☕ One More Reason to Brag About Cleveland

The Djurin family’s fourth West Side business | The new Superman statue downtown

Good morning, Westsiders. I spent part of the weekend on Kelleys Island, and honestly? I left asking myself the same question I always do: “Why don’t I come here more often?”

We’ve got this wild little paradise an hour away—with lake views, golf carts, and just the right amount of chaos. So I’m making it official:

2026 = The Year of the Islands. Hold me to it, Buzz Nation.

Here’s what we’re buzzing on today:

  • 🦸‍♂️ Man of Steel Plaza

  • 🎢 Steel Vengeance gets national recognition

  • 🦪 4th Annual Oyster Fest: Honoring Gavin Gill

Have a great week. See you out there!

—The Briggses

COMMUNITY BLEND

Cleveland Leans Into Superhero Identity 📍 Downtown

The unveiling of the Superman Statue | Fox8

Every city is searching for an identity it can be proud of. Chicago has wind and a giant metal bean; Pittsburgh has bridges and GPS-proof roads. And now, Cleveland is going full superhero.

Thanks to a big-budget Superman movie featuring Cleveland as a backdrop (take that, Metropolis), we’ve finally put a stake in the ground—or more accurately, an 18-foot-tall Kryptonian in a cape.

That’s right: a towering Man of Steel statue now stands proudly downtown, reminding everyone that Superman wasn’t born on Krypton… he was born in Cleveland’s Glenville neighborhood, courtesy of comic book legends Jerry Siegel and Joe Shuster.

To complete the scene, you’ll find bronze statues of Siegel, Shuster, and Joanne Siegel (the real-life muse for Lois Lane) gazing up at their creation like proud parents.

You can find this heroic piece of Cleveland history at Superman Plaza, tucked beside the Huntington Convention Center, keeping watch over St. Clair and Ontario.

And honestly? I think that’s way cooler than a giant shiny legume.

We’re curious to see what you all think.

Do you feel a connection to the Superman character and sense of pride it was created right here in Cleveland?

Login or Subscribe to participate in polls.

TODAY IN CLEVELAND HISTORY

Today in 1914, Cleveland made history by installing the world’s first electric traffic signal at the corner of Euclid Avenue and East 105th Street, bringing order to the chaos of early roadways filled with cars, horses, streetcars, and pedestrians.

Designed by James Hoge, this red-and-green light system was the blueprint for modern traffic control—and yet another reminder that Cleveland helped shape the future, one green light at a time.

FOOD TUESDAY

New Menu at Little Rose Tavern 📍 West Park

After years of hosting pop-ups and chefs like the beloved Green Kitchen, Roseanna Safos has stepped into the kitchen to deliver her dream: fun, Greek-style bar food with a personal twist.

As a certified Gyro enthusiast and dive bar food fan, I cannot wait to try everything on this menu.

From honey-drizzled loukoumades that make the place smell like a Greek festival to beef-and-lamb smash burgers and whipped feta dip, it’s a flavor-packed reminder that West Park’s food scene punches way above its weight.

Fourth Business, Same Family Recipe Magic 📍 Brunswick

Branka’s Bake Haus & Market just opened in Brunswick, marking the Djurin family’s fourth West Side business since arriving from Germany 25 years ago.

Known for Das Schnitzel Haus and Schnitzel Ale Brewery, they’ve grown steadily from Lakewood to Parma to Strongsville—and now Brunswick—with their signature “everything from scratch” approach.

The new shop features house-made baked goods, takeout meals, and cozy balcony seating.

MARK YOUR CALENDARS

Tacos, Tequila & Timbaland 📍 Avon

The Crushers are inviting you to get low, shed your hard shell, but politely ask you to keep your clothes on at the Tacos and Tequila Festival on September 27th.

They’re also bringing nostalgic hip-hop heavyweights like Lil Jon, Timbaland, Ginuwine, and Twista to our very own Westside backyard.

From Chappelle’s Show

Guests can try craft margaritas, sample some tequilas, and even judge a Chihuahua Beauty Pageant.

It’s a major-league party move from the Lake Erie Crushers' new leadership, who are clearly stepping up to make the stadium a go-to hub for big-time entertainment.

CEDAR POINT

Most people unwind by watching Netflix or maybe going on a walk.

Me? I write emails to strangers on the internet.

But Jacob Backall? This dude rides roller coasters for fun. Like... a lot of them.

Out of nearly 500 roller coasters ridden around the world, this thrill-seeking TikToker named Jacob declared his #1 favorite is Steel Vengeance — proudly located at Cedar Point in Sandusky, Ohio.

That’s right: the greatest roller coaster on the planet, according to a guy who’s basically a human coaster encyclopedia, lives in Sandusky, Ohio.

Jacob’s viral list—viewed over 4.6 million times—puts Cedar Point not once, but three times in his top 30, with Maverick and Top Thrill 2 also making the cut.

So if you needed one more reason to feel proud of your Cleveland roots, just remember: the world’s greatest roller coasters are right here on Lake Erie.

WHAT’S HAPPENING, WESTSIDERS?

Join the Rocky River community at Oyster Fest, an event to raise awareness for Type 1 Diabetes, dedicated to the memory of Gavin Gill, who was a 2017 Rocky River grad, rugby player, and all-around bright light. Gavin passed away in 2021 due to T1D, a tragedy that continues to fuel efforts for change.

Now in its 4th year, Oyster Fest raises funds and awareness through the Gavin Gill Scholarship Foundation, which:

  • Advocates for insulin accessibility

  • Awards scholarships to local students with T1D

  • Sends T1D youth to Camp Christopher, one of Gavin’s favorite places

Expect oysters, shrimp, cocktails, live music, a silent auction, and a lot of love — all in Rocky River Wine Bar’s brand-new open-air space.

🎟️ $98 Ticket Includes:
Fresh oysters & shrimp • Cheese & charcuterie • Hand-cut fries
Cocktail ticket • Live music • Silent auction & raffle

This event is a celebration of Gavin’s spirit and a call to action for a better future for those living with T1D. Come raise a glass and make a difference. Secure your spot



More This Week
👨‍👩‍👧‍👦=Family Friendly

Not Just One Day Wonders

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦North Ridgeville Corn Festival Weekend
South Central Park, North Ridgeville | August 8-10, Times Vary

The 50th anniversary of the North Ridgeville Corn Festival is here, and it’s bigger and butterier than ever! This no cost, three-day celebration packs in live music, family fun, kids’ crafts, and the festival’s first-ever drone light show (Friday night at 9:45 PM with 100 drones lighting up the sky). Catch the classic car show Saturday morning, cheer on the corn eating contest in the afternoon, and don’t miss the grand parade on Sunday. $0 admission, $0 parking, and plenty of corn.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦Cuyahoga County Fair
Cuyahoga County Fairgrounds, Berea | August 5–10, Times Vary

The 128th Cuyahoga County Fair is packed with all the classics, plus a few new surprises. Alongside the funnel cakes and livestock barns, expect stilt walkers, harness racing, acoustic sets… and Elvis?? Don’t miss Jungle Bob’s animal show, Friday–Sunday night fireworks + drones, and a new 100-foot Drop Zone ride. Sunday’s demolition derby is a fan favorite, and the fair’s Stop the Hunger, Stock the Trailer food drive is a great reason to bring some nonperishables along for a good cause.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦The Cleveland Market
Tyler Village, Midtown | August 9-10, 10 AM - 4 PM

Cleveland Vibes is bringing one of the city’s most anticipated summer markets to Tyler Village, with 120+ local vendors, food trucks, dessert makers, live music, and an outdoor bar. Yes, it’s more towards the East Side… Yes, it is worth it. It’s a two-day celebration of creativity and community—perfect for finding your next favorite maker, grabbing a bite, and enjoying the weekend with family (and pups!).


Wednesday, August 6th

Bourbon & Cigar Tasting with Bardstown Bourbon
Seeing Double, North Olmsted | 6:30 - 9:30 PM

Bourbon lovers, this one's for you. Kick things off with a welcome cocktail, then settle in for four Bardstown pours—Straight Bourbon, BIB Wheated, High Wheat, and Rye—plus a premium cigar and expert-led tastings in this cozy speakeasy. Sip Responsibly

Cuyahoga County Animal Shelter’s 5th Annual Dunk for Dollars
Around the Corner, Lakewood | 6 - 8 PM

Ready to test your arm for a good cause? Head to ATC to support the Best Friend’s Medical Fund, which helps care for sick and injured strays. Try your luck at the dunk tank, enter to win raffle prizes, and snag one of their limited-edition summer tees while they last.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Public Square Concert Series: Country Honk
Public Square, Downtown | 5 - 8 PM

Downtown’s summer soundtrack continues with a full-band set from Country Honk on August 6. Bring a lawn chair, stop by the bar, and enjoy golden hour music right in the heart of the city.


Thursday, August 7th

Summer Brunch Cooking Class
Home Appliance, Avon | 6 - 8 PM

Level up your brunch game with a hands-on class! You’ll mix up maple espresso martinis, build a cream cheese board, and bake up lavender lemon curd French toast. It's a little demo, a little DIY, and a lot of delicious bites. BYOB! Get cookin’

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Old Brooklyn Farmers Market
4274 Pearl Rd, Old Brooklyn | 5 - 8 PM

Fresh produce, baked goods, live music, art, and a Schnitz Ale–sponsored beer garden? Count us in. Swing by for food trucks, cooking demos, and family fun at this week’s Old Brooklyn Farmers Market.



Friday, August 8th

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦North Ridgeville Corn Festival Weekend Kick-Off 
South Central Park, North Ridgeville | 7 PM

The Festival turns 50 this year, and the Friday night kickoff is bringing the celebration in style with opening ceremonies at 7 PM, followed by a first-ever drone light show over the gazebo at 9:45 PM. No cost admission, parking, kids' crafts, and live entertainment all weekend long. Embrace your corny side

Walkabout Tremont
Professor Ave, Tremont | 5 - 10 PM

Stroll Tremont’s creative corridor during the last last outdoor-focused Walkabout for the season, with this month’s theme “Let’s Luau”. Enjoy art, shopping, food, and live entertainment from local makers and businesses all evening long.

Fashion & Folk Pop-Up with CMA
2406 Professor Avenue, Tremont | 5 PM

The Cleveland Museum of Art is bringing its Fashion & Folk pop-up to Tremont’s “Arts in August” series! Stop by to explore interactive exhibits from CMA’s education collection featuring their hands-on fashion and folk art displays.

2025 Artists in Residence Showcase
Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, Downtown | 8 PM

Catch the next gen of talent live on the Rock Hall plaza. These rising stars will perform original songs they wrote, workshopped, and recorded during the summer program, supported by the Kulas Foundation. It’s a one-night-only showcase of future legends in the making. RSVP

Lavell Crawford
Hilarities, East 4th Street | Friday, August 8 & Saturday, August 9 | 7 & 9:45 PM

One of the biggest names in stand-up, Lavell Crawford, hits Hilarities for a weekend of back-to-back shows. Known for his role on Breaking Bad, his Comedy Central specials, and countless TV appearances. Catch him Friday through Sunday, so pick a night and grab a seat.

MGK Weekend: Opening Night
Jacobs Pavilion, The Flats | 8 PM

Machine Gun Kelly kicks off his hometown weekend under the stars at Jacobs Pavilion, with a special performance, a DJ set from Emo Night Brooklyn, and surprise guests. Catch the kickoff concert

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦Friday Night Under The Lights Movie Night
Fairview Football Field, Fairview Park | 7 PM

Kick off your weekend with football drills and games led by the Fairview Park City Schools team, followed by a team tunnel run at 7:50 PM and a field screening of Little Giants at 8. Bring a blanket (no chairs allowed) and grab snacks from the open concession stand!

 

Saturday, August 9th

Dueling Piano Night
The Wine Room, Avon | 7:30 - 9:30 PM

Get ready for a high-energy night of laughs, sing-alongs, and song battles as Piano Fiasco brings its interactive dueling piano show to The Wine Room. Ticket includes a drink, your requests shape the playlist, and the fun kicks off right at 7:30 PM (arrive early!) RSVP

All-Levels Patio Yoga
BrewDog, The Flats | 10 - 11 AM

Stretch it out during a breezy all-levels yoga class on BrewDog’s patio, then toast your flow with a post-class brew (NA options included). Namaste!

GLBC Beer & Music Festival
Market Ave, Ohio City | 11:30 am - 9:30 pm

Raise a glass on Market Avenue for an all-day beer and music bash hosted by Great Lakes Brewing Co. Sample pours from 10 local breweries, catch sets from four local artists and DJs, and sip Jack Daniel’s cocktails between food runs at the brewpub. No cost to enter, and tasting tickets are sold a la carte. Fest info

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦Crocker Kids - Back to School Bash
Crocker Park, Westlake | 11 AM - 2 PM

Wrap up summer break with a back-to-school bash at Crocker, presented by Northeast Ohio Parent and Lorain County Early Intervention! Enjoy sing-along princess appearances, balloon twisting, glitter tattoos, rock painting, and more hands-on fun to help kids get excited for the year ahead.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦Super Saturdays at Beck Center, Presented by PNC
Beck Center, Lakewood | 10 - 11:30 PM

Supported by the Lakewood Arts Festival and The Healthy Lakewood Foundation, the morning is packed with hands-on fun for kids ages 2–7 (siblings welcome!). Kids can explore music, movement, and creativity through stations like jumbo crayon drawing, bookbag decorating, school bus art, and more. RSVP Required

Vital Turns One | A Birthday Celebration
Vital Pilates, Lakewood | 11 - 3 PM

Celebrate Vital’s first birthday with signature mat Pilates classes, a vendor pop-up market, wine + hors d’oeuvres, and gift bags packed with goodies. Stick around for fresh juice, cupcakes, giveaways, and a whole lot of movement. Join the party

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Sunset Beach Fest
Lakeview Park, Lorain | 4 - 8:30 PM

Make the most of a summer Saturday with beachside fun at Lakeview Park with kayaking, paddleboarding, live music, kids’ activities, community vendors, and a campfire at sunset. No registration needed, just show up and soak it in.

Sunday, August 10th

Maker's Market @ MGK Day
Mall C, Downtown | 2:30 - 7:30 PM

Cleveland artists take center stage at this special “For Art’s Sake” Makers Market pop-up during MGK Day, featuring 10 local makers who’ve been awarded support to grow their craft. Shop handmade goods, connect with the city’s creative community, and celebrate the local talent powering CLE’s arts scene.

An Evening with Seanie Vaughan
Summer Place, Lakewood | 7 - 10 PM

Irish indie-folk singer-songwriter Seanie Vaughan is bringing his soul-stirring sound to Lakewood for one night only. Hors d’oeuvres included, bar available, and proceeds benefit Awakening Angels. RSVP

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Kamm's Corners Farmers Market Colab with Cle Market
16906 Albers Ave, West Park | 10 AM - 1 PM

Celebrate National Farmers Market Week with a special Kamm’s Corners + CLE Market collab featuring live music from Cats on Holiday, fresh produce, homemade treats, handmade goods, and more. Now in its 18th season, this West Park staple also offers kid-friendly activities, sustainability programming, and healthy living features each week.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Laska Lakewood Community Market
Corner of Madison & Cordova Ave, Lakewood | 11 AM – 7 PM

Laska means love—and this neighborhood market is packed with it! With 25+ local vendors, artists, makers, vintage sellers, mini yard sales, and food from Cosmic Delights and Bearden’s, it’s a Sunday stroll you don’t want to skip.

Weather

Tuesday

84 🌡️ 65 | 🌤 | 12% | 💨 SE 6-9 mph 🌊 1 foot or less

Wednesday

83 🌡️ 66 | 🌤 | 5% | 💨 SE 6-9 mph 🌊 2 feet or less

Thursday

84 🌡️ 68 | 🌤 | 7% | 💨 E 7 mph 🌊 2 feet or less

💧🌡️ Water temperature = 77ºF

That’s it for today, Westsiders. Share today’s email with someone whose birthday is today.

Until Friday,

—The Briggses