On this important election day, Soapbox thought it appropriate to tap Cincinnati's own City Manager, Milton Dohoney to weigh in on the stability of our n
eighborhoods, why civic engagement is a key to a vibrant city and how the combination of innovative ideas, determination and affinity can lead us to even more businesses choosing Cincinnati as their headquarters.
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SoapBlog 2 - Civic Engagement Key to a Vibrant City
Posted By: Milton Dohoney, City Manager
11/5/2008
Cincinnati, Ohio is working hard to be in perpetual celebration mode. More night spots, more restaurants, more positive PR for the city makes it feel good to be here right now. If you study the line up for Fountain Square and some of the events/activities around our city, it is obvious that we will party for any reason imaginable. The rush from civic excitement encourages us to seek it out even more. That is a good thing. Being in love with misery does not add years to your life.
We have issues here just like any other big city. Accentuating the positive does not mean we’re in denial about our wants or needs. So what do we do about them? The short answer is ENGAGE. Texting, blogging, and emailing allow for instantaneous communication but the vibrancy of Cincinnati goes up when we “do.”
Like other cities, we have various leadership programs such as those sponsored by the Chambers of Commerce, Urban League, Talbert House, and even City Government. Gaining a more in-depth understanding about the community, its challenges and opportunities is good for self growth. But, for civic growth you have to do something with all that insight and information. The possibilities for getting involved exist in schools, neighborhoods, non-profits, and public institutions. If you haven’t been through any leadership program there is still a niche of involvement with your name on it.
For all that we are as a city, we can be that much more if each of us engage. Cleaning up neighborhoods, tutoring kids, becoming an entrepreneur, and working for digital inclusion bring a value and a richness to Cincinnati. Whether striving to make a big impact or a small one it’s all needed. Having fun while doing it is even better. Improving our city is another reason to throw a party. So let’s make it happen!