the NEW iheartcleveland.com

Iheartcleveland.com is new and improved. Be sure to update your bookmarks, iheartcleveland.com!

Spooky Weekend!

Boo! It’s time for tricks and treats, ghosts and goblins, pumpkins and gobs of candy corn. Happy Halloween Cleveland.

If you don’t already have a booked fall weekend here are some ideas of things to do around town to put you in the haunting spirit.

Kick off the weekend with a spooky-tini, a witchy cup of brew is sure to bring out the goblins within each of us. For this I have three recommendations...although it’s not exactly Halloween-flavored, the peanut butter martini at Fahrenheit is an adult treat sure to crave your sweet tooth. If you are looking for something more “traditional fall,” Luxe Kitchen makes a mean candy apple martini which tastes JUST like a freshly dipped Patterson Granny Smith Apple in fresh caramel sauce, simply ghoulish. Last but not least, for all you Cleveland “purists” we all know what came out this week...YES, Christmas Ale from Great Lakes Brewing Co. This nutmeg infused beer although named for the December 25th marks the beginning of the holiday season to me. Let the merriment begin!

We all know Cleveland is filled with spooky places to scare the bee-jeezis out of our souls. From the Mansfield Penitentiary. to Cedar Points Halloweekend, From the regional corn mazes (which also test your mind) to the creepy haunted houses filled with gory bizarre people willing to plaster their faces with latex in order to get a good scare out of us. In Northeast Ohio their are so many options, it’s supposed to be a nice weekend. Go get your spook on.



Looking to stay in with a sweetie this weekend and forgo the little monsters? Why not head to the library (or your Netflix) to rent some of my favorite spooky flicks. The Birds, Rosemary’s Baby, Nightmare on Elm Street, Gremlins (although not totally scary, still a classic for sure), Twilight Zone and one of the newer thrillers Paranormal Activity. Light the candles, crawl under a cozy blanket and make a bowl of caramel popcorn, it’s time to watch movies. What are your favorite spooky flicks?

Still scurrying around for the perfect costume? Just a few reminders on where to find all of the good stuff...If you are in the mood to rent a full on spectacular outfit, Chelseas on 116th and Detroit still has a large selection of costumes aviable for rental. Be prepared to drop a good chunk of change but it will be totally worth it. Chelseas has EVERYTHING from warewolves to wizards and princesses to slutty _________(nurse, baker, indian chief, nun,, etc) you name it. If you are just missing part of your costume, they also have a selection of wigs, wands and warts to add the final touches. Besides Chelseas there is always scouring the local Goodwill or the thrift store mega monster Unique Thrift. I know there are a few other coistume shops out there, am I forgetting a really good one?

Want to workout before you spike your blood sugar to new heights? There are some spooky workouts available to us weekend warriors on Saturday morning, pre-party night. Slap on those leg warmers and flashdance sweats and go get physical at your gym, the bike paths of the metroparks, that hot yoga class you’ve been meaning to try, and on and on. I’m telling you, even a quick jaunt at Jazzercise will bring out the giddy goblin in each of us.

So that's it from me. Enjoy your holiday weekend, be safe, but most of all enjoy this lovely city we live in...i heart cleveland.

Baked. Pumpkin Cookies.

For as long as I can remember, around this time of the year; my mom would pull out the kitchenaid mixer as a constant staple to her counter top. You see, once it was cool enough outdoors it was time to start whipping up the batches of pumpkin & chocolate chip cookies at my families house.

These pillows of pumpkin perfection dotted with choco chips are a HUGE crowd pleaser. From the office Halloween luncheon to your late night bon fire, these will NOT disappoint, promise. Try them, you’ll thank me.




"i heart pumpkin cookies recipe"

Pre-heat over 350'

Combine...
- 1 cup canned pumpkin
- 1 beaten egg
- 1/2 c oil (vegetable)
- 1 c sugar

Mix w/ combined dry ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 tsp baking soda + 1 tsp milk (dissolve)

Once combined, stir in...
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Chocolate Chips (As much or as little as you like - I use the entire bag!)

Spoon onto baking sheet in little "blobs." (Yes, that's a technical term!)

Bake for 10-14 minutes...toothpick should come out clean.


If you’re not into baking, Elmwood Bakery on Madison Ave in Lakewood makes adorable spooky petit fours for sharing, Blackbird Baking Company is currently whipping up batched of Pumpkin and Ginger cookies, theres always the apple tarts available at On the Rise Bakery on Fairmont or not to be missed chocolate dipped macaroons from Prestis...I digress.

Who has a sugary sweet tooth? Not me! :)

Type City

An experiment with type between design students at Cleveland Institute of Art and font and design merch, Veer turns out to be a stunning success.



Check out these images of Type City Cleveland landmarks using only letter forms, numbers and a few exclamation point (!) sprinkled throughout.





I am still drooling and thinking about how awesome these would look in my office. For more pics take a look here.

Thanks to Leen for this very cool post!

OooooH Baby

Hi Cleveland, happy Monday.

So I have these friends who used to live here but moved to California. They are expecting their second baby this week and I wanted to send them a little midwest love from the Land of the Cleve. I turned to Etsy, my go-to gift source for a baby gift of sorts and I just had to share.

I found this one store called LilBurritos, check out these two adorable onesies. I just LOVE LOVE them!!!





I ended up turning to my good friend Small Screen Designs for the perfect Terminal Tower onesie as the final gift selection.

Needless to say, they loved the gift and the baby will wear it proudly...this Wednesday! Congrats you two.

sports AND shopping...

What could be better?

Have you checked out the new Cavaliers Team Shop? Well, if you haven't I swear you are in for a treat.



Remember when you used to attempt to squeeze into the small gift shop, pushing and shoving your way through the racks of jerseys, hoddies, warm up pants and more? Now everything is spread out for your shopping pleasure. They expanded to open up another floor, added a tv so you can stay in touch with the action as well as an ENTIRE new line of team apparel.



I have to say, for someone who really isn't a huge team clothing fan, there were a few things that caught my eye, especially the retro blue and orange line.

Looking for something to do on your downtown work lunch break? Go take a walk over, it's really cool. GREAT JOB CAVS!

Ooooops!

Who knew my Network Solutions registration needed to be renewed? Well, when you go to your blog in the morning and see a random green screen it surely makes for a manic monday.

Good news, I renewed it and we should be all set for the next NINE years (such a random number.)

Don't forget ENTER TO WIN 2 tickets to BREWzilla, I'll be drawing today around lunchtime. Get your comments in.

Peace.

Weekend & giveaway!

Well, it’s going to be a perfect weekend to finish up those summer project around the home. Me? I’m planning on giving my garage a good clean out before the winter chill sets in as well as hanging some spooky decorations for the upcoming holiday!

I might try and squeeze in a bike ride since the weather is supposed to be amazing. Can anyone tell me how you find the tow path entrance that is supposedly behind Steelyard Commons? Or is that an old wives tale?

Besides cleaning, decorating and riding...here are a few other things that I may try and squeeze into my weekend...what are your weekend plans???

- Tonight's Best of Cleveland Party at the Rock Hall is supposed to be a great time.

- Polka happy hour at Happy Dog if I need to escape the party.

- If I felt like dressing like a zombie...the Dead Ride around town would be a fun event.

- For those of you who have always wanted to spend the night in a movie theatre...12 Hours of Terror at Capitol Theatre!

- Like to craft? A paper making demonstration at the Cleveland Public Library sounds cool, it's part of their Octavofest.

- Stash Style in Chagrin Falls is hosting a Breast Cancer Benefit from 5-11pm. Pink goodies, drinks & food. Vintage and hand knit fashion showing! Mini massages, palm readings & more! LIVE Music at 8:00

Or...drum roll please......

-The second annual Cleveland Beer Week begins TODAY friday october 15th, and runs through next saturday october 23rd. As a celebration of craft and import beer cleveland beer week features tastings, dinners and activities at over 100 venues.



The big gala-type of event; BREWzilla is being held next Saturday, October 23 at the galleria at erieview from 6 to 11pm. BREWzilla acts as the closing event where one can sample beer from over 80 breweries and enjoy tons of food and cheese from heinen's and winking lizard.

Guess what? I have TWO FREE TICKETS to giveaway to BREWzilla. Tell me about your favorite beer and provide your email address and the winner will be chosen by random NEXT Wednesday.

Other than that, have a great weekend!!! Love ya Cleveland!.

Mums the word.

If you know me than you know how excited I get when fall arrives. Seriously, I can't get enough pumpkins, mums, candy corn, Halloween, hayrides, apple picking...you get the picture. It's my ULTIMATE favorite season for sure.



This past weekend I visited Petittis in Avon for their Fall Festival. It was a gorgeous site, mums of all colors for as far as the eye can see. I actually got cold chills when I stepped outside into the outdoor greenhouse, the sea of fall flowers filled me with excitement! Did you know that Petitti's all pumpkins are just $2.99, big, small, tall, squatty, no matter the shape or size $2.99. I bought eight of the brightest orange hue, two bags of decorative gourds and a few bails of hay for my fall yard. (Actually I may need to go back this weekend and get more!)



For fall decorations visit any of the Petitti's in Northeast Ohio. If you love fall like I do, you are in for a treat. Happy fall. :)

Oh, and if you are looking for something to do this evening swing by the Happy Dog on Detroit. The Cleveland Orchestra is performing a quirky chamber music performance, complete with piano. 8-11:30pm A beer, a hot dog and some Johann Sebastian Bach sounds delightful.

Guess where?

I'll give you a hint..."westside." Happy Tuesday. :)

Inked for Ohio.

Another perfect weekend in Cleveland. Sunny weather. A yummy clambake. Riding bikes. Home improvement AND another fun Inked in Ohio tattoo to share.

So, I was at the famous Muni Lot yesterday and let's just say, it takes all types. From the die hard sports fans to the "girls who wanna have fun," from the fair weather fans to the downtown hipsters, everyone was psyched for yesterdays game.

One thing never to be missed (heads up!) are all the non-football players, passing the football through the crowds of people. Shirtless guys show their stuff as they perform the ball throwing tradition as if they were kids playing outside in the backyard.

Yesterday I happened to run into Brandon and little did I know he was sporting an "inked for Ohio" tattoo! I ran right up to him and asked to snap a few pics. Not only does he have this great skyline image of the city on his bulging bicep, he also has an outline of the state on his chest, but my pic was too blurry from dodging footballs to share. THANKS BRANDON for letting me share your ink.



Happy monday cleveland peeps. Oh, and BTW did you know Wednesday is Bar Cento's 3 Year Anniversary Party? Buy any carafe of beer or wine and your pizza is free! Cheers to a great week!

Free Hepburn!

We know her for her beauty, her legacy and the numerous films the graced on the silver screens, but did you know Katharine Hepburn is being honored for her style and fashion excellence at Kent State University?

Dressed for Stage is the screen legend’s personal collection of performance clothes which spans her six-decade career and features never-before-exhibited costumes from stage, screen and television



After a series of sold-out pre-opening events and the 25 Years of Dazzle gala celebrating the museum’s 25th anniversary, the Kent State University Museum opens its highly anticipated exhibition Katharine Hepburn: Dressed for Stage and Screen on Oct. 2, 2010, making its world premiere.

Would you and a friend (2 tickets) like to see the exhibit for free? Tell me your favorite Hepburn film, include your email and Friday at noon I will choose the winner!

Legendary, BIZ MARKIE

www.bsideliquorlounge.com

Be Social.

So I was just dying to see the movie "The Social Network," and I have to say I wasn't disappointed. The story; although slightly "Hollywood-ized" the film gave me a clearer understanding as to the timeline of facebook and how the words "wall," "status" & "face booking" were conceived. I give it two thumbs up for sure.

On this chilly, damp evening grab some friends, post on your wall, be social...go see "The Social Network."

In the meantime check out this AMAZING picture taken by David Mayland from his cell phone, STUNNING. Thanks for letting me share it David!



Cleveland, see a movie, stay warm and enjoy all those scarves and boots that were put away for the summer. Bust 'em out.

Happy (Mickey) Monday!

Hello Cleveland & welcome Fall,
You might all think I’ve been doing a slacking job at reporting what’s happening in our land of the CLEV, or maybe it’s my own personal blog guilt, but I promise October will be better.

You see for the month of September I was writing for Chevrolet’s “Gotta Love Chevy” test drive a traverse promotional program (see my posts here!) and I gotta admit... I couldn’t keep up. Work got busy, the weekends were slammed and something had to take a bit of a back seat...

BUT, now that October, tights and fall have officially arrived, it’s time to have some fun! In the next month a new design for iheartcleveland will be realeased, I am working on some very exciting promotions and I am ready to rock and blog roll our way through these chilly months with lots of hot stuff. I can’t wait!

Thanks for a little tip from my fellow blogger and friend Cleveland Foodie about one of our own Clevelanders who is gracing the pages of this Months Cosmopolitan Magazine. Mickey is OHIO’s representative to this years HOTTEST Bachelor contest. If you want to see for yourself visit Umami or Market at the Fig and check him out! Otherwise let’s bring Ohio home a win, Vote today!!!



Enjoy your Monday morning. Hope you had a big cup of (pumpkin Spice) Joe. What’s on the agenda this week???

Fall (local) Wants.

So it was about late August when the list began... New cowboy boots, a puffy down vest, a fur vest, a new "bike riding" purse...and the list goes on and on. My FALL MUST HAVE list! What's on your list?

Two things that I would love to score this fall are from local boutiques, Room Service and Banyan Tree.




A Kobo Soke scented candle will be just like sitting by the campfire every evening. The Kobo collection scents last a really long time while the design of the jar and label are stunning.

Another fall "want" is this lovely Figwood necklace from the Banyan Tree. Wouldn't it look sweet with one of my new fall cardigans? I may have to take a ride down to Tremont this weekend. :)

So many fun things going on at many of the small business boutiques around town. If you have a wedding gift, a birthday gift or just want to pick something up for someone remember to try and shop local. It really makes a difference for our community.

Spooky Walk & Movie.

Tis the season for Witches, Ghosts & Goblins, Fall and Halloween is upon us.

This weekend wear your tennies and walk the family friendly guided tour through the storied past of Cleveland's cool and historic Detroit Shoreway Neighborhood. Meet notable, notorious and spooky former residents and hear real life tales of life, love, murder and mayhem!

Friday, October 1st and Saturday, October 2nd from 6-9pm (last tour departs at 8:45) Tours depart from Parish Hall every 15 minutes beginning at 6pm Each tour lasts approximately 45 minutes and ends with refreshments and entertainment at the Gordon Square Atrium. $5 Admission for adults - Children 15 and younger are admitted Free

Neighborhood residents with lanterns in their hands and facts and folklore in their heads lead tour groups through the Franklin-West Clinton Historical District. As they walk, they encounter actors from the Near West Theater performing historic and entertaining scenes in front yards and on porches.



After the walking tour, hang out a bit and settle in for the midnight showing of The Phantom of the Opera at the Capitol Theatre only $5. Buy any popcorn and get a soda for free! Caffeine to stay away!

a Caffeine BOGO (9/25-26)

This deal just showed up in my inbox...couldn't help but to share! Enjoy friends!!!

Local Esty faves!

Every few months I like to spend hours falling deeper and deeper into my ultra fave site, ETSY!

I search for vintage globes, adorable crafty headbands, retreo fashions, chic homegoods, party supplies and more. I always try to shop from local Cleveland sellers and am amazed when I stumble upon great Cleveland shops; there are so so many!

Here are just a few to celebrate, all different but all great at what they do. Take a peak, plan your purchases and shop, shop, shop!

Giardino : Hand printed linen fabrics, home decor & paper goods. Amazing graphic botanicals for any chef or foodie. (printed purple pillow)



JoieDeCleve : Exquisite vintage finds, Soothing color palette. Simple imagery. Fair pricing. (sailboat pitcher!)



Orange Twine : AMAZING retro styling. Simple, playful and fun. Can we be friends? I LOVE EVERYTHING at your shop! (yellow skirt)



Do you have a local Etsy shop? Please share with us!!!

Ingenuity (09/24-26)

So this weekend is the celebration or Arts,Technology and Culture in Cleveland...Ingenuity Fest Cleveland! I am super excited about the location...subway level of the Veterans Memorial (Detroit Superior) Bridge in Downtown Cleveland AND the price..FREE!!!!!!



Along with many theatre, dance, comedy, and art exhibits, the music is what I'm most excited for! Below are my top picks. What are yours???

Saturday at the Cafe Stage @ 6:45, Akron band Hey Mavis will perform their tunes of Americana, Texas, Blues and Art Rock! They will also be integrating Ingenuity patrons through Adobe Connect. I saw them perform this summer at two art fests and I have to say, they are an amazing little sound!

Saturday at the East Stage @ 10:30, the Sugarhill Gang will be performing...i said a hip hop the hippie the hippie
to the hip hip hop, a you don't stop....what else needs to be said?

Sunday at the Span Bridge @ noon, cellist Ida Mercer will be performing her works by Bach. Ida teach Cello at Case and at CIM, she is a very fun performer.

Sunday evening West Concourse, (West side of the bridge) @ 4:00, North Coast Men's Chorus. I've always wanted to go to one of their holiday shows, so I am excited that they are performing this weekend. I can't wait to see them.

Another AMAZING thing that will be going down this weekend is incredible waterfall swing engineered by a team of designer, engineers and incredible minds. You WON'T want to miss it, I have been watching the clip over and over!

http://www.flickr.com/photos/8804774@N04/4992369148/in/photostream/

A Rookie’s guide to tailgating.

As many of you are aware this weekend is the home opener for our Cleveland Browns, but what you may or may not know is the in’s and out’s of tailgating.

As a resident of the "Cleve" for over ten years believe it or not but I have never truly tailgated. I mean, I may have parked in a lot off of West 6th for one beer pre-game which I hear doesn't really count, but to truly set an alarm, get there early, eat chips for bfast, etc. etc. Let's just say this Sunday I am in for a real treat!

I asked a friend to give me a little run down on tailgating tips, and after his VERY thorough response, I couldn't resist but share with everyone. You're gonna love them, read on....



"You see tailgating on TV all the time. Your friends always talk about the fun times they’ve had before the games. You want in. You want to be part of all the excitement. But how? You might have lots of questions so let me try to be of some help.
Here are a few tips to make your tailgating experience a little more enjoyable:

What’s the big deal about tailgating?
> With the Browns not faring so well on the field, tailgating is sometimes the most fun you’ll have on that Sunday

Which games are best for tailgating?
> The home opener is always the best. The weather is still warm and the team’s record isn’t a disappointment yet. The tailgating atmosphere for the first several home games is always energetic.

Can anyone attend?
> Yes, of course. You don’t need a ticket to the game or even be a Browns’ fan. But be warned; do not wear opposing teams’ jerseys or even colors. Not cool at all.

What to bring?
> Depends….are you meeting up with a group already tailgating or creating your own tailgate spot? If you are meeting up with an established crew then just bring whatever you plan on drinking and some food to contribute to the group. Keep it simple. If you plan on creating your own situation then at a minimum you’ll need a grill, coolers and music system. Still don’t go overboard as a rookie. Start slow and figure out what you’ll need for next time.

What are the liquor laws regarding tailgating?
> The simple answer is just use common sense and don’t be a jerk. Keep all drinks in a non-see through cup. Don’t use bottles or even carry around cans. Don’t advertise that you are drinking. Everyone knows what’s going on but it’s easier on the cops if you aren’t abusing their leniency.

Where to tailgate?
> See image above. The only answer to this question is the Muni Lot. Everywhere else is a shadow of what’s going on there. You’ll know what I mean when you see it. Once you tailgate in the Muni Lot everywhere just becomes unacceptable.

What time do I need to get there?
> New rules on the opening of the parking lots changed from 4 am to 7 am. If you plan on driving you better get there way before 7 and get in line. Otherwise you’ll end up parking far, far away.

Best way to get there?
> Any method besides driving a car. I prefer taking the RAPID or calling a cab. Actually, when the weather is nice I like to ride my bicycle!

How much is parking?
> I rarely take my car down there but I think they’re charging around $25.

How far is the walk to the stadium?
> Not far. Just follow the herds. For a 1 o’clock game, people start tearing down their site around noon and walking over a half hour before kick off.

Well I hope some of this information helps you. Be safe, have fun and GO BROWNS!"

Thank you "Major" for the incredible run down on tailgating in Cleveland. I hope others find this as helpful as I did. I will be the one with my face painted, football-shaped brownies, perhaps orange finger nails and a strategically cut sweatshirt from Unique! GO BROWNS!

It's time for the WEEKEND!

Another gorgeous week in Cleveland. The fall weather is slowly creeping in, giving us plenty of time to pull out are cardigans, knee high boots and TIGHTS!

This weekend I really need to stay at home, rearrange my closet, do a bit of painting, bake some goodies for my first true tailgate experience, rake up the “melting” pears from my backyard tree...and so forth and so on....



But when I get the yearning to go out and play, these are the things I will do my best to go see....

> 12th Annual Tremont Arts & Cultural Festival. Celebrating the cultural and artistic endeavors or Tremont and Northeast Ohio. Lincoln Park, Saturday & Sunday 12-5pm

> Both the Rocky River Arts Festival (Old Detroit area) on Saturday AND the Fall Art Festival at Crocker Park Saturday AND Sunday

> I may try to go to One World Day, it might be fun to ride bikes through the gardens?

> GO BROWNIES! Game time starts at 1:00!! (check out the display at the Giant Eagle on 117th!)

> Petitti's Fall Festival starts this Saturday...(@ Bainbridge, Avon, Oakwood, Strongsville locations) Make a pumpkin planter AND get a pony ride!

> Half Price appetizers at Pearl of the Orient to celebrate Mid Autumn Festival all weekend in Rocky River

> F*SHO : A furniture design show featuring the work of 19 locally and nationally known designers. Saturday, Sept. 18, 6-10pm @ Battery Park Powerhouse

Celebrate Fall in Ohio!

The other day I was driving on 90 and noticed the onset of gold, red and orange.in the trees. Beginning in September, visitors of Cleveland flock to witness the brilliant colors that make up the region's fall foliage. Add to that the areas wealth of seasonal harvests like apples and pumpkins, and we've got a traditional autumn getaway complete with hayrides, crisp color and crafts.



Celebrate the season at one of these fall-themed festivals.
> Yankee Peddler Festival: Sept. 18-19, 25-26 at Clay's Park
> Village Peddler Festival: Sept. 18-19 at Lake Metroparks Farmpark
> Cedar Valley Settlers Celebrations & Music Festival: Sept. 19 at the Rocky River Nature Center in the Cleveland Metroparks
> Fall Fest: 18th Century Festival: Sept. 26 at the Brecksville Reservation in the Cleveland Metroparks
> Fall Harvest Festival+Antique Tractor Show: Sept. 25-26 at Lake Metroparks Farmpark
> Corn+Pumpkin Harvest Weekend: Oct. 9-10 at Lake Metroparks Farmpark
> Apple Butter Stirrin' Festival: Oct. 15-17 at Historic Roscoe Village

30 years fresh (09/19)

Sunday, September 19th, 2010

Whole Foods Turns 30! I hear Whole Foods is turning 30, don’t worry WF, 30 is the new 21! This Sunday at their University Heights Location they are offering many exciting specials. So, after the Browns win, and you are looking to prepare for the week ahead and maybe you need to go pick up a few groceries...head to the party.



They will have a live band playing the tunes of the 80’s (the year they were born), free samples of birthday cake for everybody, 30 products throughout the store at 1980’s prices, special culinary demos, vegetable sculpting and a chance to win many prizes including an 80 second shopping spree!

Happy birthday dear Whole Foods, happy birthday to you!

Blog on a Road Trip

So over Labor Day weekend I met these two brothers going cross country in their Airstream Trailer. After spending the weekend they had so many nice things to say about Cleveland, our sense of creativity and passion for the area...I just had to share.



"The Million Dollar Road Trip is a yearlong mobile marketing business. Until July 4, 2011 my brother, Walter, and I are traveling 48 states in order to promote American small businesses and to find people who are taking risks to pursue their passions. We want to tell these stories in an effort to inspire others to take a chance and create something. We came in search of passion and creativity in Cleveland. Honestly, we were taken by surprise.

Over the Labor Day Weekend we visited different neighborhoods and events where we met countless warm and inviting people who embody the entrepreneurial spirit of this country. Aaron Gogolin is a co-founder of A Piece of Cleveland, a company using reclaimed materials from Cleveland homes to craft specialty furniture and homeware. APOC has found a brilliant way to keep materials from demolished houses out of landfills and to turn it into furniture with a Cleveland legacy. This type of creativity is a perfect example of what we saw throughout the city.

Whether it was Aaron, Scott and his bar Reddstone, Niki at Gypsy Beans and Baking Co, or Charity from iheartcleveland and Chartreuse, we found the stories that the country needs to be told. In a city with a decreasing population, there is a seemingly disproportionate number of young people taking a risk to do what they love. The Million Dollar Road Trip found that Cleveland does, in fact, rock."

THANKS Walter and Patrick you two guys ROCK! Cleveland enjoyed hosting you. Oh and check out the little iheartcleveland ad that is now roaming the country with the brothers...

Browns or Art? (09/19)

Sunday, September 19th, 2010

"Sunday Funday" and there are so many options around town...the two biggest events would be A) the Browns Home Opener and B) The Cleveland Museum of Art Chalk Festival & Membership Appreciation Day. What will your Sunday hold for you?

The Browns vs. the Kansas City Chiefs, game time 1:00pm, will you be at the Munny Lot? Plan to put on your orange and brown and support your local football team. Let's go BROWNIES!!!

Not into sports and feeling like playing with some chalk and exploring the new collections at the Museum of Art, then invite your friends to join you in creating a unique piece of chalk art.

Fundraisers

With the onset of fall comes the arrival of fall not for profit "charity-fundraising season." Post-summer vacations and pre-holiday season, this is the perfect time to scrape your extra change together and give back to the numerous not for profit organizations in the community.

Here are a just two of this weekends events you might not want to miss...

Sips & Dips : raising money for Rainbow Babies & Children's Hospital

A Taste of Little Italy : Montessori School at Holy Rosary

Hop around the City (09/11)

Sparx City Hop is a free all day event that celebrates the visual, culinary and performing arts of Cleveland’s most central and metropolitan neighborhoods. Free trolley service by Lolly the Trolley allows individuals and families to “hop” through the neighborhoods of Downtown (Historic Gateway Neighborhood, Historic Warehouse District, PlayhouseSquare and the Campus District) plus the districts the connect directly to Downtown (Tremont, Ohio City, MidTown, AsiaTown and St. Clair Superior).



The trolley routes connect people to over 70 galleries & artist studios, over 100 restaurants, several markets and dozens of specialty retail shops. In addition, Sparx City Hop connects participants to a variety of sidewalk concerts, main stage performances, special gallery and studio events, the Terminal Tower observation deck (see details below), the Tower City Street Fair, the Sparx Classic Car Show, a variety of merchant specials and so much more.

Bring your family to the fully restored Terminal Tower Observation Deck to see an unparalleled view of the entire city! Originally opened in 1929, Terminal Tower has been a Cleveland landmark for over 80 years. The interior of the Observation Deck has been restored to resemble what it looked like in the 1930’s and 40’s. Tickets are just $5 and kids 5 and under are free. To purchase tickets for this weekend visit http://terminaltowerodeck.eventbrite.com/

Between 25,000 and 30,000 people participate in the Sparx City Hop each year. Don’t miss this opportunity to get out and explore what makes the core of our city so special!

Garlic LOVE! (09/11-12)

The North Union Farmers’ Market is proud to present the first ever Cleveland Garlic Festival at historic Shaker Square! This grassroots food and music event will take place Saturday, from 1:00-10:00 PM., and Sunday, from 12:00 to 8:00 PM. Tickets are $10 each (can be purchased online or at the show) All proceeds will support North Union’s mission of championing local foods by connecting certified producers with consumers through a network of markets in order to:

- Supply the community with the freshest garlic – harvested ripe and brought fresh to market
- Support growth and incubate over 300 small businesses in Northeast Ohio
- Stimulate the local economy by keeping money in our communities
- Keep Ohio land producing food and supporting families, which saves farms from destruction



The Cleveland Garlic Festival will be the place to be for “all things garlic” in the Midwest Great Lakes region. Attendees will enjoy garlic-themed food prepared by local chefs including everything from ice cream to oysters, an onsite celebrity chef Grill-Off, live music, cooking demonstrations, wine tastings, taste and grow tents for children, and many more events and activities.

Get out the breath mints – the Cleveland Garlic Festival arrives this weekend!

All "LIT" Up (09/11)

I just fell head over heals for this adorable invite/graphic for this literary event. Take a look and perhaps all you literary buffs, or wanna-be-buffs would like to attend...plus there is an after party...wonder if someone will write about it? HA! (sorry, bad joke)



The Academy has the Oscars...The LIT has the Lanterns. Join the Northeast Ohio Literary Community for a celebration of writers and writing in eight different genre categoreis and be there as we honor Sheila Schwartz and Harvey Pekar with a final tribute.

Saturday, September 11, 2010 at Palace Theatre at PlayhouseSquare 8-10pm
Cash bar, Book Browsing, Hob-knobbing, and a LITtle bit of Entertainment
$35 ticket ($50 ticket includes Turn the Page After-Party)
Purchase tix at www.playhousesquare.org or 216-241-6000

Turn the Page After-Party at the Cleveland Urban Design Collaborative
1309 Euclid Avenue, Suite 200 10pm - Midnight (Only $50 ticket-holders admitted)

Market at the Fig

Hello Clevelanders and happy holiday weekend.
Couldn’t we all use a break? A few days off to rest our brains from deadlines, to do lists, meetings and conference calls? I for sure am looking forward to an extra day to relax and enjoy Northeast Ohio.

As everyone is beginning to make weekend plans, I wanted to share with you an adorable little place I went to lunch at yesterday, Market at the Fig; a small urban pantry.



Created by Karen Small also chef owner at Flying Fig, her vision for a neighborhood lunch, wine, gourmet cheese and sweets destination has come to fruition. The food was delicious...we had an Dilled Farm Egg Salad on focaccia roll, a Spanish Tuna fish sandwich and the special of the day a cucumber sandwich. Thumbs up all around! An extra plus is you can take your lunch outside and enjoy the hustle and bustle of the Historic Ohio City area...it’s simply city awesomeness! Everyone should try and stop in this weekend, it’s so sweet. Way to go Market at the Fig!



A couple of other things...don’t forget about the big Rock Hall Ball this evening. The Taste of Cleveland and the Air Show all weekend long. PLUS for those of us beach lovers...grab your towel and get outside I think it’s gonna clear up.

Last but not least, as we move into the month of September, I am going to be blogging for the The Ohio Chevy Network Dealers from out and about around Cleveland. Please visit gottalovechevyneo.com to see what fun myself and the other area bloggers get ourselves into!

Wierd Al (09/03)

I know that this Friday is the anticipated Rock Hall Ball..but has anyone heard the news? Wierd Al Yankovic is also performing in Cleveland on Friday! Remember him?

I can vividly remember singing the Madonna tune to the lyrics of "Like a Surgeon" as I pranced around my parents home as a young kid. Since those days "Al" has gone on to write and perform many hits such as "Canadian Idiot" and "Polkarama," a parody on polkas.



You can find Mr Yankovic at this years Taste of Cleveland running from Friday September 3rd through to Monday the 6th at Time Warner Cable Amphitheater at Tower City in downtown Cleveland. Everything from Polish cuisine and spicy Cajun fare to Grammy Award-winning artists and radio rock stars are on the menu...fingers crossed no rain for the holiday weekend!!!

Up Up & Away (09/04-06)

When I first moved to Cleveland almost 12 years ago...one of the first big attratctions I attended was the Cleveland Air Show. The afternoon of plane walkers, the Blue Angels, pilots...LOTS of pilots and the amazing acrobatic show still “Wows” me to today!



This Labor Day weekend don’t miss out on the spectator event. The Air Show is a rather affordable, local outing that is fun for everyone...general admission tickets are good for one full day of aviation fun (Saturday, Sunday or Monday). FYI there is no seating, so remember to bring a lawn chair or blanket.

A LOBSTER of a deal

I couldn't resist but to share this deal I just ran into! Steak AND LOBSTER (my ultra favorite treat), perfect for anyone on the low carb kick.



I actually really love the bar at Don's Lighthouse, it's dark and cozy and feels like my grandparents house in Connecticut, homey. PLUS, they have some great deals... Check it out!!!

Friday fun!

Hello Friday! Oh how I’ve missed you since last Friday. :) It’s been too too long.

I have so many things on this weekends schedule and can’t wait to share some of my ideas with each of you! I think the onset of cooler temps and back to school has made me yearn to switch over my closet from bright & cheery summer to warm & cozy fall...but as all Clevelanders know....we MUST resist until at least mid-September. So while I wait....how about what is fun going on in our fearless city this weekend?

> Feel like taking a drive? In love with Max and the rest of the Where the Wild Things cast? Drive to downtown Kent as they show the movie on an outdoor screen...starts at dusk, should be fun for all! FREE

> There are LOTS of bike rides this weekend. Feel like hanging with a bunch of graphic designers? Head to the towpath this Saturday for AIGA’s ride. Feel like filling your belly with warm grilled cheese? Don’t miss out on Melt’s first fundraising ride this Sunday. If farms & barns are your thing visit the picturesque Cuyahoga Valley National Park this Sunday!

> I saw the first slightly disturbing movie, The Girl with the Dragon tattoo...but sorta like a car wreck where you can’t look away, I am very intrigued to see the second part film in the three part series. The Girl Who Played With Fire, showing at Cedar Lee.

> Get your last few wears of those summer sundresses, and if you are looking for a few extra summer something's, stop by Room Service for their 60% off summer apparel sale!

On a side note, I can’t tell you how much I LOVE living in Lakewood and would like to thank Travel + Leisure Magazine for the HUGE shout out! “Lakewood : Coolest Suburb Worth a Visit!

And last...for those of you that do find yourself at the mall this weekend stocking up on back to school clothes...pick up this short for yourself. EVERYONE in Cleveland should have one. In fact I think that as a tax payer, we should just get one free in our mail some evening, now wouldn't that be amazing? If you can’t wait for GAP to maybe send you one as a good Cleveland citizen...then make sure to pick yours up soon. I hear they are flying off the shelves.... Love yOUR city!!!

Ride to Melt (eastside!) (08/28)

Sunday, August 29th, 2010

Ever eaten at Melt and then after felt yucky and was angry at yourself for eating every last drop of the best “wakin bacon” and fries around? Wouldn’t you feel better if you knew you had 13 miles to ride on your bike after to get yourself home? Here is your opportunity!

This Sunday Melt will host a “manual transportation event” from one Melt to the other. Starting at Melt West in Lakewood and making the trek across town to Melt East in Cleveland Heights, this is an opportunity to see our great city of Cleveland, raise money for two great arts organizations, and enjoy Melt Bar and Grilled.

The money raised will be divided between the Lakewood Arts Fest and Heights Arts in Cleveland Heights. Sign up and get a sponsorship form at either location. The more money you raise the more benefits you receive.

Raise $25-$49.99 = 25% off sandwich and beverage

Raise $50-$74.99 = 50% off sandwich and beverage

Raise $75-99.99 = 75% off sandwich and beverage

Raise $100 and over = 100% off sandwich and beverage

They will also raffle off a giant 7ft signed “East Side Invasion” poster that hung in our Cleveland Heights location’s windows during construction. Signed by artist John G and owner Matt Fish

BEGIN: Melt Lakewood - 14718 Detroit Avenue END: Melt Cleveland Heights - 13463 Cedar Road Begins @ 8:30am

A BIG "Taste of the Browns" DEAL

Hello Lovers of CLEV!

How was your weekend? Mine was sorta quiet but really nice. Sometimes, isn't it nice to just slow down, stay at home and enjoy the downtime of a relaxed weekend? I think so.

Don't get me wrong, I didn't stay in ALL weekend...I had attended a kick off weekend for the Junior League of Cleveland Members. This amazing group for women always inspire me to give back, strive for better and look to the future, very poignant to living in Cleveland, don't you think? If you are interested in learning more about the JLC, they are having an open forum, info session next Saturday morning at Joseph Beth booksellers for more information call 216.231.6300. I also enjoyed a peach pizza at Players and spent Sunday with fellow blogger Allison & pal Shannon wandering around Chargin Falls...a WONDERFUL weekend!

So what' the big deal you might ask??? Ever been to the Taste of the Browns? It's an evening on Monday, September 13th, where big hunky football players, mingle with area chefs all to support the Cleveland Food Bank. People come from miles around to grab a gourmet dinner as well as a few autographs from the Browns team members. I can't wait to go this year!!!

So, the deal is TWO THINGS...

THIS WEEK, August 23-26th you can purchase your Taste of the Browns tickets from the link below for $125 a $25 discount. www.clevelandfoodbank.org/heart

In addition to the sweet discount I have been given TWO TICKETS PLUS a TASTE OF THE BROWNS COOKBOOK to give away to one of my readers...so, let's have a little contest...tell me your favorite Cleveland Browns memory or fact and this Friday at 4:00 I will choose a winner at random....Good Luck, and happy week!

Ohio City Blues Fest (08/21)

Saturday, August 21, 2010

This year marks the third annual Ohio City Blues Fest on Saturday, August 21, from 4:00- 11:00pm at Wendy Park on Whiskey Island. A full day of great blues music on the shore of Lake Erie, along with great food provided by Fat Fish Blue and a variety of traditional and hand-crafted beers.

The line-up for this year's event, which is presented by Ohio City Pasta with generous support from Vitaminwater,is as follows:

4:00-5:00 Real Deal Blues Band
5:15-6:15 Memphis Cradle
6:30-7:30 Frankie Starr
7:45-8:45 Wallace Coleman
9:00-10:30 Walkin’ Cane

Accessorize for the APL (08/20)

Friday, August 20th,2010

I received this press release, and although I don't usually just report the information, I am returning from a long work trip and must get you-the readers some great around town happenings...so here goes it!!!!

The Market Avenue Wine Bar in Ohio City will host jewelry artists red i jewelry, Gai Russo and Deborah Woolfork for a stylish event that puts as much emphasis in doing good as looking good.

The three highly regarded artists, each of whom have a large following for their hand-crafted jewelry, will be launching their fall collections during the event, scheduled from 6pm to 10pm

Throughout the evening, raffle tickets will be sold for a grand prize, a grouping of three necklaces, one from each artist, all of which were specially designed to layer with one another (a $350 value). Ticket prices are $5, or three for $10. The drawing is at 10pm. One hundred percent of the raffle proceeds will be donated to the Cleveland Animal Protective League, with the specific intent to purchase spay and neuter supplies for its animal welfare clinic.

"It’s a win-win situation," says Susan Scaparotti of red i jewelry. "A summer night of drinking great wine, buying great jewelry and donating to a great cause."

Out of this World OPENING (08/21)

Saturday August 21st, 2010

OUTERSPACE, The American Odyssey...an exhibit with 20 artists and collectives represented, 14 of them are from Cleveland.

Opening Reception 6pm-10pm, and Movie Night is scheduled for next Saturday August 28th, 6pm-10pm. The exhibition space is located on Huron Downtown CLE and it is a non-traditional gallery space provided by Pop Up City/Cleveland Urban Design Collaborative, and 1025 Huron Road, LLC Conor M. Coakley, Colliers Ostendorf-Morris.