Congratulations, Ruth Lyons, first class of WLWT Hall of Fame Inductees

Ruth Lyons was *** pioneer in every sense of the word. It was here in the Wlwt studios where the modern talk show was invented, color television. Ruth Lyons and the 50 Clock debuted on Wlwt in 1948 and was so popular. The audience was expanded to 100 the show was renamed the 50 50 Clock. I'm so glad to see you all. Thank you all very much for your warm welcome. Thank you. 50 50 Club was the top rated daytime show in the country for 12 straight years. And in 1957 was the first local program broadcast in color in Cincinnati. Entertain. Today's social media influencers have nothing next to Ruth. She influenced an entire industry, defining the future roles women would have in the television business. She influenced an entire generation through her product sponsorship. Sponsors had *** one year waiting list for their products to appear on her show. She built *** dynasty that will never be seen quite the same way again and she turned her future into something very special. She was amazing. Ruth's legacy lives on today. Both David Letterman and Phil Donahue credit Ruth for teaching them how to do live talk television. The Ruth Lions Children's Fund now in its 84th year has donated 10 of millions to local hospitalized Children. Ruth embodied Cincinnati in many ways. She was determined, hard working and loud and proud when it came to celebrating the city and people. She loved her legendary career, earned her the title of Ruth Lyons, the first lady of television.