TOGETHER WITH STEVE MCINTOSH STATE FARM

Let me ask you two important questions.

1. When was the last time you sat down with your Insurance Agent for an annual policy review?

2. Do you know what your liability limits are and why they are important?

If you answered “I have no idea” to either of these, it might be time for a change.

Before becoming the Westside’s go-to guy for insurance, Steve spent nearly a decade as an Assistant Cuyahoga County Prosecutor. Now he's bringing that same dedication to protecting our community by ensuring you and your loved ones are protected when the unthinkable happens.

Here's why I'm personally a fan: When Steve's team reviewed my insurance policies, they did something that caught me off guard. He told me I was adequately covered. No scare tactics, no pressure, just straight talk.

Here is some of what they offer:

• 🏡 Home & Auto Insurance

• 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Life Insurance

• 🏥 Short & Long Term Disability

When was the last time you had someone take a fresh look at your coverage? If you're drawing a blank, maybe it's time to give Steve's team a ring.

Or Call 👉 (440) 888-8866

Because let's be real, insurance might not be exciting, but having someone trustworthy in your corner is priceless.

METROPARKS

Asian Lantern Festival tickets are now on sale | Cleveland Zoo

If you haven’t been before, mark your calendars!

The Cleveland Metroparks Zoo’s Asian Lantern Festival, presented by Meijer, returns July 5 through August 24, transforming summer nights into a dazzling, immersive experience.

Wander through a glowing dreamscape featuring towering lantern displays, from a breathtaking four-story hydrangea and butterfly tree to immersive tunnels and exotic creatures from land and sea.

With electrifying live acrobatic performances every hour on the Fifth Third Bank Stage and mouthwatering, culturally inspired eats at the Asian Food Market, every visit is an unforgettable adventure.

Plus, don’t miss the chance to cruise through the magic with select Drive-Through nights! Tickets are selling fast — snag yours early and secure your spot at one of Cleveland’s most spectacular summer traditions before they’re gone!

🎟️ Asian Lantern Festival Ticket Prices

Zoo Members:

• Advance Online Discount: $23 per person | $69 for a 4-pack

• Online Day Of (until 5:30 p.m.): $26 per person | $86 for a 4-pack

• Walk-Up After 6 p.m.: $30 per person (no 4-pack available)

Non-Zoo Members:

• Advance Online Discount: $26 per person | $79 for a 4-pack

• Online Day Of (until 5:30 p.m.): $28 per person | $86 for a 4-pack

• Walk-Up After 6 p.m.: $30 per person (no 4-pack available)

WESTSIDE POUR OVER

🏆 North Ridgeville: Senior High Jumper Nathan Bright is the school’s first-ever Track and Field State Champion! He cleared 6’9” on his way to the top spot podium. Click here to see an interview with the champ

🚴 Elyria: Lorain County Public Health received 80 bike helmets for youth in the Elyria Safe Routes to School program or enrolled in the Girls in Gear Camp. Register your child here

🥬 Lakewood: The North Union Farmers Market returns to Madison Park starting tomorrow! The same people who put on the Cleveland Garlic Festival are returning to bring fresh produce directly from local farms to your homes. Wednesdays from 10 AM to 1 PM

🥗 Greater Cleveland: Free lunches are available to children ages 1-18 thanks to the Ohio Department of Education & Workforce’s Summer Food Service Program. Click here for a complete list of locations on the Westside.

🤼 Olmsted Falls: Intermediate School physical education teacher Jake Percival was recently inducted into the Mid-American Conference (MAC) Hall of Fame. Percival wrestled for Ohio University from 2002 through 2005 and was the first four-time All-American in MAC history. The Bobcat finished his college career with a 113-4 regular season record. Congrats, Jake!

COMMUNITY BLEND

Grumpy’s Owner Revives Beloved Bay Spot | Bay Village

Grumpy’s Café owner Kathy Owad, a familiar name to many in Tremont, is bringing her neighborhood charm to Bay Village.

She and her daughter Kristi Mulloy are reviving the old Bay Provisions spot, once home to the cherished Martin’s Deli, with plans for a cozy, bustling deli serving soups, sandwiches, groceries, beer, wine, and of course, coffee and ice cream.

As Bay Village residents, they’re listening closely to neighbors to create a spot that feels like home. With chef Brittany Reilly on board and renovations to open up the space, they’re aiming for a late summer or early fall debut.

And for loyal Grumpy’s fans? Don’t worry — the Tremont favorite isn’t changing a thing.

Lake-Clifton Connector receives $2 million in funding | Lakewood x Rocky River

If you’ve ever walked or biked across the Clifton Boulevard bridge connecting Rocky River and Lakewood, you know the current experience can be unnerving. The narrow sidewalks provide little buffer to fast-moving traffic, and God forbid if you pass someone.

But relief might be on the way.

This project recently received a major boost, with Cuyahoga County securing $2 million in grant funding to support the $10.8 million construction project.

The path will not only improve safety but also encourage more sustainable transportation, offering a scenic and secure route for commuters, joggers, and recreational riders.

Stay tuned, as work is expected to begin later this year, and when complete, the revamped bridge will serve as a model of forward-thinking urban infrastructure.

SUPPORT LOCAL

Great skin is personal at Junier Aesthetics | Gordon Square

At Juniper Aesthetics in Detroit Shoreway, skincare is a unique experience. After 11 years as a licensed esthetician, Bailey Daniels opened her studio in 2023 to create more than just results — she built a space where clients feel seen, heard, and cared for.

Nestled in a beautiful loft shared with Olive Ink Tattoo, Juniper Skincare pairs advanced facial treatments with a holistic approach, helping everyone from teens battling acne to adults chasing glowing, healthy skin.

Named after her daughter, Juniper Skincare is fueled by Bailey’s passion for connection and transformation. Clients often come as individuals and stay as part of a community of families, friends, and neighbors, trusting Bailey not just with their skin, but with their stories. At Juniper, it’s not just a treatment; it’s time invested in your best self.

CEDAR POINT

Top Thrill 2 shut down again this weekend | Sandusky

Cedar Point’s massive, record-breaking coaster was quietly shut down again this past weekend, and the rumor mill immediately kicked into overdrive. After spending almost all of 2024 closed, we are left wondering if this could be the end of the ride for good.

Cedar Point says it’s just mechanical issues and promises a quick reopening — maybe as soon as Monday. But with no clear details on what’s wrong, the future of Top Thrill 2 still feels like a big question mark.

I remember riding the first iteration of the ride way back when and being equal parts impressed and flummoxed at how humans were able to build and ride the engineering marvel.

Top Thrill 2 Fast Facts:

• 🎢 Height: 420 feet (taller than a 40-story building!)

• ⚡ Top Speed: 120 mph

• 🕑 Ride Time: About 2 minutes

• 🚀 Launches: 3 total (forward at 74 mph, backward at 101 mph, final forward at 120 mph)

• 🎯 Ride Experience: Vertical speedway thrills, weightless rollbacks, and a wild 270-degree spiral

• 📏 Height Requirement: 52" and up