Winter Fun (2/27)

Looks like chilly winter fun. Bundle up and head outdoors.



For more information, visit britewintercleveland.wordpress.com

make your reservation

because next week is Cleveland Restaurant Week!





Get yourself a group of friends or ask your best friend to dinner, pick your place and then get out and support our local independent restaurants.

Never been to Mr. Symon's Lola's? This is such a great opportunity to take in the gorgeous atmosphere and the tasty food for only $30 for your entire meal. Looking for something more intimate for two, D'Vine wine bar is offering a $30 deal for two people, wine additional.

Reserve now, times are filling up fast!

Weekend fun!

Living in Cleveland there is always SO MUCH to do when it comes to planning my weekends. Some people might think there is nothing going on, but I beg to differ, I can barely squeeze in a load of laundry with all the super fun activities that are going on...




> Swoosh, woosh and fly like a bird...well almost! (Tobogganing is fun!)

> Indulging in a plethera of sale coupons

> A nibble of Strawberries & Pink Champagne AND a bite of MSC Fluff

> A sale and some “pleasing” snack with RS

> A dance with my dog!!!

> Get my “bollywood” on!

> Making a birdie sling with some fabulous friends.

> Supposedly there is a big football game on?

What will you be doing this weekend? Celebrating family & friends? Shopping for a fancy dress? Sipping a hot toddy or two? Fill me in on what I am missing!

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!

Groundhog, Greenhouse Brew (02/02)

Tuesday, February 2nd, 2010

Hello & happy Monday!

Hope you had a fun-filled Cleveland weekend, mine was nice...lots of rest and relaxation. Though it was sunny, boy was it cold...brrrr....

Wonder how long this winter will last? Will it "spring up" late March? Will the snow coat the ground till April? Well...wait no longer, tomorrow is Ground Hog Day. According to legend, if Punxsutawney Phil sees his shadow, there will be six more weeks of winter weather. If he does not see his shadow, there will be an early spring.



Either way, there is gonna be a party at the Greenhouse Tavern to celebrate the furry "weatherman" prediction AND their new beer release that they crafted at Buckeye Brewery. Stop by after work for a pint of the "Groundhog, Greenhouse Brew!" I'll be there, will you?

merry & happy to you!

Hello Clevelanders!

I am taking a few holiday days off to visit with family and friends but I wanted to make sure to wish everyone a very merry Christmas and happy new year. Enjoy your time off with friends, eat lots of cookies, sip some nog and get lots of rest.



xoxo
i heart cleveland

Peaceful holiday weekend.

Well folks, where has December gone? As I grow older I realize how the term "time flies" is so very true. One day it's the 4th of July and the next is Christmas. I mean don't get me wrong, I've cherished each gingerbread man and peppermint stick...I've mixed and mingled. I've indulged in sweets and savory treats. I've stayed up late painting the town red. All the while...jingling all the way.

But with all this said..I'm ready for a weekend of peaceful holiday cheer. I'm one of those lucky few to be done shopping, all wrapped and shipped and now I get to enjoy the reason for the season.



A few things that are on my non-crazy holiday weekend MAY include...
- Wearing my "caterer-friend" hat and working a swanky holiday party with Cleveland's richy rich.

- An impromptu brunch with ELEVEN really great women.

- A sampling of fine cheese and wines at Baricelli Inn.

- If I realize I forgot someone on my list, maybe a stop into the Last Minute Market at the Lake Erie Screw Factory.

- Perhaps dinner "Christmas Story Style" at Touch...including Peking Duck.

- A bit of caroling with the Ohio City Singers at Happy Dog.

- Sunday jazz brunch with artists and friends at Flying Fig

- Maybe I'll even go see Santa to sit on his lap and let him know that for Christmas this year all I really want is a glittering of snow and peace of mind in the new year...okay, and maybe a sweater or two from J.Crew! :)

Happy holiday weekend to all and to all a good night.

Lime Ribbon Launch (12/07)

Monday, December 7th, 2009

Nothing to do on a Monday night besides hang out with Blair, Chuck and Serena? Plan on attending the launch party for the new Lime Ribbon! A new social media shopping site that allows you to create your own gift lists for you, your family and friends, and share those Lime "Ribbons" with your Facebook friends and Twitter followers. You'll be able to shop online at many different stores.

A NEO-based team of entrepreneurs, designers, marketers and idea people are inviting you to share in the celebration, log on and share.



LimeRibbon.com Launch Party $10 admission includes:
* Complimentary beer (Cash bar will also be available for wine &cocktails)
* Complimentary Spirited CROP Bistro & Bar Special Punch, tinted lime green in honor of the occasion!
* Raffle for two round-trip airline tix anywhere that AirTran Airways flies in the domestic USA!
* Hot hors d'oeuvres featuring: CROP’s savory Lamb Sliders, topped with blue cheese, pickled onions, fresh mint, and coarse-grain mustard, Assorted Flatbreads dressed with seasonal toppings, Veggie Kebabs with local, artisanal cheeses, Chef Steve Schimoler’s signature popcorn, capped with a tasty toss of sautéed veggies, shredded Asiago, and balsamic glaze

Crop bistro from 5:30-7:30, Warehouse District. at 1400 W. 6th Street

Get your tickets HERE!

FREE yoga (12/5)

Saturday, December 5th, 2009

As an expression of gratitude to all of their students and the community… Inner Bliss Yoga Studio is delighted to offer a day of free yoga and more!!!

Come and enjoy one, two or more classes with your favorite teacher, bring friends! Come experience it for yourself!

GREAT Give Back Schedule of Classes
7:30-8:30 : HOT Powerful Flow with Shannon
9:00-10:00 : HOT Powerful Flow with Tammy, Dawn assisting
10:15-11:15 : Yoga Flow for All Levels with Laura, Lanie assisting
11:30-12:30 : Powerful Flow with Lanie, ginny assisting
12:45-1:45 : Beginners Yoga with ginny
2:00-3:00 : Yoga Demonstration by your teachers!
3:15-4:15 : HOT Powerful Flow with Kristen
4:30- 5:30 : Powerful Flow with Kathy
5:45-6:45 : Yoga Flow for All Levels with Jen, Kathy assisting

There is no pre-registration for classes on this day, just show up!

More Treats for YOU!
Lululemon Trunk Show from 10 am – 3 pm! (credit cards only, please)
Delicious Deals on Inner Bliss boutique threads!
Buy any class package and get a free class for a friend of your choice!

Give back

You are blessed.

Anyone who has time to squeeze in a blog read or two is blessed.

You have health. You have family & friends. And most likely each evening your heat is turned up to a toasty 68 degrees.

Every holiday season, it gets me thinking how lucky and blessed I am and how I could help those who aren't so lucky.

Have you ever worked at a soup kitchen? It really opens your eyes to how blessed you are. It awakens the compassionate soul and teaches you the idea of being so truly humble and grateful.




If you have always wanted to try to volunteer at a soup kitchen here are a few things you should consider....

1. Find out which soup kitchens are located in your area. Do a search online, look in the phone book, call information or ask your city or town clerk.

Some of the larger Cleveland area soup kitchens that need are....
> Zion Soup Kitchen (call 216.861.2371)
> St Malachi Center (call 216.771.3036)
> Trinity Cathedral (call 216.774.0425)
> Cleveland Catholic Charities (call 216.334.2961)

2. Contact a local soup kitchen and tell them you'd like to help.

3. Organize a group of people from your circle of friends, your neighborhood, work, your church or synagogue who are willing to volunteer on Thanksgiving.

4. Understand that the soup kitchen needs lots of help in other areas besides food service. Offer to pick up donations, do an inventory on them and store them away. You might also set up tables, prepare the food and help clean up after the meal is through.

5. Include your children in your efforts. This is a great way to teach them the importance of community service.

6. Consider making this a tradition in your family every year. Counting your blessings and helping people in need is a great way to celebrate Thanksgiving.


If you have other volunteer options or ideas please make a comment.

Jump Back Pre-Sale (11/19)

Thursday, November 19th, 2009

So, I've always wanted to go to the infamous "Jump Back Ball." It's one of those parties I always mean to check out, but then it overlaps with something else, someone's birthday, a long weekend away or something and I've always missed it. This year I am making it a priority to get my tickets early and begin planning my attire for the big party.

The 19th annual Jump Back Ball, themed “Celebrate: Carnaval,” is set for Saturday, February 27, 201o...so will you wear feathers or something more black tie? Hmm...



The Carnival Ball kickoff party will take place at A.J. Rocco’s (816 Huron Rd) from 6-8 pm. Join me and enjoy appetizers, drink specials and mini manicures by The Studio Salon plus buy your Jump Back Ball tickets first and SAVE!

Ticket prices increase THE DAY after (no exceptions) the kickoff by $15 +handling fees, so be sure to get to the party and bring your friends. Each person in attendance can purchase two tickets at the kickoff rate with no handling fees. New this year- you can set up a payment plan too!

Kickoff party pricing: $100-$120

I will be there waiting in line to save some cash on my tickets...will you?

yummy beer (10/16-24)

Friday, October 16th, through Saturday, October 24th, 2009

Craving a lager? Thinking about a pale ale? Me? I am dying to have a Pumpkin Ale this fall..something spicy, rimmed with brown sugar.

Well, have I got something good for you? This year marks the inaugural event of Cleveland Beer Week. A celebration of beers from the unique small local breweries to the infamous imports, there will be a hop and whey for every one's beer belly cravings.



Some of the really buzzing events to kick off the brew-ha-ha include...

- Dogfish Head will be at Southside, Friday at 6pm to kick off beer week with old favorites like 90 Minute IPA and new special releases, prices and glasses.

- Sunday at The Beer Engine will be and serving a special beer breakfast.

- West Park Station will be selling ALL craft beers for $2.50.

- Saturday, beginning at 2pm, The Barley House will pair the Ohio State football game with a "10 craft beer samples for $20" promotion. They will have 30 brews to choose from, and you get a cool mug too.

- On Friday, Moxie Restaurant will host a four-course beer, fondue and raclette dinner. Beginning at 7 p.m., the $45 meal pairs selections from Merchant du Vin, Ayinger and Samuel Smith with imported raclette, and mushroom and shallot fondues.

For more information and where you can grab a great pint...visit www.clevelandbeerweek.org

Issue Release (10/10)

Saturday October 10th, 2009



At the Beachland Tavern

Sips & Dips (9/24)

Thursday, September 24th, 2009

Join the gang at Rainbow Babies for a wonderful evening of hors d'oeuvres (they like to call them "dips"), tasty wines (which they call "sips"), silent auction, great prizes and fabulous live music as they raise money for the babies at Rainbow!



5:30 - 6:30 pm VIP Wine Experience
6:30 - 9:00 pm Main Event

Going down at The Hoyt Block, 700 W. St. Clair, in the heart of Cleveland's Warehouse District (next to Blue Point Grille.)
$35 or $75* per person (*includes VIP Wine Experience)

For information on how to make reservations click here!

Happy Fall (9/22)

Tuesday, September 23rd, 2009

This past weekend I drove out past Chesterland to attend an "almost-fall" wedding. The leaves were changing and there were pumpkins for sale at every country road inetrsection.



With cinnamon spice and apples gallettes, why not welcome in the first day of fal with an infamous pumpkin spice latte or a kick through the tree lawn leaf pile.

"Every leaf speaks bliss to me, Fluttering from the autumn tree." - Emily Bronte

Happy first day of fall! :)

Taste of Cleveland (9/04-7)

Friday-Monday, September 4th -7th, 2009

The 14th Annual Taste of Cleveland presents Northeast Ohio’s rich tapestry of cultures using a universal language – food! The gastronomical salute to summer’s end takes place this Labor Day Weekend at Time Warner Cable Amphitheater at Tower City in downtown Cleveland.

From Little Italy and East 4th Street to Tremont and Ohio City, Northeast Ohio has blossomed into a true culinary capital. With top-notch chefs of Food Network fame and mom and pop shops that epitomize an authentic blue-collar menu, the area’s culinary resources have spilled over into a never-ending stream of hidden bistros, notable restaurants, tiny cafes and neighborhood favorites. Restaurant Row at the 14th annual Taste of Cleveland will feature more than 30 establishments serving bite-sized cuisine representative of the town’s many distinctive flavors.

Including the awesome food vendors, some of the headlining entertainers are...
Sept 4: Peter Frampton at 9:15 p.m. with special guest The Elms and Pale Hollow
Sept 5: Lita Ford at 9:15 p.m. with The Breakfast Club
Sept 6: Billy Squier at 9:15 p.m. with special guest Into the Presence and View from Everest
Sept 7: Special afternoon performance at 2:30 p.m. featuring Cowboy Mouthand the Paul Green School of Rock
Sept 7: Michael Stanley and The Resonators at 6:00 p.m. with The Jack Fords

Want to spend your Saturday judging desserts from area Cleveland chefs? Enter to win the guest judge position today. www.promosuiteinteractive.com/cap/loginhere.asp?capid=15434

For tickets, times & more details visit www.cleveland.com/tasteofcleveland/

Motown Fun (7/31-8/02)

Friday, July 31st -August 2nd, 2009

Top 10 Motown Songs to be celebrated.....
1. I Heard It Through The Grapevine by Marvin Gaye
2. My Girl by the Temptations
3. Reach Out I'll Be There by the Four Tops
4. Where Did Our Love Go? by the Supremes
5. What's Goin' On? by Marvin Gaye
6. Dancing in the Street by Martha & The Vandellas
7. I Want You Back by the Jackson 5
8. Superstition by Stevie Wonder
9. Please Mr. Postman by the Marvelettes
10. My Guy by Mary Wells

Make time to "dance to the music" this weekend as the Rock N Roll Hall of Fame celebrates Motowns 50th Anniversary Weekend Celebration. Free performances, screenings of rare Inductee footage and more will focus on Motown artists including the Jackson 5. The weekend will surround the Museum’s exhibit MOTOWN: The Sound of Young America Turns 50.




The 50th Anniversary of Motown’s weekend of events will include...

Friday, July 31
- Continuous loop throughout the day of rare Induction
- 2-3pm : Special in-depth presentation by curatorial director Howard Kramer examining the historical significance and influence of artifacts in the Motown Exhibit.

Saturday, August 1
- Continuous loop throughout the day of rare Induction
- 1-3pm : Motown Showcase with Terry Macklin’s Sounds of Entertainment, DJ Dance Party with Interactive Motown choreography demonstrations and the Hollywood Dazzlers Dance/Skate Spectacular with Maurice Cook
- Noon -1 pm : Special in-depth presentation by curatorial director Howard Kramer examining the historical significance and influence of artifacts in the Motown Exhibit.

Sunday, August 2
- Continuous loop throughout the day of rare Induction
- 1-2pm : Motown Showcase with Terry Macklin’s Sounds of Entertainment
- 2-3pm : Special performance by Cleveland R&B group, Retrospect, in tribute to Motown.
- 3-4 pm : Motown Showcase with Terry Macklin’s Sounds of Entertainment

**Throughout the weekend, visitors can register to win tickets to Cleveland Indians games, a Sirius/XM radio and three-month subscription, Motown box sets courtesy of FYE and memberships to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Museum.

For more information on the weekend event visit www.rockhall.com

I can't believe....

I missed this.....



www.pezamania.com

CPT Party (7/18)

Saturday, July 18th, 2009

Join us as CPT celebrates the end of their 25th season and kicks off the 26th! Everyone is invited to gather together for a fun, casual party. Dancing and Karaoke all night long! Admission is FREE Cash Bar: Beer and Wine only $2 each (Featuring a variety of MAGIC HAT brews)



CPT Executive Artistic Director Raymond Bobgan will announce the 2009-2010 CPT Season and recognize some special CPT friends and volunteers at 10:00pm.

Party from 8-midnight. For more information visit cptonline.org

Celebrate FRANCE Cleveland (7/13-14)

I know I am not the only Clevelander to be a francophile. Love french music, cook french food, drink french wine, travel abroad to breathe the french air and stroll through the daily french blogs all while living and LOVING our home Cleveland.

This week marks the celebration of the French national holiday, Bastille Day, celebrated on 14 July each year. It commemorates the 1790 Fête de la Fédération, the anniversary of the storming of the Bastille fortress was seen as a symbol of the uprising of the modern nation, and of the reconciliation of all the French inside the constitutional monarchy which preceded the First Republic, during the French Revolution.



Celebrate France, Celebrate Cleveland, Celebrate good french food and wine at the following Cleveland events...

The Greenhouse Celebrates Pre-Bastille Day : $60 french food & drink! $5 French Bicycle Raffle: Winner receives bicycle ($500 value) & other French goodies including French Champagne, Vintage Postcards & More!!! Includes French Cuisine cooked by some of Cleveland’s Great Chefs (Beverage, Tax, & Gratuity Additional) 07.13.09

Bastille Day at L'albatros, 4-courses plus wine, $50. call for your seat. 07.14.09

Bastille Day falls during the Tour de France and is traditionally a day when French riders try to take a stage victory for France, working harder than they might on other days. Mark next weeks watch party (July, 27th) in your calendars at the Flat Iron Cafe from 10-3 presented by ClevelandBikes and the Ohio City Bicycle Co-Op. As part of the day, stick around for an Ohio City bicycle Scavenger Hunt at 12:15 starting and finishing at the Bike Co-Op, lasting until about 3PM. Fun prizes for top finishers in many categories. $5 (for co-op members) or $20 (if you are not a Ohio City Bicycle Co-Op member). contact kevin@clevelandbikes.org for more information.

American "glitter" (7/04)

Saturday, July 4th

Get ready for the Fourth of July! How fun and cool is it that the holiday lands on a Saturday this calendar year? Does the Lee Greenwood tune come to mind (And I’m proud to be an American, where at least I know I’m free. And I wont forget the men who died, who gave that right to me. And I gladly stand up, next to you and defend her still today. ‘ Cause there ain’t no doubt I love this land, God bless the USA.)? I think I whistle the tune every year around this time.



Here's your partial guide to the 4th...aka...Independence Day fireworks shows across northeast Ohio.

Cleveland: July 4th at 9:45pm - The Flats, Waterfront

Avon: July 4th at dusk - The stadium (on State Route 611 and Miller Road)

Bay Village: July 4th at dusk - Cahoon Park

Brook Park: July 12th at dusk - City Hall

Lakewood: July 4th 9:45pm - Lakewood Park

Medina: July 3rd at dusk - Medina Senior High School

North Ridgeville: July 3rd beginning at 6pm at Party in the Park; fireworks start at dusk - South Central Park

Oberlin: July 4th at dusk - Next to Splash Zone on Hamilton St.

Westlake: July 4th at dusk - Clague Park

Keyshia Xplosion (6/03)

Wednesday June 3rd, 2009

Join Z 107.9 (Blazin Hip Hop & R&B) as they CELEBRATE their 10th Anniversary "Xplosion" starring Keyshia Cole (You Complete Me!) with The Dream, Keri Hilson and Bobby V.



State Theatre, Tickets range from $40 to $60. I think this show will be outstanding!

It's Blossom Time (5/21-25)

Thursday May 21st - Monday, May 25th, 2009

Looks like this weekend is going to be SPECTACULAR! I am so excited because I am going to experience Blossom Festival in Chagrin Falls for the very first time! Hot air balloon races, pie eating contests, music, carnival rides and a race (Sunday @ 9am), my kinda weekend!

Join the residents of the Chagrin Falls as they welcome the arrival of warmer weather to the Falls. With flowers and trees in full bloom, the Chagrin Falls area is transformed from a winter wonderland into a warm, peaceful, enchanting place to spend your lazy summer evenings. After shopping, eating, rides, and games at the festival, don't forget to spend some quality time enjoying the natural beauty of the area homes, gardens, parks, and the Chagrin River.

I think the best part of the weekend (besides the cotton candy) will be all the hot air balloons scattered over the village sky. There is something about a hot air balloon that hypnotizes me. Perhaps it’s the purring sound of the rush of flames being thrown into the sky, or the quiet calmness that hovers over the crowd as they watch in astonishment. Anyone want to get up early and meet me out there to watch the balloons take off Sunday morning, 6:00am, I will bring the coffee?



For those of you who think they are as cool as I do, check out these few fun facts....
• the most popular balloon is as tall as a 7-story building
• the average balloon costs $20,000 to $40,000
• ideal times to fly are just after sunrise and just before sunset
• a hot air balloon can land in water
• balloons can stay up for 1-2 hours depending on conditions and occupants
• inflating a balloon takes about 15 minutes
• invented back in 1783 in Paris, France (GO PARIS!)

For the full schedule and race application

Tribe Gourmet

For those of you headed to Progressive Field for Opening Day, take note, there is more to baseball-gourmet than peanuts, crackerjacks and I-shaped soft pretzels...



The Indians and the Cleveland Clinic have teamed up to create a menu that is healthier than hot dog and nachos. Under the Go! Foods program, which the Clinic created to help people identify healthier foods, the ballpark will begin serving foods that have zero grams of trans fat; less than four grams per serving of saturated fat, added sugars or syrups; 100% whole grains; and 600 milligrams or less of sodium.

Some of the examples of healthy dishes available will be sweet potato “fries,” vegetable chili, Waldorf salad, salmon sliders, grilled chicken breasts, chocolate bars and frozen banana chips dipped in dark chocolate. The healthy menu will be available to all at a new concession stand near Gate A in Section 162.

I may try it out, but there is just something about a soft pretzels with stadium mustard, make my heart melt.

Egg Hunt (4/11)

Saturday, April 11th, 2009

Young & old are cordially invited to kick off the 10th anniversary season of Hershey Children’s Garden at the Cleveland Botanical Garden with their annual eggs-travaganza.



Bring your little bunnies ages 3-10 to search for eggs-ellent treats, to hear stories, do crafts and play games. Kids can also shake hands with an international star, the Easter Bunny! The spring scene allows kids to discover treasures among emerging cattails, amidst blooming daffodils or at the foot of a newly green weeping willow. ( I love willow trees!)

11-12:30 pm $8 member child; $12nonmember child, Free/member adult; $7.50 nonmember adult | To reserve your spot call (216) 721-1600 ext. 100 | Cleveland Botanical Garden 11030 East Boulevard Cleveland, Ohio 44106

Cleveland Art

Looking for the perfect bench? A unique light fixture? Love the idea of reusing vintage, materials throughout your decor? Look no further that Cleveland Art.



Recently featured in the New York Times Magazine, www.nytimes.com/indexes/2009/03/08/style/t/index.html#pagewanted=0&pageName=08cleveland& founder Jason Wein sees the beauty in surplus industrial machinery including steel, wood and glass. A true Clevelander, Wein started his career by working for a family scrap yard in Northeast Ohio.



Wein particularly enjoys using his creative talents as a glassblower to marry old gears and pipes into lighting fixtures and other unique glass items that are sold in high-end stores from Los Angeles to Milan to Dubai. You can find his work in many high end boutiques across the world (from Cleveland to Milan) ...next time you visit LA stop by their newest showroom.

A great read, a true Cleveland entrepreneur! www.clevelandart.com

Living the LUXE life

Did you know that (during happy hour) at Luxe they offer 2 for 1 martinis & drafts? Did you know also know that their scrumptious pizzas are also half off during happy hour? WOW, What a steal! Drink early = 5-7pm happy hour, eat late = 12-2am happy hour, or vice versa! :)

Maybe this would be a great place to stop in after this Saturdays Adele concert, a late night Film Festival flick or next weeks Cavs Game? For a late night snack..or two? Sounds fun, and affordable!



Luxe Kitchen & Lounge is now open 7 days a week from 5pm to 2am. Check it out at www.luxecleveland.com

Italian Bike Bash (3/13)

Friday, March 13th, 2009

Join Century Cycles and Masi Bicycles for the celebrazione of the season!

Ever seen the infamous movie "Breaking Away?" Join the gang and celebrate it's 30th year as the "Best Cycling Movie of all times." As part of the evening's celebrazione, Century Cycles in unveiling it's newest bike line in over eight years, Masi.



Try their very own Cutter IPA and Little 500 Lager (while supplies last), specially-brewed by CC Brewmaster Doug. Enjoy Italian food from Coleone's and opera music, just like the hero “Dave” in the movie - who rode a Masi, too. See Masi’s line of 2009 steel bikes, and there’ll be a Masi rep on hand to answer your questions. Win prizes like CUTTER t-shirts, tix to the 2009 Little 500, Cinzano wool jersey, Campagnolo and Cinzano cycling caps, “Breaking Away” DVDs, and more! And if all that isn’t enough, enter our spring raffle to win a 2009 Masi Soulville!

Not familiar with the Italian bike line? Check out the Caffe Racer Doppio (US MSRP: $1,090)



Like a double shot of freshly brewed espresso, the Caffé Racer Doppio is the perfect eye-opener for your busy day. Its 10-speed drivetrain with TruVativ Elita crankset and Shimano Ultegra rear derailleur will make your morning commute downright fun. With its rack and fender mounts, the Doppio easily converts into a 9-to-5 workhorse. On weekends, our finest Masi MetroItalia bicycle simply begs to be ridden all day. It even has this scratch and sniff, Italian espresso bike frame, one caffeinated whiff and you are sure to ride faster..just kidding, but wouldn't that be so cool? :)

For more details on this biking celebrazione visit www.centurycycles.com : 7pm at Century Cycles Rocky River

Animal Attraction (2/05)

Thursday, February 5th, 2009

While the weather is chilly outside, why not spend a hot and steamy evening...in the rainforest at Animal Attractions presented by the Cleveland Zoo! Enjoy a Valentine's celebration while sampling dishes from Cleveland's favorite area restaurants, sipping tasty beverages and trekking behind-the-scenes for even "closer" animal "encounters!"

Listen to stories and learn more about your Zoo’s wildlife "conservation" efforts as you enjoy presentations from Marc Ancrenaz, Director of the Kinabatangan Orang-utan Conservation Project in Sabah, Malaysian Borneo (KOCP), and Cleveland Metroparks Zoo staff: Geoff Hall, General Curator; Dr. Chris Kuhar, Curator of Primates & Small Mammals; Jim Nemet, Education Specialist & Staff; and, special guest speaker Joe B. Keiper, Curator of Invertebrate Zoology & Director of Science at The Cleveland Natural History Museum.



Some of the participating restaurants include Blue Canyon, Cleveland Cupcake Company, Fleming's Prime Steakhouse, Hoggy's Restaurant & Catering, Paladar Latin Kitchen, Sammy's and Sans Souci.

6-9pm. $65, Adults 21 & over please. (there may be LOTS of monkey business. tee hee hee)
For more information visit www.clevelandzoosociety.org

My Cleveland Year In Review

Happy 2009 fellow Cleveland-lovers! I hope everyone had happy and safe New Years Eve around town. As the new year arrived I began thinking about my 2008 and all of the amazing experiences I have had around town, with new and old friends. From good music to great food, from nature at it's best to unique happenings, 2008 was a year to remember.

Below are some of my top 2008 favorites that i thought I would share with all of you.

> Antiquing in Medina with friends brought new finds to my home.

> Live music of Feist, Baby Dayliner, Rachael Roberts, Return To Simple (www.returnofsimple.com), Kate Tunstall, JayMay (www.myspace.com/jaymay) The "Idols," Girl Talk & Jay Z brought many new playlists to my ipod.

> Made in the 216 (blog.roomservicecleveland.com/events-at-room-service/) brought together unique finds and fun friends.

> Fun times with close friends including a wild St.Patricks Day Pub Crawl (www.lakewoodpubcrawl.com), an 80's house party-complete with prom dresses, a day of exploring the city by RTA, an excuse to wear a big hat at the Junior League of Cleveland-Kentucky Derby Party, a bike trip to Put-In-Bay, a street yard sale boutique, a fall art walk complete with peanut butter martinis!

> The Cleveland Triathlon (www.pacificsportsllc.com) challenged me to push farther, be stronger, dream big...plus I got to swim behind the Rock Hall! Oh, and my awesome road bike from Century Cycles (www.centurycycles.com) deffinatley makes the top 2008 list.

> Wicked & Legally Blonde and the new Hanna Theatre (www.playhousesquare.com) brought me to a standing ovation.

> The Cleveland Film Festival (www.clevelandfilm.org) always rekindles my love of independent films, 2008 was no exception...favorite flick, Priceless.

> The Lake. The Metroparks. The Sunshine!

> Cleveland Bridge Builders (www.cleveleads.org) has allowed me to meet many other passionate Clevelanders.

Happy New Year. Thank you for taking the time to read this blog, whether you check daily or from time to time poke in to see what Cleveland has to offer, I hope that my efforts and interests spark excitement, energy and passion to you as you move into another year living and loving our city, Cleveland.

Celebrate Polka

I knew that Polka was BIG here in Cleveland, but what I didn't know was that we actually have a National Cleveland-Style Polka Hall of Fame located in our backyard!

The Cleveland-Style Polka Hall of Fame is dedicated to the preservation and promotion of polka music, the happiest sound around. Polka has its roots in Slovenian folk music, but the influence of American musicians has given it universal appeal and popularity. Just as English and Irish music has evolved into country music, the polka represents the music of central Europe.



The Polka Hall of Fame and Museum is located in the Shore Cultural Center in Euclid, Ohio, in close proximity to the Collinwood neighborhood where leading polka musicians lived such as Frankie Yankovic, Johnny Vadnal, Johnny Pecon and Eddie Habat. The Museum has free admission and is open five days a week. For directions and holiday hours visit www.clevelandstyle.com

More at the Monument (12/6)

Come Celebrate a Victorian Christmas with the Cuyahoga County Soldiers' & Sailors' Monument.

The historic Monument commemorates the Civil War, it consists of a 125 foot shaft on top of a memorial building base. A tall column topped with a statue of the "Goddess of Liberty" signifies loyalty to the nation. Four bronze groupings at base depict Navy, Cavalry, Infantry and Artillery. In the base are tablets listing 9,000 Civil War veterans. Also, four bronze relief sculptures depicting the Soldiers' Aid Society, Emancipation of the Slaves, Beginning of the War in Ohio and the End of the War, as well as busts of James Barnett, Levi Scofield and officers killed in action.

Currently undergoing massive renovations, the monument will continue to celebrate the holidays.

This Saturday from 9-4 pm a Christmas Tree and decorations will brighten the Monument for some old fashioned hospitality and a little about Victorian Christmas and Santa Claus.



For directions and more additional monument trivia visit www.soldiersandsailors.com

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

a Table Feast! (11/27)

Thursday, November 26th, 2008

Not going home for the holiday? Not feeling like plowing through the grocery store and cooking for hours on end? head over to the Intercontinentals best kept restaurant secret, Table 45. The restaurant will offer their regular menu from 11am-11pm but more importantly they will be hosting Thanksgiving for only $26! Check out the tasty menu below.

1st Course
Mixed Green Salad with Poached Pears, Candied Walnuts, Dried Sour Cherries and Cranberry Vinaigrette Or Butternut Squash Soup with Toasted Hazelnuts

2nd Course
6oz of Roasted Turkey Served with Sage and Roasted Chestnut Stuffing, Yukon Gold Mashed Potatoes, Buttered Brussels Sprouts, Cranberry Sauce and Turkey Gravy

3rd Course
Traditional Apple Pie with Tahitian Vanilla Ice Cream Or Pumpkin Pie

sounds great...leave the cooking (and the dishes) to them! For reservations and directions visit www.tbl45.com

Issue Release Party (11/14)

Friday, November 14th, 2008

Join Ian and Leigh as they release the second issue of Clevelands Art Magazine, Pink Eye! The evening is a fundraiser to help cover the prodution and printing print costs of this FREE Magazine.

The evening will feature bands like the Hot Cha Chas, Mystery of Two, Dimeras and Spacer Ace. Along with the music there will also be an artists flea market featuring quality art donated by incredible local artists. Time to start thinking of your holiday shopping list, get a start as I am sure there will be a few gems. All work is available for under $20!

$5 Door. 10pm-close at Now That's Class : 11213 Detroit Ave Cleveland, OH 44102 For more information visit www.pinkeyemag.com

Dia de Los muertos (11/1)

Saturday November 1st, 2008

Celebrate Cleveland's fourth annual Dia de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) celebration, coordinated by Artistas Latinos Unidos (United Latino Artists) and spearheaded by artist Hector Castellanos.

The first day of the celebration includes a procession that's symbolic of spirits traveling home for the celebration. At 2:15 p.m., it heads west on Detroit Avenue to La Sagrada Familia Church, where parishioner Leticia Raigoza will have prepared an outdoor altar. The focus of the celebration is the altar dedicated to the deceased. There will be nine in the La Sa´grada Familia Church and parish hall designed by a flock of Cleveland artists, including Nina Hurin and Merlida Mercado.



Since no celebration is complete without food, Raoul and Roberto Rodriguez will be selling pan de muerto, decorated with little bones or skeletons made from dough, come hungry!

Festivities begin at Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church (West 70th St. & Detroit Ave.)

Some of the celebration highlights are as follows
2:15 pm.: Procession departs for Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church
3:30 pm : Joya de Mexico mariachi band.
5:15 pm : Day of the Dead history talk by Hector Castellanos.
6:45 pm : Mexclatina music group.

If it's a nice day, ride your bike along the procession route. Bring the entire family and swing by at Mi Pueblo Taqueria (12207 Lorain Ave) for dinner after. Yumm!

Haunted

I am the type of person to cover my eyes at scary movies. I jump at loud noises. I feel faint at the sight of blood. Let's just say I am probablly not the best candidate for the seasonal haunted house outing.

However, I love the idea of gathering a bunch of friends and creeping around in the dark to the sight of a black light and spider webs. It's the "jumping out," the "Freddy Kreuger-like characters" and the possible threat of nightmares for months that steer me away from participating in the Halloween holiday fun.

For those of you who are able to see past the gore and guts, take a night this week to check out the area haunted houses...

> www.7floorsofhell.com
> www.bloodview.com
> www.carnivalofhorrors2K.com
> www.forestofterror.com
> www.hshlab.com
> www.pandorasboxinmentor.com

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

Party @ Ray's (10/16)

Thursday, October 16th, 2008

You won't believe it until you see it with your own eyes. Ray Petro has transformed an abandoned Cleveland factory warehouse into 100,000 square feet of mountain bike and BMX trails, ramps, elevators and trick jumps, and you are invited to party while the best of Cleveland's trick riders show off their awesome skills, as we celebrate the Civic Innovation Lab's 5th birthday party.

5:30-7:30PM at Ray's indoor MTB, with open bar, delectable dishes like hot german potato salad, a mediterranean bean salad, 7-layer Brownie Bash, Shortbread Raspberry Sammies & more, all from Constantino's Catering!

For tickets visit www.coolcleveland.net for directions and more info on Rays visit www.raysmtb.com

National Butterscotch Pudding Day!

Friday, September 19th 2008


Today is National Butterscotch Pudding Day. Anyone know if there are any places in Cleveland where butterscotch pudding is served on the dessert menu? If not, I think I will swing by the new Giant Eagle on 117th in Cleveland tonight and pick up a box of instant. Yummy! Happy Friday! :)

Hip Hop Awards (9/20)

Saturday, September 20th, 2008

This years show date is set! Join the best hip hop music artists from across the state at the Convention Center Music Hall. The red carpet entrance begins at 5pm while the show will kick off at 7pm. Performances currently include Billfold ENT, CJ, Copywrite, Lennon John, Pandemik Records and many special celebrity guest appearances. If you can't get a ticket, ride your bike or your board around and check out the attendees fashions, you are in for a treat.

To vote for you favorite Ohio artist, or just to check out the nominations visit www.ohiohiphopawards.com

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

FREE Yoga (8/02)

Saturday, August 2nd, 2008

Have you been meaning to get back to the mat? Trying to prepare for your fall yoga routine? Need to stretch and relax your shoulders from too much time on the computer? Visit Inner Bliss yoga Studio in Rocky River this weekend for a whole day of complimentary yoga classes. Come for one class or stay for the whole day. You are invited to bring a friend or a few!.

This free day of yoga is a way for Inner Bliss to express how thankful they for all who practice at their studio, it also kicks off a week dedicated to giving back.

For more information on the schedule of classes and about the entire week celebration, visit www.innerblissyogastudio.com.

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

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

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!