local character
Chuck George: KOLD News 13's meteorologist shares a few of his favorite (Tucson) things
Television Meteorologist Chuck George had his "dream" job from 1997 to 2002 at a Houston station.
"It was a dream," he admits, "a big market, lots of weather." Yet when the top weather spot reopened at KOLD News 13, a post George had held for two years before moving to Houston, he took it.
"I really enjoy being here," says George, an Oklahoma native who lives in midtown with his partner of 18 years. "The Latino flair is something I didn't grow up with, and I really fell in love with it. I wish I could salsa dance a little bit better."
After earning a meteorology degree from the University of Oklahoma, George studied hydrology in 1991 at The University of Arizona. At the same time he worked like crazy, waiting tables, cleaning law offices, and commuting to Phoenix to present weekend weather at a television station there.
He went back to school when he returned to Tucson and earned a master's of engineering in water resources two years ago. The high-energy, softspoken George spends much of his free time representing the station at community and charitable events.
He also often sits in the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum's hummingbird exhibit—"it's really a serene place"—or works in his vegetable garden, a place that brings back "peaceful memories" of spending time with his dad.
Q: Where's a great spot to watch weather happen?
I really love watching it from midtown because you get a view from all directions.
Q: Favorite place to learn about science?
The Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum. The geeky part for me was my first experience learning what the Sonoran Desert was. I read every sign.
Q: Where do you like to hang out after a hard day of work?
L.A. Fitness is a good release of stress. I work out at the midtown one. Cardio, weights, little bit of basketball.
Q: What recreational pursuit do you enjoy?
I love hiking. My favorite trail is to Mt. Wrightson. You can do it in one day and it's really challenging.
Q: Local restaurant you can't live without?
Definitely Mariscos Chihuahua on Grant Road for their fish soup and also their whole fish Vera Cruz style. It's so good.
Q: Where would you take a visitor in town for only one day?
Downtown. I like walking from Congress back toward Armory Park. That area is pretty darn cool. It has the flavor of Tucson in that it has historic buildings and then new development that is modern with solar technology.
Q: Favorite restaurant?
The Dish. They have the most amazing long-stem artichokes. They're stuffed with olive tapanade.
Q: What's your favorite music hangout?
I like karaoke night at The Depot. I don't sing.
Q: Where's a great ganga?
17th Street Market. They've got great spices, fruits, and nuts. They're a lot cheaper than going to big, fancy grocery stores.