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It’s Jonathan Franzen’s fault that I really don’t like him

I hate Jonathan Franzen. I know, I know, he’s a Great Author. Super talented, apparently. But I don’t hate him on literary grounds. My hatred also has nothing to do with professional jealousy (I don’t think. Though if that’s an underlying reason, I’m fine with that, too). The man could be the next coming of William Faulkner, Toni Morrison and Ernest Hemingway all wrapped up into one authorly package, and I would not only not care but I wouldn’t even know because I’ve never read a book Franzen has written. I have, however, read many things that he’s said, and ...

There’s still time to make summer memories

Summer may quickly be coming to an end, but there are still ways to make memories right here in friendly, beautiful, Belmont County. From fairs and festivals celebrating our heritage and history, to exploring the beautiful landscapes and outdoor recreation, there is always something for everyone! Betty Zane Days, this weekend in Martins Ferry, is sponsored by the Martins Ferry Volunteer Fire Department. This multi-day event, named after the legendary local Revolutionary War heroine Betty Zane, celebrates the community’s rich history. The annual event features a 5K run, firefighter ...

‘Beets of Burden’ a surprising twist on a burger

More than a year ago, I shared in this space that my husband and I were embarking on a project of sorts. We had received a novelty cookbook for Christmas and wanted to attempt every recipe it contained. For several weeks, we did pretty well. Then, as with many things we intend to do, the effort fell by the wayside. But several days ago, we pulled that book out and revived our plan — at least for one installment. The cookbook is based on the animated series “Bob’s Burgers,” which airs on Sunday evenings. For whatever reason, I am especially amused by that show, so when we ...

Don’t put off what is important so it doesn’t become urgent

When my daughter Dannielle was a young child she loved her “Sweet Pickles” books. The books are about animals with a human personality trait, like Accusing Alligator, Healthy Hippo, Worried Walrus and Dannielle’s favorite, Goof Off Goose. I read the book to her so many times it’s etched in my memory. Goose’s house was a wreck. Everything could be delayed. She said, “I can do it tomorrow.” It was a funny book. The message for children was to not be lazy and to do important things today. In my corporate life in sales as an account manager, during a particularly ...

Coming together in spite of our differences

This past week I was invited to speak and give a benediction at the OVAC Evening with the Stars Dinner at the White Palace in Wheeling. This is the time when the All-Star football players from the state of Ohio play against the All-Star football players of West Virginia. They also include the All-Star Cheerleaders of each state and the Queen of Queens from each state. I am not sure, but I thought one of our sons played or was asked to play years ago. I know one of our daughters was an All-Star cheerleader and another one of our daughters was a part of the Queen of Queens contest. ...

Stepping back in time in historic structure

I had the opportunity to step back into the past a few days ago. The Morristown Historic Preservation Association, the Underground Railroad Museum Board of Directors, members of Ohio Mid-Eastern Governments Association, and Morristown Mayor Heather Stitt welcomed John Carey, director of the Governor’s Office of Appalachia and former Ohio senator, for a tour of the Blackhorse Inn. I was on hand to help cover the visit, and it was my first time to actually walk through the historic structure that dates to 1807. Thanks to a $3.9 million Appalachian Community Grant, the building that ...