Saturday’s story on Ohio State tightening their amount of endowment money due to the recession was excellent… Unfortunately, a pair of blunders offset that story’s brilliance… One story on the workplace gender disparity, which actually suggested that the gender disparity doesn’t actually exist… And a second story on Girl Scout cookie sales slumping with the faltering economy… Cute story, but it belongs on page C8…
Martin Rozenman’s story (Metro section) on the four police chief candidates was solid, but where was the reporting? It was simply background and salary information… Why not ask what they would do as police chief? Why not ask how they plan to keep morale high amidst constant employment cuts?
Tracy Turner’s story “Love Will Conquer Bad Economy” (Business) was outstanding and provides males an excuse if they forget to do their shopping… Kevin Joy’s feature (Life and Arts front) on musician’s house shows (yes, that’s shows that actually take place in another person’s house) was this edition’s best…
Saturday, February 7, 2009
BREAKING: Sugar Safe
Despite recent rumors, Sugar Bar remains economically secure. According to a source familiar with the situation, salaries have not been reduced. And while amenity alterations have been made, they were anticipatory. They were not revenue related.
The 7,500 square foot Sugar Bar, which is located next to Park Street Patio, was developed by Chris Corso and Mike Gallicchio. Sugar Bar opened on March 2, 2006.
The 7,500 square foot Sugar Bar, which is located next to Park Street Patio, was developed by Chris Corso and Mike Gallicchio. Sugar Bar opened on March 2, 2006.
Mirrors & Musicians
Walking Lodge Bar’s center aisle is like walking a Hall of Mirrors. Every customer’s intent, like every mirror’s intent, is the same. Every customer consumes alcohol. Every mirror reflects images. The attraction and intrigue of both is the various manners through which their intent is accomplished.
As previewed, Friday’s premise was basketball. From megaphones and streamers to NBA trivia (which you could have won, if you were following us on twitter) to the marquee event of the evening, the NBA Jam tournament, hoops was omnipresent… Given this (and the act that the prize was Cavs tickets), I made myself a contestant in the tournament… We’ll return to that mistake in a moment…
The tournament itself was well played… Like the annual right of spring, March Madness, there were several games that would have hurt small children if they watched…. However, there were also several classics, one of which involved a twelve point fourth quarter comeback and an eventual double overtime loss… Full results of every game were available and remain available on our twitter…
Ultimately, the final was an engaging contest…. Neither team ever enjoyed more than a six-point lead and the deciding margin was one… Do I sound to into a video game? Allow me the following opinion… Watching a well played video game is like watching a well-played sporting event (see the fourth of quarter last Sunday)… Drama, emotion, intensity, they are ever present in both… And just as Kurt Warner to Larry Fitzgerald had me out my seat five days ago, the final shot with less than three seconds ago, had me out of my seat tonight…
I know what you’re wondering… I obviously, the way I am talking, was not in the final, so where did I finish? I was eliminated in the first round… Actually, I was crushed in the first round… I had a three point fourth quarter lead, but the other guy, an eventual semi-finalist as it would turn out, was better… (And I look at it this way, alcohol or sitting around waiting for the next game… You decide…)
Amidst the NBA Jam tournament, which consumed almost seven hours and had to be relocated because it took longer than anyone imagined, the menagerie of patrons was immaculate… From the several Steelers jerseys I saw (including one Iron City heifer, who had a Steelers themed purse) to the multiple clusters enjoying Molson towers to the bunnies and the boys hoping to score a bunny… The evening’s ensemble underscored what I typed two weeks ago… Lodge Bar is this city’s most unique venue…
That uniqueness was epitomized perfectly in the evening’s entertainment, Ryan and Joe, a pair of guitarists, who billed themselves as “Mission 19.” Their set list was nothing unexpected… It was laced with familiar opening rifts, which included “Ants Marching” and “Hey Jealousy…” The set presentation was completely unexpected… Whether inserting “Crazy Bitch” into one song or pairing Dave Matthews and Jay-Z… The duo induced enough double takes to require glasses….
Still, their set was outstanding… They were not perfect and some of their choices made me wince… However, their personalities and stage manners, buying shots for the crowd, discussing Guitar Hero, and their willingness to take a risk, made them an act worthy of applause and a second appraisal…
Mission 19 also produced the evening’s greatest energy…. Throughout the evening and the tournament, there were rushes…. Yet, as Ryan and Joe played the final song of their first set, one could observe a packed and pulsating dance floor… Again, Lodge Bar was consistently busy the entire night… The level of energy was consistent… Yet, as Mission 19 finished their first set, the energy finally was contagious…
The energy finally screamed (as it did two weeks ago)… Crack a bottle… Let your body waddle… It’s on till the break of dawn and we’re starting this party from dusk… (Yes, those are song lyrics and a free drink at the Snowed Inn\Snowed Bunny event to the first person to e-mail me with the artist who sings them)…
As previewed, Friday’s premise was basketball. From megaphones and streamers to NBA trivia (which you could have won, if you were following us on twitter) to the marquee event of the evening, the NBA Jam tournament, hoops was omnipresent… Given this (and the act that the prize was Cavs tickets), I made myself a contestant in the tournament… We’ll return to that mistake in a moment…
The tournament itself was well played… Like the annual right of spring, March Madness, there were several games that would have hurt small children if they watched…. However, there were also several classics, one of which involved a twelve point fourth quarter comeback and an eventual double overtime loss… Full results of every game were available and remain available on our twitter…
Ultimately, the final was an engaging contest…. Neither team ever enjoyed more than a six-point lead and the deciding margin was one… Do I sound to into a video game? Allow me the following opinion… Watching a well played video game is like watching a well-played sporting event (see the fourth of quarter last Sunday)… Drama, emotion, intensity, they are ever present in both… And just as Kurt Warner to Larry Fitzgerald had me out my seat five days ago, the final shot with less than three seconds ago, had me out of my seat tonight…
I know what you’re wondering… I obviously, the way I am talking, was not in the final, so where did I finish? I was eliminated in the first round… Actually, I was crushed in the first round… I had a three point fourth quarter lead, but the other guy, an eventual semi-finalist as it would turn out, was better… (And I look at it this way, alcohol or sitting around waiting for the next game… You decide…)
Amidst the NBA Jam tournament, which consumed almost seven hours and had to be relocated because it took longer than anyone imagined, the menagerie of patrons was immaculate… From the several Steelers jerseys I saw (including one Iron City heifer, who had a Steelers themed purse) to the multiple clusters enjoying Molson towers to the bunnies and the boys hoping to score a bunny… The evening’s ensemble underscored what I typed two weeks ago… Lodge Bar is this city’s most unique venue…
That uniqueness was epitomized perfectly in the evening’s entertainment, Ryan and Joe, a pair of guitarists, who billed themselves as “Mission 19.” Their set list was nothing unexpected… It was laced with familiar opening rifts, which included “Ants Marching” and “Hey Jealousy…” The set presentation was completely unexpected… Whether inserting “Crazy Bitch” into one song or pairing Dave Matthews and Jay-Z… The duo induced enough double takes to require glasses….
Still, their set was outstanding… They were not perfect and some of their choices made me wince… However, their personalities and stage manners, buying shots for the crowd, discussing Guitar Hero, and their willingness to take a risk, made them an act worthy of applause and a second appraisal…
Mission 19 also produced the evening’s greatest energy…. Throughout the evening and the tournament, there were rushes…. Yet, as Ryan and Joe played the final song of their first set, one could observe a packed and pulsating dance floor… Again, Lodge Bar was consistently busy the entire night… The level of energy was consistent… Yet, as Mission 19 finished their first set, the energy finally was contagious…
The energy finally screamed (as it did two weeks ago)… Crack a bottle… Let your body waddle… It’s on till the break of dawn and we’re starting this party from dusk… (Yes, those are song lyrics and a free drink at the Snowed Inn\Snowed Bunny event to the first person to e-mail me with the artist who sings them)…
Friday, February 6, 2009
INVITE: Sexy Saturdays
Commencement: 10:00Venue: Sugar Bar (525 Park Street)
Mezzanine Drinks (Available 10:30 – 11:30 p.m.)
$1 Top Shelf Drinks
It’s What We Call the News
NBC 4: Police said a man robbed a north side pharmacy at gunpoint Thursday night. The man walked into the CVS Pharmacy, located at 7470 Sawmill Road, near Hard Road, at about 10:25 p.m. and went to the pharmacy, police said. He jumped over the counter, pulled out a gun and demanded specific drugs from the pharmacist… The pharmacist complied and the man fled through the store's drive-through window. Police described the man as white, 20 to 25 years old and 5 feet 7 inches tall. He has a thin build and was wearing an orange hooded sweatshirt.
And the count goes on (number thirty-five)…
10 TV: The city announced the next round of layoffs on Friday... Six employees, including one part-time and five full-time employees, were expected to be let go… Two of the impacted employees are supervisors and four are assistants.
Mayor Coleman’s list… Cut Police – Check. Cut City Workers – Check. Build worthless park with other people’s money – Double check.
NBC 4: In an effort to balance the city’s 2009 budget, officials released Friday the final list of recreation centers that would be closed, effective Feb. 14. Barack, Feddersen, Glenwood, Holton, Indian Mound, Krumm, Martin Janis, Sawyer, Sullivant Gardens, Tuttle, Performing Arts Center…
The good news? In two years, children will have a crime invested downtown park to replace these rec centers…
10 TV: A warm front will move across the Ohio Valley on Saturday, kicking up the winds and bringing more cloud cover. We may have to dodge a few sprinkles, but temperatures will be near 60 degrees near the Ohio River, and in the 50s for the rest of us. On Sunday, we will see very light rain showers and the winds will turn north, cooling us a bit. It will remain mild, with highs reaching 43 degrees. Monday looks nice and warm, but rain will be on the way Tuesday and Wednesday.
For fifty degrees, we can live with rain…
And the count goes on (number thirty-five)…
10 TV: The city announced the next round of layoffs on Friday... Six employees, including one part-time and five full-time employees, were expected to be let go… Two of the impacted employees are supervisors and four are assistants.
Mayor Coleman’s list… Cut Police – Check. Cut City Workers – Check. Build worthless park with other people’s money – Double check.
NBC 4: In an effort to balance the city’s 2009 budget, officials released Friday the final list of recreation centers that would be closed, effective Feb. 14. Barack, Feddersen, Glenwood, Holton, Indian Mound, Krumm, Martin Janis, Sawyer, Sullivant Gardens, Tuttle, Performing Arts Center…
The good news? In two years, children will have a crime invested downtown park to replace these rec centers…
10 TV: A warm front will move across the Ohio Valley on Saturday, kicking up the winds and bringing more cloud cover. We may have to dodge a few sprinkles, but temperatures will be near 60 degrees near the Ohio River, and in the 50s for the rest of us. On Sunday, we will see very light rain showers and the winds will turn north, cooling us a bit. It will remain mild, with highs reaching 43 degrees. Monday looks nice and warm, but rain will be on the way Tuesday and Wednesday.
For fifty degrees, we can live with rain…
Quick Read
Kevin Joy’s “Facebook Fad Gets Personal” was well written…. And it should have been buried inside Life and Arts… Social Networking as a front-page story? John Futty’s story (metro front) on how Columbus wont actually own Columbus Commons and how the city doesn’t see crime as an impediment to the structure… that was a front page story…
Speaking of the Metro section, the Dispatch’s outstanding State of the State coverage continued, including an excellent piece on charter school impact… Joe Hallet’s column on Ohio Supreme Court Chief Justice maneuvering was also solid…
Tim May’s profile of Duron Carter, son of former OSU Wide Receiver Cris Carter, was exquisite…. Equally exquisite, Tom Reed’s story on the Blue Jackets bludgeoning of Eastern Conference opponents… The article was informative and structurally sound…. Although, I had to laugh when Reed noted that the Blue Jackets are thought of as irrelevant franchise, who plays in a college football town… Why would opponents have that impression?
Speaking of the Metro section, the Dispatch’s outstanding State of the State coverage continued, including an excellent piece on charter school impact… Joe Hallet’s column on Ohio Supreme Court Chief Justice maneuvering was also solid…
Tim May’s profile of Duron Carter, son of former OSU Wide Receiver Cris Carter, was exquisite…. Equally exquisite, Tom Reed’s story on the Blue Jackets bludgeoning of Eastern Conference opponents… The article was informative and structurally sound…. Although, I had to laugh when Reed noted that the Blue Jackets are thought of as irrelevant franchise, who plays in a college football town… Why would opponents have that impression?
Thursday, February 5, 2009
BREAKING: Strickland, Fisher Discuss Separation
Governor Ted Strickland and Lieutenant Governor Lee Fisher have discussed Fisher’s potential exit from the 2010 gubernatorial re-election campaign. According to a source with knowledge of the conversation, Fisher did not ask to leave the ticket. However, he made clear his interest in a 2010 Senate campaign.
If Fisher exits, Strickland would be the eighth Democratic Governor to have multiple Lieutenant Governors. Fisher’s possible replacements include Ohio Board of Regents Chancellor Eric Fingerhut, Ohio 9th District Congresswoman Marcia Kaptur, and Ohio Democratic Party Chairman and former State Representative Chris Redfern.
After commencing his career as a State Representative, Fisher served as a State Senator from 1982-1990. From 1991-1995, he served as Ohio’s 44th Attorney General. Since 2007, he has served as Ohio’s 65th Lieutenant Governor.
If Fisher exits, Strickland would be the eighth Democratic Governor to have multiple Lieutenant Governors. Fisher’s possible replacements include Ohio Board of Regents Chancellor Eric Fingerhut, Ohio 9th District Congresswoman Marcia Kaptur, and Ohio Democratic Party Chairman and former State Representative Chris Redfern.
After commencing his career as a State Representative, Fisher served as a State Senator from 1982-1990. From 1991-1995, he served as Ohio’s 44th Attorney General. Since 2007, he has served as Ohio’s 65th Lieutenant Governor.
Police Arrest Short North Robber
10 TV: Police on Thursday said that they arrested a man and connected him to a series of robberies along North High Street. Mark Simon faces multiple theft charges... For several weeks, police said that Simon targeted Short North 10 shops and businesses, often armed with a knife.
Police said that patrol officers noticed Simon lingering on the streets and alerted robbery detectives. One victim, an antique shop owner, identified him as the man who held a knife to her throat. Another bartender said that Simon threw a rock at him when he turned around to open the cash register. Police said that Simon's crimes were motivated by a drug problem.
Police said that patrol officers noticed Simon lingering on the streets and alerted robbery detectives. One victim, an antique shop owner, identified him as the man who held a knife to her throat. Another bartender said that Simon threw a rock at him when he turned around to open the cash register. Police said that Simon's crimes were motivated by a drug problem.
INVITE: Playboy Pre-Valentine Party
Commencement: 10:00Venue: Sugar Bar (525 Park Street)
Pajama Party Contest
Playmate Appearances
Laura Debord
Brandie Moses
INVITE: Lodge Jam
Commencement: 5:00Venue: Lodge Bar (Arena District)
Cleveland Cavaliers Tickets (Includes Gas Card & Hotel Accommodations)
Host with most guests receives one package
NBA Jam tournament winner receives one package
Drinks (Available 5 – 9 p.m.)
$3 you call it drinks
$2 martinis
$1.50 Domestic Pitchers (32 ounces)
$1 wells
Mayor Coleman Honors Columbus Young Professionals
I am very pleased to announce that Columbus Mayor Michael Coleman has issued a proclamation naming February 4, 2009 as "CYP Club Day" in the city of Columbus. This is a very exciting milestone for us for two reasons: we are celebrating three and a half years as a successful YP organization, and we have reached (and exceeded) 7,500 CYP Club members since we were founded. This is thanks to the dedication and involvement of our members, leadership team, sponsors, and the local community of central Ohio. So thank you and Happy CYP Club Day!
As we confidently look ahead in 2009, we will continue to provide you with unique and fun opportunities to meet new people, network for business, help the community, play on a sports team, and enjoy great events & activities on a weekly basis! And best of all, we will continue to offer FREE MEMBERSHIP in the CYP Club for all those wishing to become a part of our organization.
Yours very truly,
Derek Grosso
CYP Club President
As we confidently look ahead in 2009, we will continue to provide you with unique and fun opportunities to meet new people, network for business, help the community, play on a sports team, and enjoy great events & activities on a weekly basis! And best of all, we will continue to offer FREE MEMBERSHIP in the CYP Club for all those wishing to become a part of our organization.
Yours very truly,
Derek Grosso
CYP Club President
Columbus Young Professionals Present “A Date 2 Remember”
Saturday, February 7th marks the second annual ‘A Date 2 Remember’ young professional date auction and fashion show for charity, presented by the CYP Club (Columbus Young Professionals Club). Members of the Central Ohio community are invited to “make a date” for this unique event – one that combines a date auction for singles and couples with a fashion show featuring clothing from Columbus-area boutiques and shops. All proceeds raised from the event will benefit TWO local non-profit organizations; A Kid Again (formerly Adventures For Wish Kids) and Junior Achievement of Central Ohio. Last year more than 600 attended the event, which raised more than $15,000 for charity.
The event will run from 7:00-11:00pm at The Vault in downtown Columbus, where attendees can mix and mingle. Catering for the evening is generously donated by Jason’s Restaurant & Bar, Marcella’s, and Martini Modern Italian. At 8:00pm, be ready for an evening full of entertainment and fun as the date auction and fashion show begins. Emceeing the event will be Charley and Kate from Mix 97.1’s Mix Morning Show. As a twist on the traditional charity date auction, couples will be participating as well, allowing other couples the opportunity to go on a double date. Date participants will walk on stage modeling clothing and jewelry from local boutiques, showcasing the best of Columbus fashion and style.
The CYP Club also invites the media and general public to a special ‘A Date 2 Remember’ Preview Party hosted at Eleven at Hyde Park Steak House (on The Cap, 591 N. High Street) on January 21st, from 6:30-8:30pm to learn more about the event, purchase discounted tickets, mingle with date participants and sponsors, and find out about both charity beneficiaries. More than $200 in dining gift cards will be raffled off to those who purchase tickets at this Preview Party.
Tickets for ‘A Date 2 Remember’ are $25 in advance ($45 for a couple) and $35 at the door. Pre-sale tickets may be purchased online by visiting http://www.cypclub.com/ and clicking on ‘A Date 2 Remember.’
The event will run from 7:00-11:00pm at The Vault in downtown Columbus, where attendees can mix and mingle. Catering for the evening is generously donated by Jason’s Restaurant & Bar, Marcella’s, and Martini Modern Italian. At 8:00pm, be ready for an evening full of entertainment and fun as the date auction and fashion show begins. Emceeing the event will be Charley and Kate from Mix 97.1’s Mix Morning Show. As a twist on the traditional charity date auction, couples will be participating as well, allowing other couples the opportunity to go on a double date. Date participants will walk on stage modeling clothing and jewelry from local boutiques, showcasing the best of Columbus fashion and style.
The CYP Club also invites the media and general public to a special ‘A Date 2 Remember’ Preview Party hosted at Eleven at Hyde Park Steak House (on The Cap, 591 N. High Street) on January 21st, from 6:30-8:30pm to learn more about the event, purchase discounted tickets, mingle with date participants and sponsors, and find out about both charity beneficiaries. More than $200 in dining gift cards will be raffled off to those who purchase tickets at this Preview Party.
Tickets for ‘A Date 2 Remember’ are $25 in advance ($45 for a couple) and $35 at the door. Pre-sale tickets may be purchased online by visiting http://www.cypclub.com/ and clicking on ‘A Date 2 Remember.’
BREAKING: Juicy Campus Attempts Exit Explanation
On Wednesday, Juicy Campus crumbled. Below is their reasoning….
What is happening to JuicyCampus?
JuicyCampus is shutting down as of February 5, 2009. ALL TRAFFIC IS BEING REDIRECTED TO www.collegeacb.com (check out their BLOG for more details)
Why is this happening?
JuicyCampus’ growth outpaced our ability to muster the resources needed to survive the economic downturn and the current level of revenue generated is simply not sufficient to keep the site alive.
How long have you known this was going to happen?
The whole team at JuicyCampus has worked tirelessly the past few weeks to consider all possible options for keeping the site open. It was not until Feb. 2, 2009 that the site's leadership made the difficult decision to shut down.
Does this have anything to do with the investigations by Attorneys General? Other legal reasons?
No, not at all. No charges were ever brought against JuicyCampus by any AG. The site is likewise not shutting down as a result of any lawsuits or other sort of legal trouble. JuicyCampus' services and policies have always been well within the law.
Is this because advertisers pulled their ads from your site?
No. Online ad spend dropped across the board as the economy took a turn for the worse. Our advertisers have spent less, but have remained loyal, and for that we are very much appreciative.
Is this because too many campuses banned you?
No. The vast majority of campuses decided not to censor their students. Our traffic levels have remained very strong. Any revenue lost as a result of the campuses that banned us was negligible.
What does this mean for all the posts?
As of February 2, 2009, all posts will no longer be publicly available.
What about my privacy? If I wrote on the Site, will my IP be released?
JuicyCampus will maintain the same policy we have always enforced -- IP addresses will not be released without a lawful subpoena.
Without JuicyCampus, where on earth will I get my fill of campus gossip?
Check out www.collegeacb.com.
What's next for Matt Ivester?
He'll be consulting with some startups in the Los Angeles area, and is already brainstorming his next big website.
Who can I speak with if I have questions in the future about JuicyCampus?
We’ll keep our Customer Service email account active and probably will check it from time to time. If you have any comments/questions please email cs@juicycampus.com and someone might get back to you. (On the day of shutdown, we may experience temporary email outages, just try again later).
What is the future of JuicyCampus?
Does it have plans to come back?As of now, JuicyCampus does not have any plans to come back, but who knows what the future might hold. If you have any ideas, email us...
What is happening to JuicyCampus?
JuicyCampus is shutting down as of February 5, 2009. ALL TRAFFIC IS BEING REDIRECTED TO www.collegeacb.com (check out their BLOG for more details)
Why is this happening?
JuicyCampus’ growth outpaced our ability to muster the resources needed to survive the economic downturn and the current level of revenue generated is simply not sufficient to keep the site alive.
How long have you known this was going to happen?
The whole team at JuicyCampus has worked tirelessly the past few weeks to consider all possible options for keeping the site open. It was not until Feb. 2, 2009 that the site's leadership made the difficult decision to shut down.
Does this have anything to do with the investigations by Attorneys General? Other legal reasons?
No, not at all. No charges were ever brought against JuicyCampus by any AG. The site is likewise not shutting down as a result of any lawsuits or other sort of legal trouble. JuicyCampus' services and policies have always been well within the law.
Is this because advertisers pulled their ads from your site?
No. Online ad spend dropped across the board as the economy took a turn for the worse. Our advertisers have spent less, but have remained loyal, and for that we are very much appreciative.
Is this because too many campuses banned you?
No. The vast majority of campuses decided not to censor their students. Our traffic levels have remained very strong. Any revenue lost as a result of the campuses that banned us was negligible.
What does this mean for all the posts?
As of February 2, 2009, all posts will no longer be publicly available.
What about my privacy? If I wrote on the Site, will my IP be released?
JuicyCampus will maintain the same policy we have always enforced -- IP addresses will not be released without a lawful subpoena.
Without JuicyCampus, where on earth will I get my fill of campus gossip?
Check out www.collegeacb.com.
What's next for Matt Ivester?
He'll be consulting with some startups in the Los Angeles area, and is already brainstorming his next big website.
Who can I speak with if I have questions in the future about JuicyCampus?
We’ll keep our Customer Service email account active and probably will check it from time to time. If you have any comments/questions please email cs@juicycampus.com and someone might get back to you. (On the day of shutdown, we may experience temporary email outages, just try again later).
What is the future of JuicyCampus?
Does it have plans to come back?As of now, JuicyCampus does not have any plans to come back, but who knows what the future might hold. If you have any ideas, email us...
Residents Discuss, Dissect Columbus Commons
NBC 4: From City Center to Columbus Commons, a plan has been set in motion to redesign the center of downtown and it sparked a flurry of feedback from NBC 4 viewers and nbc4i.com users. Columbus Commons will be a mix of residential, retail, office space and a park—an will cost $165 million.
Developers and the city will be making large investments with the hope of at least $15 million from the federal government. City Center will be demolished in May and the goal is to have the commons finished by Fall 2010.
There were more than 50 responses on how the plan for City Center is going to work in a city that is struggling with massive budget problems. One person said, “How about getting us out of the red and keeping us safe with more police officers. A green park is nice, but $165 million?“
NBC 4‘s Mikaela Hunt found taxpayer money that could theoretically be used to help with the city’s budget will not be used for the majority of the project. “Phase 2: residential, retail and restaurant—that component of the site will be privately funded—also office space,“ said Guy Worley, of Capitol South. “We’re not going to be able to get private sector financing for retail, residential … until we remove the impediment for redevelopment.”
It’s not that easy, according to Capitol South, the private non-profit group that coordinates research and financing for the project. A casino wouldn’t be legal in Columbus. More importantly, when they reached out to potential tenants for City Center, remodeling the site would cost from $200 to $250 a square foot. To demolish the site and rebuild, it would cost $140 to $160 per square foot. Another viewer asked, “Is this housing at Columbus Commons going to be affordable? Less than $200,000?“
NBC 4 had the same question. A housing study conducted on downtown said high-end condos are at full capacity, but there is a demand for affordable rentals. “We’re doing it right next door at Lifestyle Communities. This is a new development and rentals are from $700 to less than $1,000,“ said Mayor Michael Coleman.
Several viewers also questioned whether federal stimulus money could actually be used to keep police officers on the streets. We’ve heard repeatedly from Gov. Ted Strickland and Coleman that federal stimulus money must go toward shovel ready projects or those that have a green component.
But NBC 4 came across an interesting comment from President Barack Obama’s press secretary, talking about stimulus money for Columbus. Straight from a White House press briefing transcript, when asked about the stimulus package on Monday, Press Secretary Robert Gibbs said about Columbus Ohio, “I think it’s safest to assume that the president’s package … which address the need to ensure public safety isn’t threatened … and money specifically for police officers … my sense is that Columbus, Ohio is probably going to get some of that money.”
But that was not part of Coleman’s federal stimulus request a few weeks ago because he didn’t know about it until recently. “We’ve also heard there is money available for possibly police,“ said Dan Williamson, of Mayor Coleman’s office.
So we went straight to the source that may know the most about the package in Ohio—Senator Sherrod Brown. “Why hasn’t this been talked about at the local level until this point?“ Hunt asked.
“I think it wasn’t clear what was going to be in the package,“ Brown said. “As the bill has progressed, there’s been other things to help communities, like police programs and firefighter programs.”
This is just the cusp of what the money can be used for—revised by the Democratic Policy Committee on Thursday. Ohio is set to get $6.8 billion for infrastructure and science, education and training, energy, protecting the vulnerable, law enforcement, unemployment benefits and tax cuts. “We will be at the table. They mayor will be at the table, fighting hard for those dollars,” Williamson said.
Developers and the city will be making large investments with the hope of at least $15 million from the federal government. City Center will be demolished in May and the goal is to have the commons finished by Fall 2010.
There were more than 50 responses on how the plan for City Center is going to work in a city that is struggling with massive budget problems. One person said, “How about getting us out of the red and keeping us safe with more police officers. A green park is nice, but $165 million?“
NBC 4‘s Mikaela Hunt found taxpayer money that could theoretically be used to help with the city’s budget will not be used for the majority of the project. “Phase 2: residential, retail and restaurant—that component of the site will be privately funded—also office space,“ said Guy Worley, of Capitol South. “We’re not going to be able to get private sector financing for retail, residential … until we remove the impediment for redevelopment.”
It’s not that easy, according to Capitol South, the private non-profit group that coordinates research and financing for the project. A casino wouldn’t be legal in Columbus. More importantly, when they reached out to potential tenants for City Center, remodeling the site would cost from $200 to $250 a square foot. To demolish the site and rebuild, it would cost $140 to $160 per square foot. Another viewer asked, “Is this housing at Columbus Commons going to be affordable? Less than $200,000?“
NBC 4 had the same question. A housing study conducted on downtown said high-end condos are at full capacity, but there is a demand for affordable rentals. “We’re doing it right next door at Lifestyle Communities. This is a new development and rentals are from $700 to less than $1,000,“ said Mayor Michael Coleman.
Several viewers also questioned whether federal stimulus money could actually be used to keep police officers on the streets. We’ve heard repeatedly from Gov. Ted Strickland and Coleman that federal stimulus money must go toward shovel ready projects or those that have a green component.
But NBC 4 came across an interesting comment from President Barack Obama’s press secretary, talking about stimulus money for Columbus. Straight from a White House press briefing transcript, when asked about the stimulus package on Monday, Press Secretary Robert Gibbs said about Columbus Ohio, “I think it’s safest to assume that the president’s package … which address the need to ensure public safety isn’t threatened … and money specifically for police officers … my sense is that Columbus, Ohio is probably going to get some of that money.”
But that was not part of Coleman’s federal stimulus request a few weeks ago because he didn’t know about it until recently. “We’ve also heard there is money available for possibly police,“ said Dan Williamson, of Mayor Coleman’s office.
So we went straight to the source that may know the most about the package in Ohio—Senator Sherrod Brown. “Why hasn’t this been talked about at the local level until this point?“ Hunt asked.
“I think it wasn’t clear what was going to be in the package,“ Brown said. “As the bill has progressed, there’s been other things to help communities, like police programs and firefighter programs.”
This is just the cusp of what the money can be used for—revised by the Democratic Policy Committee on Thursday. Ohio is set to get $6.8 billion for infrastructure and science, education and training, energy, protecting the vulnerable, law enforcement, unemployment benefits and tax cuts. “We will be at the table. They mayor will be at the table, fighting hard for those dollars,” Williamson said.
Will City Center Eviction Elevate Downtown?
NBC 4: For years, condos in downtown Columbus have sat vacant, many not wanting to move into the city without the comforts of the suburbs. The City Center plans may the first step in making downtown Columbus an attractive and permanent home address, but what else will it take to make the city more livable?
According to a recent study by Boulevard Strategies, 5,000 residents live in downtown Columbus. But more people work downtown than live in the area, even though there is a desire to... Lifestyle Communities is building condos at Front and Rich Streets, priced less than $200,000, with rentals between $700 and $1,000, and not far from the Waterford and Miranova, which have provided downtown living for years.
Viewers said they like all the new option popping up downtown, but they want to make sure grocery stores are available like the Giant Eagle in Victorian Village, the Kroger in the Brewery District or the North Market. Residents also want to make sure they’re safe. Police said that less than one percent of the aggravated assaults in the city happened in downtown last fall, adding that it helps that police headquarters is located there.
According to a recent study by Boulevard Strategies, 5,000 residents live in downtown Columbus. But more people work downtown than live in the area, even though there is a desire to... Lifestyle Communities is building condos at Front and Rich Streets, priced less than $200,000, with rentals between $700 and $1,000, and not far from the Waterford and Miranova, which have provided downtown living for years.
Viewers said they like all the new option popping up downtown, but they want to make sure grocery stores are available like the Giant Eagle in Victorian Village, the Kroger in the Brewery District or the North Market. Residents also want to make sure they’re safe. Police said that less than one percent of the aggravated assaults in the city happened in downtown last fall, adding that it helps that police headquarters is located there.
Quick Read
Mike Pramik and Marla Rose’s research for their front page article on support for the demolition of City Center, apparently did not include reading NBC 4’s message board… One look at that and you quickly deduce that Columbus Commons is less popular than George W. Bush.
Very popular in enjoyment and coverage was National Signing Day, also known as college football’s Christmas morning… Ken Gordon’s opening salvo on the Buckeyes finally signing a quarterback, though well written, should have never led the sports section… It should have been buried in a box on page C6. The Buckeyes have the number one young quarterback in the nation and he is legitimately a rising star in college football… Why are we obsessed about scoring a clipboard holder?
Tim May’s column on Big Ten recruiting controversy started strong and finished flat… Thankfully, Rob Oller cover his tracks… His feature on OSU’s deficiencies in recruiting lineman was the most intriguing story of the section. Bill Rabinowitz’s recount of the top classes was well written and the “Meet the Class of 2009” capsules page (C6), capped the section perfectly.
Misti Crane’s metro lead, about hospice helping children recover from a fire was exquisite. I almost cried three times…. Equally interesting was the sidebar story on medical privacy infringing upon university research…
The Dispatch continued their solid reporting on proposals from the State of the State… However, Robert Vitale’s column on the impending city council primary merited front-page section placement… With all the acrimony over feeling two vacancies, that was an important story…
Very popular in enjoyment and coverage was National Signing Day, also known as college football’s Christmas morning… Ken Gordon’s opening salvo on the Buckeyes finally signing a quarterback, though well written, should have never led the sports section… It should have been buried in a box on page C6. The Buckeyes have the number one young quarterback in the nation and he is legitimately a rising star in college football… Why are we obsessed about scoring a clipboard holder?
Tim May’s column on Big Ten recruiting controversy started strong and finished flat… Thankfully, Rob Oller cover his tracks… His feature on OSU’s deficiencies in recruiting lineman was the most intriguing story of the section. Bill Rabinowitz’s recount of the top classes was well written and the “Meet the Class of 2009” capsules page (C6), capped the section perfectly.
Misti Crane’s metro lead, about hospice helping children recover from a fire was exquisite. I almost cried three times…. Equally interesting was the sidebar story on medical privacy infringing upon university research…
The Dispatch continued their solid reporting on proposals from the State of the State… However, Robert Vitale’s column on the impending city council primary merited front-page section placement… With all the acrimony over feeling two vacancies, that was an important story…
Wednesday, February 4, 2009
BREAKING: Petro Ponders Senate Campaign
Jim Petro is exploring a Senate campaign, Gossip CBUS has learned. In January, Petro contacted three former fundraisers to inquire into the viability of a statewide bid. Petro has been absent from the political scene, since Ken Blackwell defeated him for the 2006 Republican Gubernatorial nomination.
After commencing his career as a Rocky River Councilman and City Director, Petro served as a State Representative from 1981-1990. From 1991-1995, he served as a Cuyahoga County Commissioner. From 1995-2003, he served as Ohio’s 29th Auditor. From 2003-2207, he served as Ohio’s 46th Attorney General.
After commencing his career as a Rocky River Councilman and City Director, Petro served as a State Representative from 1981-1990. From 1991-1995, he served as a Cuyahoga County Commissioner. From 1995-2003, he served as Ohio’s 29th Auditor. From 2003-2207, he served as Ohio’s 46th Attorney General.
BREAKING: Juicy Campus Crumbles
Despite viewers and volume, Juicy Campus could not survive. The anonymous gossip website will shut down tomorrow. Founder and CEO Matt Ivester explains his decision in this enclosed letter…
Juicy Campers,
What a wild ride this has been! In the past year and a half, JuicyCampus has become synonymous with college gossip, and is more popular than I could have ever expected. We’ve expanded to more than 500 campuses across the US, and have more than a million unique visitors coming to the site every month. It’s clear that we have provided a platform that students have found interesting, entertaining, and fun.
Unfortunately, even with great traffic and strong user loyalty, a business can’t survive and grow without a steady stream of revenue to support it. In these historically difficult economic times, online ad revenue has plummeted and venture capital funding has dissolved. JuicyCampus’ exponential growth outpaced our ability to muster the resources needed to survive this economic downturn, and as a result, we are closing down the site as of Feb. 5, 2009.
On behalf of everyone here at JuicyCampus, I would like to thank all of our users for reading, contributing to, and telling your friends about the site. And I’d like to thank everyone who has engaged in meaningful discussion about online privacy and internet censorship. JuicyCampus has raised issues that have passionate advocates on both sides, and I hope that dialogue will continue. While there are parts of JuicyCampus that none of us will miss – the mean-spirited posts and personal attacks – it has also been a place for the fun, lighthearted gossip of college life. I hope that is how it is remembered.
Keep it Juicy,
Matt Ivester
Juicy Campers,
What a wild ride this has been! In the past year and a half, JuicyCampus has become synonymous with college gossip, and is more popular than I could have ever expected. We’ve expanded to more than 500 campuses across the US, and have more than a million unique visitors coming to the site every month. It’s clear that we have provided a platform that students have found interesting, entertaining, and fun.
Unfortunately, even with great traffic and strong user loyalty, a business can’t survive and grow without a steady stream of revenue to support it. In these historically difficult economic times, online ad revenue has plummeted and venture capital funding has dissolved. JuicyCampus’ exponential growth outpaced our ability to muster the resources needed to survive this economic downturn, and as a result, we are closing down the site as of Feb. 5, 2009.
On behalf of everyone here at JuicyCampus, I would like to thank all of our users for reading, contributing to, and telling your friends about the site. And I’d like to thank everyone who has engaged in meaningful discussion about online privacy and internet censorship. JuicyCampus has raised issues that have passionate advocates on both sides, and I hope that dialogue will continue. While there are parts of JuicyCampus that none of us will miss – the mean-spirited posts and personal attacks – it has also been a place for the fun, lighthearted gossip of college life. I hope that is how it is remembered.
Keep it Juicy,
Matt Ivester
Buckeyes Boast Top Ranked Recruiting Class
10 TV: Ohio State signed 25 players to its 2009 class, coach Jim Tressel said Wednesday. In addition to Ohio State, LSU, Alabama and Southern California are among the highest ranked classes of the year.
The class is headlined by Cornerback/receiver Corey Brown, considered a five-star recruit by Rivals. His Monroeville, Pa., teammate, linebacker Dorian Bell, another five-star recruit, also committed to the class. "This class consists of young men who have been successful on the field and in school," Tressel said. "Nearly all of them were on a playoff team this fall, and overall, they bring close to a 3.0 GPA to Ohio State, a reflection of the work ethic they are developing to achieve those types of successes."
The class includes 14 players from Ohio, three from Pennsylvania and Florida, two from Michigan and one from Maryland, Kentucky and Texas. There are 13 offensive (4 offensive linemen, 4 running backs, 3 wide receivers, 1 tight end, 1 quarterback) and 12 defensive (4 defensive backs, 4 linebackers, 4 defensive tackles, 2 defensive end) players.
"This is a large class in terms of numbers, and a well-balanced class between Ohio and out-of-state players," said recruiting coordinator John Peterson. "At Ohio State, we know you win with people, and these are young people who know what it takes to succeed."
The class is headlined by Cornerback/receiver Corey Brown, considered a five-star recruit by Rivals. His Monroeville, Pa., teammate, linebacker Dorian Bell, another five-star recruit, also committed to the class. "This class consists of young men who have been successful on the field and in school," Tressel said. "Nearly all of them were on a playoff team this fall, and overall, they bring close to a 3.0 GPA to Ohio State, a reflection of the work ethic they are developing to achieve those types of successes."
The class includes 14 players from Ohio, three from Pennsylvania and Florida, two from Michigan and one from Maryland, Kentucky and Texas. There are 13 offensive (4 offensive linemen, 4 running backs, 3 wide receivers, 1 tight end, 1 quarterback) and 12 defensive (4 defensive backs, 4 linebackers, 4 defensive tackles, 2 defensive end) players.
"This is a large class in terms of numbers, and a well-balanced class between Ohio and out-of-state players," said recruiting coordinator John Peterson. "At Ohio State, we know you win with people, and these are young people who know what it takes to succeed."
INVITE: Cash Booth Madness
Commencement: 10:00Venue: Sugar Bar (525 Park Street)
Age Range: Male (21 and over); Female (19 and over)
VIP Access: Text (406-3072)
Cash Booth Contest
Drinks (Available All Night)
$3 martinis
$2 Bombs
$1 Wells
Gougers, Rowers, and Valor
NBC 4: Following weeks of discussions on layoffs, cut-backs and closures, Columbus talked about higher taxes Tuesday night. The man who’s in charge of keeping track of Columbus dollars and cents said he believes the economic crisis is too deep and all options—no matter how unpopular—should be considered. City Auditor High Dorrain urged council to consider raising income taxes and said he believes it may be the only way to keep providing essential services. Dorrain suggested raising the tax .05 percent. That would be an extra half-cent on every dollar you earn. City income taxes were raised last in 1982.
Does the fact that income taxes haven’t been raised in 27 years, suggest to anyone else this is a bad idea? Governor Strickland is committed to not raising taxes in a crisis. Mayor Coleman should be also…
NBC 4: The controversial Ohio State University boat house along the Scioto River has hit a new snag. The multi-million dollar boat house will be located in Duranceaux Park and users or the park have been fighting the construction of it because of safety and environmental concerns. Now, there’s a new problem: it’s $500,000 over budget… The 22,000-square foot, two-level structure was originally estimated to cost $4.8 million. OSU officials said the project delays over the summer increased the price by nearly $500,000. Groundbreaking for the new boat house is expected to begin late in Summer 2009.
On Tuesday, the Dispatch reports that major OSU sports are facing budget problems… And we are discussing the rowing team? (Please, rowers, save your e-mails)…
NBC 4: A decorated Columbus police officer received the first of a new monthly award, recognizing law enforcement for their dedication to duty. CPD Officer Ryan Chrysler received the first Bryan Hurst/Tony Luzio Award Wednesday. The award was in recognition of Officer Chrysler’s dedication to duty. Seven weeks ago, an armed suspect shot Chrysler in the face at close range while Chrysler was responding to a possible robbery on Weber Road.
We never run good news…
Does the fact that income taxes haven’t been raised in 27 years, suggest to anyone else this is a bad idea? Governor Strickland is committed to not raising taxes in a crisis. Mayor Coleman should be also…
NBC 4: The controversial Ohio State University boat house along the Scioto River has hit a new snag. The multi-million dollar boat house will be located in Duranceaux Park and users or the park have been fighting the construction of it because of safety and environmental concerns. Now, there’s a new problem: it’s $500,000 over budget… The 22,000-square foot, two-level structure was originally estimated to cost $4.8 million. OSU officials said the project delays over the summer increased the price by nearly $500,000. Groundbreaking for the new boat house is expected to begin late in Summer 2009.
On Tuesday, the Dispatch reports that major OSU sports are facing budget problems… And we are discussing the rowing team? (Please, rowers, save your e-mails)…
NBC 4: A decorated Columbus police officer received the first of a new monthly award, recognizing law enforcement for their dedication to duty. CPD Officer Ryan Chrysler received the first Bryan Hurst/Tony Luzio Award Wednesday. The award was in recognition of Officer Chrysler’s dedication to duty. Seven weeks ago, an armed suspect shot Chrysler in the face at close range while Chrysler was responding to a possible robbery on Weber Road.
We never run good news…
City Center Closing
10 TV: Downtown Columbus’ City Center Mall will be torn down and replaced by a park surrounded by residential, retail and office space. Mayor Michael Coleman’s spokesperson, Dan Williamson, told Preston the city asked for $15 to $16 million in federal stimulus funds to cover the demolition cost.
Capitol South Community Urban Redevelopment Corporation told Hunt the requested $15 to $20 million would be enough for demolition of the mall, site development and park creation. The city asked for the money as part of a $32-million funding request for the River South project. The decision to begin tearing down the 20-year-old mall this summer was made last year, Williamson said.
Capitol South owns the mall and planned to keep the underground parking and parking structure across the street from the mall. The new area was to be called Columbus Commons—8.9 acres of green space, eventually surrounded by apartments, condos, office buildings and retail space.
The most retail space in the new project is 30,000 square feet, while there will be 40,000 square feet of restaurant space. Williamson said mall demolition would take longer without the use of explosives. Rather than retrofit the buildings at considerable cost, the decision was made to “wipe the slate clean,” Williamson said.
Capitol South and the city used input from several popular blogs and area publications in which residents sounded off about what they wanted to see. The overwhelming sense: People wanted a space where they could “Live, Work, and Play.”
Two well-known companies, one known worldwide and the other nationwide (CB Richard Ellis and Georgetown Company), looked at the site and told Capitol South that City Center would be a difficult space to redevelop without demolition, according to Capital South. The mall’s size and layout would have made it cost-prohibitive.
Columbus’ shoppers would not support mall revitalization, according to the consulting firms. Making the mall over into an office building would have cost $250 per square foot at minimum; new builds are $140 to $180 per square foot. To make it retail, the city and developers needed people who would live Downtown.
Each retailer needs a certain number of “rooftops” Downtown before developers would consider putting in stores. Since Columbus, didn’t have the needed numbers, the mixed-use space of Columbus Commons would provide some of that, the consultants said.
Without federal stimulus money, Capitol South also has a secondary plan in case federal monies don’t come through. If Wednesday’s announcement were to signal the beginning of the project, the goal was to have it complete by fall 2010. Demolition of the interior of the mall would begin in May and the exterior’s demolition would begin in June or July, according to developers.
Capitol South Community Urban Redevelopment Corporation told Hunt the requested $15 to $20 million would be enough for demolition of the mall, site development and park creation. The city asked for the money as part of a $32-million funding request for the River South project. The decision to begin tearing down the 20-year-old mall this summer was made last year, Williamson said.
Capitol South owns the mall and planned to keep the underground parking and parking structure across the street from the mall. The new area was to be called Columbus Commons—8.9 acres of green space, eventually surrounded by apartments, condos, office buildings and retail space.
The most retail space in the new project is 30,000 square feet, while there will be 40,000 square feet of restaurant space. Williamson said mall demolition would take longer without the use of explosives. Rather than retrofit the buildings at considerable cost, the decision was made to “wipe the slate clean,” Williamson said.
Capitol South and the city used input from several popular blogs and area publications in which residents sounded off about what they wanted to see. The overwhelming sense: People wanted a space where they could “Live, Work, and Play.”
Two well-known companies, one known worldwide and the other nationwide (CB Richard Ellis and Georgetown Company), looked at the site and told Capitol South that City Center would be a difficult space to redevelop without demolition, according to Capital South. The mall’s size and layout would have made it cost-prohibitive.
Columbus’ shoppers would not support mall revitalization, according to the consulting firms. Making the mall over into an office building would have cost $250 per square foot at minimum; new builds are $140 to $180 per square foot. To make it retail, the city and developers needed people who would live Downtown.
Each retailer needs a certain number of “rooftops” Downtown before developers would consider putting in stores. Since Columbus, didn’t have the needed numbers, the mixed-use space of Columbus Commons would provide some of that, the consultants said.
Without federal stimulus money, Capitol South also has a secondary plan in case federal monies don’t come through. If Wednesday’s announcement were to signal the beginning of the project, the goal was to have it complete by fall 2010. Demolition of the interior of the mall would begin in May and the exterior’s demolition would begin in June or July, according to developers.
You Have Questions... I Have Answers
Since Gossip Cbus began, I’ve been swamped with e-mail (thanks for the love)… While I’ve tried to give individual responses to several, I also know that some of the questions are questions others may have and thus, answering them publicly would be better… Therefore, from time to time, I will answer questions where everyone can see them…
Q: I loved the Easton Evaluation series. Is something similar planned for Polaris?
A: While Easton and Polaris have many of the same stores, there are enough differences that a matching version of the Easton Evaluation series at Polaris would be impossible. With that said, we are planning trips to both malls (and maybe even Tuttle Crossing) in the future…
Q: Will Gossip CBUS ever twitter from two events on the same night?
A: Technically, we already have… We posted updates from the NBC4 Toy Drive ands the Christian Audigier Fashion Celebration… We will likely have live updates from multiple locations, on the same night, in the future… However, we will likely never twitter from multiple locations simultaneously…
Q: Is Gossip CBUS available on my cell phone?
A: Unless your phone is from the mid-1990’s, you should be able to. In our initial weeks, we were not available on all carriers. However, that problem (to my knowledge) has been corrected. If you can’t receive us through your phone, please contact us…
Q: I loved the Easton Evaluation series. Is something similar planned for Polaris?
A: While Easton and Polaris have many of the same stores, there are enough differences that a matching version of the Easton Evaluation series at Polaris would be impossible. With that said, we are planning trips to both malls (and maybe even Tuttle Crossing) in the future…
Q: Will Gossip CBUS ever twitter from two events on the same night?
A: Technically, we already have… We posted updates from the NBC4 Toy Drive ands the Christian Audigier Fashion Celebration… We will likely have live updates from multiple locations, on the same night, in the future… However, we will likely never twitter from multiple locations simultaneously…
Q: Is Gossip CBUS available on my cell phone?
A: Unless your phone is from the mid-1990’s, you should be able to. In our initial weeks, we were not available on all carriers. However, that problem (to my knowledge) has been corrected. If you can’t receive us through your phone, please contact us…
Quick Read
The Dispatch’s coverage of City Center’s conclusion was outstanding. The lead story was informative and very well written and the timeline (sidebar, A6) was also excellent. The lone flaw in the montage was Maria Rose’s secondary story on the demise of the twenty-year-old mall… It started poignant and ended pathetic…
Tim May’s column on Ohio State’s recruiting class was, as the impending recruits are supposed to be, stellar… The section’s recount of the basketball Buckeyes overtime victory versus Purdue was also impressive. Equally impressive (and interesting), Tracy Turner’s feature on the top ten things central Ohioans complained about to the Better Business Bureau (Business section)…
Robert Vitale’s column about the city considering an income tax increase, should have ran on the front page… Simone Sebastian’s column on proposed changes by Franklin County schools was solid… And Kevin Coughlin’s gubernatorial announcement… It ran on B3, indicating exactly how much of a factor the Dispatch believes he will be…
Tim May’s column on Ohio State’s recruiting class was, as the impending recruits are supposed to be, stellar… The section’s recount of the basketball Buckeyes overtime victory versus Purdue was also impressive. Equally impressive (and interesting), Tracy Turner’s feature on the top ten things central Ohioans complained about to the Better Business Bureau (Business section)…
Robert Vitale’s column about the city considering an income tax increase, should have ran on the front page… Simone Sebastian’s column on proposed changes by Franklin County schools was solid… And Kevin Coughlin’s gubernatorial announcement… It ran on B3, indicating exactly how much of a factor the Dispatch believes he will be…
Tuesday, February 3, 2009
BREAKING: Dewine “Not Finished”
Mike Dewine will seek statewide office in 2010, according to a source familiar with the situation. Currently, Dewine is considering Attorney General, Governor, or Senator.
“Mike Dewine is not finished in Ohio elected politics,” said the source, who spoke on condition of anonymity. “Governor, Senator, statewide, he runs. He wins. Mark my words. You will see him announce something this spring.”
On January 13, Rob Portman announced his Senate campaign. John Kasich has not announced a Gubernatorial campaign, although an announcement is expected. Both Portman and Kasich are non-factors in Dewine’s decision, according to our source.
“You don’t think about who you’re running against or you can’t win,” said our source. “John was a great congressman. Rob was a great congressman. Both are dedicated public servants and the state would be lucky to have them serve in any capacity and both will be tough to beat. But, their announcements wont affect Mike, as I’m sure his announcement wont effect them.”
After commencing his career in the State Senate, Dewine served as Ohio’s 7th district Congressman from 1983-1991. He then served as Lieutenant Governor from 1991-1994. Elected Ohio’s 58th Senator, he served until 2007. Ironically, his junior senator for much of this tenure was George Voinovich, Ohio’s former Governor and his former running mate.
“Mike Dewine is not finished in Ohio elected politics,” said the source, who spoke on condition of anonymity. “Governor, Senator, statewide, he runs. He wins. Mark my words. You will see him announce something this spring.”
On January 13, Rob Portman announced his Senate campaign. John Kasich has not announced a Gubernatorial campaign, although an announcement is expected. Both Portman and Kasich are non-factors in Dewine’s decision, according to our source.
“You don’t think about who you’re running against or you can’t win,” said our source. “John was a great congressman. Rob was a great congressman. Both are dedicated public servants and the state would be lucky to have them serve in any capacity and both will be tough to beat. But, their announcements wont affect Mike, as I’m sure his announcement wont effect them.”
After commencing his career in the State Senate, Dewine served as Ohio’s 7th district Congressman from 1983-1991. He then served as Lieutenant Governor from 1991-1994. Elected Ohio’s 58th Senator, he served until 2007. Ironically, his junior senator for much of this tenure was George Voinovich, Ohio’s former Governor and his former running mate.
McFadden’s Owns Valentine’s Weekend
For Valentine’s Week, McFadden’s major event announcements… (These will rerun twice, separately in the coming days… still, you may want to mark you calendar)…
Girl’s Night Out (February 12): Local vendor prizes. Women’s specials include exclusive menu, $3 Barcardi Mixers, ½ price appetizers.
The Dating Game (February 13): Auction winners will receive date and $50 prize.
Black Out Bash (February 14): Sexiest black dress scores an Andrew’s Jewelers gift. $6 Black and White Martini. $5 Black Ice Drinks. $4 Black Out Shots.
Girl’s Night Out (February 12): Local vendor prizes. Women’s specials include exclusive menu, $3 Barcardi Mixers, ½ price appetizers.
The Dating Game (February 13): Auction winners will receive date and $50 prize.
Black Out Bash (February 14): Sexiest black dress scores an Andrew’s Jewelers gift. $6 Black and White Martini. $5 Black Ice Drinks. $4 Black Out Shots.
It’s What We Call the News
10 TV: Columbus-based Huntington Bancshares Inc. announced Tuesday that it would eliminate about 500 jobs throughout the company by March 1. The cuts amount to about 4 percent of the bank's employees. The cuts run across the board, and will include tellers, managers and administrators…A Huntington spokesperson said that the cost-cutting measures would not impact projects already under way, like Huntington Park, the Columbus Clippers' new ballpark…
Cut costs… Check. Put people out of work… Check. Forfeit naming a stadium after our failing business? Heaven forbid…
10 TV: Police were searching for several armed men who stole a car from a south side gas station early Tuesday. Investigators said a man was inside the Marathon gas station, located at 1509 Lockbourne Road near Frebis Avenue, at about 3 a.m… When the man walked out to his Ford Escort, police said two men approached him with a gun and stole the car. Two other men were waiting in a van and drove away with the Escort… Officers spotted the van on Whittier Street. The men were able to elude police, but the van was recovered… The carjacking victim was not injured.
This victim should take heart… Cars are replaceable. Lives are not…
Cut costs… Check. Put people out of work… Check. Forfeit naming a stadium after our failing business? Heaven forbid…
10 TV: Police were searching for several armed men who stole a car from a south side gas station early Tuesday. Investigators said a man was inside the Marathon gas station, located at 1509 Lockbourne Road near Frebis Avenue, at about 3 a.m… When the man walked out to his Ford Escort, police said two men approached him with a gun and stole the car. Two other men were waiting in a van and drove away with the Escort… Officers spotted the van on Whittier Street. The men were able to elude police, but the van was recovered… The carjacking victim was not injured.
This victim should take heart… Cars are replaceable. Lives are not…
CYP Breakfast Buzz
On Tuesday, I attended the Columbus Young Professionals monthly networking breakfast. The event was both informative and unique. Particularly impressive was the speaker… Lewis Howes of Sportsnetworker.com.
Quick Read
“State of Pain” was what a lead story is supposed to be… It featured excellent graphics… Mark Niquette’s story on state impact was informative and Jim Siegel’s story on city impact was outstanding. Robert Vitale’s secondary story, detailing the city’s ongoing budget battle, concluded a stellar front page…
The Metro section was equally stellar… Mike Pramik’s column on Ohio State sports’ budget battle was exquisite (whatever the paper pays him, they should double it… He’s their best)… Kathy Lynn Gray’s feature Ohio State’s manatee release program was poignant… I’ve never seen a manatee and I almost cried…
The Metro section was equally stellar… Mike Pramik’s column on Ohio State sports’ budget battle was exquisite (whatever the paper pays him, they should double it… He’s their best)… Kathy Lynn Gray’s feature Ohio State’s manatee release program was poignant… I’ve never seen a manatee and I almost cried…
Monday, February 2, 2009
Lodge Bar Love
For Valentine’s Week, Lodge Bar major event announcements… (These will rerun twice, separately in the coming days… still, you may want to mark you calendar)…
Date Auction (February 13): Auction winners will receive date with an employee and $50 restaurant gift card. All proceeds will benefit Make A Wish. $3 you call it drinks. $2 martinis. $1.50 pitchers (32 ounces). $1 wells. $3 Appetizers. ½ Price Pizzas.
Red Hot Valentine’s Day (February 14): Song trivia. $4 Red Hot Shots. $3 Martinis.
Date Auction (February 13): Auction winners will receive date with an employee and $50 restaurant gift card. All proceeds will benefit Make A Wish. $3 you call it drinks. $2 martinis. $1.50 pitchers (32 ounces). $1 wells. $3 Appetizers. ½ Price Pizzas.
Red Hot Valentine’s Day (February 14): Song trivia. $4 Red Hot Shots. $3 Martinis.It’s What We Call the News
WSYX 6: Columbus Mayor Michael Coleman and City Council are hammering out the last $7 million to trim from an already thin budget in Columbus. This city has already gone through some drastic cuts in preparation for this upcoming budget - a budget that had to be trimmed about $100-million. So far, around 400 city employees were told they're position is vanishing. That includes more than 25 police recruits. More than a dozen centers, mostly rec centers, are closing in the next few weeks as the parks department funding was slashed. The city is also no longer funding the Sister Cities program at the visitors center. They've also pulled the plug on the Summer Strike Force.
Only $7 Million to cut? Maybe Mayor Coleman should issue a mandatory layoff for left-handed redheads…
10 TV: A Downtown hotel was placed under partial lockdown Monday morning as police searched for a gunman. No gunman was found… Police were called to the hotel around 5:30 a.m. on report of a gunman on the fifth floor. The hotel's elevators were disabled as police searched the hotel's fifth and sixth floors. After roughly 45 minutes of searching, police were unable to find a gunman and cleared the scene. Anxious guests were finally able to leave their floors and check out.
10 TV: Five north side schools were placed under lockdown Monday morning after student reported seeing another student with a gun inside a high school. Brookhaven High School and nearby Maize Road Elementary School were placed under lockdown at about 10 a.m. Three Catholic schools -- St. Francis DeSales High School, St. James The Less and St. Matthias - were also placed under lockdown as a precaution… The lockdowns occurred after a student who rides a COTA bus told administrators that he saw another student with a gun walk inside Brookhaven High School. The student who allegedly had the gun was later apprehended at a garage near the high school.... No weapon was found, but police did confirm that a magazine was recovered during a search of the area. All school lockdowns were lifted shortly before 11 a.m.
If anyone wonders why we spend so much time on crime, the above examples should show you… It’s everywhere…
10 TV: A clipper system will push through the region Tuesday, bringing with it the chance for some snow showers. Little accumulation is expected… After an early morning low of 23, Tuesday's high will reach only 27 degrees… mostly cloudy on Wednesday, with a few leftover snow flurries. It will be colder, with highs only reaching 20 degrees. Temperatures will rise dramatically by the end of the week, with temperatures on Saturday in the 40s and Sunday in the 50s. The warmer weather, however, may be accompanied by rain showers.
Snow, snow, go away…
Only $7 Million to cut? Maybe Mayor Coleman should issue a mandatory layoff for left-handed redheads…
10 TV: A Downtown hotel was placed under partial lockdown Monday morning as police searched for a gunman. No gunman was found… Police were called to the hotel around 5:30 a.m. on report of a gunman on the fifth floor. The hotel's elevators were disabled as police searched the hotel's fifth and sixth floors. After roughly 45 minutes of searching, police were unable to find a gunman and cleared the scene. Anxious guests were finally able to leave their floors and check out.
10 TV: Five north side schools were placed under lockdown Monday morning after student reported seeing another student with a gun inside a high school. Brookhaven High School and nearby Maize Road Elementary School were placed under lockdown at about 10 a.m. Three Catholic schools -- St. Francis DeSales High School, St. James The Less and St. Matthias - were also placed under lockdown as a precaution… The lockdowns occurred after a student who rides a COTA bus told administrators that he saw another student with a gun walk inside Brookhaven High School. The student who allegedly had the gun was later apprehended at a garage near the high school.... No weapon was found, but police did confirm that a magazine was recovered during a search of the area. All school lockdowns were lifted shortly before 11 a.m.
If anyone wonders why we spend so much time on crime, the above examples should show you… It’s everywhere…
10 TV: A clipper system will push through the region Tuesday, bringing with it the chance for some snow showers. Little accumulation is expected… After an early morning low of 23, Tuesday's high will reach only 27 degrees… mostly cloudy on Wednesday, with a few leftover snow flurries. It will be colder, with highs only reaching 20 degrees. Temperatures will rise dramatically by the end of the week, with temperatures on Saturday in the 40s and Sunday in the 50s. The warmer weather, however, may be accompanied by rain showers.
Snow, snow, go away…
Quick Read
John Futty’s piece on gunfire reports (34 a day in this city) had potential… Unfortunately, he seemed to focus more on the celebratory instances as opposed to the gunshots that are actually killing people (which do you think is more important?)… Thankfully, sports offset his blunder with exquisite Super Bowl coverage.
Barbara Carmen’s feature on rescue groups adopting dogs (metro front) was heartwarming… Metro’s other front page notable, on psychiatric patient services, was also solid…
Jeffrey Sheban’s profile of John Urbano, an Abercrombie and Fitch production specialist turned documentary filmmaker was insightful and very well written… Not well written, the Business section’s lead, which read like a Blackberry press release…
Barbara Carmen’s feature on rescue groups adopting dogs (metro front) was heartwarming… Metro’s other front page notable, on psychiatric patient services, was also solid…
Jeffrey Sheban’s profile of John Urbano, an Abercrombie and Fitch production specialist turned documentary filmmaker was insightful and very well written… Not well written, the Business section’s lead, which read like a Blackberry press release…
Sunday, February 1, 2009
Number Thirty-Four
10 TV: Columbus police are hoping someone may have seen something more that can help them find who fired a gun from a vehicle and hit a teenager standing with others at the corner of Cleveland and 16th. The shot struck Lazell Collins, 18, of Columbus. Police responded to a call of shots fired at that intersection but no one was there when they arrived. It seems friends had taken the wounded Collins to a fire station a block away. From there, he was taken to OSU Main to be treated for a serious gunshot wound to the abdomen. Police are asking if anyone knows anything about this incident to call Crimestoppers at 645-TIPS, or the Columbus Assault Squad, 645-4141.
Quick Read
The Dispatch continued their outstanding State of the State ramification coverage, today addressing the swap of the graduation exam, in favor of the ACT… Unfortunately, the front page’s lead, on the impact of non-profit service cuts, was miserable… The feature was mostly without the human element and the few anecdotes that there were, were buried on A8… How many times do I hate to say this… If the writers want us to believe people are affected… make us understand why…
While I normally bash Bob Hunter (because he deserves it), his column on the Arizona Cardinals almost moving to Columbus, instead of Arizona, was fascinating… Tim May and Ken Gordon’s breakdown of the Buckeyes recruiting class was also notable and informative…
Steve Watenberg’s piece on bankruptcies increasing (Business front), should have received front-page consideration…. And Joe Blundo’s piece about President Obama’s impact on the Super Bowl was ridiculous…. This message is for every reporter in America… Obama is a politician… STOP working him into your sports columns…
While I normally bash Bob Hunter (because he deserves it), his column on the Arizona Cardinals almost moving to Columbus, instead of Arizona, was fascinating… Tim May and Ken Gordon’s breakdown of the Buckeyes recruiting class was also notable and informative…
Steve Watenberg’s piece on bankruptcies increasing (Business front), should have received front-page consideration…. And Joe Blundo’s piece about President Obama’s impact on the Super Bowl was ridiculous…. This message is for every reporter in America… Obama is a politician… STOP working him into your sports columns…
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