LINK Kenton Reader - Volume 3, Issue 43 - September 26, 2025

KENTON

VOLUME 3, ISSUE 43 — SEPTEMBER 26, 2025

THE VOICE OF NKY

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Blind date leads Mizes to 81 years of marriage

By Haley Parnell

W

hen Vernon Mize asked Ruth Wright to marry him during a short military leave in 1944, neither had much money, but what they did have was a love that would carry them across eight states, four children and more than eight decades together.

Ruth and Vernon Mize, both born and raised in Birmingham, Alabama, in 1924, have witnessed a parade of historic events, from the Roaring ’20s through the Great Depression and several American conflicts – World War II and the Korean, Vietnam and Gulf wars.

The Florence residents have seen 17 presidential administrations, starting with Calvin Coolidge. They’ve been alive at the invention of television, sliced bread and chocolate chip cookies.

The lead-up to 81 years of marriage began in 1940, when the couple started dating at 16 after being set up by mutual friends on Continues on page 3

Vernon and Ruth Mize married on Nov. 15, 1944. Today, at 101 and 100 years old, the couple shares 81 years of marriage together. Provided | Kathy Kuhn

‘Today is a milestone’: OneNKY Center opens

By Kenton Hornbeck

A

fter two years of construction, the OneNKY Center has officially opened its doors.

The building, at the base of the Roebling Bridge, is the latest landmark to join the Covington skyline. Its piercing white exterior and sky-blue windows welcome drivers as they cross the bridge into Northern Kentucky.

The exterior of the OneNKY Center in Covington.

Photo by Kenton Hornbeck | LINK nky

The 47,000-square-foot, four-story building at 209 Greenup St. serves as the permanent home of several of Northern Kentucky’s growth organizations, including the NKY Chamber of Commerce, meetNKY, OneNKY Alliance, the Catalytic Fund of Northern Kentucky, BE NKY Growth Partnership, Horizon Community Funds of Northern Kentucky and Northern Kentucky Bar Association.

On Sept. 12, Northern Kentucky politicians and economic development officials gathered for a ribbon-cutting to celebrate the center’s grand opening. Covington Mayor Ron Washington, one of the event’s keynote speakers, said the organizations relocating to Covington were a “vote of confidence” for the city.

“These organizations are far more than tenants,” Washington said. “They are the leaders, driving new investment, supporting businesses, expanding tourism, cultivating culture and preparing the next generation of talent. Their presence here is a powerful vote of confidence in our city and in Northern Kentucky’s future. Today is a milestone nearly five years in the making.”

On top of hosting regional growth organizations, the OneNKY Center’s second floor is home to LifeSciKY’s 15,000 square foot

Water district works to spot lead pipes in region p6 Restaurant building cultural bridges p7 Fry Guys find a spot to hang in Latonia p10

Continues on page 5

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Continued from page 1

a blind date. Ruth recalls that she wasn’t allowed to leave the house, so they spent a lot of time sitting on the front porch.

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When they could leave the house, they took a streetcar to get a malt and went on lots of double dates until the days of the ’36 Ford family car. It allowed them to go to the movies and then to Dairy Queen for a milkshake.

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Six weeks after Vernon graduated from high school in 1943, he was drafted into the Coast Guard and stationed on Hilton Head Island, South Carolina. His initial service required beach patrol on horseback.

Ruth and Vernon married in Ruth’s childhood home on Nov. 15, 1944.

“They fixed up the house as best they could in a hurry, and my mom went with me and bought me a new outfit, and we shopped quite a while, and I had to have my hair done, and it was a busy, busy day for everybody,” Ruth said.

Ruth recalls feeling lucky to find the blue suit she wore on her wedding day.

One night of painful horseback riding was all Vernon needed to spur him to inquire about being a cook. He got the job and was subsequently promoted to ship’s cook, 3rd class, a position he held through his military service.

“They happened to have one pale colored blue suit; most everything you bought then was black because they didn’t use the dyes for anything except the service,” she said.

Thirteen guests attended the wedding.

Vernon and Ruth Mize. Photos provided | Kathy Kuhn

While Vernon was in the service, he and Ruth exchanged love letters and Western Union telegrams. After three years of dating, Ruth and Vernon got engaged in March 1944. Vernon came home on leave that November, and the pair decided then they were getting married.

Tough times to college grad

wanted to continue taking classes so he could keep playing ball. Ruth was working to put him through college, though, and so that wasn’t possible.

“He came home, and he asked me to get married,” Ruth said. “I think he didn’t want a ‘Dear John’ letter. He didn’t have any money. We didn’t have any money. Didn’t have nothing.”

His request to the military for time off read, “Getting married tomorrow, please send papers.” Because Vernon was still only 20 at the time, his father had to sign to give him permission to be married; Ruth, however, only had to be 18.

“My younger brother wouldn’t even come to the wedding,” Vernon said. “He thought she was just trying to marry me for the insurance.”

Ruth’s mom was worried about her marrying during the war because Vernon’s boat was scheduled to deploy to the South Pacific, and she was concerned he could be killed in action.

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wedding possibly saved his life, because his ship was sent to the South Pacific while he was on leave, and some of the crew were wounded or never returned.

Vernon said Ruth’s agreement to the quick

Because they had no money for a honeymoon, Ruth said her sister paid for a hotel for them the first night, then they went back to Memphis, Tennessee, with Vernon’s older brother, Robert, for a couple of days after the wedding.

The newlyweds began their life together at Sullivan’s Island, South Carolina, in a house where you could see the waves.

Then Vernon was stationed in Charleston, North Carolina. The couple rented a tworoom apartment above a bicycle shop. The apartment had black walls, one chair, one bed and a cheap dresser. Vernon brought home $65 a month, and $50 went toward the monthly rent.

The couple was then stationed in Southport, near Wilmington, North Carolina.

Times were extremely tough, and there were no jobs available for Ruth. Vernon had access to food while working as a cook, but Ruth at times would have only a loaf of bread for a week.

Vernon got his full degree in accounting in three years, graduating in 1949.

At Howard, Vernon attended school with Bobby Bowden, Florida State University’s football coach from 1976 to 2009. They both belonged to the same fraternity, Pi Kappa Alpha. Vernon has one of Bowden’s footballs in his TV room, which otherwise is decked out in University of Alabama football memorabilia.

Vernon’s love for the Crimson Tide became even stronger when they recruited several players from his high school, Woodlawn.

Several of his family members also attended the University of Alabama. Even today, Vernon is a book of knowledge on the history of Alabama football and is willing to share his knowledge with anyone willing to listen.

Building a family

In 1946, with the war over, the couple moved in with Ruth’s parents in Birmingham while Vernon enrolled at Howard College, known today as Samford University.

Vernon played catcher in college, and he

Though he held a degree in accounting, Vernon’s first job out of college was as an insurance manager in Decatur, Alabama.

Vernon and Ruth bought their first new car – an aqua 1949 Ford – for $800.

In 1951, Ruth and Vernon landed in Kansas City so Vernon could attend airline school, and Delta Airlines then recruited him, bringing him to Atlanta. Back then, the airline operated out of a Quonset hut. He was the manager of dining and cabin service.

Ruth had 13 jobs before she and Vernon started a family, including restaurant cashier, typist for Western Union and jobs with the telephone company and the Army Corps of Engineers. “Everywhere he would go, I would have to change jobs,” she said.

In Atlanta, they purchased their first house, in Hapeville (close to the airport) for $5,000 with a $500 down payment and a $50 monthly payment. Two of their daughters were born at that home, Vicki in 1955 and Pam in 1958.

Ruth Mize baking. She supplemented the couple’s income for a time by decorating cakes.

Continues on page 4

SEPTEMBER 26, 2025 3

Vernon and Ruth Mize with their family. Photos provided | Kathy Kuhn Continued from page 3

The airport bought them out of that first home to make way for an expansion. Their third daughter, now Kathy Kuhn, was born in that house in 1960. The couple resides today in Kuhn’s Florence home.

Vernon left Delta and moved to Detroit in 1964 to work for Interstate Host, a catering kitchen serving all airlines. He managed 135 people for three years before heading to Orlando, Florida, in anticipation of opening his own restaurant, Dog House.

That venture ended abruptly, and the family headed to Gainesville, Florida, around 1968, where Vernon was a partner in running a Ponderosa Steak House.

Ruth and Vernon’s son, Scott Mize, came along 10 years later, in 1970, when the couple was 46. “I told you I’d get that boy,” Vernon joked.

“That kept them young for many, many years,” Kuhn said. “I truly believe that.”

Gainesville became home for the next 53 years.

Skills as baker, seamstress

manager at Hill and Brooks Coffee Co.

Ruth started decorating cakes at home to help supplement their income, which became a passion and love that started after attending cake decorating classes in Detroit. Ruth would use her talents to create small, decorated cakes as gifts, to be kind to others and lift their spirits, one of her core values.

“After I got through with the coffee company, Ruth told me I was going to retire, and then she said, ‘Go get something to do,’” Vernon said. “So, I started working for the blood bank.”

Ruth was also talented at sewing, something she learned at the age of 5. Ruth would sit next to her grandma while she sewed, watching and learning in hopes of getting a scrap or two so she could practice. Ruth attended clothing design classes in Birmingham after she was married and learned how to design her own clothes. She was able to recreate most outfits she found at department stores. Later, she regularly made clothes for her three girls.

Vernon worked a variety of jobs in Gainesville. Besides managing and running a Ponderosa Steak House for 10 years, he owned Osteen Wholesale Sandwiches for 10 years, managed a Krispy Kreme shop and was a

Vernon started working for LifeSouth Community Blood Center at age 63. It was one of his favorite jobs because he could talk to people all day and help them at the same time. Before retiring at 70, Vernon had also donated over 25 gallons of his own blood.

Even though he retired, Vernon needed something to keep busy, so he worked for the local Presbyterian church that he and Ruth attended.

Even though her dad was in Florida among Gator fans, Kuhn said her dad remained loyal to Alabama. She said Vernon would go to the podium during church to recruit for blood drives, and his pastor would say, “Vernon, don’t bring up the score of the [Florida-Alabama] game.”

“So he didn’t say a word, but on his coffee cup he had the score written on it as he walked down the aisle,” Kuhn said.

Moving to ‘west wing’ Vernon and Ruth were 97 when Kuhn and her husband, Ken Kuhn, moved her parents into their home in Florence. The couple was still in Florida, maintaining Kuhn’s childhood home on their own, all four children having moved out of the state.

The couple has eight grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren.

Kuhn has lived in Florence for approximately 43 years. When Ruth and Vernon moved in with their daughter, Kuhn and her husband sold their house and bought their neighbors’ home, which was more suitable for the four of them.

Vernon Mize working in the yard.

4 SEPTEMBER 26, 2025

Vernon turned 101 this year on March 25, and Ruth is turning 101 on Dec. 11. The pair has lived in Florence for about four years now. They have their own section of the house that Kuhn calls the “west wing.”

“I had to promise him an Alabama room,” Kuhn said. “I think that might have helped.”

When you’re growing up, Kuhn said, you don’t realize how lucky you are to have parents who are still together and hold so much love for one another. As you get older and see the real world, you realize that not everybody has that.

She said her parents were born as part of the Greatest Generation, statistically defined as the Americans born from 1901 to 1927.

The common characteristic of Greatest Generation members, according to Investopedia.com, is that they lived through the hardships of the Great Depression and later either fought in World War II or worked in the industries that contributed to winning the war.

“They are so grateful for everything,” Kuhn said. “They’re so appreciative. They just have a whole different mindset than a lot of people today. I feel like a lot of people feel like they’re entitled to stuff. [The Greatest Generation] went through the Depression, and they had nothing. Most of us, even myself, don’t really know what they went through.”

So, what is the secret to 81 years of marriage? “Let the wife be the boss,” Vernon said.

“He was always super good to me,” Ruth said. “I was always No. 1 and still am.”

Ruth said she and Vernon never had a problem getting along.

“Ruth and I have always been truthful to each other, and I think that’s the whole thing right there,” Vernon said.

The ribbon cutting for the OneNKY Center in Covington. Photos by Kenton Hornbeck | LINK nky Continued from page 1

life sciences lab and startup incubator. The floor, which is nearly completed, is outfitted with lab benches, modern scientific equipment and space for qualifying startups. While the growth organizations have already moved into the building, the life sciences lab is still filling its space.

Christin Godale, executive director of LifeSciKY, said the lab will help establish Northern Kentucky as a hub for top scientists and entrepreneurs in the life sciences field.

“Our mission is simple but powerful: to accelerate discovery by breaking down barriers so great ideas can take root and thrive,” she said. “We do this by creating spaces and connections that welcome early-stage companies, uniting industry, academia and investors, and building pathways for students, researchers and entrepreneurs to work side-by-side.”

The exterior of the OneNKY Center.

Building the OneNKY Center involved collaboration between local and state officials to cover the $26 million price tag. Funds were secured through loans, grants, donations and public funds from various sources.

At the state level, the OneNKY Center project secured a $15 million state grant, supported by state Sen. Chris McDaniel,

a Ryland Heights Republican, Gov. Andy Beshear, the city of Covington, and life sciences companies such as Covington-based Bexion Pharmaceuticals and CTI Clinical Trial Services. Additionally, several nonprofit organizations and community donors contributed an extra $1 million.

Kenton County Fiscal Court approved a credit enhancement of approximately $8.7 million in construction bonds in May 2023, issued by the Kentucky Association of County Officials Finance Corporation.

“Being together under one roof, it’s a symbol of regional cooperation and a new ‘welcome to Northern Kentucky,’” said county Judge-Executive Kris Knochelmann.

Wrapping up the keynote speakers was Bill Butler, founder and chairman of Corporex, a real estate development firm based in Covington. Corporex managed the project’s development. Butler, whom many of the speakers credited as the spark behind the project, told the audience he believed the building would stand for 100 years.

“I think this is a day we should rename ourselves officially – no longer just Northern Kentucky, a reference to a place on a map, but OneNKY, a reference to the people and to the community, not just a place. That’s how we should be known from this time forward. Today is a milestone.”

The interior of the OneNKY Center.

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AR The Nor Un

Water district helps residents get the lead out

By Nathan Granger

T

hough lead pipes have been outlawed in the United States since 1986, many older homes in the region may still have lead service lines connecting their properties to the water main. This is sometimes true even if the building’s owners have long since replaced all of the lead pipes in their households.

That’s why the Northern Kentucky Water District is continuing efforts to document service line materials, like lead, throughout its service area. The efforts are part of the water district’s updated materials inventory, which is occurring in response to revisions in the EPA’s lead and copper pipe rule. The rule began in 1991 to reduce the amount of lead and copper in drinking water service lines.

Service lines can be made of several different materials, including copper, plastic and galvanized steel, but the district is especially interested in lead service lines.

Last week, the water district participated in the EPA’s “Get the Lead Out” program, which uses contractor teams to inspect unidentified service lines at properties nationwide. GLO teams spent last week

A Northern Kentucky Water District GLO team at work earlier this month. Images provided | Northern Kentucky Water District

documenting unidentified service lines in Covington, which contains many old houses. You can identify GLO team members by their reflector vests and water district badges.

Among the service lines identified last

week, lead was the second most common material, after copper; contractors identified 26 lead service lines out of the 97 they documented last week. They were unable to document materials at several additional properties either because the occupant was out or they failed to get permission to enter the premises. In those cases, GLO teams taped flyers on people’s doors with instructions on how to self report.

The water district confirmed with LINK nky that it’s in the process of getting approval for another round of door knocking later this year.

The water district has been trying to update its inventory since at least last year.

The service line connects a property owner’s privately-owned pipe networks to public infrastructure.

A diagram showing the difference between service lines and water mains.

The portion of the water line from the water main to the meter belongs to the water

district. The rest belongs to the property owner, who is responsible for updating any materials therein. For meters found inside, the water district is responsible for any pipes up to either the curb stop or property line if there is no curb stop.

“When water leaves NKWD’s treatment plants, it does not contain lead. The potential for lead in drinking water is primarily from possible leaching from your building’s plumbing and service lines,” Lindsey Rechtin, the water district’s president and CEO, said last year. “We are required to provide treatment that minimizes the corrosivity of the water. We do this by adjusting the pH and using a safe additive, a corrosion inhibitor, that protects the pipe material and helps lower the potential for lead to be released into the water.”

Residents can self-report their service line material at nkywater.org.

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Restaurant builds cultural bridges in Covington

By Kenton Honbeck

A

sh Chipalu aims to introduce people in Northern Kentucky to Nepali cuisine, which he believes can help bridge the cultural gap between his home country and American communities.

Chipalu hails from Nepal, a landlocked, mountainous country nestled between India and China. In 2015, the country was devastated by a 7.8 magnitude earthquake that forced Chipalu’s parents, Rose and Manoj, to relocate to the United States.

That year, alongside his parents, the Chipalus started Bridges Nepali at Cincinnati’s Findlay Market. Chipalu’s goal was straightforward: share his mother’s food with the community that welcomed them. Bridges is intended to evoke a connection between cultures.

“We want to serve top-quality food, very different food, but still very delicious food in a very approachable way,” Chipalu told LINK nky. “But you know, when people taste it, people come and try it, they absolutely love it.”

After two years in Findlay Market, Bridges opened its first standalone restaurant in Cincinnati’s Northside neighborhood. The restaurant’s success enabled the brand to expand into two more locations in Cincinnati. Chipalu also started searching south of the Ohio River for possible new locations.

Covington, a city Chipalu had become familiar with after visiting several of its restaurants, felt like an ideal place to introduce Nepali cuisine to Northern Kentucky.

Covington boasts a vibrant local Asian food scene, featuring well-known spots like Riverside Korean, KungFood Chu’s AmerAsia, Taj Mahal and Wabi Sabi, among others.

“I go to AmerAsia, I go to Riverside Korean restaurant, and I always see a really nice buzz with people, and I walk around, and I love this area downtown,” he said. “Covington has always been a really attractive place for me. Even before I started Bridges, I used to come here and enjoy with my family and friends, and, after I started my business, I was constantly looking for a place to open.”

Eventually, Chipalu found a vacant storefront at 11 W. Seventh St. The space was previously home to McK’s BBQ, which closed in 2023.

The space, a prime spot for foot traffic, is close to one of the city’s most bustling districts, just a short walk from Braxton Brewing, Hotel Covington, Agave & Rye and Noche. Chipalu, who opened the Covington location in June 2024, said Bridges had built up a roster of regulars who come in almost every week.

One of these customers is Greg Eiting, a Covington resident who told LINK nky that he’s been a regular at Bridges Nepali since its first Cincinnati location opened. Eiting is a fan of Bridges’ momos, a popular Nepali take on steamed dumplings.

Ash Chipalu in front of Bridges Nepali in Covington. Photos by Kenton Hornbeck | LINK nky

“I couldn’t believe it when I read that Bridges was moving to my neighborhood of Covington,” he said. “I was thrilled to have this delight so close to home.”

Chipalu noted that Nepali food traditions are heavily influenced by the country’s geography. Many of its dishes feature ingredients like grains, lentils, vegetables, meat and spices such as cumin, coriander and turmeric. Some of Bridges’ most popular dishes include momos and rice bowls, both of which are popular takeout options.

“I would say it’s like a mix between a little bit of like Indian and Chinese [food],” Chipalu said. “It’s like a combo, because we’re right in the middle, and we also have our own unique flavors.”

Even with its popularity among regulars, Chipalu hopes to see the business grow in Covington. Bridges is in the process of obtaining its liquor license, something Chipalu hopes will draw more customers.

Ultimately, Chipalu aims to introduce more Northern Kentuckians to Nepali food. He said many people still are unfamiliar with the country’s cuisine, and he hopes his restaurant can serve as a positive introduction to Nepali culture.

“I would say be adventurous,” he said. “You know, come in and try it. It sounds very different. The food that sounds very good also looks very different compared to burgers and fries. People are very used to burgers and fries and pizza, but I just want to invite people to come in and see what we have.”

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kenton county briefs Council member tapped to serve remainder of Ludlow mayor term

Sarah Thompson is sworn in Sept. 11 as Ludlow’s mayor by City Attorney Patrick Grote. Photo by Nathan Granger | LINK nky

Sarah Thompson is the new mayor of Ludlow following a 4-0 vote Sept. 11 by city council.

John Hall, president of the Ludlow Historical Society, announced after Thompson was sworn in that “Ludlow has elected their first female mayor.”

Thompson was nominated by Councilmember Julie Terry Navarre, and all council members present voted to approve her nomination. Councilmember Abigail Miller did not attend the meeting and did not vote.

Thompson, already a council member, chose not to be sworn in immediately so she could still cast votes as a council member until the end of the meeting.

About midway through the meeting, Thompson called for unity among the council and the city’s residents, especially in light of the meeting’s date on the anniversary of the Sept. 11 attacks on the World Trade Center. She asked everyone to “remember the unity and compassion we once shared as a nation during that time, a spirit I hope we can return to soon.”

Other than one resident who inquired about the process for filling the now-open city council seat, no residents spoke during the public comments section of the meeting. Still, the meeting was well attended, and people cheered for Thompson following Hall’s announcement.

The vote followed the resignation in late August of former Mayor Chris Wright, who stepped away from his duties, he said, to focus on his health.

“This has been an extremely difficult decision,” Wright wrote in his resignation letter, which was posted to his Facebook page.

“I have been doing my best to battle some health issues for the last several months.”

Wright said that, while he expects to make a full recovery, he needed someone else to finish out his term.

In the event a mayor resigns, the city council must vote in a replacement within 30 days, or the power to appoint a replacement falls to the governor. Anyone who’s lived in Ludlow for at least a year and is 21 years old can be a mayoral nominee in such a situation. Council members can nom-

inate themselves, but they can’t vote for themselves.

Now that Thompson has become mayor, the council will need to follow the same process to fill her former council seat. The criteria for council nominations are the same as a mayoral nomination. Power to appoint a replacement will likewise fall to the governor if the council doesn’t fill the seat in 30 days.

The dynamic on the council has been historically fraught and at times characterized by conflict and scandal. Conflicts between residents and current and former council members boiled over into social media and council meetings.

At a special meeting the day after Wright resigned, former Councilmember Lori Davenport was arrested and charged with disrupting government operations following several expletive-laden outbursts.

That meeting focused on whether the city council should come to a settlement with City Administrator Scott Smith over pension benefits. Davenport did not attend the meeting this week.

Smith said he would be meeting with the new mayor in the coming weeks to discuss administrative matters in the city and ensure they were “all on the same page.”

Thompson will finish out the remainder of the mayoral term, which ends Dec. 31, 2026.

Elections for the position will proceed normally next year.

LifeSciKY welcomes three biotech startups to new OneNKY Center

ington will help boost the region’s reputation as an innovation hub. “We’re bringing startups here, we’re nurturing them and hopefully kind of pushing them back out into our economy, and hopefully they stay and grow here with us,” said Christin Godale, LifeSciKY’s executive director.

LifeSciKY, founded in 2022, is a life sciences startup incubator and advocacy organization. The organization’s space at the OneNKY Center features a 15,000-squarefoot wet laboratory on the second floor to host cutting-edge life sciences startups.

Godale celebrated the grand opening of its state-of-the-art lab at the newly opened OneNKY Center with a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Sept. 12, giving the public its first look. The day before, LifeSciKY hosted a kickoff event at DBL Law in Covington, at which the organization unveiled grant funding rounds for the startups relocating to the center.

Besides PAN Biologics, Godale announced that Louisville-based Clareo Biosciences and Houston-based Simbryo Technologies are moving to the center.

Clareo, founded by Melissa Smith, developed a genomic technology that sequences DNA and analyzes RNA expression to create a detailed profile of an individual’s immune system. With that profile, Clareo uses artificial intelligence to assess how an individual may respond to specific therapies, evaluate his or her risk of developing autoimmune conditions, and to estimate the likelihood the person will benefit from cancer immunotherapy.

“We’re really excited about this partnership with LifeSciKY to get us boosted up beyond our initial stages and get the news out there of what we can really do with our technology,” said Smith, who is an associate professor at the University of Louisville School of Medicine.

Similar to De, Smith received a $10,000 grant, this one courtesy of Newport-based New Riff Distilling, titled Bourbon for Science.

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Pictured, from left, are Clareo’s Melissa Smith, New Riff Distilling’s Mollie Lewis and LifeSciKY’s Christin Godale. Photo by Kenton Hornbeck | LINK nky

Kuntal De understands the urgency required in cancer treatment.

Earlier this year, the founder of PAN Biologics lost his aunt to a particularly aggressive form of cancer. He said this personal experience drove his company’s mission to develop targeted alpha-emitter radiotherapy for glioblastoma. De’s therapy isolates cancer cells so healthy cells can stay unaffected by the side effects of chemotherapy.

“My aunt actually passed away two months back, like after diagnosis,” De said. “So this is real. This is real, and patients are having side effects because of irradiation.”

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De, a biochemist by trade, founded PAN Biologics in Knoxville, Tennessee, in 2024.

De received a $10,000 grant, sponsored by Erlanger-based McD Concrete, to relocate his startup to the new OneNKY Center in Covington.

For LifeSciKY, attracting startups to Cov-

8 SEPTEMBER 26, 2025

The first company to move into the laboratory was Simbryo, a startup that develops endometrial organoids for infertility treatment. Founded by Dr. Yael Katz, Simbryo strives to improve in vitro fertilization success rates, a process that is often costly and uncertain. Simbryo is already working with Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, Katz said.

“Right now, when people do IVF, they’re just really hoping for the best – like hope it will work,” she said. “What we’re doing with our endometrial organoids is we’re able to help people to guide them in creating personalized protocols to optimize their chances of being able to have a baby, which is very important.”

The three startups are in the process of relocating to Covington.

Covington school board picks consultant to aid superintendent search The Covington Independent Public Schools Board of Education will work with Chicago-based consulting firm Alma Advisory

kenton county briefs “We are honored to partner with the board of Covington Independent Public Schools in this critical endeavor,” Alma’s CEO, Monica Santana Rosen, said in the release. “It is clear to us that the board is centering community voice to guide their efforts every step of the way. We are looking forward to getting started!”

A Chicago-based consultant will help Covington Independent Public Schools find its next superintendent. Photo by Nathan Granger | LINK nky

Group to find a new superintendent.

The board members voted unanimously to approve a contract with the firm at their meeting on Sept. 11.

Haggard said the board would like to post the job opening before Thanksgiving, begin interviewing early in 2026 and hire someone by March. Garrison will serve for the remainder of the school year, and the new superintendent will assume the role upon the conclusion of the academic year.

Covington schools honor 100th birthday of teacher at Lincoln-Grant School

“One of the most important decisions that we’re going to make as a board is who is going to be our next leader,” Tom Haggard, the board’s president, said at the meeting.

The district announced in June it would not renew current Superintendent Alvin Garrison’s contract. Garrison has been with the district for 12 years and is the longest-serving Black superintendent in Kentucky.

Superintendents serve as the professional administrative heads of school districts and are responsible for managing their day-to-day activities. They report to the elected members of the board of education.

The relationship between Covington’s board members and the district’s administration was at times strained, with disagreements arising over communication, money and district facilities. In spite of this, one member, Michelle Williams, emphasized how “it was great that we all came together” to find a firm to aid in the search.

Garrison did not comment on the contract approval, although he did attend the meeting and spoke on other agenda items. He wrote a letter earlier this summer, in which he reflected on his time as superintendent.

“I have had a fulfilling tenure as a superintendent,” Garrison begins his statement.

“I am grateful for the unwavering support from the boards during my first nine years in this role. The past three years have posed significant challenges, but I remain committed to prioritizing the best interests of our students, families, faculty, staff and community in my final year.”

Alma Advisory Group was one of seven firms that submitted proposals for the consultancy, according to a release from the district. The board interviewed five firms before selecting Alma, a minority woman-owned firm that has assisted in executive searches in several states.

Sayde Dean, now 100, taught at Covington’s Lincoln-Grant School. Provided | Covington Independent Public Schools

Covington Independent Public Schools celebrated the 100th birthday of Sayde Dean, a veteran teacher who taught at the historic Lincoln Grant School. Dean turned 100 on Sept. 12.

“Her century-long journey has been filled with wisdom, service and dedication to education, students and the community she served,” said Superintendent Alvin Garrison at the Sept. 11 board of education meeting.

Dean did not attend the meeting, but the district sat down and interviewed her beforehand, asking her about her life experience and teaching philosophy. Family members attended on her behalf.

What would become the Lincoln-Grant School started as the William Grant High School in Covington in 1866 to educate African American children. In 1876, the school was established as an African American public high school. Eventually, the system expanded to include K-12 education, becoming the Lincoln-Grant School.

“We’re confident that Alma will help us attract and select a transformational leader – someone who shares our vision for excellence and who will champion the students, staff and families of Covington,” Haggard said in the release.

In 1965, following desegregation, the students from the high school were integrated into Holmes High School. The elementary school continued operating until 1976 before the building was converted into the Northern Kentucky Community Center. In 2017, the building was converted again into the Lincoln-Grant Scholar House.

The board plans to keep the community involved in the search through such efforts as town halls, online surveys and focus groups. It hopes to release a more detailed engagement plan this month.

“I had a very good life,” Dean said in the video. “I enjoyed what I did. I think there’s no substitute to sending a kid ready to learn.”

SEPTEMBER 26, 2025 9

food

Fry Guys visit: Bard’s Burgers & Chili

By Will Johnson Will Johnson is a member of the LINK nky editorial board, and he loves, loves, LOVES french fries. Come back each month for a new column on deep-fried delicacies around the region.

T

he only thing better than a good french fry is a great french fry. But where have all the great fries gone?

Over the next 12 months, my good buddy and former college roommate, Phil, and I will travel through Northern Kentucky and Southwest Ohio to uncover the crispiest, saltiest and most mouthwatering fries the region has to offer.

Whether curly, hand-cut, fried in duck fat or sprinkled in extra seasoning, we are on a mission to find the best of the best.

We are Will and Phil. We are your Fry Guys.

And we are reporting for duty.

Location

Bard’s Burgers & Chili is at 3620 Decoursey Ave., Covington. Photos by Will Johnson | LINK nky

This month, we’re spotlighting Bard’s Burgers & Chili in Covington’s Latonia section.

Bard’s has been in business for more than 15 years and has become a staple of the community.

Bard’s earned a touch of Hollywood fame in 2018 as a background for Robert Redford’s “The Old Man & the Gun,” but it’s best known and loved for its burgers, Cincinnati-style chili and the Bardzilla Challenge.

This monster meal involves consuming 11

one-third-pound burger patties, 22 slices of cheese and two pounds of fries, all in under an hour.

tional shoestring, with a bit of potato peel still attached. Our orders were fried just beyond golden brown and visibly salted.

The Bardzilla landed its namesake a feature on the Food Network’s “Ginormous Food” series in 2017. Note: We did not try the Bardzilla Challenge. We value our lives.

What do the Fry Guys think?

Ambiance

“There are chains that serve fries like these that come out limp and greasy; you could tell right off the bat that these were not those disappointing potatoes,” said Phil.

“In a world where stepping onto your front porch costs first and last month’s rent, this felt extremely easy on the wallet,” said Phil.

Taste and texture

Final verdict

These fries were surprisingly crunchy.

With a thicker cut, the assumption is you’ll end up with something soggy. The fries were piping hot, crisp on the outside and tender in the middle.

Bard’s was our kind of place. Good food.

Good price. The Bardzilla Challenge may haunt my dreams for the foreseeable future, but the fries more than stand on their own.

What do the Fry Guys think?

What do the Fry Guys think?

“The best compliment we can give these fries is that we each housed half our order before remembering to take a picture,” said Phil.

“These might be the platonic ideal of the french fry. Everything is gonna get compared to these, and many other fries might find themselves wanting,” said Phil.

“I debated omitting having to go back a second time just to photograph a full basket of fries. But our audience deserves honesty,” said Will.

“It’s not really a question of if I’ll go back … it’s when I’ll go back. This sets a high bar,” said Will.

What do the Fry Guys think?

Bard’s is a low-frill, come-as-you-are kind of place with pinball machines, televisions and a full bar. Bard’s isn’t just a restaurant; it’s a legit spot to hang. Food is served in red plastic baskets (the staple of a true neighborhood establishment) with black and white checkerboard liners.

From most seats, you can even see into the kitchen as your food is made. Bard’s keeps it simple.

Appearance This is what was left by the time we realized we should get a photo of Bard’s fries.

The fries matched the ambiance. Nothing fancy. The cut was a bit thicker than tradi-

NOTICE OF PUBLIC MEETING The Public Service Commission of Kentucky issued orders on July 31, 2025 and September 11, 2025, scheduling public comment meetings to be held on October 13, 2025 at 5 p.m. Central Daylight Time, at Hopkins County Fiscal Court, 56 North Main Street, Madisonville, KY 42431; October 14, 2025, at 5 p.m. Eastern Daylight Time, at Bluegrass Community & Technical College: Keenland Room, 500 Newtown Pike, Lexington, KY 40508; and October 16, 2025, at 5 p.m. Eastern Daylight Time, at Middlesboro Community Center, 705 N. Petersborough Ave., Middlesboro, KY 40965 for the purpose of hearing public comments on Kentucky Utilities Company and Louisville Gas and Electric Company applications for adjustment of its electric and gas rates and approval of certain regulatory and accounting treatments in Case Nos. 2025-00113 and 2025-00114.

10 SEPTEMBER 26, 2025

day’s special: smoked wings with a Grippo’s BBQ dry rub and a cup of brisket chili.

“Our primary care physicians would balk, but this was right up our alley,” said Will.

Value and experience Plain fries come in three sizes with prices ranging from $3.50 to $6. You also can get them with a variety of toppings, including Canada’s best culinary export, poutine (fries and fresh cheese curds topped with gravy). I firmly believe these fries could stand up to any topping you throw on them.

We both paired our fries with entrees. Phil decided on a massive burger. I chose the

“By the time I finished that meal, I felt like Violet Beauregarde right before she was rolled away by the Oompa Loompas. I got my money’s worth,” said Will.

In case you go Bard’s Burgers & Chili Address: 3620 Decoursey Ave, Covington Hours: 4-9 p.m. Tuesday-Thursday, 11 a.m.-9 p.m. Friday, noon-7 p.m. Saturday.

Phone: 859-866-6017 Website: bardsburgersandchili.com

Celebrate season with festivals, farms, frights

By Maggy McDonel

Petersburg for a visit. Sandylandacres offers both a haunted hayride and a haunted barn. Tickets for the barn are $15, and the hayride is $20. You also can purchase combined passes for $30.

F

all is almost here, and it’s about time to embrace the season by visiting pumpkin patches, farms, haunted houses and fall festivals across the region.

Sandylandacres is open Fridays and Saturdays from 8 p.m. to midnight now through Nov. 1. Find more information at sandylandacres.com.

From picking pumpkins for jack-o’-lanterns to hayrides to sipping some boozy cider, getting spooked at a haunted house and more, there is plenty to do around NKY this time of year.

Some spots have already started their fall events, and others are set to open soon. We wanted to let our readers know when and where they can find autumnal activities in the area.

Farms Neltner’s Farm Head over to Neltner’s Farm in Melbourne starting Sept. 27 and through Oct. 31 for its annual Fall Fest. During the week, attendees can enjoy picking pumpkins, corn mazes, a farm stand with fresh produce, plus a petting zoo and other kid-friendly activities. Stop by on the weekend for horsedrawn carriage rides, food from Four Mile Pig, homemade ice cream, locally sourced wine, live music and more.

Admission is free during the week and $7 on weekends for everyone 3 years and up. The farm accepts cash and cards, and pumpkins are sold by the pound. Neltner’s is open 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Saturday and Sunday and 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Monday through Friday.

Find the live music lineup and more at neltnersfarm.com.

Festive events Covington Cryptid Block Party

Fall at Neltner’s Farm. Provided | Neltner’s Farm on Facebook

Sugar Ridge Farm

tion on its Facebook page.

Through October, Sugar Ridge Farm in Walton is offering tons of family-friendly fall fun. Running Saturdays and Sundays, this farm fest includes access to the pumpkin patch, petting zoo, playgrounds, hayrides and more. For an additional cost, the farm offers trolley rides, entrance to a bounce house plus a corn cannon.

Haunted attractions

New this year is the Fall Fest Craft Market. Attendees can check out handmade décor, seasonal gifts and locally crafted items from regional artisans. The market is included with admission and open every festival day, with different vendors each weekend.

The fall fest is open 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays. Tickets are $10 for anyone over age 3. The farm is cash only. Find more information, live music lineup and special events at facebook.com/SugarRidgeFamilyFarm.

Kinman Farm

McGlasson Farms

Kinman Farm in Burlington is open seven days a week from mid-April through Christmas. This family-owned farm offers a variety of locally grown produce, flowers and more. Its fall farm market runs Sept.

20 through Oct. 26. Families can enjoy hayrides, corn mazes, petting zoos and other fall activities. DJs and bands will be on deck on Saturdays and Sundays in October.

Find plenty of pumpkins at the McGlasson Farms farm stand in Hebron. The farm’s pick-your-own pumpkins and apples have already started for the season. According to McGlasson’s harvest calendar, visitors also can pick up locally grown tomatoes, potatoes, green beans, peppers, squash, eggplant, kale, apples, sweet potatoes and, of course, pumpkins. Cider and caramel apples are also available at the farm shop.

Classifieds

The festival is open 4 p.m.-9 p.m. Friday, 10 a.m.-9 p.m. Saturday and 11 a.m.-7 p.m.

Sunday. Admission is $13 during the weekend festivities for those 3 and over. Find more information at facebook.com/KinmanFarmMarket.

The farm is open 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Monday through Friday, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. Admission is free, “pick-your-own” rates vary by item and weight. McGlasson is cash and Venmo only. Find more informa-

Scream Ridge Scare Park Starting Oct. 3, Sugar Ridge Family Farm in Walton transforms into Scream Ridge, a haunted farm attraction featuring three themed scares: the Butcher Barn, Carnival of Screams and the haunted Killing Fields.

Created with the Cincinnati Circus Co., Scream Ridge is designed for teens, adults and anyone who loves a fright, with fog, strobe effects and plenty of jump scares.

Standard admission is $20, VIP is $30. Find more information at screamridge.com.

USS Nightmare USS Nightmare returns to the Ohio River this Halloween season, bringing back one of Greater Cincinnati’s longest-running haunted attractions. The 277-foot dredge boat William S. Mitchell transforms into a two-level haunted tour featuring more than 30 themed areas and a cast of eerie characters.

The attraction offers several experiences, ranging from kid-friendly Lights-On Matinee tours to the intense RIP Experience and the Captain’s Extreme Tour, which is recommended only for those 17 and older.

Fast pass and front-of-the-line admission options are available. The attraction runs through Nov. 8. Tickets and full details at ussnightmare.com.

Sandylandacres

The Covington Cryptid Block Party returns to Pike Street from noon-6 p.m. Oct. 4. Now in its fourth year, the free, family-friendly festival will feature live music, choreographed cryptid dancing, expanded food and drink options, and plenty of whimsical fun.

More than 50 local vendors will be on hand with food, drinks and handmade goods, with one-third based in Covington and all representing small businesses. Attendees also can pick up a Block Party Passport, enjoy performances from four local bands and join the community in celebrating one of Covington’s most anticipated fall events.

Full details are available at cryptidcov.blog.

Kentucky Wool Festival One of Northern Kentucky’s most beloved fall traditions returns Oct. 3-5, bringing three “full days of heritage, music, food and family fun to Pendleton County.” Held beside Kincaid Lake State Park, the festival celebrates the region’s “rich agricultural past with live sheep shearing, working border collie demonstrations, and traditional spinning and weaving exhibitions.”

Attendees can enjoy bluegrass, country, gospel and folk music on multiple stages, sample homemade treats and festival favorites, and shop from a wide array of handmade crafts and wool products.

Admission is $10 for adults, $5 for ages 7-18, and free for children 6 and under.

Three-day passes are available for $20 and can be purchased at the gate on Friday or in advance at local banks in Falmouth and Butler. Gates are open Friday and Saturday from 10 a.m.-10 p.m. and Sunday from 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Find more information at kywoolfest.org.

Sandylandacres is in its 20th year and is ready to spook anyone that dares come to

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All reasonable offers considered.

SCAN TO LEARN MORE ABOUT OUR CLASSIFIEDS

SEPTEMBER 26, 2025 11

sports Holy Cross, Walton-Verona football win first LINK Team of Week honors The first two Team of the Week award winners for the fall sports season are the Holy Cross and Walton-Verona football teams.

The two are now eligible for Team of the Season and a chance at a $500 scholarship to a student-athlete of their choice.

Last season, OrthoCincy Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine and LINK nky expanded the Team of the Week program to include three Team of the Season winners and one overall winner for Team of the Year. LINK nky is excited to partner again with OrthoCincy in bringing Team of the Week and Team of the Season awards back for 202526 sports seasons!

Hunt returned an onside kick attempt for a touchdown, while Gabriel Romito hit both of his extra-point attempts and a field goal.

Charles Oglesby also scored on a two-point conversion, extra-point attempts and twopoint conversions proving critical as they held the Polar Bears 0-for-4 on such attempts.

Dustin Wilson led the Indians defense with 10 tackles, an interception and fumble recovery. Thomas Maddox also had a fumble recovery, and Jacob Rieselman forced one of the fumbles. Oglesby had nine tackles, one of them for a loss, and Braylon Thornberry added eight tackles.

Beechwood won the All “A” Classic state volleyball tournament over the weekend without dropping a set. Provided

Playing volleyball in Northern Kentucky has its advantages.

Walton-Verona football won LINK nky Team of the Week honors for the week of Aug. 31-Sept. 6.

Despite struggling offensively, the Indians used special teams and an opportunistic defense on their path to victory. Max

The Bearcats picked up their first win of the season in thrilling fashion with a 33-28 road victory over Ludlow on Sept. 5. Trailing 28-21 with under five minutes to play, Walton-Verona scored two touchdowns in the final 3:59 to win the game.

Avery Howe threw for 223 yards and three touchdowns in the victory, hitting Brayden Donato for all three touchdowns. Andrew Lynn rushed for two touchdowns, including the game-winner with under 20 seconds to play.

on the season with a big district matchup against Notre Dame Academy looming.

Macy Armstrong was named Most Valuable Player of the tournament, Maggie Dawson, Skylr Estep and Rachel Lewandowski making the All-Tournament team. It was just Beechwood’s second trip to the All “A” state tournament, also doing so in 2015, when they made it to the championship and finished runner-up.

In the 17 years the All “A” has been tracking the state volleyball championship, Northern Kentucky schools have won 11 titles. St. Henry has eight, Holy Cross has two and now Beechwood joins that club with one.

Walton-Verona football

Holy Cross football

The Indians earned Team of the Week honors after a thrilling 25-24 victory over Bracken County.

Beechwood claims first All ‘A’ state volleyball title in program history

The Indians sit at 4-0 for the first time in program history.

The Team of the Week program for the fall sports season will run until November.

We’ll compile all the winners from each week and have a final vote for Team of the Season mid-November.

Holy Cross football won LINK nky Team of the Week honors for the week of Aug. 24-30.

The Bearcat defense forced three turnovers, Shawn Sinkhorn and Donato with interceptions, Donato also with a fumble recovery to go with his seven tackles. Alexander Yutze paced the Bearcats with 10 tackles in the contest. Cooper Burch had six tackles, one for a loss and a forced fumble.

Yes, the competition is stiff and you have to bring your best nearly every night, but, when it comes to state tournaments, it helps with facing what you see in the northernmost part of the state night in, night out.

Beechwood’s volleyball team can attest to that. It became the latest to win the All “A” Classic state volleyball tournament, a program first for them. The Tigers did it without losing a set over the weekend in the state tournament. They ran through pool play with three wins and then grabbed three more wins in bracket play to claim the title.

In only one of 12 sets did Beechwood’s opponent reach 20 points, which the Tigers won over state-ranked Holy Cross of Louisville, 25-23. Other than that, it was a breeze for Beechwood, which improved to 16-1

The weekly comic by Andrew Buchanan

In the Tigers’ 16-1 start, they’ve dropped just three sets, two to St. Henry in a threeset loss and one to Calhoun (Georgia). Both of those matches were played at the Showdown at the Sunsphere tournament in Knoxville, Tennessee.

New Larosa’s effort to celebrate prep ‘Game Changers’

LaRosa’s is broadening its support of high school sports with a new program that honors those whose impact is felt off the scoreboard.

The Game Changers initiative, sponsored by the LaRosa Family Foundation, will recognize athletes, coaches, teachers, parents, trainers and volunteers who inspire others through leadership, integrity and service.

Each month, one honoree will be spotlighted online, on social media and at their local LaRosa’s pizzeria.

“We appreciate the many ways that high school sports inspire our communities,” said Mike LaRosa, CEO of LaRosa’s Inc. “From the players who always give 110% to teachers who bring out the best in scholar-athletes to volunteers who generously share their time, high school sports is about so much more than just the score. So we have evolved our MVP program to honor the collaborative efforts of the many individuals who contribute to athletic success.”

The effort builds on a 50-year tradition that began after a fire nearly destroyed the company’s original restaurant in 1973. Students and staff from nearby schools helped founder Buddy LaRosa rebuild, inspiring him to launch the High School Sports Hall of Fame and the longtime Athlete of the Week program.

Nominations for the first Game Changer are open through Sept. 30. Submit nominations through larosafamilyfoundation.org/ gamechangermvp.

12 SEPTEMBER 26, 2025

Empress Chili celebrates 40 years in Alexandria

By Haley Parnell

F

rom first jobs to late-night chili stops, Empress Chili has shaped Alexandria residents for four decades.

The Alexandria institution will have served its Cincinnati-style chili for 40 years as of Sept. 23. In honor of that milestone, Alexandria City Council at its Sept. 18 meeting recognized Steve Martin, owner of Empress Chili, for his 40 years in business and declared Sept. 23 as Empress Chili Day in the city.

“Empress Chili has been around for 40 years, and that’s what we’re here to celebrate,” Alexandria Mayor Andy Schabell said. “It’s been a big part of everybody’s life.

A lot of kids grow up and work there as their first job. They learn what hard work is, what it is to be on time, how to treat the customer, and it’s been a big part of my life, too.”

Alexandria Councilmember Patrick Blair said his daughter was working a shift at Empress Chili as they spoke.

Schabell said that, when he was elected mayor eight years ago and had to be sworn in, he and the city’s clerk at the time went to have lunch at Empress Chili, and he was sworn in right there in the booth at the chili parlor.

The city’s proclamation, read at the Sept. 18 meeting, said that Martin in 1985 opened

Empress Chili owner Steve Martin and his family with Alexandria Mayor Andy Schabell. Photo by Haley Parnell | LINK nky

Empress Chili at age 23. The first location was an former savings and loan in the shopping center at 8244 Alexandria Pike.

In 1991, Martin and his father, Clarence Martin, built the current location at 7934 Alexandria Pike.

Martin thanked the city for the honor and said it really extends to his whole family, all of shoe members have helped at the chili parlor.

“I’ve had 29 nieces and nephews, and we’ve had brothers and sisters all work there,”

Martin said. “When I first opened, dad worked his drug store and would come out and help me close. He put in overtime all the time.”

Martin said that at this time, around 400 employees have worked at Empress Chili and thanked the city for being a great community to work in.

The city proclamation was a surprise for Martin on behalf of the city.

The Alexandria Empress is the only remaining location of a business that dates to 1922, when two brothers, both Macedonian immigrants, opened a chili parlor next to the Empress Theater in downtown Cincinnati. It created the tradition of Cincinnati chili parlors.

“You guys are around 40 years because your food is great, you serve more than just chili, great sandwiches and friendly service, and it’s a good price,” said Alexandria Councilmember Tom Baldridge. “Thanks for being around. I love it.”

MASTER COMMISSIONER’S SALE BOONE COUNTY CIRCUIT COURT

DIVISION III

DIVISION I

DIVISION III

CASE NO.: 25-CI-00666

CASE NO.: 24-CI-01592

CASE NO.: 22-CI-01477

LAKEVIEW LOAN SERVICING, LLC**ENOTE VESTING-NATIONSTAR MORTGAGE LLC

PNC 2023-1 LLC

MID SOUTH CAPITAL PARTNERS, LP

VERSUS}

VERSUS}

UNKNOWN SPOUSE, IF ANY, OF PATRICIA MCINTOSH, ET AL

UNKNOWN HEIRS, LEGATEES, AND DEVISEES OF MAE SHIELDS, ET AL

VERSUS} AMY LYNNE MILLER, ET AL By virtue of a judgment and order of sale of the Boone Circuit Court rendered AUGUST 26, 2025 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, OCTOBER 9, 2025 at the hour of 9:00 a.m. or thereabouts, the following described property to-wit: ADDRESS: 5121 LIMERICK COURT UNION, KY 41091 PVA PROPERTY IDENTIFICATION NUMBER: 051.05-15-698.02 AMOUNT OF JUDGMENT: $290,302.97 GROUP NO.: 5709

By virtue of a judgment and order of sale of the Boone Circuit Court rendered SEPTEMBER 2, 2025 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, OCTOBER 9, 2025 at the hour of 9:00 a.m. or thereabouts, the following described property to-wit: ADDRESS: 2982 GEORGE DRIVE BURLINGTON, KY 41005 PVA PROPERTY IDENTIFICATION NUMBER: 038.00-08-008.00 AMOUNT OF JUDGMENT: $159,488.44 GROUP NO.: 1507

By virtue of a judgment and order of sale of the Boone Circuit Court rendered AUGUST 26, 2025 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, OCTOBER 9, 2025 at the hour of 9:00 a.m. or thereabouts, the following described property to-wit: ADDRESS: 2150 PETERSBURG ROAD HEBRON, KY 41048 PVA PROPERTY IDENTIFICATION NUMBER: 047.03-00-061.00 AMOUNT OF JUDGMENT: $24,660.25 GROUP NO.: 2006

The complete legal description is particularly set out in the Judgment and Order of Sale entered in this case.

TERMS OF SALE: The property shall be sold as a whole. The purchaser may pay all or part of the purchase price in cash, and may pay the balance of the purchase price on a credit of 30 days after date of sale; said credit shall be granted only upon the execution by the purchaser of bond, with surety thereon, and said surety shall be a lending institution authorized and doing business in Kentucky, or a reputable fidelity or surety company, authorized and doing business in Kentucky, and only if said surety be acceptable to the Commissioner of the Boone Circuit Court; and an authorized officer of the surety must be present at the sale or must have given the Commissioner adequate assurance of its intent to be surety prior to or at the sale; and said Bond shall be, and shall remain, a lien on the property sold as additional security for the payment of the full purchase price, and shall have the full force and effect of a Judgment; and said Bond shall bear interest at the rate provided by the Judgment up to Twelve (12%) Percent per annum until paid. The purchaser shall be required to pay the sum of 10% of the bid amount in cash or certified check on the purchase at the time of sale.

The successful bidder at the sale shall, at bidder’s own expense, carry fire and extended insurance coverage on any improvements from the date of sale until the purchase price is fully paid, with a loss payable clause to the Commissioner of the Boone Circuit Court.

Failure of the purchaser to effect such insurance shall not affect the validity of the sale or the purchaser’s liability thereunder, but shall entitle, but not require, a lien holder herein, after giving notice to the Commissioner, to effect said insurance and furnish the policy or evidence thereof to the Commissioner, and the premium thereon or the proper portion thereof shall be charged to the purchaser as purchaser’s cost.

The property shall be sold subject to ad valorem taxes for the year 2025 and all subsequent years thereafter; easements, restrictions and stipulations of record; assessments for public improvements levied against the property, if any; existing zoning ordinances, statutes, laws, or regulations; and any facts which an inspection and accurate survey of the property may disclose. BIDDERS SHALL BE PREPARED TO COMPLY WITH THESE TERMS. All sales are “as is” and the Plaintiff, the Master Commissioner, and the Court shall not be deemed to have warranted title of the real estate to the purchaser.

FURTHER INFORMATION REGARDING THESE SALES AND OTHER UPCOMING SALES CAN BE FOUND AT www.boonecountyky.org (Link to Department/Agencies to Master Commissioner) PROSPECTIVE BIDDERS ARE ADVISED AND ENCOURAGED TO REFER TO THAT WEBSITE FOR ANSWERS TO ANY QUESTIONS.

SEPTEMBER 26, 2025 13

real estate

Lakefront home with private dock Address: 3 Northhall Court, Ryland Heights Price: $799,000 Bedrooms: Four Bathrooms: Three (plus on half bath) Square footage: 3,400 School district: Kenton County County: Kenton Special features: Modern lakefront living offers access to golf, tennis, hiking, fishing and boating. The great room features exposed beams, a stone fireplace and floorto-ceiling windows with lake views. The updated kitchen features double ovens, a propane range with grill, an oversized island and custom cabinetry. Outdoor spaces include a wraparound deck, patio and a four-season porch. The primary suite offers a balcony with sunrise views. The lower level has a private guest apartment with dock access.

The exterior of this Ryland Lakes home. Photos provided | Property owner

A look at this home’s great room.

This home features a private dock.

Kentucky now allows for Public Notices to be published digitally on LINK nky’s website.

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PUBLIC NOTICE Notice is hereby given that the City of Walton, KY passed Ordinance 2025-16, AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF WALTON, KENTUCKY, AMENDING CHAPTER 74 OF THE CITY OF WALTON CODE OF ORDINANCES, ENTITLED TRAFFIC SCHEDULES, BY CREATING SCHEDULE IV THEREIN IN ORDER TO PROHIBIT HEAVY TRUCK TRAFFIC FROM ENTERING AND EXITING THE WEST ENTRANCE OF TOWNE CENTER DRIVE FROM AND TO ITS INTERSECTION WITH MARY GRUBBS HIGHWAY, on the 16th day of September, 2025. You may read the full Ordinance on the City’s website at: https://cityofwalton.org. The public has a right to inspect and obtain a copy of any document associated with the posting by contacting the Walton City Clerk at 40 N. Main St., Walton, KY 41094, telephone # 859-485-4383 Rebecca McClure, City Clerk City of Walton, Kentucky

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SUDOKU

Edited Margie E.Crossword Burke ThebyWeekly

Difficulty: Easy

7 6 2

3 6

2 4 4/25 - 8/10/25 2 1 5 8 1 5 9 1 3 9 3

9 5 3 6

Edited by Margie E. Burke

Copyright 2025 by The Puzzle Syndicate

HOW TO SOLVE:

Each row must contain the 3 numbers 1 to 9; each column must contain the numbers 1 to 9; and each set of 3 by 3 boxes must contain the numbers 1 to 9.

Answer to Previous Sudoku:

9

6 2 7

1 8 9 4 6 7 3 2 5 6 4 3 2 5 8 7 9 1 2 5 7 3 1 9 4 6 8 9 6 4 7 8 2 5 1 3 8 3 2 1 4 5 9 7 6 7 1 5 9 3 6 2 8 4 4 9 8 5 7 1 6 3 2 5 2 6 8 9 3 1 4 7 3 7 1 6 2 4 8 5 9

2 7

by Margie E. Burke

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 ACROSS HOW TO SOLVE: 1 Biblical tower 15 16 14 Each row must contain the 6 Lost traction numbers 1 to 9; each column 18 19 17 must 10 Farmiga of film contain the numbers 1 to 9; and 14 Smart speaker 22 21 each set of 3 by 3 boxes 20 must voice contain the numbers 1 to 9.

23 24 15 Sushi staple 16 Apt anagram of 25 26 27 28 29 30 Answer vileto Previous Sudoku: Exorbitant 32 33 31 1 817 9 4 6 7 3 2 5 18 List 35 36 37 6 420 3Bully2 5 8 7 349 1 39 40 2 522 7Strike 3 zones?

1 9 4 386 8 23 Doing a wall job 42 43 44 9 625 4Vulnerability 7 8 2 5 411 3 46 8 328 2"____ 1 Game" 4 5 9 7 6 45 (classic sci-fi 49 50 51 52 7 1 5novel) 9 3 6 2 478 484 4 931 8Depression-era 5 7 1 6 533 2 55 54 agcy.

5 232 6A quarter 8 9 of3 1 564 7 57 58 3 7 1four6 2 4 8 595 9 60 61 33 Masked man Copyright 2025 by The Puzzle Syndicate with a stick 34 Skateboarding tricks DOWN 26 Puccini work 44 Jacks in a deck 37 Handwriting 1 Strong fiber 27 Just about 46 Paired up style 2 Choir voice everywhere 47 El ___, Tex. 38 Farm 3 Keg contents 29 Amazon, e.g.

48 Parched cooperative 4 Not subject to, 30 Sows a field 50 Pucker39 Mineo of movies as taxes 35 Infuriates producing 40 Nancy Drew's 5 Jacket parts 36 Shocked 51 Place for a guy 6 Western hats 37 Airlines, for fringe 41 Quixote pal 7 Semicircular instance 52 Big game Panza window 39 At a standstill 54 Eggs, in biology 42 Bounty hunters, 8 Accustom 43 The film industry e.g.

9 Flow stopper Answers to Previous Crossword: 45 Rat Pack 10 Open-air A L T A R B A C H S O M E member porches A G U E I R O N B E R R A 47 Some chessmen 11 Epic Longfellow E V I C T L E T T E R I N G 49 Drove away poem G E L T I G H T F I S T E D 53 Pupil of Plato 12 Bar mitzvah, for E L A N E R E M I T E A C A D E M E R O M A N 55 Skirt one M U G D I S C G A R A G E 56 Word with arm 13 Pub potables L E A S E S T A R E R R S or dish 19 "Sense and S T E A D Y D A N A E V A 57 Change direction Sensibility" E V A C S C O R P S E S 58 Use the on-ramp sister R U T H D E M E R I T 59 Tribute poems 21 2023 Joaquin A L E P R O V I S I O N E D 60 Tosses in Phoenix title role S T A L E T E N T A C L E S L I N T T O M B S U N T O 61 September 24 Manage E D D Y S N E A K M A S T bloom 25 Drooping drapes

SEPTEMBER 26, 2025 15

2025 COMMUNITY

CONVERSATION SERIES: OCTOBER 9: K-12 Education Solutions Event will be held at the Erlanger Branch of the Kenton County Public Library from 6-7:30 p.m.

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