I'm the first to beat up on the local 'mainstream' media (both print and broadcast) for failing to ask the tough questions on business and economic development issues locally. The term "Chamber Cheerleaders" is a popular phrase used to describe their usual softball approach. After all, there's no need to be ticking off your advertising base, right?
That's why I have to give a thumbs up to CBS 6's Jack Aernecke for his surprise questioning of Mr Silver, Mr Kaloyeros and Mr Spitzer at today's news conference designed to advise everyone that the SEMATECH funding is making good progress in its rush thru the legislature. Jack's question asked the trio to justify a $300 million public investment for "just 500 jobs."
Although he needn't feel like he has to cover his butt by prefacing it with a "many people think this / so I have to ask it" type of intro, he's right in asking it. Maybe there's hope yet for an open source community around here that is willing to have an honest and healthy discussion with itself.
Some observers might think that Jack is pulling an Imus by daring to say what's on his (and others') mind. But heck, Jack is retiring -- he can say whatever he wants and doesn't need to worry about this nonsense anymore!
Also in the 'local media' department:
Why is everyone claiming that the company tours this year are a first for the Summit in Tech Valley? In fact, this was done at 2003's edition.
How do I know? Because I distinctly recall that as being my first visit to the UAlbany-East campus and getting a great tour of the Center for Functional Genomics from Dr Paulette McCormick and Gene Schuler; that's how!
Health living = healthy memory!
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