This hotel has been recently renovated and under new ownership so things are newer. It's a clean hotel with a few extras. There is an indoor pool but it's not always heated. For awhile it was the only hotel with an indoor pool in Upper Sandusky. However, it's only competetor (Comfort Inn) has added a heated indoor pool, so the Best Western may start heating there's more frequently. This hotel has been recently renovated and under new ownership so things are newer. It's a clean hotel with a few extras. There is an indoor pool but it's not always heated. For awhile it was the only hotel with an indoor pool in Upper Sandusky. However, it's only competitor (Comfort Inn) has added a heated indoor pool, so the Best Western may start heating there's more frequently. If you need to stay in Upper Sandusky, it's a great location off of the major routes. WalMart is close by if you need anything. It's also walking distance to Bob Evans, Arby's, Wendy's, and Taco Bell. Note that downtown is a few miles away and not easy to walk to (no sidewalk and on a busier street). There are golf courses, shopping, historical sites, and putt-putt nearby. There's no public transportation in Upper Sandusky, but everything is very easy to drive to. Some of the staff is not familiar with the area, but they're willing to help find someone who is. (Or call me - I'll show you around!) This is a functional place to stay if you're in the area on business or traveling. This is a functional place to stay if you're in the area on business or traveling.

The Comfort Inn was the first of the two hotels in upper Sandusky. However, because its older, don't think it is sub-standard. It is a very clean hotel with nice amenities. There is a brand new indoor pool. If you are driving a large camper or truck with trailer, this is the place to stay. Truck / RV parking is much easier. This hotel is walking distance to the Pilot gas station/truck stop, McDonald's, Burger King, and Gas America. Putt-Putt, the Steer Barn, historical sites, golf courses, a canoe livery, and quaint downtown shopping are just minutes away. While Upper Sandusky is usually not a final destination other than for family or business, it’s a wonderful place to visit if you’re traveling the area. There are numerous points of interest which include Indian Mill, the Methodist mission church, and the museum. Don’t overlook Upper Sandusky when visiting Ohio, and stay at the Comfort Inn when you come!

This review will be short and sweet: The Amerihost was bought out by Best Western. Please see reviews of the Best Western in Upper Sandusky.

Up again, bright and early (around 7:30 a.m.) to finish loading up Chillicothe show.  Once it was in trucks, we made the 3 hour drive back home.  The firemen do the rack building there (YAHOO!).  They also load a majority of the show.  I concentrated on the three ground show fronts.  I timed the cakes so matching ones would alternate between the three locations.  It was a very neat effect.  Dad let me push buttons again (Mom helped with the finale and a big one) which is a lot of fun, but some added stress.  I thought the show was beautiful.  The firemen that hand-light did an excellent job.  Dan got his first experience at re-loading mortars (you’ll have to ask him – LatitudeAdjuster – his opinion on doing that).  The firemen also clean the show up (WOOHOO!) so I was in bed early (around midnight).  This was my last show for the year.  There’s always a bit of sadness that goes with the last show, but I definitely don’t miss hauling racks around and cleaning racks back up.  I won’t miss 19 hour days driving all over creation and back-breaking work.  I won’t miss the stress of wondering if we’re going to finish in time due to rain and other unforeseen delays.  I will miss the shows and standing closer than anyone else.  I will miss pushing buttons.  I LOVE to push the buttons.

Another beautiful day in Upper Sandusky shining down on the NOVFA convention.  The delegates and officers assemble to take care of business.  Besides business, the convention meeting has a memorial service for all member departments that have experienced deaths of current and retired firefighters.  A drum and bagpipe group came from Toledo to participate.  After a the business at hand, a past president's luncheon is held before the grand parade steps off at 1:30 pm.

Over a 140 units have registered for the parade.  There are marching bands, twirlers, floats, and of course, fire trucks!  Awards are given to the newest truck, the oldest truck, the oldest equipment (non-motorized), bands and twirling groups.  The weather forecast calls for some showers in the afternoon.  But the sun stayed out during the whole parade!  It wasn't until the awards ceremony that the clouds quickly moved through and "dumped" buckets of rain on the festivities.  According to weather radar, these were fast moving storms, and just postponed activities for a couple hours.  The only event cancelled was the hot air balloon lift off. 

One very interesting activity tried for the first time was the firefighter's challenge.  Following a course, firefighters were given the opportunity to show off their skills - agility, strength, and speed.  First, challengers carried hose through an obstacle course, then carried a charged hose a few yards through doors to put out a "fire" on the other side.  It was on to the "axe" and a simulation of chopping a hole in a roof to ventilate a fire.  This involved using a sledge hammer to move a railroad tie a certain distance.  A 250 pound dummy carried to the finish line completed the challenge.  Teams and individuals competed with the Upper Sandusky Fire Department #1 taking the top prize in the team event.  A firefighter from Wyandot East was first in the individual competition.  The fastest time was recorded by one of the Upper firemen who completed the course in 1:41!  Good Job Guys!  This event showed the general public how tough firefighters must be. 

The evening concluded with a free concert by the Parrots of the Caribbean - a Jimmy Buffett tribute band.  They played to a packed house in the entertainment tent until 11:30 pm. 

Cleanup began, and after a couple hours, it was determined that the rest of the stuff could be finished on Sunday.  The guys were beat, and most hadn't had a lot of sleep over the past 72 hours.  The results of the weekend were all positive!  There were no incidents, no severe injuries, and everyone had a good time!  Business reported favorable sales throughout the weekend.  City leaders were pleased, and the cooperation of the residents was superb!  All in all - SUCCESS!

It's here - the first day of the NOVFA convention!  Will people come?  We sure hope so!  The goal is for the firefighters to have fun and fellowship among friends!  The agenda for the day - Registration opens at 9:00 am at convention headquarters - registration for the queens 10:00 am to noon at queens headquarters - the Waterball contest at 4:00 pm - the public queens contest at 4:30 pm - the fire truck cruise beginning at 6:00 pm until 11:00 pm.  There will be a DJ in the Beer/Entertainment tent until 11:00 pm.  And a local singing duo will entertain firemen at the campground until 1:00 am. 

My responsibility is the queens contest.  This contest has taken lots of planning over the past year, but I feel very organized and ready to go.  Our first contestant registers before 10:00 am.  Others come in throughout the morning.  Preliminary judging (a five minute, one on one interview with each of the three judges) is from noon until just before 4:00 pm.  I have arranged 2 contest practice sessions for the girls to know what to expect while up on stage.  The contestants will also be judged on their introduction during the contest.  Their combined scores from the interviews and introduction will determine our Top Ten finalists.  Each one of the ten girls will answer a random question drawn from a basket while on stage.  There will be four runners up and the queen will have the highest score. 

The contest went off without a hitch!  Judging, just as my daughter assured me it would, was flawless!  Lesley was able to provide totals within minutes.  I was once told that the contest could not be held in under an hour!  My committee and I pulled it off in 40 minutes!  Twenty two (two girls dropped out) contestants, the essay winner, and judging all completed in record time!  The whole thing was so smooth.  Officers attending told me how nice the contest was, and the speed was wonderful!  The contestant from Wayne, Ohio was chosen the winner.  She will preside over the organization's activities over the next year.  For me, I'm glad I wasn't a judge!  All the girls were deserving and real nice to work with throughout the day. 

Since waterball and the queens contest were about the same time, I didn't get to see the action, but I understand there was a nice crowd.  More teams signed up than previously registered so it truly was a good contest.  There was a small mishap sending one person to the hospital.  He took a stream of water to the eye, but was treated and released. 

On to the cruise!  Trucks, new and mostly old, began cruising the main street of town around 6:00 pm.  Many people came out to watch the guys "blow off steam.  There were big pumpers, tankers, and old fire equipment converted into "parade" vehicles.  Drivers were responsible for all riders.  There didn't seem to be many registered this year - probably a reflection on high fuel prices.  Those who did "cruise" had a great time! 

For some, "camper city" is an important part of the weekend.  Many new friends have been made, and many good times were had.  The singing duo of Fritz and the Kid performed until the wee hours of the morning.  There was a great crowd for the event.  And I'm sure many went to bed much later than normal. 

Awoke this morning to another beautiful summer day - sunshine and moderate temperatures!  My day began early with queens contest set up.  The stage was brought in and chairs have been placed for the 24 contestants, current queen, host queen and the emcee.  Helpers from out of town arrived and pitched right in with the preparations.

My daughter has developed a computer scoring program which we tested on the laptop.  She also made scoring sheets for the judges.  It took us an hour to work through the logistics of the paperwork shuffle, but the judging process will be a well oiled machine!  Our local Visitor's and Convention Bureau put together a super welcome gift for the girls.  The florist provided decorations for the stage and will deliver the flowers Fri. morning.  By 3:00 pm, the work was completed.  WE ARE READY!

Thursday evening a picnic was held for everyone who worked to bring this convention to town.  The firefighters provided the food, cooks, and fellowship.  Officers of the N.O.V.F.A. arrived early and were introduced to the Upper Sandusky firefighters, their wives, and officials of the city and county.  It was a time for everyone to take a deep breath, meet the officers, and get excited for the weekend! 

Bedtime is near, and I'm going to need all the sleep I can get!

Wow, it is the middle of the week already!  A lot has been accomplished, but there are still things to do!  After last night's 5 hour work session, I'm feeling more confident about my part of the weekend running smoothly.  I know there will be bumps in the road, but at least at this time, I'm pretty calm. 

My daughter (PhinsandGills) has been so much help!  I just give her a job, and it gets done!  She is busy making signs for queens' cars.  Everyone is asking for signs, and she is working hard getting them all done.  This afternoon the 2 of us will be finishing signs and loading my car with supplies.  Our center of operation moves to the queens headquarters tomorrow. 

The guys at the firehouse are anticipating people beginning to arrive tomorrow.  Tonight's work night is mandatory for all!  Most of the committees are ready for the masses.  You see, Upper Sandusky is a small city of around 6000 people.  Over the course of the weekend, this peaceful, little city could swell to over 12000 people!  Merchants are excited and are cooperating with all the planning of the festivities.  The hotels in town have been booked for months, and the restaurants are gearing up with extra workers.  The beer distributors will be making their deliveries, and the beer garden tent will be put up tomorrow. 

Some may ask "What happens if there is a real fire emergency?"  The local department's trucks and rescue squads have been outfitted with different lights.  All those attending know that blue flashing lights means an emergency - get out of the way!  These vehicles have the right of way in any circumstance.  Back up plans have been put in place for just such an event.  The trucks and equipment vehicles will be moved to a very accessible location during the convention, and the guys will be ready to respond at moment's notice.   

Staff will be wearing bright green t-shirts and cruising around in golf carts or ATV vehicles.  Tight control will be maintained during the weekend.  Each department registered will receive the rules and regulations regarding the activities of the weekend.  Anyone violating these rules will be asked to return to the campground.  It may sound strict, but over the years the NOVFA and sponsoring towns haven't had any major problems.   Everyone abides by the rules for a great time.  It is generally understood by members of the organization that they are responsible for the behavior of their firefighters.  Let's call it "controlled chaos!"

Well, back to work for me!  More signs to do, and last minute details to work out!  Pictures will follow as soon as I find time!

Well, what's on tap for today?  I received word last night that one of the queens candidates has withdrawn from the contest due to starting a new job.  It is kind of sad because she was a representative of a department that is very close to Upper and hasn't entered a queen in several years!  I'm trying to redo the judging schedule now.

All the firemen are having work nights this week.  The station has been painted and cleaned to look "pretty."  Volunteers are slowly signing up to help with registration, sales, and general help.  Everyone has their eye on the weather forecast, but that can change overnight.  So far, Friday looks good, but Saturday could bring a few showers to the area.  Temperatures are favorable, though, with highs in the middle to upper 70s daytime and around 60 at night.  We will just keep our fingers crossed.

Thursday nights picnic is coming together nicely.  We will probably have between 80-90 people attending.  This is just a time for the workers to unwind a little before jumping into the whole weekend activities.  Friday's Ladies Tour hit a bump in the road yesterday, and I haven't gotten all the problems solved as of yet.  The queens contest is coming together.  It is just a little hectic with all the last little details needing completed.  Other Friday activities are also coming together.  Saturday plans are pretty much set.  The parade committee is working hard getting all the entries into the line.  I guess this is really going to happen!

Hopefully, I will have some pictures of the preparations soon.  I've been too busy to pick up the camera and shoot a few pictures.  Tonight's goal!

First, what is the NOVFA?  Northwest Ohio Volunteer Firefighters Association

Second, what is the date?  June 20 & 21, 2008

Third, where is the convention?  Upper Sandusky, Ohio!

Each year, a member organization hosts this convention, bringing thousands of firefighters, Emergency Medical personnel, their families, and other interested individuals to their town or city.  Our small city of 6000 could double in size over the weekend.  There are many activities, contests, food, drink, and fellowship.  Our local department - Upper Sandusky Fire Dept. - is hosting this event for the first time since 1979.  Not only will the firemen benefit from hosting the convention, Upper's businesses will receive a "shot in the arm."  The hotels have no vacancy, the restaurants will be packed, local businesses will see an increase in sales, and the money making barbeques will benefit several local organizations.  It just so happens that 2008 is the Upper Sandusky Fire Department's 150th year of service to the community, so it is a double celebration! 

What activities can be expected?  Registration begins Friday morning.  Those member department registering will have voting privileges during the business meeting.  At the convention headquarters, people can purchase convention t-shirts, souvenier cups and coins, learn about restaurants and local businesses, and meet fellow firefighters and EMS.  Also, departments must register to be able to "cruise" on Friday evening (I will explain later).  Registration goes on all day.

There will be a water ball contest.  This is where a team of firefighters battle another team trying to shoot a stream of water to move a ball on a cable.  It is similar to tug of war with water!  Many take this very seriously.  I find it humorous to watch! 

There is also a Queens Contest.  Departments have the opportunity to choose their own queen to participate in the NOVFA contest.  I'm on the committee planning this event.  During the past few years, this contest has been long and drawn out with technical glitches.  It is my responsibility to make this contest the best run yet!  Headaches?  A few, but hopefully all the planning over the past year will pay off with a favorable end result!  I was told to expect 15-18 girls aged 16-18.  Not this year - we have 24 entries!  I'm working through all the details of organizing something like this, and so far, I'm surviving! 

Friday night is a fun night for the firemen.  The "cruise" is a time to unwind, make friends, and have fun!  Each registered vehicle is allow to cruise the main streets of town - lights and sirens!  Each driver is responsible for the riders and their beverages.  Of course, there will be no drinking and driving!  This begins around 5:00 pm until 11:00 pm.  There will be quiet zones (hospital, nursing homes, etc.), but promptly at 11:00 pm all sirens will be turned off, and drivers will move to the campground.  There, the festivities continue into the wee hours of the morning.  At this time, more than 110 campsites have been reserved, so it will be one big party time.

Saturday morning the business meeting takes place, and preparations begin for the Grand Parade.  The parade could last for two hours and include fire trucks, equipment, high school bands, twirlers, floats, and emergency vehicles.  Following the parade, a firemen's challenge takes place and a hot air balloon lift off (weather permitting).  The day is capped off with a free concert featuring a Jimmy Buffett style band called the Parrots of the Caribbean. 

So, this is a very large undertaking by the local firemen.  By the way, in case you are wondering how I got involved - my husband is a 23 year veteran of the department and now serves as Chief.  I can't escape the madness!  More later!

Our first show was rained out.  I certainly hope this isn't some kind of omen for the rest of the year.  I don't believe in the whole superstitious "Friday the 13th" thing, but it was pretty lousy luck.  There was a big rainstorm, lightning, and chance of hail/tornados.   I guess that would be enough to cancel an event that takes place on a football field.  The Relay took place from 7a.m. to noon on Saturday - all daylight - no need for fireworks. :(  So sad... I know there is nothing that could be done and I think the coordinators made the right decision, but I was looking forward to the little show for a big cause. Ah well, maybe next year.

In October 2004, a neighboring county lost one of their finest - Deputy Brandy Winfield - in the line of duty.  He stopped in the early morning hours to help what appeared to be a stranded motorist.  The person was eventually caught, tried, and convicted of the crime.  In the meantime, his friends have organized a memorial poker run honoring his memory.  The event grows in size each year.  The organizers have estimated over 500 bikes in this years' event. 

One of the stops included in this year's run was Thiel's Wheels - a local motorcycle dealership - in Upper Sandusky, not far from my home.  The event organizes in Marion, Ohio, at the Knights of Columbus Hall on E. Center Street.  There the participants sign in and pay their registration fee.  Breakfast is served to the masses.  The first bikes ride out at noon.  The run is sponsored by several area businesses, and prizes are given for the best poker hand achieved during registration. 

Our local fire department displayed the motorcycle to be raffled at the convention June 20 & 21 in Upper Sandusky.  The guys were there hoping to sell tickets on the chance of winning a Harley Davidson Special Edition model.  I had no clue the event has happening until a phone call from my husband summoned me and my camera. 

As soon as I stepped outside our house, you could hear the rumble of the all the bikes arriving at Thiel's.  When I arrived, the bikes had rolled in and riders were taking a break.  A limo had accompanied the riders carrying the Winfield family (or at least that was what I was told).  A short memorial service was held.  Refreshments were available as many riders visited with other participants. 

About an hour later, the group began to leave for the next stop.  The run has become so popular that the organizers offered two routes from which to choose after the Upper stop.  The bikes all arrived in mass, but kind of left as they desired.  From my pictures, you can see there were some very fancy bikes, and riders were of all ages.  Several charities benefit from the proceeds of the run including the Winfield Children's Trust Fund.  Before 2008, over $44,000 has been given away.  I'm sure the riders enjoy the trip, and more will join next year!

For More Information on the Poker Run, go to www.brandywinfieldrun.org.

You know how being in the right place at the right time is rewarding?  Well, the other evening my daughter, son-in-law and I were out in the country heading to a small town about 7 miles west of Upper Sandusky on a fund raising mission.  As we were leaving town, it began to sprinkle, but as we traveled further west the sun came out from behind the clouds. We turned at the last intersection before our destination when looking back to the east, this beautiful rainbow emerged!  Wishing I had my good camera sitting home on the table, I pulled the car over to just reflect on the sight before us.  There is something very exciting when spotting rainbows!  I don't know if it is the fact weather conditions have to be just perfect for one to appear, or we just don't get the pleasure of experiencing them all that often living in town surrounding by homes, buildings, and trees.  Whatever the reason, all three of us just marveled at the fact the bow was so bright, and one could begin to see a double rainbow forming. 

For some unknown reason, I remembered my other camera was in the truck of the car.  I was able to take these three pictures of our discovery over the farm lands of Wyandot County, Ohio.  It was just a good thing we were running a little early and had the time to stop and enjoy God's painting! 

How to describe A.J.'s Heavenly Pizza? HEAVENLY, of course! This is a family owned and operated pizza shop featuring some of the best pizza in town! Theresa and Dean Distel are the shop's owners and the nicest people around. They are assisted by two of their children. Need a pizza for a large group? AJ's is known as "The Home of the Jumbo." This pizza is huge and can serve several people. There are also 10", 12", 14", and 18" sizes with all the usual toppings. Also on the menu are pasta dishes (spaghetti and lasagna), subs (served hot on fresh homemade buns), salads, foldovers, appetizers (wings, poppers, breadsticks, mozzarella sticks), and dessrts (cinnamon sticks and brownies). Pepsi products are served for your drink choices. AJ's offers delivery service or eat in facilities. The specials are really a good deal. Lunch specials are popular for downtown workers - for $4.75 you get a 6" sub or small salad, brownie, and a can of pop, or spaghetti or lasagna, brownie and pop for $5.75. I love their small chef salads with their homemade salad dressing! I always order the small and can't eat it all! Fresh cut lettuce, diced tomatoes, shredded carrots, sliced boiled egg, minced onions, cheese, and thin sliced ham topped with their own secret salad dressing is a favorite at our house. My place of work always orders the cheesy breadsticks every Friday for a mid afternoon snack. I would recommend A.J.'s Heavenly Pizza to all coming through Upper Sandusky. Be sure to say Hi to Theresa and Dean, and let them know the shop comes highly recommended!

Experience the orient at China Garden Restaurant in Upper Sandusky, Ohio. Owned and operated by a local Chinese family, once you walk in the doors, you are treated to an oriental atmosphere. All decor is authentic and oriental music fills the air. Guests are always greeted with a pleasant smile! Items on the menu are typical Chinese varieties. You order speciality meals by number. Entrees a little spicy are maked in case you don't care for those items. I have a couple favorites - cashew chicken (excellent sauce) and chicken with peapods. All meals served are very generous portions (always enough for a take home box). Meals include the entree, a cup of either wonton or egg drop soup, and an eggroll. Another favorite taste is the sweet and sour sauce over my eggroll. If you order hot tea, you will receive a generous pot - enough to last throughout the whole meal! And the famous fortune cookie arrives with your check. Employees are Chinese, but easy to understand. They are all friendly and very pleasant, and sure aim to please! Just mention something, and they almost run to get it for you. Many times, the owners will come from the back to greet you and thank you for your business. China Garden does quite a take home business. Call ahead to avoid a wait, and pick up your meal at the drive thru. At this time, China Garden does not offer delivery. Want to satisfy your taste for Chinese? Check out China Garden on your next trip through Upper Sandusky!