into the bathroom, and he laid down on his back, jerking off with a condom on his penis as my buddy was standing over him and peeing, and I was saying all kinds of mean/encouragingsentimentsand closely observing his progress. He came and... it was entirely blood. It lookedlikeheshatintohiscondom, through his penis. He did not seem alarmed or in pain. He took off his condom himself, so he was aware of the situation. He did not remark on it to either of us! He made ZERO effort to prepare either of us, either. And it was not a little blood in his ejaculate—it was entirely blood. He hasneverreturned.Isthispersona monster or a vampire? Is he dying? Seriously.
Mistress Echo
P.S. I went back to the bathroom with gloves on and removed the used condom from the trash, and took a photo. It’s the only way to communicate just how much blood there was.
“You can tell Mistress Echo that her client was not a monster or a vampire, and he is likely not dying
anytime soon,” said Dr. Stephen H. King, a board-certified urologist. “What she observed is a person with hematospermia, meaning blood in the semen.”
While the sight is alarming — I’ll never be able to scrape that photo off the back of my eyeballs, thanks — Dr. King assures me that it’s nothing to worry about, as hematospermia is almost always benign. And even if you had done ball play or rough CBT (cock and ball torture), or if he engaged in solo CBT prior to the session, it’s unlikely that kind of play would result in a condom full of blood.
“The vast majority of the semen actually comes from the prostate and the seminal vesicles, which are located deep in the pelvis just behind and below the bladder, respectively,” said Dr. King. “Very little of the ejaculate fluid actually originates from the testicles,” which primarily pump out hormones and sperm cells. “The prostate gland and seminal vesicles (also glands) store up the fluids and can become overdistended with long periods of abstinence, and prone toward micro tearing and bleeding in this circumstance.”
Blowing regular loads doesn’t just lower your risk for prostate cancer, as multiple studies have shown, it also lowers your risk for filling condoms with blood and alarming your friendly neighborhood proDom. Two good reasons for draining those balls, guys—and other people with balls because, as the Book of Tumblr teaches us, not all guys have balls and not all balls have guys.
“Also, these glands are lined by smooth muscle that contracts to force out the fluid [during ejaculation],” Dr. King continued. “If the force of contraction is excessive—a fucking great orgasm—this may lead toward rupture of some of the surrounding blood vessels, and blood will enter the semen.”
Your client’s blasé reaction is a good indication that he’s experienced this previously, ME, because most guys who see blood in their semen — or only blood when they expected to see semen —freak the fuck out.
“In my practice, most guys who see blood in their ejaculate the first time are sufficiently freaked out to seek immediate medical attention, and their doctors usually tell them this isn’t something to worry about — unless it persists,” said Dr. King. “In cases where the hematospermia persists, gets worse, or is associated with other symptoms such as pain, difficulty urinating, or general health decline, medical attention is definitely recommended.”
Back to your client, ME: If blood loads have happened to him before (hence the blasé reaction), proper etiquette dictates that he should have said something to you about it afterward (“I’m fine, no biggie”). If it happens to him regularly, he should have warned you in advance — at least that’s what it says in my imaginary edition of Emily Post’s BDSM Etiquette.
I’m an old guy, 68 years old to be exact. (Also a Scorpio, if that matters.) I’ve always been a pretty hornyperson,andIhadalotoffun from the 1960s through the 1980s with a number of lovers. I figured that as I got older, my horniness would lessen, and I could think aboutsomethingotherthanpussy. Trouble is, I don’t seem to be less horny. I find myself attracted to women in their 30s or 40s, but I wonder how I appear to them. I don’t want to make an utter fool of myself by making an unwanted advance—but the truth is, I’m still pretty hot to trot. What do I do?
Not Ready For The Nursing Home
You could see sex workers (quickest fix), you could look for women in their 30s or 40s who are attracted to guys pushing 70 (gerontophilia is a thing), you could date women in their 50s or 60s with a youthful appearance and/or attitude (there are lots out there, NRFTNH, and they often gather in groups to complain about how men their age are only interested in much younger women), or you could do all of the above. But you shouldn’t regard moving into a nursing home as the end of your sex life, NRFTNH. I’m constantly reading news reports about sexually transmitted disease epidemics in nursing homes and retirement communities. People may not like to think about the elderly having sex, and the elderly apparently don’t think about protection (or they’re denied access to it)—but lots of old fuckers are still fucking. (And, as astrology is bullshit, NRFTNH, being a Scorpio doesn’t matter. It never has and it never will.)
My partner does phone sex work. A lot of the calls are from “straight” guys who ask to be “forced” to suck cock. (We assume the forced part is because they think there’s something wrong with being gay.) We’re wondering if there is a sex-positive word we should be using to describe these guys. If not, your readers should coin one, so all of us straight dudes who love dick can
take pride in our desires. Fill in the blank: “_______: a 100 percent straight guy who also loves sucking dick (and perhaps taking it in the ass).”
Cocksuckers Need Noun
The kink you describe already has a name — forced bi — and a forced bi scene usually goes something like this: A guy who would never, ever suck a cock because he’s totally straight gets down on his knees and sucks cocks on the orders of his female dominant. Since this totally straight guy sucks cock only to please a woman, there’s nothing gay and/or bi about all the cocks he puts in his mouth. It’s one very particular way in which male bisexuality is expressed — think of it as male bisexual desire after hetero fragility, gay panic, denial, religion, gender norms, and football get through kicking the shit out of it. Paradoxically, CNN, by the time a guy asks a woman to force him to suck a cock, he’s allowing himself to suck a cock and therefore no longer in denial. (And, yes, guys into forced bi are free to identify as straight — indeed, they have to keep identifying as straight, since identifying as bi would fatally undermine the transgression that makes their perfectly legitimate kink arousing.)
But what to call these guys?
Well, CNN, some people into BDSM call themselves “BDSMers.” But “forcedbi’ers” doesn’t trip quite so easily off the tongue. So, maybe we go with “cocksuckers” instead? Straight guys (and straight-identified guys) consider it an emasculating slur, which is why straight-identified men throw around to get, um, a rise out of each other. (Call an out-and-over-it gay man a cocksucker, and all you’ll get in return is a “no shit.”) But while “You’re a cocksucker” may be fighting words for a straight guy, I imagine they would be highly arousing ones for a straight-identified guy who was into forced bi.
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