CLEVELANDER OF THE MONTH: MAY

...A Few Good Men...

"There are no good men in Cleveland." We've all heard that sentiment before. But this Clevelander of the Month easily debunks that myth. That's because for the month of May we give you not one, not two, but three good men who are simply the cream of the crop. No seriously, they are known as Cream of the Crop! Amir Foster, Jaffre (Free) Jackson and Jeff Kirkman III make up COTC, a trio of entertainment promoters that strive to deliver the best in Cleveland's entertainment scene. From Swanky Sundays to Cues and Cocktails these men know how to have a good time (and make good use of alliteration apparently). We talked to Mr. Foster himself to allow you to get to know this month's Clevelander(s)...

How and when was COTC formed? What is the group's mission?
The group was formed when Jeff and myself decided to throw a collaborative birthday party. We had initially agreed that if it turned out to be a success, we would consider promoting parties on a regular basis. After two or three parties we came to the conclusion that it would be a good idea to bring in another person. We then met with Jaffre, who had some fresh ideas, and previous experience with promoting... We felt like it was a good fit... Now we are here today...Our mission is short but to the point... Its just to provide quality sources of entertainment, for the professional, stylish, and mature individual. It's well known that this group DOES exist in Cleveland, there is just a shortage of preferable events, and we are trying to do our part to fill that gap... We like to think of it as joining sexy and fun. The type of environments where you can come out fly, looking good, but still get out on the dance floor (or a stage if you are feeling frisky), and just enjoy yourself without feeling out of place.


What exactly is it that makes you the "cream of the crop?
Hmmm... Well... You will just have to ask around about that! Know what I mean? Ha ha. j/k... For starters, we are three intelligent, honest, hard working young men. That in and of itself would separate us from most in our age range. But beyond that, I believe its the drive, and the vision that separates us. We had a very clear picture of what we wanted to accomplish, and had the drive to not only talk about it, but actually put those ideas into action. Also, when you think about it, we along with our patrons, just do not fit in everywhere, or with everybody. We don't just listen to whats on BET, and we don't conduct ourselves in the same manner as everyone else. So as a result, we naturally separate ourselves. Cream Of The Crop doesn't just represent us it also represents our clientele as well.


How were your past events with the infamous titles inspired? i.e. Swanky Sunday
Once we had an idea of the type of event we wanted, we just started out throwing around words. A little help from thesaurus.com and we came up with two titles. "The soiree" was the first choice, and "Swanky Sunday" was the second. It ended up that there was already an upcoming event using soiree in the title, so we went with plan B. We think it worked out well for us.


What can one expect on any given Friday or Sunday walking into a COTC event?
One can expect that they will enjoy themselves that evening. We make it our mission to attempt to see that each of our guests are having a good time. The people will be professional, yet cool, and approachable at the same time. It's almost like you can go somewhere and have a good time, but the crowd is not that desirable. Or, go somewhere and have that crowd you want, but the fun factor is lacking. We just try to create that happy medium.


We know you guys like to throw a good party, but what else do you do in the city?
Actually, we have a few things in the pipeline. Right now we are working with a couple acts to put together some concerts that we are sure our patrons would love to see. Many more great things to come though.


Being so involved in Cleveland nightlife, what are some things you would like to see change on the scene?
Cleveland is still really segregated, and it is very apparent in the party scene. It would be nice if Cream Of The Crop or someone else could figure out a way to bring different races together on a regular. But that's an uphill battle.


What are some challenges you currently see facing promoters in Cleveland?
Lack of venues is a major issue in the Cleveland area. There is plenty of available space, but a number of places have either been closed down due to riff raff, or have a negative stigma attached to them. Makes it difficult to keep things different, and fresh.


What does the future hold for COTC?
I'm not exactly sure what the future holds. Although I do know that we will continue to look for and provide good sources of entertainment if for no other reason than... we like to kick it, and our friends do as well. So if no one else is going to step up to provide the type of events we appreciate, then we are just going to keep doing it ourselves.


Any advice for young men in Cleveland aspiring to do what you guys do?
I would say to think long and hard about that. I know it sounds glamorous, but it is a lot of hard work. And you may have to attend or host an event at some times when you just don't feel like it. Between planning, promoting, and hosting the events, its almost like a full time job. But... It is fun. And if someone is willing to put the work in, its usually well worth the effort.


Isn't Dollhouse your favorite female trio of promoters?
Dollhouse is my favorite trio of women period! Promoters, professionals, party goers, swimsuit models (possibly a new venture) or whatever the category may be Dollhouse is top of my list!!




by Ciara