random thoughts

Discovering the Heart of Ohio

| Chris

First time in Columbus, Ohio and grateful for the chance to visit. This is a city that often flies under the radar but is brimming with hidden gems and delightful surprises. I didn’t see them all with the limited time we had but made the most out of it by just walking around for a few hours. It was a pleasure exploring this Midwestern hub.

We drove into Downtown Columbus, just aimlessly checking out the sights. The Scioto Mile is cool, a stunning riverfront promenade with breathtaking views and a sense of serenity amidst the urban hustle. Then we stumbled upon Arnold Schwarzenegger’s 8 feet tall bronze statue by accident. A little piece of Hollywood in the heart of Ohio. Nice find!

Next, I wandered over to Battelle Riverfront Park. This park isn’t just a green space; it’s a living museum. Monuments and memorials dot the landscape, each telling a story of the city’s past. From the Firefighters Memorial with its eternal flame to the Freedom sculpture.

Bicentennial Park was another highlight. And so was Genoa Park. This park offers a tranquil retreat with its amphitheater that boasts stunning views of the downtown skyline. It is used for concerts and events, or simply to sit back and watch the city light up as the sun sets.

COSI (Center of Science and Industry) was fun, too. This place is a wonderland for the curious mind, with hands-on exhibits that make science accessible and fun.

Finally, I stood before the World’s Largest Gavel, at the Ohio Judicial Center. It’s a colossal sculpture that’s as impressive as it is symbolic.

Columbus is definitely well worth a visit if you ever find yourself in the Buckeye State. A lovely place indeed.

A Tale of Two Cities

| Chris

Ah, Cincinnati! A city that’s as much a sensory feast as it is a tapestry of the old and new. Finally, I get to visit.

Downtown Cincy seems to be pulsating with life at all times! It’s a place where skyscrapers reach for the clouds while the streets below buzz with energy. The downtown area is a treasure trove of culture and history.

A short walk from downtown is the Smale Riverfront Park, connecting the city to the Ohio River. This park isn’t just a patch of green; it’s an interactive playground with water features, giant swings and other fun things.

I also got to walked the John A. Roebling Suspension Bridge. And it’s more than just a way to get from point A to point B; it’s a walkable link to the past. When it opened in 1866, it was the longest suspension bridge in the world, and today, it offers a picturesque route from Cincinnati to Covington, KY.

Across the river is Covington’s Riverfront Commons. An 11.5-mile trail that’s a work in progress, aiming to connect six river cities. The Covington Plaza is a testament to the city’s revitalization efforts. With a 1,350-seat amphitheater and trails that link to the Riverfront Commons, it’s a hub of activity and a prime spot for enjoying the views of the Ohio River and the Cincinnati skyline.

And finally, you can’t go to Cincinnati without having Cincinnati Chili! I had the pleasure of experiencing the legendary Skyline Chili for the first time. This isn’t just any chili; it’s a Cincinnati institution, a unique blend of Mediterranean spices and American gusto. The rumors were true! It’s good stuff.

There you have it. My trip to Cincinnati and Covington was a delightful blend of urban exploration, riverside relaxation and a well-deserved food coma. Now, on to Columbus!

I Noah Guy

| Chris

As I ventured into the heart of Kentucky, I found myself stepping back in time. Way back! On our way to Cincinnati, my friend and I stopped at the Ark Encounter and the Creation Museum, two immersive attractions that dive into the biblical past.

Nestled in Williamstown, some 45 miles north of Lexington, the Ark Encounter is a marvel of modern craftsmanship and ancient narrative. The centerpiece, a full-size replica of Noah’s Ark, stands as the largest timber-frame structure in the world, constructed with a blend of history and art.

Walking out of welcome center/souvenir shop into the vast park, I was struck by the Ark’s colossal size. It’s a tangible testament to the biblical account. And whether you’re a believer or otherwise, the sheer scale of the structure is undoubtedly awe-inspiring.

Inside, the exhibits bring to life the story of Noah and his ark, complete with lifelike animal models and thought-provoking displays about life on the ark during the flood.

The Ark Encounter isn’t just about history though. The park boasts a zip line course that sends you soaring through the sky, offering a bird’s-eye view of the grounds. It also features a small zoo that houses some of the animals that may have been on the ark.

About a 45 minute drive north of the Ark Encounter lies the Creation Museum in Petersburg, KY. This 75,000-square-foot facility is a wonderland of exhibits that merge biblical history with creation science.

The moment I stepped into the museum, I was transported to a world where dinosaurs roam alongside depictions of Adam and Eve. The museum’s animatronic creatures, stunning dioramas and interactive displays affords everyone a dynamic experience.

The museum also features a planetarium, botanical gardens and a zip line adventure course. But perhaps what’s most captivating is the museum’s storytelling approach, walking you through biblical history and offering a unique perspective on our existence.

Outside the museum is a nice tranquil path that goes around the property. You can walk while meditating. You can also feed the geese or just watch some wildlife.

Both the Ark Encounter and the Creation Museum offer more than just a day’s entertainment; they provide a space for reflection on the narratives that have shaped human history. It is educational and memorable. And fun!

Quick Jaunt Through Bluegrass Country

| Chris

Next on our Heartland road trip is a whirlwind drive through the heart of Kentucky – Louisville and Lexington. It was short and sweet, but even in that brief time, I managed to soak in some local charm and sights.

First stop, Louisville. I got a glimpse of the Derby City strolling along the Big Four Bridge. This pedestrian bridge spans the Ohio River and offers some pretty awesome views. The vibe at Waterfront Park was just perfect for unwinding and watching the riverboats glide by.

Of course, no visit to Louisville would be complete without a nod to the “most exciting two minutes in sports.” Yes, I popped into Churchill Downs, home of the Kentucky Derby, feeling the echoes of hooves thundering down the track. There was no event that day though.

And right next door is the Kentucky Derby Museum, a treasure trove of history and culture, showcasing the legacy of this iconic race.

Next, we headed down to the Horse Capital of the World, Lexington. There’s something about downtown Lexington that just feels cozy and inviting. I meandered through the streets, taking in the mix of historic buildings and modern vibes.

My friend and I capped off the evening with a nice dinner at Nic and Norman’s. It’s a food joint owned by celebrities Greg Nicotero and Norman Reedus of The Walking Dead fame. I’m a big fan of the show so the choice was a no-brainer. The food and atmosphere did not disappoint either.

So, while this trip was more about the drive and less about the destinations, I’m already plotting my return. Oh yeah! Next time, I’m hitting the Bourbon Trail. I’ve heard it’s an experience as smooth and flavorful as the spirit itself. I guess, we’ll see.

Gateway Arch Adventure

| Chris

St. Louis, Missouri! Yes, I’ve been here before but it’s my first time to visit the Gateway Arch!

So, I finally got to see the Arch up close. It’s pretty darn impressive! Standing at 630 feet, it’s like America’s front door, if your front door was a giant silver rainbow. The Arch isn’t just a pretty face, though. It’s got history, a tribute to the westward expansion of the United States and a nod to Thomas Jefferson’s vision.

Since my friend and I arrived late in the day, we didn’t get a chance to ride the tram to the top. I’ve heard it’s an experience in itself. They have this unique tram system that takes you all the way up. And the view from the top, from what I’ve seen in pictures, is simply breathtaking. You can see the whole city sprawled out beneath you, and the Mississippi River just rolling by.

But the Arch isn’t the only cool thing about the park, there’s also a museum underneath. Here, you can dive into the stories of Native Americans, explorers, pioneers, and rebels who shaped America. And if you’re feeling extra adventurous, you can hop on a riverboat cruise on the Mississippi and see the city from a different angle! We didn’t do that though.

And right across the street, there’s the Old Courthouse. It’s like walking through the pages of a history book. Pretty cool!

By the way, it’s interesting to note that there was semi-rowdy rally underway in front of the courthouse that afternoon regarding the Israel-Hamas war.

But, I digress…

Yeah, all in all, St. Louis was a blast, and the Gateway Arch? It’s a must-see! Whether you’re a history buff, an architecture enthusiast, or just someone who appreciates a good view, it’s got something for everyone.

Not Even a Little Barbecue

| Chris

Next stop on our Heartland road trip was Kansas City, MO. However, we could only treat it as a quick layover as we needed to get to Saint Louis before the end of the day to keep up with our tight schedule.

So, we ended up just sight-seeing from the car. We drove by downtown, the Paseo and the historic 18th & Vine and where the American Jazz Museum is.

We only had a couple of hours to spare here and didn’t even get a chance to get some barbeque. How sad is that? Maybe someday.

Stellar Day at the Cosmosphere

| Chris

A friend and I decided to go on a road trip for a couple of weeks. We’ve done it many times in the past. This time we wanted to go where we’ve never been to before. The heartland! Our first stop? Cosmosphere.

Located in Hutchinson, Kansas, this place is a portal to the cosmos that rivals the dreams of science fiction enthusiasts and the curiosity of avid learners alike. I was pleasantly surprised! In the middle of nowhere. it seems, the Cosmosphere is not just a museum; it’s a celebration of human ingenuity and the spirit of exploration that has propelled us into the stars.

What is the Cosmosphere, you ask? Well, I learned that it is an internationally recognized STEM (science, technology, engineering, mathematics) education center and a Smithsonian-affiliated museum. It houses over 13,000 spaceflight artifacts, boasting the largest combined collection of US and Russian spaceflight artifacts in the world. This makes it a unique repository of space history and a beacon of knowledge for all who visit. And I’m glad, I did!

Experiencing the Thrill of Space Exploration upon entering, I was greeted by the imposing sight of the SR-71 Blackbird, its wings spanning the lobby, a silent testament to the speed and heights humanity can achieve. The place is way bigger than it looks outside and there’s quite a bit to keep you busy for a full day.

In the Hall of Space Museum, I walked through the story of the space race, learning about the technological and cultural differences between the superpowers vying for lunar supremacy.

The Carey Digital Dome Theater is a two-story dome theater with its 4K digital projection system. It features stunning documentaries and feature films, and makes you feel part of the journey into space.

The Justice Planetarium shows a guide to the night sky, and teaches you how to spot planets and constellations above Kansas.

The live science demonstration inside Dr. Goddard’s Lab was literally a blast! With safe explosions and bright lights, it was both educational and entertaining.

Well, my quick visit to the Cosmosphere was well worth the detour, I would say. It was an enlightening journey through the history and future of space exploration. A stellar adventure, indeed!

Too bad, we only had a few hours to spare before we had to move on. Maybe someday, I’ll come back. If you get a chance to visit, do it!

What is Art?

| Chris

Earlier this year, I was invited to be a member of an artists’ guild. The oldest one, in fact, in the town I live in. They’ve been around since the 1940s. It is an honor, indeed!

So the other day I was interviewed regarding the topic of art. I don’t remember being interviewed ever before so it I had to pause and think about what I was going to say. It’s a short one. I hope you enjoy and learn something from it.

Describe the best reaction someone ever had to your work. Why did it hit home for you? How did it relate to your unique mission as a creative?

The best reaction someone ever had to my work is not so much a reaction as it is a remark. Most people would point out the same thing – that my photos have the sensibility of paintings. It hit home because it’s truly what I’ve always attempted to achieve. Unconsciously, anyway. And it totally relates to my creative mission. Being a frustrated painter, I instinctively create art by envisioning my photos as hand-crafted pieces of work as opposed to simply snapshots of what’s already been in existence. I love the imperfections and the drama that paintings convey. That human element, you know? I want that in my photography.

What first steps would you recommend folks do to begin making art themselves?

What I would say to those who would want to make art is this: Find your true passion, first and foremost. Art should come from the heart. Then create out of that passion! Create and do not stop! Find avenues. Find inspiration. Find an excuse! Just create and do not stop! Soon you will find yourself. And that is a happy place to be.

What do you do for a living in the “real world.” How has it informed your art practice?

In the real world, I am a graphic designer and a multimedia specialist. I create print materials such as brochures, flyers, posters and all kinds of ads. I also do videography, audio engineering, web design & maintenance and of course, photography. I am blessed that my job allows me to be creative. Besides work, I also create music. I used to be a professional musician before moving to Wyoming. Music is my first love! I write songs and produce my own music. So yes, it seems like in anything and everything I do, art dictates how I do it. Now, that’s life!

What’s an example of a little thing in your life that brings you peace?

God.

New album out

| Chris

Hey, I’m back! Sorry it took so long. My new 5-song EP just came out and I’m so excited!

Unlike in the past years, I’ve really struggled this time to be productive in terms of songwriting and music production. I’ve been dabbling in other areas such as jamming with Bluegrass pickers and showcasing my photography in a local gallery. It’s so much fun! I was even in a band for a day! I’m not regretful as I’ve expanded my artistic reach, met a lot of other artists and made some friends along the way. So that’s great and all.

But I do miss being in the studio creating music. That is what I truly love the most. So I’m very happy that I was able to finish this project that’s been dragging on its feet since last December actually. Anyway, it’s now available on all streaming platforms. Please check it out and let me know what you think.