I received your card from a co-worker and wanted to thank you for the excellent service provided to me last night. I called the Downtown Alliance to have someone meet me at 9th & Euclid to Bolliver at 8pm yesterday.

Thank you,
Rosario Sternik | Accounting-Billing Assistant | Tucker Ellis LLP
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Good afternoon, just a short note to let you know that about 1pm yesterday, I was watching one of your workers clean up on East 14th Street, between Euclid and Prospect.  What a great job he was doing and very pleasant also.

While I neglected to get his name, just thought you should know.

Debbie Kullman
United Agencies
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Michael Conwell,

I writing to send a quick thank you to Team Leaser Brooks of helping me the other day. I had locked my keys in my running car, and DCA was there to help immediately.

You guys provide such a wonderful service to Cleveland, and the city is truly better for it.

Thanks again,
Tommy

Kent State University
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Mr. Evans:

Melvin introduced himself to me this morning as he was sweeping along Chatham and W. 25th.  I want you and your colleagues to know how delighted we are to have your services.  The street are remarkably cleaner and there is an added sense of security!

I would hope that if I can ever do anything for you or your employees, you would let me know!

Thank you,

Tim Del Papa
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Last night I locked my keys in my car outside of Becky’s bar and, fortunately, the Downtown Alliance came to my rescue. Karl Benz worked on unlocking my car for an hour, and Robert Walters came to help towards the end as well. They were both very professional and helpful and I greatly appreciate their assistance.

I asked them if I could fill out a comment card or something about their service and that is when they gave me your e-mail address. I just wanted you to know what a good job they did.

Sincerely,
Sue Pfalzer
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Mr. Conwell,
I had a terrific experience while attending the recent Walnut Wednesday event. Juanita Williams and Rico were very helpful and informed me about the services of the DCA Ambassadors, which I was not aware of. I will be sure to share the great information they provided to us with others in my organization. They were both very professional, outgoing, helpful and had terrific resources to share.

Thank you,
Donna
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Hi Michael

My girlfriend and I would like to take a minute to bring to your attention the great experience we had while visiting downtown cleveland from canada. While walking downtown to the cavaliers game on the 30th of april we asked a fella for directions to the quicken loans arena. His response was pleasant and helpful as he walked us to the door of the arena and would not accept any tip or gratuity. we would like to recognize and thank David Hamilton and the pleasant service he has provided to us. We are grateful. Thanks to yourself, David and the rest of your staff at block by block.

Sincerely
Brian Hardy
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Good morning Mr. Conwell,

My name is Brenda Foreman and I work for a non-profit organization called LEAP.  This past Friday, I locked my keys in my vehicle while it was parked in the garage at 1020 Bolivar. After notifying the security guard he let me know about the services that Cleveland Alliance offers.  I have never heard of this before and I am from the Lorain County area.

Rob McCann is the awesome man that came and helped me.  He was very friendly, helpful, and most professional!  LEAP has a Cleveland office located on Lorain Avenue and I am making sure that all the staff there are aware of the wonderful services that the Alliance offers.

Thank you and have a great day,  Brenda Foreman
Employment Specialist
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hey michael v conwell,

Carolyn love had found a check for one of our clients while she was working and took the time and effort to come in and made sure the check was delivered to the right owner…thanks carolyn love!

Employee from Huntington Bank
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Hi Michael,

I am writing this email to say thanks for helping me out Friday evening with a flat tire, I could not change on my own. Darvell S. was the man who showed up very quickly and was able to help in this situation, he was very nice and had much knowledge on how to change the flat for me. Unfortunately my car does not come with the best jack, he was very nice and we waited for the the next person to arrive with a better jack to change the tire. I am so happy to have this service in Downtown Cleveland where I work daily, I live out in Stow so this has meant so much to me because I don’t have any other way of getting the help so quickly. I feel so much safer with DCA here. Please thank Darvell again for me, he was so great, kind and helpful.

Thanks
Terese Morgan
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Dear Mr. Conwell,

I wanted to express my sincere gratefulness to Team Leader Brooks and William Hernandez (Safety #26).  I lost the keys to my car and after retracing my steps five times, you can imagine my panic.  I am a 61 year old country girl and down town Cleveland is a scary place to me.

Anyway, they helped me locate a locksmith and had him there in good time.  ( I had tried earlier and the first locksmith never called me back.  The second one said it would be a couple of hours before he could come.)  I had called the police and they said they were unable to help me in this situation.  Without the help of these wonderful gentlemen, I don’t know what would have become of me.

These two fantastic guys stayed with me the entire time and made me feel safe.  For that, I am extremely grateful.  I am so glad that this Downtown Cleveland Alliance exists……I can’t be thankful enough.  Mr Brooks and Mr. Hernandez are heroes in my book and deserve the highest of praise.

Sincerely grateful,

Julia Sporck
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Hey Michael~

Just wanted to send a quick note about LuJuana (I know I’m misspelling that, so my apologies).  I met her for the first time weeks ago and fell in love with that woman.  She is always on the move, always smiling, and always says hi to me by name.  As someone who has lived and worked in the neighborhood for years, I am so happy to get to see her throughout the week.  She’s just an incredibly vibrant and hardworking lady.  Thanks for adding another layer to this already amazing neighborhood.

Debby Samples
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Mr. Conwell,

My name is Cherise Saulters and today two of your employees “saved my life”, well not literally but….. I had a flat tire on my way back to work from lunch (yeah I know, likely story) anyway, I called for a tow truck, they informed me it would be at least an hour before they could get someone out to me…then out of nowhere pushing a cart comes Mr. Stewart, he asked if I had a spare and if I did he could get someone to put it on for me.  In utter amazement, I called that tow company and in record time canceled the tow.  Also the team leader Mr. Brooks was very pleasant and helpful. Thank you for offering this service, which I knew nothing about.  I am going to share this information with my fellow employees @ Employment & Family Services and Child Support in hopes that in their time of need, they maybe able to benefit from this exceptional service also.

Cherise L. Saulters
CSA
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Hello Mr. Conwell.

My name is Tracy D. George.  I was riding with my friend, Cherise Saulters, when we caught a flat tire.  While sitting there waiting for the tow truck to come, Clean 3 member Mr. Rico Stewart came to our rescue.  He then called Team Leader Kenneth Brooks who came and changed the tire and saved the day.  We are so appreciative for the service that you provide.  I wanted to take the time to thank you for this organization and pray that your company can grow and you can then expand your services beyond the downtown area.  Until that happens I will tell everyone I know about you all.  If it wasn’t for Mr. Stewart walking by with his yellow cart, we will still be sitting there waiting for a tow truck.  Thank you Mr. Conwell for this service, thank you Mr. Stewart for stopping and thank you Mr. Brooks for you prompt response.  A number of people walked passed and didn’t stop to help us.  A policeman even drove by.  When he did a U-Turn we just knew he was coming to help us, but he just kept going.  Thanks again for this wonderful service.

A Rescued Citizen
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Good Morning Mr. Conwell.

I just wanted to share how appreciative we are with all that has been accomplished. We have various business locations on the street.  Daily, we are in awe of the amazing job your staff is doing keeping our streets clean.

Melvin and LuJuana are a breath of fresh air.  Always have a smile and a good morning hell-o.  LuJuana remembered my name from day 1. Rather than facing the bums every morning, as I have since 2005….I get to chat with LuJuana!

Thank you and your staff for a job well done!!!!!

Terry Lipp

Downtown Cleveland apartment occupancy now stands at 96.4% and is being driven by an influx of young professionals into Downtown Cleveland?
http://www.cleveland.com/business/index.ssf/2012/04/clevelands_inner_city_is_gorn.html

According to CBRE, the Downtown Cleveland office occupancy for the first quarter of 2012 is over 80%, a 4% improvement over last year?

According to CBRE, Downtown Cleveland has experienced a net gain in the amount of square footage occupied by businesses for 4 consecutive quarters?

Ridership for RTA has jumped 16% compared to this time last year?
http://freshwatercleveland.com/features/allaboardtherta041912.aspx

The third restaurant for the casino has now been announced:  “Rosie and Rocco’s” will accompany the new casino buffet called “The Spread?”
http://www.newsnet5.com/dpp/news/local_news/cleveland_metro/third-restaurant-in-horseshoe-casino-cleveland-food-court-to-serve-up-italian-by-chef-rocco-whalen
http://www.cleveland.com/dining/index.ssf/2012/04/horseshoe_casino_unveils_the_s.html

Growing downtown company LeanDog experienced $5.3 million in sales and plans on employing 100 people next year?
http://www.cleveland.com/business/index.ssf/2012/04/cleveland_envisions_a_floating_1.html

The Flats East Bank project has announced new restaurants to move in upon completion of the project: Ken Stewart’s, Lago, Flip Side, Toby Keith’s “I Love This Bar and Grille” and Dos Tequilas?
http://fox8.com/2012/04/12/flats-east-bank-scoops-up-big-name-restaurants/

Potbelly Sandwich Shop has announced plans to open in Downtown Cleveland?
http://www.crainscleveland.com/article/20120413/FREE/120419910/0/FRONTPAGE

Tilted Kilt is now open right across the street from the Downtown Cleveland Casino?
http://www.cleveland.com/taste/index.ssf/2012/04/tilted_kilt_opens_thursday_in.html

The casino will feature 1,000 security cameras, as well as 120 private security officers, in addition to the added police presence in Downtown Cleveland?
http://www.newsnet5.com/dpp/news/local_news/cleveland_metro/20-more-police-officers-7-extra-traffic-cops-being-added-to-downtown-cleveland

Quicken Loans announced that it plans to hire 100 people for its Cleveland mortgage operations?
http://www.cleveland.com/business/index.ssf/2012/05/quicken_loans_to_hire_100_more.html

CLEVELAND, OH – The ribs are sweeter and the bands are hotter…downriver! The 21st Annual Marc’s Great American Rib Cook-Off & Music Festival presented by Litehouse Pools & Spas, FOX 8, Time Warner Cable, and Tim Lally Chevrolet, is celebrating its four-day barbecue battle at Jacobs Pavilion and the Nautica Entertainment Complex on the sizzling West Bank of the Flats Friday, May 25, through Monday, May 28, 2012.

The heart of the Rib Cook-Off is its world-class barbecue competition that will feature 10 of the best grill-masters on the professional barbecue circuit. Teams all the way from Texas to New Jersey will return to Cleveland to serve up their award-winning tender slabs, juicy bones and delicious pulled pork sandwiches. The grills will go wild as these fierce competitors battle it out to win the coveted “Greatest Ribs in America,” Tim Lally Chevrolet “People’s Choice,” and the “Butch Lupinetti Greatest Sauce in America” awards.

The Rib Cook-Off also packs dozens of national, regional, and local bands into its holiday weekend celebration. The non-stop entertainment scheduled for the Bud Light Main Stage and School of Rock FOX 8 Stage powered by Tri-C Recording Arts & Technology Program continues to be FREE with your paid general admission.

Spend Memorial Day weekend with award-winning entertainment and savory ribs while taking advantage of smart saving solutions to stretch your dollar with special discount package deals that include admission to both the Rib Cook-Off and the brand new Greater Cleveland Aquarium! Families will return to their favorite barbecue festival with money to spare when purchasing the FOX 8 Half Off Rock & Ribs Dining Deal, or the newly added Greater Cleveland Aquarium and Rib Cook-Off Package.

The Northeast Ohio tradition of gathering at the Cleveland waterfront to indulge in mouth-watering barbecue, music, and a little heated competition can be accessed even easier this year, courtesy of Live Nation and the Greater Cleveland Aquarium with the RTA Rapid Transit Rail Line offering FREE rides and bus shuttle services to the cook-off. Not only will patrons be able to travel for FREE to the Rib Cook-Off on the RTA Rapid Transit Rail Lines, but they will also be able to enjoy FREE headline entertainment along with stacks of activities for the whole family to enjoy for only $5 with a coupon from Marc’s or online at www.fox8.com/rib. As always, admission for children 12 and under remains FREE all weekend long.

That’s not all! On Friday, May 25, one of the regions hottest DJ’s, DJ E-V, will provide the beats to get fans ready for the weekend. Saturday, barbecue fans can cheer on Cleveland-area residents participating in the Marc’s Amateur Grilling Competition, while Sunday will host a talented lineup of local and regional bands including the winners of the 2012 Tri-C High School Rock Off, Phaylinx, from St. Ignatius and Nordonia High Schools. Also performing Memorial Day weekend will be the KISS-FM Dance Team, 10-year-old DJ Alex“Beatboy” Matthews, and the students from School of Rock.

CRAVINGS FOR SAVINGS:

THIS YEAR WE ARE FEATURING FISH AT THE COOK-OFF! Well sort of…we are celebrating the opening of our Rib Cook-Off neighbor, and one of the hottest family attractions in Northeast Ohio, the Greater Cleveland Aquarium, by selling a combined Aquarium and Rib Cook-Off ticket package that can be used to visit each venue on the same day, or on different days during Memorial Day weekend. This combo ticket package will SAVE over $7 for adults and $4 for children 12 and under who want to take advantage of both activities during Memorial Day weekend! The Greater Cleveland Aquarium is open from 10:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. daily. This ticket package is now on sale exclusively online at www.greaterclevelandaquarium.com/ribdeal, while supplies last.

FOX 8 HALF OFF ROCK & RIBS DINING DEAL!

Rib lovers can purchase this special offer while supplies last and receive $40 worth of food & beverage tickets and two General Admission tickets to the Rib Cook-Off that include headline entertainment for ONLY $28! That’s a $56 value for only $28, plus applicable service fees. This limited time offer is now on sale exclusively online at www.fox8.com/rib.

NEW THIS YEAR! RTA RAPID TRANSIT LINES & WATERFRONT LINE MAKE IT EASY TO TRAVEL TO THE RIB COOK-OFF AND GREATER CLEVELAND AQUARIUM MEMORIAL DAY WEEKEND.

The Swing Bridge in the Flats is back in business, making travel from the East to the West Bank of the Flats much more convenient. This year, additional parking will be available within walking distance of the Rib Cook-Off and Greater Cleveland Aquarium. Additional lots are located adjacent to the Settler’s Landing RTA Waterfront Line on the East Bank of the Flats. A FREE bus shuttle, courtesy of Live Nation and the Greater Cleveland Aquarium, will take patrons from the Settler’s Landing Station and the numerous adjacent parking lots on the East Bank to the Rib Cook-Off and Aquarium entrances. NEW THIS YEAR, courtesy of Live Nation and the Greater Cleveland Aquarium, RTA will offer rib lovers and Aquarium fans free rides on all RTA Rapid Transit

Rail Lines during Memorial Day weekend. Patrons can park for free at any RTA Rapid Stations and then hop aboard the Red, Blue or Green Lines traveling downtown to the Tower City Station. From there, it’s a quick trip on the Waterfront Line to the Settler’s Landing Station where complimentary bus shuttles will take patrons directly to the Rib Cook-Off and Aquarium. RTA rail services will be extended all weekend long to match the hours of the Rib Cook-Off. For a map of the free shuttle route and parking lots, visit www.fox8.com/rib.

TIM LALLY CHEVROLET HAS A BONE TO PICK WITH YOU!

As co-presenting sponsor of this year’s Rib Cook-Off, Tim Lally Chevrolet has a fabulous deal for you! Make arrangements during the month of May to have your oil changed for the special price of $20.12 at Tim Lally Chevrolet and receive two FREE tickets to the Marc’s Great American Rib Cook-Off & Music Festival, while supplies last! Regular price for this service is $39.50. *This offer includes up to 5 quarts of conventional quality motor oil and ACDelco oil filter. Diesels and synthetic blend oil may be slightly higher. Taxes and disposal fee are extra if applicable. Not valid with any other offer. Present offer at time of vehicle write-up. Offer expires May 24, 2012. Tim Lally Chevrolet is located at 19000 Rockside Road in Bedford, OH.

GET GRILLIN’ WITH LITEHOUSE POOLS & SPAS

Litehouse Pools & Spas is offering four FREE General Admission tickets for the first 100 customers buying a new grill costing $399 or higher from May 1st through May 20th. Litehouse carries Bull brand grills, Primo brand smoker grills, and Weber brand grills in natural gas, propane and charcoal. *Tickets will be mailed to the winning customers prior to the Rib Cook-Off Memorial Day weekend. Visit www.litehouse.com for a list of their 14 store locations.

THE GREAT GRILL-OFF: 2012 GRILLING TEAMS

This year’s saucy showdown welcomes seasoned grilling gladiators back into the barbecue pits of downtown Cleveland. In total, 10 professional teams hailing from New Jersey to Texas will battle for trophies, cash and ultimate bragging rights. Sample barbecue and sauce flavors from eight different states, including: Butch’s Smack Your Lips BBQ (NJ) • Carolina Rib King (SC) • Chicago BBQ Company (IL) • DD Stutz’s Jack on the Bone (OH) • Famous Dave’s BBQ (MN) • Johnson’s BBQ (VA) • Pigfoot BBQ Company (OH) • Porky N’ Beans (FL) • Texas Thunder (TX) • Uncle Bub’s BBQ (IL)

DEFENDING CHAMPS

The triumphant winners from 2011 return to defend their titles to see if they have what it takes to grill to another victory! “People’s Choice” Award 2011 “Greatest Ribs in America” 2011 Champion: Famous Dave’s BBQ (MN) Champion: Porky ‘N’ Beans (FL) “Butch Lupinetti Greatest Sauce in America” 2011 Champion: Uncle Bub’s BBQ (IL)

THE JURY IS OUT

After four days in the pits, winners for the 2012 “Greatest Ribs in America,” “Butch Lupinetti Greatest Sauce in America” and Tim Lally Chevrolet “People’s Choice” awards will be crowned Monday, May 28, at 4:00 p.m. An elite panel of barbecue connoisseurs, as well as local Northeast Ohio celebrities will judge stacks of juicy bones using a blind taste test method. To determine the big winners, the judging panel will rate ribs in several categories including appearance, sauce, meat and tenderness.

TIM LALLY CHEVROLET “PEOPLE’S CHOICE” AWARD CONTEST PRESENTED BY NEW 102.1 WDOK-FM AND RADIO’S 92.3 THE FAN

Let your taste buds do the talking and win a chance to become an official Tim Lally Chevrolet “People’s Choice” award judge! During select hours at the cook-off, visit the New 102.1 WDOK Mega Money Machine booth and Radio 92.3 The FAN booth for the chance to enter and judge some rockin’ ribs! The lucky judges will be presented with free succulent ribs to taste test and rank. The Tim Lally Chevrolet “People’s Choice” judging will take place during the weekend’s festivities exclusively at these booth locations.

MARC’S AMATEUR GRILLING COMPETITION PRESENTED BY 93.1 WZAK, 107.3 THE WAVE, THE PLAIN DEALER, FOX 8, BUD LIGHT, KRAFT, NABISCO AND SNYDER’S OF BERLIN

The annual Marc’s Amateur Grilling Competition will give contestants three racks of ribs and two and a half hours to create one award-winning barbecue masterpiece. The heated event will take place Saturday, May 26, at 12:00 p.m. with five competitors vying for ultimate bragging rights. After the smoke clears the professional grill-masters will sample and scrutinize the slabs to determine the 2012 grilling champ! The winner will receive a $250 Marc’s gift card and the title of Marc’s Amateur Grill Master. Marc’s gift cards will also be awarded to the second and third place winners. Each contestant will also be given the propane grill they used during the competition – just for participating! Want to enter? Log onto www.fox8.com/rib, www.wzakcleveland.com or www.107.3thewave.net for an official entry form and explain in 25 words or less why you are Northeast Ohio’s best amateur griller. Marc’s Amateur Grilling Competition is open to anyone age 18 years and over. Deadline for entry is Friday, May 11, at 5:00 p.m.

THE PLAIN DEALER INVITES YOU TO ENTER THE “I KNOW MY RIBS” SWEEPSTAKES AND WIN A SPOT ON THE OFFICIAL RIB COOK-OFF JUDGE’S PANEL

Think you can handle the pressure of sampling and judging the award-winning ribs and sauces prepared by this year’s national grill-masters? Then here is your chance to sit side-by-side with The Plain Dealer’s one and only Minister of Culture, Michael Heaton and Pop Diva, Andrea Simakis along with a host of other Cleveland celebs on Sunday, May 27, and experience the ultimate VIP treatment courtesy of The Plain Dealer and Live Nation. In addition to being an official judge, one winner will receive the grand prize package of two VIP wristbands to Sunday’s Staind concert, VIP parking, plus $100 in food & beverage tickets! The 2012 participating judges will determine this year’s winners for “Greatest Ribs in America” and “Butch Lupinetti Greatest Sauce in America.” Fifty runner-up winners will receive a four-pack of General Admission tickets to the Rib Cook-Off. Sweepstake details will be available in The Plain Dealer beginning April 27.

JOIN US FOR A “MUNCH BRUNCH” LIVE FROM THE RIB COOK-OFF

Celebrate Memorial Day with Mark “Munch” Bishop when he broadcasts live from the Rib Cook-Off Monday, May 28, from Noon to 2:00 p.m. Keep the radio dial on ESPN 850 WKNR in May for your chance to sit alongside Munch and be an official Rib Cook-Off judge!

ARE YOU READY TO ROCK… THE BUD LIGHT MAIN STAGE

The Bud Light Main Stage will host an outstanding lineup featuring alternative rock stars to platinum-selling national artists each night. Set sail with The B-52s at 9:00 p.m. Friday, May 25, as they start the party on the waterfront. Saturday, May 26, the eccentric Todd Rundgren hits the Bud Light Main Stage at 9:00 p.m. to say “Hello” to the audience. The headliner for Sunday, May 27, will be the hit alternative rockers Staind performing at 9:00 p.m. The weekend’s music festivities come to a close Memorial Day Monday, May 28, with the Rib Cook- Off’s own beloved DJ, Michael Stanley and The Resonators at 6:00 p.m. For an additional charge, a limited number of front-of-stage General Admission “BBQ PIT” tickets for Staind and prime reserved seats for The B-52s, Todd Rundgren, and Michael Stanley and The Resonators, that includes admission to the Rib Cook- Off, are on sale now at www.livenation.com, all Ticketmaster locations and charge-by-phone 800-745-3000.

Discounts do not apply for advance BBQ Pit general admission or prime reserved seat tickets.

SCHOOL OF ROCK FOX 8 STAGE POWERED BY TRI-C RECORDING ARTS & TECHNOLOGY PROGRAM

On Friday, May 25, the “Love Shack Dance Party” kicks off at 6:30 p.m. with KISS-FM’s one and only DJ E-V spinning saucy sounds that will get rib lovers primed for The B-52s. Saturday, May 26, the School Of Rock FOX 8 Stage powered by Tri-C Recording Arts & Technology Program will feature hard rock band Mouth Wired Shut, Red Sun Rising, the funkadelic modQUAD, and Vernon Jones Blues Cartel. Sunday, May 27’s guests will be the Radio Disney Road Crew LIVE Show featuring the Duncan Crew performing yo-yo tricks onstage.

Guests can stop by the Duncan Yo-Yos booth to enter for a chance to win a flyaway trip to the X-Games in Los Angeles! Also performing Sunday, 10-year-old DJ Alex “Beatboy” Matthews and the KISS-FM Dance Team, the talented kids from School of Rock, and a host of area high school bands that have made a name for themselves by performing at the annual Tri-C High School Rock Off that include: Noize From the Basement, The Glow Pop Jiggly Jams, Deo Vindice, and this year’s winner, Phaylinx. Rising pop stars from Columbus, OH, New Hallow, and Cleveland’s own The Strange Familiar will headline the School Of Rock FOX 8 Stage powered by Tri-C Recording Arts & Technology Program on Sunday as well! Reggae music legends The Wailers will keep the vibe going with a laidback performance closing out the weekend’s festivities Monday, May 28, at 2:00 p.m. Log onto www.fox8.com/rib for up-to-the-minute entertainment announcements and performance times.

TIM LALLY CHEVROLET INVITES YOU TO “GET IN BED” WITH THE B-52s, TODD RUNDGREN, STAIND, AND MICHAEL STANLEY

This year four radio stations are offering four grand prize winners the rockin’ opportunity to comfortably sit front-ofstage during the concert of one of the weekend’s headlining entertainment acts “In the Bed” of a brand new Chevrolet Silverado truck, courtesy of Tim Lally Chevrolet! Each station is offering a chance to attend a different concert, so stay tuned and listen to these stations in the month of May for your chance to enter and win: 106.5 The Lake to attend The B-52s concert; 105.7 WMJI to attend the Todd Rundgren concert; 100.7 WMMS to attend the Staind concert, and 98.5 WNCX to attend the Michael Stanley and The Resonators concert.

LET LOOSE AT THE LITEHOUSE RIB COOK-OFF LOUNGE

Patrons can enjoy a cool backyard grilling vibe as they hang out at the Litehouse Pools & Spas Lounge conveniently located in the heart of the Rib Cook-off event site. Here you can see some of the latest natural gas and propane grills including the popular brands Weber, Bull and Primo. Getting your grill on while listening to music on the School of Rock FOX 8 Stage powered by Tri-C Recording Arts & Technology Program and checking out the fabulous patio and deck furniture available from Litehouse will give new meaning to “shop at your leisure!”

You may even get a chance to win a new set of patio furniture compliments of Litehouse! Visit www.litehouse.com for a list of their 14 store locations.

Q104 APL PROMO TBD

Stop by the quackable Q104 APL Duck Pond to raise money and awareness for the lovable animals of the Cleveland APL. Play games and win prizes that include tickets to the House of Blues, Greater Cleveland Aquarium, Nautica Queen, Live Nation concerts and much more!

RIB COOK-OFF SPORTS ZONE FEATURING THE CAVS, CLEVELAND GLADIATORS AND LAKE ERIE MONSTERS PRESENTED BY TIME WARNER CABLE

Stay active Memorial Day weekend with plenty of room to play at this year’s Sports Zone! Shoot hoops and strut your stuff on the court while playing games and participating in other fun activities at the Rib Cook-Off! With plenty of games and obstacles for the whole family, everyone is sure to work up an appetite!

GENERAL EVENT INFORMATION
Friday, May 25 12:00 p.m. – 11:00 p.m.

Saturday, May 26 12:00 p.m. – 11:00 p.m.

Sunday, May 27 12:00 p.m. – 11:00 p.m.

Monday, May 28 (Memorial Day) 12:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.

The Marc’s Great American Rib Cook-Off & Music Festival takes place at Jacobs Pavilion and the Nautica Entertainment Complex on the West Bank of the Flats in downtown Cleveland. For more details, venue information or driving directions, visit the festival’s new and official website www.fox8.com/rib or call the Jacobs Pavilion Box Office at 216-622-6557 during event hours.

Adult general admission is ONLY $5 with a coupon from Marc’s or with an online coupon available at www.fox8.com/rib. General admission is still FREE for kids 12 and under everyday, all hours. *General Admission tickets are not sold in advance and are only available for purchase at the Rib Cook-Off box office during event hours.

Parking is available at various surrounding lots on both the East and West Bank of the Flats. The Center Street Swing Bridge that connects the East and West Bank is open this year making it convenient to park in the adjacent lots near the Settler’s Landing RTA Waterfront Line. New This Year! Courtesy of Live Nation and the Greater Cleveland Aquarium, RTA will offer rib lovers and Aquarium fans FREE rides on all RTA Rapid Transit Rail Lines during the Rib Cook-Off Memorial Day weekend!

Patrons can park for free at any RTA Rapid Station and then hop aboard the Red, Blue or Green Lines traveling downtown. From Tower City, it’s a quick trip on the Waterfront Line to the Settler’s Landing Station where complimentary bus shuttles will take you directly to the Rib Cook-Off and Aquarium entrances. RTA rail services will be extended all weekend long to match the hours of the Rib Cook-Off. Visit www.fox8.com/rib for more information.

This Memorial Day weekend, play downtown and stay downtown at the Hilton Garden Inn Cleveland Downtown – the official hotel of Jacobs Pavilion and the Marc’s Great American Rib Cook-Off & Music Festival. Contact the reservations desk at 216-658-6400 for details.

THANKS TO OUR SPONSORS!

The 21st Annual Marc’s Great American Rib Cook-Off & Music Festival is produced by Live Nation and copresented by Litehouse Pools & Spas, FOX 8, Time Warner Cable, and Tim Lally Chevrolet. Associate sponsors include Anheuser-Busch Inc., Akron-Canton Airport, Bud Light, Clear Choice Custom LASIK Center, Cleveland CAVS, Cleveland Gladiators, Coca Cola, Columbus Blue Jackets, Dasani Water, Greater Cleveland Aquarium, Hilton Garden Inn Cleveland Downtown, House of LaRose, Kraft, Lake Erie Monsters, The Plain Dealer, Nabisco, Ohio Department of Travel & Tourism, Renewal by Andersen, RTA and The Waterfront Line, Cleveland Scene Magazine, SmarTravel, U.S. Marines, Tri-C’s® Recording Arts & Technology, School of Rock, Windows on the River, Wright State University, New 102.1 WDOK, 99.5 WGAR, ESPN 850 WKNR, Majic 105.7, 100.7 WMMS, 106.5 The Lake, 98.5 WNCX, Q104, WNWV 107.3 The Wave, WTAM 1100, Radio 92.3 The Fan, 107.9 WENZ and 93.1 WZAK, Radio Disney AM 1260. Our 2012 charitable partner is Easter Seals.

Hello,
I just wanted to let you know that I was outside in front of Constantino’s today and noticed Melvin and Rico cleaning the sidewalks and street.  I wanted to say as a visitor to you city, I greatly appreciated the fact that on a Sunday afternoon, these two men, and I am sure others, were taking the time to clean the streets to help the Downtown Cleveland area look better.

Sincerely,
John Ward, MCC, LCDC III

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Just writing to express my gratitude for power washing the sidewalks out front, and your great service in general.

Thanks to your whole team,
Joe Slattery

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Good Morning Michael,
Last Saturday I met a DCA advocate named Melvin who was cleaning the streets in Ohio City.  I stopped him, introduced myself, and told him how excited I was that they moved to Ohio City and what a great job they have been doing downtown.  He gave me your card and encouraged me to tell you the same.  I have been living downtown in the Warehouse District for about 3 years now, and I am so grateful to have the DCA protecting and cleaning the city.  I feel so much safer seeing them around, and I truly appreciate all the hard work.  I think it’s great that the program has moved across the river, and I look forward to seeing it expand more in the future.

Have a great day!
Theresa Kaschak

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Hi Mike Conwell:
I just want to compliment the Downtown Cleveland Alliance on the job they are doing.  This is the second time I have emailed about them.  They just completed another good job for us on putting plants in three planters next to our gallery.  The contact person on this was Helena Miller.  Congratulations again on the job you are doing.

Sincerely Richard Moore  The Bonfoey Commpany

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Hi Michael
I wanted to say today around 6 on the corner of Carol and West 25th I saw Don Hughes and Moser Anderson safety 24 and 21 ask a homeless person to stop yelling and begging for money. They handled this very well! They were very professional and in control. At the end this person went away.

I appreciate this!
Thank you, Doug

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Mr. Evans,
I am an Ohio City resident and wanted to let you know that your employees are doing a wonderful job in our neighborhood. I met Melvin today on Bridge Ave. and have seen a petite black woman working hard as well. They are very gracious and polite. It is a pleasure to see them around the neighborhood - smiling and greeting everyone as well as the work they do to beautify our streets and sidewalks. If you have an incentive or bonus program for your employees, please keep these two in mind. Although I have a feeling all of them deserve a bonus, especially for working with a smile on a cold, rainy Saturday.

Thanks,
Michaele Smith

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A couple of weeks ago, I was moving into my new condo at the Cloak Factory. I was looking for a place to eat / shop for food. Rico gave me a bunch of suggestions then escorted me to the grocery store on W. 9th. What a great service you provide! And, Rico was exceedingly patient, nice and obviously helpful.

Thank you so much!
Bob

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Mr. Conwell:
We’re sending along kudos for the group of Ron, Rico and Margarita who keep our area of W. 6th and Lakeside super clean — and they are polite and courteous to the max! Congrats on having such good ambassadors to the downtown!

John and Amy Scanlan
the Pinnacle

Free Downtown Cleveland Walking Tours

The award-winning “Take a Hike!” program, presented by Dollar Bank,  returns May 22 through September 16, 2012.  “Take a Hike” offers four free guided walking tours  of four unique neighborhoods in Downtown Cleveland featuring actors and actresses portraying  important figures from Cleveland’s past.  This means visitors and local residents have the opportunity to explore the Gateway District, Historic Warehouse District, PlayhouseSquare and  Canal Basin Park in the Flats every week all summer long – for free!

As Thomas Yablonsky, Executive Director of Historic Gateway Neighborhood Corporation, notes, “These tours highlight the very best of Downtown.  They offer an excellent opportunity for visitors, families, friends and, even new businesses, to gain a greater understanding of all that Cleveland has to offer.”   Since the tours provide a comprehensive look at the history, current activity and future plans for each of the tour areas, residents and visitors alike can become “experts” on  Downtown Cleveland.

The Gateway District tour meets every Thursday at 6 PM in the Arcade at 401 Euclid Avenue.  The Historic Warehouse District tour meets every Saturday at 10 AM in front of Constantino’s Market at 1278 West 9th Street.  The Canal Basin Park in the Flats tour meets every Sunday at 10 AM at Settler’s Landing RTA Station at 1025 West Superior Avenue.   The PlayhouseSquare tour meets every Tuesday at 6 PM in the State Theatre Lobby at 1519 Euclid Avenue.

With so many reasons to spend time in Downtown Cleveland this summer, from fantastic restaurants to sporting events, concerts to Broadway shows, the new Aquarium to the new Casino, festivals to “Take a Hike” tours, people will want to return again and again!  As Program Manager, Kelly Lange, notes “Tour attendees are normally very impressed by what they see and learn on the tours.  Not only does Cleveland have an incredibly rich history and beautiful architecture, but recent developments can be quite eye-opening.”

“Take a Hike” tours last approximately one and a half hours each in length.  Donations are encouraged to help fund future tours.   Groups of ten or more are asked to call 216.771.1994 in advance.

The Historic Gateway Neighborhood Corporation “Take a Hike” program is presented by Dollar Bank and receives public support with local tax dollars from Cuyahoga Arts & Culture, to preserve and enrich our region’s artistic and cultural heritage.  Program partners include Downtown Cleveland Alliance, Historic Warehouse District, PlayhouseSquare, Bob Zimmer of Keller Williams Realty and Cleveland Magazine.

For more information on “Take a Hike”, please visit www.clevelandgatewaydistrict.com

Cleveland, Ohio—Food Network star Chef Rocco Whalen just signed on with Kaiser Permanente to kick off their HBO “The Weight of the Nation” screening event with an exclusive meet and greet and giveaway at 3:30pm, 1001 Lakeside Avenue (lower level Amphitheatre). Guests will receive complimentary $50 certificates towards dining at Rocco’s trendy Cleveland eatery Fahrenheit as well as the opportunity to view HBO’s groundbreaking documentary series two weeks before it premieres nationwide.

Since starring on Food Network’s hit series Fat Chef and losing over 130 pounds, Chef Rocco has dedicated his life to raising awareness about the obesity epidemic examined by HBO’s “The Weight of the Nation”. His commitment to health even recently extended to the menu at Fahrenheit.

Event attendees will get the opportunity to meet Chef Rocco as well as enter to win the Fahrenheit Food Truck for an all-inclusive 25-guest event of their choosing. For inquiries on this event, Chef Rocco or Fahrenheit contact Nicole Dunn at (818) 231 5589 or nickyodunn@gmail.com.

“It is extremely gratifying to realize our family’s dream for Cleveland’s Flats area” said Iris S. Wolstein, who is developing the Flats East Bank along with her son, Scott Wolstein. “We are proud to fulfill Bart’s vision.”

Scott Wolstein added: “Drawing a national tenant like Toby Keith’s venue is a tremendous coup. The leasing momentum is very strong, and we are pleased with the local and national interest we are seeing on this project.”

Toby Keith’s I Love This Bar & Grill will feature live music by current and emerging music stars, predominantly in the Country genre, quality BBQ, and of course, a plethora of Toby Keith memorabilia. The Cleveland location will be a regional entertainment draw in what is considered one of the most undeserved country music markets in the nation.

“We have a huge untapped country music market here in northeast Ohio,” said Terry Stewart, President & CEO of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.  “I couldn’t be more pleased Toby Keith is bringing his entertainment concept to Cleveland to fill that void.  This venue will bring in an impressive list of talent to perform live in an exciting and high energy atmosphere.  It’ll be another reason Cleveland Rocks!”

Also included in the initial phase is a Class A 18‐story office tower with a rooftop deck, a 150‐room high‐ tech boutique hotel, a 16,000 square foot health club and a 1,200 foot riverfront boardwalk.

$120 million Phase 2 will bring residential, more retail/entertainment to Flats

Developers are now taking on financing and preconstruction of the $120 million second phase of the project that will turn the waterfront district into a true neighborhood with a 140‐unit residential complex along the water, helping to address the high demand for upscale, downtown living options.

Hundreds of additional apartment units could also be built based on future market demand. The second phase of development will also include more restaurant and retail offerings in addition to a park and sand beach.

The restaurants announced today join the commitments from Aloft Hotel and office leasing tenants Ernst & Young, Tucker Ellis, and C.B. Richard Ellis. These commitments along with the overall progress at Flats East Bank are tremendous accomplishments under what is still widely considered a challenging economy, particularly for commercial development.

Cleveland Mayor Frank Jackson and Cuyahoga County Executive Ed FitzGerald addressed the importance of this project to the city and the region.“Flats East Bank has ended the debate over whether or not Cleveland can develop its waterfront,” said Mayor Frank Jackson. “This catalytic project is going to change life as we know it downtown and help build a stronger Cleveland for the future.”

Cuyahoga County Executive Ed FitzGerald added: “We are finally capitalizing on one of our greatest assets – the waterfront.  We are incredibly grateful to the Wolstein family for their investment in this monumental project. Flats East Bank is going to be a regional attraction for years to come.”

As construction on Phase I proceeds, developers are shifting their attention towards Phase II. A committed management team led by the Wolstein Group and Fairmount Properties has strategically leveraged public and private partnerships to ensure financing for the $275 million Phase I.  Now the team is focused on the second round, estimated at $120 million.

“My team has battled through a major economic crisis and pulled off what many had said was impossible,” said Scott Wolstein. “We here in Cleveland were among the first in the country to secure financing and begin construction on a major commercial development following the economic collapse.

We have proven we know how to get the job done with Phase I, and we will do it again in Phase II. There is no other option‐ this project is too important to our city’s future.”Wolstein is not only speaking of the renewed vitality the waterfront community will bring to the city’s core, but the economic impact of Phase II. The Phase II construction alone will bring the city more than 800 jobs and approximately $4 million in tax revenues. Upon completion, Phase II will be a source of more than 600 jobs associated with retail and restaurants. It will also yield more than $1M of annual income taxes for the City of Cleveland. Income tax from the new City of Cleveland residents, estimated at roughly $175,000 annually, will go directly to the Cleveland Municipal School District.

The following artists are the newest additions to this year’s show:

• Faces (Kenney Jones, Ian McLagan, Rod Stewart, Ronnie Wood) to perform

• Donovan to perform with John Mellencamp

• Red Hot Chili Peppers to perform

• Billy Gibbons and Dusty Hill of ZZ Top along with Joe Bonamassa and Derek Trucks to perform for Freddie King

• Darlene Love to perform for Don Kirshner

• In addition, LL Cool J, along with Chuck D, to induct the Beastie Boys

The full list of currently announced performers, presenters and inductees with the newest announcements noted is below:

• Beastie Boys will be inducted by Chuck D (new addition: LL Cool J to present)

• Donovan will be inducted by John Mellencamp (new addition: both to perform)

• Small Faces/The Faces will be inducted by Stevie Van Zandt (new addition: The Small Faces/Faces to perform)

• Red Hot Chili Peppers will be inducted by Chris Rock (new addition: Red Hot Chili Peppers to perform)

• Laura Nyro will be inducted by Bette Midler

• Freddie King will be inducted by Billy Gibbons and Dusty Hill (new addition: Billy Gibbons and Dusty Hill to perform)

• Don Kirshner will be inducted by Carole King (new addition: Darlene Love to perform)

• Cosimo Matassa, Tom Dowd, Glyn Johns will be inducted by Robbie Robertson

• The Blue Caps, the Comets, the Crickets, the Famous Flames, the Midnighters and the Miracles will be inducted by Smokey Robinson

More details about performances, additional presenters and special guests will be announced at a later date.

Leading up to the April 14th ceremony, the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame hosts more than a week of special events, including the grand opening of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame’s new Library and Archives; tours of the newly-redesigned museum interior space; the unveiling of Grateful Dead: The Long, Strange Trip exhibition; a Rock My Soul gospel tribute honoring Kirk Franklin; a free concert for Cleveland featuring inductee George Clinton and Parliament Funkadelic, plus Kid Cudi and Kids These Days; live performances from inductee Bootsy Collins as well as Girl Talk; and a special series of education programs designed to teach students across the nation about the history and impact of rock and roll.

For more information regarding the inductees and 27th Annual Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Inductions, visit rockhall.com.

From a recent press release…

Terminal Tower. The Higbee Building. Municipal Stadium. PlayhouseSquare. Many of these iconic institutions have been the fabric of Cleveland for decades, but few have remained resolute in their original purpose and mission as PlayhouseSquare. Beginning with an opening reception on Thursday, April 12th, Cleveland Public Library (CPL) will celebrate the 90th anniversary of this storied institution.

“CPL and PlayhouseSquare have been steadfast partners in our city’s progress,” says Felton Thomas, Director of CPL. “We’re excited to take our community on a trip back 90 years to showcase PlayhouseSquare’s success in bringing phenomenal arts and culture to our community.”

Open through August, the exhibit will showcase the history of Cleveland’s theater district beginning from its vaudeville, theater, and silent film days in 1921 through neglect and vandalism in the post World War II era to its rebirth and current status as the nation’s second-largest performing arts center. Visitors can view PlayhouseSquare’s exquisite collection of playbills, scrapbooks, and photo archives from musical, plays, and shows. CPL’s extensive book collection on drama and theater will also highlight the incredible productions of the past 90 years.

The opening reception begins at 4:00 p.m. at the Main Library. PlayhouseSquare historian Joe Garry will be the featured speaker, and musical selections from Broadway shows will also be performed in the 2nd floor lobby.

The reception is free and open to the public.  For more information please visit cpl.org.

Teaching Cleveland Institute is comprised of students from Gilmour Academy, Beachwood High School, Hawken School, and Western Reserve Academy. The organization’s mission is to deepen the understanding of Greater Cleveland’s rich history by immersing students in hands-on projects that build upon Cleveland’s storied past.

Teaching Cleveland Institute students’ projects will consider future land and building uses, streetscape improvements, public art installations, and events programming in the NineTwelve district.  Downtown Cleveland Alliance (DCA) staff and downtown stakeholders met with the students during the semester to provide information on existing NineTwelve initiatives and urban planning strategies to help guide the students as they framed their final projects.

“We are happy to have the next generation of downtown workers and residents involved in the planning process for NineTwelve.” Sheri Drake of Downtown Cleveland Alliance stated.

The project came about from Downtown Cleveland Alliance’s City Advocate Jason Russell. DCA City Advocates Program serves to provide civic education and fosters active engagement for rising leaders in the Downtown Cleveland community.  Russell, who holds a master’s degree in urban planning from Cleveland State University, is passionate about connecting young audiences to city leaders and planners. “I think it’s very important for the planning process to be inclusive.  These students are our future; they should have a say in planning it,” Russell stated.

Attendance is open to the public. RSVP is required.  To RSVP, contact Sheri Drake, Downtown Cleveland Alliance’s Manager of Business Relations, at 216-736-7799