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☕ Your Friday Feelgood Forecast
Plus: a new bookstore opens up in Strongsville and the dogs are being pa
Happy Friday, Buzz Nation.
In case you missed it, beloved Guardians All Star José Ramírez just gave us another reason to love him. Instead of chasing a bigger payday elsewhere, he inked a deal to stay in Cleveland for the rest of his career.
He took to social media and posted that he considers himself a “50/50” — 50% Dominican, 50% Clevelander. Not me sobbing on the keyboard. I’d give my kidney to that man.
At The Buzz, we might not have José’s batting average, but we’re proud to be 100% Clevelander, 100% Westside. (Yes, the math is off. But the hometown pride shines through.)
Today on The Buzz:
A W. 25th restaurant feeding the neighborhood
Elyria APL’s jaw-dropping animal rescue
The NE Ohio business that’s booming
Hope your weekend is full of good people and even better plans. See you out there!
—The Briggses
Community Blend
Restaurant Feeds Cemetery Residents, No Questions Asked 📍 W. 25th
2998 W 25th St, Cleveland, OH 44113
On West 25th, there’s a family restaurant serving up more than Salvadoran pupusas.
Guanaquitas, a family-run spot in Cleveland’s Clark-Fulton neighborhood, has quietly turned into a lifeline for people living in one of the city’s most overlooked places: Scranton Cemetery. For months now, owner Blanca Hernandez and her daughter Nancy have been delivering hot meals and winter clothes to the small but steady group of unhoused individuals taking shelter among the headstones.
Why?
Simple. “A lot of people knock at doors and no one opens,” Blanca said. “So I opened my own.”
When the cemetery encampment started growing, the Hernandez family didn’t wait on city services or policy changes. They grabbed extra food from the kitchen and brought it over themselves. Then came coats. Then came the church.
Local officials say the county is working on housing solutions. Blanca has one in mind already: “Getting a house, just for them. That’s my dream.”
Until then, if you want to help, stop by Guanaquitas. We haven’t been there yet — but we’re fixing that this weekend. If you’re looking for a meal that means something, Guanaquitas is a good place to start. Full story by Colton Molesky
Animal News
Friendship APL Rescues Two Unique Animals 📍 Elyria
A recent jailbreak led to a heart warming rescue of two animals left to fend for themselves.
That’s what happened in Elyria, Ohio, when a large dog—later named Priest—smashed through a window and escaped a house filled with the smell of ammonia and signs of neglect. His companion, Annie, stayed behind, unsure how to follow. A neighbor called it in. Humane officers from Friendship Animal Protective League (APL) showed up fast.
What made this a special case?
Turns out, these weren’t your average rescues. Priest and Annie are wolf-dog hybrids—part wild, part domestic, and entirely misunderstood. They require space, structure, and highly experienced handlers. Without that? Most end up surrendered or euthanized before age 3.
Traditional adoption wasn’t an option. So Friendship APL launched a nationwide search, hitting walls everywhere—full sanctuaries, stretched resources. Until finally, one said yes. A New Mexico sanctuary had an opening and was ready. But the dogs wouldn’t go with strangers. They’d be driven cross-country by the very people who saved them—chief humane officer Vickie McDonald and a vet tech who mapped out a four-day, 24-hour trek, complete with sedatives, hotel stops, and gas station admirers.
On January 17, the van rolled into the desert. Open space. Other wolf-dogs. A new beginning.
Big shoutout to the amazing folks at Friendship APL like Vickie McDonald, Lynne Fujka and the rest of the staff for caring selflessly for the animals and the community!
Let’s Do the Numbers
🐩 140%
One of Jodie’s all-time favorite movies is Best in Show.
I claim I love it too, but she doesn’t believe me because I’ve never stayed awake long enough to finish it. (I’ve seen the first 20 minutes at least five times.)
Turns out, Cleveland might actually be best in show when it comes to how we treat our dogs.
The dog care business is booming in Northeast Ohio, and for many pet parents it’s become less of a luxury and more of a necessity. Since 2021, bookings for dog walking and drop-in visits in Cleveland have increased 140% on apps like Rover, and new brick-and-mortar options are popping up faster than a Dean Wade cross court pass.
Why now?
Return-to-office mandates are one reason, but even hybrid and work-from-home folks are sending their dogs out for stimulation, socialization, and a little peace and quiet. (Zoom calls are easier when your poodle isn’t climbing on your laptop.)
Westside dog daycare now rivals the quality of childcare with places like Inn the Doghouse, Camp Bow Wow and others offering video feeds you can check on during the day, dog massages, and even pet parties.
For Cleveland pet owners, this means more choices, better facilities, and a lot less guilt when your schedule gets hectic. And if your apartment building doesn’t have a dog washing station yet… it might soon.
Non-Profit Spotlight
Westlake Family Hosts "Pinball with a Purpose" Fundraiser for Angelman Syndrome
A Westlake family will host a fundraiser on Feb. 15 to benefit the Foundation for Angelman Syndrome Therapeutics (FAST). The event, titled "Pinball with a Purpose," will take place at the Pinball Lounge at 78th Street Studios in Cleveland. Angelman Syndrome is a rare neurogenetic disorder, and FAST works to fund research for treatments and a cure. Details and how to give
Lakewood Community Services Center elects Board Chair
Bill Barmann has been elected the Board Chair for the organization that exists to make sure that no family in Lakewood has to face a crisis alone. If you or someone you know might be in need of help with food and housing assistance in the community, please reach out to these selfless individuals. Congrats to Bill!
Westside Pour Over
Avon - One of the last stretches of undeveloped land along Chester (next to TopGolf) is coming closer to becoming a new commercial development with a luxury car dealership anchoring the space. (NEOTransBlog)
Lakewood - Owner of Knapp’s Madison Auto and Towing, Parker Knapp, is taking a chance at love. He is a cast member on the upcoming season of Netflix’s blind dating show Love is Blind.
Strongsville - When Borders Books closed 15 years ago it left a hole in Strongsvillianss hearts. The retail location remained empty until now. Barnes and Noble is opening up its fourth Ohio location to an enthusiastic community response.
🍽️ Business & Restaurant News
Doc Lanky’s—the sports bar dreamed up by two local brothers (a doctor and a tall guy, hence the name)—has officially closed its doors on Madison Ave after a short but lively 18-month run.
They moved into the former Two Bucks location right across from local haunt Patio, and had accumulated some great reviews and word of mouth.
Originally slated to go out with a bang on Jan. 25, a winter storm had other plans, and the goodbye was delivered via social media.
Cute
Forecast: 100% Chance of Smiling 📍 Fairview Park
Aspiring weatherman, Charlie Ryan, felt cooped up after countless days of freezing temperatures and what felt like feet of snowfall. He wanted a creative outlet, so he grabbed his dad, a phone, and a golden microphone and made a video and countless people smile.
Mike Polk of WKYC visited him here on the Westside and brought Charlie some much deserved kudos, treats, and encouragement.
Buzzstrip
January as a month feels like reading Don Quixote twice (I got 1 hour into the audio book and decided better)
What’s Happening, Westsiders?
👨👩👧👦=Family Friendly
Friday, January 30
moCa Opening Night Celebration: Winter 2026 – Museum of Contemporary Art Cleveland | 6–9 PM
Kick off moCa’s winter season with opening-night energy, artist sightings, and four new exhibitions filling the galleries. Expect art, conversation, and a lively museum vibe as the night unfolds. See what’s showing
Cooking with Al: Beer, Wine & Small Plates – Alley Cat Oyster Bar, The Flats | 6 PM
A hands-on cooking experience celebrating Alley Cat’s new chapter as a nano brew house, complete with house-brewed beer and thoughtful pairings. Come hungry for seafood, technique, and a little behind-the-scenes insight. Get cooking
History Happy Hour: “Irishtown Bend—Past to Present” – Great Lakes Brewing Co., Ohio City | 5:30–7 PM
Sip and learn as local history takes center stage with a look at Irishtown Bend’s evolution. A casual way to mix Cleveland stories with a well-earned drink.
The Great Big Home + Garden Show – I-X Center, Brook Park | 10 AM–9 PM (Runs through 2/8)
A massive showcase of home inspiration, garden ideas, and design trends under one roof. Wander, gather ideas, and dream up your next project at your own pace. And say hi to Craig Conover
👨👩👧👦 Crocker Park Ice Festival – Crocker Park, Westlake | 5 PM kickoff (Runs through Sunday)
Winter shines a little brighter with towering ice sculptures, live carving demos, music, and a festive stroll-worthy atmosphere. Bundle up and wander through a frozen gallery all weekend long. Chill out
Saturday, January 31
Bottoms Up! Yoga & Brew (All-Levels) – Smoke & Mirrors Nano Brew, Ohio City | 10:15–11:15 AM
Flow through an all-levels yoga class set to great music in a moody, underground brew space. Stretch first, sip after—it’s a solid way to start your Saturday. Roll out your mat
St. Brigid Light the Land Festival – Forest City Brewery, Ohio City | 12–4 PM
A midwinter celebration of Irish culture, creativity, and the first hints of spring. Expect hands-on crafts, live music, wellness offerings, and a cozy indoor-outdoor festival feel. Light the way
The Fleetwood Mac Experience – House of Blues, Downtown | 7 PM
A polished tribute bringing the iconic sound and energy of Fleetwood Mac to the stage. Come ready for familiar favorites and a crowd that knows every word.
Sunday, February 1
Soft Pretzel & Cheese from Scratch Baking Class – Annie’s Signature Sweets, Berea | 11 AM–3 PM
A fully hands-on baking class where you’ll make soft pretzels and cheese sauce from scratch—and take everything home. Perfect for anyone who learns best by doing (and snacking). Knead to know
Snow Moon High Tea – Franklin Castle, Tremont | 2–5:30 PM
Celebrate the Snow Moon with a guided castle tour followed by a ritual-inspired afternoon tea focused on renewal and creativity. Herbal brews, magical bites, and a setting that leans delightfully mystical. Sip by moonlight
Cleveland Music Awards – The Agora, Downtown | 4 PM
An afternoon honoring the bands, artists, and behind-the-scenes voices shaping Cleveland’s music scene. Equal parts celebration, community, and local pride. Hear who’s honored
HUNKS The Show – The Winchester, Lakewood | 8–10 PM
A high-energy, adults-only night designed for full-on girls’ night fun. Expect bold performances, loud music, and a crowd ready to cheer. Bring the squad
🎷 Live Entertainment
Friday
Backstage Stories | Rock Hall, Cleveland 11 AM
Down Rodeo - Rage Against The Machine Tribute | House of Blues, Cleveland 7 PM
Sundial Ceremony | Mahall’s, Lakewood 7 PM
Wanted: The Bon Jovi Tribute | Music Box CH, Flats 7:30 PM
Joe Jordan| House of Blues, Cleveland 7:30 PM
Midwinter Heatwave | Coda, 8 PM
Happy Endings 4 year Anniversary | Globe, Iron 8 PM
ill tempered – Alanis Morissette Tribute | The Winchester, Lakewood 8 PM
Jam Machine & Billy Morris with the Sunset Strip | The Local, Strongsville 8 PM
The Eric Roberson Improv Sessions | Music Box SC, Flats 8 PM
Christine Tassan et les Imposteures | The Bop Stop, Cleveland 8 PM
Hair Nation | Backstage Bar, Westpark 8:30 PM
The Sellouts (Debut Show) | Time Warp Bar, Westlake 9 PM
YeEDM Friday: KayC | Welcome to the Farm, Flats 10 PM
Jukebox Breakdown Aka Emo Night Cle | Mahall’s, Lakewood 10 PM
Saturday
The Music of James Taylor by Steamroller | Music Box SC, Flats 7 PM
The Four Horsemen | The Local, Strongsville 7 PM
EEland Stribling: Secret Society Comedy In the Apartment | Mahall’s, Lakewood 7 PM
Bumpin Uglies, Joey Harkum, The Palmer Squares, Damn Skippy | Globe, Iron 7 PM
The Fleetwood Mac Experience | House of Blues, Cleveland 7 PM
The Prince Project | Music Box CH, Flats 7:30 PM
Martha Graham Dance Company | Keybank State Theatre, Playhouse 7:30 PM
Rachel Brown and the Beatnik Playboys | The Bop Stop, Cleveland 8 PM
Beyonce Universe: An All Beyonce Dance Party | Mahall’s, Lakewood 8 PM
R.A.W: A Hip Hop Showcase | Coda, 8 PM
The JiMiller Band (2 More Saturday Nights) | The Winchester, Lakewood 8 PM
10 Cent Beers Band | Backstage Bar, Westpark 8:30 PM
Trailer Park Ninjas | Time Warp Bar, Westlake 9 PM
Foundation Room Presents Hello 3D! | House of Blues, Cleveland 9 PM
Post Road | Welcome to the Farm, Flats 10 PM
Late Night: Secret Society Comedy in the Apartment | Mahall’s, Lakewood 11 PM
Sunday
NCMC Presents: Glitz and Hitz Cabaret | Music Box SC, Flats 12 PM
Chicago & More Brunch with Brass Express | Music Box CH, Flats 12 PM
Greater Cleveland Flute Society: "Just Us" Member Recital | The Bop Stop, Cleveland 2 PM
Cleveland Music Awards 2025 | Agora Theatre, Cleveland 3 PM
Esoteria | Mahall’s, Lakewood 6 PM
The Local Voice | The Local, Strongsville 7 PM
Weather
Friday
12 🌡️ -6 | ☀️ | 0% | 💨 N 5-7 mph
Saturday
14 🌡️ 2 | 🌨 | 20% | 💨 W 5-10 mph
Sunday
18 🌡️ 6 | ☀️ | 0% | 💨 NW 10 mph
Monday
25 🌡️ 16 | 🌨 | 30% | 💨 SW 10-15 mph
🧊 Lake Erie is 95.20% frozen
That’s it for today, Westsiders.
Have a great weekend,
—The Briggses