Did you know?

That in 1902, a resident of Akron, Ohio, Martin F. Christensen, invented an automated machine that could manufacture glass marbles. Traditionally, workers made marbles by hand from clay or stone, including marble. Christensen's invention made glass-marble production an entirely automated process. Christensen established the M.F. Christensen and Son Company in Akron to produce the thousands of colored balls of glass.



While the Akron factory does not still produce marbles, you can still visit the American Toy Marble Museum located in downtown Akron. Free and open to the public. With thousands of marbles to look at I'm sure you'll find your favorite Aggie or Boulder. Throw the family in the car, take a thirty minute road trip south for a few hours of fun.

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.

New Year, New Art!

I came across this business the other day and LOVE some of their illustrations, take a peek!



"Cleveland is one of the great unsung American cities. Certainly a large part of the industrial backbone that made this the greatest country in the world. There are so many landmarks and historical aspects of Cleveland that are beautiful and worth a second look. With your support we hope to do many more such matchbooks and posters. Let us know if you have a great subject you'd like to see. Thanks, The Management at The Great Lakes Match Co."

A week in review!

What to do this week? No fear, I'm here with a list of fun suggestions!


C : Capitol Theatre - More Than a Game...Monday night $5 movie, $1 drink, $1 candy!
L : In honor of Cleveland Beer Week, swing by Lilly's Chocolate for a beer & chocolate pairing.
E : Explore the new Gauguin exhibit at the Cleveland Museum of Art.
V : Vintage finds, deals & steals at the Cleveland Auction House, fine art & antique auction 10/25
E : Edgewater Park on the Shoreway is peaceful on a sunny fall afternoon...go beach glass picking!
L : An evening of dessert at L'Albatros...french press & frozen grand marnier souffle, yumm...
A : Animals come to town with the Ringling Bros Circus!
N : Nature drawing, Join Gail Felix for an evening of field sketching in nature. 10/19
D : A fall drive out east to view the fall hues that nature has painted across our Ohio trees!

Gender Bender Play (10/08)

Thursday, October 8th, 2009

As part of the Great Lakes Theatre Festival season opener, the actors and actresses would like to invite you to experience their work in Shakespeares, The Twelth Night.



After a shipwreck on an unfriendly shore and the loss of her twin brother Sebastian, young Viola must pose as a man to survive. Shakespeare’s sophisticated comedy of gender-bending mistaken identity is full of passionate longing and bittersweet romance. Twelfth Night is an irresistible and poignant comedy that is one of the Bard’s most luminous plays.

Get your tickets today!

be quiet & SPEAKEASY

A speakeasy was an establishment which illegally sold alcoholic beverages during the period of United States history known as Prohibition (1920–1932). During this time, the sale, manufacturing, and transportation (bootlegging) of alcohol was illegal. The term comes from a patron’s manner of ordering an alcoholic drink without raising suspicion—bartenders would tell patrons to be quiet and “speak easy."

Wondered what the glow of light from below Bar Cento on West 25th was? Have you seen the dimly lit staircase leading to the murmur below? Do you know the secret handshake? Hmmm? What's down below?

Located in a dimly lighted basement below Bar Cento/McNulty’s Bier Markt, unmarked with no sign. Speakeasy is open every Friday and Saturday night 8pm-2am. (Thursday Live Music Nights coming this Fall)



“I’ve always thought that going out for a cocktail is a great way to escape the mundane realities of life,” says McNulty. “And I was thinking: What was the ultimate escape? The speakeasy during Prohibition.” The concept started brewing in McNulty’s head last year, 75 years after the repeal of Prohibition, which banned the sale of alcohol for consumption.

Check out the culinary cocktail list inspired by Cleveland’s long history of bootlegging and raved about in the New York Times…

Speakeasy Cocktails
The Rosemary–rosemary gin, dry vermouth
Bee’s Knees–honeycomb gin, cane syrup, fresh lemon
O’Sweet Brandy–brandy infused with toasted honey walnuts
Manhattan Pig–caramelized bacon bourbon, sweet vermouth, bitters
Pepperoncini Martini–pepperoncini vodka, fresh lime, seltzer
Rome with a View–Campari, dry vermouth, fresh lime, cane syrup, seltzer
Pimm’s Zingiber–pimms No.1, fresh lemon, cane syrup, fresh ginger root, seltzer
Spanish Lover–cachasa, fresh lime, fresh ginger, cane syrup, seltzer

Speakeasy Punches (serves 4)
Claret Jug–red wine, fresh lemon, luxardo, cane syrup, seltzer
Rum Runner–coconut rum, brandy, cranberry, fresh orange, pineapple

For more information and details about the new kid in town visit www.bier-markt.com/blog/

Dragon Boat (8/29)

Saturday, August 29th, 2009

Dragon boat races are believed to have originated in China more than 2,500 years ago, contemporaneous with the Greeks beginning their games at Olympia. Beyond a sporting event, the races and water festivals serve as a veneration to the dragons, hoping for health through the dangerously warm and humid summer months.



The dragon boats are incredibly beautiful, and the event “incorporates high energy, fitness, team building and recreational exercise in a fun and competitive atmosphere,” festival promoters say. The event also is designed to promote the people and unique culture of Cleveland's Asian community. Opening ceremonies will take place on the patio deck of Cyrus Waterfront Restaurant and Patio, 2000 Sycamore Street. Races will be held immediately following the opening ceremonies and continue throughout the day. There's no admission fee for spectators.

The Flats, 10-5pm www.clevelanddragonboatfestival.com

The real "Mrs Cleveland"

I think she looks so sophisticated and elegant. I would like to sit and drink tea with her on a Saturday afternoon discussing politics, fashion and the state of the weather.



(Mrs Frances Cleveland)
1899, oil, 157.2 x 92.2 cm
Wife of President Grover Cleveland

Maverick Movie (8/13)

Thursday, August 13th, 2009

Name this all time favorite flick...

"Maverick is a hot pilot. When he encounters a pair of MiGs over the Persian Gulf, his wingman is clearly outflown and freaks. On almost no fuel, Maverick is able to talk him back down to the Carrier. When his wingman turns in his wings, Maverick is moved up in the standings and sent to the Top Gun Naval Flying School. There he fights the attitudes of the other pilots and an old story of his father's death in combat that killed others due to his father's error. Maverick struggles to be the best pilot, stepping on the toes of his other students and in a different way to Charlie, a civilian instructor to whom he is strongly attracted." (IMDB)



Yep, you're right...TOP GUN. This alltime favorite is this weeks pick at Crocker Park, "Movies in the Park." Located in West Park, the movies takes place at dusk every Thursday evening. Bring a blanket of chair, this one is sure to be packed with aspiring pilots.

www.crockerpark.com

Grover "on Holiday"

I found this little illustration of our fearless leader, Mr. Grover Cleveland. Thought it was fun to share. Fishing anyone. :)

a new "Boo" in town (7/01)

So many Clevelanders, myself included; think that Mr. Michael Symon is "the bomb."

I mean, who else can pair bacon ice cream with sweet french toast and have guests swarming like bees in a hive for this luscious dessert(found at Lolas)? Mind you, you pay the valet on East 4th and wait for a minimum of :20 minutes to even get your car back...and it's still TOTALLY worth it!

Well, Cleveland ("West-siders,") no need to drive downtown to get your little "Symon on the side," look no further to the new "boo" in town...Bar Symon, opening this Wednesday evening, July 1st, 2009.



Bar Symon; an American bar and brasserie, will occupy the site of the previous Swingos Grand Tavern, which closed suddenly in February. Bar Symon, will be “like an American version of Balthazar,” Symon said, referring to the popular New York restaurant that serves classic French brasserie food.

Symon said the food at the 80-seat restaurant will be “our kind of twist on very Americana food,” such as truffled fried chicken, vegetable pot pie and smoked brisket. The restaurant will have 40 domestic beers on tap, with many from the Midwest, and another 60 beers in bottles. By contrast, he plans to offer about 50 wines. He anticipates a price point of $8 to $18.

To visit your "soon-to-be NEW BOO," swing on over to 32858 Walker Road, this Wednesday,

Trolley Tours of Lakewood (6/28)

Sunday, June 28th, 2009

Explore the fascinating history and beautiful architecture of Lakewood on a Lolly the Trolley ride guided by Lakewood Historical Society Executive Director Mazie Adams. Tour starts at the Oldest Stone House Museum parking lot and includes a stop at the historic Nicholson House for light refreshments.



Tickets are just $15. Reservations are required. Call (216) 221-7343 for more information. 1:00 p.m. (Meet at the Oldest Stone House Parking Lot)

Terminal Tower

More of my fun finds...



Three potcards all representing the Terminal Tower. One of the cards is postmarked 1944. They each have a 2 cent stamp on the back!

Ohio City Home Tour (5/17)

Sunday, May 17th, 2009

Visit Ohio City for the annual Home Tour which features eight to 10 highly historical, highly designed homes. Lolly transports guests from home to home during the Home Tour, giving visitors the opportunity to hop on and off as they like. Neighborhood restaurants and shops are open during the day for breakfast, lunch and dinner.



Tickets for the Home Tour are on sale now and can be purchased either online or by calling 216.781.3222. Tickets for the Home Tour also may be purchased on the day of the event at the ticket booth on the corner of Market Avenue and West 25th Street, just across the street from the West Side Market). Home Tour tickets are $18 in advance, $20 at the gate.

The tour is from 10 to 4. www.ohiocity.com

Vintage Cleveland

I found this photo and had to share.



I love Cleveland, now AND then!

Road Trip : Bike Museum

It’s supposed to be such a nice weekend, why not plan to take a LONG bike ride (almost 200 miles Yo!) to the Bicycle Museum of America in New Bremen, OH (3 hrs by car).

The Museum has more than 300 bikes on display and more than 1,000 sets of wheels on rotation. Take a tour or explore the collection on your own, no helmets required! :) The museum covers the history of the bike from the early 1800’s to the most recent BMX designs.



For more details on this Ohio gem, visit www.bicyclemuseum.com.

Eggshell-LAND; the movie (4/17-18)

Friday, April 17th & Saturday, April 18th, 2009



Lyndhurst residents Ron and Betty Manolio, who have been decorating their Linden Lane yard with thousands of brightly colored egg shells for 52 years, are the subjects of a new documentary "Eggshelland: The Movie" follows a year in the life of the Manolios as they planned and set up their annual Easter display for 2004. Producer and Director Christopher Noice, who was then living in Mayfield Heights, came up with the idea for a documentary the first time he visited Eggshelland in 1985.



The film will premiere April 17th & 18th, 7pm at Cedar Lee Theatre, (Cleveland Heights) For more information about the film visit www.eggshellandmovie.com

Cleveland? Rock Hall?

As friday swings into full action and the city swells with excitement over this weekends inductions, many of us will be reflecting on how music has impacted our life.

So, I was thinking... Why is the Rock Hall in Cleveland to begin with? How did it come about? Why would Cleveland be the place to celebrate rock ‘n roll? After a quick trip around the web here is the story....

The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Foundation was created April 20, 1983. However, it had no home. The search committee considered several cities, including Memphis, Cincinnati, New York, and Cleveland. Cleveland lobbied hard to be chosen, citing that Cleveland disc jockey Alan Freed is widely credited with promoting the new genre (and the term) of "rock and roll", and that Cleveland was the location of the first rock and roll concert. Civic leaders in Cleveland pledged $65 million in public money to fund the construction. A petition drive was signed by 600,000 fans favoring Cleveland over Memphis, and a USA Today poll which Cleveland won by 100,000 votes. The hall of fame board voted to build the museum in Cleveland.

Never been downtown to check out the museum? This Saturday is FREE Day at the party palace, sponsored by medical mutual. Not only will the museum be decked for the weekend guests and celebrations there will also be live performances throughout the day including Pale Hollow / Rock Your Way To Cleveland YouTube contest winner (1-1:45), Decade / Plain Dealer Cleveland Rocks 09 winner (2-2:45) and Consumer Republic / 2008 Fortune Battle of the Bands winner (3-3:45)

For a full listing of the weekend events visit www.rockhall.com/induction2009/events

Bob Evans in Esquire

Every once and awhile I do a huge magazine purge. I plan on a few hours, a few glasses of wine and a few boxes of paper recycling! I plan on also discovering many fun and exciting things I get to share with all of you!

Open...the March Issue of Esquire Magazine (one of my favorite subscriptions)



The editors at Esquire have spoken and Ohio-based Bob Evans makes the cut for top hot spots in Ohio for the perfect breakfast (along with Tommy’s on Coventry). They rave about the pig sausage and farmhouse butter biscuits being a perfect chain feast, with the best “grease to gristle ratio,” (my arteries already feel tight)

Anyways, I thought today I would offer a bit of breakfast inspiration as well as Ohio/ Bob Evans History for those of us who aren’t super familiar with “bob.” Enjoy.



In 1948, Bob Evans opened a 12-stool, 24-hour restaurant where he served hot, homestyle meals at a value. When he couldn’t find high quality sausage to serve his customers, Bob started making his own recipe on his farm in southeast Ohio.

From the day that first restaurant opened, homestyle hospitality became synonymous with Bob Evans. In fact, Bob and his wife, Jewell, were like family to a lot of people. They started filming television commercials in their own kitchen at the Homestead, inviting folks to “come on down and visit us” at the farm in Rio Grande, Ohio. So many people dropped by that, after awhile, their kitchen just wasn’t big enough to accommodate everyone. That’s when the Sausage Shop was built, which is now a Bob Evans Restaurant, just a short walk from the Homestead. Since then, the original Sausage Shop has been enlarged three times and is as popular as ever.

In every Bob Evans Restaurant across the country, they still serve authentic homestyle goodness inspired by family recipes.They still insist on farm-fresh food, and offer family-friendly prices and a warm smile. You can even find the fresh sausage, homestyle sides and family dinners in your local grocer.

As a farmer, a neighbor and a visionary, Bob Evans showed the Ohio soil was good for growing a lot of things, including one remarkable legacy. Bob Evans (1918-2007) www.bobevans.com

Cleveland Love

"Thanks" to the Cleveland Visitors Bureau and their historical image library I found this image. I hope you "Love" it as much as I do.

Happy 50th Birthday....

Barbie.

I loved the column in yesterday's PD, written by sassy columnist Connie Schultz, thought you may too?



www.cleveland.com/schultz/blog/index.ssf/2009/03/when_little_girls_have_big_dre.html

Celebrate Darwin (2/12-15)

Thursday, February 12th through Sunday, February 15th, 2009

Join the staff of the Cleveland Botanical Gardens as they invite you to Celebrate the 200th anniversary of Darwin’s birthday and the 150th anniversary of The Origin of Species.

An English naturalist Darwin realised and demonstrated that all species of life have evolved over time from common ancestors through the process he called "natural selection." The fact that evolution occurs became accepted by the scientific community and much of the general public in his lifetime, while his theory of natural selection came to be widely seen as the primary explanation of the process of evolution in the 1930s, and now forms the basis of modern evolutionary theory. In modified form, Darwin’s scientific discovery remains the foundation of biology, as it provides a unifying logical explanation for the diversity of life



A special display of rare books and hands-on activities will be part of the Museums celebration. Free with Garden Admission, no registration required. 1-3pm

For more event details, hours and directions visit www.cbgarden.org

Represent Cleveland (1/20)

Tuesday, January 20th, 2009

Happy Inauguration Day Clevelanders! Today I will be joining our new "First Family" as we join together in D.C. to celebrate the inauguration of our 44th President Barack Obama. I am lucky to have a sister who lives close to the action...so with a tank of gas, lots of warm clothes and a charged camera battery I will be amongst the crowds (hopefully) squeezed onto the Mall and in the midst of history in the making.



For great trivia and information about the days events, luncheons, trivia, etc. visit inaugural.senate.gov

a "sparkling" exhibit

I know I may have mentioned this happening prior....but I wanted to make a note of the most exquisite exhibit I have ever seen and urge everyone to MAKE TIME over this final week to visit the “Artistic Luxury” exhibit at the Cleveland Museum of Art... it is stunning.

This past Friday evening I had the privilege of exploring the works of Peter Carl Fabergé (Russian), Louis Comfort Tiffany (American), and René Lalique (French) with my three friends (Clevelanders). It was an evening of “oohhss” and “aaahhhs”. There were lots of “We should have been born in another era” dreamy comments. We were drawn to the sparkles of diamond headbands and orchid broaches wondering who exactly had the honor of accessorizing their “going out” clothes with such bling. Our imaginations ran wild with thoughts of royalty all adorned and poised just so.



Artistic Luxury offers a glimpse—through the stunning creations of three great artists—into the world of the rich and famous during the years leading up to the First World War. Each designer was known for his own characteristic style and achievement, and the exhibition devotes a separate gallery to each jeweler, recreating the ambiance of the Paris world’s fair.

The 6-7 room exhibit was filled to the brim with works that will only grace the walls of the museum for one more week. Don’t miss it! The museum is open late this Wednesday until 9pm and Friday until midnight. Cost : CMA members FREE, $17 adults, $12 college students & seniors. $8 children ages 6–18. For more details visit www.clevelandart.org.

Dino Day (12/20)

Saturday, December 20th, 2008

Want to avoid the holiday shopping crowds this weekend? Head over to the Cleveland Museum of Natural History as they welcome the new Tyrannosaurus rex skeleton. The full-size T. rex, a replica of the original fossil in Montana's Museum of the Rockies, will be posed facing off against the Cleveland museum's recently acquired Triceratops, the second-largest dinosaur of the Late Cretaceous Period.

The museum will hold several activities from noon to 4 pm, including dinosaur craft-making, live animal displays at 1 and 3 p.m. featuring "Raptor Show" and "Dinosaur Descendants," a 1:30 pm talk by fossil hunter Darin Croft, and a 2 pm T. rex roaring contest.



Dino Day Activities Throughout the Day Include:
• Paleontologist Vest Craft
• Dinosaur Doorknob Hanger Craft in the Discovery Center
• Dinosaur Scavenger Hunt/Bingo – Complete to receive a Dinosaur Stencil!
• Bring your camera to take a photo with a Museum dinosaur character
• Hands-on-experience with bones and fossils
• Vertebrate Paleontology display of dinosaur fossil casts and Q&A

Also Enjoy:
• Planetarium Shows for $4 at 10:30, 11:30 am and 12:30, 2, 3, and 4 pm
• Live Animal Shows: "Raptor Show" and "Dinosaur Descendants;" 1 and 3 pm
• "Build-a-Beast" in Murch Auditorium; 12:30 and 3:30 pm
• T. rex Roaring Contest – Participants must register in advance
• T. rex balloon figures with Swifty the Clown; 12:30 to 3:30 pm
• Meet a Dino Hunter: Darin Croft, Research Associate at the Cleveland Museum of Natural History and Assistant Professor, Department of Anatomy, CWRU, at 1:30 pm

Activities are free with museum admission. The museum is at 1 Wade Oval Drive in University Circle. For details see www.cmnh.org

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

Mail from Cleveland!

Did you know?



Cleveland mail clerk, Joseph Briggs, started the country's first known free delivery mail service. Prior to home delivery, families had to flock to the post office itself to get their mail, waiting in long lines and enduring hard trips. Briggs began the delivery service in 1863 in Cuyahoga County, which became so popular that the devoted the rest of his life spreading this idea and practice across the US.

Briggs also designed the very first letter carrier's uniform.

All right here in Cleveland!

Le nozze di Figaro (10/4)

Saturday, Oct. 4th, 2008

Le nozze di Figaro (The Marriage of Figaro) : Comedy, romance and melancholy intertwine in one very eventful day at the palace of Count Almaviva. Preparing for their wedding, servants Figaro and Susanna become caught up in the follies of others' amorous pursuits. The count desires Susanna, page Cherubino loves the countess, servant Marcellita wants to marry Figaro, and the countess just wants her husband's affections back. The instances of mistaken identity that follow nurture the witty farce of Le nozze di Figaro, but true emotions--and love--are never far behind. Sung in Italian with English subtitles projected abve the stage.



Take your special someone to this charming display of romance, rendezvous, innocence and intrigue! Plus it's Italian, what could be better launguage for love? :)

Showing at 8pm, State Theatre, Playhouse Square. For more information, including ticket purchasing visit www.operacleveland.org

Go Browns! (9/14)

Sunday, September 14th, 2008

All I can say is GO BROWNS!*



Kick off begins at 8:15pm. www.clevelandbrowns.com

Lakewood Home Tour (9/07)

September 7th, 2008

You can visit eight beautiful homes and historic buildings in Lakewood.

This year’s tour features eight beautiful and historic Lakewood structures, nominated by the community, including…
- A grand Georgian Revival with Victorian elements
- A charming Craftsman-style bungalow
- An eclectic Arts & Crafts bungalow
- A Clifton Park Italian Renaissance home
-The self-designed home of Joseph Marquard, of the locally-renowned Marquard Building Company
- A Waterford lakefront aerie with expansive vistas
- The lobby of the long-shuttered Hilliard Theater
- The Nicholson House, Lakewood’s oldest home


1-6pm. Tickets are just $15 and can be purchased at www.lakewoodhistorymuseumstore.com or one of our many retail outlets (Beck Center, First Federal, Geiger’s, Local Girl Gallery, Rozi’s, Geiger’s Store for Women, Mitchell Sotka, V Regalo/The Desk Set and Borders at the Promenade of Westlake.

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!

Explore the Cod

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

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



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

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

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

Quote!

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

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

Fun "FREE" Photo-Opp

If you caught the post last week (A Day on the RTA) you may have noticed the "upcoming post" mentions...so here we go!

At one point or another you may have driven by the large red Cleveland sculpture, but have you ever tried to climb it? Impossible, unless maybe you are super tall!

The Free stamp is one of the most controversial works of art displayed in the City of Cleveland designed by Claes Oldenburg and Coosje van Bruggen. Located in Willard Park to the East of City Hall, this massive aluminum and planted steel sculpture is difficult to miss with its large red handle sprawling across the lawn and metal base sinking into the ground displaying the word “FREE” in backwards letters to passersby on Lakeside Avenue. Some people see the Free Stamp as an inspiring work of Pop Art that represents our liberty as American citizens and reflects our City’s industrial progress. Others view it as an eyesore that is inappropriate for a location at the heart of the City’s Civic Center. This debate has been going on since the piece was first commissioned in 1982 and still echoes throughout the City today.



Oldenburg and van Bruggen designed the Free Stamp at the request of Standard Oil and admit that it was one of the most difficult works of art they have ever created. The controversy began soon after Standard Oil was awarded permission to tear down the old Standard Oil of Ohio (SOHIO) building located on Public Square. As construction of the new building began, SOHIO decided that it wanted a fresh work of art to display outside its doors, directly across from one of the City’s historical landmarks, the Soldiers and Sailors Monument. After seeing the “pad” of land with which they had to work, Oldenburg and van Bruggen, who are famous for making large replicas of common objects such as spoons, ice cream cones, and bowling pins, proposed the idea of creating an enormous stamp.

The original design for the sculpture was an upright, self-inking stamp, with a red handle which looked like a giant exclamation point. The first design allowed access so that people could actually walk around inside the stamp, but management at SOHIO soon agreed that such a structure would require a lot of maintenance. The design was then restructured to look like a hand stamp on an ink pad. The question was then raised as to what word would be placed on the stamp. The artists wanted a word that would serve as a statement, like a one-word poem, but could also be found on a real office stamp. The physical dimension of the work was also a consideration as the diameters of the Free Stamp left room for only 4 letters. Van Bruggen suggested the word “Free” to represent liberty and independence and to make a positive statement in the heart of the City.

Just as construction on a revised design began, SOHIO underwent a change in management. The new managers did not like the idea of placing a massive piece of pop art on Public Square, especially a 50-foot stamp. Several opponents of the Free Stamp feared that the message conveyed by the work would invite jokes about the condition of Downtown Cleveland, which during the 1980s was in need of revitalization. SOHIO gave Oldenburg and van Bruggen the opportunity to relocate the stamp, but the artists did not want to move it. The location at Public Square added to the artistic expression of the work in a way other locations could not.

Production of the Stamp was halted for several years and pieces of it were placed in storage in Indiana. As BP America assumed management of SOHIO, executives wondered why the company was paying so much to house a huge stamp. Interest was renewed in the work of art and Mayor George Voinovich invited Oldenburg and van Bruggen to Cleveland in hopes of selecting another site to display their work. Although the Cleveland Museum of Art was considered, the artists wanted their work to be seen in the heart of Downtown and set their sights on Willard Park for its proximity to Public Square and because of its location to Cleveland’s government offices.

Placing the Free Stamp in Willard Park immediately drew opposition from Council President, George Forbes, who did not support the idea of the City of Cleveland accepting a rejected work of art and displaying it right outside of City Hall. Once again, the artists had chosen their location as part of their artistic statement and were unwilling to compromise their artistic integrity. This time, they threatened to destroy the work entirely if the City did not want to display it.

Before the artists could act on their threat, Election Day 1989 had passed and newly elected Mayor, Michael R. White, and Council President, Jay Westbrook, expressed their interest in this unique work. BP America finally decided that it would donate the Free Stamp as a gift to the City and offered to maintain it in its new location. City Council accepted this generous gift and the Free Stamp was brought out of storage and redesigned to accommodate its new space.

The lawn at Willard Park inspired Oldenburg and van Bruggen to alter the position of the Free Stamp so that it would lie on its side, as if it had toppled over on someone’s desk. Van Bruggen felt that the new design reflected the Free Stamp’s history as it was “flung” from Public Square only to “land” in Willard Park. Production on the Free Stamp resumed and it was brought to Cleveland in pieces to be assembled in its current spot.

The Free Stamp was officially inaugurated on November 15, 1991.

Art Future

Although the entire museum is still under development, there are bits and pieces that are open. See the exhibition on view now at the Cleveland Museum of Art; Building for the Future.

The plan developed by the founders of the Museum was to erect a beautiful building, fill it with the finest works of art that could be found, and open its doors to the people of this city free of charge, was not only simple, it was also effective. Today, the museum welcomes about 500,000 visitors each year and its collection, which numbers more than 42,000 works of art, is widely acknowledged as one of the finest in the world.



To accommodate the growth of its collection and educational activities, the museum expanded several times in the past 50 years. While these additions provided much-needed galleries, classrooms, and workspaces, they also gradually obscured the clarity of the original plan and created an odd assortment of buildings that were difficult for visitors to make their way through and, by the end of the last decade, in need of major improvements and repairs.

To address these problems and to enable it to serve the needs of the community in the future, the Cleveland Museum of Art has recently embarked upon a major renovation and expansion. Scheduled for completion in 2011, this project will quite literally transform the museum and, at the same time, sustain the vision of its founders, who believed that the arts should be accessible to all.

For directions, hours and special museum events visit www.clevelandart.org

Quote.

From time to time I read such wonderful little quotes
(yes, you can call me ms. successories) that I can't reist sharing.
Enjoy.

Be always at war with your vices,
at peace with your neighbors,
and let each new year find you a better person.

— Benjamin Franklin

Tour Ohio City (5/18)

Sunday May 18th, 2008

Spend the day exploring the historic area know to us as Ohio City. This years lucky "tourgoers" will find an amazing array of over eight diverse housing options-including new and renovated apartments/townhouses, stunning new single-family homes, and meticulously restored historic homes.

The Home Tour starts at the ticket booth, which is located at Market Square Park at the corner of West 25th Street and Lorain Avenue, just across the street from the West Side Market. 10:00am-4:00pm. Guests can take advantage of ample free parking in the lot behind the Market off Lorain Avenue and ride Lolly the Trolley from stop to stop. Tickets are $18 day of the event.



For more information visit www.ohiocity.com/hometour/hometour0.html

Sweets on the Hill

A trip to Presti's Bakery in Little Italy was such a great way to kick off the weekend. From the artichoke pizza to the Italian cheesecake, the evening was filled with great sweets and even better cappuccino.

In 1903 Rose and Charles Presti Sr. opened Presti’s Bakery. As the business grew so did their family. In 1918, Charles Presti Jr. was born. He worked at the bakery from a young age, learning the trade from his parents. The bakery moved location a number of times before settling into the heart of Cleveland’s Little Italy on Mayfield Rd. in 1943.

At this time, Presti’s Bakery remains an integral part of Cleveland’s Little Italy. Michael, is the pastry chef and the fourth generation working at the bakery. They still use only the freshest ingredients with no preservatives to produce fine quality baked goods. Still made by hand with the same recipes and techniques originally created by Rose Presti.




Next time you feel like a cannoli or gelato...head east to Presti's (www.prestisbakery.com). 12101 Mayfield Rd. Cleveland, OH 216.421.3060

Celebrate Cinco (5/05)

Monday, May 5th, 2008

Olé! Happy Cinco de Mayo! (Spanish for "5th of May") The holiday commemorates an initial victory of Mexican forces led by General Ignacio Zaragoza Seguín over French forces in the Battle of Puebla on May 5, 1862. The date is observed in the United States and other locations around the world as a celebration of Mexican heritage and pride. A common misconception is that Cinco de Mayo is Mexico's Independence Day; Mexico's Independence Day is actually September 16 (dieciséis de septiembre in Spanish), which is the most important national patriotic holiday in Mexico.

Although today is THE day to celebrate...there are so many great Mexican food choices around town, you should take the week and celebrate.



Nuevo Acapulco (www.nuevoacapulco.com)
Winner of the 2003 Best Margaritas by Citysearch of Cleveland, this local watering hole will be open late tonight to handle the festivities. With specials on drinks, including the Mango Scarlet Orange Margarita, it is sure to be a wild fiesta. Personally, I love the classic Mexican breakfast, Huevos Rancheros! Get there early, happy hour is from 4-7pm.

Villa y Zapata (www.villayzapata.com)
Looking to explore the heart of the city, visit this authentic family-owned eatery. The margaritas are bright green and the salsa is hot! Scene Magazine has voted them Best Chiles Rellenos in town, so go and try. There might be a line, but the parking lot is always buzzing with folks, great for people watching!

Luchitas (www.luchita.com)
In 1981, Luchita Galindo decided to follow her dream of opening her own business. After years of hard work and perseverance, she and her son Jorge Galindo opened the doors to a small Mexican restaurant on the Westside of Cleveland; their restaurant is Luchita’s Mexican Restaurant. Now with multiple locations around Northeast Ohio, this Mexican favorite will be hopping all week.

El Tango Taqueria
Hungry people, looking to celebrate take note- the food here is tasty, affordable and authentic. Large flour-tortilla burritos are stuffed with choice of meat, chicken, pork, fish or veggies. There's delicious tamale pie con pollo, a daily soup and specials. The wholesome chicken-lime-veggie soup is a meal in itself. BYOB! Located next door to Lakewood High School Field on Madison Ave.

Paladar Kitchen (www.paladarlatinkitchen.com)
The happy hour is offered from 4-7pm in the bar area. Choose from $5 Mojitos & Margaritas, $3 Latin Beer Specials and happy hour portions for under $5. Viva Paladar!

Chipoltle (www.chipotle.com)
For those of us on the run, pull up to your local Chipotle for chips, guac and a corona, or two!

If you have a favorite that I have missed, please feel free to post and spread the word.

Happy May Day (5/01)

Thursday May 1st, 2008

May Day is celebrated in many places around the world. The traditions and stories surrounding May Day vary from place to place. There is, however, one thing that is similar in most celebrations - the use of Flowers!

One of the most popularly known May Day traditions is to hang a basket full of spring flowers and/or other small gifts on a neighbor's doorknob. The trick is you don't want the neighbor to see you BUT, if you get caught you are supposed to get a kiss. :)

Although this image isn't of flowers or springtime charm, it reminded me of May first and the excitement of summerTIME. Hope you have a happy May Day and enjoy this funky photo.

Chinese New Years Eats (2/7)

Thursday, February 7th, 2008

Today is marks the first day of the Chinese New Year celebration. This weekend why not visit any of the Cleveland Asiatown Restaurants to partake in the excitement?

According to Cleveland's 1890 census, the Chinese community consisted of just 38 residents, most of them living around the Old Stone Church area downtown. Gradually, after the repeal of the Chinese Exclusion Act in 1943 and as a result of the Communist takeover in Mainland China, the Cleveland Chinese community moved to present-day Asiatown during the 1950s and 1960s. In the 70s, the neighborhood welcomed Filipino, Vietnamese & Korean immigrants as well.

The neighborhood abounds in excellent, and affordable, restaurants. Among the best are Bo Loong (39th and St. Clair), a large dining room known for its dim sum, fresh seafood, and late night karaoke; #1 Pho (31st and Superior), the quintessential Chinese noodle house, popular with students and downtown office workers; and Li Wah (29th Street and Payne), in the Asian Plaza shopping center, with 400 seats, dim sum, and a varied dinner menu.

Happy New Year!