UrbanCincy

Live Jazz & Wine Tasting on Fountain Square - 5/7

2010-05-07T15:30:00.000-04:00

Fountain Square will play host to a wine tasting and sampling event with dozens of wines from around the world Friday, May 7 - making it the place to end the work week.

Event organizers state that knowledgeable staff will be on hand Cork 'N Bottle to help guests explore the wine selection and learn about each wine they taste. There will also be food available for purchase and live jazz by the Faux Frenchman (5pm to 8pm) and the Chris Comer Trio (8pm to 11pm) filling Fountain Square with music.

The wine tasting will start at 5pm and last until 11pm. Admission is free, but those wanting to engage in the wine tasting will have to purchase wine tickets that can be exchanged for small tastings or full glasses. For those not interested in the wine, then the music and calm spring night should be enough to get you out and out on Fountain Square for the evening.

Fountain Square Wine Tasting photograph by PicNewbie.

Cincinnati hosts EACC high-speed rail conference

2010-05-06T07:05:00.003-04:00

The 2010 Urban and Regional Public Transportation Conference, held May 5 at The Westin Hotel and sponsored by the European-American Chamber of Commerce, featured presentations by over a dozen industry experts including a keynote speech by John D. Porcari, Deputy Secretary of Transportation of the U.S. Department of Transportation.

“America’s rail infrastructure is in shambles”, said Parcari, whose department is shifting policy away from a decades-old process that considered road or rail projects individually but could not easily approve multimodal projects.

In working to rebuild “the squandered investments of our grandparents”, Parcari described a profound turnaround in federal transportation policy from one that encouraged sprawl to one that will promote walkable smart growth. He promised that America’s new generation of passenger trains will not be assembled here from components manufactured overseas, but rather be “100% American” in order to “capture every piece of the high speed rail value chain”.

Although the announced policy changes portend an increased opportunity for federal assistance for local rail transit projects, Parcari stressed that in the short term those places with their “act together” will be first to benefit from these changes.

Speaking on the matter of the $400 3C’s grant, Matt Dietrich, Executive Director of the Ohio Rail Development Commission, remarked that early in the planning of the 3C’s line, Amtrak offered to sell Ohio a variety of retired and surplus locomotives and passenger cars for $10-$15 million. But after grants were awarded to projects in other regions, that equipment has been directed elsewhere, and Ohio has now budgeted $175 million – almost half of the 3C’s grant – for new passenger trains.

The constricted budget means grant funds are presently unavailable for construction of a track connection to Cincinnati Union Terminal. A permanent suburban station is planned for Sharonville and a temporary terminal station is planned for Cincinnati in Bond Hill.

Cleveland’s station will be located on that city’s lakefront, with a convenient connection to its Waterfront light rail line. Both Dayton and Columbus will have stations located in their respective downtowns.

Dietrich also discussed plans for a station at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, possibly within walking distance of the National Museum of the United States Air Force. The base is the state’s largest single-site employer and the museum is, aside from King’s Island and Cedar Point, the state’s most popular tourist attraction.

The conference also featured speakers from France, Spain, Germany, and England, each of whom discussed not only the technical aspects of their high speed trains, but also how their networks are funded and administered.

Tom Stables, Senior Vice President of Commercial Development for First Group, discussed how England awards franchises to approximately a dozen different companies who for periods of seven to ten years operate the county’s various commuter and intercity train lines.

Juergen Wilder, representing industry giant Siemens, described how a ticketing and revenue sharing agreement was achieved with Lufthansa after a high speed rail line extended to Frankfurt’s airport drew significant patronage away from the airline. In the face of competition from passenger rail, Wilder suggested that American carriers might seek similar arrangements or even bid to operate the country’s envisioned high speed rail lines.

Herve Le Caignec, representing SNCF, the company that operates the French TGV network, discussed attempts at private-public partnerships in the construction of new TGV lines. He also offered evidence of the TGV’s staggering success – every day trains seating 750-1100 passengers leave the French capital bound for Lyon and Marseilles every five minutes and do not just sell out individually, but all trains – more than 300 of them -- often sell out each weekend as Parisians escape their drizzle and migrate en masse to the Mediterranean coast.

Written by Jake Mecklenborg.

Dogfish beer tasting at Morton's - 5/7

2010-05-05T15:30:00.001-04:00

Morton's Steakhouse is hosting a "Hoppy Hour" beer tasting this Friday, May 7 at 6pm. The tasting will feature a variety of Dogfish Head Craft Brewery beers which is one of the fastest growing breweries in the country.

According to event organizers, guests will be able to sample four different Dogfish brews that will be paired with selected cheeses and accompanied by Morton's Petite Filet Mignon sandwiches, Tuna Tartare Canapés, Smoked Salmon Wedges and Lamb Chops with Brie. There will also be a beer specialists on hand that will give a short presentation on each beer being sampled.

The four Dogfish brews being sampled include their Midas Touch, Raison (Belgian Ale), 90 Minute IPA and Palo (Brown Ale). The 90 Minute IPA is one of Dogfish's most popular selections and has been identified as the "Best IPA in America" by Esquire Magazine. The four beer selection will offer a variety of tastes and styles though ranging from the simplicity of the Midas Touch to the complexity of flavors found in the Palo and Raison.

Tickets for the Hoppy Hour this Friday at Morton's (map) cost $45 which includes your beer samplings, food, tax and gratuity. Tickets can be purchased now by calling (513) 621-3111. Nearby on- and off-street parking is available along with valet service. Metro bus service is available (plan your trip) along with free bicycle parking on surrounding streets and on Fountain Square.

Dogfish Sampling photo by Bubli.

Collapsed wall of Cincinnati’s oldest brewery to be rebuilt

2010-05-05T07:30:00.000-04:00

Despite initial reports of the impending demolition of the structure, the western wall at the northeast corner of Stonewall and McMicken, nicknamed “Brewers Blvd” will be rebuilt and saved from the wrecking ball. The building in question is the oldest of seven structures that comprise the Clyffside Brewing complex in the northern section of Over the Rhine’s Brewery District.

In true micro-brewery fashion the two-story brick building, constructed in 1846, brewed only a modest 275 barrels of beer in its first year of operation under its original moniker of George Klotter & Company. Since those days, expansions and ownership changes have seen the buildings produce ales and lagers under the banners of Sohn, Mohawk, the aforementioned Clyffside, and most recently as Red Top Brewing Company, before closing its doors on September 27, 1957, leaving over 150 Cincinnatians jobless.

All is not lost however for Cincinnati’s oldest brewing structure. Owner Duane Donohoo confirms the wall will be rebuilt and the redevelopment plan, which includes condos with terraced, city-view decks and indoor parking, will move forward. When it is all said and done, Donohoo plans to put between $3-$3.5 million in the historic property, and hopes for it to be an anchor of a revitalized Brewery District.

“The whole reason I came to the Brewery District in the first place was to make a difference," exclaimed Donohoo. "It's such a gorgeous area and I want to do whatever I can to preserve the history and restore the buildings.”

The Clyffside Brewery redevelopment was first announced in April, 2008 to much fanfare. The building is not only in the historic Brewery District, but it is also at the northern end of the proposed Cincinnati Streetcar line. Once complete, the redeveloped Clyffside Brewery building will house 19 condos ranging from low-100's to the mid-200's.

Image of the historic brewery structure circa 1933 provided.

UrbanCincy Visual Showcase Wrap Up

2010-05-04T19:00:00.000-04:00

Allister Sears, Jake Mecklenborg and Jeremy Mosher gathered various pieces of their video and photography work highlighting Cincinnati's unique cityscape this past Friday, April 30 at the first-ever UrbanCincy Visual Showcase. The temporary exhibit drew around 100 or so people throughout the Final Friday Gallery Hop, and guests were treated to the work of these local artists.

Outside of the exhibit, Cafe de Wheels fed the masses along Vine Street. The buzz throughout Over-the-Rhine was palpable. If you were not able to make it out this past Friday, enjoy these photos from the event courtesy of 5chw4r7z. UrbanCincy would also like to thank Urban Sites for allowing us to use the commercial space along Vine Street for the gallery exhibit.

Cincinnati aims to double number of cyclists by 2015

2010-05-04T15:00:00.000-04:00

Cincinnati has been making bold efforts recently to establish itself a more bicycle friendly city. New bike lanes, sharrows, on-street bicycle parking, bicycle parking development requirements, a bike share program, a bicycle commuter station and a bold new Bicycle Transportation Plan are all helping to change Cincinnati's bicycling community for the better.

So far, the City's Department of Transportation & Engineering has made bicycle infrastructure improvements in several city neighborhoods including Clifton, University Heights, O'Bryonville, Walnut Hills and Northside. City officials hope that the new bicycle infrastructure and public policy will double the number of people bicycling regularly for transportation in five years. Many local bicycling advocated believe that some of those future improvements need to start happening now.

"We're urging the City to immediately begin putting bike lanes and other improvements in place on Riverside Drive, Madison Road and Spring Grove Avenue," stated Gary Wright, President, Queen City Bike. "Those three streets must be a critical part of any serious bike network in the City, and doing this now will show that this is not a plan that will sit on the shelf."

Of those three streets Wright mentioned, Madison Road is scheduled to be repaved this year making for a perfect opportunity to install bike lanes at the least possible cost to a major transportation route between eastern neighborhoods like Hyde Park to the center city.

Wright adds that Spring Grove Avenue runs right through the epicenter of Cincinnati's bike culture in Northside and that additional investment along Riverside Drive could bolster that corridor from the popular recreation route it is now to something much more.

"Adding bike lanes now and making other changes to slow traffic through the East End community will encourage more people to give street riding a try while also doing a lot to enhance the neighborhood," Wright explained. "Bike lanes along Riverside will not serve as a substitute for completing the Ohio River Trail, but they will also make the Little Miami Trail connection planned for Lunken more accessible to a few more riders right away."

Following eight months of surveys, open houses and on-the-street focus groups, the City is ready to release a draft of the plan and receive final comments from the public. The release of this plan will take place on Wednesday, May 5 from 6:30pm to 8:30pm at the Clifton Cultural Arts Center (map).

The Bicycle Transportation Plan calls for additional infrastructure improvements, educational and encouragement efforts, and enforcement programs. Those interested in providing feedback may do so by contacting the City with comments online or by calling (513) 591-6000 prior to Friday, May 14th.

On-street bike corral parking in Northside photograph provided

Downtown Cincinnati experiences strong progress during recession

2010-05-04T07:00:00.001-04:00

If Cincinnati is our home, then downtown is akin to our city’s kitchen. Downtown is where we, as a community, watch television (Fountain Square), downtown is where we eat, and downtown is where we complete our financial transactions. This is the analogy Mayor Mark Mallory used at the 2010 State of Downtown meeting held this past Thursday, April 29th.

Mayor Mallory also likened downtown to an engine that is “hot and running well” at the Annual Member Meeting hosted by Downtown Cincinnati Inc. (DCI). The positive 2009 report identified several positive indicators during one of the most difficult economic years the nation has seen including:

$116 million in completed construction and renovation project with another $1.6 billion in projects currently in progress
More than 445,000 square feet of office expansions, renewals and relocations in 2009
30 new retail/restaurant/entertainment establishments opened in the central business district
140 single family homes were sold, keeping population growth consistent with projections
$59 million economic impact of total room nights marked a record setting year for hotels
The Main Library, Cincinnati Museum Center, Krohn Conservatory and Fountain Square all posted record attendance years
Overall crime rate for the central business district/riverfront was down double digits in Part 1 and Part 2 offenses over the past decade, helping make Cincinnati the 7th safest city for pedestrians out of the nation’s 52 largest metro areas
DCI’s 3rd annual pedestrian count study showed a continued increase during peak weekday times (11am to 2pm), and a total increase of 20% in pedestrians during the evening hours
A partnership with the Hamilton County Department of Pretrial Services and the County Jail, University Hospital, Summit Behavioral Healthcare and others to identified the top 16 high risk panhandlers; placing 3 of the 16 cases in permanent housing to date

The meeting, which lasted for just a little over an hour, also included remarks from the Senior Regional Officer of the Cincinnati/Cleveland Branches of the Federal Reserve Bank Dr. LaVaughn Henry, Hamilton County Commissioner Greg Hartmann, Cincinnati City Manager Milton Dohoney, and DCI president David Ginsburg.

The speakers focused on the importance of economic development in the greater downtown areas, each bringing a different viewpoint to the podium. Commissioner Hartmann spoke briefly about the importance of downtown to all of Hamilton County and the region, while using the casino development as a prime example of how to get the public excited and involved in the development process. Dr. LaVaughn Henry addressed the national economic recession and stated that while unemployment is still high here in Cincinnati and across the country, the rate of job loss is slowing and consumer confidence is on the rise.

Downtown Cincinnati's population has experienced steady population growth since 2005, and is expected to double by 2012 with the continued renovation of Over-the-Rhine and the opening of The Banks.

City Manager Milton Dohoney stressed the importance of taking risks, while also being cautious in our approach. His remarks on economic development revolved around the creation of new jobs, smarter land use, and partnership and investment in our community.

“Big steps equal big gains,” Dohoney commented in regards to taking risks. “We must work on expanding our tax base, while also proving that we are an inclusive community.”

Following the meeting, UrbanCincy caught up with DCI President David Ginsburg where he discussed the importance of projects like The Banks and the Broadway Commons Casino ultimately not becoming a single destination. Ginsburg also brought up the importance of “zoning flexibility” when it comes to downtown vacancy issues.

“Our primary role is to enhance downtown’s potential as a vibrant, clean and communal place that attracts employers, art, music and the creative class,” Ginsburg stated. “We must continue to improve downtown’s perception by getting more people downtown to witness the improvements firsthand. You wouldn’t buy a new car until you test drove it, so we need to get more people to test drive downtown.”

Cincinnati finally in compliance with 1997 federal air regulations

2010-05-03T19:00:00.002-04:00

The Cincinnati-Hamilton Metropolitan Statistical Area has been recognized by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) for finally meeting 1997 federal air quality standards. The achievement by Hamilton, Butler, Clermont and Warren counties now puts all of Ohio in compliance with the 1997 federal ozone standard for the first time.

"Today we celebrate that the entire state of Ohio, for the first time, is meeting the 1997 ozone standard," said Ohio EPA Director Chris Korleski. "Air quality in the Cincinnati area and throughout the state has improved, but our work is not done."

The U.S. EPA first proposed the redesignation in March, 2010 that also included Dearborn County in Indiana. The Cincinnati MSA had to undergo air quality tests between 2007 and 2009, and prove it can maintain that status for 10 years in order to earn the redesignation from the U.S. EPA. But while all of Ohio and Cincinnati's MSA are now meeting the 1997 standard, this is not the case for newly proposed ozone standards that are more stringent and will be enforced starting in 2011.

"Ohio has achieved this milestone through sound air quality planning and effective pollution control programs," explained Bharat Mathur, EPA Acting Regional Administrator. "With this accomplishment, Ohio has helped to ensure that its residents are breathing cleaner air."

Seasonal market returns to Fountain Square May 4th

2010-05-03T15:30:00.000-04:00

The third annual Market on the Square returns to Cincinnati's central gathering point this Tuesday, May 4th. The seasonal market attracts hundreds of shoppers and visitors to Fountain Square every Tuesday afternoon through the summer months.

The Fountain Square Management Group has announced that this year's Strauss & Troy Market on the Square will include 20 different vendors and has been extended four weeks running from Tuesday, May 4 through Tuesday, September 28 between 11am and 2pm. This year's vendors will be selling produce, bakery goods, ready-to-eat foods, flowers/plants, jewelry and some other select items.

Fountain Square (map) is easily accessible by bike, Metro bus service (plan your trip) and automobile with daily parking available directly underneath the square in the Fountain Square Parking Garage.

Market on the Square photo by Thadd Fiala.

New renderings, details released on $46M Washington Park renovation

2010-05-03T06:30:00.001-04:00

A $46.2 million renovation and expansion of Washington Park is shaping up as one of those transformational projects that help push a neighborhood on the rebound even further. Throughout the first decade of the 21st Century, Cincinnati has seen just this happen with the renovation of Fountain Square downtown. Now as Over-the-Rhine continues to open new residences and businesses, projects like the Cincinnati Streetcar and the renovation and expansion of Washington Park may finally push the long-troubled neighborhood into wide-reaching prosperity.

The Washington Park project will include a $21.6 million, two-level underground parking garage that will lie beneath a 2-acre expansion of the park to 14th Street. The completed 500-space underground parking garage will mirror designs often found in dense European cities and that found at Fountain Square in downtown Cincinnati where an underground garage is integrated underneath the public space.

One of the major sticking points with the overall project has circled around the financing to make it happen. At the Cincinnati Center City Development Corporation's (3CDC) OTR Work Group meeting last week, officials secured nearly $21 million of the total $46.2 million needed to complete the project, with the remaining $25.2 million identified and pending approval.

Music Hall Plaza sits in front of the new Civic Green at the expanded Washington Park [TOP]. The new interactive water feature integrates a new element to the historic park in place of the pool that once sat next to the elementary school [BOTTOM]. Images provided.

The renovation of Washington Park will also create a central gathering space directly across the street from Music Hall's main entrance on Elm Street called the Music Hall Plaza. Music Hall Plaza will then flow directly east into a newly created civic lawn space that will cover roughly the size of a football field. On the south side of the Civic Lawn a new water feature will be created that will lead all the way to the park's historic bandstand.

The historic bandstand centrally located in Washington Park will be restored and "modernized for contemporary use" according to officials at 3CDC. Those enhancements will include audio/visual upgrades and the addition of a dramatic new lighting canopy encompassing the area surrounding the bandstand.

The historic bandstand will be upgraded and include a dramatic new lighting scheme [LEFT]. The $46M project will transform and expand one of Cincinnati's oldest parks [RIGHT]. Images provided.

One of the more anticipated features of the newly renovated Washington Park is a roughly 1/4-acre dog park to be located immediately west of the historic bandstand along Elm Street. The dog park will add a second dog park to Cincinnati's under-served urban core that has been experiencing tremendous population growth over recent years in both people and dogs.

Officials are finalizing the financing components and designs now and hope to begin construction work by summer 2010. Should construction begin at that point, a fall 2011 completion date is targeted.

UrbanCincy Visual Showcase tonight in OTR!

2010-04-30T15:30:00.000-04:00

Tonight Final Friday takes place throughout historic Over-the-Rhine. There will be dozens of galleries and businesses to visit, wine, food music and more. As part of this month's Final Friday gallery hop, UrbanCincy has organized the first-ever UrbanCincy Visual Showcase that will run from approximately 6pm to 10pm in the former A Lucky Step showroom on Vine Street (map).

Participating in the showcase are Jake Mecklenborg, Jeremy Mosher and Allister Sears. Together they will be displaying a variety of print and video pieces that highlight Cincinnati's urban core and city life in general.

Mecklenborg will be debuting a video that features a bike ride from Cincinnati's Fountain Square to the Ohio State Capital Building in Columbus. Sped up to roughly 600mph, or about the speed of sound, the video takes viewers along the network of bike trails that connect the two cities highlight the scenery along the way in addition to the gaps found in the trail system. Jake will also be showing his photography work of the Cincinnati Subway he has put together for a book he is currently writing on the rapid transit system's history that will be published later this year.

Mosher will be showcasing his unique Cincinnati cityscape collection through his critically acclaimed videography tonight. He will be joined by Allister who will be participating in his first gallery exhibition that will showcase his cityscape photography with a particular social perspective.

All of the participating artists will have prints available for purchase either on-site, or have ordering forms ready to be filled out in case you are interested. There will also be light refreshments and music at the gallery space - making it a perfect stop before or after a trip to Lavomatic or Senate. The gallery is free and open to the public, so be sure to come out and support local artists and businesses tonight in Over-the-Rhine for Final Friday.

Walnut Street photograph by Jake Mecklenborg

WNKU celebrates 25th Anniversary, plans for bright future

2010-04-30T10:00:00.000-04:00

Thursday, April 29 marked the official 25th anniversary for local radio station 89.7 WNKU. WNKU serves as a strong force in the local community and will be engaging in some terrific things they have planned to celebrate this special milestone.

First though, a little perspective on the station and my experiences with it might be useful. In the early 1990s, my brother-in-law started telling me about WNKU and I would tune in on occasion. Things were much different then at the station than they are today. While they did play good music, it was secondary to the news offering and it was hard to even know when music was going to be played. Oh, and the signal, the major complaint for years, was awful which made it hard to pick up the station.

Around 2000, I started to listen to the station more as I had moved back into Cincinnati from college and things had become a little more musical. From that point I have had an ongoing and interactive relationship with the station. This involvement included volunteering for fund drives (they are a public station, you know, which means you can become a member here), helping at events, and even recycling my Christmas Tree with them. Needless to say, the station holds a special place in my heart. Forget Clear Channel, WNKU even with its warts, is the one radio station for me in Cincinnati. As for that signal? Well it is significantly better now than it was two decades ago, though it is still imperfect. Oh, and did I mention that I won the contest for the Top 89 of 2006 (yes that is me in the picture)?

Aside from community involvement such as presenting this weekend’s Spring Pottery Fair, WNKU does play some great and diverse music. Just a few of the artists played earlier this week in a one hour stretch on Michael Grayson’s Morning Music include Widespread Panic, Bruce Springsteen, Joni Mitchell, Brazilian Girls, The Avett Brothers and Norah Jones. There is a little something for everyone, and WNKU is bound to introduce some new artists to us as well.

To celebrate their 25th anniversary WNKU will be hosting a concert series of course! In talking through plans with Director of Development Aaron Sharpe earlier this week, there is palpable excitement over some of the shows they are helping to bring to town. It all starts tonight with a special show featuring Ben Sollee and Daniel Martin Moore. Tickets can be purchased at the door for $20, or in advance online or by calling (859) 572-6700 - $15 for members and $18 for non-members.

If you are unable to make it to the show tonight at Highlands High School (map), there will be plenty of other shows in the series for you to attend. Most of these are in the traditional venues around town, but Aaron did say that the station is hoping to organize a special blowout concert towards the end of the summer as the grand finale, so stay tuned for details.

The anniversary party they hosted was at last night's final Tunes & Blooms show which featured a live broadcast and had about 3,200 people show up to catch Jake Speed as well as The Turkeys.

As WNKU embarks on the next 25 years, I asked Aaron what the future held. There were a few things he mentioned including offering a second station on their HD broadcast, and acquiring other frequencies to help with distribution as they recently did with 94.5FM in West Chester. Additionally, the station just hired its first full time sales position as things continue to grow and change.

Whatever the future may hold, we do not know. But what we do know is how great a community partner WNKU is today. Happy anniversary WNKU! You have risen from humble beginnings to places that nobody dreamed of, and we all look forward to seeing what is up your sleeve for the next 25 years.

Community Campaign raises $11M for Fine Arts Fund

2010-04-29T18:30:00.001-04:00

The Fine Arts Fund announced this evening that the Cincinnati community gave $11 million for the arts in during their annual campaign - matching their aggressive goal set last year. Julie Janson, Chair of the 2010 Annual Community Campaign for the Fine Arts Fund, said that the amount matched 2009's contributions and was more than any other such campaign in the nation.

The news comes as nonprofits and arts organizations around the country have struggled to raise money during a difficult economy, with many organizations scaling back their expectations. Fine Arts Fund leadership noted that donations came from people all over the region, with most people making less than $150 contributions.

"We decided that we had to set an ambitious goal in order to ensure that people continue to share the benefits of the arts that make our community such a vibrant and appealing place," Janson described in a press release. "And this year, setting a goal equal to last year's donations was very ambitious."

The Fine Arts Fund benefits nearly 100 arts organizations throughout the Cincinnati region including museums, theatre companies, dance companies and instructional organizations. Cincinnati's arts community received another major boost during this difficult economy when Louise Nippert donated $85 million in December to create a musical arts fund supporting the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra and the Cincinnati Opera.

"This is an extraordinary sign of community support for the arts and the benefits they bring to the entire area" Lee Carter, Chair of the Fine Arts Fund Board of Trustees, said. “People recognize that our dance, theatre, museums, music, art centers, and so forth make communities more vital and bring people together throughout the region."

On top of the $11 million raised in the Annual Community Campaign, several foundations contributed special initiative funding that totaled $12.3 million.

"We've heard from all corners of the region: the arts make our community a great place to live and visit,” Janson concluded.

CORRECTION: The Fine Arts Fund provides funding to nearly 100 organizations throughout the Cincinnati region, and provides additional services to dozens more. View a full list of grantees here.

Know Theatre to host 2nd Annual Derby Day Party - 5/1

2010-04-29T15:30:00.002-04:00

The Know Theatre will host their second annual Derby Day Party at Sycamore Place in downtown Cincinnati this Saturday, May 1 from 4pm to 7pm. The party will also celebrate the Know Theatre's 12th Season, and will help raise money for the non-profit theatre in historic Over-the-Rhine.

According to event organizers, the Derby Day Party has a $15 suggested donation and will include a live viewing of the race, bourbon tasting and mint juleps. There will also be prizes awarded for the three best hats and for those picking the horses that place in the 136th Annual Kentucky Derby. Raffle tickets purchased for the horse placing competition will have all proceeds go to benefit the Know Theatre.

The event will be held in the lobby of Sycamore Place at St. Xavier Park (map) in downtown Cincinnati. The location is served by on- and off-street automobile parking, nearby bicycle parking and Metro bus service (plan your trip).

Historic structures threatened by wrecking ball in OTR

2010-04-29T12:00:00.002-04:00

Early yesterday morning several buildings in the 1400 block of Vine Street were badly damaged by fire. The collection of buildings included the long-standing Smitty's clothing store and several apartments above where the residents lost just about everything.

The risk now is losing additional historic structures in one of the most at-risk and important historic districts in the nation. One building was already demolished yesterday following the fire clean up, and others are scheduled to be demolished today - including the building that houses Smitty's.

The Over-the-Rhine Foundation is asking residents to call Amit Ghosh (513-352-3433) from the City of Cincinnati immediately and ask that these buildings not be torn down, and instead be examined to see if they could be saved.

Danny Klinger, known for helping save the historic Meiner Flats building down the street recently, states that the City is required by ordinance to first attempt to preserve these buildings rather than demolishing them.

In historic districts, the administration will encourage the use of demolition funds to repair buildings rather than demolish them. At the very least, repair of a building will be funded for the same amount that it would cost to demolish the building.

"The City is ignoring its own laws by going straight for the demolition option rather than at least considering using the demo money to preserve these structures," Klinger implored. "Mr. Ghosh and his department must understand that those of us who care about preservation and about OTR are not ok with this. We expect that preservation be given full consideration."

UPDATE: Danny Klingler has just confirmed that the City has backed off of demolishing the remaining two structures for now, but he encourages everyone to continue to call to inform the City on their stance on preserving Over-the-Rhine's historic building stock, and to thank them for saving these structures for now.

Covington examining dog park for MainStrasse Village

2010-04-28T19:00:00.000-04:00

Residents of Covington's historic MainStrasse Village are yearning for a dog park that will provide another amenity in their neighborhood. Dog parks have become highly sought after by urban dwellers as city living becomes increasingly more attractive.

In Cincinnati, early efforts were stalled for a dog park downtown due to the lack of capital money to build the park. The efforts to create a downtown dog park yielded fruit earlier this year when Procter & Gamble's Pet Care division announced that it would contribute $50,000 towards the construction of a dog park on a half-acre piece of land on the eastern edge of downtown Cincinnati. Planners have also included a dog park in Washington Park's redesign that is to be reconstructed over the next year in historic Over-the-Rhine.

Dog park supporters in Covington will meet on Thursday, April 29 at 5:30pm on the second floor of Chez Nora (map). Those in attendance will hear from Tom Biedenhorn who was instrumental in making the Pioneer Paw Park reality. Biedenhorn will be joined by Covington Commissioner Sherry Carran who did the site design for the Pioneer Paw Park, and will share information from that project with the audience.

Urban Dog Park image courtesy of Ask Dog Lady.

Cincinnati to host conference on high-speed rail

2010-04-28T15:30:00.001-04:00

The European-American Chamber of Commerce (EACC) will host the Urban & Regional Public Transportation Conference on Wednesday, May 5 at the Westin Hotel in downtown Cincinnati. The EACC 2010 Conference & Gala will gather a group of international, national and regional transportation experts to discuss Ohio's 3C rail corridor and high-speed rail in general.

“High-speed rail has brought economic, social and environmental benefits to many countries around the world,” said EACC Executive Director, Anne Cappel. “The United States and the Midwest region can learn from case studies and experiences from our European counterparts and, hopefully, provide time and economic savings as we move forward."

Event organizers say that the conference is designed to address issues surrounding the 3C rail corridor with a pragmatic approach. Conference attendees will hear from experts involved in Ohio's high-speed rail plan in regard to its cost-effectiveness, safety and environmental impacts from local, regional and national levels.

Ohio's 3C rail corridor was recently awarded $400 million from the American Recovery & Reinvestment Act, and will eventually carry nearly 500,000 passengers annually between Cincinnati, Dayton, Columbus and Cleveland. The 3C rail corridor itself serves an estimated 6 million people and is considered to be the most under-served passenger rail corridor in America, and would eventually be connected into the larger Midwest High-Speed Rail Network.

The EACC 2010 Conference & Gala will include three panels made up of representatives from the U.S. Department of Transportation, Ohio Department of Transportation, Midwest High-Speed Rail Association, American Public Transportation Association, FirstGroup America, General Electric, the City of Cincinnati and representatives from England, France and Spain. The three panels will focus on Economic Development, Performance/Environmental Impact, Financial/Operational Models.

U.S. Deputy Secretary of Transportation, John D. Porcari, will deliver the conference's key note address to the hundreds of decision-makers and thought leaders expected to be in attendance.

The EACC 2010 Conference & Gala will take place at the Westin Hotel (map) in downtown Cincinnati from 10am to 9:30pm and include lunch, a cocktail/networking session following the conference, and the gala dinner. A variety of registration packages are available until Friday, April 30 at 5pm.

If you are unable to make the event, be sure to follow UrbanCincy on Twitter where we will be live tweeting from the conference using the #eaccConference hashtag.

High-Speed Rail image from Environmental Law & Policy Center.

Bold Fusion 2010 invites young professionals to realign

2010-04-28T09:18:00.001-04:00

The 6th Annual Cincinnati USA Regional Chamber summit for young professionals takes place this Thursday, April 29. Called Bold Fusion, the event offers an opportunity for the next generation of movers and shakers to come together and "challenge the way they work and live in Cincinnati USA."

The focus of this year's half-day event is on innovation and reshaping traditional work and lifestyles for the future. An impressive array of presenters is lined up to inspire and invoke new thoughts. Most notably, the keynote speaker is Cincinnati-native David Pescovitz, research director at The Institute for the Future and the co-editor of popular blog BoingBoing. His goal is to shake up the views of the Bold Fusion attendees and get them to rethink they way they live and the companies they represent professionally.

“Many of the best ideas may come from unexpected contributors," explained Pescovitz who went on to say that those contributors can come from so far outside an organization's own walls that they even speak a different language.

2009 Bold Fusion attendees [LEFT] were treated to Richard Boehne, CEO of E.W. Scripps [RIGHT], who served as the summit's keynote speaker last year. Images provided.

The other speakers are nothing to scoff at, either. The day kicks off with LPK's Vice President of Trends, Valerie Jacobs, giving a "back cast" that will look at the ways sociocultural trends have shaped our lives over the last several years, in order to propel us into the future.

There will also be other local professionals giving their personal accounts of jumping into the murky waters of innovation, and how they have grown and changed through those experiences, including Chris Ostoich of Blackbook and Ignite Cincinnati; Chris Graves, Enquirer Media/Locals on Living and Amy Storer-Scalia of CincyChic; Erika Brown, P&G Beauty & Grooming Brand Manager of Digital Strategy & Innovation, Founder of BeingGirl.com and Co-founder of Tremor; Meredith Holthaus and Pete Healy, Museum of Advertising; Elizabeth Edwards, Metro Innovation; and Steve Burns of AMP Electrical Vehicles.

A new twist this year is the introduction of Bold Fusion's "Lounge 140" which will feature an assemblage of local social media gurus. This group will be updating attendees and those who unable to make the event through their various social media outlets. UrbanCincy's own Jenny Kessler has been asked to be a part of Lounge 140, and will be tweeting about the event live @jenlkessler and from @UrbanCincy. Those looking to follow along with the live tweets about Bold Fusion can follow #CincyHype and even join in the conversation.

So, in a nutshell, why should you come to Bold Fusion?

"Bold Fusion 2010 wants all of Cincinnati USA's creative makers, hackers, innovators and passionistas to participate in the largest convergence of young talent in a single place, around a single topic in the region," said Jennifer Young, Marketing Communications Manager for Cincinnati USA. "Press pause, realign and decide what to make of your future."

Bold Fusion will take place Thursday, April 29 from 1pm to 5pm at the Westin Hotel (map), with a happy hour event following the summit from 5pm to 7pm. Nonprofits and companies sending two or more people to Bold Fusion can purchase tickets for $45. College students can register for $35, Cincinnati USA members will be able to get in for $60 and all others will be able to attend for $85. You can register online now or by calling (513) 579-3111.

The Banks development team releases new website, renderings for $600M development

2010-04-27T15:15:00.000-04:00

The progress being made at The Banks development along the Ohio River in downtown Cincinnati is palpable. Underground parking garages have been built to lift the development out of the 100-year flood plain and provide parking spaces for those living, working and visiting Cincinnati's central riverfront. With that complete, the buildings that will house 300 apartments, retail and office space are now rising on the eastern portion of the site near Great American Ball Park.

The development team responsible for the $600 million private investment has now released a new website, updated renderings for Phase 1 of the project and has begun a branding and marketing campaign intended to "define and illustrate" what it will be like to live, work and play at The Banks. The new campaign focuses around a slogan of "It's happening on the river" and includes a new logo in addition to the new website and marketing effort.

“I think after all these years, it’s hard for people to believe that things are finally happening at The Banks,” said Malloy Peterson, vice president of marketing at Carter. “This campaign, along with the ongoing construction now visible at the site, will help change that perception and start to build interest among the community that The Banks is really taking shape.”

The updated renderings illustrate the large sidewalks that will accommodate the many visitors and residents of the mixed-use development. The mid- and high-rise structures will include street-level retail that has apartments with balconies or office space on the upper floors.

Residential development above street-level retail spaces looking east along Freedom Way towards Great American Ball Park [TOP]. Corner retail development at 2nd & Main streets [BOTTOM]. All images provided by Carter and The Dawson Company.

“Throughout all aspects of this project, we’ve been steadfast in delivering a development that creates excitement and interest throughout Greater Cincinnati,” said Harold A. Dawson, Jr., president and chief executive officer for The Dawson Company. “With a grand opening a year away, this new campaign brings to life our team’s vision of The Banks.”

Those interested in living at one of the 300 apartments in Phase 1 of The Banks can now contact Kristi Fickert from Village Green Management at (888) 371-7241 or by email at liveatthebanks@villagegreen.com.

Both the private and public portions of the overall development are currently on-schedule, and will see the underground parking garage to the east of the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center open this June 2010, with a grand opening of the private development portion scheduled for spring 2011. Once fully built-out, The Banks development will house more than 3,000 new residents and will be Cincinnati's largest single, mixed-use development composed of residential, office, hotel and retail components.

Cincinnati to debut form-based code implementation strategy

2010-04-27T08:00:00.000-04:00

The City of Cincinnati will present its recommended strategy for implementing form-based codes at a special Planning Commission meeting on Friday, April 30 at 9am.

Form-based codes are two years in the making in Cincinnati where officials have met with communities around the country that have successfully implemented form-based codes of their own. Locally, the City of Bellevue, KY has finished the public involvement portion of their form-based code development process and is now moving towards adoption of the non-conventional zoning practice.

Cincinnati's implementation strategy will detail how form-based codes can be incorporated into the existing Cincinnati zoning code while also developing a process for creating and applying them throughout city neighborhoods.

This strategy has been developed through a collaborative effort between the City, Opitcos Design and Lisa Wise Consulting over the past four months. In 2008, Vice Mayor Roxanne Qualls and Councilmember Laketa Cole introduced a motion directing the administration to develop such a plan. Stakeholders have been meeting month since that time and are now getting closer to implementing a form-based code in one of the largest cities nationwide to date.

The special Planning Commission meeting being held on Friday, April 30 will be held from 9am to 11am at Two Centennial Plaza (J. Martin Griesel Room, 7th Floor) in downtown Cincinnati (map). Free bicycle parking is available nearby and the site is served by Metro (plan your trip). Cash parking garages and on-street parking is available nearby for automobiles.

Cincinnati's Clark Montessori High School seen as national model of success

2010-04-26T15:30:00.000-04:00

The nation's first public Montessori high school is a feather in the cap of Cincinnati Public School District, and Clark Montessori is also one of the best schools in Ohio's third largest public school district by student population. The school has now gone even further and been recognized on a national level as a model of educational success for other high schools across the United States.

This accomplishment has not gone unnoticed by President Obama who has established a goal of having the world's highest proportion of college graduates by 2020. As part of President Obama's education goals, he has established the Race to the Top High School Commencement Challenge which has been whittled down to six finalists including Cincinnati's Clark Montessori.

“These six schools represent just a few of the stories of success that are happening all across the country,” said Secretary of Education Arne Duncan. “We won’t accomplish the President’s national goal of leading the world in college completion by 2020 without the hard work and dedication of the school leaders, teachers and students exemplified by our six final high schools.”

To get to this point, Clark Montessori seniors worked with representatives from the Get Schooled Foundation to produce a video illustrating the excellence at their school. The video is currently being used as a judge for those voting for a winner from the six finalists. Starting today, voting opened to the public and Clark Montessori's application and video have been posted to the White House website. The winner of the competition will receive a visit from President Obama where he will deliver the spring commencement speech at the winning high school.

“The quality of the applications we received is a testament to the exciting work happening in schools throughout the country, and I look forward to visiting and speaking at the winning school later this spring," said President Obama.

In 2009, Clark Montessori graduated 100% of its senior class. You can vote for Cincinnati's Clark Montessori in the Race to the Top High School Commencement Challenge now until 11:59pm on Thursday, April 29.

Race to the Top Challenge announcement photograph provided.

LEED building practices helping turn around Covington neighborhood

2010-04-26T08:00:00.000-04:00

Two new homes in Covington have been awarded LEED certification by the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) for their green home building and design. The two homes become some of the first LEED certified homes in Kentucky, with the home at 520 Thomas Street being the first home to achieve LEED Gold.

The home was built by the Center for Great Neighborhoods (CGN), with assistance from the Local Initiatives Support Corporation (LISC) of Greater Cincinnati & Northern Kentucky and the City of Covington, and incorporates a variety of sustainable design features that include low-flow plumbing, low-e windows, EnergyStar-rated appliances, high efficiency HVAC systems, recycled construction materials, bamboo flooring, sustainably-harvested wood moldings and more. In total, the green building features of the new home scored the project 78.5 out of 136 total points possible in the LEED for Homes certification - Gold status projects must score between 70.5 and 85.5).

“As a LEED certified home, 520 Thomas Street serves as a model of greener living for the entire community,” said Nate Kredich, Vice President of Residential Market Development for the U.S. Green Building Council. “The home is at the national forefront of quality; and their example can help us all to live better by reducing our environmental footprint, cutting our utility bills, and coming home to a healthier place to live.”

The new homes are part of a larger revitalization wave happening in the Austinburg neighborhood of Covington which is bordered by the Licking River and the proposed Licking River Levee Walk.

"The Center for Great Neighborhoods aims to make Covington a place where people choose to live, work, and play," Rachel Hastings, Director of Neighborhood & Housing Initiatives with CGN, described. "We built homes on a formerly vacant lot in Covington’s Austinburg neighborhood at the request of the Austinburg Neighborhood Association in an attempt to increase home ownership and remove blight."

Hastings explained that the CGN uses its housing development program in a targeted effort to increase property values, reduce blight and increase high-quality affordable market-rate home ownership. She is also excited about the positive impact the Seneca Place development is having on the neighborhood which is seeing its first new construction in over 50 years.

"When neighbors saw the new homes being built, it helped restore their confidence in their neighborhood and encouraged them to make improvements on their home because they saw that they could get a return on their investment," explained Hastings. "The homes also show that, for a reasonable price, you can build LEED Gold homes that are easy for the average homeowner to maintain."

The new homes also mean an addition to Covington's tax base and new residents populating Covington's urban core. The success is planned to continue as CGN owns additional lots in the Austinburg neighborhood where it plans to construct an additional eight homes, and invest another estimated $1.6 million into the immediate area.

520 Thomas Street construction photograph provided.

First-ever UrbanCincy Visual Showcase - 4/30

2010-04-23T15:30:00.002-04:00

UrbanCincy will host its first-ever gallery exhibition at this month's Final Friday gallery hop in historic Over-the-Rhine. The gallery will focus on the works of three local Cincinnati photographers and videographers. Their work will celebrate Cincinnati built form and cityscape through photographs and engaging video pieces.

Photographer and transportation historian, Jake Mecklenborg, will be showcasing his cityscape photography in standard print form. Additionally, Mecklenborg will be premier his bicycle ride from Cincinnati's Fountain Square to the Statehouse in Columbus. The video has been sped up and will highlight the 100-plus mile journey.

North College Hill resident and UrbanCincy writer, Jeremy Mosher, will be showcasing his work covering Cincinnati's unique urban landscape through his critically acclaimed videography mode. Finally, Allister Sears will be participating in his first gallery exhibition and will showcase his urban cityscape photography in a variety of formats.

All of the participating artists will have prints available for purchase either on-site, or have ordering forms ready to be filled out in case you are interested.

The first-ever UrbanCincy Visual Showcase will take place on Friday, April 30 from 6pm to 10pm in the former A Lucky Step showroom on Vine Street (map). The location makes for a perfect stop before or after you visit Senate or Lavomatic. At the free showcase, visitors will be treated to light refreshments, music and an engaging gallery space perfect for anyone fascinated by Cincinnati's urban landscape.

Walnut Street photograph by Jake Mecklenborg.

Cincinnati Port Authority lands $1M grant for brownfield redevelopment

2010-04-23T10:00:00.001-04:00

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency announced yesterday that the Port Authority of Greater Cincinnati has been awarded a $1 million grant that will be used to investigate contaminated properties throughout Hamilton County referred to as brownfields.

The $1 million grant is broken up into two separate categories that includes $800,000 to investigate properties contaminated with hazardous substances, while the remaining $200,000 has been earmarked for the investigation of properties contaminated with petroleum.

Brownfield sites are more problematic to redevelop due to the contamination of the site that is often very costly and time consuming to clean. As a result it is quite typical that government agencies assist in such remediation processes in the form of financial assistance or liability deferral. Most recently the City of Cincinnati pledged to assist Boston Beer Company in its expansion efforts that include the redevelopment of a contaminated property adjacent to their existing West End operations.

“Returning brownfield sites to productive use has tremendous benefits for Cincinnati and Hamilton County,” said Port Authority President Kim Satzger. “A clean site is an enduring contribution to our environment and our economy.”

The collaborative effort between the Port Authority, City of Cincinnati and Hamilton County will focus on priority areas identified in the GO Cincinnati report including the Mill Creek Corridor, Madison Road Corridor and Seymour/Reading Road Corridor.

“As Greater Cincinnati’s industrial base declined, many Hamilton County communities were left with a legacy of abandoned and underutilized properties,” said Christine Russell, Director of Brownfield Development at the Port Authority who believes that the grant money offers an opportunity to continue to redevelop affected properties throughout the county.

According to the Port Authority, since 2001 it has worked on nine brownfield sites in Hamilton County, returned 157 acres of land to productive use, removed over 80,000 tons of contaminated soil, captured nearly 384,000 gallons of polluted water, recycled more than 1.7 million tons of steel and over 164,000 tons of concrete. Port Authority officials estimate that these projects have resulted in a $1.35 billion annual economic impact and supported 13,793 jobs.

Brownfield clean up work photo provided.

2010 MPMF Reveal Showcase at the CAC this Friday

2010-04-22T19:00:00.000-04:00

This Friday night marks the return of all things MidPoint to Cincinnati's urban core. It seems hard to believe that the 2009 version of MidPoint Music Festival is already seven months behind us, but it is. It also seems like just yesterday that bands like The Heartless Bastards and Chairlift were filling the tent in the parking lot at Grammer’s, and that acts were packing smaller venues like the Havana Martini Club and Mainstay throughout the course of a rainy September weekend. In any case, while the 2010 version of MPMF is a full five months away, MidPoint organizer Dan McCabe and his team have been very busy getting everything organized.

One such event upcoming is the 2010 Reveal Showcase being held at the Black Box at the Contemporary Arts Center in downtown Cincinnati. Tickets to the showcase starting at 8pm will cost $10 (tickets also available at the door). The event will feature three up-and-coming bands: The Buried Wires, Cincinnati’s own Pomegranates, and Aloha which will be headlining the event.

McCabe has been most proud about how MPMF has brought such a positive music experience to all of the attendees. Since 2008 attendance has increased at the music festival a whopping 27%. And while last year's festival was widely publicized for the programming debacle at Cadillac Ranch, at the end of the festival, McCabe pointed out how in the year that historic Over-the-Rhine was dubiously listed as America’s most dangerous neighborhood, MPMF went off without incident. He attributed this to a close relationship with businesses, a great crowd that is there to experience the music and a strong working relationship with District One of the Cincinnati Police Department.

With the biggest stage right in the heart of OTR at Grammer’s, many music lovers walked from the historic neighborhood to the Central Business District and vice versa. Without question, MPMF has had a positive impact on the community and the perception many concert goers may have had about OTR prior to visiting. Instead of reading the headlines and being scared away, everyone enjoyed themselves safely even if they had to dodge a few raindrops over the course of the weekend.

Instrument [LEFT] and The Sleeping Sea [RIGHT] perform at the 2009 Midpoint Music Festival - photos by Dave Rolfes.

While some businesses stayed open longer hours during 2009, the hope from MPMF organizers is that all of downtown will benefit from the music lovers roaming the streets for three consecutive days and even more businesses will find a way to partake this year through extended hours, specials or by partnering with the music festival in some way.

This year's festival will include even more bands than last year's record of 270. The success of last year’s expansion has given MPMF increased credibility which McCabe has described as being "embraced by the industry.”

2010 is currently shaping up to be the biggest year in the festival’s history with a hope of bringing in 350 acts. So far this year, submissions are about on pace with last year's where roughly 1,000 different acts submitted material for consideration. It is fully expected that 2010 will also push, if not exceed, the same number by the time the deadline comes around Friday, May 14.

For the immediate future though, this Friday's Reveal Showcase will offer up an opportunity for those interested to learn more about all things MidPoint. Aside from the show, there will be announcements regarding some of the acts already confirmed for MPMF 2010, an unveiling of the venues for the festival this fall, the new MPMF website will be launched and the full line-up will be revealed for the PNC MidPoint Indie Summer Series on Fountain Square.

Contemporary Arts Center photography by Jeremy Mosher.

Cincinnati's Northside community celebrates region's first on-street bike corral

2010-04-22T15:15:00.000-04:00

Today Northside residents and business owners will be gathering with bicycling advocates at Lingo Street and Hamilton Avenue to celebrate the installation of the region's first on-street bike corral.

The City of Cincinnati first began working on the new bike corral last month. Now complete, the bike corral removes one on-street automobile parking space and creates 12 on-street bicycle parking spaces. The bike corral project is the first of its kind in the region, and is similar in scope to recent projects in Portland and Seattle.

“Providing plenty of convenient and secure bicycle parking is a critical aspect of serving those who currently use bicycles for transportation and encouraging future cyclists," said Michael Moore, Interim Director of the Department of Transportation & Engineering (DOTE).

In total the project cost about $1,000 and was managed by the City's DOTE which has been aggressively implementing infrastructure improvements that make Cincinnati a more bicycle friendly city including new dedicated bike lanes, sharrows, trails and new bicycle parking requirements in parking garages.

Those interested in checking out the new bike corral are invited to join the Northside community, Cincinnati Bicycle/Pedestrian Advisory Committee (Bike/PAC), Queen City Bike and the Mobo Bicycle Coop at 6:30pm tonight at Lingo & Hamilton (map). Plenty of bicycle parking is available within the immediate vicinity, plus the site is served by Metro (plan your trip) and nearby automobile parking both on- and off-street.

Northside business district photo by Scott Beseler.

Mark Mallory offers words of praise, responsibility in 2010 State of the City

2010-04-22T09:30:00.000-04:00

As required by Cincinnati’s City Charter, Mayor Mark Mallory delivered the annual State of the City address to an enthusiastic crowd at the Duke Energy Convention Center last evening. As the mayor described it, the annual speech serves as a “report on the state of affairs of this great city,” and a way to ask ourselves, “where are we?”

The mayor, whose presentation lasted just over an hour, spoke casually and extemporaneously, without a hand-held microphone and without the assistance of a teleprompter or a podium.

After highlighting recent accolades the city has received for being the fourth best city in the U.S. for college graduates and the ninth most literate city, the mayor warned against just perusing the top 10 lists to know where we stand. Instead, he called on us to examine our character as a city.

“We have to place public safety as our number one priority,” Mallory stated as he began his discussion on the character of a quality city. The mayor used the example of two public safety officials in attendance whose heroics demonstrated great character. Their bravery, the mayor advised, ought to inspire Cincinnatians to work for the city’s betterment in their own lives. “What are you willing to do,” he asked, “to make this community safer?”

Mayor Mallory then stepped aside to show what would be the first of five brief videos during the address. The video highlighted the work that Cincinnati Initiative to Reduce Violence (CIRV) has done to address public safety and described the successes of CIRV as an alternative to the narrow minded “throw away the key” mentality that often does little to reduce crime.

The mayor then turned his attention to the economy. “We cannot talk about building our economy without talking about jobs,” he proclaimed. Citing an increased focus on public/private partnerships, 5,000 new jobs were created, he declared. Furthermore, the mayor cited how investments in public infrastructure projects grow the economy by employing workers on the construction, but also by creating desirable, livable places for future business growth. In a moment of self-deprecation, the mayor informed the audience that while he is excited that The Banks project will be complete by Reds Opening Day 2012, he would definitely not be throwing out the first pitch.

In “an effort to help those in the region better manage their money,” Mayor Mallory announced the creation of Bank on Greater Cincinnati. The program is a collaboration with the regions eight largest banks, Cincinnati, Covington and Newport. Recent reports indicate that those who patronize businesses that offer services like pay day loans pay on average pay $900 per year in fees. Instead, the Mayor’s program will encourage citizens to “save and build wealth” with healthier financial practices.

Furthermore, the mayor commented that we as a city must invest in those large projects that work to responsibly grow the economy. He cited the Cincinnati Streetcar is one such project, as described in the second of the four short videos. The clip noted the proven economic impact of rail transportation, with a ratio of more than a 10 to 1 return on investment, and that the proposed streetcar route will connect the city’s two largest employment centers.

The mayor stepped aside a third time to show the winning video from a contest that the Young Professional’s Kitchen Cabinet (YPKC) hosted to showcase local civic pride. The neighborhood of Pleasant Ridge submitted the winning clip, which showcased the area’s vibrancy, safety and diversity.

“We need to do all that we can to be green,” Mallory opined, shifting focus once more. Doing so requires investments in the future, like the work the Office of Environmental Quality (OEC) is doing. They are installing a green roof on City Hall, a project paid for by the savings the city is seeing from making other facilities more efficient. Recently, the OEC was awarded $20 million in grants to fund city efficiency projects, and just yesterday, another $17 million in stimulus finding was awarded to Cincinnati to help perform energy efficiency retrofits.

Mayor Mallory praised the work the YPKC is doing to help in the city’s effort to be more environmentally aware. They created a civic garden in Over-the-Rhine, and produced an award-winning video to encouraging people to recycle.

After noting that the city’s rich cultural heritage has a “definite impact on our economy,” Mallory praised the economic impact of the Convention and Visitor’s Bureau (CVB). Their efforts bring thousands of visitors yearly who collectively spend millions of dollars in our local economy. The mayor showed the fifth video clip, a video that the CVB uses to promote the city and the region to prospective visitors like the estimated 200,000 people who will attend the World Choir Games in 2012, driving an economic impact of more than $13 million.

Mayor Mallory closed with an acknowledgment that as citizens, “we must be good stewards to this home we call Cincinnati.” In an effort to increase the value of the city for future occupiers of this space, the city is building the tallest building ever in Cincinnati, completing a stunning new mixed-use development at The Banks, opening a casino and linking them all together with a modern streetcar system.

Mayor Mallory’s “enthusiasm for the city is contagious,” observed Vice Mayor Qualls after the program ended. “His call for responsibility to move the city forward is welcome." A recent Xavier graduate commented that the mayor seemed to be leading the city in a good direction, and that he seemed “more focused on the younger population” than others in the past. But perhaps CIRV's Greg Baker summed the address up the best when he commented that it was a “grand slam in demonstrating what it means to be a great Cincinnatian.”

Cincinnati region lands $17M for energy efficiency retrofits

2010-04-21T16:30:00.003-04:00

The Greater Cincinnati region landed $17 million for energy efficiency retrofit projects through the American Recovery & Reinvestment Act (ARRA). The grant was awarded through the U.S. Department of Energy's (DOE) Retrofit Ramp-Up initiative that is a collaborative effort to reduce energy costs for thousands of home and business owners throughout the Cincinnati region.

The energy efficiency retrofit funds will be supported locally by the Greater Cincinnati Retrofit Ramp-Up program run by the Greater Cincinnati Energy Alliance (GCEA). U.S. Representative Steve Driehaus (D-OH) states that the funds will help modernize the region's energy infrastructure and create jobs that are critically needed.

“Retrofit projects put people to work, increase energy efficiency in older buildings, and save ratepayers money on their utility bills,” Driehaus explained. “The Greater Cincinnati Energy Alliance has offered a plan to retrofit thousands of homes and businesses in our community, and I look forward to the alliance putting these resources to good use.”

According to the U.S. DOE, Cincinnati's retrofit program will involve community and organizational outreach efforts that will include the expertise of energy adviser services in residential, commercial and public sectors. This process, led by GCEA, seeks to utilize a model of community collaboration, including marketing, utility program integration, financing affordability and accessibility, customer participation and workforce development.

“This federal funding allows us to leverage private capital to potentially create a local energy efficiency market of up to $50 million per year," said GCEA Executive Director Andy Holzhauser. "That means residents and business owners are saving money on their utility bills, moving our country toward energy independence, and creating or retaining as many as 1,400 quality jobs to serve this market.”

In total, national Retrofit Ramp-Up projects make up part of the $80 billion Recovery Act investment aimed at developing clean energy and improving energy efficiencies. Cincinnati's program won its $17 million grant through a competitive bidding process.

Photo of Andy Holzhauser provided.

Cincinnati hospital achieves LEED for Existing Buildings certification

2010-04-21T08:30:00.000-04:00

The Christ Hospital has been recognized as the nation's first hospital to achieve LEED for Existing Buildings: Operations & Maintenance certification by the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC). This certification has been verified by the Green Building Certification Institute (GBCI).

The announcement comes as the Cincinnati region continues to position itself as a green building leader in the Midwest and even nationally. The recently completed Christ Hospital Imaging Center received LEED Silver certification for Commercial Interiors due to its lighting systems, heating and air systems, low-flow water fixtures and Energy Star-rated appliances among other things.

"Our employees have been incredibly supportive of efforts to bring green concepts and technology into our hospital, and it is an honor to be a national leader among hospitals for LEED certification," said Susan Croushore, President and CEO, The Christ Hospital. "By reducing our costs on energy, water and other resources, we are able to better serve the healthcare needs of our patients, their families and the entire community."

The 555-bed hospital in Uptown achieved the certification for its energy use, lighting, water and material use in addition to other sustainable efforts. The sustainability measures are seen as more than a gain for the environment, but also an economic gain for the families, businesses, workers, taxpayers and community involved.

"With each new LEED-certified building, we get one step closer to USGBC's vision of a sustainable built environment within a generation," said Rick Fedrizzi, President, CEO & Founding Chair, U.S. Green Building Council. "As the newest member of the LEED family of green buildings, The Christ Hospital is an important addition to the growing strength of the green building movement."

2010 Party in the Park series gets started - 4/21

2010-04-20T15:30:00.002-04:00

Over the last few weeks spring has begun to take root in Cincinnati. Among others, the Reds Opening Day had a huge turnout as usual, trees are blooming and the Genius of Water began flowing again as the ceremonial start to the spring season in Cincinnati. This Wednesday marks yet another seasonal rite of passage as Party in the Park returns to the banks of the Ohio River in downtown Cincinnati at Yeatman’s Cove.

Party in the Park is one of the old standbys for many Cincinnatians as it embarks on its 34th season this year. Festivities kick off at 5:30pm every other Wednesday, with the exception of the back-to-back Wednesdays in April. $2 off drink prices greet party goers for the first 90 minutes making it a favorite after work destination. Historically crowds range anywhere from 5,000 to 8,000, depending on the week and weather, which turns the park into the largest watering hole in town.

The presenting sponsors and the 2010 slogan tell you all you need to know about the music you will find at Party in the Park. With 96ROCK and Bud Light leading the way and the slogan “The Original Social Network” you should expect cover songs so that folks can sing along all evening long. While it may not be ideal for someone seeking out original music, this weekly party definitely makes for a great social setting to hang out with old friends and meet new ones in the shadows of Cincinnati’s growing skyline and on the banks of the mighty Ohio River.

Party in the Park (map) starts at 5:30pm and lasts until 10:30pm. The festivities will run through Wednesday, August 8. There are several parking options available nearby, but it often coincides with Reds or Cyclones games that will make parking more difficult. There is bicycle parking and bus service to the park, and it is within walking distance to many of Cincinnati's major employers in the center city.

Cincinnati has several great live music offerings during the summer months that include both original and cover music. In its 3rd year, Fountain Square played host to the 2009 PNC MidPoint Indie Summer Series and saw record crowds show up to enjoy the live music in the heart of downtown Cincinnati every Friday night. Midpoint Music Festival will fill Cincinnati's center city with all sorts of live music again this summer (stay tuned for more details later this week). And there are still two shows left at the Cincinnati Zoo Tunes & Blooms which takes place each Thursday evening in April.

Party in the Park photo by 5chw4r7z.

Weeklong fashion celebration begins in Cincinnati

2010-04-20T08:30:00.000-04:00

Cincinnati Fashion Week got kicked off yesterday with a promotional campaign for the city's fashion enthusiasts called "Spring into Fashion." Now underway, the community driven collaborative including Keep Cincinnati Beautiful will run through Saturday, April 24.

Cincinnati Fashion Week (Facebook Page) organizers say that the goal of the week-long event is to "improve the quality of life by promoting sustainable action through fashion and style," and that it includes a wide variety of events that will celebrate Cincinnati fashion, design, craftsmanship, artistry and even include a cleanup event on Saturday as part of the Great American Cleanup.

"Throughout its history, Keep Cincinnati Beautiful has initiated and implemented many on-going projects that have made a clear difference in the quality of life for Greater Cincinnati," said Nathan Hurst, an independent fashion designer. In addition to the cleanup partnership, a portion of the proceeds from Cincinnati Fashion Week will be donated to Keep Cincinnati Beautiful.

“A passion for art brought me to share my love for fashion with the city I adore just as much,” explained Hurst. “I began my fashion career in Cincinnati with three successful runway shows and quickly made my national debut at the ‘Hip-Hop Meets Couture’ annual fashion show in San Francisco. When I returned to the Midwest I had one goal in mind: Cincinnati Fashion Week.”

The remainder of the week is packed with unique events throughout Cincinnati's urban core including an exclusive VIP Appreciation Party that takes place tonight at the trendy downtown Cincinnati nightclub FB for those who have purchased an 'all week pass' for Cincinnati Fashion Week (doors will open at 8pm). Throughout the rest of the week Cincinnati Fashion Week attendees will be able to enjoy a merchant fair, fashion shows, design shows and the aforementioned Great American Cleanup.

The can't miss Fashion Finale will feature the works of of Laura Dawson, Amy Longo and David Meister, among others, who will be showcasing his famous gowns. The fashion show will be hosted by Jen Dalton with music being provided by DJ Fuse. The Fashion Finale will take place at the Hyatt Regency's Grand Ballroom in downtown Cincinnati with general admission tickets starting at $60. Special VIP tickets are also available for $100 that include additional perks. Tickets can be purchased online.

Cincinnati Fashion Week is also sponsoring a clothing drive as part of their collaboration with the Great American Cleanup, and those who donate clothing to Kenzie's Closet or Dress for Success will receive 25% off any level ticket purchase.

Cincinnati City Council approves critical funding for streetcar project

2010-04-19T15:45:00.004-04:00

Cincinnati City Council gathered today to vote on allocating $2.6 million for the Cincinnati Streetcar project that will allow the project to move forward and signal a local financial commitment to the Federal government in the next round of TIGER grants.

An initial motion by Councilman Monzel opposed to the Cincinnati Streetcar was soundly defeated five to two with Winburn abstaining from the vote. Following that motion 31 members of the public spoke on the matter of allocating the $2.6 million.

The group consisted of students, young professionals, business and property owners, and those interested in seeing a better city. Out of the 31 speakers only two spoke against the project - one of which being Tom Luken. The message was clear to Cincinnati's City Council: If you want the support of the next generation of Cincinnatians, you need to support improved public transportation.

Business owners also spoke overwhelmingly in favor of the project touting its economic benefits with Bob Pickford, President and CEO of Findlay Market, going as far to say that, "The single-most important investment this city can make to keep Findlay Market viable long-term is the streetcar."

A student from the University of Cincinnati's world renowned college of Design, Architecture, Art & Planning then went on to urge City Council to prove his classmates wrong by investing in the streetcar and showing them that they can stay in Cincinnati after graduation and be welcomed by a progressive, forward-thinking city.

After the long public comment session Cincinnati's City Council discussed the matter amongst themselves. Councilman Berding went on in his comments and quoted creative economy expert Richard Florida's recent book that discussed the need for vibrant city centers in a new economy. Berding also mentioned Jane Jacobs' progressive vision for American cities as places that are vibrant and foster creativity.

Councilman Bortz then brought the discussion back home and stated how an affirmative vote to allocate these funds will go a long way towards closing the financial gap and securing the necessary Federal funding for the project. Meanwhile Monzel sounded off on Teaparty talking points about "feeding the beast" when it comes to getting Federal grant money.

When all was said and done, Cincinnati's City Council voted 6-2 to allocate $2.6 million to the Cincinnati Streetcar project with only Leslie Ghiz and Chris Monzel voting no (Winburn abstained). While initially small, this commitment will go a long way in terms of the total $63 million local commitment as Cincinnati sends its application to the Federal government for the next round of TIGER funds.

Interestingly enough, both Ghiz and Monzel have their sights on the vacant Hamilton County Commissioner seat and have since shifted further to the right to appeal to a broader, more conservative county population. Ghiz has made the greatest shift after having authoritatively saying that she had always supported the project - that is until now that she has the suburbs in mind as she is voting on city issues.

Downtown resident John Schneider has seen all of Cincinnati's public transportation discussions as the chairman of the Alliance for Regional Transit, and summed it up near the end of the public comment session when he said, "This is a day that will go down in the history books." Speculation is not typically my thing, but I believe this will be the day that we look back and realize when Cincinnati stepped up to the challenge of redefining itself for a 21st Century economy.

Follow along with the live Twitter discussion from earlier today here.

Critical vote on Cincinnati Streetcar funds today at 1pm

2010-04-19T09:00:00.001-04:00

Today, Cincinnati City Council will vote on whether to approve roughly $2.6 million in City funding for the streetcar project. This financial commitment from the City is not only important to help keep the project moving forward, but also to help the project win future allocations of state and federal grants.

The Cincinnati Streetcar came away empty handed when the first round of TIGER funds were awarded, and one of the primary reasons for this was the lack of a local financial commitment to the project. The Feds, like any investor, like to know that they are investing in a project that is supported financially by those asking for the money. They like to know that the local community has a financial stake in the project and want to see it succeed.

If you are able, attending the meeting today at City Hall would be extremely helpful. There needs to be a majority in favor of approving these funds to make it happen, and so far there are four firm yes votes (Quinlivan, Cole, Qualls, Thomas). Both Chris Bortz and Jeff Berding appear to be on the fence, so let them know that your vote depends on them supporting this crucial investment in Cincinnati's urban core, and let the others know that their future political aspirations outside of City Hall depend on their support as well.

If you would like to comment you should show up to City Hall 15 minutes early (meeting starts at 1pm) so that you can fill out a card to speak. If you are not quite comfortable sharing your story with members of Council, then simply show up to let them know that there is a critical mass of support for this project that won overwhelmingly at the ballot box this past November. If you are unable to show up at all, please contact members of City Council to share your thoughts.

Will the casino help or hurt local businesses?

2010-04-16T08:30:00.007-04:00

Yesterday, Rock Ventures LLC completed the $35 million purchase of the Broadway Commons site (pictured at right) where Cincinnati’s new casino will be located. But with construction set to begin this fall and an opening date in 2012, questions remain as to whether the development will help or hurt existing businesses in the area.

Some local business owners believe casino visitors will venture out into the surrounding neighborhoods to patronize bars, restaurants, hotels and other local businesses. Paul Fries, co-owner of the new Jack Potts Tavern, said that the opening of the casino, in addition to the Cincinnati Streetcar line, would create a “great entertainment area. ”But others aren’t so sure, and say the casino will have no effect or would even hurt the surrounding area. To ease these concerns, the developers held a mini-charrette in February that focused on the connections between the casino and the nearby entertainment districts, among other topics.

The design of the building will be a huge factor in how the casino connects to the neighborhood. Casinos are often insular, with restaurants, bars, and entertainment within, giving visitors little reason to leave. With convenient access to a connected parking garage, many visitors will drive in and never step foot outside of the development. Creating a primary entrance facing the street is absolutely necessary to develop a true connection. Fortunately, Cincinnati's casino developers plan to build restaurants and retail facing Reading Road, Broadway and East Court, and have a main entrance at the corner of Reading Road and Broadway.

Another emerging issue is how modified alcohol regulations for the casino would affect area bars. The developers are seeking the right to serve liquor 24 hours a day and to give guests free drinks. But would guests be as likely to venture out into nearby bars if they have the ability to be served later at the casino?

Hopefully additional charrette sessions will be held, allowing more residents and business owners to give input and voice their concerns. Since the casino is a certainty, Cincinnatians should fight to make sure it has a positive impact on the surrounding community and our existing businesses.

Broadway Commons photo courtesy of Sherman Cahal.

Metro to celebrate green initiatives at Cincinnati Earth Day

2010-04-15T15:30:00.001-04:00

Earth Day 2009 marked the introduction of six new hybrid buses to Metro's fleet. Since that time the buses have helped to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, provide environmentally responsible trip alternatives, save diesel fuel and money for the regional transit authority.

“We are proud of the results that we have seen from the hybrids and the positive response we've received from the community,” said Marilyn Shazor, Metro’s CEO. “Cincinnati has welcomed the hybrids and recognizes the value in our green efforts.”

To date, Metro officials cite that the hybrid buses have cut gas emission by some 190 tons while saving close to 7,000 gallons of diesel fuel. The savings not only represent an environmental benefit, but a financial one for the transit authority as well.

"In addition to the environmental benefits, the hybrids provide financial savings for Metro," Shazor explained. "In the past year, the hybrids have saved us nearly $22,000 in fuel, and we project continued fuel savings over the life of the hybrids, and the environmental benefits will continue as well."

On Saturday April, 17 Metro will take part in Cincinnati's Earth Day celebration at Sawyer Point by showcasing one of their hybrid buses at a booth where the transit authority will share information on other green initiatives they are overseeing like the new articulated buses that add capacity and increased efficiencies to Metro's fleet, their LEED-certified transit hub in Avondale, use of reused rainwater for bus washing, burning waste oil to heat their garages, and the recycling of motor fluids such as antifreeze, refrigerant and power steering fluid.

Cincinnati Earth Day is free and open to the public and will run from 12pm to 5:30pm at Sawyer Point (map) along the banks of the Ohio River in downtown Cincinnati. This year's festivities will include hands-on displays, a rock climbing wall, kayak paddle safety pool, ORSANCO's aquarium, baby animals, story telling, an environmental puppet show, a green childrens fashion show, live music, a parade and more.

Metro will also be providing this information and more at another booth to be set up at the Cincinnati Zoo during Zoo's Tunes & Blooms "Go Green" Night on April 24th.

“Overall, Metro’s services significantly reduce car trips and fuel consumption in Greater Cincinnati. A commuter who rides Metro 20 miles round-trip will decrease annual carbon dioxide emissions by 2.4 tons per year,” said Shazor. “As a tax-supported transit system, we are focusing on being green and saving green at the same time.”

Design Revolution Road Show visits Cincinnati today

2010-04-15T08:00:00.000-04:00

The Design Revolution Road Show is a traveling exhibition that has visited 22 schools and covered thousands of miles in the course of 75 days with just one mobile trailer. The exhibition is the brain child of Emily Pilloton who founded Project H Design - a San Francisco-based non-profit that focuses on design that improves health, habitats, humanity and happiness. The road show has taken Project H's message on the road and will visit Cincinnati today.

Over the past two months the Design Revolution Road Show has traveled all over the country visiting high schools and colleges in an attempt to inspire students to step up and change the world. In addition to the message, the traveling exhibition features 40 humanitarian design solutions that were previously highlighted in Design Revolution: 100 Products that Empower People which was also written by, you guessed it, Emily Pilloton. The designs vary, but range from homemade water filters designed for those living in developing countries to educational toys for mentally challenged children.

Design Revolution Road Show at NC State - photo from Project H Design.

"Each product is an example of how design can enable and improve life, rather than simply take up space as a commodity or accessory," described Pilloton. "We believe design can change the world, and we're taking the show on the road."

The University of Cincinnati (UC) was chosen as one of the sites because of the university's prominent college of Design, Architecture, Art and Planning that is world renowned for its design innovations and talent. According to Pilloton, the hope is to create a stronger connection between education and design that is both provocative and socially relevant to the problems facing society today. Students at UC will be presented the evidence and tools for designing solutions with a social impact.

The Design Revolution Road Show will be at the University of Cincinnati today from 10am to 4pm. The mobile trailer known as 'The Airstream' will be parked on McMicken Commons in the heart of UC's main campus. Project H Design founder Emily Pilloton will be giving a free lecture that is open to the public from 12:30pm to 2pm in room 4400 inside the Aronoff Center for Art & Design (map). Parking is available throughout UC's campus parking garages for a fee, or you can try your luck at nearby on-street parking. Several Metro bus routes also provide service to the Aronoff Center for Art & Design, and a great deal of bicycle parking is located just feet away from the entrance to the building.

Deep India joins growing Clifton Heights ethnic food scene

2010-04-14T16:30:00.001-04:00

Deep India is the new kid on the block, a brave new contender joining the ranks of Cincinnati's awesome Indian food scene. It's located in the old Jersey Mike's space, and settles in nicely between Thai Express and Tea N' Bowl, completing an almost entire block of ethnic food restaurants. The unassuming Deep India might leave you wondering what to expect, and with such a solidly established Indian place (Krishna) right around the corner, it can be a little nerve wracking even giving the new guy a try.

Do not be afraid though, after a couple quick visits I can I say that it was worth the risk. Don't get me wrong, I'm one of Krishna's biggest fans. I can see it from my house, and I had yet to find another restaurant that makes Saag Paneer in the same way - that is until I tried Deep India.

For $10.50 I was able to get an overflowing box of delicious creamy spinach goodness, garnished with chopped green onion and perfectly spiced. The paneer (homemade cheese cubes) was creamy, melty almost, not rubbery in the slightest. Meanwhile the Garlic Naan (a type of flat bread) was bubbly, lightly browned on the bottom and not too crispy.

There are some definite perks to Deep India. The decor is plain and unassuming, there are two televisions playing sports and movies, and eventually they're going to sell beer that you can grab to go with your carry-out. And unlike their Krishna counterpart, the interior table arrangement leaves plenty of room for both diners and those waiting for their carry-out.

Deep India photos taken by Jenny Kessler.

After sitting down with one of the owners I found out why Amandeep Singh wanted to establish himself in the Clifton Heights area. Singh's family has been in the restaurant business in Cincinnati for quite some time - his father was a chef at another local establishment for several years, and his cousin and partner, Rajwinder, has worked at several Cincinnati restaurants including Krishna and Cumin. Singh said that he saw a need for another Indian restaurant at the top (meaning southern end) of Clifton Avenue; one that had a little more room for patrons to spread out and enjoy their food.

Singh is definitely on to something, and I recommend you check it out too. Deep India is located at 211 W. McMillan Street (map) in Clifton Heights and is open Monday through Thursday from 11am to 10pm, Friday and Saturday from 11am to 10:30pm, and Sunday from 11:30am to 9:30pm. Prices range from $1.50 to $11.95, and carry-out and delivery orders can be placed by calling (513) 421-6453.

Qualls to discuss conversion of prominent Uptown streets to two-way traffic

2010-04-14T09:45:00.005-04:00

Vice Mayor Roxanne Qualls will host a press conference today at 11am in Walnut Hills to discuss the conversion of McMillan Street and William Howard Taft Road from one-way to two-way streets.

Qualls reportedly will be joined by various Walnut Hills community leaders who have long supported the idea of converting the two heavily traveled east/west streets back to two-way traffic. Residents and business owners in the area feel that such a conversion will help to further revitalize their neighborhoods, and return vitality to the business district.

Converting one-way streets into two-way streets has become an increasingly popular urban design tool over recent years by cities looking to slow down traffic, increase access and thus improve safety for pedestrians and bicyclists. Qualls has been a leading advocate for the implementation of a 'Complete Streets' policy that would also embody many of these things by ensuring that all modes of transportation are accounted for in the design of streets and the public right-of-way.

The press conference will be held at Kurelis Interiors on E. McMillan Street (map) in Walnut Hills at 11am. Also on hand will be Greg Loomis from Campus Management and Jeff Raser who is part of the Walnut Hills Working Group and has been lending professional assistance in the development of form-based codes around Cincinnati.

UPDATE: Following the press conference Qualls' office released a motion that is co-sponsored by Jeff Berding, Chris Bortz, Laure Quinlivan and Cecil Thomas. The motion calls for city administration to develop an implementation plan for the two-way conversion of McMillan Street and William Howard Taft Road east of I-71 before City Council takes its summer recess. The motion also calls for city administration to deliver a report on the feasibility of converting McMillan and Taft west of I-71 to Clifton Avenue by September 2010.

Another critical part of the motion calls for the incorporation of several traffic calming measures that will make the streets safer for pedestrians, bicyclists and transit riders. Those improvements could potentially include landscaped medians, crosswalks, dedicated bicycle lanes, improved on-street parking design, wider sidewalks, bus pullouts, reduced traffic speeds and even the incorporation of roundabouts.

Photo taken by Laura Sandt.

Brian Meyers to discuss emerging market trends at AMA luncheon

2010-04-14T08:30:00.005-04:00

The American Marketing Association (AMA) is hosting a luncheon this Friday, April 16 from 11:30am to 1:15pm that will feature a presentation from Brian Meyers on the future of design and marketing.

Meyers is a Senior Trends Analyst with Cincinnati-based LPK, and is known for his forecasting and strategic analysis of emerging trends by predicting shifts in consumer behavior for the brand management firm. Trend forecasting is often used by industry leaders to help develop consumer and market brands.

According to Meyers, his presentation "Memo from 2015: What the Future Wants from a Marketer" will challenge many conventional marketing tactics used today and is intended to provoke Cincinnati's local marketing community to think about how marketers and designers adapt and evolve in an ever-changing environment.

Due to his relatively young age and topic on evolving socio-cultural trends, Meyers is a different presenter for an AMA luncheon event. His presentation "Memo from 2015: What the Future Wants from a Marketer" is intended to provoke our local marketing community to think about how we as marketers and designers can adapt and evolve with rapidly evolving trends.

"The objective of this presentation is not accuracy, but provocation - proactive cogitation that will lead to thoughtful action and manifestation of a better future," Meyers explained. "How will we adapt or evolve to fill the new role the future has in mind for us?"

Meyers' presentation will focus on emerging trends like the Simplistic Slowdown, New Economies and the On-line/Off-line Blur. Correspondingly, the following six paradigm shifts will also be discussed about how they will impact marketing.

People Don't Buy Much Any More
People Utilize Alternative Economies
People Become Their own Producers and Marketers
Technology turns from Tool to Automated Competition
Seamless Digital/Physical Reality Alters How People Live
Decoding the Brain Up-Ends Ideas of Logic and Reason

Marketing and brand development is seen as one of Cincinnati's strongest industries with consumer product giants like Procter & Gamble, Kroger, Macy's and Chiquita all headquartered in the city. The industry is also one that seems poised for growth in an increasingly consumer-based economy that is rapidly changing.

UrbanCincy readers interested in attending have been extended a special offer for the luncheon. Starting today, UrbanCincy readers are able to reserve their luncheon spot for the special membership rate of $35 by registering online and entering "UrbanCincy" into the comment box. This discount will only be valid online and not at the door. The event is being held at the Cintas Center (map) on Xavier University's campus, with parking available in Lot C next to the arena (no parking voucher is necessary).

Newport Gangster Tours return, complimentary Cincinnati tours announced

2010-04-13T22:00:00.001-04:00

Last August UrbanCincy reported on the Newport Gangster Tours which take people on a walking tour through the heart of Newport sharing stories of the city's infamous past of gambling, gangsters and girls. The idea sprang up as a way to raise funds for Global Service Learning Inc. and really took hold as the guys landed on an idea that many people gravitated towards. Last fall, the group ran tours every Saturday, and now with the weather changing for the better, they are back for a full season of fun.

Picked by Cincinnati Magazine as the “Best Historic Walking Tour of 2009”, the Newport Gangster Tour will be starting back up on May 1 with two tours each Saturday. The success has extended beyond the tour itself as Newport's infamous past seems to be catching on as a theme. Late last year the Gangsters Dueling Piano Bar opened on 5th Street. While not officially affiliated with the tour, the new watering hole provides a perfect spot to wrap up the tour and have a few beverages while staying with the gangster theme.

Most of the tours will be on Saturdays, but the group decided to kick off the season in style with a “Gangsters & Grub” night on Thursday, April 29. Two separate tours will go out that night stopping at various restaurants around Newport for a progressive dinner. Group One will depart at 6pm and make stops at York Street Cafe, The Green Derby and Detroit Joe’s. Group Two will depart at 7:30pm and make stops at Pompilio’s, Gangster’s Piano Bar and Mokka. Tickets include the tour, dinner, non-alcoholic beverages, gratuity at each stop, cost $35 per person and can be purchased online. These tickets have nearly sold out already, but event organizers say that there will be a "Haunted Progressive Dinner" in October and possibly more sooner due to the extreme popularity.

Those looking to learn a little bit about the northern side of the river there will be a new tour called Queen City Underground which is scheduled to launch on May 31. The tours will meet on Saturday mornings in the Gateway Quarter and travel through historic Over-the-Rhine for a 90 minute walking tour. Stay tuned to UrbanCincy for more details on the Queen City Underground tours as they develop including a review.

Cincinnati showing improvements over 2000 Census response rates

2010-04-13T08:30:00.001-04:00

Lower Price Hill, the West End, Over-the-Rhine, Mt. Auburn, Clifton Heights and Corryville make up much of Cincinnati's center city neighborhoods, and they also represent some of the lowest Census 2010 response rates to date. As of Monday, April 12 most of Cincinnati's center city neighborhoods were below the 66% national average response rate while the East End, Clifton, Hyde Park, East Walnut Hills and Mt. Lookout all reporting at or above the national average.

A Census tract representing the northern portion of the West End is currently at a low 39%, while two Census tracts representing Pendleton and part of Walnut Hills have registered 43% and 42% response rates respectively. The lowest in the City of Cincinnati is Fay Apartments, an official City neighborhood and its own Census tract, at 34%. The City of Cincinnati in its entirety is at 63%, while Hamilton County has a 71% response rate making it the highest of Ohio's five most populous counties.

Back in Cincinnati's center city the success story is overwhelmingly the Census tracts that make up Over-the-Rhine. All four of the Census tracts there are already well above the Census 2000 response rates with two of the tracts a dramatic 21% higher already. Meanwhile, the Census tract in Over-the-Rhine that has been publicized for being one of the most difficult to count in the nation is currently at 44% which is 17% higher than the final Census 2000 tally.

"We are pleased with the appearance of an increase in participation, especially in OTR," said Katherine Keough-Jurs, Senior City Planner with the City of Cincinnati's Department of City Planning & Buildings who went on to note that the data collection methods differ from 2000 to 2010 and thus make the numbers more difficult to compare.

"Technically, comparing 2000 to 2010 is little bit like comparing apples and oranges," Keough-Jurs explained. "Still, we are pleased that so far OTR is showing 40% to 53% participation rates and that some City neighborhoods are as high as 80%."

The areas surrounding the University of Cincinnati had initially been slow to report and were initially some of the most under-performing in Cincinnati. The past week has seen a rapid increase in the number of responses in these neighborhoods with all now reporting at levels comparable to 2000 Census response rates with months still to go thanks to a 10% surge.

Cincinnati Counts workers have been hitting Cincinnati's streets for months working to inform people about the 2010 Census. The good looking group on the right is a group of fellow Urban Planning students I knew while at the University of Cincinnati (shout out!).

The real paradigm exists when you move from the difficulties of counting center city populations to their suburban counterparts. As of April 12th, the west side community of Green Township boasted the highest response rate (83%) in the entire nation for communities with more than 50,000 people.

Census workers will continue to visit households that have yet to respond through July to help drive up those response rates before they must, by law, deliver the Census results to the President in December. Keough-Jurs notes that households with forms not turned in by Friday, April 16 may receive a visit from a door-to-door enumerator in May.

"Our 100-plus Complete Count Committee members are still working hard to get the word out that the census is simple, safe and important, and reminding people to complete and return their Census forms," explained Keough-Jurs.

Those who have lost or have not received a form can pick up an additional form at local libraries and post offices. There are also Be Counted Centers that have forms available, and Questionnaire Assistance Centers that have helpers there to assist individuals with filling out their forms. You can find the closest Be Counted or Questionnaire Assistance Center near you online.

Cincinnati lands prestigious National Conference of Black Mayors Convention

2010-04-12T11:00:00.001-04:00

At 10am this morning local political, business and community leaders gathered at the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center in downtown Cincinnati to celebrate the announcement that the National Conference of Black Mayors (NCBM) Convention will be coming to Cincinnati this May. Cincinnati Mayor Mark Mallory is a member of the NCBM and will be serving as the official host for the convention when it comes to town May 12-16.

“We are looking forward to our time in Cincinnati,” said George L. Grace, National Conference of Black Mayors President and Mayor of St. Gabriel, Louisiana. “Cincinnati has a rich history in the civil rights movement and has made extraordinary strides under Mayor Mark Mallory to establish itself as a vanguard city for diversity and multicultural awareness and leadership. This is the perfect time and place for our organization to bring together its members, and we look forward to the important work that will be done at our Annual Convention next month.”

With the theme, "Able Leaders, Stable Cities: Resolving Our Communities' Challenges," the 36th Annual Conference is expected to draw more than 700 attendees from around the country that represent more than 50 million constituents in almost every state. The gathering of civic leaders from around the country is anticipated to log more than 1,200 room nights for local hotels.

The NCBM Convention is planned to coordinate with Major League Baseball's (MLB) 2010 Civil Rights Game that will, for the second consecutive year, be held in Cincinnati. This year's Civil Rights Game will take place on Saturday, May 15 at Great American Ball Park between the Cincinnati Reds and the St. Louis Cardinals. Last year's game left MLB Commissioner Bud Selig very impressed with Cincinnati's ability to host prominent events such as this national showcase game that includes festivities throughout the weekend. At this year's game MLB will pay tribute to Willie Mays, Billie Jean King and Harry Belafonte.

"This convention will focus on providing tangible solutions, best practice models and innovative strategies to resolve some of the universal challenges that local elected officials face on the ground," said National Conference of Black Mayors Executive Director Vanessa R. Williams. "We have gathered a diverse spectrum of leaders who have successfully tackled these problems to participate in this year's convention."

Visitors enjoy the festivities around Fountain Square during the 2009 Civil Rights Game Youth Summit.

The NCBM Convention will focus its attention on two primary topics this year that are meant to help resolve the challenges facing communities around the nation. Thursday will focus on Human Rights and will cover a range of topics including health care, public safety and housing. Friday's session will focus on Green Economic Development and cover topics including workforce development, infrastructure and environmental justice.

The convention is one of a recent string of prestigious multicultural conventions to select Cincinnati as their host including the NAACP and National Baptist conventions in 2008, the Gospel Music Workshop of America in 2010, the League of United Latin American Citizens in 2011, and the World Choir Games in 2012.

“As a member, it’s very gratifying to bring the 2010 Annual Convention home to Cincinnati,” said Mayor Mark Mallory. “The convention brings visitors and revenue to our city, but more importantly, it brings an esteemed group of more than 700 men and women who are actively working to make our cities better.”

Cincinnati may miss opportunity with new Marine Highway program

2010-04-12T08:30:00.002-04:00

This past Wednesday, U.S. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood announced a new initiative aimed at moving more cargo by water to avoid congested U.S. highways. America's Marine Highway program will be administered by the Department's Maritime Administration (MARAD) and, according to Federal officials, identify rivers and coastal routes that can carry cargo efficiently, bypassing congested roadways and reducing greenhouse gases.

“For too long, we’ve overlooked the economic and environmental benefits that our waterways and domestic seaports offer as a means of moving freight in this country,” said Secretary LaHood, speaking to transportation professionals at the North American Marine Highways & Logistics Conference in Baltimore, MD. “Moving goods on the water has many advantages: It reduces air pollution. It can help reduce gridlock by getting trucks off our busy surface corridors.”

In Cincinnati the Ohio River provides such opportunity allowing cargo to bypass the heavily congested Interstate-75 on its way to southern sea ports by taking the marine highway to ports located in New Orleans. When combined with shipping costs five times less on water than by freight truck, or three times less than freight rail, river port projects like the proposed Queensgate Terminals project become more and more attractive.

Renderings of the proposed Queensgate Terminals transfer facility on Cincinnati's western riverfront provided.

The new federal regulation will allow regional transportation officials to apply to have specific transportation corridors or projects designated by the DOT as part of a marine highway. Such a designation would result in preferential treatment when it comes to future federal assistance from the DOT or MARAD.

“There are many places in our country where expanded use of marine transportation just makes sense,” said David Matsuda, Acting Administrator of the Maritime Administration. “It has so much potential to help our nation in many ways: reduced gridlock and greenhouse gases and more jobs for skilled mariners and shipbuilders.”

So far in 2010, Secretary LaHood has announced $58 million for the start-up or expansion of Marine Highway services awarded through the DOT's TIGER grants program. Congress has also allocated an additional $7 million that will be awarded by MARAD later this year.

As the Federal looks to expand the usage of the nation's Maritime Highways, Cincinnati is struggling to work out an arrangement for the development of the Queensgate Terminals project that would create a 31-acre, $26 million high-tech transfer facility along Cincinnati's riverfront immediately west of the Central Business District.

Diagrams of the proposed Queensgate Terminals transfer facility on Cincinnati's western riverfront provided.

The project has been held up by a slew of public resistance from west side residents, and a litany of legal troubles surrounding the sale of the land. A recent settlement forced the City of Cincinnati to deposit $1.68 million into a court escrow account for the losses incurred by the developer since September 2005 after the City had agreed to sell the property, then retracted the sale agreement.

The legal and political battles have caused so much trouble in Cincinnati that the whole project may in fact be in jeopardy. During this time the State of Ohio has pledged $9.5 million towards the proposed South Point barge terminal further upriver in Lawrence County - a move that could place potential funds for a Cincinnati barge terminal in limbo.

In an economy moving cargo shipment off of the roads, and onto trains and barges, Cincinnati may miss capitalizing on its central and prominent location along rail and water corridors, and may continue to overlook the environmental and economic benefits the Ohio River provides.

Craft beer tasting at Market Wines - 4/10

2010-04-09T08:30:00.000-04:00

For many people Findlay Market is a frequent destination year round, but when the weather becomes warmer there is just something different at the historic market. There are more vendors, more patrons, more events and just an overall more festive atmosphere and sense of camaraderie. As it stands, Ohio’s oldest open air market serves as the weekend activity epicenter in Over-the Rhine, and up until a couple of years ago, the one thing the market lacked was somewhere for patrons to gather and easily engage in conversation. Sure you see familiar vendors and friends in the aisle of the market house, or you may grab a coffee and take a seat at an available table, but nowhere could you go to satisfy the yearn to truly interact.

Thankfully Market Wines has provided this piece of the puzzle. Aside from the carefully selected retail offerings of wine and craft beers to take home and pair with your next meal, their weekend wine and beer tastings inside the cozy space offer an inviting venue to take a break from the task of shopping and actually become part of the Findlay Market experience.

Having just celebrated a two-year anniversary and fresh off a Best of Cincinnati award for “Best Wine Tasting” in the city, Market Wines is switching gears from wine to its other focus this Saturday. Teaming up with local beer connoisseur Gregg Wilson, for $5 Market Wines proprietor Mike Maxwell is offering a delicious assortment of five hand-crafted brews to taste from 11am to 3pm.

The tastings add a different dynamic to the market Maxwell notes, “Often times customers come in to just to do a tasting, but by the time they leave they have found themselves discussing wine, food, beer, current events and even politics with people whom 10 minutes prior were complete strangers. It is such an added dimension to your Findlay Market visit that helps build the sense of community that we are all striving for in Cincinnati and OTR.”

Aside from helping build relationships on the personal level, it seems as though it also helps build synergies between the Findlay Market business owners. Multiple vendors such as Kroeger & Sons Meats, Taste Of Belgium, and Dojo Gelato pop into Maxwell’s store to buy craft beer to use in their respective treats such as beer brats, crepes and….you guessed it, gelato.

When Market Wines first opened, most of the sales were driven by already existing Findlay Market customers willing to support the new kid on the block. Since then however, Maxwell has seen an increasing number of customers come down specifically for wine and beer tastings having never before stepped foot in Over-the Rhine. By the time they leave they are a fan for life, most re-visiting on a weekly basis for groceries, and of course those wonderful tastings. Maxwell couldn’t be happier, “It’s great to feel like we are really adding to the market and pulling our own weight.”

Findlay Market patrons enjoying Market Wines - photos provided.

This Saturday’s tasting will begin with a few lighter bodied and easier drinking beers. “Hopsun” is a delicious, dry-hopped summer wheat from Southern Tier Brewing Company in Lakewood, NY, followed by Marshall, MI-based Dark Horse Brewing Company's “Raspberry Ale”, a very easy drinking ale with a hint of real raspberries and then “Combined Harvest” from Batemans Brewery, located in Lincolnshire, UK and representing the only imported beer of the day. This ale is brewed as a “multi-grain” beer with Barley, Oats, Wheat and Rye as opposed to just the malted barley used in most.

The flavor profiles will then take a step up into a couple of richer beers, starting with the “Slam Dunkel” Weizenbock and its bready notes of banana and clove, from Weyerbacher Brewing in Easton, PA, then moving into the crowning achievement of the day, with Avery Brewing’s yearly release of the highly regarded “Maharaja” Imperial IPA. Savor every sip of this regal ale and all of its intense hop goodness, but be aware of its potency at over 10% Alcohol by Volume (ABV).

The tasting is open to the public and will run from 11am to 3pm at Market Wines’ location at historic Findlay Market (map) which is open from 8am to 6pm every Saturday. Whether you are already headed to Findlay Market, or if you are still looking for something to bide your time, head down to Market Wines and engage yourself. Cheers!

Fountain Square gearing up for busy Summer months

2010-04-08T15:30:00.000-04:00

Fountain Square has experienced record crowds over the winter for its popular ice skating rink, and is coming off of a summer 2009 season that broke all kinds of crowd records including concert series and movie night attendance. Cincinnati's primary public gathering space has help lead the transformation of the city's urban core since it was renovated in 2005. With warmer temperatures and nice weather upon us, it is time to once again get ready for another Summer on the Square.

Cincinnati kicks off Uptown street rehabilitation projects

2010-04-08T09:00:00.001-04:00

The City of Cincinnati is starting several street rehabilitation projects in Mt. Auburn, Walnut Hills Clifton Heights and Corryville. Auburn Avenue, Burnet Avenue, McMillan Street, Vine Street and William Howard Taft Road will all be affected by the various improvements totaling $2.3 million.

Depending on each street's current condition they will receive partial- or full-depth repairs followed a process that will grind off the existing asphalt. According to Don Steins, Senior Engineer with Cincinnati's Department of Transportation & Engineering (DOTE), the partial and full-depth repairs will last approximately two weeks.

From there, crews from Little Miami Construction Company will replace deteriorated curbs, construct curb ramps, sidewalks/driveway aprons where necessary, adjust utility castings, and resurface all of the pavement area. All of the street rehabilitation work should be completed by early August, 2010.

Steins noted that this time line might very well change with the potential addition of other Clifton Heights streetscaping work, and said that the DOTE is encouraging drivers to use alternative routes during the reconstruction process. While reconstruction takes place there will always be some degree of access for drivers, and during morning and evening rush hour times all lanes will be open to traffic.

This Week in Soapbox - 4/6

2010-04-07T17:30:00.000-04:00

This Week in Soapbox, UrbanCincy has the following seven stories to check out. Read about an innovative solar project in Oakley, Price Hill's showcase of homes, the newly dubbed Cincinnati Restaurant Row, a new medical building in Corryville, boutique bowling coming to Nky, and two feature stories this week focusing on Cincinnati's status as a king of beers and the city's art collective consciousness.

If you're interested in staying in touch with some of the latest development news in Cincinnati please check out this week's stories and sign up for the weekly E-Zine sent out by Soapbox Cincinnati. Also be sure to become a fan of Soapbox on Facebook!

TWIS 4/6/10:

Brazee Street Studios installing innovative tubular solar panels - full article
Price Hill to showcase community, impressive housing stock - full article
New urban retail specialists developing a plan for Cincinnati's center city - full article
Medical building rising in Uptown's Corryville neighborhood - full article
Boutique bowling lounge to open at Newport on the Levee - full article
King of Beers (feature story) - full article
Cincinnati's Art Collective Consciousness (feature story) - full article

Cincinnati Riverfront Park lands $1M gift

2010-04-07T11:30:00.000-04:00

The Cincinnati Riverfront Park project has landed a $1 million gift that will go to create the event lawn in Phase 1 of the 45-acre park project. The $1 million gift will be presented on Friday, April 9 at 2:30pm at the Cincinnati Parks Administrative Offices in Mt. Adams (map).

The gift comes from the Jacob G. Schmidlapp Trusts for which the new Jacob G. Schmidlapp Stage & Event Lawn in Cincinnati Riverfront Park (formerly known as the Walnut Street Event Lawn) gets its name.

Once complete, the Event Lawn will be built as a green roof to the underground parking garage below, and will act as a venue for special events, performances, and passive recreation. Park officials state that the Event Lawn is also being built to ADA standards so that the space will be fully accessible to all people.

The Event Lawn will be immediately surrounded by pedestrian promenades, with the much anticipated Moerlein Lager House overlooking the site on the east, the performance stage on the western portion of the space, The Banks development to the north and Mehring Way will sit just to the south.

Phase 1 of the overall $60 million riverfront park is currently under construction, on-time and on-budget according to Cincinnati Park officials. The anticipated completion date for Phase 1 is April, 2011.

Ohio's 3C rail corridor could reach 110mph speeds

2010-04-06T15:30:00.002-04:00

Ohio's plans for the 3C "Quick Start" passenger rail project can include speeds of up to 110mph without the need for new track construction according to a release from Linking Ohio - a citizen advocacy group started by All Aboard Ohio.

Recent news reports have indicated that top speeds of only 79mph would be possible due to current regulations, but the advocacy group cites Section 24308 of Title 49 of the United States Code that has a process that would allow systems operated by or for Amtrak to operate on freight corridors at these accelerated speeds. The appeals process would be heard by the Surface Transportation Board who would then determine whether the accelerated speeds would be safe for the proposed corridors.

Those behind Ohio's 3C "Quick Start" Project say that while the higher speeds are possible, they are not necessarily desirable for the initial start.

"Experience with other new start passenger rail services show that improved reliability, frequent service, convenience and service amenities are important factors in attracting riders," said the advocacy group in the release. "The 3C “Quick Start” Project has consistently been communicated as a first step to bringing high-speed passenger rail to our state, and in order to quickly offer this travel option to 6.8-million Ohioans living along the 3C corridor, Ohio can implement speeds at 79mph by making some initial upgrades to the existing tracks now being used solely for freight transportation."

The plan currently on the table calls for upgrades to existing freight bottleneck areas and a variety of other improvements that will make passenger rail to safely operate on the same tracks as existing freight rail. Other improvement costs cover the construction of passenger rail stations, parking and "last-mile transportation options."

"Once the initial service is up and running at 79mph, the State will begin implementing additional corridor upgrades to achieve 110mph service using the existing track infrastructure," Linking Ohio stated. "However, there are steps and negotiations with freight railroads that will need to be navigated in order to increase speeds."

Following this initial quick start process, officials hope to upgrade the system to even higher speeds reaching 125mph - the optimal speed for rail service between cities 100 to 500 miles apart. Any service reaching these speeds will require its own separate right-of-way and tracking. With 79mph passenger rail service not scheduled to start until 2012, 125mph service or above is something that appears to be a decade in the making.

All Aboard Ohio testimony in Washington D.C. photo provided by All Aboard Ohio.

LGBT Arts Festival postponed until October 2011

2010-04-06T08:30:00.002-04:00

The LGBT Arts Festival originally planned to take place at the Know Theatre from Saturday, April 23 through Saturday, May 8 has been postponed due to a lack of resources. This is the second postponement of the festival which was first planned to take place in October 2009.

“We are dedicated to the idea and the realization of the LGBT Arts Festival," said Eric Vosmeier, Managing Director at the Know Theatre. "However, this Festival was conceived over 18 months ago, when the Know Theatre was in a very different position and frankly had a staff that was larger by five.”

The second conception to take place in the coming weeks was planned to coincide with the production of Tony Kushner's Angels in America: A Gay Fantasia on National Themes. The two-part play will take place as originally planned and run through May 8th.

“I’ve been looking at Know Theatre’s available resources, and while financial consideration is certainly one of the concerns, for me the most important thing is the preservation of our staff as a resource," Vosmeier described. "We need to ensure the success of every single production we present. At this moment, that means that we’ll have to postpone the LGBT Arts Festival to ensure that we're able to fully realize our production of Angels in America and the 7th Annual Cincinnati Fringe Festival.”

Staff at the Know Theatre note that a visual art exhibit of the LGBT Arts Festival will go forward as scheduled and will open at CS13 during Final Friday (map) on April 30, 2010. The exhibit will run through May 15 and feature work of prominent LGBT artists like Jan Wandrag, Gio Black Peter, Matthew Stradling, Zachari Logan, Scooter LaForge, Scott Hug, James Huctwith, Jeremiah Degrandpre, David DeWitt, and Matthew Dayler who is also serving as the curator for the exhibit.

As for the rest of the festival, Vosmeier stated that the plan now is to host the festival in October 2011 to coincide with National Coming Out Day on October 11th.

“I want to see a Festival that truly speaks to the LGBT community," said Vosmeier. "This community is large and diverse with dramatically different economic, racial, educational, and political backgrounds. I want time to explore options, to collect ideas from the community and to seek out performers, artists, filmmakers who speak to that diversity.”

Thousands witness Cincinnati Rollergirls kick off 2010 season

2010-04-05T08:30:00.006-04:00

The Cincinnati Rollergirls kicked off their third season of interleague competition at the Cincinnati Gardens on Saturday, with the varsity Black Sheep taking on the San Diego Wildfires, and the JV Silent Lambs facing off against the Circle City Socialites of Indianapolis. Although the home-team split the matches -- beating Circle City in the undercard 112-30, but falling to San Diego 128-109 -- there was little doubt that the season opener was a success.

Tailgating, $1 beer specials, and a burgeoning reputation for exciting sport turned out 3,222 fans that produced explosive cheers (and boos) in reaction to the action on the floor. Though the organization started just a few years back in 2005 and features entirely unpaid athletes and staff, the atmosphere on March 27th was electric, and nothing if not first-class.

The Cincinnati Rollergirls take the track next on Saturday, April 17 when they play host to the Arch Rival Rollergirls of St. Louis at 7pm at the Cincinnati Gardens (map).

Guide to a Successful Reds Opening Day

2010-04-02T15:30:00.011-04:00

As the city with the first all professional baseball team, we Cincinnatians take our baseball very seriously. We cherish Opening Day, and treat it like a holiday. Heck, some of us even skip work to go to the game or participate in all the festivities.

With all that will be happening downtown on Monday, we know that it can be hard to track down all the details. Fear not. Below you will find a step-by-step guide that will help you make the most of Cincinnati’s other spring holiday.

Fountain Day at Fountain Square:
Each year to celebrate the return of spring and the start of the baseball season, Fountain Square hosts a ceremony in which the water in the fountain will be turned back on. This year’s Fountain Day will be this Saturday from 6pm to 9pm. Food and drinks will be available for purchase. The event is free and open to the public.

Rock cover band 4th Day Echo and Local 12’s "Good Morning Cincinnati" anchor Bob Herzog will provide entertainment throughout the evening. The water will ceremoniously begin flowing from the Genius of Water on the Tyler Davidson Fountain around 7:45pm after an official announcement by Cincinnati Vice Mayor Roxanne Qualls. Fireworks sponsored by Cincinnati-based Procter & Gamble are planned to follow.

Findlay Market Opening Day Parade:
An unparalleled Cincinnati tradition, the 91st annual Findlay Market Opening Day Parade will be held Monday, April 5th. The parade begins at the Race Street entrance of historic Findlay Market at 10:30am and will proceed south on Race before turning east on 5th Street past Fountain Square. It will end at the corner of 5th & Sycamore streets, just steps from Great American Ball Park. You can plan your location along the parade route now, but be sure to get there early for the best spots.

This year’s Grand Marshal will be none other than legendary Reds Hall of Fame catcher Johnny Bench. Mr. Bench will be joined by the retired FOX Sports Ohio play-by-play announcer George Grande, Miss Ohio Amanda Tempel, Reds pitcher Bronson Arroyo, and a host of other legendary Cincinnatians, including Mr. Cincinnati himself, Jim Tarbell.

Fountain Square:
All day beginning at 9am, Fountain Square will serve as the hub of all activity. The traditional Findlay Market Opening Day Parade passes by the Square in the late morning, and there will be giveaways and activities throughout the day from Local 12, Q102, PNC Bank, H Meyer Dairy, Servatii Pastry Shop, Skyline Chili, Eichler Golf Cars, Crock of Love, and Cincinnati Tan.

Fountain Square's video screen will broadcast the game live beginning with the first pitch at 1:10pm. Young professionals from Give Back Cincinnati will be hosting a party on Fountain Square that will last into the evening. Live music from Charlie Hustle, The Symphonics, and Jason Ludwig & Hannah Ray will be joined by food from Mythos Grecian Grill and Senor Roy's Taco Patrol. Christian Moerlein beer will also be available for consumption.

Reds fans enjoy an expanded Fountain Square on 5th Street during last year's Civil Rights Game [LEFT]. People relax on Rock Bottom Brewery's comfortable outdoor patio on Fountain Square [RIGHT].

Pre-Game at the Ballpark:
Gates to Great American Ball Park will open at 11:10am, and early fans will be treated to live music from The Goshorn Brothers and Pete Wagner Dixieland Band who are scheduled to perform pregame concerts in the ballpark.

Honor Guard units from the Navy, Air Force, Marines, Army and Coast Guard will comprise a Parade of Colors on the field. Four F-16's from the 178th Fighter Wing of the Ohio Air National Guard based in Springfield, Ohio will perform a pregame flyover. Haiti Relief volunteers from the American Red Cross and Matthew 25: Ministries will hold a giant American flag in the outfield during the singing of our National Anthem.

Recording artist, former Bengals tight end and 2006 Super Bowl Champion Ben Utecht will sing the National Anthem before the game. Saxophonist Elan Trotman will perform God Bless America during the 7th inning stretch.

Miss Ohio USA 2010 Amanda Tempel, St. Bernard native and Roger Bacon High School alum, will deliver the official game ball to the mound to be used by Opening Day starting pitcher Aaron Harang who will deliver the first pitch of the 2010 Reds baseball season at 1:10pm. Just before that, the ceremonial First Pitch will be thrown by former Reds broadcaster, George Grande who was the television play-by-play voice of the Reds for the past 17 years, and is scheduled to return to the booth in September for a few games.

Beer:
One of the few things that Cincinnatians have historically taken as serious as baseball is beer which Cincinnatians consumed to the tune of 40 gallons per person every year in the early 1900s. Much of our city’s architecture was built to facilitate brewing and many of those beautiful structures remain as a reminder to this day. It is only fitting that the Findlay Market Opening Day Parade begins in Cincinnati's historic Brewery District.

Seldom will you find a gathering that does not include the enjoyment of this great fermented malt nectar, if in fact the event was not planned only to provide the excuse to savor a craft beer in the first place. When Baseball and Beer combine forces on Opening Day, there is no truer representation of Cincinnati’s passions. In fact, in 1880 the Cincinnati Reds were kicked out of the National League in part because they refused to stop selling beer during baseball games. Sprinkle in some beautiful weather and it truly nears perfection.

Before the game starts there will be a variety of pregame places to check out for the special events. Arnold’s Bar & Grill (210 E. 8th St) is Cincinnati’s oldest tavern and is an Opening Day staple that will feature a litany of events. The all day long Jake Speed's Opening Day Extravaganza is presented by WNKU and Hudy will include special menus, live music, giveaways, and more. JeanRo Bistro (413 Vine St) will open at 9am with brunch and $3 drafts of craft beer from a great rotating tap selection. In the Backstage Entertainment District, Nicholsons (625 Walnut) will open at 10am and offer ballpark food (dogs & burgers etc) and 25 total taps including two special releases in Cask (hand drawn, British Pub Style). A limited amount of the hard to get 21st Amendment “Monk’s Blood” Dark Belgian-style Ale may still be available. Rock Bottom Brewery (Fountain Square) will have brewmaster Mitchell Dougherty tap his "Catcher In The Rye" Ale in honor of the new baseball season. They will open at 9am for breakfast, and will be serving locally brewed beers all day inside and on their patio space directly on Fountain Square.

At the ballpark itself, the powers that be have made a concerted effort to make craft beer offerings more available to all areas of the stadium, including well placed taps of Bells Brewery's Oberon American Wheat, which is widely known as "Baseball Beer." Bells will also have their Oberon on tap in sections 110, 140, 430 and 419. Christian Moerlein's OTR Pale Ale will be available in Sections 135, 110, 140 and 430, while Moerlein's Lagerhouse Helles will be available in sections 126 and 104. Great Lakes Burning River Pale Ale will be available in Club Red and section 135.

In addition to these great draft selections, there are other notable beers available in cans and bottles at the The Pub, Machine Room, Scouts Alley and the Champion's Club, including beers from local brewery Mt. Carmel, as well as Great Lakes and a brewery that is brand new to the state of Ohio, 21st Amendment. This Bay Area, CA microbrewery will be offering both "Brew Free or Die" IPA and "Hell or High WaterMelon" Wheat in its signature cans.

For your post game fun it will depend on the direction you are heading, but Hoperatives has a great list of options to continue your appreciation of craft beer throughout the Greater Cincinnati area. Wherever the rest of your day may take you, please be safe and responsible and make it a point to use public transportation, hail a cab, plan for a designated driver or even grab a hotel room downtown. Enjoy yourself on this true Cincinnati celebration. Cheers!

David Ben, Dave Rolfes, Bryon Martin & Randy Simes all contributed to this story.

Grapevine Friday's progressive wine tasting tonight in OTR

2010-04-02T08:30:00.000-04:00

Each month merchants throughout Over-the-Rhine's Gateway Quarter throw open their doors for a progressive wine tasting called Grapevine Friday. The event takes place on the first Friday of each month, and for April, it will take place from 5pm to 7pm in the historic center city neighborhood.

According to organizers, the wine selection for this month is meant to compliment the Easter season. Those taking part in the progressive wine tasting will work their way to five participating merchants that will each be offering a different wine to taste. Participating merchants include Mica 12/V, OUTSIDE, Joseph Williams Home, Metronation and Segway of Cincinnati.

Event organizers are also encouraging people to check out the neighborhood's newest businesses like Senate and NEON's Unplugged which is celebrating its grand opening today. There are also the other variety of businesses located in Over-the-Rhine's burgeoning Gateway Quarter where you can window shop and take in the historic neighborhood.

Parking is available at the 12th & Vine parking, the Gateway Quarter garage that is accessible from 12th Street and Central Parkway, and NEON's Unplugged has free parking available off of E. 12th Street behind the venue. Bicycle parking can be found throughout the neighborhood, and several Metro bus routes serve the area.

Complete Your Census Forms Today!

2010-04-01T15:30:00.000-04:00

Today is national Census Day in America, and Cincinnatians need to be certain they send their completed Census forms back as required by law. The U.S. Census is conducted once every ten years and helps give policymakers a picture of the nation. Over that ten year period, the Census influences the allocation Congressional seats, billions of public dollars that go to schools, parks, roads, police and more.

In Cincinnati alone it has been estimated that the city was under-counted by some 45,000 people in 2000. Over the ten year period since the last count it is projected that Cincinnati's under-counted population resulted in the loss of $104 million in public funding.

So far, only 42 percent of the households within the City of Cincinnati have responded. Cincinnati's urban core is even worse off. Downtown has roughly 35 percent of their forms in, while Over-the-Rhine is around 15 percent. The student heavy areas surrounding the University of Cincinnati have about 25 percent of the households responding so far.

Historically urban areas are the most difficult to count, but it is imperative that a high response rate is achieved to ensure that Cincinnati gets its fair share of funding for critical public assets. In Ohio's other major cities the story is much the same. Columbus comes in at 39 percent, and Cleveland has only 32 percent of their households reporting.

The ten question form is simple and easy to complete. In most cases it will take you just a few minutes to complete. We won't have another shot at this until 2020, so make sure you turn those forms in right now.

STUDENTS AT AREA COLLEGES: The Census counts how many people are living at a particular place at a particular time. So regardless of where your permanent address may be you should fill out the Census for where you are living as of April 1, 2010. If your parents still claim you, and your permanent residence is listed as somewhere else that is fine, but you should fill out the form for where you are living now.

UrbanCincy voted one of best blogs in Cincinnati

2010-04-01T08:30:00.001-04:00

CityBeat recently announced the winners of the 2010 Best of Cincinnati awards, and I'm proud to say that UrbanCincy was, once again, voted among the best blogs in Cincinnati. UrbanCincy came in second behind Scott Sloan's blog for 700 WLW "The Nation's Station." Also finishing in the top three was Julie Niesen's Wine Me, Dine Me food blog.

It really is an honor to be considered to be the best in whatever it is you do, and I personally do feel honored. But, I would not have been able to grow UrbanCincy to where it is today without the help of the dedicated team of writers that help produce content, brainstorm story ideas, shoot photography and conduct research for our stories.

Since its inception in May 2007, UrbanCincy has grown from a random spattering of thoughts shared on a blog every so often, to a website that now publishes almost 100 percent original content 10 to 12 times each week. A group of friends and interested community members has grown into a large collection of tens of thousands of people each month who visit UrbanCincy to stay connected with what is happening in Cincinnati's urban core.

Work published on UrbanCincy has been featured in the Cincinnati Enquirer, Reno Gazette-Journal, National Resource & Defense Council, Trust for Public Land, Planetizen, 'Smart City' and 'City Talk' radio shows, Reconnecting America, Streetsblog, Urbanophile, and discussed by Richard Florida. I feel like since May 2007, UrbanCincy has helped to change the conversation in Cincinnati. More and more people are excited about the transformation of Cincinnati's urban core, policy decisions are being discussed and debated in a new way, and new ideas are emerging about how we should manage and interact with the city.

On May 8th, UrbanCincy's 3rd anniversary, the UrbanCincy team will celebrate the launch of a brand new website. There will be expanded coverage, new ongoing features, an updated design, and even more content all based on the input given in the 2010 UrbanCincy Survey. A launch party is currently being planned for that Saturday night so we would like to ask you to reserve that spot on your calendar to come out and meet the team, celebrate the new website and enjoy Cincinnati's urban core. Please stay tuned for event details.

Thanks again for your ongoing support. We hope to be able to continue to offer high-quality content and better user experiences down the road that are engaging and interesting. In the mean time, if there are any comments you would like to share with me or the team, please do so in the comment section of this post. Cheers.

2010 Tunes & Blooms concert series at the Cincinnati Zoo

2010-03-31T15:30:00.001-04:00

The annual Tunes & Blooms concert series at the Cincinnati Zoo starts tomorrow at 6pm. Just as in the past, this series features local music in a very unique setting and promises to be a great way to get back outside and enjoy the Spring season in Cincinnati.

Presented by CityBeat and WNKU, Tunes & Blooms is a free weekly concert series put on each and every Thursday evening throughout the month of April. The bands that come to play at the Zoo are some of the most respected and admired local acts and they promise to put on quite a show. The kickoff event this week features both Chuck Cleaver’s Wussy as well as local indie pop sensation Pomegranates. A fairly unique pair, this promises to be quite a show on a night where the weather should be nothing but spectacular.

There are a few other things you should know about Tunes & Blooms which has five incredible shows over the next month. First off, admission to the Zoo is free after 5pm and the shows start around 6pm. While parking is $7, it is a good deal whether you drive a car over or jump on the Metro lines 1, 46, or 78. Secondly, the event will happen rain or shine. Tomorrow's weather looks very promising, but as Spring carries on it is a great reminder that regardless of what the weather is there will still be music happening at the Zoo each Thursday.

We are lucky enough to have five Thursdays in April this year, and the schedule is packed for each one. Stop over and enjoy some free music at the Zoo as one way to get back outside and enjoy all that Cincinnati has to offer. You will find the schedule of shows for this year's Tunes & Blooms below.

April 1 – Wussy + Pomegranates

April 8 – Comet Bluegrass All Stars + Rumpke Mountain Boys
April 15 – The Newbees + The Seedy Seeds
April 22 – Faux Frenchmen + Psychodots
April 29 – Jake Speed & the Freddies + The Turkeys

Cincinnati's Airport Location Failure

2010-03-31T10:00:00.000-04:00

In an ever globalizing economic system, it becomes increasingly more important for metropolitan regions to have a strong international airport that not only provides reliable high-quality air service to the residents and businesses of that region. Cincinnati's robust corporate community has historically helped position the Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport as one of the major players in the nation thanks to a large Delta presence.

That presence is nowhere near the same today and Cincinnati's international airport may soon be positioned to lose its Delta hub status altogether thanks to the recent Delta/Northwest merger that left the Cincinnati with the odd airport out with nearby hubs in Atlanta and Detroit.

Atlanta is Delta's hometown and has the busiest airport, as measured by enplaned passenger, in the world. Meanwhile Detroit Metro Airport is a large newly renovated facility that was a major hub for Northwest prior to the merger. The new mega-airline no longer has a need for the overlapping hubs and seemingly has its eyes set on giving Cincinnati the treatment Pittsburgh received US Airways reduction from a prominent "hub" to a mere "destination" in 2008.

With Cincinnati's large and growing business community, a region experiencing regional population growth, and a central location to other large metropolitan markets it would seem like Cincinnati's international airport should be anything but the odd airport out in this shuffle - especially with recently upgraded facilities, top-of-the-line security, and large capacity. The problem might be that Cincinnati's international airport is located in Northern Kentucky.

This is not said as a slight to Kentucky, but rather said as a reality that Northern Kentucky represents the southern most reaches of the Cincinnati Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA), and is very distant from the southern reaches of Dayton's MSA that is poised to be merged with Cincinnati following the 2010 Census creating the Cincinnati-Dayton Metroplex with roughly 3.1 million people.

Imagine this: Instead of having the Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport on Cincinnati's south side and the Dayton International Airport on Dayton's north side, the new metroplex has one mega-regional airport located in the middle of the two population and job centers. The draw would be so great that the airport would attract travelers from Columbus and Indianapolis alike for its profound reach much like the Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport in Atlanta.

Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport view during early stages of construction of the third parallel north/south runway (top left) - image from Landrum & Brown.

A mega-regional international airport located around the Monroe area in Butler County would been a further distance from the center cities of both Cincinnati and Dayton when compared to both cities existing airports, but Cincinnati would not have the difficult and expensive navigation over the Ohio River and Dayton would be able to benefit from an international airport with the pulling power of Cincinnati combined with their own.

The region is currently pouring $2-plus billion into the construction of a new river crossing primarily needed because of the sprawl in Northern Kentucky, and by association, the related industries that locate around airports. This money instead could have been used to construct high-quality rail connections between the population and job centers of Cincinnati and Dayton with the international airport located in northern Butler County. The inevitable metroplex then would have not only had a larger and more effective international airport serving its residents and businesses, but the metroplex would have had passenger rail connecting the two centers with one another.

Had this scenario played out, would we be talking about Detroit's international airport experiencing reduced service instead? Would we be talking about a $2-plus billion bridge replacement over the Ohio River? Would the northern and southern sprawl outward from Cincinnati been instead consolidated into the northern corridor along I-75 that has been met with Dayton's southern sprawl? How much economic and population impact would this have represented for the State of Ohio? Would the Cincinnati-Dayton Metroplex be an even greater center for aviation industries than it already is?

The answers to these questions may not be easily identifiable or defined, but it does seem clear that the best location for a large international airport serving the Cincinnati-Dayton Metroplex would have been in the middle of the two population and job centers - not the far southern or northern reaches.

This Week in Soapbox - 3/30

2010-03-30T15:30:00.003-04:00

This Week in Soapbox, UrbanCincy has the following five stories to check out. Read about Cincinnati's newest food truck, home builders' shift to urban projects, Wake Nation's new practice pond, a new Hispanic business initiative, and a feature story about the Cincinnati's burgeoning fashion scene.

TWIS 3/30/10:

Taco Azul to hit Cincinnati's streets in late April - full article
CitiRama sells first home, installs innovative geothermal system - full article
Wake Nation breaks ground on expanded facility - full article
Hispanic 100 initiative helps Latino professionals branch out - full article
Cincinnati Gets Fashionable (feature story) - full article

Putting the Food Cart Before the Horse

2010-03-30T08:30:00.002-04:00

Yesterday, Cincinnati Enquirer editor Tom Callinan wrote an opinion piece about Cincinnati's growing street food scene. The column discusses his past experiences with street food and elaborates on how Cincinnati's street food scene has changed since he arrived in Cincinnati some eight years ago.

Personally I appreciate the comments shared by Mr. Callinan and his apparent enthusiasm for the Cincinnati Streetcar project he mentioned four times in his relatively short op-ed piece about street food. The reason for this response piece is not to challenge his experiences with great street food (I too love street food), or his passion for the Cincinnati Streetcar project (also a passion of mine), but rather to explore his explanation of cosmopolitan cities and experiences.

Mr. Callinan explained how the growing street food options are making Cincinnati a more cosmopolitan place much like the Cincinnati Streetcar will. This however is putting the food cart before the horse. Street food options are not a driver of cosmopolitan behavior, but rather the result of a city becoming more cosmopolitan and craving such offerings. Likening this to the Cincinnati Streetcar which will actually drive additional lifestyle changes that make Cincinnati more cosmopolitan is inaccurate.

For example, when people living at The Banks development along Cincinnati's riverfront ride the Cincinnati Streetcar to Findlay Market for their weekly shopping needs it is not the businesses that sparked this behavioral change, it is the streetcar that enables this, as Mr. Callinan would put it, cosmopolitan lifestyle. The lifestyle changes influenced by the streetcar system will create additional demand for cosmopolitan offerings like the street food vendors Mr. Callinan details as more people, instead of cars, begin to populate our streets.

You could almost view something like street food as an indicator species for the liveliness of a city. William H. Whyte's groundbreaking research in New York City examined the social behaviors and usage of public spaces, and he discovered that people do in fact have a tendency to cluster around street food vendors. This is for two primary reasons: 1) the street food attracts people to the vendor for the product, and 2) people are attracted to other people and have a tendency to self-congest. But without people on the streets to begin with, there is no demand for a street food vendor. So the question is really how to increase the number of people out on the streets if we are trying to figure out how to grow the number of street food vendors in a given area.

Cincinnati's food carts vie for the heavy foot traffic areas in downtown Cincinnati. The locations for each vendor is determined by an annual lottery held by the City.

New York City has no shortage of people walking around the city where there is a proliferation of these fantastic street food vendors. And it is no coincidence that Cincinnati's food carts fight over the spaces surrounding Fountain Square during the annual lottery that allocates food cart locations. Those food cart spaces are located in the highest pedestrian count areas of downtown Cincinnati where each of the nearby intersections boast between 4,000 to 7,000 pedestrians per hour between 11am and 2pm.

But what about street food vendors in Portland that is the oft-cited streetcar case study for Cincinnati's contemporary proposal?

Marisa Robertson-Textor wrote for Gourmet Magazine that, "Portland's bustling street-food scene may soon be rivaling the hawker centers of Singapore in terms of quality, scope, popular appeal, and value for money. In other words, the Pacific Northwest is doing for street food today what it did for coffee in the 1990s." She went on to say that picking just eight venues out of the sea of stands, stalls, carts, trucks, trailers, and even bicycles was a tough job.

Portland's street food vendors tend to cluster around the streetcar and light rail lines...especially so around line crossings.

I spent the last week in Denver where I visited one of America's most famous street food vendors. I got to speak with Jim Pittenger, owner of Biker Jim's Dogs, during that time about his gourmet hot dogs that have drawn national acclaim and recent praise from food rock star Anthony Bourdain himself. Jim's loyal assistant explained the importance of a high foot traffic location to me, and said that their prominent location at 16th & Arapahoe streets in the heart of downtown Denver has been critical to their success.

In Cincinnati we need to continue to do things like remove the hideous and life sucking skywalks, build modern transport options like the Cincinnati Streetcar to give people greater options to get out of their cars and onto the streets so that we can continue to create additional demand for the wondrous street food vendors that help make cities great.

Cincinnati Riverfront Park on schedule for spring 2011 opening

2010-03-29T15:30:00.000-04:00

The Cincinnati Riverfront Park is currently under construction and progress is being made on the first phase of the project that will be completed in spring 2011. The Moerlein Lager House, Bicycle Center and Event Lawn are all making headway while the support elements are put in place. The project is on schedule according to project manager Dave Prather who gives us the update.

Meatless Monday: Mac & Cheese with a View

2010-03-29T08:30:00.002-04:00

When it comes to eating meatless one day a week, hungry diners are out of excuses. Do yourself a favor. While trend-worshippers flock to Senate Pub on Vine Street for pumped up street grub and urban chatter, take an evening to check out the View in East Walnut Hills. Stephens Restaurant Group has seized control of the Edgecliff Room -- formerly owned by Martin and Marilyn Wade of Local 127 -- and have revamped both the name and the menu.

You may be dining next to a slightly more mature crowd (it’s located in the towering Edgecliff condos on Victory Parkway), but who cares when the restaurant’s backdrop is a sprawling panoramic of the Ohio River Valley? Instead of elbowing for a bar stool, you can easily score a table here overlooking a stretched out horizon dotted with twinkling city lights.

The View's mac and cheese - before/after - photography by Courtney Tsitouris.

And fancy hotdogs and duck fat fries got nothin' on the fever-inducing, down home goodness of the View’s mac and cheese. It's an angry, bubbling mess of elbow macaroni, butter and cream topped with a hit of herbed breadcrumbs. It comes in a piping hot casserole dish with brown baked sides that will singe the tips of your fingers. As you break its surface with a spoon, two types of cheddar cheese hiss and scream and a wave of steam forms curlicues in the air.

But watch out kids, this one is for the pesce-vegetarians. Beneath the velvety blanket of cream and pasta, lump crabmeat marries an exotic twirl of truffle essence. If your mother and a young whippersnapper chef got together, this is the homespun decadence they’d come up with. It’s Sunday supper on crack -- soul food with the complicated, evocative bend of revved-up ingredients. For just ten dollars, even red-blooded meat lovers will be hard pressed to find this much comfort and flavor packed on a plate.

It’s the “classic with a twist” style that Alfio Gulisano -- the same chef behind Bella Luna -- hopes to implement throughout the rest of his menu. The View may not be a fully baked concept yet (other dishes like the grilled cheese with onions fell short of such transcendent musings), but he’s making his point. In a time of glorified bar food and kicked-up bistro classics, Gulisano shows Cincinnati that he’s coming out with guns blazing.

'Meatless Mondays' is an ongoing series on UrbanCincy that explores one of the recommendations of Cincinnati's Climate Protection Action Plan (aka Green Cincinnati Plan) - try to go meatless one day a week. UrbanCincy's 'Meatless Mondays' series is written and photographed by Courtney Tsitouris who is a cook, designer and author of www.epi-ventures.com, a blog about dining in and dining out in Cincinnati.

24th Annual Oyster Festival kicks off downtown this Friday

2010-03-26T15:30:00.000-04:00

The Washington Platform Saloon & Restaurant in downtown Cincinnati will play host for the 24th Annual Oyster Festival starting this weekend. The festival will kick off this Friday, March 26 with a new 24/ 20.10 special where oyster lovers can get 24 freshly shucked oysters "with all the trimmings" for $20.10 that will go along with Washington Platform's happy hour drink specials Monday through Friday from 4pm to 7pm.

The month-long festival will feature a 40-plus item oyster menu prepared by award-winning chef Jon Diebold. "A Smoked Oyster Salad, Oysters Mardi Gras, and Nantucket Oysters are just a sampling of Oyster Festival fare," said Diebold who added that Washington Platform's famous fresh-shucked Oysters On The Half Shell will also be available.

The longest running oyster festival in Cincinnati will include the popular "Pearl Count" and "Pearls of Wisdom" contests which will give participants a chance to win gift certificates and other prizes. According to festival organizers, proceeds from these special festival events will go to benefit the Esme Kenney/SCPA Memorial Sculpture Fund. There will also be a $50 Washington Platform gift certificate giveaway to those who find a big red 24 on the bottom of their oysters during the festival.

As the festival continues into April, Washington Platform (map) will host the annual "Cork 'N Shells" six course wine and oyster sampling on Thursday, April 22. Seating is limited and guests are encouraged to make reservations in advance by calling (513) 421-0110. The 24th Annual Oyster Festival will run from this Friday, March 24 through Saturday, April 26.

Oyster photo by Gary Sharp.

'Carousel Kids' opens at Museum Gallery/Gallery Museum - 3/26

2010-03-25T15:30:00.001-04:00

Museum Gallery/Gallery Museum will host its third show, entitled Carousel Kids, in historic Over-the-Rhine Friday, March 26 from 7pm to 11pm after being founded just months ago. The new gallery space in Over-the-Rhine's art community places the focus of its shows on local talent.

"Museum Gallery is run by six artists working as individual curators," explained Matt Wiseman. "Our goal is to promote local and up and coming contemporary artists working in all mediums, while creating different experiences among each show."

The show will feature primarily installation-based work assembled by the artists' collective SLAPface, and will "explore 1840's Americana," that was complete with freak shows and dime museums, and examine this era's influence on contemporary art display.

"Oddities, the grotesque and the uncanny were once the common spectacles which the circus and carnival revolved around. As a form of mass entertainment, these institutions showcased mysterious and weird creatures, human and animal alike," described Wiseman. "The popularity of these shows fell into decline in the wake of the ever widening media and modern scientific discovery, only to survive in cult culture. Carousel Kids takes a lighter approach on the notion of modern day anomalies, while staying within the same vein of its predecessors."

The show opening at Museum Gallery/Gallery Museum (map) includes a reception and is free if you reserve a ticket, and just 75 cents without a ticket. Tickets can be reserved online or by calling (859) 462-3799.

Increasingly urban Hamilton County Fair goes green

2010-03-25T08:30:00.000-04:00

Last year's 155-year-old Hamilton County Fair saw its return to relevance, with a 56% increase in fair-goers, but it also saw the debut of the GoGreen Area. The GoGreen Area of the Hamilton County Fair focuses on environmental and sustainability awareness and educational opportunities, and it got its start thanks to the frustration of a Carthage resident.

"I didn't really like what was going on with the fair," said Jennifer McWhorter, GoGreen Area chairwoman. "I live down the street and I really wanted to see things change and get better [at the fair], so I thought I should share some of my ideas."

That's exactly what McWhorter did, and with that, the GoGreen Area was born at the 2009 Hamilton County Fair. For the first year, McWhorter was able to have 23 recycling bins placed around the fair grounds in addition to the extremely popular Kids Day activities focused around her concepts.

"A lot of people out there want to go green," explained McWhorter. "So I thought, why don't we bring this to the fair and help make a positive change in the community. I wanted to create educational opportunities for children and other residents so that they could learn how to go green."

McWhorter was able to do this in part because she is certified as a Master Composter and Gardener by Purdue University. She also is a practicing vermicomposter - a composting process that uses red worms. In the end, McWhorter just wanted to share her talent and passion with other people in the community.

GoGreen Area at the 2009 Hamilton County Fair - images provided.

McWhorter continued, "The Hamilton County Fair is leaning towards being more of an urban fair nowadays, and while there is still a good amount of agriculture in Hamilton County, there is a strong desire amongst people wanting to be sustainable in their urban communities throughout the county."

This year fair-goers can look forward to GoGreen Area partnerships with Building Value, Findlay Market's urban gardening program. The 2010 Hamilton County Fair will take place from August 10 through August 14 and will once again include the GoGreen Area. McWhorter is looking to grow the impact this year by engaging other Hamilton County residents to come up with ideas for green events that they want to make happen by contacting gogreenwiththehcfair@gmail.com. The GoGreen Area is also looking for a sponsor and volunteers for this year's Kids Day.

Pecha Kucha + Ignite = ?

2010-03-24T15:30:00.001-04:00

Pecha Kucha came full circle this past Friday at the Contemporary Arts Center in downtown Cincinnati when it returned to the spot where PK Cincinnati got its start. But there is a new addition to the "interesting presentation" scene in Cincinnati, and that is Ignite Cincinnati.

Ignite Cincinnati and Pecha Kucha are very similar in scope and execution. The biggest difference is that Ignite presenters get 15 seconds per slide while Pecha Kucha presenters get a whopping 20 seconds. The PK idea was started first and has a more international audience, but Ignite is no less of a format for presenting ideas. Founders for both forums have acknowledged the similarities and are currently working together to collaborate on future projects.

"We're competing for the same spaces, same presenters, same audience," Pecha Kucha Cincinnati leader Greg Lewis says. "They have more of a handle on the young professional crowd, and obviously we want to work together to achieve the same goals."

It is too soon to tell how this coalition will manifest itself, but it is safe to say there will definitely be something new happening in the future. In the mean time, let the battle of the interesting presentation styles continue in Cincinnati...we are all reaping the benefits.

Northside leaders develop plan for alley reuse

2010-03-24T08:30:00.000-04:00

An often overlooked piece of an urban community's infrastructure is the alley. Alleys once provided a great deal of service, but have since fallen out of use in some areas due to an ever-changing urban form and demographics.

In Northside, neighborhood leaders there have begun examining their alleys as part of a mission to "Clean Up, Green Up and Light Up" the alley network in Northside. In September 2009, planners inventoried the surface types of 24 alleys in Northside.

"In the beginning of our talks I researched alleys and what other cities were doing," said Lisa Auciello of the Northside Community Council about the neighborhood's early efforts to discover what could be done with the alleys.

Auciello described Chicago's Green Alley Handbook as being a great example on how to cut down on crime in alleys by providing additional lighting and encouraging citizens to use the alleys more frequently in creative ways.

"Boswell Alley Restaurant has a beautiful herb garden in their alley that the cook uses daily, and we have found that some residents are also planting flowers in their alleys," said Auciello. "Our Citizens On Patrol Program is going to "Adopt A Spot" through Keep Cincinnati Beautiful and our spots will be a couple of the main alleys off of Hamilton."

Alleys have long provided critical access to hard-to-reach urban areas throughout Cincinnati, and as the city redefines itself it will become increasingly important for neighborhood and city leaders to continue to examine how we treat this significant part of our urban landscape.

This Week in Soapbox 3/23

2010-03-23T18:30:00.000-04:00

This Week in Soapbox, UrbanCincy has the following five stories to check out. Read about Sen. Voinovich's involvement with the CRP, an advertising agency relocating to OTR, an upcoming conference on neighborhood walkability, Bellevue's four-day form-based code charrette, and a feature story about Zipcars in Cincinnati.

TWIS 3/23/10:

Senator Voinovich tours Cincinnati Riverfront Park construction site, pledges additional support - full article
Cincinnati-based Lohre & Associates relocating to historic Over-the-Rhine - full article
ULI Cincinnati to host Walkable Neighborhoods Conference - full article
Bellevue hosting four-day charrette on form-based code - full article
Is Cincinnati Ready to Zip It? (feature story) - full article

Women And The City

2010-03-23T11:00:00.002-04:00

I am a strong, independent woman. I love Cincinnati, and there is nothing that will keep me from experiencing the urban core. However, as a female, there are certain stressors in place that keep me vigilant and watchful... just in case. When I walk alone at night, I take extra precautions to ensure I will be safe and not bothered. I separate my valuables and put them in my pockets instead of my purse. I walk briskly with intention, and am aware of what is going on around me. I slap a serious expression on my face that says "don't mess with me, man." And if it's too far, I drive and park closer, or enlist a male friend to escort me to my destination. For the most part, it seems to work. Am I being too careful? Why do I even bother? Cincinnati is amazing, but it is still not always hospitable for women.

The city as we know it today was not designed for females. Our country was founded by men, and our cities were designed according to their desires and needs. Victorian philosophy dictated that a woman's place was in the home, not out in the wild world, where bad things can and do occasionally happen. Thus, public spaces were designed with men in mind; men who could deal with the combativeness and friction of the public realm. If a woman were to wander out in public alone, she was harassed - "what's a nice girl like you doing out here?"

Unfortunately, this still carries through today as I regularly endure catcalls and jeers in public from men of every size and color. Even now, I am one of the only female bloggers writing about urban issues in this region (and on this site - love ya, guys!) It certainly seems to be a man's world out there. Why is this still acceptable in modern culture? What about the urban setting can be so inhospitable toward women... and what can be done to reverse it?

In Dolores Hayden's work, Domesticating Urban Space, she examines the separation between public life and private life. In order for a city to be inclusive towards women and families, she explains, the two spheres need to intermingle. When the public life - experiencing the city- feels more like an extension of one's private living space (safe, hospitable, welcoming, fun), then those who are more vulnerable will be apt to inhabit it.

Local activist and entrepreneur Candace Klein extrapolated along these same lines in her recent editorial which ran in the Enquirer earlier this year. She described her experience of living in Over-the-Rhine for three days without a car, and how it opened her eyes to the community all around her. She is one example of a fearless, independent woman who has figured out how to make the city work to fit her needs. But... does she walk home alone at night?

There are both basic and complicated changes that can be implemented in communities to make experiencing them safer and more enjoyable for women and families. One basic necessity is adequate lighting in neighborhoods. Another is simply for there to be enough activity during the evening hours to increase the amount of eyes out on the street. Both of these details were lacking when I was mugged last November. Hayden describes having a system of safe houses or businesses (much like the Safe Place signs back in the 90's) where anyone could go to if they did feel threatened at all. As neighborhoods become denser and we get to know each other, the cold and faceless city suddenly is colored with life, friends, and a strengthened sense of community.

Hayden writes, "As long as the domestic world remains a romantic haven "outside" of public life and the political economy, politically active women can always be sent back to it, and men can justify the exclusion of women and children from their public debates and analyses... yet... if they (women) can transcend the female world of a segregated place, new kinds of homes and neighborhoods might become the most powerful place in America for progressive political coalitions on urban issues."

I believe that policy and design has moved forward somewhat since Hayden's work was written in 1984. Now women make a whole .75 cents on the dollar instead of .50 cents, and gradually more attention is being paid and gender stereotypes are slowing down. They are not gone completely, but things are improving.

One of the greatest indicators of a truly great city is how safe and comfortable the most vulnerable feel interacting in the city. In the case of Copenhagen, Denmark, babies are left in prams outside of shops to get much needed sunlight, and I had no fears traveling on my own from place to place while living there in 2008. I don't know when that day will come for Cincinnati, but I am looking forward, and doing my part by refusing to give in to fear or intimidation.

Building Value manager explains environmentally sensitive deconstruction process

2010-03-22T15:30:00.003-04:00

Dave Hunt, De-Construction Manager with Building Value, explains the process of deconstructing a building in a way that salvages the valuable resources enclosed for a later use in a different building construction project. Dave is joined by Alyson Moritz, Planner with the City of Wyoming, who discusses the value the Wyoming community sees in the environmentally sensitive deconstruction process.

Roebling Suspension Bridge gets fresh coat, impacts nearby neighborhood

2010-03-22T08:30:00.002-04:00

The Roebling Point Planning Committee for the City of Covington is meeting tonight from 6pm to 8pm to discuss design, land use, economic conditions and potential public improvements in the Roebling Point area of Covington. The Committee hopes to take the information gathered at this meeting and use it to formulate plans and recommendations for changes that might be made in the area.

Meanwhile the Roebling Suspension Bridge, connecting downtown Covington with downtown Cincinnati, is getting a fresh coat of paint. The new coat will help protect the 144-year-old river span designed by German immigrant John A. Roebling who later gave the world New York City’s famed Brooklyn Bridge.

Work continues on the bridge's new paint job - photos by Jake Mecklenborg.

Specifically, the paint will protect the suspension cables from rust and corrosion, and thus extend the serviceable life of the bridge. In 2007, the Roebling Suspension Bridge had a new 11-ton weight limit put in place by the state of Kentucky that prohibited large vehicles, most notably TANK buses, from crossing the span to help preserve the bridge’s functionality for automobiles and pedestrians.

The $16.2 million paint job is ongoing and will continue for another eight months before the bridge will finally be reopened to automobile traffic in November 2010. During that time, project officials state that pedestrians will still be able to cross on the bridges walkways as they normally would.

The Roebling Point Committee meeting is being held at the Commission Chambers at Covington City Hall (map). Those driving to the meeting are instructed to park in the City Center Garage adjacent to Covington City Hall, and bring their parking receipts for validation.

Only one week left to see Becky's New Car

2010-03-21T13:00:00.002-04:00

Currently running in the historic Over-the-Rhine neighborhood’s Ensemble Theater of Cincinnati (ETC), Becky’s New Car by Steven Dietz will hold its final performance on Sunday, March 28 at 2:00pm.

In this hilarious comedy of errors, Kate Wilford's character Becky Foster allows herself to try on a new life for a while – complete with a new lover and a new home. But when her lie begins to unravel, she discovers that her two separate lives were significantly more intertwined that she had thought. She engages the audience for assistance, but their help cannot possible avert the mess Becky has created.

The show will run Tuesday through Thursday at 7:30pm, Friday and Saturday at 8pm, and close on Sunday with a 2pm performance. The ETC sells discounted $15 tickets 15 minutes prior to each show, so make a night of it in the Gateway Quarter and see what you’ve been missing. Grab dinner or drinks at Lavomatic or at the brand new Senate, visit the shops, then head over to the theater. Plenty of cheap and secure parking is available in one of the 3 garages within a block, but why worry about parking when you can take the bus? Visit Metro to calculate your route.

Ticks are selling fast, and range from $30-40. Numerous discounts apply for children, seniors, students, holders of the Public Radio Perks Card or the FAF Card, and Enjoy the Arts members. Patrons may purchase tickets online, in person at the ETC box office (1127 Vine Street), or by phone at (513) 421-3555.

Bellevue 'Smart Code' workshops begin Monday

2010-03-19T15:30:00.000-04:00

You may know Bellevue, Kentucky for its historic neighborhoods and the unique shops in the pedestrian-friendly Fairfield Avenue business district. Or you may know its “shopping center district” with big box retailers and fast food restaurants in an auto-oriented plaza. City leaders want new developments to be more like the former and less like the later. That’s why the Bellevue community is working on a new form-based zoning code that fits with the city’s motto of “Preserving the Past, Preparing for the Future.” The code will reportedly encourage walkability and the mixing of uses in new developments.

People who live, work or play in Bellevue have been able to get involved in the efforts to adopt a 'Smart Code' from the beginning. On January 27, the first public meeting featured architect Jeff Raser of glaserworks explaining how the code works. At the meeting, many residents were initially skeptical, not understanding the purpose or implications of the change, but came to understand the benefits as Raser answered their questions.

Raser explained that public involvement is essential if the code is to be successful. If citizens participate now, they have the chance to “prescribe” how new developments should look, feel, and function. Residents and developers will both benefit as new projects get off the ground quicker due to the reduced need for zoning variances and other time-wasting processes.

The next public meeting was held in February, allowing citizens to participate in a “visual preference survey.” Results from the meeting showed that citizens overwhelmingly wanted new developments to better fit in with existing historic structures. They also wanted to preserve public parks, plazas, and views of the Ohio River and Cincinnati skyline.

The last chance for citizens to have their voices heard will be next week, from Monday, March 22 to Wednesday, March 24, when the city is holding a charrette, or public workshop, at Bellevue’s Callahan Community Center (616 Poplar Street). Various topics will be covered throughout the charrette, and open house hours will allow citizens to share any other opinions or concerns they may have. An open house "pin up session" will be held on Thursday, March 25 from 6:00 to 7:30 p.m., where final results from the charrette will be presented.

Photo courtesy of the Coding Bellevue.

Cincinnati: A Love, Love, Hate Relationship

2010-03-19T08:30:00.004-04:00

This guest post by Greg Meckstroth originally appeared on urbanOut.

Oh Cincinnati, Oh. How I love, love, hate you. Before moving to Indianapolis I spent 2 years living in Cincinnati, Ohio in the neighborhood of Clifton. During this time I gained a true appreciation for what the city is and all the quirks that exist there. What I concluded is that there is a lot to love about the City, but also some things to hate…but more love than hate. Culturally, physically, and emotionally, Cincinnati is an amazingly unique place with a provincial attitude completely different than any other Midwest counterpart. With these oddities and attitudes comes certain social down sides that gives the City a bad reputation and why it ultimately isn’t a creative class destination. Below, I list the positives and negatives of Cincinnati.

Here is why I love, love Cincinnati:

Identity: The region has a unique, provincial culture not found anywhere else. Whether it’s the food (Skyline Chili, Dewey’s, Graeter’s to name a few), the government, or the institutions, Cincinnati seems to have retained its sense-of-self in ways other Midwest cities have not. People in the area don’t consider themselves from Ohio, but instead just from Cincinnati. Cincinnati is its own city-state.

Local: Locally owned businesses seem to thrive in Cincinnati. While other Midwest towns have become ‘Chain City USA’s’, Cincinnati celebrates their local businesses and builds community around them. What I find interesting about downtown Cincinnati’s renaissance is the number of locally owned establishments fueling the rebirth. Unlike other towns, Cincinnati isn’t marking their downtown’s success by which chains it does and does not have.

Community: The sense of community pride in the City is strong. More often than not, people who live in Cincinnati love Cincinnati. Also, since the City is so neighborhood focused, each having it’s own flavor and sense-of-place, people latch on to their respective communities, keep up on current events, and actively voice concerns. More so than other places, Cincinnati citizens definitely care about their community.

Density: Cincinnati is structurally America’s oldest inland City and thus developed before the car and in extremely dense fashions similar to East Coast cities. Plus, the City’s hills constrained development, making the neighborhoods even denser (Cincinnati was the densest City in the United States outside of New York for quite some time).

Geography: Cincinnati’s hilly geography allowed each neighborhood to develop separately, each with their own business district and each in different forms. On top of this, the hilly, river valley geography provides great views and interesting urban landscapes and juxtapositions.

Architecture: The City’s core features the Midwest’s best collection of 19th Century architecture as well as innovative new architecture (hello The Ascent and Contemporary Arts Center).

So enough gushing about how great the City is, because with this love, love comes the ‘hate’:

Cliques: Because of the provincial culture, Cincinnati seems closed off to outsiders and their respective ideas. Newcomer’s often describe Cincinnati as ‘cliquey’ and find it difficult to fit in to social circles.

Close-minded: The City has a negative reputation with being open to minorities, namely the gay and lesbian population and African-Americans. As a gay man living in the City, I feel this stereotype applies more to the surrounding suburbs than the liberal leaning City, but it nonetheless is a perception problem the reigon has to deal with.

Status-quo: While other parts of the country progress on certain issues, Cincinnati seems to take a ‘wait-and-see’ approach. If something is proven successful time and time again, Cincinnati will come on board, and probably when other places like New York and San Francisco have already moved on to the next big thing. Thus, the City seems comfortable with the status quo, and progress happens slowly here.

There are plenty of other things to both love and hate about Cincinnati, but my analysis is limited to the region’s provincialism and unique culture. I have to say that I have seen great progress in Cincinnati over the past few years, with current leadership and community activism geared towards ending the status quo, ridding the City of this ‘hate’ I speak of, and moving forward in positive ways. With this progress comes the question: if Cincinnati continues to open itself to other ideas and virtues, can it hold onto its uniqueness?

In general, can a City continue celebrating it’s uniqueness while opening up to the outside? I think the obvious answer is ‘yes’, a City can do this and there are plenty of examples. But unfortunately, there are also examples that point to the contrary. So as Cincinnati moves forward it must be aware of this give and take and find the proper balance in becoming a bigger and better 21st Century City.

For as long as I can remember, I have had this love, love, hate relationship with Cincinnati. However, my ideas are not new and have been examined before. Check out this post by the Urbanophile for a similar take on Cincinnati.

Greg Meckstroth holds a Geography degree from the Ohio State University along with a Masters in Community Planning from the University of Cincinnati's nationally-ranked School of Planning. Greg currently works as a planner with an urban design firm in Indianapolis.