PAGEHEADER
10 The Boone County publication is published by the Specialty Publications Department of The Community Press/ The Community Recorder. Questions and comments can be sent to Editor Melissa Hayden c/o The Community Press/Recorder 394 Wards Corner Road Loveland, OH 45140 e-mail mhayden@community press.com Or call 513-248-7121. For advertising call 578-5501.
GOVERNMENT&SERVICES
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Welcome letter Judge Executive introduces magazine. County Administration A listing of county departments. County services A listing of county services.
EDUCATIONSCHOOLS
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Public & private schools Listing and contact information of local schools. Community education classes Promoting life long learning, fun.
AROUNDTOWN
10 On the cover, The Kentucky Lily, part of the Boone Barn Quilt Trail graces a Belleview barn owned by Paula and B.J. Vaske. Photo taken by Sarah Fangmann, staff.
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BOONECOUNTY
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Boone Barn Quilt Tour Photo essay. Boone communities A listing of communities within the county. Rabbit Hash offers good ole fun Find out what the charming river town has to offer.
Golfing opportunities abound Learn about Boone Links and Lassing Pointe golf courses.
LOCALPEOPLE
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Boone County – a business-friendly community for job growth What is the secret to the county’s job growth. Life-long resident shares thoughts on county Q&A with Arlene Jones. Business association lends helping hand Learn about wonderful opportunities through this local organization Working out her mission Curves owner Pat Welti, 72, is working hard to make the community more healthy. Visual arts association Offers support for local artists
HAPPENINGSEVENTS
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Events calendar
GOVERNMENT&SERVICES
WELCOME L E T T E R
B
oone County is a rapidly growing and economically vibrant community in the heart of America. Residents enjoy a diverse and rewarding environment with all the amenities of a metropolitan area but with the charm and hospitality of a small town. Boone County boasts a median household income of $66,178 which is one of the highest in the state of Kentucky and ranks in the top 10 percent in the nation among all counties. We are home to over 56,764 jobs and more than 899 companies, including 97 internationally based companies. With over 40 miles of Ohio River shoreline and home to the Cincinnati Northern Kentucky International Airport, Boone County offers great neighborhoods, schools, and shopping. Our quality of life ranks highly with 1,901 acres of park land as well as the distinction of having the 2009 Outstanding Parks Department for the state of Kentucky. We also place an emphasis on creating a healthy community
which resulted in the recognition as Kentucky’s healthiest county. Our median home price of $175,400 and low tax environment make Boone County a convenient and cost effective choice for relocation. On behalf of the more than 118,000 residents of Boone County, I welcome you to this special publication highlighting our community. You will find Boone County to be a great place to live, work or visit! If you have chosen Boone County as your home, welcome! If you are considering Boone County, I invite you to explore this publication and if we can assist you please contact us! Sincerely,
Boone County Judge Executive Gary Moore.
Gary W. Moore Boone County Judge/Executive
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GOVERNMENT&SERVICES
COUNTY A D M I N I S T R A T I O N COUNTY ADMINISTRATION
Boone County is one of the fastest growing counties in Northern Kentucky. Currently the county is comprised of three cities, Florence, Union and Walton, and has a population of about 115,000. Each of the three cities has its own city government. Florence is governed by a mayor and six council members. Walton is comprised of six council members and a mayor and Union is comprised of four city commissioners and a mayor. The entire county is served by Fiscal Court. The court is comprised of three commissioners and a county judge executive.
OFFICIALS
Sheriff Michael Helmig P.O. Box 198|Burlington 41005 Phone: 334-2175 Fax: 334-2234 mhelmig@boonecountyky.org Jailer Ed Prindle P.O. Box 884 | Burlington 41005 Phone: 334-2143 Fax: 334-2296 eprindle@boonecountyky.org Property Valuation Administrator Cindy Rich P.O. Box 388 | Burlington 41005 Phone: 334-2181 Fax: 334-2126 cindy.rich@boonecountyky.org Circuit Court Judge Judge Anthony W. Frohlich 6025 Rogers Lane Suite 444 Burlington 41005 Phone: 334-3270 Fax: 334-3271
Judge/Executive Gary W. Moore P.O. Box 900|Burlington 41005 Phone: 334-2242 Fax: 334-3105 judgemoore@boonecountyky.org
Circuit Court Judge Judge J.R. Schrand 6025 Rogers Lane Suite 447 Burlington 41005 Phone: 334-3551 Fax: 334-3570
Commissioner – District 1 Cathy H. Flaig P.O. Box 900|Burlington 41005 Phone: 689-4255 Fax: 689-2999 chflaig@fuse.net
Family Court Judge Judge Linda Bramlage 6025 Rogers Lane Suite 352 Burlington 41005 Phone: 334-3520 Fax: 334-3521
Commissioner – District 2 Charles E. Kenner P.O. Box 900|Burlington 41005 Phone: 384-3838 Fax: 371-4959 kimble54@hotmail.com
District Court Judge Judge Charles T. Moore 6025 Rogers Lane Suite 276 Burlington 41005 Phone: 334-2230 Fax: 334-3969 sandy@mail.aoc.state.ky.us
Commissioner – District 3 Terri Moore P.O. Box 900|Burlington 41005 Phone: 283-9338 Fax: 283-0743 terrimoore@fuse.net County Attorney Robert D. Neace P.O. Box 83|Burlington 41005 Phone: 334-3200 Fax: 334-3212 rdneace@boonecountyky.org County Clerk Rena Ping P.O. Box 874|Burlington 41005 Phone: 334-2108 Fax: 334-2193 rping@boonecountyky.org
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BOONECOUNTY
District Court Judge Judge Michael P. Collins 6025 Rogers Lane Suite 276 Burlington 41005 Phone: 334-2230 Fax: 334-3969 sandy@mail.aoc.state.ky.us Commonwealth Attorney Linda Tally Smith P.O. Box 168|Burlington 41005 Phone: 586-1723 Fax: 586-1743 District/Circuit Court Clerk Dianne Murray P.O. Box 480|Burlington 41005 Phone: 334-3906 Fax: 334-3650
Magistrate – District 1 Justin Crigler 2099 Canyon Court, Hebron 41048
Building inspections 5950 Washington St., Burlington Phone: 334-2218|Fax: 334-3137
Magistrate – District 2 Mike Moreland 1453 Dublin Place, Union 41091 Phone: 485-1915 or 816-1314 Fax: 485-1915
Emergency Management 3000 Conrad Lane, Burlington Phone: 334-2279|Fax: 334-3601
Magistrate – District 3 James McGruder 11068 Paddock Drive, Union 41091 Constable – District 1 David C. Flaig 4058 Limaburg Road, Hebron 41048 Phone: 586-4148 Constable – District 2 Jim Dixon 6831 Glen Arbor Drive, Florence 41042 Constable – District 3 Dan Houston 567 Rosebud Circle, Walton Phone: 525-1119
Finance 2950 Washington St., Burlington Administration Building Room second floor, Room 205 Phone: 334-2145|Fax 334-3106 Hours: 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. Human Resources 2950 Washington St., Burlington Boone County Administrative Building, Room 201 Phone: 334-2238|Fax: 334-3146 Human Services 2970 Union Square, P.O. Box 296, Burlington Phone: 334-2116|Fax: 334-3648 Hours: 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday.
Coroner Doug Stith 7500 U.S. 42, Florence 41042 Phone: 525-1150 dmstith@fuse.net
Information Systems 2950 Washington St., Burlington Boone County Administrative Building Room 204 Fax: 334-2113
County Surveyor Greg Larison, PLS 10629 Cheshire Ridge Drive Florence 41042 Phone: 371-1712 gregl@vioxinc.com
Parks and Recreation P.O. Box 566, Burlington Phone: 334-2117|Fax: 334-2127 Hours: 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday.
DEPARTMENTS
Animal Shelter 5643 Idlewild Road, Burlington Phone: 586-5285|Fax 586-9312 Hours: 10 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. Monday and Thursday; 10 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. Tuesday and Friday; and 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Closed Saturday, Sunday and holidays. Kennels opens at noon each day and close one-half hour before office closings. Assisted Housing 2950 Washington St., Burlington Boone County Administrative Building, third floor Phone: 334-2105|Fax: 334-3127
Property Maintenance 2950 Washington St., Burlington Phone: 334-2123|Fax: 334-3145 Hours: 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday. Public Works 5645 Idlewild Road, Burlington Phone: 334-3600|Fax 334-3598 Solid Waste Management Mary Frances Dickey, coordinator 5645 Idlewild Road, Burlington Phone: 334-3151 Water Rescue Capt. Dale Appel P.O. Box 900, Burlington Phone: 334-4800|Fax: 334-4805
GOVERNMENT&SERVICES
COUNTY S E R V I C E S VOTER REGISTRATION
Owen Electric Cooperative Boone County Office, 8100 Ewing Blvd., Florence 41042 Phone 283-5800
New residents should register to vote 30 days prior to an election at the Boone County Clerk’s Office, 2950 Washington St. Administration Building, First floor, Burlington 41005. Identification is required to register; driver’s license or picture I.D. Voter registration can be done at either the Boone County Administration Building, or Florence Government Center, Lower Level, Boone County Clerk Branch office. Phone: 334-2130
TELEPHONE
Cincinnati Bell 201 E. Fourth St., Cincinnati 45202 Phone 513-565-2210
WATER
Northern Kentucky Water District 2835 Crescent Springs Road, Erlanger 41017 Phone 578-9898
TRASH REMOVAL
SHERIFF’S DEPARTMENT
Sheriff| Michael Helmig 3000 Conrad Lane, Burlington Phone: 334-2175. Office hours: Weekdays 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
FIRE DEPARTMENT
Belleview-McVille Fire Department 6900 McVille Road, Burlington Non-emergencies, 586-6060 Burlington Fire Department 6050 Firehouse Drive, Burlington Non-emergencies 586-6161 Florence Fire Department Station 3: 1152 Weaver Road Station 2: 7201 Industrial Road Station 1: 269 Main St. Non-emergencies 647-5660 Any mailing goes to Station 3.
Call 578-5501 to advertise in
The Boone County Administration build
Hebron Fire Department Station 1, 3120 North Bend Road, Hebron 41048 Station 2, 2350 Graves Road, Hebron 41048 Non-emergencies 586-9009 Petersburg Fire Department 3018 2D. Petersburg, 41080 Non-emergencies, 586-8030 Verona Fire Department 14920 Walton-Verona Road, Verona 41092 Non-emergencies, 493-0000 Walton Fire Department 11 High School Court, Walton 41094 Non-emergencies 485-7439
HIGHWAYS|ROADS
Major highways running through the county are Interstate 75, a north-south route, Interstate 275, an east-west route, U.S. 42 east and west, U.S. 25 north and south, and Ky. 18, a major artery north and south in the county.
UTILITIES GAS|ELECTRIC
Duke Energy Corporate Office, 139 E. Fourth St., Cincinnati, 45202 Customer Service 513-4219500. For gas or electric emergencies follow the touch tone instructions.
Rumpke Waste Removal of Kentucky Phone 1-877-786-7537 Bavarian Waste Services Phone 485-4416
SEWERS
Sanitation District No. 1 1045 Eaton Drive, Fort Wright 41017 Phone 578-7450.
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EDUCATIONSCHOOLS
PUBLIC & PRIVATE S C H O O L S PUBLIC SCHOOLS Boone County Schools
Boone County Board of Education 8330 U.S. 42, Florence 41042 Phone: 283-1003 www.boone.kyschools.us Burlington Elementary 5946 Orient St., Burlington 41005 Phone: 334-4440 Fax: 334-4446 www.burlington.boone.kyschools.us
Collins Elementary 9000 Spruce Drive, Florence 41042 Phone: 282-2350 Fax: 282-2356 www.collins.boone.kyschools.us
Stephens Elementary 5687 Highway 237, Burlington 41005 Phone: 334-4460 Fax: 334-4463 www.stephens.boone.kyschools.us Yealey Elementary 10 Yealey Drive, Florence 41042 Phone: 282-3333 Fax: 282-3337 www.yealey.boone.kyschools.us Camp Ernst Middle 6515 Camp Ernst Road, Burlington 41005 Phone: 534-4000 Fax: 534-4001 www.cems.boone.kyschools.us Conner Middle 3300 Cougar Path, Hebron, 41048 Phone: 334-4410 Fax: 334-4435 www.cms.boone.kyschools.us
Erpenbeck Elementary 9001 Wetherington Blvd., Gayle H. Gray Middle Florence 41042 10400 U.S. 42, Union 41091 Phone: 384-7200 Fax: 384-5376 www.erpenbeck.boone.kyschools.us Phone: 384-5333 Fax: 384-5318 www.gms.boone.kyschools.us Florence Elementary 103 Center St., Florence 41042 Phone: 282-2610 Fax: 282-2615 www.florence.boone.kyschools.us
Ockerman Middle 8300 U.S. 42, Florence 41042 Phone: 282-3240 Fax: 282-3242 www.oms.boone.kyschools.us
Goodridge Elementary R.A. Jones Middle 3330 Cougar Path, Hebron 41048 8000 Spruce Drive, Florence 41042 Phone: 334-4420 Fax: 334-4422 Phone: 282-4610 Fax: 282-2364 www.goodridge.boone.kyschools.us www.rajms.boone.kyschools.us Kelly Elementary 6775 McVille Road, Burlington 41005 Phone: 334-4450 Fax: 334-4454 www.kelly.boone.kyschools.us
Boone County High 7056 Burlington Pike, Florence 41042 Phone: 282-5655 Fax: 282-5653 www.bchs.boone.kyschools.us
Mann Elementary 10435 U.S. 42, Union, 41091 Phone: 384-5000 Fax: 384-5007 www.mann.boone.kyschools.us
Conner High 3310 Cougar Path, Hebron 41048 Phone: 334-4400 Fax: 334-4406 http://w3.iac.net/~connerhs
New Haven Elementary 10854 U.S. 42, Union 41091 Phone: 384-5325 Fax: 384-5253 www.newhaven.boone.kyschools.us
Cooper High 2855 Longbranch Road, Union, 41091 Phone: 384-5040 Fax: 384-5049 www.cooper.boone.kyschools.us
North Pointe Elementary 875 North Bend Road, Hebron 41048 Phone: 334-7000 Fax: 334-7010 www.northpointe.boone.kyschools.us
Ryle High 10379 U.S. 42, Union 41091 Phone: 384-5300 Fax: 384-5312 www.ryle.boone.kyschools.us
Ockerman Elementary 8250 U.S. 42, Florence 41042 Phone: 282-4620 Fax: 282-4625 www.ockerman.boone.kyschools.us
Alternative Center for Education 99 Center St., Florence, 41042 Phone: 282-2163 Fax: 282-2165 www.boone.kyschools.us/ace
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BOONECOUNTY
Boone County High School.
Walton-Verona Schools
Walton-Verona Board of Education 16 School Road, Walton 41094 Phone 485-4181 www.wv.kyschools.us. Walton-Verona Elementary 15066 Porter Road, Verona 41092 Phone: 485-4432 Fax: 485-1977 www.wv.kyschools.us Walton-Verona Middle 32 School Road, Walton 41094 Phone: 485-7721 Fax: 485-7739 www.wv.kyschools.us Walton-Verona High 30 School Road, Walton 41094 Phone: 485-7721 Fax: 485-7739 www.wv.kyschools.us
ADULT EDUCATION
The Boone County Adult Education Program offers free education in Academic Skills Improvement, GED preparation, Basic Reading/Writing Assistance and several courses for international adults, including English as a Second Language. Since 1978, Boone County Adult Education has helped Boone County residents achieve their educational and work related goals. Other classes include: Family Education, Pre-Employment Testing, Workplace Basic Skills, Kentucky Employment Certificate (KEC) and KMSS Certification (Kentucky Manufacturing Skills
Standards Test.) For more information, call the center at 282-4629. The center is located at 99 Center St., Third Floor, Florence 41042. An additional site is located at Gateway Community and Technical College, 500 Technology Way, Room 126, Florence; Phone: 442-1695.
PRIVATE SCHOOLS
Heritage Academy 7216 U.S. 42, Florence 41042 Phone: 525-0213 Fax: 525-0650 http://haeagles.org Immaculate Heart of Mary 5876 Veterans Way, Burlington 41005 Phone: 689-4303 Fax: 689-5636 www.ihm-ky.org Mary, Queen of Heaven 1130 Donaldson Road, Erlanger 41018 Phone: 371-8100 Fax: 371-3362 www.MQHSchool.com St. Henry High School 3755 Scheben Drive, Erlanger 41018 Phone: 525-0255 Fax: 525-5855 www.shdhs.org St. Joseph Academy 48 Needmore St., Walton 41094 Phone: 485-6444 Fax: 485-4262 www.saintjosephacademy.net St. Paul School 7303 Dixie Highway, Florence 41042 Phone: 647-4070 Fax: 647-0644 www.saint-paul-school.org
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EDUCATIONSCHOOLS
Community education classes promote lifelong learning, fun By Neva Martin | Contributor
From quilting to computers, from horticulture to hip hop, the Boone County Community Education program has evolved over the past 33 years to offer something for every resident. As part of Boone County Schools, the program has partnered with the county’s Parks and Recreation Department and the Extension Service, among others, said Laurie Walton, Community Education director. “Community education has been serving the county since 1977,” Walton said. “It exists to support lifelong learning. It also supports parent engagement. We do a lot of activities that encourage youth and family.” The classes entice everyone from youth to senior citizens, for those who want to explore a hobby as well as those seeking a job, Walton added, citing Microsoft Word and Excel as well as crochet and cooking classes, long-running courses in which For its winter/spring program, Boone County Community Education offered a new cooking class, “Cooking Italian Sauces in Your they can explore their interests Own Kitchen.” The instructor, Carole Pagano, is Italian and makes all her dishes from scratch. Here, the class “taste tests” what they and expand their creativity. have prepared. Students include Sharon Burcham, Melissa Burke, Michael Burke, Lillie Earls, Karen Monea and Jacqueline Smith. “We offer technology courses so people can improve their com- year, for the first time, it will take an eight-hour course in as outdoor locations when approputer skills,” said Walton. “We have a summer session, said Baby-sitting, which focuses not priate. This past winter/spring have a variety of classes (so they Melissa Holyoke, assistant to only on diapering and feeding, program helped Lee Anne can) achieve Walton. but also on responsibility and Boswell to pursue an outdoor work skills to “We usually accident prevention. Those pardream of hers. get themselves offer 95 to 100 ticipating will receive an “I had wanted to take golf lesjob-ready.” sons for a long time,” said For more information on classes for each American Red Cross certificate Some of session,” said when they complete the course. Boswell, who finished her fifth the Boone County community Holyoke. “The “We even offer an introduction and last lesson in March. “I Community Education education’s classes, call 282-4629, or summer session to eBay,” Walton added, for those decided I wasn’t going to wait popular prowon’t be that who want to become savvy about and get any older.” go online at grams include large.” buying and selling online. Meeting Tuesday and www.boone.kyschools.us Spanish. “One The summer Basic computer courses will Thursday at Golf Ranch on and select Community of our newest session will also be offered, as well as dayLimaburg Road, Boswell and Education. innovations is include a wide time and evening sessions to pre- eight other learners of all ages our writing range of courspare for the General Equivalency learned the art of “swing” from classes, (one) for folks who want es, for self-improvement as well Diploma (GED) at the Boone an instructor she called “terrific.” to write a novel.” as fun: classes for English County Adult Education Center. “He was very encouraging Since its inception, the proLanguage Learners (ELL), Hip Community education courses and just great in his approach,” gram has typically offered a fall Hop and Rag Rug Weaving. Girls range from one to multiple sesBoswell added. “It’s the best barand a winter/spring session. This and boys ages 11 and older can sions, meeting at schools as well gain around.”
The 411
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BOONECOUNTY
AROUNDTOWN
PARKS & RECREATION COUNTY AND NATIONAL PARKS
For more information visit the Web site at www.boonecountyky.org, or call 334-2117. Central Park, at 9190 Camp Ernst Road, Union, has 121 acres. It offers 2.25 miles of paved trails through wooded and open areas and is home to the Arboretum at Central Park and the Children’s Garden. The park is equipped with picnic shelters, six baseball fields, six soccer fields, wildflower beds, wetlands, and bird boxes to attract wild life. Boone Woods Park, Veterans Way and Ky. 18, provides the community with a full size soccer field, basketball court, tennis courts, 18- hole disc golf course, shelters, picnic tables, playgrounds, volleyball courts, bocce ball courts and horseshoe courts. The park also has the outdoor Creekside theater where concerts and family fun nights are held. Union Pool, Boone County’s first outdoor pool, was opened in 2003. It is located at 10165 U.S. 42, Union. Camp Ernst Lake, 2 miles south of Ky. 18 on Camp Ernst Road in Burlington, offers fishing and picnic shelters. England-Idlewild Park, 5550 Idlewild Road in Burlington, is a 290-acre park that offers seven athletic fields, three shelters, one playground, a basketball court, an 18-hole disc golf course, 1-mile paved walking trail, 11 miles of mountain bike/hiking trails through woods (unpaved), three fishing
ponds and a wetland area. Lincoln Woods Park, is located off Hopeful Church Road at Rosetta Drive in Florence. It has two ball fields, one shelter, a basketball court and playground. Walton Community Park, on Old Stephenson-Mill Road, Walton, has one soccer field, one ball field, four shelters, two playgrounds and a 1-mile paved walking trail. Shore Lake is a fishing lake and picnic area in the Richwood Industrial Park on U.S. 25 in Richwood. Fox Run Park is a small neighborhood park on Woodside Drive in Florence. It has a ball field and play area. Oakbrook Park on Oakbrook Drive in Burlington has a sand volleyball court and play area. Giles Conrad Park is a 43acre park on Ky. 8. This is the first park in the county with a river view, including more than a mile of paved trail looping along the river. Also included is a shelter house, a playground, basketball court and lots of green space for informal play. It was dedicated May 4, 2004. Gunpowder Creek Nature Park, at Sperti Woods, is 122 wooded acres for the hardy hiker or nature lover to enjoy. It also includes a shelter house and playground. The Boone County Dog Park opened in the fall of 2006. This 4-acre facility consists of two large dog areas and two small dog areas. Middle Creek Park, opened in 1993, is 228 acres of pristine forest with 6 miles of trails.
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AROUNDTOWN
AROUNDTOWN BEAR’S PAW
Margaret and Bob Maurer Across the street from 6921 East Bend Road | Burlington 41005
The Maurers are the owners and sponsors of this board that shares the barn with a smiley face! It dates from 1931. This was the second quilt board hung in Boone County and the first one painted by The Florence Woman’s Club.
BEAR’S PAW
BLAZING STAR
Pat and Tom O’Hara 728 Sunnybrook Road | Florence 41042
This block first appeared in print in 1931 although it can be found in ancient tiles and pavements. Pat and Tom are owners and sponsors of the quilt board which is lit most evenings around dusk. Their daughter Colleen Long chose the pattern. The McBrides painted the board.
The Boone Barn Quilt Trail WWW.BOONEBARNQUILTS.COM
FOUR WINDS
FOUR WINDS
KENTUCKY TWINKLING STAR OHIO STAR VARIATION
Florence and Huston Samples 3656 Feeley Road | Burlington 41005
This block first appeared in the Chicago Tribune in the 1930s. The Samples felt this was a fitting block to choose for their barn since their property catches every breeze in Boone County. The women of the family bought this quilt board as a birthday present for Huston. He particularly enjoys the UK blue in the design. The tobacco barn was build in 1966, the year of his marriage to Florence. The Samples are the sponsor of the board and the Florence Woman’s Club painted the block. Owen Electric hung the board.
HUNTER’S STAR
Tracy and David Beck 11614 Big Bone Road | Union 41091
This block first appeared in print in 1934. The Becks were looking for a block that indicated hunters, since they are avid hunters, or a star block. Lo and behold, there is one block that incorporates both, Hunter’s Star. The Becks are the owners of the board. The artists are Renetta and Dick McBride. The board was hung by Owen Electric.
IOWA STAR
Boone County Fairgrounds 5819 Idlewild Road | Burlington 41005
IOWA STAR
HUNTER’S STAR 10
BOONECOUNTY
This 4-pointed star was painted by 4-H members as a summer project in 2008. It first appeared in print in 1902. The 4-H members who painted the board include: Dominique Campbell, Cassidy Cupps, Abby Gambrell, Emily
Gambrell, Lauren Hitzfield, Christina Shuffett and Katelyn Trapp. The Iowa Star block was altered to feature the 4-H clover. Tammy Reams, 4-H program assistant, and Christy Eastwood, 4-H agent, led the children during the project. The Boone County 4-H Council sponsored the board.
KENTUCKY LILY
Paula and B. J. Vaske 6282 Burlington Pike | Belleview 41005
This pattern was first published about 1910.There are many blocks with “Kentucky” in the name that are variations of other, older blocks. However, this block appears to be unique. Paula and B. J. Vaske are the owners of the barn, known locally as the Burcham Barn. It has been a horse stable, a dairy barn, a tobacco barn and now a multi-purpose barn for B. J. It was almost a movie star, too. An advance team for the movie “Seabiscuit” told the Vaskes that they were interested in using the barn in the movie. But time went by and there was no communication with the movie company. So the Vaskes gave their barn a snappy coat of red paint with white trim. The advance team shows up in dismay because they wanted a weathered barn, a little worse for wear. Too bad. Mary Sue and Bill Rudicill are the sponsors. The quilt board was painted by The Florence Woman’s Club.
KENTUCKY LILY
KENTUCKY TWINKLING STAR Neda and Gary Wilmhoff Near 4482 Hathaway | Union 41091
Although this block looks like a much older block, it first appeared in print in 1979. Neda and Gary are the owners and sponsors of this block. Neda’s sister Renetta McBride painted the design and the whole family hung it. Theirs was the first quilt board put up in Boone County.
OHIO STAR VARIATION
Carol and Bob Reeves 2063 Hathaway Road | Union 41091
This block was first published in 1931. (Historians say the pattern “Variable Star,” in a flurry of patriotism toward the individual states in 1815, was renamed the Ohio Star.) Carol and Bob, the owners, have lived at “Honeydew Farm” for almost 40 years. The barn was just painted white and sits atop a hill. The farm was formerly owned by Dr. M. J. Crouch and called Hillcrest Farm, a horse farm. The sponsors are the Ohio Valley Austin-Healey Car Club. Renetta and Richard McBride are the artists.
BLAZING STAR
APRIL 2010 11
AROUNDTOWN
BOONE C O M M U N I T I E S BURLINGTON
Burlington became the county seat in June of 1799. The county’s first County Court voted to use land donated by John Hawkins Craig and Robert Johnson for the county seat. It was originally called Craig’s Camp, then Wilmington and finally, in 1816, Burlington. In 1824, Burlington became the first Boone County community to be incorporated. It remained incorporated until 1923 when its charter was annulled. Today it is one of only two unincorporated county seats in Kentucky. The first courthouse was built of logs. A brick building was erected in 1817. It was remodeled 60 years later. The present courthouse was constructed in the late 1880s and is still in use today. Burlington remains as one of the region’s top historical areas, boasting numerous historical sites. Boone County’s Administrative Center is located in Burlington. It was dedicated in 1981 and is used primarily by county officers and houses a detention center. Burlington is also home to the Boone County fairgrounds, the site of the Boone County 4-H and Utopia Fair each summer and Maplewood Children’s Home.
FLORENCE
Florence is the largest city in Boone County, but that wasn’t always the case. Originally an Indian fur trading post known variously as Polecat and Pow-Wow, the community was settled in 1813 and called Connersville after Jacob Conner, who owned most of the land. It was the first stagecoach stop south of Covington and acquired the nicknames of Crossroads and Stringtown on the Pike. In 1830, with a population of 63, Florence was incorpo-
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County. Hebron was originally known as Briar Thicket or Briar Patch. Its first post office was established in February, 1858 and Francis Lafayette Gordon, a merchant in the community, was the first postmaster. The 1880 federal census reported a population of 95 persons in Hebron. Retail merchants, blacksmiths, and wagon makers were the principal tradesmen. A doctor, saddler, shoemaker, tailor, carpenter, mail messenger, and teamster were also represented. Among the 40 female inhabitants were eight seamstresses and a school teacher. At that time, Hebron was nearly the geographic center of population in the United States. The exact spot is on the property that is now the Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport.
PETERSBURG
The Florence Y’all tower welcomes Florence visitors.
rated. Between 1830 and 1900, several businesses were started, a schoolhouse and several churches were built, and two hotels were available for travelers along the Georgetown Pike. Things moved pretty slowly until the 1950s when residential subdivisions started to develop. Then the Northern Kentucky Industrial Park was established, the airport expanded, and I-75 was built, bringing people and jobs to this sleepy little town. In 1976 the Florence Mall opened for business. Nowadays, Florence is home to Turfway Park Race Course,
the Florence Government Center, several parks, and numerous schools.
HEBRON
Hebron is one of Boone County’s fastest growing areas thanks to the Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport and numerous businesses that call Hebron home. Hebron began as a crossroads village, and its name was taken from the Hebron Lutheran Church, which organized in 1854 with 16 persons who were originally members of the Hopeful Lutheran Church of Boone
In 1789, John Tanner, a Baptist preacher, settled in a frontier section of Woodford County, Va. This area became Boone County, Ky., in 1798. Tanner’s Station was established along the Ohio River on the site of a 14th-century Indian village. In 1805, John Grant purchased 750 acres around Tanner’s Station, established a tavern, a ferry and planned a town called Celedonia. When he ran out of funds, Grant sold the land to his son-in-law, John J. Flournoy, and in 1811 the town of Petersburg was established. Petersburg was the largest town in Boone County in 1860 with a population of 583. Native Kentuckians, as well as German and Irish immigrants settled there. Many were employed by the Boone County Distilling Co. The distillery, located at the south end of Front Street (then named Water Street) was established in 1835 and rapidly became Petersburg’s most
AROUNDTOWN important industry. The Ohio River steamboat traffic provided an essential link for goods and services in and out of Petersburg. The late 19th-century decline in steamboat traffic, due in large part to the growth of railroads, contributed to the eventual demise of the company.
RABBIT HASH
Rabbit Hash, nestled on the banks of the Ohio River, once was overshadowed by Rising Sun, Ind., on the opposite shore of the river. Several theories have been written explaining how Rabbit Hash got its name. One account dates the naming event on
Christmas Day 1847, the time of one of the major floods of the Ohio River. Game was scarce from the flood and, while some men wished for fat hens and roasted goose, one man, the village jester, said “Rabbit hash,” because it was about the only game around. The rabbits had fled to the area because it was higher ground. The first post office in town was organized Jan. 3, 1879. It was originally called Carlton. The name was changed to Rabbit Hash on March 12, 1879, after few received their mail. Most of it had been sent to Carrollton in Carroll County. Rabbit Hash’s most famous
landmark is the Rabbit Hash General Store. Rabbit Hash is on the National Register of Historic Places.
UNION
The roots of Union began as a small settlement in the late 1700s. By the early 1800s the Fowler family owned much of the land that now lies in Union. Union was officially incorporated as a city in 1838, but is rumored that it was established in 1833. No one knows the true story of how Union got its name, but the story goes that since it was used as a connection between the City of Florence and Big
Bone Lick, the name “Union” seemed appropriate. In the early 1900s a body of governance could not be held and the official corporation fell apart. In 1969 a group of citizens stepped up to reincorporate the city.
WALTON
The Kentucky General Assembly established Walton on Jan. 21, 1840. Fourteen years later, on Feb. 25, the town was incorporated. It established the first county high school in 1901. Walton was once the most populous city in Boone County.
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AROUNDTOWN
Rabbit Hash offers good ole fun By Patricia A. Scheyer | Contributor
Rabbit Hash is a quaint little river town in Boone County across the Ohio from Rising Sun, Ind. And yes, it does exist; it doesn’t appear and disappear at will like romantic Brigadoon, but it does have legendary qualities to many people. According to legend, one holiday season in 1847, as residents forlornly watched the flood waters ravage the land, each person told what they would have for Christmas dinner, and one fellow looked outside and quipped that there would probably be plenty of Rabbit Hash to go around. The name stuck. Established in 1813 as a settlement, downtown Rabbit Hash is a handful of rustic buildings clustered at the curve of the river, and centered around the General Store. In another time, farmers went to the store for food and necessities, but now, although items line every inch of the walls and counters, residents go elsewhere for groceries. “I remember coming here with my mom and dad when I was a kid,” said Bob Feldhaus, who, except for his four years in the Marines, has spent 82 years in Rabbit Hash. “We’d buy what we needed, then sometimes get our hair cut down the street for 15 cents. There was a ferry that
People come to the General store in Rabbit Hash all the time, and the town really rocks at night and on weekends in summer.
crossed the river from Rising Sun to Rabbit Hash, and it cost 15 cents for a passenger and 25 cents for a car. That was before Markland Dam was put in, and the river was only about 13 feet deep here. Once the dam was put in the river went to 56 feet.” A tour of the town can be conducted by standing at the curve and pointing – across the street is the old ironworks building, with no less than five high water markers where the Ohio temporarily claimed the town through the years.
“In 1937 the General Store was under water,” said Tommy Feldhaus, who sets up a barbecue stand in good weather. “In front is the old blacksmith shop which is now an antique shop.” Down the street is a renovated barn which houses an art gallery in the second floor, and barn dances and various social events on the main floor. Louie Scott lives on the edge of town, and he used to own the entire town, after buying it all from relatives to save it from developers. Terrie Markesbery now owns the
Long time resident Bob Feldhaus sits by the river view, helping out now and then at the General Store. Germi the dog keeps him company. Rabbit Hash Mayor Lucy Lou.
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General Store, after watching it change hands several times. “I was born and raised in this area, and I’ve been running the store for 11 years,” said Markesbery. “Fifteen years ago there was a fundraiser to restore the historical church, and we had our first mayoral race with animals. The project was profitable, and we have now had three dogs as mayor. Lucy Lou is the mayor now.” In the summer, the town is a boomtown, with visitors coming from all over. Old Timer’s Day is the Saturday of Labor Day Weekend, and it draws record crowds. Motorcyclists and bicyclists follow the scenic trail and stop in for refreshments and a chat with the residents. It is very common for musicians to stop in at the store and jam for awhile, providing steppin’ out music for everyone else. “I think people like it here because it hasn’t changed much in all these years,” said Bob Feldhaus. “It is peaceful here. But we know how to have a good time, too, and an old fashioned, toe tappin’ way. I never wanted to live anywhere else.”
AROUNDTOWN
Lassing Pointe Golf Course.
Golfing opportunities abound
great outing facilities,” said Gartner. Golf Digest rated Lassing Russell Gartner, head PGA Pointe a bit higher at 41⁄2 stars. golf professional for Boone Golf Week named the course the County’s Boone Links and top course in the state of Lassing Pointe golf courses, said Kentucky in 2004. there’s several reasons why the “I think that the popularity of courses draw golfers. Lassing Pointe can be attributed “Well manicured golf courses, to its uniqueness, gorgeous fair prices, friendly staff, and scenery, fair playable layout, and comfortable clubhouse amenities its quick pace of play,” said for enjoying a beverage after the Gartner. round,” he said. “We operate tee David Teasley, a 30-year golfer times nine minutes apart instead from Ridgewood, agreed. of the industry average of 71⁄2 He prefers Lassing Pointe minutes to keep pace of playing because it “offers a better chalmoving and enjoyable.” lenge of golf and it’s closer to my He’s not alone in thinking his home.” courses are some of the best. He’s scored a hole in one on Golf Digest rated Boone Links the course’s five-hole, but anotha four-star golf course. In fact, 18 er hole is his favorite. holes with a cart earned the “My favorite hole there is 14 course the magazine’s “Best Bang because it’s a tee shot over water for the Buck” award. to a very narrow green and “I think that the popularity of bunkers on either side. It has to Boone can be attributed to its be an accurate shot,” said Teasley. beautiful water-filled scenery, difBoone County purchased its ficult layout, fast greens, and first golf course in 1979 from the By Howard McEwen |
Contributor
former Boone Aire Country Club. “The Boone Aire Clubhouse and Proshop located off Boone Aire road were not included in the purchase,” said Gartner. “A new clubhouse was built in its current location in the Oakbrook subdivision. To accommodate the new clubhouse location all the holes were renumbered and several were changed and redesigned. As popularity for golf grew in Boone County throughout the 80s, the need for more golf holes was obvious.” “A third nine-hole course, Ridgeview was designed by Dr. Michael Hurdzan and opened in May of 1989. The original 18 holes at Boone Links was named the ‘Brookview’ and ‘Lakeview’ nines. The Brookview nine is namesaked for the creek that runs through four holes and feeds to Gunpowder creek. The Lakeview nine is named for the five lakes that come in to play on four of the holes.” Gartner said that Boone Links
utilizes the same rye grass fairways and tee boxes as Augusta as well as bent grass greens. Gartner said that as golf’s popularity grew in Boone County, the demand for another public golf course in Boone County was apparent. “Dr. Michael Hurdzan designed the classic link-style Lassing Pointe Golf Course. Lassing Pointe opened to rave reviews in 1994. It was rated the number one public course in the state of Kentucky and currently is ranked number two behind Cherry Blossom in Georgetown. Lassing Pointe is completely different from Boone Links in its design and is truly unique in the commonwealth.” Lassing Pointe has large bent grass fairway landing areas and enormous bent grass greens. “One of the signature holes at Lassing Pointe, number 18, has a green that measures 101 yards deep from front to back,” said Gartner.
APRIL 2010
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LOCALPEOPLE
Boone County – a business-friendly community for job growth
Whether it concerns companies that are considering moving into Northern Kentucky, existing Location, location, location: companies needing to expand, or It’s been touted for selling houslocal industrial start-ups, es, but even in these tough ecoTobergte calls Tri-ED “the first nomic times, Boone County has found itself in the enviable place point of contact.” “We don’t take preference of being the leader in job creover any client,” Tobergte ation, said county Judgeexplained. “We work with the Executive Gary W. Moore. client and what the client’s needs “Government doesn’t create are helps determine the location.” jobs – people do,” said Moore. Location has benefited “But the county must create a Schwan’s Food Manufacturing business-friendly environment for new or expanding employers. Inc. in Florence. As the largest manufacturer in the county, My administration understands Schwan’s makes frozen pizza this is our No. 1 priority.” products for retail markets, food Tri-County Economic service and institutions such as Development Corp., known as Northern Kentucky Tri-ED, is the schools and hospitals, with brand names that include Freschetta, economic development departRed Baron and Tony’s. Randy ment for Boone County, Moore Ingolia, senior director of manuadded. facturing, said Schwan’s was Tri-ED was created as a nonacquired from Sabatasso Foods in profit corporation in 1987 under July 1986, and has grown ever the auspices of the Boone, since. Kenton and Campbell fiscal “We’ve added about 350 (jobs) courts. With a paid staff of 10 and over the last 11 years and over a 17-member volunteer board $150 million invested in growth that includes the three county and expansion,” said Ingolia, “I judge-executives, Tri-ED plays a am responsible for over 1,000 big role in job growth, said Dan employees and over 1 million Tobergte, president and CEO. Tri-ED has seen an increase of pizzas a day.” Ingolia said partnering with 48,500 jobs and 493 companies over 23 years with $1.4 billion in the Boone County Planning Department and Tri-ED has capital investment, Tobergte enabled Schwan’s to add system added. Boone County itself has capabilities that support new seen an increase of 23,000 jobs jobs. since 1996, Moore said. By Neva Martin | Contributor
“Infrastructure expansion like the (Northern Kentucky) Industrial Road improvement, the development of the Florence Freedom (ballpark) and the development/expansion of the Florence Government Center has made the area a desirable place
“We needed a secondary entrance and exit because of the high-speed rail crossing,” said Verst. “The county built a connector road. If there’s a rail derailment, we have a secondary way to get out. This week, we had a sinkhole and the county…
“GOVERNMENT DOESN’T CREATE JOBS – PEOPLE DO.” to live and work,” Ingolia added. Rick Jordan, vice president for LSI Graphic Solutions Plus, says his company is in Kenton County, but saw the benefit of expanding Industrial Road between U.S. 25 and U.S. 42 to five lanes. “That is the largest industrial park in Kentucky,” said Jordan. “The park started in 1964 and had the same two-lane road. It was one big bottleneck. When (road-widening) first started seven years ago, people were backed up, especially with the traffic on Turkeyfoot. Now it’s so easy to move.” The county responds to other, smaller needs. Paul Verst, owner, CEO and president of Verst Group Logistics in Walton, called Boone County “a great partner to work with.”
came in, marked the area, partitioned it off and repaired it.” By responding to infrastructure as well as other needs, county and Tri-ED officials are optimistic about getting through the economic downturn. “We’ve seen job losses, but only to half of the impact that the major metropolitan areas have seen,” said Tobergte. Moore said a new manufacturing facility recently opened in Hebron, adding 100 jobs. “The primary reasons companies locate or expand here is because of our great quality of life and business-friendly community,” Moore added. “This includes low taxes, good schools, safe neighborhoods, quality parks as well as adequate infrastructure of water, sewer and roads.”
Lifelong resident shares thoughts on county Arlene Jones, 66, of Burlington, has lived in Boone County all her life and there’s no place she’d rather be. She was born and raised on a farm located at Aiken Lane. The street is named for her father. Her grandchildren are the sixth generation of her family to live on the land.
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Jones works part time in the county school system and in real estate. She was once in the restaurant business. But her true loves are her home and watching her grandchildren’s sport games. Describe the atmosphere of Boone County. “I’ll explain it like this: [When
I was a child] each community had its own high school and elementary school. “As I was growing up the county started growing so it consolidated into one high school. Things have grown so much now that each area again has its own high school. “The educational atmosphere
has changed a lot because of the economic wealth. It’s been a real win-win situation.” What do you think has spurred this economic growth? “The airport is a major factor of the economic growth. Now
JONES | CONTINUED 17
LOCALPEOPLE JONES |FROM 16 they’re cutting back and I’m a little apprehensive about that, but the county is diverse enough it’s always – we’ve always – been able to hold our own.” What do you enjoy most about the county? “Besides being home and with my kids and grand kids are here.” What has been the biggest change in the county all the years you’ve lived here? “The economic growth. Interstate 75 coming through the county brought so many businesses and families. I-75 is the catalyst for the growth.”
What’s your favorite thing to do in the county? “I always enjoy the Boone County Fair. I also visit a lot of the parks. The park systems offers so many opportunities to families. The Fair is the highlight, however.” What was your favorite thing growing up? “Still the fair. I showed dairy cows in 4-H. 4-H camp was my very favorite thing to do – for a whole week no farm work. We got to play.” Tell about your family’s involvement with the county. “Well, my uncle was publisher and owner of the Boone County Recorder from 1938 to 1961. He also owned the
Burlington Hardware Store, now the Central House Diner. The building was built in 1840 and once housed the Central House Hotel. “Pete’s Park was donated to the county by my aunt in honor of my uncle. “My uncle was property evaluation administrator for 33 years. My family has always been tied to public service.” How have you been involved with the county? “I’m a member of Belleview Baptist Church and am currently attending Burlington Baptist Church. I attend my grandkids’ sport activities. I love basketball and football. “I was politically
active. I was on the school board for a little over one term in ‘88. It was a learning experience. It’s a full-time job. But, I liked the challenge. “I’ve worked for the county and even ran for judge executive. I was the first female candidate and the first candidate to run TV commercials for the job.” Why is this a good place to live? “There’s a good sense of community here. People care about what happens – they care about their neighbor.” What makes this a great place to raise a family? “You can allow your
kids to experience life in this community. It’s a safe place to live. I love the rural aspect, there’s still a lot of rural land. I’m so thankful I have a rural background because it makes you appreciate different facets of life. You learn to work hard and appreciate what you have.” What should the county be known for? “Acceptance. This is a very accepting county, accepting of diversity, of trying times. The county is very flexible and the leaders work with businesses. “Boone County should also be known for its green spaces.”
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LOCALPEOPLE
Business association lends helping hand By Howard McEwen | Contributor The Boone County Businessmen’s Association is about helping business people. “For years and years we’ve been here to help local businesses if they have questions or problems whether it be planning, zoning or anything else” said BCBA President Gary Winn, a real estate agent with RE/MAX. “If they come and have a problem, maybe we’ve seen it before and can help them remedy their problem or at least give them a different way to go about solving it.” That’s something the association has been doing since its founding more than 30 years ago. “When the Boone County Businessmen’s Association was established in 1969, the old guys talk about the time they went to Frankfort to get funding to extend Burlington Pike which
didn’t help the people or businesses. It was known at the time as ‘the road to nowhere.’ It was just a two lane road that went out to Burlington. After being extended, it fostered growth. Now it’s packed with a new high school, stores, and new subdivisions.” Today, the association is still focusing on helping businesses. “The association is designed to promote, encourage, and aid in the development of the commercial, industrial, professional, and civic interests of Boone County,” said Winn. Winn said helping to bring the Florence Freedom was another more recent way they’ve helped local businesses. “We held the first meeting for pro baseball to come to Florence and few years later we have the Florence Freedom,” said Winn.
“We had some problems in the beginning, but overall it’s been a plus. Clint Brown is the owner and has done a great job. He and the city have partnered up well. The number of business opportunities for restaurants and hotels have been good and it’s also great to have the ability to have districts and regional baseball up there. It’s huge. It’s also good for the community to see these kids are trying their hardest to get into the big leagues.” Winn said the association also holds monthly meetings where local leaders speak to the concerns of business. “This month Gary Moore will be a speaker. He’s also a member. He’ll give us a sort of a state-of-the-county address – zoning changing, building projects, road projects or whatever is
going to happen. Diane Whalen from the City of Florence may come in to speak at times.” Winn said the group also holds a forum near election time for candidates for public office. “We try to vary what we have according to what our members want to hear. We also try to make it easy for them to be a part of us. There’s so many different directions people are pulled in and some are working multiple jobs trying to get their business going, but we’re only once a month and our annual dues (are) only $35. We’re low key and try to be informative.” On the civic front, the association recently partnered with the Boone County CASA to raise funds to give away coats and scarves in the fall. They are also involved in bringing the Vietnam Memorial moving wall. That is scheduled to arrive in October.
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Visual arts association offers support for local artists By Patricia A. Scheyer | Contributor Five years ago, anyone who was an artist in Boone County was pretty much on their own as far as creating their works of art, and finding out how to market the pieces themselves. All that changed when Mary Jo Blackwell moved to Hebron from Sarasota, Fla. “When I moved up here, I couldn’t believe there was nothing in Boone County that promoted artists,” she said. “There were no activities, no galleries. I finally found Rosebrook studio in Florence, so I could continue my painting.” Blackwell found several other artists and finally got the group , Boone County Visual Arts, together four and a half years ago. Now they meet once a month on the second Thursday at 7 p.m. at the Florence City Building. “The most important thing this group does is connect all the artists,” said Chris Allen, a photographer, and treasurer of the group. “Before, we were all working independently, and now we have collaboration, ideas and
Artist Karen Marshall tells the group about her pictures of birds that she painted.
feedback.” The group now numbers about 20, 15 of which are regulars at the meetings, although more come to the shows. For four years the group has co-sponsored an art show at the Boone County
Library, usually held in December or January, and they are now busy preparing for the second annual art show at the clubhouse at Thornwilde subdivision in Union. Also in early summer, BCVAA holds a show at the Farmers’ Market in Burlington. “I think having this group allows artists to have a peer group who supports each other,” said Blackwell. “It also helps all of us to find out where we can exhibit our work, and at our meetings we always have people who demonstrate techniques for us, so we are always learning new things.” The mission of the group is to advance, affirm and promote visual arts in Boone County and surrounding areas, while developing opportunities for the promotion, display and merchandisPhotographer Chris Allen tells Linda Lee Whaley and Mary Jo Blackwell about his pic- ing of fine art by local artists. ture of a red-tailed hawk which he brought to the April meeting of the BCVAA for the With the amount of shows increasing, the Boone County contest on the theme of birds.
area is benefiting from the richness of having local artists. “In my opinion, everybody has a desire to be an artist, or a musician,” said Karen Marshall, an artist who also teaches. “People in a community that has an artists’ group are encouraged to follow their dream, to get in touch with their creative side. And it is relaxing – I have had cancer and open heart surgery, and my art helps me to heal.” The group encourages all artists to join them. Current members have various talents; some paint, in various mediums, such as oil, acrylics, and watercolors, and includes painting on porcelain. Members also do photography, and design original fabric. More information about the group is available on their Web site, www.bcvaa.org, and questions can be directed to Mary Jo Blackwell from that site. “We are each other’s shoulder to lean on,” concluded Blackwell.
APRIL 2010
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HAPPENINGSEVENTS
UPCOMING E V E N T S MAY 4, 11, 18, AND 25
DIG IN THE DIRT SESSION Come out to the arboretum for our Dig in the Dirt volunteer sessions. All experience levels are welcome. Each session they tackle a different project that can include planting, weeding, pruning or working in our children’s garden. Each session is supervised by a staff member to give instruction and guidance to volunteers. Lunch is served at the conclusion of the work session. Call Laura with questions at 586-6101. PERENNIAL FLOWERS FOR THE LANDSCAPE Learn to create year round interest in your landscape using a variety of perennial plants. Call 586-6101 to register. Free!
MAY 5
WEDNESDAY WALKS Enjoy a leisurely and educational walk through the Boone County Arboretum (9190 Camp Ernst Road, Union, Ky.). Each monthly walk will take you through a different part of the arboretum, highlighting plants and trees that are blooming. Bring your questions and take home new knowledge to apply to your own landscape. Free. No need to register. Call 586-6101 for questions. Rain or shine; meet at shelter No. 2. COMPOSTING FOR BEGINNERS Celebrate National Compost Week by learning how to compost. Take kitchen and yard waste and turn it into natural fertilizer for your garden. It’s easy, fun and keeps trash out of landfills. Weather permitting, we will visit several different display compost bins near the office. Free. Please call 5866101 to register. We will meet at the Boone County Extension (6028 Camp Ernst Road, Burlington).
MAY 6
TOUGH PLANTS FOR TOUGH SITES IN THE LANDSCAPE If you have a challenging site that is too wet, too dry, too shady or just poor clay soil, come learn about some beautiful trees, shrubs, and flowers that can survive in adverse conditions. Call 5866101 to register. Free.
MAY 11
MAKING A CONTAINER GARDEN Is your garden space limited? You can still create beautiful flower displays using containers. Participants must bring their own container (not to
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BOONECOUNTY
can include planting, weeding, pruning or working in our children’s garden. Each session is supervised by a staff member to give instruction and guidance to volunteers. Lunch is served at the conclusion of the work session. Call Laura with questions at 586-6101.
exceed 14 inches diameter). We will supply the potting mix and plants! Limited to 25. Pre-registration required! Call 586-6101 to register. Free.
MAY 15
SPRING PLANT SALE Join us for our spring plant sale from 9 a.m. to noon at the Boone County Arboretum (9190 Camp Ernst Road in Union). Rain or shine. Sale will be under shelter No. 1.
JULY 7
MAY 18
LATE BLOOMERS … PLANTING FOR LATE SUMMER AND FALL COLOR Learn about late blooming trees, shrubs, and flowers that will add color to your landscape. Call 586-6101 to register. Free.
MAY 19
MAKE A HYPERTUFA POT Learn how to make your own hypertufa and take your sample home to fill with flowers. Space is limited and open to those who have NOT take this class before. You must register for this class. Meet at shelter No. 1. Call 859586-6101 to register. Free.
MAY 25
PEST RESISTANT PLANTS FOR THE LANDSCAPE Insects and diseases can reek havoc on your landscape. Learn about trees, shrubs and flowers that are “resistant” to such pests and problems. Call 859586-6101 to register. Free.
JUNE 1, 8, 15, 22, 29
DIG IN THE DIRT SESSION Come out to the arboretum for our Dig in the Dirt volunteer sessions. All experience levels are welcome. Each session we tackle a different project that can include planting, weeding, pruning or working in our children’s garden. Each session is supervised by a staff member to give instruction and guidance to volunteers. Lunch is served at the conclusion of the work session. Call Laura with questions at 586-6101.
JUNE 2
WEDNESDAY WALKS Enjoy a leisurely and educational walk through the Boone County Arboretum (9190 Camp Ernst Road, Union, Ky.). Each monthly walk will take you through a different part of the arboretum, highlighting plants and trees that are blooming. Bring your questions and take home new knowledge to apply to your own landscape. Free. No need to register. Call 586-6101
for questions. Rain or shine; meet at shelter No. 2.
JUNE 3
WEDNESDAY WALKS Enjoy a leisurely and educational walk through the Boone County Arboretum (9190 Camp Ernst Road, Union, Ky.). Each monthly walk will take you through a different part of the arboretum, highlighting plants and trees that are blooming. Bring your questions and take home new knowledge to apply to your own landscape. Free. No need to register. Call 586-6101 for questions. Rain or shine; meet at shelter No. 2.
AUG. 3, 10, 17, 24, AND 31
RARE AND UNUSUAL PLANTS Learn about some rare and unusual plants at the arboretum. Meet at shelter No. 1. Call 586-6101 to register. Free!
DIG IN THE DIRT SESSION Come out to the arboretum for our Dig in the Dirt volunteer sessions. All experience levels are welcome. Each session we tackle a different project that can include planting, weeding, pruning or working in our children’s garden. Each session is supervised by a staff member to give instruction and guidance to volunteers. Lunch is served at the conclusion of the work session. Call Laura with questions at 586-6101.
JUNE 19
AUG. 4
LEARN YOUR TREES AND SHRUBS Learn tricks for remembering how to distinguish various maples, oaks, dogwoods, lilacs, forsythia, etc. Call 586-6101 to register. Free!
JUNE 11
RIVER SWEEP Get involved and volunteer. We need help cleaning litter off our river banks. We have five locations: GilesConrad Park, Petersburg, Split Rock, Belleview, Rabbit Hash and Boone’s Landing. Call today to reserve you spot. We’ll give you a T-shirt and a lunch. You will also be entered in for door prizes.
JUNE 24
STORY TIME IN THE CHILDREN’S GARDEN This month’s theme will be about flowers. Read some fun stories and make a project to take home. Free. Kids age 4-8 are welcome. Meet at the Children’s Garden at the arboretum. This program will be canceled if it is raining. Call 586-6101 to register.
JULY 6, 13, 20, 27
DIG IN THE DIRT SESSION Come out to the arboretum for our Dig in the Dirt volunteer sessions. All experience levels are welcome. Each session we tackle a different project that
WEDNESDAY WALKS Enjoy a leisurely and educational walk through the Boone County Arboretum (9190 Camp Ernst Road, Union, Ky.). Each monthly walk will take you through a different part of the arboretum, highlighting plants and trees that are blooming. Bring your questions and take home new knowledge to apply to your own landscape. Free. No need to register. Call 586-6101 for questions. Rain or shine; meet at shelter No. 2.
AUG. 24
TOMATO TASTING PARTY What an exciting adventure for the tomato lover to sample and rate every imaginable color, shape and variety of America’s favorite vegetable … or is it a fruit? Come join the fun! Your “admission ticket” is one or more tomatoes you have grown (of known variety), and/or a special tomato dish, salsa or hors d’oeuvres to share with the other party-goers. Recipes welcome. Meet at shelter No. 1. Call 586-6101 to register. Free.