39 states and the District of Columbia permit consumer fireworks. That leaves 11 states that either ban fireworks completely, or allow only very non-fireworky “fireworks.” Ohio is one of those states. WEAK.
In Ohio, you are only permitted to have sparklers, trick noisemakers and novelty items that “smoke, sparkle, snap and snake” – you know, like those black snakey things that stain your sidewalk and those white things you throw on the ground that crack. Non-fireworky “fireworks.”
According to a press release from the Fire Marshall’s office, “Under Ohio’s fireworks law, stiff penalties can be applied for the illegal possession or discharge of fireworks. It is a first-degree misdemeanor for non-licensed individuals to discharge fireworks in Ohio, to falsify an application when purchasing fireworks, or to possess them for more than 48 hours without taking them out-of-state. First-time offenders are subject to up to a
$1,000 fine and six months imprisonment.”
So think before you start blowing stuff up. Though in my experience, this law is relaxed, if not entirely ignored, Fourth of July Weekend.
Tagged as:
Fourth of July,
ohio fireworks laws
Liz Lessner, the brains behind Columbus favorites Surly Girl Saloon, Tip Top Kitchen and Betty’s, has done it again. Tonight marked the opening of Dirty Frank’s Hotdog Palace, a gourmet hotdog restaurant/bar located on 4th Street in downtown Columbus. Crowds filled up the small space and waited outside in a huge line for a chance to try the dogs.
With 20 unique topping options ranging from sour cream + olives to beef brisket + BBQ sauce, Dirty Frank’s has something for everyone. Almost all of the ‘dogs can be made vegetarian or vegan, too. And at $3 a pop, you can’t help but try more than one.
Beverage choices range from floats and slushies to a wide alcoholic selection (currently on tap: PBR, Columbus Brewing Company Summer, Bells Oberon, Brooklym Pennant ‘55 Ale, Great Lakes Independence Ale, Dogfish Head 60 Min IPA, Troegs Troegnator Double Bock and South Tier Creme Brule Stout) along with 15 custom cocktails.
The appropriately ketchup-and-mustard colored space is adorned with neat artwork and provides a hip, fun atmosphere for lunch or a drink.
I tried two different hot dogs: The Classy Lady, which has cheese sauce and potato chips and The Nicola, with Tzatziki sauce and greek relish. Both good, the latter=amazing.
As you can see, I was clearly pleased with my selections.
All in all, super affordable, absolutely delicious, and a fun experience. When was the last time YOU had a hotdog with something cooler than ketchup?
(Speaking of ketchup… and the ketchup/mustard themed restuarant… it seems me and @JodyNColumbus dressed for the occasion)
And BIG thanks to Jen Killius for these photos! I forgot my camera!
Photos from Dirty Frank’s Hotdog Palace Opening Night
Tagged as:
dirty franks hotdogs,
elizabeth lessner,
hot dog,
lis lessner,
new restaurant
This July 4th why not celebrate your freedom with a little wackiness and head over to the Short North, Victorian Village and Italian Village areas for a parade you soon won’t forget. Trust me I know, year’s ago I was actually in the Doo Dah parade (what I did will remain a secret), and I had the time of my life – great fun!
This year mark’s the 26th annual event and this year’s “Greatest Showoff on Earth” should be as entertaining and funny as the prior years.
The parade steps off at 1p but arrive earlier for the block party which runs all day. All the Doo Dah details can be found here.
Friends of Doo Dah is now a non-profit organization. To keep the parade happening you can make a donation to the organization through their Paypal account here.
Tagged as:
Fourth of July,
Italian Village,
Parade,
Philanthropy,
Short North,
Victorian Village
Not the typical post her at Greatest City of All, but then again I don’t particularly like things to be typical.
Starting today July 1, 2009 there are a few new laws that go into effect on Ohio roadways. First is that big rigs can now travel at the same speed on Interstates as other motorists. Previous to this law, 18 wheelers were restricted to 55 MPH speed limit. So this is one I actually don’t mind at all. Second law to go into effect is that if you see a tow truck or other utility vehicle on the side of the road you need to get over in the next lane to give them room. Finally if your windshield wipers are on, you must also have your headlights on. Another law I don’t particularly mind. So now you have been warned. Better start obeying the new laws. 
Tagged as:
Motorists,
News,
State Laws,
Travel
