Six Inches of Partly Cloudy: Cleveland's Legendary Meteorologist Takes on Everything—and More

by Dick Goddard

Legendary Cleveland TV personality and pioneering meteorologist Dick Goddard celebrates a remarkable 50 years on television with this grab-bag of personal stories, witty cartoons, fun facts, and essays about weather, pets, Ohio history, the TV business, and much more. Also includes favorite stories about Dick told by his friends and colleagues―and dozens of photos. With a foreword by Tim Taylor.

144 pages, Paperback

First published April 28, 2011

About the author

Dick Goddard has served as the chief meteorologist at WJW TV8 since 1966. He forecasts the weather Monday through Friday on the 5, 6, and 10 oclock editions of Fox8 News. National surveys by Herb Altman Research have twice named him as the most popular local television weatherperson in America. In 2001, Ohio Magazine named him Best Meteorologist. Goddard served with the U. S. Air Force before receiving a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree from Kent State University. A native of Akron, he currently lives in Medina."

Reviews

[Jamocha · Rating 4 out of 5]

Goddard's Law took effect in September of 2016, about five years after the book was published. I assumed the book would have more to say about the process of tougher laws but maybe the project didn't have momentum in 2011. Instead, Dick has long chapters on other things that you wouldn't expect. I'm a free thinker about religion myself and while I did enjoy the chapter, I sometimes wondered about the motivation to enter a deep dive into a sensitive topic. Dick said he has hundreds of book on philosophy, nature, history, science, religion, and mythology.

Overall, the main thing I learned about Dick that while you were in his company, there was equal chance he would educate you on obscure but important historical facts. Or he'd have a prank in the works with harmless mischief in mind. If anyone were to read into the book title as innuendo, Dick would probably consider that a bonus.

[April Helms · Rating 5 out of 5]

For non-Cleveland residents, Dick Goddard is a (very, very) longtime meteorologist for this area, known for covering the weather, and for the annual Woolybear Festival. I read and enjoyed two of his Almanac books ( I believe there are three total), and this newest book did not disappoint. There are a few things readers of his previous books might recognize (including the inspiration for the title). This is more of a personal take on Dick Goddard's life and experiences in the television business and with his favorite causes- the aforementioned festival, animal charities and animals in general. Most of the stories are very light-hearted and funny, although there are one or two more somber ones (such as his recollection of the time when he lost both his wife and mother around the same time). There also are many stories from other local Cleveland television people, particularly Robin Swoboda, Tim Taylor and "Big Chuck Schodowski, many of them absolutely hilarious. Weather buffs, Ohio history buffs and those looking for a fun, educational and entertaining read will enjoy this.

[Linda Husvar · Rating 5 out of 5]

This whimsical book tells the life and times of my favorite meteorologist, Dick Goddard. Dick and his friends relate rich history of meteorology with his 50 years of predicting northeast Ohio weather. Who can forget Dick's annual Woolly Bear festival and his dedication to animal welfare? It took me a long time to read this book because it is one to savor. Highly recommended for those who appreciate humor and behind-the-scenes views of Cleveland's Fox 8 News.

[Kim · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have lived in Cleveland, OH all of my life and our weather is something else due to lake Erie. Dick Goddard is THE longest running weather person in T.V. period. (My boyfriend says that Dick does not predict the weather, he makes the weather.) Goddard is like a favorite uncle or grandpa. He is a truly nice guy and a good sport about a lot of things. We are very lucky to have him.

[Paul · Rating 3 out of 5]

this dude is a legand n n.e. ohio. really didn't learn much more abouyvhim then generally already ne. though ive seen him on tv 4 50 yrs so really new and had already heard a lot of bk. ok though. would b gd read 4 those who really don't n much about him