Romona's Room

I'm glad the Cavs are done!

noreply@blogger.com (Romona) — Tue, 02 Jun 2009 02:24:00 +0000

The NBA Eastern Conference Finals were an exciting stomach-churning, heart-stopping headache!
I can't remember ever letting a game affect me in such a way.
I was wrecked with worry as to how LeBron and the Cavs could beat Orlando's 3-point specialists. How and who could stop Dwight Howard? I found my answer Saturday night...no one!

We had a great run...it was fun to watch them win during the regular season and into the playoffs.

But, I'm glad all of the stress is over and we will hopefully put together a team that can match up with teams like the Magic.
Which brings me to my question: What type of player would you add to the Cavs roster? I think we need a big man, who can shoot and defend? Who would you like to see the Cavs go after to help LeBron?

My night at the Rock Hall Inductions

noreply@blogger.com (Romona) — Tue, 07 Apr 2009 00:29:00 +0000

Most of you know I said I would go in search of Legendary crooner Smokey Robinson during last Saturday nights Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductions. I didn't find Smokey, though he looked great on stage...however my husband bumped into inductee and Cleveland native, Bobby Womack!
I couldn't believe my eyes, returning from the ladies room and seeing Rodney talking to this incredible soulful singer whose music my Mom and Aunts would sway their hips to when I was a youngster.
I walked up with a huge grin to join in the conversation, waiting for Rodney to introduce me and he didn't! So, I extended my hand and introduced myself to Mr. Womack as he was being whisked away by a handler. I turned and asked my hubby, how come you didn't introduce me? Rodney replied;Who is he? I said you don't know who you were talking too? What were you talking about? I asked. He said; I just saw a guy in a fantastic coat and said... man that's nice! He said thanks and just started talking to me about how nice the Rock Hall event was.
I said that was "Bobby Womack!" Rodney was floored, he couldn't believe he stood their talking to a musical legend and didn't know it. Even though he was wearing a hat and sun glasses, his features are undeniable.
What an awesome event. I thought the entire event was spectacular, public hall was beautiful, the stage amazing and it showed Cleveland as the great city it can be.
I'm thrilled we had a national audience to witness what we Clevelanders already know.

Metromix photos by Mike Nikolic.

Romona's afternoon with Conan O'Brien

noreply@blogger.com (Romona) — Thu, 05 Mar 2009 21:44:00 +0000

What a day at our television station.

The new host of the Tonight Show, Conan O'Brien paid us a visit.

Actually his Cleveland stop is part of a 31 city junket to promote the new Tonight Show host who takes over for Jay Leno this June.

I found him to be quite charming. I knew he was funny, but the way in which he moved throughout the building shaking hands and talking to every and anyone who came into his view was impressive.

I also learned he is incredibly smart. He was valedictorian of his high school graduating class and graduated "magna cum laude at Harvard University.

You might think this funny man has been telling jokes all his life...he told me "no."

He was actually somewhat shy as a kid and grew up with pretty strict rules and proper manners.

You can watch the "Tonight Show with Conan O'Brien" beginning June 1st.

Dr. Phil & Octuplet Mom

noreply@blogger.com (Romona) — Wed, 25 Feb 2009 21:41:00 +0000

I'm just curious what you guys thought of Dr. Phil's interview with Nadya Suleman.
Did it change how you feel about her and her decision to get implanted with 6 embryos?
Some have called her irresponsible...others say she's out of touch with reality.
Did she say anything to convince you otherwise?
Or do you think the children are here and we have to help take care of her now 14 children?

Mother of Octuplets

noreply@blogger.com (Romona) — Fri, 06 Feb 2009 20:52:00 +0000

As I sat talking with my manicurist, the beauty salon conversation centered on one subject, the 33-year old single mother who recently gave birth to octuplets in Los Angeles.

These are just some of the many questions:

"How can she care for 8 newborns when she already has 6 children?"
"She's a single mom living with her mom, does that mean she doesn't have a job?"
"If she can't afford to live on her own, how can she now provide for 14 children?"
"Who paid for her invitro-fertilization? I understand it is costly?"
"What kind of Doctor would implant 8 embryos in a young woman?"
"Is she on government assistance?"
"She can have twenty babies if she wants as long as she takes care of them."

I participated in the chatter, wanting the answers myself. I understand the mother is now being deluged with offers for book deals, t-v shows and other business ventures.
What do you think about this story? Is this any of our business? Should she be scrutinized because she reportedly just loves having children? Does she have the right to have as many as she wants?
I'd love to hear your thoughts.
Be sure watch NBC's Dateline tomorrow night at 10pm, Ann Curry will hopefully ask her all the questions we've been waiting for answers too.

My thoughts on President Obama

noreply@blogger.com (Romona) — Mon, 26 Jan 2009 15:30:00 +0000

Many viewers have been asking what I think of our new President Barack Obama.
First, let me say I shared in the overwhelming joy and excitement that the nation felt watching our first African-American President being sworn in.
Now I feel its time we focus on the crucial problems our nation faces and not the color of our new President's skin.
He has a huge task at hand; record unemployment, mortgage meltdown, two wars and world tension just to name a few.
Right now he is still in the honeymoon phase with many, but that won't last if the American people don't see some solutions to what ails us.
I'm particularly thrilled about his "call to action plan" for all of us to get involved in making our country a better place through volunteerism. I see time and time again in the stories I report each night, how just one person can make a difference in the lives of others.
So often we wait on government to fix problems that we could be easily tackle in our own neighborhoods.
Its much too soon to say what kind of President Barack Obama will be, but I would love to start reporting some "good" economic news!

Romona's kids

noreply@blogger.com (Romona) — Wed, 21 Jan 2009 23:54:00 +0000

In 1990, I started a program near and dear to my heart called : Romona's kids.
Each week, I would highlight the positive things our youngsters are doing in their schools, community or special programs designed to highlight the talents of our children or helped them achieve.
My Romona's kids segments run each Friday at 6pm on Channel 3 news and now I need your help.
If you know of a special child, student or program that you think would make a great Romona's kid, I want to hear from you.
Send us an email at romonaskids@wkyc.com or smoses@wkyc.com

Happy New Year...Maybe?

noreply@blogger.com (Romona) — Tue, 06 Jan 2009 21:00:00 +0000

It feels great to be back at work as we start a new year with hopes of an improving economy. I would love to start reporting this recession will be short-lived.
However, as I prepared for this evenings newscast, I read more dire news:
"Cigna to layoff more than eleven hundred workers."
"President-elect Barack Obama saying the national economy is "bad and getting worse."
"Automakers releasing December sales figures showing steep declines over last year...Chrysler says its U.S. sales were down by more
than half...and sales were down about a third for other U.S. carmakers."
"Gas Prices are creeping up."
Still, I'm an optimist! If some economists predictions are true, the housing market could hit bottom toward the end of the year and there's hope President-Elect Obama's stimulus package might give some taxpayers a boost, creating spending and encouraging banks to ease up on credit a little.
I know it will take a lot more, like creating jobs, getting people back to work...but I have faith in our country and its people...we'll work our way out of this mess...hopefully "sooner rather than later.!"

" Feed our Children"

noreply@blogger.com (Romona) — Mon, 15 Dec 2008 03:54:00 +0000

I was reminded of some tough years and struggle during my childhood last Friday.
I participated in the WDOK Radio telethon to help feed Northeast Ohio poor families.
As I spoke live on the radio program with Trapper Jack and his team, I was suddenly overwhelmed with emotion as I relived the pain of being hungry at school some days.
I told listeners how my Mom; who worked two jobs at times, instructed me to eat as much as I could during the "free" lunch program at school because she wasn't sure what we'd be able to have for dinner.
After finishing my radio call, I went on the air at 6pm and read our local story about how the recession has meant an increase in applications for the free lunch program in suburban schools. Cleveland already provides free meals.
I was in somewhat of a trance, thinking about how hard my Mom worked and still she seemed to come up short each month. I thought about all the folks in my small Missouri town who used to donate food and our family was the beneficiary at times.
Its Sunday night and I'm still thinking about WDOK and all of the other wonderful efforts and programs in our area to help feed hungry.

"Real Housewives of Atlanta"

noreply@blogger.com (Romona) — Thu, 27 Nov 2008 01:50:00 +0000

How many of you watch "The Real Housewives of Atlanta reality show on Bravo?
I must say, it started out as a guilty pleasure for me.
On the one hand I'd tell myself, these women are so pretentious and don't represent any woman or friend I have.
On the other hand ...Its like a train wreck, you can't believe what's happening and you can't turn away.
However, after watching the reunion show last night I realized something "each of these women need intervention, guidance or therapy" at the least.
I'd love to know what you think about the show?

An Evening with Will Smith

noreply@blogger.com (Romona) — Sat, 22 Nov 2008 02:45:00 +0000

I've learned over the years after several interviews and encounters with Hollywood types not to have high expectations.
I remember meeting one of my television idols and he was so rude, just down right obnoxious. I had become jaded about so-called "Super Stars."

Actor Will Smith changed that for me yesterday.

He was such a genuine human being. I had the good fortune of welcoming him to Cleveland and introducing him to fans at the Cinemark Valley View for the premiere screening of his new movie "Seven Pounds." I watched as he seemed to be so appreciative of his fans...shaking hands, taking pictures, signing autographs and making each of them feel special.

When he talks to you, his eyes don't drift away, like he's thinking of something else or can't wait to leave a room. He was just so engaging.
I'm thrilled to be able to say mega stardom has not tainted Will Smith.

Wrong Number!!

noreply@blogger.com (Romona) — Tue, 18 Nov 2008 01:08:00 +0000

I recently called what I thought was my contractor Jack's cell phone number.
Surprised that a woman answered, I realized I had made a mistake and punched a wrong number.

I preceded to say; "I'm sorry Miss, I've called the wrong number." The problem is she wouldn't let me hang up. She quickly snapped back: "Who are you calling for?" "What number did you dial?" "Who is this?"

I guess I was in a state of shock for a second because I was being grilled to reveal my identity. I didn't want to tell her who I was or who I was calling for since I had obviously dialed the wrong number. I also didn't want to be rude and hang up, so I just repeated: "I'm so sorry I've dialed the wrong number and hung up.

However, a few hours later I wondered if I had handled the call correctly. Its not like I haven't made the mistake before and most people are great syaing "No problem." A friend pointed out that she may have thought I was "another woman" calling for her husband.

Then I really started to feel bad. So I ask you...If you mis-dial and call someones home...should you reveal your identity or was she just being overly suspicious?

"Race Relations: How far have we come?"

noreply@blogger.com (Romona) — Tue, 11 Nov 2008 21:06:00 +0000

I couldn't help but be extremely moved and proud watching our first Black President standing before hundreds of thousands of people from all walks of life at Grant Park in Chicago last week.

I was in awe of the sight and proud because I think this is a great opportunity for our nation to move forward and possibly heal deep wounds. I feel Mr. Obama's win will move our nation toward that place Dr. Martin Luther King spoke about... where you'll be judged by the content of your character...not the color of your skin.

As I watched President-Elect Obama and his wife Michelle visit their soon-to-be new home today...I wondered what Northeast Ohians were feeling.

My partner, Tim White and I talk openly and candidly about race. We don't always agree but we see it as a healthy discussion.

I'd love to hear your thoughts. Do you think having a black president will make it easier for people of different races and background to relate to one another?

Can we have a discussion about race without being seen as a racist?

News: Romona Honored with Diversity Award

fmacek@wkyc.com (Frank Macek) — Fri, 07 Nov 2008 00:46:00 +0000

From the Director's Cut Blog on Thursday, 11/6/08

Congratulations to WKYC 6, 7 & 11 PM anchor Romona Robinson who was honored Thursday with the Diversity in Media Distinguished Leadership Award.

The ceremony was held at Kent State University in front of a large gathering of her peers and co-workers.

Kent State selected Romona for the honor this year because she represents the highest standard of excellence in broadcast journalism, community service and diversity.

In an interview for the Director's Cut Blog, Romona explains, "I'm both honored and humbled by this recognition. I want to thank Kent State University and commend them on their Diversity program."

"I've worked tirelessly in Northeast Ohio, trying to serve as an example to youngsters that through hard work your dreams are possible," she added.

Our congratulations!

The Long Presidential Race

noreply@blogger.com (Romona) — Wed, 22 Oct 2008 21:15:00 +0000

I must say there's nothing like the night of an important general election.
I get overly excited and revel in the opportunity to bring our viewers the facts and the numbers from the voting precincts.
Its a night that can be filled with suspense and intrigue, because of the uncertainty of the outcome of the races, whether it be the Presidential race, an Ohio senate contest or local political battles and certain issues.

But I'm ready to "get it on" so to speak. I can't remember a presidential campaign in recent years that seems to have dragged on for so long.

All of the "he said she said" rhetoric has become so mundane. You can't escape it every minute during every program.

Maybe I'm just a little to close to the race as a member of the media having to talk about it down for almost 2 years now.

Is there anyone besides me counting down the days to November fourth?

"STOP, DROP AND ROLL"

noreply@blogger.com (Romona) — Tue, 07 Oct 2008 23:35:00 +0000

We were all taught those three words during grade school in case of a fire.
I found out today that's easier "said than done."

My wool sweater I was wearing caught fire this morning as I went to take a pan off the gas burner. The fire raced from my wrist up my shoulder so quickly, I panicked and started spinning around, frantically screaming and patting my right arm hoping to put out the flames. As you might have imagined my wailing didn't help, it only fueled the flames.

I've always had a plan in case of a house fire, the route I'd take to exit my home depending on the location of the fire. What I hadn't figure out was what I'd do if I caught fire!

So I'm sharing this story to say, have a plan, by all means remain calm and don't panic. I was two feet from my kitchen sink and could have put my arm underwater quickly. A fire extinguisher was literally in the cabinet right beside me, but that wouldn't have helped me in this case.

Just have a plan. I was fortunate, though my arm was covered in black marks...I was relieved to discover they were just soot marks so I came away unscathed.

My husband has banned me from cooking!

Automobiles are weapons that can kill

noreply@blogger.com (Romona) — Fri, 03 Oct 2008 00:40:00 +0000

After reading tonight's story that the commuter train operator who crashed head on into a freight train in Los Angeles killing 25 people ...was texting 22-seconds before the crash....I was reminded of what I witnessed at the intersection of Cedar and South Green Roads last weekend and why its important to always keep our eyes on the road.

A police vehicle with its lights flashing was moving swiftly, dodging in and out of the westbound lane traffic on Cedar Road heading towards me and several other vehicles as we sat stopped at a green light eastbound.

We could all see the officer coming, everyone was stopped in both directions careful to get out of his way, except for a driver who was waiting for the light to turn to make a left hand turn onto Cedar, she never saw the officer coming because her eyes were not fixated on the light and her surroundings, she was eating.

Now we all have probably eaten in our cars on the road, but this person I mean was really eating at the light...only glancing up for half a second and never saw what was about to happen. Just as the officer’s vehicle went through the red light, she hits her gas moving forward to turn left on Green and almost smashes the drivers side of the cruiser.

The driver next to me probably helped avoid a serious accident, he laid on his horn trying to get her attention.

It was just a reminder that no matter the distraction while driving, keeping our eyes on the road first is vital and the law. We are in charge of two-ton vehicles that have the capacity to kill and we should never forget that.

Just a thought.

Why I almost cancelled my COLONOSCOPY!

noreply@blogger.com (Romona) — Thu, 25 Sep 2008 19:54:00 +0000

I was recently having some gastrointestinal issues and my doctor recommended I have a colonoscopy.

I was always under the belief you didn't need the procedure until you were 50, but my doctor said because I had two uncles who died of colon cancer, I should probably get tested.

To say I was terrified was an understatement. I just assumed it must hurt really bad to have a scope with a light and a camera on the end of it...threaded...through, well such a private place. Still, I schedule the procedure, waking up several mornings before my appointment, reaching for the phone to cancel.

I would later ask around trying to find people who had undergone one and they all told me "piece of cake," its the prep the day before that's the tough part. You see you have to swallow two liters of this yukky stuff and you can't have anything to eat for 24 hours. In my case, I couldn't eat for a day and a half. But if it was going to reassure me that there were no cancerous polyps, I knew I had to go through with it.

The day came this week and I was brave enough to face my fear and go through with it...and even though I had some hysterical moments that could only happen to me...the procedure itself is a lifesaver.

I'm thankful there were no polyps found and I was given a clean bill of health.

I want to encourage anyone who needs one and you've been putting it off to call your doctor and get it done.

"STILETTO BABIES"

noreply@blogger.com (Romona) — Fri, 12 Sep 2008 21:00:00 +0000

This story really bothered me today (Click here to read).

Two Moms are now selling "stilettos for toddlers." The video shows a toddler trying to walk later falling down in the shoes called,"HEEL-ARIOUS."

The creators say the shoes are made only for infants up to six months old…and the heel is "squishy" for safety reasons, so a fall is not harmful.

Nevertheless, my question is why? Why are some makers of childrens items constantly pushing images of young girls all made up, baring their stomachs and navels and much more for commercial purposes. Parents have a hard time, as it is, making sure their girls dress appropriately. Now we're starting with the infants in "fake stilettos?"

I may sound like a prude, but I'm sorry this is sick to me. Most girls can't convince their parents to wear lipstick or any other make up until they reach the "tween" years, so why would we put sexy adult shoes on a toddler.

Lets face it the child doesn't know the difference, so is this for adult gratification? Oh, I forgot the creators said it was meant to be all for "GOOD FUN."

Can you love your Pooch too much?

noreply@blogger.com (Romona) — Fri, 05 Sep 2008 02:00:00 +0000

I've surely been accused of that.
My miniature poodle Velvet is 6 years old and the love of my life, well after my husband.

She brings me so much joy from the time I wake in the morning, till I turn in at night. I never knew a dog could bring you so much joy.

Truth be told, I was afraid of dogs most of my life. At seven years old, I watched my little sister being mauled by a rabid German Shepard, which traumatized me for years. I didn't get over the fear until I decided to face my problem in a story we did about nine years ago on phobias and how therapy could cure them.

I got Velvet shortly afterward and have been in love ever since. I must say I do spoil her. She can become the center of my world at times. My husband doesn't like that she follows be around the house non-stop. She likes being near me, getting up whenever I do. She has a fit when I leave for work, spinning around in one spot, frantically displaying her unhappiness at my departure.

Before I got married it was just the two of us and I'm sure Velvet got used to the world revolving around her. When Rodney arrived I thought the battle lines would be drawn, Velvet barked at him every time he moved. Now, she loves playing with him.

I asked the question; Can your love your Pooch too much because a while back, I was crying at work sometimes uncontrollably for a few minutes because Velvet was ill and in the veterinary hospital and a couple of people said: She's a dog Romona. I responded by saying No, she's my baby, part of my family. Don't people understand our pets are more than "just animals" they are family members, or am I the one who's losing a grip?

Let me know what you think with your comments below. Can we get too close to our pets? Also share photos of your special family member at wkyc.com.

I simply called her "Stephanie"

noreply@blogger.com (Romona) — Tue, 26 Aug 2008 20:37:00 +0000

How do you go before thousands of people and report the death of a special friend?

I had that undaunting task last week. My friend of 17 years, Congresswoman Stephanie Tubbs Jones died last week suddenly and unexpected of a brain hemorrhage due to an aneurysm.

When we were together there were never any titles, I was simply Romona and she Stephanie and that's just the way we liked it. We laughed a lot.

I first met her years ago when she was Cuyahoga county prosecutor. She and her late husband Meryvin were at a gala at I believe the then Stouffers Hotel.
I was new to town, didn't have a date and didn't know most of the hundreds of people at the event.

She walked over to my table, flashing a big smile and introduced herself and her husband and quickly said; "why are you just sitting here rocking to the music, get up and dance girl." "I don't know anyone most people have dates and there are no single men here, I shyly replied." "Come on she said grabbing my hand and dance with us, we don't care!" There I was on the dance floor with the two of them, just laughing the night a way... and a friendship was born.

I still look at her emails everyday, I can't bring myself to hit the delete button.
The latest one was about my husband. She so wanted to help bring him to Cleveland because she knew I had grown tired of the commuter marriage. She was armed with his resume determined to help him in his job search.

I keep watching and listening to her on my wedding DVD and the beautiful video message she left for me. She was so thrilled for me even though the love of her life of 27-years had passed on.

At the end of her message she tells me she loves me and to call her anytime, no matter where she is, she'll always be there for me.

I get upset during that part, because I can't call her anytime, she's gone.
But through my faith, I know the words she spoke are true. Stephanie will always be here for me and the thousands of peoples lives she touched.

My Fondest Memory of Fannie Lewis

noreply@blogger.com (Romona) — Mon, 11 Aug 2008 21:25:00 +0000

I arrived in Cleveland in January, 1988.
One of the first people to contact me and welcome me to Cleveland was City Councilwoman, Fannie Lewis.

I'll never forget how polite, but direct she was over the phone. She said: "Welcome young lady, do you know about my area, the "Hough neighborhood." I replied, "Yes, I know there were riots and fires there. "Yeah, but there's a lot more to Hough today, " she said, " and I'm gonna show you. I want you to meet me on Saturday and I'm gonna give you a tour of Hough". I remember saying "Okay, all the while thinking, its really cold for an outside tour right now.

But there was Ms. Lewis, waiting for me at our scheduled location, eager for me to see the area she represented. The sun was shinning and the weather actually wasn't too bad that day. I just remember how fast she was walking and how passionate she was about trying to make the area a better place.

I will remember her as a woman who "walked the walk...and talked the talk." What you saw was the real deal... a true fighter for the causes she believed in.

She will truly be missed.

Who am I?

noreply@blogger.com (Romona) — Mon, 28 Jul 2008 20:07:00 +0000

I've always been proud of the fact that I know exactly who I am, I've never had to question it.
A country girl, born and raised in rural Missouri, I've been working since I was ten years old with my 10 siblings helping my Mom support us.
I worked long hours during every summer vacation in the corn and soybeans fields, picked strawberries and worked at the local shoe factory.

A college education and a lot of hard work and determination helped me to realize my dream of becoming a broadcast journalist.

I am the sum of all those years of life experiences rolled up into one.

But this weekend as I helped my husband and brother move my sister out of her third floor condo in Sagamore Hills with no elevator, a half dozen folks or so... made me stop and ask myself the question. Who am I or Who did they think I am?

We started around 9:30 Saturday morning and finished about 3pm. For hours, I carted out boxes, lamps, end tables, chairs and a zillion other odds and ends up and down three flights of stairs! To say I was exhausted would be an understatement!

Along the way, I would get stopped and asked; Aren't you Romona Robinson? You're on the News! Romona, what are you doing? I smiled at all of the curiosity seekers, answering their questions, even asking a few if they'd like to help!

But it was the question two ladies my husband overheard saying; Why is Romona Robinson carrying stuff, helping somebody move?...that spawned our conversation about how people perceive people on television.

Do they have visions of me being chauffeured around by limo, sipping on champagne and caviar, a team of hairstylists, makeup artists and a masseuse waiting on my every whim? Sure, I pamper myself once in a while, but I truly have a pretty normal life. I shop for my own groceries, take out the garbage and do some of my own lawn care.

I enjoy my family and friends, I'm fiercely loyal, when ever they need me; "that includes moving," picking up their kids from school, hospital visits etc.

I enjoy people in general, working in my community, like so many other unsung heroes who don't get the recognition. I learned from my Mother that you should never forget where you came from and who you are.

That's why the answer to those ladies question was so clear; Why was I carrying stuff helping somebody move? Because, that's just "WHO I AM."

"LONG ROAD HOME"

noreply@blogger.com (Romona) — Tue, 15 Jul 2008 23:59:00 +0000

You know the saying; "There's no place like home.
I thought long and hard about that phrase as I took a trip back home to attend my Aunts funeral recently.
I grew up in Wilson City, Missouri, population 212 surrounded by corn and soybean fields.
I rented a car at the St.Louis airport and was on my 150 mile long road home. Its not a bad two and a half hour drive, straight down I-55 South. This is gonna sound weird to some, but I always smile when I hit Benton, Missouri, which is about 20 minutes from my sisters house in Charleston. I smile because a warm summer breeze lifts the thick smell of cows and horses into the air. It's a familiar smell that lets me know I'm almost there.
I don't get all the way to Wilson City very often, since my Mom moved away to Jefferson City, Missouri several years ago.
I was struck by all the delightful sights and sounds I had stored away in my memory.
There was the young fresh corn stalks sprouting for miles and miles. I had walked these fields picking corn for days and days, year after year since I was ten years old. The tractors were plowing the soybean fields, kicking up dirt twenty feet high. I reminisce about the 10 hour days my sisters and I spent working, chopping soybeans to help my Mom provide for us. I just kept smiling as I got closer to my sisters home in Charleston. Its about 5 miles from where we grew up.

My sisters and I couldn't wait to go to Boomland in Charleston. It's a local truck stop\fireworks store\burger joint, arts and crafts, groceries and anything else you might want.

Charleston is also where I went to High School, so imagine my shock when I ran into one of my English teachers, who I hadn't seen since I graduated high school at 17!
Ms. McCullough and I relived the days when I was so shy and hardly said a word in class. My how times have changed she said, "My Romona, who I couldn't get two words out of is now an anchorwoman in the big city."
There really is no place like home, I thought on my drive back to the airport. Cleveland is my home now and I love it here tremendously, but that down home upbringing in Missouri helped to shape the woman I've become today. I feel its part of why I can give and share so much of myself with my community.
I was reminded during my long drive home of just how much struggle, hard work and dedication it takes sometimes to make it in this world and if you're lucky, someone will share a glimpse of their long road home with you.

"THE BEE ENCOUNTER "

noreply@blogger.com (Romona) — Tue, 08 Jul 2008 19:43:00 +0000

WHAT A FRIGHTENING FIND IN MY BACKYARD THAT STILL GIVES ME CHILLS JUST THINKING ABOUT IT.

THE OTHER DAY I DECIDED TO PULL WEEDS IN ONE OF MY FLOWER AND SHRUB BEDS THAT'S SHADED AND RARELY NEEDS MUCH MAINTENANCE.

AS I KNELT DOWN GRABBING AN ABUNDANCE OF NEW WEEDS OUR RECENT RAINS HAVE PRODUCED, I HEARD A BUZZING SOUND A FEW INCHES FROM MY FACE. I SLOWLY LOOKED OVER AND COULDN'T BELIEVE MY EYES. IT WAS A MAMMOTH OF A HIVE, A BEE COCOON OF SOME SORT. IT LOOKED LIKE IT COULD HOUSE HUNDREDS, EVEN THOUSANDS OF SWARMING BEES.

HOW COULD I HAVE MISSED THIS HUMONGOUS HIVE? IT MUST BE TEN TO TWELVE INCHES IN DIAMETER AND I WOULD THINK IT TOOK YEARS TO CONSTRUCT.

MY NEXT ORDER OF BUSINESS OF COURSE IS WHAT DO WITH IT AND HOW TO DESTROY IT. MY HUSBAND WANTS TO GO "RAMBO" ON IT HIMSELF, BUT I THINK WE SHOULD PROBABLY CALL AN EXPERT.

IF YOU'VE HAD A SIMILAR ENCOUNTER, I'D LOVE TO HEAR YOUR STORY AND HOW YOU HANDLED IT.