A few years ago, when I traveled around Ohio to write a book, I was struck by the sheer diversity of the place.

        So naturally, Ann Mort's new book caught my attention.

        Ms. Mort, of Middletown, provides a variety of trips in Great Little Get Aways.

        So this winter, if you're looking to escape for a few days, or a night, you can do it — without leaving your home state.

        Ms. Mort might have hit upon a great idea to chase away the blues during these prolonged periods of freezing temperatures and gray skies.

        The former librarian has lived in Middletown for 30 years and has written other books, including How to Run for Local Office and How to Run a Fund Raising Festival.

        Her 100-page book contains trips on a national, regional and local level. It also contains photographs.

        Because I enjoy traveling around Ohio, I find most interesting her local and regional trips.

        On frozen days, she recommends traveling to the 169-acre Charleston Falls Preserve, 2535 E. Ross Road, Tipp City. The park, about a 45-minute drive north of Middletown, is part of the Miami County Park District.

        “The colder the weather, the more beautiful this spot becomes,” she said. “It's one of those places you have to know about to find. It is at its most spectacular when the weather has been below freezing for several days. The 37-foot waterfall freezes into a beautiful ice sculpture that only nature can produce.”

        The park is accessible to people in wheelchairs, and pets are welcome.

        The book, which sells for $9.95 (and $2.50 for postage on up to three copies), may be obtained from ABSC Publishing, 4935 Riverview Ave., Middletown 454042.

        Joseph-Beth Booksellers also carries the book.

        Information: (513) 424-2038.

        MASON — A celebrity has moved into town.

        He is the original “Media Hog,” sold at the Big Pig Gig Auction in Cincinnati.

        Dave and Melissa Moushey have placed him in their Blinds Plus, on Reading Road.

        They intend to change his name and display the fiberglass porker “to give the showroom a little more color and personality,” Mr. Moushey said.

        The pig is equipped with its own video camera — and television and radio. It is blue, green, yellow and red, with wings. It features illustrations of local media people and the Tyler-Davidson Fountain.

        This month, the Mousheys are sponsoring a “Name the Pig Contest” for children. The winner will receive a piglet bank and a $50 savings bond.

        OXFORD — Miami University's Hefner Zoology Museum and the Limper Geology Museum will conduct their annual Martin Luther King Day Hike at Acton Lake at Hueston Woods.

        Breakfast (dutch treat) will be served at 8 a.m. Jan. 15 at the lodge. At 9 a.m., walkers will start the 11-mile trip. Sponsors suggest that you bring waterproof footwear and water.

        Don't worry if you can't walk 11 miles. At noon at the Nature Center, transportation will be available back to the lodge.

        Also at noon, chili, cookies and soft drinks will be served for a small donation.

        Information: Joe Marak, curator of Limper, (513) 529-3220.

       Randy McNutt's column runs on Saturday. He may be reached at 860-7118 or at The Cincinnati Enquirer, 4820 Business Center Way, Cincinnati, OH 45246.

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