Check it out!

Thanks and congratulations to Danielle Deboe; sassy proprietor of the dazzling store “Room Service” (www.roomservicecleveland.com) located in the Gordon Square Arts District. Danielle wrote an amazing City Guide to Cleveland that was published yesterday on the infamous Design Sponge Blog. Danielle, thanks for including iheartcleveland in your mix of all thing fun, fresh and fabulous in Cleveland! Your summary of every nook and cranny in the city is an amazing resource that everyone should have stuffed in their glove box or backpack for an afternoon adventure. Congratulations and thanks again!

To read the article visit www.designspongeonline.com/2008/07/cleveland-design-guide.html#more-10871

Summer Soup

It’s summer so the first thing I want to eat is soup? ABSOLUTELY if it is one of the fabulous chilled soups from SouperMarket.

Voted BEST SOUP IN THE CITY six years in a row by Scene Magazine. With over 12 fresh soups daily, everything is handcrafted from their blade to our bowls. All natural, no additives or preservatives in any of their food.

Along with the amazing Spicy Shrimp Gazpacho (my lunch yesterday!), this week chilled specials are as follows...
Ohio City Location : 7/28-8/01 : Chilled Chipotle-Mango
Lakewood Location : 7/28-8/01 : Chilled Curried Summer Squash

I can’t wait to see next weeks chilled specials! For direction, the weekly specials, as well as their everyday scrumptious menu (I love the asparagus salad too) visit www.thesoupermarket.com

August Concerts!

Save the Dates.In doing some research for upcoming posts I came across numerous concerts in August that I wanted to make sure got on everyones calendars, including my own! Most of them are local bands, singer, songwriters but there are a few larger names too. Good times in our city of rock and roll!

8/01 : Return of Simple : Grog Shop : My favorite song is Saffron and boy can these guys jam. Amazing! (www.myspace.com/returnofsimple)

8/02 : Rachel Roberts : Lakewood Art Festival 12:30pm : She has a great voice! I have seen her twice before and would highly recommend her tunes for a relaxing Saturday afternoon. http://profile.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=user.viewprofile&friendID=42735320

8/02 : Mifune : Brothers Lounge : This world-pop nine-piece blends the groovy, funk-tribal vibe of afrobeat with spacey, Stereolab-style ambient pop. (www.myspace.com/mifunesound)

8/03 : Joshua Radin (with Vanessa Carlton) : Beachland Ballroom : Josh is from Cleveland! (www.joshuaradin.com)

8/03 : Neil Diamond : The Q : 8:00pm : Tickets are a bit steep; $55 and up but who can resist "Sweet Caroline Bum Bum Bum?"

8/04 : Radiohead : Blossom Music Center : I have lawn seats, hope it doesn't rain!

8/08 : Metro Station | Boys Like Girls | Good Charlotte : Time Warner Amphitheatre : Feel like a Tween!—Or just rock-out like one

8/09 : Copperfoot : Crocker Park Chess Park, Westlake 6:30 - 9:30 PM : Rock , country blues, lounge songs, and folktales- all the way to the mountain top. Copperfoot plays spirited, powerful original music (and a few well chosen covers). (www.myspace.com/copperfoot)

8/09 : Jill Scott : Playhouse Square : She has an amazing set of pipes. I have been listening to her for some time, I love "Crown Royal on Ice." (www.myspace.com/whoisjillscott)

8/11 : Tokio Hotel : House of Blues Cleveland : A bit "harder" than I usually listen too...but a great band to add to your workout playlist. Monsoon is great...and so is the lead singers hair! (www.myspace.com/tokiohotel)

8/12 : Kate Kunstall : House of Blues Cleveland : Her CD is Eye to the Telescope is a great body of work. Not only is Black Horse & the Cherry Tree a hit, but I like Suddenly I See.

8/16 : Cameo | Sisqo | Peabo Bryson : Soul Food Festival—Voinovich Park : Good Music and fun food!

8/22 : Nine Inch Nails with special guest Does It Offend You, Yeah? : The Q : 7:00pm, should be a giant production, anyone going?

8/22 : HotChaCha : Matinee Cleveland : Favorite song...Heidi Was Never Good (http://www.myspace.com/hotchachahotchacha)

8/24 : Kate Voegele : House of Blues Cambridge Room : All the way from Bay Village. (www.myspace.com/katevoegele)

8/24 : Paramore with special guest Paper Route : Time Warner Amphitheatre : I saw Paper Route in Atlanta and they have a great sound...oh and I love riding my bike to Paramore!

8/27 : Miss Melvis and if you missed them before, Hot ChaCha will be playing again : Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, 7-9pm FREE sponsored by Cleveland.com, The Plain Dealer and the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame & Museum. Can't wait to see Melanie Rock out!

8/31 : Los Lonely Boys : Taste Of Cleveland : Groovy tunes for a perfect Sunday afternoon!

If I missed any MUST-SEE's let me know! Cheers for today.

Lakewood Art Festival (8/02)

Saturday, August 2nd, 2008

The 31st Annual Lakewood Arts Festival will be held this weekend from 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m on Detroit Avenue from Elmwood to Belle Avenues.

For over thirty years, the Lakewood Art Festival has brought local and national artists to the streets of Lakewood, Ohio the first weekend in August. The Lakewood Downtown Arts Festival, Inc. is a nonprofit organization that administers the show with the help of a team of hard-working volunteers and the cooperation of the city of Lakewood, Ohio. The festival supports itself with money raised by entry fees, donations from community merchants, sponsorship funds and t-shirt sales.

Every year a line-up of fine musical entertainment is scheduled throughout the day. This year Rachel Roberts from Akron will perform live at 12:30, she is a must-see! Be there.



Besides supporting the festival itself, money earned or donated goes towards a scholarship for a local high school graduate, a Lakewood resident, pursuing a degree in fine arts, and toward grants awarded local organizations presenting art programs for children and seniors in Lakewood.

For the map, listing of artists visit www.lakewoodartsfest.org

New Art.

On this blog, I mostly try and tell you of upcoming events and happenings around town but I can’t resist sharing my new little piece of art. I purchased this small beaute this past Friday at the opening of Claire Mojher’s work at Papercuts and Gluesticks in Rocky River. I took one look at “Lucy and Loubelle lurk behind the scenes” and knew I had to take “them” home. The gilded blue silver frame and little blue bow adds to the charm and whimsy of the piece. The exhibit will run through the end of August, stop in to see the entire collection (my piece is still there). Otherwise visit Claire's Etsy site for more examples of her work.



www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5036218 or to read more of her thoughts visit http://clairemojher.blogspot.com/

Triathlon (8/03)

“It’s a Hot Man Parade.” - Quoted from Joanne on watching triathlons

Sunday, August 3rd join Pacific Sports as they present the Cleveland Triathlon taking place in and around downtown.

If you plan on watching the event, head downtown to just north of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame where the transition/athlete area will be. Or, take your bike and ride down to the closed-off shoreway for a view of the bikers, post-swim, pre-run!

Start times and distances. (It’s early, beware!)
6:45 am Super Sprint (300-yard swim, 8-mile bike, 1.5-mile run)
7:15 am Sprint (0.5m Swim, 16m Bike, 5k Run) [My race of choice]
7:45 am Olympic (1.5k Swim, 24m Bike, 10k Run)

Only a week left to go until the big race...time to hit the gym tonight (and a few more times this week) to work off some of the crap I ate over the weekend. It’s all good, nothing a few times on the espresso bikes and treadmill can’t fix. :) Hope to see everyone at the race!

For the actual race course maps and additional information visit http://www.pacificsportsllc.com/cleveland/athlete.html

A Steal of a Deal.

This morning I had an early morning meeting out near Brook park and 130th. As I was driving out there I passed many old manufacturing businesses, run down neighborhood bars and closed up retail stores. If I had some extra time I would have pulled over a few different times to capture old signage, hand drawn lettering and lots of yard “décor.” A visual delight.

Besides old metal letters and burnt out neon, I wanted to pass along a real deal...gas for $3.53 a gallon. Head over to the corner of 130th and Snow Rd and fill up today! If you have the time grab your camera and enjoy a feast for your eyes too.

Beach Review #2

Beach Review #2

We couldn’t have asked for a more beautiful weekend in Cleveland. Blue skies (mostly), a warm breeze and so many things to do, see and explore. With a close friend visiting from the big apple I was constantly reminded time and time again how lovely our city is. Relatively no traffic, easy to get around, cheap tickets to an afternoon baseball game, great “boutique” bars, I could go on and on, but we already know how great Cleveland is anyways.



A few months ago I reviewed Mentor Headlands Beach and today I am pleased to report another positive report on an area favorite, Edgewater State Park. After spending the afternoon in the sun, lunching on soft pretzels and bud light at “Jacobs Field,” we decided to make a pit stop down at the beach on our way to the airport. The beach was hopping. Families having large picnics. Dodge ball games. Lots of gorgeous kites flew above. A guy on his electric guitar strummed tunes overlooking the beach. A group of performance BMX riders displayed their tricks. People reading. People sleeping. Lots of dogs (Chihuahua's to be specific?). Runners. Couples on their motorcycles. The visual display of summertime overwhelmed the senses. Everyone was enjoying the beach, the park and taking in summer.

This beach/park is more than just a pretty sand lot to dip your toes in the water; although the water was warm and clean-looking. Spending time at this beach reminds you how lucky we are to live in an urban community. It’s a small oasis from city life. It’s cool; has a great breeze rolling off the city. The skyline of downtown shines across the beach pier; a perfect place to read and people watch. Next time you want to feel as if you just want to get away, swing by Edgewater Park, I bet you will be pleasantly surprised.

For directions, park hours and more visit www.ohiodnr.com/parks/clevelkf/tabid/721/Default.aspx

Free Music

Last night after an intense spinning class I was trying to figure out what to do with the rest of my night and procrastinating on unpacking my suitcase to clear off my guest bedroom bed to make way for weekend company....

I ended up at the new Lakewood Library Audiovisual Department and all I can say is WOW! I try to give this blog an overall Cleveland voice but now and then I have to take the opportunity to plug my suburb of Lakewood, the new library is such an amazing resource, everyone should come by and check it out! The large room filled with DVDs and CD’s is better than any Barnes and Noble (minus the listening booths) around. The vast selection of music from international tunes, to a wide collection of R&B, classic rock and “popular” music excited my soul. As I wondered the aisles I tried not to select too many cd’s as I worry I might loose them if I have out too many...you can take out up to 25 cd’s per visit!...I took out 6.

Free music for the weekend. Some old and some new too me. Great music for the car. Good tunes for those mellow afternoon drives and some dance tunes to get pumped to go out! Here is what I chose last night, next time you visit the library let me know what you choose.

> Nina Simone : DIVA : because I am taking a friend from out of town to Beachland to see her daughter “Simone” in concert Saturday night!
> The Polyphonic Spree : The Beginning Stages : Because I just read about them in an old issue of Esquire and wanted to hear what they were all about.
> Will Hoge : Blackbird on a Lonely Wire (www.myspace.com/willhoge) Coming to Beachland October 18th : Because he is one of my sisters faves, she took me see him in concert in Orlando one time and he has a good sound.
> Moby : Songs from 1993-1998 : Just because he makes me smile!
> K.d. Lang : Invincible Summer : Just because I haven’t listened to her music in a long time and the cd title spoke to me.
> Madonna : Confessions on a Dance Floor : Because who doesn’t LOVE a bit of Madonna, especially when you a feel a night of dancing approaching.

Swing by your local library from some free weekend music.

Christmas in July (7/25)

Friday, July 25th, 2008

Christmas in July featuring The Ohio City Singers : Every Christmas for the past 5 years The Ohio City Singers gather up friends and family to record a batch of holiday cheer. Tonight the band will perform their FIRST EVER Christmas live show at the Southside in Tremont to celebrate Christmas in July. Yes, a random excuse to be stupid!

The band features a crazy collective of Cleveland musicians including Chris Allen, Doug McKean, Chris Hanna, Tom Prebish, Brent Kirby and Bobby Latina of the Jack Fords, Dan Rose, Austin "Candy Cane" Charanghat, Kelly Wright and many more.

Show time is at an early 8 pm and will consist of classic cuts such as "Egg Nogg", "Real Good Christmas Time" and "White Cleveland Christmas."

For more information visit www.chrisallenmusic.com. For directions to the Southside visit www.southsidecleveland.com

Also, even though last nights Great Lakes Brewing Co. "Christmas (Ale) in July Party" was sold out...if they have any of that liquid gold left over, you may be able to grab yourself a pint or two tonight! It's never too early to celebrate the holidays!

Claire Mojher in River (7/25)

Friday, July 25th, 2008

If you enjoy a good art opening than you won’t want to miss the lovely work of Claire Mojher this Friday evening at the charming gallery in Rocky River, Papercuts and Gluesticks .

Claire's work has soul, a look into the lives of her characters reveals mystery, intrigue, pain and a whimsical curiosity for life. Her use of color is both vibrant and dark. As a graduate of the Ringling School of Art and Design, Sarasota Florida, Claire has received numerous awards and accolades. I don’t know now she found Ohio, but we are excited to see her work. I will definitely be stopping by the gallery...pre-ingenuity events!



Opening reception with the artists from 7=9pm. Eat. Drink. And Buy Art!
For more of Ms. Mojhers work visit www.clairemojher.com for directions and more information on the gallery visit www.papercutsandguesticks.com

Home Grown Film (7/27)

Sunday, July 27th, 2008

Lakewood Earth & Food Community presents the film...Real Low Calorie Diet. This movie captures a movement across Northeast Ohio to change the way that we eat. As the film reveals through interviews, animation, and beautiful footage of the city and the countryside, the simple act of eating locally honors our land, our communities, and our rich natural heritage. From climate change to nutritional issues in the inner-city, this film demonstrates that many innovations to our social problems are already taking place at the grassroots level, where the real hope for our democracy lies.

Eat right, preserve the environment, and safeguard democracy. 2:00 p.m. in the new Lakewood Main Library Auditorium.

Magical, a perfect description. (7/25-27)

Friday, Saturday & Sunday, June 25th through the 27th, 2008

The Ingenuity Festival returns with a weekend-long celebration of art and technology, designed for audiences of any age and experience, staged in the center of Downtown Cleveland. Prominent international masters present original works alongside the finest of Northeast Ohio's performing and visual artists. High technology firms and major colleges and universities are presented alongside acclaimed artists to create a dazzling display of exciting and immersive new work! Ingenuity pushes boundaries, creating a unique festival experience that draws and celebrates diversity, and involves the audience as both spectator and participant!



There are so many interesting looking shows, exhibits and installations, but one that I deffinatley want to catch will be a late night performance by the Hot Cha Cha's Friday night at the Plain Dealer Star Plaza Stage.

Oh and if you haven't been to the Opening Ceremony (Friday, July 25 4-5:30 pm) before, it is worth it to skip out of work early for the big show...let's just say...it's Magical. :)

For the schedule and more information visit www.ingenuitycleveland.com

Carmona returns (7/26)

Saturday, July 26th 2008

Carmona cleared to return Saturday, right-hander hasn't pitched for Tribe since May 23! When the 40-pitch 'pen was over Tuesday at Angel Stadium, Fausto Carmona, nine weeks after landing on the disabled list with a left hip strain, got his official clearance to rejoin the Indians' rotation Saturday against the Twins. Manager Eric Wedge wouldn't speculate on what the corresponding roster move will be Saturday. "We're playing it day by day in regard to that," Wedge said. "We don't have to do anything until Saturday."



What could be better than a baseball game this weekend? There are so many things happening this weekend in Cleveland but with a close friend in from out of town, nothing is better than a Sunday afternoon ball game, a cold beer and the ultimate "I" soft pretzel (and lots of sunscreen!)?

The Tribe will be in town all weekend (Friday, Saturday & an afternoon game Sunday). For game times and ticket information visit www.cleveland.indians.mlb.com

Simone sings Simone (7/26)

Saturday, July 26th, 2008

If you "want a little sugar in your bowl," than you can't miss this lifetime opportunity to hear Simone sing the tunes her mother, Nina Simone once crooned.

She is her own woman, a singer, songwriter and performer whose ability to transcend genres echoes the tradition of her mother, musical icon and pioneer Nina Simone. Blessed with a rich vocal range, an innate skill for lyrical interpretation and a soul-deep understanding of music as a means of healing, empowerment and celebration, Simone is very much her mother’s daughter, she is most assuredly a multi-talented artist in her own right.

A highly-praised live performer whose impressive resume includes starring roles on Broadway in such acclaimed musicals as Rent and Aida, Simone has developed an exciting and diverse repertoire of pop, soul, jazz, rock and funk, expressed in shows she’s done throughout the U.S. and in the UK, Ireland, Holland, Finland, Spain and France.



“This is my tribute to my mother, a chance for me to do the songs I love the most the way I hear them. It’s a glimpse of my life over four decades…” On April 21, 2006, three years after her mother’s passing, Simone paid tribute to her at Town Hall in New York, at the very venue where forty-seven years earlier a 26-year old Nina Simone had enjoyed her first major show in the city. Simone’s spellbinding, soulful performance turned into the genesis for the recording of Simone On Simone. “The idea had been pitched to me before but I had been writing a lot of my own material for almost ten years and my goal was to record those songs. It felt like an obstacle between me and that goal to do a tribute record to my mother. But after the Town Hall performance, I started considering it seriously…”

I can't wait to see this show. I remember the first time I ever heard Nina Simone I was in seventh grade and I rushed out and bought a tape of her music. Her deep vocal range astonished me as a young soprano singer, I actually ruined that tape from rewinding it over and over and trying to sing those same notes. I think this show will be a summer, must see!

For times & tickets visit www.beachlandballroom.com For more information on Ms. Simone visit www.simonesworld.com

Exquisite Chocolates

As we strolled the streets of Tremont we discovered a new city gem that I can't resist sharing!

First off...who couldn't fall in love with a store who's tagline is..."Specializing in making your mouth dance?"

Lilly Handmade Chocolates designs unique chocolates from only the freshest ingredients, no preservatives, no artificial flavors. Just the good stuff! They are made on premise with French & Belgian covertures, locally roasted nuts and much love, of course!

Some of the flavors I can't wait to treat myself too would be The Heather (cayenne pepper & dark chocolate), The Southern Gentleman (Makers Mark Bourbon, buttered pecans & milk chocolate) and The Intense Orange (blood orange juice & dark chocolate).



Stop by Lilly on the 2nd Friday of each month for the Tremont Art Walk as they stay open until 10pm! For directions, hours and other flavors visit www.lillytremont.com

Skin Check Up (7/23,24)

Wednesday & Thursday, July 23rd and 24th, 2008

Get your skin screened! The Road to Healthy Skin Tour kicked off in New York City in early May and will run through the fall. The tour is expected to screen more than 10,000 people and will visit more than 50 cities at 100 different locations across the country. The Road to Healthy Skin Tour presented by AVEENO® and Rite Aid with support from Columbia Sportswear will offer free full body skin cancer screenings conducted by local board-certified dermatologists. The 38-foot customized RV will stop at participating Rite Aid stores and other locations in order to provide early detection services to thousands of people. Currently, skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the United States, with more than 1 million cases diagnosed annually across the country.

“Many people don’t know that they should get a yearly skin exam. The goal of this tour is to educate the public about skin cancer and encourage people to schedule regular skin screenings,” said Perry Robins, MD, President of The Skin Cancer Foundation. “Caught in the early stages, skin cancer is almost always curable.”

Melanoma is the most serious form of skin cancer and has increased more rapidly than any other form of skin cancer during the past 10 years. With nearly 60,000 cases and 8,000 deaths occurring each year in the United States melanoma has reached epidemic proportions. However, when diagnosed and removed early, melanoma is usually curable.

Sneak out on your lunch break for a quick, private, one-on-one screening at either of these locations. 7/23, Cleveland Rite Aid at 10090 Chester Avenue or 7/24, Strongsville Rite Aid at 15153 Pearl Road

Turning One (7/18)

Friday, July 18th, 2008

Just a little note to thank all of you readers, as we celebrate our first anniversary at iheartcleveland.

What started out as a way to inform friends and family about the fun weekly happenings around town has sprouted into a wonderful community of friends, opinions and a tool to area residents.

Thanks to everyone who has made the effort to drop a "comment" line, email a great idea, tip me off to a new place or to anyone has endured endless hours of constant talking about "The Blog."

Happy Birthday iheartcleveland, here's to many more. Now, let's go eat cake!

Tremont Tastes Good! (7/20)

Sunday, July 20th, 2008

Put down the top of your little blue convertible, grab those dark aviator sunglasses, round up the gang and head down to the 6th Annual Taste of Tremont street festival from 1:00to 8:00pm. The street fair will be held in the heart of Tremont’s “restaurant district” and showcase the best of Tremont’s food, art and entertainment. Professor Street will be blocked off, inclusive of commercial areas of Literary, College and Jefferson. The best part is that admission is free!

For more information including the official map, visit www.restoretremont.com

Horse Show (7/19-20)

Saturday & Sunday, July 19th & 20th, 2008

Don't miss one of Northern Ohio's special summer events...the Chagrin Valley Hunter Jumper Classic. This colorful and exciting event, returns to the Cleveland Metroparks Polo Field in Moreland Hills, Ohio. Competition begins at 8am and there will be three rings of horse show competition each day.

See the best horses and riders from across the nation as they travel to Ohio for this top level hunter and jumper horse competition. Grass and bleacher seating is available with your general admission ticket. Bring a lawn chair, picnic blanket, or enjoy the view from ringside bleachers (available first come, first serve). General Admission Ticket prices range from $10-$5 depending on the day.

For details, schedules, maps, etc. visit www.clevelandgrandprix.com

Hamburger Weekend (7/19-20)

Saturday, July 19th, 2008

Did you know, burgers account for 40% of all sandwiches sold in the US every year? per

Although I don't often post about Akron, I found something totally worth the 25 minute drive that I couldn't resist sharing....if you are a vegetarian...please disregard this post, but for those meat lovers...it's a MUST.



This year’s National Hamburger Festival takes place July 19-20 in downtown Akron. You won’t regret getting your "buns" in gear for a trip this weekend. They have everything a hamburger enthusiast would want and need from pickles, onion and ketchup toppings to events like, bobbing for hamburgers, lots of live music and a Miss Hamburger Pageant!

For schedule of events, times an location visit www.hamburgerfestival.com

Missy @ Beachland (7/20)

Sunday, July 20th 2008

In a world littered with disposable pop Missy Higgins is a welcome relief.. passionate, sincere and proudly Australian. The 23 year old singer/songwriter from Melbourne has enjoyed phenomenal success in her homeland in spite - or perhaps because - of shunning the usual synthetic packaging and tabloid tackiness. Instead she's adopted a more timeless approach, relying on her undeniable songs and unforgettable live performances to build a genuine and gimmick free connection with her audience.



Missy's new album, "On A Clear Night", retains the hallmarks of her earlier work - irresistible melodies and 'arrow through the heart' lyrics delivered by a voice that clearly means it. However, this time around the tracks benefit from the empathetic production of Mitchell Froom who helmed the first three Crowded House albums as well as works by other quality artists such as Ron Sexsmith, Elvis Costello, Paul McCartney and the Finn Brothers.

My favorite Missy Higgins Tunes to sing really loud when I am alone in the car is Sugarcane (So, run, run fast sugarcane) and Peachy ("Life is peachy...without me")


Missy will be in concert Sunday at Beachland Ballroom, at 8pm, $15.00 www.missyhiggins.com

Walk & Roll Lakewood (7/19)

Saturday, July 19th 2008

Come celebrate Lakewood’s walkability and its finest assets: a vibrant downtown, historic architecture and a spectacular Lake Erie park. Two-miles of streets in the heart of the urban community will be closed for walking, running, strolling, bicycling, blading and socializing. Programming includes tumbling, dancing, aerobics, yoga, a bike rodeo, skateboard demonstrations and more. All activities are free and will take place on the streets or in Lakewood Park. Visitors will have the opportunity to join “classes” on an impromptu basis. This is a progressive and unique event for health, environmental and community-minded Ohioans.



For activity details, visit www.walkroll.com

Marie Sings (7/11)

Friday, July 11th, 2008

Don't miss the lovely, elegant and You-Tube phenom this evening at the House of Blues as LA-Based Marie Digby captures the crowd with her sweet, sensual, simply gorgeous voice.



With her new album and recent world premier video (www.youtube.com/watch?v=9F9q_k5TWqo) songs like "Say it Again" and "Spell" are soon to become regular whistle-while-you-work tunes, catch her while you can. If you missed her show at The Winchester back in May she will be opening for Gavin DeGraw tonight.

Doors open at 7:30. Tickets starts at $22. For ticket information visit www.hob.com/venues/clubvenues/cleveland/ or check out Marie at www.myspace.com/mariedigby

FREE Sweet Slurpee (7/11)

Friday, July 11th, 2008

For some reason I think I have the inside scoop when it comes to candy, sweets, free stuff and anything chocolate. I "heart" Cleveland and I want to keep everyone healthy but I can't hold back that tomorrow is FREE SLURPEE DAY at 7-Eleven!

In honor of 7-Eleven Day (who knew?), stop into your closest Cleveland locale and grab your Cherry-Coke..or if you want your tongue to turn blue...a Blue Who Hoo Vanilla..7.11 oz. SLURPEE!

For additional flavors, nutrition facts (nah...) or directions to your closest location, visit www.slurpee.com

Community Lunch (7/12)

Saturday, July 12th 2008

To celebrate summer and a sense of community, join the residents of Rocky River at the annual "River Days, Taste of River Fest." The event will be a fun and enjoyable way for visitors to taste samples from area restaurants. Some of the food vendors that will be participating range from the new Sweet Melissa's to Linden Tavern, from Camille's Sidewalk Cafe to Chick-Fil-A. For dessert don't miss the second annual apple pie baking contest.

Tickets will be on hand to purchase for the various food vendors, a great destination for lunch! The event will take place at the Don Umerley Civic Center (21016 Hilliard Blvd. Rocky River) From noon until 3:00pm. For additional information call the Rocky River Chamber of Commerce call 440.331.1140.

A Scoop for a Pint! (7/13)

Sunday, July 13th, 2008

Don't miss this annual blood drive hosted by Mitchells Ice Cream in Rocky River in collaboration with the American Red Cross. From noon to five, stop by and donate a pint of blood and in return you will get a free scoop of their Cleveland-made ice cream.



My current favorite is peach but I also love the mango sorbet...what's yours?

For details call Mitchell's at 440.333.4563 19700 Detroit Rd, Rocky River
For the full flavor list visit www.mitchellshomemade.com

Sip & Stroll (7/10)

Thursday, July 10th, 2008

Sip and Stroll at the Shops of Old River every Thursday night now through September. Visit the unique boutiques, including the Girl Next Door and Paper Trails (www.papertrailstoyou.com) as they stay open later for evening shopping. Sample wines and snacks from some of the area eateries including the new Tartine Bistro (www.tartinebistro.com) and the ever popular Stino da Napoli (www.stinodanapoli.com)

Swing by old river and enjoy a night out with friends!

Cottontail Concert (7/12)

Saturday, July 12th, 2008

(hum to the tune of Peter Cottontail...) Here comes Roxy Cottontail hopping down the B. Side trail hippitty hoppity concerts on it's way. Bringing every girl and boy big night full with party joy hippity hoppy roxy's on her way! :)

"Roxy Cottontail is the woman that every girl rocking Nikes and huge earrings longs to be. Roxy, who also goes by Oxy, is a streetwear fashionista, full-time hustler, and arguably one of New York's best-known promoters. She got into the business by spreading the club sound and making stars out of acts such as Spank Rock and Hollertronix. She also DJs and recently got into producing music for herself. Roxy raps over beats that are a little punk, a little funk, sample-heavy, and undeniably dance-party worthy. Imagine a mix of Peaches, the Rapture, and Gravy Train and you're almost ready for Roxy's set." - flavorpill.net



Don't miss "oxy cottontail" (www.oxycottontail.com) as she spins records at The B-Side Liquor Lounge along with Misterbradleyp - 10pm $10 For more concert info visit www.grogshop.gs

Explore the Cod

Can I just say one of the things I "heart" about our fair city is the never-ending opportunity for adventure and discovery? As many times as I have driven by and parked by the U.S.S. Cod, I had never even thought to go in...until our day on the RTA lead us down to the water. If you have never been, it's quite and awesome experience.

First off, pick a sunny, clear, not-too-hot afternoon and get ready to duck as you make your way down under the lake and into this historic submarine. As you crawl down the steep metal ladder (*note. next time do not wear a skirt) imagine, 90 men down below, in close quarters underwater for 75 days (more than TWO MONTHS) at a time....insane. The stale smell of metal and vintage "pleather" lurked the narrow halls of this massive sea vessel. The miniature living quarters (including an amazing array of dining rooms, kitchens, teeny bedrooms and offices) were nestled amongst torpedoes, large engines, navigational equipment and massive water purification systems.



The U.S.S. Cod was named after the world's most important food fish and is a World War II era fleet submarine. The 312-ft, 1,525-ton submarine began her life in 1942 when her keel was laid at the Electric Boat Co., in Connecticut. Cod was launched in 1943 and was placed in commission by James C. Dempsey, USN. Dempsey had already won fame by sinking the first Japanese destroyer lost in the war while in command of a tiny, World War I-era submarine.

Cleveland can claim partial credit as Cod's birthplace, since the submarine's five massive diesel engines were built by General Motors' Cleveland Diesel plant on Cleveland's west side. Cod is now docked in Lake Erie at Cleveland, Ohio and is maintained and operated as a memorial to the more than 3900 submariners who lost their lives during the 100 year history of the United States Navy Submarine Force.

Be warned, if you a claustrophobic this is NOT the adventure for you. Also, I would not recommend taking very small children on this sub as you literally have to crawl in and out the vessel...no escalators or stairs here, just ladders. The public is invited to visit the boat daily between May 1 and September 30 each year. For times and additional information visit www.usscod.org.

Luau on the Lake (7/12)

Saturday, July 12th, 2008

Now in its 3rd year, Luau on the Lake is a Hawaiian themed event to benefit Shoes and Clothes for Kids. Guests enjoy a feast fit for a tiki god – great food, drinks, sand volleyball, live music and fabulous views of Lake Erie – all to support a great cause! The evening event also features many give-aways and fabulous raffle prizes.



Shoes and Clothes for Kids is the only non-profit organization in Greater Cleveland providing new shoes and clothes to thousands of children in need at no charge throughout the year. Support this worthy organization and get your tickets today. Tickets can be purchased online or at the door for $50 each. The event is heald at Wendy Park at Whiskey Island (2800 Whiskey Island | Cleveland OH 44102)

For additional information visit www.luauonthelake.com

Quote!

"If The Beatles or the 60's had a message, it was 'Learn to swim.'
And once you've learned....swim!" -John Lennon

Happy Fourth of July Cleveland...now go swim!

Freedom Yoga! (7/04)

Friday, July 4th, 2007

Join Evolution Yoga for this year's 5th annual outdoor yoga fundraiser for and at The Gathering Place, a caring community for those touched by cancer. Bring a friend to this all levels yoga class team. ALL funds collected go directly to The Gathering Place!

This year, you can choose to donate online, click through as if you are registering for a class to donate online. We recommend you bring sun glasses and wear sunscreen if the day is sunny.

The Gathering Place : 23300 Commerce Park in Beachwood, behind the Beachwood post office, just off Green Road.
For more information visit www.evoyoga.com

Paper Bird Tunes (7/04)

After you've had your fill, admiring the glitz and glimmer of your neighborhood fireworks, head over to Bella Dubby (Madison Ave, just west of 117th) in Lakewood for an amazing treat for your musical soul...Paper Bird.

Standing firm in no existing genre, Paper Bird's backbone is their songwriting, musicianship, and a general allergy to all limitations and trends. With seven members, and no leader, this band is pulled in every direction imaginable, but thanks to their unique instrumentation, this Denver-based group never reminds you of anyone but themselves.



The band's inception came at a cabin high in the Colorado Rocky Mountains where, the first time they played music together, four songs were written and played to their first audience (passers-by on a street corner in Breckenridge,CO) a few hours later. Within a month they had a seven song demo of all originals and a solid foot in the door of the Denver music scene. They are currently touring with Tour de Fat (www.followyourfolly.com) in a city near you!

The present finds them functioning more as a family than a band. Listen to their music, they will make you happy. Check out the show, they will make you their friend. www.myspace.com/paperthebird

Shiny Cleveland Fireworks (7/03-05)

I once had a friend who told me I probably was a crow in a past life. Like me, crows love sparkly, shiny objects such as coins, tin foil, gum wrappers or in my case, rhinestones, glitter, a shiny clean car and even better....FIREWORKS!

To get your fill of colorful snap crackle and pop explosions this holiday weekend check out the list of this year's firework displays in the Greater Cleveland area.



Aurora : Sunny Lake Park : Saturday, July 5 @ dusk
Avon Lake : Weiss Field : Thursday, July 3 @ dusk
Bay Village : Cahoon Park : Friday, July 4 @ dusk
Berea : Coe Lake Gazebo : Friday, July 4 at 10 pm
Bratenahl : Bratenahl Village Park : Saturday, July 5 @ dusk
Cleveland : The Flats : Friday, July 4 at 9:45 pm
Downtown Cleveland : Public Square : Wednesday, July 2 at 9:00 pm
Cuyahoga Falls : Blossom Music Center : Saturday, July 5 @ dusk
Elyria : West Park : Thursday, July 3 at 10 pm
Hudson : Barlow Farm Park : Saturday, July 5 @ dusk
Independence : Elmwood Park : Thursday, July 3 @ dusk
Lakewood : Lakewood Park : Friday, July 4 @ dusk (raindate July 5)
Lorain : Black River Landing : Friday, July 4 at 10 pm
Medina : Medina High School : Thursday, July 3 at dusk
Mentor : Civic Center Park : Friday, July 4 at 9:50 pm
North Ridgeville : South Central Park : Thursday, July 3 @ dusk
Parma: Tri-C West Campus : Friday, July 4 @ dusk
Shaker Heights : Shaker Middle School : Friday, July 4 @ dusk
Solon : Solon High School football field : Friday, July 4 @ dusk
Strongsville : Foltz Athletic Fields : Friday, July 4 @ dusk
Westlake : Clague Park : Friday, July 4 @ dusk
Willoughby : South High School : Friday, July 4 at 9:45 pm

My favorite fireworks are the all white ones that look like they explode in the sky to the shape of a giant daisy and then rain glitter the whole way down to the earth. Perhaps my friend was right...maybe I was a crow? Wonder if crows like fireworks too?

If I have missed any towns or neighborhoods celebrations, feel free to comment and I will post it.