Bomb City, USA

This special event is a fundraiser dinner hosted by the Friends of Community Partnership on Aging and serving the communities of Gates Mills, Highland Heights, Mayfield Heights, Mayfield Village, Richmond Heights, South Euclid and University Heights. 

A buffet dinner will include Chicken Parmesan (Eggplant Parm for vegetarian option), side of pasta, salad, roll, dessert and beverages.
 

Would you like to have Rick sign a copy of a book? Good news! Rick will stay after the presentation for a book signing, and the following books by Rick Porrello are available for pre-order via this registration page. Check the box that corresponds to the book(s) you'd like to pre-order.

Book availability for June 25, 2026.  Note some titles are available only in paperback, or only in hardcover.  Deadline for pre-ordering books: May 25, 2026. Sales will be handled through Mac's Back Books. Accepted payments include cash, checks (made out to Mac's Backs) and credit - at the door (please plan accordingly).

Just Play Like You Do in the Basement
Before becoming a police officer, Rick Porrello toured internationally as a drummer with Sammy Davis Jr. This coming-of-age memoir follows his journey from a basement practice room to world-class stages, navigating fame, family expectations, and a Mafia-rooted legacy. At its core, it’s the story of a young man torn between music and a deeper calling to serve.

Paperback: $19.99, Hardcover: $31.99

The Rise and Fall of the Cleveland Mafia – Corn Sugar & Blood
This true account traces the Cleveland Mafia from its Prohibition-era rise through the violent “Sugar War” to its eventual collapse. Sparked by the murders of his grandfather and uncles and drawing on years of research, author Rick Porrello chronicles power struggles, key figures like Angelo Lonardo, and the organization’s national influence. The story culminates in betrayal, prosecutions, and the unraveling of a once-powerful crime family.

Paperback only: $17.95

There’s More Bodies Out There
This true crime narrative examines the chilling case of Richard Henkel, a Pittsburgh-based con man, serial killer, and Mafia associate, and a police officer suspected of being his associate. Author Rick Porrello presents a gritty, fact-driven account of violence in the 1960s and 1970s, giving voice to the victims while exposing the ruthlessness of the perpetrators. The book is further deepened by Porrello’s nearly year-long correspondence with Henkel prior to completion, adding unique insight. It also highlights the dedicated and tenacious law enforcement officers who ultimately brought Henkel to justice.

Paperback: $16.95

Bombs, Bullets, & Bribes
The story of notorious Jewish mobster Alex Shondor Birns, who spent decades navigating threats from law enforcement, rivals, and even his own associates. From gambling rackets to international intrigue, Birns survived by building alliances across criminal and social circles. His long, turbulent life ends in a dramatic and violent climax.

Paperback: $18.95, Hardcover: $29.95

To Kill the Irishman
This true story centers on Danny Greene, a bold and charismatic figure who challenged the Italian-American Mafia for control of Cleveland’s rackets in a 1970s bombing war. His violent conflict reshaped organized crime in the city and led to his eventual assassination. Author Rick Porrello’s book was later adapted into the 2011 motion picture Kill the Irishman, starring Ray Stevenson, with Christopher Walken, Vincent D’Onofrio and Val Kilmer.

Hardcover: $21.95

Read more about Rick on his website: https://rickporrello.com/#News