LINK Kenton Reader - Volume 3, Edition 9 - January 24, 2025
‘Litany of things’ hampering police recruitment
By Nathan Granger
When Patrick Bailey set out to become a police officer, he quickly realized he had a knack for academics.
After getting his associate’s degree in the 2010s, he said he realized the course work “wasn’t quite as intimidating and as hard as I thought it was going to be,” so he went on to get a bachelor’s degree and then multiple advanced degrees in various fields related to police work. When it came time to get more practical training, though, he noticed something: The training to become an officer in Kentucky seemed less accessible than in Ohio.
Kentucky first requires trainees to be hired by a department before they can begin basic training. Ohio has open-enrollment academies that take students who have yet to be hired.
One Ohio academy, at Butler Tech in Butler County’s Liberty Township, offered morning classes, and so he decided to take the 50-mile commute from his home in Union to Butler Tech’s academy rather than doing it through the Kentucky system.
Sidewalk snow removal: Who’s responsible?
By Haley Parnell
Early this month, Northern Kentucky was hit with two rounds of heavy snowfall in a week. While crews worked hard to clear the roads, sidewalks received less attention.
Newport resident Kurt Parks walks to work. He lives in the Monmouth Row apartment complex and uses the Taylor-Southgate Bridge and Purple People Bridge to get to his job in downtown Cincinnati.
Parks said he was not particularly bothered by the condition of the sidewalks themselves, but, when he had to cross the street, he had to be careful stepping over the mounds of snow on the curbs. With the signals in front of Newport on the Levee changed (due to southbound I-471’s closure), he also had less time than usual to
cross the street.
“Crossing the street onto the sidewalk means deliberately stepping on the footsteps that have been stepped on in the past, so I’m walking on packed and solid snow,” Parks said. “Of course, there’s the pile of snow in the median of Third Street in front of the Levee that I slipped trying to walk over while crossing the street.”
He said the bridges themselves were terrible.
“None of it’s cleared,” Parks said. “The Purple People Bridge has a narrow path of packed snow that I can rely on, and that’s it. Taylor-Southgate might also have a narrow path now as well, but it didn’t [Jan. 6] when I walked home from work.”
Continues on page 4
“Some days, I think I spent like an hour and 20 minutes driving up there, depending on traffic,” Bailey said, “but it allowed me to go up there in the morning, kind of get it out of the way, and then be able to come back home still, and then work at night.”
Bailey’s experience reflects a quandary that many potential police officers in Northern Kentucky face when trying to balance their lives with the constraints of police training as it currently exists in the commonwealth.
Scheduling is just one of the problems that have resulted from a shortage of recruit candidates, and the region is still trying to find ways to mitigate it.
As LINK nky reported last year, departments in Northern Kentucky, but even across the state and nation generally, are trying to recruit as many candidates as they can from a seemingly dwindling pool.
Independence Police Chief Brian Ferayorni, for instance, told LINK early last year that, on average, between 25 and 30 people –sometimes fewer – show up for each round of police testing in Independence. “When I tested, I tested against 100 guys for one position,” Ferayorni said in 2024.
Recruits study crime scene investigation during Law Enforcement Basic Training Class 551. Provided | Kentucky Department of Criminal Justice Training
A person carries groceries in the street, heading from the Newport Kroger to Southgate. Photo by Haley Parnell | LINK nky
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Continued from page 1
“People are just not coming into it anymore,” said Pat Morgan, a retired police colonel who formerly worked with the Kenton County Sheriff’s office. Although he’s retired now, Morgan is still active in advocacy and lobbying efforts to help local police departments attract and retain recruits.
There are “ “A litany of things,” as Morgan put it, that contribute to the situation.”
Free but not flexible
Police recruits in Kentucky are required to undergo 20 weeks of basic in-person training at an established training academy. They also must complete 80 hours of online training, which can be done in conjunction with the in-person training.
The training is subsidized through the Kentucky Law Enforcement Foundation Program Fund, a state fund that covers the cost of basic training offered through the Kentucky Department of Criminal Justice Training.
In Ohio, by contrast, a student can pay his or her own way through basic training at any state-certified school or academy, a system more closely resembling tradeschool education. As stated before, some Ohio academies, such as Butler Tech’s, offer open enrollment to students who have not yet been offered a job. Academies like that are unheard of in Northern Kentucky.
The trade-off is that, while Ohio recruits are responsible for costs upfront, they have more flexibility in where they can be
trained. Kentucky recruits don’t have to pay, but they’re limited to large state academies, often housed at universities.
There are academies in Richmond, Bowling Green, Lexington and Louisville, the last three of which offer training only to local recruits. The Kentucky State Police also has its own academy. That means everyone else, including NKY recruits, must travel to the training center at Eastern Kentucky University in Richmond for training.
With the current backlog of trainees, Morgan told the Kenton County Mayors Group in December, it can take four or five months from the time a recruit is hired to when he or she actually starts training. Moreover, basic training is a residential program, meaning that recruits can sometimes be away from their families for long periods.
Morgan said that the potential of being away from family for a long period, especially, can be a big obstacle for many potential recruits. Morgan said he’s observed a change in culture from his own generation to the current generation of new officers. From his point of view, previous generations were more willing to sacrifice time with their families for the work.
“The generation now, they want family time,” Morgan said.
Morgan said there have been several measures that departments, both regionally and statewide, have experimented with to improve work-life balance. Those include changes to shift scheduling and time-off policies.
Why not an NKY academy?
In addition, Gov. Andy Beshear in September announced the establishment of a new training academy in Madisonville; it’s slated to open in February. Morgan believes that should ease the burden on the academy at Eastern Kentucky University, but the new Hopkins County facility still will be nearly 250 miles from Northern Kentucky.
Although there has been chatter among Northern Kentucky’s leadership about the potential for a local academy to serve local recruits, there’s another challenge: a lack of basic training instructors.
Morgan attributes this to salary competition with other positions. Many experienced officers may want to come out of retirement to continue working, and, although they would serve as ideal instructors, they’re drawn to other positions, such as school resource officers, because those positions pay better.
Too many tiers?
Speaking of retirement, Kentucky’s police pension system is another factor contributing to the personnel shortage. Underfunded for years, the system has gone through multiple iterations and reforms in an effort to control costs.
Today, police and other state pensions are split into three tiers. Tier 1 applies to workers hired before Sept. 1, 2008. It kicks in after 20 years of service and pays out defined benefits based on the length of one’s career. This means that retired officers under this plan are guaranteed a certain payout upon hanging up their uniforms.
Most government jobs don’t have salaries that can compete with the private sector, but many recruits were willing to overlook that if they knew they were going to take home a stable, living income in their golden years under tier 1 of the system.
For those hired after Sept. 1, 2008, pension maturity periods were extended from 20 years to 25 years, but they still had defined benefits similar to tier 1. Workers under this system are classified as tier 2.
Then, beginning Jan. 1, 2014, pensions were switched from a defined benefits plan to a kind of hybrid cash contribution plan, now
Recruits from 26 agencies ready to begin their journey at the Kentucky Department of Criminal Justice Training on Dec. 6. Photos provided | Kentucky Department of Criminal Justice Training
referred to as tier 3, which applies to anyone hired after that date. These plans are similar to 401(k) plans and other individual retirement accounts: Officers contribute over a period of time to an investment pool that yields returns upon retirement. Payouts are based on the contributions workers make divided by state-managed actuarial factors.
Although a worker’s age and the type of service performed are accounted for in the actuarial calculations, many argue that such plans rarely yield the same payouts as traditional pension plans. This has blunted one of the primary means by which departments attracted recruits.
Morgan and others are currently in the process of lobbying the General Assembly for reforms to health care benefits for pensioners. Officers in tier 1’s B level are beginning to retire, Morgan said. Because many of them are only in their 40s, they may want to come back to work as school resource officers or in similar positions.
As it stands, however, the state’s family health insurance plan puts them on the hook for about $16,000 a year out of pocket. The plan is to have a bill that would provide returning officers with a stipend for health care costs, but the details of the legislation are still being worked out.
Kentucky ‘losing candidates’
These days, Bailey works as an officer in Preble County, Ohio – another county north from Butler. He’s also an elected constable for Boone County District 2.
Based on his observations, a lot of officers are being drawn away from Kentucky to work in Ohio because the training requirements offer more flexibility. Officers in Ohio, he said, also seem to have more flexibility in where they work. This is true for both younger and older officers, the latter of whom often still want to work part-time. The flexibility allows more experienced officers opportunities to share their knowledge with more departments.
Bailey advocated for open enrollment-style academies in Kentucky as one way to mitigate the problem.
“If Kentucky had some kind of open enrollment, it could open the market and then compete with Ohio,” Bailey said. “So, I do think that Kentucky is losing candidates to that. There’s no doubt in my mind.”
Continued from page 1
On Jan. 5 and 6, NKY received around 10.5 inches of snow, with 4.2 inches accumulating on Jan. 6 to break the old single-day snow accumulation record of 3.5 inches set in 1981.
Then, on Jan. 10, 3.4 inches of snow fell, making it the snowiest six-day stretch in Cincinnati (as recorded at Cincinnati/ Northern Kentucky International Airport) in nearly 10 years. The last time the region saw so much snow was in 2015, according to the National Weather Service.
While public works departments are responsible for snow removal on city streets, who is responsible for clearing sidewalks?
‘Don’t have the manpower’
In Newport, City Manager John Hayden said it is up to business owners and homeowners to clear the sidewalk in front of their properties, which he said is common among cities. Hayden said the city doesn’t have the staffing to clear all city sidewalks, especially in addition to city streets.
“We took some steps in the business district so the businesses can safely open,” Hayden said. “We removed a lot of snow from the street, we took several dump-
sters of snow we removed off the street so that cars could get in and off Monmouth Street. We did clear some sidewalks in the business district as well. Just practically speaking, there’s no way we can accommodate that for residents because we just don’t have the manpower.”
Hayden said that the significant amount of snow required substantial staff time. “Over the weekend, they worked 12-hour shifts around the clock,” he said.
“We couldn’t even get to the main roads quick enough. We would do the hospital routes and the hills, and, as soon as we would get done with those, they would be covered again.”
Days later, sidewalks remained coated in snow, and people must rely on them to walk to work, businesses and stores.
Newport resident Nita Lauver said she walks to work from 11th Street to Dollar General on Monmouth Street, using the underpass on Monmouth to get there.
“I was lucky to walk in the street yesterday [Jan. 8] morning to work because there was barely any traffic at 7 a.m.,” Lauver said. “If a car is too close or passes, I try to get back up on the sidewalk. I try to leave early because you never know with walking how early or late you can be.”
Hayden said the underpass is tricky because the city’s equipment is too big. He said public works crews attempted to clear the area with a Gator (a brand of utility vehicle) equipped with a snow plow. Because of the amount of snow, though, that didn’t work. There have been discussions on buying new equipment for that area, but, Hayden said, it might not be worth the expense due to the Monmouth Street Corridor Project.
That project, which has had multiple setbacks and was expected to be well underway by now, is expected to widen the underpass, meaning the city’s current equipment would be able to work for that area.
This story was originally published online on Jan. 10. On Jan. 13, LINK received notice from Lauver that the sidewalk through the underpass was cleared.
If there is a significant safety issue due to the snow, Hayden said residents should contact the city.
“When this is over with, we’ll get together with the public works crew to talk about what happened, what we can improve on, and I think there’s always room for improvement,” Hayden said. “I think overall they did a really good job.”
Sidewalk conditions on the 11th Street Bridge between Newport and Covington.
By Nathan Granger
AResident appeals Covington apartment project
zoning change that would allow Covington-based developer Orleans Development to convert an old warehouse in Covington’s Westside neighborhood into apartments has been sent to the city commission for final approval following a request from a resident.
The property is at 1564 Banklick St., near the intersection of West 16th and Russell streets. Covington resident Thurman Wenzl appealed the approval, stating the developer’s proposed rent ranges didn’t “speak to the needs of the community,” according to records from Kenton County Planning and Development Services. The developer put the estimated rent range of the apartments at between $1,150 and $1,495 a month, depending on their size. Wenzl attended the Jan. 8 commission meeting, but he did not speak.
The 130-year-old building was originally part of a cordage manufacturer before becoming a warehouse. The Kenton County Planning Commission recommended approving a zoning change for the property in early December.
Usually, zoning change recommendations stop at the planning commission, but city residents can challenge the planning commission’s recommendation within 21 days if they take issue with it. Wenzl successfully appealed the recommendation – on the last day it was allowable – which escalated final approval of the zoning change to the city commission.
The commission has two options. It can hold a new public hearing similar to the ones held by the planning commission at which residents can come out and speak on the development. No one spoke against the development when it came before the planning commission.
The commission also can move the zoning change through the normal legislative process, whereby an ordinance changing the zone goes through two public readings and the body votes without an additional public hearing. Residents can still speak about the
development at meetings where readings take place, but the public comment procedures for normal meetings tend to be more strict than public hearings.
The commission elected to forego a public hearing at its Jan. 8 meeting, meaning the first reading for the zoning change was to take place at its Jan. 14 legislative meeting.
Tony Kreutzjans, founder of Orleans Development, attended the Jan. 8 meeting and spoke about his vision for the building.
“I see this property as a burden, a blight on the community,” Kreutzjans told the commission. “Let’s face it, it’s a junkyard in the
middle of the neighborhood. I’ve wanted to do this project for over 12 years because of the impact it will have on the neighborhood. It will be transformative. In lieu of the junkyard, we will bring 39 unique and desirable apartments. The neighbors I’ve talked to are excited.”
The plan is to convert the building into a four-floor apartment complex with 39 units (a single studio apartment and 38 one-bedroom apartments) and 52 offstreet parking spaces.
City staff members and Kreutzjans (and the county staff members with the planning commission in December) touted the con-
version as a means of bringing more rental properties to the city. They cited a housing study released in 2023 from the Northern Kentucky Development District, which suggested a supply deficit in smaller rental properties at all income levels.
About 62% of the residents in the census tract in which the development will occur are listed as rent-burdened as of 2022, according to the American Community Survey, an initiative from the U.S. Census Bureau that makes statistical estimations from census data.
Rental households must spend 30% or more of their income on rent (not including utilities, insurance and other housing expenses) in order to be considered rent-burdened. A tenant living in the complex making $52,900 or less would be rent-burdened if they’re paying the complex’s median rent of $1,322.50 a month.
About 45% of all Covington renters are rent-burdened, according to the American Community Survey. The median household income in Covington was $53,770 as of 2022.
Kreutzjans stated the plan was to get the building onto the National Register of Historic Places and that his company plans to use historic tax credits to help fund the conversion.
Commissioners expressed support for the development.
“Not only is the work your company does fantastic, you guys are fantastic landlords, as well,” said Commissioner Shannon Smith.
“Brick by brick, house by house, block by block. Thank you, Tony, thank you for investing in our community,” said Mayor Ron Washington.
The property at 1564 Banklick St. in Covington. Provided | City of Covington
Elsmere council denies member’s bid to attend meetings virtually
Elsmere City Council voted unanimously to deny council member Serena Owen’s request for virtual attendance at council meetings.
Owen has been seeking to attend council meetings remotely since September 2024 as an accommodation for her disability.
Council member Gloria Grubbs prefaced the vote, held during the city’s first caucus meeting of 2025 on Jan. 7, by saying that various accommodations were offered to Owen for her ADA request. Those included a chauffeur to meetings, a police escort, a bulletproof vest and plexiglass protection around Owen’s seat.
Owen has been the subject of criticism from several Elsmere residents and political candidates due to lack of attendance at meetings through 2024; she has not attended a meeting in person since June. Owen has cited concerns about her safety as the reason for missing meetings and has pitched the idea of allowing virtual and hybrid-style meetings as an alternative.
Members who were part of the previous council did not support Owen’s request, and they have not changed their minds. Justin Wade, the only new member on the council, also disapproved.
“You should be here serving the public for the public if you’re elected by the people, and you’re not serving them very well virtually,” Wade said.
The council voted against granting the request, closing the issue for the remainder of the year.
TANK to hike fares, cut routes in spring system overhaul
The Transit Authority of Northern Kentucky is making changes to its route system and increasing its fares this spring. TANK is the public transit system serving Boone, Campbell and Kenton counties and downtown Cincinnati.
End of line
Citing consistently low ridership and improving efficiency to other services, TANK will eliminate five routes: 17x, 22x, 32x, 61 and 62. Nearby alternative routes are available, the agency said.
In addition, the following changes will be made to several current routes, including the Southbank Shuttle:
Route 42x
• Three additional morning and evening park-and-ride-only trips will be added to the direct route, which runs from the Florence hub to downtown Cincinnati in the mornings and from Cincinnati to the Florence hub in the evenings.
• In Florence, the route will now begin and end at the Turfway at Drexel and Turfway at Lloyd stops.
• All trips will be moved back 15 minutes to allow for easier transfers in downtown Cincinnati.
Route 5
• The stop at St. Elizabeth Covington Hospital will be restored from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through Friday.
Routes 1 and 25
• The two routes will be unlinked to improve their on-time performance.
• Schedules will be adjusted to accommodate smooth transfers between Routes 1 and 25 as riders who are accustomed to staying on the same bus to ride both routes will now need to make a transfer.
Route 30x
• The weekend morning trip will now pick up in downtown Cincinnati at 6:45 a.m. and arrive at Taylor Farms at 7:15 a.m.
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Southbank Shuttle
• The routes have been adjusted in Cincinnati to improve on-time performance. The shuttle will run only on Second and Third streets. All stops north of Third Street and south of Second Street in Cincinnati will be eliminated.
• A stop will be added at the corner of Second and Vine streets outside of the Freedom Center to serve The Banks and allow for seamless transfer to the Connector streetcar.
• The stop at Broadway and Pete Rose Way (headed south to Newport) will be moved to the Second Street ramp next to the Great American Ball Park and the Central Riverfront Garage.
Fare increases
TANK will raise its fares effective March 22. The transit agency said the moves will help it keep up with rising costs and support general operating costs. The changes are as follows:
• Fixed routes (local and express) will increase from $1.50 to $2.
• Southbank Shuttle will increase from $1 to $2.
• Reduced fare (seniors/disabled) will increase from $0.75 to $1.
• TANK day passes will increase from $3.50 to $4.
• TANK 30-day passes will increase from $66 to $70.
• Reduced fare TANK 30-day passes (seniors/disabled) will increase from $33 to $35.
• Game day passes will increase from $2 to $4.
To help riders save money, TANK is developing an account-based ticketing program that will allow riders who can’t afford a monthly pass to pay as they go and automatically switch to a monthly pass once they reach the equivalent cost. The program is expected to launch later this year.
Golf simulator now open in Crestview Hills
Since the pandemic, simulated golf has exploded in popularity, and many entrepreneurs are looking to capitalize on this growth.
According to a report from the National Golf Foundation, 6.2 million Americans hit a golf ball into a virtual simulator in 2023 – a 72% increase from 2019. At the time of the report’s publication, there were 1,600 businesses with a golf simulator registered in the National Golf Foundation’s database.
Nick Loftis’ Off Par Golf & Social bar and restaurant in Beavercreek, Ohio, east of Dayton, with multiple golf simulator bays, was presumably one of those. Loftis has since added to that total with the opening of the second Off Par location in Crestview Hills Town Center.
Like many others, Loftis didn’t grow up playing golf; he started in his 20s. His trial-and-error experience on the course taught him just how challenging it can be, especially for beginners.
“It’s a pretty intimidating sport if you didn’t grow up doing it or you didn’t develop that muscle memory in your younger years,” he told LINK nky.
With the rapid advancement of simulator technology, though, golf has become more accessible. Someone that has never played golf before can try it out, surrounded by friends or family, at a business like Off Par. This lessens the immediate pressure to perform while decreasing the cost of entry.
“I would point to the biggest rise, as the technology has become more accessible, there’s a lot more options, and you just saw a significant increase in the number of golfers,” Loftis said.
Off Par features eight golf simulators where patrons can play on world-renowned courses or practice their swing. While the simulators are primarily for golf, players can challenge their friends in other sports, such as soccer, baseball or zombie dodgeball.
For golfers looking for something a little more analytical, each simulator bay
Off Par Golf & Social. Provided | NKY Chamber of Commerce
Elsmere’s city council will not allow member Serena Owen to attend meetings virtually. Photo by Hailey Roden | LINK nky
features PuttView’s Putting Green, a turf putting green that acts as a visual and interactive training aid. It comes with customizable drills, allowing golfers to augment any pre-existing putting green.
In addition to the simulators, Off Par has a full-service, 20-seat bar with 12 taps and a curated selection of bourbons and ryes, alongside other options like craft cocktails and non-alcoholic drinks.
Off Par partnered with the Buffalo Wings and Rings location inside Crestview Hills Town Center to provide food. The menu features chicken wings, fries, onion rings, burgers and other shareable appetizers.
The Town Center is owned and managed by Cincinnati-based Jeffrey R. Anderson Real Estate. Off Par’s over 8,000 square foot space was previously occupied by an Altar’d State clothing store. Loftis said he chose the location because it is close to several golf courses.
“It just came down to basic geography for us,” Loftis said. “We had our first store in Dayton. We knew we wanted to be in the Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky market for our second store. We looked at the number of golf courses within a certain geographical radius, so that was a big thing when we were evaluating potential sites.”
Off Par opened on Black Friday of 2024. So far, business is booming, Loftis said. Off Par’s operating hours are Monday through Thursday from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. On Friday and Saturday, it’s open from 9 to 11 p.m. On Sunday, it’s open from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m.
“It’s picked up much faster than our original location did,” he said. “We’re also open in prime season right now, so that plays a big part in it. The demand for our services is very high right now.”
Free playgroups for kids aged 3-5 launch in Covington
Kiddos age 3 to 5 will soon be able to enjoy free playgroups at the Kenton County Library.
The Covington Department of Parks and Recreation, in partnership with EC Learn, a Northern Kentucky educational nonprofit, will begin offering the groups at the Covington branch later this month.
“By investing in early education and fostering kindergarten readiness, we empower our children to break the cycle of low literacy and build a foundation of hope and opportunity for generations to come,” said Covington Recreational Program Coordinator Alicia Chappell.
Activities will aim to build children’s liter-
acy and prime them for kindergarten. Participating families will receive a free book and toy each week. Parents and caregivers will also gain access to the Sparkler app, which provides tips and play activity ideas for parents and caregivers at home.
The playgroup curriculum was developed by the Louisville-based National Center for Families Learning. The activities aim to increase socialization and engage the kids’ minds.
“The curriculum is designed to support families as they learn to engage with their young children, ages birth to 5 years,” said NCFL preschool training specialist Dianna Carlson in a city news release. “Through intentional play experiences and resources, caregivers explore ways to support their children’s development and successful transition to kindergarten.”
Playgroups will take place on Saturday mornings from 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. and running through March 15 at the Covington branch of the Kenton County Public Library on Scott Boulevard.
Opal joins sibling Covington eateries, cites costs in closing
Opal Rooftop, a casual fine dining restaurant on the top floor of Covington’s seven-story Republic Bank building, permanently closed Jan.18.
Owners Bill and Morgan Whitlow announced the news in a post to Opal’s Facebook account. In the post, the Whitlows said the restaurant faced many challenges, including rising costs, the current climate of the restaurant industry and sustaining the rooftop space.
“Despite Opal’s many strengths, the obsta-
NOTICE TO CUSTOMERS OF DUKE ENERGY KENTUCKY, INC.
cles we’ve faced over the past three years in building and sustaining this space have become insurmountable,” read the post. “We have explored every possible solution to overcome these issues, but the cost to continue this fight has grown too high given the current climate of the industry and our commitment to addressing these challenges in the most ethical way possible.”
Opal was well-known for its rooftop dining experience where customers dined on an open-air patio with unimpeded views of downtown Covington and Cincinnati. It opened in late September 2023 after the rooftop space underwent extensive renovations.
Opal will be the third restaurant owned by the Whitlows to close in the past two months. Rich’s Proper and Hangry Omar’s Slider Shack – both in central Covington –closed permanently in December.
The Whitlows thanked Opal’s staff, customers and the community for their support. “We are profoundly grateful for all you’ve done and remain dedicated to supporting you through this,” they wrote.
RECOVERY BY ENVIRONMENTAL SURCHARGE OF DUKE ENERGY KENTUCKY, INC.’S AMENDMENT TO ITS 2021 AMENDED ENVIRONMENTAL COMPLIANCE PLAN
PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that Duke Energy Kentucky, Inc. (Duke Energy Kentucky or Company) is refiling previously withdrawn Application in Case No. 2024-00152 with the Kentucky Public Service Commission (Commission) on or about January 20, 2025 in Case No. 2025-00002, an Application pursuant to Kentucky Revised Statute 278.183 for approval of the construction of the Limestone Conversion Project (Project) located at its East Bend Generating Station (East Bend) and an amendment of the Company’s Environmental Compliance Plan to include the Project for the purpose of recovering the capital and operations and maintenance (O&M) costs associated with the Project through an increase in the environmental surcharge on customers’ bills beginning September 1, 2025 under the Company’s existing Rider ESM, also known as the environmental surcharge mechanism. The total capital cost of the Limestone Conversion Project in the Company’s Amended Environmental Compliance Plan is estimated to be $125.8 million.
Federal and state environmental regulations require Duke Energy Kentucky to build and upgrade equipment and facilities that produce energy from coal to operate in an environmentally sound manner. Specifically, the Company is seeking Commission approval of a Certificate of Public Convenience and Necessity for the construction and operation of the Project. This construction project requires an amendment of Duke Energy Kentucky’s Amended Environmental Compliance Plan that was approved by the Commission in 2022.
Additionally, Duke Energy Kentucky is seeking an order approving the recovery of the costs of the Project through its Environmental Surcharge tariff. The Project is required for the Company to continue to comply with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s federal Clean Air Act, and other environmental requirements that apply to Duke Energy Kentucky facilities used in the production of energy from coal. The total capital cost of the Project for which the Company is seeking recovery at this time is estimated to be $125.8 million. O&M costs related to the Project will be similar to O&M costs incurred today and are not distinguishable.
The impact on Duke Energy Kentucky’s customers is estimated to be an increase of 0.32% for residential customers and 0.32% on average for nonresidential customers in 2025, 1.7% for residential customers and 1.6% on average for non-residential customers in 2026, 1.8% for residential customers and 1.8% on average for non-residential customers in 2027, 1.3% for residential customers and 1.3% on average for non-residential customers in 2028, and 1.3% for residential customers and 1.3% on average for non-residential customers in 2029. For a Duke Energy Kentucky residential customer using 1,000 kilowatt hours per month (kWh/mo.), the initial monthly increase is expected to be $0.41 during 2025, $2.10 in 2026, $2.30 in 2027, $1.64 in 2028, and $1.71 in 2029.
The rates contained in this notice are the rates proposed by Duke Energy Kentucky; however, the Kentucky Public Service Commission may order rates to be charged that differ from the proposed rates contained in this notice. Such action may result in rates for consumers other than the rates in this notice.
Any corporation, association, body politic or person with a substantial interest in the matter may, by written request within thirty (30) days after publication of this notice of the proposed rate changes, request leave to intervene; intervention may be granted beyond the thirty (30) day period for good cause shown. Such motion shall be submitted to the Kentucky Public Service Commission, P.O. Box 615, 211 Sower Boulevard, Frankfort, Kentucky 40602-0615, and shall set forth the grounds for the request including the status and interest of the party. If the Commission does not receive a written request for intervention within thirty (30) days of the initial publication the Commission may take final action on the application.
Intervenors may obtain copies of the application and other filings made by the Company by requesting same through email at DEKInquiries@dukeenergy.com or by telephone at (513) 287-4366. A copy of the application and other filings made by the Company are available for public inspection through the Commission’s website at http://psc.ky.gov, at the Commission’s office at 211 Sower Boulevard, Frankfort, Kentucky, Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., and at the following Company office: Erlanger Ops Center, 1262 Cox Road, Erlanger, Kentucky 41018. Comments regarding the application may be submitted to the Public Service Commission through its website, or by mail at the following Commission address.
For further information contact:
PUBLIC SERVICE COMMISSION
DUKE ENERGY KENTUCKY
COMMONWEALTH OF KENTUCKY 1262 COX ROAD
P.O. BOX 615
ERLANGER, KENTUCKY 41018
211 SOWER BOULEVARD (513) 287-4366
FRANKFORT, KENTUCKY 40602-0615 (502) 564-3940
Opal rooftop. Provided | Opal on Facebook
A child playing with toys. Photo by Kelly Sikkema on Unsplash
By Nathan Granger
AEagle-eye hikers spot national symbol
s snowfall hit the region on Jan. 6, a trio of Edgewood neighbors – Dennis Reckers, Tony Sandfoss and Sandfoss’ young son, Trent –decided to go outside and enjoy the scenery.
The street they live on leads back into Doe Run Lake in Erlanger, and, as the three of them hiked the trails, they looked out across the lake and spotted them: two bald eagles perched on some trees over the water.
“We were maybe a mile and a half in, and we looked out over the lake and saw two of them perched out there, right at the point of the lake,” Tony Sandfoss said.
Reckers and the Sandfosses had heard
Extension Agent for Agriculture and Natural Resources
about eagle sightings in the region before. Reckers had seen discussions about them on social media, and he told LINK nky that his nieces and nephews had begun trying to locate some eagles to no avail. Tony Sandfoss said he and his son decided to go hiking Jan. 6 to try to find some eagles.
“We’ve been wanting to go down and actually find them,” Reckers said, “and yesterday was the day.”
Bald eagles probably aren’t the first animal you think of when you think of Kentucky, but they have been documented throughout the state. Beginning in 1986, the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources, with the help of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, conducted both aerial and ground surveys of bald eagle and golden eagle populations in the commonwealth.
Survey methodologies were revamped after 2019 due to pressures from the pandemic, but data collected from 1986 to 2019 shows a sharp increase in eagle nesting territories across Kentucky. Occupied bald eagle nesting territories increased from 43 in 2006 to 187 in 2019, according to the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources.
Bald eagles can be either established residents of the state or migrants from colder northern climates traveling south for the winter. Bald eagle migrations take place between September and March. It’s not known whether the eagles spotted at Doe Run Lake are a nesting pair, but the timing is conspicuous: Eagle nesting season runs from January to March.
At one point, America’s national symbol was in danger of dying off. During the 1960s, bald eagles even disappeared as a breeding species in Kentucky. The population decline across the country was largely attributed to the use of DDT, the agricultural insecticide dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane. DDT runoff flowed into natural waterways, contaminating the fish the eagles would prey upon.
DDT exposure, rather than killing the eagles outright, tended to interfere with the birds’ ability to metabolize calcium, which in turn caused the thinning of eagle egg shells. Affected eggs would often break before they were fully incubated.
As a result, eagle population levels, as well as the populations of other birds of prey and waterfowl, declined precipitously. By 1963, the number of documented nesting pairs of bald eagles had tanked to 417, according to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, whereas roughly 200 years before, it was estimated there could have been as many as 100,000 pairs.
DDT was banned in 1972, and bald eagles were placed on the endangered species list in 1978. Since the ban, the eagles have made a remarkable comeback. They were removed from the endangered species list
in 2007, and a 2021 analysis from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service estimated the number of eagles in the lower 48 states to be 316,700, including 71,467 mating pairs.
Trent Sandfoss had never seen one in the wild before yesterday. “It was cool,” he said, adding that they seemed “majestical.”
“We’ve seen them before at the zoo,” Tony Sandfoss said, “but first time in the wild. That was pretty cool.”
Individual eagle sightings do not need to be reported to state agencies, but confirmed nesting sites should be reported to the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources by emailing info.center@ky.gov or calling 800-858-1549. This will help the department better track population numbers.
The University of Kentucky is an equal opportunity employer and encourages applications from minorities and women.
Bald eagles perched on trees at Doe Run Lake. Provided | Dennis Reckers
1970s Crescent Springs lakefront home
Address: 803 Squire Hill Drive, Crescent Springs
Price: $1,799,000
Bedrooms: Five
Bathrooms: Five (plus one half bath)
Square footage: 4,690
School district: Kenton County County: Kenton
Special features: This lakefront property was built in 1975. The main level features a two-story entry, living room, formal dining room, billiard and bar room, laundry room, and a kitchen with custom cabinetry, highend appliances and quartz countertops. The basement was finished in 2017 with a family room, exercise room, bedroom and full bath. The majority of floors, doors and windows have all been replaced.
An exterior view of this Crescent Springs home. Photos provided | CoCo James with RE/MAX Victory + Affiliates
By Maria Hehman
TOld tastes are new again on Newport’s York Street
his Streetscapes, we head to Newport for brews and food on York Street. We’ll start with a local brewery, a revamped iconic restaurant and end with some comfort carryout.
Wooden Cask Brewery
Breweries are becoming as commonplace as bourbon bars in Kentucky. Wooden Cask has grown over the years, but its original York Street location started it all.
The microbrewery primarily serves its own small batch beers. Girl Next Door, a traditional blonde ale, and Kentucky Farmhand are among the most popular. Seasonal items – like Chocolate Caliente, a winter stout aged on cocoa nibs and chili peppers in whiskey barrels from another Newport staple, New Riff – rotate through the year.
Along with beers, Wooden Cask serves wines from its winery, Orchard Street, as well as housing a vast bourbon selection. To pair with the libations, there’s an inhouse BBQ joint to keep bellies full. Beards and Bellies Barbecue serves ample options for all ages. BBQ nachos, chili mac, smoked brisket sliders, ribs and wings – it has just about everything.
There may be a TV or two playing in the
background, but you’ll notice TVs aren’t the focal point. Without the distraction of excited fans, Wooden Cask makes for the ideal spot to converse with friends over a flight of beers.
Since its start five years ago, Wooden Cask has opened a second Newport location, Wooden Cask at the Levee, at 1 Levee Way. Guests looking for added fun can book tickets to the Newport Gangster Tour. Wooden Cask is one of the stops at which they can learn more about the rich history of the city.
McCollum’s On York
York Street Cafe’s building didn’t stay vacant for long. The beloved restaurant closed last summer, but a new restaurant already has been warmly welcomed by fans of the former space. McCollum’s on York is the brainchild of Richard McCollum, a former York Street Cafe head chef.
The new regime replaced the quirky decor to elevate the space, making it a great spot for a date night or special occasion. The decor changes to match the season, too.
Like the decor, the menu changes with the season. Start with a seasonal cocktail and pair with a charcuterie board. It’s a great starter to sample the chef’s selection of meats, cheeses, breads, honeycomb, dried fruits and olives.
McCollum’s is best known for steaks of all sizes and cuts. Other entree options include chicken, bone-in pork chops, braised beef short ribs and fresh catch fish. Vegetarians needn’t fear: There are options for all palates and preferences. Peppernota tagliatelle is a vegetarian dish of peppers braised in red wine with tagliatelle pasta. Or opt for a veggie burger or one of many soup, salad or side offerings, like their black and blue salad, three cheese mac and cheese or Brussels sprouts.
Guests visiting this winter will be treated to a cozy ambiance that lets the historic building shine. When the weather warms up, the restaurant plans to revamp the patio and turn the second floor into a lounge with live, acoustic music.
Amol India Carryout
When the weather is cold and dreary, there are few things as comforting as eating carryout on the couch. Amol India is the solution for cold days when you need a cozy meal. A longtime staple of the area, Amol is known as having some of the best Indian food in NKY.
The menu is divided by core proteins –lamb, chicken, shrimp and fish – and another section for vegetarian choices. All entrees come with basmati rice. Before delving into the lamb korma or chicken curry, though, try one of Amol’s many appetizers. Samosas, crisp pastries that come with a variety of savory fillings, are a musttry.
Speaking of musts, it would be criminal to come here and not order a bread. It’s a great way to soak up any last drops of your tikka masala. For crispy bread, order a bhatura; for fluffy bread opt naan. Both come in a multitude of flavors, but newbies to Indian food should stick to plain or garlic naan to
experience the best bread on the menu.
For refreshments, try one of the lassi drinks, yogurt-based beverages that double as a dessert. Although carryout is in Amol’s name, it does offer a small seating area inside for those that want a sit-down experience.
Wooden Cask Brewery on York Street. Photos by Maria Hehman | LINK nky contributor
McCollum’s On York is in the former York Street Cafe.
Democrats must focus on 4 things to win again in Ky. (or anywhere else)
It is no secret that the Democratic Party has a perception problem. Warranted or not, Kentuckians – and Americans in many parts of the country – just don’t trust Democrats to make their lives simpler, more affordable or more secure. Broadly, they see us as out of touch with the daily struggles of working people, telling them what to think, feel and be against, versus people they trust to be on their side and who will listen to their lived experience.
Too often we’re seen as people who show up only when a vote is on the line. The result is loss after loss, even against deeply flawed candidates and campaigns.
If we want to rebuild trust with voters and truly serve the people, we must focus on four things: message, authenticity, actions and resources. Think of these as the four wheels of a car – without all of them, we can’t move forward or win.
• Message matters. Obviously. The Democratic Party must begin listening to – and boldly addressing – the frustrations of working-class Americans head-on. The 2024 election has laid bare an undeniable truth: Working people of all stripes – white, Black, brown, young, old, etc. – are angry, and they have every reason to be. People can’t afford groceries, health care or housing while CEO pay and corporate profits soar. They’re voting for candidates they believe at least “see” them and their struggle versus people they believe are talking at them or just reaching out because they need a vote.
Our message should be loud and clear up and down the ticket: The Democratic Party is the party that stands with working people, not corporate elites. We must boldly take on the power structures hurting regular people and confront America’s rigged system, one in which billionaires and corporations thrive while families live paycheck to paycheck.
The anger so many Americans feel is the result of decades-long policies that prioritize profits over people. We must make it unmistakable that our mission is to reform this system by raising wages, capping pre-
scription drug prices, holding corporations accountable and ensuring everyone has access to quality health care.
Democrats need a message rooted in economic populism that resonates with the daily lives and struggles of working people. We have to show we understand the problem while also explaining how we’re going to fix it.
To be clear, this cannot come at the expense of our other values. Equality, civil rights and justice remain at the core of the party’s DNA, and these values are compatible and intertwined with an economic populist message – our core message that creates a solid foundation for a bigger tent.
• Authenticity is essential. Not only must we have the right message, but we need the right messengers, too. We need to make sure we are running candidates who are of, by and for their communities – people who can authentically speak to the message they’re campaigning on. This requires intentionality and often a bottom-up approach to candidate recruitment.
• Our actions matter. We must meet people where they are and organize year-round, on and off cycle. Having the right message isn’t enough if we aren’t meeting people where they are ideologically, to make space for real conversations, and geographically, in physical spaces. It’s how and when we show up, and how we organize to listen, build trust and bring people along with us that is the key to building back from the ground up.
• We must organize money better. We have to have resources to communicate at scale if we’re going to burn in a brand with voters. To secure the resources needed to compete, we must use every tool to help our candidates get out their message. This means not only funding campaigns, but also the party, caucus programs and related organizations that bolster grassroots candidates’ messages and activate key coalition elements.
We must be mindful of the money we accept, too. We can’t on one hand tell voters we want to reform the health care system and, on the other, take money from corporations that put profits over patient care. We can’t claim to be on the side of working
people and take money from payday lenders. The list goes on.
I don’t believe I have all the answers. But I know we need to get back to basics and understand there isn’t an easy answer to the situation we’re in. There isn’t a “we just have to do this one thing” prescription. We have to do it all – focus on message, authenticity, our actions on and off cycle, and raising resources – if we want to win again all over the map.
Together, we can do this. We can get back to basics and build toward a commonwealth that truly works for everyone.
Kelsey Hayes Coots, Co-Founder and Principal, Blue Dot Consulting
Blue Dot Consulting is a leading Democratic consulting firm dedicated to helping candidates, caucuses, and causes. She most recently was campaign manager for Protect Our Schools KY in the successful bid to defeat Amendment 2. She was born and raised in Owensboro and now lives in Louisville with her husband and two daughters.
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Edward C. Allmoslecher
EMr. Allmoslecher was born to Clarence and Emma Allmoslecher and was lovingly raised by his uncle and aunt, Robert and Rose Allmoslecher, also of Bellevue.
Mr. Allmoslecher retired from Duke Energy and enjoyed more than 20 fulfilling years of retirement. He spent much of his time tending to his garden, reading the newspaper, solving puzzles and watching his grandchildren play baseball at Pendery Park. He was an avid sports fan who loved cheering for the Cincinnati Reds and Bengals, and for UK basketball.
Mr. Allmoslecher is survived by his devoted wife of 42 years, Diane; a son, Edward C. Allmoslecher Jr.; daughter, Michelle Allmoslecher Stimec; grandsons Brian, Andrew (Jill) and Devin (Amanda) Allmoslecher, and Michael Stimec; and great-grandsons, Jackson and Heath Allmoslecher.
He was preceded in death by his parents; his uncle and aunt; a grandson, John Stimec; and cherished motherin-law, Hazel Krogman.
His life was a testament to love, family and dedication, and he will be deeply missed by all who knew him.
dward C. Allmoslecher, a lifelong resident of Bellevue, died Jan. 10 at his home. He was 80.
CASE NUMBER 24-CI-00495
DIVISION 1
PNC BANK, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION VS.
HERBERT E. BISHOP A/K/A HERBERT EARL BISHOP JR., ET AL.
BY VIRTUE OF A JUDGMENT RENDERED 12/10/2024
BY THE CAMPBELL CIRCUIT COURT, IN THE ABOVE CAUSE I SHALL PROCEED TO OFFER FOR SALE AT THE CAMPBELL CIRCUIT COURTHOUSE, 330 YORK STREET, NEWPORT, KENTUCKY 41071, OUTSIDE THE FRONT DOOR.
To the highest or best bidder at public auction on 2/11/2025 at 3:00pm, the following property, to-wit: 621 Fifth Avenue, Dayton, Kentucky 41074
Group No: 30565/A2
PIDN: 999-99-08-502.00
CASE NUMBER 24-CI-00076 DIVISION 2
BELLEPOINTE COMMONS CONDOMINIUMS COUNCIL OF CO-OWNERS, INC. VS.
SAMANTHA RODRIGUEZ, ET AL.
BY VIRTUE OF A JUDGMENT RENDERED 1/10/2025 BY THE CAMPBELL CIRCUIT COURT, IN THE ABOVE CAUSE I SHALL PROCEED TO OFFER FOR SALE AT THE CAMPBELL CIRCUIT COURTHOUSE, 330 YORK STREET, NEWPORT, KENTUCKY 41071, OUTSIDE THE FRONT DOOR.
To the highest or best bidder at public auction on 2/11/2025 at 3:00pm, the following property, to-wit: 1360 Bellepointe Commons, Bellevue, Kentucky 41073
Group No: 20031/D3
PIDN: 999-99-06-343.00
CASE NUMBER 24-CI-00682 DIVISION 2
MICHAEL BOONE VS.
MDG ONE, LLC, ET AL.
BY VIRTUE OF A JUDGMENT RENDERED 1/10/2025 BY THE CAMPBELL CIRCUIT COURT, IN THE ABOVE CAUSE I SHALL PROCEED TO OFFER FOR SALE AT THE CAMPBELL CIRCUIT COURTHOUSE, 330 YORK STREET, NEWPORT, KENTUCKY 41071, OUTSIDE THE FRONT DOOR.
To the highest or best bidder at public auction on 2/11/2025 at 3:00pm, the following property, to-wit: 317 Manhattan Boulevard, Dayton, Kentucky 41074
Group No: 30596/C1
PIDN: 999-99-33-462.09
CASE NUMBER 24-CI-00680
DIVISION 2
UMB BANK, N.A., AS CUSTODIAN FOR CLEARLEAF SHORT ALTERNATIVE FUND, LP VS.
UNKNOWN HEIRS, DEVISEES AND/OR LEGATEES OF LILLIAN SCHLEPER, ET AL.
BY VIRTUE OF A JUDGMENT RENDERED 1/10/2025 BY THE CAMPBELL CIRCUIT COURT, IN THE ABOVE CAUSE I SHALL PROCEED TO OFFER FOR SALE AT THE CAMPBELL CIRCUIT COURTHOUSE, 330 YORK STREET, NEWPORT, KENTUCKY 41071, OUTSIDE THE FRONT DOOR.
To the highest or best bidder at public auction on 2/11/2025 at 3:00pm, the following property, to-wit: 117 Delta Avenue, Fort Thomas, Kentucky 41075
Group No: 30267/A2
PIDN: 999-99-16-274.00
COMMISIONER’S SALE
CAMPBELL COUNTY CIRCUIT COURT
CASE NUMBER 24-CI-00333 DIVISION 2
NEW REZ LLC, D/B/A SHELLPOINT MORTGAGE SERVICING VS.
FRANKIE A. SHANKS, ET AL.
BY VIRTUE OF A JUDGMENT RENDERED 1/10/2025 BY THE CAMPBELL CIRCUIT COURT, IN THE ABOVE CAUSE I SHALL PROCEED TO OFFER FOR SALE AT THE CAMPBELL CIRCUIT COURTHOUSE, 330 YORK STREET, NEWPORT, KENTUCKY 41071, OUTSIDE THE FRONT DOOR.
To the highest or best bidder at public auction on 2/11/2025 at 3:00pm, the following property, to-wit: 10521 Michael Drive, Unit 9, Alexandria, Kentucky 41001
Group No: 70239/A3 PIDN: 999-99-22-885.47
BIDDERS MUST BE PREPARED TO COMPLY WITH THESE TERMS. THE COSTS OF THE SALE SHALL BE PAID WITHIN FOURTEEN (14)
JOSEPH F. GRIMME, MASTER COMMISSIONER 859-291-9075
CASE NUMBER 24-CI-00518
DIVISION 1
PNC BANK, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION VS.
JAMES H. BAIRD, ET AL.
BY VIRTUE OF A JUDGMENT RENDERED 11/25/2024 BY THE CAMPBELL CIRCUIT COURT, IN THE ABOVE CAUSE I SHALL PROCEED TO OFFER FOR SALE AT THE CAMPBELL CIRCUIT COURTHOUSE, 330 YORK STREET, NEWPORT, KENTUCKY 41071, OUTSIDE THE FRONT DOOR.
To the highest or best bidder at public auction on 2/11/2025 at 3:00pm, the following property, to-wit: 233 West 7th Street, Newport, Kentucky 41071
Group No: 41388/A2
PIDN: 999-99-03-358.00
CASE NUMBER 24-CI-00929
DIVISION 2
KENTUCKY HOUSING CORPORATION VS. JACQUELINE NICOLE PARRISH, ET AL.
BY VIRTUE OF A JUDGMENT RENDERED 1/10/2025 BY THE CAMPBELL CIRCUIT COURT, IN THE ABOVE CAUSE I SHALL PROCEED TO OFFER FOR SALE AT THE CAMPBELL CIRCUIT COURTHOUSE, 330 YORK STREET, NEWPORT, KENTUCKY 41071, OUTSIDE THE FRONT DOOR.
To the highest or best bidder at public auction on 2/11/2025 at 3:00pm, the following property, to-wit: 74 View Terrace Drive, Unit 3, Southgate, Kentucky 41071
Group No: 41642/K4
PIDN: 999-99-11-357.00
CASE NUMBER 23-CI-00396
DIVISION 1
WOODLAND HILLS OF SOUTHGATE COUNCIL OF CO-OWNERS, INC. VS.
JACKSON GARNDER STRONG, ET AL.
BY VIRTUE OF A JUDGMENT RENDERED 12/9/2024 BY THE CAMPBELL CIRCUIT COURT, IN THE ABOVE CAUSE I SHALL PROCEED TO OFFER FOR SALE AT THE CAMPBELL CIRCUIT COURTHOUSE, 330 YORK STREET, NEWPORT, KENTUCKY 41071, OUTSIDE THE FRONT DOOR.
To the highest or best bidder at public auction on 2/11/2025 at 3:00pm, the following property, to-wit: 36-7 Woodland Hills Drive, Southgate, Kentucky 41071
Group No: 41642/D5
PIDN: 999-99-11-117.00
KRS 424.145 NOTICE OF ADVERTISEMENT
Northern Kentucky Water District Invitation to Bid – Tippenhauer Road Water Main Replacement – The proposed Work is generally described as follows: Construction of approximately 3,970 feet of Class 50, 8-inch Ductile Iron Pipe together with the appurtenances and related work on Tippenhauer Road from Licking Pike to #7217 in Unincorporated Campbell County. Access to the Invitation to Bid can be found on the Northern Kentucky Water District website (https://nkywater.org/procurement) by clicking the section labeled “Quest CDN Online Interface”. Alternatively potential bidders may contact Cassandra Zoda at czoda@nkywater.org, 859-578-5455, or by visiting 2835 Crescent Springs Rd., Erlanger, KY 41018 for delivery of the Invitation to Bid.
SCAN THIS QR CODE TO GO TO OUR DIGITAL PUBLIC NOTICE PAGE
DIVISION I
CASE NO.: 24-CI-01131
US BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION VERSUS}
CAITLYN C. BRISBIN INDIVIDUALLY AS AN HEIR AND AS EXECUTOR OF THE ESTATE OF VICKIE A. BRISBIN, ET AL
By virtue of a judgment and order of sale of the Boone Circuit Court rendered OCTOBER 15, 2024 the above case, I shall proceed to offer for sale at the Justice Center Building in Burlington, Kentucky, to the highest bidder, at public auction on THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 6, 2025 at the hour of 9:00 a.m. or thereabouts, the following described property to-wit:
By virtue of a judgment and order of sale of the Boone Circuit Court rendered DECEMBER 17, 2024 the above case, I shall proceed to offer for sale at the Justice Center Building in Burlington, Kentucky, to the highest bidder, at public auction on THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 6, 2025 at the hour of 9:00 a.m. or thereabouts, the following described property to-wit:
Kentucky now allows for Public Notices to be published digitally on LINK nky’s website. You can find public notices for the following organizations on our site at https://linkreader.column.us/search
• AJ’s Towing & Recovery
• Boone County Clerk
• Campbell County Clerk’s Office
• Campbell County Fire District #1
Campbell County Fiscal Court
• Campbell County Planning & Zoning
Campbell County Public Library
• Campbell County Sheriffs Office
City of Alexandria
• City of Bellevue
City of Cold Spring
• City of Covington
City of Cresent Springs
• City of Crestview Hills
• City of Dayton
• City of Edgewood
• City of Elsmere
• City of Erlanger
• City of Florence
• City of Fort Mitchell
• City of Fort Thomas
• City of Fort Wright
• City of Highland Heights
• City of Independence
• City of Lakeside Park
• City of Ludlow
• City of Newport
COMMISIONER’S SALE
DIVISION I
CASE NO.: 24-CI-01176
LAKEVIEW LOAN SERVICING, LLC VERSUS}
CHRISTOPHER L. HUTCHISON, ET AL
By virtue of a judgment and order of sale of the Boone Circuit Court rendered DECEMBER 17, 2024 the above case, I shall proceed to offer for sale at the Justice Center Building in Burlington, Kentucky, to the highest bidder, at public auction on THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 6, 2025 at the hour of 9:00 a.m. or thereabouts, the following described property to-wit:
• Cresent Springs Board of Adjustment Family Dollar Store
• Fort Mitchell Board of Adjustment Fort Thomas Independent Schools
• Highland Heights Planning & Zoning
• Joseph F Grimme, Campbell County Master Commissioner
• Keating, Muething & Klekamp PLL
• Kenton County Fiscal Court
• Kenton County Joint Board of Adjustment
• Larry Dillon, Boone County Master Commissioner
• Northern Kentucky Port Authority
• Northern Kentucky Water District
• Planning & Development Services of Kenton County
• The Baker Firm PLLC
• The Hidden Chapter Bookstore LLC
DIVISION III
CASE NO.: 24-CI-01194
KENTUCKY HOUSING CORPORATION VERSUS}
WILLIAM H. MERRITT, ET AL
By virtue of a judgment and order of sale of the Boone Circuit Court rendered NOVEMBER 26, 2024 the above case, I shall proceed to offer for sale at the Justice Center Building in Burlington, Kentucky, to the highest bidder, at public auction on THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 13, 2025 at the hour of 9:00 a.m. or thereabouts, the following described property to-wit:
By virtue of a judgment and order of sale of the Boone Circuit Court rendered JUNE 18, 2013 the above case, I shall proceed to offer for sale at the Justice Center Building in Burlington, Kentucky, to the highest bidder, at public auction on THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 13, 2025 at the hour of 9:00 a.m. or thereabouts, the following described property to-wit:
Lloyd Memorial senior E.J. Walker broke the school’s all-time scoring record in the Juggernauts’ Jan. 14 game versus Cooper.
Walker surpassed Ryan Wilson’s 1,588 points, a record that stood for 25 years. Wilson was a 2000 Lloyd grad. Walker already had tied Wilson entering the Jan. 14 contest. To break the record, Walker took an inbounds pass on the wing, drove baseline and flushed it home with a two-handed dunk.
Walker’s career for varsity basketball started in eighth grade. He posted 55 points that season in 18 games as a promising up-andcomer. Things continued to ramp steadily up for Walker as his freshman season came with 300 points. As a sophomore, 409 points.
Then he really started to take off. College offers left and right, standing out on the AAU circuit and a junior season with 558 points. With over 30 offers on the table, Walker made the decision to commit to the University of South Carolina the summer leading into his senior year.
With the commitment and now the scoring record out of the way, Walker can focus on getting the Juggernauts back on track in the second half of the season.
Holy Cross girls win 4th straight All-‘A’
9th Region title
Good things may come in threes, but the greatest things come in fours.
Holy Cross proved it by claiming its fourth straight 9th Region All “A” Classic title with a dominant 80-43 win Jan. 13 over Newport Central Catholic at St. Henry District High School.
It might seem routine for a program that has secured the last two Class “A” State Championships and reached the state semifinals the year before, but, for the senior class, this victory carried profound significance. It cemented the team’s place in history, doing what the school hasn’t done before.
Teams don’t accomplish what the Indians have by excelling in just one facet of the game though. Shooting? Rebounding? Passing? Whatever the challenge, the Indians didn’t just meet it – they mastered it.
Four players scored in double figures for Holy Cross. Aumani Nelson led the way with 17 points, followed by Alyssa Arlinghaus with 16, Aniyah Carter with 13 and Jai Johnson with 12. Nelson, Arlinghaus and Johnson earned all-tournament team honors, while Carter capped off her performance by being named MVP.
Holy Cross, the two-time reigning All “A” state champ, was to make the trip to the Owensboro Sportscenter on Jan. 22 for a 10 a.m. matchup against Bethlehem.
Eaglin now NewCath’s all-time leading basketball scorer
Caroline Eaglin set Newport Central Catholic’s girls basketball career scoring record Jan. 7.
Now she’s the school’s all-time leading scorer, too.
Eaglin’s 28 points in the Thoroughbreds’ 64-46 win over Beechwood in the opening round of the girls 9th Region All “A” tournament gave her 2,125 in nearly five seasons at 13 Carothers Road – one more than 2004 alumna Nicole Chiodi’s and 2001 graduate Ronny Dawn’s 2,124.
Eaglin, who’s headed for Northern Ken-
tucky University in the fall, joins a list of NewCath basketball luminaries, which includes Naismith Memorial Hall of Famer Dave Cowens, former Cincinnati men’s head coach John Brannen, NKU standout Drew McDonald and Thoroughbred girls Stephanie Desmond and Christie Freppon McDonald.
Eaglin broke the record with 1:04 left in the third quarter and NewCath leading Beechwood, 48-26. She and NewCath sophomore Brooklyn Cole were underneath Beechwood’s basket when Cole grabbed the rebound. After Cole passed to Eaglin just past midcourt, Eaglin dribbled twice and went between the Tigers’ Hayden Ritter and Emme Blackburn for the transition layup.
Eaglin joined NewCath’s varsity as an eighth-grader in 2021. She scored 56 points on a team that finished 12-11 behind Thomas More junior Rylee Turner’s 19.9 points a game and Annie Heck’s 11.5.
Eaglin averaged 11.8 points a game as a freshman in 2022. Her 379 points included 50 (37.9%) of her 132 3-pointer attempts.
The 2022-23 season was Eaglin’s breakout year – 693 points for a 24.8 average that yielded 38.2% from the field and 72.7% from the free throw line.
Last season, Eaglin scored 679 points (21.9 per game). She shot 45% from the field, 29% from behind the arc and 74.3% from the line.
Through 14 games this season, Eaglin has scored 318 points (22.7 a contest). She’s made 49.3% of her shots from the field, 38.1% from long distance and 86.4% at the line.
Eaglin hugged Cole after her record-setting shot. Chiodi and NewCath athletic director Jeff Schulkens presented her with the game ball.
Simon Kenton taps Newport vet Wynn as football coach
Joe Wynn is headed back to Northern Kentucky.
The former Newport head coach has been named the next coach at Simon Kenton. Wynn replaces Roy Lucas, who resigned after four seasons at the helm.
Wynn’s roots start in NKY. He’s a Dayton grad, where he was a standout on the football field, and has also coached at Holmes and Campbell County as an assistant.
He ventured east the past four years to Maysville, coaching at Mason County. He led the school to a 36-14 record in four seasons and a state semifinal appearance in 2022. He helped guide the Royals program to heights they hadn’t seen in over a decade with two region championship appearances and a regional title in 2022 that came with a 13-1 record.
Prior to Mason County, Wynn was at Newport for three seasons where he helped guide the program to 18 wins in three seasons after just three wins the three prior seasons he was there.
Some of Wynn’s accolades in his seven-year tenure as a head coach include Owen Hauck Coach of the Year, KFCA District Coach of the Year and the NKAO Sportsmanship Award Winner.
He’ll inherit a Simon Kenton team that went 4-7 in 2024 with a first round exit to St. Xavier in the Class 6A playoffs. The Pioneers went 19-25 under Lucas the past four years, with a playoff victory coming during the 2022 season.
Wynn becomes the 13th coach in program history.
NKU approves option to pay student athletes
The Northern Kentucky University Board of Regents voted to allow the university to pay its athletes.
The National Collegiate Athletic Association is changing its rules for Division 1 schools. Non-power 5 schools (schools not in the five major conferences) have the option to opt in to the new structure. NKU’s regents voted to opt in to the new structure at a special meeting on Jan. 15.
Opting in means that NKU will be allowed to pay student-athletes for playing sports and for using their name, image and likeness, commonly known as NIL. It is not a requirement, but it gives NKU the option. It also changes the roster sizes of teams and imposes a cap on the number of athletes on teams.
From left, Nicole Chiodi, Eaglin and NewCath athletic director Jeff Schulkens. Provided | Newport Central Catholic Athletics
Lloyd Memorial's E.J. Walker breaks the Lloyd Memorial all-time program scoring record with a dunk in the first quarter. Provided | Charles Bolton
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