Awesome Autos (2/23-3/02)

Friday, February 29th to Sunday, March 2nd 2008

Guys & gals, enter a playground of over 1,000 new vehicles, concept cars (Like the Chevrolet Camaro Bumble Bee below), classics and the new interactive ride & drive exhibits at the 2008 Cleveland Auto Show presented by AutoTrader.com. Parking is free!

A few show highlights/events not to miss besides the cars of course..
March 1 : Cavs Day - Appearances & autographs by Sasha Pavlovic, Anderson Varejao, Devin Brown & Donyell Marshall (4pm-6pm) March 1 : Appearance by Brown's Brady Quinn in Hummer display (1pm-3pm) (photographs only)



Hours Friday and Saturdays: 11am to 11pm Sundays: 11am to 8pm For more information visit www.clevelandautoshow.com

Pop, Leap. Play. (2/29)

Friday, February 29th, 2008

A pop up experience with food, fun and spectacle in the Flats East Bank at the first annual Leap Night @ Pop Up City. Here a vacant lot will become a winter wonderland for all. Leap Night will feature a snow and ice installation, a winter forest complete with costume bears, music, bonfires, performances by SAFMOD, Cleveland’s multi-media performance ensemble, an ice skating rink, a snowboard ramp and rail jam competition, an outdoor Rock Band video game competition, a snowsuit fashion show, and food and drink vendors. The site offers ample free parking and convenient access via the RTA Waterfront Line, East Bank Station.

Leap Night is part of Pop Up City, a temporary use initiative that is supported by the Cleveland Foundation’s Civic Innovation Lab and operated through Kent State University’s Cleveland Urban Design Collaborative.



6-11 p.m. The free event is open to the public. 1100 Old River Road (between Main Ave. & Front St.). For snowboard release forms, schedules and information on the hot after party visit www.cudc.kent.edu/popup/leap.html

"Free" Burrito (2/28-29)

Thursday & Friday, February 28th-29th, 2008

Not that I really wanted to promote "McyD's" but for all you junk food junkies, I couldn't resist. For breakfast, buy any large drink (coffee, juice or diet coke) and get a free McSkillet™ Burrito with Sausage. Sounds yummy right? Well, for all those counting calories, you may want a heads up as one burrito has 610 calories and 36 grams of fat. Sounds really indulgent...but hey, it's free!

Let me know if anyone checks out the promotion, I probably will have to pass on this one! :) www.mcdonalds.com/usa/eat.html

A Swinging Good Time (2/28)

Thursday, February 28th, 2008

The Peking Acrobats combine the color and spectacle of the circus (minus the creepy clowns) with the skill and discipline of Olympic gymnastics and live musicians playing traditional Chinese instruments and you get a magical evening with performances that have amazed audiences worldwide.

Learn more and purchase tickets at www.playhousesquare.org or call 216.241.6000. Playhouse Square's Palace Theater

A Musical Hitchcock Affair (2/28)

Thursday, February 28th, 2008

Come see the newly remastered film of Alfred Hitchcock's Vertigo. Hear the music of Bernard Herrmann performed by a Red quartet with Red's Artistic Director & Conductor Jonathan Sheffer on hand for a post-film discussion.



$20 includes the film, the musical performance and a general admission ticket to Red {an orchestra} March 8th concert. ($10, film only). For tickets and information contact the Red office at 216.361.1733 or info@redanorchestra.org. Note tickets for this event will NOT be on sale at the Shaker Square box office, they will only be available by contacting Red. Shaker Square Cinemas 13116 Shaker Square (SW Quadrant), Cleveland 7:00pm

A Margarita Deal

Every Tuesday Night

On this chilly, snowy Cleveland day, one can only think of fun ways to stay warm and embrace the winter weather outdoors! So, what better way to enjoy a day of snow than with a Margarita on the rocks with salt? Today's special...buy one Margarita, get one at half off at El Jalapenos on 117th (in the old Kluck's location) in Cleveland.

The restaurants large menu filled with many made-from-scratch mexican choices is sure to please all. As are the numerous refills of chips and homemade salsa from the excited wait staff. Tuesday's are always buzzing due to the popular drink specials so be ready for a fun crowd.



1313 W. 117th St Cleveland 216.226.9765

Beans @ MOCA (2/28)

Thursday, February 28th, 2008

MOCA Mix: listen: Beans w/special guests Poetic Republic & DJ ONIT

From anti-pop to Prefuse 73; from fashion spreads in glossies around the world to subway sessions of freestyle excellence; Beans has proven himself to be an icon no matter what he chooses to do.

Ladies and gentlemen, meet BEANS, aka Mr. Ballbeam. Hip-hop rebel. Wordsmith extraordinaire. Sonic architect. Fashion renegade. Published poet. Culture star. Raised in White Plains, NY and first picked up on in the mid-90's as part of the mythic Soup/Boom Poetic collective, the word began to spread. BEANS harkens back to the glory days when all it seemed to take was real talent, real passion and the desire to actually be real and simply shine.

Having shared stages and toured with everyone from Radiohead to Vernon Reid, Prefuse 73, Ratatat, Dabrye, Bill Laswell, The Rapture to Tortoise, The Locust, Battles to DJ Krush, Kool Keith, Pharoahe Monch to Aesop Rock, DJ Shadow to Cannibal Ox, Attica Blues to Terranova, plus Coachella and DJ gigs at The Guggenheim and with Missy Elliott. BEANS has displayed his skills and the response has been astounding.



8:00 pm FREE for Moca Members, $6 for non-members
This event generously supported by: Scene Magazine, Pabst Brewing Company (PBR!) & Skyy Vodka. For more information visit www.mocacleveland.org or www.adoredandexploited.com

Tulip Lover (2/25)

I love tulips almost as much as I love Cleveland. To me they symbolize the freshness of spring and the beauty and grace of mother nature. This weekend I was in Heinens and purchased the most gorgeous, elegant bouquet of long-stemmed, french, yellow tulips to brighten my dinner party table.

Now I bet you are wondering why I am telling you this? Well, after a few weekend phone calls to friends (living out of state), the topic of "tulip season" came up. Do you know I purchased a dozen flowers for a whopping $5.99 while my friend in Manhattan paid $9.99 and my sister in Seattle paid $11.00? Now I understand the concept of "price is relevant"...but to all other North East Ohio tulip lovers it seems to me we have it made!



With this steal of a deal I plan to have fresh tulips around until mine actually pop out of the currently frozen Cleveland ground. Off to Heinens I go, won't you join me? :)

Noche Flamenca (2/27)

Wednesday, February 27th, 2008

"A soul-stirring tour-de-force of theater." The Madrid-based Noche Flamenco brings out the essence of flamenco's roots passed down by Andalusian gypsies: raw, earthy and hot. The New York Times proclaimed their performance in the New York Flamenco Festival, "by far the best...more than anyone else...breathed the essence of flamenco".



Tickets will only sold thru the Cleveland Museum of Art but the steamy performance will be at the Ohio Theatre. Call 216.421.7340 to order ticket or for more information visit www.playhousesquare.org

Orchid Mania (2/09-3/09)

Why are orchids so alluring? Is it their endless color combinations? Their heady scents? Their sensuous shapes? Orchid Mania is Cleveland Botanical Garden's annual ode to nature's most exotic plant. Escape winter and surround yourself with hundreds of colorful, blooming orchids.

Throughout time, orchids have seduced people with their unrivaled beauty and intoxicating fragrances. Orchid collectors have searched to unlock the secrets of orchids in the remotest forest regions of the earth. Come see "The Seductive Orchid" presented in a variety of beautiful and mesmerizing ways.



Cleveland Botanical Garden in University Circle
11030 East Boulevard Cleveland, Ohio 216.721.1600 or 888.853.7091
All Orchid Mania exhibits are FREE with general admission.
www.cbgarden.org

Espresso on Lorain

One thing I really "heart" about Cleveland is the numerous unique small businesses that make our city tick. The other day I stopped into Russo Espresso, a friendly new coffee shop and gathering place in Fairview Park. I was once again reminded of how alive and passionate our local entrepreneurs truly are.

Russo Espresso was founded by brothers Angelo, Jerry & Michael and opened their doors December of '07. The trio wanted a place where the neighborhood could come together for good cup of coffee, a home cooked meal (using fresh local ingredients), a business meeting, a place to chill and relax with family & friends. The space is cozy and reflects the founders’ Italian heritage through warm tuscan-like colors, unique artwork and comfy furnishings. The display of goodies offers everything from paninis and salads for lunch to the homemade biscotti (their mother’s recipe) to complement your morning coffee. The vast drink menu offers something for everyone. I sipped on an almond latte with skim milk, and not only was it smooth and yummy, it was picture perfect with a little heart carved in the foam!



As I enjoyed my latte and the morning paper, I looked around to see a table of young boys drinking their daily hot chocolate on the way home from school, a small group of women discussing a book and many people on their laptops enjoying the complimentary wi-fi. It was a really nice crowd. Next time you need a place to meet up with a friend, this is the place to go!

If you are interested in branching out from your morning Starbucks, Caribou or Dunkin coffee for amazing local cup of joe, stop by Russo Espresso. If you would like a FREE Cup of Russo Espresso coffee, email editor@iheartcleveland.com and include your name and mailing address. Hurry, quantities are limited!

Russo Espresso : 21380 Lorain Ave Fairview Park, Ohio of RussoEspresso.com

Eco-Ladies Take on Home Depot (2/25)

Monday February 25th, 2008

Hey Cleveland women, ever wonder how you can make those small changes to make your home more "green?" Home Depot invites you to register for a FREE workshop on making your bathroom both eco-friendly and energy efficient. In just 90 minutes, they’ll show you how to: conserve water by repairing a leaky toilet, or by installing a low-flow faucet, showerhead or toilet. Upgrade to low-voltage lighting that requires 75% less energy. Cut heating and cooling costs with proper insulation and ventilation....and MORE!

Register today and learn from the experts in an environment that’s friendly, fun and just for women. With the know-how you’ll gain, you’ll not only save money by doing it yourself, you can save money by reducing your utility bills as well. Impressive.

Also a 10% off on a single purchase coupon will be awarded to all those who attend, who doesn't love coupons? Register today at http://www.homedepotclinics.com/dih/?utm_source=DIH_FEB08_eREG2-DIH

Make Your Reservation Now! (2/24-3/1)

On Sunday, February 24th through Saturday, March 1st, come downtown for the first ever Downtown Cleveland Restaurant Week! Starting at 5:00pm every night until close, enjoy unique Cleveland dining for a great price at over 30 participating downtown restaurants. During this week only, you will enjoy a delicious three course meal (for $20 or $40 depending on location) and be able to park for just $2. Some of the participating restaurants are Crop Bistro, Johnny's Downtown, the Nauti Mermaid and Blue Point Grille, to name a few!

Following the meal you’ll have an opportunity to enter a sweepstakes to win dinner for a year in Downtown Cleveland! Don’t miss this special opportunity to experience dining downtown for a great price. You are encouraged to call early for reservations and identify yourself as a Restaurant Week diner -- tables will fill up fast!

http://www.downtownclevelandalliance.com/restaurant_week.asp

Nicole @ Nightown (2/20)

Wednesday, February 20th, 2008

"She has a potent voice and her interpretive sense is sharp and distinctive." - Billboard Magazine

With power, grace, and a stellar list of international performances and awards, Miami vocalist Nicole Henry delivers herself in the most genuine fashion and sings to sincerely inspire and touch hearts. This spring, Universal Records brings forth Nicole’s beautiful, spirited voice in her third CD, entitled “At Last,” featuring standards and new, original music with themes of love and hope.

Nicole Henry performs for Clevelanders at Nightown this Wednesday at 7PM. Tickets are $10. For more information on Ms. Henry visit http://www.nicolehenry.com/

Democrats Debate in Cleveland (2/26)

This just in...Democratic presidential candidates Barack Obama and Hillary Clinton have agreed to a February 26th debate at the CSU Wolstein Center. That's exactly one week before Ohio's March 4th primary.

WKYC, Cleveland's NBC affiliate, is helping to sponsor the event. NBC's Tim Russert and Brian Williams will moderate the event and NBC Nightly News will broadcast live from our fair city!

Cleveland State University President Dr. Michael Schwartz said late Friday afternoon that specifics about the 2/26 presidential debate here could be available after a meeting on Monday 2/18. The Wolstein Center has a basketball arena with seating for about 13,500 but it's unlikely that the entire arena will be used, so be one of the first to grab a seat. Debate ticket information, will be posted on www.csuohio.edu and www.wkyc.com

A "Wicked" Lottery

If you weren't able to get seats to the sold out performances of Wicked, getting your name on the list may be your ticket in.

A "day-of-performance" lottery for a limited number of seats will be held daily for each performance. 2½ hours prior to show time, people who present themselves at the State Theatre Ticket Office will have their names placed in a lottery drum for tix to that day's sold-out performance. This cash-only lottery is available in-person at the box office only, limit 2 tix per person.

For information on the show, directions to the theatre and more visit www.playhousesquare.com

Stretch Together (2/16)

Saturday, February 16th, 2008

If you haven't had enough of your love after this weeks Valentines Day Holiday, enjoy an afternoon of partner yoga with Michele Ford at Inspiral Motion.

In this fun-filled, and invigorating workshop, partners will explore a dynamic series of postures, co-meditation and partner breathwork. In assisting one another, you help deepen each other's practice and experience a peaceful balance between assertion and surrender. You will experience doubles yoga, partner-assisted yoga and contact yoga, designed to open the body in ways that can be challenging in a solo practice.  As you learn how to breathe and flow together on the mat, you'll learn how to find ease and balance in relationships off the mat.
 
Whether you are new to yoga or a dedicated practitioner, you will enjoy this healthy, playful, and life-affirming practice. Wear comfortable, loose fitting clothing.  Mats and blankets will be available. Register today for this workshop: 216-320-9446, classes@inspiralmotion.com or call 216.320.9446. $30 or $50 per couple
www.inspiralmotion.com

A "Chilli" 5K (2/16)

Saturday, February 16th, 2008

Push yourself in the first road race of 2008 at the 22nd Annual West End Tavern Chili Bowl Classic 5K. Keep your fingers crossed for a little cooperation from Mother Nature, but no matter what the weather it's sure to be a great race! After a chilly 5K run/walk through Ohio City warm up with a hot bowl of chili courtesy of the West End Tavern and bagels from Panera, Tower City Center, downtown Cleveland

Pre-register until 10am, Wednesday, February 13 online at www.hermescleveland.com or register at one of the other registrations locations. All participants receive a long sleeve t-shirt, a bowl of chili, post race bagels and fruit and goody bag. Self parking will be available at Tower City for $3, Vouchers will be available on race morning.

For more information, visit www.hermescleveland.com or call 216.6239933.

Valentines Take Out (2/14)

Thursday, February 14th, 2008

If you find yourself in a bind this Thursday, aka Valentines Day and don't have time (or perhaps skill) to whip up a scrumptious romantic dinner for you and your loved one, call Pamela Waterman of Duets Catering in Rocky River.

For $28 (for 2!) you can swing by and grab a takeout dinner consisting of peeky toe crab cakes with dijon remoulade to start, roulade of chicken; stuffed with spinach, local goat cheese & sun dried tomatoes, tender french green beans and basmati rice pilaf for your main course and chocolate cake with raspberry ganache as the perfect dessert.

Just light the candles, warm & serve! Make sure to give them a call no later than Wednesday end of day to reserve your dinner-to-go! Duet Fine Catered & Prepared Foods • 2252 Wooster Road Rocky River, OH 44116
Tel. 440.333.2220 • duetcatering@sbcglobal.net www.duetcatering.com

Chocolate & Science Smarts (2/09)

Everything’s better dipped in chocolate! It’s America’s favorite treat, and right now the Great Lakes Science Center has chocolate fever.

See chocolate science at the Chocolate Bar–chocolate experiments with a culinary twist include making chocolate ice cream with liquid nitrogen. Browse the Chocolate Store, where you can purchase luxury chocolates from around the world. Explore the plant, the products and the culture of chocolate through the lenses of science, history, anthropology, economics and popular culture.



Which event will be your favorite?
2/9-29 : Complimentary Chocolate Dipped Strawberries
2/14 : Wine & Chocolate: 2/14 (adults only)
3/15 & 4/12 : Sundaes on Saturday
3/22-29 : Candy Chemistry Spring Break Day Camp
4/19 : Doggone Chocolate; bring your Chocolate Lab for a photo opp!

Chocolate: The Exhibition will run from now until May 4th. For all the sweet details visit www.greatscience.com

Bogart in Lakewood (2/16)

Saturday, February 16th, 2008

Everybody comes to Rick's-Nazis, from thieves to old lovers. Humphrey Bogart plays a former freedom fighter who thought he left both love and America behind, drowning his sorrows in a bottle of gin. But then Ingrid Bergman comes back into his life on the arm of her hero husband and "Boggie" begins to rethink his ways.



Casablanca, 1942, directed by Michael Curtiz, is required viewing for anyone who ever thought they had a handle on love, and for those struggling under the burden of a broken heart.

Lakewood Public Library at 7:00 p.m. in the New Main Library Auditorium. Doors open fifteen minutes before the show. Free!
www.lkwdpl.org/calendar/flicks/index.html

Free Pancakes for Charity (2/12)

Tuesday, February 12th, 2008

It's National Pancake Day! What better time to visit any IHOP from 6am to 10pm this Tuesday for a stack of FREE pancakes? Whatever flavor you would like, from chocolate chip to blueberry, cinnamon to strawberry or back-to-basics original, there is a pancake for everyone. In exchange for a free, fluffy, golden stack, IHOP is requesting that in return you will be full and feeling super generous that you will gladly donate to the Cleveland Foodbank.

The mission of the Cleveland Foodbank is to alleviate hunger by providing food and support to community organizations that feed the hungry. The Foodbank serves as a clearinghouse for donated and rescued food in the Cleveland area. Since beginning its National Pancake Day celebration in 2006, IHOP has raised nearly one million dollars to support local charities across the country.



For more information on the events surrounding National Pancake Day and the Cleveland Foodbank visit www.ihoppancakeday.com or www.clevelandfoodbank.org

Chanel anyone? (2/11)

Monday, February 11th, 2008

If you are coming down off a high from last weeks, Fashion Week, here is a little something to keep you going until the fall shows.

Saks Fifth Avenue at Beachwood Mall invites you to preview the Spring 2008 Ready-to-Wear & Accessories Collections by CHANEL. The trunk show will include informal modeling throughout the entire store and light refreshments from 10am to 5pm.

If you aren't ready for such an "investment" you may just want to pickup a bottle of Chanel #5. In an interview given at the airport in Japan, Marilyn Monroe told reporters that all she wore in bed was a few drops of N°5. It's a classic scent that will never go out of style, no matter what season it is...right Marilyn?



For more information on the trunk show or to purchase a bottle of parfum, contact Saks General Manager, Ina Levinson by calling 216.292.5500 Ext. 359 Beachwood Mall, 26100 Cedar Road or visit www.saksfifthavenue.com

Home & Garden Show (2/09-10)

Saturday-Sunday, February 9th & 10th, 2008

If the cold weather is driving you a little batty head indoors this weekend for the 2008 Home & Garden Show. This years theme is "Bella Italia" and although I am not sure a trip to the IX Center can really replicate the streets of Rome and rolling hillsides of Tuscany, they really have given it their best shot. As a visitor to the show you will be transported to Europe's famous "boot" via vibrant flowers, stone statues, majestic fountains, cobblestone piazzas and Tuscan gardens.

Some of the weekends highlights include:
Saturday
~ Noon : An Eco-Fashion Show for Kids
~ 2:00 : Cooking a romantic Valentines dinner with Loretta Paganini
~ 4:00 : A Book Reading/Signing with Cleveland food writer, Laura Taxel

Sunday
~ 2:30 : Vegetable Gardening the Easy Way with the Cleveland Botanical Gardens
~ 7:00-8:00pm : Closing night plant SALE !

For show details (hours, ticket prices, schedules, etc.) visit www.homeandflower.com

FREE Starbucks (2/10)

Sunday, February 10th, 2008

It’s not often that one can score a cup of complimentary caffeine from Starbucks but this Saturday at the “Official Coffee Tasting” you can! From 3-4pm at the West 116th | Clifton location, stop by to sample some of the best coffees and delectable snacks they have to offer. While you are there gain some new insight and coffee knowledge from the baristas serving it up on the side.

If the samples aren't your thing, enjoy one of the new "skinny" lattes. They are really yummy...especially the cinnamon dolce. It's my new poison!



It’s Starbucks way of saying Happy Valentines Day...they love you...they should! :)

Chinese New Years Eats (2/7)

Thursday, February 7th, 2008

Today is marks the first day of the Chinese New Year celebration. This weekend why not visit any of the Cleveland Asiatown Restaurants to partake in the excitement?

According to Cleveland's 1890 census, the Chinese community consisted of just 38 residents, most of them living around the Old Stone Church area downtown. Gradually, after the repeal of the Chinese Exclusion Act in 1943 and as a result of the Communist takeover in Mainland China, the Cleveland Chinese community moved to present-day Asiatown during the 1950s and 1960s. In the 70s, the neighborhood welcomed Filipino, Vietnamese & Korean immigrants as well.

The neighborhood abounds in excellent, and affordable, restaurants. Among the best are Bo Loong (39th and St. Clair), a large dining room known for its dim sum, fresh seafood, and late night karaoke; #1 Pho (31st and Superior), the quintessential Chinese noodle house, popular with students and downtown office workers; and Li Wah (29th Street and Payne), in the Asian Plaza shopping center, with 400 seats, dim sum, and a varied dinner menu.

Happy New Year!

All Play & No Work (2/7)

Thursday, February 7th, 2008

If you can get out just one night this month, make it the COSE Game Night. Not only will you network with COSE Members, but best of all, it's at Dave & Buster's in Westlake where it's okay for you to break out of your business-mode and have a little fun. For $10 ($20 if you are a non-member) you'll get appetizers and a $10 game card. Sounds like fun...skee ball anyone?

Dave & Busters. 25735 First Street Westlake, OH
To register visit http://www.cose.org/

"Table" Dining

You don't run across many fine-dining restaurants owned by hospitals, but the Cleveland Clinic Foundation definitely hit it right with Table 45. Voted one of the “Top 20 Best New Restaurants” in the United States by Esquire Magazine, costing (some say) $12 million to design. The space is divided into five "zones" allowing for high-end dining or a casual bite at the counter, the space is sleek, polished, and very cool. The blond-wood bar buffed to a low sheen with leather-covered curved metal chairs is a fun place for happy hour as well.



Chef Zachary Bruell has never been more versatile, drawing on global influences in dishes like his homespun bowl of Vietnamese noodles and veal meatballs. When you make a reservation, gather five friends and sit at the chef's table in the kitchen, or hide away in one of the curving-glass private rooms...perfect for a romantic evening out...Hint. Hint.



InterContinental Hotel, 9801 Carnegie Avenue; 216-707-4045
Www.tbl45.com

Charity Wine (2/7)

Thursday, February 7th, 2008

This year marks Rozi's, third annual wine tasting to raise awareness of Congenital Heart Disease. The fund-raising event will take place at Rozi’s Wine House this Thrusday night, from 6-9pm. The line up consists of heart-healthy gourmet dishes prepared by Lolita’s (Cleveland, Ohio) Executive Chef, Matt Harlan. The food will be paired with exquisite red wine samplings from award-winning St. Supery Winery, Napa Valley, presented by their winemaker,. A charity raffle will also be taking place throughout the evening in efforts of raising money, support and awareness.

The proceeds of the night’s events will benefit Jordan’s Family Foundation, The Cleveland Clinic Center for Pediatric and Congenital Heart Diseases, and The Cleveland Clinic Children’s Hospital. All are invited and welcome to the event. Admission is $25 per person which includes all wines sampled and gourmet menu pairings (heart-healthy conscious). There will be door prizes and a raffle. No reservations required. I definitely want to go...hope to see you there. :)

Rozi’s Wine House 14900 Detroit Avenue, Lakewood, OH
http://www.rozis.com/

Great "Pairings" (2/7)

Thursday, February 7th, 2008

This Valentine’s Day season, Whole Foods Market would like to help single shoppers get a heads up on finding a romantic interest. Research shows that people meet in places close to home where they feel safe and comfortable enough to talk to friends of friends and even strangers. With this in mind, they believe that there is no better place to meet than in the aisle of their store. Expect some creative ideas to break the ice and help you meet that special someone. If all else fails you’ll enjoy healthy food, live music entertainment, sustainable door prizes and you may get some grocery shopping done.

Whole Foods Market : 13998 Cedar Road University Heights, OH 44118. For additional information call 216.371.5320 or visit http://www.wholefoodsmarket.com/
6-9pm.

Happy Fat Tuesday (2/5)

Tuesday, February 5th, 2008

Mardi Gras was brought to Louisiana by early French settlers. The first record of the holiday being marked in Louisiana is 1699. The starting date of festivities in New Orleans is unknown, but an account from 1743 notes that the custom of carnival balls was already established by that date. In 1833 Bernard Xavier de Marigny de Mandeville a rich plantation owner raised money to fund an official Mardi Gras celebration. Mardi Gras (French for "Fat Tuesday") is the day before Ash Wednesday, and is also called "Shrove Tuesday" or "Pancake Day". Mardi Gras is the final day of Carnival, though the term is often used incorrectly to describe the days and weeks preceding Fat Tuesday.

Join Brittany Davidson & Friends (a "Blues Folk" band) this Fat Tuesday at Cleveland's own Happy Dog Bar at 5801 Detroit Ave. The band goes on around 9:30 but come early for dinner as they have a full menu. The basket of tater tots ($3) and pierogis ($7) are local favorites!

www.happydog58.com

Mélange Is A Must.

This past weekend I had lunch with some friends at a new bistro at La Place in Beachwood called Mélange.

Next door to William Sonoma, the space itself is done up in coffee and cream, with bursts of tangerine; the restaurant would not be out of place in the lobby of a boutique Miami hotel. Guests are guided to their seats that range from cushy button-tufted leather banquettes to suede armchairs. The space is divided into two main rooms, a carpeted dining room and the lounge that includes a lengthy wood and glass that casts a calming orange glow throughout the room.

I had a salad with grilled-to-perfection tuna and a light lemon dressing, while some of the others enjoyed the soup and salad combos and the hefty Kobe beef burgers. Next time I go I want to get the build-your-own fish taco appetizer that our neighbors were enjoying. I hear they have a great brunch and would love to try it real soon. Definitely check it out.



Mélange 2101 Richmond Rd., Beachwood, 216.378.9755
Lunch: 11:30 a.m.-3 p.m. seven days
Dinner: 5-10 p.m. Monday-Thursday, 5-11 p.m. Friday-Saturday, 5-9 p.m. Sunday
Breakfast: 7-11 a.m. Saturday-Sunday
www.dinemelange.com

Celebrate Carnaval (2/02)

Saturday February 2nd, 2008

The crew at View Nightclub invite everyone to celebrate Carnaval just like they do it up in Rio. The evening will be filled with sequins, feather boas and luscious drinks. Performing will be an authentic Brazilian band...Magia Tropical, a young energetic group playing everything from Samba to Rio Pop. Doors open at 9PM. Party lasts till 4AM, so plan to sleep in on Sunday morning. $10.



The View 618 Prospect Ave E. For additional information call 216.664.1815 or visit www.viewnightclub.com

Wear Red! (2/1)

Friday, February 1st, 2008.

EEK! Too few people realize that heart disease is the No. 1 killer of women (and men), but the good news is that unlike broken hearts, heart disease can be prevented! Today is National Wear Red Day! It’s such a cool day that it has its own dress code. Tonight wear your favorite red clothes or accessory – a red coat, a fabulous red bag, – put on red lipstick, or sport a red tie and red socks. Go red in your own fashion to show your support for women and the fight against heart disease.

Take the American Heart Association’s Online Checkup. Share the results with your physician and follow their recommendations. Encourage your friends to do the same! www.goredforwomen.org/hcu/index.aspx



If you plan top do some shopping tonight wear red to a Macy’s store today and receive an exclusive All-Day savings pass for 15% off apparel and accessories. Not wearing red? Stop by the Accessories Department, make a $2 donation and receive a Red Dress Pin and All-Day Shopping Pass! www1.macys.com

www.goredforwomen.org