Want Dinner With John McCain In Cincinnati? $50,000 Gets You A Seat At The Table

CINCINNATI (TDB) -- The Republican presidential candidate's June 26 fundraiser is co-chaired by former Cincinnati Reds owner Carl Lindner, one of Ohio's richest citizens. A ticket for the dinner goes for $50,000 per couple according to the invitation available on McCain's campaign Web site. A prominent Ohio lobbyist is on the host committee. Although McCain has tried to distance himself from the influence of lobbyists, a Lindner lobbyist with Republican ties is helping with the event. Just so the details don't get lost as time passes, here's what the McCain site shows:

"John McCain returns to Ohio for a finance reception and dinner in Cincinnati on Thursday, June 26, 2008.

"Dinner begins at 5:30 p.m.; a photo opportunity begins at 6:00 p.m.; and the main reception begins at 6:30 p.m. Tickets for the dinner are available to individuals or couples who raise or contribute $50,000; Individuals or couples who raise or contribute $10,000 are invited to the photo opportunity and VIP reception. Tickets to the main reception are $2,300 per person. Business attire is requested."

There's another link available at the moment that shows the names of the host committee. The hosts include Bob Castellini, who owns the Reds, and Bill DeWitt, who owns the St. Louis Cardinals. Cincinnati Bell CEO Jack Cassidy is on the list, as is Charles H. Gearhardt III, the lobbyist:

"Cynthia & Edmund Adams, Bettye & Tom Arington, Eileen & John Barrett, Ruth Ann & Robert T. Bennett, Mary & Ron Beshear, Jack Cassidy, Susie & Bob Castellini, Jared Davis, Leslee & Lon Deckard, Kelle & Kevin DeWine, Kathy & Bill DeWitt, Nancy & Steve Donovan, Jim Evans, Joyce & Dick Farmer, Charles H. Gerhardt III, Margie & Mark Hauser, Louise & Joe Head, Sandy & Bob Heimann, Kevin Kabat"