Friday, October 29, 2010

Tricks and Treats

It’s almost time for one of my favorite holidays, Mongilloween! Hi, it’s Meghan. :) When I was a child, my mom would go all out for this spooky holiday. Each year she decorated the house, made our costumes and would dress up as a witch and chase us around the house yelling, "I’ll get you my pretty."  I must admit I’ve inherited her Halloween enthusiasm. I even hid a fake rat in the shower to scare my sister one morning this week! (it worked)

Since early September, orange and black has dominated my decor. There is a little cobweb craziness and monster mania going on in my Norwood home. If you check out the picture you can see floating monster heads hanging from my chandelier and scary creatures sitting around the dining room. In the vases I arranged sticks that I spray painted black and added fake mice and snakes.

Besides creating tricks around my house I also love making treats. Caramel apples, Reese's Pieces peanut butter cookies, iced cut-out cookies, orange brownies and Oreo eyes are waiting my ghostly guests. If you aren’t a baker, no problem.  The Oreo eyes were super easy. I bought football shaped Oreo’s at the store, dipped them in white chocolate and used icing and an M&M's to complete the look. Yummy!

As for costumes, I actually have two this year.  One night you can just call me Supergirl.  Another night I’m going to dress-up as Medusa, complete with snakes entwined in my hair.  Here's wishing you a safe and Happy Halloween! :)

Thursday, October 28, 2010

Perfect Anniversary Gift


Good Morning, Dan Wells writing, I hope this note finds you guys well and in good spirits. So you may have heard the lovely Tracey Johnson mention last week that I was celebrating my anniversary. Well today I thought I’d let you know what I got for my wife. (see the picture below) Shiny. Silver. One-of-a-kind. The Little Love Charmer from Tina Steinberg.

Now let’s back up for a minute…so you get the back story. First off, my wife loves gifts….buying, wrapping, giving, receiving, opening. She loves them actually what woman doesn’t love them. Right?

Well despite that love for gifts in general, it has been a long time since she’s felt this crazy (in a good way) about something she’s received, clothes and shoes just don’t seem to cut it anymore.
So after three and a half weeks of waiting by the door like my daughter waiting for me to come home from work, she saw the mailwoman place the package in the mailbox yesterday and she could not get out that door fast enough. They're here. See, each of my daughters' fingerprint impressions are on one side of each of the charms and their names are inscripted on the other. They are simple, unordinary, and timeless. In my wife’s world, it's pretty much the perfect gift. I think I did good this year. Happy gift giving.

Wednesday, October 27, 2010

Rock Of Ages

We Built This City...We Built This City On Rock And Roll! Good Morning Everyone, Frank Here...Do you sing out loud to classic 80's songs? Do you think you know the words, but like me you often make words up to songs? Well if you answered yes then you will love Rock of Ages, playing now at the Aronoff Center downtown. The show was fantastic, showcasing some of your favorite 80's songs with pop culture from the decade. You even get a pretend lighter to wave in the air which is pretty cool. One of the stars of the show is Constantine Maroulis, former American Idol contestant who really found his calling in this show. The story line is one of a boy and girl who go through the roller coaster of finding love in the rock and roll culture of the day. You owe it to yourself to see this non-traditional musical, it will have you on your feet. Later this morning some of the stars will be in our studio and on Thursday we will be LIVE on the set of Rock of Ages.

Tuesday, October 26, 2010

Christmas Already??!!


I was picking up my prescription at CVS yesterday and they're already getting ready for Christmas.
Hey everyone Rob here.
I was at CVS yesterday feeling a little under the weather. I was wasting time walking around wasting time waiting for the pharmacist to fill my prescription. I then saw something that really made me sick. I saw some employees putting up Christmas stuff. What!!?? Its not even November yet and stores are already getting ready.


Every year it gets earlier. Now I understand that these weeks leading up to the holidays are important. But this early?? This morning Sheila and I read a story about a mall in Costa Mesa, CA. It already has its 100 ft tall Christmas tree up. Don't get me wrong. I love the holidays, but you have 59 days until Christmas. Plenty of time to stress over buying gifts for family and friends.



Monday, October 25, 2010

Jean Robert's Table Is A Success!

"One cannot think well, love well, sleep well, if one has not dined well." --Virginia Woolf

Good morning! It's Sheila, and I am so happy to have Jean Robert back! Okay, I know Jean Robert didn't go anywhere, but for months I have been missing his food. I say this with conviction: I have eaten a lot of food, and I have met a lot of chefs, but I have never known one who is as talented as Jean Robert de Cavel. And here's the really cool thing. He's such a nice person!

I first met Jean Robert when he was the chef at the world famous Maisonette downtown. For me, the Maisonette was intimidating. I had never been to a five-star restaurant before I moved to Cincinnati. It made me nervous to eat there in a booth facing out toward the restaurant. Would I use the wrong fork? God forbid, spill something? The first time I ate dinner there, I didn't know Jean Robert, but his food made an impact, and then I understood just why the Maisonette kept its 5-star rating for the years he was there.

Jean Robert came to Cincinnati to work in the Queen CIty's most famous restaurant, but he made our city his home, and he has worked hard to make it a better place. When downtown was looking a bit bleak after the riots and September 11th attacks, Jean Robert invested in downtown by opening his own place. Rob ate at Pigall's first, and he exclaimed to me afterward, "Jean Robert is a genius!"

It's been about two years since Pigall's closed its doors for the last time.
After a legal battle with his former partners, Cincinnati's favorite chef is back with Table at 7th and Vine. And when you taste the food, you'll see for yourself why Jean Robert is a genius.
My husband Ric had a date night Saturday, and we couldn't wait to go back to Table. Jean Robert convinced manager Mary Lou Lind to come home to Cincinnati from Kiawah Island in South Carolina, and she told me business has been just as busy in January as it was during the holiday season. She's not having much fun in the snow, but it's clear she loves being part of the success of Jean Robert's new venture.
One of Chef's specialities in seafood, so Ric and I ordered the sole and halibut, respectively. Ric's sole came with a delicious truffle cream sauce, and the halibut was paired with squash, grapefruit, and a luscious citrus sauce. It really is to die for, and I'm always amazed at the ingredients Jean Robert puts together in his dishes. We topped off our meal with an incredible creme brulee and coffee, always served at Table in a french press. I never drink coffee in the evening, but I indulged in two cups!
The restaurant has a casual, friendly atmosphere, and it's a welcome addition to downtown Cincinnati. One Facebook friend told me he felt like he was in the Village in NYC, and added to my sentiment that Cincinnati really needed something like this. You can read the menu and find out more about Jean Robert's table at http://jrtable.com/

Friday, October 22, 2010

Take A Hike

Well, now that the 80 and 90 degree temperatures have finally subsided and fall has officially hit Cincinnati, there is a lot to enjoy around the city. Something that has caught my attention is the Redwing Trail Loop located in Rowe Woods. Flowers? Check. Wildlife? Yep. Good trails? You bet. This easy loop in Rowe Woods packs a lot in 4.9 miles. I have heard some great things about it, but have yet to check it out. From what I've heard, it has a little bit for everyone attracting hikers, runners, walkers, bike-riders, and those who simply love the outdoors. A short drive from I-275, it's just under a 5 mile loop, encompassing everything from lakes, waterfalls, and wetlands to mature woodlands that are home to some oaks that are estimated to be more than 200 years old.

In addition, you can also find a Geology trail as well as observation decks along your way. So, if you've already checked out Rowe Woods or do so after reading this, it would be great to hear any comments! Get out and have a great weekend!

TO TRAILHEAD: I-275 to US 50 E. In 2.6 mi., R onto Roundbottom Rd. In .5 mi., turn L onto Tealtown Rd. for .5 mi., then turn R at entrance to Rowe Woods. Park in main lot near visitor center.

Wednesday, October 20, 2010

And they're off!

In the paddock
before race #12
There is something I look forward to each fall besides football games, Halloween and my favorite coats. It's an idyllic horse track in the heart of the Bluegrass State called Keeneland. Hi, it's Meghan. :)

I’ve been to Keeneland many times, but each time I am still awed by the experience. Considered one of America’s most beautiful tracks, Keeneland is known for its historic architecture, meticulous landscaping, and top notch horse racing.

Me with the Desperate
Housewives of Delhi
It’s kind of long story as to how and why, but I ended joining a bus trip organized by the Seton High Athletic Boosters Club, despite no prior connection to the organization. Luckily the group was very welcoming and a ton of fun. The Seton Boosters were a lively and passionate group that took pride in their school and their Westside community. We traveled down in a nice bus and our tailgate surely was the envy of the parking lot. One group of ladies referred to themselves as the Desperate Housewives of Delhi – check out my picture with some of them. Oh, and a special thanks to Lou and Michelle and the others who did all the work to organize the trip.

By mid-afternoon, it was time to watch the ponies! You may be surprised to learn that I know enough horse racing to know that the horse with the best name usually wins. So that is how I came to win $30 on a $5 show bet on Sun Bear in race #3. I know that’s not much money, but a win is a win! :)

with super trainer Mike Maker
My friends Brandi and Jeff are part owners of a horse so we got access into the paddock, the prep area where the horses are paraded just before a race. Getting an up close look at the muscle and strength these animals posses is amazing. On the very last race their horse Twinspired lined up in the #12 position and surprised everyone with a first place finish!!! We all rushed to the winner’s circle, where I got my picture taken with famous trainer Mike Maker. If you’re wondering, no I wasn’t smart enough to place a bet on their 12:1 long shot. Darn it!!


You still have time to create your own Keeneland memories. The fall races run through October 30th.

Fall Fun!





I may get a spring in my step in the springtime, but some of my family's best memories are made in the fall.

Hi, it's Sheila.
I took my kids to one of our favorite fall places, Farm Haven in Boone County. The farm has been in the same family for several generations, and it's a nice place for kids to learn about the workings of a farm. We like to celebrate the Halloween season there by taking a hayride, exploring the corn maze, and wandering in the


barn, where you can pet and feed the animals.

If the corn maze is too big for your little ones, they can go it alone in a hay maze. You can see over the top to keep an eye on them. The hayride takes riders out to a pasture, where they can feed ears of corn to the cattle. They come right up to the hay wagon! That scared Katie and Eric just a bit, I think because they were afraid of getting licked by those long tongues! Even so, I think the hayride is Katie's favorite part of our trip.

Eric's favorite part of the day was visiting with a new litter of kittens in the barn. He lovingly picked up each one, and he would have carried them all over the farm if I had let him. He told me later they were his "adorable friends." Children can pet horses, rabbits, and chickens, and feed the sheep and goats.

Farm Haven is on U.S. 42, right by Ryle High School. It's open weekends from 11 a.m. To 7 p.m. through the end of October.



I also spent some time this weekend at Idlewild Park in Burlington with my buddy Dan Wells and his family. Eric and Dan's daughters, Ali and Kate had a play date, and I had some time to catch up with Dan and his wife, Megan. Ali and Eric are both three years old, and they absolutely crack me up. One minute Eric was telling her to "stop touching my freaking Goldfish" crackers, but the next they were climbing and swinging together. Baby Kate, as Eric calls her, tagged along with them, and they particularly liked the sandbox. All three of them carried the sand into a playhouse and used it as food while they played restaurant.

Idlewild Park is one of Dan's favorite parks because it has some great walking trails. Megan and I like the fact that there's a fence all the way around the playground area, so you don't have to worry about your child wandering too far from you.

Lots of happy smiles and good memories for the fall pages of our family album!

Tuesday, October 19, 2010

Are you kidding me???


Hey everyone. A worn out Rob here.

I'm back to work after running the Columbus marathon.
Actually last week I didn't think I would make the run. Last Thursday I had to leave work sick as a dog. I went straight to my doctor's office who informed me that I had BRONCHITIS. Are you kidding me??!!! After months of training and hundreds of miles, I have bronchitis with 3 days until the race. He put me on the Z pack, hoping things would clear up in time. Thursday, I slept 13 hours. Felt like crap. Thought there was no way I could do a marathon. Friday, I slept another 13 hours. I was better and hopeful that I could do the run. Saturday, there was no turning back. I put all my stuff in my car and drove to Columbus. I had to trust my training and my body. Most importantly, I had to have a good time.



I woke up at 5:15 Sunday morning. Had a cup of coffee, a bagel and banana and slowly made my way to the start. This was my first marathon in 2 and a half years. The start is always emotional for me. 3 months of training boils down to the next 3 hours. The music is blaring crowd is jumpy, then the gun goes off. Thousands of people head out all tackling the same 26.2 miles. Most of them were good. Like clockwork. Just as planned. Mile 7 no problem. Mile 13 halfway there. Mile 20 less than a hour left. Then came mile 24. Hit me like a brick. A rock to the head. Felt all kinds of pain. In my leg, my hips and especially head. Doesn't matter how hard you train, the last 2 miles are always brutal. Made me almost suicidal. Luckily, the guy who trained me was there. Pushing and encouraging me along. We crossed at 3:07. My fastest time yet. It also qualifies me for Boston with more than 13 minutes to spare. However, I woke up this morning and learned it is CLOSED out. Are you kidding me???

Monday, October 18, 2010

Pancakes, Wine Tasting, and Charity

Good Morning Everyone...How Was The Weekend? I would like to first start with some of the most unique and amazing pancakes I have had. Our very own Rob Williams ran the Columbus Marathon this past weekend, so in prep I met him for some carbs on Saturday in Mount Lookout. We went to Annabells which is this small little restaurant with a lot of charm. I enjoyed the buttermilk corn pancakes. They were sooooo yummy with brown sugar butter on top, I highly recommend them they filled me for the entire afternoon. Then on Sunday I had the honor to join many at Mercedes Benz Of Cincinnati, where we gathered to raise money for Epilepsy. It was wine tasting all for a good cause, over 400 people attended to sample fine wines and some wonderful food. It's amazing how people come together for charity all while at the same time enjoying each others company and the real winner of course was the cause, Epilepsy. So after a fun filled weekend it's back to work this week, and you may notice something different. We have new weather graphics, we have been building new looks and maps over the past several weeks and I hope you like what you see. Our goal present your weather in a easy to understand format in several different ways, so please feel free let us know what you think. Have A Great Day!

Friday, October 15, 2010

My Daughter The Princess

THAT'S WHAT MY WIFE AND I HAVE BEEN UP TO FOR THE PAST WEEK, ALONG WITH PLAYING AT THE PARK, SWIMMING AT THE LOCAL INDOOR POOL, AND CELEBRATING CHRISTMAS TWO MONTHS EARLY! LAST FRIDAY, MY DAUGHTER HAD HER FIRST GIRLS NIGHT OUT WITH HER LITTLE FRIEND, ADDIE AS SHE AND MY WIFE WENT TO SEE THEIR FIRST PRINCESS SHOW...DISNEY ON ICE.

TO SAY SHE LOVED IT MORE THAN ANYTHING IS AN UNDERSTATEMENT. SHE RAISED BOTH OF HER ARMS IN THE AIR WHEN SHE FIRST SAW THEM (THE DISNEY CHARACTERS) AND YELLED "HOOORRAAAAYYY" FOR AT LEAST THREE MINUTES...

PICTURE HER CROSSING THE FINISH LINE OF HER FIRST MARATHON~THAT IS EXACTLY WHAT SHE LOOKED LIKE (ONLY CUTE IN HER CUTE LITTLE BLACK DRESS, OF COURSE!)

BUT BECAUSE MY WIFE WAS (SECRETLY) JUST AS EXCITED AS MY DAUGHTER WAS, I FORGOT TO TAKE OUR CAMERA WITH US, SO ZERO PICTURES...GUESS WE'RE JUST GOING TO HAVE TO GO BACK NEXT YEAR.

SO HERE'S TO A GREAT WEEKEND OF PRINCESSES .....CHEERS DAN

Thursday, October 14, 2010

One More Reason to go to Findlay Market

Hi it’s Meghan:) If you’ve never been to Findlay Market, why not? It’s a very unique and interesting place. A variety of vendors sell an array of meats, cheeses, produce and spices. Now there is a brand new business.

Fresh Table just opened inside the market house. When you get to the green lights hanging over a glass case of beautifully displayed dishes, you are there. The business is the creation of Chef Meredith Trombly and Chef Louis Snowden. They previously worked together at Bigg’s and recently decided to create something on their own.

Think sustainable, local and organic. That’s the concept behind Fresh Table’s freshly prepared food. Customers can look into the case, pick a few of the tempting bites and take a box home for lunch or dinner. The menu is always changing because the chefs buy from vendors at the market and around the city, which also keeps it seasonal and fresh.

Ever tried an Eggless Egg Salad? I hadn’t either. But you can now. It’s made from tofu, soy mayonnaise, dill and turmeric. Yes it is yummy and actually tastes like eggs! My favorites are the savory bread pudding, marinated mushrooms and fennel salad. There was also the corn pudding adapted from a Shaker recipe that dates back to the 1700’s.

There are other cool things about Fresh Table too. Everything is recyclable or compostable. The kitchen scraps are composted and the take home containers are biodegradable.

The walls are about to get a fresh look too. What are now plain white walls will soon be a showcase of Rookwood Pottery tile. Another cool design element of Fresh Table is the digital signage and live video stream. The two TV monitors can show the ever changing menu or give customers a live look at what’s cooking. I know I’ll make it a point to stop on my trips to the market. Enjoy!

Wednesday, October 13, 2010

Fighting The Fall Bug


I got my flu shot.

Sheila here.
October is here, the official start of flu season. I get a flu shot every year, and so does my family. This year federal health officials are urging every American, every age, to get that shot to avoid the flu bug. This is the first year the Centers for Disease Control has made that recommendation. Historically, the government recommended flu shots for just the very young and the elderly, but this year there is plenty of vaccine to go around.

Remember last year when we saw long lines for flu shot clinics? There wasn't enough H1N1 vaccine to go around last year, but this year that's not a problem. The H1N1 vaccine is right in the same shot as the seasonal flu vaccine, and the government ordered 160-million doses.

And it's easier than ever to get vaccinated. You've probably seen the signs up at every Kroger and Walgreens store. It's especially important for pregnant women to get their shots. The flu can be even more dangerous for them and for their babies.

Last year's national campaign to stop H1N1 is widely considered a success. Doctors say public awareness is what stopped the swine flu last year, but they caution it's still around.

Now I'm ready!

Tuesday, October 12, 2010

This Is It



5 days and counting.


Hey everyone. Rob here. The Columbus Marathon is this Sunday. Months of training, miles of running will be tested for 3 hours Sunday morning.


A little nervous. A lot excited. I will spend this week relaxing, enjoying the downtime, and drinking plenty of water.
This Friday I will load up on carbohydrates.


Now that really is getting me excited. I can have pizza or a plate full of pancakes.

I'm all set with accommodations. There was a little drama there. There isn't one hotel room available in all of downtown Columbus. A little advice here: book early. I started checking on rooms 6 weeks ago and they were almost all sold out. Luckily with Sheila's help I was able to get a room downtown last minute.

So I'm set for my 10th marathon. I'm going trust the training and most importantly I'm going to have fun and enjoy the run. Also, enjoy the company of 10,000 other runner whose last 3 months has been a lot like mine. Wish me luck. Rob

Monday, October 11, 2010

I Am A Bit Spoiled

Good Morning Everyone, Frank Here...I was going to talk about the Bengals and Reds lost, of course the Reds had a great season and we are proud of them, but I think for now we must look forward and move on. So I will talk about how it is always great to go home! This weekend I took a quick trip to my parents for some rest and relaxation, now while my mom does not do my laundry, I am still a bit spoiled. Wow, what a weekend 12 hours of sleep Friday night and then 9 hours of sleep on Saturday. Mom made me my favorite meal of beer brisket and mashed potatoes, so good! However, the big topic of discussion was do we dress our pets for Halloween? Now while I love Mr. Benson, I do draw a line when it comes to Halloween costumes or any outfit for your pet. However, when mom was in Naples, Florida a few weeks ago she picked Mr. Benson up a costume, now I can't say no to mom so we tried on his new ROOSTER costume! Okay, it is kinda of funny and yeah he will enjoy it for about 5 minuets because he then was trying to take it off. That is why the picture is a bit BLURRY he was moving around. So that is where we stand with that! Okay, I am off to prepare for your FOX19 News Morning Xtra.

Friday, October 8, 2010

All About Comfort Food !

Dan Wells writing. I hope this note finds you well and in good spirits. It's Friday, fall is in the air and food is on my mind this morning. I think it has to do with a segment we had on the FOX 19 Morning XTRA....on Tuesday that delt with bean soup. Yup, BEAN SOUP...what a comfort food (at least for me). My mom used to make it during the fall and winters sports seasons way back in high school in my mind nothing is better. So that begs the question what are comfort foods? Here is what I found, they (comfort foods) are foods that soothe the psyche by reminding us of comforting childhood memories. For most of us, these foods are far from gourmet and generally epitomize home cooking. They invoke feelings of nostalgia, safety, and security.

Here are the top 25 comfort foods I found out there.

Did your favorites make the list?

Top 25 American Comfort Foods
• Apple Pie
• Baked Beans
• Banana Pudding
• Beef Stew
• Brisket Pot Roast
• Chicken & Dumplings
• Chicken Pot Pie
• Chicken Soup
• Chili
• Chocolate Chip Cookies
• Corn on the Cob
• Fried Chicken
• Gelatin
• Green Bean Casserole
• Hot Dogs
• Ice Cream
• Macaroni & Cheese
• Mashed Potatoes
• Meatloaf
• Potato Salad
• Pumpkin Pie
• Shepherd's Pie
• Spaghetti
• Tomato Soup
• Tuna Casserole

Voice your opinion on our message board.....Finally, I hope this quick blog has prompted you to eat well this weekend! Cheers Dan

Thursday, October 7, 2010

It's Only One Game

Yes, it was a let down.  Yes, Roy Halladay had an amazing game.  But let's put it into perspective, it's only one game! Hi, it's Meghan.

Our Redlegs still have a lot of baseball to play.  I know Reds fans are ready to keep cheering them on.  When we win Friday, the Natiboys will be back at home Sunday and the hometown crowd will give them a boost.


Even though the game didn't go as I would have liked.  I still had a lot of fun supporting our team. I wanted to blog this week to give you a look at my activities on Wednesday, Oct. 6th, also known as the day that the Reds started their first post-season baseball in 15 years!

4:00 AM - Heading from the studio to Fountain Square to tell our viewers about all the food and drink specials I found at local bars and restaurants for the Reds game.  I'm also planning my own "pub crawl" later to see how different fans around Cincinnati cheer on their team!

Cream cheese, anyone?
8:10 AM - "My Mom Calls Me George" of KISS 107 FM has created a voodoo sculpture of Philly legend Rocky Balboa out of Philadelphia brand cream cheese, and he is going to destroy it using a Reds t-shirt cannon in the middle of Fountain Square!  Well, we learned a little about MMCMG's sculpting skills (2nd only to Michelangelo's) and the viscosity of cream cheese at 50 degrees (low enough to stop a speeding t-shirt apparently).  Nonetheless, the bust of Rocky clearly lost this fight, and the momentum and karma is surely going to help our Reds KO the Phillies in the NLDS!

MMCMG puts the final touches on CC Rocky, and the Reds Cannon of Destruction.

So maybe it didn't explode quite like we thought, but Philadelphia definitely got creamed. :)

4:00 PM - After my lunch, a nap, and a workout, I am ready to start pre-gaming!

4:20 PM - The In Between, Downtown
I was actually hoping to make it out to Maloney's Pub in Delhi, but I got a late start and didn't want to fight traffic.  Unfortunately, In Between didn't have any specials and only had about 8 people in the bar.  Disappointing.

4:25 - 4:45 PM - Skyline Chili, 4th & Sycamore
Got a free cheese coney!  Yum!



5:00 - Fountain Square, Downtown
Pretty decent crowd, food, drinks, and great weather, but the sun was setting right behind the big screen making it pretty difficult to watch the game.
5:05 - 5:30 PM - Rock Bottom Brewery
Bad start for Edison Volquez and the Reds.  And I didn't even like the beer I picked. :(  Good crowd of after work folks though!
5:55 - 6:45 PM - Brothers Bar & Grill, Newport
Hung out with lots of Reds staff members, my sister, and my friend Amy.  
The Reds didn't perform too well, but the day was still a lot of fun!

Wednesday, October 6, 2010

Mr. Benson Has A City

Good Morning Everyone, I missed you...Frank Marzullo Here! First I want to thank Pat Barry and Dan Wells for taking over my duties while I was in a series of in depth, scientific, and intense meeting at the National Weather Association Conference in sunny and hot Tucson, Arizona. While I spent most of my time training on radar systems and learned about micro climate forecasting, I did have a little time to venture out and check out parts of southern Arizona. I had to make a quick drive over to Benson, Arizona. Why you may ask? Well of course my dog is Mr. Benson and I wanted to check out the town that was named after him. There was not much in Benson, Arizona but I did see the statue that was built to honor everyone's favorite weather dog. Another stop I made was a drive by the " Plane Grave Yard " which is in Tuscon. This is a large parcel of land where old planes come to die. It is amazing, to see the thousands of 747's, F-16, DC-9's, and other aircraft that are no longer in service. During the week you can take tours but on weekends you can just drive along the fence and view them from the outside. The biggest thing I learned about Arizona is that you have to stay hydrated, I have never drank as much water as I have in the past several days. All in all it was a great conference but I am ready to get back in the swing of things and say GO REDS!

Tuesday, October 5, 2010

Reggae Run


Frank is out of town on a "weather" conference, so we are all getting pushed up a day.

Hi guys. Rob here. Frank will be blogging tomorrow when he returns to the morning news.



This past Friday was the Reggae Run in and around Ault Park. Its a 5K started 1994 in memory of Maria Olberding. She was slain while running in the Mt. Lookout area. Her family started the run, which has now ballooned to nearly 5,000 runners. The Reggae Run is special to me. Not just because of the story of how it started. It was also my first 5K in Cincinnati. Anyone will tell you it is a challenging run. The first half is fast and downhill. The second half is the exact opposite.
Ironically, I didn't run it this year. It was cold, and with the Columbus Marathon 2 weeks away I passed. I however did go to the party. That's the great thing about the Reggae Run. It is great for non-runners too. There's food, beer, wine and great Reggae music which Maria loved. The money raised helps the Make-A-Wish Foundation. Too late for this year, but check it out next year. Make sure you check out the Oldberding's Chili. It is awesome.










Monday, October 4, 2010

Old West Fest


Howdy partner! Sheila here.

I spent the weekend having gunfights with my son Eric, after my husband Ric and I took him on a trip back in time. We checked out the Old West Festival in Williamsburg, just east of Cincinnati.

I should say it's in Dodge City because that's what it feels like once you step inside. The town comes complete with a saloon, covered wagon, and medicine show. Can Can dancers, a magician, and talented musicians entertain, and the kids can be sworn in as deputies by Bat Masterson.

At high noon, we saw a bank robbery and a shootout on on the main drag (complete with gun safety lesson). The cowboys and pretty ladies stay in character as they wander through town, and Eric introduced himself to almost every one of them.

If you dress up your kids in their cowboy gear, they could win a costume contest.
The food is pretty good too, and you can even get an old fashioned root beer. We had a blast, but you need to make plans now. There's just one weekend left for the Old West Festival, this Saturday and Sunday. Find out everything you need to know by checking out the website, http://www.oldwestfestival.com/

Friday, October 1, 2010

My Daughter The Lawyer

Good Friday Morning! Dan Wells writing. This morning I'm stealing from my wife's blog...because it cracked me up and I'm sure you parents out there can relate. Lawyers, they know what they want. They fight hard to get it. They argue for a living. This is the new stage that my young daughter is currently in. At her annual check-up a few weeks ago, our pediatrician placed this perfect label on her back. He said that is what he calls this age group and I couldn't agree more. I say "I love your dress" she says..."No, you don't." I say "We're going to a friend’s house to play today!" she says..."No we're not."I say "Aren't these cookies delicious?" she says..."No, they're not."

It's pretty annoying after awhile, but also pretty darn funny. I could tell her I'm going to buy her a huge princess castle and she would tell me I'm not. God love her. Happy Parenting!