LINK Kenton Reader - Volume 1, Issue 25 - May 12, 2023

N O T N KE M VOLU

SSU E 1, I

E 25

Y 12, — MA

2023

The challenge of growth: Rural NKY grapples with change

Who’s got the Erlanger power? A look bringing back at city boards, diversity, commissions inclusion task force” p7 p9

From tapas to circus stories: Streetscapes visits Elm Street in Ludlow p15

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In the shadow of change: Who gets to decide?

BY HALEY PARNELL | LINK nky REPORTER

PRESIDENT & CEO Lacy Starling CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Mark Collier MANAGING EDITOR Meghan Goth PRINT EDITOR Kaitlin Gebby SPORTS EDITOR Evan Dennison The LINK nky Kenton Reader is a weekly newspaper.

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to our principle office or scan this QR code below The front yard view from a Licking Pike resident. Photo by James Robertson | LINK nky contributor

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on the cover The proposed Maronda Homes development in Campbell County. Photo illustration by James Robertson | LINK nky.

W

hen Jen Armstrong lived in Crestview, the houses were close enough that she could smell her neighbor’s cigarette smoke waft through her open window.

The Armstrong family house on “point-something of an acre” sat about 15 feet from their neighbors’ home in Campbell County. Though Armstrong said her former neighbor was pleasant to live near, the proximity that allowed her to hear a toilet flush from the next house over was not.

“Her bathroom was right across from my kitchen,” Armstrong said. “The way the bathrooms were built was that the windows overlooked the tub, and I heard her flush the toilet. And I was like, ‘Oh my God, did I just hear her flush the toilet?’ I went to my husband, Dave, and I was like, ‘All right, let’s start looking.’ “ There is more land to maintain and a longer work commute to downtown Cincinna-

ti from her current home in unincorporated Campbell County. But Armstrong said those are sacrifices she is willing to make.

Armstrong and others who prefer rural living cite benefits including space to sprawl, wildlife – and no toilet-flushing noises – when detailing their decision to live away from the pace of the city. But as Northern Kentucky’s population increases and expands south into more rural areas, tension has developed between those moving into that open space and those who would prefer it to stay just that – open.

Residents of Kenton County face a similar situation.

“The suburban and urban areas are continually growing, and in Kenton County, the way to grow is by moving further south,” said Andy Videkovich, planning manager at Planning and Development Services of Kenton County.

The trend is happening regionwide. Campbell County saw a 3% increase in population between 2010 and 2020, according to economic development company BE NKY. Kenton County’s population, meanwhile, increased by almost 6% and Boone County’s by just under 15%.

The 41001 ZIP code where Armstrong lives in Campbell County saw a 17.6% growth in population over the last 10 years.

“People that live out here choose to live 20 minutes from Kroger, 10 minutes from Walmart,” Armstrong said. “And even though it’s a farther drive, the people that chose to live out here, it’s for the same reasons. It’s for peace and quiet. They like the natural scenery. When I lived in Crestview, I never saw any wild animals.”

Her move to southern Campbell County around 2009 helped Armstrong escape Continues on page 4

MAY 12, 2023 3

Continued from page 3

that suburban lifestyle. But little did she know that years later, beginning in 2022, the peace and quiet she had found was at risk.

“We did figure eventually, someday, we’re going to lose our beautiful view out the front, with the cattle and rolling hills,” Steve Siry said. “But, 1-acre, 2-acre, 5-acre lots would be a lot better to look at than houses sitting on top of each other.”

After a local family sold the land that surrounds three sides of Armstrong’s property, Maronda Homes proposed a development that would put 93 homes on approximately 18 acres in what is referred to as a cluster overlay design on 47 total acres of land. The remaining acreage would be used for green and community space, developers said.

But when it comes to rural living, “expectations and realities are two different things,” said Brian Miller, executive vice president of the Building Industry Association of Northern Kentucky. Property rights stop at your property line.

Members of the community are involved in a lawsuit aimed at stopping the development, and attorneys recently filed a motion to transfer the case to the Kentucky Supreme Court.

Armstrong said if the subdivision were built, she would be able to see the rows of houses from her backyard. Additionally, a road connecting the subdivision to S Licking Pike would run roughly 10 feet from her property line. Though Armstrong is opposed to that development, she said she isn’t opposed to all development; it’s the density of the cluster overlay design that she is against.

“The cluster to have these property lines from house to house from what’s being proposed in my neighborhood are going to be 10 feet apart,” Armstrong said. “And that’s fine if you’re in city limits, but again, you’re out here in the county, and I think it’s just too much.”

Armstrong’s neighbors to the left are Steve and Angela Siry, who have lived on S Licking Pike for 20 years. The Sirys told LINK nky last year that they live there for a country lifestyle and enjoy being surrounded by rolling hills and cattle. If the development were to happen, they said, they fear losing their peace and quiet. Like Armstrong, they cite the density of the proposed development.

4 MAY 12, 2023

Miller said a conservation development, or cluster development, is an innovative option that allows for closer homes but more overall green space. But such developments can be jarring to residents.

“Northern Kentuckians, God bless us, we’re great people, but we just don’t believe in anything that we’ve never seen before until we’ve experienced it,” he said.

Though developments like the proposed Maronda Homes subdivision are one example of a cluster development, some are on a much larger scale, Miller said. They would be akin to building a new Covington out in the suburbs. Unlike a typical development that only features houses, cluster developments could have their own park spaces, farmers markets, fire department and libraries.

Cluster developments are largely similar to traditional developments, he said, but there are denser parts of the property than in some other developments.

“They’re really not a whole lot different than what a traditional development would end up being,” Miller said. “It just happens to be that they’re set off in little plots. You’re really still taking the same amount of land that you had before, but if you go with a higher-intensity, mixed-use development, it solves a lot of issues. One, you’re peeling

The view from Armstrong’s driveway where the edge of the proposed cluster home development will be located. Photo by James Robertson | LINK nky contributor

some people away that would normally gravitate toward rural areas.”

Ideally, those types of developments would be built in the suburbs, where the infrastructure would support them, Miller said.

However, topography and lack of utilities in an area wouldn’t necessarily prevent it from ever being developed. He said this type of development wouldn’t stop people from moving to a rural area but would slow it down.

“Somebody’s going to move there,” Miller said. At the end of the day, he said, it’s all about supply and demand.

“What we see is an opportunity to bring new forms of development to the supply chain of shelter,” he said. “That may mean over and above what we’re normally used to seeing – more individuals in a particular square footage or acreage than what you’ve traditionally seen available.”

He said this different type of development pattern gives people another living option beyond urban, suburban and rural. But it is not a cheap alternative.

“It’s actually very expensive because you’re giving up a number of units that you could put on the market,” Miller said. “You’re going to take a lot of that land off the market.

And the trade-off is that you’re able to build more homes into a smaller area kind of clustered.”

He said there isn’t yet a good example of this type of development in Northern Kentucky. The areas in the region where Miller thinks it could work are along Pleasant Valley Road in Boone County, in Independence and in Taylor Mill.

As the region grows, where do people live?

‘That’s the struggle there’ Population growth has occurred primarily

“When it comes to local housing availability, Northern Kentucky has seen historically low inventory levels of existing homes on the market for the last several years,” he said. “New home construction has helped fill that need.

“To create a stable market overall, it will really take housing options at all levels, ranging from rentals to condominiums to single-family homes. Some neighborhoods in rural areas may satisfy a small percentage of interested buyers, but it isn’t going to be the primary solution to affordability.”

A new development called the Downs of Nicholson, located at the northeastern intersection of Taylor Mill Road and Madison Pike, is on the border of Independence and unincorporated Kenton County.

New homes being built in the Ballyshannon subdivision in Boone County. Photo by James Robertson | LINK nky contributor

in the southern portions of the region in the last 10 years, said BE NKY Research Director David McAleese.

According to the economic development company, the region’s population grew from almost 369,000 in 2010 to just under 400,000 in 2020. By 2030, that number is expected to top 422,000.

Kenton County’s Videkovich said he understands why people move to rural areas – for that little slice of paradise that is still relatively close to the city. But, he said, when longtime owners of farms or other properties sell their land, it is typically developed.

“That’s the struggle there – trying to allow people to do things without infringing on their rights and expectations, but then also kind of protecting the character of the area for anyone else,” Videkovich said.

Drees Homes Division President Ben Taylor

said the development company seeks land and new community opportunities based on proximity to good schools and other conveniences.

“Available utilities, such as sanitary sewer and gas, are also important considerations and often are not developed in rural areas,” Taylor said. “Comprehensive plan and zoning requirements generally factor in the availability of utilities, access and surrounding uses. Without them, (they) typically require larger lots.”

The demand for growth in those areas is not expected to slow down. BE NKY projects the number of households in Boone, Kenton and Campbell counties to grow by more than 13,000 between 2020 and 2030.

Taylor said the region has also seen a housing shortage over the last few years, and the additional households need to go somewhere.

The city of Independence and the county agreed that any development in that area had to serve as a transition between the suburban and rural areas, Videkovich said.

The Downs of Nicholson will be mixed-use with residential and commercial components, he said, and the architectural plans call for keeping a farmlike or barnlike feel to help blend in with the area.

Even with strategic plans to maintain the area’s integrity, Independence City Council member Greg Steffen has expressed his resistance to the project and was the only “no” vote at the council meeting on March 6, where the plans were approved.

“This kind of high-density residential development is the kind of thing we really need to avoid,” Steffen argued previously at a Feb. 6 council meeting. “I’m all in favor of the commercial side of it because it might be a good feature for the city.”

Steffen also had other concerns.

“It’s the type of thing we used to be against, and now it seems to be common to add

more and more apartments, as I’ve seen all around the city. (This) increases our traffic, our crowding in stores and schools, which I know are outside of our purview, but it has that effect,” he said.

Steffen said Independence had annexed the land to prevent Covington from pushing farther south into undeveloped rural areas. Now, he said, Independence appeared to be doing the same thing the annexation was meant to prevent.

Videkovich said that sort of conflict has been an ongoing concern.

“Where the city meets the country, there is that fringe,” he said. “It’s been ongoing for the 18 years that I’ve been here.”

Residents of rural areas typically say they don’t want development because of traffic generation, concerns about the size and character of the development, and light pollution, Videkovich said.

There are also logistical explanations for why rural areas have less progress than suburban and urban areas, according to planning managers in Northern Kentucky.

The Urban Service Boundary, or what Videkovich calls “focus areas,” limits the extension of public services like water and sewer.

“That’s basically the line where the infrastructure can support higher-density residential development,” he said. “So that’s going to limit how much you can really do out there.”

Videkovich also said the road infrastructure in rural areas needs to be built to withstand the traffic that comes with increased development.

Residents of southern Kenton County created the South Kenton County Citizens group, which he said acts as a liaison beContinues on page 6

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tween the planning commission and the community.

“Those folks are really a core group of citizens that are leading that organization,” Videkovich said. “I can’t say that all of the ideas they come up with all the time represent how everybody feels down there about certain things, but they certainly work very hard to at least get the word out and get folks’ input before they decide something needs to be changed or updated.”

Who makes development decisions, and what is the process?

To the west of Kenton County, Boone County is quickly growing in population and development. Still, according to Boone County Planning Commission Executive Director Kevin Costello, roughly two-thirds of the county remains unincorporated. Florence is the second-largest city in Northern Kentucky, with almost 32,000 residents; still, unincorporated Boone County nearly triples that population with 91,485 residents.

Topography plays a role. Most development in Boone County, such as the Cincinnati/ Northern Kentucky International Airport, sits on flat land with utilities and roads to support it. The developed cities of Florence, Union and Walton also sit on relatively flat land supported by infrastructure, he said.

“If you’re looking at a map, then kind of the eastern portion is more planned for growth, whereas the western portion into the south is rural,” Costello said.

Residents should get involved at the zoning phase, which is well before conversations about specific developments occur, LeCount said.

“The distinction to make in the planning process is the difference between land use and zoning,” she said. “So often … individuals are more engaged in development discussions during the zoning process, but that process comes sometimes years after the recommended planned land use.”

Costello said development challenges in rural areas are consistent with rural land in other counties lacking road and sewer infrastructure. Because of that, he said, places like the land near Big Bone Lick State Park have very low projected growth.

“Some people like the changes in terms of convenience, amenities and recreation,” Costello said. “Some people are concerned about it; some people don’t want it anymore. They got it, but they don’t want it anymore. It’s a challenge for everybody.”

There are 15 members on the Boone County Planning Commission – two from Walton, one from Union, six from Florence and six from the county – so each has representation. Kenton County operates similarly, with at least one representative for each city. Bigger cities like Covington have three.

Boone County Judge/Executive Gary Moore appoints six members to the commission, Costello said. One of those is Bob Schwenke, a third-generation farmer and one of the biggest landowners in the county.

Costello said Schwenke’s knowledge of the rural area makes him well-suited to represent that interest on the commission.

Jenna LeCount, Director of Community Development Services at the Boone County Planning Commission, said residents’ involvement in updates to the comprehen- Campbell County operates differently. sive plan, which occur every five years, is Some cities, like Newport and Fort Thomintegral to having their opinions heard. The as, control their own planning and zoning 7047065_100_SEHADA_print_onco_10375x24232_x1a.pdf 1 4/25/23 3:26 PM county is updating its comprehensive plan, services. which guides appropriate development.

New homes being built in the Ballyshannon subdivision in Boone County. Photo by James Robertson | LINK nky contributor

Back in southern Campbell County, a group of residents has banded together to create the Preserve Protect and Keep South Campbell County Rural LLC nonprofit, which filed a lawsuit against the fiscal court last month.

The nonprofit was formed by residents and landowners living in unincorporated Campbell County who are “upset with the planning commission, planning staff and fiscal court continuing to approve overdevelopment in rural Campbell County,” said Steve Megerle, attorney for the residents involved in both the Maronda Homes court battle and the nonprofit.

Megerle said the petition he filed last month was prompted by the county’s subdivision regulations and zoning ordinances being in conflict with each other.

Armstrong, who used to smell her neighbors’ cigarette smoke and hear their toilet flush in her Crestview home, is one of the residents involved in the Preserve Protect and Keep South Campbell County Rural LLC lawsuit. She said there isn’t representation on the planning commission for unincorporated Campbell County, which sparked the creation of the nonprofit.

The purpose of the lawsuit, she said, is not to prevent progress but to make sure it’s more mindful.

“Preserve is to make the other people realize we do value our land out here, and we want to keep it that way,” she said.

Watch: Who gets to decide

“The county needs to resolve the conflicts in the zoning code before they should adopt or approve any more dense subdivisions in the rural parts of the county,” he said.

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Who’s got the power? The role of boards and commissions in city government

BY ROBIN GEE | LINK nky REPORTER

Barb Thomas of the design review board participates in an April 27 meeting.

Photo by Joe Simon | LINK nky contributor

C

hances are good that, at some point, you will interact with your city government. Need a variance to build a driveway? Make your case at a Board of Adjustment meeting. Worried about outdated playground equipment?

Bring your concern to the Parks Board.

Looking to build a three-story building in a business district? Talk to Planning & Zoning. It seems there’s a board for everything.

Residents or business owners who are required to apply for permits, get information or voice a concern often find themselves making their case to a small group of unelected people who seem to wield a lot of power within a city. How did these people get a seat on the board, and how much power do they have? Why do the names and duties of these boards vary widely across our region? What are the laws regulating boards and commissions?

LINK nky decided to find out.

The Fort Thomas Design Review Board meets on April 27. Photo by Joe Simon | LINK nky

The state, the county and the city When it comes to boards or commissions (those terms have come to be used interchangeably), who makes the rules can vary widely. Kentucky has specific statutes for the creation, membership and duties of planning and zoning boards and boards of adjustment. The state also requires a minimum number of training hours for those who serve on those boards. As for other boards, that is left entirely to the discretion of the cities or counties.

Planning and zoning boards help administer the various zoning laws of each municipality. Boards of adjustment provide an outlet for those who want to appeal a zoning decision or need an exception, or variance, to those laws. For the most part, planning and zoning are a joint effort between a county and the municipalities within it.

In Kenton and Boone counties, planning

and zoning are handled as a joint unit.

Kenton County has a 20-person Planning Commission whose work is supported by various city boards of adjustment and code enforcement boards, along with Planning and Development Services of Kenton County, a joint city-county planning department with a large professional staff that includes planners, engineers, infrastructure specialists and other experts.

Campbell County is another story, said attorney Brandon Voelker, whose firm supports a number of Northern Kentucky cities. When other cities across the state moved toward the joint planning model, the cities in Campbell County kept their individual commissions.

The Campbell County exception “Campbell is unique,” Voelker said. “For years, there were challenges. ... Whenever someone didn’t get their way on a zoning

decision, they filed an appeal challenging whether you could have an individual city planning commission versus a single countywide one.”

“A few years ago there was a legislative fix put in place that basically grandfathered in Campbell to have individual planning and zoning commissions,” Voelker said.

He believes the county may be the only one in the state that still has individual planning and zoning.

According to Bellevue City Council member Ryan Salzman, an associate professor of political science at NKU, a number of Campbell County cities, including Bellevue and Alexandria, have retained their planning and zoning commissions but are now using the staff and resources of the county.

“Dayton uses the county for all of their Continues on page 8

MAY 12, 2023 7

Continued from page 7

city limits, I don’t think it’s responsible for us to take that ability away from the mayor.”

planning and zoning administration, whereas in the city of Bellevue, we use the county for our administration, but we retain our Planning and Zoning Commission,” Salzman said.

He said council should trust the process in place. “If you don’t want to allow a nonresident, and nonresident gets nominated, then you vote no. That’s our job as council members. That’s my firm belief …. This doesn’t need to be a huge wedge in our community. I think we have enough of those already.”

The move to rely on county resources for administration has been a good financial decision for the city, he said.

“You need staff to facilitate the board and to administer the board,” Salzman said.

“And depending on what the issue is, that could require some pretty legit expertise, and planning and zoning is one of those. … To have somebody who’s a professional in that space with experience is just really important.”

City boards and commissions Cities have control over all other boards and commissions. If a city provides code enforcement, which most do, it must have a code enforcement board to handle responses and appeals. Beyond that, there are no required boards. A city can create whatever is needed.

Here are some of the variations of that: Many cities have parks boards to oversee activities in local parks. Some have tree or forest commissions to manage or sustain public trees. Bellevue has a Transit Authority Board to support different types of transportation. The city also shares the Fire Board with the city of Dayton. Covington has a whole host of boards, including the Covington Economic Development Board and the Human Rights Commission. The city of Florence joins with the county to form the Boone-Florence Water Commission to oversee the city’s water supply. The list goes on.

Questions of who can serve on a board, how long their terms last and the duties of each board are at the discretion of the city.

Boards advise; councils decide A former bank building is a topic of controversy among members of the Fort Thomas Design Review Board because a developer wants to paint the brick. Photo by Joe Simon | LINK nky contributor

Council sets the number of members, their terms and the rules for membership. The mayor makes appointments to the board, and city council votes on whether to approve that appointment, although there are some exceptions in which a council vote is not required.

A council has to answer a myriad of questions and considerations when setting up a board.

“Just think about the minutia,” said Salzman. “How long are the terms? Are they alternating or staggered, or does everybody roll on and off at the same time?

For our fire board, they’re one-year terms, and everybody gets reupped leading into January. Planning and Zoning has six-year terms, and they are staggered. Board of Adjustments, I think ours are four-year terms. … Do they have term limits? Do they not have term limits? How often do they meet?

How are they administered?”

Who can serve on a board?

Recently, city officials in Fort Thomas came up against an important and somewhat controversial question about who can serve on a board. They reviewed ordinances for three of its boards – Planning and

Zoning, the Board of Adjustment and the Design Review Board. All three required members to be city residents. The first two are regulated by the state to require residency.

Staff questioned whether the city should change its Design Review Board parameters to allow consideration of a nonresident who had ties to the community or specific expertise. A business owner and longtime member of the board, Barb Thomas, had announced she would be moving her residence to Newport, although her business would remain in Fort Thomas. With the rule in place, she would leave the board.

A council committee debated the change and recommended retaining the residency requirement, but upon further discussion, council decided to reconsider allowing up to two nonresidents to serve on the board under certain circumstances. The vote on that change is pending.

At the meeting, council member Ben Pendery said he had concerns about putting limitations on membership. “I just simply don’t want to put us in a box where we have this setup in place where if the mayor decides he’d like to nominate a Barb Thomas, or X business owner who lives outside the

Cities determine how boards operate, while boards choose their chairs and iron out details of when and where they meet.

Board meetings are open to the public, but unless a hearing is being held or there is a special meeting to gather public input, most board meetings do not have space for public comment.

At meetings, board members hear from people on the agenda who have specific requests, information or presentations. They then deliberate and may propose a vote on a recommendation. If so, they forward their recommendations to the city council meeting.

City council will hear a report of the meeting and a recommendation if the board has one. Council will then vote to accept or reject the board’s recommendation. When a board asks for more information or votes to reject a request or appeal, it may appear to hold all the cards. But it’s important to remember that, ultimately, boards only advise, and legislative bodies – in this case city councils – decide.

“The takeaway is there is a tremendous amount of discretion given to cities when it comes to creating boards and commissions,” Salzman said. “The purpose of boards and commissions should be to support the work of the city.”

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Erlanger brings back task force to discuss diversity, inclusion

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enee Wilson has never felt personally discriminated against or threatened in Erlanger because of her race, but she feels strongly that issues of diversity Erlanger City Council need to be spotlighted, member Renee Wilparticularly within the son. Photo provided | school system.

City of Erlanger “We want to have more interacting with students so that … when they graduate, there is a place for them to find employment, to continue to grow as a family… and to continue to be a part of this community,” she said during the first meeting of Erlanger’s Diversity Task Force on April 26.

Wilson, a task force leader and Erlanger City Council member, was happy to play a role in reviving the task force, which dissolved in 2022. During the first meeting, members discussed the diverse history of different groups in and around Erlanger, the history of the task force itself and the group’s goals before holding a brainstorming session with attendees.

“I have always been embraced in my community and in my neighborhood,” Wilson said. “What I hope to accomplish is to get others involved in what’s happening in this city.”

She had been a member of the prior task force and began the movement to bring it back. She hopes the group can address the

BY NATHAN GRANGER | LINK nky REPORTER varying and specific needs of communities within the city.

Wilson and her daughter Serena Owen, who is Elsmere’s first elected African American council member, led the meeting. They gave a brief history of noteworthy African American events and figures from local history, including Rosella Porterfield, who led efforts to integrate Erlanger and Elsmere schools in 1956 after the Brown vs.

Board of Education Supreme Court ruling that public school segregation is unconstitutional.

They also played a video from Kenton County Public Library that highlighted the historical significance of the region for Black people.

The task force will focus not only on racial diversity and inclusiveness, Owen said, but also on other forms of diversity, as well, including issues related to the LGBTQ community.

One idea pitched at the meeting was a city ordinance that would ban discrimination in schools and workplaces based on hair style and growth pattern.

“Hair discrimination is real,” Owen said.

“It’s a real issue for folks, especially people of color, people who wear their natural hair, like in locks or braids. To ensure that these protections are in place for all Kentuckians is a step in the right direction.”

Such an ordinance would be modeled after the Creating a Respectful and Open World

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Renee Wilson presents at the task force meeting on April 26. Photo by Nathan Granger | LINK nky

for Natural Hair Act, often shortened to the CROWN Act, which California signed into law in June 2019. Covington, Louisville and Frankfort have passed similar legislation.

Steve Klare, who served on the previous task force, recommended cultural heritage celebration events throughout the year, citing a successful and well-attended Hispanic heritage event that took place at the city building before the pandemic. He recalled a family member describing the event as “the most diverse room I’ve ever seen.”

“It’s positive, and it teaches people, it teaches everybody,” Klare said. “If we’re going to do something in the city and coordinate with the school system, those are the types of things we need.”

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That kind of conversation, Wilson said after the meeting, is what a diversity task force is about. “(It’s) to open that door, to let it be known that you can be a part of this,” she said. “And it’s open for all of the community. You don’t have to have a Ph.D. or be in the political realm. If you have a concern, you can be a part of it.”

The task force will meet on the last Wednesday of each month at the Erlanger City Building to discuss diversity initiatives and policies. Owen said a similar task force will be instituted in Elsmere, as well.

Erlanger residents who would like to get involved should contact Council member Renee Wilson at 859-802-1214 or renee. wilson@cityoferlanger.com.

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MAY 12, 2023 9

kenton county news briefs Figures overlooking Covington for more than 100 years to be removed, recast

made from terracotta due to its lightweight nature and ability to withstand rain, freezing and thawing.

Even so, over many years, the figures have stood. It was time to recast them, said cathedral Communications Director Laura Keener.

O’Rourke Wrecking Co. removes the figures from Cathedral Basilica of the Assumption in Covington in preparation for the recasting process. Photo provided | Cathedral Basilica of the Assumption.

The gargoyles are decorative false rain spouts. The chimeras, decorative anthropomorphized figures atop the façade, are modeled after the ones at Notre Dame Cathedral Paris. While both are decorative features at the Cathedral Basilica of the Assumption, the gargoyles on Notre Dame Cathedral Paris and others have a practical function as downspouts, projecting rainwater from the buildings, Keener said.

The chimeras and gargoyles that adorn the Cathedral Basilica of the Assumption in Covington have been removed to be molded and recast.

But scholars and art historians have historically argued about the purpose of chimeras and gargoyles, she said.

The figures date back to the mid-19th century and have loomed over the cathedral for over 100 years. The cathedral features 58 terracotta figures, also known as grotesques. The chimeras and gargoyles were

“Many claim they are symbols of guardianship for protection from evil for both the cathedral and God’s people,” Keener said.

“Many art historians, however, say that the medieval artisans created the grotesques as a purely creative gift for God alone.”

Keener said architects at SHP, an architecture firm in Cincinnati, used TrueScan 3D technology to create exact replicas of the chimeras and gargoyles. They will be molded and recast in terracotta utilizing the same process cathedral builders used in the 19th and early 20th centuries. Artisans at Boston Valley Terra Cotta in New York will then recreate the figures.

The Rev. Jordan Hainsey, administrative assistant to the Most Rev. John C. Iffert, bishop of the Diocese of Covington, said that the outside of the cathedral is based on Notre Dame and the interior is based on the Abbey of Saint-Denis in Paris.

Hainsey said the Cathedral Basilica of the Assumption was constructed by the diocese’s third bishop, Camillus Paul Maes.

Maes broke ground on the cathedral on April 13, 1894; laid the cornerstone on Sept.

8, 1895; dedicated the cathedral on Jan. 27, 1901; and dedicated the façade on June 29, 1910. The façade was left unfinished in 1914 and was later completed by the 10th Bishop of Covington, Roger J. Foys, in 2002.

Tuesday Morning going out of business; store in Fort Mitchell to close In the wake of Bed Bath & Beyond seeking Chapter 11 protection, another large retailer with a location in Northern Kentucky is shutting down for good.

On April 28, discount household merchandise retailer Tuesday Morning announced that it is going out of business and closing all 200 of its remaining brick-and-mortar stores across 25 states. Three years ago, Tuesday Morning had over 700 stores nationwide.

The retailer’s lone Northern Kentucky store is located at the Expressway Plaza at 2178 Dixie Highway in Fort Mitchell. Earlier this year, the location in the Alexandria Village Green complex closed.

Merchandise is being marked down by 30% off the lowest ticketed price, according to the company’s website. Gift cards will be accepted through May 13.

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On February 14, Tuesday Morning announced that it was seeking Chapter 11 protection. It’s the second time the company has filed for bankruptcy. During the height of the COVID-19 pandemic in May 2020, the chain experienced financial troubles due to prolonged store closures.

In December, Tuesday Morning voluntarily delisted from the NASDAQ stock exchange, raising questions about the company’s financial health.

Dixie Heights High School to dedicate ‘Mural with a Mission’ A new mural, created through a collaboration between Dixie Heights High School students and local artist Brent Billingsley, was dedicated and unveiled on May 5.

The artwork is one of several pieces associated with the Cincinnati Reds and PNC Bank’s “Murals with a Mission” campaign, which aims “to create murals at Greater Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky high schools designed to elevate positive social messages for the student community,” according to a press release from the campaign.

Schools in the Princeton, Mason and Loveland school districts have also participated in the program.

Calvary Christian students honored with Muñoz Foundation academic scholarships Two Calvary Christian School students, Faith George and Katherine Sterneberg, are among 18 local students who will receive college scholarships from the Muñoz Foundation.

The foundation’s latest scholarships total $42,000, according to a press release. Individual award amounts were not disclosed.

Called the “Straight A Awards,” the scholarships are given to students who demonstrate the key values of the foundation: “pursuing academic excellence, accomplishing athletic achievement, showing a strong ambition all while playing an active role in the community, maintaining a winning attitude, and displaying the ability to overcome adversity,” the release said.

Friends, family remember Devin Simpson as Fort Wright police investigate his death The Fort Wright Police Department announced April 28 that it is investigating an incident that led to the hospitalization and eventual death of 30-year-old Devin Simpson a week earlier.

On Aptil 29, dozens of friends and family members held a vigil in Simpson’s honor.

His mom, Angela Barrett, said seeing the large outpouring of love for her son and the grieving family gave her some relief.

“It makes me very proud of my son. I had no idea that there were this many people, and more, so many more,” Barrett said.

Those in attendance, including Simpson’s stepfather, Robert Couch, had nothing but nice things to say about the man who loved to fish, hunt, shoot guns and work.

“He’ll give you the shirt off his back,” Couch said. “And he’ll make you feel good about doing it. If it was raining outside and you were wet and he gave you his shirt, he’d tell you he needed a shower.”

Others, while heartened by the show of support, said they’re still overtaken by bouts of sadness.

“I was at work the other day, and I just sat down because I started crying,” said family friend Douglas Enlow. “I couldn’t hardly function at work.”

Fort Wright Police have released few details about what happened, but many at the vigil believed he was beaten to death while trying to break up a fight between a man and woman.

“He was definitely a hero,” Couch said. “He actually went out trying to save a young lady.”

The Hamilton County Coroner’s Officer listed “apparent homicide” as Simpson’s cause of death, leading those at the vigil, many of whom were wearing “Justice for Devin” T-shirts, to call for one thing: justice.

“That’s the only thing I’m going to accept is justice for Devin,” Barrett said.

MAY 12, 2023 11

Investing in Equity

news from other places Kentucky AG to award $8M in opioid funds to treatment groups

COLUMBUS, Ohio (AP) — Part of a house collapsed and 14 people were injured near Ohio State University when people climbed onto a roof that was not designed to hold significant weight, authorities said.

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Columbus Division of Fire Battalion Chief Steve Martin said his department responded to a call April 29 on East 13th Avenue and arrived to find the roof above a front porch had collapsed while the rest of the home remained intact.

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Kentucky Attorney General Daniel Cameron recently announced that $8 million will be distributed to organizations that offer drug prevention, treatment and recovery services. File photo by Timothy D. Easley | Associated Press

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Weighed down with people, roof collapses near Ohio State, injuring 14

FRANKFORT, Ky. (AP) — A Kentucky commission assigned to distribute money from a massive settlement with opioid companies will award more than $8 million to two dozen organizations specializing in drug prevention, treatment and recovery services, Attorney General Daniel Cameron said.

The Kentucky Opioid Abatement Advisory Commission will funnel the money to programs in small towns and the state’s largest cities. The awards will help combat a drug epidemic that Cameron has branded “the public safety challenge of our lifetime.”

The announcement comes amid a combative Republican primary for governor that has focused at times on drugs’ toll on Kentuckians. Cameron is a leading contender for the GOP gubernatorial nomination in the May 16 primary. GOP rival Kelly Craft has said the drug epidemic worsened during Cameron’s tenure as attorney general.

Cameron’s office secured nearly $900 million for Kentucky as part of settlements with companies for their roles in the crisis.

The Kentucky Injury Prevention and Research Center found that 2,127 Kentuckians died from drug overdoses in 2022, down from 2,257 the prior year, the governor’s office said last week.

a contraceptive to a woman after 12 months “unless the woman has been seen by a physician, advanced practice registered nurse, or physician assistant” in the past year, the bill states.

Pharmacists also will be allowed to decline to prescribe the medications under “ethical, moral, or religious grounds.”

Army suspends air operations for training after fatal crashes in Kentucky, Alaska

First responders transported 14 people to area hospitals with various states of injuries, but all were in stable condition, Martin said.

“It appears the roof was overloaded with students,” Martin said, with estimates ranging from 15 to 45 people.

The names of the homeowner or occupants were not immediately available.

Under Indiana law, women can receive birth control without doctor prescription INDIANAPOLIS (AP) — Women in Indiana will be able to obtain birth control without a doctor’s prescription under a bill signed into law Monday, which grants broader access to contraception months after the Republican-dominated Legislature enacted a statewide abortion ban.

The new law signed by Republican Gov. Eric Holcomb takes effect July 1. It will allow pharmacists, not just physicians, to prescribe some hormonal contraceptives, such as the patch or the pill. Supporters say the measure will offer women quicker access to contraceptives, especially in areas where they struggle to receive primary care. But opposing lawmakers doubted pharmacists could provide the same level of care as physicians.

The law limits birth control prescriptions from pharmacists to no more than six months, and pharmacists cannot prescribe

Recent fatal helicopter crashes in Kentucky and Alaska led the U.S. Army to temporarily ground aviation units for more training. Photo by Cameron Roxberry | U.S. Army via AP

JUNEAU, Alaska (AP) — The U.S. Army grounded aviation units for training after 12 soldiers died in recent helicopter crashes in Alaska and Kentucky.

The suspension of air operations for all aviators except those involved in critical missions was effective April 28, with units grounded until they complete the training, said Lt. Col. Terence Kelley, an Army spokesperson. Active-duty units underwent training May 1-5. Army National Guard and Reserve units will have until May 31 to complete training.

“The safety of our aviators is our top priority, and this stand-down is an important step to make certain we are doing everything possible to prevent accidents and protect our personnel,” Army Chief of Staff James McConville said.

In March, nine soldiers were killed when two U.S. Army Black Hawk medical evacuation helicopters crashed during a routine nighttime training exercise about 30 miles northeast of Fort Campbell, Kentucky.

town crier All dogs welcome at Covington dog park

Fun was had by all dogs and their people alike at the grand opening celebration for SFC Jason Bishop Memorial Dog Park in Covington. Photo by Nathan Granger | LINK nky

The SFC Jason Bishop Memorial Dog Park in Covington was the scene of a recent grand opening welcoming local dogs and their people. Although it opened in December, city officials decided it was time to celebrate now that spring weather is bringing more people to the park. Located adjacent to Kenney Shields Park at Ninth and Philadelphia, the facility is named in honor of Army Sgt. 1st Class Jason Bishop, a 1993 Holmes High School graduate who was killed in 2006 while serving in Iraq.

HOPE for Heroes raises funds for Kentucky veterans PGA HOPE (Helping Our Patriots Everywhere) introduces veterans and active-duty military personnel to the game of golf, which is recognized as therapeutic by the Veterans Administration. The free HOPE for Heroes program provides instruction and adaptive equipment, if needed. The Kentucky section held its second annual fundraiser at Polo Fields Golf & Country Club in Louisville in April, raising nearly $7,500 to support the seven Kentucky PGA HOPE chapters, including PGA HOPE in Florence. For information, email erowland@kygolf.org.

Crescent Springs teen part of team that raises $90,000 for leukemia research Four students from St. Ursula Academy in Cincinnati raised more than $90,000 to support the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society during the organization’s seven-week

Student Visionaries of the Year competition. Crescent Springs resident Mia Napier was on the team with Cincinnatians Molly Eppstein (Loveland), Madeline Lippert (Hyde Park) and Belle Grubert (Anderson Township). The students named themselves Team Luminosity and took a fourpronged approach to fundraising: personal connections, corporate sponsorships, events and raffles.

Covington welcomes new police officer in badge ceremony The city of Covington welcomed new police officer Joseph Richer in an April badge ceremony. Richer, a graduate of Holmes High School, recently returned home after a deployment in Kuwait. Prior to joining the Covington Police Department, he was employed by the Kenton County Detention Center. He will soon begin his 20-week basic training at the police academy. Upon completion, he will return for a field training program in Covington.

Former Exhibitions Director Matt Distel to lead The Carnegie The Carnegie has announced Matt Distel as the new executive director of the Northern Kentucky-focused multidisciplinary arts organization. Distel has served for almost a decade as the exhibitions director, curating and organizing numerous exhibitions and installations. He brings nearly 30 years of experience to the position, including curatorial roles at the Cincinnati Art Museum and the Contemporary Arts Center, as well as serving as executive director of Visions + Voices Cincinnati.

Matt Distel is the new executive director for The Carnegie. Photo provided | The Carnegie

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MAY 12, 2023 13

real estate

Mature trees in a parklike setting surround this Park Hills ranch Address: 1008 Hillcrest Lane, Park Hills Price: $684,900 Bedrooms: Four Bathrooms: Three Square feet: 2,110 School district: Kenton County School District

Hardwood floors and custom built-ins throughout the main floor help make this Park Hills home special. Photo provided | Christopher Pfeiffer with Comey & Shepherd Realtors

County: Kenton Special features: This home features hard-wood floors throughout the main level, multiple fireplaces, custom built-ins, many large windows and natural light throughout, as well as granite countertops and stainless-steel appliances in the kitchen. The primary bedroom is on the main floor and includes an adjoining bathroom suite with a walk-in shower. The finished lower level adds almost an additional 1,000 square feet of living space and includes an in-law suite complete with a full kitchen. The home also includes an attached, two-car garage. A screened-in back porch and separate grilling patio provide space for entertaining guests outdoors. The property is near Devou Park and in close proximity This well-maintained Park Hills ranch is close to Devou Park. Photo proto local freeways for easy commuting anywhere in Northern Ken- vided | Christopher Pfeiffer with Comey & Shepherd Realtors tucky or downtown Cincinnati.

A spacious, screened-in back porch overlooks the parklike setting close to Devou Park. Photo provided | Christopher Pfeiffer with Comey & Shepherd Realtors

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5368 Mary Ingles HWY 131 Harvard Place 214 Ridgeway Avenue 28 Woodland Hills Drive 10 29 Retreat Street 1110 Breckenridge Lane 2320 Daybloom Court 2434 Wernz Drive 2217 W Horizon Drive 2000 Westborough Drive 1548 Southcross Drive 1755 Shari Court 1753 Elijah Creek Road 2248 Elias Boone Court 1437 Dominion Trail 1325 Eagle View Drive 3138 Bentgrass Way 1980 Peach Blossom Lane 1093 Brayden Court 2320 Summerwoods Drive 1939 Graves Road 1807 Rome Court 2834 Presidential Drive 2519 Towering Ridge Lane 8709 Sentry Drive 6751 Curtis Way 8123 Connector Drive 4002 Flintlock Court

Melbourne Southgate Southgate Southgate Southgate Hebron Hebron Hebron Hebron Hebron Hebron Hebron Hebron Hebron Hebron Hebron Hebron Hebron Hebron Hebron Hebron Hebron Hebron Florence Florence Florence Florence Florence

$150,000 $162,000 $228,000 $150,000 $119,900 $2,175 $525,000 $416,450 $241,500 $317,000 $495,000 $247,000 $250,000 $416,655 $445,000 $470,000 $505,000 $375,000 $300,000 $495,000 $220,000 $273,000 $302,000 $560,000 $325,000 $139,500 $2,800 $210,000

4/3/23 4/13/23 4/17/23 4/28/23 4/28/23 4/6/23 4/7/23 4/11/23 4/11/23 4/12/23 4/19/23 4/19/23 4/21/23 4/21/23 4/21/23 4/24/23 4/27/23 4/27/23 4/27/23 4/28/23 4/28/23 5/1/23 5/2/23 4/3/23 4/3/23 4/3/23 4/3/23 4/4/23

59 Surrey Court 1802 Ashley Court 303 1272 Cayton Road 1602 Greens Edge Drive 29 Rio Grande Circle 6 8015 Burlington Pike 9 Girard Street 135 Roger Lane 1608 Ashley Court 304 7165 Cascade Drive 10087 Squire Drive 1293 Retriever Way 7741 Hollywood Drive 2274 Jackson Court 203 7788 Bridgegate Court 7760 Walnut Creek Drive 6967 Parkview Drive 1464 Taramore Drive 104 19 Ridgeway Avenue 36 Sweetbriar Avenue 7576 Thunder Ridge Drive 7549 Valley Watch Drive 1688 Shady Cove Lane 7405 Centrecrest Lane H 992 Carspen Lane 7029 Glen Kerry Court 27 Rio Grande Circle 1 4 Tee Street

Florence Florence Florence Florence Florence Florence Florence Florence Florence Florence Florence Florence Florence Florence Florence Florence Florence Florence Florence Florence Florence Florence Florence Florence Florence Florence Florence Florence

$265,000 $190,000 $335,000 $235,600 $145,000 $800,000 $117,000 $230,000 $185,000 $195,000 $242,500 $248,331 $220,000 $183,900 $205,000 $240,000 $160,000 $181,500 $143,000 $235,000 $1,500 $320,000 $181,500 $139,900 $352,000 $130,000 $146,000 $175,000

4/4/23 4/6/23 4/7/23 4/7/23 4/7/23 4/7/23 4/7/23 4/10/23 4/10/23 4/10/23 4/11/23 4/12/23 4/12/23 4/12/23 4/13/23 4/13/23 4/13/23 4/14/23 4/14/23 4/17/23 4/17/23 4/18/23 4/19/23 4/20/23 4/20/23 4/20/23 4/21/23 4/21/23

94 Goodridge Drive 9206 Belvedere Court 7067 Sweetwater Drive 6900 Houston Road 1 226 Claxon Drive 7153 Hillstone Court 9 Rose Avenue 6651 Sarazen Court 1741 Stewart Drive 331 Westminster Court 102 Morris Street 85 Wellington Drive 155 Saddlebrook Lane 397 27 Circle Drive 10002 Haven Hill Drive 8526 Woodcreek Drive 22 Homestead Drive 7615 Cloudstone Drive 36 Goodridge Drive 52 Circle Drive 456 Elm Street 1108 High Street 127 Montclair Street 12 Euclid Street 228 Deverill Street 556 Rivers Breeze Drive 307 Pike Street

Florence Florence Florence Florence Florence Florence Florence Florence Florence Florence Florence Florence Florence Florence Florence Florence Florence Florence Florence Florence Ludlow Covington Ludlow Ludlow Ludlow Ludlow Bromley

$205,000 $400,000 $288,500 $139,000 $237,000 $313,000 $200,600 $320,000 $300,000 $365,000 $175,000 $285,000 $178,500 $187,000 $322,800 $375,000 $315,000 $327,660 $196,500 $196,250 $325,000 $136,000 $239,900 $173,900 $130,000 $195,500 $132,000

4/24/23 4/24/23 4/24/23 4/25/23 4/26/23 4/27/23 4/27/23 4/27/23 4/28/23 4/28/23 4/28/23 4/28/23 4/28/23 4/28/23 4/28/23 4/28/23 5/1/23 5/1/23 5/1/23 5/2/23 4/10/23 4/14/23 4/14/23 4/19/23 4/25/23 4/28/23 4/28/23

features

LINK Streetscapes – Elm Street in Ludlow Powered by Merk and Gile, Injury Attorneys, 513-481-5678 STORY AND PHOTOS BY MARIA HEHMAN | LINK nky CONTRIBUTOR

I

n this Streetscapes, we check out some new places in Ludlow. From fast-casual burgers to a sip-and-stay tapas bar, there’s a spot here for everyone. All locally owned and operated establishments, these businesses are community-centric with amazing offerings. Join us as we revisit Elm Street in Ludlow.

1975 Burgers Shakes Fries The nostalgia of high school football runs deep in smaller communities in NKY. The heart and soul of neighborhoods coming together is usually rooted in commonalities, and food and hometown pride are at the heart of this establishment.

1975 is named after the year Ludlow High School’s Panthers won the state football championship, paying homage to the players’ achievements.

If the history of the restaurant doesn’t transport diners back to their high school days, the food and ambiance certainly will. You may feel like you’re on the set of “Grease” when you walk in. With families in one corner and couples on first dates in another, the only thing missing are the poodle skirts.

In true diner fashion, the food is cheap and good. You can get a burger, shake and fries for under $15. A burger alone at most places these days will cost you that. Located across from Ludlow High School and next to a park, this is a perfect stop for all ages.

Head into 1975 and grab a Big Burr and a chocolate shake for a little blast from the past.

Conserva For guests looking for an intimate setting, or those longing for a Spanish vacation, Conserva will give the perfect taste of true Spanish tapas and drinks.

One of the newest and most anticipated places on Elm, Conserva’s small space will be the place to be this summer. Adorned in mosaic tiles and eclectic artwork, the

The café serves sandwiches, charcuterie and soup. Like its sister eatery Conserva next door, Taste on Elm has ample outdoor seating to create a relaxing summer evening.

Jamon serrano pintxo and crema de queso de oveja con higos secos pintxo from Conserva.

interior alone is inviting, but add in top-ofthe-line tapas and wine, and guests won’t ever want to leave. Proprietors Challis and Lauren Hodge are happy to walk patrons through the menu, going over portion sizes of each plate as well as most popular dishes.

They serve pintxos and tapas, which both come in small portions, perfect for sampling or sharing. Although the menu lists the food in Spanish, English translations are given underneath each item. One of the most popular dishes is crema de queso de oveja con higos secos – sheep’s milk cream cheese, dried fig and balsamic reduction on a baguette slice.

In addition to pintxos and tapas, Conserva also offers preserved seafood, which is served on a board with accouterments, Spanish olive oil chips and crostini. The eatery features a variety of Spanish wines, with glass and bottle choices, as well as cocktails. For a truly Spanish experience, pair your tapas with a glass of Sangria.

Second Sight Spirits If booze alone seems too boring for an evening out with friends, Second Sight Spirits will liven up any evening. Inspired by their work in Las Vegas shows, owners Rick Couch and Carus Waggoner seek to excite, engage and entertain customers with the craft of distilling.

Second Sight Spirits boasts a dedicated following as a stop on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail Craft Tour. Its interior feels mysterious and features circus elements throughout, while still keeping distilling at the forefront.

Guests sit on bourbon barrels instead of chairs as they’re regaled with the history of Second Sights and entertained with circus stories, all while enjoying hand-crafted beverages. You can book tour reservations online, rent the lounge for special occasions or visit during regular weekend hours.

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

Before or after visiting Conserva, why not check out Taste on Elm right next door.

From the same owners as Conserva, it offers many of the same concepts as Conserva but is worth its own visit.

Taste on Elm Taste on Elm is a market and café focused on wine, bourbon and charcuterie necessities. The owners source products from other local businesses and curate a specialty selection to cover all your food needs.

Second Sight Spirits welcomes patrons with bourbon barrels.

What to Know If You Go: 1975 Burgers Shakes Fries

Location: 478 Elm St. Hours: Tuesday through Saturday, 110 a.m.-9 p.m.; Sunday and Monday, closed Phone: 859-909-1975 Website: https://1975burgers.com/

Conserva

Location: 225 Elm St. Hours: Wednesday and Thursday, 5-9 p.m.; Friday and Saturday, 5-10 p.m.; Sunday, Monday and Tuesday, closed Phone: 859-261-0680 Website: https://www.conservata pasbar.com/

Taste on Elm

Location: 227 Elm St. Hours: Tuesday through Saturday, 11 a.m.-7 p.m.; Sunday and Monday, closed Phone: 859-916-8488 Website: https://www.tasteonelm.com/

Second Sight Spirits

Location: 301 Elm St. Hours: Friday and Saturday, 9 a.m.-6 p.m.; Sunday, 9 a.m.-5 p.m.; Monday through Thursday, closed Phone: 859-488-7866 Website: https://www.secondsight spirits.com/about

Public Notices 11980 Liberty Cara 14' x 54' Mobile Home, VIN 16170, Donald Young, 7 Helen Drive, Alexandria, KY 41001; 1991 Clayton Winford 14' x 70' Mobile Home, VIN CIM051739T, Edgar T. Rowland, Sr. and Joanne Row- land, 13 Helen Drive, Alexandria, KY 41001 and 210 Evergreen Drive Southgate Kentucky, 41071; 1995 INDI Sultan 16'x72' Mobile Home, VIN ALI6721959​296, Ste phen Manning, 27 Helen Drive, Alexandria, KY 41001; will be sold to the highest bidder on Thursday, June 1, 2023, at Noon, at 732 Scott Street, Covington, KY 41011 for rent, reasonable storage charge, clean-up costs and utilities. Seller, The Cardinal Corporation reserves the right to bid.

MAY 12, 2023 15

Are y’all ready for some ball?

Y’alls season gets underway

A

BY MARC HARDIN | LINK nky CONTRIBUTOR

h, the sights and sounds of nearby professional hardball. The sharp crack of wooden bats smacking baseballs in a cozy ballpark, just a short drive from where you live. The menacing sizzle of near-100 mph fastballs popping in the catcher’s mitt, right here in your own backyard. And the gleeful pronouncements of pro ball players competing for the love of sport in a place you call home.

Y’all ready for some local baseball?

The men in red, white and sky blue certainly are.

winning percentage from 2012-21 with two division titles, two runner-up finishes and three third-place finishes. “We look forward to this being the first Florence Y’alls team to win it all.”

Get your tickets!

A lot of people did just that last year when the Y’alls’ attendance soared by 40 percent with the seventh-best home attendance in the league, a development Johnson attributes to an affordable, fan-friendly atmosphere including those enticing theme nights.

The Y’alls drew an average of 2,158 fans per game, up from 1,555 the previous year when they were a first-place team. That’s an increase of 600 fans per game. This despite the team’s worst record in 11 years, 39-56, good for seventh place out of eight teams in the West Division of the Frontier League, an MLB Partner League.

This season, Johnson has additional reasons for fans to flock to Thomas More Stadium. The team is better, and it’s under new management with the return of Chad Rhoades in his debut season as manager after serving two stints as Florence pitch-

The Y’alls are back for their 20th baseball season in Florence. They opened the schedule May 11 against the Gateway Grizzlies in the first of 51 home games at Thomas More Stadium, where attendees can enjoy perennial fan-favorite promotions on game days Tuesday through Sunday.

Are you ready for $2 Tuesdays, Wednesday Dollar Dogs, Thirsty Thursdays, Fireworks Fridays, Rockin’ Saturdays, Family Sundays and a whole bunch of theme nights including Country Night, Margaritaville Night, Star Wars Night and Super Hero Night?

How about a winning independent baseball team, to boot? Something to be proud of while it kicks around the rest of the Frontier League, now in its 30th season. Something like a championship squad, which Florence general manager Max Johnson envisions.

Johnson wants that for you, Northern Kentucky: a championship-caliber Florence Y’alls that you can call your very own. Florence has made the league championship series three times – in 2012, ‘17 and ‘19 – but never captured the crown. The franchise has won a record-tying three Frontier League championships, but those titles came when the team was known as the Erie Sailors (1994), Johnstown Steal (1995) and Johnstown Johnnies (2000). The franchise is tied with Rockford, Schaumburg and River City for the most league titles.

“We see ourselves as the premier team in the league, so we plan on being back in contention after missing the playoffs last year,” said Johnson. Florence posted a .545 16 MAY 12, 2023

The 2023 Florence Y’alls schedule includes 51 home games at Thomas More Stadium. Graphic provided | Florence Y’alls

ing coach, the last in 2020-21. Rhoades, a former minor league pitching coach for the Miami Marlins after reaching the Double-A playing level in the Red Sox system, spent last year in Portugal with his wife while conducting remote pitching classes. He’s also a former independent league player.

While coaching in the Marlins system in 2019, Rhoades oversaw a handful of eventual Florence players, including last year’s wins leaders Jonaiker Villalobos and Edgar Martinez, relief pitcher Karl Craigie, and position players Harrison DiNicola and Luis Pintor.

Craigie is the Y’alls’ new pitching coach.

Together, he and Rhoades hope to whittle the team’s 2022 earned run average of 5.19, which ranked 10th in the 16-team Frontier League, the largest of its kind in professional baseball with over 1,000 players moved to the majors. The Y’alls allowed the fifth-most hits last season and third-most home runs in the league.

“With Chad having been a pitching coach, he’s definitely going to have an eye on the pitchers,” Johnson said. “Craigie is from the same coaching system, so they are on the same page.”

Fielding was a strength last season for the Y’alls. They ranked seventh in the league in fielding percentage and third in double plays turned.

Hitting also was a strength as the Y’alls ranked in the league’s top half in several categories, including sixth in slugging percentage, sixth in doubles, seventh in batting average, seventh in homers and eighth in runs scored.

The hope is the bats and gloves continue making a difference, the pitching improves and the wins pile up in bunches.

“We return a lot of good hitters, but we’re going to be more balanced this year,” Johnson said. “We will have some new pitching coming in to challenge guys.”

Among other top players expected back are slugger Brennan Price, fellow mainstays Ray Zuberer and Craig Massey, and pitcher Jake McMahill. A key newcomer expected to make an impact is one-time major leaguer Mike Kickham, a former San Francisco sixth-round draft pick who played for the Giants, Red Sox and Dodgers as late as 2021. He’s made 21 career appearances and five starts in parts of four MLB seasons.

Chad Rhoades will be the new Florence Y’alls manager this season after serving two stints as pitching coach in 2016 and 2021. Photo provided | Florence Y’alls

Price, a former Milwaukee Brewers draft pick, hit .309 last year, slugged .602 and belted a team-high 24 homers, tied for sixth in the league. He added a team-best 91 RBIs, tied for second in the league, in just 327 at-bats. Massey hit .299. Zuberer hit .285. DiNicola hit .281.

McMahill made five appearances, including four starts, last season. He went 1-1 and posted a 2.92 ERA, which ranked second on the team among hurlers with at least 20 innings pitched. Villalobos (19) and Martinez (15) led the pitching staff in starts. Joe Dougherty led with 10 saves in 35 appearances, second-most on the team.

Harrison DiNicola re-signed with the Y’alls after hitting .281 during the 2022 season. Photo provided | Florence Y’alls

Lots of exciting promotions are being offered by the Y’alls this season. Photo provided | Florence Y’alls

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18 MAY 12, 2023

sports CovCath’s Mayer drafted

by Raiders; Ryle’s Morgan signs with Steelers Covington Catholic alum Michael Mayer has been selected by the Las Vegas Raiders at No. 35 in the 2023 NFL Draft.

After not having his name called in the first round in what many considered to be a surprise, Mayer didn’t have to wait long in the second round, becoming the fourth pick of the day.

Notre Dame tight end and Covington Catholic standout Michael Mayer. Photo

by Darron Cummings | AP

He joins a Raiders team that is going through an offensive transition as Jimmy Garoppolo was signed in the offseason after the franchise released Derek Carr.

Mayer is the first CovCath graduate drafted to the NFL in program history. In his high school playing days, he was the 2019 Kentucky Mr. Football and won the 2019 Gatorade Kentucky Football Player of the Year after recording 50 receptions for 970 yards and 15 touchdowns. In his Colonels career, Mayer recorded 110 receptions, 2,231 yards and 30 touchdowns, winning Class 5A titles in 2017 and 2019.

In his college career, Mayer has been the most productive tight end in Notre Dame history in his three seasons with the Fighting Irish, collecting the most receiving yards all-time (2,009), as well as 180 receptions and 18 touchdowns. His 180 receptions are the third-most in program history.

The last Northern Kentucky player taken in the NFL draft was Holy Cross linebacker

Derrick Barnes, who was drafted by the Detroit Lions in the fourth round in 2021.

Another Northern Kentucky football standout has joined the NFL. University of Minnesota quarterback and Ryle alum Tanner Morgan has signed as an undrafted free agent to the Pittsburgh Steelers. He went undrafted in the 2023 NFL Draft but was quickly signed by the Steelers.

Morgan holds 12 records from his time at Minnesota, most notably with 3,253 passing yards and 30 touchdowns during the 2019 season. He went 33-14 as a starter and had a career completion percentage of 62% during his time as a Golden Gopher.

He graduated from Ryle in 2017 and is in the all-time KHSAA record book for being 10th in completions (681) and ninth in passing yards (10,303).

The acquisition gives Morgan a chance to make the roster. The Steelers have two quarterbacks already on the team in Kenny Pickett and Mitch Trubisky. Morgan is anticipated to participate in rookie minicamp and will join the 90-man roster.

Beechwood promotes Hart to basketball head coach

New Beechwood head basketball coach Ross Hart.

Photo provided | Beechwood Independent School District

When the search concluded, the Beechwood Tigers administration decided the best person to take over the boys basketball team was already on the staff.

The administration promoted Ross Hart to the position after he’d been on Erik Goetz’s staff the

last five years as the associate head coach and junior varsity head coach. He takes over for Goetz, who retired from coaching after the season as the program’s all-time-winningest coach after 10 seasons and 160 victories. Hart has coached all 16 seasons in the rugged 35th District, first at Beechwood and then at Holmes.

Beechwood Principal Justin Kaiser, who led the monthlong search, said Hart’s vision is both ambitious and attainable. Kaiser said Hart wants the program to benefit from a feeder system that goes down to the elementary level and helps the middle school programs attain consistency and an identity.

Hart graduated from Beechwood in 2002 after scoring more than 1,000 points. He joined Rick Shumate’s staff for two years in 2007. The 2008-2009 Tigers squad finished 22-6, beating Covington Catholic in the 35th District semifinals before losing to eventual state champion Holmes in the championship game and Boone County in the 9th Region quarterfinals.

After that season, Hart joined David Henley’s staff at Holmes. He stayed on under Jason Booher and Mike Listerman, helping the Bulldogs to 35th District Tournament championships in 2010, 2011, 2012 and 2014 and the 9th Region championship in 2013.

Hart ultimately returned to his alma mater on Goetz’s staff. The Tigers won the lone All “A” Region championship in program history in 2018.

The 2018-2019 team put together a school record 29-6 campaign that included a 35th District Tournament championship.

Beechwood listed four seniors on last year’s roster, but the returning players do

not have to adjust to an unfamiliar coach.

Hart said Beechwood has a number of high IQ basketball players, so the plan is to use that to mix things up on both ends.

Holy Cross’ Sorrell steps down to focus on family

Holy Cross head basketball coach Casey Sorrell has resigned. Photo by Brandon Wheeler | LINK nky contributor

Casey Sorrell has resigned from the head coaching seat as the Holy Cross boys basketball coach.

Sorrell coached the past two seasons with the Indians, guiding them to a 42-18 record and the All “A” state championship game this past season.

Sorrell cited family health concerns in his decision. His newborn daughter developed a growth in her throat below her vocal cords called a hemangioma, which was affecting her breathing.

Holy Cross posted a 21-8 record in 202223, winning the 9th Region All “A” title for the second straight season, but were upset in the district tournament by Beechwood, putting a surprising end to their season.

Prior to his stint at Holy Cross, Sorrell was an assistant at Covington Catholic under Scott Ruthsatz from 2016-20. In his four seasons on staff, the Colonels won the KHSAA state championship in 2018 and three 9th Region titles.

EACH WEEK, NORTHERN KENTUCKY SELECTS

Walton-Verona Softball Team Photo provided | Walton-Verona Athletics

As a reminder, our honor is available to any athletics team from any sport at any level – from high school and collegiate to youth to recreational and beyond. Readers can scan the QR code to head to linknky.com to vote for the next Team of the Week.

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A peek at what’s in the next issue: Opportunity House helps young people find success after struggle

20 MAY 12, 2023

May 1968: To be free means to participate

Streetscapes ventures to North Bend Road in Hebron

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