REDFERN RESPONDS: I just noticed that Ohio House Democratic Leader Chris Redfern posted a comment two days ago on my last Third Frontier entry. Here's his comment in its entirety:

Now, now. Let's get that brain stem functioning again... Here's the position I and my colleagues hold on this whole Third Frontier Issue.

We believe that this issue is poorly constructed and gives Ohioans living outside of the 3 C's little reason to vote for it. That being presumed, how on earth does the Governor think he gets this thing passed. All the warm fuzzy feelings one may get about the implementation of this issue don't matter if it doesn't pass in November.

Here's what we suggested and will continue to push: Decouple the Third Frontier from the roads and bridges money and let the two issues stand on their own merits. Barring that, than the Third Frontier Board and the advisory board membership must be changed to reflect the diversity (geographically) of this state. Additionally, all projects funded with public dollars that include construction workers and skilled labor must be paid the prevailing wage. The Third Frontier Issue must not be affected in such a way by the legislature that would hinder the ability of scientists and innovators (ie stem cell research bans), minority Ohioans must have the opportunity to compete fairly for Third Frontier monies. And finally, the campaign itself must not be run by politicians looking to line their own pockets through campaign contributions and hefty contracts.

If Bob Taft wants Democratic votes, he should agree with our concerns.

It's pretty simple, even for someone who needs a functioning brain stem.

Chris Redfern
House Democratic Leader

I appreciate Rep. Redfern's taking the time to respond and his good humor about the "brain stem" theme. I understand his concerns about the GOP 3F proposal (stem cell, prevailing wage, minority access, not mucking up the highway bond question, even geography) as far as they go.

But I'm sorry he didn't speak to the actual issue that was raised here: If we think the Taft/Trakas Third Frontier is a dubious proposition, where are the serious, creative Democratic proposals to promote new business growth, better jobs and equitable participation in Ohio's new economy -- or the old economy, for that matter? Are casinos and Wal-Marts the best we can come up with?

Rep. Redfern (and other Statehouse Democrats), can we talk about this, here at Cleveland Diary or anywhere else you want? It may not be simple, but I don't think it's too much for any of our brain stems to handle.