CELEBRATE (food) CARTS (06/10)

Thursday, June 10th 2010

Have you heard the buzz? Food delivered right to your place of work? Or how about gourmet food to cure your late night cravings? yes, Cleveland has recently upped the ante by adding a series of food carts to our already stellar lunch and dinner options.

Cleveland Public Art, The Zygote Press and Ohio City Near West are hosting an event to celebrate the latest and greatest. Swing by West 26th Street (in front of CPA) the street will be closed so we can eat from the carts & drink in the street! Zygote Press artists' prints will be on display in CPA's office gallery.

Fingers crossed the sun shines. Sounds like it will be such a fun evening.5:30-9:00pm

First JUNE weekend.

With summer just around the corner, I’m starting to crave...

> Long bike rides in the dark.

> Sweet treats, especially PEACH!

> Outdoor FREE Movies! Transformers, Men in Back, or Jurassic Park?

> Yummy Spirits & brunch on the patio.

> Ooooommm (Yoga) on the lake

> Pizza, Chianti & ART

Happy first weekend in June!

Guess where?

I love this bench....do you? :)

ArtMart (04/09)

Friday, April 9th, 2010

I haven't actually been to this Spaces Gallery event, but I've heard about it for many many years, and this time...it's time to check it out!

This is how Spaces is promoting the party, and I couldn't have put it any better...I love their writer, whomever it is?

"Looking to add to your art collection without breaking the bank? How about fulfilling your undying urge to accessorize? Or maybe you just want to party whilst being surrounded by beautiful things. Aside from attending one of the coolest annual parties in town, you can take home fresh art on the spot while supporting your favorite artist and art space. Profits from this event benefit the participating artists and SPACES. Can you think of a better way to support a cause while having fun shopping?"



"Over one hundred regional artists (all members supporting SPACES’ mission) will exhibit and sell paintings, photography, drawings, prints, ceramics, sculpture, jewelry, handbags, textiles, videos, and much more. Meet and mingle with over 500 of your closest friends on opening night as you enjoy art for all different tastes, music, and food from your favorite neighborhood restaurants."

Hope to see everyone there!!! Admission is $5 for guests at the door, Free for members.

Hello HGR Industrial!

It’s officially Spring! The air is warm during the day but blows a cool breeze through my windows at night. The tree branches above sprout little flowers of pink and white, while the concrete sidewalks don the remnants of pollen and little thing-a-ma-jigs from the recent flowering above. I love this season.

I especially love this season because I start day dreaming about home improvement. A new paint color, a fresh light fixture and even some simple yard furniture...perhaps. :)

...Flash forward to my weekend adventure at HGR Industrial Surplus in Euclid, Ohio...

I had heard about this complete monster of a warehouse that was home to all unwanted manufacturing machines, pieces and parts, but I never imagined the visual stimuli that I was about to encounter. Row and rows of lathes, compressors, lifts, pallets, pumps, random old office furniture, casters, you name it they got it.



The afternoon of exploring the public showroom stirred my imagination (“wonder where this came from?”) and my creativity (“I could do something really cool with this!”), I was basically like a kid in a candy store, although instead of getting a good sugar buzz I was on a natural adventure high.

I wouldn’t advise bringing kids to the showroom as there were many dangerous; perhaps toxic stuff hanging around. Also, do as I say, not as I do and leave your high heels at home in exchange for your pumas...this showroom is almost 12 acres large.



What did I get you might ask? Well, I wanted to go home with a cafeteria booth, some glass jars, a few chemical tubs (for planting herbs in of course?) but instead opted for a lovely vintage filing cabinet for only $20 bucks. Bring a big car!



Next time you are feeling a little willy wonka scientist or artsy, or even just looking for that visual escape from your daily cubicle...take a drive to HGR, it was totally awesome!

Dante "tastes"

I keep meaning on posting just a little something about the new Tremont restaurant; Dante. I went there on a really cold winter snowy night, I could barely walk through the snow and on the ice in my super high healed boots.

The place was hopping but we scored a seat at the bar. I think the Cavs game was on so that was an ultra bonus. Anyways, I just wanted to mention that I really liked the way they offered "tastes" as a portion of many of their menu items. Think bigger than a tapa but smaller than an appetizer. I keep meaning to go back for another dish of the amazing beef carppacio, but this time I want my own. :)



If you are planning your weekend and haven't checked out Dante, perhaps it's time?

Food & FIlm Fest

So here we are, in the midst of this years Cleveland Film Festival...

Over the weekend I had the privilege of screening five fantastic films; from “Ingredients” to “A Matter of Size.”

While the festival committee requests of the viewers that all cell phones, audible watches and even pagers (do people still carry pagers?) be turned off during the film...what about growling stomachs?

Yes, this past Sunday as I sat and enjoyed the afternoon film, my stomach let out a loud, whining growl, and man was it long. Was I hungry? Did the walk through the “food” court of Tower City entice me? I think not. Had I not stuffed enough sweets into my pocket to satisfy my afternoon hunger? I had no idea why my belly was making such a scene.

Then I thought about it, although there is the “food” court and the traditional movie supplies (popcorn, twizzlers, m&m’s, etc) you often see film goers darting from theatre to theater with a small cooler in tow...what did they know that I didn’t? Even if you don’t think you will get hungry, YOU WILL! Watching movies is a hard sport and one that needs to be fueled strategically.



So, with that said, here are a few ideas for you to munch on as you plan your trip to the film fest this year....

Wine & Chocolate for those late night films...stop in at Lilly’s in Tremont to pack your purse with a “juice box” sized servings of vino and pair it with the perfect truffle for you and your movie sweetie. A big step up from diet coke and snowcaps.

Lunch on the go...put your emergency flashers on and run into Nate's Deli (on W 25th, near the Market) for a hummus or shawarma rolled pita sandwich ($3-$5). Both sandwiches could be devoured during a film if you quietly roll down the paper and offer your neighbor a bite. Otherwise schedule a few extra minutes prior to the film and have a Tower City “Nates” fountain picnic in order to have that extra energy to wait in the stand by aisle

Taking a break between films...there are many places close by that you can escape the crowds of tower city and enjoy a quick food fix. If you want to stroll around Tremont to stretch your legs, stop by Dish Deli for the lemon scented tuna salad and daily veggie special. Thinking you’ll meet your friends for the next movie for a drink or a bite first? Flying fig and Momocho both have great happy hours, check them out. Need to run home to let your dog out between movies? How about a smoothie from Liquid Planet? If you want to take a break, but aren’t looking to loose your parking space...when is the last time you’ve enjoyed the bar at the Hard Rock Café or sipped a manhattan at Mortons? Check it out!

Speaking of food...I’m hungry; for more films and for some good food. Happy Film Fest, happy eating to you!

Cleveland Spynga

Do you like to sweat and cycle? Are you a yogi who enjoys a great stretch? There is a new studio in Coventry called Buddhaful Spin which incorporates both spinnng and yoga...it looks incredible.



I haven't personally been over to the studio yet, although it is on my to-do list. As an avid spinner and yoga lover, I am excited there is this new resource in Northeast Ohio. Explore their website, take a class, spin and stretch....Oooooommmmm.

Celebrate Maple Syrup & Pancakes (03.13-21)

Saturday, March 13th - 20th, 2010

Celebrate the "pancake capitol of the world" with the arrival of springtime and maple sap = SYRUP!

Drive around and enjoy the 2010 March Maple Madness "Drive it Yourself" Tour. For the details of the driving tour click here.



For the details on the pancake feast click here.

lights. camera. action.

Happy Monday Cleveland! What a great Northeast Ohio weekend we had. Bright blue skies. Sunshine. Time with our closest friends. Good food. A drink..or two. A movie. A trip to the market. What did you do this weekend?



Is anyone as excited as I am about the 34th Annual Cleveland Film Fest? Did you know the film line up is available online and the little paper schedule books will begin circulating end of this week?

When I get my hands on one of the paper movie line ups I will make myself a pot of french press or pour myself a good glass of vino and begin my movie attack. From french foreign flicks to an eye-opening documentary. A romantic comedy to something a bit educational. I like to try and take in as many films while still being able to decipher one from the other.

When you get your time to plan your movie attack, "film" me in on any recommendations. I can't wait to see you at the movies!

Another tricky pic!

I had so much fun around town over the weekend snapping pics along my snowy Cleveland morning...
Do you know where I was here?




I'll give you a few hints, you guess...

#1) It's located on the West side
#2) It's home to many fish, fruits & veggies
#3) It is open every week, but only certain days of the week

Ever been there?

REMINDER...DISCOUNT Jump Back Ball Coupon Code

Just a reminder you have TODAY ONLY to use your I heart Cleveland code to get the TODAY ONLY discounted ticket rate of $135.

Just use the Jump Back Ball coupon code of "HEART" (before end of day, February 2nd) when purchasing your tickets and you will receive the discounted rate! Sweet...you can use the extra cash to buy your date an elaborate corsage...HA!

a hot sign.

I don't know if it's the sunshine or the excitement of the big Cavs game tonight but something is stirring in the air.



I found this fun, bright and cheery image off of an amazing flickr account filled with nothing but vintage signage images from all over Ohio plus.

Enjoy the sunny day. Get psyched to root on our team...Go Cavs Go!

Sci-Fi Movie Marathon (1-15/17)

Friday, Saturday and Sunday, January 15th through the 17th, 2010.

Long time ago, in a galaxy far, far away... In the early 1970's, there were several film groups on the Case Western Reserve campus. These groups had formed because of interest in different genres of movies. Along the way, the groups merged and formed the basis of the current CWRU Film Society.

This weekend pack your backpack, Red Bull, sleeping bags and tooth brush and go to the Science Fiction Marathon. This weekend of approx 36 hrs of back to back science fiction movies, trailers, and surprises was started in 1976 and is attended by CWRU students, the Cleveland community, and people from out of state and from other countries.



The movie schedule is as follows...
Friday
8:00pm Terminator Salvation (2009)
10:15pm Moon (2009)

Saturday
12:00am The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy (2005)
2:00am SURPRISE I
3:30am First Spaceship on Venus (1962)
5:15am Independence Day (1996)
8:00am Moonraker (1979)
10:15am Close Encounters of the Third Kind (1977)
12:45pm The Adventures of Baron Munchausen (1988)
2:45pm Short Circuit (1986) (JOHNNY 5 is ALIVE!!!)
4:30pm SURPRISE II
6:15pm The Phantom Planet (1961)
7:45pm The Fifth Element (1997)
10:00pm The City of Lost Children (1995)

Sunday
12:00am SURPRISE III
2:00am District 9 (2009)


For all of the details including parking visit the CWRU Film Society site.

2010 Cleveland "to-do"

Hello all!

Welcome back to iheartcleveland. Hope everyone had an amazing holiday season. I know I did. I am rested, relaxed and ready to rock and roll as we dive into this new year.

As I was thinking about what my first post of the year should be I started thinking about all the things I have always wanted to do, but somehow never have. Take a look at my list and feel free to let me know what your 2010 Cleveland resolutions are!



my cleveland "to-do-taste-see" 2010 resolutions list

Go to the Orchestra
I have been to Severance Hall for a gorgeous wedding once, but I have never seen the world renowned Cleveland Orchestra play. This year I want to experience the magic of the talented area musucians. Can't wait! In the meantime I may enjoy one of the free tours that are being offered on Sunday January 10th. For more information visit their website, reservations recommended.

Get to know Malleys
Ever wondered how they make the 3 foot Easter bunnies and the millions of luscious Buckeyes? This year I'd love to get a group of fellow choco-holics together for a trip to the 60,000 square feet of chocolate fantasy at the Malleys Chocolate Tour. The tour is self-guided and best of all it's free! Anyone interested?

Celebrate the Jump Back Ball
I've always heard the buzz but I've never attended the massive party explosion called the Jump Back Ball. This year I plan to don my feathers and sequins and celebrate Carnival (this years theme) with my fellow arts supporters. I hear tickets are going fast...so get yours today...then we can all party together!

Ghost Hunt
Ever since I've moved to North East Ohio over ten years ago, I've been tempted to take a walk through the old Ohio State Reformatory at Mansfield. For those of you who know me, I'm not one for blood or guts, but the idea of ghosts is a bit intriguing. Did you know you can go on a ghost hunt year round in Mansfield? Spooky!

Ride the path
I love to ride my bike. I love to ride my road bike down Lake Ave, fast. I love to tool around town in my Schwinn Cruiser with my sweet basket & coffee cup holder. I love to ride my mountain bike through the muddy metroparks in spring. This past fall a friend of mine and I got to sample parts of the towpath, this year, I would love to start on one end and make it all the way to the end...tackle the towpath! Time to look for a new helmet. :)

Get schooled in Beer
I've drank an Elliott Ness, I've snacked on a pub pretzel and recently I've enjoyed one too many Christmas Ales...but as an Ohio resident I feel I should have a better understanding of the happenings and beer types at or our world famous Great Lakes Brewing Co. I think this is the year I'll make it a point to attend a free brewery tour, a tasting or a brewmasters dinner to enhance my palette and enjoy those porters and pale ales to the fullest.

Spend the day at the fair
I post about it every year. Every August I crave funnel cakes and corn dogs. I dream of the biggests blueberry pie and adorable pot belly pigs. This year I promise myself I am going to spend an afternoon at the Cuyahoga County Fair. Perhaps I can get one of you to come with me...if you're up for it, perhaps we can even dress alike..everyone's doing it. :)

Get spooked at the Zoo
I don't have children so there really should be no real reason why I want to spend my afternoon navigating my way through the sea of strollers at the Cleveland Metroparks annual event...Boo at the Zoo. I don't know if I am drawn to the idea of elephants and monkeys in costume or an entire bag of candy corn that i can destroy as I watch the lions, tigers and bears devour their haunted treats. This year I really want to go to the fun alternative to average neighborhood haunting, who wouldn't want to go to an event with candy "Stations?"

Tour of Pasta
If you've ever been to the Westside Market on a saturday morning then you've seen the confetti colored Ohio City Pasta's whimsical little raviolis. Every time I go to buy some I have such a hard decision what flavor to choose...SO, this year I plan on working my way through the glass case and savoring each little pasta creation one flavor at a time. Perhaps a few a month..I'll keep you posted! Any recommendations which ones to start with?

Bazaar Bizarre (12/12-13)

Saturday, December 12th, & Sunday, December 13th 2009

A yearly holiday shopping tradition, you won't want to miss this years Bizarre Bizarre! From wacky indie crafts, to the unique art of area locals...it's a great place to check off every gift on your list.



Dissatisfied with stencils of country ducks and painted wooden slices of watermelon, a hodge-podge of friends started the Bazaar Bizarre craft fair in Boston in 2001. years later this community based event is still growing in popularity and has now spread to Cleveland!

78th Street Studios: 1300 W. 78th St to 1305 W. 80th St., north parking lot, north entrance (behind the building) -- accessible from W. 78th OR W 80th St. Noon to 9:00 pm, and Sunday December 13th from noon to 6:00 pm.

Glog on the Blog

Happy Monday Cleveland!

Hope everyone enjoyed the cool winter weekend as much as I did. With my visitor in town I sure did pack a lot into the holiday weekend. One of the things I wanted to "report" on was this funky little drink I experienced at the Greenhouse Tavern..."Glog!"

Glog, defined in the dictionary as a "hot spiced wine and liquor punch and it is a delicious warming drink. Glog is a traditional drink of the Swedish & Finnish Advent season. Traditionally made with red wine, and each small glass has a few almonds and raisins in it as well as the drink. Glog's origins are with mulled wine - wine heated with spices. Glog also tends to have more sugar as well as a heavier alcohol content. It is said that Glog cures the common cold.



The bartenders at The Greenhouse were kind enough to show me how they made their new holiday drink. The drink is assembled using special house made glog mix & honey liquor, steamed and then accessorized with little golden raisins.

Be warned...I took a big sniff (from my brandy snifter) and wow...I thought I burned off my nose hairs...let's just say it's potent...in a good way! :)

I still can't 100% say I loved it, but I can't stop thinking about this potent hot toddy, so I guess it made an impression on me. Let me know what you think!

Vintage Holiday

The other day I made a quick trip to one of the areas BEST vintage shops around, Flower Child. The holiday windows of old sleds and Xmas cheers drew me inside like a mosquito to a buzzing blue lantern.

Although I had expected to see a mirage of decorations of days gone by, I had no clue the intensity and overwhelming shimmer and glitz that was about to come before me.



The store is filled with every type of holiday decoration you can imagine. From vintage lights, holiday cocktail glasses, delicate glass bulbs, ornate holiday linens, something from the 40's, something from the 80's (see ET stockings!), a pink themed room, a green themed room, a candy cane and mistletoe room....whatever you holiday dreams they have the decorations for you.



This weekend will be a big "get ready for the holidays" weekend. Why not shop local and recycle the past by adding a touch of flair from Flower Child. BUT, be prepared...this store will suck up hours of time on the weekend, so wear comfy shoes and a good friend for hours of fun.

FYI, there is a Starbucks across the street in case you need a gingerbread jolt of energy to make it through the entire newly expanded basement of the store. Happy holidays!

Flower Child : 11508 Clifton Blvd, Cleveland OH 216.939.9933

Thankful for the weekend!

I’m THANKFUL it’s the weekend. The weekend before the “Week of Thanks”... So many things to get done before December madness strikes!




Here is what I am planning to do...hope I can squeeze it all in.

Friday.
> Read a new Zine at Bella Dubby
> Eat some Ice Cream to celebrate the END of Tap! :)
> Listen to some great local tunes at made in the 216
> Party like a rock star.

Saturday
> Groom my little pup (shown at Thanksgiving in DC a few years ago)
> Fall in love with a Vampire..or a werewolf.
> Begin my holiday shopping list...(buying locally thanks to the reminder from Chef’s Widow!)
> Stop by the last farmers market of the season...or see the tree lighting?

Sunday
> Brush up on my manners (there are still a few spots left, call 440.247.2550 to sign up!)
> Explore the gardens & gingerbread creations
> FREE HENNA (with any cosmetic purchase) at Dillards in Beachwood...I am thinking a pumpkin, turkey and fall leaves for the Thanksgiving week?

Roller Girls (11/07)

Saturday, November 7th, 2009

Last night as I was on my third rep of shoulder presses at my neighborhood gym in walks this sprite of a woman. Covered from head to toe in vibrant colors, her coat covered in a mass of ornate patches, her hair pulled up under a cap she floated through the field of sweaty gym rats to discreetly distribute the little postcards.

As I completed my last rep, I swiftly made my way to the card stuck into the bulletin board...

It read “THIS Saturday, November 7th, CSU, Wolstein Center, Roller Derby, Black & Blue : WHIP IT GOOD! Team Black vs. Team Blue, going head to head for charity, Doors open at 5pm”



All I kept thinking was, “I’m so there.” Thanks little roller girl “sprite” You rock!

For more information visit burningriverrollergirls