In a cozy room tucked inside one of Cincinnati's best-known public arenas, the organization's leaders beamed as they made a stunning announcement of their newest acquisition. After some introductory remarks about the impact of this rising star on their tradition-laden troupe, up to the podium stepped a good-looking man in his 30s who promised to return the organization to its deserved place of national glory.
He'd learned his amazing skills at the foot of his father, who'd made a considerable name for himself in the same profession. But the son was destined to outshine his father, and Cincinnati was the place he'd decided to call home and make his name.
The Cincinnati Reds' Feb. 10 press conference with Ken Griffey Jr.? Sure, but it was also the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra's Jan. 24 press conference with its new music director, Paavo Jarvi.
Similarities abound. Each organization is one of the country's oldest in their respective fields, and they're the Tristate's largest in sports (Reds) and the arts (CSO). Junior's and Jarvi's announcements were front-page news in the city's dailies.
But that's about the end of the comparisons. Junior's press conference from the Reds offices at Cinergy Field was carried live on all four local TV stations. City and county politicians, including Mayor Charlie Luken, crowded behind the podium. Junior pulled on the Reds uniform jersey, and the crowd broke into cheers.
Over the Music Hall's Corbett Tower, meanwhile, a sizable crowd also turned out. There were TV cameras, but no live cut-ins. Luken wasn't there. Jarvi didn't pull on a tuxedo or break out his baton.
Click here for a tale of the tape from Cincinnati's big announcements
