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Finding a foreign item in food is the pits, as Dennis Kucinich learned

PD file U.S. Rep. Dennis Kucinich

COMMENTARY

When the news broke about Dennis Kucinich's tooth meeting an olive pit, I must admit I felt his pain.

Left side, lower molar, to be exact.

My surprise was more grand than his, but the outcome similar. And it had nothing to do with my work reviewing restaurants, which has produced more unidentified crunching than I'd like to report.

Here's the scene: My friend Ellie and I are eating lunch at our regular, low-cost, high-flavor ethnic place. A stuffed, fried dish we adore is before us and we are noshing and yakking with glee.

Then I bite down on something so hard, so metallic, that the shock makes me wince. I check my fork for a missing tine. Nothing out of place. I wriggle around with my tongue -- a bit difficult since, as I said, we are stuffing ourselves -- and find something round and hard.

I pull it from between my lips, grateful to be eating with a forgiving friend. Never mind the old manners about pushing the item onto a fork and lowering it to your plate: I wanted this one out, pronto.

I hold it up. It's a ring, a shiny, yellow-gold ring like a modest wedding band.

What the . . . ?

This fairy-tale item looked like it had been through the Cuisinart, and my foodie mind surmised that a cook might have lost a little weight and found his or her ring loose. Still, why wasn't it removed before working? Put it on a neck chain for safekeeping. Or something.

The server reported, after my numerous requests for an answer, that the ring, indeed, belonged to the cook. She gave me a new dish, gratis, but I wasn't hungry anymore.

A few weeks later, my dentist found a hairline crack in the aching molar that bit the ring. I would need a crown.

It didn't seem fair. I already had crowns -- they were expensive and a pain. It would be good to make a point of the incident so it didn't happen again.

But the owner wasn't there to tell when it happened, which means I'd have to push my case harder long after the fact. And I loved the restaurant. I wanted to go back to the ritual of noshing and yakking with Ellie over the same divine dish. I also had dental insurance, something the cook might not have.

I didn't sue -- but I'm glad Kucinich did. Someone should make a point about little things that shouldn't happen in the kitchen. People can get hurt, and his injury was worse than mine.

I hope his settlement includes asking the restaurant for a full accounting of how this olive pit got in his food and how it won't happen again. He should bargain to share that information with other customers, so they can know the place is safe for them, too.

Then he should forget the settlement.

Yes, it might look to some that he backed down after ridicule, but we know Kucinich is tougher (or more stubborn) than that. He might want to give it back so he can be a leader who makes decisions that consider others -- all the time. He should drop it so he can proudly continue to go to a convenient place and eat olive after olive, to his heart's content.

They're good for you. Almost always.

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Rock and Roll Hall of Fame to Honor Women In Rock in Major Exhibit I Rolling Stone

Madonna's gold bustier designed by Jean Paul Gaultier from her 1990 Blonde Ambition Tour.

The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame's next major exhibit will honor 70 years of women in popular music – from Mamie Smith's first blues recordings in 1920 through Lady Gaga's most recent hits. The exhibit, which opens to the public on May 13th, will honor more than 50 female artists and will take up two floors of the museum.

Photos: Women Who Rock

"This exhibit is going to illustrate the vital role women played in shaping the evolution of rock and roll," said Jim Henke, vice president of exhibitions and curatorial affairs for the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Museum. “Visitors are going walk away from this exhibit with a deeper appreciation of how these artists contributed to the rock and roll art form and changed our society."

The 2011 Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Nominees

A stunning collection of artifacts have been collected for the exhibit, including the already infamous "meat dress" that Lady Gaga wore to the 2010 MTV Video Music Awards, Madonna's handwritten lyrics to "Erotica," the outfit that Tina Weymouth wore in the Talking Heads film Stop Making Sense, Stevie Nicks' handwritten lyrics to "Stand Back," the white leather vest that Grace Slick wore at Woodstock, the nude rhinestone outfit that Britney Spears wore during her 2000 performance at the MTV Video Music Awards and many more.

Lady Gaga's Wild Looks

Visitors to the museum will be able to film a short story about how women in rock have shaped their lives, and the museum will host educational programming all year about the history of female recording artists. 

On May 14th the the museum will host its annual It's Only Rock and Roll Benefit concert, which will feature Wanda Jackson and Cyndi Lauper. 

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Browsing the Arts for Feb. 4-10, 2011

Friday magazine arts calendar for 2/4/2011

Akron Art Museum. 1 S. High St. 330-376-9185 or akronartmuseum.org. 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Wednesday-Sunday (until 9 p.m. Thursday), and holidays. $7; $5, those 65 and older and students (with valid ID); free, children ages 12 and younger. Free admission the first Sunday of the month. Exhibit: "Culture Revolution: Contemporary Chinese Paintings." On loan from Oberlin College's Allen Memorial Art Museum. Through Sunday, Feb. 27. Exhibit (C. Blake McDonwell Jr. Gallery): Monet's "Wisteria." On loan from Oberlin College's Allen Memorial Art Museum. Through Friday, Feb. 11. Event: Sunday Sampler (free family events at the museum, Akron-Summit County Public Library and Summit Artspace). 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Sunday. 02/6/11

Cleveland Museum of Art. 11150 East Blvd. 216-421-7340 or clevelandart.org. Registration required for gallery talks and lectures. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Tuesday-Sunday (until 9 p.m. Wednesday and Friday). Closed major holidays. Free admission to the permanent collection. Admission may apply to touring exhibitions. Exhibit: "In Honor of the Cleveland Arts Prize," a rotation of works in all media created by former visual arts prize winners whose work is in the permanent collection. Through Sunday, March 13. Exhibit: "Objects Being Taught They Are Nothing But Tools." Works by contemporary Korean artist Kim Beom. Through Sunday, March 6. Exhibit: "The Glory of the Printed Page: Manuscript Illuminations From the Permanent Collection." Through Sunday, March 27.

Museum of Contemporary Art Cleveland. 8501 Carnegie Ave. 216-421-8671 or mocacleveland.org. 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Tuesday-Sunday (until 8 p.m. Wednesday). $4; $3, senior citizens and students with ID (free on Friday). The Cleveland Play House provides secure parking for $7.50. Winter Exhibition: Teresita Fernandez, sculptural installations; Javiar Tellez, film; and Cleveland artist Lorri Ott. Through Sunday, May 8. Through Sunday, May 8. Event: Moca-Nection (singles meet-up). 6-8 p.m. Wednesday. 02/9/11 Free.

Ashtabula Arts Center Gallery. 2928 West 13th St. 440-964-3396 or ashartscenter.org. 9 a.m.-8 p.m. Monday-Thursday; 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Friday, Saturday. Exhibit: Works by members of VSA Ohio (Very Special Arts, people with disabilities). Artists' reception: 1-3 p.m. Thursday. 02/10/11 Through Monday, Feb. 28.

Cuyahoga Community College. Eastern Campus' Gallery East, East 1 Building, Room 135, 4250 Richmond Road, Highland Hills. 216-987-2473. 9:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m. Monday-Thursday. Exhibit: The 11th annual "Health, Healing and Wholeness: Weaving Creativity Into the Fabric of Healthcare and Self Care." The exhibition, featuring over 100 arts by local and national artists, is a collaborative by the Tri-C Creative Arts/Pre-Art Therapy Department, the Ursuline College Art Therapy and Counseling Department and Tri-C Gallery East. Opening reception: 6 p.m. Thursday. 02/10/11 Through Tuesday, March 8.

Galeria Quetzal. 12400 Mayfield Road, Cleveland. 216-421-8223 or galeriaquetzal.com. Noon-6 p.m. Monday-Thursday; noon-9 p.m. Friday, Saturday. Exhibit: "Latin American Textile and Ceramic Exhibition." Opening reception: 6:30-9:30 p.m. today-Saturday. 02/4/11-02/5/11 Through Saturday, April 16.

Medina County Art League. Medina County District Library's third floor, 210 S. Broadway St. 330-659-4301. 9 a.m.-8:30 p.m. Monday-Thursday; 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Friday; 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday; 1-5 p.m. Sunday. Exhibit: The seventh annual Aquarius Exhibition. Opening reception: 1-3 p.m. Saturday. 02/5/11 Awards presentation at 2 p.m. Through Friday, Feb. 25.

O Gallery. La Place, 2101 Richmond Road, Beachwood. 330-921-1234 or kocustoms.com. Noon-8 p.m. Wednesday-Saturday; noon-6 p.m. Sunday. First Year Anniversary: "Depth of Expressions." Contemporary and surrealistic art created by Natalya Romanovsky, Jenna Fournier and Kristen Olsen. Meet the Artists: 6-9 p.m. Saturday. 02/5/11

River Gallery. 19046 Old Detroit Road, Rocky River. 440-331-8406 or rivergalleryarts.com. 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Tuesday-Friday; 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday. Exhibit: "The First Show of 2011." Jeff Yost, paintings; Brian Sarama, ceramics; and Maryann Posche and John Gulyas, jewelry. Opening reception: 3-7 p.m. Saturday. 02/5/11 Through Saturday, March 19.

Waterloo 7. 35005 Chardon Road, Willoughby Hills. 440-946-0333 or schmidtsculpture.com. Exhibit: Lisa Eastman, paintings; Michelle Smith, jewelry; Roger McAndrews, pottery; and Ron Busdiecher, kaleidoscope. Opens: today. 02/4/11 Through Sunday, Feb. 27.

Cuyahoga County Public Library. Fairview Park Regional branch, 21255 Lorain Road, Fairview Park. 440-333-4700 or cuyahogalibrary.org. East-West Thriller Fest: Forensic scientist at the Cuyahoga County coroner's office Lisa Black, "Trail of Blood." 7 p.m. Thursday. 02/10/11

Learned Owl Book Shop. 204 N. Main St., Hudson. 330-653-2252 or learnedowl.com. Book signing: Morris Eckhouse and Greg Crouse, "Where Cleveland Played: Sports Shrines from League Park to the Coliseum." 1-3 p.m. Saturday. 02/5/11

Visible Voice Books. Pilgrim Congregational Church, 2592 West 14th St., Cleveland. 216-961-0085 or visiblevoicebooks.com. Book signing/discussion: Mira Bartok, "The Memory Palace." 7-9 p.m. today. 02/4/11

Westlake Porter Public Library. 27333 Center Ridge Road 440-871-2600 or westlakelibrary.org. Book Sale. 9:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. today-Saturday; 1:15-4:30 p.m. Sunday. 02/4/11-02/6/11

Willoughby-Eastlake Public Library. Eastlake branch, 36706 Lake Shore Blvd. 440-942-7880. or wepl.lib.oh.us. Book Sale. 9 a.m.-5 p.m. today-Saturday; 1-5 p.m. Sunday. 02/4/11-02/6/11

First Mondays. The Alcazar, 2450 Derbyshire Road, Cleveland Heights. 216-371-5620. For handicapped parking, call 216-321-5400. Poetry reading: Sarah Gridley and Per Aage Brandt. 7 p.m. Monday. 02/7/11 $5.

Breen Center for the Performing Arts. 1911 West 30th St., Cleveland. 216-961-2560 or ignatius.edu/breencenter. Program: GroundWorks DanceTheater. World premiere of "The Return," David Shimotakahara's adaptation of Thornton Wilder's "Our Town"; Shimotakahara's "Boom Boom"; plus the world premiere of a newly commissioned work by David Parker and The Bang Group. 8 p.m. today-Saturday. 02/4/11-02/5/11 $15-$22.

PlayhouseSquare. 1519 Euclid Ave., Cleveland. 216-241-6000 or playhousesquare.org. Palace Theatre: Master Class: Cast members from "South Pacific." 3 p.m. Wednesday. 02/9/11 Open to advanced level high school or college students, or local professional artists. For ages 14 and up. Others are welcome to observe. Free, registration required. Call Lauren Fraley at 216-771-4444, ext. 3268 or e-mail fraleyl@playhousesquare.org.

Akron Symphony Orchestra. E.J. Thomas Performing Arts Hall, 198 Hill St. 330-535-8131 or akronsymphony.org. Concert: "The 18th annual Gospel Meets Symphony Concert: Tribute to Gospel Legend Walter Hawkins." Christopher Wilkins, conductor; Jennifer Mekel Jones, chorus master. 7:30 p.m. Saturday. 02/5/11 $15-$40.

Akron Youth Symphony. E.J. Thomas Performing Arts Hall, 198 Hill St. 330-535-8131 or akronsymphony.org. Winter Concert: Levi Hammer, conductor. Plus the Greater Akron Youth Philharmonic. Damon Conn and Thomas Resnick, directors. Works by Liszt, Brahms and Strauss. 3 p.m. Sunday. 02/6/11 Free.

Kent State Opera. Hugh A. Glauser School of Music's Ludwig Recital Hall, 1325 Theatre Drive 330-672-2172 or dept.kent.edu/music/. Gala Fundraiser: "A Night in Seville," featuring voice faculty members Marla Berg, Tim Culver, Fenlon Lamb, Lara Troyer and opera students. 8 p.m. Saturday. 02/5/11 $25.

Oberlin Opera Theater. Oberlin College's Warner Concert Hall, 77 N. Professor St. Central Ticket Service: 1-800-371-0178 or oberlin.edu. Opera: Jose Evangelista's "Exercises de Style." 8 and 10 p.m. today; 2 and 4 p.m. Sunday. 02/4/11-02/6/11 Free.

Oberlin Opera Theater. Oberlin College's Finney Chapel, 90 N. Professor St. Central Ticket Service: 1-800-371-0178 or oberlin.edu. Opera: Benjamin Britten's "The Turn of the Screw." 8 p.m. Saturday. 02/5/11 Free.

Suburban Symphony Orchestra. Beachwood High School Auditorium, 25100 Fairmount Blvd., Beachwood. 440-248-8341 or suburbansymphony.org. Concert: Annual Young Soloist Concert (Michael Ferri, violin; Cindy Zhao, piano; Haruno Sato, violin; Hannah Moses, cello; and Brandon Garbot, violin). Martin Kessler, conductor; Erica Ward, concertmistress. Works by Ravel, Saint-Saens, Dvorak and Sibelius. 3:30 p.m. Sunday. 02/6/11 Free.

MUSIC -- RECITALS, COMMUNITY CONCERTS

Baldwin-Wallace College. Kulas Musical Arts Building, 96 Front St., Berea. 440-826-2325 or bw.edu/academics/conservatory/events. Concert: B-W Jazztet. Greg Banaszak, director. 8 p.m. today. 02/4/11 Free. Faculty recital: Mary Dobrea-Grindahl, piano; and Sungeun Kim, piano. Works by Rodrigo, Ravel, Debussy, Prokofiev and Ginastera. 4 p.m. Sunday. 02/6/11 Free.

Case Western Reserve University. Harkness Chapel, 11200 Bellflower Road, Cleveland. 216-368-1160 or performingarts.case.edu. Concert: Case Baroque Chamber Ensembles and Collegium Concert. Dramatic cantatas from High Baroque Period featuring music by Scarlatti, Handel and others. 7:30 p.m. Monday. 02/7/11

Cleveland Institute of Music. 11021 East Blvd. 216-791-5000 or cim.edu. Most events free unless indicated. Seating passes will be distributed in lobby 30 minutes before the concert and may be reserved one week in advance. Faculty recital (Mixon Hall): Annie Fullard, violin; Mari Sata, violin; and Marcia Ferritto, viola. Works by Mozart, Martinu, Bartok and Dvorak. 8 p.m. today. 02/4/11 Concert (Mixon Hall): Pianofest. 7:30 p.m. Tuesday. 02/8/11 $5. Faculty recital (Kulas Hall): Franklin Cohen, clarinet; Joan Kwuon, violin; Joel Smirnoff, violin; Kristen Docter, viola; and guest artists Diana Cohen, violin; and Tanya Ell, cello. Works by Reger and Brahms. 8 p.m. Wednesday. 02/9/11 Masters series (Mixon Hall): Leon Fleisher, piano. Works by Bach and Schubert. 8 p.m. Thursday. 02/10/11 $45.

Cleveland Metroparks. South Chagrin Reservation's Look About Lodge, 37374 Miles Road, Bentleyville. 440-247-7075 or clevelandmetroparks.com. Fireside Concert series: The Flipside. 7 p.m. today. 02/4/11 $5. Registration required.

Cuyahoga County Public Library. Orange branch, 31300 Chagrin Blvd., Pepper Pike. 216-831-4282 or cuyahogalibrary.org. Concert: Steel Drum Band from Panyard, Inc. 7 p.m. Wednesday. 02/9/11 Free.

Cuyahoga Valley National Park. Happy Days Visitor Center, 500 W. Streetsboro Road (Ohio 303), one mile west of Ohio 8, Peninsula. 330-657-2909 or cvnpa.org. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. daily. Jazz Concert: Frank Vignola Trio. 8 p.m. today. 02/4/11 $17, adults; $12, CVNPA members; and $5 ages 3-12.

E.J. Thomas Performing Arts Hall. 198 Hill St., Akron. 330-972-7570 or ejthomashall.com. Jazz Concert (Stage Door): Akron Color Line Project. 7:30 p.m. Thursday. 02/10/11 $10.

Immaculate Conception Church. 2846 Hubbard Road, Madison. 440-428-5164 or iccmadison.com. Concert: Kevin Heider, A Broken Standard, Mark Porostostky Jr. 7:30 p.m. today. 02/4/11 $5.

Kent State University. Student Center, end of Midway Road (off East Main Street). Lecture/performance (in ballroom): Rainbow Warriors. 7 p.m. Thursday. 02/10/11 $10.

Lorain County Community College. Stocker Arts Center, 1005 N. Abbe Road, Elyria. 1-800-995-5222, ext. 4040 or lorainccc.edu/stocker. Concert: LCCC Civic Orchestra. Gerald Evans, conductor; Linda Gardner, organ. Works by Rachmaninoff and a new work by Oberlin College faculty member Bruce Richards. 7:30 p.m. Saturday. 02/5/11 $6-$7.

Oberlin College. Bertram and Judith Kohl Building's Clonick Hall, 77 W. College St. oberlin.edu. Concert/Master Class: Alan Baer, principal tuba with New York Philharmonic. 3 p.m. Saturday. 02/5/11 Free.

Ohio Regional Music Arts and Cultural Outreach. Broadway Hall Auditorium, 144 N. Broadway, Medina. 330-722-2541 or ormaco.org. Concert: The Tabloid Twangers. 8 p.m. Saturday. 02/5/11 $20-$25.

Painesville United Methodist Church. 71 N. Park Place 440-354-3642 or pumconline.org. Concert: Singers Companye. Program features choral masters from four centuries (Purcell to Bernstein). 7:30 p.m. Saturday. 02/5/11 Offering.

St. John Cathedral. East Ninth Street and Superior Avenue, Cleveland. 216-771-6666, Ext. 5510, or saintjohncathedral.com. Concert: Donna Stewart, mezzo, and Ron Andrico, lute. Program features 16th century Spanish motets for voice and lute. 3 p.m. Sunday. 02/6/11 Free.

Trinity Evangelical Lutheran Church. 2031 West 30th St., Cleveland. 216-321-1393 or clevelandbeckerath.org. Brownbag Concert: "The Wind at My Back: Music by Haydn and Pachelbel." Florence Mustric, organ. 12:15 p.m. Wednesday. 02/9/11 Offering.

University of Akron. E.J. Thomas Performing Arts Hall, 198 Hill St. 330-972-7570. Concert: UA Symphony Orchestra with guest pianist Spencer Myer. 7:30 p.m. Monday. 02/7/11 $5-$10.

Actors' Summit Theater. Greystone Hall, 6th Floor, 103 S. High St., Akron. 330-374-7568 or actorssummit.org. Steven Dietz' "Becky's New Car." 8 p.m. Thursday. 02/10/11 Preview (Thursday): $17. All other performances through Sunday, Feb. 27: $24-$30. Students: $7 at all performances.

Cleveland Play House. Drury Theatre, 8500 Euclid Ave. 216-795-7000 or clevelandplayhouse.com. Horte Foote's "The Trip to Bountiful." 8 p.m. today-Saturday; 2 p.m. Sunday; 7:30 p.m. Tuesday-Thursday. 02/4/11-02/10/11 Through Sunday, Feb. 27. One Thursday matinee: 1:30 p.m. Feb. 17. One early Tuesday performance: 7 p.m. Feb. 22. $45-$65. Students under 25: $10 with proof of age and valid school ID.

Cleveland Public Theatre. James Levin Theatre, 6415 Detroit Ave. 216-631-2727 or cptonline.org. Big Box series: Paul Shoulberg's "Sick (expletive)," Val Kozlenko and Eric Perusek's "A Sleep and a Wake," Renee Schilling and Lew Wallace's "30 Awkward Minutes With Pat and Glenn." 7:30 p.m. today-Saturday; 3 p.m. Sunday. 02/4/11-02/6/11 The Big Box series of new and original works continues through Sunday, March 6. $13-$15.

Cleveland Public Theatre. 6415 Detroit Ave. 216-631-2727 or cptonline.org. The Church at CPT: The Dark Room's Open Mike. Tuesday: writers can bring up to 10 pages of work to be read at 7:15 p.m.; Open Mike Session readings begins at 7:30 p.m.

Ensemble Theatre. Notre Dame College's Performing Arts Center, 4545 College Road, South Euclid. 216-321-2930 or ensemble-theatre.org. Charles Smith's "Free Man of Color." 8 p.m. Thursday. 02/10/11 Through Sunday, Feb. 27. $20 ($18, seniors; $10, students).

Fam Fest USA. Cleveland Play House's Brooks Theatre, 8500 Euclid Ave., Cleveland. 216-544-0363. F.A. Taylor's "The Vagabond." 7 p.m. today-Saturday. 02/4/11-02/5/11 $8-$10.

Karamu Performing Arts Theatre. 2355 East 89th St., Cleveland. 216-795-7070 or karamu.com. Zina Camblin's "And Her Hair Went With Her." 8 p.m. today-Saturday and Thursday; 3 and 7:30 p.m. Sunday. 02/4/11-02/10/11 Through Sunday, Feb. 20. Sold out performances: Feb. 19 and 20. $21-$25, Friday, Saturday; $16-$20, Sunday, Thursday.

Lakeland Civic Theatre. Lakeland Community College, I-90 and Ohio 306, Kirtland. 440-525-7526 or lakelandcc.edu/academic/arts/theatre/. Stephen Sondheim and John Weidman's "Assassins." 7:30 p.m. today-Saturday; 2 p.m. Sunday. 02/4/11-02/6/11 Through Sunday, Feb. 20. $15 ($12, seniors; $7, students).

Lorain County Community College. Stocker Arts Center, 1005 N. Abbe Road, Elyria. 1-800-995-5222, ext. 4040 or lorainccc.edu/stocker. Former Houston Oilers Safety Bo Eason's "Runt of the Litter." 7:30 p.m. Thursday. 02/10/11 $10-$15.

National Theatre. Cleveland Cinemas' Cedar Lee Theatre, 2163 Lee Road, Cleveland Heights. clevelandcinemas.com. The cinematic showings of National Theatre performances in Britain. Tickets are $20 but patrons can save $2 when they present a ticket stub from any PlayhouseSquare, Great Lakes Theatre Festival, Dobama Theatre or Cleveland Play House production. "FELA!." 2 p.m. Sunday; 7 p.m. Wednesday. 02/6/11-02/9/11

Oddy Festival. Cleveland Heights-University Heights Main Library's Brody-Nelson Room, 2345 Lee Road, Cleveland Heights. 216-926-8641 or twitter.com/OddyFest. OddyFest #30: Choreographer B.J. Halsall's "Ages." 7 p.m. today. 02/4/11 Plus Matt Greenfield's "Bond" and a reading of Cat R. Kenney's "Art and Werewolves." Repeats 7 p.m. Friday, Feb. 18. Free.

PlayhouseSquare. 14th Street Theatre, 2037 East 14th St., Cleveland. 216-241-6000 or playhousesquare.org. "Celebrity Autobiography." 7:30 p.m. today; 5 and 8:30 p.m. Saturday; 2 p.m. Sunday. 02/4/11-02/6/11 This production returns March 10-13. $39.50.

PlayhouseSquare. 1519 Euclid Ave., Cleveland. 216-241-6000 or playhousesquare.org. Kennedy's Cabaret Theater, basement of Ohio Theatre: "Flanagan's Wake." 8 p.m. today-Saturday. 02/4/11-02/5/11 Through Saturday, April 30. No performances Feb. 26, 27. $20. Palace Theatre: "South Pacific." 7:30 p.m. today, Tuesday-Thursday; 1:30 and 7:30 p.m. Saturday; 1 and 6:30 p.m. Sunday. 02/4/11-02/10/11 Through Sunday, Feb. 13. $10-$85.

Aurora Community Theatre. 115 E. Pioneer Trail, 330-562-1818 or auroracommunitytheatre.com. Alan Ayckbourn's "Communicating Doors." 8 p.m. today-Saturday. 02/4/11-02/5/11 Through Saturday, Feb. 19. $16.

Berea Grindstone Players. St. Andrew's Presbyterian Church Hall, 23114 West Road. 440-954-4195 or bereagrindstoneplayers.com. Agatha Christie's "The Mousetrap." 8 p.m. today-Saturday; 3 p.m. Sunday. 02/4/11-02/6/11 Through Saturday, Feb. 12. $10.

Brecksville Little Theatre. Brecksville Old Town Hall, Ohio 21 and 82. 440-526-4477 or brecksvillelittletheatre.org. Jerome Lawrence and Robert Lee's "Inherit the Wind." 8 p.m. today; 2 p.m. Sunday. 02/4/11-02/6/11 Through Sunday, Feb. 13. One Saturday performance: 8 p.m. Feb. 12. $10.

Case Western Reserve University. Eldred Theater, 2070 Adelbert Road, Cleveland. 216-368-6262 or case.edu/artsci/thtr. William Shakespeare's "The Tempest." 8 p.m. today-Saturday. 02/4/11-02/5/11 $5.

Cassidy Theatre. 6200 Pearl Road, Parma Heights. 440-842-4600 or cassidytheatre.com. "Helly, Dolly!." 8 p.m. today-Saturday; 3 p.m. Sunday. 02/4/11-02/6/11 Through Sunday, Feb. 20.$15-$20.

Chagrin Valley Little Theatre. 40 River St., Chagrin Falls. 440-247-8955 or cvlt.org. Ed Sala's "Bloody Murder." 8 p.m. today-Saturday. 02/4/11-02/5/11 $12-$16.

Clague Playhouse. 1371 Clague Road, Westlake. 440-331-0403 or clagueplayhouse.org. Arlene Hutton's "Last Train to Nibroc." 8 p.m. today-Saturday; 2 p.m. Sunday. 02/4/11-02/6/11 $12-$13.

Coach House Theatre. 732 W. Exchange St., Akron. 330-434-7741 or coachhousetheatre.org. Agatha Christie's "The Unexpected Guest." 8 p.m. today and Thursday; 2:30 and 8 p.m. Saturday; 2:30 p.m. Sunday. 02/4/11-02/10/11 Through Sunday, Feb. 20. $18.

Hudson Players. Barlow Community Center, 41 S. Oviatt St. 330-655-8522 or hudsonplayers.com. Rick Lewis' "Have a Nice Day! A 70's Musical Flashback." 8 p.m. today-Saturday. 02/4/11-02/5/11 Through Saturday, Feb. 26. One Sunday matinee: 2 p.m. Feb. 20. $12-$14.

Lorain County Metro Parks. Nature Center, 4530 Colorado Ave. (Ohio 611), Sheffield. 440-458-5121 or 1-800-526-7275 or loraincountymetroparks.com. French Creek Reservation. Family Life Series: "A Raisin In The Sun." 7:30 p.m. today, Sunday and Thursday. 02/4/11-02/10/11 $12.50-$15, adults; $5-7:50, children.

Oberlin College. Hall Auditorium, 67 N. Main St. 440-775-8169 or oberlin.edu. Sarah Ruhl's "Eurydice." 8 p.m. Thursday. 02/10/11 Through Saturday, Feb. 12. $4-$8. $3 more at the door.

Priceless Productions. Rose Cafe at Lakeview Park, 1800 W. Erie Ave., Lorain. 440-233-7272. Mysteries by Moushey's "Murder, Country Style." 6 p.m. today-Saturday. 02/4/11-02/5/11 $25-$30, includes dinner and show.

Stow Players. Silver Springs Park's Heritage Barn, 5328 Young Road, 330-655-6051 or stowplayers.org. Studs Terkel's "Working." 8 p.m. today-Saturday. 02/4/11-02/5/11 Through Saturday, Feb. 26. One Sunday matinee: 2:30 p.m. Feb. 20.$12-$14.

TrueNorth Theatre. Lorain County Metro Parks' French Creek Center, 4530 Colorado Ave (Ohio 611), Sheffield. 440-458-5121 or metroparks.cc/truenorth-theatre.php. Lorraine Hansberry's "A Raisin in the Sun." 7:30 p.m. today-Saturday and Thursday; 3 p.m. Sunday. 02/4/11-02/10/11 Through Sunday, Feb. 20. $12.50-$15.

Twinsburg Community Theatre. Twinsburg High School Auditorium, 10084 Ravenna Road 330-963-8722 or twinsburgrecreation.com. "Wizard of Oz." 7 p.m. Saturday; 2 p.m. Sunday. 02/5/11-02/6/11 Through Sunday, Feb. 13. $12.

Weathervane Playhouse. 1301 Weathervane Lane, Akron. 330-836-2626 or weathervaneplayhouse.com. "Quilters." 8 p.m. today-Saturday; 2:30 p.m. Sunday; 7:30 p.m. Thursday. 02/4/11-02/10/11 Through Sunday, Feb. 20. $24; $21 for seniors and college students at Thursday and Sunday performances; $19.50 for children ages 17 and under.

Workshop Players Theatre-in-the-Round. 44820 Middle Ridge Road, Amherst. 440-988-5613 or workshopplayers.com. Jack Neary's "To Forgive Divine." 8 p.m. today-Saturday. 02/4/11-02/5/11 $12.

AUDITIONS For the region's most comprehensive look at auditions at theaters and other arts organizations, go to cleveland.com/auditions.

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"Sweet" Deals in Cleveland Plus I PitchEngine

01.25.2011– Cleveland, Ohio – Spice things up this Valentine’s Day with a romantic getaway to Cleveland Plus. Whether visitors are here to woo the one they love or they’re simply celebrating their singledom, everyone can win with all the fun, unique and romantic ways to spend Valentine’s Day.

WINE + DINE YOUR VALENTINE
From elegant, upscale dinners to an evening of jazz and wine, Cleveland’s burgeoning culinary scene offers the perfect way to romance your Valentine during these great dinner specials.

MUSE
Feb. 11, 12 + 14
Delight in a romantic evening this Valentine's Day with a fabulous four-course dinner in MUSE's luxurious surroundings. MUSE, an upscale white-table-clothed restaurant, is located downtown inside the Ritz Carlton, Cleveland.
216.902.5255, www.ritzcarlton.com/cleveland

Grand River Cellars
Feb. 11-13
As you sip on wine at the “Chocolate is for Lovers” event on the Wines and Vines Trail, why not stop by Grand River Cellars during Valentine’s weekend for dinner specials? Also, enjoy live music with your Valentine on Friday and Saturday nights.
440.298.9838, www.grandrivercellars.com.

Hyde Park Prime Steakhouse
Feb. 11-14
With four Cleveland Plus locations to choose from, you won’t go hungry with this three-course Sea + Shore Dinner, including a filet and your choice of selected seafood for $44.90. Or, come early (until 6pm and all night Sunday) for their two-course dinner for only $19.90.
www.hydeparkrestaurants.com

Blake's Seafood Restaurant + Bar
Feb. 11-14
Enjoy a three-course surf & turf Valentine's weekend dinner at this fabulous seafood restaurant located in the fabulous lifestyle center, Crocker Park. ($32.90)
440.892.3474, www.hydeparkrestaurants.com/blakes/index.htm

Jekyll's Kitchen
Feb. 11-14
Drive to Chagrin Falls for a yummy three-course dinner at Jekyll’s Kitchen, serving casual, yet sophisticated, American cuisine. Reserve a table with a view of the falls and make it a night to remember. ($39.90)
440.863.0797, www.jekyllskitchen.com

Metro Bar + Kitchen
Feb. 11-14
Recently renovated and upgraded, Metro Bar + Kitchen, located in the Historic Warehouse District, offers a three-course Valentine’s Day Weekend dinner of their hip, American fare. ($39.90)
216.241.1300, www.metrobarandkitchen.com

Wonder Bar
Feb. 12
Wonder Bar, located in the always-happening East Fourth Street Entertainment District, offers a prix fixe dinner for two, including two salads, two entrees and a dessert for $50. For $70, the dinner will be paired with prosecco (first course), red or white wine (second course) and porto (third course). Entree choices are roasted vegetable terrine with fresh greens and sherry vinaigrette (vegan), salmon papiotte with roasted vegetable and herb butter, and Coq au vin with roasted vegetable and potato. Live jazz will feature Bobby Selvaggio and friends from 9-11pm.
216.298.4050, www.wonderbarcleveland.com

The Greenhouse Tavern
Feb. 14
The Greenhouse Tavern, an award-winning gastropub located in the East Fourth Street Entertainment District, is offering two delicious six-course prix fixe menus with a French twist – one omnivore menu at $65 and one vegetarian menu at $55. They also offer a wine pairing menu that can be purchased at an additional cost.
216.443.0511, thegreenhousetavern.com

Gervasi Vineyard – Cena Romantica Romantic Dinner
Feb. 14
For a very special evening of live music, romantic movies and a red rose for every lady, get to the Gervasi Vineyard on Valentine’s Day.
330.497.1000, www.gervasivineyard.com

John Q's Steakhouse
Feb. 14
Head downtown for a Valentine’s Day dinner for two complete with either a 24 oz. Porterhouse steak dinner for $60 or Chateaubriand for $79. Both dinners include a chocolate mousse and two glasses of champagne for dessert. Get quaint in one of John Q’s private booths, complete with a privacy curtain.
216.861.0900, www.johnqssteakhouse.com

Loretta Paganini School of Cooking – A Valentine Dinner at Sapore
Feb. 14, 6pm
Spice up your Valentine's Day with a delicious menu and music at Sapore, the restaurant attached to the Loretta Paganini School of Cooking. Choose from the delicious wine selection as you dine on roasted tomato bell pepper soup with blackened shrimp, arugula salad with sofritto in limoncello vinaigrette, intermezzo, mascarpone agnolotti in saffron cream sauce, rack of jamison lamb in rosemary au jus with roasted potatoes and more. A flower corsage is even included for the ladies. If you’re looking for something a little unconventional, try a couples cooking class at the school. ($75 plus tax & gratuity) For more classes, click here.
440.729.1110, www.lpscinc.com

Grumpy's Cafe
Feb. 14
Grumpy’s Café has plenty of scrumptious Valentine’s Day specials to choose from, including surf & turf for two, grilled New York strip steak, lobster ravioli and vegetarian stuffed peppers. They also have three homemade soups available every day. Grumpy’s, located in Tremont, is a B.Y.O.B. restaurant, so bring along a bottle of champagne to share with your sweetie.
216.241.5025, www.grumpys-cafe.com

OVERNIGHT RENDEZVOUS
Escape for a weekend of love with these Valentine’s Day and Weekend overnight packages – sure to leave Cupid blushing.

Glidden House Hotel – Love the One You’re With Valentine’s Package
Enjoy a night in Glidden House, a historic mansion located in the heart of University Circle. This package includes overnight accommodations for two in a romantic guestroom, a full European-style breakfast buffet, champagne and chocolate-covered strawberries. ($149 + tax)Upgrade to a vintage suite for an additional $50.

Hilton Garden Inn Cleveland/Twinsburg – Great Escape Weekends
Treat your Valentine to a great escape at the Hilton Garden Inn in the southeast suburb of Twinsburg. This package includes deluxe accommodations, dinner at the award-winning Blue Canyon Kitchen and Tavern, Cinemark movie tickets, full breakfast, plus chocolate-covered strawberries and champagne. ($189 per couple)

InterContinental Hotels – Deluxe Valentine’s Day Package
Show your love just how much you care Valentine’s Day as you enjoy upscale amenities in a hotel located on the campus of the Cleveland Clinic. This package includes deluxe room accommodations, breakfast for two in North Coast Café or Citrus, a bouquet of flowers, overnight valet parking and chocolate-covered strawberries at turndown. ($169)Upgrade to Club Level for an additional $100.

InterContinental Hotels – Table 45 Valentine’s Day Package
Enjoy exquisite food and a luxurious overnight stay this Valentine’s Day with the Table 45 package, which includes deluxe room accommodations, overnight valet parking and a four-course dinner for two in the ultra-exclusive Table 45. ($239) Upgrade to Club Level for an additional $100.

Oberlin Inn – Romance and Wine Getaway
Feb. 12
Enjoy a night in Oberlin, a historic and beautiful small town just west of downtown Cleveland. Sip on select wines and dine on a five-course candlelight dinner before heading off to your tastefully appointed guestroom. ($265 per couple)

Oberlin Inn – Romance Package: Complete with Murder, Mystery and Mayhem
Feb. 19
Make a mystery this Valentine’s Day season with this unique package available at the beautiful Oberlin Inn, located west of Cleveland. The package includes overnight accommodations, a lavish buffet and a fun-filled murder mystery party complete with cash bar. ($79 per person)

Quail Hollow Resort – Valentines’s Day, Sweetheart and Amore Packages
Package available Feb. 11, 12 or 14.
Want to take a break from visiting all those Lake County vineyards and wineries? Head to the beautiful Quail Hollow Resort for three romantic getaway packages. Each package includes luxurious overnight accommodations with a long-stem rose on the pillow, champagne and strawberries upon arrival and a 2pm late checkout. This Valentine’s Day package is offered on Feb. 14 for $99. For those looking to visit the weekend before (Feb. 11 or 12), you can ask for the “Sweetheart Package,” which includes all the above mentioned items along with breakfast for two in the morning for only $149. Add in a three-course, candlelit dinner for two to that and you’ve got the “Amore Package” for $199.

The Lodge at Geneva on the Lake – Sweetheart Package
Now – March 31
This package includes an overnight stay, bottle of wine, chocolates and breakfast for two the following morning. While at The Lodge, enjoy wine tastings in Horizons Restaurant & Lounge or indulge with a relaxing massage to melt away the winter blues. Or, venture out to local wineries to taste the flavors of Ohio's Wine Country and visit nearby covered bridges along the way. Pricing begins at $130 plus tax, per couple with promo code: SWEET.

The Lodge at Geneva on the Lake – Winter Escape Bed + Breakfast
Now – March 31
This package includes an overnight stay and breakfast for two the following morning. Trying to escape the cold? Snuggle up with your sweetheart in front of the lobby’s four-story fireplace and view picturesque frozen Lake Erie or take a dip in the indoor pool & hot tub. Pricing begins at $99 plus tax, per couple for a Sunday-Friday stay, and $109 plus tax, per couple for a Saturday evening stay with promo code: BREAKFAST.

VALENTINE'S DAY-THEMED EVENTS
Whether single or coupled, visitors to Cleveland Plus can celebrate the holiday made famous by St. Valentine himself.

Marengo Luxury Spa – Couple’s Delight Massage Package
Purchase now – Feb. 28
Give your Valentine a gift that both of you can enjoy from Marengo Spa, located in the Historic Arcade downtown. This package includes a full-body massage in the couple’s room, a hand and foot paraffin wax treatment, snacks and refreshments – $240 worth of services for only $190 per couple.
216.621.4600, www.marengospa.com

Cleveland Metroparks Zoo – Animal Attractions
Feb. 3, 6-9pm
The Cleveland Zoological Society hosts Animal Attractions at the Rainforest in the Cleveland Metroparks Zoo. Guests will learn about the birds and the bees “Zoo-style,” slipping behind the scenes to meet some of the Zoo’s animals up close and personal, as well as hear from their keeper during some rather provocative educational presentations. Guests will also have a chance to sample offerings from some of Cleveland’s most sensational restaurants. eTickets are $50 for Zoo members and $65 for non-members. Adults 21 and over only.
216.661.6500, www.ClevelandZooSociety.org

Ohio Wine Producers Association - Chocolate is for Lovers Wine Trail
Feb. 4-5 + 11-12, noon – 6pm
Located along the Wines and Vines Trail in Northeast Ohio lies a romantic getaway. Participating wineries include Barrel Room, Bene Vino, Biscotti, Buccia, Debonne', Emerine, Ferrante, Laurello, Maple Ridge, Old Firehouse, Old Mill, Spring Hill and Virant. Each traveler will receive a crystal glass from Schott Zwiesel, a candy dish, two samples of wine and appetizers at every winery and hand-crafted chocolates to take home. ($45 per couple or $35 per person)
440.466.4417 or 800.227.6972, www.ohiowines.org

Massillon Main Street – Valentine’s Day Wine Tastings
Feb. 5, 7-9pm
Join Massillon Main Street for their annual wine tasting event, where several area wineries will explain their wine selections and have them available for tasting. Also included are hot hors d'oeuvres, basket raffle, silent auction and door prizes. Cost for pre-sale is $25 per person or $40 per couple. A table for eight people is only $150.
330.833.1966, www.massillonohchamber.com

D'Vine Wine Bar – Progressive Daters
Feb. 7, 8, 13, 14, 15 + 22, 6pm
Find your true love at D’Vine Wine Bar, in the Historic Warehouse District, as you go on up to 30 dates in one night. The event starts at 7:30pm, but get there early because registration begins at 6pm. Sign up now on www.progressivedaters.com. Space is limited and you don’t want to miss out.
216.241.8463, dvinewinebar.com

Stocker Arts Center at Lorain County Community College – Runt of the Litter
Feb. 10, 7:30pm
Written and performed by Bo Eason, Runt of the Litter opens in the final hour of Jack Henry's lifelong dream with only one thing standing in his way – his brother. The play looks at what happens to two brothers in a family of over-achievers when their parents assure their oldest son he is destined for football stardom, while their youngest son appears too small to compete. Tickets are $15 for adults and $10 for children 12 and under.
440.366.4040, www.lorainccc.edu/stocker

Stocker Arts Center at Lorain County Community College – Notes from the Silver Screen
Feb. 11, 7:30pm + Feb. 12, 3pm
Adding their usual jazzy twist, Helen Welch and her wonderful trio of musicians will take you on a magical musical journey featuring songs from such well-loved films as Sweet Charity, Alfie, The Wizard of Oz, Chitty Chitty Bang Bang and Singing in the Rain along with hidden treasures from movies like Two for the Road, A Star is Born and The Yearling. Tickets are $15 for adults and $10 for children 12 and under. Online orders include an extra $1 per ticket handling fee.
440.366.4040, www.lorainccc.edu/stocker

Stocker Arts Center at Lorain County Community College – Terrance Simien & the Zydeco Experience (Family Event)
Feb. 11, 7pm
Get ready to party Louisiana style – it’s a beadfest when Terrance Simien comes to town! He and his band, the Zydeco Experience, are coming back for a return visit to Stocker and will take you on a multicultural tour of the world as his musical language has been informed by many diverse styles. Tickets are $15 for adults and $10 for children 12 and under.
440.366.4040, www.lorainccc.edu/stocker

Rainbow Repertory Company + Canton Cabaret – An All BROADWAY Revue!
Feb. 11, 6pm + 7pm dinner, 8pm show
The Canton Cabaret Musical Dinner Theater brings you all the romance, comedy, tragedy and fantasy of our favorite Broadway melodies, including Chicago and West Side Story. Dinner is at 6pm + 7pm. The show starts at 8pm. ($40)
www.rainbowrepertory.com

FourScore
Feb. 11 – 13
Are you looking to deliver a song on your loved one? Then look no further than FourScore. Building off their successful debut as Cupidity in 2010, this barbershop quartet from Case Western Reserve University has expanded to sing year round. Sign up to have them deliver the perfect surprise gift to your Valentine: four handsome men in suits personally delivering three songs, a card, and a rose.
786.264.2766, www.fourscorebq.org

Cleveland Orchestra – Kavakos Plays Sibelius
Feb. 11 – 13
This Valentine’s weekend, bring that special someone to hear romantic masterworks at Severance Hall. Leonidas Kavakos is the soloist in Sibelius’s breathtaking Violin Concerto while Vladimir Jurowski leads Tchaikovsky’s passionate Manfred Symphony.
216.231.1111, www.clevelandorchestra.com

Ma & Pa's Gift Shack – Carriage and Sleigh Rides
Feb. 11 – 13
Make a trip to Geauga County this Valentine’s Day weekend and bring your favorite squeeze for a romantic carriage or sleigh ride. Reservations are available Feb. 11–13. Call for reservations.
440.548.5521, www.maandpas.com

Cleveland Metroparks Shawnee Hills Golf Course – “Just Fore You” Valentine’s Day Sale
Feb. 11 – 14, 8 am – 4 pm
Get 40 percent off golf clubs, 50 percent off golf bags and 55 percent off clothing for your golf-loving Valentine. All at ‘above par values and below par prices.’
440.232.7184, www.clemetparks.com

National First Ladies’ Library and Bender's Tavern – Love is Eternal
Feb. 12, 3:30pm
Enjoy a live presentation of love letters from presidents and their first ladies in Canton at the National First Ladies’ Library Education & Research Center. After, enjoy dinner at the historic Bender's Tavern. General admission is $85 for two and includes the program & dinner. Program only admission is $10 per person.
330.452.0876(x307), www.visitcantonstark.com

Cleveland Museum of Natural History – The Natural History of Chocolate
Feb. 12, 6:30pm
The Cleveland Museum of Natural History’s “The Natural History of Chocolate” is an evening of dining and adventure highlighting marvelous indulgences such as pumpkins and squash, chocolate, sugar, and melons. After, guests will be wined and dined with a seven-course meal prepared by guest chef John Taylor, executive chef of Sammy's. ($150 per person)
216.231.4600, www.cmnh.org

Cleveland Metroparks CanalWay Center – “Second Saturday Storytelling” Program
Feb. 12, 7:30 – 9 pm
Come to the CanalWay Center at the Ohio & Erie Canal Reservation in Cuyahoga Heights to hear tales of love. Adults and older children can listen in on myths, legends and personal stories of people, plants and animals that may help define that word called love.
440.743.6660, www.clemetparks.com
Cleveland Metroparks Mill Stream Run Reservation – “Sweetheart Deal” at the Chalet Toboggan Chutes
Feb. 13, Noon – 5 pm
Enjoy a ‘Sweetheart Deal’ at the Chalet Toboggan Chutes in Strongsville – the only public ice chutes in Ohio. Get a $20 deal that includes two toboggan passes, two hot dogs, two soft drinks, and a fleece blanket.
440.572.9990, www.clemetparks.com

Cleveland Metroparks EarthWords Nature Shop – “A Night for Lovers. . . ‘Nature’ Lovers, Of Course!”
Feb. 13, 6 pm
Visiting Cleveland Metroparks is a natural means of de-stressing. Come to the EarthWords Nature Shop at Rocky River Nature Center in North Olmsted with that “someone special” and learn about another natural way of handling stress – mudras. Mudras are simple ancient gestures that can help us focus, calm ourselves, release anger and energize us. Join local author Emily Fuller Williams as she teaches us these easy movements to help us quiet our bodies and minds. More highlights of this relaxing evening include delicious hors d’oeuvres and beverages. Registration and a $5 fee per person/$8 for two are required. Adults only. Space is limited.
440.734.7576, www.clemetparks.com

Prosperity Social Club – Valentine’s Show
Feb. 13, 7pm
Prosperity Social Club in Tremont will have a special Valentine’s show featuring Lounge Kitty, with special guest Ms. Firecracker. The show starts at 7pm and there is a $5 ticket charge. Reservations and advance ticket purchase is recommended. Regular menu and dinner service will be available throughout the show.
216.937.1938, www.prosperitysocialclub.com

Cleveland Orchestra – Mitsuko Uchida in Recital
Feb. 14, 7pm
Bring a loved one to experience the rare opportunity to hear celebrated pianist Mitsuko Uchida in a solo recital at Severance Hall. Following Uchida's recent Grammy nomination and sold-out concerts with The Cleveland Orchestra on its 2010 Asian tour, this is a not-to-be-missed event.
216.231.1111, www.clevelandorchestra.com

Stark Parks – The Mating Game
Feb. 15, 6-7:30pm
Stark Parks in Canton invites animal lovers to enjoy a presentation on some of the more unusual mating rituals of wild animals from around the globe. Not appropriate for younger children. (Free admission)
330.409.8096, www.starkparks.com

North Coast Men’s Chorus – Mardi Gras Celebration
Feb. 26, 6:30-10:30pm, Windows on the River
Enjoy a night of music, merriment and masquerade during a benefit for the North Coast Men’s Chorus, Providence House - A Crisis Nursery, and The LGBT Center of Greater Cleveland. The evening will include a performance by the North Coast Men’s Chorus, silent auction, costume contests and fine Bourbon Street Cuisine. This is an LGBT-friendly event perfect for all audience members. ($50 per person)
215.556.0590, www.ncmchorus.org

Stocker Arts Center at Lorain County Community College – New Shanghai Circus (Family Event)
Feb. 26, 7pm
Fans of the circus are bound to appreciate these fearless performers with boundless energy who bring more than 2,000 years of Chinese circus traditions to the Stocker’s Art Center stage. If it's humanly possible – and even if it's not – New Shanghai Circus' acrobats, jugglers and contortionists will do it with spectacular flair. Tickets are $15 for adults and $10 for children 12 and under. Online orders include an extra $1 per ticket handling fee.
440.366.4040, www.lorainccc.edu/stocker

YEAR-ROUND ROMANCE DEALS
For couples with no time to celebrate Valentine’s Day this February 14, consider one of these year-round romance packages offered throughout Cleveland Plus.

Crowne Plaza Hotel – Couples Escape Package
Available every weekend
This package includes a deluxe room for two people, champagne upon arrival, a $40 food voucher for use towards dinner in Bucci’s Steakhouse and breakfast for two the next morning.
877.227.6963 or 440.243.4040, www.crowneplaza.com/clevelandarpt

Doubletree Hotel Cleveland Downtown/Lakeside – Sweet Romance Getaway
Whether celebrating your honeymoon, a special anniversary or birthday, come to the Doubletree for a romantic getaway. You’ll receive deluxe accommodations, sparkling wine in your room upon arrival and a full breakfast either in-room or in the hotel restaurant. Come early, stay late - simply request early check-in or late check-out. Click here to check rates and availability.
216.241.5100, http://doubletree1.hilton.com/

Embassy Suites Cleveland-Independence – Romance Package
Woo your sweetie with an overnight stay in a suite complete with a king-size bed, a bottle of sparkling wine, and chocolate-dipped strawberries or chocolate truffles. Late checkout at 2pm is also available.
216.986.9900, www.clevelandindependence.embassysuites.com

Glidden House Hotel and The Cleveland Orchestra – Encore Package
Located in University Circle, The Glidden House Encore Package includes two tickets to the Cleveland Orchestra, overnight accommodations for two in a traditional guest room and a complimentary European-style breakfast buffet. Cost is $189 + tax, or upgrade to a mansion suite for an additional $50.
866.812.4537, www.gliddenhouse.com

Ritz-Carlton, Cleveland – Enchanted Evening Package
Enjoy the Enchanted Evening package year-round downtown in the Ritz-Carlton, Cleveland. This romantic getaway includes deluxe accommodations decorated with rose petals at turndown, a chilled bottle of champagne, chocolate-covered strawberries, breakfast for two and valet parking. To completely indulge this Valentine's Day, upgrade your stay to Club Level where you can enjoy Personal Concierge Services, access to the Club Lounge with five food presentations daily and other specialties.
216.623.1300, www.ritzcarlton.com/cleveland

The Lodge at Geneva on the Lake – Wine County Package
Take advantage of the popular Wine Country package at the scenic Lodge at Geneva-on-the-Lake. Available every day, the package includes an overnight stay, $50 dinner voucher, self-guided area winery map, bottle of wine with two souvenir wine glasses and breakfast for two the following morning. Pricing begins at $179 plus tax, per couple.
866.806.8066, www.thelodgeatgeneva.com

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Ohio RV Supershow set for International Exposition Center

RVs hit the road

Recreation vehicles aren't just for vacations anymore. Learn the top 10 ways to use your RV as a mobile office or business during seminars at the Ohio RV Supershow at the International Exposition Center today through Sunday. The show includes more than 600 recreational vehicles, including tent campers, travel trailers, fifth-wheelers and motor homes. Tickets are $11.50; free, children 12 and younger; $18, two-day passes. Hours are 1-10 p.m. Friday, Jan. 7, 10 a.m.-10 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 8 and 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 9. The I-X Center is at 6200 Riverside Drive, Cleveland. Go to ohiorvshow.com.

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Building a Passive House: SmartHome Cleveland I Cleveland Museum of Natural History

Opening summer 2011

Copyright Doty & Miller Architects

This summer, visitors to The Cleveland Museum of Natural History will be invited to tour a home that could represent the future of energy-efficient housing. SmartHome Cleveland will be constructed on Museum grounds and is presented in conjunction with the exhibition Climate Change, which will be on display July 23 through Dec. 31, 2011 in the Museum’s Kahn Hall. (To see a video about SmartHome Cleveland, scroll down.)

While Climate Change addresses the effect of human actions on the Earth, SmartHome Cleveland will demonstrate how humans can act to affect an energy-efficient future and can help change ideas about how we design, build and live in our homes in Northeast Ohio. The home was designed using the Passive House methodology, the world’s most advanced standard of energy performance.  Plans are to build the house using a wall system based on structural insulated panels. Construction is expected to be completed in early June, when it will become a temporary exhibition open to the public for tours.

Designed to function without a furnace, SmartHome Cleveland will be 90 percent more energy efficient than a typical home. It will be constructed using sustainable materials and furnishings, advanced stormwater techniques, healthy housing techniques and biophilic design to connect occupants to nature. Three key elements distinguish "passive house" structures from typical houses: high levels of insulation, with walls up to 18 inches thick; a carefully sealed building envelope with minimal air leakage combined with efficient heat-recovery ventilation for superior indoor air quality; and ultra high-performance windows—at least double-paned and typically triple-paned. The result is a home with no drafts, no cold spots and extremely low heating bills.

"SmartHome Cleveland will give thousands of people hands-on experience with the most advanced, practical and attractive techniques of green building and energy conservation," said David Beach, director of GreenCityBlueLake Institute, the center for sustainability at the Museum. "It will also raise design standards in Northeast Ohio by increasing awareness of passive house principles, and can help make Cleveland a center for advanced design."

The two-story house will have a net living space of approximately 2,500 square feet, including three bedrooms and 2 1/2 bathrooms, plus a full basement. (Click here for proposed floor plans.) SmartHome Cleveland will be on display from June to September 2011. At the close of the exhibit, the house will be moved to a nearby lot on Wade Park Avenue in University Circle and become available for purchase as a residential home for a Cleveland family.

 

Copyright Doty & Miller Architects

"We’re excited about the opportunity to bring the leading ideas of building science to Northeast Ohio," said Dr. Evalyn Gates, the Museum’s executive director and CEO.  "This will be the ultimate green exhibit—a home that meets the world’s most rigorous energy standard for residential construction, and that at the end of the exhibit will become a permanent asset to Cleveland’s University Circle neighborhood."

The home was designed by Chuck Miller of Doty & Miller Architects in Cleveland. Certified Passive House Consultant Mark Hoberecht of HarvestBuild Associates will oversee SmartHome Cleveland’s adherence to the standards of the Passive House Institute US.

SmartHome Cleveland is being funded by The Cleveland Foundation, The George B. Storer Foundation, an anonymous donor and a number of other sponsors. The Museum receives public support with local tax dollars from Cuyahoga Arts and Culture, to preserve and enrich the region’s artistic and cultural heritage.

Entrance to SmartHome Cleveland will be $5 with Museum admission. Reservations for timed admission are recommended. For complete information on Museum hours and admission fees, click here.

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Oriole Cafe in Berea offers plenty of home-style choices

By Bob Migra, Special to The Plain Dealer

For some reason, I still remember my first trip to a bar to eat.

I could not have been more than 4 or 5 years old. I don't remember why we ended up at that dark place where lots of guys were sitting in a row at a "counter" talking loud and laughing a lot, a cloud of smoke hovering over their heads. I do remember that my mom was not too happy with my dad's choice. She called it a "beer joint."

We sat in the back at a table, away from the bar. It was the first time I remember seeing my dad drink a beer. I think I had fried chicken and a Coke. It was pretty exciting stuff.

I recalled the experience when my wife and I visited the Oriole Cafe in Berea. The excitement has faded a little. I've been to a few bars since then. Still, the Oriole today is probably not that different from the bar in my childhood memories.

It's a working-class place, a little worn around the edges, with lots of Cleveland and Berea memorabilia from the 1950s and '60s on the walls. The beer is cold, the waitresses friendly, and the food inexpensive.

There's not much for serious foodies on the menu, but plenty to choose from for anyone else looking for some bar snacks, a good burger or a variety of home-style meals and daily specials for less than $15.

Our first visit on a Saturday evening began with an order of mini chicken tacos ($5.95) and Hungarian stuffed peppers ($6.95). The basket of fried tacos arrived hot, crisp and relatively nongreasy. There wasn't much chicken inside, something more like a chicken-flavored bean-and-cheese paste, but they were satisfying nonetheless. As for the peppers, good Italian sausage stuffing was as peppery-hot as advertised on the menu -- but watery, mushy peppers kept the dish from being a big winner. Iceberg-lettuce salads, included with every meal, were cold and crisp.

Have you been to The Oriole Cafe in Berea? E-mail us your review of the food, service and atmosphere. Include your full name and where you live. We'll publish a sampling on Cleveland.com and in The Plain Dealer. E-mailmailto:food@plaind.comto sound off.

For entrees, I had a full slab of baby back ribs ($14.95), and my wife had steak fajitas ($17.95). The ribs, brushed with spicy barbecue sauce, were smoky and tender but could have been a little warmer. I didn't care for my choice of home fries on the side. They looked like cut-up french fries and were a bit greasy.

The fajitas arrived at full-volume-sizzle on a cast-iron skillet. The beef chunks were tender and tasty, and the serving size was huge. An overflowing plate of tomatoes, cheese, lettuce, salsa and black olives and a covered plate of warm tortillas filled the table. The only negative: The olives had a strange, medicinal taste.

Our return visit for a weekday lunch was a winner all around: a lovely bowl of onion beer soup topped with stringy cheese ($3.75); a very good cheeseburger ($7.95) with a big plate of crisp fries; and a satisfying, bargain-priced order of chicken paprikash with dumplings ($7.95).

As for the gyro pita ($6.25), the gyro meat tasted like it had more nonmeat filler than I like, but the serving size made up for any shortcoming there. The yogurt/cucumber/dill sauce on the side was top-notch.

Every table at Oriole had a box of Trivial Pursuit cards, so we could kill some time after ordering by trying to answer questions from the once-trendy party game.

Like the bar, the cards are well-worn. And like any good neighborhood bar, still fun when you give it a chance.

TASTE BITES

Oriole Cafe

Where: 294 North Rocky River Drive (a block north of Bagley Road), Berea.

Contact: 440-243-8809.

Hours: Kitchen open 11 a.m.-midnight seven days. Brunch, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Sunday.

Prices: Appetizers, $4.95-$6.95; soups and salads, $2-$8.95; sand wiches, $4.75-$8.95; entrees, $6.95-$17.95. Selections on the 10-item menu of lunch specials (available from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.) are $5. Desserts are currently unavailable.

Reservations: Available for large parties.

Credit cards: Visa, MasterCard, Discover, American Express.

Cuisine: American home-style.

Kids: A five-item menu of children's fa vorites is available, priced $2.50-$3.50.

Bar service: Full service.

Accessibility: Main entrance not ac cessible because of stairs. Guests who use wheelchairs can phone ahead to make arrangements to enter through kitchen.

Grade: * * (two stars)

Bob Migra is a free-lance writer in Westlake. Reach him at food@plaind.com.

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Lunar New Year celebrations start early in Greater Cleveland: Global Village I The Plain Dealer

Marvin Fong, Plain Dealer file Austin Chen, 3, and Anna Daraphet are greeted by a lion dance inside Li Wah Restaurant in Cleveland on Monday during a Lunar New Year celebration in 2009. They were accompanied by Austin's mother, Sherry. Others joined in the celebration of the Year of the Ox, including students from high schools in South Euclid-Lyndhurst, Rocky River and Avon. CLEVELAND, Ohio -- A new year approaches and Asian-Americans throughout the region are anticipating a holiday rich in cultural traditions, noisy with drums and firecrackers, and blessed with the prospect of a fresh start.

Lunar New Year, the most heralded day in the Asian world, dawns Feb. 3, but Northeast Ohio does not have to wait. The first lion dance will roar Saturday, when Asian Town Center hosts a new year celebration in Cleveland's Asiatown.

The mini mall at East 38th Street and Superior Avenue will stage a day of cultural performances, Kung Fu demonstrations and children's activities. Expect to see bunnies of all kinds--plastic, stuffed and live--in honor of Chinese year 4709, the Year of the Rabbit.

A lion dance team, practitioners of the martial art designed to bring luck and prosperity in the new year, starts the show at 11 a.m. Dancers from the Westlake Chinese School will climax the program starting at about 5 p.m.

For a listing of Lunar New Year activities around the region in the coming weeks, go to the website of the Organization of Chinese Americans of Greater Cleveland, www.ocagc.org/

An "Amen" for immigrants: The biblical mandate to "welcome the stranger" requires an extra measure of tolerance from the faithful, religious leaders say. With the region hoping to attract new people and talent to offset population losses, some see a welcoming attitude as more critical than ever.

To help religious leaders convey a message of acceptance, and to support the call for comprehensive immigration reform, groups from the Catholic, Jewish and Protestant communities have organized an interfaith seminar exploring immigration issues.

"Faith Perspectives on Immigration" will feature local and national experts, including Salt Lake City Bishop John Wester, the past chairman of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishop's Committee on Migration.

The seminar runs from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday at Trinity Episcopal Cathedral in downtown Cleveland. To register, call the Cleveland Ecumenical Institute for Religious Studies, at 216-283-1507, or the American Jewish Committee, at 216-781-6035.

Slovenian open house: No one built ethnic halls like the Slovenes of Cleveland. At one time, 13 Slovenian national homes dotted the region--the most anywhere. Eight survive. Their designs and trappings indicate the role the halls played in immigrant communities that worked hard and danced a quick step.

The national homes typically feature a bandstand and a hardwood dance floor, sometimes a formal ballroom, always a bar and often bowling lanes. A couple have indoor bocce courts. Art and wall murals depict life in Old World Slovenia. 

The Federation of Slovenian National Homes offers a great chance to see the historic halls, and to experience a Slovenian-style polka party, during the 2011 Slovenian Polka Tour of Greater Cleveland.

The year-long tour will bring a regional polka band to each of the eight national homes for 10 shows. It begins Sunday at the Big House, the 87-year-old Slovenian National Home at 6417 St. Clair Ave. in Cleveland.

After a 1 p.m. polka mass, the Jeff Pecon Orchestra and special guest Joey Miskulin will perform beginning at 3 p.m. Tickets are $12 at the door.

To reach this Plain Dealer reporter: rsmith@plaind.com, 216-999-4024

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Trimbach Riesling 2008 has tart, dry flavors: Wine Buy of the Week

Allison Carey,
The PD

The bottle: Trimbach Riesling 2008.

Price: $20.99.

Varietal: Riesling.

Where it's from: The Alsace region of France, where the Trimbach family has been making distinguished wine since the 17th century. The company specializes in riesling -- mostly made in dry styles, but also in sweet late-harvest and noble-rot versions as dessert wines.

Where we found it: Whole Foods Market in University Heights.

Tasting notes: Flowers, light citrus, tropical notes and a touch of minerals rise from this light-gold wine. Flavors are very tart and dry, favoring citrus. It's smooth and fresh, a perfect complement to a variety of appetizers and main courses.

Pairings: Shrimp and mushroom risotto, veal, poultry, winter soups and assorted cheeses.

Each week, Donald Rosenberg highlights a moderately priced wine worth trying. Listed retail prices are based on state of Ohio minimums.

View the original article here

Dining in Cleveland I City Guide

Head to Tommy’s for a burger and milkshake. While the menu stayed much the same since it opened in 1972 (with menu items named after longtime customers), Tommy's is now in a much bigger venue and is always filled with customers – vegetarians, vegans, meat-eaters, health-conscious and the just plain hungry.  In fact, that’s his specialty – allowing visitors to enjoy healthful, delicious food with their families. Visitors absolutely cannot miss enjoying one of Tommy’s award-winning milkshakes – voted as the best in the nation by Rolling Stone. And, don’t leave without trying the fries, either.

Photo copyrighted and used by permission of KFCrisafi and PositivelyCleveland.com.

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Hard to top the liberally topped pies at Marsella's Pizza in Parma

Kyle Lanzer, Sun News From left, Gina Cristantiello with a chicken dinner, Michelle Marsella Shumaker with barbecue ribs, Kim Marsella Fawks with a rigatoni dinner, and Bill Marsella with a deluxe pizza. Marcella's gallery (5 photos) Running a restaurant is a notoriously fickle businesses. And with the economic downturn shuttering area restaurants left and right, it really says something for a local one still to be going strong after more than 35 years.

That’s the anniversary that Marsella’s Pizza in Parma recently celebrated. Founded in 1975 by Bill Marsella, this take-out and delivery pizza shop has kept its customers happy over the years by focusing on quality, value, and excellent service.

Marsella uses only the highest quality ingredients for his pies, eschewing anything frozen or pre-made. Pizza dough and all the restaurant’s sauces are made fresh daily; fresh vegetables are hand-cut. Pizzas are hand-crafted with Marsella’s signature scalloped crust, and they’re definitely not skimpy on the toppings.

“We just load ’em up,” Marsella said. “I refuse to cut back on quality or the amount of items we use,” he said, in reference to the shortcuts some pizza chains take in order to offer steep discounts.

Aside from a few additions here and there, Marsella has kept his original menu largely intact through the years.

“That’s our success,” he said.

Nowadays, his two daughters, Michelle and Kimberly, help run things at the shop, as does his manager, Gina Christantiello. His wife, Tess, takes on the paperwork and lends a hand when things get hectic.

Although pizza is the shop’s bread and butter, so to speak, the restaurant offers a full menu, from ribs to chicken to pasta, as well as appetizers and wings.

Marsella’s was one of the first restaurants in town to serve “broasted” chicken, which has since become an area favorite. Broasting is a form of cooking that combines pressure cooking and deep frying. It cooks the chicken quickly, leaving the meat hot and juicy. Customers can purchase a four-piece dinner with choice of potato or coleslaw for $7.95, or the chicken alone in various quantities.

Also available are pastas, Parms, subs, salads, and tender, slow-cooked barbecued ribs ($17.95 for a full slab with fixings).

We put several of Marsella’s menu items to the test recently and were universally pleased. Our substantially sized order of rigatoni ($7.50) came dressed with four tender meatballs and a delicious red sauce that tasted like it had been simmering on the back of grandma’s stove all day. Grated Parmesan and crispy, homemade garlic bread rounded out the order.

The oven-toasted submarine sandwich ($6.95) was simply composed — ham, Genoa salami, pepperoni, and American, Swiss, and provolone cheeses on an Italian sub roll — but outstanding in taste. The savory flavor, as well as the contrast between the tender, melty interior and the crisply toasted bread, make this sandwich a winner.

Both the deluxe and the barbecue chicken pizzas we tried were also terrific. The deluxe ($15.95 for a 12-inch, eight-cut) was loaded with a tasty combination of pepperoni, sausage, mushrooms, onions, and green peppers. The barbecue chicken pizza ($10.75 for a 9-inch, six-cut) featured tender strips of chicken and the most delicious sauce — at once smoky, tangy, and sweet with hints of juicy pineapple. It was extraordinary. The toothsome crust was chewy and flavorful in the manner of freshly baked bread.

Marsella’s Pizza is at 7475 York Road in Parma. Hours are from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Sunday and Monday, 11 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. Tuesday through Thursday, and 11 a.m. to 10:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday. Delivery is available for $1.50 ($8 minimum order). Call (440) 888-8400 to order.

Phillips is a freelance food writer in Avon Lake.

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Lunar New Year celebrations start early in Greater Cleveland: Global Village I The Plain Dealer

Marvin Fong, Plain Dealer file Austin Chen, 3, and Anna Daraphet are greeted by a lion dance inside Li Wah Restaurant in Cleveland on Monday during a Lunar New Year celebration in 2009. They were accompanied by Austin's mother, Sherry. Others joined in the celebration of the Year of the Ox, including students from high schools in South Euclid-Lyndhurst, Rocky River and Avon. CLEVELAND, Ohio -- A new year approaches and Asian-Americans throughout the region are anticipating a holiday rich in cultural traditions, noisy with drums and firecrackers, and blessed with the prospect of a fresh start.

Lunar New Year, the most heralded day in the Asian world, dawns Feb. 3, but Northeast Ohio does not have to wait. The first lion dance will roar Saturday, when Asian Town Center hosts a new year celebration in Cleveland's Asiatown.

The mini mall at East 38th Street and Superior Avenue will stage a day of cultural performances, Kung Fu demonstrations and children's activities. Expect to see bunnies of all kinds--plastic, stuffed and live--in honor of Chinese year 4709, the Year of the Rabbit.

A lion dance team, practitioners of the martial art designed to bring luck and prosperity in the new year, starts the show at 11 a.m. Dancers from the Westlake Chinese School will climax the program starting at about 5 p.m.

For a listing of Lunar New Year activities around the region in the coming weeks, go to the website of the Organization of Chinese Americans of Greater Cleveland, www.ocagc.org/

An "Amen" for immigrants: The biblical mandate to "welcome the stranger" requires an extra measure of tolerance from the faithful, religious leaders say. With the region hoping to attract new people and talent to offset population losses, some see a welcoming attitude as more critical than ever.

To help religious leaders convey a message of acceptance, and to support the call for comprehensive immigration reform, groups from the Catholic, Jewish and Protestant communities have organized an interfaith seminar exploring immigration issues.

"Faith Perspectives on Immigration" will feature local and national experts, including Salt Lake City Bishop John Wester, the past chairman of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishop's Committee on Migration.

The seminar runs from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday at Trinity Episcopal Cathedral in downtown Cleveland. To register, call the Cleveland Ecumenical Institute for Religious Studies, at 216-283-1507, or the American Jewish Committee, at 216-781-6035.

Slovenian open house: No one built ethnic halls like the Slovenes of Cleveland. At one time, 13 Slovenian national homes dotted the region--the most anywhere. Eight survive. Their designs and trappings indicate the role the halls played in immigrant communities that worked hard and danced a quick step.

The national homes typically feature a bandstand and a hardwood dance floor, sometimes a formal ballroom, always a bar and often bowling lanes. A couple have indoor bocce courts. Art and wall murals depict life in Old World Slovenia. 

The Federation of Slovenian National Homes offers a great chance to see the historic halls, and to experience a Slovenian-style polka party, during the 2011 Slovenian Polka Tour of Greater Cleveland.

The year-long tour will bring a regional polka band to each of the eight national homes for 10 shows. It begins Sunday at the Big House, the 87-year-old Slovenian National Home at 6417 St. Clair Ave. in Cleveland.

After a 1 p.m. polka mass, the Jeff Pecon Orchestra and special guest Joey Miskulin will perform beginning at 3 p.m. Tickets are $12 at the door.

To reach this Plain Dealer reporter: rsmith@plaind.com, 216-999-4024

View the original article here

Rock and Roll Hall of Fame to Honor Women In Rock in Major Exhibit I Rolling Stone

Madonna's gold bustier designed by Jean Paul Gaultier from her 1990 Blonde Ambition Tour.

The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame's next major exhibit will honor 70 years of women in popular music – from Mamie Smith's first blues recordings in 1920 through Lady Gaga's most recent hits. The exhibit, which opens to the public on May 13th, will honor more than 50 female artists and will take up two floors of the museum.

Photos: Women Who Rock

"This exhibit is going to illustrate the vital role women played in shaping the evolution of rock and roll," said Jim Henke, vice president of exhibitions and curatorial affairs for the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Museum. “Visitors are going walk away from this exhibit with a deeper appreciation of how these artists contributed to the rock and roll art form and changed our society."

The 2011 Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Nominees

A stunning collection of artifacts have been collected for the exhibit, including the already infamous "meat dress" that Lady Gaga wore to the 2010 MTV Video Music Awards, Madonna's handwritten lyrics to "Erotica," the outfit that Tina Weymouth wore in the Talking Heads film Stop Making Sense, Stevie Nicks' handwritten lyrics to "Stand Back," the white leather vest that Grace Slick wore at Woodstock, the nude rhinestone outfit that Britney Spears wore during her 2000 performance at the MTV Video Music Awards and many more.

Lady Gaga's Wild Looks

Visitors to the museum will be able to film a short story about how women in rock have shaped their lives, and the museum will host educational programming all year about the history of female recording artists. 

On May 14th the the museum will host its annual It's Only Rock and Roll Benefit concert, which will feature Wanda Jackson and Cyndi Lauper. 

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Pennywise Merlot 2008 is a modestly priced red: Wine Buy of the Week

Allison Carey,
The PD

The bottle: Pennywise Merlot 2008.

Price: $11.99.

Varietal: 87 percent merlot, 10 percent syrah, 2 percent ruby cabernet and 1 percent petit verdot.

Where it's from: California, where The Other Guys -- run by the fourth generation of the legendary Sebastiani wine family -- produces modest-priced and appealing varietals in whimsical labelings. Along with the Pennywise label are Hey Mambo, Leese-Fitch, MooBuzz, Plungerhead and The White Knight.

Where we found it: The wine is widely available.

Tasting notes: The jammy, earthy and cedar-tinged nose on this dark-purple wine leads to flavors abounding in fruit. The style is vibrant, especially for a California merlot, with a long middle and balanced tannins that go a bit peppery on the finish.

Pairings: Pasta dishes, veal, beef stew, poultry, pizza, hearty soups and tangy cheeses.

Each week, Donald Rosenberg highlights a moderately priced wine worth trying. Listed retail prices are based on state of Ohio minimums.

View the original article here

Cleveland Rocks! I International Travel Adventure Magazine

         

?It's a Fender Standard Stratocaster. I have one of these. It is a perfect reproduction,? exclaimed John, our grandson. Walking from Embassy Suites to Cleveland's Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Museum we stopped to examine  the colorful guitars that are part of Cleveland's street art project. That was when my husband and I knew we had picked the perfect high school graduation gift for John who will be a music major at Le Moyne College in the fall. The gift of travel is one that is never forgotten.
I pointed to the plaque, which explained the artwork. It is called ?Singing Legacy? and was designed by the Hungarian Community.  ?I know you think your ancestry is half Irish and half Italian, but  your great-grandmother is half Hungarian. Did you know that??

Before entering the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Museum, I asked, ?Do you know who I. M. Pei is?? It was obvious from the look on John's face that he had heard the name but it didn't register.  ?Stop. Look at the building.  I. M. Pei designed it. He is one of the world's most famous architects. Many of his buildings incorporate a pyramid, including his famous pyramids at the Louvre Museum in Paris, which you probably saw in the movie ?The DiVinci Code.?  
In the lobby I pointed to a large hot dog artwork hanging from the ceiling.  ?I wonder what that has to do with Rock and Roll.?  
?It is from a concert by the rock group Phish and those cars hanging over there are from a concert by the Irish rock band U2.?
I knew I had a lot to learn about rock and roll. We started our tour with a cinematic journey through rock and roll history. ?Mystery Train? in Theater One, follows the evolution of rock and roll.
?Oh, no,? was the quiet sigh from John when he heard the narrator say, ?there was a time when there was no rock and roll.?  At the end of the second presentation, ?Kick Out the Jams,? in Theater Two the musical journey from the music of the 1950s to today's music had enlightened the three of us.  
?John, look at these quotes. In 1985 a San Antonio Councilman said `The First Amendment should not apply to Rock and Roll' and J. Edgar Hoover said, `Rock and Roll is repulsive to right-minded people and has a serious effect on our young people.'  Amazing.  I find it interesting that when I. M. Pei designed the pyramids at the Louvre many people were just as outraged by his pyramid design as other people were about rock and roll. And, they are both here to stay.?
Most of the artifacts on display had little or no connection to my generation but articles like Jim Morrison's Cub Scout shirt and Mick Jagger's American/Union Jack Flag Cape fascinated John.  Given the musical generation gap we split up and agreed to meet for lunch and then go to the Hall of Fame multi-media presentation together.  My husband and I took a trip through our musical memory lane that included Elvis, Buddy Holly, Les Paul but didn't progress beyond the Beatles.  
Over lunch we discussed the evolution of music which seemed to be encapsulated in the phrase: ?Elvis freed the body, the Beatles freed the music, and Bob Dylan freed the mind.? It was a learning experience for the three of us - bridging the generations through music. While John's music may never be our favorite and our ?old timers music? will not replace his favorites, we all learned about the evolution of music and wondered what music will be like when he has grandchildren. Interestingly, I thought CDs had replaced vinyl records but based on the number I saw for sale in the gift shop vinyls are having a resurgence in popularity.
John played in his high school jazz band, so dinner at Nighttown, Cleveland's premiere jazz club, seemed appropriate.  After dinner, the lights dimmed and the quintet jazzed up Nighttown. Led by keyboardist David Garfield, along with vocalist Alex Ligertwood who was the lead vocalist for Santana, Steve Ferrone on the drums; Kip Reed on the electric bass, and Tony Pulizzi, on the guitar, we listened to music that appealed to the three of us.  ?They are playing `Babylon Sister'? whispered John, ?one of my favorites.?
The next day at breakfast, John's grandfather asked, ?Did you ever have a B-B gun??
?No, my mom said I'd shoot my eye out!  Do you know how many kids never got a BB gun for Christmas because of that line??
?Do you know what movie that line comes from??
?Of course!  `Christmas Story.' We watch it every Christmas. It's my mom's favorite.?
?Perfect. We are going to the `Christmas Story' house today.?
?Do I get to buy a Red Ryder BB Gun??
?No, and we are not going to buy a leg lamp either!?
?Oh, f?duge! to quote Ralphie.?
Even though Cleveland was not the setting for the Christmas Story it is where the house used in the classic movie based on Jean Shepard's story was filmed.  Our guide, Grace, explained, ?The owner loved the movie and when he saw the house for sale on eBay he just had to have it. He bought it for about $150,000 and spent about $240,000 restoring it to look like it did in the movie.?  My husband and I felt right at home in the 1940s house. Truly a place that spanned three generations. My husband and I lived the era; the movie was a Christmas favorite for our children and is now a classic for our grandchildren.  

We also visited the Cleveland MetroPark Zoo, the Great Lakes Science Center, and cheered for the Cleveland Indians baseball team at Progressive Field. All are great multi-generation activities. I knew the perfect place to end our fun-packed music-laced trip to Cleveland  - The Hard Rock Café. As we sat down for lunch, John looked at the video, ?That's Eric Clapton playing `Layla,' the same song they played at Nighttown.? When the waiter announced John's upcoming 18th birthday, he exclaimed, ?Cleveland rocks!?
My husband and I agreed - Cleveland definitely rocks! And, the best gift is the gift of travel.
Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and museum: www.rockhall.com, 216-781-ROCK Whether you wish to see Europe, Russia, Asia, or Egypt, the most relaxing way to travel is on Viking River Cruises . You unpack once and then enjoy daily shore excursions to visit both modern and historic places. Viking River Cruises will give you the trip of your dreams with luxurious accommodations, delicious food, exciting entertainment, and fascinating scenery. Find the best cheap cruise deal along with cruise reviews, news and opinions at cruiselinefans.comWherever you plan to go on your travel adventures, be sure to purchase the right  travel insurance   If you plan to be away for a few months then you will need a backpacker travel insurance policy, most of which now include up to two weeks ski or winter sports cover.

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Cleveland Home & Garden show honors scenery of Canada

Think spring, and give a salute to Canada at the Cleveland Home & Garden Show, happening at the Great Lakes Expo Center in Euclid through Sunday, Jan. 30. This year's show pays homage to Canada's beautiful coastlines, mountains and lakes. Get inspiration and ideas from dozens of horticultural and cultural institutions that will have booths at the event. Hours vary. The expo center is at 1200 Babbitt Road. Tickets are $12.50; free, ages 12 and younger. Go to homeandflower.com or call 1-800-600-0307.

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Year of the Rabbit: Ring in Lunar New Year with some party hopping I The Plain Dealer

LAI SENG SIN/ASSOCIATED PRESS Wassup, doc? The Year of the Rabbit, which starts Thursday. Rabbits are hopping up around the world, from this mall in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, to a multitude of Asian restaurants in Cleveland.

You are diplomatic. You have grace and manners. You are sensitive -- so much so that you cry when you see this dog-eat-dog world as a dog-eat-rabbit threat.

You, my friend, are a wascally wabbit.

Well, hop to it, it's your year. Thursday marks the beginning of the Year of the Rabbit, according to the lunar calendar.

What will the new year bring? Astrologers predict a year that reflects the contradictory nature of the critter.

Yes, rabbits frolic. They like to hop around with pals. But rabbits can also symbolize caution; you know how jittery they can get.

They also like to multiply, which means it's a year for family. But their skittishness, according to investors, is a sign that the markets will hop along in short jumps before settling down when fear leads to caution.

The only predictions I can make relate to all the hopping parties at these Asian restaurants and cultural spots:

• Asia Town Center: The Asian mall will roll out an 11 a.m. bash Saturday featuring a lion dance, performers, kids games and food. The soiree doubles as a chance to check out Asia Town Center if you haven't already. The mall, 3820 Superior Ave.,

Cleveland, opened last year and boasts a huge grocery store and an art gallery, not to mention some soon-to-open restaurants. Free. Call 216-526-8448.

• Beachcliff Market Square: Hail, hail, the rabbit in Rocky River. At 1 p.m. Saturday, the mall, 19300 Detroit Rd., will ring in the new year with a lion dance, hosted by Pearl of the Orient. The restaurant will host a celebration afterward. Call 440-333-9902.

• Asia Plaza: Is there a more anticipated lion dance than this one? Er, I mean, these four. Asia Plaza, 2999 Payne Ave., Cleveland, will roll out the lions at 7 p.m. Wednesday; 11 a.m. and 7 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 5; and 11 a.m. Sunday, Feb. 6. The Feb. 5 bash also will feature acrobats and performers. Meanwhile, Li Wah Restaurant, located in the plaza, will serve a special menu. For information, call 216-241-3553.

• Bo Loong: The Chinese restaurant, 3922 St. Clair Ave., Cleveland, will host two fun soirees, complete with a lion dance and performers, at 6 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 6, and Sunday, Feb. 13. The place always get booked up, so call in advance. 216-391-3113.

Beers and birthdays

Time flies when you're drinking Guinness. And Jameson. And more Guinness.

At 5 p.m. Saturday, Parnell's Pub -- 2167 Lee Road, Cleveland Heights -- will celebrate its 14 anniversary. Owner Declan Synnott is promising that pints will be flowing for the bash.

So, how is that different from any other night in this lively Irish pub?

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