Cleveland's Flats

Don Iannone's layered, complex book on Cleveland's Flats is one to savor over many readings. Through black-and-white photography, essays, and poetry, he gives us much to ponder about the Cuyahoga and life along its banks. Don and I met nearly fifty years ago while serving at the Northeast Ohio Areawide Coordinating Agency and later collaborated through Cleveland State University's Levin College of Urban Affairs. His urban sensibilities, artistic eye, and poetic soul are beautifully reflected in this remarkable work. - Robert Jaquay, Senior Fellow, Cleveland State University College of Urban Affairs; former Associate Director, The George Gund Foundation In Cleveland's Flats: A Symphonic Essay in Black and White, Don Iannone unites photography, poetry, and narrative to explore the Cuyahoga River as it winds through Cleveland's industrial heart. His images trace the river's path through the city's manufacturing history, revealing its mix of beauty, grit, and renewal. Inspired by Dvořák's From the New World Symphony, he shapes rhythm and mood like a composer. The work captures the ""industrial-strength"" character of the Flats and the river that built fortunes, sparked environmental reform, and inspired the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. - Gary Conley, Former Director of Economic Development, City of Cleveland As a photographer long fascinated by the Flats-and saddened by the neglect of labor and shared history-I found Don's book deeply respectful and expressed with uncommon grace. His prose and poetry give needed context to his striking images, creating a seamless dialogue between word and picture. This is a book to immerse yourself in-you'll emerge both informed and inspired. - Steve Cagan, Documentary Photographer; former Professor of Photography, Rutgers University Don Iannone's book beautifully captures the confluence of the Cuyahoga River and Lake Erie, the cradle of Cleveland's industrial might. That history remains embedded there, even as the Flats evolves into a singular urban landscape where freighters still glide along the ""crooked river."" His use of black-and-white photography and imagery shaped by Dvořák's New World Symphony is magical. The poetry and images blend to offer a new way to experience Cleveland. - Joe Marinucci, Retired CEO, Downtown Cleveland Alliance Don Iannone reveres the Flats and shows deep respect for its geography, history, architecture, and people. His prose, poetry, and photography reveal the spirit and endurance of place. He captures both the area's colorful past and its unfolding future. This is a book to read, revisit, and keep-a work worth preserving for its insight and artistry. - Howard Maier, Retired Executive Director, Northeast Ohio Areawide Coordinating Agency ""Don Iannone's work presents a striking collection of black-and-white photographs paired with poetry exploring the Flats and the Cuyahoga River. For every image, he offers a thoughtful perspective, inviting readers to see how the river and the city have evolved yet remain vital to Cleveland's identity. The river both divides and unites the city. This book rewards reflection and leaves readers with much to ponder about Cleveland and the enduring spirit of the Flats."" - Tracey Nichols, Former Director of Economic Development, City of Cleveland