🚨 Cleveland Has a New ‘People’s Flag’!🚩

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In today’s 216 Scoop Edition:

• Cleveland has a new ‘people’s flag.’  Do the people want it?

• Myles Garrett, Browns make up: What’s next for team?

• Little Italy named one of the best Italian neighborhoods in North America

• 10 must-see places for your next trip to Little Italy

• Rock Hall screens rare, previously-unreleased Bob Dylan footage

  
  
  John Petkovic, Mark Espinosa, Victor Takakura

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IN THE NEWS

Cleveland has a new ‘people’s flag.’ Do the people want it?

“I didn’t know that Cleveland even had a flag.”

That was the response I got from most people after I asked them what they thought of the new Cleveland flag.

After showing them the new flag, they had an eclectic set of responses... “North Korea?” “Turkey?” “Chicago?” “Temu?”

Nope, Cleveland.

After a year-long process that involved 570 submissions, a local group called CLE-Flag Project has unveiled what it’s calling “The People’s Flag of Cleveland.”

City Hall has no plans to adopt it as the city’s official symbol. But the group hopes a groundswell of support from residents will push it to replace the municipal flag, which has symbolized Cleveland since 1895.

The winner, designed by Aurora resident Shan Rodich, was chosen via an online survey that attracted 11,000 respondents from Northeast Ohio.

The flag received an average rating of 6.8 out of 10 — two points higher than the other finalists. It features references to industry and waterways and Cleveland’s “Sixth City” label.

Quick take:

• “People’s Flag”? Total flag voters: 11,000. Greater Cleveland population: Two million. Cleveland: 360k;

• Winner earns rating of 6.8 out of 10 -- two points higher than other competitors. Quite a grading curve;

• Organizers want a forward-looking symbol, so why dwell on the past? The “Sixth City” star refers to a 1911 marketing campaign when Cleveland was America’s sixth biggest city. The tag was revived a decade ago, without any plausible reason. Hey, it was the fifth city in 1920;

A MEESAGE FROM LARDER DELICATESSEN & BAKERY

Larder: Cleveland’s Award-Winning Deli & Bakery! 🥪🔥

Step into Larder Delicatessen & Bakery, where tradition meets innovation! Located in a historic firehouse, Larder is a James Beard-nominated deli known for its house-smoked meats, fermented delicacies, and scratch-made baked goods. From crispy schnitzel sandwiches to buttery babka, every bite is packed with bold flavors and old-world craftsmanship. Whether you're a local or just visiting, this is a must-try Cleveland food experience!

📍 Visit us in Ohio City or order online for your next meal.

👉 Experience Cleveland’s best deli—check out our menu at LarderDB.com! 🍽️🔥

Myles Garrett, Browns make up: What’s next for team?

As we reported on March 5, the Browns held all the cards in the contract impasse with Myles Garrett – even after he reiterated his trade demand.

The team and the face of the franchise agreed on a four-year contract extension that makes him the highest-paid non-quarterback in the NFL -- an average of $40 million a year through 2030.

NFL free agency informally starts today and, official, on Wednesday. The draft is April 24-26.

So, what’s next?

• The Browns never wanted to tear it down and rebuild. The deal allows them to remain in win-now mode and use Garrett to attract free agents;

• The team was able to clear $36 million in salary cap space by restructuring DeShaun Watson’s contract;

• The Browns enter free agency with $12.6 million in cap space — 25th in the league -- to spend on free agents. They will sign a veteran quarterback, but will have other needs (running back, safety, offensive line). So they must be frugal. Daniel Jones, Kirk Cousins or Flacco could provide veteran leadership until a rookie could step. Free agency will impact what the Browns do in the draft.

Little Italy named one of the best Italian neighborhoods in North America

Sure, Little Italy is a great place to pasta time away.  But it’s also one of Cleveland’s most charming neighborhoods – where food, faith, history and heritage conspire to create an experience that connects the past and the present.

Founded in 1885, the neighborhood looks and feels like a scene in a Scorsese movie – from Holy Rosary Church to the cigar shop playing Dino and Frankie to the Italian-American Museum to the eateries, bakeries and bars.

Inside Hook just confirmed what any traveled Clevelander knows. The NYC-based pop culture, fashion and travel site has named Little Italy one of the Best Little Italy Neighborhoods in North America.

Here’s Inside Hook with the take: 

“When it comes to cannoli and other desserts, Corbo’s versus Presti’s is Cleveland’s version of [Boston’s] Mike’s versus Modern. In Cleveland, cassata has a different meaning than in other Italian enclaves. Instead of marzipan and cannoli cream, Cleveland-style cassata is more reminiscent of strawberry shortcake. But when in Cleveland…”

OK, let’s not make this a dessert turf war. Here’s the big picture:

“You have your choice of more than a dozen bakeries, restaurants and gelato shops.  Cleveland’s Little Italy can lay claim to having the oldest restaurant in the city that’s still just as impressive in the 21st century. Guarino’s dates back to 1918 and is as good a white tablecloth red sauce joint as any along Mayfield Road... Mama Santa’s is a casual pizza spot with checkered tablecloth-covered tables, also known for its red sauce. Try the cavatelli.”

Check out list of 10 go-to spots in Little Italy in The 216 Rundown…

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The 216 Rundown

10 must-see places for your next trip to Little Italy

Guarino's: Since 1918, this classic Italian joint hosted a cast of characters – from Dean Martin to Joe Torre to legendary Cleveland mobsters Moe Dalitz and James "Jack White" Licavoli. Food is great; stellar patio.

Cent’ Anni: The cocktail list is deep and sophisticated. The décor and wallpaper motifs are straight out of the Art Deco ’20s. The joint is  hidden away from the rush of Mayfield Road. A speakeasy, yes, it is.

La Dolce Vita: Like Fellini said, “The Good Life.” The menu offers traditional Italian staples with a personal touch. A Roman vibe with Little Italy hospitality. Bonus: Monday Opera Nights are a unique dining excursion.

Corbo’s “Leave the Gun, Take the Cannoli,” says the sign at Corbo’s Bakery in Little Italy – one of many plays on the mob theme. Hey, Rachel Ray says the cassata cake here is to kill for.

Mayfield Smoke Shop: Yes, the Little Italy institution feels like a scene out of “The Sopranos,” where veteran cigar suckers bust each other's balls in between puffing circles of smoke.

Rosso Gelato: This Italian-style spot is serious about its sorbetto and gelato and turns both into wonderful, colorful works of art.

Trattoria Roman Garden: Easy-going vibes, old-time feel, a nifty enclosed patio, fine pasta – and it serves a great Manhattan

Tavern of Little Italy: A sleek yet homey gastro-pub that serves five calzones and a multitude of beers and wines. It’s located in a circa-1908 building and pays tribute to the past with old photos and décor.

Mama Santa’s: Since 1961, Little Italy residents and visitors have flocked this iconic pizzeria. It’s a slice of Classic Cleveland and a charm that’s as old as its pastas and sauces.

Presti’s: Love the big, bold bunny and lamb-shaped cakes at this beloved bakery. The pizzas are pastries are delicious. The breads rules. All good.

🏡 Today’s Hot Property 

Charming Colonial in Lakewood – 1262 Gladys Ave

Affordable Duplex in Cleveland – 3351 W 130th St, Cleveland, OH 44111

💰 Price: $155,000

📏 Size: 1,490 sq. ft.

🏡 Built: 1925

🛏 Beds: 4

🛁 Baths: 1

👉 View Listing on Zillow

Note: Property details are based on current listings and are subject to change.

NOTES ON A COCKTAIL NAPKIN

7 p.m. Monday

The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Museum is screening a 60-minute film featuring rare and previously unreleased Bob Dylan performances, including songs such as “Blowin’ in the Wind,” “Girl from the North Country,” “Isis” and “Baby Let Me Follow You Down.” For more info, go here.

VINTAGE CLEVELAND

Murder scene of notorious Cleveland racketeer Danny Greene, 1977

Danny Greene (1933–1977) was an Irish American mobster who took part in a gang war to control Cleveland’s criminal operations during the 1970s. In 1976 alone, there were allegedly 36 bombs set off by competing gangsters, helping the city earn the moniker, Bomb City, U.S.A. Eventually, Greene had his own group, the Celtic Club, which competed in the Cleveland rackets. On October 6, 1977, Greene went to a dental appointment at an office building in Lyndhurst, Ohio. The Mafia had tapped his phone, so they knew of the visit. After Greene exited the building and approached his car, a bomb planted in the vehicle next to his car exploded, and Greene was killed instantly.

Ooh and don’t forget! Tag @The216Scoop & @The216ScoopOfficial to get your photos in the Scoop!

Extra Sprinkles

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Mystery Unboxed. Thrill Unmatched. 📦❓

Attention treasure hunters! 2nd & Charles Mystery Boxes are here to turn your ordinary day into a full-blown treasure hunt. Packed with surprises—books, collectibles, games, and more—you never know what gems you’ll uncover. It’s like a gift you give yourself, except you have no clue what’s inside (and that’s half the fun!). Ready to embrace the mystery? Grab your box and let the unboxing adventure begin! 🎉📚

WEATHER

Monday

55 🌡️ 46 | ☀️ | 31% | 💨 SW 11 mph

Thursday

5337 🌡️ 41 | ⛅ | 24% | 💨 SW 16 mph

Live Shows in the 216

🗓️ Monday, March 10, 2025

• Jenna Nicholls
  📍 Il Rione
  🕖 Show: 6:00 PM
  🎟️ Tickets & Info

🗓️ Tuesday, March 11, 2025

• Imminence with Landmvrks
  📍 Agora Theatre & Ballroom
  🕖 Show: 7:30 PM
  🎟️ Tickets & Info

• Cordae
  📍 House of Blues Cleveland
  🕖 Show: 7:00 PM
  🎟️ Tickets & Info

• Have Mercy
  📍 The Winchester Music Tavern
  🕖 Show: 8:00 PM
  🎟️ Tickets & Info

🗓️ Wednesday, March 12, 2025

• Marcia Ball
  📍 Music Box Supper Club
  🕖 Show: 8:00 PM
  🎟️ Tickets & Info

• Morgan Wade
  📍 Agora Theatre & Ballroom
  🕖 Show: 8:00 PM
  🎟️ Tickets & Info

• Nu-Metal Revival
  📍 Mercury Music Lounge
  🕖 Show: 7:00 PM
  🎟️ Tickets & Info

• Secret Movie Night
  📍 Grog Shop
  🕖 Show: 8:00 PM
  🎟️ Tickets & Info

Enjoy the vibrant music scene Cleveland has to offer! Remember to check the event links for the latest updates and ticket availability. Have a fantastic time! 🎶

Note: Event details are subject to change. Please verify information with official event websites.

The 216 Sports Area

Upcoming Games

Cavaliers

Home vs. Brooklyn Nets, 7 p.m., Tuesday.

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