Soapbox - Blog

Where Conversations Happen

Wed, 10 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT

The funny thing about doing what I do is that people sometimes have a misconception about my relationship with art.

I am the first one to say that you don't have to love everything you see. Nobody loves all food, all movies, or all colors - so why would we think we need to love all art, or even all contemporary art? Contemporary art is an experimental field by definition. It celebrates and demonstrates the ongoing creative process that is happening across society RIGHT NOW. That it offers unique, diverse viewpoints of the world in its current state, to me is one of contemporary art's most important-and intriguing-features. And as an epicenter of creative R&D, the ContemporaryArtsCenter is where we, as a community, can participate in that process. People of all ages and backgrounds cross paths here because the CAC provides a space where creativity, as one of society's most transformative forces, can be an integral part of our lives. Some come to find new inspiration or see things in new ways. Others come to plug in and recharge, feed their soul or contemplate.

And still others come to be part of a bigger conversation. In my job I'm privileged to witness a phenomenon that unfolds here every day: art as a means for people to connect to each other and to the world around us. Because contemporary art facilitates dialogue about contemporary issues, the CAC is where our neighbors come to discuss differing viewpoints, it's where our region's parents and grandparents bring children to open new channels of communication, and I'm told it's why we're considered the best "second date" spot in town! This is where conversations happen.

In my opinion that is due in large part to our environment. Cincinnati is extraordinary because there is an enormous level of committed civic investment being made by the people who call this region home, and a great vibrancy here that just keeps growing. That hive of energy is especially apparent around places like the CAC. It's a remarkable thing to observe - but even more, it's an exhilarating thing to be a part of.

Changing Perspectives

Tue, 09 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT

On my way to work I sometimes take Reading Road. Yesterday was one such day, and as I was approaching downtown, I saw a young woman standing on the street with a camera. She was photographing Shepard Fairey's incredible murals that wrap around HighStreet's facade.

This scenario is not out of the ordinary--a quick internet search reveals just how many people are engaging with his works in this community, whether through blogs, pictures or scavenger hunts. In doing so, they not only discover Shepard's artwork but they see our city through the lens of his imagery, his thinking, and his messages. His art is his activism. Red, Black, Cream....crisp and clear from far away, yet detailed and layered when viewed up close. Finding, then experiencing, these public works of art becomes a journey of discovery for the entire community. This, to me, was one of the most exciting aspects of bringing Shepard to Cincinnati.

Shilpa Gupta is another artist showing at the CAC right now. She also engages in a form of artistic activism. Using different types of technology, she creates very intimate situations that help the viewer personalize the various messages she articulates. One of the projects we worked on with Shilpa was a t-shirt, which I am wearing today. Earlier, a woman asked me what the writing on the shirt said. I replied, "And I live under your sky, too." After a moment of silence, and still staring at the shirt, she simply responded "yes, exactly." Again, like the woman photographing the Fairey mural, most people are moved in one way or another by Shilpa's work. She is fantastic at getting us to contemplate big ideas in new ways.

Both Shilpa and Shepard are among the contemporary art world's most noted thought leaders, pressing the boundaries of creativity, expression, and activism. And both have created something very special for us here at home. If you encounter a Shepard mural or a Shilpa t-shirt, will it cause you to see things differently? When you visit their shows at the CAC, does it change your perspective? There's only one way to find out.

Midwestern Values = Green

Thu, 04 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Someone asked me recently how our company managed to grow its business building "green" in the heart of the Midwest. Truthfully, it never occurred to me that "green" construction was something out of character for the Midwest. In fact, I believe sustainable building fits hand-in-glove with our Midwestern values.

A frugal, no-waste approach reflects our roots. One of my first jobs as a teenager working for my family's business was to pull nails out of old studs so we could re-use the wood for concrete forms. It was an old-school approach to construction, but that thrifty attitude still works well today.

Midwestern values rooted in a German heritage tell us not to waste. We value the energy and effort spent in making something well; why would we want to toss it? So, we look for new uses for old things. If we remove an old window in a historic building to replace it with a new Low-E double-glazed window, we work harder not to throw away the old window. We re-use it, like we did in our HGC offices where old windows serve as interior walls.
Where knowledge and creativity collide is at the intersection of knowing when something is worth keeping and re-using, and when it should be tossed. That requires technical expertise. If you don't know how to apply the latest technology, you can't create the most efficient solutions for constructing sustainable buildings.

At HGC Construction, we employ creative thinkers and project managers, and we believe in giving them space to develop creative solutions. But we also believe you have to acquire technical training. That's why as a company we set out a couple of years ago to get more LEED (Leadership in Energy & Environmental Design) training for our project management staff. SHP Leading Design provided us that training, and we're grateful for their leadership in the professional community.

The technical knowledge in LEED enables us to complete successful projects like the Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Garden's Historic Vine Street Village, for which we won a national construction award and which was certified LEED Platinum. Who would believe that here in the heart of the Midwest we now have the "greenest" zoo in the nation?! This project at the Cincinnati Zoo can serve as a model for zoos in other Midwestern cities, like St. Louis, and across the United States.

What we've done in Over-the-Rhine also can serve as a model for other cities. There is little difference in the architecture of Cincinnati, Louisville, St. Louis and other cities settled by Germans along our great rivers. They have the same masonry construction, similar urban environments and energy demands. We've demonstrated here in Cincinnati that eco-friendly buildings will attract buyers to urban neighborhoods. The LEED-Silver condominiums -- the Lofts of Mottainai -- that we constructed from a pair of historic, four-story buildings in Over-the-Rhine sold out quickly. They are a model for what can be created in other Midwest cities.

Our German heritage and Midwestern values establish a solid foundation for the "green" revolution. What we have done at HGC is build on that foundation, acquiring strong technical training and on-the-job experience in green construction. In this revolutionary time, that -- and good old-fashioned hard work -- has been the catalyst for HGC's success.

Frugal is the new cool, part II

Wed, 03 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Third Lesson: Work harder. If you're going to retrofit historic structures with tighter building envelopes, low-voltage lighting, low-flow plumbing fixtures -- like we did at the first LEED-Silver condominiums in OTR -- you've got to know your stuff. Re-using the old is creatively challenging. It's harder to salvage trim, to save window frames, to renovate while preserving the building's value.

We work harder to do that. Sure, it makes sense to harness sunlight by installing new windows in an old building, like we did at UC's Teachers College/Dyer Hall. But it takes know-how. It makes sense to reinforce public garages in Clifton and Uptown rather than having to tear down and rebuild, but it takes know-how. Technical precision is not an option.

Fourth Lesson: Get experience. How do you budget for the unforeseen complications in working with old buildings? Experience teaches you how. Nothing can take the place of the experience gained by working on venerable structures like Union Terminal, Hughes Center, Covington's Ice House and Cathedral Basilica. That's how you learn. Sure, there are many ways to fix a cornice. But how do you fix it the most efficient way? What's the most efficient way to hoist structural steel 11 stories high above busy downtown streets as we did in the Mercantile Library's renovation downtown? Nothing prepares you for the next challenging job more than experience.

Those are four lessons to get started in the new economy. Not easy work, perhaps, but rewarding.
Still, are you weary and wary of "green"? Do you believe "sustainable design" is simply a catchphrase that will soon fade.

I can tell you -- after our company has completed a number of LEED projects in the past 18 months, including two that earned the highest LEED-Platinum certification -- that the revolution is real. It's here to stay.

So, be frugal; be cool. Engage in the future

Learn about Huseman's midwestern values in Thursday's blog.

Frugal is the new cool

Tue, 02 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Frugal is the new cool. Re-use, retrofit and renovate. Take the old and make it new. Make it green and sustainable, too.

Some of us are naturally inclined this way; part of the fabric of our own company, in fact, is not to throw things away. We are frugal by nature, but even those who are not so naturally inclined can learn. If you can't be green, cost-effective and productive in the new economy, however, you just might be left behind. Because there is a revolution at hand, and the changes go beyond being cool. They go to the heart of finding success in a radically new landscape.

There is no better example of this than what's happening in the real estate development and construction industries. It is no longer an option to throw up building after building in the far reaches of the exurbs -- if for no other reason than because financing no longer exists. The money is gone. The industries have to adapt, or fail.

What to do? First lesson: Know green. Building green is everyone's responsibility -- not simply the prerogative of an architect. It means knowing the best sources for local materials. It means understanding geothermal and water harvesting, like the systems we installed at the Cincinnati Zoo. It means creating green roofs in unexpected places, like the one at Newport Central Catholic High School. It means training subcontractors and suppliers. It means recycling waste and knowing how to use every dollar spent for more than one LEED credit, as we did at Emersion Design's LEED-Platinum offices in Cincinnati. Building green is simply not an option anymore. The revolution is real.

Second Lesson: Embrace urban. Uptown, downtown, Over-the-Rhine, Covington, Newport. These are the neighborhoods of the new economy. If you're still looking somewhere out past King's Island, you're missing the show. Turn your attention to the old structures and new opportunities of the urban neighborhoods. When we built the Lofts of Mottainai condominiums in OTR last year, we believed they'd sell out, and they did! The key to that success can be used for others: Renovate existing structures economically to create expansive and affordable eco-friendly spaces in a convenient urban setting.

Stay tuned for Lessons 3 & 4 in Wednesday's blog!

It's Come to This: the Militarization of Cyberspace

Thu, 25 Feb 2010 00:00:00 GMT

A story broke in January that shocked computer security experts around the world. Google, Adobe and dozens of other extremely sophisticated companies had been penetrated by a group of well-funded and highly disciplined attackers. The culprits sought e-mails, source code and other material that made it likely the attacks were politically motivated.

"Operation Aurora" raised alarms around the world, not only for executives in the private sector but also for those in government. The attackers had successfully evaded every defense shield imaginable: firewalls, antivirus, intrusion prevention and many other layers of protection. One commentator called it "the closest thing to an act of war to happen since 9/11."

Insiders have pinned the blame on the Chinese military, i.e., the People's Liberation Army (or PLA), presumably operating at the behest of top government officials. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton went so far as to issue a statement condemning the attacks and requesting an explanation from China.

The implications for private enterprise are wide-ranging. If your company deals with any type of sensitive information in meaningful volumes, it could be a target. The characteristics of a high-value target include: a large number of financial transactions; large quantities of personally identifying information (PII) like social security numbers; or valuable intellectual property.

So if your IT staff isn't aware of "Operation Aurora", or isn't familiarizing itself with extrusion prevention, data-loss prevention and next-generation firewalls, pass this article on to them. We're in the early stages of what can only be called the militarization of cyberspace. This is one party you don't want to show up late for.

Who has time to give back?

Wed, 24 Feb 2010 00:00:00 GMT

The sound of the classroom bell interrupted our discussion. Three students and I had been discussing different forms of government: whether a power-sharing agreement among three charismatic individuals would qualify as a dictatorship or not. Perhaps it was an oligarchy. No matter, the Economics class had ended and it was time for the students to go to their next class and time for me to go back to work.

I said goodbye to the students and shook the hand of my mentee, an affable, witty 16-year-old, and told him I'd see him next week. Each week for the past several years I've joined dozens of other Western & Southern Financial Group (Western & Southern) associates and taken a short drive to Withrow University High School. The school - despite its impressive history, illustrious alumni, and stellar location at the edge of Hyde Park - faces challenges familiar to us all.

One of the challenges is ensuring that students with high potential get the kind of personalized attention that can help drive their academic careers to the next level. At Withrow University High School, the school is designed to do just that. It focuses on ensuring every student who attends is doing the right things to prepare for college. Each volunteer from Western & Southern is paired up with a student, sometimes throughout the student's entire four-year career.

While mentors can specialize in a subject, I've personally found it gratifying to work through problems in every course. When was the last time you balanced a chemical equation? My memory may be hazy, but I think the periodic table only had about nine elements when I was in school. In all seriousness, I find it interesting and challenging to relearn a wide range of topics with my student. It almost feels like reliving those halcyon days that had faded into the past.

When I was younger, I'd made promises to myself. I'd give back to the community when there was more time or when a certain career objective had been met. But I was procrastinating then. There's always enough time for important work like this. And it rewards you in ways you'd never anticipated. Like rediscovering a favorite subject.
Or recapturing a sliver of lost youth.

Have you made a similar promise to yourself? This could be the reminder you've been waiting for.

Can Cincinnati Really Be a Tech Hub?

Tue, 23 Feb 2010 00:00:00 GMT

In 1987, two friends and I decided to start a software company. Our idea was to create a graphical user interface that could be used to create, simulate, automate and debug factory manufacturing systems. Because of our experiences in this area - working with robots, CNC systems, conveyors, etc. - we were convinced this integration software would save manufacturing companies vast amounts of time and effort when putting together a new line.

Our company's ostensible president (he was the one with the Harvard MBA!) had excellent ties from grad school to some of the nation's top venture capitalists. As we pitched the idea, the overall response was quite positive. But there was one hitch - we couldn't stay in Cincinnati. We would have to move to either Boston or San Francisco so the people providing the funding could provide oversight and guidance.

Fast forward 23 years. Today a great idea can get pitched, funded, incubated and even experience a vaunted "liquidity event" within the friendly confines of I-275 in Cincinnati. Fort Washington Investment Advisors, Inc. (Fort Washington), a subsidiary of Western & Southern Financial Group (Western & Southern) has a private equity arm, funding both venture funds ("indirect investments"), as well as a select group of private companies through direct investments. In fact, a wide range of venture capital firms in the area work closely with academia and large corporations like Kroger and Procter & Gamble to grow great ideas into true innovations.

Today, I serve on the board of Zebra Mobile Marketing LLC, a mobile technology startup that provides real-time news, interactive applications and advertising for publishers.

Dozens of other exciting startups, including Construction Software, a comprehensive online preconstruction management service, ThinkVine, a marketing simulation and planning platform, Zakta, a personal and social Web search engine, Blackbook EMG, an experience management company, and Technology Medical Partners, a value-added information technology solutions and services organization for the healthcare industry, are poised to thrive even in a difficult economic environment. Put simply, the last two decades have positioned Cincinnati as a front-runner for mainstream tech investment. Entrepreneurs no longer need to move to other larger cities to grow a thriving company.

Soapblog 3: Cincinnati and DotLoop

Thu, 18 Feb 2010 00:00:00 GMT

When DotLoop travelled to San Diego for its national debut during the National Association of REALTORS Conference back in November, we got a lot of surprised reactions when we told them that we were from Cincinnati.

"Wow", they'd say. "I didn't realize Cincinnati had any tech companies."

The funny thing is, of course, Cincinnati has plenty of tech companies (the ubiquitous ShareThis was founded here; their satellite office is in San Francisco) and has several Fortune 500 companies right here in town. Cincinnati is in the nation's Top 10 markets for number of Fortune 500 headquarters per million residents, and is home to several of the most prestigious universities in the world. In fact, the Queen City is one of the best business environments right now in America and was recently voted the third best housing market in the country.

Cincinnati has a lot going for it. The recent Soapbox article on the bevy of illustrators in the area and its recent spotlight of Sculpco go to show you how underground a lot of our treasured businesses are. Cincinnati has plenty of bragging rights, but doesn't wear it on its sleeve. Hopefully, we can all help change that perception.

DotLoop is proud to call Cincinnati home and is excited to join the ranks of businesses such as P&G and Macy's who do the same. We will be just one more voice championing our fine city, so when we arrive at the 2010 NAR Conference later this year, those who don't know how excellent this city is will say, "Cincinnati - I heard that's a great place for business."

Soapblog 2: What DotLoop Does

Wed, 17 Feb 2010 00:00:00 GMT

When I began my business, I just wanted to solve a problem. I didn't know others had already tried. Luckily, DotLoop's solution was not only easier, it was better.

We designed DotLoop specifically to overcome the challenges of the traditional real estate negotiation process. Real estate is one of the last industries to still be using such antiquated technologies as fax machines and Bic pens. And, with today's Green Revolution, wasting mounds of paper just to complete a transaction is not only wasteful, it's downright ignorant.

Other online real estate negotiations software companies have been tried before. There's form software out there to create PDFs and there's separate electronic signature software out there to allow users to get rid of their pens, and there's even client management software to help track your clients and offers. But they are all cumbersome and none of them really work together seamlessly.

So we knew we were onto something when agent after agent would tell us how much better DotLoop worked compared to everything else they've tried.

The secret was to not change the process for getting things done, but to change the tools. In that regard, DotLoop marries the technology with the traditional, allowing people to do things the old-fashioned way, in a whole new way. Much like online banking changed the way you pay your bills, but didn't change the underlying need for transferring money, so too does DotLoop change the way the real estate industry collaborates and negotiates, but doesn't get rid of the need for either.

So now, instead of agents fighting traffic to meet a client in a parking lot in order to initial some minor change to a contract, or faxing illegible copies of contracts over and over again, the same back and forth can take place online. This makes for a single clean, secure, and trackable contract that can be adjusted and approved from anywhere on the globe. And it wastes less paper and ink to boot.

It hasn't been easy, but then again, anything worth doing right never is.

Allison shares how DotLoop just might change perceptions of Cincinnati's innovative capacity in Thursday's blog.

Soapblog 1: Why we started

Tue, 16 Feb 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Every entrepreneur's dream starts with a problem. The trick is to solve the problem.

Like every other real estate agent in the world, I was chasing down buyers and sellers to get paperwork signed, dividing my time between tracking down clients and organizing mounds of paper. I would find myself having to re-write ten-page contracts two or three times just to make it legible. My clients worked during the day, so I would spend my evenings tracking them down to get signatures and initials, using the trunk of my car as an office desk.

In a world of e-mail, Facebook, and text-messaging, it seemed crazy to me that we were still faxing documents. Fax? What's that?

I knew that this antiquated way of doing business was a problem. There had to be a better way.

So, I went about solving the problem. I sought out the best and brightest partners, surrounded myself with people smarter than me, and forged our company�s path to create DotLoop, the world�s first and only online, collaborative transaction environment for real estate. Now, our system is being used by some of the largest brokerages in the region and we are expanding across the nation at a pace I could never have dreamt of.

But it all started with a problem.

And with every problem comes the opportunity to either solve the problem, or walk away. Luckily for me, I couldn�t walk away and a business was born.

Learn how DotLoop revolutionizes real property transactions in Wednesday's blog!

Soapblog: Eric Avner

Wed, 10 Feb 2010 00:00:00 GMT

When we launched this experiment two years ago on another snowy day, I'll admit I wasn't sure it would work.

Don't get me wrong. I knew - heck, we all knew - Soapbox was needed. How much more coverage did we need of car wrecks, racial distrust, and losing teams? I was sure that if Soapbox could shine a bright light on the achievements and aspirations of our region's talented, innovative, and diverse residents and businesses, people would take notice. You certainly have responded.

Elsewhere in this issue you can find the statistics. More and more Soapbox readers every month. More and more Soapbox stories finding their way into other media. More and more people mentioning Soapbox as their preferred source of learning about our region�s successes. Thank you for your support so far, but we know our work is not done�

I spent the last week up in Canada dealing with the death of a parent. My dad was a modest, self-effacing guy who nonetheless touched a lot of lives, and by extension, changed the world around him. Without getting melodramatic, I will say that this past week has strengthened my resolve to continue our progress in changing the perception of our region. Don't underestimate the reach of Cincinnati and Cincinnatians. Even in London, Ontario, people are watching us, learning from us, modeling their programs after ours, eating our ice cream. Which Cincinnati stories do you want people in Canada - or in West Chester, Chicago, or Beijing - to read and repeat?

This past week - and the past two years - has confirmed for me the imperative of continually telling the world about the Cincinnati that Soapbox sees. Instead of focusing on deficits (that all cities have), let's continue to point out our unique opportunities. Instead of lamenting about a business closing, let's continue to celebrate our newest entrepreneurs. Instead of being preoccupied with the effects of historic disinvestment, let's tell the stories of urban neighborhoods being rediscovered. This is what Soapbox was created to do, and I have no doubt that Soapbox will continue to lead down this path.

On the occasion of Soapbox�s 100th issue and 2nd birthday, I encourage you to celebrate our success. However, I also hope that you'll continue to help us help the region by sending us story ideas, by encouraging your friends and co-workers to subscribe, or by forwarding a particularly compelling story to your social network. Soapbox hasn't become a valued part of this region�s media ecosystem by accident. It's happened because of you - our dedicated, connected, inspirational Soapbox readers. I only started the fire. It's up to you -and all of us - to fan the flames.

Soapblog: Dacia Snider

Tue, 09 Feb 2010 00:00:00 GMT

As publisher of Soapbox, I hear it time and again about how much our readers look forward to their weekly reminder about where Cincinnati is headed - not where it's been. Where we've been is well covered. When we launched Soapbox two years ago, we wanted to speak about what the future holds for our region � what's next for Cincinnati, who is driving change, creating jobs and investing in our neighborhoods. As is hopefully evident in our past 100 issues, Soapbox believes that place matters. Cincinnati matters.

So it's no surprise we focus on those people and innovations that will not only make our region better today, but lay the groundwork for a better tomorrow.

It's easy for most to assume we're just a weekly, online publication about Cincinnati. But what we do each week goes beyond that. What we do is changing the conversation people are having about Cincinnati.

In our first 100 issues, our talented staff of writers, reporters, filmmakers and photographers have created over 2,000 pieces of fresh, original content that tells the new Cincinnati story. They have captured the story of entrepreneurs and innovators, tastemakers and trendsetters, the new economy workforce and neighborhood pioneers. We know you're inspired by these stories each week and we're proud to give Cincinnati a soapbox to stand on to tell them.

So what were your favorites? Where did we hit the mark and where did we fall short? What are we missing? What would you like to read more about?

Drop us a line and let us know - directly at feedback@soapboxmedia.com, on Twitter @SoapboxCincy or join the discussion on our Facebook fanpage.

And to our loyal fans, Soapbox has some exciting changes in store for 2010 - not only will we be unveiling a new layout in the coming weeks, but we�ll also be adding new content features and site enhancements. But not to worry, we�ll still be on the leading edge of shaping Cincinnati�s narrative, one issue at a time. On behalf of all of us here at Soapbox - thank you for your continued support and readership. Here�s to the next 100 issues!

Dacia Snider, Publisher
Soapbox

Soapblog 2: The Big 3-0.

Wed, 03 Feb 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Community Shares hits the big 3-0...well, not in terms of years, because if it were in terms of years we'd have a great, big party (with cake) and invite everyone - but in terms of the number of social justice and environment sustainability member groups which is big deal for an organization that wasn't suppose to make it off the ground back in 1996.

In a very real sense Community Shares represents a legacy of social justice in Cincinnati by raising awareness and support for causes that may not carry universal appeal but speak to the diverse experiences and sensibilities of the socially conscious supporter. Through workplace employee giving, community educational forums and other initiatives we strive to connect these supporters to the communities and causes they are most passionate about. We�re pleased to announce 4 recent additions to our partnership:

• GLSEN Greater Cincinnati (Gay Lesbian Straight Education Network) - GLSEN strives to assure that each member of every school community is valued and respected regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity/expression.

• Grailville - Inspires and connects people through its spiritual, environmental and artistic programs, retreat center, and organic farm on 300+ acres only 20 minutes from downtown Cincinnati.

• Media Bridges - Media Bridges is Cincinnati�s community media center, dedicated to provide the education, equipment and environment for people to communicate effectively through media.

• Parents for Public Schools of Greater Cincinnati - Parents for Public Schools of Greater Cincinnati is a community based chapter of a national organization working with public school parents and community supporters to improve and strengthen local public schools.

Our member organizations identify and address the roots causes of issues affecting our community. They empower those in need through programs that enhance self-reliance, develop affordable housing, protect the environment, build inclusive communities and promote civic involvement and reform. The support we raise on behalf of our members may manifest as a coat on a child, a door-to-door campaign for clean air, a much needed medical exam, or a march on city hall.

We know the rich history of social justice in our community and hope to live up to that legacy. Give us a shout, and even if it isn�t our 30 year anniversary, we�ll discuss our mission(and even get cake).

To contact us: info@cintishares.org.

Soapblog 1: My Community Shares Narrative

Tue, 02 Feb 2010 00:00:00 GMT

"Indulge me..." says Sean Rhiney, Managing Editor of the Soapbox when I attempt to craftily, scurry around doing this profile entry about myself. After all, he's a friend on FaceBook, can't he just cobble together a few of my recent status updates? Srsly?

Its getting increasingly difficult to speak about myself and experiences in full sentences and even worse (gasp) paragraphs! More so now, when social networking is digitally merging our personal and professional personas it's hard to develop fresh content about who you are that isn�t limited to pithy status updates. But really, my experience with Community Shares working daily to promote social justice and environmental sustainability gives me a broader connection to what's happening in our community because there is colossally, EPIC work going on here.. .Well, let me re-phase, the concerted day-to-day work of our member groups is making an incredible, lasting impact on the lives of many and I feel honored to be a small part of the Community Shares narrative.

My experiences growing up in Charleston, West Virginia, going to West Virginia University or attending law school at Northern Kentucky University factors greatly in my ability to appreciate the gift of being able to do work worth doing. And that's at the heart of my story, so far. Whether it be healthcare reform, job training, environmental advocacy, civil rights protection, or education, it's now part of who I am to say, "I know something about what's going on with that," or "We(Community Shares) just added a group that�s working on that."

Community Shares represents one of those rare opportunities of when is it completely okay and totally cool to bring your personal life to work. Encouraged, even. Really, you'll be helping people.

Since 1996, Community Shares has been working to build social and economic equity and a healthy environment in greater Cincinnati primarily through workplace giving campaigns. People everywhere are looking for easy ways to support causes that make a real difference in the communities where they live and work. Community Shares of Greater Cincinnati makes giving easy� through payroll contributions, credit card, check or cash.

We've combined our unique understanding of grass roots community action, donor driven choice and web based technology to make workplace giving lean, green and clean.

If your workplace does not currently provide the option of supporting Community Shares organizations through payroll contributions, please contact us at info@cintishares.org.

Want to learn about Community Share's recent additions? Tune in to Wednesday's blog!

Soapblog 3: So what's next at CCAC?

Thu, 28 Jan 2010 00:00:00 GMT

OK, we've all gotten the memo - these are dire economic times, and 2009 was a resoundingly challenging year. It feels like every week I hear from a friend or colleague, here or from afar, who has been laid off (or is worried about being laid off), and all of us, especially those of us in the nonprofit sector, are holding our breath to some extent. And yet, I find myself feeling surprisingly hopeful. Have I lost my mind? Perhaps. But as I look back on 2009, CCAC�s first full year of operations, I'm both hopeful and grateful. Grateful for the incredibly generous support of the community, grateful for our fantastic partner organizations, and profoundly grateful for the almost 10,000 folks from around the region who came to CCAC to appreciate an exhibit, take a class, or enjoy an event.

And in 2010, we have some amazing things ahead. In February and March, we'll host Positively Ninety, an exhibit about active nonagenarians that promises to inspire, and a sculptural installation we can't wait to reveal by Peter Haberkorn and Matt Kotlarczyk. And here's a special surprise for anyone who has read this far - on March 8th at 10 a.m., we will officially break ground on our first phase of renovations to add an elevator and fire protection system to make our building fully accessible, and allow us to use the gorgeous auditorium on the top floor for the first time. Please stop by to celebrate with us!

In April, we�ll be hosting a show called Short Straw, curated by our Public Ally, Erin Deters, about what it means to be a young person in this economy. And to combine with fresh voices and insights, we are thrilled to be hosting the Crafty Supermarket on April 17th - if you missed Cincinnati�s only indie craft fair when it debuted at the Northside Tavern in November, you won�t want to miss this! They'll be expanding at CCAC with some of our region's top talent (plus great food and music).

In May we�ll say farewell to our amazing outdoor sculptures, and welcome an installation of painted river rock by artist Nigel Chalkley, and then in late May and early June, we�ll host the thesis show from the Master of Fine Arts program from UC's School of Art, DAAP, featuring 15 different artists taking over spaces throughout the building with site-specific installations of their work. And in June and July, you can join us every Wednesday at 7 p.m. for our second year of Wednesdays on the Green, featuring free performances every week. Bring a blanket and spend your summer Wednesdays with us - some of my favorite memories of 2009 are of our front lawn filled with almost 300 people, dancing, laughing, picnicking, singing and enjoying one another.

In the fall, we'll inaugurate the fantastic auditorium on the top floor of the school, and welcome back the community for the first time. This will truly be the realization of a dream that volunteers and community members have worked tirelessly for more than six years to bring to life. And despite the economic crisis, despite naysayers, despite twists and bumps along the way, we can finally say it is really, really happening. How could we possibly not be over-the-moon grateful and excited about that? Stay tuned for some exciting announcements about what will be happening in the auditorium beginning this fall, as we continue to answer the eternal question of what's next with enthusiasm, hope, and gratitude. And if you have ideas about what you�d like to be next, drop me an email - as anyone around CCAC can tell you, I�m a total sucker for big, ambitious dreams.

Soapblog 2: Why neighborhood art centers?

Wed, 27 Jan 2010 00:00:00 GMT

You may have noticed that there is a movement afoot around the Queen City. Neighborhood and regional arts centers are springing up, from Kennedy Heights to Madisonville, and from Mariemont to Evanston. Across the city, and around the region, communities are pulling together to create arts centers to serve and invigorate the surrounding communities, and to bring art and arts experiences to folks in accessible, meaningful ways. CCAC is proud to be anchored in the Uptown communities and to be a part of this exciting trend.

And I think this trend is really exciting for Cincinnati, especially as the city seeks to position itself as an innovative leader that will attract and retain talent and be a great place to live, work and play. But I do get asked by a lot of folks, what�s up with all the neighborhood and regional arts centers? So I think it�s worth articulating the top three things that these centers do for Cincinnati and our region.

First, they are unique. As Cincinnati aims to set itself apart from other cities, it's interesting to note that Seattle neighborhoods aren't developing parallel centers. Many cities would count themselves lucky to be home to just one or two centers - our area is lucky to have many more. And each center creates a nexus of energy, community connection, and economic development for the community where it is located, which supports everyone�s goal of keeping Cincinnati's treasured neighborhoods vibrant.

Second, arts centers strengthen established arts institutions in our city, by building audiences for arts experiences, and providing venues and vehicles for folks to connect with arts and arts institutions in new ways. At CCAC, we've been proud to host programming by the Cincinnati Art Museum, the Art Academy, Playhouse in the Park, CCM, and Cincinnati Shakespeare, as well as a whole range of individual artists. We all win when there are new, accessible ways for the community to connect with the great art and great organizations.

Finally, arts centers meet important needs in our community. While it's true that we have a rich heritage of established arts organizations, we actually are behind the curve in organizations like arts centers. In the Cultural Vitality in Communities study conducted by The Urban Institute and published in November 2006, Cincinnati ranked near the bottom, at 46th of 50 metropolitan areas studied in the category of arts establishments. This indicator measures the impact of establishments or venues that foster a wide range of cultural participation - active/passive, amateur/professional, and formal/informal. Neighborhood and regional arts centers will serve as exactly this type of arts establishment, fostering broad participation in the arts, building audiences for other arts organizations, and helping to fill the gap in arts establishments where Cincinnati ranked so poorly.

And while it's true that we have an amazing diversity of great arts organizations, we're also behind the curve in connecting kids to arts opportunities. In the report, Youth Speak: How Young People in Greater Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky View Life in their Community, the local Asset Builders Alliance revealed the results of a November, 2007 survey of 6,300 seventh and eleventh graders in our region. Dramatically, only 18% of youth report participating in "Creative Activities," less than half the amount that reported participation in any other asset, while nearly half (46%) report two hours every school day alone at home. This demonstrates the striking need for constructive creative opportunities that are accessible to a wide range of kids, which is precisely the type of opportunities that neighborhood and regional arts centers excel in providing.

As a relative newcomer to the region, I think Cincinnati is so lucky to have this movement of new neighborhood and regional arts centers gaining momentum here. And I think this movement will be a critical part of establishing Cincinnati as a place folks are excited to live, work, and even (yes!) relocate.

Soapblog #1: Why not Cincinnati?

Tue, 26 Jan 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Almost two years ago, I moved from Seattle to Cincinnati.

As I've met folks in my new home, my favorite reaction to my choice to move here has been a jaw-dropped, top-of-the-voice "Whhhhyyyyyyy???" Though I won't tell you who put it exactly that way, and though everyone I've met isn't as expressive, I�ve gotten a lot of raised eyebrows and puzzled looks. Everyone seems to ask why I would possibly choose Cincinnati over Seattle.

The reasons any of us choose a community are a complicated calculus of family, friends, work and other intangibles. Granted I have spent most of my professional career in cities (DC and Seattle) that have more transplants than locals, but I think this reaction says a lot about our city. I think Cincinnati under-appreciates the many fantastic things that are here.

Why wouldn't someone choose to call Cincinnati home? We have a world-class arts community, with an incredibly rich heritage of established arts institutions, and new energy. I�m proud to be part of a growing movement of neighborhood arts centers that are enlivening neighborhoods, and bringing this energy to every part of the city. We have amazing architecture, intriguing neighborhoods, and the quirky elements that make any city interesting and worth exploring. And need I add that the cost of a house here wouldn�t get you a closet in Seattle or DC?

Cincinnati has so many things worth exploring - from the vibrant theater community, to our many working artists, to a new wave of green building. There are independent record stores - plural! - and fantastic bakeries. I�ve even found great coffee (and coming from Seattle, that�s saying a lot - hooray for Jan at Cluxton Alley Rosters!) We've got thriving farmers markets, and I can get a mean BBQ tempeh sandwich at Melt - who says Seattle has the corner on cool? And having 52 distinct neighborhoods means all of us can find a spot that feels like home.

Perhaps I'm a total idealist (I do work for a nonprofit, after all), but I'd love to see Cincinnati become a place where when someone moves here, no one asks "why?!" I'd love to see Cincinnati become a place where instead of why, folks think "why not?"

Soapblog: �And now it's your turn

Thu, 21 Jan 2010 00:00:00 GMT

You know, my time here at the Cincinnati Area Chapter of the American Red Cross has been an experience that has provided me with a world of opportunity. It is one that has brought me full circle; from the dream of seeing a world as a high school student, to today where I can both proudly and gratefully say that I have been to every part of the United States and many parts of the world. Never having to choose who to help and who not to help, developing strong relationships with people of all nationalities and never having to carry a gun.

When the International Services Department was created 10 years ago, I was confident that it would be successful, but where we are today makes me proud. Our Cincinnati Chapter reaches more people with our programs and educational tools than anywhere in the nation. Our on-going Measles Initiative allows people to speak to community groups and schools to save a child's life by your donation of a dollar. The international educational programs teach the community about how the Red Cross operates in war and conflict. Then, of course, there is our naturalization program that provides Red Cross materials to new citizens.

Since the earthquakes in Haiti - as with all disasters that affect a lot of people at once - there has been an increase in calls from people who want to learn more about volunteering and possibly going to help. Although locally our chapter does not send volunteers to international disasters, there is still help that is needed right here at home. In the Cincinnati area alone our Disaster Team responds to 3 - 4 fires A DAY!!! We provide services of food, clothing, shelter, re-filling any prescriptions that were lost and providing support for a family who has just lost almost everything.

The core of the American Red Cross, the International Red Cross Movement, the Red Cross/Red Crescent Societies and the Magen David Adom of Israel (MDA) principles is to help the most vulnerable people in the world by doing what is possible to prevent disasters, respond to them effectively and prepare. I encourage all of you to take a class and learn more about the Cincinnati Area Chapter of the American Red Cross' volunteer opportunity by going to www.cincinnatiredcross.org. You too can make a difference!

Soapblog: Helping Those in Need

Wed, 20 Jan 2010 00:00:00 GMT

From locating loved ones to providing assistance to those persons who have just become U.S. Citizens, the Cincinnati Area Chapter provides numerous resources through the International Services Program.

Over the past 36 years, I have worked and searched for people of all ages throughout the United States, Caribbean and foreign countries outside of the U.S. Sometimes initiating requests from individuals here in Cincinnati or being on the receiving end, searching for others. What it all comes down to is bringing people separated because of war or disaster back together again. The Red Cross movement works tirelessly every day to reunite those missing family members.

Many do not realize this, but more children die of measles than of HIV/AIDS. In December of 2001, the International Department made the decision - with the support of Chapter Management - to participate in the newly developed Measles Initiative. Over the course of the last 8 years, the International Department has raised $63,000 to save children dying of measles one dollar at a time. I hold this initiative dear to me and what makes it so special is the fact that these monies were raised through the efforts of grade schools, high schools and college students. The Measles Initiative focuses on vulnerable populations in the world where children under the age of 5 years of age need to be vaccinated.

While sometimes we take for granted the wealth and freedom of our nation, there are many that risk their lives to live the "American Dream." The Naturalization program is a prime example of our outreach to the international community here in Cincinnati. It was one of the first programs we established as part of the International Services Department. The Cincinnati Area Chapter of the American Red Cross believes it is important for these new citizens to become aware of our International Services and how we may be of help to them. Some may have lost contact with family left behind but we are there to help.

Through these programs, and others, I am able to fulfill the mission of the Red Cross. Through this organization, each day in countries all over the world, people like me work to reunite, prevent and assist those in need.

Soapblog: Making a Difference at Home and Around the World

Tue, 19 Jan 2010 00:00:00 GMT

The vision: Strive, through voluntary action, for a world of empowered communities, better able to address human suffering and crises with hope, respect for dignity and concern for equity. The mission: Improve the lives of vulnerable people by mobilizing the power of humanity.

My desire to be of service to others runs parallel to the vision and the mission of the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) founded in 1863 and the International Federation of the Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC).

As a youngster coming in to the world at my namesake Hospital, St Vincents in New York City, and growing up in Oradell, New Jersey, New York City was my sandbox. I found myself in Cincinnati, OH sometime before my freshman year in college on a trip to visit a friend who was a student at Xavier University. It was during that time I came to realize Xavier University was the place to be. As many first year college students, I knew little about what I wanted to do. I knew I wanted to work with people and that was as close as I could get through sophomore year. I considered quitting and then chose to major in sociology. During my senior year I took an elective course titled "Introduction to Social Work" - the instructor provided me an opportunity for exposure to social work through a social service agency. That agency was the Red Cross, where I volunteered two afternoons a week in the department that was then known as the "Service to Military Families and Veterans." I soon came to realize the Red Cross was more than an organization that provided CPR and First Aid training, but it was an organization that offered services through military, health & safety and during disasters.

Through this single volunteer opportunity, I realized that my calling was to be fulfilled through the Red Cross; first serving as a casework specialist, case work supervisor and director of Social Services - a position I held for 13 years. I served with the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) as a Tracing Delegate in Macedonia during the Kosovo conflict providing Family Linking services to Albanian, Serbian and Roma refugees. It was through my passion for International Services that the International Services Department at the Cincinnati Area Chapter of the American Red Cross evolved and was created in September of 1999.

And instead of joining the military as my high school counselor suggested when I shared my interest to see the world, I joined the Red Cross and for 36 years have helped people all over the world in a neutral and impartial way, made friends in places I never thought I would see, and never had to carry a gun, or choose one person over another to help. As a social worker by trade I have realized that the values of Social Work and the Principles of the Red Cross are very closely aligned. It is for that reason I have stayed so long - and the ride is not over yet either.

Haiti has brought back a flood of memories of past disaster assignments I have been a part of over my long career. The hardest part is seeing the children who are helpless and at the same time dependent upon adults to help them. As in all disasters, the children are also the most vulnerable and the Red Cross Movement response has and will continue to target the most vulnerable. There are none more vulnerable than infants and children. Our Red Cross partners around the world will work tirelessly for as long as it takes from emergency needs through recovery. I would love to be there, but recognize where ever I am, working for the Red Cross doing what I am doing is the best place to be.

Soapblog 2: Why "Ignite"?

Wed, 13 Jan 2010 00:00:00 GMT

The concept is pretty simple. The catch phrase is, "Enlighten us, but make it quick."

14 presenters. 5 minutes a-piece. You can talk about whatever you want. 20 slides auto-rotate every 15 seconds�there is no clicker. Those are the only rules.

The fun part about this is that people submit topics that they want to talk about. Those people then try to activate the community to vote for their topic. The top seven vote-getters are automatically selected to present at Ignite. The additional seven presenters are determined by committee.

So, why talk about what ignites you? Well, I wouldn't be here today if it weren't for the people around me.

As an entrepreneur, who at one point didn�t know I was one, I validated my idea just by telling people about it. Over the course of a couple of years, I had thousands of conversations with family, friends, community leaders, venture capitalists, and grocery store clerks, basically anyone who would listen to my wild idea.

What I found was that people were not only willing to talk with me, but willing to help. I got referrals, introductions, criticism, advice, and guidance. This community is one where people help one another - and if you believe in something and are willing to be diligent in your pursuit of your dream - this city is one that you can make things happen.

So imagine the power in gathering a group of people, that probably all have singular ideas, some of which could potentially have monumental impact on someone else, another person, a community, a family, even a culture. It took me two years to have all of those conversations, and to meet all of those people. I�m hoping we can compress that cycle for someone else.

I�m always fascinated by the corporate entrepreneur. You know who you are. You work that job that pays your bills, while you�re stashing away ideas and telling yourself, �One of these days, I�m going to maybe try and run with one of these�. I am hoping that Ignite becomes a forum for someone�s next big idea. And maybe, just maybe� gives you, Mr. Reader, the courage to make the entrepreneurial leap.

We�re excited for you to join us for Ignite Cincinnati on January 20th.

You can find more info about us here.

Reserve your tickets here.

To submit your topic or to vote for a friends, go here.

Soapblog: Ignite Cincinnati

Tue, 12 Jan 2010 00:00:00 GMT

First and foremost, blogging is still relatively new to me, so I'm going to just talk - my apologies in advance for being conversational.

I've been given the opportunity to share with Soapbox readers something we are excited to bring to Cincinnati. It�s called Ignite. Ignite is a night of presentations with a twist. 14 presenters each get 5 minutes to talk about their subject. 20 slides that auto advance after 15 seconds. It is quick, fun, smart and fills the Know Theater. Our next one is January 20th.

So, what is Ignite Cincinnati? First, some history. This idea came about as Joe Pantuso (a fellow entrepreneur) and I have been focused on building our businesses - meanwhile mining resources for other entrepreneurs and start-ups, or people interested in getting involved in startup. We were doing this as a benefit to people, but additionally to compare what�s available here to what�s available in other hot startup markets to see what we�re doing well and where we're lacking.

One of the things we found was Ignite. Ignite was started in Seattle in 2006 by Brady Forrest and Bre Pettis. Since then hundreds of 5 minute talks have been given across the world. There are thriving Ignite communities in Seattle, Portland, Paris, and NYC. We thought, "Ah-ha. There's no reason we shouldn't be compared to cities like this." We're home to one of the highest per capita patent rates in the Midwest, nine Fortune 500 companies, and we're virtually a breeding ground for smart, innovative people. What can we do to bring these people together? Ignite. That�s what.

Learn more about Ignite Cincinnati in Ostoich's blog on Tuesday!

Soapblog 3: Places that Matter

Thu, 10 Dec 2009 00:00:00 GMT

200,000 net new jobs. 150,000 additional 20-34 year olds in our regional workforce. All of our resident households with incomes at least 2.5 times the federal poverty rate. You will recognize these as the ambitious goals of Agenda 360 for our region by the year 2020.

How can we get there? For all three goals there is one key ingredient - creating quality place. By creating "places that matter" within neighborhoods in our region, we will be a destination for those knowledge workers who can live where they choose. This aggregation of talent will attract employers to this pool of workers, creating new jobs that pay well, raising income levels in our region.

So if quality place is the focus, how does this happen? It is clear in the sprawling development patterns of the last 50 years that we need a new way of thinking about development and zoning. In what might be the most important form of Public/Private Partnership, zoning that is targeted toward creating pedestrian-friendly, walkable neighborhoods is key. This is the focus of Form-Based zoning codes.

If we develop our built environment with the idea that people will walk, linger and enjoy a dense, mixed-use development, we will attract 20-34 year olds, among others, adding to the social capital in our community. Absent this, how could we ever think about the lofty goals of Agenda 360?

Scott Golan is a partner with BKD LLP.

Soapblog 2: Form Based Codes and Traditional Neighborhood Development

Wed, 09 Dec 2009 00:00:00 GMT

On Friday, December 4, 2009, The Cincinnati Form Based Code Initiative and Cincinnati ULI hosted a tour of Columbus and New Albany, Ohio. The purpose of the tour was to learn about efforts in central Ohio to create walkable, mixed use neighborhoods in a variety of scales (urban and suburban) and from a variety of viewpoints (planner, developer, designer).

A Form Based Code is a combination of a Zoning Code and Subdivision Regulations that allow developers to develop pedestrian-oriented, mixed use communities. They can be adopted in urban areas that wish to maintain a certain character and by suburbs who wish to direct the transformation of cornfields or defunct auto dealerships into something worthwhile. Form Based Codes are entirely about creating a worthwhile public realm where inhabitants don't have to drive everywhere for everything. They seek to create great streets, public greens and plazas, and fertile ground for redevelopment of a desired mix of uses.

As we saw in Columbus, Form Based Codes can be used for a wide variety of neighborhood types. They can be used in wealthy suburbs where residents can walk to their neighborhood business district to meet with their investment advisor and grab a cup of coffee (as in the case of Market Square in New Albany), and they can be used in mixed income, urban neighborhoods where residents can walk to shop for their groceries and, well, grab a cup of coffee (as in the case of City West here in Cincinnati).

A well framed Form Based Code lets a community explain to developers what they desire to have built with enough clarity that developers can depend on a short approval period. But it is critical for Form Based Codes to be well written by qualified professionals, publicly designed (through a charrette), and based on a clear conception of what range of character and scales a community wishes. This is not easy, it is not quick, and it is not cheap - yet it is vital. Without this full, clear execution, a form based code simply allows developers to build production houses on small lots, or to create gated communities that might be wonderful places for snobs.

Jeff Raser is an architect with glaserworks.

Soapblog 1: Create an Outdoor Living Room

Tue, 08 Dec 2009 00:00:00 GMT

What would you do without a car? Have you ever thought about it? I recently had to.

My car blew up on Thanksgiving, leaving me stranded in my apartment for three days with little hope of leaving my neighborhood. This could have been a big problem - but it wasn't.

I just moved to Over-the-Rhine three weeks ago, and on Friday, while holed up in my new digs, I decided to venture out (on foot) to get some necessities. I walked across the street to Metronation for some mulling spices, then down a block to the Vine Street Kroger for some apple cider (and a little red wine), and finally to Venice on Vine for a post-Thanksgiving pizza. On my walk back to my place, pepperoni pizza in hand, I passed a man praying to Mecca - Belou is the Imam in the mosque across the street from my place. He explained the five pillars of Islam to me, and invited me to a service sometime. And just as we were finishing up, Santa Claus flew by
on a Segway, and offered me a candy cane. Wow...not a bad way to be stranded!

I tell you this story only because it opened my eyes to a very important aspect of community. I just moved from a big house with a yard into a small loft in OTR with no balcony - no private outdoor space at all. That generally would be disconcerting and a real detractor from an otherwise very cool living arrangement. But, in OTR, I do have outdoor space. I have the street. Because my neighborhood is so dense, I have hundreds of neighbors within a few blocks, and I've got lots of things to do. From shopping to dining to random religious conversation, Vine Street has become my outdoor living room.

Communities can consciously create outdoor living rooms, and did a great job of it prior to the invention of the car. But, in the 1950s, we preferred to drive rather than walk. We wanted to live on cul-de-sacs and pull into our snout garage. We sought convenience, and in doing so, lost our opportunity for the great walk through our neighborhood.

Retail and office and residential development spread further and further apart from one another. And now, we're lucky if we know a neighbor or two.

Not everyone wants to live in Over-the-Rhine. I get that. But I do believe that we all want unique experiences close to home. That is why Cincinnati has seen an in-migration of young professionals and baby boomers back into more urban communities. In fact, CNN reported in 2007 that "young professionals are driving a national trend back toward walkable communities," and in reviewing Forbes' most attractive cities for young professionals, nine of the 12 top-ranking cities had a common theme connecting them - less dependence on vehicles and more pedestrian friendly options. We no longer want to depend on our car.

The same qualities that attract young people to a community also attract the empty nesters. According to the AARP, a livable community for older residents includes elements that help them to maintain independence and quality of life. A pedestrian environment, easy access to grocery stores and shopping, a mix of housing types, and nearby recreation are all important elements that positively affect the daily lives of retirees.

And developers and city officials in Greater Cincinnati have recognized this change. Over the past year, and more recently, this week, the Urban Land Institute, Cincinnati Chapter, in cooperation with Vice-Mayor Roxanne Qualls and local city officials, developers, architects and residents, have been working to update our region's respective zoning codes to, among other things, promote unique "outdoor living room" environments. A tool developed prior to the 1920's, called Form-Based Code, has been utilized in communities nationwide, and locally in Columbus, Louisville, Nashville and Chicago (suburbs), to help reverse sprawl and transform the strip mall and parking lot into a vibrant, mixed-use space built on character and developed by the residents of the neighborhood.

A growing contingent is getting pumped about this tool, including several Cincinnati neighborhoods and the City of Bellevue. If you would like to learn more, check out your options for getting involved with your neighborhood by visiting here.

And consider working with your community leaders to create your own outdoor living room.

Candace S. Klein is an attorney with Graydon, Head.

Soapblog 3: CelebriTrees

Thu, 03 Dec 2009 00:00:00 GMT

A great new holiday tradition downtown is CelebriTrees. Famous (and not so famous) local "celebrities" decorate Christmas trees which are displayed downtown at Tower Place. After being on display they are sold and the money raised goes to Tender Mercies. Tender Mercies is a wonderful organization that provides housing and related social services to homeless persons with histories of emotional and/or mental disabilities.

For the second year in a row, I had the honor of serving as a CelebriTrees "judge" with Jim Moll and Brian Tiffany. My assistant, Tricia Casey, joins me because she has exquisite taste and loves the event. The four of us carefully examined the 65 beautifully decorated trees to determine winners in several categories. Each of the trees showed imagination, cleverness and tireless effort. Some were traditional, others whimsical. All were exceptionally well-done.

It was also good to spend time with Angela Ratliff and Russell Winters of Tender Mercies. They, and other social service agencies in our community, do important and effective work to help those in need. Supporting these agencies is a great way to give-back in a meaningful way that gets long-term results.

One of the nicest parts of my holiday season is getting to participate in CelebriTrees. I hope you will join Tender Mercies at one of their many events surrounding CelebriTrees. Find out more here.

Soapblog 2: BTW

Wed, 02 Dec 2009 00:00:00 GMT

BTW - many text messagers think this means "by-the-way" but to me it means "back-to-work."

The long Thanksgiving weekend was nice, but I for one, am glad to get back into routine. I arrive downtown just before dawn and drop my dog , Truman, off at the Pet Athletic Club on Reedy Street. I love having my dog "go to work" with me and his caretaker, Jodi, at the PAC always has smiles and kisses for him.

I circle back on Gilbert and come into downtown on Eighth Street. Downtown is transforming! I notice the building that KZF Architects is renovating and the new daycare center being built by P&G and see progress on every corner. Have you seen the "green" building on Sycamore that Kelly Farrish has renovated into law offices. What about the "Green Source," across from the Library? Ez Housh has resurrected a historic building to be a model of sustainable development for the 21st century. Indeed, downtown has a real concentration of "creative class" businesses that continues to grow.

As I drive into downtown, the DCI Ambassadors are ubiquitous. They are putting the finishing touches on cleaning up after a busy Thanksgiving weekend and another big Bengals win. I stop at a light and watch them closely. They are saying "good morning" and chatting with downtown workers and making everyone feel welcome.

It is good to be BTW (my definition).

Soapblog 1: Tis the Season

Tue, 01 Dec 2009 00:00:00 GMT

It is the Wednesday before Thanksgiving and I am in my office, looking at the quiet streets below that will be crowded with holiday shoppers and visitors on Friday.

Memories of my more than 25 years in the retail business flow through my mind. In a "previous life" I worked for Marshall Field's (now Macy's) in Chicago. I started in the stockroom and went on to become a department manager, buyer and then Assistant General Manager at the downtown store.

For retailers, the holiday season is often "make or break." A huge portion of sales and profits come between Thanksgiving and Christmas. Days are long and days off few and far between. Retailers worry about everything -inventory levels, best-sellers, weather, the economy and on and on. After Christmas, there are post-holiday returns and sales often followed by taking inventory.

I can feel my heart speed up and nervous energy beginning to flow. Even though I am not in the retail business anymore, the excitement will always be a part of me. I love the crowds, the stores, the restaurants, the smells and décor of the holiday season. For a retailer, it is "game day."

Downtown Cincinnati is gorgeous during the holidays and it gets better every year with new restaurants, stores and attractions like Fountain Square and the Gateway Quarter. I hope you will not only visit downtown, but bring your friends and family this year.

�and save a thought for the retailers who are probably not relaxed at all this season.

Soapblog 3: Night of Secrets

Thu, 19 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT

So, another secret I can let you all in on right now is how to get the secret of your choice the night of Secrets. We have photographed, cataloged and prepped all of the Secrets. They're all very well hung. (Wink.) The Westin Ballroom will look amazing. Sexy, in fact, because I know Jolie Harris and John Hinger will make that a priority! Bust through the doors at 6:00pm and rush around looking for your board to find the secret you want. You will be swept up and part of the frenzy. Then settle in and watch as others try to grab the art of their choice. Have a drink and share your Secrets and your secrets!

Here are a few clues as to how to suss out the Secret Work of Art you have been eyeing! First, come to the Westin Atrium and have a peek at the Secrets. Remember, the night of the event the boards will not be in the same configuration as they are in the atrium. So mark your Secret by remembering the board name and then the number and title which peek through at the top of each Secret.

Buy a Raffle Ticket! We'll draw 10 names to enter the ballroom at 5:50 - ten minutes ahead of everyone else! You'll be able to grab your chosen Secrets uninterrupted. Last year, the odds were really good. You will not be sorry if you win.

As the doors open at 6:00, scan the room. Locate your board by its name and run, don't walk, to your desired Secret. Hand your pre-purchased art voucher to a Secret Keeper and they will hand you your Secret. Flip it over to see whose work you got! Please don't bitch about what artist made your piece - if you're digging for pay dirt, just buy another voucher. And have a cocktail.

Oh yeah, if you come find me, I will tell you a secret or two on the spot!

Good luck,
Tamara