CINCINNATI - In 1999, plans were unveiled for a 51-acre riverfront park running along the water under the Roebling Suspension Bridge.  Work was scheduled to begin in 2003 and to complete in 2005 or 2006.  

Back then, locals who knew better urged each other "not to hold your breath."  Unfortunately, downtown resident Tom Hollis did not heed that advice.  Hollis passed away last week after holding his breath for more than six years.

"Tom was so excited about the park," said neighbor Jim Thorpe.  "At some point in 2000, he started holding his breath.  He figured he could hold out until 2006.  I'm surprised he made it as long as he did."

The city recently unveiled the latest plans for the park along with a schedule that called for groundbreaking as early as August 2007 and completion in 2010.  The announcement came amidst inexplicable excitement.

Thorpe has taken a more realistic approach.  "With any luck, my great-granchildren will be able to play on the river in that park."