Celebrate the arts with your kids (05/03-08)

Today, through Saturday May 8th, 2010

This year Playhouse Square has decided to dedicate an entire week to developing future arts lovers through wonderful shows, art installations, exciting music, puppets, interactive theatre and much more at the first annual International Children's Festival.

With performers from all over the world, your child will be amazed and delighted by the stories, music and interactive performances. From The Dream Jam Band, to the world renowned The Man Who Planted Trees; performed by the Puppet State Theatre Company to an intimate performance of Farfalle (Butterflies) a children's performance presented in Italian...expose your youngsters to the world of performing arts this week at Playhouse Square.

The ticket are affordable, $14 each or if you attend 2 different shows you can purchase 2 different show tickets for $20. With the purchase of your tickets, you will have free access to workshops, hands on activities and more. For details on these events, to buy your tickets, and to pass along the world to you play groups, your bunko clubs and your PTA pals visit their site.

Oh...how could I almost forget...would you like a FREE PAIR OF TICKETS to either The Man Who Planted Trees or Terrance Simien? Send me your top Childrens's art event, exhibit or summer activity in Cleveland. Winner will be chosen at random by Friday at 4:00, be sure to include your email so I can contact you! Good luck.

Strings on Sunday (7/26)

Sunday, July 26th, 2009

This weekend they are calling for off and on showers. What better way to shield ourselves from the sprinkles than to head indoors to this years "String Spectacular" as part of the Cleveland Orchestras summer series.

Come hear over 100 of the country’s finest young string players performing all-time favorites such as Tchaikovsky: Serenade for Strings, Barber: Adagio for Strings and Vivaldi: “Spring” from The Four Seasons.



Severance Hall, 3pm, For tickets and more information visit www.clevelandorchestra.com

Donate your tickets TODAY

I know it's happen to you before...tickets to a game, or a show, last minute meeting called at work or project that isn't quite complete and there is NO WAY you could be downtown in time for the opening act or even the first four innings. But you have called all of your family and friends and noone can take the tickets off your hands...have we the "good deed" solution for you!

Most Valuable Kids (MVK). It's an organization that gives kids in Cleveland the chance to see a sporting event, concert or play that they might not normally have the chance to go.

They take tickets donated from companies and individuals like YOU and put them in the hands of underprivileged kids throughout Cleveland. Given the current economy, it's a great way for people to contribute and do something good without spending a dime.



Think about it, how many people have season tickets and decide at the last minute not to go to the Tribe game or pass on the orchestra? Instead of letting the tix go to waste, you can call us and we'll give them to a child (plus chaperone). It's incredibly easy and the kids love it!

Check out their website or give them a call at 216.556.5933 to DONATE YOUR EXTRA TICKETS RIGHT NOW!

cool winter craft

It's supposed to be a chilly week here in Northeast Ohio. Why not plan craft night and stay in..these make great gift!



If you need to get those cute little reindeer to add to your own winter snowglobe craft head to Suite Lorain (www.suitelorain.net) ..they have tons of them!

Thanksgiving fun!

Not cooking? Need something to do while you wait for the bird to cook? Better than talking to your in-laws! How about something to keep you busy during the commercials while watching the parade? Well, grab your big box of Crayolas and let the fun begin!

Enjoy a little color by numbers, Turkey style!



light gray = 1, dark gray = 2, black = 3, light brown = 4, dark brown = 5, blue-gray = 6, red = 7, green = 8, black and gray = 9, light blue = 10, pink = 11, yellow = 12

Boo at the Zoo!

Friday, October 24th, 2008

Each year I am tempted to grab my friends little munchkins and drag them off to Boo at the Zoo..even been? The weekend affair is a neighborhood of safe Halloween entertainment, with a spooky delight on every corner including animals on exhibit each evening and the "Creepy Crawly Critter Animal Show-Haunting on the High Seas."

Other happy haunts include: the Not-So-Haunted Greenhouse, the Jack-O-Lantern Express Train Ride, the Halloween Hay Maze, puppet shows, magic shows, jugglers, stiltwalkers and much more. Each child receives a complimentary treat bag. Kids and adults are encouraged to wear fun (not scary) costumes.

Open all weekend from 5:30- 8:30 pm. For details, directions and more visit www.clemetzoo.com

Pumpkin Fest!

Haven't got your pumpkin yet, pumpkin? This weekend make your way out to Red Wagon Farm in Columbia Station for some fall fun. Choose your Jack-o'-lantern-to-be and buy some freshly picked apples at the annual Pumpkin Festival.

Kids can tackle "Straw Mountain" and meet with the scarecrows while Mom & Dad can roam through the corn maze and enjoy a roll in the hay..I mean a hayride! :)

Happy Fall Weekend Cleveland!

For directions and more information visit www.redwagonfarm.com

WOW! (8/21)

Wednesday, August 20th, 2008

Throughout this summer, the folks over at University Circle Inc. have planned, presented and perfected “Wade Oval Wednesday’s.” With only a few more Wednesday’s left in the series don’t miss out.

All of the museum are open late with special reduced missions, Check out Gourmets in the Garden at the Botanical Garden where area chefs present some menus ideas and yummy samples. Listen to Cats on Holiday a “swamp pop” band, performing rain or shine! Ride your bike to the circle and take advantage of the free bike corral, secure bike parking provide by Ohio Bike Co-op.

For additional times and information about the few remaining WOW events visit www.universitycircle.org

Fair time. (8/05-10)

Can you believe it’s August? I can’t. I still have lots of things I need to “get in” to call it an official summer. A game of put put golf at Memphis Kiddie Park. A few more trips out on the Kayaks. Ice cream at Honey Hut and perhaps even an evening of firefly collecting (just kidding...sorta). But most of all summer in Cleveland wouldn’t be complete without a trip to the fair!

The Cuyahoga County Fair runs now until Sunday at the Berea Fairgrounds. Pack your Purell and go to oogle the baby pigs and cows, the best tasting blueberry pies, the gorgeous gladiolas grown-locally and more. General admission is $5.95 (children 3-12 yrs old $4.95) or after 9:30 pm, $3.00. If you want to take a spin on the Ferris wheel or bumper cars (my favorite) ride tickets are $.50 each (2 tickets per ride) or purchase an all-day ride band for just $12.



What could be more summer than a evening at the fair? Cotton Candy (love the sweet smell and baby pink hue) and corn on the cob. Live music and motor sports. Activities for you (flea market) the kids (bubble gum blowing contest) and your strange “uncle Eric” (the great bear show). Add it to this weekend’s list.

For fair schedule, directions and more information visit www.cuyfair.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

Beach Review #1

As many of you might know I live on the west side of Cleveland. Since I am a “transplant” to the area the entire “east side vs. west side” concept baffles me. What is it, a total of twenty minutes to get from Lakewood to Beachwood? Not far.

Anyways as a total beach enthusiast, I have taken it upon myself to fully explore many of our beaches around the Northeast Ohio Region...East, West, North and South and report back to you. I tend to go to the beach on Sunday afternoon’s for a day of rest and relaxation. A way of closing the week past and gearing up for the week ahead. I will drive miles for sun, sand and an afternoon filled with catching up on my multiple magazine subscriptions.

Yesterday I am happy to report I spent the afternoon at Mentor Headlands State Park (www.dnr.state.oh.us/parks/tabid/742/Default.aspx). This beach was unlike ANY lake beach I have ever experienced. The white sandy beach that stretched out for an entire mile is actually the largest natural sand beach in Ohio and made me feel like I was on vacation...Florida perhaps. The subtle waves, shiny rocks and sea glass were enough to keep me entertained while in and out of the clean, refreshing water (water temp 74 degrees!). One unique feature of this beach is it’s picturesque lighthouse with a long pier; perfect for an evening stroll. This beach also has two refreshment stands one at either end of the beach just in case you forget your large diet coke and twizzlers.




I couldn’t have asked for nicer weather for my adventure out East. If you’ve also been there let me know what you think. Or, if there are other beaches I may not know about please drop me a line. Otherwise, you know where to find me on a Sunday...somewhere by the water.

A Day on the Farm (5/03)

Saturday, May 3rd, 2008

Join Slow Food Northern Ohio (http://slowfoodnorthernohio.blogspot.com) at Morgan Farm as they celebrate spring and enjoy the season’s first farm-fresh foods. Located 67 miles southwest of Cleveland near Ashland, Ohio, Morgan Farm features ten acres of unspoiled Ohio farmland where you can enjoy a historic, art-filled 1866 farmhouse; mingle with goats, horses, pigs and heritage turkeys; and experience Ohio farm life. Spend an afternoon biking the countryside; browse local antique shops; and pick out spring flowers for mom at local greenhouses.



Saturday afternoon from 2-6 will include a barbeque, including locally made bratwurst & grass-fed burgers, spring slaw, local cheeses, crackers & snacks, and Amish sweets. Suggested Donation: Adults $10 ~ Kids $3 Reservations required. Local farmers will have pork, certified-organic beef, eggs, and fresh baked goods available for sale. From 5-8pm there will also be a large sunset campfire...Don't miss it!

To reserve your spot, please contact Kari at Slow Food Northern Ohio, 216.225.6311 or email: CAFECINQ@roadrunner.com.
Also, Morgan Farm is now booking 2008 farmstays, for more information call 917.586.5477 or visit www.morganfarmstudios.com

Walk Cleveland (4/16)

Wednesday April 16th, 2008

Come on Cleveland..get out and walk...tomorrow is National Start Walking Day. The goal is to encourage Americans to incorporate at least 30 minutes of walking into their average work day. National Start Walking Day is a part of the American Heart Association's Start campaign. The American Heart Association has challenged Americans to walk one million miles on Wednesday.

The American Heart Association focuses on walking as an activity because it's accessible, free and has the lowest dropout rate of any type of exercise. Physical inactivity is a major risk factor for heart disease. Heart disease and stroke continue to be the nation's No. 1 and No. 3 killers. 142 million Adults, 66% of U.S. Adults are overweight.



Start! is the American Heart Association’s groundbreaking national campaign that calls on all Americans and their employers to create a culture of physical activity and health to live longer, heart-healthy lives through walking. Promoting physical activity through workplace walking programs can help employees reduce their risk for heart disease and stroke and lead longer, stronger, healthier lives.

For more information visit www.americanheart.org/presenter.jhtml?identifier=3045557

Clubbin' with the Kids (4/12)

Saturday April 12th, 2008

Rock-n-Tot is here! A VIP afternoon "on the town" party for kids and their parents.

From 2-5pm, Clevelands-own Velvet Dog Nightclub will be transformed into a kid-friendly party zone. The dj plays adult music and you'll find free airbrush tattoo artists for the kids and complimentary massages for the adults, not to mention free juice boxes and snacks!

The DJs play today's club mixes, no "kid" music here, just clean lyrics, a great beat and encourage everyone to get their booties shakin. When you just need to get away from it all, check out the lounge, stuffed to the brim with toys, puzzles, and books. Best of all, it is in a separate location from the dance floor, rejuvenate yourself and the kids here! For all those little Rock stars in our lives (kids 8 to 12) we know that sometimes they get tired of hangin' with younger siblings and just need to relax and chill with kids your their age, check out the rock star area and spend time getting to know other kids (that don't still take naps), play some games, and take some time for yourself.



Most importantly parents, services will vary month to month, but may include : mini-massages, paraffin wax dip, eyebrow waxing, golf pro tutoring - just to name a few! These services are complimentary, they just ask that you consider tipping the folks that have graciously offered these services. Also each family walks away with a fantastic goody bag filled with . . well, you'll have to wait and see!

Juice boxes and kid-friendly snacks are provided by Rock-n-Tot. Please remember to bring any necessary items such as bottles, sippy cups, wet wipes, etc. The bar is open (cash or plastic) for those parents not driving, who wish to have a drink.

Pre-walkers are admitted free, everyone else must have a ticket. $12 a ticket. For more info, or to purchase tickets visit www.rock-n-tot.com

Easter Weekend in Cleveland (3/21-22)

Friday & Saturday March 21st & 22nd, 2008

Although the weekend will be filled with Cadbury Cream Eggs and black jelly beans (my personal favorites!) there is a lot to do around town other than gorge ourselves on our Easter baskets.

Here are a few things that sound fun...

LISTEN : Parts & Labor perform (www.partsandlabor.net) as part of the rock! MOCA art rock series. $6 @ 8pm www.mocacleveland.org

SEE : Caramel (a big hit @ this years film festival) will be showing for an exclusive engagement @ the Cedar Lee Theatre. www.caramelmovie.com for show times visit www.clevelandcinemas.com

DO : Hunt Easter eggs with the kiddies @ Legacy Village (www.legacy-village.com). Between noon and 3pm. FREE

EAT : Saturday morning, explore the West Side Market for fresh spring produce, cheese & meats. The Easter holiday will bring out the best hustle and bustle the market has to offer. www.westsidemarket.com



Happy Easter Cleveland!

Bunny Breakfast (3/15)

Saturday, March 15th, 2008

If you and your little chicks want to head out to visit the Easter Bunny, reserve a space at this years Nordstrom Bunny Breakfast. The morning will feature a balloon artist, face painter, pictures with the Bunny, and a special gift.



Tickets are $14 per person. Seating is limited, so reserve your space today. 8:00 – 10:00am Nordstrom Cafe in Beachwood Mall. To RSVP, call 216-378-2121, ext. 1840.

Healthy Families (3/08)

Saturday, March 8th, 2008

In honor of National Nutrition Month, please join the Junior League of Cleveland as they host the Kids in the Kitchen Program at the Children's Museum. An educational initiative, children & families can take part in a number of interactive activities where they will learn about nutrition, exercise & healthy eating habits. Pack up the mini van and head to the Children's Museum of Cleveland for this exciting and worthwhile event. If you have kids, neighbors, nieces or nephews bring them too!

www.clevelandchildrensmuseum.org

A "Sweet" Tour

With the Easter bunnies arrival quickly approaching make your way to your closest Malley's Chocolate shop...or even better, take a tour of how the sweet creations come to life!

See 60,000 square feet of chocolate fantasy as you guide yourself through the tour hall. Discover a wonderland of delicious chocolates in the fantastic chocolate gift shoppe and taste a special surprise made from our secret recipe when you complete the tour!



TOUR TIMES : Year round: Mon-Fri, 9:30 am - 4 pm. Tours up to 50 people, wheelchair accessible. ADMISSION is Free! Malley's Chocolate Factory : 13400 BrookPark Road. Call to reserve a tour 216-362-8700 or Toll Free 800-835-5684 www.malleys.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

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