LINK Kenton Reader - Volume 1, Issue 20 - April 7, 2023

VOLUME 1,ISSUE20—APR.7,2023

Invasive plants plaguing the NKY ecosystem

PRESIDENT & CEO Lacy Starling

CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Mark Collier

MANAGING EDITOR Meghan Goth

PRINT EDITOR Kaitlin Gebby

SPORTS EDITOR Evan Dennison

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Plants that kill: Invasive species damaging the local ecosystem

BY ROBIN GEE | LINK nky REPORTER

No part of this publication may be used without permission of the publisher. Every effort is made to avoid errors, misspellings, and omissions. If, however, an error comes to your attention, please let us know and accept our sincere apologies in advance.

They’re here. They’re green, and they’re taking over.

While the pop of green can be a welcome promise of warm days to come, it can also be the first sign of trouble ahead, resulting in an artificial beauty that kills natural food sources for wildlife.

Invasive plants tend to leaf early and can shade and crowd out native plants, which need the sun to grow, according to Jim Benton, chairman of The Campbell Conservancy.

“Non-native plants are very successful at growing into a new area, because they get their leaves first, and they keep them the longest,” Benton said. “Right now, pretty much anything that you see is green, odds are that it’s a non-native and invasive plant.”

Many invasive plants are attractive to humans, he said. Many come with lacy flowers that emit pleasant scents, while others appear as a deep rich green blanket on the landscape. They are easy to grow and seem hearty no matter what the conditions. Their attractiveness is a prime reason many of these plants, native to Europe or Asia, are here.

While the early foliage may seem like a good thing, those invasive plants can actually poison the soil and further harm native plants. In contrast, native plants are adapted to the local climate and will attract pollinators more easily, which is good news for those growing fruit and vegetables.

Invasive plants today can take root from landscapers seeking pretty and fast-growing trees for new developments, or by homeowners who want flowering bushes to line their property. Other plants can

come as stowaways on packaging and products shipped from overseas. Even some government fish and wildlife agencies have brought them in to provide food for animals and to help with soil and water conservation, Benton said.

The Bradford pear tree is a classic example. These trees grow fast and bloom with pretty white lacy flowers and a not-so-pleasant smell. Brought in to decorate new suburban developments, they were initially deemed safe and easy to control. They were even considered sterile. Yet, thanks to the bird population that found them tasty, their seeds spread and mixed with a local variety of the plant. Now the hybrid, known as the Callery pear, is quite prolific, Benton said. It’s crowding out native trees, and can be seen flowering among the greenery now.

While the Bradford pear came to the U.S. in 1963, many invasive plants have been here a much longer time. English ivy likely came with colonial settlers, Benton said. The vine creates a tough thicket and needs to climb trees to propagate.

Kristopher Stone, director of the Boone County Arboretum, said Spring Grove cemetery used it in the 1840s as a plot cover.

“So, when people were buried there, they had square plots of English ivy ground cover, and that’s all spread out into their trees,” Stone said. “[Staff is] at war with it all the time, cutting it out of their trees.”

Taking over

Not only do these plants smother out native plants, they can poison the ground so that nothing else can grow, Stone said.

Bush honeysuckle, an early blooming woody bush with small white to yellow flower clusters, is considered enemy No. 1 for this and many other reasons.

Callery pear trees, a hybrid of Bradley pear trees, are in bloom in Northern Kentucky. Photo by Kaitlin Gebby | LINK nky

on the cover

Lesser celandine is popping up across Tower Park in Covington. Photo by Robin Gee | LINK nky contributor

“Honeysuckle is allelopathic, so that means as the foliage on the highest level drops off, and it decomposes, it releases chemicals,” Stone said. “It creates a chemical barrier that prevents other plants from sprouting underneath it.”

In fact, it takes additional time, up to two years, after honeysuckle is cut down for the poison to leave the soil and becomes hospitable once again for other plants.

Bush honeysuckle on a hillside can also contribute to soil erosion and the hillside slides regularly seen in the Northern Kentucky area, according to Brandon Helm.

Helm is the manager of the Stream Restoration Project for the Northern Kentucky University Center for Environmental Restoration.

Honeysuckle has a very shallow root system, he explained. Not only does it smother the herbaceous layer of the forest floor, it can inhibit the growth of the native plants that have deeper roots that would fight erosion by keeping the soil in place.

“So you’re looking at, like, an entire watershed,” Helm said. “Where there’s a lot of honeysuckle, you often see lots of erosion going on, because of the fact that the forest floor underneath is barren...The ground is pretty much bare soil. So groundwater, rainwater, stormwater, is able to flow across that and erode that zone underneath the honeysuckle plants.”

The Kentucky Exotic Pest Plant Council publishes and maintains a list of the most common invasive plants in the state. The list rates plants as either a severe threat, significant threat or lesser threat.

Callery pear and bush honeysuckle are high on the threat list, and English ivy is considered a significant threat, according to the Exotic Pest Plant Council.

Invasive plants create food deserts for wildlife

Leonard Beck, an adjunct professor at Thomas More University and environmental science teacher at Boone County High School, noted the loss of native species has broad and long-term effects.

“Native plants support a lot of wildlife,” Beck said. “If you’re concerned about bees, establishing those native plants is essential. The way things work is you have your native insects and pollinators. And you have these flowers and plants, and they evolve together and are adapted to each other. They have this strong relationship

with each other. And so, when you have invasives, that relationship is lost.”

In fact, for pollinators, a yard or forest full of invasive plants becomes a food desert for those important insects.

“Invasive plants are an issue for a lot of reasons, but they have big impacts all the way through the ecosystem. You lose your insects, that goes all the way through the foodweb, everything else suffers,” Beck said.

Removing invasives and restoring native plants can be difficult, but the results are dramatic, he said.

“I would say just plant natives as much as you can,” Beck said. “They’re beautiful. They’re adapted to live here … Everybody doesn’t have to have a nature preserve in their yard. Even if it’s just some native plants, that’s something.”

Eradication: ‘A one-two punch’

Once an invasive plant is identified, what can be done to cull the problem? Local experts advise residents take these steps:

Educate yourself: Learn all you can about the common invasive plants. Fortunately, there’s a wealth of printed and online resources, organizations devoted to native plant restoration, consultants and free or low-cost training courses.

Take a walk: Do an inventory of your property to identify the invasives and the native plants. Field guides, available on the web or in print, can help.

Be aware: Help stop the spread by checking your clothes and shoes after taking a hike.

Many invasive seeds take their own hike on the bottom of your boots. Pets can spread seeds in their paws, so it’s good to wipe their feet after a trip to the dog park.

Choose an eradication method: You can call in a professional service, but if you decide to tackle the job yourself, get the advice you need, devise a plan of attack and begin. There are different methods, and what you do may depend on the time of year and the tenacity of the plant. Often it’s a combination of eradication methods that works best.

Yanking or digging out shallow-rooted plants is one way. Some plants are easier to pull than others, of course, and you want to be careful to get the roots when you can.

The smothering/heating method can work. This involves covering the area completely with a black plastic cloth to trap in heat to kill the plant. You may have to leave the cloth on all summer, and you may have to combine the method with pulling.

Cutting plants and using herbicide on the stumps is probably the most effective even though a lot of people want to avoid using herbicide. For large swaths and stubborn invasives it may be the only way. Glyphosate glycine, also known by the brand name Roundup, can be put directly on the stumps and is absorbed down into the roots. Timing can be important to get the optimal point in the plant’s growth cycle for it to be effective.

Using herbicides is a tradeoff one must weigh carefully, Beck cautioned.

“You must ask yourself, ‘This will kill all this stuff, but do I want to use it? What are the other effects I will have on the environ-

Callery pear is blooming now all over Northern Kentucky. This invasive is beautiful but deadly to native trees. Photo provided. | The Campbell Conservancy.

ment? Do I want to expose myself to this chemical? Do I have the physical ability to get rid of this stuff, put in the time and effort?’ You have to weigh all this and make the best decision you can,” he said.

Have patience: “Eradication is a twostep process,” Benton said. “It’s a one-two punch.”

Step one is pulling or cutting the plant, applying herbicide or whatever method you choose for the initial volley. You will have to follow up the next year and possibly the next. Some plants have created a large supply of seeds, their own seedbeds in the soil, and those seeds will germinate in year two and possibly beyond.

Get involved: If you want to do more, consider joining one of the nonprofits devoted to supporting native plants. Most are very open to volunteers and offer events where you can lend a hand clearing parks, roadsides and other public areas.

Some states have banned the sale of different invasive species. Kentucky does not allow the sale of pear trees. You can work with others to push for legislation that protects native plants.

Plant natives: Fortunately, interest in native plant species has exploded in recent years. Landscapers have picked up on the trend, and now there are native plant nurseries, garden centers and landscapers. Check out native plant sales as well.

A few of some of the more popular natives are spice bush, a pretty and sturdy bush and an excellent alternative to honeysuckle; river cane, the only bamboo species native to North America; native sumacs; native plums; native grasses; wild flowers. The

list goes on. Native plants can be ordered online as well.

What plants to look for

Tree of Heaven: This large woody tree grows between 60 and 80 feet tall. It spreads all over but is most common in urban areas. Other names for it are Chinese sumac and stink tree. It is known as the host for the despised spotted lanternfly.

Garlic mustard: You can eat this plant, and that’s a plus, but it covers the forest floor and decimates native wildflower populations. It has clusters of white flowers on top and is fairly easy to pull out of the ground.

Japanese stiltgrass: This plant can be seen on hillsides, ditches and other areas that have been disturbed. It grows in thick patches and looks a bit like bamboo. This one you can pull out, but you have to get it at the right time in its cycle, late summer before it flowers.

Lesser celandine: This ground covering likes to grow along waterways and has tiny yellow flowers. There’s a carpet of it along Gunpowder Creek and in several area parks. Be careful with removing this one. The roots have tiny bulbs that make it easy to inadvertently spread.

Multiflora rose: This rose bush has thorns and grows in impenetrable thickets. It can become impossible to walk through. Animals and humans avoid it when they can.

Wintercreeper: Like English ivy, the wintercreeper vine, which stays green all year, needs to climb and cover trees to propagate. A highly aggressive plant, left unchecked it can kill everything in its path, including the forest.

Resources to Learn More:

Boone County

Boone Co. Arboretum

Phone: 859-384-4999

Website: bcarboretum.org

Boone Co. Conservancy

Phone: 859-689-0834

Website: thebooneconservancy.org

Boone Co. Extension Office

Phone: 859-586-6101

Website: boone.ca.uky.edu

Campbell County

Campbell Co. Conservation District

Phone: 859-635-9587

Website: campbellkyconservation.org

The Campbell Conservancy

Phone: 859-635-9587

Website: campbellconservancy.org

Campbell Co. Extension Office

Phone: 859-572-2600

Website: campbell.ca.uky.edu

Kenton County

Kenton Co. Conservation District

Phone: 859-356-1019

Website: kccdky.org

The Kenton Conservancy

Phone: 859-331-8980

Website: kentonconservancy.org

Kenton Co. Cooperative Extension Office

Phone: 859-356-3155

Website: kenton.ca.uky.edu

A flowering teasel plant, yet another invasive plant common to pastures, roadsides and along creeks where flooding is common. Photo provided. | The Campbell Conservancy.

Garlic mustard plant. Later the plant will have clusters of small white flowers at the top of the plant. It’s fairly easy to pull out, and it’s edible. Photo provided. | The Campbell Conservancy.

How one NKY family prepared for the passage of ‘anti-trans’ legislation

BY MARK PAYNE | LINK nky REPORTER

When Nancy Bardgett’s daughter came out as transgender, she was thankful that Jordan was able to receive the care she needed.

In addition to having a supportive family, Jordan, a student at Northern Kentucky University at the time, received mental-health support.

“She had supportive friends and she sought out resources and knew where to look for help,” Nancy said.

But, under a new Kentucky law, children under the age of 18 won’t be able to receive that care — placing an already-vulnerable population at a higher risk of self-harm.

In 2022, the Trevor Project conducted a survey on the mental health of the LGBTQ community and found suicide is the second leading cause of death for people ages 10 to 24. Further, LGBTQ-questioning youth are at a significantly increased risk.

“You look at the American Medical Association, The Trevor project, and all the data is very clear,” Gov. Andy Beshear said. “We should be in the business of preventing teen suicides and never contributing to it.”

Proponents of Senate Bill 150 say LGBTQ advocates are using suicide to put kids and their health in the crosshairs on this issue.

The bill became law March 29 when Republican lawmakers overrode Gov. Andy Beshear’s veto.

The bill, which is co-sponsored by Sen. Shelley Funke Frommeyer (R-Alexandria), John Schickel (R-Union), and Gex Williams (R-Verona), bans puberty blockers, gender-affirming surgery, or hormones for those under the age of 18. It would also prohibit schools from teaching sexual orientation or gender identity in classrooms and force transgender students to use the bathroom that aligns with the gender they were assigned at birth.

Opponents of the bill say it’s one of the worst pieces of “anti-trans” and “anti-LGBTQ” legislation in the country. But proponents say it would protect parental rights.

“As far as the parental rights issue, this is something that is happening all over the country,” Senate Majority Floor Leader Damon Thayer (R-Georgetown) said. “There is a lot of concern about parental rights in schools. I think it’s partially due to COVID and all the virtual learning, and parents got a front-row seat to what was happening in schools everywhere.”

One of the challenges as a parent, Bardgett said, was understanding her daughter when she came out — something she admits she wasn’t perfect about as she fumbled over pronouns. But she worked on it.

“One of the things that is so horrible about this bill is it’s just this effort to not let anybody understand,” Bardgett said.

The bill would prevent teachers from discussing human sexuality in classrooms in

any grade level. It would also prevent any sex education for those under grade 3; and without parents first opting-in for grades 6-12.

Bardgett also said that people think trans parents indoctrinate their kids, but she and her husband, Mark, didn’t necessarily want this for their daughter. They felt it might put her in harm’s way. But they also wanted their daughter to know they support her no matter what.

In Fort Thomas, where the Bardgetts live, Nancy feels SB 150 is not what Kentucky residents stand for.

“This isn’t the people of Kentucky,” saidBardgett, who volunteers with the Campbell County Democrats, Brighton Center and in her church. “This is certain people in the Kentucky legislature.”

‘Each session takes on a life of its own’

In October, Thayer spoke at the Covington Business Council’s legislative preview and said the 2023 legislative session would be slow-paced.

In odd-numbered years, the Kentucky legislature holds 30-day sessions as opposed to 60-day budget sessions in even-numbered years.

In 2022, with Republican supermajorities in both the House and Senate, the legislature passed bills that banned abortion, cut unemployment benefits, reduced the income tax, and set the state’s budget for 2023 and 2024.

The 2023 session would, according to Thayer, whose district stretches into southern Kenton County, be about cleaning up some of the legislation from 2022, including further reducing the income tax.

LGBTQ advocates hold a sign during a protest after the passage of Senate Bill 150, also known as Kentucky’s “anti-trans” legislation. Photo by Mark Payne | LINK nky

Instead, the 2023 session evolved into one focused on passing an omnibus piece of legislation focused on limiting healthcare resources to transgender minors and how gender and sexuality are discussed in schools.

Thayer also said that while leadership expected the session to be slow, the legislature is driven by its members.

“Each session takes on a life of its own,” Thayer said.

A ‘clash of worldviews’

The legislation first appeared in the House as HB 470 in early March, when the House Judiciary Committee passed it. The passage came amid LGBTQ advocates lining the hallways of the Kentucky Capitol annex, chanting “shame” as legislators passed.

After it passed the committee, and with tears in her eyes, Northern Kentucky Rep. Kim Banta (R-Fort Mitchell) said she’d worked hard to prevent conversion therapy in the LGBTQ community, and that this was another step backwards.

“I’m really upset for families right now,” Banta said. “I’m upset because I feel like we denigrated the medical profession. I feel like we’re making people feel less than and I don’t like that.”

In 2021, Banta introduced legislation that would have banned conversion therapy in the Commonwealth. Banta said she tried to approach it from the angle that it is bad therapy practice.

“I tried very hard to get people to understand that I was not trying to change their religion or their belief or their thought about being gay,” Banta said.

The bill never received any movement in the legislature.

“People were way too afraid that it was going to infringe on their religious liberty,” Banta said. “I would never try to control someone’s religious liberty.”

Banta cut parts of the bill to appease some religious members of the House but felt it would be gutting the bill if she cut it anymore. She didn’t reintroduce the legislation in 2022.

When it comes to religious liberty, no group lobbies the legislature more than the Kentucky Family Foundation — a Christian organization that spent more than $13,000 to lobby the legislature in 2022 to follow “biblical values.”

David Walls, a Texas transplant, took over as the foundation’s executive director at the end of 2021. In the last two years, Walls has appeared regularly in the legislature, not only lobbying but also providing testimony on legislation deemed important by the organization.

According to the Kentucky Legislative Ethics Commission, the group lobbies for legislation related to parental rights, the protection of children, religious liberty, the sanctity of human life, and gambling.

During Walls’ nearly two years in Kentucky, the legislature pushed through an omnibus abortion bill and this year’s omnibus “anti-trans” bill.

When Walls lived in Texas, he worked for a company called Texas Values — a spinoff of the First Liberty Institute, an organization fighting for what it calls religious freedom and Judeo-Christian values.

“All of this desire to address this issue was at a place of wanting to protect kids and wanting to keep parents empowered and in the driver’s seat of what happens to them,” Walls said. “And part of this is just a clash of worldviews.”

Walls also said that LGBTQ advocates are using the conversation over mental health and suicide in a way that’s harmful.

“I think it is tremendously harmful and outright shameful the way in which LGBTQ advocates and the governor and others are trying to use the topic of suicide to put kids and their health and well-being in the crosshairs on this issue,” Walls said.

Parents who opposed the bill argue it strips them of their rights to take care of their children’s healthcare.

Both sides presented their arguments during the House Judiciary Committee hearing for HB 470.

Chris Bolling, a retired pediatrician from NKY, said the bill would make it nearly impossible for pediatric medical providers to provide gender-affirming care in the Commonwealth, as the legislation would be punitive for doctors with the potential to lose their license.

“It labels medical treatment, that is the standard of care for patients with gender dysphoria, as unprofessional and unethical,” Bolling said. “It mandates the revocation of the license of any provider who provides or refers to the care and criminalizes not reporting to minors who are referring to this care.”

NKY Rep. Kim Moser (R-Taylor Mill) said the bill sets Kentucky back decades.

“I understand the desire to keep our kids safe from predatory actions, but I don’t think that’s what’s happening,” Moser said. “I think this is, unfortunately, short-sighted and discriminatory.”

While many Kentuckians advocated against the bill, primarily out-of-state speakers touted it during the 2023 legislative session.

Luka Hein, a Wisconsin resident who travels the country testifying to state legislatures, explained she once identified as transgender, changing her pronouns to he/ him. When she was 16, she received a double mastectomy and hormone therapy before detransitioning later in life. She urged the committee to vote in favor of the bill.

“I was affirmed on a path of medical intervention that I could not fully understand the long-term impacts and consequences of, nor fully consent to use it with my age and mental health,” Hein said.

Dr. Christian Van Mol, who serves on the boards of Bethel Church of Redding and Moral Revolution — a California megachurch that gained notoriety for something called “grave sucking” where members would lie on the graves of dead revivalists and believed they would absorb the dead person’s anointing from God — testified during the House Judiciary Committee meeting.

“Transition affirming medical interventions actually imperil at-risk and gender dysphoric youth,” Van Mol said in the committee meeting.

After the bill passed the committee, legislators ushered the bill to the House floor and quickly took up a vote.

As advocates chanted outside the House chamber, members voted to pass the bill by a vote of 75-22.

Moser’s statement on the floor noted that the eyes of the world were on Kentucky.

“I would like to say to the rest of the world that’s watching Kentucky — we are not complete Neanderthals,” Moser said.

In addition to Moser and Banta, NKY Rep. Stephanie Dietz (R-Edgewood) provided

Continued from page 7 the only Republican no votes.

Bardgett regarded those no votes as acts of kindness from legislators.

“I will tell you some of my heroes in this, and what I keep saying to people, are some of the Northern Kentucky legislators who voted no,” Bardgett said. “Because they were listening to their hearts and to their constituents, and not to their party leaders.”

A February Mason-Dixon Poll found that 71% of Kentuckians opposed any such law, with 83% of Democrats and 62% of Republicans in opposition. The poll showed that most Kentuckians would rather leave that decision up to parents.

NKY lawmaker takes center stage in push to pass bill in Senate

After the bill cleared the House, it appeared in the Senate, and Sen. Gex Williams took a central role in the strategy to push HB 470 through the upper chamber of the Kentucky legislature.

Standing on the Senate steps near 11 p.m. on March 15, the Wednesday night before the veto period, Williams strategized with David Walls, the executive director of the Family Foundation, Sen. Adrienne Southworth (R-Lawrenceburg), and Sen. Lindsey Tichenor (R-Smithfield), about how to push through the bill.

The impromptu strategy session came moments after Williams motioned to table the bill to the Senate clerk’s desk — a temporary strategy to delay the vote and give the Senate time to get enough votes to pass the legislation.

The motion came after Williams filed two amendments — one early in the evening and the other later in the evening — that

mirrored a law passed in South Dakota and signed into law by Gov. Kristi Noem in February that bans puberty blockers, gender-affirming surgery, and cross-sex hormones.

The amendments provided exceptions for those who must take hormones for health reasons but would ban gender-affirming surgery or medication.

Nearly 12 hours later, the legislature quickly moved to pass the legislation by putting the language from House Bill 470 into a committee substitute and put it into Senate Bill 150 — a bill that initially gave teachers the option to use the pronouns of transgender students’ choosing.

The move to pass the bill started in the House when a surprise House Education meeting was called during lunch the day before the veto period on March 16. There was one agenda item — Senate Bill 150.

The move gave legislators on the committee and in the House little time to read and understand the bill.

Republicans then rushed the bill to the House floor, where a vote quickly took place, but not before Democrats spent nearly two hours trying to stall it.

“This shouldn’t be a trust exercise,” Beshear said, criticizing the maneuver. “Every legislator should have the time, as should the public, to read anything that’s coming up for a committee or for a legislative vote.”

Rep. David Meade (R-Stanford), who carried the bill in the House, cited a statistic that 66% of Kentuckians want this legislation.

But Meade wouldn’t cite the source for the statistic, and House Communications staff didn’t respond with where Meade received the numbers.

On the Senate floor after voting yes on the passage of SB 150, Williams said the bill was about love and concern from rising suicide rates over what he deemed to be issues with transgender people taking drugs to change their biological sex.

“When you introduce drugs, and you try to fight 30 or 40 trillion cells in your body, using drugs, the outcome is not going to be good,” Williams said.

‘Purely political vantage point’

The lone Democrat in the NKY caucus, House Minority Whip Rachel Roberts (D-Newport), didn’t mince words when speaking about this legislation.

“I don’t think it’s just the worst anti-trans bill in the country,” Roberts said. “I think this is one of the worst anti-LGBTQ bills in the country.”

Roberts also said the bill is a political move in a gubernatorial election year, as Republicans try to oust Democrat Andy Beshear from the governor’s office.

Outside of Beshear, Republicans control every branch of Kentucky’s government, including both chambers of the legislature and all the state’s constitutional seats — attorney general, treasurer, secretary of state, state auditor, agriculture commissioner — except for the state’s top seat.

“I think the push for this is coming from a purely political vantage point,” Roberts said. “It’s a calculated messaging strategy on the majority party side that they think is going to help them win elections this year and the constitutional seats that are up for election, and that will be part of their messaging.”

Senate Bill 150’s sponsor is Sen. Max Wise (R-Campbellsville), who is the running mate of Kelly Craft — a former United Na-

tions ambassador appointed by former President Donald Trump who is running for governor this year.

When Beshear vetoed the bill on March 24 and said, “I believe Senate Bill 150 tears away the freedom of parents to make important and difficult medical decisions for their kids,” Republicans across the state, including Wise and Craft, immediately attacked Beshear.

“As governor, I will fight any attempt to sexualize our children and rob them of their futures,” Craft wrote in a statement. “It’s time we dismantle the Department of Education and start fresh. Governor Beshear doesn’t have the leadership to do it, but the Craft-Wise Administration will deliver on that promise.”

Roberts argued that the “anti-trans” message is the one that will replace the abortion message — after the fall of Roe v. Wade in 2022 triggered a law that banned the procedure in Kentucky.

“They needed the latest shiny penny thing that they could try and rally voters around, and tragically that seems to be them targeting some of the most vulnerable children in our community,” Roberts said.

While the bill played out politically in the Kentucky statehouse and in this year’s gubernatorial race, it has real world implications for trans Kentuckians. Jordan, who now attends graduate school in Illinois, has questioned whether she’ll return to the Commonwealth when she finishes her studies, according to her mother, Nancy Bardgett.

Worse, Bardgett said, is that this bill will have a major impact on school aged children, with some parents starting to question whether they will move out of state.

Covington commission increases short-term rental penalties

BY NATHAN GRANGER | LINK nky REPORTER

The Covington City Commission unanimously voted to increase penalties for short-term rental property owners who have failed to obtain licensing from the city.

The vote, which occurred during the March 28 meeting, is the end of a months-long process of investigation, deliberation and revision of measures related to short-term rentals.

More commonly referred to as Airbnbs, after the web service where such properties are advertised, short-term rental properties are private residences that owners rent out for short stays – typically fewer than 30 days.

Covington is a popular destination for short-term rentals due to its proximity to the riverfront. Short-term renters will frequently find an inexpensive room in Covington so that they can then travel across the river for big events, like sports games, concerts and conventions.

The ordinance marks the latest in a series of escalating penalties for short-term rental landlords who have failed to obtain proper licensing from the city. It aims to prevent delinquent landlords from applying for short-term rental licenses for a year after being notified of their violation. Other penalties were already in place, including fines of up to $1,000 per day of operating without proper licensing, tax audits, and liens and foreclosures in extreme cases.

Property owners who had already obtained proper licensing can still operate their properties legally but cannot apply for new licenses for new properties until the freeze is lifted. The moratorium ends in June.

The commission had initially planned on voting on the penalty during the legislative meeting on Feb. 28 but decided not to vote at the advice of City Solicitor David Davidson. Davidson said he believed that the original text of the ordinance lacked enough due process for violators and suggested the commission amend the ordinance to allow people to defend themselves before the city’s code enforcement board before being barred from applying for new licenses. This had the effect of pushing the vote back two legislative sessions.

Short-term property owners attended the meetings to share how the new penalties could negatively impact them.

Many expressed the hope for a provisional license for landlords who had begun the process of licensing but failed to complete the process before the city instituted the moratorium.

Despite the statements from property owners, at least two community organizations have come out in favor of increased regulations for delinquent landlords.

“We became concerned that there could be a proliferation of short-term rentals, which could erode the fabric of the community and its unique character,” said Patrick Hughes, the president of the Historic Licking Riverside Civic Association, in a phone call with LINK nky last week. “These [neighborhoods] are where people live. I don’t think it’s appropriate to have shortterm rentals, which are the equivalent of a micro hotel, in your neighborhood.”

Hughes said that he’s not against shortterm rentals universally — he even disclosed that the law firm he works for rep-

resents a short-term rental owner — but he’s in favor of punitive measures like the license application suspension. He also favors barring short-term rentals from operating in primarily residential areas.

“For the first time since the ’70s, there’s young families moving back into our neighborhood with young children,” Hughes said. “You know, you’d like to have that sense of safety, and it’s fine when people come for their weddings or a picnic or the tour; that’s all great. When people are coming in and having parties, are using it as a base camp for sports events or concerts, it begins to take on the character of an entertainment district.”

To that end, he favors restricting shortterm rentals to areas already zoned for entertainment.

Brandon Galeas, the president of Mutter Gottes, or Mother of God, Neighborhood Association, shares similar sentiments.

Galeas admits that short-term rentals are often profitable for cities and local landlords who reside in the area.

The problem is that over-saturation of short-term rentals in a neighborhood can fray the sense of community that comes from having long-term neighbors who share common interests.

“Honestly, [you] don’t really interact with your neighbors that are short-term renters,” Galeas said. “And so it kind of makes you feel like you’re on an island if you’re surrounded by short-term rental properties.”

He said people are concerned about prop-

erties being purchased by non-local landlords for short-term rentals and then falling into disrepair.

But Galeas admitted that the process could be better, especially when it came to obtaining conditional zoning from the architectural board.

“It’s not clear,” Galeas said. “And that’s a big issue for the people who operate the properties. Like, the rules aren’t clear. They have to get conditional approval, but they’re not told what kind of density the city allows or what the density currently is. Unless they ask somebody, they don’t know the process to get approved.”

After the vote, Davidson addressed the possibility for a provisional license, saying it wouldn’t currently be possible to issue provisional licenses without rewriting city ordinance. What’s more, provisional licensure would likely cause problems for zoning, he claimed, as anyone who wished to legally rent out space on a short-term basis had to first obtain conditional licensing. Provisional licensing could potentially side-step that safeguard if implemented poorly.

At the end of the public comment section, Mayor Joe Meyer announced that public hearings would take place within the next two weeks, where anyone from the community could come and engage with commissioners in public dialogue on the issue. He also encouraged attendees to sign up for the city’s email announcements.

An exact date, time and place for the public hearing was not determined at the meeting.

kenton county news briefs

Dewey’s Pizza officially opens inside Braxton’s Covington taproom

Braxton’s Covington taproom hours are Sunday through Thursday from 4 to 9 p.m. and Friday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m.

Holmes High School teacher arrested at school for child porn charges

A teacher at Holmes High School in Covington was arrested on March 28 at the school and will face charges tied to child pornography, according to Wilmington, Ohio police.

Additional evidence that was discovered by investigators is being examined by a computer forensic analysis, police said.

Juillerat said Morren was employed at the high school until March 28, when he was arrested by police “at his place of employment.”

Alvin Garrison, superintendent of Covington Independent Schools, released a statement March 29.

operating with the investigation.

Counselors will be on hand at the district for students and staff who may need them.

Group wants minority contractors included in Brent Spence project after fears they’re being sidelined

After months of anticipation, Dewey’s Pizza has opened inside of Braxton Brewery’s Covington taproom.

In October of last year, Braxton announced Dewey’s would be opening a space inside their taproom on Facebook.

“With Dewey’s Pizza as our new neighbors, we feel we’ll be able to continue bringing a one-of-a-kind taproom experience to locals who already know and love this iconic Cincinnati brand,” said Jake Rouse, Braxton co-founder and CEO, in a press release.

Police said Samuel Morren was arrested and will face two counts of pandering obscenities involving a minor. He will be extradited back to Wilmington as his case continues, police said.

“The initial cyber tip reporter was the company Reddit Inc., where child pornography was being reproduced and possessed,” wrote Detective Codey Juillerat with the Wilmington police in a press release. “Numerous search warrants were served to identify Mr. Morren as the suspect.”

According to Garrison, Morren has been employed in the district since 2021, teaching Spanish and serving as an assistant soccer and e-sports coach. Garrison said Morren resigned from his position that same morning.

“Please note that it is the district’s policy that any prospective employee must be subject to a criminal background check before their hiring,” wrote Garrison in the statement. “A background check was conducted on this individual and no criminal history was found.”

The district is taking the allegations against Morren seriously, Garrison said, and is co-

“We want the bridge to be built, we know the bridge needs to be built, but we must be inclusive.”

An Ohio organization wants to make sure minority contractors are included in the Brent Spence Bridge Corridor Project.

The American Center for Economic Equality and The Black Contractors Group sent a letter to U.S. Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg over their concerns that minority contractors are allegedly being excluded.

“We’ve been excluded in the construction industry. We have been left out of the construction industry. These are our tax dollars. The contractors have to listen that we

Dewey’s Pizza has officially opened inside Braxton Brewery’s taproom in Covington. Photo provided | Braxton Brewing Company

are not going to take it anymore,” said President of ACEE/The Black Contractors Group Norman Edwards.

In response to Edwards’ claims, Matt Bruning with the Ohio Department of Transportation sent this statement on behalf of the Brent Spence Bridge Corridor Project team:

“This is a historic project, and we are committed to ensuring minority-owned businesses will participate in the opportunities provided by this $3.6 billion project. The project team established a Diversity and Inclusion Steering Committee and has hosted several outreach events targeted directly at minority-owned companies, the latest of which drew more [than] 250 people. We want the people building this project to reflect the people who live by and will use this vital link for decades to come. We appreciate the passion Mr. Edwards has as a champion of minority-owned contractors and look forward to continuing to work with him and others in the minority-business community to meet our goal.”

No one has been awarded the contract for this project.

Edwards attended the latest meeting on March 7 hosted by the Ohio Department of Transportation and the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet. He described it as a meet and greet event where smaller contractors could try to get on a team of larger contracting companies that would submit a bid on the Brent Spence Bridge Corridor Project.

Edwards said he was told by representatives that the larger companies in attendance would be working together and submit one bid.

“I’ve never seen that before. You had no Blacks or minorities participating at that top level,” Edwards said. “When I talked to several contractors and business owners who attended the meeting, everybody left from there with the same feeling that they’d been cheated. You know when they talk to the different people at the booths and tables, you know, they come away with we’re getting nothing again.”

If this is true, Edwards doesn’t believe anyone else will submit a rival bid and there will be little to no room for minority contractors.

Cincinnati City Councilmember Meeka Owens read the letter submitted by Edwards. She said diversity and inclusion are key to the bridge’s success.

“I have seen the letter and it’s something we want to focus on of course. It’s important that with almost a $4 billion project that we understand these dollars are going to minority communities, women, people of color, Black, Brown, and so I am definitely looking forward to seeing what those goals are and really how those goals can increase based on the magnitude of the project,” Owens said.

Edwards noted he is ready to protest if he feels like minority contractors are not being represented fairly in this project.

“I would like to see 10% of the contracts be awarded and that’s not asking for too much and I’d like the workforce to be at least 2025 percent Black or minority on the project,” Edwards said.

Officials are asking the public for their feedback on the project.

Former head football coach named grand marshal of Fort Mitchell’s Independence Day parade

Former head football coach of Beechwood High school

Noel Rash has been named grand marshal of Fort Mitchell’s Independence Day parade, per a statement from the city.

Rash became an assistant coach at Beechwood High School in 2000 and was promoted to the head coach position six years later. He led the team to 200 wins and eight state titles during his tenure.

The parade will begin at 12:30 p.m. on July 4 at the DCCH Center for Children and Families campgrounds on Orphanage Street. The parade will proceed through town before concluding at the Beechwood Schools central office on Beechwood Road.

For more information, email City of Fort Mitchell Programs & Communications Coordinator Joe Christofield at jchristofield@ fortmitchell.com, or call him at (859) 3311212. You can also view event information at the city’s event page.

Noel Rash with a plaque commemorating his team’s state titles. Photo: provided | The City of Fort Mitchell

news from other places

Man accused of stabbing Senate staffer after prison release

lawmakers voted to override the Democratic governor’s veto of the bill, and was part of an effort to sway Republicans the other direction before the vote. A companion radio ad features Trey Grayson, a former Republican secretary of state in Kentucky. The Fairness Campaign paid for the commercials.

2 fishermen caught cheating at Ohio tournament plead guilty

WASHINGTON (AP) — A U.S. Senate staffer remained hospitalized March 28 after police say he was attacked leaving a restaurant in Washington this weekend by a man who had been released from federal prison a day earlier.Authorities say 42-year-old Glynn Neal was arrested in the attack a day after he was released from federal prison for good behavior. Republican U.S. Sen. Rand Paul of Kentucky says victim Phillip Todd is a member of his staff. Todd told investigators he had never seen Neal before, and he did not say or demand anything before coming from around a corner and attacking him while he was walking with a friend. Investigators believe the attack was random.

Foes of Kentucky transgender bill push back with radio ads

FRANKFORT, Ky. (AP) — A well-known Kentucky Republican has blasted the GOP’s push for transgender legislation. Former GOP state lawmaker Bob Heleringer calls it “a bad look for the party of Abraham Lincoln” in a radio ad. The ad came days before

CLEVELAND (AP) — Two men accused of stuffing fish with lead weights and fish fillets in an attempt to win an Ohio fishing tournament last fall have pleaded guilty to charges including cheating.

The two men have also agreed to threeyear suspensions of their fishing licenses. Both are scheduled to be sentenced May 11. Prosecutors plan to recommend a sentence of six months’ probation. The cheating allegations surfaced in September. A walleye fishing tournament director became suspicious when their fish were significantly heavier than typical walleye. They would have won a little over $28,000 in prizes for winning the tournament.

Crews work to recover

3 barges that got loose on Ohio River

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (AP) — Crews were working March 29 to remove three remaining barges that got loose on the Ohio River, including one carrying methanol. The Kentucky Energy and Environment Cabinet says a total of 10 barges got loose early on Tuesday, March 28, on the river near Louisville.

Most were recovered, but the U.S Army Corp of Engineers says three were pinned against the McAlpine Locks and Dam and the locks are closed to traffic until the barges are stabilized. Kentucky officials say one barge was carrying 1,400 tons of methanol and was partially submerged. Methanol, also known as wood alcohol, is a colorless liquid that’s flammable and acutely toxic. Louisville Metro Emergency Services told news outlets they’re monitoring air and water, but “there is zero evidence of a tank breach or any leaks.”

Kingsbarns leads wire to wire to win $1M Louisiana Derby

NEW ORLEANS (AP) — Kingsbarns led wire to wire to win the $1 million Louisiana Derby by four lengths and earn 100 qualifying points for the Kentucky Derby. Ridden by Flavien Prat and trained by Todd Pletcher, Kingsbarns ran 1 3/16 miles 1:57.33 to remain unbeaten in three races.

He was 9-2 second favorite in the field of 12 at post time and paid $11 to win. The result virtually assures the 3-year-old colt a spot in the 20-horse field for the Kentucky Derby on May 6. Disarm was second and Jace’s Road was another two lengths back in third. Favorite and Lecomte Stakes winner Instant Coffee finished sixth after falling back

Horse racing’s national anti-doping program in effect

Horse racing’s efforts to clean up the sport and level the playing field are taking another step forward with the launch of a new anti-doping program. It’s an attempt to centralize the drug testing of racehorses and manage the results, while doling out uniform penalties to horses and trainers that will replace the current patchwork rules that vary from state to state. The Horseracing Integrity and Safety Act known as HISA started its anti-doping program March 27. But there are ongoing legal issues that won’t allow the anti-doping program to immediately start in every state.

Horses gallop after the start in the $12 million Group 1 Dubai World Cup over 2000m (10 furlongs) at the Meydan racecourse in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, Saturday, March 25, 2023. Photo by Martin Dokoupil | Associate Press

The Capitol on March 15, 2023, in Washington.

Photo by J. Scott Applewhite | Associated Press

Transgender-rights advocates gather near the Kentucky House chamber on March 2, 2023, in Frankfort. Photo by Bruce Schreiner | Associated Press

Walton student earns full-ride through selective scholarship program

The site also notes that “leadership development is at the core of the Stamps Scholarship program” and a key part of the selection process.

Each year, just 250 students from across the country are selected to receive Stamps Scholarships. Mercer University in Macon, Georgia selected McLagan for the program and arranged to surprise her with the news via Zoom while she was at school. McLagan’s parents and brother, Ryan, a Villa Madonna freshman, were on hand for the surprise.

McLagan will receive full tuition, room and board, plus a stipend for study abroad or research projects.

test in which previous winners include Truman Capote, Sylvia Plath, John Lithgow, and Ken Burns.

Students all over the country submit their writing, competing at a regional level and those that win Gold Keys at that level proceed to the national competition. Covington Classical Academy students have won multiple awards at the regional level, but Cornett is one of seven students in the Tristate to win a medal at the national level.

Rick Hulefeld announces retirement from Learning Grove after 43 years

Covington in 1979. From there, one center grew into a network of centers and family supports, eventually becoming Children, Inc. before merging with Cincinnati Early Learning Center in early 2020 to form Learning Grove.

“Here is what the 77-year-old me has learned: That when we dreamed deeply enough about something that would make a difference for others, even when we didn’t know how we would get it done, we began it anyhow,” Hulefeld said. “Life sent us what we needed.”

Villa Madonna Academy senior Kathryn McLagan, of Walton, was recently recognized as a Stamps Scholar, according to an announcement from the school.

“The Stamps Scholars Program, with its partner schools, seeks students who demonstrate academic merit, strong leadership potential, and exceptional character,” according to its website.

CovCath student brings home scholastic writing award

Bella Cornett, sophomore at Covington Classical Academy, won a Silver Key for her poetry entry at the national Scholastic Writing Competition.

Celebrating its 100th year, the Scholastic Writing Competition is a prestigious con-

Longtime Northern Kentucky leader Rick Hulefeld has announced his retirement from Learning Grove, a nonprofit serving the region for more than 40 years through research-based educational services prenatally through college and career.

Most recently, Hulefeld served as the organization’s President of Special Projects.

Hulefeld became the executive director of the Cathedral Child Development Center in

Prior to the merger with Cincinnati Early Learning Center to launch Learning Grove, Hulefeld spearheaded Children Inc.’s extensive programming as its Chief Executive Officer. In 2017, he transitioned his role to allow for new leadership, with Shannon Starkey-Taylor coming to the helm. Starkey-Taylor continued to grow the agency, facilitating the massive merger to nearly double each agency’s scope and footprint of services. Hulefeld’s retirement was official in December 2022, and his tenure with the agency will be celebrated in May.

Villa Madonna Academy senior Kathryn McLagan, of Walton, poses for a photo with her family after receiving a full scholarship to Mercer University in Macon, Georgia. Photo provided | Villa Madonna Academy

Edgewood home made for those who love the classics

Address: 730 Hurstborne Lane, Edgewood

Price: $699,000

Beds: Six bedrooms

Bath: Five full bathrooms

Sqft: 6,149 on a 0.7-acre lot

School district: Kenton County Public Schools

County: Kenton

Special features: This home has nine-foot ceilings and a detached living area separate from the main home that would be suitable for an apartment or in-law suite. Inside and out, this home is made for lovers of colonial-era architecture and interior design. A curved staircase greets guests in the foyer, and the remainder of the home is decorated to suit the historical style that was revived and made popular again in the 1980s, when this home was built. Living areas have focal point fireplaces, large windows with a view of a wooded area in the backyard, and large exposed beams complement the family den. Downstairs is a finished basement with a bar, and an unfinished area for storage.

Recent NKY Home Sale Data

WHO YOU’RE WITH MATTERS

An exterior view of the home shows off its colonial-era architecture features. Photo provided | Huff Realty Florence

A curved staircase is the focal point of the foyer. Photo provided | Huff Realty Florence

Exposed beams and a stone fireplace round out the family den space. Photo provided | Huff Realty Florence

LINK Streetscapes: Eat your way through Mt. Zion Road

STORY AND PHOTOS BY MARIA HEHMAN | LINK nky CONTRIBUTOR

It’s a rarity on this Streetscapes series to find one area where Northern Kentucky natives could truly spend an entire day, from breakfast to dinnertime. Off the winding Mt. Zion exit awaits three locally owned businesses that will have guests covered for all three meals.

This Streetscapes, we head to Mt. Zion Road. We’ll start with a coffee and doughnut and end with a beer and BBQ.

Pink in a Blanket Doughnuts

When it comes to breakfast, one of the ongoing heated debates is savory versus sweet. Being that it is the most important meal of the day, a person has to choose which is going to start their day off right.

Pink in a Blanket Doughnuts has found a solution to the debate with their innovative titular food: a pink in a blanket. For those who’ve yet to visit either of their Mt. Zion or Burlington Pike locations, let me enlighten you on their creation. A pink in a blanket is a breakfast version of a pig in a blanket in which they replace the hot dog with a breakfast sausage and wrap it in a croissant.

A balanced mix of savory and sweet, it is truly perfection in a hand-held treat. For those who truly love some sugar to kickstart their day, they cover the gamut of doughnut offerings.

Classic glazed, sprinkled, jelly-filled, or a custard-filled long John, they have everything for your sweet tooth. For guests on the savory side, they have breakfast sandwiches that are custom-made to your liking.

Regardless of whether you like savory or sweet, most anyone can agree all mornings should start with a coffee. They can make your coffee hot, iced, latte or frappe, and have 13 different flavors that can be added to your drink. If there’s one thing we can all agree on, it’s coffee and doughnuts are the perfect pair.

Buffalo Bob’s Family Restaurant

There are very few things more “Kentucky” than bourbon and beer; add in burgers and wings and that about sums up Buffalo Bob’s Family Restaurant.

This locally owned and operated restaurant strives to keep the atmosphere both fun and family friendly. With a separate bar and television area, those wanting to connect with family can do so away from the excitement that often comes with sports bars. Guests looking to take advantage of their robust bar menu will be delighted and overwhelmed by what seems like endless options. Rotating 20 draft beer choices seems like nothing compared to the bourbon selection that has over 100 – yes, 100 – different bourbons.

As the weather gets warmer, guests can also opt to enjoy their meals on the spacious patio. Before ordering their famous wings and burgers, their fried mushrooms are the perfect starter. For those with kids, their tater kegs (supersized tater tots loaded with bacon and cheddar cheese) will be a satisfying snack for everyone in your family.

Smokin’ This and That BBQ

This family barbeque joint will feel more like stepping into a friend’s backyard BBQ than into a restaurant. Everybody knows everybody, the atmosphere is relaxed and welcoming, and like all true barbeques, the food is amazing.

In true BBQ fashion the food is served on disposable plates and seats are picnic bench style. They smoke the meat outside in several custom-made smokers. Guests’ mouths will be watering the moment they pull in the parking lot. Their signature dish, BBQ parfait, is served with your choice of smoked pork or brisket topped with beans, house-made slaw and BBQ sauce. You get the best of their foods all in one convenient cup.

The owner, Guy Cummins, has strived to create a place that is community driven. They host charity events and are available for private events. Because of their focus on

community and service, Smokin’ This and That BBQ offers discounts to veterans and first responders.

What to Know If You Go:

Pink in a Blanket Doughnuts

Location: 202 Mt. Zion Road, Florence

Hours: Sunday through Saturday 6 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Phone: (859) 918-1302

Buffalo Bob’s Family Restaurant

Location: 9910 Berberich Drive, Florence

Hours: Sunday through Thursday 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Friday and Saturday 11 a.m. to 11 p.m.

Website: eatatbobs.com

Phone: (859) 371-5244

Smokin’ This and That BBQ

Location: 10020 Demia Way, Florence

Hours: Monday through Thursday 10 a.m. to 9 p.m., Friday and Saturday 10 a.m. to 10 p.m., Sunday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Website: smokinthisandthatbbq.com

Phone: (859) 817-0492

Putting a bow-tie on the basketball season

BY EVAN DENNISON | LINK nky SPORTS EDITOR

If the 2022-23 season could be described in a few short words, the season of record-breaking performances is the way it could be summarized.

Whether it be Holy Cross senior Jacob Meyer breaking the all-time scoring record in the Ninth Region or St. Henry boys basketball coach Dave Faust breaking the Ninth Region wins record, plenty of milestones were reached during the season.

Over the course of the season, it may seem rather long come the dog days of late January, early February, but in reality it’s a 12week sprint to Rupp Arena.

There were banner seasons, and not just on the regional level. Holy Cross’ girls team won the All “A” state tournament for the second time in program history while the boys’ team at Holy Cross came up just short in the championship game, trying to become the first school to claim the smallschool titles in the same season. Julia Hunt was named MVP on the girls side while Meyer was MVP on the boys side. Hunt just missed a triple double in the finale, posting 21 points, 19 rebounds and nine blocked shots against Bethlehem. Meyer posted 49 points in the championship tilt against Evangel Christian, scoring 157 points in the state tournament for an All “A” all-time record in the tourney.

Meyer finished his senior season as the leading scorer in the state for the second straight season, this time finishing with 36.8 points per game, a slight drop from his 38.2 points per game during the 202122 season. He has his choice of about 15 colleges of where he’ll play next and at the time of this column, that decision has not

been made yet. Meyer finished with 3,280 points and was named Co-Ninth Region Player of the Year along with Covington Catholic senior Evan Ipsaro, who averaged 25.2 points per game, 5.1 assists and 4.8 rebounds a contest. Ipsaro will be taking his talents about two hours north to Miami of Ohio.

How about the long-distance shooters? Highlands’ Will Herald can claim the Ninth Region all-time 3-point shots made record with 343 and top 10 all-time in KHSAA history. Notre Dame sharpshooter Noelle Hubert was awarded after the season for leading the state in 3-pointers with 3.6 per game. Hubert is headed to Northern Kentucky University to continue her education and basketball career.

A talented brother-sister duo at Conner accomplished a feat that’s never been seen in Hebron. Landen and Anna Hamilton clearing the 1,000-point plateau in a matter of days from one another. Landen graduates in May while Anna still has a senior year to go.

Another Hamilton had a special season, this one at Campbell County as Aydan Hamilton set the Camels all-time scoring mark and finished his high school basketball career with 2,216 points. Hamilton is one that can be labeled a “special” athlete as he’ll be headed to the University of Kentucky in the fall on a baseball scholarship. Hamilton heads out with his coach, Aric Russell, who retired after the season with the most wins in program history, 274 of them in 13 seasons with the team.

Back to the 33rd District, the competitive nature continues to be the cream of the

crop not only in the region, but across the state. Cooper and Ryle’s girls basketball programs have developed quite the rivalry as they met in the Ninth Region final for the second straight year, Cooper getting the best of the Raiders one more time as they repeated in their return to Rupp. Whitney Lind finished her high school career as the Jaguars second all-time leading scorer and the Ninth Region Player of the Year will continue her education and playing career at Lehigh. Ryle’s Abby Holtman also had a record-setting season, becoming the program leader in made 3-pointers. She’s headed to the University of Cincinnati to continue her career. And on the boys side, the Jaguars showed a great display of resiliency, battling through not one, but two injuries of their top players and making a run to the region final with a district title that came with it beforehand.

Simon Kenton’s Gabe Dynes also received an end-of-season award on the state level, leading with a 73.9 field goal percentage. The 7-foot-3 center is headed to Youngstown State in the fall. And for the Lady Pioneers, Brenden Stowers took over for his father Jeff this season and led them through a magical run in the Eighth Region tournament and to Rupp Arena with four of his starting five freshman and younger.

Speaking of youth, Highlands’ girls posted 23 wins with just one senior on the roster and were led by sophomore sensation Ma-

rissa Green, collecting multiple triple-doubles this season and doing it the hard way with blocks on top of points and rebounds.

Newcomers to the coaching scene or to their respective new schools or programs got off to quite a start. At Bishop Brossart, Ben Franzen and Steve Brown led their teams to 10th Region All “A” titles while Ludlow boys coach Aaron Stamm led the Panthers to a 19-win season, their most since 2003-04. They were led by Jaxson Rice, who scored 928 points in his senior campaign.

Last but not least, Newport’s boys special season was topped off with a Ninth Region title, their first since 2010. The Wildcats could get familiar with the top spot, Marquez Miller the lone senior on the team this year.

The teams in NKY may have been one and done at the state tournament between the Cooper and Simon Kenton girls and the Newport boys, but the future is bright for those teams and many more as we look forward to the 2023-24 season.

Cooper’s girls were once again queens of the Ninth Region, winning their second straight region title. Evan Dennison | LINK nky

Ryle, Simon Kenton claim region titles in archery

The Ryle boys won the Sixth Region archery title recently at Beechwood High School.

The Raiders posted a team score of 2,006 and defeated the 12-team field by 64, Simon Kenton finishing second with a 1,942. Cooper was third, also with 1,942, but lost out on a tiebreaker.

Ryle had six archers place in the top 15 led by seventh grader Jack Albertson with a 295 and hitting 26 bullseye’s.

Jacob Klette placed seventh with a 288, Trenton Dietz ninth posting a 286 and Nathan Santimaw 10th, also with a 286. Kennan Caudill and Jared Evans rounded out the top 15 with 284’s, placing 14th and 15th, respectively.

It’s the fourth year in a row Ryle qualified for state, Simon Kenton advancing as well with the top two teams qualifying for the KHSAA state tournament in Bowling Green in April.

The following night Simon Kenton won the girls Sixth Region archery title. The Pioneers scored 1,955 points, edging out Ryle by 16 in the 12-team field.

Simon Kenton had four finish in the top 15 led by Lauren Westermeyer in third with a 287. Kilee Spegal finished sixth with a 285, Emma Vicars 10th with a 281, and Macie Smith in 12th with a 281.

Covington Latin’s Monica Juelg took the top spot individually with a 288. Conner’s

Alexis Hunt was second with a 288, Ryle’s Gwen Hamon fourth with a 286, and Boone County’s Annabelle Cline fifth with a 286.

Both programs at Simon Kenton and Ryle will now advance to the KHSAA state tournament on April 18 in Bowling Green.

NKU has six hit the transfer portal

The Northern Kentucky University men’s basketball team has had six players enter the transfer portal since the end of the season.

The first two came when sophomore Isaiah Mason and freshman A’lahn Sumler announced their intentions. Sumler was in the bench rotation during his freshman season, playing in 22 games and scored a season-high 14 points against Detroit on January 8. He was named Horizon League Freshman of the Week on December 19 after two solid games against Eastern Kentucky and Miami-Hamilton, where he scored 12 points each in those contests.

Mason appeared in 22 games in two seasons in Highland Heights. He never really got into the rotation the past two seasons, playing 84 minutes in that span.

Three days later, Jake Evans and Hubertas Pivorius entered their names into the portal. Both were mainly role players off the bench with Evans starting one game this season and Pivorius knocking down 60 three-pointers the past two seasons.

Noah Hupmann was the fifth Norse player to enter the portal. Playing three seasons in Highland Heights, Hupmann appeared in 30 games over that time. He played in just three games in the 2022-23 season.

Imanuel Zorgvol became the next Norse player to test the portal waters, making his intentions known on March 28. Zorgvol appeared in 32 games in his lone season in a Norse jersey, averaging 2.6 points per game and 2.8 rebounds per game with 21 blocked shots. His role was expected to increase with Chrs Brandon graduating.

As it currently stands, NKU will bring back: Trey Robinson, Sam Vinson, Marques Warrick, LJ Wells, Mitchel Minor, Cole Sherman and Cesar Tchilombo. Minor and Sherman are walk-ons. With the departures of Trevon Faulkner, Chris Brandon and Xavier Rhodes to graduation and with the six that

have entered the portal, it potentially creates seven roster spots with two incoming freshman confirmed. The Norse’s 2023 recruiting class currently has two confirmed or signed: Lloyd Memorial’s Jeremiah Israel and Bessemer City’s (NC) Randal Pettus II.

The Norse won their fourth Horizon League conference tournament title this season since 2017 and made their third NCAA tournament appearance, losing to Houston 63-52 in the first round.

Goetz retiring after 10 seasons at Beechwood

The all-time winningest coach in Beechwood boys basketball program history is retiring.

Head coach Erik Goetz announced that he is retiring from coaching after 10 seasons with the team. Goetz helped build a culture and tradition in the program over the last decade. He successfully carried out his vision to completely rebuild and rejuvenate the program.

Goetz says that coaching basketball can be

both exhilarating and rewarding in many ways, but the time and stress involved can also take their toll and now is the right time to step away, the school released in a statement.

In his tenure, Goetz won 160 games, the program’s first ever All “A” Ninth Region Championship, landed a spot in the Ninth Region Tournament in three of five seasons, made an unforgettable run to the Ninth Region Championship game in 2019 (on the heels of a school-record 29 victories that season) and achieved success at the younger, more developmental levels of the program.

Beechwood has captured back-to-back junior varsity region championships, middle school championships and created a youth summer camp that averages 120 children every summer.

Before making the move to Beechwood, Goetz coached at Holy Cross and won 129 games in Covington. He was a standout player for the Indians as well, fifth all-time in KHSAA history with 315 assists and helped lead the 1991 team to Rupp Arena for the Sweet 16.

The Ryle boys archery team won the Region 6 title at Beechwood High School. Photo provided | Ryle Archery

The Simon Kenton girls archery team won the Region 6 title at Beechwood High School. Photo provided | Simon Kenton Archery

Close enough to perfect: Baioni’s no-hitter, triples lift Highlands

BY RAY SCHAEFER | LINK nky CONTRIBUTOR

It was hard to tell whether Highlands senior Kennedy Baioni was more valuable at the plate or the pitcher’s circle.

The defending Ninth Region champion Bluebirds were happy to have such a dilemma. Baioni’s two-run triples and four runs batted in were more than enough in a matchup on March 28 that ended with a 130, five-inning mercy-rule win at Conner.

Baioni also threw a no-hitter. She struck out eight and missed a perfect game by two walks – and showed a bit of self-deprecating humor.

“If I could stop walking people, it’d be a better game,” Baioni said. “My drop ball was really effective. Normally, my curveball is my go-to pitch, but I think I only threw three this game.”

Junior catcher Michelle Barth called Baioni’s drop ball “heavy” because of its high spin rate.

“If her drop ball is dropping almost at the beginning of the batter’s box, that would qualify as (heavy),” Barth said.

Baioni said pitching was more important, but Highlands coach Milton Horner mildly disagreed.

“I think she was pretty effective as a hitter, too,” Horner said. “She’s been really hot. She smoked those two balls.”

Horner also said Baioni was the first pitcher to throw a complete game this season. He estimated Baioni threw around 80 pitches that night, and he wants her to work up to around 100.

“I’m trying to stretch pitchers out a little bit,” Horner said. “It’s really hard to get game reps in practice. I’m a pretty strong believer in not letting (pitchers) throw too many pitches too early … I want to get Kennedy stretched out.”

Conner coach Shawn Sproles seemed impressed.

“Kennedy’s a good pitcher,” Sproles said. “We know she’s one of the better pitchers in the region. She does a good job of spotting and keeping batters off balance. We still had a lot of girls that were getting their first varsity experience against good pitching, so it was more of a learning situation for them.

Was Baioni the lone contributor on offense? Well, no – Barth added a two-run double and scored three runs, and third baseman Payton Brown singled home one.

But hang on, there was more. Center fielder Bailey Markus was 2-for-4 with three runs scored, and second baseman Morgan Pompilio was 2-for-4.

Highlands (4-1) touched Conner starter Mollie Sharp for five runs in the first inning. Barth’s double to left scored Bailey Markus and Payton Brown, and Baioni’s triple to right center plated Barth and Carley Cramer.

“With hitting, I was hitting where the ball was thrown,” Baioni said. “It just happened to find gaps.”

Baioni scored the fifth run on a wild pitch. Sharp struck out five.

Conner catcher Averie Lightner was Conner’s (2-3) lone base runner; she walked in the first and fourth and both times reached second on Sharp’s ground out to first.

In the second, Baioni’s second triple sent home Barth and Cramer.

Highlands scored in every frame.

HIGHLANDS — 542-11x-x – 13-11-0

CONNER — 000-00x-x – 0-0-4

WP-Baioni (2-0). LP-Sharp (2-3). 3B-Baioni (H) 2. 2B-Barth (H).

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WEEK, NORTHERN KENTUCKY SELECTS

Thomas More girls basketball team

Photo provided | Evan Dennison

Highlands senior pitcher Kennedy Baioni struck out eight on the way to a no-hitter. Photo provided | Sally Schaefer

Conner pitcher Mollie Sharp struck out five. Photo provided | Sally Schaefer

Owners Lisa and Kris Knochelmann John Knochelmann, Sr. Rudy Schneller