Arbela Capas, associate editor
Mahall’s Halloween Party This year, Halloween in Cleveland felt familiar again. Part of reason for me was that I was able to go to a classic dance party at Mahall’s 20 Lanes in Lakewood. With electrifying music from the ‘80s, set dressing by Haley Himiko Morris (think: flickering vintage TVs, fun house mirrors and a lot of fog) and drink mixing by bar manager Cassie Turner, the night was a spook-tastic way to bring back the bowling alley’s long-time tradition of dance parties. What was more fun was to see the array of costumes: Raggady Ann, Cher, Freddy Krueger and many others getting down on the dance floor. 13200 Madison Ave., Lakewood, mahalls20lanes.com
Becky Boban, editorial assistant
Visited Brant’s Apple Orchard
I am always struck by the tranquility I feel at Brant’s Apple Orchard in Ashtabula. There are few things better than grabbing a heavenly cider donut and fresh cup of chilled cider and hustling through their busy farmer’s market. The place is a plethora of apple products, from Asian pears (a cross between an apple and a pear) to my favorite Apple Butter Syrup. Outside, I sat at a stump-turned table. A zephyr rippled the pond as donut and cider slowly disappeared along with my worries. If you don’t mind a drive out to the countryside, Brant’s is the place to be. 4749 Dibble Road, Ashtabula, 440-224-0639, brantsappleorchard.com
Colleen Smitek, editor
Shop with Kim Crow at Evie Lou in Tremont
As much as I like to call Kim Crow a friend, it had been a while since I’d seen the Plain Dealer writer-turned-boutique owner. So, I stopped by her boutique one sunny afternoon to say hello, see what she had and ask for a bit of styling assistance, which she happily and expertly offers anyone who steps through her doors. The result? A nice conversation and the outfit I wore for my editor’s note photo. 2509 Professor Ave., Cleveland, 216-696-6675, evielou.com
Henry Palattella, associate editor
Sat by the Weeping Willow at Edgewater Park
In my mind, Edgewater Park is one of the best parts of Cleveland. As someone who lives close enough to walk to the park (but far enough away that I can justify driving on occasion), I try to take weekly trips to Edgewater. Reaching the Weeping Willow is my favorite part, especially when a cool breeze is coming in off the water.
James Bigley II, managing editor
Kick back with a latte at Lekko in Ohio City
Sometimes, I just want to escape. Working remotely has certainly had its perks but staying home for too long can be a bit drab. So, I stopped by Lekko cafe to sink into a homier environment. The dark chocolate latte is divine, and there are beautiful desserts from Shelby Costo at the ready — but the comfortable couches, sleek design and large windows letting the light shine in make this place the kind of cafe you could lounge in all day without a care in the world. 2529 Detroit Ave., Cleveland, 216-554-4875, Lekkocoffee.com
