Friday, May 29, 2009

Weekly Feature: Hidden Gems


Today's Hidden Gem: Indians sweep Tampa Bay Rays


Ok, I am using today's Hidden Gem as a personal tribute to my Tribe! I know we also have another team in town who is holding their own. We'll get to them at a later date!

I'd like us all to bask in the warmth of the Cleveland Indians sweeping the ALCS Champion Tampa Bay Rays in a 4-game series. I knew they could do it.


You are only as good as your last game (or your last newscast) and we have the New York Yankees blowing into town for yet another 4-game series.

Honestly, I thought they would do it 2 weekends ago.

I was on furlough a few weeks ago and decided to hop on a flight to see my best friend for a few days. True, the magnetic force really pulling me toward Tampa was the fact that the Indians were playing the Rays. Sorry buddy! The Indians blew the Rays away in game #1 back on May 14 and then they imploded.

They were in every game, got a number of awful calls by the umpires (2 of which MLB and the Umpiring crew came out and said they made the WRONG calls) but could not close the deal.

I saw the fire in their eyes. There was bad blood brewing between this new rivalry. I knew they'd both come out fighting when back in Cleveland. And they proved me right.

What is so great about this most recent 4-game sweep is two-fold. The Indians came back from a 10-0 deficit on May 25. They also came back from a 5-0 deficit on May 27. Plus, the Cleveland Indians did the VERY SAME act one year ago. Back on July 10-13, 2008 our Cleveland Indians swept the Tampa Bay Rays in another 4-game series.


I, being very superstitious, take some credit for that sweep. I went to the Cleveland Metropark Zoo and touched the Sting Rays at their cool exhibit. I tried touching every ray and wished the Tribe would beat the Rays. Well they did.


I guess it just works for the home team.

When I was in Tampa a few weeks ago, I did the same. I touched the rays in their petting pool and whamo, the Rays beat us.


Now I know.


I don't mean to seem like I am taking this entry lightly or fawning too much over my Indians. But, I am. Life is too short, and in today's times, life happenings can be so horrendous/serious/and oftentimes grisly.


We all have to learn to enjoy the little things in life. Savor every sweet moment. Try to make a new memory every single day.

2 weeks ago when I was in Tampa, I saw the Indians lose. Tropicana Field is definitely NO Progressive Field. If you travel as much as we do to other ballparks, you will learn that we are blessed and lucky here in Cleveland with Progressive Field, The Q, and Cleveland Browns Stadium. So many others (not all, I LOVE Fenway) are dumpy and plain.



But even though the Tribe lost a few weeks ago, those 48 hours were tremendous. I was with my dearest friend in 92 degree temps, watching MY Tribe (win or lose), savoring every special moment, making new memories, seeing the positive in every instance.


We can learn a lot from our sports gurus and their cliches:
  • play every game as if it's your last
  • play hard
  • win or go home
  • play in the moment
  • stay focused
  • focus on today
  • every at bat counts
  • run hard, run it out
  • press on
  • never give up
  • total team effort
  • battle out there, battle back
  • you got to be ready to hit the curve



We have to learn to grab life by the horns and ride it 'til you fall off! And then, heck, get right back up there and press forward and onward!


Bring on the Yankees!


Go Tribe! (Go Cavs!)

Wednesday, May 27, 2009

THANK YOU Northeast Ohio!

I mimic and agree 100 percent with Romona's message!

It's a team effort!

It's an honor to be associated with an organization that takes pride in their product....that 'Reports the Facts, Respects the Truth.....' and that really tries to do what's best not only for the customer but for the employees.

It gives me great joy that during the last sweeps period which ended less than a week ago, Channel 3 received the accolade of taking 1st place in the ratings at 6pm, 7pm, and 11pm.

Really, that's all that needs to be said.

We work hard at Channel 3 and our dedication and going that extra mile surely pays off!


Thank you.

Tuesday, May 19, 2009

Not that easy!!

It was not that easy!

You would think having 4 days off would be a real treat.

OK, it was a treat. Who am I kidding! A divine treat, especially since I went to a Tropical city to see one of my best friend's in the entire world, grab some rays, enjoy my Indians, and no responsibilities for 48 hours.

A dream. It was!

But the first 2 days were furlough days. The last 2 days normal days. And I was only out of town for 48 of those hours.


I must be a news hound because I wanted to pick up the phone at least 7 times Thursday and share story ideas and information with the station. Each time I even thought about it, the furlough rules and regulations fairy appeared with this scolding look on her face saying 'no can do.'

I received an email from a college buddy who has worked at Canton Timken for as long as I can remember. He said they made more cuts and he was one of them this time. Awful, just awful for my friend. However, my innate instinct was 'call the station.' No can do.

Then I went to the hairdresser to get my new doo for my trip. John Roberts still has quite the memorial for Staci DiJulius. When you walk in there is a constant slide show presentation and the station next to my hairdresser's has a message on the mirror, candles and fresh flowers. Everyone working there knew her and misses her immensely. Information which must stay with me a few more days.

One of the churches in my cluster will be closing within weeks.....a story that can keep, but nonetheless, a story that I thought about calling in Thursday. Wrong answer!

Chrysler is a ready made story in my own lap. I just bought a Chrysler. I am a perfect subject guinea pig for what will happen down the road to Chrysler owners. But more importantly, the first 2 dealerships I went to were on the closing list, did not make the cut.

We had a little breaking news in my neighborhood where they had to block off the roadway.....I had to drive on by without even investigating to see what it was......honestly, it did not seem like a big deal or I would have snooped a bit more just in case.

I had to steer clear of Twitter, Facebook (sharing all the Channel 3 promos, Metromix stories, Weather Warrior ideas, and pretty much EVERYTHING connected to wkyc), wkyc.com, the 7pm live web chat--now that was hard. I was still in town for that and so desperately wanted to hop on but could not. I could not write a blog entry Thursday or Friday or do any correspondence whatsoever wkyc related.


I have to admit folks, for someone getting handed 4 days off, it was not all it was cracked up to be the first 24 to 36 hours. It was downright hard! I really love this place and what I do apparently. It's amazing how many times in the course of the day I send off an email, a story idea, share information about Channel 3 on Facebook or Twitter regarding upcoming stories, comment on a web story at wkyc.com or just can't wait to get into work to offer up a bunch of story ideas in the editorial meetings.


I hope being on furlough helps the station in the long run as well as my personal longevity here....but it also made me see and opened my eyes to how much I think about Channel 3 throughout the course of the day and night. Being in the news business, doing what I do, is a 24/7 lifestyle. It is part of me, my life, and frankly, I love that attitude. It drives me to be the best at what I do, keeps each day interesting, and keeps me on the top of my game!


PS, now what's really not that easy is going through my nearly 700 email messages! Calgon, take me away!

Wednesday, May 13, 2009

No work rule, serious business

In today's society, we've been hearing so much about and experiencing first hand the dreaded cut backs, layoffs, work stoppages, forced retirements, downsizing, and the business 'f' word --furlough.

Now, I have to admit, I just thought a 'furlough' meant no work and no pay.

In the midst of this craze, I've come to learn so much more.

Federal and State laws require that while someone is on a furlough, they follow the no work rule. This rule constitutes so much more than just not showing up for work. It really is serious business.

NO connection whatsoever to the workplace, work, or any co-workers.

Your company phones must be turned off or left unanswered.

Your company email is off limits during your furlough time.

Don't even toy with the idea of venturing into or near your workplace.

And that goes for talking to or seeing your fellow co-workers.

If possible, there must be an 'emergency contact' who can be called should something catastrophic occur.

If by chance someone is contacted by their workplace, the entire furlough must begin again and you get paid for the time already spent in furlough mode.


In the news business, a few other questions loom in the rafters.

What if I am walking along minding my own business and a building collapses? Or a plane crashes? Should I just ignore it? Well, we've been told, and I hope I have this straight, that if we DO see news happening, we have a few options. We can have whomever we are with call it in so that we have no contact with the situation. If there is no one else, I was told we can actually call in a breaking news story and then hang up. We can not keep calling in with updates. We can not take pictures and post to the web. We can not write the web story. We can not do an interview or phoner. We can not actually stay on scene to do interviews.

I hope I have this correct. We can make an initial 'news watcher' tip call and then wash our hands of the situation.


If I am off on my weekends, I'll tune into the news and see what's happening...and if I stumble across some great breaking news story or exclusive, I'll call it in. But I honestly have so much going on, I try not to obsess about the workplace.


If I am on vacation, same rule applies.


So, being on furlough, well, I see it as a completely healthy way to rejuvenate and renew the energy level so that when one gets back to work, they are on top of their game --their A Game!


See you Monday, folks!

Tuesday, May 12, 2009

Demjanjuk's Deportation

The never-ending story... and I say that with no disrespect, just stating a fact.

In my recollection, there are really no other local stories lasting as long with so many twists and turns, garnering such international interest as the John Demjanjuk story--other than maybe 'missing people' stories (such as Tiffany Papesh, Amy Mihaljevic, Gina DeJesus, Amanda Berry).

Demjanjuk's story began over thirty years ago, and though it is far from over, reached another turning point milestone Monday.

Mr. Demjanjuk boarded a plane with his 'escorts' consisting of Federal Agents and medical personnel Monday evening at Burke Lakefront Airport. By 720pm, he had taken off more than likely never to see Northeast Ohio and his home in Seven Hills again.

He arrived in Germany early this morning and is just waiting for the next chapter of his life to begin...Demjanjuk sat in his wheelchair receiving oxygen as the arrest warrant was read to him.

89-year-old Demjanjuk has been accused of being an accessory to murder for over 29,000 people as a Nazi camp guard in Poland.


I can honestly say that I have worked with the three men in town who know everything about this case, have dissected it, and have shared remarkable stories over the years.

I have had the distinct honor to have worked with Ted Henry, Paul Orlousky, and Dick Russ.

I in no way want to slight any other reporters and anchors in town who have covered this story. But, in my opinion, Ted, Orlo and Dick continue to be the authorities, the go-to guys.

This story is far from over.

It may be closer to nearing the end, but it still has some life.

Honestly, I haven't a clue as to how this will finish out and don't even want to make an educated guess. I do know for a fact that Channel 3 News and wkyc.com will continue following this story and providing the latest, most up-to-date details with our customers.

Stay tuned........

Friday, May 8, 2009

Weekly Feature: Hidden Gems



I'd like to take a stroll down memory lane with updates on a number of past Hidden Gems!


Good news to share one and all!


First and foremost, please tune into the 4th annual Q-104 Pledge for Pets Radiothon to raise money for the APL! All the money stays right here in Cleveland, Ohio.


The Radiothon kicks off Friday, May 8th and goes thru Saturday.


For background on last year's Pledge for Pets, please CLICK HERE and CLICK HERE!!!





My very first Hidden Gem was about Our Lady of Peace Church and their Run for Peace.


Well, this year's Run for Peace was the biggest yet. Over two hundred and twenty four runners took to the streets in the Buckeye-Woodland-Larchmere neighborhoods raising nearly thirteen thousand dollars in scholarship funds for the children of the city of Cleveland who attend Our Lady of Peace Catholic School. A big thank you for all the generous participants and sponsors who pounded the pavement and made this event come to life. Words can not describe the gratitude expressed by these children, their families and teachers. Please keep your eyes and ears open next year for the annual Run for Peace which usually falls in the middle of March.





Another update on an event at Our Lady of Peace Catholic Church. The Night of A Thousand Dinners exceeded all expectations ever imagined. This event, aimed at raising money for the elementary school over one weekend, expanded to the entire month and is a true testament that even in hard economic times, caring people open their purse strings. The school's pastor envisioned raising maybe five thousand dollars. To this day, the money is still rolling in but at last tally, a Night of a Thousand Dinners was 'the most successful fund raising effort in the long history of Our Lady of Peace School' raising almost thirty thousand dollars!


Pastor Chmura was speechless (and that's hard to believe if you know him, just kidding!). If I may read an excerpt from his thank you letter:

'I don't even know how to begin to thank you. I only wish that each of you could spend a day in our school to pray with our children and watch them grow in faith and wisdom and grace. You may not realize it, but in touching the life of a needy child you have touched the very face of God...'





This Sunday is Mother's Day. Malley's Chocolate covered Strawberries and Raspberries go on sale Friday at NOON until they sell out. Remember Mom, Gramma, Auntie or a loved one with a delicious gift from locally owned Malley's Chocolates!!





This year's International Film Festival was a smashing success--the largest ever! The Development Director at the Cleveland Film Society says 66,476 people attended the festival --figures up 27 percent from last year and up 89 percent from 2003.





The House of Swing will be celebrating their 32nd anniversary on May 30th, 2009. They are located at 4490 Mayfield Road in South Euclid. Owner Linda Kallie puts on a great party every year thanking all her patrons for their support. Pop in for Linda's delicious buffet, giveaways, live music, and a toast to Linda's husband, Lou, who got the whole thing rolling 32 years ago! This year Allan Greene with Mr. Stress will dazzle you as they rock the joint all night long! Stop in and dance the night away.





The 2nd World Alpaca Conference is being held right here in Cleveland, Ohio from June 3rd thru the 7th at the I-X Center. Believe it or not, Northeast Ohio has a number of Alpaca Farms. Last year I featured Alpha Omega Alpacas. I learned some interesting tidbits about the Alpaca world! I can only imagine how exciting and amazing the upcoming conference will be!





And last, but certainly not least, our very own Iron Chef, Michael Symon received a tremendous honor this week: The James Beard Award. It is the "Oscar" of the cooking world. He was named best chef in the Great Lakes Region. Something we ALREADY knew!!! Congratulations Michael!!!!



I hope you enjoyed my trip down memory lane highlighting and updating some of my more memorable Hidden Gems of the past...which keep making history in the here and now!!! THAT is why these are Hidden Gems near and dear to my heart! Hopefully yours too!!!!!



Friday, May 1, 2009

In the words of Billy Joel: 'Movin' out'


It's that time of year when our group of interns begin burning the midnight oil to get the class projects wrapped up, their 'resume' tapes complete, and just try to take in any wise words of wisdom from anyone who will offer them!


We had a great batch this quarter. I know I've said this before and I hope I become a broken record. We've had some amazing interns over the last few years!


This session we had Aaron from Kent State....Diana and Jeff from John Carroll.


Unfortunately, I believe I missed Aaron's final day. I'm confident he'll give us updates and in today's social media savvy times, we've 'friended' all of our interns over the last few years.


Diana and Jeff are wrapping up their tapes and projects and soaking up all the advice being tossed their way!


It's truly a pleasure to be able to help someone entering the business you've been in for so long. You either enhance their excitement for their new endeavor or help them realize they need to go a different route!


Not only does it, hopefully, give them a solid start but it sharpens your craft. You revisit techniques, procedures, and stay on the top of your game.


I wish all of our current interns well as they impart on many different adventures. And gear up for the next round who will be arriving any day now.....

Weekly Feature: Hidden Gems



Today's Hidden Gem: Flying Cranes Cafe + Catering


Chocolate cake to die for....




Pretty much everything in this eatery gets the two thumbs up including the service and hospitality.


Just one of the dozens and dozens of restaurants, boutiques, antique shops, and art galleries giving the Larchmere/Shaker Square neighborhood it's unique, distinguishing charm!


I initially went into Flying Cranes in search of a chocolate cupcake. Mom, who is not even a chocolate fan, was craving a chocolate cupcake. I ventured inside and have been a regular customer ever since.


A quaint cafe where you can either take out or sit there and eat on site. Their menu expanse for such a small renovated storefront ranges from rice and noodle dishes to soups, sandwiches, salads, croissants, quiches, homemade desserts & pastries and then a whole bevy of beverages including a wide range of delicious teas (mango!), cappuccino, latte, espresso and coffee...they have delicious and affordable Sunday brunch items as well. But I've just touched the surface...


Their homemade fare, mostly based on Japanese and American dishes, keeps customers coming back for more. Kayoko Irie-Frye opened Flying Cranes back in the end of 2007 with her husband Bill Frye.


They cater just about any function you desire. They service special party needs. They take reservations for 'High Tea.'


And to top it off, they have the most beautiful flower garden cafe that opens this time of year thru mid-fall.


Their attention to detail amazes me. The first time I ordered take-out dessert (the chocolate cake, lemon square and key lime square), I was fascinated at how each dessert had been placed at the beginning of the day on delicate, ornate glassware in the refrigerated display counter. No paper plates, no pastry piled on top of one another. But, more impressive was how the owner slipped on her rubber gloves to cleanly transfer the pastry from the glass plate to my take-out box. Something I will always remember.


If you find yourself anywhere near the historical Larchmere Boulevard, maybe on a Saturday morning for their tremendous farmer's market, please make a point to stop into Flying Cranes which is located at 13006 Larchmere. They are open Tuesday thru Sunday, hours vary. Their phone number is 216.795.1033.


Just one sampling of their taunting fare will convince you why Flying Cranes is this week's Hidden Gem!! Bon Appetite!