The Nati

It seems like this battle's been going on since I was 5 years old. Well, they are starting to turn the dirt over in Norwood for Rookwood Exchange. I've mentioned before that while I feel bad for those that didn't want to leave, the fact of the matter is that those that are 'holding out' are 2 businesses owners, and a landlord. Not exactly a tug on your heart string contingent of homeowners. Those that I feel bad for are the ones that thought it was going to be a quick process, sold to the developers and bought a new home, and have been paying two mortgages ever since. I'm glad to see the project moving forward.

A good friend of mine recently enrolled in a fantastic program offered by my employer (Accenture). It's called the volunteer Service Overseas program. Basically you put your career (and pay) on hold for 6 months - 1 year. Accept an assignment in a very needy location, and use your IT/Consulting skills to help a non-profit. Accenture picks up the tab on some of your expenses (mortgage, car payments, etc) keeps you on the payroll, gives you benefits (medical), and offers you your job back when you complete your assignment. Definitely not for everyone (my wife would freak if I told her I was packing it in and heading for Cambodia), but a really awesome program for those that can take advantage of it.

Mark Bower took the opportunity, (and is actually the first person from the US placed in the program by Accenture). Here is a blog that some of you may find interesting as he charts his life, experiences, ups and downs from the shores of Papua New Guinea. The posts will likely be sporadic, as he types out an email on his laptop (basically keeps a diary), and then when he gets an internet connection fires them back to co-workers to be uploaded to the blog. But I think some of you may find it interesting.

Okay, I know I've said before I am supporting David Pepper for Mayor... however, I think we've got a new kid in town that might change my mind. Joe Randa (3rd Baseman for YOUR Cincinnati Reds) is taking this town by storm. First a game winning walk off home run on Opening Day to nicely introduce himself to the hometown fans. Then a grand slam last night to cap off the game and ensure victory. This little guy knows how to make friends.

Okay, so I'm not really suggesting he announce his candidacy, but if he keeps this up, he could help make an interesting summer for the Reds and Cincinnati.

I am not sure the last time I read an article that was this positive. With terms like 'conversion continues a condominium development boom', 'condos ready for use in about 10 months...due to stronger-than-expected demand', 'urban condominiums in Greater Cincinnati is ripe for rapid growth', how can you be anything but excited about the move towards Urban Living. The $2.30/gallon gas is just going to add to that trend, I think I was actually awakened this morning by the cries of SUV owners commuting from the 'burbs to downtown.

Okay, sorry, I don't mean to glut, and I know the rising price of gas is taking it's toll on some families. But if something like rising gasoline prices can end the chewing up of farmland, and get people back to an active urban core, re-developing existing properties, and taking part in Urban Infill... then I say, long live high priced gas!

(Peanut Jim)

Seriously... if you are at work today, can you explain why. Whether you're a baseball fan or not, you should be taking part in this event. It's bigger than baseball, it's a civic holiday, and it's as Cincinnati as Cincinnati gets. Unfortuntaly we no longer have Peanut Jim, who used to sell fresh roasted peanuts (though his memory stays alive in a song by Jake Speed, and has recently been represented in the Findlay Market Parade each year by Councilman Jim Tarbell). We also no longer have the big St. Bernard's running about (or Marge for that matter). We still can't have Pete Rose on the field. But even with these missing icons, the parade, the game, and baseball in Cincinnati live on. It's a time of new hope, where the reds are equal with everyone else. We're not chasing the Astros or Cardinals, we are all on equal ground... so get out of the office, and get downtown. Don't have tickets? Go to In Between Tavern or the newly opened GameDay, and take the in the game and a couple beers. Cheers!