- The Westside Buzz
- Posts
- ☕ An Avon Lake Hidden Gem
☕ An Avon Lake Hidden Gem
Plus: Avon Boys Soccer is headed to States & Our official happy hour guide
Good morning, Westsiders —
We’re pretty excited about today’s release of Lost & Found in Cleveland. The story follows five locals from very different walks of life — a mailman, a Korean War vet, a college professor, a socialite, and a young boy — whose paths cross when an “Antiques Roadshow”-style TV show comes to town.
After breaking attendance records at the Cleveland International Film Festival, could our beloved city become the Cannes of the Great Lakes? I’d like to think we Cannes.
We’re planning to catch a showing — what about you?
Today we’re buzzing on:
Our official Lakewood Happy Hour Guide 🍸
A chicken trailer caption contest 🐔
An Avon Lake hidden gem 🌊
See you out there,
—The Briggses
COMMUNITY BLEND
Turn Your Leftover Pumpkins into Something Good 📍 Lakewood
Got a few pumpkins still hanging around from Halloween? Here’s your chance to put them to better use — unlike half the “someday essentials” living in your junk drawer.
Bring your undecorated, unpainted pumpkins to Kauffman Park for composting with Cuyahoga Recycles now through November 10.
Last year, the community kept 2.28 tons of organic waste out of landfills. Let’s see if we can top that this year!
Westside Hidden Gem
Now That’s What I Call a Crepe 📍 Avon Lake
Elysium Cafe - 32457 Lake Rd, Avon Lake
Some people open a cafe. Ilir and Irena Lamaj opened a slice of paradise on the Westside.
At Elysium in Avon Lake, every detail is done with purpose. The couple grew up and ran businesses on the Greek island of Santorini, where food is slow, intentional, and full of heart — and they’ve carried that same philosophy here to the Westside.
When they couldn’t find coffee beans that met their standards? They started importing them directly from Italy. When the pistachios for their famous Dubai Crepe weren’t quite right? Same story — they sourced them fresh from Italy, too. That’s the level of care they bring to everything they make.
They are known for their crepes and for good reason. They are made fresh to order, look beautiful, and are paper-thin, so the flavor has nowhere to hide.
And they’re just getting started. The Lamajs have plans to expand into an outdoor sanctuary at their 32457 Lake Rd property — a year-round space to relax, sip espresso, and enjoy their made-to-order crepes (scheduled to be completed Spring 2026).
It’s the kind of place that reminds you why supporting local matters — because behind every perfect crepe is a story, a dream, and a whole lot of heart.
Something’s Cookin’ Caption Contest
If you were headed into the office Monday morning and thought that the entire Westside was having a meat-smoking competition, it was just a semi-truck engulfed in flames with 20 tons of cooked chicken inside.
Thankfully, no one was injured, including the driver. Additionally, there is no word on what caused the fire.
Who do you think sabotaged the chicken truck?Vote below and submit your best caption! |
We will post the funniest captions next Buzz.
Today in Cleveland History
Carl Stokes giving his victory address [WBUR]
On November 7, 1967, Clevelanders did something no major U.S. city had done before — they elected Carl Stokes as mayor, making him the first Black mayor of a major American city.
It was a huge moment not just for Cleveland, but for the entire country. Stokes’ leadership came during a turbulent time in American history, and his impact went far beyond city limits. When the Cuyahoga River famously caught fire in 1969, it was Stokes who turned that environmental disaster into a wake-up call. He led reporters on what he called a “Pollution Tour,” shining a national spotlight on industrial pollution — and helping spark the modern environmental movement.
A few lesser-known facts: Stokes actually dropped out of high school in 1944 to work in manufacturing, served in the Army, then went back to earn his diploma in 1947. And after his historic win in ’67? Someone even released a musical album to celebrate him.
High School Sports
Eagles Are Going to State
The Avon Boys Soccer team is heading to the Division II State Finals — thanks to a SportsCenter-worthy moment from sophomore Connor Britt.
Here’s how it went down: Avon and Brecksville-Broadview Heights were tied 1–1 in overtime. Next goal wins. Britt lines up a free kick, sends it soaring toward the back post — and it hangs in the air just long enough for everyone to hold their breath. Then… back of the net. The crowd erupts. It’s the kind of goal you have to see to believe.
Huge congratulations to the Eagles! They are the first Lorain County soccer team ever to play for a state title. They’ll face Kings Mills Kings this Sunday at 1 p.m. at Historic Crew Stadium.
Local Guide
The Westside Buzz Guide to Happy Hour 📍 Lakewood
If you have been a long-time fan of The Westside Buzz, you know that Jodie and I are purveyors and connoisseurs of happy hour.
After years of swapping stories with bartenders, sampling every small plate in town, and chasing the perfect Old Fashioned, we finally put all that “research” to good use.
Introducing our Official Lakewood Happy Hour Guide.
It’s your insider map to the best deals, best drinks, and best vibes across Lakewood — all in one place.
What Lakewood spots did we miss?
Yes, we plan on making a guide for each Westside city. Send us your recommendations!
Local Business Spotlight
Susan Vasu of Landing Point Financial
Meet Susan Vasu, a longtime Avon Lake resident and Senior Wealth Advisor with Landing Point Financial Group, who’s been helping people feel confident about their finances for over 35 years.
Susan is known for her compassion — especially when it comes to helping seniors without close family navigate life’s financial decisions with care and clarity.
When she’s not meeting with clients, you’ll find her in her garden, volunteering with local nonprofits, or playing with her puppy, Penny.
Her motto says it all: “To be a blessing to my clients, advisors, staff, and community.”
Mark Your Calendars
Wonder Women of Food - Female Foodie Market
Get a head start on your holiday shopping and support local women-owned businesses at the Female Foodie Market on November 15 from 5-8 PM at The Hall at St. James in Lakewood. For a $5 ticket, you can sample and shop from nearly 50 vendors, including Mugsy Bakes, Terranean, Llamacita Sauces, and more.
Rocky River Downtown Holiday Walk
The Downtown Rocky River Holiday Walk returns Saturday, Dec. 6, filling Old Detroit Road with carriage rides, live entertainment, crafts, and plenty of festive cheer. Catch the Kickoff Parade at 11:15 AM when Santa makes his grand arrival — then stick around for Santa’s Street Dance (3–5 PM) where kids can dance, laugh, and make memories with the big guy himself.
WHAT’S HAPPENING, WESTSIDERS?
Featured Event
This Saturday, Nov. 8 (6–11 PM) at the Knights of Columbus Hall in Avon, the community is coming together for the I’m Possible Games Fundraiser — an evening of food, fun, and heart. Proceeds support programs that help adults with special needs grow through art, music, fitness, and friendship.
Come celebrate inclusion, connection, and possibility
Friday, November 7th
MIX: Renaissance to Revolution - Cleveland Museum of Art, Cleveland | 6 PM
The CMA’s MIX series celebrates Renaissance to Runway with a Beyoncé-inspired night of music, fashion, and Italian flair. Get in formation
Cleveland Health & Social Club: Sculpt & Sets - Breakthrough Sounds Recording Studio, Valley View | 6-11 PM
A 45-minute sculpt class with a live DJ followed by local vendors and a post-workout dance session. Feel the burn, stay for the beat
Seven Sisters Home Market November Sale - Seven Sisters Home Market, Avon (Fri 5–7 PM, Sat 9 AM–2 PM, Mon 4:30–7 PM)
Open just one weekend a month, Seven Sisters features fully styled furniture sets, home décor, and custom Amish pieces ready to browse.
Holiday Wine Showcase - Heinen’s, Avon | 5:30-7 PM
A walk-around tasting in the café featuring wines from top vendors, seasonal pairings, and holiday inspiration. Sip the szn
Saturday, November 8th
Fleabag Market & Skate Swap Meet - Cordova & Madison Ave., Lakewood | 11 AM-3 PM
Madison Avenue turns into a hub for vintage finds, indie makers, and skate-inspired art at this community pop-up. Roll through
Avant-Garde Art & Craft Show - Rocky River Memorial Hall | 10 AM-4 PM
Rocky River Memorial Hall turns into a maker’s haven with artists, crafters, and plenty of inspiration for gift season.
Sip & Draw - Pace Cafe, Tremont | 4-7 PM
Wagyu, Whiskey, and Wine Dinner - Morton’s, Downtown | 6:30 PM
A five-course tasting experience showcasing Wagyu beef, hand-crafted whiskey cocktails, and exceptional wines. More Morton’s!
Red, Wine & Brew Fall Holiday Wine Show - Red, Wine & Brew, Westlake | 5-7 PM
A fall tasting featuring 20+ premium wines and curated bites made to highlight the season’s best flavors. Uncork the holidays!
Totally Rad Vintage Fest - I-X Center, Cleveland | (Saturday & Sunday 11 AM–5 PM)
Step into the 80s, 90s, and Y2K eras with vintage fashion, records, toys, and retro photo ops—plus an arcade and nostalgia museum. Where’s my Gameboy?
Joels Place for Children: Mystery Dinner Theater Program - Brennan’s Banquet Center, Cleveland | 1-4 PM
A mystery dinner fundraiser with cocktails, a missing diamond, and a lighthearted whodunit supporting Joel’s Place, which provides free, peer-based grief support for children and families. Sherlock reporting
Sunday, November 9th
Taste of Yoga - The Madison, Cleveland | 10 AM–2 PM
Mini yoga sessions from local studios, wellness stations, and spa experiences fill The Madison for a come-and-go day of calm and movement. Flow this way
The South Side Clam Bake Tailgate and Autumn Vintage Market - The South Side, Tremont | 12–4 PM
Seafood, live music, the Browns game, and vintage shopping come together for a fall afternoon in Tremont. Happy as a clam
Game of Thrones Trivia - Great Lakes Brewing Co., Ohio City | 12 PM
Winter is coming to the brewpub for a round of themed trivia inspired by the Seven Kingdoms.
Literary Tavern’s Fall Market - Literary Tavern, Tremont | 11-3 PM
Local makers, vintage sellers, and baked goods set the scene for Literary’s first fall market.
🎷 Live Entertainment
Friday
Thrice Modern Color Downward | Globe Iron, Flats 6:30 PM
Tye Tribbett - We Outside Tour | House of Blues, Cleveland 7 PM
Disco Inferno | The Local, Strongsville 7 PM
Terrian | Mahall’s, Lakewood 7 PM
Balik Alistane, Sunglass | Front Street Social, Berea 7 PM
Rust County Revival & Country Night | | Front Street Social, Berea 7 PM
Sammy Deleon & Friends Featuring Jackie Warren | The Bop Stop, Cleveland 7:30 PM
Dial M For Murder | Hanna Theatre, Playhouse 7:30 PM
Dinner & A Movie: The Last Waltz | Music Box SC, Flats 7:30 PM
Earth, Wind & Fire Tribute by Let’s Groove Tonight | Music Box CH, Flats 7:30 PM
Lovebites | The Winchester, Lakewood 8 PM
Ty Myers Harper O'neill | Agora Theatre, Cleveland 8 PM
Foo Fathers | Time Warp Bar, Westlake 9 PM
Whiskey Bound | Welcome to the Farm, Flats 10 PM
Gimme Gimme Disco | Mahall’s, Lakewood 10 PM
Saturday
Lenny Pearce's USA Toddler Techno Tour - Part 2 | House of Blues, Cleveland 1 PM
Dave Hinrich | Welcome to the Farm, Flats 6:30 PM
Carol Leslie | The Bop Stop, Cleveland 7 PM
Pinkshift | Mahall’s, Lakewood 7 PM
Steely Dan Tribute by The FM Project | Music Box SC, Flats 7:30 PM
Dial M For Murder | Hanna Theatre, Playhouse 1:30 & 7:30 PM
2025 Induction Ceremony | Rock Hall, Cleveland 8 PM
The MFEO Tour Jack's Mannequin x Hellogoodbye x Verygently | Agora Theatre, Cleveland 8 PM
Panama "Van Halen Tribute" | The Local, Strongsville 8 PM
Brazilian Dance Party W/Moises Borges Band | Coda, 8 PM
Nicole Scherzinger | Connor Palace, Playhouse 8:30 PM
Spazmatics| Time Warp Bar, Westlake 9 PM
Sexual Purity w/ Mimi Dromette | The Winchester, Lakewood 9 PM
Live & Local Featuring Van Arlo | House of Blues, Cleveland 9 PM
Whisky Bound | Welcome to the Farm, Flats 10 PM
Sunday
ABBA Brunch with Super Troupers| Music Box CH, Flats 12 PM
Beatles Brunch w. Evan & James | The Winchester, Lakewood 12 PM
Dial M For Murder | Hanna Theatre, Playhouse 3 PM
Irish Trad Music Session | Gormley's Pub, Rocky River 5 PM
Dreamfone | Mahall’s, Lakewood 6:30 PM
My Life with The Thrill Kill Kult Delicate Terror Tour Part 1 | House of Blues, Cleveland 7 PM
Jonah Ferguson Quartet | The Bop Stop, Cleveland 7 PM
Drumplay – A Benefit Concert for NEOCH | The Winchester, Lakewood 9 PM
Weather
Friday
59 🌡️ 44 | 🌧 | 100% | 💨 SW 18-20 mph 🌊 2 to 4 feet
Saturday
52 🌡️ 40 | 🌧 | 80% | 💨 N 7 mph 🌊 1 to 3 feet
Sunday
48 🌡️ 30 | 🌨 | 80% | 💨 NW 10-20 mph 🌊 5 to 8 feet, occasionally 10
Monday
38 🌡️ 29 | 🌨 | 70% | 💨 NW 15-20 mph 🌊 6 to 10 feet, occasionally 13
💧🌡️ Water temperature = 57ºF
That’s it for today, Westsiders. Do us a huge favor, and send this to a friend who is a huge Cavs fan.
Have a great weekend,
—The Briggses
ONE WESTSIDERS REVIEW
How Did You Like Today's Email? |