May Sweeps winding down

It's the final official day of May Sweeps. The strong effort and enthusiasm remains every day, but during this 'sweeps' we had a number of enterprising pieces...and investigative stories! We should know in a few days how we fared against our local competitors.


I've listed our '30 days, 30 ways to save' pieces as well as our other sweeps stories in the margin on the right side of my blog for anyone who would like to take a look back at a favorite!


We can catch our breath for a few days and then right back up on the horse prepping for the next sweeps period!


I'd have to say, this has been one of the craziest wrap ups to a ratings month and definitely NOT a typical day on the news assignment desk.


First off, check out the new look of the Channel 3 Website. You will love it! You, too, can become more involved.


The highlights include: social, search, clip, zip! Our new website is a social network community where the viewer can post photos, start a blog, become involved in ongoing forums, give us opinions on stories, and so much more!


Our web customers can navigate a bit easier searching for stories and video clips.


And when the reader supplies a zip code, they can get a weather report for that particular area!


Next, we've been doing special tapings the last few days with some of the Cleveland Browns. Yesterday, I believe Kamerion Wimbley was in studio. Today, Braylon Edwards.


I'm a huge Cleveland fan, Cleveland Sports fan, and Cleveland Music fan. However, being in TV, some unwritten rules include, 'don't gush,' 'don't ask for autographs,' and 'don't be a nuisance.'


There are times when those rules are bent a little. Today was one of those days! Braylon Edwards came into the newsroom and all eyes turned to him! He was absolutely one of the most gracious, charming, friendly people I have ever met. I hate having my picture taken, but I must admit, I jumped on the bandwagon when the opportunity presented itself!

Earlier in the day, the women of the building gathered for a baby shower for meteorologist Betsy Kling and her husband Paul Thomas, who are expecting in a few months.


Folks from all over the building came in a little early or stayed a little later to shower Betsy and Paul with gifts of all shapes, sizes, and colors!


It would not be an authentic Channel 3 Party without Marlene AND --the infamous Ho Ho Cake! As many of you may recall, Marlene recently retired from her longtime position of Newsroom Administrative Assistant. Boy, do we miss her!


Well, as you can see, NEVER a dull moment here at Channel 3! Click the attached link to view slide show of Betsy's Baby Shower!


Photos courtesy: Romona Robinson





































































1. Betsy cutting the infamous Ho-Ho cake
2. Betsy opening her gifts
3. Weekend Anchor Lydia Esparra and Betsy
4. Education Reporter Kim Wheeler, Marlene, News Director Rita Andolsen
5. Yours truly, Lydia, Romona
6. Yours truly, Carole Sullivan, Kim Wheeler
7. Barb, Brandi, Sarah, Kim
8. Backpack Journalist Lynn Olszowy, Carrie, Lydia
9. Romona, Braylon Edwards, guest of honor Betsy