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- ☕ Near No-Hitters and Judy Garland
☕ Near No-Hitters and Judy Garland
Plus a Trash Bash Bar Crawl to clean up Tremonts streets
Happy Friday, Westsiders.
We just went to the opening night of Birdtown Brewing last night, and as we have discussed, it took 12 years from when the church was purchased for the brewery to open. Let’s just say good things come to those who wait. Jodie and I both unequivocally agree that it is exactly what Lakewood needs and the team at Birdtown absolutely knocked it out of the park. We just got back late Thursday so we will have a full recap for you for Tuesdays newsletter.
Today’s edition of The Buzz is well thought out, but it won’t take 12 years to read…only 5 minutes of the best things going on the Westside such as:
Rare bird sighted at Huntington Beach
Who sang the Indians national anthem in 1939?
A Trash Bash Bar Crawl
Have a great weekend,
—The Briggses
Community Blend
Clevelanders Are Moving Downtown
[Credit: Cleveland Historial Society]
Cleveland’s old department stores are getting a second act. And somehow, they’re helping solve a very current problem. Sadly for blue light special fans, this is not a Super K-Mart revival.
According to the Wall Street Journal, downtown Cleveland has quietly become one of the country’s biggest success stories in turning historic buildings into apartments. While office-to-residential conversions became trendy after the pandemic, Cleveland has been doing this for decades—and doing it well. Roughly 30 historic buildings have been reimagined since 2013, helping push downtown’s population up 12% since 2019 to around 21,000 people.
What’s driving it:
Historic charm: These buildings come with details you cannot realistically recreate today—marble lobbies, ornate craftsmanship, and architecture
Less cookie-cutter living: Conversions have allowed for unusual layouts and features, like the May’s open-air courtyard and parking that lets some residents park on their own floor.
A more lived-in downtown: Grocery stores, restaurants, apartments, and cultural hubs now fill spaces that once went dark after business hours. Downtown occupancy hit 86% in 2025, which means the neighborhood actually stays alive after 5 p.m.
Why it matters:
Cleveland is doing something rare: urban living with character at a great price and fielding a competitive MLB team on a shoestring payroll. Average rent in March 2026 was about 11% below the national average. ($ WSJ)
Metroparks & Nature
[Photo: Henry Trombley]
Sighted at Huntington Beach: Purple Finch Haemorhous purpureus
The Purple Finch is a rare sight in Ohio, but someone caught one on the Westside this week, according to the eBird sighting list. These finches look like they were dipped in cranberry juice to get their colorful appearance.
Adopt
Meet Amber
Warning! If you do not want to adopt another dog, please do not visit her adoption page!
This little lady is a Spaniel/border collie mix who was found as a stray at only 6 months. She is living at the Parma Animal Shelter looking for her furever home.
Mark Your Calendars
The Chef’s Cut: A Behind-the-Scenes Tour of West Side Market
Walking through the grocery store when your hungry is already difficult. Now add a professional chef to the mix and see what happens.
This Sunday, April 19, the Market is hosting The Chef’s Cut, a guided tour and tasting experience that lets guests shop the aisles with a culinary expert, learn how to spot the best seasonal ingredients, and sample the final results
What’s New / What We Know:
The Insider Info: Learn the "secret" spots and best times to shop for specific items like hard-to-find spices or the freshest seafood.
The Tickets: Limited spots are available for this weekend’s session (and future dates in June and July).
Running and Donuts…mmmmmmmmm
The Treat Yo Self 5K and 1-Mile Walk is back this Sunday, April 19, taking over the Detroit Shoreway with a start and finish at Brewnuts. Registration opens at 7:30 a.m., the race starts at 9, and kids 8 and under can join the Donut Dash at 8:45.
Every runner gets a custom shirt, a finisher medal, and a complimentary donut.
This is cardio for people who need a little extra motivation to get through the finish line.
Local Sports
Lakewood baseball is not messing around this year.
The Rangers are off to a perfect 9-0 start after dismantling Valley Forge 26-8 this week, and the hot streak has pushed them to No. 4 in the entire state of Ohio.
Senior Nick Hart helped lead the charge in the latest win, going 3-for-3 with two home runs, while the Rangers continue to put up double-digit runs like it’s routine.
Follow along as the Rangers make a run at the D2 state title.
Rocky River Baseball Incident
On the other end of the spectrum, in a move that has shocked the River community, head coach Ed Piazza and assistant coach Michael Harper officially resigned yesterday following an "incident" during the team’s recent trip to South Carolina.
We aren’t going to speculate on what happened, but we hope all the players are safe and they are able to continue their season that they have undoubtedly worked very hard for.
Buzzstrip
Pat Geyser, the immensely talented artist who makes the weekly Buzzstrips, does incredible watercolor paintings. He is doing a 1 of 1 painting for Scuba, the winning pup of Mutt Madness! Check out his work.
🍽️ Business & Restaurant News
Khan’s Pizza and Kebabs 📍 Lakewood
The new spot has officially opened at 15600 Madison Ave, taking over the former Petra’s Pizza location. But this is not just a simple name change. Owner Amir Wahab and his team are bringing a mashup of Afghan, Pakistani, and Asian flavors to the neighborhood, alongside pizzas with a global spin.
Here’s what makes it special: every pizza is made with 100% Halal ingredients, cooked in a specialized oven, and finished with a secret light seasoning that gives the crust an extra pop.
Karak Chai Cafe Brings a New Vibe to the Westside 📍 Middleburg
Are you sick of your tired drip coffee, this might be your sign to branch out.
Karak Chai Cafe is making some noise on the Westside with handcrafted coffee, traditional chai, and Indian-inspired bites that feel like a welcome break from the usual chain-shop routine.
The name says a lot. “Karak” means strong or stiff, and that is exactly the point. Their chai is bold, rich, and loaded with warming spice. Check out their menu full of specialty drinks and nice bites.
And judging by Instagram, local foodies are already on it. The chai pours alone are doing numbers.
The real question: are you chai-or-die, or are you still loyal to black coffee?
📜 Today in Cleveland History
Before Bob Feller threw his first of seven Opening Day gems, Cleveland got a little Hollywood flair.
Judy Garland was just 16 at the time, already building serious star power in Hollywood and fresh off filming The Wizard of Oz. She was in Cleveland for a two-week engagement at Loew’s State Theatre, which meant Indians fans got a pretty rare bonus with their baseball that afternoon.
The weather was miserable. Despite cold, drizzly “football weather,” nearly 24,000 Cleveland fans showed up at the lakefront.
Mayor Harold Burton bounced the ceremonial first pitch, Garland sang in the outfield, and the Indians handled the Tigers 5–1 behind the arm of legend Bob Feller.
What’s Happening, Westsiders?
Featured Event
@riffs.216 on IG
I get it, Westsiders. We had a long winter. But that doesn’t mean we can throw trash on the ground. (Side note - I learned that in Japan people take their trash home with them)
Riffs in Tremont is hosting a Trash Bash Bar Crawl with some other neighborhood friends.
When?: Sunday at 3 PM starting at Riffs
Bring a garbage picker or just yourself and beautify Tremont while getting your Buzz on!
Friday, April 17
Third Friday Art Walk – 78th Street Studios, Detroit Shoreway | 5–9 PM
Open studios, guest artists, and a full building to wander at your own pace. Grab a drink, explore the maze, and see what’s new this month.
GF Coffee Caramel French Macarons Baking Class – Annie’s Signature Sweets, Berea | 6–9 PM
A hands-on class where you’ll make (and take home) your own batch of macarons from scratch. Equal parts learning and dessert. Bake and take
Abundance Late Night Kitchen Takeover – Patron Saint, Hingetown | 8–11 PM
Chef Liu Fang’s Abundance Culinary pops up at Patron Saint for a night of modern Chinese dishes, dumplings, and drinks in a cozy bar setting with a DJ set keeping things moving. Dumplings after dark
Saturday, April 18
Silhouette Portrait Event with Erik Johnson – Once Upon A Time Toys, Rocky River | 10 AM–5 PM
A third-generation silhouette artist hand-cuts your child’s profile in just minutes, creating a timeless keepsake you’ll actually frame. Sweet, simple, and a thoughtful pick for Mother’s Day. Old-school magic
GRIN at Gale’s Garden Center – Gale’s Garden Center, Westlake | 11 AM–2 PM
Meet adoptable golden retrievers, chat with rescue volunteers, and learn more about the work behind the wagging tails.
Baby Dance Club – Forte Wellness Studio, Lakewood | 11:45 AM
A playful dance session for parents and little ones to move, bond, and get a little energy out. Tiny dancers welcome
Yoga & Pilates at North Union Farmers Market – Crocker Park | 12–1 PM
A guided combo class that gets you moving before the market fully kicks into gear. Stick around after to browse vendors or grab something fresh while you’re already there. Flow then stroll
Sushi School – Sora, The Flats | 12–2 PM
Learn how to roll your own sushi with guidance from the pros. Your work doubles as lunch. Roll with it
Real-Tea Brunch x Day Party with Tom Schwartz – Saucy Brew Works, Hingetown | 1 PM
A Vanderpump Rules-themed brunch hosted by Tom Schwartz with trivia, a live Q&A, and plenty of opinions in the room. Come ready to weigh in. Spill the tea
5th Annual Whiskey Tequila Fest – Tenk West Bank, The Flats | 2:30–6 PM
An afternoon of whiskey, tequila, live music, and a raffle stacked with rare bottles, all with a western-themed twist. Supports Workshop of Wishes, granting experiences for local children facing serious illness. Raise a glass
Houseplant Arrangement Workshop – Mishi Lifestyle, Lakewood | 4–6 PM
Create your own custom plant arrangement with guidance and all materials provided. Easygoing, hands-on, and you leave with something that actually lives. Build & bloom
Mahjong Night: Table for 2 x Mugsy Bakes – Ohio City | 4–7 PM
Learn, play, and snack your way through an afternoon of Mahjong with guided instruction and a little free play. Tiles and treats
Sunday, April 19
Hannah Montana Brunch – Twist Social Club, Lakewood | 10 AM–3 PM
A full-on Disney Channel throwback with Hannah hits, Miley anthems, and all the sing-along moments you forgot you knew. Brunch, mimosas, and a little main character energy.
Sunday Storytime: Kit the Keystone – Blue Jay Retail, Ohio City | 1–2 PM
A kid-friendly storytime with a local author, followed by book signings. A sweet and easy outing for families. Storytime stop
Drag Brunch & Bingo – BrewDog, The Flats | 12–3 PM
Brunch, bingo, and drag performances all rolled into one lively afternoon. Come hungry and ready to play along. Dab and slay
Conditions |
|---|
Sunrise: 6:44 AM |
Sunset: 8:10 PM |
Moon Phase: New Moon 🌑 |
🎷 Live Entertainment
Friday
Moon Walker Friday | Mahall’s, Lakewood 6 PM
Mickey Avalon: 20 Year Anniversary | House of Blues, Cleveland 7 PM
Abstract Sounds | Esther Fitz | Black Voltron | Coda, 7 PM
49 Winchester Wesko | Globe, Iron 7 PM
Tyler Rich & Danny Worsnop | The Winchester, Lakewood 7:15 PM
Mac McAnally | Music Box CH, Flats 7:30 PM
The Carole King Show: Home Again | Music Box SC, Flats 7:30 PM
Anna Moya, Talkless, Due by Midnight | The Winchester, Lakewood 8 PM
Wanted | The Local, Strongsville 8 PM
Max Schlenk and Garrett Folger | The Bop Stop, Cleveland 8 PM
Electric Feels: Indie Rock + Electronic Dance Party | House of Blues, Cleveland 9 PM
Live & Local Featuring Dan Pyne | House of Blues, Cleveland 9 PM
Lake Irie | House of Blues, Cleveland 9 PM
Smarty Jones | Backstage Bar, Westpark 9 PM
Bad JuJu | Time Warp Bar, Westlake 9 PM
Matt Whataguy Friday | Welcome to the Farm, Flats 10 PM
Jazz Jam Session | The Bop Stop, Cleveland 10 PM
House of Heavy | Mahall’s, Lakewood 10:30 PM
Saturday
I Know This Song! Music Trivia Brunch | The Winchester, Lakewood 11:30 AM
The Golden Retriever of Comedy Tour Dan Soder | Agora Theatre, Cleveland 6 PM
Rikets Unhealty While Unhinged, Avarice | Globe, Iron 6:30 PM
Fayrewether | House of Blues, Cleveland 7 PM
Fantastic Negrito | Mahall’s, Lakewood 7 PM
Disco Inferno | The Local, Strongsville 7 PM
Steve Kortyka Quartet | The Bop Stop, Cleveland 8 PM
The Music of The Cure by The Gathering Gloom | Music Box CH, Flats 8 PM
Pet the Cougar | Time Warp Bar, Westlake 9 PM
Dark Wave Dance Cave: Die Industrie! | The Winchester, Lakewood 9 PM
Live & Local Featuring Erin Nicole Neal and The Chill Factors | House of Blues, Cleveland 9 PM
House Sessions | House of Blues, Cleveland 9 PM
Grand Division | Backstage Bar, Westpark 9 PM
Matt Whataguy Friday | Welcome to the Farm, Flats 10 PM
Sunday
CSNY Brunch with Long Time Gone | Music Box SC, Flats 12 PM
Neil Diamond Brunch | Music Box CH, Flats 12 PM
Cleveland Baggers and The Local Strongsville | The Local, Strongsville 1 PM
Irish Trad Music Session | Gormley's Pub, Rocky River 5 PM
Nettspend | Globe, Iron 7 PM
The Broken View | The Winchester, Lakewood 7 PM
Debbie Darling Quintet | The Bop Stop, Cleveland 7 PM
The Stix Quintet | Mahall’s, Lakewood 7 PM
The Local Voice | The Local, Strongsville 7 PM
FLOETRY Say Yes The Tour | Keybank State Theatre, Playhouse 7PM
Weather
Friday
67 🌡️ 55 | ⛅ | 30% | 💨 N 3-6 mph
Saturday
74 🌡️ 43 | 🌧️ | 90% | 💨 S 14-17 mph
Sunday
52 🌡️ 36 | ⛅ | 30% | 💨 NW 14-17 mph
Monday
48 🌡️ 38 | ⛅ | 50% | 💨 NW 8-13 mph
That’s it for today, Westsiders. Send this email to someone who was rooting hard for a Parker Messick no-hitter last night.
Have a great weekend,
—The Briggses