Cincinnati never has been more racially diverse, with Asian and Hispanic populations booming. But the gap between black and white Cincinnatians seems to be at its widest since the volatile '60s.

Riots, boycotts, demonstrations - it's been a tough couple of years for anyone who cares about this city.

The conflict has left a badly battered downtown. Already facing an economic downturn, the April 2001 riots kept tourists - black and white - from coming to the city. It's the main reason that producer Joe Santangelo canceled the 2002 stadium soul festival. Older ticket buyers, he says, didn't want to risk coming to Cincinnati.

Meanwhile, the recent dangers - real or perceived - linked to a trip downtown are forcing people to rethink their nightlife options.

Add to that the on-again, off-again entertainment boycott. The movement was at its strongest in March, but boycott organizer Amanda Mayes promises to keep up the heat in 2003.

Many high-profile national events are planned for this year.

It's the city's chance to offset years of bad press. We can only hope it does.