Friday, September 17, 2010

A Rookie’s guide to tailgating.

As many of you are aware this weekend is the home opener for our Cleveland Browns, but what you may or may not know is the in’s and out’s of tailgating.

As a resident of the "Cleve" for over ten years believe it or not but I have never truly tailgated. I mean, I may have parked in a lot off of West 6th for one beer pre-game which I hear doesn't really count, but to truly set an alarm, get there early, eat chips for bfast, etc. etc. Let's just say this Sunday I am in for a real treat!

I asked a friend to give me a little run down on tailgating tips, and after his VERY thorough response, I couldn't resist but share with everyone. You're gonna love them, read on....



"You see tailgating on TV all the time. Your friends always talk about the fun times they’ve had before the games. You want in. You want to be part of all the excitement. But how? You might have lots of questions so let me try to be of some help.
Here are a few tips to make your tailgating experience a little more enjoyable:

What’s the big deal about tailgating?
> With the Browns not faring so well on the field, tailgating is sometimes the most fun you’ll have on that Sunday

Which games are best for tailgating?
> The home opener is always the best. The weather is still warm and the team’s record isn’t a disappointment yet. The tailgating atmosphere for the first several home games is always energetic.

Can anyone attend?
> Yes, of course. You don’t need a ticket to the game or even be a Browns’ fan. But be warned; do not wear opposing teams’ jerseys or even colors. Not cool at all.

What to bring?
> Depends….are you meeting up with a group already tailgating or creating your own tailgate spot? If you are meeting up with an established crew then just bring whatever you plan on drinking and some food to contribute to the group. Keep it simple. If you plan on creating your own situation then at a minimum you’ll need a grill, coolers and music system. Still don’t go overboard as a rookie. Start slow and figure out what you’ll need for next time.

What are the liquor laws regarding tailgating?
> The simple answer is just use common sense and don’t be a jerk. Keep all drinks in a non-see through cup. Don’t use bottles or even carry around cans. Don’t advertise that you are drinking. Everyone knows what’s going on but it’s easier on the cops if you aren’t abusing their leniency.

Where to tailgate?
> See image above. The only answer to this question is the Muni Lot. Everywhere else is a shadow of what’s going on there. You’ll know what I mean when you see it. Once you tailgate in the Muni Lot everywhere just becomes unacceptable.

What time do I need to get there?
> New rules on the opening of the parking lots changed from 4 am to 7 am. If you plan on driving you better get there way before 7 and get in line. Otherwise you’ll end up parking far, far away.

Best way to get there?
> Any method besides driving a car. I prefer taking the RAPID or calling a cab. Actually, when the weather is nice I like to ride my bicycle!

How much is parking?
> I rarely take my car down there but I think they’re charging around $25.

How far is the walk to the stadium?
> Not far. Just follow the herds. For a 1 o’clock game, people start tearing down their site around noon and walking over a half hour before kick off.

Well I hope some of this information helps you. Be safe, have fun and GO BROWNS!"

Thank you "Major" for the incredible run down on tailgating in Cleveland. I hope others find this as helpful as I did. I will be the one with my face painted, football-shaped brownies, perhaps orange finger nails and a strategically cut sweatshirt from Unique! GO BROWNS!

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Monday, March 8, 2010

grey cardigan celebrates spring weddings (03/12)

Friday, March 12th, 2010



Celebrate Spring. Celebrate Love. Celebrate Engagements, Showers and Weddings.

This Friday, celebrate the unveiling of the new Grey Cardigan "Something Borrowed, Something Grey" print collection by artist Brian Jasinski. His work is refreshing, youthful and sassy with a sense of humor twist.

Anyone getting married in your life? These pieces would make a delightful gift for any of the many wedding infused occasions. No standard Bed Bath & Beyond Prints for the newlyweds pad...only the best will do. :)

See you there!

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Tuesday, September 29, 2009

Knit one. Pearl one. Party forever! (10/1)

Thursday, October 1st, 2009

This week the cool arrival of fall has everyone shaking out their boyfriend cardigans and argyle socks...knit knit and more knit!

Welcome fall, welcome wool and welcome Stash Style Yarn Room! Thursday evening from 7-10 join the girls at the Chagrin Falls main street store as they unveil their newest yarn store with a big opening party.



The new store will sell the exclusive Rowan and Noro lines of yarn which include hand dyed yards and even yarn specifically for a custom pair of wooly socks. They will offer weekly learn to knit workshops from the basic to the more advanced knit projects. There will be a variety of antique beads and trimmings to add to any project. Start now for that special holiday gift...I would love a pair of fingerless gloves...hint hint!

At this weeks Yarn Room opening party, there will be complimentary drinks and snacks as well as many product specials to kick off this new hang out out. Hope to see you there! Stash Style : 46 North Main Street Chagrin Falls, Ohio 440.247.2550

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Wednesday, April 1, 2009

VERY Cool Stuff.

Hello Cleveland.
Can you believe we are already in quarter #2 of ‘09? I surely can’t.

Over the past few months there has been lots of action floating around my little blog. With a handful of readers each day, I constantly question whether the optimistic tune of my thoughts and feelings are reaching out and making a small daily difference. I usually devote a few hours a week to organizing my thoughts around what I am going to say, researching exciting Cleveland happenings and developing small stories that I think much of Cleveland could be interested in. It’s rather time intensive.

With that said I have been approached by numerous readers to develop a successful and profitable partnership in order to keep this blog alive and well. I think you will all be as excited as I am about these opportunities.

Known for her clever sense of fashion and style, Cleveland Plain Dealer Style Editor Kim Crow has approached me and offered to send me on a monthly style shopping trip. I will receive a shopping stipend as long as the PD can piggy-back on my monthly post. I am making my list of fun fashionable Cleveland hot spots right now. I can barely contain my excitement!

Because of the many rave reviews the blog has provided to many area “star” chefs including Michael Symon (Lola's & Lolita’s) and Jonathan Sawyer (Greenhouse Tavern), iheartcleveland has been asked to partner with the local organization Cleveland Originals. Promoting area restaurant “deals & steals” as well as their quarterly discounted gift certificate sales, the blog will be provided a handful of gift certificates to distribute to you, our readers, for FREE in exchange for feedback on your dining experience. I should have these opportunities posted within the month, so stay tuned!

Playhouse Square has recently approached me about possibly partnering with them on a special “iheartplayhousesquare ticket package.” Tickets to many of the hot, mainly sold-out shows will be awarded for the first ten comments to any of our Playhouse Square event postings. Those who comment first will receive complimentary tickets in the special loge area as well as a free intermission cocktail coupon. Some of the upcoming shows that I would LOVE to see at Playhouse Square include Neko Case and Mary Poppins. Be on the lookout for those posts and your opportunity to see them free!

Not that I write too much about area sports, but someone was looking out for me when the blog got mentioned at a recent Indians “viral” marketing meeting. Bob DiBiasio, Cleveland Indians Vice President of Public Relations, recently contacted me about an exciting opportunity writing for the Indians Blog on more of a social, “Tribe Around Town” feature. I will have a press pass and be privileged to sit in the media boxes during all of the summer baseball games along some of the best in the journalism world. This alone makes me think that my time spent writing this blog has been completely worth it! Go Tribe! (My one question...does the gig include free I-shaped soft pretzels?)

Last but not least, a few months ago I sent out a “guest blog request,” to some of our Cleveland celebs. I had GREAT response. Stay tuned for some of my first one-on-one interviews including my morning spent with basketball phenom; Lebron James!!!! (Al Roker’s interview was a blast too, he even sent me these cool NBC rain boots & umbrella after the interview...I love you Al!)

So, as I sometimes wonder if anyone is reading or even cares about my “hobby” I guess it doesn't matter as long as I am having fun and enjoying each and ever day in Cleveland. :) www.iheartcleveland.com Pass it on!

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Wednesday, November 19, 2008

Launch shopping party (11/20)

Thursday, November 20th, 2008

Join the girls for the TrendyTrousseau.com for their big launch party!

TrendyTrousseau.com is a new online boutique that serves the everyday girl. Clothing, Handbags and Accessories (in all price ranges) will be on hand for holiday shopping. Join the gang for the shopping spree plus wine, snacks and style!



To rsvp drop a note to info@trendytrousseau.com. 7 -9pm At Wooltex Gallery, Tower Press, 1900 Superior Ave Cleveland, OH 44144

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Tuesday, November 11, 2008

Crazy Mullets

Looking for a fun, fresh fall hair style? Visit Crazy Mullets located in Lakewood (Coventry location coming soon!).

The space is filled with bright off-the-wall art while the stylist stations use an assortment of auto mechanic tools and cabinetry. The staff displays the latest in fun colors and patterns for your fall hair (leopard prints for guys and pink bangs for girls!) The team is very friendly and approachable, a definite place to explore for your next haircut, color or updo! And did I mention their prices are VERY affordable? A women's cut starts at $20, you can't find that too many other places.



Next time you are in the market for a trim or a curl check them out! For an appointment at the Lakewood location call 216.712.7733

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Friday, October 31, 2008

Lululemon Opening (11/01)

Please join Lululemon as we welcome them to Cleveland!

Stop by their new space at The Hampton's Luxury Apartments (220-Rec, 27040 Cedar Rd., Beachwood OH 44122) this Saturday morning for a complimentary yoga class, taught by lululemon ambassador and yoga/fitness guru Deanna Black at 10-11am. The showroom will be open from 11-4pm with live music, healthy treats, and lots of mingling with Clevelanders in the yoga and fitness community.

Hope you can stop in and give this east coat company a warm midwest welcome!

For more information visit www.lululemon.com

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Monday, October 20, 2008

Shoparooni's Birthday Bash! (10/25)

Saturday, October 25th, 2008

Celebrate the darling little store Shoparooni and their first year in business success! Starting at 7pm, there will be prizes, drinking, merriment, arm-wrestling, haiku contests, raffles, and they're even going to carve pumpkins...my favorite fall activity! Please bring your own pumpkin (preferably already gutted.)



If I get to swing by the party I would LOVE to pick up this sassy feather t-shirt by Public Domain for under fall cardigans and this adorable print by Julia Kuo. Check out their site, they have lots of charming finds, www.shoparooni.com

Happy birthday Shoparooni! 15813 Waterloo Road Cleveland, OH 44110 216.383.3633

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Wednesday, July 30, 2008

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

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Wednesday, June 18, 2008

Made in the 216 (6/20)

Friday, June 20 2008

We as Clevelanders have a lot to be proud of. We just may not always realize it. A chic boutique in the Detroit Shoreway District called Room Service is hosting their inaugural bi-annual event highlighting a few of the reasons we have to be proud of ‘the 216’! I will definitely be skipping out of work early for this happening, I don't want to miss any great finds!

MADE IN THE 216 is not a traditional art opening. The genesis of this event was the idea that Cleveland shopping is lacking the clever and unique items found only in the hip neighborhoods of New York and Chicago. While Cleveland may still be lacking the shopping districts of those towns, that is only temporary. Five years ago when owner, Danielle DeBoe moved back from a four year hiatus in Los Angeles she says she “…had a really hard time shopping here”; well that has changed DRAMATICALLY over the past few years with the opening of several unique and interesting home, accessory and apparel boutiques throughout the near west and east sides of Cleveland and she has become very confident that the Detroit Shoreway will become the diverse Cleveland boutique shopping district that we all yearn for.

For this 2 day event Room Service Home will break down the traditional store merchandising scheme and create little ‘sub-shops’ dedicated to the aesthetic of CLEVELAND-BASED artists & designers whose products are just as unique, clever and well made as the items we travel to New York to find, but made right here in our hometown.



MADE IN THE 216 will be held on Friday June 20 from 4-9pm with a wine and cheese reception with the artists/designers and Saturday June 21 from 12-5pm. The artists/designers featured are: Small Screen Designs, BCTZ Cleveland, Little Korboose, Amy Derethik, Finley Handmade, [base] line, Sarah Jane Reidel, Buzz Buzz Designs, Satomi Jin, Hannah Verbeuren Photography, and Marian Made. Collectively, they make a wide weft of products from wall art and jewelry to baby onesies and hand-dyed vintage linens and quite a few things in between!

See you Friday at Room Service : 6505 Detroit Avenue ; Cleveland, OH 44102
216.281.4221 www.roomservicecleveland.com

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Tuesday, May 27, 2008

"Free" Hermes

Good morning Cleveland!

After a a long weekend of milling around Northeast Ohio I have to tell you I love this place (like you didn't know already). Coffee frozen yogurt from Mitchell's, dancing at the annual Greek Festival, good wine with good tunes at Brother Lounge, running down to the new boardwalk at Lakewood Park (to work off the ice cream & wine), Gallucci's, and more.

However, as I was going through piles of "must -read" magazine subscriptions, I realized what we are lacking in is high end shopping opportunities. Why don't we have a cute little Kate Spade boutique for the latest in bright hued totes, shoes & paper? How about a MOMA Design Store to pick up the best in designer posters, note cards or calenders? Or even better; I think we need a Hermès store to go and drool over the infamous patterned scarves complete with bright orange box! Not that I am going to run right out and buy one of each, but it always nice to window shop and dream, right? I digress...



While I can't whip up the retail market in Cleveland, I can let you in on a little secret...you too can get a FREE Hermès Kelly Bag (watch out Katie Holmes) right here in Cleveland. Visit http://lesailes.hermes.com/na/en/ Print out the pattern, fold along the lines, decorate, and voila: your own iconic Kelly bag....right here in Cleveland.

Who needs a store....when you can have a PDF? :)

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Tuesday, May 13, 2008

a "Lab" Opening (5/15)

Thursday, May 15th, 2008

The Vanity Lab - Salon & Spa welcomes you (and your chic friends) to their grand opening affair. Stop by and check out the new place...complete with wine and beer provided by JW Dover (the winery & brewery downstairs). From what I hear it has a very unique pedicure bench area, can't wait!

7-9pm 24945 Detroit Road (between Clague & Columbia on the south side of the street) Westlake OH
call 440.835.4490 or visit www.vanitylab.com for more information

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Thursday, May 8, 2008

Sock Be Gone (5/08)

Thursday, May 8th, 2008

Every year on May 8th No Socks Day is a day to free your toes of the confines of socks and stocking. Give those toes of yours a breath of fresh air. The creators of this day also profess that No Socks Day will reduce your laundry load, and therefore, is healthy for the environment.



It's easy to participate in No Socks Day. Just leave your socks and stocking off, and let your toes enjoy a moment in the sun! Note: While washing your feet prior to participating in No Socks Day is a requirement, painting your toe nails is completely optional. :)

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Wednesday, May 7, 2008

Oh Karl... (5/09)

Friday, May 9th, 2008

Rodolphe Marconi’s new documentary on Karl Lagerfeld, “Lagerfeld Confidential,” has generated a lot of interest for his candor in interviewing Mr. Lagerfeld about his sexuality and his reputation for being cruelly unsentimental in ending relationships of which he has tired.

“Usually when people are 70 years old with a lot of money, a career and celebrity, they stay at home with a bodyguard in a beautiful house with a swimming pool,” Mr. Marconi said. “But Karl is always in danger. He is all the time alive, curious. For me, curiosity is intelligence.”



The documentary also features, Anna Wintour, Nicole Kidman, and Baz Luhrmann. Celebrate Fashion Week Cleveland with this new documentary about the legendary fashion designer, “the haughty high priest of haute couture” according to the BBC. The film takes a revealing peek under the white ponytail and behind the thick shades to reveal an imperious jet-setter who loves books, cinema, and the visual arts as much as his creations for Chanel. (France, 2007, color, subtitles, 35mm, 89 min.)

Be there! 7 pm. For tickets and additional information visit www.clevelandart.org

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Tuesday, April 22, 2008

Product Runway (4/25)

Friday, April 22nd, 2008

The International Interior Design Sociey & The Cleveland/Akron City Center will be hosting "Product Runway" a runway fashion show of one-of-a-kind couture originals utilizing manufacturer’s product as the “fabric” for the garment this Friday night.

Product Runway is a wonderful opportunity for interior design, architecture, product design and industrial design related industries to celebrate creativity in an innovative design spirit. Using extra scraps, samples, over-runs, etc., fashions will be assembled, sewn, glued and styled by the local design community...think of it as a fashion show for earth week. Recycle and go!

This fundraiser will benefit the American Cancer Society's "Look Good...Feel Better" program, a community-based, free, national service that teaches female cancer patients beauty techniques to help restore their appearance and self-image during chemotherapy and radiation treatments

The event will be on Friday April 25, 2008 at Anatomy Night Club in Downtown Cleveland, Ohio at 6:00pm.
For more information visit www.iidaohky.org/clevak.htm

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Wednesday, April 16, 2008

Kentucky to Cleveland (5/03)

Saturday, May 3, 2008

Get your tickets and start decorating your hat for the second annual "From Kentucky to Cleveland - A Derby Celebration." You can WIN, PLACE, and SHOW at this year’s Junior League of Cleveland fundraiser.
 
WIN : Win an assortment of great prizes in the silent auction and hat contest! An assortment of gaming will also be happening throughout the evening.
 
PLACE : Place your bets. Kentucky Derby will be televised live and you can get in the fun by naming a horse for $20 in the “Night at the Races” events.
 
SHOW : Show your support for this wonderful volunteer organization, tickets are only $50 a person. Bring your friends & family.
 


Tickets are $50 a person, or $90 per couple including fabulous food & drinks; soda, beer and wine included in ticket price. Cash bar for mixed drinks and $6 Mint Juleps. Grand Stand attire (no jeans please). To purchase your tickets visit www.Blacktie-Cleveland.com or mail your check made payable to The JLC, attn: Derby Party, 10819 Magnolia Dr., Cleveland, OH 44106.
 
Questions? contact Vanessa Stanbridge, derbyparty@jlcleveland.org

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Deco in River

How many times have you driven by the tall "pink" building in Rocky River and always wondered what it looked like inside? For me....hundreds.

Well, last night I was lucky enough to get inside the landmark for my monthly girls-only dice game. The exquisite art deco design and architectural details were enough to make anyone with a slight passion for design drool. Everything from the hallway signage to the scrolling iron work, the relief sculptures that welcome you into the asian-inspired lobby to the hand silkscreened wallpaper was in immaculate condition.



The "Westlake Hotel," was constructed in mid-1920s, has 11 floors and now serves as an upscale housing complex. If you are lucky enough to be in the market for a swanky Humphrey Bogart-inspired pad, I wouldn't pass up an opportunity to live in this historic space of Cleveland.

Old buildings with historic charm..one of the reasons I heart cleveland! :)

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Thursday, April 10, 2008

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

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Monday, April 7, 2008

Baby Dayliner Friday (4/11)

Friday, April 11th, 2008

Gonna walk around, gonna talk around, gonna walk around, gonna talk around and see, see what?

Don't miss crooner, Baby Dayliner as he struts his stuff and sings his heart out this Friday night, 8pm at MOCA Cleveland.

You will be blown away by this one-man band and his apple ibook as he spins his original tunes. When I was originally introduced to him I was infatuated by his cleverness and soulful, rich voice. We are really lucky this Manhattanite is visiting our city, get out and represent.



"You push, I'll go. You'll push, I'll go."
www.mocacleveland.org

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Monday, March 10, 2008

Spring Style Ahead

As I crept home Friday evening, in the huge snow storm, I was stopped at a red light and couldn't help but notice the bright-hued spring fashions in the window of Dots. To be honest, I haven't been in Dots in a few years but as the snow fell I was somehow drawn into the store like a mosquito to a bug zapper.

Founded in a Cleveland suburb in 1987 Dots prides itself on affordable, fun fashions. The bright colors, funky patterns and young styles awakened my style sense and gave hope through this snow storm that spring was quickly approaching. After looking through racks and racks of ruffled shirts, graphic tee's and jeans galore, I choose a long-length, cap-sleeved, tangerine t-shirt...the perfect bathing suit cover-up for only $15!



Next time your craving a spring wardrobe pick me up..or just something bright to shine through the snow stop by Cleveland based, Dots! www.dots.com

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