LINK Kenton Reader - Volume 1, Issue 32 - June 30, 2023

PRESIDENT & CEO Lacy Starling

CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Mark Collier

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How do you get health care when you can’t afford the bill?

BY ROBIN GEE | LINK nky CONTRIBUTOR

EDITOR Meghan Goth

EDITOR Kaitlin Gebby

EDITOR Evan Dennison

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Correction

Alecia Ricker contributed to the June 9 cover story titled 'Priced out of the River Cities?'

on the cover

Covington resident Jake Caldwell is 31.

He also has a chronic liver disease.

If he’d gone to a doctor sooner, it might not have gotten this far. But what else could he do? Because he didn’t have health insurance or a way to pay for care out of pocket, he avoided going to the doctor for years.

“You just kind of let things go that you shouldn’t let go,” he said. “There were a few times where I had obviously broken a bone, like in my hand or my foot, and I was just like, ‘Fine, I’ll walk it off, I’ll let it go, because I can’t afford to pay the bill.’ ”

Like Caldwell, 276,000 Kentuckians are without health insurance. Fear over the cost of health care and misunderstandings about eligibility are leading factors, according to a survey of uninsured individuals by the Urban Institute, a Washington, D.C.-based think tank focused on economic and social policy research.

The rate of uninsured is highest for young adults between age 19 and 34. Caldwell, like many in that situation, was young and relatively healthy.

Or so he thought.

“For a while, it was touch-and-go,” Caldwell said. “I had liver issues, but I didn’t want to see a specialist because I knew that was going to cost me.”

He eventually ended up going to the emergency room and was told he had a form of hepatitis brought on by fatty liver and was instructed to lose weight.

He did try to lose the weight but did not seek out any additional care.

family, found help on KYNECT, the state portal for health care assistance and program information. He is now covered under Medicaid.

What are the options?

For low-income Kentuckians struggling to find affordable health care coverage, Medicaid and the state’s program for children, KCHIP, might be the answer.

Qualification for Medicaid and other programs is based on the federal poverty level. For a family of four in 2023, the level is $30,000 a year before taxes. To qualify for Medicaid, the family’s income can be up to 138% of that level, or $41,400. In certain circumstances, such as pregnancy, the program allows for an annual income of up to 200% of the poverty line.

Qualified health plans are the health insurance plans available through a marketplace (known as the exchange) created through the Affordable Care Act, also known as the ACA. The plans are “qualified” because they meet the requirements for insurance outlined in the ACA.

The plans must provide “minimal essential coverage,” including preventive services, at no extra cost to consumers. Examples of preventive care services include annual physicals and wellness visits, mammograms and other cancer screenings, and vaccines. Plans also must meet certain established limits on cost-sharing. In other words, the plans are limited in how much they can charge consumers for deductibles, copays, out-of-pocket maximums and other costs.

Cover

illustration by

James Robertson | LINK nky contributor

“I let it go too long, and now it’s cirrhosis,” he said.

Two years ago Caldwell, at the urging of his

Those whose incomes are too high to qualify for Medicaid, but who do not have private or employer-provided insurance, may apply for coverage through the state’s qualified health plans.

Individuals are eligible to enroll in a qualified health plan if they are residents of Kentucky or intend to reside in the state, if they are not incarcerated and if they are a citizen or national of the U.S. or a non-citi-

The entryway of the Faith Community Pharmacy. Photo by James Robertson | LINK nky contributor

zen who is lawfully present in the U.S.

“Right now, about 1.7 million Kentuckians receive their health care coverage through Medicaid. So, that’s starting to be about one in three,” said Eric Friedlander, secretary of the Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services. “That does not include the other 75,000 that get help through a qualified health plan. We’re sure that there are more eligible out there. … For the qualified health plans, folks qualify for a much higher percentage of their income, and they can get some help paying for that coverage.”

Depending on income and family size, those covered through a qualified health plan also might be eligible for premium tax credits that can be applied in advance to lower monthly premiums. Income-based aid also might be available to reduce costs for copayments, coinsurance and deductibles.

The state’s health care website, KYNECT (kynect.ky.gov), is designed as a one-stop shop for Kentuckians seeking information on health care coverage and other benefits.

Online information was available before the pandemic, Friedlander said, but the number of people using the KYNECT site grew exponentially during that period. According to Gov. Andy Beshear’s office, the portal had 1.8 million visitors between October 2020 and October 2021, a 180% increase over the daily average for the period between January and September 2020.

Friedlander said his department found that the increase in online traffic cut way down on wait lines in its service offices. In turn, it made the whole process easier, leading to a jump in the number of people who have signed up, he said. People can also visit a Department of Community Based Services office in person. There’s one in each county.

The pandemic offered other lessons, Friedlander said.

“What I hope we’ve learned is that whatever is impacting one of us in the community impacts everybody in the community,” he said. “So, I don’t want people to feel like they can’t access services that they’re eligible for or support that they’re eligible for. It helps everybody when we use all the support we can give.

“And I think that makes us better as people, better as communities, better as families. It’s really important for folks to know that. When you see somebody else who is getting support, know that that’s helping your community, too.”

St. Elizabeth’s layered approach

St. Elizabeth Healthcare has a number of

programs to help patients who are uninsured, those who are insured but have trouble paying out-of-pocket costs or those finding themselves struggling financially due to a medical emergency or issue.

The hospital takes a layered approach, said Tony Helton, vice president of the Revenue Cycle Department at St. Elizabeth. First and foremost is patient confidentiality when it comes to finances, he said.

“Let’s say they come through the emergency room, and they have no insurance,” Helton said. “First off, the clinical team has no idea that they are uninsured. An external group reviews all of our uninsured patients to see if potentially they’re eligible for Medicaid.”

He was clear to note that providers and health care staff at St. Elizabeth do not know who is insured and who is not. Research has shown that patients’ fears about stigma and lower quality of care associated with Medicaid and similar public health coverage are not unfounded.

In 2022, the Urban Institute interviewed Medicaid and uninsured patients and reported that about 8% of respondents reported experiencing unfair treatment or judgment either because of their health insurance type alone or in combination with other factors in a clinic setting. A report by the Tulane School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine in 2021 noted that physicians can and do refuse patients based on financial factors. The researchers found primary care physicians offered Medicaid patients 27.6% fewer appointments than privately insured patients.

Helton and his staff identify and reach out to uninsured patients, many of whom are unaware that they may qualify for Medicaid

or other forms of assistance. He said he is proud of how many patients and their families have been helped.

“If you look at the past 13 months, our average conversion rate from self-pay to Medicaid is about 60%,” Helton said. “Then you go into the other 40% – what about them? We have a basic five-tiered program. We have a financial assistance program that is based on your income level and how that equates to the federal poverty guidelines. If you’re at 200% of the federal poverty guideline, you’ll get 100% assistance.”

In other words, if your income is twice the federal poverty guideline or less, you pay nothing.

Patients who do have insurance also might be eligible for that same financial assistance program based on their income, Helton said.

Mike Yadav, system director for the department, put it into numbers. Through its financial assistance program, the portion owed by the patient (after insurance) would be cut in half for those who make between 200% and 300% of the federal poverty line. For those whose incomes are higher, up to four times the poverty line, the program would cover a quarter of the patient portion of the cost of care.

“So the point is that up to $120,000 for a family of four making that income, they can still get a significant discount,” Yadav added.

For patients admitted to the hospital, Helton listed more options.

“We have an uninsured discount, which is an automatic 40%,” Yadav said. “Then we have the catastrophic discount program,

Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services Secretary Eric Friedlander. Photo provided | Eric Friedlander

which basically says we will not charge you a bill that is more than 20% of your annual income, and that’s something you can take and pay over years.”

The health care system also has a hardship committee for special situations.

“We would ask them just to simply write us a letter and tell us your story,” Helton said. “The hardship committee is made up of people from finance, but also pastoral care, our compliance area … and also the clinical sites. Many times, it’s a ‘Yes, in order for this family to move forward, they need some type of relief.’ ”

The challenge for St. Elizabeth has been to ensure patients know help is available.

“That’s where we have an extensive outreach to communicate to patients that this financial systems policy is out there,” Helton said. “So when you receive your statement from us, it’s on there. On the back of the statement is the application, which you can fill out and begin the process.”

In addition to that, he noted, information is available through Mychart, the patient portal, as well as the website.

Yadav said he takes advantage of every opportunity to go out into the community and spread the word. He’s a frequent exhibitor at area health fairs and community events. He recently initiated a program with the Boone County Public Library to offer outreach about assistance to seniors in the community.

St. Elizabeth Physicians, the clinic side of the health care system, provides a similar financial assistance program. It is similar to that of the hospital, but limits may be different because clinic patients are not fac-

ing the potentially catastrophic bills that can mount up in a hospital stay, Yadav said.

Other options are available in NKY

HealthPoint Family Care is a nonprofit primary care clinic group whose Northern Kentucky locations include Florence, Newport and Covington, as well as several school-based care centers across the region.

“In 1972, Northern Kentucky Family Health Centers was incorporated as a nonprofit focusing on primary care for patients with unmet needs,” said Sally Jordan, chief executive officer.

Now called HealthPoint, its clinics take a whole-patient approach, providing adult

FIND YOUR SIPPING POINT

and pediatric medical, dental, mental health, substance abuse treatment, obstetrics and gynecology and vision services. They serve people with traditional insurance as well as those who may be on assistance programs.

“HealthPoint focuses on access,” Jordan said. “Access is sometimes an issue for the entire community, regardless of income. For example, mental health. Wait times and affordable mental health services are an issue for this region even for those with insurance coverage. HealthPoint addresses that by staffing with five psychiatrists and 13 other providers, including psychiatric nurse practitioners and counselors. And offers same-day appointments.”

HealthPoint is a federally qualified health

center, or FQHC, an outpatient clinic qualified for specific reimbursement under Medicare and Medicaid, as well as federal grant funding.

Federally qualified health centers are part of the federal Health Resources and Services Administration program and receive government funding to provide care to people who have low income, even those who are experiencing homelessness. They offer a sliding scale for fees based on income.

“But FQHCs operate much like any privateor hospital-owned practice in that most of the revenue comes from billing insurance,” Jordan said. “All patients, even those with insurance, who meet federal poverty Continues on page 6

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Faith Community Pharmacy provides free prescriptions to people under 300% of the federal poverty line. Photo by James Robertson | LINK nky contributor

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page 5

guidelines qualify for a discount. The discount varies based on household size and income.”

Faith Community Pharmacy’s approach

Doctor visits and hospital stays are two parts of the trifecta of medical costs. The third is the skyrocketing cost of prescription drugs. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that more than 9 million people skipped or skimped on their prescriptions last year because they could not afford them.

Aaron Broomall, executive director of Faith Community Pharmacy, has seen this firsthand.

“Literally every day, we have people come in here and tell stories of husbands and wives who are both diabetic,” he said. “They could afford $50 for insulin for the month. They would buy that much, and then they would share it. Every day it happens.”

Faith Community Pharmacy provides free prescription medications to people living in Northern Kentucky who are under 300% of the federal poverty line. It defines Northern Kentucky broadly, serving 13 counties, Broomall said.

While many of its patients are on Medicaid or Medicare, the organization helps those with insurance, too, as long as they meet the financial threshold.

The pharmacy was started in 2002. While always a separate entity, it partnered with St. Vincent DePaul in Crestview Hills until moving into its own building in Florence. Last year it made another move, to 601 Washington Ave. in Newport.

The pharmacy sees about 1,000 patients each year and gives away 24,000 90-day prescriptions valued at more than $4 million, Broomall said.

“Our average patient has three different chronic disease states, which isn’t unusual, and we work with the diseases that typically disproportionately impact the poor – diabetes, cardiovascular, respiratory, COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease), mental health issues, gastrointestinal,” Broomall said. “Those are really the core ones that we treat. ... If you have COPD or asthma, it’s likely you’re going to have a cardiovascular illness that goes along with it. So many of those things go hand in hand.”

The pharmacy usually provides a 90-day supply and works with patients to ensure they get what they need going forward. It uses a high-touch philosophy – pharmacists get to know patients and work with them to manage their diseases. Patients are welcome and encouraged to come in person if they can, but the pharmacy also provides medication by mail for those who cannot come in, Broomall said.

Funding for the pharmacy comes from a variety of sources.

“A lot of our medications come from an organization called Americares,” he said. “Americares is a clearinghouse of over-

stock and short-dated products (meaning they’re approaching their expiration date) that manufacturers have. They donate them to Americares, and then Americares distributes free of charge to free and charitable clinics across the country.”

The pharmacy also partners with pharmaceutical company Eli Lilly for free injectable diabetes medications.

“We are Eli Lilly’s second-largest free distributor of their medications in the United States,” Broomall said.

Rounding it out are grants and partnerships with other drug companies, as well as partnerships with St. Elizabeth and the Boone, Kenton and Campbell county fiscal courts. The rest comes from private donors and fundraisers, such as the annual Time to Celebrate fundraiser held in October.

“What we see is patients in their first year in our program see a 60% reduction in ER visits and a 70% reduction in hospitalizations,” Broomall said. “So what’s happening is, before they come to us, they’re rationing or not taking medicine, which means their disease state isn’t properly being cared for. So they’re going to the hospital, they’re utilizing a whole lot of very expensive resources.

“And the best way to avoid that is just ensure they can get the medication they need. And we’re lucky enough that we get to do that here. We’re pretty unique. There aren’t a ton of charitable pharmacies across the United States. We are by far the largest in Kentucky. Northern Kentucky is pretty lucky to have a resource like this.”

Don’t put it off

The number of uninsured Americans has

dropped significantly over the past decade. According to the CDC, 46 million people had no insurance in 2011. That number dropped to 28 million by 2021, even after the economic downturn during the pandemic. Health care experts across the board credit greater access through the Affordable Care Act and the expansion of Medicaid and related programs.

Every expert interviewed for this story had a similar piece of advice for those who are uninsured or struggling to afford their medical bills, premiums and copays: Don’t put it off. The sooner you seek care, the better it will be for your health, your finances and for the community.

“Don’t let the fear of cost prevent you from getting the care you need. Never put off the recommendations that the physician makes. Because at that point, that is the best time to seek treatment. That’s when it’s least expensive. That’s when you have time to plan,” Helton said.

As for Caldwell, did having health care coverage through Medicaid give him peace of mind?

“Sure,” he said. “I started taking way better care of myself because I knew things would be getting covered.”

For a long time, he said, like so many in his situation, he just hoped and held on.

“You can hope things don’t go bad, you can hope things get better, but that can only get you so far before you actually need to take some action for yourself,” Caldwell said. “And that’s what the doctors help me do now. So, definitely, my best piece of advice would be to just look for help. It’s out there.”

Finding care when you have nothing

Although the number of people who are uninsured has dropped dramatically in recent years thanks to available programs, it is difficult to get help if you have no income, are experiencing homelessness or are undocumented.

For people and families experiencing homelessness, medical services are spotty, but there is help available. Here are a few resources in our area that have some medical outreach or can help people find additional health resources:

• The Emergency Shelter of Northern Kentucky partners with the University of Kentucky College of Medicine to provide a health care clinic for people experiencing homelessness in Covington one or two days a week. The clinic is located at 436 W. 13th St. in Covington. For more information, visit emergencyshelternky.org, email info@esnky.org or call 859-291-4555.

• St. Paul’s Healthcare Mission, at 7 Court St. in Newport, provides free health screenings, medication assistance and help with finding health insurance. Services are offered on Wednesdays from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. For more information, visit stpaulsnewport.org or call 859-581-7640.

• As part of its Open Door mobile outreach services to people who are experiencing homelessness in our area, Welcome House has a medical care van that stops at local libraries and other sites in Northern Kentucky counties, bringing care to the homeless population. The facility also partners with St. Elizabeth to provide medical respite care. For more information, visit welcomehouseky. org or its Facebook page “WelcomeHouseKY.”

• Esperanzo Latino Center of Northern Kentucky does not provide health services, but it provides Spanish-speaking resources and people to help immigrants and others whose first language is Spanish navigate systems and find support and services. Visit esperanzanky.org or call 859-261-0862.

• Kentucky Refugee Ministries has an office in Covington. It helps connect refugees in our area to a variety of resources, including both physical and mental health help. The office is located at 321 W. 12th St. in Covington. For more information, visit kyrm.org or call 859-547-5571.

• RefugeeConnect is located across the river in Cincinnati, but it provides services to help refugees on both sides of the river, including help finding health care. In fact, social work students at Northern Kentucky University have raised more than $6,000 to support the organization’s work. Find information on the RefugeeConnect Facebook page, visit refugeeconnect. org or call 513-304-1994 to get connected.

Health care resources in Northern Kentucky

KYNECT

kynect.ky.gov

Kentucky’s health care portal is the best place to start to find health care assistance. The portal also provides links to what are called “kynectors,” individuals trained to assist in finding health care coverage. Call 1-855-459-6328 (855-4kynect).

Faith Community Pharmacy faithcommunitypharmacy.org

The pharmacy provides free 90-day supplies of insulin and other medicines. Its pharmacists work directly with patients to help them with care. It is located at 601 Washington Ave., Newport. Call 859-4267837.

HealthPoint Family Care healthpointfc.org

HealthPoint clinics are located in Covington, Florence and Newport. A federally qualified health center, its clinics provide a range of care, including primary care, dental, mental health, obstetrics and gynecology, substance abuse and pediatrics. Call 859-655-6100.

Northern Kentucky Community Action Commission nkcac.org

The Northern Kentucky Community Action Commission provides “kynectors” in seven Northern Kentucky counties to assist Kentuckians in finding health care. You can find the list on its site under Family Services/Health Care Enrollment. The organization is located at 717 Madison Ave., Covington. Call 859-581-6607.

St. Elizabeth Healthcare stelizabeth.com

St. Elizabeth Healthcare provides several financial assistance programs. Counselors can help patients find insurance coverage or assistance. For financial assistance programs, call 859-301-9090.

St. Elizabeth Physicians stelizabethphysicians.com

The St. Elizabeth Physicians provides its own financial assistance programs. Call 859-344-5555.

Drug deaths drop in Kentucky, but fentanyl still rages

BY MARK PAYNE | LINK nky REPORTER

The number of drug overdose deaths dropped in Kentucky last year, according to the most recent report from the Kentucky Office of Drug Control Policy. But deaths from fentanyl and methamphetamine still remain high.

Experts in NKY report that fentanyl and methamphetamine are what they see the most, too.

According to the report, 2,135 Kentuckians died from drug overdoses in 2022. That number is down from 2,250 in 2021 but up from 1,964 in 2020.

“So many have been lost, including children, parents, aunts and uncles, even grandparents, each one deeply loved, and each one mourned by their communities,” said Gov. Andy Beshear when announcing the report in mid-June.

Most of the deaths occurred from fentanyl, with 1,548 succumbing to a fentanyl overdose – 72.5% of 2022 drug deaths. In 2021, 1,652 Kentuckians died from fentanyl.

“Seventy percent of all overdose deaths in the United States, over 70% of all overdose deaths in Kentucky are caused by this scourge,” said Van Ingram, the Kentucky Office of Drug Control Policy executive director.

Kenton County Coroner Amber Constantino said that what the state sees is consistent with what her office sees in the state’s third-largest county.

“In Kenton County, fentanyl is positive in toxes (short for toxicology screens) eight out of 10 times,” Constantino said.

Kenton has the third-highest number among counties in the state, with fentanyl overdose deaths at 57 of 65. Jefferson County, the largest county in the state, had 419 fentanyl deaths. Fayette, the second-largest county, had 137.

Beshear said that the Kentucky State Police seized more than 13,000 doses of fentanyl.

Constantino said that when her office conducts toxicology screens, there are other

drugs, such as methamphetamine and cocaine, present.

Methamphetamine was second on the list, with 1,069 overdose deaths statewide in 2022.

“The two main drugs that we’re encountering are fentanyl and methamphetamine, and the big change that we’ve seen over the last year, year-and-a-half, is a switch to counterfeit pills,” said Scott Hardcorn, executive director of the Northern Kentucky Drug Strike Force.

Ingram reiterated this in the press conference with Beshear.

“It’s not bad enough that we have fentanyl – we have fentanyl disguised as everything else,” Ingram said. “It’s disguised as a legitimate prescription drug – Percocet, Xanax, Adderall – all drugs are being presented as pharmaceuticals, but really fentanyl is the active ingredient.”

A bill that legalized fentanyl test strips passed the Kentucky Legislature in the waning hours of the 2023 legislative session and was sponsored by NKY legislator Rep. Kim Moser, R-Taylor Mill. The strips allow drug users to test for the presence of chemicals, toxic substances or hazardous compounds in controlled substances. Before they were legalized, drug testing strips were classified under the umbrella of drug paraphernalia, and possession of them was a crime leading to a Class A misdemeanor.

“With Kentucky experiencing record rates of drug overdoses and those suffering from substance abuse disorder, we must do everything we can to help lessen these numbers,” Moser said at the time.

Further, the state is expected to spend about $80.6 million through the Office of Drug Control Policy to support addiction treatment and prevention efforts. The commonwealth has also increased treatment beds by about 50%.

Kentucky, like much of the nation, is experiencing a rash of fentanyl overdoses. A bill that legalized fentanyl test strips was passed by the Kentucky Legislature at the end of the 2023 legislative session. Photo by Samantha Hendrickson | Associated Press

Edgewood doctor allowed unlicensed assistant to practice medicine, investigation finds

BY MEGHAN GOTH | LINK nky MANAGING EDITOR

An Edgewood physician who allowed an unlicensed assistant to administer anesthesia is no longer allowed to practice medicine in Kentucky, according to an agreed order from the Kentucky Board of Medical Licensure.

In an investigation released June 1, the state medical board found that Pragya B. Gupta, who specializes in interventional pain management, allowed Donald Jay Thomas to actively participate in patients’ care, including the administration of anesthesia via IV.

Thomas, Gupta said in response to the investigation, “is a trained medical assistant.”

But the board did not find such training to be adequate.

“My conclusion is that Donnie J. Thomas is practicing medicine without a license,” the investigation reads. “This represents an immediate threat to the safety and health of the citizens of Kentucky.”

The investigation goes on to say that while Gupta, who practiced at a clinic on Barnwood Drive in Edgewood, considers Thomas to be a medical assistant because of his training, “(Gupta) conceded that Mr. Thomas has no certification.”

The situation was brought to the board’s attention in a January 2023 complaint.

The complaint states that Thomas was introduced to a patient as the office manager, but that he was an active participant in the patient’s care.

“On multiple occasions, he was the individual who administered the anesthesia,” the complaint said. “He would ask Dr. Gupta how much to administer and then measure out and give the doses by iv.”

The patient goes on to describe complications she experienced during and after the procedures intended to treat fibromyalgia, including swelling and a possible allergic reaction. The complaint also states that she was given more anesthesia than necessary and was prescribed the incorrect dosage of medication.

Gupta responded to the complaint on Feb. 12, calling Thomas a trained medical assistant and saying that he did not recall a patient having any type of allergic reaction.

The board responded on March 21, saying that it found the patient had been overmedicated, among other things. Gupta responded by saying that the patient was difficult to manage.

“I spent anywhere from 1-2 hours with her each visit and could not document everything that transpired during the visit,” Gupta said in the response. “I treated her with FDA-approved combination medicine for fibromyalgia, as she failed all other treat-

ments, but she did not respond.”

In May, Gupta informed the board that he is moving to California and is planning to take a job there starting in October. He told the board all patients were transferred to another physician, that May 18 was his last day and that he would perform no further procedures in Kentucky.

According to his website, Gupta is also an assistant professor in anesthesiology and pain medicine at the University of Kentucky College of Medicine in Lexington, though the university’s website does not list him as being on staff.

On his clinic’s website, Gupta lists current licensure in four states: Kentucky, California, Ohio and Massachusetts.

“Dr. Gupta has been practicing pain medicine (interventional and non-interventional) since 2002 in the Northern Kentucky and Greater Cincinnati area,” the website reads. “He has treated more than 4500 patients under the auspices of the Advanced Pain Treatment Center.”

Also on the website, Gupta wrote a statement saying that he would be transferring patients to a new physician.

“It has been a pleasure caring for you over the past two decades. I appreciate the opportunity to have been involved in your care,” the statement reads. “As I move on to

further my research ambitions, I welcome Pain Specialists of Cincinnati to the space I’ve called home for most of my career.

“Dr. Zeeshan Tayeb, along with many familiar faces from Advanced Pain Treatment Center, will continue your care moving forward. Since providing notice in April, many of you have already completed your medical records release form to transfer your charts to the new practice.”

Dr. Pragya B. Gupta. Photo provided | Advanced Pain Treatment Center

Kenton County officer graduates from state basic training academy

A Kenton County police officer graduated from the Kentucky Department of Criminal Justice Training’s basic training academy.

James M. Treadway graduated from Class 539 with 26 other officers from around the commonwealth.

Officers in the class received more than 800 hours of recruit-level instruction over 20 weeks. Major training areas include patrol procedures, physical training, vehicle operations, defensive tactics, criminal law, traffic and DUI, firearms, criminal investigations, cultural awareness, bias-related crimes and tactical responses to crises.

“Congratulations to these men and women who have dedicated themselves to 20 weeks of extensive basic training,” said Gov. Andy Beshear. “I ask the commonwealth to join me and First Lady Beshear in prayer for a safe and fulfilling career of service for these heroes.”

Enzweiler institute to provide skilled trades training Kenton students

Kenton County public and private high school students will soon be able to take courses from the Enzweiler Building Institute during the regular school year.

As outlined in an agreement between the county and the institute on June 13, Enzweiler will provide “skilled trades training to 240 Kenton County public and private high school students and 400 Kenton County adults over the coming years,” according to an announcement.

Through the program, high school students will be able to attend an introduction to trades program throughout the school year.

The county also recently committed $3.5 million to assist Enzweiler with “operational and gap financing for the full build out of their new Covington location on Winston Avenue in Latonia,” according to the announcement.

New tapas restaurant Conserva offers taste of Spain in Ludlow

munity with food and wine,” Challis Hodge said. “It was clear to me that few places in the world do that better than the tapas culture in Spain.”

Her family has been in the wine and spirits business for some time. Both she and Challis come from career backgrounds in marketing, advertising and technology but leaped into the food business in 2019.

“We believe strongly that if you put something in your body, you should know where it comes from, and that there is a story behind all good food and wine,” Challis said.

Conserva opened in Ludlow in January, offering folks around Northern Kentucky Spanish-inspired food, drinks and vibes.

The restaurant is helmed by Ludlow residents Challis and Lauren Hodge. The two also own and operate Ludlow's Taste on Elm, a curated market and café with local and international foods and specialty wines.

“I started with our mission to create com-

The food, wine, beer, ciders, sherry, vermouth, sangria and cocktails are all authentically Spanish. The Hodges have been curating Spanish-preserved seafood, including mussels in salsa brava and scallops in Galician sauce, since 2019.

“Our ultimate goal is for people from Spain to feel like they’re at home, people who’ve traveled to Spain to feel like they’ve gone back and people who have never been to Spain to feel like they experienced it right here in Ludlow," Challis Hodges said.

Conserva also hosts events and special dinners that include sherry dinners and Tapas Culture 101 and 102. The new owners plan to add more events in the future and to introduce wood-fired paella. You'll find live music, including Spanish guitar, tango and flamenco, on the weekends from performers such as London Scholle and Phil Strange.

The Hodges hope to continue growing their community and food footprint in Ludlow.

“We would love more than anything to see Ludlow grow and flourish and pursue future concepts in our hometown!” Challis Hodge said.

The menu offers dishes like savory mejillones (mussels) en salsa brava or patatas (potatos) a la riojana. Grab a bite while you sip on a mahon gin and tonic.

Conserva is open from 5-9 p.m. Mondays through Thursdays and 5-10 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays.

Young Professionals group names Wice as Legend Award winner

The Northern Kentucky Young Professionals announced that Kenton County Community Development Manager Josh Wice will receive the Legend Award at its 2023 Next Generation Leader Awards.

The Legend Award is presented to an individual “that has continued to inspire leadership and career success among young professionals,” according to the Northern Kentucky Chamber of Commerce.

Wice is a native of Northern Kentucky and a graduate of Northern Kentucky University and Thomas More University. He is the first community development leader for Planning and Development Services of Kenton County.

Previously, he served as director of business and community development for the city of Florence and vice president for strategic initiatives and investor relations for REDI Cincinnati. He then returned to Florence, where he served as its city administrative officer for two years.

“I am very honored to receive this recognition from the Northern Kentucky Young Professionals,” Wice said. “I look back at my ability to serve our region through LEGACY as one of the most rewarding experiences I’ve had in my life to date. I would encourage those just starting their careers to remain committed to our region and urge nothing less than excellence and results in the organizations you’re involved in. Being able to help build the organizational structures and boost the potential for our region to grow is something I am grateful for.”

The awards will be held at Newport Aquarium from 5:30-7:30 p.m. on Thursday, July 20. The cost of attendance is $50. A discounted rate of $40 is available for members of the Young Professionals.

I-75 in Kenton, Grant counties undergoing lane closures until November

A portion of road about five miles long on I-75 passing through Grant and Kenton counties is undergoing ongoing road closures until November, according to a recent announcement from the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet.

The closures are the result of a resurfacing project taking place along northbound Interstate 75 from just south of exit 166 into Crittenden to about five minutes to the north near the Kenton/Boone county border.

“Crews will be working on pavement repairs and resurfacing, drainage repairs, guardrail work, cross slope correction and erosion repairs,” according to a statement from the cabinet.

“Motorists should expect northbound lane closures,” it said. “Two lanes will remain open during daytime hours. During eve ning/overnight hours, a single lane of traf fic will remain open. Two lanes of traffic will reopen the following morning. Weath er permitting, crews are expecting to work overnight through late June. Once over night work is complete, I-75 northbound will be maintained to two lanes.”

After work on the northbound lanes is com pleted, crews will complete similar work on the southbound lanes. Time frames for when and how long the southbound lanes will close will be announced as the project progresses. The cabinet hopes to complete all work by November.

Josh Wice. Photo provided | Planning and Development Services of Kenton County

Ky. school district plans policy changes after investigation into racial harassment

FRANKFORT, Ky. (AP) – A Kentucky school district has agreed to make “institutional changes” to settle a federal investigation into complaints of widespread harassment of Black and multiracial students, the U.S. Justice Department announced.

The investigation of the Madison County School District, launched in October 2021, uncovered numerous cases of race-based harassment in which Black and multiracial students were subjected to derogatory racial comments by their peers, the Justice Department said in a news release. It found that the district failed to “consistently or reasonably” address the problems, including racial taunts and intimidation, at times reinforced by displays of the Confederate flag, the department said.

When the district did respond, it often failed to follow its own anti-racial harassment policies and ineffectively addressed the “broader hostile environment,” the department said. The situation deprived Black and multiracial students of equal access to educational opportunities, the DOJ said.

“Racial harassment inflicts grievous harm on young people and violates the Constitution’s most basic promise of equal protection,” said Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division. “This agreement will create the institutional changes needed to keep Black and multiracial students safe and to provide them with a supportive educational environment.”

The school district – based in Richmond, Kentucky, about 28 miles southeast of Lexington – said it fully cooperated with the investigation.

“The district will continue working closely with the U.S. Department of Justice to implement policy and procedure changes outlined in the agreement, particularly those that pertain to the tracking and analyzing of data pertaining to racially motivated incidents,” the district said in a statement on June 13.

It agreed to retain a consultant to revise anti-discrimination policies. It also plans to create three new positions to oversee how racial discrimination complaints are

handled and will update how it tracks and responds to race-based harassment. Additional measures will include training staff to identify, investigate and respond to racial harassment and discriminatory discipline practices and informing students and parents how to report harassment and discrimination.

OK House OKs requiring defibrillators at schools, arenas after Hamlin incident

be required before the start of any athletic season.

The measure also calls for the Ohio Department of Health to develop a model emergency action plan for schools, centers and sports groups to adopt regarding the use of AEDs.

The proposal now heads to the Senate for consideration.

COLUMBUS, Ohio (AP) – Automatic external defibrillators, or AEDs, could be placed in nearly every school and sports or recreation venue in Ohio under a proposal that cleared the Republican-dominated House on June 14 with overwhelming bipartisan support.

The legislation, sparked by the sudden cardiac arrest of Buffalo Bills player Damar Hamlin in January on the field during a football game in Cincinnati against the Bengals, would require that all public schools, municipally owned sports and recreation locations, such as gymnasiums and swimming pools, and some private schools have on-site AEDs.

It cleared the chamber on an 84-6 vote.

Current Ohio law allows school districts to require AEDs on site, but it’s an elective decision that’s left to individual districts.

State Rep. Adam Bird of New Richmond, one of the bill’s sponsors, said he’s confident many districts already have AEDs, but making it a requirement can help further protect students.

Under the bill, employees would be required to undergo special training on how to use AEDs and recognize the signs of cardiac arrest. Informational sessions for students on sudden cardiac arrest would

INDIANAPOLIS (AP) – An NCAA panel is calling for the removal of marijuana from the organization’s list of banned drugs, suggesting that testing should be limited to performance-enhancing substances.

The proposal from the Committee on Competitive Safeguards and Medical Aspects of Sports would mark a big change for the NCAA, which has been conducting drug tests at championship events since 1986. Committee members recommended halting cannabis tests at such events until a final decision is made, likely this fall.

Legislation would still have to be introduced and approved by all three NCAA divisions to take effect. Administrators in Divisions II and III had asked the committee to study the issue.

The recommendation comes as the U.S. is seeing more states allowing medical or recreational marijuana use.

Earlier this year, the committee increased the THC threshold needed for a positive test and recommended revamped penalties for athletes. The threshold for THC –the psychoactive ingredient in marijuana – was raised from 35 to 150 nanograms per milliliter, matching that of the World Anti-Doping Agency.

Buffalo Bills safety Damar Hamlin collapsed during a Jan. 2 game against the Cincinnati Bengals. His cardiac arrest spurred the Ohio House to pass legislation that would require defibrillators in all Ohio schools and sports venues. Photo provided | AP

The NCAA’s Committee on Competitive Safeguards and Medical Aspects of Sports has proposed that marijuana be removed from the list of banned drugs. Photo provided | AP

NCAA panel: Marijuana doesn’t belong on list of banned drugs, urges halting tests until decision

Bill & Betsy Scheben center lands Kentucky Colonels grant

Thanks to a grant for $11,000 from the Honorable Order of Kentucky Colonels, the Bill & Betsy Scheben Care Center, located in Florence, can now purchase an additional vehicle for its Medicaid Transportation Program. The care center provides medical adult day care, as well as regional Medicaid transportation for medically compromised, differently abled and elderly people in our community. The Colonels were able to award $3.1 million this year to 343 nonprofits supporting 3.8 million Kentuckians.

Kenton County Pioneer Award honoree adds to family legacy

Kenton County officials have recognized Dave Schroeder, executive director of the

Kenton County Public Library, with a 2023 Kenton County Pioneer Award. The award is given to four county residents who have a record of outstanding service to the community. Under Schroeder’s leadership, the library has been ranked as one of the top library systems in the country and is known as a leader in innovation and support to the community. His late father, Ken Schroeder, also earned the honor in 2018.

Boone County is the place for summer concerts in July

Boone County comes alive with the sound of music in July. The Fillmore Philharmonic Brass Band summer series kicks off Tuesday, July 6 with a performance by the River’s Edge Brass Band in Boone Woods Park, 6000 Veterans Way in Burlington. The free concert starts at 7 p.m.

Check out the horn-driven covers by the local London Street Band on Thursday, July 8 at the amphitheater (Meeting Room ABC) at Boone County Public Library’s Hebron branch, located at 1863 N. Bend Road in Hebron. The family-friendly event runs from 7 to 8:30 p.m. and features favorites from the

1960s, ’70s and ’80s.

Boone County Library will continue hoppin’ with more concerts throughout July, including the Neil Diamond tribute band Forever Diamond on July 8 and the Jump n’ Jive band on July 22, both in Boone Woods Park.

Boone County sheriff’s officers honored for saving a life

Three Boone County Sheriff’s officers – Sgt. Jared Horton, Deputy Bryan Rondeau and Deputy C. J. Weires – received the Deputy/ Lifesaver’s Medal for their quick action that saved the life of Independence resident

Gary Spare, who had gone into cardiac arrest while refilling his car at a gas station. The officers used CPR and an automatic electronic defibrillator to care for Spare. He was transported by EMS to the hospital and has made a full recovery.

‘Boot, Scoot and Boogie’ on July 7 at Bellevue First Friday

Bellevue’s First Friday monthly shopping and entertainment series continues in July with “Boot, Scoot and Boogie Down the Avenue.” A country-western dance theme will feature throughout the month throughout the city’s Fairfield Avenue business district, starting at 5 p.m. July 7. Because it’s an official entertainment district, visitors can carry approved adult beverages as they stroll through the zone. Merchants in the 200 to 700 blocks of the avenue are open later than usual, and there’s food and entertainment.

Commanding Gen. Gary Boschert and Lisa West, executive director of the Bill & Betsy Scheben Care Center. Photo provided | Scheben Care Center.

Sgt. Jared Horton, Deputy Bryan Rondeau and Deputy C.J. Weires received medals for their lifesaving action. They are flanked by Boone County Sheriff Michael A. Helmig and Col. Les Hill. Photo provided | Boone County Sheriff’s Office

Villa Hills mansion features rooftop pool, shooting range

Address: 943 Squire Oaks Drive, Villa Hills

Price: $7.5 million

Bedrooms: Five

Bathrooms: Six (plus one half-bath)

Square feet: 16,106

School district: Kenton County Public

County: Kenton

Special features: This 20-room custom-built mansion in Villa Hills showcases luxury amenities and skilled craftsmanship throughout. The limestone double staircase in the foyer is sure to provide the appropriate wow factor with guests who enter, but the real focal point of the home is the atrium pool situated on the rooftop. Additional features and amenities include a shooting range, theater room, fitness room and hibachi grill. Also included are a three-car heated garage, an energy-efficient geothermal HVAC system and a high-tech sound and security system.

Recent NKY Home Sale Data

WHO YOU’RE WITH MATTERS

The curbside view of this Villa Hills mansion shows off a penchant for drama with tiered, manicured lawns and curved staircase to the home’s front entryway. Photo provided | Michele Mamo with Exp Realty

The limestone double staircase sets the tone for guests who enter this luxurious home in Villa Hills. Photo provided | Michele Mamo with Exp Realty

The atrium-style pool on the home’s rooftop is visible from surrounding rooms on the home’s upper levels, as well as to planes and other flying objects. It was once rumored to be a helicopter pad. Photo provided | Michele Mamo with Exp Realty

LINK Streetscapes – You’ll find craft cocktails, old-school luxury, even axe-throwing on this bar crawl

Powered by Merk and Gile, Injury Attorneys

PHOTOS AND STORY BY MARIA HEHMAN | LINK nky CONTRIBUTOR

NKY’s bar scene is ever-changing, and two of the newest additions have taken over and become must-visit destinations this summer. For patrons who have yet to experience two of the hottest bars of the moment, join us as we head to Covington for a mini bar crawl.

Second Story

Second Story may have been the most-anticipated bar opening of the past year. With an original opening date in March, Second Story curated a following that was eager to visit. After a few months of delays, its long-anticipated arrival was worth the wait.

Second Story is situated on the second story (hence the name) of an old firehouse. As soon as guests walk up the steps, the first thing they’ll see is an enormous faux tree behind the bar.

Due to the popularity of the bar and the craft nature of each cocktail, drinks take a little longer to create. Each drink is specially crafted, which is an interesting process to watch. The menu consists mostly of cocktails, a few mocktails and some bar basics in cans.

First-time guests should consider a craft cocktail rather than something they could order anywhere. Save the High Noon for another time, for example, and opt for a Columbines in Your Hair, a pretty lilac-colored drink with a sweet and refreshing aftertaste.

Second Story offers a laid-back, bohemian escape ideal for summer evenings. Guests wanting to capitalize on that, and sit in the swing seats, should arrive closer to opening time to enjoy a more relaxed ambiance. For those wanting to meet new people and mingle, Second Story gets busier as the night progresses, making for the perfect environment to socialize.

Flying Axes Covington

As much as we all try to take advantage of warm summer days, there are times that everyone could use a break from the sun. Flying Axes is the perfect place to escape the heat and have fun. The original tenant at 100 W. Sixth St., on the bottom floor, Flying Axes lets guests have the fun and somewhat scary experience of throwing axes.

The staff at Flying Axes ensures that all participants are taught the proper technique for throwing axes, both for safety and scoring. Even though it may seem daunting, as long as guests follow directions, there is no real risk involved. Once the coaches certify that each individual can safely throw, two guests at a time throw axes in an attempt to stick it in a target.

There is a bar at the back of Flying Axes where guests can choose from seemingly endless canned options from local breweries to international choices. However, guests cannot drink while actively throwing; drinks remain on tables behind them and can be enjoyed after a victorious throw.

Dinner-and-drinks is always a fun option for catching up with friends, but this is a great option for those wanting something more active, without overindulging in the sun.

Knowledge Bar & Social Room

Another new addition to Covington’s bar scene, Knowledge Bar & Social Room offers a relaxed upscale escape with craft cocktails at the center. Located just around the corner from West Sixth Street, in North by Hotel Covington, this is a stop for those wanting to indulge in excellent drinks, light bites and impeccable service. Drinks are on the pricier end, but they are equally as beautiful as they are delicious.

Knowledge makes for a good place to enjoy a pre-dinner cocktail or a post-dinner dessert wine. It offers six featured cocktails for guests looking to try something new, as well as an ample list of liquor to accommodate guests’ tastes or customize drinks to their liking.

As with the entire experience at Hotel Covington, Knowledge Bar & Social Room has a classic, old-school vibe. Luxury feels more attainable and authentic here, even if it’s only for one evening or one drink. Every Wednesday, it features live music, a great way to celebrate making it halfway to the weekend.

Much like Second Story, there has been a huge anticipation around its opening. Luckily for guests, the atmosphere at both places is welcoming and relaxed, yet the two places are still vastly different – making both of them must-visits.

Have a street, city or business you want to see covered next? Email Maria Hehman at mchehman@gmail.com and it could be featured on the next installment of LINK Streetscapes.

What to Know If You Go:

Second Story

Location: 100 W. Sixth St., Covington

Hours: Tuesday-Friday, 4 p.m.-midnight; Saturday, 3 p.m.-1 a.m.; Sunday, 3 p.m.-midnight

Website: secondstory.bar

Phone: 859-669-2270

Flying Axes

Location: 100 W. Sixth St., Covington

Hours: Tuesday, 4-10 p.m.; Wednesday and Thursday, 5-10 p.m.; Friday, 4-11 p.m.; Saturday, noon-11 p.m.; Sunday, noon-6 p.m.; Monday, closed Website: flyingaxes.com

Phone: 859-261-0526

Knowledge Bar & Social Room

Location: 638 Madison Ave., Covington

Hours: Wednesday and Thursday, 4-11 p.m.; Friday and Saturday, 2 p.m.1 a.m.; Sunday-Tuesday, closed Website: hotelcovington.com/dining/ knowledge-bar-social-room

Phone: 859-905-6713

Mother of God Church creates a beautiful backdrop for summer evenings on Second Story’s rooftop.

Bohemian elements accent the rooftop at Second Story.

A crazy week in the amazing life of Cooper High School’s Yamil Rondon

BY MARC HARDIN | LINK nky CONTRIBUTOR

Gathering with a small group of family at a private beachfront community in Rio Grande, Puerto Rico, Cooper High School's Yamil Rondon is 1,800 miles away from his Burlington neighborhood, and he is bored. It's not a customary state for the 16-year-old young man in motion.

He has his phone, which helps. And he bought a new black outdoor basketball the first day he was there. He's been able to shoot around with it on the basketball courts at Playas del Yunque near Rio Mar Beach when he's not playing with some of the best teenagers in Puerto Rico.

"It's nice being here, but it's not like being home," Rondon said during a series of telephone conversations. "I really needed a basketball when I got here. I sleep with my basketball."

This is Rondon's third visit to the unincorporated territory of the United States. He

was between tryouts for the Puerto Rico 17-under boys' national basketball team taking place in San Juan, which is about a four-hour flight from Kentucky.

"It's beautiful. The water's pretty. Coconuts are laying on the ground. The food's really good. But there's not a lot to do, and it's too hot," Rondon said. "It feels like 100 degrees."

Heat is a constant in Puerto Rico, much like palm trees, red and yellow flower blooms, the many colorful homes and rainbow stairs that dot the communities. Factor in humidity, and the feels-like temperature ranged from highs between 100 and 120 degrees while Rondon was there.

One of three children of parents from the island, Rondon is Puerto Rican. But he's not from Puerto Rico, so the unrelenting heat is something new. He was born in Cincinnati and has lived in Northern Kentucky his entire life.

Rondon is a rising junior at Cooper, with an accent on rising. He improved in every way as a sophomore, averaging 13.5 points and 2.5 steals per game with solid shooting percentages for last season's 9th Region Tournament finalist. He's hanging out in his adopted home for a few weeks with his aunt and his little brother.

Partly because of his father's playing reputation and largely because of his own, Rondon got the attention of Puerto Rican coaches who invited him to try out for the 17-U national squad. But his most recent trip to the island didn't go as planned.

Rondon missed the first practice because his flight to Puerto Rico was delayed. Once there, Rondon's father got sick and was sent back to Kentucky out of an abundance of caution. Rondon would not be an emerging star at Cooper if his father had not become ill when he was 16 and flown from Puerto Rico to Cincinnati for a liver transplant.

After the transplant, his father stayed in the area to be close to his doctors. He eventually moved to Burlington with his family and watched Yamil play basketball. What began as trips with his dad to Stringtown Park basketball courts in Florence as an onlooking 3-year-old became trips to Puerto Rico with a chance to play on an international level.

"He's following in his father's footsteps," said his aunt, Lisandra. "His father, Angel Rondon, was very well known here. He was always going up against older players, just like Yamil."

Being the lone 16-year-old trying out for the 17-U team wasn't easy for the 6-foot point guard, especially with his father having a medical emergency, but it was worthwhile.

"Basketball is my peaceful place," he said. "It helps me get away from it all."

Basketball is also taking him places. By the

time this article hits newsstands, Rondon is either on his way to Belize with the 17-U squad or heading back to Kentucky. Either way, he is a college basketball recruiting battle waiting to happen.

"What a great story, a local kid playing on an international stage," said Cooper basketball coach Tim Sullivan. "Yamil is a very unique young man. He's always been told he's too small or too slow, then he beats you. I think it's his resiliency. There's just a tenacity about him. He has much better days ahead."

Sullivan expects college offers to arrive soon, especially when the points start piling up for Rondon, and his seeing-eye passes find their way through holes in the defense only he sees. If he approaches the height of his father, look out.

"To be 6-3 like my dad would be fabulous," Rondon said. "I can almost dunk, but I would really be able to dunk. The doctor says I still have some room left in my growth plates, so there's hope."

There's also this: Rondon is about to blow up huge this coming high school basketball season.

"He's a guy that guys don't like playing against," coach Sullivan said. "He'll find your weakness, exploit it and wear you out. We're really looking forward to seeing him this season."

Cooper High School junior guard Yamil Rondon has been trying out for the Puerto Rico U-17 national basketball team. Photo provided | Jenna Richey

Former NewCath star to coach volleyball team at Campbell County HS

It may have taken about five months to fill the position, but the Campbell County High School administration hired a well-known name in the Northern Kentucky volleyball community in 23-year-old Mikah Freppon.

Freppon graduated from Newport Central Catholic in 2018 then played five years for Division II Lewis University.

Freppon will be the program’s fourth head coach in four years. She may be coming into her first year coaching high school volleyball, but she did coach 15- and 11-yearold Northern Kentucky Volleyball Club squads in the spring.

Freppon grew up in a volleyball family as one of six children. She started playing at a young age. Her older sister Kaela played at Xavier University and Northern Kentucky University, and her parents met playing volleyball at Thomas More University.

Freppon lettered all four years at NewCath, helping the Thoroughbreds to a 7753 record, three 36th District Tournament championships and the program’s last region tournament win in the quarterfinals in 2015. Freppon was a four-time All-District, three time All-9th Region and Northern Kentucky Coaches Volleyball Association All-Star First Team selection.

Freppon then helped Lewis University to Great Lakes Conference Tournament championships as a junior and senior. The Flyers made it to four NCAA Tournaments, including the national semifinals in 2018.

Freppon takes over a team that finished 10-

16 last season, graduating just two players in outside/right side hitter Bailey Beiting and defensive specialist Ashlyn Niemeier. The Camels lost to eventual 37th District and 10th Region champion Bishop Brossart High School in the district semifinals, missing the region tournament for the first time since 2015.

Campbell County returns two 6-foot middle blockers in Emma Manser and Lexi Scharold, a University of Minnesota at Crookston commit, who led the Camels with 266 and 246 kills in 2022, respectively.

Five seniors return in total. The other three are setter/right side hitter Ava Crowl, outside/right side hitter Penelope Stacey and outside hitter/defensive specialist Ella Thorwarth. Thorwarth had a team-high 362 digs, and Crowl had a team-high 440 assists. Juniors Lucy Trapp at setter/outside hitter and defensive specialist A lon McIntyre, along with sophomore setter/opposite hitter Hope Hamilton also return. McIntyre had a team-high 48 aces, and Hamilton finished second with 186 assists.

Plank hired to revitalize Newport High School baseball program

Ian Plank played a big role in helping the Newport Wildcats baseball team to the 9th Region Tournament three times between 2007-2011, as well as its last 36th District Tournament crown in 2007, as a left-handed pitcher, first baseman and outfielder.

The Newport High School administration recently hired the 31-year-old, 2010 Newport graduate to revitalize the program. He takes over a program that had to cancel its 2023 season as a result of low numbers.

The Wildcats finished 9-11 during Plank’s junior year in 2009. But since then, the Wildcats have fallen on hard times, equaling that season win total just once over the last 14 years. Their last region tournament appearance came in 2011.

Plank brings several years of coaching experience to Newport. He coached the American Legion Post 11 middle school and elementary-age kids from 2018-2020, then the elementary-age Bellevue Vets team from 2020-2021 before serving as an assistant coach for Rob Sanders at Bellevue Independent Schools this past season.

Plank hopes to revitalize the program by starting with a camp July 15 and Aug. 5 and spreading the word through social media and flyers within the community. He’ll be assembling a staff over the next couple weeks. Plank has hired one assistant so far in 2010 Newport graduate Elijah Hammonds.

The Wildcats were a premier program in the 1940s, winning the state title in ’40 and ’41. They’ve made the state tournament six times, the last time coming in 1960.

St. Henry moves football timeline up by a year thanks to strong interest

With so much interest generated, St. Henry District High School has decided to move up its timeline a year to begin varsity football.

Originally slated to begin in the 2026 season, St. Henry will field a varsity team for the 2025 season. It will have a junior varsity team in 2024.

Principal Grant Brannen said the interest

among the elementary and middle schools moved things up, with 260 kids in grades first through eighth participating in the spring flag football league.

When they look back in a few years, the Crusader Youth Football League is where it all began. The league got underway in the spring, and things have been moving at a rather quick pace ever since.

A football committee was formed with Brannen, school administrators and parents, the stakeholders and R.J. Riegler, who is the director of football operations. The committee is in constant communication to get things rolling, and with newly appointed athletic director Jim Demler set to take over, things are in motion on a daily basis.

Riegler coached football for 11 years, four of them as head football coach at Scott High School. Demler is no stranger to starting up a program, having done so at Ryle High School in the 1990s.

Helping with the timeline decision is the way the current KHSAA football realignment schedule is set up. Come 2025, more realignment decisions will be made, and St. Henry wants to be a part of that. The school is expecting to be in Class 2A, based on enrollment.

St. Henry held its first football camp the week of June 12-16 as the Crusader League recently wrapped up. It will continue with the Crusader League in the fall, and in the spring, it’s hopeful to start aligning the schedule with the KHSAA football calendar come the fall of 2024.

Brannen said the head football coach and staff positions should open up come January 2024.

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EACH WEEK, NORTHERN KENTUCKY SELECTS

Does certificate of need reform make sense for Kentucky?

BY MARK PAYNE | LINK nky REPORTER

It’s a question Kentucky legislators are digging into this interim legislative session – the time between sessions when legislators explore topics to potentially consider next year.

In Northern Kentucky, two legislators filed bills last session to reform certificate of need, as some in the region say that St. Elizabeth holds a monopoly. Hospital officials argue that it isn’t legally a monopoly but has been designated to have dominant health care status.

The Kentucky Legislature’s certificate of need task force met for the first time on June 19 and heard testimony on what exactly Kentucky’s certificate of need is and how some other states are changing their systems.

So what is a certificate of need?

“Certificate of need laws require health care facilities to seek state approval prior to major capital expenditures or new projects, so this could include a nursing home expanding their bed capacity or a health system opening a new ambulatory care center or initiating new services like a burn unit,” said Samantha Scotti, program manager for the National Conference of State Legislatures, which provides policy research and training resources to all 50 state legislatures.

Scotti said that each state has a health planning agency, such as a health department, that reviews proposed projects and determines whether there’s a need based on a myriad of factors or criteria.

According to Kentucky’s state health plan, certificates are issued by the Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services, and there are 21 medical services that require certificates of need.

In the Northern Kentucky counties of Boone, Campbell and Kenton, there are 109 certificates of need, and St. Elizabeth holds nine. Regarding hospitals, they hold four of the NKY counties’ seven total certificates, for St. Elizabeth Florence, St. Elizabeth Fort Thomas, St. Elizabeth Edgewood and St.

Elizabeth Covington.

The other three hospitals in the region that hold the certificates are Encompass Health Rehabilitation Hospital of Northern Kentucky (formerly HealthSouth Northern KY Rehabilitation Hospital; formerly American Hospital for Rehab); Gateway Rehabilitation Hospital at Florence (formerly River Valley Rehabilitation Hospital); and SUN Behavioral Health (aka Northern Kentucky Behavioral Health Hospital; formerly NorthKey Community Care Intensive Services; formerly Children Psychiatric Hospital).

In the 2023 legislative session that ran from January until the end of March, Sen. Gex Williams, R-Verona, and Rep. Marianne Proctor, R-Union, filed legislation to challenge certificate of need laws in Kentucky and how they apply to NKY. None of the legislation moved in the Legislature, though House and Senate leadership signaled they would be willing to discuss the issue in the interim.

Proctor filed House Bill 312, which would have allowed any health care provider to operate in the three northernmost coun-

ties – Boone, Campbell and Kenton – without first requiring a certificate of need.

Williams filed two pieces of legislation. The first is Senate Bill 146, which would have allowed local governments to provide an exemption to the certificate of need to a health care facility. The second, Senate Bill 26, would repeal the Kentucky statute certificate of need in the state.

The topic has also come up at local city meetings. St. Elizabeth CEO Garren Colvin has spoken at the meetings, where he characterized St. Elizabeth as a “safety net hospital,” which is not an official, legal designation but refers, instead, to St. Elizabeth’s policy of accepting all patients regardless of their ability to pay.

While the Kentucky Legislature continues to explore changing its certificate of need laws, Florida, Montana and South Carolina have enacted laws to limit certificates of need for long-term-care facilities.

Further, some states have certificate of need laws that apply specifically to as many as 26 types of health care facilities or activities, and some have laws that apply only to one.

“Comparing two state certificate of need programs is kind of like comparing apples to oranges,” Scotti said.

The committee will meet again in July.

St. Elizabeth's Covington campus. Photo by Joe Simon | LINK nky contributor

Owners Lisa and Kris Knochelmann