Ben Ilfeld comment-63485 2012-02-09T00:12:19Z 2012-02-09T00:12:19Z Just to be clear, Scribd is like YouTube for documents. it si a storage locker. Nobody there is doing journalism, it is simply a tool that can be used for people to share documents. Ben Ilfeld 2012-02-09T00:12:19Z Ben Ilfeld comment-63406 2012-02-07T23:37:47Z 2012-02-07T23:37:47Z You know I hate to sound defensive, but we're not the only ones who offer internships. You can find unpaid internships at media organizations and many others (just google News and Review internship). It is a way for someone who would not be qualified for a full-time position to learn and get experience. I've been and unpaid intern and it absolutely helped me. And to be clear, we do have many full-time positions that are well paid with full benefit packages. Ben Ilfeld 2012-02-07T23:37:47Z Ben Ilfeld comment-63405 2012-02-07T23:37:03Z 2012-02-07T23:37:03Z You know I hate to sound defensive, but we're not the only ones who offer internships. You can find unpaid internships at media organizations and many others (just google News and Review internship). It is a way for someone who would not be qualified for a full-time position to learn and get experience. I've been and unpaid intern and it absolutely helped me. And to be clear, we do have many full-time positions that are well paid with full benefit packages. Ben Ilfeld 2012-02-07T23:37:03Z Ben Ilfeld comment-63399 2012-02-07T19:43:18Z 2012-02-07T19:43:18Z It also should be noted that although we have only been around for three years our interns have become full-time reporters, editors, community outreach directors and the head of Agency M, our social media wing. Those are all full-time salaried positions and we often draw from our pool of talented interns. Our internships are opportunities for us to teach what we know to a generation of younger journalists and entrepreneurs. I personally oversaw the first couple of rounds of interns three years ago and I am very proud of the program. Ben Ilfeld 2012-02-07T19:43:18Z Ben Ilfeld comment-63366 2012-02-06T21:49:31Z 2012-02-06T21:49:31Z I think they got along without cars and the internet too. Ben Ilfeld 2012-02-06T21:49:31Z Ben Ilfeld comment-63094 2012-02-02T00:38:24Z 2012-02-02T00:38:24Z Agreed. I do live near the Safeway on 19th and somehow that place works for me (I walk about half the time). Maybe there could be a similar treatment with room for a couple small businesses on the corners? Ben Ilfeld 2012-02-02T00:38:24Z Ben Ilfeld comment-63074 2012-02-01T19:19:24Z 2012-02-01T19:19:24Z It should be noted that both the current location and the new location are very close to mass transit and easy to talk and bike to for many in the central city. Ben Ilfeld 2012-02-01T19:19:24Z Ben Ilfeld comment-63072 2012-02-01T19:17:27Z 2012-02-01T19:17:27Z Corti Brothers is a priceless institution. A good grocer can bring in lots of wonderful food—but a great grocer is able connect that food with the right people and inspire an entire generation of culinary arts in a region. Corti is an example of a great grocer. Ben Ilfeld 2012-02-01T19:17:27Z Ben Ilfeld comment-62916 2012-01-30T21:09:56Z 2012-01-30T21:09:56Z I think this is an interesting issue. I see those signs all the time and I am forced to ignore them because they are so prolific. I'd love to know when I am in real danger and from what. Ben Ilfeld 2012-01-30T21:09:56Z Ben Ilfeld comment-62793 2012-01-27T00:16:54Z 2012-01-27T00:16:54Z The ESC is a separate issue with different financing. My understanding from previous articles is that these were financed with a quite fair tax system based on the incremental property tax revenue from a defined area. http://www.sacramentopress.com/headline/53377/Redevelopment_101_A_bucket_half_full The nice thing about that is the tax is in fact quite narrowly targeted and only affects the government that gives up the incremental additional tax that comes when property values in the area rise. Ben Ilfeld 2012-01-27T00:16:54Z Ben Ilfeld comment-62713 2012-01-25T02:38:54Z 2012-01-25T02:38:54Z Beats any Deal Ticket or Groupon for sure! Ben Ilfeld 2012-01-25T02:38:54Z Ben Ilfeld comment-62532 2012-01-20T18:11:05Z 2012-01-20T18:11:05Z Of course it was Fuel Creative! It is a beautiful arch. I saw it a couple days ago and had to take a video of driving under it. Ben Ilfeld 2012-01-20T18:11:05Z Ben Ilfeld comment-62489 2012-01-19T06:41:45Z 2012-01-19T06:41:45Z This is a very interesting discussion to me. First, is the overall industry film growing? Are there more or fewer small film-makers? Are there more or fewer of these kinds of films made and are they of better quality? Is there a problem in the industry, or one that hurts just small film-makers? It is a result of piracy? Would legislation or enforcement stop such piracy? Would this specific legislation stop such piracy? And one more thing: is it possible that since distribution in film has traditionally been very hard, digital distribution (including unauthorized file sharing) has helped some film-makers actually make a name for themselves with films that would otherwise gone unnoticed? Ben Ilfeld 2012-01-19T06:41:45Z Ben Ilfeld comment-62348 2012-01-17T18:50:15Z 2012-01-17T18:50:15Z De Veres is certainly not a sports bar. But most of these are doing well, so it stands to reason, there is a demand. You don't have to go to a sports bar, you can just walk on by. Ben Ilfeld 2012-01-17T18:50:15Z Ben Ilfeld comment-62347 2012-01-17T18:48:40Z 2012-01-17T18:48:40Z I'm not sure. How many do we have? And how well/poorly are they doing? Ben Ilfeld 2012-01-17T18:48:40Z Ben Ilfeld comment-62240 2012-01-13T14:58:15Z 2012-01-13T14:58:15Z absolutely beautiful photos Ben Ilfeld 2012-01-13T14:58:15Z Ben Ilfeld comment-62166 2012-01-12T01:15:54Z 2012-01-12T01:15:54Z I wasn't sure myself, but I asked yesterday and was told dinner is all-you-can-eat. Ben Ilfeld 2012-01-12T01:15:54Z Ben Ilfeld comment-62098 2012-01-11T00:13:27Z 2012-01-11T00:13:27Z Thanks for writing. Many of us live and/or work in the central city and see the same thing. I feel like I'm taking crazy pills sometimes because 99% of my experiences here are positive. Most people I meet here want to make this a better place to live and work. Most business owners I know share that same love for our community. Ben Ilfeld 2012-01-11T00:13:27Z Ben Ilfeld comment-62096 2012-01-11T00:04:13Z 2012-01-11T00:04:13Z Why are her comments so discouraging. I feel like we read completely different interviews. The answer to the very first question mentions things many long time residents like me have been looking for. She was almost spot on (missing streetlights...). She also made prominent mention of historic buildings (yes, houses are buildings) and the importance of our tree canopy. She also specifically mentioned a trip to NAG and wanting to have open communication with neighborhood groups and neighbors. I read nothing in what she said that implied she wanted to increase the number of alcohol focused nightlife. Ben Ilfeld 2012-01-11T00:04:13Z Ben Ilfeld comment-62087 2012-01-10T23:10:23Z 2012-01-10T23:10:23Z Just to be clear about the pricing - I called Great Wall on Howe. They charge $9.69 for dinner and $7.69 for lunch. So by my calculation, that would make Mongo Mongo $0.26 more for lunch and $1.26 more for dinner. And for another lunch comparison I looked up what a sando would cost at The Bread Store - I love eating there - on the low side $6.25 for a veggie and on the high side $7.75 for the el cubano. They have been in business for a while and don't seem to be going anywhere. Oh, and same for Cafe Bernardo's where you would be hard pressed to pay less than $7 for food at lunch. Then I thought about late night food. Petra is pretty reasonable and open late. The sandos are about $7 and most plates are $12. At Ink you will pay at least $10 for almost anything. I'm honestly not sure where all the hate is coming from. In earlier stories on the topic people, including me, we're really excited to have Mongolian BBQ downtown. The prices are in line with similar businesses all over the country. Correction: I wrote earlier, "especially one that offers true vegetarian bowls," and after visiting today this is not true as there is only one griddle, not two. Ben Ilfeld 2012-01-10T23:10:23Z Ben Ilfeld comment-62085 2012-01-10T19:15:24Z 2012-01-10T19:15:24Z I'm not sure, but $10.95 would be for all-you-can-eat Mongolian BBQ at dinner, no? If so, that is industry standard pricing. If you can find a better deal, I'm game. I am both biased and a regular customer of Mongolian BBQ all over. This pricing is completely ordinary IMO. Ben Ilfeld 2012-01-10T19:15:24Z Ben Ilfeld comment-61797 2011-12-31T22:22:09Z 2011-12-31T22:22:09Z Brandon's beat is in the central city. Given our limited resources we focus our in-house coverage geographically. This article is a round-up of other articles he had written over the past few months. I am happy that the conversation here has added more hotly anticipated businesses for 2012. As always, we will need everyone's help in doing the entire region justice. Ben Ilfeld 2011-12-31T22:22:09Z Ben Ilfeld comment-61789 2011-12-31T02:21:19Z 2011-12-31T02:21:19Z Not sure who that was aimed at, but I bet Isaac, William or I are fully clothed. I, for one, am writing this while working late and helping to moderate the site - at my desk - at the office. Ben Ilfeld 2011-12-31T02:21:19Z Ben Ilfeld comment-61785 2011-12-30T23:08:57Z 2011-12-30T23:08:57Z I'm down for all of those. Ben Ilfeld 2011-12-30T23:08:57Z Ben Ilfeld comment-61766 2011-12-29T23:46:45Z 2011-12-29T23:46:45Z Thank you for writing about this. Ben Ilfeld 2011-12-29T23:46:45Z Ben Ilfeld comment-61765 2011-12-29T23:40:20Z 2011-12-29T23:40:20Z Huge contribution - thanks Rachael - nobody knows how to hit the town like you! Ben Ilfeld 2011-12-29T23:40:20Z Ben Ilfeld comment-61761 2011-12-29T18:58:51Z 2011-12-29T18:58:51Z Yeah, the sale of the distributorship and trucking business were huge. There is so little wiggle room for the either side financially. Ben Ilfeld 2011-12-29T18:58:51Z Ben Ilfeld comment-61688 2011-12-27T21:00:57Z 2011-12-27T21:00:57Z That is an unbelievable, amazing story. Thanks Ray! Ben Ilfeld 2011-12-27T21:00:57Z Ben Ilfeld comment-61490 2011-12-20T05:12:26Z 2011-12-20T05:12:26Z The Sprint center is an arena suited for either basketball or hockey. There are no pro basketball or hokey teams that play there. However, Kansas City is home to 2 major proffessional sports teams - Royals (MLB) and Chiefs (NFL). Neither team could play in an arena. If you are interested in KC, the wikipedia page for that is: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kansas_City,_Missouri Ben Ilfeld 2011-12-20T05:12:26Z Ben Ilfeld comment-61333 2011-12-14T20:02:52Z 2011-12-14T20:02:52Z Correction to the below comment: I see you were zing'ing Isaac, and while he is not a full time reporter with us, he does do plenty of very good reporting and personal attacks are distracting from the issue here. Joell83 - ZING or no Melissa is a full time professional beat reporter who has been covering this story and our city council. You may not like one headline, but questioning her credential as a reporter seems like a claim you might want to back up - this is her full time job after-all. Ben Ilfeld 2011-12-14T20:02:52Z Ben Ilfeld comment-61298 2011-12-13T22:36:38Z 2011-12-13T22:36:38Z Q and R were tied together and to a very specific plan to use public money to fund a privately owned arena. Ben Ilfeld 2011-12-13T22:36:38Z Ben Ilfeld comment-61254 2011-12-13T16:57:04Z 2011-12-13T16:57:04Z This might be the single biggest issue we've covered because the potential for disaster is very real. We've seen what can happen in other cities and we've brushed up against that same thing 25 years ago. The fact that I remember 1986 so well and I was only 5 years old ... Ben Ilfeld 2011-12-13T16:57:04Z Ben Ilfeld comment-61201 2011-12-10T00:56:14Z 2011-12-10T00:56:14Z The $67 mill debt you are referring to - is that the existing debt from Arco? If so, it is a debt that is serviced by the owners of the Kings and unless they default, not a liability for the city. As for the rest of the money, it would make sense to see what the AEG or other entertainment offer is and how much in leases the Maloofs will kick in. Until that happens there really is no clear math here. At least we have one bit of seemingly certain math. Ben Ilfeld 2011-12-10T00:56:14Z Ben Ilfeld comment-61200 2011-12-10T00:51:54Z 2011-12-10T00:51:54Z not neccesarily - that is why the city wants a downtown location so badly. The city is competing with other regional attractions for dollars. In addition, this arena would be able to support events the current arena cannot - particularly large regional religious gatherings that are extremely lucrative. Sure, some of this is about the Kings, and rightfully so. But there are other opportunities a new arena opens up in terms of concerts, NCAA games, religious shows and even conventions. Of course, this makes me sound like a shill for the proposal. I'm not. I just want to mention that there are benefits and costs. There is risk - and yes - potential reward. Ben Ilfeld 2011-12-10T00:51:54Z Ben Ilfeld comment-61165 2011-12-09T21:41:13Z 2011-12-09T21:41:13Z I would disagree with your speculation that this will make less money than it costs to build. Then again, I also disagree with ThinkBIG's verly optimistic view of how much money it would make. Between the city ownership of the arena with leases from an entertainment company and a pro sports team, increased tax revenue in downtown and increased tax revenue from higher property taxes on property adjacent to the building there are considerable potential upsides for the city that would not be available to a private sector investor in the building. That said, the size of those is debatable. In Kansas City, the arena ended up costing the city money, but decision to build it is still a popular one with voters there. And in that situation, the city's bet was on attracting a pro sports team that never materialized. In this case, that sports team is assured if the project moves forward. What I would like to see is a balance sheet for this project now and for the life of the arena and a detailed set of assumptions that went into building that balance sheet. Ben Ilfeld 2011-12-09T21:41:13Z Ben Ilfeld comment-61042 2011-12-09T20:42:33Z 2011-12-09T20:42:33Z Consider that investments in infrastructure projects like freeways, airports, energy and modern communications has been part of government policy for quite a long time. Those same investments often both benefit the public while creating opportunities for private industry. That is why they tend to get widespread support. Ben Ilfeld 2011-12-09T20:42:33Z Ben Ilfeld comment-61156 2011-12-09T20:41:19Z 2011-12-09T20:41:19Z Of course that ignores any potential value in the arena or the impact on downtown in regards to taxes, property values or quality of life. The bottom line, as always, is that there are trade-offs. I appreciate your analysis because for anyone interested in this issue - for or against - we must understand the tradeoff this presents. What will we give up in order to take a business risk as a community? Ben Ilfeld 2011-12-09T20:41:19Z Ben Ilfeld comment-61040 2011-12-07T20:30:43Z 2011-12-07T20:30:43Z Those sounds like excellent follow-up questions to the initial report of what the Council said. Ben Ilfeld 2011-12-07T20:30:43Z Ben Ilfeld comment-60919 2011-12-06T20:22:06Z 2011-12-06T20:22:06Z It would be nice to know the fiscal impact of the move. Ben Ilfeld 2011-12-06T20:22:06Z Ben Ilfeld comment-60700 2011-11-28T22:40:26Z 2011-11-28T22:40:26Z and how did you feel about Spin Burger? Ben Ilfeld 2011-11-28T22:40:26Z Ben Ilfeld comment-60594 2011-11-23T23:28:30Z 2011-11-23T23:28:30Z As you know, we offer free copy editing to all contributors. And as you also know, all-professional operations also have plenty of errors to uncover. I like the idea of opening up as much as possible. Ben Ilfeld 2011-11-23T23:28:30Z Ben Ilfeld comment-60505 2011-11-22T16:06:47Z 2011-11-22T16:06:47Z The easiest way is to read other reviews by the reviewer. Yelp can be seen as a social network as much as a directory or ratings site. Ben Ilfeld 2011-11-22T16:06:47Z Ben Ilfeld comment-59641 2011-11-03T23:05:48Z 2011-11-03T23:05:48Z I love this. Ben Ilfeld 2011-11-03T23:05:48Z Ben Ilfeld comment-59566 2011-11-03T07:15:13Z 2011-11-03T07:15:13Z as do I Ben Ilfeld 2011-11-03T07:15:13Z Ben Ilfeld comment-59511 2011-11-02T17:58:37Z 2011-11-02T17:58:37Z I like it, not joking. Now, lets get some streetlights. Ben Ilfeld 2011-11-02T17:58:37Z Ben Ilfeld comment-59504 2011-11-02T16:52:13Z 2011-11-02T16:52:13Z Maybe the new K st with cars can be a special zone for food trucks at lunch? Ben Ilfeld 2011-11-02T16:52:13Z Ben Ilfeld comment-59453 2011-11-02T02:42:51Z 2011-11-02T02:42:51Z Curious now that our editorial department's rep is being questioned - was a complaint filed and withdrawn or never filed at all? Ben Ilfeld 2011-11-02T02:42:51Z Ben Ilfeld comment-59452 2011-11-02T02:40:02Z 2011-11-02T02:40:02Z And as for a vote by the public, I'm conflicted both in terms of timing and the intentions of both sides. It seems like a part of a larger political fight between those who are polarized by the mayor. Ben Ilfeld 2011-11-02T02:40:02Z Ben Ilfeld comment-59451 2011-11-02T02:38:02Z 2011-11-02T02:38:02Z Fair enough. I agree it's more like nectarines and peaches! Ben Ilfeld 2011-11-02T02:38:02Z Ben Ilfeld comment-59427 2011-11-01T20:28:23Z 2011-11-01T20:28:23Z Frankly, that was over 5 years ago and quite a different situation. the assumption at that time was that the arena would be owned by the Maloofs. Apples and oranges really and misleading given there have been more recent polls. That said, it would be nice to have some pools that were not "push" polls from both sides. Ben Ilfeld 2011-11-01T20:28:23Z Ben Ilfeld comment-59382 2011-11-01T07:49:36Z 2011-11-01T07:49:36Z +1 Ben Ilfeld 2011-11-01T07:49:36Z Ben Ilfeld comment-59135 2011-10-25T18:01:54Z 2011-10-25T18:01:54Z This is awesome! We're gonna have to find some creative uses for this! Ben Ilfeld 2011-10-25T18:01:54Z Ben Ilfeld comment-59063 2011-10-24T04:27:03Z 2011-10-24T04:27:03Z Point taken. Sorry to hear about Aioli and Queen Sheeba. Pita Pit is a national brand that usually places near college campuses. It's curious that they went out of business there. http://www.pitapitusa.com/main.php?page=2 Ben Ilfeld 2011-10-24T04:27:03Z Ben Ilfeld comment-59028 2011-10-23T05:46:44Z 2011-10-23T05:46:44Z whew - for a second I thought I was the only one. And I do like hitting the hipster hideaways too. I was out at Townhouse last night and had a blast. I just think having a range is a good thing. I can always choose my haunts night by night. Ben Ilfeld 2011-10-23T05:46:44Z Ben Ilfeld comment-59019 2011-10-22T20:54:07Z 2011-10-22T20:54:07Z I'm curious which sac establishments have died in Davis? I'm pretty sure there are still lots of locally owned restaurants that operate in both sac and Davis like Aioli, Cafe Bernardo's, Crepeville, Burgers and Brew and Bistro 33. Ben Ilfeld 2011-10-22T20:54:07Z Ben Ilfeld comment-59018 2011-10-22T20:44:57Z 2011-10-22T20:44:57Z Instagram photography? Ben Ilfeld 2011-10-22T20:44:57Z Ben Ilfeld comment-59015 2011-10-22T18:13:12Z 2011-10-22T18:13:12Z Actually I think it's just the opposite. We do have lots of classy places and lots of dive bars, but we don't have a lot of midrange spots. That's one of the reasons the the few nice midrange options have been successful recently. As for bros, what's the deal? If I'm attending a neighborhood meeting, I'm a neighbor, if you see me at Kru, I'm a yuppie. If I'm watching a 49ers game at Barwest, you'll assume I'm a bro. Why all the hate? Ben Ilfeld 2011-10-22T18:13:12Z Ben Ilfeld comment-58943 2011-10-20T19:52:40Z 2011-10-20T19:52:40Z I'm in love Ben Ilfeld 2011-10-20T19:52:40Z Ben Ilfeld comment-58939 2011-10-20T18:20:36Z 2011-10-20T18:20:36Z Thanks for the insight. I'm not really appalled that someone who has worked his whole life on social justice causes would be involved in the OWS movement. It seems rather consistent and principled even if you don't agree with those principles. Ben Ilfeld 2011-10-20T18:20:36Z Ben Ilfeld comment-58896 2011-10-19T23:06:41Z 2011-10-19T23:06:41Z Thank you for your contribution. It is really amazing to read your first-hand and perspective on a national movement. I do have some questions about the arrest. I had thought that staying in one place and "occupying" was an act of civil disobedience. In this case did you see yourself in those terms? It sounds like you had not intended to perform such an act of civil disobedience and were surprised by the arrest. Were there any warnings or an opportunity to go home without being arrested? These are my questions out of pure curiosity. I simply don't know enough about your motives or the mindset of the local protesters and would love to hear more of your perspective on the events unfolding in our town. Ben Ilfeld 2011-10-19T23:06:41Z Ben Ilfeld comment-58880 2011-10-19T16:23:37Z 2011-10-19T16:23:37Z I always wondered who was behind that van. Ben Ilfeld 2011-10-19T16:23:37Z Ben Ilfeld comment-58839 2011-10-19T16:22:19Z 2011-10-19T16:22:19Z Sounds like a place I gotta visit. Ben Ilfeld 2011-10-19T16:22:19Z Ben Ilfeld comment-58591 2011-10-13T20:54:31Z 2011-10-13T20:54:31Z Brilliant - love it. Ben Ilfeld 2011-10-13T20:54:31Z Ben Ilfeld comment-58359 2011-10-07T23:38:36Z 2011-10-07T23:38:36Z That's a very good question. Ben Ilfeld 2011-10-07T23:38:36Z Ben Ilfeld comment-58342 2011-10-07T17:35:25Z 2011-10-07T17:35:25Z This may be outside the scope, but the question has to be asked: why, despite progressive tools like the income tax, is the gap widening between the ultra-rich and everyone else? There are some good books on the subject . . . Ben Ilfeld 2011-10-07T17:35:25Z Ben Ilfeld comment-58341 2011-10-07T17:32:40Z 2011-10-07T17:32:40Z To me, this is a scary act of aggression. I would not be so quick to pin it on "transients." This kind of thing was perpetrated by an individual or group and really could have happened anywhere. Seeing it in our community just makes me want to stop it immediately. Ben Ilfeld 2011-10-07T17:32:40Z Ben Ilfeld comment-58282 2011-10-06T14:41:22Z 2011-10-06T14:41:22Z When I first read Yuengling beer I immediately thought of Pennsylvania rather than the South. But I looked it up and try have a second brewery in Tampa. Looking forward to tasting some southern Yuengling … Ben Ilfeld 2011-10-06T14:41:22Z Ben Ilfeld comment-58139 2011-10-03T21:58:10Z 2011-10-03T21:58:10Z who knew? And now I want to crawl more stuff - like city committee crawl . . . Ben Ilfeld 2011-10-03T21:58:10Z Ben Ilfeld comment-58066 2011-09-30T13:52:12Z 2011-09-30T13:52:12Z What's so wrong with city leaders deciding what they want in "city-owned facilities" again? They aren't mandating what anyone else has to do, only what they want to do. Ben Ilfeld 2011-09-30T13:52:12Z Ben Ilfeld comment-58020 2011-09-28T17:23:03Z 2011-09-28T17:23:03Z That is amazing event! I wish I were in town :( Ben Ilfeld 2011-09-28T17:23:03Z Ben Ilfeld comment-57926 2011-09-27T16:59:55Z 2011-09-27T16:59:55Z Oh, and just so you know why we haven't done a full study of the claim, it's pretty simple: we have two beat reporters and 0 investigative staff. We do our best to keep people informed with limited funds. That said, it gives me an idea - I might just have a solution for you to help fund this kind of investigative journalism in our back yard. Ben Ilfeld 2011-09-27T16:59:55Z Ben Ilfeld comment-57925 2011-09-27T16:57:38Z 2011-09-27T16:57:38Z I'm shocked that CADA is such a hot potato. Ben Ilfeld 2011-09-27T16:57:38Z Ben Ilfeld comment-57763 2011-09-23T21:10:47Z 2011-09-23T21:10:47Z I love the twitter feed. I know there are twitter feed / location mashups you might be able to plug in to auto-populate that map. The next step would be to represent how old a post is on the map with colors and then have it disappear in 30 minutes since the truck has to move by then. A little project like this could be HUGE! Go for it. Ben Ilfeld 2011-09-23T21:10:47Z Ben Ilfeld comment-57699 2011-09-23T02:46:04Z 2011-09-23T02:46:04Z Can't wait to use it! Ben Ilfeld 2011-09-23T02:46:04Z Ben Ilfeld comment-57695 2011-09-23T00:48:44Z 2011-09-23T00:48:44Z This IS getting awkward Ben Ilfeld 2011-09-23T00:48:44Z Ben Ilfeld comment-57579 2011-09-21T22:30:00Z 2011-09-21T22:30:00Z “I think of malls as a family-oriented place,” Sheedy said. “I don’t think a cardroom fits there.” OK, fair enough. Do you think of Downtown Plaza and K street as family friendly? Even more important: is a mall like that the goal? It seems clear this is not the goal. And further up the street there are two highly subsidized businesses that are certainly not family friendly as you need to be 21 to enter. The proposed development for the 700 block will likely be "entertainment" oriented as well. Ben Ilfeld 2011-09-21T22:30:00Z Ben Ilfeld comment-57574 2011-09-21T19:42:24Z 2011-09-21T19:42:24Z I'm already a big fan. I wonder if all these could be delivered through an API as well? Ben Ilfeld 2011-09-21T19:42:24Z Ben Ilfeld comment-57403 2011-09-16T21:55:01Z 2011-09-16T21:55:01Z I'm inspired. Sending to my friends right now. Ben Ilfeld 2011-09-16T21:55:01Z Ben Ilfeld comment-57400 2011-09-16T21:45:44Z 2011-09-16T21:45:44Z It's not about lingering as much as it is about 1, foot traffic on well lit streets and 2, making the area friendly for residential development. Also, while people may not linger, they might get their dry cleaning done, get something packed and shipped or get a quick haircut. I live near the Safeway at 19th and S and love it or hate it the thing creates lots of opportunities for small businesses who fill the surrounding spaces and the area immediately surrounding feels much safer than even 2 blocks away in any direction. Ben Ilfeld 2011-09-16T21:45:44Z Ben Ilfeld comment-57377 2011-09-16T21:40:52Z 2011-09-16T21:40:52Z What might make the most sense, but could never be achieved in the needed time frame, would be to lure a major east coast university with a huge endowment to open up a new west coast campus complete with division 1 sports program that could utilize not only that facility, but a stadium as well. On the ESC front it would be great, but . . . More importantly it gives businesses good reason to move their facilities close to a research campus. The money invested in research by universities and the federal government is a big draw to high tech, bio tech and green tech fields. What businesses we do get to come from oversees are mostly doing so to be near those resources or to be able to lobby at the state capitol. Ben Ilfeld 2011-09-16T21:40:52Z Ben Ilfeld comment-57288 2011-09-15T17:37:06Z 2011-09-15T17:37:06Z Oh, and I'm with you about the job numbers. On that point, it is very hard to calculate the economic impact of government programs of all kinds. Some have amazing multiplier effects we can't see for many years - like a highway system. Others are clearly overstated from the start. I just disregard any talk like that unless the government is talking about hiring themselves and expanding the public sector, which is another topic altogether. Ben Ilfeld 2011-09-15T17:37:06Z Ben Ilfeld comment-57287 2011-09-15T17:29:49Z 2011-09-15T17:29:49Z To clarify, our corporate name, Macer Media is how we are listed. We operate The Sacramento Press, The Sacramento Local Online Ad Network (SLOAN), Deal Ticket, and an in-house digital media agency called Agency M. So we tend to use the Macer Media name as an umbrella when working with regional groups. http://www.macermedia.com for some more information. Ben Ilfeld 2011-09-15T17:29:49Z Ben Ilfeld comment-57244 2011-09-15T01:46:48Z 2011-09-15T01:46:48Z These people do- http://www.sacto.org/ This is an organization The Sacramento Press is a part of and they, like many other Economic Development Commissions (EDC) around the country, do fight tooth and nail for business. That is not to say that the government of the city does the same, but then again that is not the mandate of city government. Still as a city - not just as a city government - many of us do work toward these ends, particularly our EDC. Now SACTO represents the entire region, but then again, the arena is a regional question as well. The health of our economies are intertwined across our region. I understand why you would feel the ESC would be low on the priority, but there is urgency to addressing this issues - or at least exploring it - given that it takes so much effort to bring major pro sports team to a city and we already have one. Ben Ilfeld 2011-09-15T01:46:48Z Ben Ilfeld comment-57239 2011-09-15T00:39:52Z 2011-09-15T00:39:52Z I've actually never been in an airport with a tram system between ticketing and security. I was also wondering if there are any possibilities to connect the two terminals without leaving security in the future. I know Sac is not a hub today, but you never know. Ben Ilfeld 2011-09-15T00:39:52Z Ben Ilfeld comment-57238 2011-09-15T00:27:08Z 2011-09-15T00:27:08Z I'm not crazy about "job creation" numbers. The real lost opportunity is that Sacramento like other cities fight tooth and nail for companies to move facilities here that do bring lots of jobs. Those decisions are based on all sorts of factors, but the entertainment prospects and stature of the city are actually big components. The way I see it this is a risk, just one we should thoroughly evaluate. It does make a difference if we have a center downtown that can facilitate pro sports, conventions and large concerts. The funny thing is that poll after poll shows that the people of Sacramento feel this way too. The question then is one of limiting taxpayer liability and trading assets that don't have as much impact as a downtown ESC in partnership with others willing to commit long-term leases. Together the value to the city might be greater than what the city has to give up. Ben Ilfeld 2011-09-15T00:27:08Z Ben Ilfeld comment-57177 2011-09-14T00:07:49Z 2011-09-14T00:07:49Z I guess the question is why not bring in the best artwork possible? I'm glad that there is local representation and I'm glad that those artists met a high bar in this case. We're talking about millions of dollars of public art and I think it's reasonable to expect the best. Bravo to all the artists - and especially the local artists - who completed these works! I can't wait to see them. Ben Ilfeld 2011-09-14T00:07:49Z Ben Ilfeld comment-57143 2011-09-13T16:59:35Z 2011-09-13T16:59:35Z I'm stunned as well. Public art can be very powerful especially when making a first impression. This looks amazing and I can't wait to see it all in person. Ben Ilfeld 2011-09-13T16:59:35Z Ben Ilfeld comment-57095 2011-09-13T01:03:34Z 2011-09-13T01:03:34Z This is always an inspiring event. Really fun! Ben Ilfeld 2011-09-13T01:03:34Z Ben Ilfeld comment-56951 2011-09-09T16:17:59Z 2011-09-09T16:17:59Z If you can provide it, or know someone who can, that would be very useful. Professional journalists are not professional financiers and some context or corrections are always welcome from well informed sources. Ben Ilfeld 2011-09-09T16:17:59Z Ben Ilfeld comment-56836 2011-09-08T00:07:49Z 2011-09-08T00:07:49Z While I'm on a roll, it wouldn't be the same without your 82 comments. 36,769 comments so far BTW. Ben Ilfeld 2011-09-08T00:07:49Z Ben Ilfeld comment-56833 2011-09-07T23:05:38Z 2011-09-07T23:05:38Z It's funny, but I kinda agree. Hear me out fellow Midtowners! 1. Not all of us have to frequent every restaurant or bar in the area. If there is a bar that attracts a crowd you don't like at your favorite place? Fantastic, fewer of the people you don't like will be invading your favorite place. We have a choice and I say a diverse scene is good for all of us. 2. What is so terrible or frightening about midrange food and drinks. Around here there are tons of amazing and inexpensive eats and drinks. We have fabulous dive bars that may not get media attention, but don't need it. They are stacked with loyal customers from right down the street and they aren't going anywhere. On the other hand, there are lots of very posh spots to try fancy cocktails or eat amazing food. One thing we actually lack is a clean place where you can meet a bunch of people around a table, eat some food and have some drinks. We need a couple places that are simply "inoffensive" to the general population. 3. Bar West is new new new. I'm waiting to see what develops but I really believe in the management. I hope everything about the place improves over time. That includes food, service and limiting negative impacts on the neighborhood. This is a tough economy in which to learn on the fly, but these are restaurant industry vets who have the chops to do just that. I'm not even about to judge a little until this place has a track record. Ben Ilfeld 2011-09-07T23:05:38Z Ben Ilfeld comment-56831 2011-09-07T22:55:59Z 2011-09-07T22:55:59Z I also have not heard a thing about Red Lotus closing. That would be sad. Ben Ilfeld 2011-09-07T22:55:59Z Ben Ilfeld comment-56827 2011-09-07T21:56:33Z 2011-09-07T21:56:33Z Honestly, maybe we missed something in this telling of the story, but I think there was more behind the move. Just sayin' Ben Ilfeld 2011-09-07T21:56:33Z Ben Ilfeld comment-56532 2011-09-02T19:17:38Z 2011-09-02T19:17:38Z I would think CADA could advise on something like this. They seem to have done a good job over the last few decades finding the right projects at the right time. Ben Ilfeld 2011-09-02T19:17:38Z Ben Ilfeld comment-56530 2011-09-02T18:46:59Z 2011-09-02T18:46:59Z Whoa! This is the 10,000th article on The Sacramento Press (excluding everything that we had to take down for some reason). Yay! Congrats Ed. Ben Ilfeld 2011-09-02T18:46:59Z Ben Ilfeld comment-56472 2011-09-01T23:38:53Z 2011-09-01T23:38:53Z yes please! Ben Ilfeld 2011-09-01T23:38:53Z Ben Ilfeld comment-56409 2011-09-01T02:44:52Z 2011-09-01T02:44:52Z I would have said something very similar about the corner of 14th and R a couple years ago. Ben Ilfeld 2011-09-01T02:44:52Z Ben Ilfeld comment-56387 2011-08-31T21:42:20Z 2011-08-31T21:42:20Z I honestly challenge you to find a more complete system of RSS feeds on any news site. They are not prominent in our design because so few people use RSS feeds and those who do often use other means to subscribe than the organic logo button on a page. Compounding the problem people place these buttons all over their sites. I have to hunt for them all the time. We do what we can to have a clean design up front for 99% of our users. We have very deep capabilities that you can access as a power user like the "storyline" tab, tagging systems, a very robust search capability and RSS feeds galore. We are even working on an API for developers. Ben Ilfeld 2011-08-31T21:42:20Z Ben Ilfeld comment-56214 2011-08-29T23:57:36Z 2011-08-29T23:57:36Z Awesome as always. I'm interested in that last one. The new windows make a huge difference. Ben Ilfeld 2011-08-29T23:57:36Z Ben Ilfeld comment-56208 2011-08-29T23:07:57Z 2011-08-29T23:07:57Z Geoff and I both grew up in Carmichael. I like the place. Ben Ilfeld 2011-08-29T23:07:57Z