It's a phrase you hear often around Northeast Ohio, but what exactly is the "Western Reserve"?

Long before Ohio became a state in 1804, the northeast corner of the state belonged to the state of Connecticut. They called this territory their "Western Reserve" and the name as well as New England architecture, town squares, and customs can still be found throughout the area.

Read more about this unique Northeast Ohio moniker.

^{(Map of the Western Reserve © Kmusser/cc license)}

Did you know that the Ohio state wildflower is the trillium (pictured at right)? Or that the state bird is the Cardinal? Do you know the names of Ohio's two senators... or the state's population? Find out these and other Ohio facts.

^{(Photo courtesy of the ODNR)}

A number of Cleveland area museums are offering free admission Monday, January 16, in honor of Martin Luther King Jr. Day. Among these are:

• Rock and Roll Hall of Fame - 10am to 530pm
• Cleveland Museum of Natural History - 10am to 430pm
• Cleveland Museum of Art - 930am - 530pm
• Great Lakes Science Center - 1pm - 4pm
• Cleveland Botanical Garden - 1pm - 4pm
• Western Reserve Historical Society - 10am - 4pm
• Maltz Museum of Jewish Heritage - 11am - 5pm

^{(Library of Congress photo)}

It's that time of year when we hear the phrase "Lake Effect" bantered by the local weather pundits. But what does it really mean? Just what is "Lake Effect"? In short, it's when cold air passes over warm water, bringing the moisture when it when it makes landfall.

Although best known around the Great Lakes, the phenomenon also occurs on Utah's Great Salt Lake and even on lakes in Scandinavia. Read more about Lake Effect Snow.

For tips on staying safe in winter, see:

• Safe Driving Tips for Winter
• Wintertime Safety
• Walking in the Winter