Lost. (1/31)

Thursday, January 31st, 2008.

"Really, there's never been anything like it" - Stephen King

Awarded the 2005 Emmy and 2006 Golden Globe for Best Drama Series, "Lost" returns for the second act of its third season of action-packed mystery and adventure -- that will continue to bring out the the very best and the very worst in the people who are lost. Join "Dr. Jack Shepard" (Matthew Fox) and "Kate" (Evangeline Lilly) on another series of island adventures, can't wait! Tune in this Thursday for a 2 hour season premier of LOST on ABC.

8-10pm. www.abc.go.com

Happy Music, Happy Apple (1/30)

Wednesday, January 30th, 2008

Named after a child's toy from the 1960s, jazz trio Happy Apple performs at Nighttown in Cleveland Heights this Wednesday night.Hailing from Minneapolis, their clever and melodic small-combo improvisations have been termed "jazz punk," but Happy Apple has a grasp of the entire history of jazz, and the trio's elegant free-bop compositions are full of haunting melodies, delightful flashes of humor, and intelligent, coherent construction. Things can get hot and searing, certainly, and there is no aversion to sonic and free jazz experimenting, but the band always retains a strong melodic center. www.myspace.com/happyapplejerks



Show starts at 7pm. Tickets $10
12387 Cedar Road (top of Cedar Hill) Cleveland Heights, OH
For information call 216.795.0550 or visit www.nighttowncleveland.com

Bowl Bash (2/03)

Sunday, February 3rd, 2008

Although the Browns won't be on the big screen Saturday there is still a way to celebrate the Super Bowl in style.

Don't have a big tv to host this years party? The Wine Bar in Rocky River is hosting the first annual Super Bowl Bash so get the gang together and head over. Open bar from 5:30 until the best team* wins! Top shelf, bottled beer, select wines, tailgate food and one chance to win a 42" HD Flat Panel Television. Tickets are going fast, only 100 will be sold. Must be present with your ticket to win.

www.winebarrr.com 1313 Linda Street, Rocky River
$50 per person, for tickets call 440.799.4300
(*Go Patriots!)

Movie Deals

Don't let a little winter weather keep you inside this week, head out and grab a glass of wine and a good flick at Cedar Lee Theatre. Where every Monday tickets are only $5 and every Wednesday enjoy half-price beer and wine from 4-8pm with your purchase of a movie ticket.

This weeks "must see" is the French film "The Diving Bell and the Butterfly," Nominated for 4 Academy Awards including Best Director (Julian Schnabel) and Best Cinematography. Through a mesmerizing blast of color, beauty and humor, Schnabel tells the story of Jean-Dominique Bauby (Mathieu Amalric, “Munich”), the high-flying editor of French Elle and father of two, who was renowned for his sense of humor and style, his joie de vivre and amorous energy, when, in an instant, his world was plunged into the depths of catastrophe. Tapping into the limitlessness of his memories, fantasies, wit and wishes, he finds a way to race through experiences of wonder and grief, sex and love, fatherhood and childhood, faith and questioning, ecstasy and absurdity – and touches the very essence of what it is to be human. For more information visit www.thedivingbellandthebutterfly-themovie.com


For movies and show times visit www.clevelandcinemas.com

A Creative Opening (1/26)

Saturday, Januanary 26th, 2008

The Studios at 78th Street will be open this Saturday from 1 - 6PM for tours. For those who have not been there, this building is the former American Greetings Creative Studios and a place that many area artists call home. Located a block North of Lake Ave., between West 78th and West 80th St. this building is Cleveland's largest creative arts Incubator, anchoring the Western end of the Detroit-Shoreway Arts District.

Some of the buildings tenants include: Alternative Press Magazine, (www.alternativepress.com) Tregoning & Company, (www.tregoningandco.com)  Rachel Davis Fine Arts (www.racheldavisfinearts.com) and Derek Hess (www.derekhess.com) .

Don't miss this opportunity to talk with the artists about their work!

Comedy for a Cause (1/25)

Friday, January 25th, 2008

At the end of THIS week, head over to Bottoms Up for an evening of good laughs for a great cause. Join Clevelands comedic trio Ryan Dalton, Luke Jones and Judson Laipply as they showcase their talents in support of two local memorial/scholarship funds. Come for a good laugh, a big brew and if we are lucky we may even get to experience the YouTube phenomenon, the evolution of dance, (www.theevolutionofdance.com) you don't want to miss it!

21 and over (who knows what they'll say?) Doors open at 8:30, show begins at 9:30. For tickets ($10 each) call 419.308.3038. Call soon they are going fast.

Bottoms Up, 1572 W 117TH St, Lakewood

A "Yummy" Read (1/24)

Thursday, January 24th, 2008

Still working on those new years resolutions? Tired of the same old soup and tuna fish sandwiches? Check out Ellie Kriegers new book The Food You Crave. Ellie will be discussing the fresh recipes from her book as well as signing copies at Joseph-Beth Booksellers in Lyndhurst at Legacy Village at 7pm



Ellie is not only an author and health nut but the host of Food Network’s Healthy Appetite show. A registered dietitian, Ellie is also a lover and proponent of good, fresh food, simply but deliciously prepared. And she's not about denial--no nonfat foods here, because when you take the fat out of natural foods, in go the chemicals. "The Food You Crave" is all you'll need to change the way you eat and change the way you feel. It contains 200 recipes that cover every meal of the day and every craving you might have. Every recipe contains a complete nutritional breakdown, as well as tips on ingredients and techniques that will keep you eating smart and eating well.

For more information on the book signing event and directions visit
http://www.josephbeth.com/

Down in Fraggle Rock (1/27)

Sunday, January 27th, 2008

Children of the eighties listen up! Join the Cleveland Museum of Art as they share with us, A Better World, Living in Harmony. This program of Jim Henson short films argues that it’s easy being green. Including a complete episode of the 1983 TV series Fraggle Rock, which featured/created an elaborate underground fantasy world. Also included is the 1989 rain forest-themed TV show The Song of the Rain Cloud Forest, a 1989 TV show; and as well as various Public Service Announcements.

Like Walt Disney, puppeteer Jim Henson (1936–1990) created characters that captured the imagination of millions, allowing him to build a pop-culture empire. As the creator of the Muppets, Henson became the foremost puppeteer of the television era; his lovable, pliable creations (some of which he voiced and performed) proved to be more expressive than marionettes and ventriloquist dummies, and dominated family television for decades.



1:30pm at the Cleveland Museum of Art Lecture Hall
Admission to the program is $8, CMA members $6, seniors 65 & over $5, students and children $4
www.cma.org

Relive the music of Fraggle Rock on iTunes >>

Ice Festival (1/25-27)

January 25th-27th, 2008

I heart cleveland for winter, I really do. People may think I am crazy, but to me the glistening snow looks like the neighborhoods have been sprinkled with powdered sugar. A sweet stillness fills the air and the crisp crackling crunch of the snow under foot excites the senses. Plus, I am a coat-a-holic so the more opportunities I have to bundle up, the better. Enough about me, let's get to the "cool" event at hand, Ice Festival 2008 presented by Crocker Park.

It's a weekend to celebrate freezing temps, sparkling ice sculptures, and some chilly competition. The celebration begins Friday with the presentation of the Ice Throne at 5pm and the lighting of the Fire & Ice Tower at 7pm. Saturday and Sunday the professional team competitions begin at 11am and run throughout both days.

Be sure to dress warm and plan to enjoy one of the many restaurants at Crocker Park during the festival. From hot chocolate at Starbucks to a glass of red wine at Brio. There is something to warm everyone.



For directions and more information visit www.crockerpark.com

Cheap Eats, Great Deals! (1/22)

Tuesday, January 22nd, 2008

It´s Gift Certificate Sale Time Again! The Cleveland Independents discount gift certificate sale begins tomorrow morning. Log on early as the certificates sell out early. Choose from your favorite local independents (ex : 3 Birds, Flying Fig, Paladar) where $50 dollar gift certificates sell for $25, HALF PRICE!

Cleveland Independents exists to promote dining in independently owned restaurants and to serve the interests of the independent restaurateur. The purpose of the Cleveland Independents is to protect, nurture and promote independent restaurants in northeast Ohio.

Get psyched and be hungry!
www.clevelandindependents.com

Bust a Move!

Tuesdays, January 22nd through March 11th

Join the hip-hop revolution! The Idea Center at Playhouse Square Center is offering an adult hip hop dance class open to anyone looking to get down and bust a move.

The original dance associated with hip hop is breakdance, which appeared in New York City during the early 1960s and truly became a cornerstone of hip hop as a culture. In the 1990s, new dance styles began appearing, most of them danced in an upright manner in contrast to breakdance with its many ground moves. These later styles are sometimes referred to as new school or new style while the older styles, including breakdance and various funk styles that were incorporated into hip hop, are considered old school. Hip hop dancing is evolving in many different directions today, heavily influenced by the evolution of hip hop music and its popularity in media, surrounded by heated debates on history and authenticity. Come and learn to groove the evening away!

The Idea Center at Playhouse Square Center (http://ideacenter.wviz.org)
6:30-7:45 p.m. $110 per 8-week session or $15 per class
To register, call 216.348.7909.

A "Smoky" Good Time (1/24)

Thursday, January 24th, 2008

Want to liven up your mundane after-work week this Thursday? Join Doug & Christopher of Launch Kitchen as they explore one of the hottest restaurant menu trends, smoking (?). From “smoky” products and ingredients to their favorite smoked dishes, they will be cooking up a smoky storm!

MENU: Santa Maria Beef Tri-Tip with Roasted Potatoes & Blue Cheese Mash, Homemade Beef Jerky, Seared Romaine Salad w/Smoky Tomato Vinaigrette, Smoked Chicken, Grilled Shallot & Gouda Pizza, Grilled Angel Food Cake with Seared Peaches & Blueberry Sauce.

6:30-9pm $45 per person.
To register visit http://lpscinc.com/classesdetail.asp?id=3336

Annual Fabric Sale (1/19-31st)

January 19th through the 31st

Thinking of recovering that old chair this winter? Save 15-70% off all sorts of plaids, paisleys and springtime fabrics at the Schindlers Fabric Annual Sale. 1000's of yards of fabric have just arrived in time to celebrate the stores 70th birthday. Don't miss the room upstairs filled with all sorts of discontinued quirky prints, it's my favorite!

Schindler's Fabrics, 9933 Lorain Ave. Cleveland OH 44102 216.281.8255 www.schindlersfabrics.cokm

Happy Snow Neighbors

As you know, snow both adds to the charm and creates a lot of frustration in Cleveland. And by snow, I mean snow removal. Now that it's the snow season, you might be interested in the website I discovered, www.thankyouforshoveling.org

This site offers free "Thank you for shoveling" cards, designed to encourage your neighbors to shovel the sidewalks during the winter. It's easy to curse your neighbors when it takes you ten extra minutes to get to work in the morning because you have to wade through snow or jump over slush. They're making it easy for people to do something constructive and neighborly about keeping their block shoveled this winter.

They will send you cards, and all you have to do is drop them in the mailbox of your neighbors who shovel. A little positive reinforcement goes a long way towards making a snow-free and friendlier block.

http://thankyouforshoveling.org

A Free Tooth Exam (1/26)

Saturday, January 26th, 2008

Next Saturday from 9-2pm visit the students at Case Western Dental School for a free dental exam and teeth cleaning. The dental students are offering this complimentary service as part of a community wide service project. So, for all of us who may have "visit the dentist" on our 2008 list of "things to do" call now spaces are "filling" up fast 216.368.3570.

You never know, they may throw in a new toothbrush as well?

SMILE :)

Sweet Local Tunes. (1/17)

Thursday, January 17th, 2008

The other night I had the pleasure of happening upon a great singer songwriter, Akron native, Rachel Roberts. She was playing in Lakewood at the unique Bella Dubby Cafe & Bar. While the crowd was small, her petite frame and breathy voice filled the room with amazing sound. From slow ballads to more "euro-pop" her repertoire was very unique. I would say she sounds a bit like if you mixed Sheryl Crow, Alicia Keys & British newcomer Kate Nash (minus the accent!)



The good news is, even though you may have missed last Friday nights show, you can catch her THIS Thursday at Prosperity Social Club in Tremont around 9pm or on February 8th at the Winchester in Lakewood where she is opening for Waterband at 8pm. Check her out at http://myspace.com/rachelrobertsmusic.

Independent musicians and one of a kind performers, that's why I heart cleveland!

Wednesday Wine Nights

Every Wednesday grab some friends and head out to D'Vine Wine Bar for half price flight night!

I recommend Flight #12 : "Tiny Bubbles" (Stanford Governor's Cuvee Brut, Chateau LaFayette, Extra Dry, CA., Dal Bello, Prosecco, Italy, N.V and Saracco, Moscato di Asti, Italy) or Flight #8 "Red Royalty" Saintsbury, Garnet Pinot Noir, Cameros, Burgess, Syrah, Napa, Klinker Brick, Old Vine Zinfandel, Lodi and Lockwood, Partners Res. Cab., Monterey) If you get hungry they also have an assortment of tasty little small plates to choose from.

It is such a cozy place to spend the evening in the middle of the week. get there early for the best seat in the house.

Check it out or visit www.dvinewinebar.com

Makeover with M•A•C (1/17-19)

January 17th through the 19th, 2008

Stop by the M•A•C counter at Beachwood Mall this weekend for a complimentary makeover featuring M•A•C's most recent collection, The "N Collection." This collection of makeup highlights the simple and pearlized shades of their mineral skin finish collection.

For all us Cleveland make up junkies, it's a great way to sample the new makeup colors and products as we plan for our spring styles.

Call your the M•A•C counter to book your appointment today.
M•A•C @ Beachwood Place, 216.378.2121 10am-6pm

Winter at the Beach

As I was driving down Lake Avenue through Rocky River and Bay Village I was reminded of how lucky we are to live so close to Lake Erie. The lake was sparkling from the late afternoon sunshine and seemed to be calling my name...



After parking in a rather empty Huntington Beach parking lot I grabbed my flip flops, beach blanket, and camera and headed down to see what my summer past-time was doing at this time of year.

The beach was empty, though the waves and seashells were plenty. The cool air mixed with the faint tunes of seagulls was a great break for a Saturday afternoon. As I walked the beach I discovered that winter really is a perfect time of year to find the most beach glass and seashells. I must have walked away with over twenty pieces.



The lake and the beach in January is really an escape. Next time the sun shines on a wintery Saturday afternoon head out to experience one of Cleveland's greatest luxury, Lake Erie.

Tremont Art Walk & Live Music (1/11)

Friday, January 11th, 2008

It's the second Friday of the month so head down to Tremont for the monthly Art Walk. Tremont has thrived and grown through the years. Today the neighborhood has many more attractions to bring visitors and residents, with many new galleries and retail stores, as well as fine restaurants and local pubs, there is something for all. www.tremontartwalk.org

Also, head over to Prosperity Social Club for the intoxicating sounds of MARTINI FIVE-O at 10PM bring your party pants and dancing shoes and stay late for Audio Spectrums DJ Dance Party (12:30-2:00am!) The kitchen is also open until 2am in case you get hungry from all the action. www.prosperitysocialclub.com

An Evening of Dance (1/11-13)

Friday, Saturday & Sunday January 11th through the 13th, 2008

Join Cleveland Public Theatre for their annual Big {BOX} Series. Artists risk it all with their newest works! Big [BOX] encourages artists to experiment and produce their own work. Now in its fifth year, Big [BOX] is a series for those who love the thrill of new work.

This weekend join them for "Companions" Presented by Meg Louise Dance (www.meglouisedance.com) Choreographed and Directed by Megan Pitcher Come to an elegant, intimate 1920’s cabaret for conversation, dance and just a touch of drama. Subtle, delicious dancing and music that is enchanting. Meg Louise Dance invites you to experience a sensuous evening in the lap of luxury.



Showtimes: Friday and Saturday at 7:30pm, Sundays at 3:00pm Tickets: $15 General Admission | $12 Students and Seniors.
For more information visit www.cptonline.org

Detroit Shoreway Shopping, Sipping & Snacking

It is as chic as a small neighborhood in Chicago...

If you haven't driven down Detroit Ave in Cleveland (Detroit Shoreway Neighborhood) as of late you are missing the most up and coming strip of stores known to the city. In partnership with the City of Cleveland's Community Development Office, Detroit Shoreway offers the Storefront Renovation Program for commercial tenants (with building owner's approval.) This partnership is drawing many inspired small business owners.

Though there are many stores popping up, TWO of them truly stand out!



Room Service : 6505 Detroit Ave., is a chic home-decor/gift/furniture store that owner Danielle DeBoe describes as "a harmonious juxtaposition between old and new." Sleek, contemporary furniture is mixed with high-end, hip gift items and a smattering of antiques.



Duo Home : 6507 Detroit Ave., is a combo interior design business and shop featuring eclectic, contemporary yet organic home decor and furniture items.

Also, while you are in the neighborhood make sure to stop into Gypsy Beans & Baking Co. (6425 Detroit Avenue) for a hot cup-of-joe and some of their amazing homemade bakery. Indulge in some of their most savored bakery items such as the Amazon Chili Pepper Brownies, the Chocolate Truffle Tartlet in a Salted Shortbread Crust and the White Chocolate Iced Layer cake with a Honey Lavender Syrup. www.gypsybeans.com

Good things "Crop" pin up all over

From the hot popcorn with balsamic glaze, prosciutto & asiago cheese appetizer to the butternut squash ravioli, Crop Bistro is a bounty of all things tasty.

A few weeks ago, over the holiday feasting I was able to sample many of the new specialties at this lovely restaurant on West 6th. The evening began with an "interesting" Caprese Martini (Tomato Infused Vodka-Fresh Basil-Balsamic Tomato-Fresh Mozzarella) and proceeded through to a Perfect Pear (Pear Gallette, Gingered Cream, Pear Crisps and Caramel.)



If you are looking for somewhere to go and not completely blow your new years resolutions of eating better, more organic and ultra-fresh there is plenty for you to pick from at Crop Bistro. Super scrumptious!

1400 W 6th St Cleveland, OH 216.696.CROP www.cropbistro.com

Afraid of Heights, No More!

Saturday, January 5th, 2008

If you are like me, you have a long list of "to-do's" to cross off for 2008.
Mine contains everything from mastering French cooking to doing my first sprint tri-athalon (don't quote me on that), but indoor rock climbing was NOT part of this list.

Let me go back to the beginnning...a dear friend of mine called to see if I wanted to join him on an afternoon adventure of snowshoeing in the Metroparks. However, you can't snowshoe in the less than 2 inches of snow...especially not in a downpour.

Since we had driven all the way down to Peninsula (to the Metroparks Winter Cabin), we wanted to make the drive worth it by scheming up an alternate activity. Driving to Little Italy for sweets and coffee or heading to a matinee movie were suggested possibilities, but nothing compared to what we were about to do.



As we approached the large warehouse-looking building my palms were dripping. Not only had I agreed to spend the next hour with a private rock climbing instructor, but I had also agreed to face my fear of heights, three stories tall.

We spent the afternoon at Kendal Cliffs (www.kendallcliffs.com), the only professionally-designed and built rock gym in Ohio. The indoor gym had a combination of textured plywood and "natural" rock surfaces that we were able to learn on. With over 7,000 square feet of climbing surface and a peak height of 35 feet (been there!) there was plenty of room for all those who were staying dry from the cold Saturday rain.



Our instuctor Caitlin could not have been better. Her constant encouragement made me reach higher, feel stronger and get to the top...which I am still glowing about. She also managed to "accessorize" my harness with a great orange "chalk bag" to help with my slippery hands. She tied each rope knot around the harness loop with a sense of ease and allowed me to take a break now and then when every muscle in my body was visibly trembling (from terror AND exhaustion). Thanks Caitlin, you rock! (no pun intended).

I never thought I would begin '08 on such a literal high, but if you are looking for a great workout and a ton of fun this winter, head to Kendal Cliffs Indoor Rock Gym in Peninsula, Ohio. It truly was an adventure!



Kendall Cliffs. 60 Kendall Park Road Peninsula, Ohio 44264. 330.655.5489. ROCK GYM BASICS (No experience necessary) They provide the staff and equipment, you provide the desire to climb. Reservations are required. COST: $20.00 www.kendallcliffs.com

Yoga for Beginners, East & West

West Side Workshop : January 6th, 13th, 20th, & 27th, 2008

Build a solid foundation in the basic vocabulary, poses, and breathing techniques of yoga, in a safe and supportive environment with a compassionate, inspiring teacher at the 4 Week Beginners Workshop with Janice Hanrahan at InnerBliss Yoga Studio
This workshop will leave you prepared to embark on an awesome yoga journey.

Sundays, 1:00-2:30 pm, $75 Pre-registration required, please call Janice at 216.8496191 or email her at janiceh@ameritech.net to reserve your spot in this class. For more information visit www.innerblissyogastudio.com

_____________________________


East Side Workshop : January 12th, 2008

This 2 1/2 hour workshop is designed for brand new beginners. This is a great way to learn the basics in an intimate non-competitive environment. Cleveland Yoga Studio Owner, Tami Schneider will guide you through the fundamentals of breath work and yoga postures as you begin to expereience for yourself some of benefits that arise from practicing yoga.

Saturday, 1:00-3:30pm, $30 For registration, details and questions, please contact info@clevelandyoga.com or call 216.591.1183 www.clevelandyoga.com

Cleveland 20/30 Club Happy Hour (1/3)

Thursday, January 3rd, 2008

Come decompress from the holiday season at BAR CENTO for the Cleveland 20/30 Clubs January Around Town. BAR CENTO is located in historic Ohio City near Downtown Cleveland and serves a Roman-inspired Italian menu 365 days until 2am, as well as 100 Belgian Beers & 100 Wines from around the world.

Members drink specials include $4 house red, white, and sparkling pours as well as the house draft beer.

Bar Cento | 1948 West 25th Street Cleveland, Ohio
www.barcento.com