The crown jewel of Northeast Ohio’s Lake Erie shoreline is the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, which was granted to Cleveland in 1986 following a nationwide site selection process in part because the city is widely considered the birthplace of rock ‘n’ roll.
Since it opened in 1995, the Rock Hall has presented dozens of compelling exhibitions and hosted countless concerts, featuring local bands and rock ‘n’ roll royalty alike.
In other words, it’s a great place to take a date – and could even provide the setting for the birthplace of a new relationship.
In late October, the museum hosted 10 new rock stars: the five women and five men featured in this year’s Jstyle Singles Issue. Selected from community nominations, these eligible Jewish singles are accomplished, interesting and well-rounded. Scroll down to meet them!
Fashion coordinator
Julia Brown
Hair and makeup
Elizabeth Cook
Photographer
Casey Rearick
Casey Rearick Photo
Jordan Diamond
Ryan Elk
Adam Friedman
Tali Gonik
Andrew Gotlieb
Becky Joffe
Sara Muschkin
Rachel Newman
Josh Small
Elyse Willen
Jordan wears a tan leather and suede jacket by Eleventy, a pale blue shirt by Selected Homme and Transcend Collection jeans by PAIGE, all from J3 Clothing Company in Moreland Hills; boots by FRYE are his own
Jordan Diamond
25 | Downtown Cleveland
Park Synagogue
Senior Business Risk Consultant at Crowe Horwath LLP
“(I’m) humble.”
Favorite place to grab dinner: Barrio in downtown Cleveland
Favorite place to grab a drink: Butcher and The Brewer in downtown Cleveland
What qualities are you looking for in a mate? I’m looking for someone who is patient, self-disciplined and a good communicator. Bonus points if they watch “Game of Thrones” and like the NBA as much as I do. A bigger bonus if they’re into music as much as me.
How would your bubbe describe you to a prospective mate? “He’s a fine boy.”
Are your dating habits “kosher”? Yes
Celebrity crushes: It has always been Emmy Rossum, and always will be. Gal Gadot is looking off in the distance.
What song do you belt out in the car when no one else can hear? “Unwritten” by Natasha Bedingfield – but I make sure people can hear me.
Do you have a hidden talent? Not necessarily a talent, but I write for a music blog as a hobby. I’ve been involved in the music scene in that regard since I was about 13 years old. If there’s one thing that people associate me with, it’s music.
What’s your favorite Jewish holiday and why? Any holiday that lands on the weekend so my Chicago brothers and myself can make the trip to Columbus to be with our parents.
Complete this sentence: At a Jewish wedding, you’d find me …: If it’s a family wedding, booty bouncing with my brothers and cousins making Terry Macklin proud.
What’s your favorite part of Jewish Cleveland? I was gone for seven years before moving back to Cleveland, and it feels like I picked up right where I left off. It’s a blessing and a curse that everybody knows each other, but it made for a smoother transition.
If someone wants to connect with you, what’s the best way? On Twitter and Instagram at @JDimerrr
Ryan wears a patterned sport coat and black turtleneck, both by Officine Generale, and gray trousers by PT01, all from Kilgore Trout in Woodmere; shoes by Ted Baker are his own
Ryan Elk
28 | Chagrin Falls
Park Synagogue
Freelance illustrator/artist for various gaming studios in Cleveland and California. I’m presently studying to get my insurance licenses with a focus on operating my own insurance agency.
“I’m a family guy with three other siblings, all of whom remain very close. They’re scattered between London, California and Florida, giving me a good reason to travel. I have a love for the arts and a need for speed – frequently riding my motorcycle along Chagrin River Road, watching the Mid-Ohio SuperBike races or jet skiing on Lake Erie into the Flats for lunch. I’ve spent some time in California working in the gaming industry, but my love for the Midwest always brings me home to Cleveland.”
Favorite places to grab dinner: Crumb & Spigot in Chagrin Falls and Flour in Moreland Hills
Favorite place to grab a drink: Marble Room in downtown Cleveland and Market Garden Brewery in Cleveland’s Ohio City neighborhood
What qualities are you looking for in a mate? Naturally beautiful in all ways with a kind heart and a down-to-earth outlook. Someone who enjoys the arts, traveling and Harry Potter.
In terms of dating, what are your turnoffs or deal breakers? Smoking, being aloof and wearing too much makeup.
How would your bubbe describe you to a prospective mate? An old soul with a kissable dimple.
Are your dating habits “kosher”? No
Do you have a dating horror story? I was enjoying a nice lunch outside on a beautiful day in Los Angeles, and unbeknownst to me, my date was a bit ill and had a bad coughing fit, losing a good part of her lunch. Tough to describe – it was gross and cute all at once.
Celebrity crush: Barbara Palvin
What song do you belt out in the car when no one else can hear? “Death of a Bachelor” by Panic at the Disco
Do you have a hidden talent? I’ve done a fair amount of performing in my youth and got the chance to play the lead role, Emile de Becque, in “South Pacific,” which I really enjoyed.
What’s your favorite Jewish holiday and why? Sukkot, I love Halloween/autumn.
Complete this sentence: At a Jewish wedding, you’d find me …: Dancing to music from Michael Jackson or Drake.
When was your last trip to Israel? Birthright, May of 2016.
What’s your favorite bar mitzvah memory? Inappropriate/embarrassing dance moves in front of the adults.
What’s your favorite part of Jewish Cleveland? We have a strong sense of community pride and connection to Israel, combined with a desire to pay it forward.
If someone wants to connect with you, what’s the best way? Find me on Facebook or Instagram at @ryanelk.
Tali wears a dress by Velzera, knit leggings by Mona B and necklace by Stowaway, all from the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in Cleveland
Tali Gonik
35 | University Heights
Student
“Lover of nature, animals and anyone who can DIY. Former yogi rock climber gone country girl. Momma bear to two delish boys. Intelligent, hard-working, humble and kind.”
Favorite place to grab dinner: Ditmas in Los Angeles
Favorite place to grab a drink: Ditmas in Los Angeles
What qualities are you looking for in a mate? Integrity. Humble, kind, loving, giving, appreciative and thankful.
Are your dating habits “kosher”? Yes
If someone wants to connect with you, what’s the best way? Find me on Facebook.
Andrew wears a navy blue jacket by Corneliani ID, a plaid shirt by Arnau and tan cotton stretch pants by Meyer, all from J3 Clothing Company; shoes by Gordon Rush are his own
Andrew Gotlieb
31 | Cleveland
Business Development Director at Keystate Homes & Development in Bedford Heights
“I am extremely passionate about real estate, construction and development – and Cleveland! I am a hard-worker, I work with my family every day, and I am thankful for that because my family means everything to me. They are not only my co-workers but my support system. I am extremely goal-oriented and I never ever, ever will give up!”
Favorite place to grab dinner: Red, The Steakhouse in Beachwood and Mama Santa’s in Cleveland’s Little Italy neighborhood (My parents had their first date there.)
Favorite place to grab a drink: The Fairmount and Winking Lizard (I’m a big beer fan.)
What qualities are you looking for in a mate? Someone who, if we fight, will only fight for each other’s success. If we cry, we only cry tears of joy. And if we must yell, we are yelling praise for one another. If we fall, we are going to only fall into each other’s arms! Those are all the qualities I need!
In terms of dating, what are your turnoffs or deal breakers? Someone who can’t hold an intelligent conversation and be open-minded. Tattoos and smoking cigarettes. I also get turned off when someone judges a book by its cover.
How would your bubbe describe you to a prospective mate? I never met my grandmother but my family always says, ‘safta would have been proud of you for becoming a mensch.’
Are your dating habits “kosher”? Yes
Do you have a dating horror story? I went on a date with a girl recently who thought I was related to another family in Cleveland with the same last name. She worked for that family’s relatives and believed going out with me would entitle her to a promotion. Once she found out, the date ended.
Celebrity crushes: Sarah Silverman, Gal Godot, Jenny Slate, Ilana Glazer and Rashida Jones
What song do you belt out in the car when no one else can hear? Several: a mix of ’60s, ’70s, ’80s, ’90s, 2000s and today!
Do you have a hidden talent? Most people don’t know this but I like to cook – specifically, cooking something special.
What’s your favorite Jewish holiday and why? Rosh Hashanah or Passover because we get together as a family and eat a meal together as a family.
Complete this sentence: At a Jewish wedding, you’d find me …: Helping to raise the chairs!
When was your last trip to Israel? 2008 but going again in February!
What’s your favorite bar mitzvah memory? Faking being hypnotized (Sorry mom and dad.)
What’s your favorite part of Jewish Cleveland? The size of the population! I think we are very lucky to live in a city with a bigger Jewish population.
If someone wants to connect with you, what’s the best way? Visit our website and send me an email! www.keystatehomes.com / www.keystatedevelopment.com.
Adam wears an unconstructed sport coat by Michael Kors; a medium blue, small check shirt from DKNY; black denim and silk pocket square, all from Ticknors Men’s Clothier in Beachwood; shoes by Bullboxer are his own
Adam Friedman
39 | Cleveland Heights
Chiropractor at Advanced Orthopedics & Physical Therapy in Warrensville Heights
“Born and raised in Chicago, I moved to Cleveland in 2006. I work hard and love everything about being a chiropractor. I stay as active as possible, always trying new places to eat or grab a drink. Hanging out with friends, family and traveling as much as possible. Cleveland has really exploded these past few years, so I just try to utilize my free time to explore all the new places that are popping up. I really enjoy hanging out in the Ohio City and Tremont neighborhoods.”
Favorite place to grab dinner: I want to put about 10 places down here, but if I had to choose one, Bac in Cleveland’s Tremont neighborhood.
Favorite place to grab a drink: Again, so many places, but I’d say The Fairmount in Cleveland Heights.
What qualities are you looking for in a mate? Family-oriented, kindhearted, intellectually challenging, understanding and empathetic, ambitious, physical attractiveness and a sense of humor
In terms of dating, what are your turnoffs or deal breakers? Laziness, humorless, tech-obsessed, thriftiness and someone who doesn’t have my back.
How would your bubbe describe you to a prospective mate? Witty, honest, motivated, conscientious, dynamic, committed, funny, hard-working, loyal, caring, compassionate and empathetic.
Are your dating habits “kosher”? No
Do you have a dating horror story? I showed up at a date and apparently her ex-boyfriend followed her, came storming into the bar that we were at and immediately came after me. It was good times!
Celebrity crushes: Blake Lively and Jennifer Lawrence
What song do you belt out in the car when no one else can hear? “Be My Lover” by Sam Feldt and Alex Schulz
Do you have a hidden talent? I’m an avid No Limit Hold ’em Poker player and I once took home a gold medal at the Maccabi games for ping pong.
What’s your favorite Jewish holiday and why? Chanukah. It’s a joyous holiday and I get to spoil my nieces and nephews with some gelt, which always makes them happy. A close second would have to be Yom Kippur; it’s a clean slate.
Complete this sentence: At a Jewish wedding, you’d find me …: Lifting the important people up on chairs during the Hora, eating, sneaking in a few cocktails and ultimately the dance floor.
When was your last trip to Israel? 2002
What’s your favorite bar mitzvah memory? When I became a bar mitzvah, my mother had me go to my orthodontist and remove all the wiring in between my braces in an attempt to make my pictures less “shiny.” By the looks of them, it didn’t take too well.
What’s your favorite part of Jewish Cleveland? Not being a native Clevelander makes this a bit tough, but I always had a good time at the YLD events that I would attend and the Big Event in the winter time.
If someone wants to connect with you, what’s the best way? You can find me on Facebook
Becky wears a “Danica” dress by Amanda Uprichard, gold chunky necklace by Jenny Bird and gold ring, all from Fringe Boutique in Moreland Hills; shoes by Vera Wang are her own
Becky Joffe
37 | Beachwood
Intervention specialist at Bellefaire-Monarch Center for Autism in Shaker Heights
“I just moved to Cleveland less than a year ago. I’m energetic, outgoing and talkative. Love to be doing stuff, whether it’s going to a new restaurant, play, sports game, concert or festival. I am very close with my family and my dog Mia. I love to dance and be active, working out at the JCC, ice skating – and I love to snowboard. I work with children with Autism and have lots of patience when it comes to children. I live for spicy food and anything with jalapeños.”
Favorite place to grab dinner: Anywhere with great atmosphere – don’t have a favorite yet.
Favorite place to grab a drink: The Fairmount in Cleveland Heights
What qualities are you looking for in a mate? I’m looking for a kind, caring, funny and outgoing guy who’s up for anything! I’m not the kind of person to sit around, I love to go out and do things. I’m looking for someone who cares about being Jewish, who has good values and wants a Jewish family.
In terms of dating, what are your turnoffs or deal breakers? Penny counters, self-centered, immature, controlling, critical and quiet
How would your bubbe describe you to a prospective mate? If either one was alive, they would say very outgoing, talkative, energetic, loves to laugh and have a good time. Has a very big heart and loves to take care of people. Very loyal friend and would do anything for anyone. Creative, active and personable. Can talk to anyone.
Are your dating habits “kosher”? No
Do you have a dating horror story? Too many to tell.
Celebrity crush: Brian Greenberg
What song do you belt out in the car when no one else can hear? Every single one! Especially Beyoncé.
Do you have a hidden talent? I used to be a competitive figure skater.
What’s your favorite Jewish holiday and why? Passover! I know no one else likes it, but I love all the different food and traditions and the specifics of the sedar. I could eat charoset every day!
Complete this sentence: At a Jewish wedding, you’d find me …: On the dance floor all night even by myself!
When was your last trip to Israel? 1996, when I went to Hillel Academy in Dayton and we did a week in Poland and three weeks in Israel.
What’s your favorite bat mitzvah memory? We had an entertainer named Shalom Sherman that did comedy and songs, which was pretty unique. He made up a song, “Becky, Becky, Becky, you give us so much joy; Becky, Becky, Becky, OY yo yo yo oy.”
What’s your favorite part of Jewish Cleveland? That everyone is so friendly and welcoming, engaged and active.
If someone wants to connect with you, what’s the best way? Find me on Facebook or email me at rcjoffe@yahoo.com.
Sara Muschkin
Sara wears a velvet Moto jacket by Blank NYC, bell-sleeve V-neck blouse by Maven, “Farrah” skinny jeans by AG, necklace by Kendra Scott and “Carla” black suede heeled bootie by Eric Michael, and she carries a handmade leather and snakeskin purse by Heirloom, all from Knuth’s
25 | Pepper Pike
Park Synagogue
Clinical Dietitian at Seidman Cancer Center Ambulatory Services in Cleveland
“I am a creative and caring person who loves to travel the world, experiencing new foods and cultures. I enjoy Latin music, small dogs and waterfalls.”
Favorite place to grab dinner: Pacific East in Cleveland Heights’ Coventry neighborhood
Favorite place to grab a drink: TownHall in Cleveland’s Ohio City neighborhood
What qualities are you looking for in a mate? Someone who is smart, caring, has a good sense of humor and is always up for a new adventure.
In terms of dating, what are your turnoffs or deal breakers? Someone who is arrogant, a smoker and/or a picky eater.
How would your bubbe describe you to a prospective mate? Sweet, quiet and adventurous
Are your dating habits “kosher”? No
Celebrity crush: Enrique Iglesias
Do you have a hidden talent? I can imitate the voice of Mr. Big, the arctic shrew from “Zootopia.”
What’s your favorite Jewish holiday and why? Chanukah because of the latkes and sing-alongs.
Complete this sentence: At a Jewish wedding, you’d find me …: On the dance floor.
When was your last trip to Israel? Two years ago on birthright.
What’s your favorite bat mitzvah memory? Carrying the Torah with my sister during our b’not mitzvah.
What’s your favorite part of Jewish Cleveland? Seeing old friends and meeting new people.
If someone wants to connect with you, what’s the best way? Write me a postcard or text my grandma who nominated me. (I suppose Facebook could work, too.)
Rachel wears a three-ruffle-sleeve blouse by Lucky Paris, leatherette ankle-length leggings by AG, necklace by Accessorize IT and printed multi-colored pumps by Sam Edelman, and holds a Gucci-inspired navy camouflage handbag by High Fashion, all from Knuth’s in Pepper Pike
Rachel Newman
26 | Downtown Cleveland
Park Synagogue Chabad of Downtown Cleveland
Demand Planner at Nestlé USA in Solon
“I’m a fun-loving person. I like trying new things, traveling and meeting new people. I am independent and career-oriented but also have a creative side. I love crafting and going to the theater.”
Favorite place to grab dinner: The Plum in Cleveland’s Ohio City neighborhood
Favorite place to grab a drink: Happy hour at Blue Point Grille in downtown Cleveland
What qualities are you looking for in a mate? I’m looking for someone who is smart, driven, generous and can make me laugh. Someone to travel with and share new experiences!
Are your dating habits “kosher”? No
Do you have a dating horror story? One time I went on a date to a scary movie and the guy left soon after it started because he was too scared. I stayed, I was enjoying the movie.
Celebrity crush: Jack Bauer
What song do you belt out in the car when no one else can hear? Anything Bruno Mars!
Do you have a hidden talent? I’m a triple threat. I can sing, I can kind of dance, and I can play a great Grandma Tzeitel from “Fiddler on the Roof.”
What’s your favorite Jewish holiday and why? Passover is the best. I think we spend more time laughing than telling the story. And maybe one day I will actually graduate from the kids table!
Complete this sentence: At a Jewish wedding, you’d find me …: At the photo booth (hopefully they have one).
When was your last trip to Israel? Onward in Summer of 2013. It was one of the best summers I ever had!
What’s your favorite part of Jewish Cleveland? Jewish Cleveland is like a second family. I am grateful that I can make a difference for causes like Friendship Circle and Cleveland Hillel. Community involvement has been a part of my life since I was young, and it’s important to me that I can still help those in need.
If someone wants to connect with you, what’s the best way? Facebook or Instagram at @rnewmz
Josh wears a super-fine tweed sport coat by Tailored Red, with lining and buttons by Bemberg; a patterned cotton dress shirt by Bugatchi; and slacks, all from Ticknors Men’s Clothier; shoes by Geox and socks by Ted Baker are his own
Josh Small
30 | Beachwood
Chabad of Beachwood
Consultant at Insight2Profit in Cleveland
“I’m a hard-working guy who enjoys tennis, yoga and going to Cavs games. I’m fairly terrible at sports, but at least I try.”
Favorite place to grab dinner: Kantina at Uptown
Favorite place to grab a drink: Paladar Latin Kitchen & Rum Bar in Woodmere
What qualities are you looking for in a mate? Someone who will laugh at my bad jokes and likes sports.
In terms of dating, what are your turnoffs or deal breakers? Need to be Jewish.
Are your dating habits “kosher”? Yes
Do you have a dating horror story? One time I met a girl for ice cream and she spent the duration of the date texting. It was disturbing at first, but it grew to amuse me and I just stuck it out.
Celebrity crush: I think Gal Gadot is going to be a popular choice here after the runaway success of “Wonder Woman.”
What song do you belt out in the car when no one else can hear? Anything ’90s.
What’s your favorite Jewish holiday and why? It’s always been Chanukah. I can’t stop eating latkes and can do so for eight nights.
Complete this sentence: At a Jewish wedding, you’d find me …: On the dance floor after a few drinks. I can’t dance, either, and I’ve seen great videos of my failed attempts.
When was your last trip to Israel? 10 years ago
If someone wants to connect with you, what’s the best way? I’m on Facebook.
Elyse wears a black jacket and stretch A-line tank, both by Lola and Sophie; “Twisted Tuxedo” crop jean by Parker Smith; “Frisem” bracelets by Ann Marie Chignon, all from Audrey’s Sweet Threads in Woodmere; shoes by Caslon are her own
Elyse Willen
35 | Cleveland, East Side
B’nai Jeshurun Congregation
Department Administrator, ITD at Cleveland Clinic in Cleveland
“I grew up with two brothers, surrounded by sports and in a family where baseball is in our blood. I love what I do and work hard, and I’m hoping to find someone who is equally passionate about their job. I’m proud to be part of Jewish Cleveland and working to make sure this community continues to thrive for future generations. I enjoy working out and being active outdoors, even in the snow.”
Favorite place to grab dinner: Paladar Latin Kitchen & Rum Bar in Woodmere
Favorite place to grab a drink: The Fairmount in Cleveland Heights
What qualities are you looking for in a mate? Funny, romantic, likes Cleveland sports and has passion for what they do
In terms of dating, what are your turnoffs or deal breakers? Tattoos, smoking and being self-absorbed
How would your bubbe describe you to a prospective mate? “You have to meet her, she’s smart and funny and beautiful. And she loves to cook, too.”
Are your dating habits “kosher”? Yes
Do you have a dating horror story? Too many. Come on guys, it’s not that hard!
What song do you belt out in the car when no one else can hear? “Like a Prayer” by Madonna
What’s your favorite Jewish holiday and why? Chanukah, when the smell of latkes fills the air.
Complete this sentence: At a Jewish wedding, you’d find me …: On the dance floor or at the bar.
When was your last trip to Israel? YLD Mission 2012
What’s your favorite part of Jewish Cleveland? Jewish Cleveland is a close-knit community that really takes care of each other. There is never a lack of things to do and people to hang out with.
If someone wants to connect with you, what’s the best way? Facebook or Instagram