The Westside Buzz
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☕ 150 people dressed as Mrs. Roper walked into a bar...

☕ 150 people dressed as Mrs. Roper walked into a bar...

3 years of I-90 construction starts next month & FirstEnergy admits the real problem (it's not weather)

July 29, 2025

Good morning, Buzz Nation!

We packed more into this weekend than carnival workers in a funnel cake stand at Fairview Fun Days.

Friday kicked off with live music from Old Skool and powdered sugar everywhere. Saturday was golf at Manakiki (muggiest weather I have ever experienced) and beers at Lakewood Truck Park. Sunday? Whiskey Island, live music, sunshine…

…and 150 people dressed like Mrs. Roper from Three’s Company!

Curly wigs. Muumuus. Pure chaos. It was like a disco-themed cult had a beach day—and honestly, it made our day.

Today we’re buzzing on:

🏄 An adventurous Westside couple bringing people together
🎢 Riders stranded on new Cedar Point ride
🔮 23 things to do on The Westside this week

Hope to see you out there!

—The Briggses

TOGETHER WITH OHIO JUNK FORCE

Westside’s Favorite Junk Crew Is Standing By

If your garage, basement, or attic looks more like a "someday" project than a usable space, it's time to call in the pros—your Westside neighbors at Ohio Junk Force.

Chris and Shawna Blumfeldt aren’t just junk removers. They’re Westsiders who built this business to help people finally breathe easily in their own homes. Since 2010, they’ve hauled it all: hot tubs, broken appliances, estate cleanouts, decades of clutter—even a piano or two.

What makes them different?
✔️ Transparent pricing with no surprises
✔️ Heavy lifting? They handle it all
✔️ You don’t pay until you’re fully satisfied
✔️ They donate reusable items to those in need

They’ve earned ⭐1,100+ five-star reviews by showing up with a smile and making junk disappear like magic, responsibly donating what they can to local charities.

If you’ve been putting it off, this is your sign.

COMMUNITY BLEND

Jeff and Salli’s Excellent Adventures

According to a 2023 poll, more than 1/3 of adults between the ages of 50-80 have experienced loneliness and isolation in the last year.

Enter Jeff and Salli’s Excellent Adventures. After a few of our readers turned us on to them, we think they are kindred spirits of Buzz Nation.

Their mission? Simple: Bring together fun-loving people, whether that be singles, couples, old souls, and young spirits. The goal is to connect those who want to get out, discover hidden gems, and make real connections.

These aren’t your typical hiking group events. They’re like mini-adventures with friends you haven’t met yet.

August Events:

Aug 1 @ 6 PM – Tiki Barge Cruise on the Cuyahoga (yes, a floating tiki bar)

Aug 9 @ 1 PM – Roadtrip: 2 Geauga Parks + a Winery (nature, wine, repeat)

Aug 17 @ 11:30 AM – Oberlin Zipline + Bonfire (a little adrenaline, a lot of marshmallows)

Aug 24 @ 1 PM – Roadtrip: Vermilion Parks + a Winery (lake views and vino with new friends)

Do you know someone interested in getting out and meeting some fun Westsiders?

Power Outages Have Westsiders Fed Up 📍 Westside

Photo Courtesy First Energy

Power outages hit the Westside again on Sunday, leaving over 25,000 people in Cleveland, Lakewood, and Rocky River without electricity—interrupting everything from Whiskey Island concerts to POS systems at packed bars.

Local leaders have had enough: Lakewood’s mayor, Cleveland City Council members, and state reps met with FirstEnergy, and they admitted the problem isn’t weather.

Rather, it’s their aging equipment and pledged $3 million for upgrades, including a new transformer, additional breakers, and more frequent inspections.

Until the fixes are done, they’ll keep a mobile substation stationed in Lakewood to help prevent more blackouts.

📸 @THEWESTSIDEBUZZ

Check it out @TheWestsideBuzz

If you missed our newsletter last Friday, we thought it would be fun to see what ChatGPT thought about some of the Westside suburbs and neighborhoods. We got a chuckle out of it, and then posted it to our Instagram page where it went viral.

Even more exciting? Cleveland’s most famous Chef, Michael Symon, commented on it! See what he said here

FAREWELL

Cap’n Taco: Top Gun Is Out of Fuel 📍 Brook Park

Photo courtesy Ithaca Court

Well, this one stings.

After 49 glorious years of serving up hard shells, soft shells, Cap’n Taco in Brook Park is closing for good on August 13. And if you're thinking, “Wait, I’ve been meaning to get back there,” you’ve got about two weeks to right that wrong.

According to their heartfelt Facebook post, where hundreds of broken-hearted fans left comments, it’s pretty clear this wasn’t their decision. The building’s been sold, the lease isn’t being renewed, and just like that, another local legend gets booted for the 14th Starbucks in a square mile.

So if you have some cherished memories, please let us know what they meant to you.

Have you ever been to Cap'n Taco?

If so, please share a fond memory

WESTSIDE POUR OVER

Lorain: Westside native and #1 ESPN Women’s Basketball recruit, Saniyah Hall, commits to play her college basketball at USC. Maybe we will see her play for the Cleveland Women’s Basketball team?

I-90: Ready for three years of orange barrels on I-90? Starting in August a $173 million project will replace the existing pavement running from Hilliard Blvd to West blvd.

North Ridgeville: Magic of Lights: Wonderland Walk will move from the Cuyahoga County Fairgrounds to Victory Park, and will run from November 27th to January 3rd.

FB MARKETPLACE FINDS

Nothing quite hits like childhood nostalgia. Today’s FB Marketplace find combines that and Cleveland history all in one sugary package.

For sale: six vintage Pepsi cans from the 1990s, including one commemorating the opening of the Rock Hall—released in 1995, according to the very real and serious source, pepsicans . net.

All six can be yours for $18. I have no idea if this is a good deal or not, but it could be a fun way to burn $20 you have lying around.

CEDAR POINT

Siren’s Curse Living Up to Its Name

For the fourth time since opening, Cedar Point’s newest roller coaster broke down (again), leaving riders stuck and forcing them to climb down the 160-foot track.

At this point, we’re starting to wonder if this is just part of the ride: a new “choose-your-own-adrenaline-path” feature that tests your fear of heights and your will to live.

I think this could be a new business opportunity for Cedar Fair. Forget boring corporate retreats and trust falls. How about you and John from HR hand in hand in a real life or death situation?

Next time you see each other at the water cooler, I bet you won’t be talking about the weather!

MARK YOUR CALENDARS

Spooky season comes early 📍 Avon

Get your Halloween fix way before October at the 10th annual Haunted Garage Sale & Hearse Cruise-In, happening Friday, August 9 from 10 AM–4 PM at Crushers Stadium in Avon.

This one-of-a-kind event blends creepy and cool with 130+ vendors, spooky vehicles (yes, actual hearses), live music from Eerie Invaders, food trucks, and even a special guest: Warrington Gillette, the actor who played Jason in Friday the 13th Part 2.

More info in Short Takes

WHAT’S HAPPENING, WESTSIDERS?

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦=Family Friendly

Wednesday, July 30th
Glamper x GrooveRyde Rooftop Cycle & DJ Pop Up Glamper, The Flats \| 6 - 10 PM GrooveRyde brings the beats to the rooftop with a live DJ-led cycle class overlooking The Flats. Ride to the rhythm, then cool down with a drink and DJ happy hour featuring APT345. Tickets
July Plant Bingo The Winchester Music Tavern, Lakewood \| 7 PM Bingo goes botanical at The Winchester with a night of prizes, planty vibes, and guest vendors C.S. Folk and La Chiquita Selva. It's no cost to play, but seats go fast so get there early!
Cleveland Metroparks Concert Series: Dawn to Dusk Trio Huntington Beach, Bay Village \| 5 - 8 PM The Cleveland Metroparks Summer Concert Series continues with the Dawn to Dusk Trio bringing the energy to the lake. Enjoy hits, a Leinenkugel’s happy hour, food from Metroparks concessions, and the view.

Thursday, July 31st
👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Mini-Golf Fundraiser at Memphis Kiddie Park Memphis Kiddie Park, Brooklyn \| 5:30 – 8 PM This is a family-friendly mini-golf night benefiting Brooklyn Cares. Expect prizes for best (and worst) teams, with all proceeds going to support local students through the Brooklyn Chamber’s scholarship.
Live and Local: Vince Nerone and My_Kayla Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, Downtown \| 8 PM The Rock Hall’s outdoor stage hosts local artists Vince Nerone and My_Kayla for a night of live music on the lakefront. No cost, but RSVP required to attend.
👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Jefferson Rocks West Park Jefferson Park, West Park \| 6:30 - 9 PM Head to Jefferson Park for an evening of live music, food, and family fun while the Motown group “Nitebridge” takes the stage with Rob Samay opening. Enjoy a beer garden, bounce house, and great local eats. Open to the public.
Yoga in the Park with Yoga Six Rocky River Park, 6:30 PM Flow in this outdoor all-level’s sculpt class led by Yoga Six, set against the lakefront backdrop of Rocky River Park. Donations are welcome and go directly to RR Parks & Rec. Don’t forget your mat! RSVP by calling Y6 at (440) 754-1824

Friday, August 1st
12th Annual Yoga Rocks: Believe in CLE Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, Downtown \| 5:30 - 8:30 PM Roll out your mat by the lake for Cleveland’s biggest outdoor yoga event. Hosted outside the Rock Hall, this high-energy gathering is all about community and movement. Registration & $5 donation required, namaste!
MIX: Gatsby Cleveland Museum of Art, University Circle \| 6 - 10 PM We know, it’s the East Side… but it’s going to be a roaring ’20s night out. MIX goes full Gatsby with jazz from Red Light Roxy, swing lessons, burlesque flair, and typewritten poetry on demand. Sip a sidecar, browse Art Deco in Rose Iron Works, and embrace your inner West Egg (even if you crossed the river to get there). Party like it's 1925
👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Cleveland Polish Festival St. Sava Serbian Orthodox Cathedral, Parma \| 3 - 10 PM Polish food, live music, folk dancing, and backyard games come together at this summer celebration hosted by the Polish-American Cultural Center. Info here
FRRRIDDDAAAYYY with Bill Squire Imposters Theater, Cleveland \| 9:30 - 11 PM Get ready to laugh with Cleveland Scene’s Best Male Comedian and national touring comic Bill Squire. Each show brings a fresh lineup of local talent and Bill’s signature stand-up and spontaneous crowd work. Show information

Saturday, August 2nd
Barre & Brews Sibling Revelry Brewing, Westlake \| 11 AM - 1 PM Cleveland Health & Social Club teams up with barre3 for a sunny, high-energy barre class on Sibling’s patio. After the workout, enjoy a cold drink (included with your ticket) and shop from Forever Golden CLE and Patch It Up CLE. BYO mat! Save your spot
SIP 25: A Journey Through the Glass The Wine Room, Avon \| 4 - 7 PM Taste your way through 25 wines from around the globe, paired with apps, desserts, and a curated vibe at The Wine Room. Five expert wine reps will be on hand to share pours and palate tips, get sipping!
2025 Rocky River Women's Club Garden Tour Rocky River, 4 - 8 PM A self-guided tour of spectacular backyards to benefit the Rocky River Assistance Program (RRAP) and high school scholarship fund. Stroll
👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 48th Annual Lakewood Arts Festival City Center Park, Lakewood \| 10 AM - 6 PM One of Lakewood’s most beloved summer traditions returns with over 160 artists, live music, food vendors, and family-friendly activities lining Detroit Avenue. Explore it all while supporting local arts programs and student scholarships.
Tiki Tarot & Craft Pinspiration, Avon \| 6 - 9 PM Channel island vibes with crushed glass & resin art, tiki cocktails, and a personalized tarot reading at this creative summer night out. Tickets include all materials, expert guidance, a 10-minute reading, and a summer potluck staple: cocktail meatballs. RSVP
👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Cleveland Puerto Rican Parade & Festival MetroHealth Medical Center Quad Park, Cleveland \| 12 - 10 PM ***Runs August 2nd & 3rd A longtime Cleveland tradition returns with vibrant floats, live folk music, dancing, and cultural pride lining the streets of Clark-Fulton. The all-day festival features performances, mural-making, crafts, and Latin cuisine from local vendors. Event information
Boots 'N Beats House of Blues, Downtown \| 7:30 PM Cowboy boots meet bass drops at this high-energy night of Country-EDM. Kick things off with a live country band playing the hits, then stick around for a DJ set that blends Nashville twang with dance floor beats. Boogie down

Sunday, August 3rd
Yoga in the Park with Hope Yoga Clague Park, Westlake \| 9:30 AM Open to the public, this all levels flow meets at the gazebo in the center of the park. BYO mat! RSVP
Flight Cleveland's Summer Spectacular Flight Cleveland, Gordon Square \| 2 - 5 PM Taste your way through 40+ summer-ready wines at Flight Cleveland’s annual tasting party, featuring pours from top wine pros and plenty of patio-season inspiration. For serious (and curious) wine lovers. Uncork Here
Cleveland Bazaar in Market Square Market Square Park, Ohio City \| 10 AM - 4 PM Cleveland Bazaar brings a curated lineup of local makers, artists, and creatives to Ohio City. Shop handmade goods and support small businesses!
Cle Market Rocky River Rocky River Recreation Center \| 2 - 6 PM Shop small and support local at this seasonal maker’s market featuring artisans, food producers, and creatives from across Northeast Ohio.
Symphony at Sunset Voinovich Park, Downtown \| 7 – 8:15 PM Hands down, we think this is one of the best ways to wrap up the weekend in Cleveland. Every Sunday through August 24, OPUS 216 fills the lakefront with live, family-friendly chamber music. Bring a blanket, pack a picnic, and enjoy the sounds of summer.

Weather

Tuesday

88 🌡️ 72 | 🌤 | 20% | 💨 N 6 mph 🌊 1 foot of less

Wednesday

83 🌡️ 70 | 🌤 | 30% | 💨 N 6-9 mph 🌊 1 foot or less

Thursday

78 🌡️ 63 | ⛈🌤 | 40% | 💨 NE 11-17 mph 🌊 3 to 5 feet

💧^{🌡️ Water temperature = 77ºF}

That’s it for today, Westsiders. Smile at a stranger today.

Until Friday,

—The Briggses