Ohio is a swing state, but there is very little in our state government that reflects that right now. Republicans dominate the General Assembly. Republicans dominate the governorship and other executive positions. The Ohio Supreme Court is no different. It is currently dominated by Republican justices in a striking 6-1 margin.   

One of the most striking developments in the past two years is the rising extremism of the Republican party. From privatization to social issues to Senate Bill 5, Republicans have taken Ohio in a hard turn to the right. Here at CityBeat, we’ll take the alternative. We support the Democratic takeover of the Ohio General Assembly.   

Judges play an understated role in the U.S. While legislators write and pass the laws and mayors, governors and presidents enforce the laws, judges interpret the laws. In a sense, this can be just as important as writing the law. Sentencing in particular can decide the weight of a law.   

When CityBeat set out to research this year’s slate of candidates and issues, we did so aware of the guiding principles behind our weekly news coverage. We are proud to openly advocate for reform that produces equal rights, equal opportunity, environmental protection and sustainable development.    

We at CityBeat take election endorsements seriously, and you should too! Our writers spent considerable time researching 2012’s candidates and issues and what each means to the future of Cincinnati and America. (We also figured out what the Hamilton County coroner does besides chopping up bodies...) This is the first half of our endorsements — the entire collection will be available in our Election Issue Oct. 31. Read ’em and weep, voter suppressionists!  

Fancy an undead masquerade? How about a pumpkin patch tour with the kids? A zombie-infested 5K? From tame to terrifying, we've assembled plenty of Halloween happenings.
  

As the name implies, FOTOFOCUS was created with the intention to focus Cincinnati's attention on photography as an expansive, growing and dynamic form of artwork. It's developed into something great  

FOTOFOCUS might be taking over many local arts venues this fall, but local theaters, galleries, dance companies and others have another full slate of thoughtful entertainment in store.
  

Cincinnati's 2012 Pride celebration is already underway.  This calendar will help you get caught up with all the festivities scheduled for this coming weekend.
  

We heard you were looking for suggestions for things to do every day through Labor Day. No problem!