It is very possible some people reading about Mike Allen considering running for Cincinnati City Council do not know how big of a scandal it was when he did not run again as Hamilton County Prosecutor. The Enquirer's Howard Wilkinson does do a pretty good job of recapping the torrid past, but nothing can really instill the level of disgust that everyone felt when the Republican Allen was sued for Sexual Harrassment after a multiple year extra-martial affair took place with one of his assistant prosecuting attorneys. The one issue I would point out to readers: he didn't resign from office, instead he did not seek re-election, but served our his term. That is something Wilkinson got wrong in the article.
Here is a little history from my blog and others so people can get a little sense of history and why Allen has no business running for public office:
Allen - Collins Settlement
From Nate Livingston
Enquirer 2004 Top 10 Local News Stories: Mike Allen Scandal was #1 beating out Bush's Win
Mike Allen, Esq.
Both Allen and Collins Want Tax Money
So Much For a Settlement
Local GOP Is Chicken
Collins-Allen Imbroglio
Mum's the Word From Bronson
Lisa Allen: Victim and Pawn?
Mike Allen's Political Career Is Over (Yes, I hope the title doesn't end up being ironic.)
From a pure political sense, this would be harsh news for Republicans. Allen would take votes from all of the GOP candidates and drive votes away from the GOP in general, even though he's not going to get a Republican endorsement. The local GOP made it clear with the quotes in the Wilkinson article that Mike Allen would not be getting an endorsement, both for being too late and for his past problems. Hopefully, the lack of GOP support will keep Allen from running. While I think that Allen running might help some Dems, it will suck the attention from the political landscape into a scandal ridden race that we don't need. That might drive up hits for my blog, but it will not drive up voter turnout.
Tuesday, July 12, 2011
Saturday, July 09, 2011
NPR's On The Media Revisits Chiquita-Enquirer Scandal
NPR's program On the Media devoted a very in-depth segment of the radio program yesterday on the Cincinnati Enquirer-Chiquita voice-mail hacking scandal form the late 1990's. This was another follow-up piece from the fallout from the News of the Wolrd phone hacking problem in England, which resulted in the most read weekly newspaper in Britain ceasing operations for good. Yes, a profitable newspaper was shut down in England.
Well, back to the Enquirer historical comparison.The most interesting part of the whole scandal and why it was so sad where two facts:
It goes to show how much the public doesn't bother to pay attention to the facts, just the spin. Marketing works to well. It is a sad reality of humanity. We are suckers for spin.
Well, back to the Enquirer historical comparison.The most interesting part of the whole scandal and why it was so sad where two facts:
- The Enquirer denounced and apologized the original story published.
- The story was damning against Chiquita. The story was a solid story, but due to the need to settle the case, the Enquirer had to run away from the series of articles, getting Chiquita off the hook, actually spinning the company as the victim of the situation.
It goes to show how much the public doesn't bother to pay attention to the facts, just the spin. Marketing works to well. It is a sad reality of humanity. We are suckers for spin.
Friday, July 08, 2011
Why Can't an Opening Day Holiday Just Be a Council Ordinance?
Three is a big effort happening this weekend to make Red's Opening Day into an offical city holiday. My question is why would this take a ballot issue to happen? Is there something in the city charter limiting the number or reasons for a city wide holiday?
If not, I would guess there would be enough votes on Council to pass an ordinance making this official. The only hindrance to full council support might be the existence of ramifications of holidays to union contracts or city requirements, which is where a charter amendment might be necessary to limit the scope of the holiday, making it revenue neutral.
UPDATE: After reading the proposed ballot language, it sounds like it wouldn't take much for City Council to do, it has no teeth and is just "ceremonial." I don't see the need to put this on the ballot.
If not, I would guess there would be enough votes on Council to pass an ordinance making this official. The only hindrance to full council support might be the existence of ramifications of holidays to union contracts or city requirements, which is where a charter amendment might be necessary to limit the scope of the holiday, making it revenue neutral.
UPDATE: After reading the proposed ballot language, it sounds like it wouldn't take much for City Council to do, it has no teeth and is just "ceremonial." I don't see the need to put this on the ballot.
Countdown for 2012 Wold Choir Games Begins July 11th
The people of Cincinnati need to support this event.
Thursday, July 07, 2011
Summer Assignments for Murray and Winburn
To no one's surprise, council members Amy Murray and Charlie Winburn are complaining about council's summer recess schedule, while facing a $33 million budget deficit. If Murray and Winburn think council should use that time to work on a detailed plan of revenue increase or service cuts needed to balance the budget, then they are free to do so on their own. No one is going to stop them from getting a copy of the budget drafted by the City Manager and then running the numbers so the $33 Million can be reduced to zero. They will be paid the same, no matter if council is in session or not.
So, whether council stays in session, or not, Murray and Winburn I believe have volunteered themselves to produce a written document that provides a full solution on how to balance the budget. Nothing would then stop them from publishing the details that get them to a zero deficit?
Nothing would stop them.
They have plenty of time to get it done. They both most remember that getting the deficit to zero means that the cuts or revenues they list out are real, not relying on delinquencies to pay up money owed.
I'll be waiting for a document....
That should take maybe a couple of days, and that is being generous. The rest of the time they could spend doing the audits they want to pay someone else to do. Instead of paying $150,000 to the State, Winburn and Murray could each do one and they could get another one of the Conservatives will to spend $150,000 on three audits. That $150,000 is money that could instead go to pay the salaries of at least two entry level police officers (plus benefits).
So, two more police officers, or the Conservatives do some work this summer, what will it be?
If I were Murray or Winburn, I wouldn't ask Council member Leslie Ghiz for help. Doing the work of the City, isn't her job, so other than pontificating and grandstanding, I don't expect her to do much this summer for Council.
So, whether council stays in session, or not, Murray and Winburn I believe have volunteered themselves to produce a written document that provides a full solution on how to balance the budget. Nothing would then stop them from publishing the details that get them to a zero deficit?
Nothing would stop them.
They have plenty of time to get it done. They both most remember that getting the deficit to zero means that the cuts or revenues they list out are real, not relying on delinquencies to pay up money owed.
I'll be waiting for a document....
That should take maybe a couple of days, and that is being generous. The rest of the time they could spend doing the audits they want to pay someone else to do. Instead of paying $150,000 to the State, Winburn and Murray could each do one and they could get another one of the Conservatives will to spend $150,000 on three audits. That $150,000 is money that could instead go to pay the salaries of at least two entry level police officers (plus benefits).
So, two more police officers, or the Conservatives do some work this summer, what will it be?
If I were Murray or Winburn, I wouldn't ask Council member Leslie Ghiz for help. Doing the work of the City, isn't her job, so other than pontificating and grandstanding, I don't expect her to do much this summer for Council.
Adweek Remembers Enquirer-Chiquita V-Mail Scandal
In light of the News Corp scandal brewing in Britian where reporters allegedy hacked into crime victim's voice-mail accounts, an Adweek reporter took a quick look back to the 'similar' Cincinnati Enquirer Scandal back in 1998 when an Enquirer Reporter allegedly hacked into a Chiquita employee's voice-mail for story.
Wednesday, July 06, 2011
Old Time Radio Totally Gone From 91.7 WVXU
A review of 91.7 WVXU schedule shows that both the nightly and weekly shows of old time radio programs have been replaced. This is a disappointing occurrence. I understand how some people don't like history, but these radio programs are a window to what it was like to live in the 1940's and 1950's, before television. The value to knowing the past, first hand, is the core of understanding history.
I hope WVXU will have some special events, where it plays some old radio, especially the re-aring of some of the big news events, like the end of WWII or D-Day.
The shows they have added as replacements sound good, especially the LA Theatre Works, which has modern day radio theatre. If you are going to replace old time radio drama with something, this sounds like the a positive way to do it. It keeps the art form alive.
I hope WVXU will have some special events, where it plays some old radio, especially the re-aring of some of the big news events, like the end of WWII or D-Day.
The shows they have added as replacements sound good, especially the LA Theatre Works, which has modern day radio theatre. If you are going to replace old time radio drama with something, this sounds like the a positive way to do it. It keeps the art form alive.
Tuesday, July 05, 2011
Bunbury Music Festival Kickoff Event July 9th at Sawyer Point
The Bunbury Music Festival is having a special preview event this year on July 9th at Sawyer Point. Music starts at 7PM and runs to 11PM. The stellar line-up:
The Seedy Seeds
Lions Rampant
The Minor Leagues
Tickets for year one of the festival (July 13-15, 2012) will go on sale on July 9, 2011. Also, the first 1,000 attendees to the kickoff event can pick up a special discount code that will give them 50% off a one-day OR three-day pass to the 2012 festival. Get out and support Cincinnati's music scene.
The Seedy Seeds
Lions Rampant
The Minor Leagues
Tickets for year one of the festival (July 13-15, 2012) will go on sale on July 9, 2011. Also, the first 1,000 attendees to the kickoff event can pick up a special discount code that will give them 50% off a one-day OR three-day pass to the 2012 festival. Get out and support Cincinnati's music scene.
Rhinestone Cowboy Charlie Winburn
In yesterday's Northside Fourth of July Parade, City Councilman Charlie Winburn was on a horse. Yes, it was a spectacle like few I've ever seen in Cincinnati Politics. Here's a glimpse:
Winburn was lead by a marching band full of kids from some school not prominently indicated. It didn't appear to be a public school, but I hope it wasn't a charter school, since all of the kids were wearing Winburn T-Shirts. I'm sure the Republicans who care so much about how schools influence kids will be sure to find out if all of the kid's parents gave written permission for their children be props for Winburn's political campaign. I think Tom Brinkman should get right on that.
I guess for everyone who likes political circuses, this is your Christmas.
Winburn was lead by a marching band full of kids from some school not prominently indicated. It didn't appear to be a public school, but I hope it wasn't a charter school, since all of the kids were wearing Winburn T-Shirts. I'm sure the Republicans who care so much about how schools influence kids will be sure to find out if all of the kid's parents gave written permission for their children be props for Winburn's political campaign. I think Tom Brinkman should get right on that.
I guess for everyone who likes political circuses, this is your Christmas.
Sunday, July 03, 2011
CincyMusic.com to Return
Cincinnati music fans and bands, take note! CincyMusic.com will be returning to the Internet soon. You can sign up for their email list to get the notice of when they relaunch. I don't see any type of estimate of when they will be, so you'll just have to stay tuned.
Otherwise check out their Facebook page or Twitter account for limited cincymusic information.
Otherwise check out their Facebook page or Twitter account for limited cincymusic information.
Saturday, July 02, 2011
Sittenfeld Has a Jingle, But No Public Stance On The Streetcar
Yesterday the Enquirer's Politics Extra blog posted on P.G. Sittenfeld's new jingle made in support of his campaign for City Council. It's fine, in a 1950's nostalgia kind of a way. (Think of "I like Ike") I don't mind any city council candidate being creative with positive promotion. I am disappointed, however, that P.G. appears to be too busy doing this type of fluffy campaigning to bother writing a quick post to his blog giving his stance on the Streetcar.
I asked the question: Where Does P. G. Sittenfeld Stand on the Streetcar? a couple of weeks ago and have not read anything yet that indicates an answer. P.G. needs to make public his stance on the Streetcar or people will draw conclusions. I'd still settle for a Twitter or Facebook post, but at this point his silence with all the social media rumblings going on leads one to conclude that at a minimum he is not a strong supporter of the Streetcar and can't use 140 characters to explain his view on the subject.
I still hope he'll come out and support the plan, which will help the City grow and prosper. The longer he stays quiet, however, the more he will be viewed as a typical politician too concerned with his own political future to take a stand on an important and relevant issue. Even if he is against the Streetcar, he needs to make it clear to the voters.
I asked the question: Where Does P. G. Sittenfeld Stand on the Streetcar? a couple of weeks ago and have not read anything yet that indicates an answer. P.G. needs to make public his stance on the Streetcar or people will draw conclusions. I'd still settle for a Twitter or Facebook post, but at this point his silence with all the social media rumblings going on leads one to conclude that at a minimum he is not a strong supporter of the Streetcar and can't use 140 characters to explain his view on the subject.
I still hope he'll come out and support the plan, which will help the City grow and prosper. The longer he stays quiet, however, the more he will be viewed as a typical politician too concerned with his own political future to take a stand on an important and relevant issue. Even if he is against the Streetcar, he needs to make it clear to the voters.
Robert Mecklenborg's Arrest Dashboard Camera Video Is Released
Joesph at Plunderbund has put up the dashboard camera showing the OVI arrest of Ohio State Representative Robert Mecklenborg from Dearborn County, Indiana.
Friday, July 01, 2011
Was Mecklenborg With a Stripper?
Court documents reportedly show that Republican State Representative Robert Mecklenborg was arrested for operating a vehicle while impaired with a woman, not his wife, in the car. Another report names her as Tiona Roberts. Multiple news outlets are trying to confirm what can best be considered a "rumor" at this point that she works at a Lawrenceberg, IN strip club called Concepts Showgirls.
The Enquirer also has a new story, and mentions the woman in the car. They asked Mecklenborg who the woman was and why she was in the car, but he would not answer the question.
The Enquirer also has a new story, and mentions the woman in the car. They asked Mecklenborg who the woman was and why she was in the car, but he would not answer the question.
Ignorant Old White Men
When I ever I read about the delusional activities of ignorant old men I want to pity them. In the case of bigoted and ignorant old white men acting on that bigotry, I loathe them and am embarrassed.
Thankfully, the number of old bigoted white men protesting LULAC was small. The problem is that the bigger number of bigots (old and young) still exists, just don't have the free time afforded to those living the retired lifestyle.
Thankfully, the number of old bigoted white men protesting LULAC was small. The problem is that the bigger number of bigots (old and young) still exists, just don't have the free time afforded to those living the retired lifestyle.
Thursday, June 30, 2011
Leslie Ghiz Refuses to Govern. That's Her Job!
Cincinnati council member Leslie Ghiz is abdicating her responsibilities to govern the city. From the article:
If that means you get out the budget, a pencil, a legal pad of paper, and start doing the math to make it something you will vote for, then you DO IT. Why do you do it? You do it because as a city council member it is your job to represent the people and provide a balance budget, what ever it takes. No political excuses. No grandstanding. Just get the job done. If that means pissing off a group you are counting on for political support, tough!
If Leslie Ghiz refuses to do her job, why is she staying on council? Why is she bothering to run for office again?More importantly, why would any citizen vote for someone who is abdicating their responsibility?
"It is the manager's job to figure out how to close the budget," Ghiz said, adding that the manager, mayor and council all are involved in the budget process. "It is not our job to figure out how to close that gap."For at least the last two years the City Manager has provided multiple options for a balanced budget. Leslie Ghiz, and the Republicans on Council, have opposed those options. If you oppose what the manager is doing, you have to give your own plan to balance the budget. You don't give clues. You don't dance around and say what you will not accept. You instead DO YOUR JOB: GOVERN THE CITY. Put out a plan that adds up.
If that means you get out the budget, a pencil, a legal pad of paper, and start doing the math to make it something you will vote for, then you DO IT. Why do you do it? You do it because as a city council member it is your job to represent the people and provide a balance budget, what ever it takes. No political excuses. No grandstanding. Just get the job done. If that means pissing off a group you are counting on for political support, tough!
If Leslie Ghiz refuses to do her job, why is she staying on council? Why is she bothering to run for office again?More importantly, why would any citizen vote for someone who is abdicating their responsibility?
Ohio Rep. Robert Mecklenborg Charged With OVI
Green Township Republican State Representative Robert Mecklenborg was charged with operating a vehicle while intoxicated back in April in Indiana.
Here are the problems with this situation:
Here are the problems with this situation:
- This happened two months ago and we are just learning it now.
- Mecklenbor "allegedly" refused a Breathalyzer test.
- Mecklenborg stated he has "every presumption of innocence at this time."
As a reminder, a U.S. Congressman was recently forced to resign for basically being a bad husband and a creep, but wasn't charged with a crime. This guy is charged with a crime, but we have no wind storm of calls for him to resign for "allegedly" doing something, driving drunk, that could have killed someone. I'll hope we hear from some GOP officials soon.
But..There could be more to this story. I'm not going there, yet.
But..There could be more to this story. I'm not going there, yet.
Republicans' One Cut Fits All Attitude Will Ruin America
Republicans at all levels, Federal, State, and local have adopted a political strategy to deal with our economic crisis. Yes, they have adopted a political strategy to deal with the economic crisis, not an economic strategy. We are in trouble and they are taking the opportunity to mindlessly cut government. They are not thinking about what they are cutting, they are just bent on cutting. They think this will win them elections and get them donations from rich donors. They have no clue what will happen when this cuts are implemented and are giving no thought to the impact on society by massive reduction of services. The goal of Monzel and Hartman is to just cut everything. They are not thinking about the impact, they just want to cut, because if they try to do the right thing, the Tea Party will crush them. How can anyone function with that type of irrational thug based political paradigm? Seriously, Hartman isn't a stupid or insane man, but is acting like he has a gun to his head. Monzel, well, he seems to like it. He has a politically masochistic bent to him that puts that twinkle in his tone when he pushes his right wing agenda.
This is happening on all levels of government and the Hamilton County Commission is just the latest. There is no rationale provided, just a mantra: no tax increases. It is like they are robots, programmed to DESTROY ALL HUMANS, because they don't seem to have any forethought on what their draconian cuts will do. Mostly, and deep down, I don't think most Republicans care. Somehow a 19th Century economic mindset has become the core of elected and those trying to be elected Republicans. That's the mindset that creates sweatshops and employees Pinkerton thugs to enforce their will. Where did the sanity go?
We can't gut the government and have a viable society. The myopic stance Republicans take because they think they think they personally don't need government is going to screw them when they don't have roads or jails or courts functioning to provide the orderly society needed. Building a walled castle in the suburbs isn't going to keep out the problems facing the rest of us. We actually need a government to keep the chaos at bay. We have too many Republicans today who are ready to jump into the chaos. Where did this delusional mindset come from?
This is happening on all levels of government and the Hamilton County Commission is just the latest. There is no rationale provided, just a mantra: no tax increases. It is like they are robots, programmed to DESTROY ALL HUMANS, because they don't seem to have any forethought on what their draconian cuts will do. Mostly, and deep down, I don't think most Republicans care. Somehow a 19th Century economic mindset has become the core of elected and those trying to be elected Republicans. That's the mindset that creates sweatshops and employees Pinkerton thugs to enforce their will. Where did the sanity go?
We can't gut the government and have a viable society. The myopic stance Republicans take because they think they think they personally don't need government is going to screw them when they don't have roads or jails or courts functioning to provide the orderly society needed. Building a walled castle in the suburbs isn't going to keep out the problems facing the rest of us. We actually need a government to keep the chaos at bay. We have too many Republicans today who are ready to jump into the chaos. Where did this delusional mindset come from?
Wednesday, June 29, 2011
Vote for OTR! Today!!!
OTR needs your help to win $25,000 for preservation of the neighborhood. Please vote in this survey for each email address you have. The deadline to vote is June 30th (Tomorrow) at 4:59 PM. OTR is barely in 1st Place, but needs your help to stay there. Spread the word and get people to vote today!
Barry Hortsman Has Been Reassigned Off the Streetcar, Mostly
Sources indicate that starting this week, Enquirer reporter Barry Hortsman takes on the role of general investigative reporter in a new investigative/data unit at the Enquirer. He will be off the transportation beat, which as reported here before is going to Amanda Van Benschoten. The best news is that he will be handing off the Streetcar issue, mostly, to Van Benschoten. It appears he may remain involved on some stories or issues involving the Streetcar, but it will not be his beat. What we can now do is pay close attention to the bylines and credits on stories involving the Streetcar, seeing how the tone/facts sway. If we get story after story involving COAST or Chris Smitherman press releases, we can see if Hortsman's name is there. If not, then I think the bias against the Streetcar will point right to the editors. If we don't get Streetcar stories that go to COAST or Smitherman or Tom Luken for the anti-streetcar bias, then I will jump for joy. There are plenty of sane anti-streetcar people out there. They are far to often ignorant, but they are respectable. I'd suggest Amanda stick to City Council Republicans. They are against it and they should be happy to make the City know they are against it.
Elissa Yancey is the New Managing Editor at Soapbox
Elissa Yancey takes over the lead role of Soapbox from Sean Rhiney, who is stepping down from the role after about two years. Matt Cunningham is being promoted to Associate Editor and will be responsible for the Development and Innovation & Job News sections of the website.
A big thanks to Sean for his fine work and congratulations to Elissa and Matt.
A big thanks to Sean for his fine work and congratulations to Elissa and Matt.
Tuesday, June 28, 2011
Seelbach Heading to White House Reception
Cincinnati City Council candidate Chris Seelbach is heading to Washington, D.C. tomorrow for a private reception with President Obama and the First Lady. Seelbach was selected to attend the President's celebration of LGBT Pride Month for his efforts in working for the civil rights of Gays, Lesbians, Bisexuals, and Transgenders. Seelbach was part of the leadership team that successfully repealed the anti-gay Article XII amendment to the City Charter, which allowed discrimination based on sexual orientation.
More from the Enquirer.
More from the Enquirer.
The AP Likes Shit Stories
I don't know what it is about pooping and shit, but the Associated Press likes it and picked up this Enquirer story.
The AP Story doesn't get into the hypocrisy of the situation, like what did the homeless did before during the winter when the Washington Park toilets were closed? Also, why doesn't the Drop Inn Center provide public toilets? If they have a reason NOT to provide one, why would anyone else provide them?
It is pathetic that the media only responds to a story when it includes a circus and then get distracted by clowns and poop.
Why does the media treat 'homeless activists' any differently then they would treat a Press Release promoting the appearance by a fitness team showing the benefits of a new health drink that will keep you regular? Both are PR people, both are biased towards their product, and both are just as credible. Yet, one gets respected and the other dismissed. One spins the truth for profit, the other pretends it's altruistic. I'd love for both to be given the same treatment, but it appears that some people's shit doesn't smell.
The AP Story doesn't get into the hypocrisy of the situation, like what did the homeless did before during the winter when the Washington Park toilets were closed? Also, why doesn't the Drop Inn Center provide public toilets? If they have a reason NOT to provide one, why would anyone else provide them?
It is pathetic that the media only responds to a story when it includes a circus and then get distracted by clowns and poop.
Why does the media treat 'homeless activists' any differently then they would treat a Press Release promoting the appearance by a fitness team showing the benefits of a new health drink that will keep you regular? Both are PR people, both are biased towards their product, and both are just as credible. Yet, one gets respected and the other dismissed. One spins the truth for profit, the other pretends it's altruistic. I'd love for both to be given the same treatment, but it appears that some people's shit doesn't smell.
Monday, June 27, 2011
Van Benschoten Taking on Transportation at Enquirer
Amanda Van Benschoten, NKY political reporter at the Enquirer, is moving her beat to the Cincinnati side of the river:
The big question: Will her Transportation coverage include the Streetcar? Has Barry Hortsman been reassigned or will she cover most Transportation modes, except for all rail Transportation that the Enquirer wants to use to create controversy?
Beginning Monday, I move on to a new assignment at the newspaper: covering regional economic development and transportation.
I'll be covering the Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport, the Brent Spence Bridge, and Cincinnati's Port Authority, among other things. It's a beat chock full of political intrigue, and I look forward to it.
The big question: Will her Transportation coverage include the Streetcar? Has Barry Hortsman been reassigned or will she cover most Transportation modes, except for all rail Transportation that the Enquirer wants to use to create controversy?
Will MetroMix Last in Print Much Longer?
CityBeat News Editor Kevin Osborne ponders the future of Metromix. His analysis makes sense. The print edition would appear to be on its last legs. I'm not actually sure why the Enquirer didn't use the turmoil created with the latest round of layoffs to end the print edition, but I can't understand how they could gut the newsroom the way they did and still put out a daily print edition that is worth reading.
The assumption I would make, however, is that the online Metromix will go forward. I'm wondering what is taking so long for an iPad app for both the Enquirer and Metromix. Both the Dayton Daily News and the Columbus Dispatch have iPad apps. I really hope one was in the works prior to the layoffs. I don't see Gannett pushing one forward, even though they have the technology at USA-Today and it works pretty damn well. It would be nice if they capitalized on the investment there and rolled it out to the Enquirer.
The assumption I would make, however, is that the online Metromix will go forward. I'm wondering what is taking so long for an iPad app for both the Enquirer and Metromix. Both the Dayton Daily News and the Columbus Dispatch have iPad apps. I really hope one was in the works prior to the layoffs. I don't see Gannett pushing one forward, even though they have the technology at USA-Today and it works pretty damn well. It would be nice if they capitalized on the investment there and rolled it out to the Enquirer.
Welcome LULAC!
I wish to welcome LULAC (the League of United Latin American Citizens) to Cincinnati this week for their annual convention.
Check out the Convention website and be sure to thank all of the volunteers helping with this event. It is great for Cincinnati to have a group like LULAC hold their national convention here and bring their message to this part of the country. The civil rights for Latinos is a cause that needs much attention in today's America and I am proud of the work they do. I'm also proud to be part Latino, even if I'm only 1/8th.
Check out the Convention website and be sure to thank all of the volunteers helping with this event. It is great for Cincinnati to have a group like LULAC hold their national convention here and bring their message to this part of the country. The civil rights for Latinos is a cause that needs much attention in today's America and I am proud of the work they do. I'm also proud to be part Latino, even if I'm only 1/8th.
Former County Commissioner Files For Personal Bankruptcy
The Cincinnati Business Courier is reporting that Tom Neyer Jr., former Hamilton County Commissioner has filed for personal bankruptcy. The former Republican Commissioner is the owner of Neyer Holdings Corp. a real estate development company. According to the article, Neyer Holdings was involved in the very troubled Kenwood Town Place development that has been sitting half finished for around two years.
Sunday, June 26, 2011
Wilkinson to Write a Weekly Politics Column in the Sunday Enquirer
Long time political reporter Howard Wilkinson is again writing a political column for the Cincinnati Enquirer. Today's column on Brad Wenstrup's challenge to Jean Schmidt is the first of what will be a regular Sunday column. Wilkinson is the only local political reporter/columnist who has been around long enough to have contacts that reach beyond the surface of campaign staffers. That also means he can tend to be the center of conventional wisdom. Many of the older political players, who would logically be amongst his many sources, far too often think of the politics of the past as if Cincinnati is still what is was in 1970 or even 1985. Times have changed in City, County, and even the congressional political landscape.
I hope all his future columns are like today's, where it is more political analysis, than political opinion. Fact based analysis trumps trite dogma every time. I also hope he stays out of national politics. I don't want to hear his take on the 2012 presidential race, unless it is about the Ohio Primary, if it by chance will be meaningful for the GOP nomination.
I hope all his future columns are like today's, where it is more political analysis, than political opinion. Fact based analysis trumps trite dogma every time. I also hope he stays out of national politics. I don't want to hear his take on the 2012 presidential race, unless it is about the Ohio Primary, if it by chance will be meaningful for the GOP nomination.
Saturday, June 25, 2011
Is Barry Horstman An Olympic Athlete Or A Liar?
Jake Mecklenborg at the Cincinnati Monocle gives the information you need to answer the question the title of this blog poses: Is Barry Horstman an Olympic Athlete or a liar? Jake references the article Enquirer reporter Barry Hortsman wrote about the time it would take to "walk" the Streetcar route. Hortsman claimed the streetcar route could be walked in 34 minutes, a "very brisk walk" to be specific. That would be 3.15 miles in 34 minutes. When I do the the math I get a walking speed of 5.56 mph.
5.56 mph is jogging. So I guess the is a fantasy land where a "very brisk walk" equates to jogging. That land is a ways from OZ, but right next door to the spacecamp that COASTers call "reality."
So, that basically makes the entire point of the article wrong and horrible journalism. Why do it? Do I need to ask this question or is there more than just an anti-streetcar/pro-conflict bias at work here?
For the curious, Wikipedia indicates the average walking speed for people to be 3.1 mph, while running 3.15 miles would be somewhere between 6.6 and 6.8 mph for men and 5.8 and 6.1 for women.
5.56 mph is jogging. So I guess the is a fantasy land where a "very brisk walk" equates to jogging. That land is a ways from OZ, but right next door to the spacecamp that COASTers call "reality."
So, that basically makes the entire point of the article wrong and horrible journalism. Why do it? Do I need to ask this question or is there more than just an anti-streetcar/pro-conflict bias at work here?
For the curious, Wikipedia indicates the average walking speed for people to be 3.1 mph, while running 3.15 miles would be somewhere between 6.6 and 6.8 mph for men and 5.8 and 6.1 for women.
Friday, June 24, 2011
'Zombies Ahead' Makes NPR
You know you made it when something, Interstate 71/75 sign warns of zombies, is reported on NPR. Just now, at the 5:30 AM news intro, the 'Zombies Ahead' sign was mentioned. Have no fear, it wasn't a big story and was only part of their humorous intro to the hard news. Have a little pride that the country is noticing what we do here, no matter how bizarre or strange or in this case cleverly delinquent.
Thursday, June 23, 2011
Council Conservatives Need to Learn Math
Jane Prendergast of the Enquirer reports about the rhetoric on the budget coming from the 5 conservatives on Cincinnati City Council and they just don't understand math or logic, but logic and math don't get you votes.
None of them have put forth a way to cut the $33 million deficit for 2012. None of those on council last year in this group put forth a way to actually balance the budget. They have ideas, but they can't seem to bother naming the cuts needed to reach the required $33 million.
Instead, as Jane lists out, each of the 'fiscal five' have pet projects each wants to cut or have hollow ideas that have finite dollar values to be considered serious.. None of this ideas add up to anything close to balancing the budget because none do anything to cut the Police Department.
This is where the math comes in. The same 5 refuse to have property owners pay 10 dollars per 100,000 more to take the $33 Million down to $29 Million. So, they cut revenues, again, for the property owners who want the police coverage, which the 5 won't cut along with the revenue cuts. If you subtract from revenues you need to subtract from expenses. Subtracting from revenues doesn't increase revenues. That's magical math normally reserved for princes and frogs, but I guess for conservatives, property owners are like neo-feudal lords that actually believe in magic that can turn tax cuts into instant money to pay for more cops than we actually need. Luther would be proud, I suppose.
Of the pet projects, they one with elements on the table that could put a dent in the deficit would be Chris Bortz's thoughts, but his ideas rely on an unproven assumptions: that outsourcing will save money. He also wants to cut programs that don't cost much, but many would find go along way to help the police govern more effectively in the long run, like the Citizen's Compliant Authority.
The rest of the council members either have hot button issues that add up to service cuts that don't come anywhere near $33 million or they rely on the pie in the sky word "merger", which does nothing now. Mergers are ideas to dangle in front of the ignorant voter, but the semi-smart voter knows none of the merger ideas can be worked out in time before council is required by the Charter to pass a 2012 budget. City/County merger ideas are actually good thoughts, but they are long term issues that need much thought and discussion, something that takes time and focus, which isn't being started in an election year, just talking about. Mergers are not something you can use to plug short term budget deficits. That requires actual numbers.
So, I put forth the challenge to all 5 conservatives on council. If they are serious about governing, they do have the majority after all, then they need to create a budget cutting plan that adds up to $33 million in savings. This would be a real budget, not a pretend one. Pretending includes using "mergers" ideas or ticket amnesty. Anyone who does not have a concrete set of numbers that add up to $33 million is lying when they say they have a budget plan.
The only thing all 5 seem to be willing to do is what ever the FOP wants. None of them will say a word about cutting a dime from anything the FOP says it needs, but will cut they rest of the city's budget (CFD not included). Ghiz is the worst and she knows her hypocrisy and doesn't care. Her quote from the article is priceless:
None of them have put forth a way to cut the $33 million deficit for 2012. None of those on council last year in this group put forth a way to actually balance the budget. They have ideas, but they can't seem to bother naming the cuts needed to reach the required $33 million.
Instead, as Jane lists out, each of the 'fiscal five' have pet projects each wants to cut or have hollow ideas that have finite dollar values to be considered serious.. None of this ideas add up to anything close to balancing the budget because none do anything to cut the Police Department.
This is where the math comes in. The same 5 refuse to have property owners pay 10 dollars per 100,000 more to take the $33 Million down to $29 Million. So, they cut revenues, again, for the property owners who want the police coverage, which the 5 won't cut along with the revenue cuts. If you subtract from revenues you need to subtract from expenses. Subtracting from revenues doesn't increase revenues. That's magical math normally reserved for princes and frogs, but I guess for conservatives, property owners are like neo-feudal lords that actually believe in magic that can turn tax cuts into instant money to pay for more cops than we actually need. Luther would be proud, I suppose.
Of the pet projects, they one with elements on the table that could put a dent in the deficit would be Chris Bortz's thoughts, but his ideas rely on an unproven assumptions: that outsourcing will save money. He also wants to cut programs that don't cost much, but many would find go along way to help the police govern more effectively in the long run, like the Citizen's Compliant Authority.
The rest of the council members either have hot button issues that add up to service cuts that don't come anywhere near $33 million or they rely on the pie in the sky word "merger", which does nothing now. Mergers are ideas to dangle in front of the ignorant voter, but the semi-smart voter knows none of the merger ideas can be worked out in time before council is required by the Charter to pass a 2012 budget. City/County merger ideas are actually good thoughts, but they are long term issues that need much thought and discussion, something that takes time and focus, which isn't being started in an election year, just talking about. Mergers are not something you can use to plug short term budget deficits. That requires actual numbers.
So, I put forth the challenge to all 5 conservatives on council. If they are serious about governing, they do have the majority after all, then they need to create a budget cutting plan that adds up to $33 million in savings. This would be a real budget, not a pretend one. Pretending includes using "mergers" ideas or ticket amnesty. Anyone who does not have a concrete set of numbers that add up to $33 million is lying when they say they have a budget plan.
The only thing all 5 seem to be willing to do is what ever the FOP wants. None of them will say a word about cutting a dime from anything the FOP says it needs, but will cut they rest of the city's budget (CFD not included). Ghiz is the worst and she knows her hypocrisy and doesn't care. Her quote from the article is priceless:
"I don't care about fair," Councilwoman Leslie Ghiz said.Supporting the FOP gets her votes. Governing the city and making cuts that are best for all workers and citizens doesn't get her votes. It is crass politics, but it is what she does.
Wednesday, June 22, 2011
6% Less News At the Enquirer
According to the information I was able to analyse the latest round of layoffs at the Enquirer yesterday totaled 10 people from the news team. I count that as over 6% of the team charged with gathering, editing and putting out the newspaper and its websites. This doesn't include the outside bloggers affiliates 'working' for the paper. This also doesn't count the reportedly 8-9 other non-news people laid off from the paper.
So we get less news, Gannett big-wigs get bonuses and pay raises, and shareholders get a small short bump in share price. A deal worthy of Wall Street.
People have been saying for many years now that newspapers are dead. I thought that was bullshit. I knew they were shells of what they used to be, but they would stick around, maybe online only. Maybe they would start using a pay wall. I just didn't think they could cut more reporters. This layoff actually cut news gathering by 4 people. There are now 4 fewer people at the paper who had the job of gathering news and writing about it. I don't know how they will be replaced. Either using more freelancers or just cover the same limited coverage with fewer people and wind up with that 6% less news.
We the people of Cincinnati need to actually start thinking about what we will do when the Enquirer goes away. I understand that most conservatives will point to the free market, but Democracy does not exist without a free press, even a flawed newspaper like the Enquirer. No other outlet does what it does. It serves as the source of most of the news that is reported in Cincinnati. This news gathering is a service that must continue. I don't know how, but we need it, so we better start planning how to live in a post newspaper world. If we don't, the mindless drones who don't bother paying attention or just listen to the propaganda outlets will be the majority, if they aren't already. That's how fascism literally starts, not the rhetorical kind people like to claim exists now. Start thinking now and get your face out of the reality TV shows for a few minutes, OK?
So we get less news, Gannett big-wigs get bonuses and pay raises, and shareholders get a small short bump in share price. A deal worthy of Wall Street.
People have been saying for many years now that newspapers are dead. I thought that was bullshit. I knew they were shells of what they used to be, but they would stick around, maybe online only. Maybe they would start using a pay wall. I just didn't think they could cut more reporters. This layoff actually cut news gathering by 4 people. There are now 4 fewer people at the paper who had the job of gathering news and writing about it. I don't know how they will be replaced. Either using more freelancers or just cover the same limited coverage with fewer people and wind up with that 6% less news.
We the people of Cincinnati need to actually start thinking about what we will do when the Enquirer goes away. I understand that most conservatives will point to the free market, but Democracy does not exist without a free press, even a flawed newspaper like the Enquirer. No other outlet does what it does. It serves as the source of most of the news that is reported in Cincinnati. This news gathering is a service that must continue. I don't know how, but we need it, so we better start planning how to live in a post newspaper world. If we don't, the mindless drones who don't bother paying attention or just listen to the propaganda outlets will be the majority, if they aren't already. That's how fascism literally starts, not the rhetorical kind people like to claim exists now. Start thinking now and get your face out of the reality TV shows for a few minutes, OK?
Covedale Isn't a Seperate Neighborhood
I don't know what is wrong with being part of West Price Hill, but some residents wish to be recognised as a separate neighborhood called Covedale. They've been denied that recognition by the City Manager. Except for the ever variable property value game, I don't see any value in the distinction between West Price Hill and Covedale. I don't know where the Covedale name stems from, but adding it for cosmetic reasons isn't worth the expense to the city. Furthermore, the implications from a Community Council perspective is more troubling.
Tuesday, June 21, 2011
Where Does P. G. Sittenfeld Stand on the Streetcar?
A hole is starting to grow and if that hole gets to big, a candidate for City Council may not be able to get out. The discussions are going around the social media and commenting circles in Cincinnati about where PG Sittenfeld, Democratic candidate for Cincinnati Council, stands on the Streetcar. Social media posts claim he is against it, one based on a conversation the poster allegedly had with the candidate. His website is silent on the issue. It is silent on Transportation in general. This is a big issue in the city. It may not be an issue some candidates want to get in the middle of, but they must take a clear position on it.
I don't like commenting on rumor, but this is a hopping one. It is a rather easy one to quell. A Twitter post will do just fine. I'd like to hear his views on the topic and unless he wants to become victim to the rumor mill's albatross line of accessories, he should speak up. He's not going to gain long term support by appeasing to opposing groups' views.
I don't like commenting on rumor, but this is a hopping one. It is a rather easy one to quell. A Twitter post will do just fine. I'd like to hear his views on the topic and unless he wants to become victim to the rumor mill's albatross line of accessories, he should speak up. He's not going to gain long term support by appeasing to opposing groups' views.
More Praise For Cincinnati Public Schools
Joe Nathan of the Minnpost.com offers up a summary on how Cincinnati Public Schools increased their graduation rates by more than 25%. The article is full of praise for what Cincinnati Schools, particularly Taft High School and it's principal Anthony Smith, accomplished.
Friday, June 17, 2011
Who Are Chris Bortz's Enemies On City Council?
Enquirer reporter Barry Horstman wrote in an article effectively that Cincinnati City Council member Chris Bortz believes he has enemies on council. There is not a direct quote, but Hortsman attributes the 'feeling' to one that is from Bortz. Here is the section of the article:
Ok, so we all have foes in our life and in the workplace, but enemies? I'm sure some pols around town see me as a political enemy, in so much as I will speak out against their candidacies, but that's hardly new or excessive. That is politics. I'm not an enemy. I'm not going to go after anyone's seat once elected. I don't see that anyone on Council is an 'enemy' of Chris Bortz. There is conflict on council. That conflict is a two way street and no one is blameless. If there is a witch hunt to get Bortz, it is from outside Council.
"Those factors provide a foundation for Bortz's feeling that political enemies - including some on council - would like to use the issue to force his departure, while doing no harm to the project they favor."So, that lead me to the question. Who are his enemies? There are only eight other people, nine if you include the Mayor. The list:
Mark Mallory (D) MayorAny guesses?
Roxanne Qualls (C,D) Vice Mayor
Cecil Thomas (D) President Pro-tem
Leslie Ghiz (R)
Amy Murray (R)
Wayne Lippert (R)
Laure Quinlivan (D)
Charlie Winburn (R)
Wendell Young (D)
Ok, so we all have foes in our life and in the workplace, but enemies? I'm sure some pols around town see me as a political enemy, in so much as I will speak out against their candidacies, but that's hardly new or excessive. That is politics. I'm not an enemy. I'm not going to go after anyone's seat once elected. I don't see that anyone on Council is an 'enemy' of Chris Bortz. There is conflict on council. That conflict is a two way street and no one is blameless. If there is a witch hunt to get Bortz, it is from outside Council.
Thursday, June 16, 2011
Wenstrup to challenge Schmidt For Congress
Losing Republican Mayoral candidate Brad Wenstrup will mount a primary challenge against sitting 2nd district Republican congress woman Jean Schmidt.
Does Wenstrup know something we don't? Does he know what the 2nd district will look like? That's a big reason we've not heard who else will run for congress, we don't know what redistricting will do. Where the lines are 'painted' for the 1st and 2nd districts will drive who will get in each of the races from the Democratic side. I expect we won't know what those districts look like until the Republicans draw the lines behind closed doors and do their best to create as many districts with demographics that favor their candidate, while giving the Democrats little time to review them.
Wenstrup mounted a suburbanite campaign when he ran for the City of Cincinnati Mayor. That means that while he lived on the east side of the city, his attitude and tone towards the city was like a moderate suburbanite's generally is: one of caution, some misplaced fear, and dislike. That doesn't play well in the city. That attitude may, however, play well if the 2nd district has a big suburban core. I don't know how well he will sell out in the rural areas. That is a whole different type of voter. In a GOP primary, they will be especially different from the typical suburban Republican on economic issues. That's going to be interesting.
Wenstrup is a solid challenger to Schmidt. He is a mainstream Republican, so he can lean as far to the right as he needs to and play to the middle if that is where is primary votes lie and for the general election if needed. Seeing how much this divides the party in the primary is going to be an enjoyable situation.
Does Wenstrup know something we don't? Does he know what the 2nd district will look like? That's a big reason we've not heard who else will run for congress, we don't know what redistricting will do. Where the lines are 'painted' for the 1st and 2nd districts will drive who will get in each of the races from the Democratic side. I expect we won't know what those districts look like until the Republicans draw the lines behind closed doors and do their best to create as many districts with demographics that favor their candidate, while giving the Democrats little time to review them.
Wenstrup mounted a suburbanite campaign when he ran for the City of Cincinnati Mayor. That means that while he lived on the east side of the city, his attitude and tone towards the city was like a moderate suburbanite's generally is: one of caution, some misplaced fear, and dislike. That doesn't play well in the city. That attitude may, however, play well if the 2nd district has a big suburban core. I don't know how well he will sell out in the rural areas. That is a whole different type of voter. In a GOP primary, they will be especially different from the typical suburban Republican on economic issues. That's going to be interesting.
Wenstrup is a solid challenger to Schmidt. He is a mainstream Republican, so he can lean as far to the right as he needs to and play to the middle if that is where is primary votes lie and for the general election if needed. Seeing how much this divides the party in the primary is going to be an enjoyable situation.
We Need a Wyatt Earp
The Stupidity of the Ohio GOP controlled legislature knows no bounds.
I guess pretending to live in the old West just isn't enough. GOP members of the Ohio House and Senate want to actually live like Cowboys of Cochise County. I am assuming they already have had their wives make them a red sash.
At this point we need a Wyatt Earp to take everyone's guns at the city limits. If that law was good enough for Tombstone and wasn't challenged in Federal Court in 1879, it should be good enough now. No one messes with Wyatt Earp or at least no one who is not going allow idiots to be inside an establishment that sells booze while carying a handgun. I mean only a logical person would assume that people go into bars to drink, not to have gunfights. I mean they wouldn't ever do both because Cowboys don't kill people unless they got it coming, after all, so we all should be safe.
I guess pretending to live in the old West just isn't enough. GOP members of the Ohio House and Senate want to actually live like Cowboys of Cochise County. I am assuming they already have had their wives make them a red sash.
At this point we need a Wyatt Earp to take everyone's guns at the city limits. If that law was good enough for Tombstone and wasn't challenged in Federal Court in 1879, it should be good enough now. No one messes with Wyatt Earp or at least no one who is not going allow idiots to be inside an establishment that sells booze while carying a handgun. I mean only a logical person would assume that people go into bars to drink, not to have gunfights. I mean they wouldn't ever do both because Cowboys don't kill people unless they got it coming, after all, so we all should be safe.
Wednesday, June 15, 2011
The Reaction In Green Township Is Predictable
The Enquirer is reporting about Green Township residents' reaction to the settlement that would add public housing, 32 units, to their township. They report that many are fearful. One township trustee says he has heard people say this will cause them to move.
I am not going to say, without evidence, that this is a big issue to all or even most of the people in Green Township, but damn for those who are so scared that they are voicing their fears, they are really prejudice bigots. I know some conservative is going to get in my face for calling them bigots, but when you assume that poor people will bring so much crime to your neighborhood that you are going to leave, then that is bigotry and harsh prejudice. The underlying cause and what is not being said, and should be said, is that the fearful ninnies are assuming these poor people are either black or Latino. No, I can't read their minds, but would they move because a bunch of poor white people were going to move in? No, if that were the case this article would not have been written, because no one would be calling their local politicians about it. You wouldn't see Chris Monzel's photo in the article's montage.
History shows, and we have the city neighborhoods to prove it, that when poor minorities moved into a neighborhood, most of the whites moved out. We have come a long way since this happened, but the mindset is still there in far too many minds, and those with the kneejerk reaction to move when the thought of 32 more poor minority households are to be added to their community are a big part of our continued race relations problems. It would be nice if they would act like adults, but we can't expect miracles.
I am not going to say, without evidence, that this is a big issue to all or even most of the people in Green Township, but damn for those who are so scared that they are voicing their fears, they are really prejudice bigots. I know some conservative is going to get in my face for calling them bigots, but when you assume that poor people will bring so much crime to your neighborhood that you are going to leave, then that is bigotry and harsh prejudice. The underlying cause and what is not being said, and should be said, is that the fearful ninnies are assuming these poor people are either black or Latino. No, I can't read their minds, but would they move because a bunch of poor white people were going to move in? No, if that were the case this article would not have been written, because no one would be calling their local politicians about it. You wouldn't see Chris Monzel's photo in the article's montage.
History shows, and we have the city neighborhoods to prove it, that when poor minorities moved into a neighborhood, most of the whites moved out. We have come a long way since this happened, but the mindset is still there in far too many minds, and those with the kneejerk reaction to move when the thought of 32 more poor minority households are to be added to their community are a big part of our continued race relations problems. It would be nice if they would act like adults, but we can't expect miracles.
Local News at Risk
Jim Hopkins at the Gannettblog had an interesting post recently discussing a study that states that America is facing a "shortage of local, professional accountability reporting."
We don't have enough reporters covering local and state level government. Cincinnati audiences have a handful of reporters covering nearly all of the local governments on a regular basis. Some reporters from TV sometimes will add some coverage of local governments, but nothing consistent.
The cause of this shortage is obviously the debatable issue. People will blame corporations, exclusively, or blame one political party over the other. The group that deserves most of the blame, as I have said often, is the audience.
At this year's Cincinnati Fringe Festival an edgy production called Music for Newspapers and Radios illustrated this issue quite well. At one point in the show, four actors read out loud different portions of that day's Cincinnati Enquirer. One person read the sports section out loud. Another read the TV listings, while still another read out the crossword puzzle. The fourth was reading the front page story on the State budget deal. She was passionate about it and felt the importance of the story and read it louder to the others so they might pay attention. They were oblivious and stuck to the entertainment they had before them. As if almost in a trance, they focused on sports, TV, or the crossword and ignored her rising voice issuing a news story that would affect them. It was important for them to know what it said, but being entertained was more important. After while the front page news reader tired and just fell asleep with the others. She gave up.
News outlets have given up trying. They are giving people what they want and they want to be amused. They don't care about consuming news that actually will have an impact on their community and would be needed to make choices on who should run the government. The idea of not having to think and just buying a pre-made idea is so much easier for our mindless consumer and image based society.
Our local news is at risk and when it dies, neither American Idol or ESPN will carry the story.
We don't have enough reporters covering local and state level government. Cincinnati audiences have a handful of reporters covering nearly all of the local governments on a regular basis. Some reporters from TV sometimes will add some coverage of local governments, but nothing consistent.
The cause of this shortage is obviously the debatable issue. People will blame corporations, exclusively, or blame one political party over the other. The group that deserves most of the blame, as I have said often, is the audience.
At this year's Cincinnati Fringe Festival an edgy production called Music for Newspapers and Radios illustrated this issue quite well. At one point in the show, four actors read out loud different portions of that day's Cincinnati Enquirer. One person read the sports section out loud. Another read the TV listings, while still another read out the crossword puzzle. The fourth was reading the front page story on the State budget deal. She was passionate about it and felt the importance of the story and read it louder to the others so they might pay attention. They were oblivious and stuck to the entertainment they had before them. As if almost in a trance, they focused on sports, TV, or the crossword and ignored her rising voice issuing a news story that would affect them. It was important for them to know what it said, but being entertained was more important. After while the front page news reader tired and just fell asleep with the others. She gave up.
News outlets have given up trying. They are giving people what they want and they want to be amused. They don't care about consuming news that actually will have an impact on their community and would be needed to make choices on who should run the government. The idea of not having to think and just buying a pre-made idea is so much easier for our mindless consumer and image based society.
Our local news is at risk and when it dies, neither American Idol or ESPN will carry the story.
Sunday, June 12, 2011
New Restaurant Coming to Downtown?
morning. This is on Vine Street between 6th and 7th Streets.
Pick of Fringe Awards Announced
The 2011 Cincinnati Fringe Festival came to close last night with the Pick of Fringe Awards. Here were the Winners:
FringeNext Audience Pick
The First Book of: The Bible
Audience Pick
Opal Opus: Journey to Alakazoo
Critic's Pick
Miss Magnolia Beaumont Goes to Provincetown
Producer's Pick
Memoir of a Mythomaniac: The True Story of a Compulsive Liar (or Tallulah Dies)
Other awards for Fringe were also announced last night: Theconveyor.com Awards of Excellence and the Acclaim awards singled out performances and individual elements of the event.
FringeNext Audience Pick
The First Book of: The Bible
Audience Pick
Opal Opus: Journey to Alakazoo
Critic's Pick
Miss Magnolia Beaumont Goes to Provincetown
Producer's Pick
Memoir of a Mythomaniac: The True Story of a Compulsive Liar (or Tallulah Dies)
Other awards for Fringe were also announced last night: Theconveyor.com Awards of Excellence and the Acclaim awards singled out performances and individual elements of the event.
Saturday, June 11, 2011
2011 TheConveyor Awards of Excellence at CincyFringe Announced
TheConveyor.com has posted their Awards of Excellencefor the Cincinnati Fringe Festival. Congratulations to all winners. It was a wonderful festival. Start the clock for 2012!
Wednesday, June 08, 2011
Real Talk 1160 Makes 700WLW Look Good
In Conservative Talk radio Circles, at least in the lower rated ones, it appears to be just fine to be bigoted/racist against blacks and be an on-air host. WQRT 1160-AM has hired Eric Deters as an evening talk radio host, with future plans to move him to mornings, as a lead in for Dennis Miller. This is after Deters was fired by 700 WLW-AM for making a racist remark on a video posted to his Facebook page.
Somehow WLW did the right thing. As CityBeat noted today, however, why hasn't WLW fired radio host Bill Cunningham for saying the large number of extreme and offensive things he has said over the years?
Somehow WLW did the right thing. As CityBeat noted today, however, why hasn't WLW fired radio host Bill Cunningham for saying the large number of extreme and offensive things he has said over the years?
Monday, June 06, 2011
Enquirer Starts 'Breaking News' Blog
The Cincinnati Enquirer started a blog: This Just IN: Breaking News from the Tri-State on Friday. It appears to be mostly a quick news feed of selected eye catching stories with little more than initial reports and no analysis. I don't see this is as a blog at all, just a repackaging of the stories that appear on the front page.
What makes blogs different is that they can provide a voice and space. First, they lend themselves to commentary, as mine does. That is sorely missing at the Enquirer overall and is not present so far in this new blog endeavor. Second, blogs do well with long form feature stories. They give more space that can't fit into the newspapers and can utilize multimedia more effectively.
The one plus I do see in this blog is that so far the blog content on their website have not fallen into the pay archive. That gives a better online historical reference, but still not a complete one. This doesn't mean that these archives will stay open forever, something that makes this less of a blog.
If this more space for more hard news on Cincinnati.com overall, then that will be another plus. I don't find it has added more, yet. I can be hopeful it does.
What makes blogs different is that they can provide a voice and space. First, they lend themselves to commentary, as mine does. That is sorely missing at the Enquirer overall and is not present so far in this new blog endeavor. Second, blogs do well with long form feature stories. They give more space that can't fit into the newspapers and can utilize multimedia more effectively.
The one plus I do see in this blog is that so far the blog content on their website have not fallen into the pay archive. That gives a better online historical reference, but still not a complete one. This doesn't mean that these archives will stay open forever, something that makes this less of a blog.
If this more space for more hard news on Cincinnati.com overall, then that will be another plus. I don't find it has added more, yet. I can be hopeful it does.
Sunday, June 05, 2011
Greenhornes Playing Fountain Square Sept 2
I have been busy Fringing and missed the Big Announcement from MidPoint about their full Indie Summer at Fountain Square schedule, which will include the Greenhornes on September 2nd. Mark that date on your music calendars. What great way to end the summer!
Thursday, June 02, 2011
CincyFringe Day One Reviews Are Up at TheConveyor.com
Over at the TheConveyor.com you can follow along my coverage of the Cincinnati Fringe Festival and I've got two reviews posted from shows I saw last night on day one.
Headscarf and the Angry Bitch
White Girl
Two more shows are on tap for tonight:
The Vindle Voss Family Circus
Peyote Business Lunch
Headscarf and the Angry Bitch
White Girl
Two more shows are on tap for tonight:
The Vindle Voss Family Circus
Peyote Business Lunch
Can We Focus On One Thing At a Time?
I like the idea of an Incline. I also like Wendell Young, but we need to focus on building a Streetcar and battles ahead instead of pushing new ideas.
The revised blog post linked above from Jane Prendergast also implies that Young is hedging on the Streetcar. I hope Wendell clarifies his position.
The revised blog post linked above from Jane Prendergast also implies that Young is hedging on the Streetcar. I hope Wendell clarifies his position.
Wednesday, June 01, 2011
Tuesday, May 31, 2011
CincyFringe 2011 Nine Don't Miss Shows
Until I see a play, I can't really tell you if it is good or not. For the Cincinnati Fringe Festival, there are 33 performances, including FringeNext, and several other special events. Based on show descriptions, prior experiences with the performers and producers, I've come up with nine shows that would advise that are don't miss shows. If you have a particular preference for a type of show, you may want to do a little more research yourself. This takes my tastes in play and my tastes are not going to be compatible with everyone. In something akin to alphabetical order, here they are:
101 Rules for Dating, of Which You Will Hear 20 or So...
Curriculum Vitae
Darker
Headscarf and the Angry Bitch
I Love You (We're Fucked)
Peyote Business Lunch
The VindleVoss Family Circus Spectacular!
Tooth and 'Nuckle
You Only Live Forever Once
Don't shy away from any of the other performances. There are always some surprise hits, so pay attention to the buzz every night at the Fringe Bar Series. The back-room gossip from audience members can be very interesting and very contradictory. If you don't like any of these shows, please let me know why. I learn nearly as much from seeing a show as discussing the show with someone else who say it and comparing our opinions. That's the part of all forms of art that we don't do often enough. Art is both an emotional and intellectual experience. We need to exercise the latter more often than we do.
Sunday, May 29, 2011
Ladies & Gentleman: The VindleVoss Family Circus Spectacular!
See The VindleVoss Family Circus Spectacular! at the Cincinnati Fringe Festival. This show opens on June 2nd. Go to www.cincyfringe.com for tickets and a listing of over 30 other productions.
Saturday, May 28, 2011
Chapter 1 of Sir Derek of Snow vs. The Blue Suite #CincyFringe
Somewhere in this dazzling serial there rests a mystery that can only be solved by seeking out a web browser, going to www.cincyfringe.com, and buying as many tickets to Fringes shows as your credit card allows.
If you don't buy them, don't hold anyone but yourself responsible for what might happen...
If you don't buy them, don't hold anyone but yourself responsible for what might happen...
Thursday, May 26, 2011
Council Member Wayne Lippert Supports COAST
Cincinnati council member Wayne Lippert is set to be a "co-host" of a fundraiser for COAST's political action committee for a June event featuring national conservative-activist Grover Norquist.
Yes, that is "the" COAST.
That is the COAST bent on doing what ever it can to block any type of progress and development the City is trying to push forward.
That is the same COAST that mocks people who live anywhere in the City of Cincinnati that isn't either majority white or majority upper-middle class.
That is the same COAST that has no known members who actually live in the City of Cincinnati.
That is the same COAST that purports lies about anyone and everyone that dares speak out against their vitriol.
You may be wondering why a member of Cincinnati City Council would support a group like COAST. I'm wondering the same thing. COAST represents the mindset that has been holding Cincinnati back. What possible reason would any member of council support this group? Sure, there is the political angle, which likely is part of the game here. There is suburbanite money to be gained, and COAST has some far right-ring surban money out to keep the city down. There has to be more to it than that. Ok, fine, Grover Norquist is a well know speaker to Conservatives. If one wants to go the event as a Republican, I can comprehend doing so. I don't get "co-hosting" the event to benefit a group like COAST. That ties Lippert to the group more than just attending the event. This links Lippert to everything COAST has done.
When COAST wastes tax payer money to file a nuisance lawsuit against the City and the Mayor because they seek to harm the Mayor's personal financial income, that is something that will be linked to Lippert.
Some would ask how I can claim Lippert is going to be linked to everything COAST or a member of COAST does. Well, that is rather easy. Lippert will be linked to COAST because he chose to support them and every time he does not voice his disagreement with a position or action they take, I believe it's fair game to assume he concurs with it. When they do something outrageous and offensive and Lippert does not denounce it, then his silence is a clear sign of agreement. That is the bargain made when you "co-sponsor" an event and willfully show your support for a political organization. You buy it, you own it. Those who get into bed with the Local NAACP, for example, are burdened with the selfishness that is Chris Smitherman, so this fits along the same lines. The problem here is that the local NAACP is in bed with COAST, so that type of mutual opportunism reeks of hazing at a really dreadful frat house, but that's a whole different topic.
What I am seeing Lippert and nearly all of the other Republican candidates for city council do is play politics like this is Washington, D.C. They are playing alliances like they are either running for a Federal level office or for a suburban township board of trustees. We live in a city. It is a real place. We have Democrats here that make up a majority of populace. We also have citizens who mostly believe in reality. COAST lives in a fantasy land with an antebellum political philosophy that ignores the reality of the last 150 years. Over that time cities were and are the center of progress. We didn't win two world wars from ideas formed on farms or cul-de-sacs, we won them from the ideas born in urban areas. Cities foster ideas on how to live with each other, not on ideas on how to live apart. If Lippert wants to be a leader, he needs to lead the GOP and himself away from the nut-cases like COAST. If not, he's going to end up another nut-case.
A first step for Wayne is to voice why he's supporting COAST (or denounce them for their tactics). I'll open up my blog for a response from him or his campaign, published without alteration. Drop me a line and I'll get it up as quickly as I can. I want to understand why a Cincinnati council member supports COAST and I believe the rest of you out there want to know the same thing, so I look forward to a retort of my comments.
Yes, that is "the" COAST.
That is the COAST bent on doing what ever it can to block any type of progress and development the City is trying to push forward.
That is the same COAST that mocks people who live anywhere in the City of Cincinnati that isn't either majority white or majority upper-middle class.
That is the same COAST that has no known members who actually live in the City of Cincinnati.
That is the same COAST that purports lies about anyone and everyone that dares speak out against their vitriol.
You may be wondering why a member of Cincinnati City Council would support a group like COAST. I'm wondering the same thing. COAST represents the mindset that has been holding Cincinnati back. What possible reason would any member of council support this group? Sure, there is the political angle, which likely is part of the game here. There is suburbanite money to be gained, and COAST has some far right-ring surban money out to keep the city down. There has to be more to it than that. Ok, fine, Grover Norquist is a well know speaker to Conservatives. If one wants to go the event as a Republican, I can comprehend doing so. I don't get "co-hosting" the event to benefit a group like COAST. That ties Lippert to the group more than just attending the event. This links Lippert to everything COAST has done.
When COAST wastes tax payer money to file a nuisance lawsuit against the City and the Mayor because they seek to harm the Mayor's personal financial income, that is something that will be linked to Lippert.
Some would ask how I can claim Lippert is going to be linked to everything COAST or a member of COAST does. Well, that is rather easy. Lippert will be linked to COAST because he chose to support them and every time he does not voice his disagreement with a position or action they take, I believe it's fair game to assume he concurs with it. When they do something outrageous and offensive and Lippert does not denounce it, then his silence is a clear sign of agreement. That is the bargain made when you "co-sponsor" an event and willfully show your support for a political organization. You buy it, you own it. Those who get into bed with the Local NAACP, for example, are burdened with the selfishness that is Chris Smitherman, so this fits along the same lines. The problem here is that the local NAACP is in bed with COAST, so that type of mutual opportunism reeks of hazing at a really dreadful frat house, but that's a whole different topic.
What I am seeing Lippert and nearly all of the other Republican candidates for city council do is play politics like this is Washington, D.C. They are playing alliances like they are either running for a Federal level office or for a suburban township board of trustees. We live in a city. It is a real place. We have Democrats here that make up a majority of populace. We also have citizens who mostly believe in reality. COAST lives in a fantasy land with an antebellum political philosophy that ignores the reality of the last 150 years. Over that time cities were and are the center of progress. We didn't win two world wars from ideas formed on farms or cul-de-sacs, we won them from the ideas born in urban areas. Cities foster ideas on how to live with each other, not on ideas on how to live apart. If Lippert wants to be a leader, he needs to lead the GOP and himself away from the nut-cases like COAST. If not, he's going to end up another nut-case.
A first step for Wayne is to voice why he's supporting COAST (or denounce them for their tactics). I'll open up my blog for a response from him or his campaign, published without alteration. Drop me a line and I'll get it up as quickly as I can. I want to understand why a Cincinnati council member supports COAST and I believe the rest of you out there want to know the same thing, so I look forward to a retort of my comments.
Wednesday, May 18, 2011
Enquirer Still Lacking on Analysis, Producing More Bias
It is not new for the Enquirer to specially highlight crime in OTR over other areas, but when they do, it would be less biased if they did a few things.
WLWT recently focused on a why the recent anti-crime blitz of OTR failed, but their story covering the same story the Enquirer covered instead focued on the overall murder rate and police calls for more resources. They didn't target OTR the same way, they lumped the whole city together, a different type of bias. WKRC has similar story to WLWT.
- Know the neighborhood better: Do the analysis and show where in OTR the crimes have taken place. You could answer better why something is happening statistically if you know where in the neighborhood these crimes are taken place. There are a couple of hot spots. Then you might answer why police don't target those areas.
- Before putting of this type of news report, tell us who is publishing it and why they are doing this know. Are council members using this for political gain?
- If you are going to talk about increases, why not share the attention where shootings have risen at as high or higher rates, like in Northside, Lower Price Hill, Madisonville, North Avondale, and Bond Hill.
- Why does the article address why Avondale's rate fell so much? In 2010 Avondale had almost twice as many shootings. In 2011 it had about half as many.
- Why weren't any residents who live say North of Liberty in OTR interviewed, or not included in the article? I guess that get's back to my first point, something Journalist no longer do: know the people and areas they cover.
- Why not ask why police don't patrol OTR as much anymore? Are shootings up in one place and down in other because of where police patrol and the drug dealing and criminal element go where the police are not?
WLWT recently focused on a why the recent anti-crime blitz of OTR failed, but their story covering the same story the Enquirer covered instead focued on the overall murder rate and police calls for more resources. They didn't target OTR the same way, they lumped the whole city together, a different type of bias. WKRC has similar story to WLWT.
Monday, May 16, 2011
Live Penguins at the Know Theatre!!!!!!!
DougScout out did himself for the final installment of the the Saga of DougScout.
Help the Know Theatre keep DougScout and the rest of the staff and company continuing to make amazing theatre right here in Over-the-Rhine. Head to their donate now page, click on the donate Today button and give what you can. The more you give, the happier you will feel, guaranteed!
Help the Know Theatre keep DougScout and the rest of the staff and company continuing to make amazing theatre right here in Over-the-Rhine. Head to their donate now page, click on the donate Today button and give what you can. The more you give, the happier you will feel, guaranteed!
Saturday, May 14, 2011
Data Comparisons Can Due Wonders
I don't know how long it would have taken, but some Cincinnati City Official found out that 400+ City of Cincinnati Employees have outstanding parking tickets to the City. I can personally attest that a comparison like this wouldn't take long. Say 15 minutes if you have two lists with compatible indexes. A little longer if reformatting would be involved, but any database software and/or a spreadsheet tool would due. Why wasn't this done before? Why just now? I think it would be a good idea for any government to compare any list of individuals who owe it money to those who are employees by such government. There may be laws against this in some jurisdictions, but if there are, they should be repealed immediately.
Wednesday, May 11, 2011
Kasich Is Waxing His Pinto
Prince John Kasich, Governor of Ohio, is playing chicken with Casino developers and they just gunned their muscle car directly at Kasich's Pinto. He really might want to consider swerving his Pinto out of the way or he will end up as roadkill.
Winburn Stunt Backfires: Streetcar Support Shines!
Cincinnati City Council Member Charlie Winburn's stunt backfired Wednesday night when Cincy Streetcar supports turned out in great numbers to politely voice their support for the Streetcar and for the city as special council session called by Winburn and other Council Republicans. Social media reports indicated that 40 out of 45 citizen speakers were in favor of the Streetcar project. Several attendees reported on Twitter that many of the the small number of Streetcar opponents were disruptive and all anti-streetcar speakers yelled into the microphone and spoke longer than the two minutes alloted.
Another report indicated that alleged candidate for Cincinnati City Council and local NAACP president Chris Smitherman had a confrontation of some type, possibly with security in council chambers. If the political reporters are not paying attention and don't report on his antics, then they are propping up his candidacy just to attract readers or viewers.
The clear message was the Streetcar has strong support from Cincinnati and the handful of people who are against it couldn't muster up enough suburbanites to drive downtown at 6PM on a Wednesday. We also saw Charlie Winburn comes across like a fool, playing a game instead of doing his job. All that's left to see how the mainstream media butchers the story in favor of the nut cases (like COAST and Smitherman) or of the Republican Council members who played more for contributions and Westside votes than they did actually constructively discussing the issue.
UPDATE: Here's the Enquirer Story with more on Smitherman's apparent angry reaction to getting his picture taken. Other than covering the Smitherman outburst, the article gives the usual bias against the Streetcar by given the opposition to the Streetcar more ink than to view of supporters the overwhelming number in attendance. It isn't balanced when you report the number of supporters, but quote a small percentage of them, while giving 2 of 5 of the anti-streetcar speakers opinions in the article, adding to it the anti-streetcar Republicans comments and you get a biased story. What we have come to expect from the Enquirer on this topic.
Another report indicated that alleged candidate for Cincinnati City Council and local NAACP president Chris Smitherman had a confrontation of some type, possibly with security in council chambers. If the political reporters are not paying attention and don't report on his antics, then they are propping up his candidacy just to attract readers or viewers.
The clear message was the Streetcar has strong support from Cincinnati and the handful of people who are against it couldn't muster up enough suburbanites to drive downtown at 6PM on a Wednesday. We also saw Charlie Winburn comes across like a fool, playing a game instead of doing his job. All that's left to see how the mainstream media butchers the story in favor of the nut cases (like COAST and Smitherman) or of the Republican Council members who played more for contributions and Westside votes than they did actually constructively discussing the issue.
UPDATE: Here's the Enquirer Story with more on Smitherman's apparent angry reaction to getting his picture taken. Other than covering the Smitherman outburst, the article gives the usual bias against the Streetcar by given the opposition to the Streetcar more ink than to view of supporters the overwhelming number in attendance. It isn't balanced when you report the number of supporters, but quote a small percentage of them, while giving 2 of 5 of the anti-streetcar speakers opinions in the article, adding to it the anti-streetcar Republicans comments and you get a biased story. What we have come to expect from the Enquirer on this topic.
Golf Rankings Clearly Are Worth the Time of a Political Reporter
I for one am 'totally ecstatic' that the Enquirer's Washington based political reporter blogged about the golf handicap of John Boehner. That has relevance, surely it does. Golf handicaps are a 'true' measure of political power and everyone in the world knows this. How do you think the seating arrangements work at GOP National convention!
At least the reporter mentioned that although Boehner has a much better handicap than President Obama, VP Joe Biden crushes them both. Gotta be impartial, exept when it comes to the focus of the story, because it appears people in West Chester want to read about the Speaker of the House only in a positive or human interest sort of a way. Gotta be a 'Homer" after all and you can't make the Speaker of the House look worse than the VP, except in the order of succession.
I think the Enquirer can just fire all of its Sport reporters, since they were scooped by the political beat with this Earth shattering blog post.
I am so much better off for knowing all of this. I can't count the ways that my political knowledge has grown. I can't think of any other political stories that could possibly be more important. Zero. None. Nada.
At least the reporter mentioned that although Boehner has a much better handicap than President Obama, VP Joe Biden crushes them both. Gotta be impartial, exept when it comes to the focus of the story, because it appears people in West Chester want to read about the Speaker of the House only in a positive or human interest sort of a way. Gotta be a 'Homer" after all and you can't make the Speaker of the House look worse than the VP, except in the order of succession.
I think the Enquirer can just fire all of its Sport reporters, since they were scooped by the political beat with this Earth shattering blog post.
I am so much better off for knowing all of this. I can't count the ways that my political knowledge has grown. I can't think of any other political stories that could possibly be more important. Zero. None. Nada.
Tuesday, May 10, 2011
DougScout Of The Dance...
Help the Know Theatre pay for DougScout's dance classes or he's going to dance at your wedding and he's not going to be drunk!
Winburn Uses Council Meeting For Campaign Stunt
Council member Charlie Winburn wants to have a Council Meeting during his Campaign Stunt. So he's gotten the two appointed Republican council members to help him create a faux council meeting to use a prop in his Campaign for city council. This meeting takes place Wednesday evening (May 11th) at 6PM, so if you have time, go down and ask Charlie Winburn why he is using a council meeting as a prop in his Campaign stunt. I'd also advise asking him why he sent out a pdf flier about his campaign stunt disguised as a Council meeting with his picture on it with a doozy of a quote, which reads:
“Although I do not support the streetcar, I think we need to hold the Mayor, City Manager, and City Council accountable for wasting $99 million of taxpayer money.”So, first, what a poorly written quote. It reminds me of using the same word more than once in a sentence. Like: The fast lemming moved really fast over the cliff. Secondly, what kind of an ass emails this kind of thing from his council email? It is tacky. It is a waste of time and resources and it's only purpose is to give Winburn (and his GOP accomplices) a platform to campaign for council. It doesn't appear to break any obvious rules, but it certainly was designed to skirt the law and promote his candidacy. Here's what it looked like:
Monday, May 09, 2011
Slow Local News Day or is WCPO Just Saving Money?
This morning I opened WCPO's Website and found that four of the seven top stories on their Front Page were Not local stories. Here's how it looked:
The three local stories are:
- A weather story
- A wedding story with a Royal Tie in
- A story about the report that a bid move is to be filmed in the Cincinnati area
Those stories may have a story buried on the website, but they are not important enough to have stories on the front page to get your attention. Instead, you get weather, fluff, and stories with good pictures or about something that may in some minor way affect your kids. Exurbanites appear to be kid obsessed, so get their attention and you have them hooked. None of these non-local stories cost anything extra to WCPO because they were written by a non-local journalist. They are cheap and catch the eyes of the non-engaged reader who might care about reading topics that they could get on many national news outlets.
Yes, local TV news sucks. This isn't a rarity, this is what it does. If a local story is big enough, it takes the lead, otherwise the rest if filler from affiliates with stories that matter more other places or belong on national outlets. This is NOT a plot to keep people ignorant, this is what the masses consume. You, the reader, don't care much about local news, so no one tries to sell you on it very often. Our willful desire to be ignorant about what is happening in our communities helps create horrible local journalism. If you want Walmart, that is what you will get.
Wednesday, May 04, 2011
Chris Bortz Is Running For Council
Cincinnati City Council Member Chris Bortz will seek another term on council, his last before being term-limited.
The Charter Committee endorsed candidate had been on the fence about running, but has publicly made his decision to run.
Bortz has strong backing and likely will do well in the election. He puts a dent into the chance of adding new faces to City Council. All current officer holders are running, so no open seats are up for grabs, but three current officer holders are unelected appointees and will face stiff challenge from several candidates.
The Charter Committee endorsed candidate had been on the fence about running, but has publicly made his decision to run.
Bortz has strong backing and likely will do well in the election. He puts a dent into the chance of adding new faces to City Council. All current officer holders are running, so no open seats are up for grabs, but three current officer holders are unelected appointees and will face stiff challenge from several candidates.
Monday, May 02, 2011
Osama Bin Laden Is Dead: Justice.
The criminal Osama Bin Laden has been killed by American forces. The death of any human being is never something to be joyous about, but this is justice. This was necessary. This was an honorable act. The horror this man caused was unfathomable by most people, less the few who lived through it or had a relative or friend killed by this murderer. The only thing more satisfying than his death would have been to parade this criminal into a courtroom to put him on trial for his crimes against humanity, but this evil man likely would never have been taken alive.
I applaud our government and the American forces who took action to ride the world of this criminal.
Bin Laden's death will not end terrorism in the world and will not end al Qaeda, but this is a blow to those who seek to murder the innocent in a delusional effort to push forth a twisted ideological/religious stance on the world.
I applaud our government and the American forces who took action to ride the world of this criminal.
Bin Laden's death will not end terrorism in the world and will not end al Qaeda, but this is a blow to those who seek to murder the innocent in a delusional effort to push forth a twisted ideological/religious stance on the world.
Saturday, April 30, 2011
Teilen/Rhine Brings Community Together May 1st at MOTR
Friday, April 29, 2011
OTR Picnic To Benefit Tucker's Shooting Victims Saturday April 30th
The first annual OTR picnic will be held this Saturday (tomorrow April 30th) in St. Francis Seraph’s secret garden (corner of Vine & Liberty) from 1-5pm. Come join us celebrate spring with live music from Robin Lacey & Dezydeco and the Wild Mountain Berries. Food will be provided and drinks will be available to purchase. Organizers will raffle loads of Downtown items thanks to our neighboring retailers and restaurants.
A $10 donation is requested at the door and the event is open to the public. All proceed will go to Carla Tucker and Ronisha Burgin, the two women injured during the shooting at Tucker's Restaurant in January 2011.
Special thanks to the event's partners & contributing parties: Coca-Cola, Christian Moerlein, Arnold’s Bar & Grill, The B-List in Bellevue, KY, Dewey’s Pizza, Dr. Dennis Suggs, Findlay Market,
The Lackman, Lavamatic, Local 127, Madison’s at Findlay, Maumee World Traders, Mica, Milton’s Prospect Hill Tavern, MidPoint Music Festival, Motr Pub, Neon’s Unplugged, Park + Vine, PetWants, Queen City Underground Walking Tours, Rookwood Tile, Segway of Cincinnati, Senate, Shadeau Bread & Shalini Latour.
A $10 donation is requested at the door and the event is open to the public. All proceed will go to Carla Tucker and Ronisha Burgin, the two women injured during the shooting at Tucker's Restaurant in January 2011.
Special thanks to the event's partners & contributing parties: Coca-Cola, Christian Moerlein, Arnold’s Bar & Grill, The B-List in Bellevue, KY, Dewey’s Pizza, Dr. Dennis Suggs, Findlay Market,
The Lackman, Lavamatic, Local 127, Madison’s at Findlay, Maumee World Traders, Mica, Milton’s Prospect Hill Tavern, MidPoint Music Festival, Motr Pub, Neon’s Unplugged, Park + Vine, PetWants, Queen City Underground Walking Tours, Rookwood Tile, Segway of Cincinnati, Senate, Shadeau Bread & Shalini Latour.
Thursday, April 28, 2011
It's DougScout vs Tarbell: Give to the Know Theatre
If you were expecting King Kong vs Godzilla, you might be disappointed, but you can share the legendary view on who is who? DougScout has some King Kong qualities, but Tarbell does as well. The only way to solve the mystery is to go to see the Know's production of the Dragon! There you will have to ask a staff member: "Does DougScout symbolize King Kong or Godzilla?" You will need to ask more than one staff member, since you will certainly get more than one answer.
Help the Know Theatre keep DougScout out of trouble. A newspaper route doesn't keep wayward boys on the right track by itself.
Tuesday, April 26, 2011
No Free Lunch for Cops
The People of Cincinnati should not be subsidizing private money making efforts of police officers. 100% of the costs of administering the off-duty private details should be paid by either the police or the private groups that are their customers. I find it amazing that most of the conservatives on council, according to the Enquirer, want the city to subsidize the private business interests of Cincinnati Police officers.
Council Member Leslie Ghiz made a proposal to only charge police officers a much smaller flat fee for their private business enterprize's costs. This smaller fee would bar far not pay for the expenses incurred to administer the enterprise and Ghiz is seeking to make up the budget by cutting the Mayor's office and the Office of Enviornmental Quality by #100,000. Additionally she wants to cut the HEALTH DEPARTMENT by $200,000. Yes, it appears Ghiz favors police officers making money for themselves, (outside of their full time job to serve the pubic) over the health of the citizens of Cincinnati. I know she's a shill for the FOP, but I think this is taking things a bit too far. It was also really disappointing to see Chris Bortz and Wayne Lippert supporting Ghiz's plan to subsidize the police's private business. I don't see how this can be seen as anything other than a political ploy for an FOP endorsement. Winburn played it down the middle, and for some unknown reason abstained. Is he church a customer of the off-duty police enterprise?
Council Member Leslie Ghiz made a proposal to only charge police officers a much smaller flat fee for their private business enterprize's costs. This smaller fee would bar far not pay for the expenses incurred to administer the enterprise and Ghiz is seeking to make up the budget by cutting the Mayor's office and the Office of Enviornmental Quality by #100,000. Additionally she wants to cut the HEALTH DEPARTMENT by $200,000. Yes, it appears Ghiz favors police officers making money for themselves, (outside of their full time job to serve the pubic) over the health of the citizens of Cincinnati. I know she's a shill for the FOP, but I think this is taking things a bit too far. It was also really disappointing to see Chris Bortz and Wayne Lippert supporting Ghiz's plan to subsidize the police's private business. I don't see how this can be seen as anything other than a political ploy for an FOP endorsement. Winburn played it down the middle, and for some unknown reason abstained. Is he church a customer of the off-duty police enterprise?
Monday, April 25, 2011
CincyPac Kicks off the 2011 Election Season With Fundraiser
CincyPac, the YPish based polical action group is kicking of it's activities in the 2011 election season with a fundraiser and the chance for politically mind people to network, drink and maybe learn a little bit about this year's elections. Neon's is the spot this Friday, April 29th, where you can participate in a the happy hour starting at 5:30 and stay for the scavenger hunt starting at 7:30. Details are here.
Friday, April 22, 2011
DougScout: The Movie Will Blow You Away Like the Wind - Support the Know Theatre!
Help the Know Theatre make this movie into the best Theatre humanly possible for one person to write, produce, direct, stage manage, sound design, make cosumtes, and act in. Give them some money!!!!!
Ok, excuse the next part of the this blog post as I gratuitously play for getting a quote on the DougScout movie poster:
You'll pee your pants if you see this movie. You'll poop your pant if you don't
B. Griffin - Cincinnati Blog
Thursday, April 21, 2011
State of the City Speech Tonight: What Will the Mayor's Message Be?
Cincinnati Mayor Mark Mallory will give his State of the City Speech tonight (April 21st) at the Duke Center. This will be an opportunity for the Mayor to update the City on what the next step will be for the Streetcar Project, since State funding was removed for partisan political reasons by Ohio Governor John Kasich. I hope the takes advantage of that opportunity. We need a plan to move forward.
With the City elections coming up later this year, I also wonder if the speech will contain other issues that will form a rally point for Democratic candidates, both incumbents and challengers. The Mayor is a lame duck, so he does not have the sway inside the city's political circles. There is a Federal election coming up in 2012 and no Democratic candidates have announced, so if the Mayor is looking to put his hat into the ring and face Steve Chabot, this would be a chance to preview himself to a wider audience.
Candidates for congress in 2012 need to be working towards that immediately, if they plan on winning. The only thing holding them back is redistricting, which will be controlled by Republicans. The issue facing us locally will be how much of Hamilton County will Republicans give to District 1 (Chabot) and how much do they give District 2 (Schmidt). Hamilton County is majority Dem right now, barely, so neither incumbent really wants more of the County in their district, unless you cut it up like Swiss cheese.
If Mayor Mallory doesn't run, who else is positioned to run?
With the City elections coming up later this year, I also wonder if the speech will contain other issues that will form a rally point for Democratic candidates, both incumbents and challengers. The Mayor is a lame duck, so he does not have the sway inside the city's political circles. There is a Federal election coming up in 2012 and no Democratic candidates have announced, so if the Mayor is looking to put his hat into the ring and face Steve Chabot, this would be a chance to preview himself to a wider audience.
Candidates for congress in 2012 need to be working towards that immediately, if they plan on winning. The only thing holding them back is redistricting, which will be controlled by Republicans. The issue facing us locally will be how much of Hamilton County will Republicans give to District 1 (Chabot) and how much do they give District 2 (Schmidt). Hamilton County is majority Dem right now, barely, so neither incumbent really wants more of the County in their district, unless you cut it up like Swiss cheese.
If Mayor Mallory doesn't run, who else is positioned to run?
Wednesday, April 20, 2011
MPMF Announced Indie Summer Series Initial Headliners
The Midpoint Music Festival has announced the initial headliners for the first portion of Indie Summer at Fountain Square.
June 3rd: You You’re Awesome with Javelin and Lydia Burrell
June 10th: Neon Indian with Oberhofer.
June 17th: Maps & Atlases
June 24th: Asobi Seksu with Prussia.
July 1st: Pomegranates
July 8th: Big Freedia
The remainder of the headliners and opening acts will be announced later in the year.
June 3rd: You You’re Awesome with Javelin and Lydia Burrell
June 10th: Neon Indian with Oberhofer.
June 17th: Maps & Atlases
June 24th: Asobi Seksu with Prussia.
July 1st: Pomegranates
July 8th: Big Freedia
The remainder of the headliners and opening acts will be announced later in the year.
How Did you Ride Out the Storm?
The warning sirens echoing off buildings woke me up around 1:30 AM this morning and the sights out my window were quite alarming. Seeing rain drops pushed by the brutal wind like blowing snow in a winter blizzard was unsettling even to my usually calm nerves. Other than venturing out to close the hallway window in my building, I stayed in my condo and watched TV for about 20 minutes until things calmed back down.
I was able to get back to sleep rather easily, so my lost period of slumber hopefully won't affect me like those up all night. I predict the line at Coffee Emporium will be out the door this morning.
Damage I hope wasn't too bad for most people. There are reports of chairs been ripped of decks in OTR and many trees were toppled, including this one into a house in Mt. Lookout.
I was able to get back to sleep rather easily, so my lost period of slumber hopefully won't affect me like those up all night. I predict the line at Coffee Emporium will be out the door this morning.
Damage I hope wasn't too bad for most people. There are reports of chairs been ripped of decks in OTR and many trees were toppled, including this one into a house in Mt. Lookout.
Tuesday, April 19, 2011
Pones Inc 3rd B-Day Bash April 23rd at the Avenue
Support local theatre with a modest suggested $3 donation at the door. Details:
Saturday April 23rd 8pm -2am
- Launch of Pones Inc. NEW SWAG Line (including t-shirts & bumper stickers)
- Launch of Pones Inc. Donation Feature on Website
- Back to Back Local Bands and DJs
- Pizza and Cake
- Graffiti Wall
- Party Favors
- Videos and Projection
- Dance Party and
- Get your DRINK On
The Avenue Lounge and Patio
411 Madison Ave.
The Remaining Joesph-Beth Bookstores to be Autioned
Joesph-Beth Booksellers is in bankruptcy and has closed four of its nine stores, but reportedly a financing plan was rejected forcing the remaining five stores to be sold at auction. This of course includes the store in Norwood near Hyde Park, which is a main stop for well know authors on book tours.
The impression I get from the article is that the auction would intend to keep the business going, but I don't see how that can be assumed. In an auction the buyer usually has pretty much no strings attached if they pay the price bid, but in this type of business auction, there may be other rules or requirements.
It will be a dark day for books if Joesph-Beth closes. There are so few book stores left and e-books are becoming so common that the future of retail book selling is not bright for small or even medium sized companies. Book stores used to be a core pillar of American Intellectualism. Now, Walmart sells more books than any other company. They have a horrible selection and censor books at the drop of a hat. Knowing what to read should not be left to the Walmarts nor to online popularity lists at Amazon.
The impression I get from the article is that the auction would intend to keep the business going, but I don't see how that can be assumed. In an auction the buyer usually has pretty much no strings attached if they pay the price bid, but in this type of business auction, there may be other rules or requirements.
It will be a dark day for books if Joesph-Beth closes. There are so few book stores left and e-books are becoming so common that the future of retail book selling is not bright for small or even medium sized companies. Book stores used to be a core pillar of American Intellectualism. Now, Walmart sells more books than any other company. They have a horrible selection and censor books at the drop of a hat. Knowing what to read should not be left to the Walmarts nor to online popularity lists at Amazon.
Monday, April 18, 2011
A Cincinnati Police Officer Shot and Killed a Man in Northside
Details this morning are very limited but news reports indicate that a Cincinnati Police officer shot and killed a man early Monday morning around 3AM in Northside near Chase and Georgia Avenues.
A press conference is scheduled at 11AM.
WCPO is reporting that police were called to a location on Chase Avenune to "intervene" in some type of situation.
WLWT also reported what sounded like a rumor that the suspect may have been involved in a shooting from the prior night. I could not find any news reports of a shooting either on Sunday or Saturday.
More from the Enquirer.
A press conference is scheduled at 11AM.
WCPO is reporting that police were called to a location on Chase Avenune to "intervene" in some type of situation.
WLWT also reported what sounded like a rumor that the suspect may have been involved in a shooting from the prior night. I could not find any news reports of a shooting either on Sunday or Saturday.
More from the Enquirer.
Friday, April 15, 2011
Cincinnati Council Candidate to Appear at Glendale 'Tea Party' Event
The Glendale 'Tea Party' is holding a Tax Day Rally and are featuring Cincinnati Republican Council Candidate Catherine Smith Mills. Their website even includes a reference to here as "Cincinnati Council Conservative Candidate."
Why would a candidate for Cincinnati City Council make an appearance in Glendale, outside the City of Cincinnati. at a far right-wing political event? Is she looking for contributions from the likes of Finney and Mike Wilson. Too bad they are doing everything they can to hurt the City.
How can this win her votes in this election? Are there a significant number of citizens who would vote for a candidate who looks outside the City for Support and finds it in anti-Cincinnati groups?
If one wants to gain votes from the people of Cincinnati, it might help if you'd spend more time with them, and less time with those trying to undermine the city. I guess some might call that conventional wisdom. I'm sure a high-priced political consultant advised Ms. Smith Mills to head to the Suburbs to find money, but damn it looks bad. She's hanging out with a bunch of nutty crack pots. I guess she's writing off every moderate vote in the City.
I suggest that is she wants to appeal to suburbanite Republicans, she move to where she can actually represent them in public office.
Why would a candidate for Cincinnati City Council make an appearance in Glendale, outside the City of Cincinnati. at a far right-wing political event? Is she looking for contributions from the likes of Finney and Mike Wilson. Too bad they are doing everything they can to hurt the City.
How can this win her votes in this election? Are there a significant number of citizens who would vote for a candidate who looks outside the City for Support and finds it in anti-Cincinnati groups?
If one wants to gain votes from the people of Cincinnati, it might help if you'd spend more time with them, and less time with those trying to undermine the city. I guess some might call that conventional wisdom. I'm sure a high-priced political consultant advised Ms. Smith Mills to head to the Suburbs to find money, but damn it looks bad. She's hanging out with a bunch of nutty crack pots. I guess she's writing off every moderate vote in the City.
I suggest that is she wants to appeal to suburbanite Republicans, she move to where she can actually represent them in public office.
Thursday, April 14, 2011
Help The Governor: Tell Him What Is NOT Cool
In an effort to reach out across party lines, I will am making a 'sincere' effort to help Ohio Governor John Kasich Understand what is and what is not cool. He made it clear that he wants Ohio to be cool, so we can attract younger people to the state. (No this was not an Onion story) To make it easy, I thought I would point out a bunch of stuff that is NOT cool. These are random things, that I am sure he already knows, but just needs a little refresher.
Ok, so things that are NOT Cool:
So that's a start, what else can you share with the Governor to help him know what is NOT Cool.
Ok, so things that are NOT Cool:
- Lawn darts
- Driving a Hummer full of $4 dollar a gallon gas to the suburbs
- Milli Vanilli
- Zima
- MySpace
- Handguns
- Lawn Jockeys
- War
- Banning same-sex marriage
- American Idol
- FOX News
- Destroying the freedom for women to control their own bodies
- Canceling a high speed rail project that would create 16,000 jobs
- Making it more difficult to vote
- Cutting funding for the arts
- Pushing religion on others
- Being anti-urbanist
- Asphalt
- Cul-de-sacs
- Taking political revenge on Cites, like Cincinnati, for not voting for you
- Revoking a grant to build a Streetcar project that would develop the inner city
- Taking away the rights of Ohio citizens to collectively bargain
- Being anti-public transit, especially rail projects
- Mocking Portland, then praising Austin for basically the same reasons
So that's a start, what else can you share with the Governor to help him know what is NOT Cool.
Wednesday, April 13, 2011
Bunbury Musc Festival Coming to Sawyer Point in 2012
Soapbox's Sean Rhiney has an interview with Bill Donabedian, managing director of Fountain Square and co-founder of the Midpoint Music Festival (along with Rhiney), and they discuss Donabedian's plans to hold a music festival called Bunbury in July of 2012 along the Ohio River at Sawyer Point.
Plans are for a "Lollapaloza" or "Pitchfork" type of festival which would have a combination of the best of local music and national acts. Donabedian's ideal would be to have groups like "The National" and "Flaming Lips". I'd presume he'd include more locals along the lines of Bad Veins, the Seedy Seeds, and Wussy, but that's just my speculation.
I love the idea. I really hope it can give the right mix of national, regional, and local acts. I also am pleased that it doesn't appear to be conflicting with any other big local indie music event. It does appear to be occurring during the World Choir games taking place in Cincinnati in 2012. I don't know if that is intended or not. With a large group of people already here, that is good, but there could be some logistical issues.
Bunbury would no matter what be a great way for Midpoint to market to music fans and get them to come to that event the following September. Other music venues or events could also find opportunity getting their names known to fans and music acts by helping out (Southgate House, MOTR, Northside Tavern, Mayday, and Comet come to mind.)
I look forward to hearing more details on how the festival will work and who the team will be to get it done.
Plans are for a "Lollapaloza" or "Pitchfork" type of festival which would have a combination of the best of local music and national acts. Donabedian's ideal would be to have groups like "The National" and "Flaming Lips". I'd presume he'd include more locals along the lines of Bad Veins, the Seedy Seeds, and Wussy, but that's just my speculation.
I love the idea. I really hope it can give the right mix of national, regional, and local acts. I also am pleased that it doesn't appear to be conflicting with any other big local indie music event. It does appear to be occurring during the World Choir games taking place in Cincinnati in 2012. I don't know if that is intended or not. With a large group of people already here, that is good, but there could be some logistical issues.
Bunbury would no matter what be a great way for Midpoint to market to music fans and get them to come to that event the following September. Other music venues or events could also find opportunity getting their names known to fans and music acts by helping out (Southgate House, MOTR, Northside Tavern, Mayday, and Comet come to mind.)
I look forward to hearing more details on how the festival will work and who the team will be to get it done.
Tuesday, April 12, 2011
Smitherman Is Running, Supposedly
The Enquirer is reporting that local NAACP President Chris Smitherman is running for City Council. He said this before, so I will believe it when he is on the ballot.
We have a clear lack of independent candidates running, so adding more is a good thing, but Smitherman is an attention whore concerned only about himself. His one term on council was a worthless disaster and he managed to piss off so many people that he lost the next election. He wants attention and I expect the Enquirer will give him all he wants, as they do on a regular basis, while ignoring other news. Now they'll just ignore other candidates in favor of the three ring circus.
We don't need a political circus and that is all Smitherman does. He will makes some outlandish comments, make some implausible and divisive proposals and will not be criticized by the Enquirer.
Let's just hope this is yet another Smitherman ploy, that will fade away faster than the stench of rotten meat.
We have a clear lack of independent candidates running, so adding more is a good thing, but Smitherman is an attention whore concerned only about himself. His one term on council was a worthless disaster and he managed to piss off so many people that he lost the next election. He wants attention and I expect the Enquirer will give him all he wants, as they do on a regular basis, while ignoring other news. Now they'll just ignore other candidates in favor of the three ring circus.
We don't need a political circus and that is all Smitherman does. He will makes some outlandish comments, make some implausible and divisive proposals and will not be criticized by the Enquirer.
Let's just hope this is yet another Smitherman ploy, that will fade away faster than the stench of rotten meat.
Monday, April 11, 2011
So Is Sheree Paolello Biased Or Just a Jerk?
WLWT news anchor Sheree Paolello made this open mic goof back on March 31st, mocking former Congressman Steve Driehaus:
So is she biased or just a jerk? I doubt she intentionally did this, but is it a sign of a political opinion that is lurking deep below the surface? On the other hand, she could be a jerk who likes to mock politicians. Either way, she's looks really petty and foolish, two things you don't want in a TV news anchor.
Via Kiesewetter.
So is she biased or just a jerk? I doubt she intentionally did this, but is it a sign of a political opinion that is lurking deep below the surface? On the other hand, she could be a jerk who likes to mock politicians. Either way, she's looks really petty and foolish, two things you don't want in a TV news anchor.
Via Kiesewetter.
Saturday, April 09, 2011
Democratic Party Endorsements for Council Made Official
CityBeat's Kevin Osborne has the run down of Thursday's meeting of the Cincinnati Democratic Committee, where endorsements for Cincinnati City Council were made official. No surprises arose and the recommended slate was approved. The endorsements are:
Nicholas Hollan
Roxanne Qualls
Laure Quinlivan
Jason Riveiro
Chris Seelbach
Yvette Simpson
P.G. Sittenfeld
Cecil Thomas
Wendell Young
Nicholas Hollan
Roxanne Qualls
Laure Quinlivan
Jason Riveiro
Chris Seelbach
Yvette Simpson
P.G. Sittenfeld
Cecil Thomas
Wendell Young
Friday, April 08, 2011
Happy Arnold's Bar and Grill Day!
Today in the City of Cincinnati it is officially Arnold's Bar and Grill Day! Head to Arnold's to celebrate 150 years of a history, drinks, and great food.
The Enquirer has a look back at Arnold's history through photos. Political events run deep at Arnold's.
If you are interested in more Cincinnati political history, check out Boss Cox's Cincinnati: Urban Politics in the Progressive Era (Urban Life and Urban Landscape Series)
The Enquirer has a look back at Arnold's history through photos. Political events run deep at Arnold's.
If you are interested in more Cincinnati political history, check out Boss Cox's Cincinnati: Urban Politics in the Progressive Era (Urban Life and Urban Landscape Series)
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