LINK Kenton Reader - Volume 4, Edition 48 - October 30, 2026 by LINK nky

KENTON

VOLUME 4, ISSUE 48 — OCTOBER 30, 2026

THE VOICE OF NKY

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President Trump holds midterm rally in Highland Heights Pretend I’m on the ballot By Nathan Granger

resident Donald Trump returned to Northern Kentucky for the second time this year in hopes of swaying GOP voters in the commonwealth to back Republicans at the ballot box. The president spoke at Truist Arena in Highland Heights on Oct. 17. The event comes weeks ahead of the midterm election with key seats up for grabs in both Ohio and Kentucky. “A very special hello to Kentucky,” Trump said from the podium when he took the stage around 2 p.m. “I’m thrilled to be back in this beautiful commonwealth.” For Kentucky, a seat in the U.S. Senate is up for grabs, with Republican Andy Barr and Democrat Charles Booker looking to replace longtime incumbent Republican Sen. Mitch McConnell. Continues on page 3

President Donald Trump speaks at the rally on Oct. 17, 2026. Photo by Ethan Bloomfield | LINK nky

Fort Thomas natives return home to showcase art in new exhibition By Haley Parnell

wo Fort Thomas natives are returning to their hometown to showcase their artwork in an exhibition that brings illustration and stained glass together. Illustrator Lucie Rice and stained glass artist Jane Pompilio, both Highlands High School graduates, will be featured in “Storytellers in Ink & Glass” at 8 North Center for the Arts in Fort Thomas. The exhibition opens Friday, Nov. 6, with a public reception from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m., and runs through Nov. 22.

A piece by illustrator Lucie Rice. Photo provided | Jill Dunne

Although the two artists work in different mediums, both draw inspiration from nature and use their artwork to tell stories. Rice, an illustrator and designer now based

in Carmel, Indiana, is known for her colorful, playful illustrations featuring animals, textures and patterns. Her work has appeared in magazines, books, murals and advertising campaigns. For Rice, the exhibition is an opportunity to return to the community where her artistic interests first developed. “Fort Thomas will always be a special place to me,” Rice said. “It’s where I grew up, went to school, and began finding my way as an artist. Sharing that work here alongside Jane’s stained glass is especially meaningful.” Rice earned a bachelor’s degree in fine arts in painting from the University of Evansville and a master’s degree in fine arts in Continues on page 5

Fort Thomas bookstore faces continued protests p6 Covington recommends 30-day license suspension for bar p7 Where Northern Kentucky students are making gains p11

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Andy Barr speaks before the Kenton County Rotary Club at the Villa Hills Civic Ed Gallrein speaks before the Kenton County Rotary Club at the Villa Hills Club on Oct. 8, 2026. Photo by Nathan Granger | LINK nky Civic Club on Oct. 8, 2026. Photo by Nathan Granger | LINK nky

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Continued from page 1

A congressional representative in Kentucky’s 4th District is also on the ballot. Republican Ed Gallrein — who won the primary nomination over incumbent Republican Thomas Massie — Democrat Melissa Strange, Libertarian Jeremy Todd and Independent write-in candidate Peter Harmon Williams are looking to fill that seat. Gallrein is Trump’s endorsed candidate in that race. On the Ohio side, incumbent Republican Sen. Jon Husted is set to face off against Democrat Sherrod Brown, who represented Ohio in the Senate for 18 years before being unseated in 2024 by Republican Bernie Moreno. What’s more, with incumbent Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine not seeking reelection, the governor’s seat is now contested between Trump-favored Republican Vivek Ramaswamy and Democrat Amy Acton.

Campbell County judge/executive Andy Schabell led the crowd in the Pledge of Allegiance before introductory speeches began. Speakers at the event included chairman of Kentucky Republicans Robert Benvenuti, Kentucky Treasurer Mark Metcalf, Republican candidate for House of Representatives Ohio District 1 Eric Conroy, and lastly, Barr and Gallrein. The speakers encouraged the attendees to get out and vote in the upcoming elections. Speeches also advocated for points on the Republican platform such as tax cuts, greater border security, building out domestic fossil fuel infrastructure and more. “This is a choice, (between) the freedom our founders fought for, and the radical left government overreach that threatens to dismantle it before our very eyes,” said Gallrein. “It is the Communist Manifesto versus the Constitution.”

Trump himself spoke for over an hour. He spent much of his time complimenting the Republican slate of candidates, both in Ohio and Kentucky and other parts of the country. He also mentioned a potential future investment within the commonwealth. “You better get out and vote,” Trump told the crowd. “If the Republicans win, the Department of War will be investing $100 million in the pharmaceutical company Anthea to revitalize a gigantic drug manufacturing facility in Winchester, Kentucky.” Early on in Trump’s speech, an individual was removed from the arena by security forces after causing a commotion in the audience. “He’s a young kid. We shouldn’t ruin his life and press charges,” Trump told the crowd. “Just let him go.” Continues on page 4

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Ed Gallrein and President Donald Trump at the rally on Oct. 17, 2026. Photo by Ethan Bloomfield | LINK nky

Andy Barr and President Donald Trump at the rally on Oct. 17, 2026. Photo by Ethan Bloomfield | LINK nky

Continued from page 3

said. “If they like that so much why don’t those radical Democrats move there?”

The rest of Trump’s speech went uninterrupted. The president discussed Kentucky economics, along with reiterating his promised $5,000 payouts to “all adult citizens” if Republicans won. Trump invited both Gallrein and Barr back up to the podium. “This is the most important midterm in the history of our country because we’ve gotten more things done, and they can undo them if we start losing an election, especially this one,” said Trump. “So, pretend I’m on the ballot. Go out and vote.” Throughout their speeches, Trump, Barr

and Gallrein argued that Democrats have become engulfed by socialism, like GOP candidates around the country have done this election cycle. As he has done before, Barr likened his Democratic opponent, former state Rep. Charles Booker, to New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani. Trump, too, attacked Booker, calling him “a communist lunatic.” Gallrein said he’d defended America from “socialists, communists, tyrants and terrorists” in other countries while serving as a Navy SEAL officer. “I’ve seen firsthand the devastation that communists and socialist agenda caused: food and gas shortages, high prices, long lines as families struggle to obtain life’s basic needs but live in utter misery,” Gallrein

Barr blamed high gas prices in the U.S. on Iran and said Iran’s military capabilities have been diminished. The strait was closed earlier this year after U.S. and Israeli strikes on Iran. “The Ayatollah is dead, and its nuclear infrastructure is under rubble,” Barr said. “Thank you, President Trump, for making America and the world a safer place.” Benvenuti was first in the speaker lineup and encouraged GOP voters to cast ballots in upcoming elections and push back against the left, which he said “now tries to

convince our friends and neighbors that not enough has been done to clean up their handspun destruction, and in some twisted way, they deserve your vote.” The Oct. 17 rally marked Trump’s second appearance in the Greater Cincinnati area in two weeks and his first in NKY since March. Earlier this month, Trump appeared in Vandalia, which is just north of Dayton, to campaign for Republican candidates in Ohio’s major races for the midterm election. WCPO’s Logan MacDonald, Molly Schramm and the Kentucky Lantern contributed reporting to this story.

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Continued from page 1

illustration from the Savannah College of Art and Design. Pompilio has spent more than 30 years working with stained glass. “Much of my inspiration comes from nature and watching how sunlight and moonlight change the colors around us,” Pompilio said. “I love translating those details into stained glass and creating windows that tell people’s own stories.” Pompilio previously taught at Kaleidoscope Stained Glass, where she continues to help create and develop custom windows. She also wrote “Where Do Birds Go at Night?,” a picture book featuring her stained glass artwork. The two artists have collaborated before, including on Pompilio’s book. “I’m excited to share the gallery with her, reconnect with the Fort Thomas community, and invite people to discover the stories behind our work,” Pompilio said. Beyond showcasing the artists’ work, the exhibition will also provide an opportunity for visitors to learn about accessibility improvements being planned at 8 North Center for the Arts. The organization is developing plans for an elevator and rear addition intended to make activities throughout the building more accessible. “Storytellers in Ink & Glass” will be on display at 8 North Center for the Arts, located at 8 N. Fort Thomas Ave., through Nov. 22.

A piece by illustrator Lucie Rice. Photo provided | Jill Dunne

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Fort Thomas bookstore faces continued protests amid allegations against co-owner By Haley Parnell

minutes.

rotests outside a Fort Thomas bookstore are continuing as demonstrators raise concerns about allegations against one of its owners, putting a strain on the small business.

The civil lawsuit remains unresolved, and no jury has determined whether the allegations against Mulcahy are true.

When asked whether he continues to deny the allegations involving his former student, Dave reiterated his position.

The Hidden Chapter Bookstore, owned by husband and wife Dave and Lacey Mulcahy, was the site of protests on Oct. 3, Oct. 10 and Oct. 17. The protests follow public allegations of behavior against Dave by his daughter, Ireland Mulcahy, and have also drawn attention to a separate, ongoing civil lawsuit involving his time as a teacher at Turkeyfoot Middle School in Edgewood, for which he has not been criminally charged.

“I deny the allegations and look forward to resolving this case in court,” he told LINK nky. “Out of respect for the legal process and my family’s privacy, I will not comment further.” Despite the protests and public attention, Dave and Lacey say they have no plans to close the bookstore.

The demonstrations have brought public scrutiny to the bookstore, which has operated in Fort Thomas for about three years.

Protesters outside of Hidden Chapter Bookstore on Oct. 3, 2026. Photo provided | Cincy NKY Accountability Group

“Like any small business facing public attention, we have felt an impact,” the owners told LINK nky in an emailed response. “We are grateful to everyone who continues to visit.”

A parent of one of those students filed a civil lawsuit in July 2023, alleging Dave inappropriately touched the student during the 2022-23 school year.

The owners did not answer LINK nky’s questions about whether sales or customer traffic have declined because of the protests, but acknowledged that the demonstrations have affected daily operations. “Our employees’ safety comes first. We do not schedule staff during protests,” the owners said. “We are grateful to the team members who continue to work with us. We do not discuss personnel matters.” The demonstrations are being organized through the “Cincy NKY Accountability Group,” according to Ireland, who participated in the Oct. 3 protest. Ireland told LINK nky that the purpose of the protests is to raise public awareness about the allegations and encourage people to learn more about the bookstore’s ownership. The first demonstration coincided with a regional bookstore crawl. Ireland said Hidden Chapter had been removed from the event’s participation materials but continued promoting itself as a participant. LINK

nky has not independently verified the circumstances surrounding the bookstore’s participation. Ireland said the demonstration drew support from people throughout the region, including some who stopped to join protesters and others who honked as they drove past. “A lot of strangers just kind of walking down the street picked up a sign,” she said. “There were people that just showed up.” She said the protests are intended to bring attention to concerns about her father rather than simply hurt the bookstore financially. “I don’t want him to struggle with his income,” Ireland said, although she expressed concerns about a business that attracts young women and children. “No matter what, my goal is that he understands that he hurts people, and that people who were hurt get the closure and the healing that they need,” she said. The protests come amid an ongoing civil lawsuit involving Dave’s previous employment as a social studies teacher and track coach at Turkeyfoot Middle School. The Kenton County School District fired Dave in April 2023 following an investigation into allegations of inappropriate physical con-

tact with female students.

An investigation by the Edgewood Police Department documented allegations from three female students involving inappropriate physical contact. The investigation was referred to the Kenton County Attorney’s Office, which declined to pursue criminal charges. “At the time we received the completed investigation, the available evidence was not sufficient to support criminal prosecution under the laws then in effect,” the county attorney’s office previously told LINK nky in a written statement. The Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services initially substantiated allegations against Dave, according to school district documents. However, Dave appealed that determination, and an administrative judge later dismissed the complaint and approved a settlement removing him from the cabinet’s list of substantiated complaints. The Kentucky Education Professional Standards Board also prohibited Dave from obtaining Kentucky teaching certification in July 2024, according to board meeting

The owners said they have not communicated directly with protesters and have encouraged people close to them to avoid engaging with demonstrators. “People have the right to express their views,” they said. “We ask that everyone stay peaceful and respect our customers and neighbors.” Ireland said there were tense interactions involving individuals near the Oct. 3 demonstration, although she said Dave and Lacey did not personally engage with protesters. When asked whether continued demonstrations could threaten the bookstore’s future, the owners acknowledged the challenges of operating a small business amid the controversy. “Like any small family business, we feel the strain,” they said. “We plan to keep our doors open.” Meanwhile, Ireland said she believes the demonstrations are succeeding in making more people aware of the allegations and the ongoing legal proceedings. She said organizers are considering continuing the demonstrations on Saturdays, although she does not expect to participate in every protest. Nathan Granger contributed to this story.

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Covington recommends 30-day license suspension for Ritte’s Corner Cafe By Nathan Granger

curity on their own by requesting a police detail and hiring private security, all without the mandate of the city, she said.

ovington’s alcohol beverage control administrator has recommended a 30-day suspension of Ritte’s Corner Cafe’s late-night liquor permit, following a hearing on Oct. 14.

“After Hat Tricks, we just took it upon ourselves just to do it to protect ourselves and our customers,” said Riley.

Ritte’s Corner Cafe is located at 3711 Winston Ave., near the five-road intersection in Latonia called Ritte’s Corner. The hearing also saw recommendations for increased security at the bar in the face of an alleged pattern of violent behavior, including gunshots, either at the bar itself or in the area around it. Specifically, Alcohol Beverage Control Administrator Lydia Northcutt recommended the temporary suspension of the bar’s so-called 2:30 permit (which allows it to sell alcohol between 1 a.m and 2:30 a.m.; the owners’ regular alcohol license would not be affected), a required police detail from 10 p.m. to close from Thursday through Sunday and mandatory metal detector wands at the bar’s entrance.

Williams said there were security protocols in place to prevent drunk people from entering the bar and that if they became drunk once inside, they were turned away. “We’re trying to do the best we can as bar owners because we do not want what happened at Hat Tricks to happen again,” said Williams. City Manager Sharmili Reddy did not find Morgan’s argumentation about incidents being seemingly unrelated to the bar to be convincing. The exterior of Ritte’s Corner Cafe. Photo provided | Ritte’s Corner Cafe

“Even if you set those calls aside and just look at the calls to your establishment, it still shows a pattern of fights and different things in the establishment, which is extremely concerning,” Reddy said. “We have so many bars in the city, which is great. We want that kind of energy in the city, but when we see these many calls repeated to the establishment, it is of great concern to us.”

The city’s Alcohol Beverage Control Board will vote at a future hearing to enact the recommendation, reject it or alter it. No date for that hearing has been set yet. The hearing follows the recent revocation of the liquor license for another bar called Hat Tricks, where a man was shot in May. The owners of Hat Tricks, Johnnie Riley and Will Williams, also own Ritte’s Corner Cafe. Northcutt’s case rested on patterns she’d observed in police call logs for the bar or areas nearby, especially the city-owned parking lot across the street, since April. The log included entries for fights, assaults, rowdy crowds, fireworks and loud music. The discharge of a gun late at night in September in the parking lot was the incident that finally precipitated the hearing, Northcutt said. “As I reviewed the call log, it seemed to be incident after incident during the late hours,” Northcutt said. “Excessive police calls and a disorderly premises is what’s

Control Board Member Fritz Kuhlmann argued that the bar’s security team needed to “step up their game.” Police Chief Justin Wietholter meanwhile pointed out that even with police details on site, “as far as identifying intoxication, that is the responsibility of the establishment, not the detail officers.”

Hat Tricks bar in Covington. Photo by Blake Sheely | WCPO

showing to me.”

bar’s grounds.

Attorney Jim Morgan spoke on the owners’ behalf at the Oct. 14 hearing (Morgan had represented them at the Hat Tricks hearing, as well). Morgan argued several points, namely that some of the incidents in the area were not connected to the bar itself, pointing to other bars in the area. Furthermore, he argued, several of the recorded incidents had not actually occurred on the

“I would ask you to look a little deeper,” said Morgan. “They’re not responsible for all the people in that neighborhood that are causing commotion, that are drinking.”

The city will announce the dates of the follow-up hearing in the near future.

The owners spoke for themselves, as well. Riley said that following the revocation of the license for Hat Tricks, she and her co-owner had deliberately stepped up se-

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kenton county briefs Kenton County expands water main infrastructure

Kenton County Judge/Executive Kris Knochelmann activates a new fire hydrant on Fiskburg Road. Celebrating with him (right to left): Kenton County Commissioner Beth Sewell, Northern Kentucky Water District (NKWD) President/CEO Lindsey Rechtin, NKWD Board Secretary Gary Holland, Kentucky Sen. Matt Nunn, NKWD Board Chair Doug Wagner, and NKWD Board Treasurer Fred Macke. Photo provided | Northern Kentucky Water District

A $4.8 million water main extension has brought public water infrastructure to 61 more households in Kenton County. Elected county leaders and professionals from the Northern Kentucky Water District, or NKWD, which headed up the project, celebrated the completion of the extension on Oct. 20. The extension not only brings public drinking water to households that were previously unconnected, but it also expands fire safety infrastructure with the addition of 32 new fire hydrants. “With the addition of four miles of new water mains, 61 additional households will gain access to (the water district’s) public water system,” said Lindsey Rechtin, president and CEO of NKWD. “As a result of projects like this, more than 99% of households in Kenton County now have access to public water service, which is significantly higher than the state average.” The water district provides service for about 300,000 people in Campbell and Kenton counties, as well as portions of Boone, Grant and Pendleton counties. This most recent expansion saw infrastructure buildout in the district’s O sub-district for Kenton County.

The water district has initiated 16 water main expansion projects since 1992, said Sara Sgantas, the water district’s communications and public outreach manager, which have targeted “unserved households within our service area.”

Oh deer! Boone, Campbell, Kenton among top counties for deer crashes

“We started this process decades ago….,” said NKWD Vice President of Engineering and Distribution Richard Harrison, after it became possible for Pendleton County Water District and the Bullock Pen Water District to connect to the northern district. “We made sure that we built a base system that could support a number of large extensions.” Funding for this most recent extension came from a variety of sources, including American Rescue Plan Act, or ARPA, funding disbursed from the Kenton County Fiscal Court. The water district first received funding for the project in October of last year and completed construction of the extension in April. The water district also completed a similar extension in Campbell County last year. Anytime an extension project is planned, the water district will survey households that are unconnected to assess where to focus its efforts. “We would then break potential projects into groups of streets from the highest density to lower density, meaning you want it to serve the most folks as you can with precious grant monies and local funds that are available,” said Harrison. Prior to getting connected to public water infrastructure, Sgantas said, many of the households in the expansion area “use well water, or they collect rainwater. A lot of them have cisterns, so they will haul water or they’ll pay somebody to haul water to them.” “The fact that we have been able to provide fire hydrants and fire protection is fairly unique with these types of extensions,” Harrison said, “and it’s something we’re very proud of.” Sgantas said that there are currently no other extensions in the works and that future extensions were dependent on securing funding.

People’s Liberty Bank complex at 608 Madison Ave. in Covington. Photo by Nathan Granger | LINK nky

Deer. Photo provided | Laura College via Unsplash

The peak season for deer-vehicle collisions is upon us. About half of all deer-related crashes occur during the last three months of the year, with November having the most. Of the 11 counties in the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet District 6, three were in the top 30 for deer crashes statewide in 2025: Boone (94), Campbell (80) and Kenton (57). KYTC offers these driving tips: • Stay aware: Be vigilant, especially in forested terrain, and during dusk and dawn when deer are most active. Deer often travel in groups, so others may be close behind if you see one. • Be prepared: Always wear a seat belt and eliminate distractions (phones down) • Turn on headlights: Keep them on bright unless other vehicles are approaching. • Slow down: Take your foot off the gas immediately if you spot a deer crossing the roadway. • Don’t swerve: Trying to avoid a deer can result in a more serious crash with an oncoming vehicle or roadside object. • If there’s a crash: Keep both hands on the wheel and apply brakes steadily until stopped.

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DeanHouston moves HQ to Ralph Haile Square in Covington

DeanHouston, a business-to-business marketing agency, has relocated to 608 Madison Ave. in Covington. The historic building is located in Ralph Haile Square and the former location of the People’s Liberty Bank complex. The company’s former HQ was located in the old Two Rivers Middle School building on Scott Street, also in Covington. “Our business has always been about helping companies grow with purpose,” said Mark Rudy, DeanHouston president. “As DeanHouston continues to evolve, we wanted a headquarters that reflects who we are today and where we’re headed tomorrow. This space brings together the history and character of downtown Covington with an environment built for collaboration, creativity and innovation. It’s an investment in our people, our clients and the future of our business.” Founded in 1988, DeanHouston focuses on marketing for technical products and service companies. Its client roster includes both Fortune 500 companies and new startups. “Covington has become a destination for businesses that value innovation, entrepreneurship and community,” said Rudy. “We’re excited to be part of that momentum while continuing to serve the clients and industries that have trusted us for nearly 40 years.”

kenton county briefs Northern Kentucky counties among state’s least at risk for foreclosures

percent,” reads a summary of the study. “Boone County, next door, has the highest published delinquency rate in Kentucky, 1.2%, but its fast market and low cost burden keep it near the bottom at 25.7.”

Kenton County to name new park pavilion for retiring Commissioner Jon Draud

A recently published study from NestCash, a private real estate and investment group, has found that Kenton County has the lowest risk of foreclosures out of 42 counties in Kentucky.

The study’s authors pulled information from the U.S. Census Bureau, the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, the Bureau of Labor Statistics and private real estate data to measure mortgage delinquency rates, the number of vacant foreclosures and other metrics to create risk scores between zero and 100 for the counties examined. The study restricted itself to Kentucky counties with at least 12,000 housing units, or 42 out of the state’s 120 counties. Kenton County ranked the least risky with a score of 19.4. Boone and Campbell counties scored 25.7 and 35.1, respectively. Boone County, in spite of its low risk score, had the state’s highest mortgage delinquency rate. “Kenton County is the lowest-scoring county in Kentucky at 19.4, with the lowest published delinquency rate in the state, 0.5

The pavilion will be part of Adventure Ridge, one of three areas planned for the 225-acre park. That section is also slated to include mountain bike trails, a pump track, climbing areas and an aerial adventure course. The county broke ground on the project this fall, and officials expect the park to reopen in 2028. Fox Ridge Park is being built on the former Fox Run Golf Course, which the county converted to passive recreation in 2020 after determining the course wasn’t financially sustainable. It combines that land with neighboring Lincoln Ridge Park, and county officials have called it the largest investment in the park system’s history.

The historic Kenton County Courthouse in Independence. Photo provided | Kenton County

While not as low as Kenton County, Boone and Campbell counties also have lower foreclosure risks than other counties in the commonwealth.

the facility to be “the finest in Northern Kentucky.”

Kenton County Commissioner Jon Draud. Photo provided | Kenton County

Kenton County’s newest park will soon be named for one of its longest-serving public officials. The Kenton County Fiscal Court voted last week to name the future four-season pavilion at the upcoming Fox Ridge Park the Dr. Jon Draud Pavilion. Judge/Executive Kris Knochelmann proposed the honor during his report, calling the park a major investment in the community’s future. He said the pavilion would be “a long-term legacy” of Draud’s work, particularly in Kenton County. Commissioner Beth Sewell moved to approve, and the court voted in favor without opposition. Draud, 87, is retiring when his term ends this year and is not seeking re-election. “I want to thank the judge and other members of the fiscal court for this honor,” Draud said. He told colleagues that he believes strongly in parks, and that he expects

Draud’s career in education and government spans more than six decades. A first-generation college graduate, he taught government at Holmes High School in Covington, where he also coached the baseball team to a state championship in 1963. He went on to serve as a principal and as superintendent of the Ludlow Independent School District, worked at Northern Kentucky University and taught at Xavier University Draud won the 63rd District seat in the Kentucky House in 1998 after Rep. Richard Murgatroyd chose not to seek re-election and ran for Kenton County judge/executive instead. He served eight years in the House and also spent five years on the Crestview Hills City Council. He later became Kentucky’s Commissioner of Education, but due to health issues, that tenure was cut short in 2009. The following year, he was elected to the Fiscal Court. Earlier this year, the county renamed its annual Pioneer Awards, which recognizes outstanding community service, in his

honor. When Draud announced his retirement in January, he told LINK nky, “I just don’t have the energy for it.” Fellow Commissioner Joe Nienaber, who also is not seeking re-election, will leave the court alongside him at the end of the year.

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AI won’t replace the plumber.

This venture capitalist wants to make their business better. By Kenton Hornbeck

“The tribal knowledge that exists in a lot of these businesses that are about to have a transition of these operators that have worked in these businesses for years and years and years — so much of the knowledge around how to run that business successfully is trapped in their heads,” he said. “How do you transition that knowledge to the next generation that’s going to run these businesses and take them over and ultimately preserve the jobs that those businesses represent in these communities? I think that is a fantastic opportunity for AI.”

e often hear that artificial intelligence will replace white-collar workers. Less frequently discussed is how AI will affect blue-collar workers. Discussions about AI-driven job displacement in the skilled trades often conjure science-fiction images of humanoid robots performing household chores and manual labor. However, many blue-collar jobs remain relatively insulated from AI displacement, and workers in these industries could benefit from growing demand for the physical infrastructure that supports AI, including data centers. Tim Metzner, founder of Cincinnati-based Fireroad Ventures, believes artificial intelligence can help blue-collar businesses become more efficient and competitive without replacing the workers who keep them running. That belief drives Fireroad’s investment strategy. In a conversation with Middle Tech’s Logan Jones, Metzner said he believes blue-collar jobs are relatively insulated from displacement by AI. While the hands-on work itself is unlikely to be replaced, Metzner sees opportunities for AI to automate administrative tasks. “AI is not going to replace the plumber anytime soon. We’ve got this category, this

class of businesses that I call AI-resistant,” Metzner said. “There are these blue-collar, Main Street, local-presence-required kind of companies that they’re not going away anytime soon. AI is not going to disrupt them totally. But what it can do is build tools to help them run a better business.” Small businesses, which include many blue-collar operations, employ nearly 46% of the country’s private-sector workforce, according to the U.S. Small Business Administration. Research from McKinsey, a global consulting firm, suggests that small and midsize businesses account for about half of U.S. technology spending. Yet Metzner estimates that only about 3% of venture capital investment goes toward startups developing technology for those businesses.

COMMISSIONER’S SALE CAMPBELL COUNTY CIRCUIT COURT

Metzner believes Fire Road can help close that gap by investing in early-stage startups developing technology specifically for small businesses. Another focus for Metzner is preserving institutional knowledge that could be lost as experienced workers retire from the skilled trades. Associated Builders and Contractors estimates that the U.S. construction industry needs to attract 349,000 additional workers in 2026, with retirements accounting for much of that demand. Metzner worries that as baby boomers retire, decades of specialized knowledge, skills and tricks of the trade could disappear with them. However, he believes AI could help preserve that knowledge and pass it on to the next generation of workers.

Metzner said many of Fireroad’s current partners are business owners and operators themselves. When evaluating potential investments, Fire Road prioritizes founders who use AI to accelerate software development and streamline customer acquisition while maintaining strong technical expertise. The firm also looks for entrepreneurs with specialized industry knowledge, relationships and insights that give them a competitive advantage. Metzner’s goal, though, is to help small businesses use AI to become more efficient, profitable and sustainable without replacing the workers who make them successful. This story originally appeared at middletech.com.

CASE NUMBER 19-CI-00918

CASE NUMBER 26-CI-00287

DIVISION 1

DIVISION 2

DEUTSCHE BANK NATIONAL TRUST COMPANY, AS TRUSTEE

CITY OF DAYTON

VS.

MAE MAYES AKA MAY MAYES, ET AL.

SHANE PATTERSON, ET AL.

BY VIRTUE OF A JUDGMENT RENDERED 1/19/2021 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.

BY VIRTUE OF A JUDGMENT RENDERED 9/14/2026 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 11/10/2026 at 3:00pm, the following property, to-wit:

700 Smith Hiteman Road, Alexandria, Kentucky 41001

918 Maple Avenue, Dayton, Kentucky 41074

Group No: 70123/Z

Group No: 30319/A4

PIDN: 999-99-30-652.00

PIDN: 999-99-09-095.00

THE COMPLETE LEGAL DESCRIPTION IS MORE PARTICULARLY SET OUT IN THE JUDGMENT AND ORDER OF SALE ENTERED IN THIS CASE. Subject to conditions, covenants, restrictions, right of ways and easements in existence, including but not limited to those in prior instruments of record; legal highways, and zoning ordinances. SAID PROPERTY SHALL BE SOLD SUBJECT TO REAL ESTATE TAXES DUE AND OWING FOR THE YEAR OF SALE AND THEREAFTER PRIOR YEARS UNPAID TAXES SHALL BE PAID FROM THE PROCEEDS IF THE PURCHASER IS NOT THE PLAINTIFF. IF THE PURCHASER IS THE PLAINTIFF, PRIOR YEARS’ UNPAID TAXES SHALL BE PAID BY THE PLAINTIFF, IN FULL OR PRO RATA, PROVIDED THE SALE PURCHASE PRICE EXCEEDS THE COURT COSTS. THIS PROPERTY IS BEING SOLD TO PRODUCE THE SUMS OF MONEY SO ORDERED TO BE MADE IN THE JUDGMENT AND ORDER OF SALE ENTERED IN THE WITHIN CASE, INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO COURT COSTS, AD VALOREM TAXES, IN THE SUM OF $4,271.16; AND OTHER LIENS, INTEREST, ATTORNEY FEES AND/OR OTHER SUMS AND JUDGMENTS THAT MAY BE AWARDED BY THE COURT. THE SALE SHALL BE MADE TO THE HIGHEST AND BEST BIDDER(S). ANY PURCHASER OTHER THAN PLAINTIFF WHO DOES NOT PAY CASH IN FULL SHALL PAY 10% CASH AND SHALL BE REQUIRED TO EXECUTE A BOND AT THE TIME OF SALE, WITH SURETY ACCEPTABLE TO THE MASTER COMMISSIONER AND PRE-APPROVED BY THE MASTER COMMISSIONER AT LEAST BY NOON, TWO (2) BUSINESS DAYS BEFORE THE SALE DATE, TO SECURE THE UNPAID BALANCE OF THE PURCHASE PRICE, AND SAID BOND SHALL BEAR INTEREST AT THE RATE OF 12% PER ANNUM FROM THE DATE OF SALE UNTIL PAID, AND SHALL HAVE THE SAME FORCE AND EFFECT AS A JUDGMENT AND SHALL REMAIN AND BE A LIEN ON THE PROPERTY UNTIL PAID THE BOND SURETY MUST BE PRESENT AT THE SALE AND EXECUTE SALE BOND AND THE AFFIDAVIT OF SURETY THE PURCHASER(S) SHALL HAVE THE PRIVILEGE OF PAYING ALL THE BALANCE OF THE PURCHASE PRICE PRIOR TO THE EXPIRATION OF THE THIRTY (30) DAY PERIOD. THE DEPOSIT SHALL BE WAIVED IF PLAINTIFF IS THE SUCCESSFUL BIDDER. THE MASTER COMMISSIONER SHALL SELL THE REAL ESTATE BY PUBLIC SALE ON A DAY AND TIME TO BE FIXED BY HIM, OUTSIDE THE FRONT DOOR OF THE CAMPBELL CIRCUIT COURTHOUSE, 330 YORK STREET, NEWPORT, KENTUCKY. BIDDERS MUST BE PREPARED TO COMPLY WITH THESE TERMS. THE COSTS OF THE SALE SHALL BE PAID WITHIN FOURTEEN (14) DAYS OF THE SALE. JOSEPH F. GRIMME, MASTER COMMISSIONER 859-291-9075

10 OCTOBER 30, 2026

A tale of three school levels: Where Northern Kentucky students are making gains By Lia Salvatierra

ew data reveals Northern Kentucky’s middle schools improved on average more than any school level last year, while the region’s elementary schools lost ground and high school scores stagnated overall. Report cards released Oct. 15 provide a look back at the performance of each school level during the 2025-26 school year, using Kentucky’s accountability system. Elementary and middle schools are scored on four key indicators, and high schools are scored on six key indicators. Those scores are combined into an overall performance score, then simplified into a 1 to 5 scale and a color rating. Red indicates the lowest performance rating, followed by orange, yellow, green and blue, indicating the highest performance rating. Performance ratings don’t capture the many other school data points the Kentucky Department of Education released, including rates of economically disadvantaged students measured by the volume of students that qualify for free and reduced lunch. Though NKY schools’ performance was closely correlated to rates of economic disadvantage, a LINK nky analysis also highlights schools that broke from that pattern last year. Gains at NKY middle schools NKY’s 21 middle schools saw an average boost in performance on all four performance metrics last year. On the color scale, 11 schools retained their color ratings, seven schools bumped up one color rating and three schools bumped down. Big gainers drove some of the region’s overall improvement, like Ballyshannon Middle School, which made the single biggest leap in the region last year, improving by 26.4 points. A handful of other schools saw especially big gains last year when considering their higher rates of economically disadvantaged students, including Bellevue Middle School, Ludlow Middle School and Tichenor Middle School in Erlanger. Most NKY high school scores stagnate Most of NKY’s 17 high schools either retained or lowered their color rating last year, with some big leaps to the top and bottom of the ladder. Randall K. Cooper High School in Boone County was the only school in the region to jump up to the highest blue rating from a yellow rating, bringing it into second place behind Highlands High School. Holmes High School in Covington was the only of the region’s 90 schools to drop from a yellow rating to a red rating, bringing it into last place as the only red-rated high school. Rates of economic disadvantage also stood out among the region’s first- and last-place high schools.

Northern Kentucky’s middle schools saw the biggest gains overall last academic year, according to new state report card data. Chart provided | Boone County Schools

The region’s top-rated school, Highlands High School, had the second-lowest rate of economically disadvantaged students at only 10.5%.

Stephens Elementary School in Boone County dropped 23.5 performance points, lowering it from a green rating (4) to an orange rating (2).

The region’s lowest-rated school, Holmes High School, had the second-highest rate of economic disadvantage at 79%.

Walton-Verona Intermediate dropped 16.5 performance points, lowering it from a blue rating (5) to a yellow rating (3).

But there were some notable outliers to that pattern, according to LINK nky’s analysis.

Still some elementary schools celebrated big boosts in performance, including

Some schools like Ludlow High School and Lloyd Memorial High School in Erlanger performed especially well compared to high rates of economic disadvantage, while some schools with much lower rates of economic disadvantage performed worse. In an emailed statement, Covington Independent Schools Superintendent Cortnei Flucas said the district will assess what contributed to Holmes’ rating. “At Holmes High School, we’ve seen encouraging progress over the past several years. With this year’s results, we must work to understand what contributed to the earlier progress, why it was not sustained, and what we need to do differently moving forward,” Flucas wrote. NKY elementary schools lost ground On average, NKY’s 52 elementary schools’ performance scores declined slightly last year. Of all the region’s schools, 25 elementary schools retained their color ratings, 19 bumped down at least one color rating and eight bumped up by one color rating. Two elementary schools dropped two color ratings. One of those saw the greatest single decline in performance points of any school in the region. Both districts declined requests for comment on specific school ratings.

Grandview Elementary School in Bellevue which improved by 14.14 points, Southgate Public School, which improved by nearly 10 points, and Ninth District Elementary School in Covington, which improved by 14 points and had the fifth highest rate of economically disadvantaged students in the region.

NOTICE

Please take notice that, in an application to be filed no later than November 2, 2026, Duke Energy Kentucky, Inc. will be seeking approval from the Kentucky Public Service Commission to revise its Demand Side Management (DSM) rate for gas service and electric service for residential and commercial customers, with changes to become effective on or after December 2, 2026. Duke Energy Kentucky’s current monthly DSM rate for residential gas customers is $0.014440 per hundred cubic feet and for non-residential gas customers is $0.000000 per hundred cubic feet. Duke Energy Kentucky’s current monthly DSM rate for residential electric customers is $0.005514 per kilowatt-hour and for non-residential customers is $0.001154 per kilowatt-hour for distribution service and $0.000053 per kilowatt-hour for transmission service. Duke Energy Kentucky seeks approval to revise these rates as follows: Duke Energy Kentucky’s monthly DSM rate for residential gas customers would increase to $0.016297 per hundred cubic feet and for non-residential gas customers would remain at $0.000000 per hundred cubic feet. Duke Energy Kentucky’s monthly DSM rate for residential electric customers would increase to $0.008337 per kilowatt-hour and for nonresidential customers would decrease to ($0.000755) per kilowatt-hour for distribution service and would decrease to ($0.000167) per kilowatt-hour for transmission service. The rate contained in this notice is the rate proposed by Duke Energy Kentucky. However, the Public Service Commission may order a rate to be charged that differs from this proposed rate. Such action may result in a rate for consumers other than the rate in this notice. The foregoing rates reflect a proposed increase in residential electric revenues of approximately $4.6 million or 2.08% over current residential electric revenues and decrease in non-residential revenues of approximately ($4.6) million or (1.59%) over current non-residential revenues. The proposed rates reflect an increase in residential gas revenues of approximately $0.1 million or 0.07% over current total gas revenues. There is no change to non-residential gas revenues. A typical residential gas customer using 70 ccf in a month will see an increase of $0.13 or 0.1%. A typical residential electric customer using 1000 kWh in a month will see an increase of $2.78 or 2.0%. A typical non-residential electric customer using 40 kilowatts and 14,000 kWh will see a decrease of ($26.21) or (1.5%). A non-residential customer served at transmission voltage using 10,000 kilowatts and 4,000,000 kWh will see a decrease of ($1,423.68) or (0.4%). Non-residential gas customers will see no change in their bills from this application. Any corporation, association, body politic or person may by motion within thirty (30) days after publication or mailing of notice of the proposed rate changes, submit a written request to intervene to the Public Service Commission, 211 Sower Boulevard, P.O. Box 615, Frankfort, Kentucky 40602, 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 or mailing of the notice, the Commission may take final action on the tariff filing. The intervention may be granted beyond the thirty (30) day period for good cause shown. Written comments regarding the proposed rate may be submitted to the Public Service Commission by mail or through the Public Service Commission’s website. A copy of this application filed with the Public Service Commission is available for public inspection at Duke Energy Kentucky’s office at 1262 Cox Road, Erlanger, Kentucky 41018 and on its website at http://www.dukeenergy.com. This filing and any other related documents can be found on the Public Service Commission’s website at http://psc.ky.gov and are available for inspection at 211 Sower Boulevard, Frankfort, Kentucky, Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

OCTOBER 30, 2026 11

sports Stowers, Etherton earn top coaching honors

coach Kelsey Etherton. A former Highlands soccer player, Etherton took over the head coaching position in 2024 after previously serving as an assistant coach. Highlands has enjoyed success under Etherton, including back-to-back regional titles and a KHSAA state runner-up in 2025.

District soccer winners crowned

Highlands girls soccer continues to be the model of consistency in NKY, posting a 147-1 record as the season winds down and the regional tournament gets underway.

Six NKY teams ranked in latest statewide media football polls

Pioneers head coach Jeff Stowers (center) and assistants huddle with the team during a timeout. Photo provided | Charles Bolton

The National Federation of State High School Associations, or NFHS, recently recognized Coach of the Year honorees from each state. Those named State Coaches of the Year then advance for consideration for Sectional Coach of the Year honors. Winners are selected based on their accomplishments throughout the season, as well as their contributions outside of competition. Two coaches from Northern Kentucky were honored, showcasing both of these qualities and representing the area well. Simon Kenton’s Jeff Stowers, who serves as the girls basketball coach for the Lady Pioneers was among those recognized. Stowers resumed his role as head coach in 2024, taking over for his son, Brendan Stowers. Jeff began his coaching career at Simon Kenton back in 2002, and it’s been a legacy ever since, including multiple district and regional championships that have a safe home in Independence. As the start of the girls basketball season approaches, Simon Kenton looks to have another strong season. With key players returning, the Pioneers will look to capture another district and regional championship and make another run to the Final Four, doing so last season for the first time in program history. Another coach to highlight is Highlands girls’ soccer

Etherton

District soccer tournaments took place the week of Oct. 12 to 16 for the 32nd to 37th Districts. In boys, district tournament winners were Simon Kenton (32nd), Ryle (33rd), Dixie Heights (34th), Covington Catholic (35th), Newport Central Catholic (36th) and Campbell County (37th).

Beechwood remains No. 1 in Class 2A. Photo provided | Charles Bolton

As the KHSAA football regular season winds down, a handful of teams in Northern Kentucky are continuing to impress across the state. In the latest statewide media football polls voted on by 16 members of media outlets in Kentucky, two NKY teams came in at No. 1. Beechwood holds the top spot in 2A, while Highlands is No. 1 in 4A. The Tigers are 9-0 and look to close out an undefeated regular season against Campbell County on Oct. 30. The Bluebirds are 6-2, the two losses coming against No. 2 in 6A Frederick Douglass and Elder out of Ohio. Others ranked include Cooper at No. 6 in 5A and Covington Catholic also at No. 6 in 4A. Lloyd Memorial dropped to No. 7 in 3A while Dayton is No. 10 in 1A. Holy Cross and Newport Central Catholic were in the others receiving votes category in 1A while St. Henry showed up in the others receiving votes category in 2A.

WALTON-VERONA BOYS SOCCER

Sponsored by

The LINK nky Team of the Week for Oct. 5-11 presented by Ortho Cincy is the Walton-Verona boys soccer team. Photo provided

12 OCTOBER 30, 2026

St. Henry celebrates its first district championship since 2019. Photo provided | Charles Bolton

In girls, district tournament winners were Simon Kenton (32nd), Ryle (33rd), St. Henry (34th), Notre Dame (35th), Highlands (36th) and Bishop Brossart (37th). Region tournaments took place the week of Oct. 19 to 24, those results weren’t final until after the deadline for this publication.

Takeaways from Week 9 of the HS football season

Newport Central Catholic High School’s Van Hundemer has stepped up in district play. Photo provided | Charles Bolton

— Scheduling matters. Just ask NewCath. Coming in at 2-5 against a 7-0 Dayton, they were battle tested and played up pretty much all season prior to district play. Van Hundemer has been big in the two district wins, rushing for 250 yards and scoring five touchdowns. — Ryle has rebounded nicely. After a 1-4 start, they’ve seemed to have found their identity with Cruze Sauley in the run game and are getting it done defensively. They’ve allowed 12 points in their last three games. Sauley has ran for 463 yards in their last three contests. — Beechwood against district opponents on the year: 257-7. The Tigers have to be bored. Also, another Nathan Pabst note. He scored four touchdowns against Gallatin County and now has 24 touchdowns on the season. — Cooper’s win over Scott puts them at 6-2

and with an outright district title. Are they the surprise of the year in NKY? Considering a first year coach and all the talent they lost over the past two seasons, they have to be the top candidate for it. A big reason why? Corey Freihofer…he ran the ball 36 times for 220 yards and four touchdowns and added an interception return for a touchdown on defense. Freihofer has now ran for 707 yards and 12 touchdowns for the season and has three interceptions on defense. — More game balls: Highlands’ Bryce Armstrong with 272 yards passing and four touchdowns playing a half of football against Mason County. — Another game ball: Newport’s Davae Andrews-Glover ran for 192 yards and three touchdowns, threw for 89 yards and two touchdowns and had two interceptions on defense in their win over Bellevue. — Game ball No. 4: Dixie Heights’ Levi Gilliland ran for 184 yards and three touchdowns in a win over Boone County, Defensively, he added 13 tackles, two tackles for loss and forced a fumble as the Colonels clinched the No. 2 seed and a home playoff game. — According to WCPO’s Caleb Noe, Simon Kenton ran 12 QUARTERBACK KEEPERS IN A ROW in their 13-12 victory over Campbell County. It was a 16 play, 98-yard drive that spanned over eight minutes to end the half and give them a 7-6 lead at the break. Quarterback Grant Webb ran the ball 33 times for 185 yards and a touchdown. Get this…freshman Ethan Hopkins threw the game-winning TD. — RPI watch: Class 6A — (Ryle 14th, Simon Kenton ° 18th, Campbell County 21st) Class 5A — (Cooper 9th, Dixie Heights ° 24th, Conner 27th, Scott 36th, Boone County 37th) Class 4A — (Highlands 4th, Covington ° Catholic 13th) Class 3A — (Lloyd Memorial 6th) ° Class 2A — (Beechwood 3rd, Wal° ton-Verona 12th, St. Henry 16th) Class 1A — (Dayton 9th, Holy Cross ° 12th, Bishop Brossart 13th, Newport Central Catholic 16th, Ludlow 17th, Newport 22nd, Bellevue 28th)

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How write-in voting works in Kentucky and who’s running in NKY By Haley Parnell

hen Northern Kentucky voters head to the polls Nov. 3, they won’t necessarily see every candidate’s name printed on their ballots. Several candidates are running as writeins in races ranging from the U.S. Senate to local school boards and city councils. While their names won’t appear alongside other candidates, voters can still support them by writing their names in the designated space on the ballot. However, Kentucky has specific rules governing which write-in votes count. How does someone become a write-in candidate? In Kentucky, candidates cannot just announce a write-in campaign and expect their votes to be counted. They must file an official declaration of intent with the appropriate election authority and meet the qualifications for the office they are seeking. Write-in candidates must also pay a $50 filing fee. While write-in candidates are permitted in a general election, they are not permitted in a primary. For the Nov. 3 election, the last day to file a declaration of intent to be a write-in candi-

date was Aug. 24. The process is largely the same for federal, state, county and city races, but where candidates file differs.

Voters can request assistance from election officers if they are unsure how to cast a write-in vote.

Candidates seeking federal or state offices, such as the U.S. Senate or Kentucky House of Representatives, file with the Kentucky Secretary of State’s Office. Candidates seeking local offices, including county judge/executive, city council and school board, file with their county clerk.

Who is running as a write-in candidate in Northern Kentucky?

How do voters cast a write-in vote? Voters using a paper ballot must fill in the oval or box next to the write-in option for the appropriate race and write the candidate’s name in the space provided. Those using an electronic ballot-marking device can enter the candidate’s name electronically. Only votes for qualified candidates who filed the required paperwork will be counted. Writing in the name of a friend, celebrity or another person who hasn’t officially registered as a write-in candidate will not count. Kentucky election regulations allow minor misspellings if election officials can clearly identify the intended candidate. A candidate’s last name alone may also count, provided no other registered write-in candidate in that race shares the same last name.

For additional information, voters can contact their county clerk or visit the Kentucky State Board of Elections website.

There are no write-in candidates running in Kenton County. As of Oct. 22, the following candidates have been identified as write-in candidates in Boone and Campbell counties, along with one statewide candidate: • U.S. Senate (statewide) Thomas Michael Murphy • Campbell County: Highland Heights City Council Robert Beckerich • Boone County: Judge/Executive Terry Roberts William Edward Woods • Boone County: Board of Education, District 5 Brandon Ashcraft Brenna L.K. Penrose Linda Kunkel Schild Jerry Rich To vote for Boone County Board of Education, you must live in District 5. Kentucky law also requires county clerks to provide polling locations with lists of qualified write-in candidates. Those lists are not publicly posted at polling places, but voters can ask an election officer to see them.

People wait in line to vote at the Independence Senior Center on Election Day 2024. Photo by Nathan Granger | LINK nky

DIVISION III CASE NO.: 24-CI-00393 REGIONS BANK DBA REGIONS MORTGAGE VERSUS} ANGEL BLAKELY, ET AL. By virtue of a judgment and order of sale of the Boone Circuit Court rendered SEPTEMBER 16, 2026 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, NOVEMBER 19, 2026 at the hour of 9:00 a.m. or thereabouts, the following described property to-wit:

MASTER COMMISSIONER’S SALE

ADDRESS: 928 MERRELL ROAD, HEBRON, KENTUCKY 41048 PVA PROPERTY IDENTIFICATION NUMBER: 024.00-00-007.00 GROUP NO.: 2001 AMOUNT OF JUDGMENT: $78,440.82

BOONE COUNTY CIRCUIT COURT

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 2026 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.

OCTOBER 30, 2026 13

real estate

Little Ludlow home Address: 114 Carneal St., Ludlow Price: $135,000 Bedrooms: One Bathrooms: One Square footage: 656 School district: Ludlow Independent School District County: Kenton Special features: This beautifully renovated Ludlow home features a new roof, furnace, water heater and windows, along with fresh paint and luxury vinyl plank flooring. The updated kitchen boasts granite countertops and solid wood cabinets, while an oversized bedroom offers direct backyard access. Additional highlights include off-street parking and a walkable location near local shops, restaurants and public transportation.

The exterior of this Ludlow home. Photos by Kyle Claxton | Haven Homes Group

The kitchen inside this Kenton County home.

The bedroom has a door to the outside.

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

LEGAL NOTICE The City Of Elsmere Has Approved Ordinance 1861-2026 Authorizing The Issuance Of General Obligation Public Project Bonds In An Aggregate Principal Amount Not To Exceed $8,000,000 For The Purpose Of Financing A New City Public Service Building And Related Appurtenances And Improvements; Approving The Form Of The Series 2026 Bonds; Authorizing Designated Officers To Execute And Deliver The Series 2026 Bonds; Providing For The Payment And Security Of The Series 2026 Bonds; Creating A Bond Payment Fund; Maintaining A Sinking Fund; Authorizing The Acceptance Of The Bid Of The Bond Purchaser For The Purchase Of The Series 2026 Bonds And Authorizing The Competitive Sale Of The Series 2026 Bonds; Authorizing The Execution Of Certificates Necessary Or Required For The Issuance Of The Bonds; Designating The Bonds As “Bank Qualified” Obligations For Federal Income Tax Purposes; And Repealing Inconsistent Ordinances. The ordinance may be viewed in full on our website at https:// cityfoelsmere.com under City of Elsmere Ordinances. This ad paid for by The City of Elsmere, 3921 Dixie Highway, Elsmere, KY 41018; (859) 342-7911. KENTON COUNTY

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14 OCTOBER 30, 2026

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SUDOKU

The Weekly Crossword Edited by Margie E. Burke

Difficulty: Easy

6 2

/17/26 - 8/23/26

6 4 5 1

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

HOW TO SOLVE:

Each row must contain the 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:

7 3 9 1 3

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

by Margie E. Burke

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 ACROSS HOW 1 Just okayTO SOLVE: 15 16 14 5Each Aaron rowand must contain the 18 19 17 numbers 1 to 9; each column must Raymond contain the numbers 1 to 9; and 10 Home to the 22 20 21 each set of 3 by 3 boxes must Himalayas contain the numbers 1 to 9. 23 24 14 Cocoon contents 25 26 27 28 29 30 Previous Sudoku: 15 Answer Son of to Cain 16 River's turn 32 33 8172Rapper-turned5 6 3 9 317 4 1 35 36 37 38 7 9actor 4 1 2 8 346 3 5 Paneled art in a 39 41 42 43 6181church 3 4 5 7 9 2 8 40 46 45 9204Having 6 7a topic 1 3 445 8 2 48 5223Funnywoman 7 8 6 2 1 9 4 47 Tracey 52 53 54 1238"Credit 2 9or ___?" 4 5 493 507 516 4247Toddler's 9 5 perch 8 6 552 1 3 57 56 25 Diacritical dots 3275Walmart's 1 2 home 9 4 588 6 7 59 60 2316Potting 8 3mixtures 7 1 614 5 9 62 63 32 Scottish hillside Copyright 2026 by The Puzzle Syndicate 33 Emerald Isle 34 Self starter? 35 Chic DOWN 29 Rainbowlike 46 Coat or linen 38 Blackjack card 1 Type of shine 30 Gardener's need follower 39 Actor Stoltz 2 Exclamation of 32 Sprinkle with 48 Digging tool 41 "Rebel Yell" pain drops 49 Chimps and rocker 3 Highway sign 36 IDs shown at gorillas 42 Pistol-packing 4 Quaker product airports 50 Vegan no-no 44 Goes back over, 5 "Get lost!" 37 Mystical deck 51 Standards org. as one's steps 6 Out, as a candle 40 Less rational 52 Blackthorn fruit 46 Systems of 7 School military 43 Sportscasters' 53 Actress Gilbert belief org. second looks 54 Croon a tune 47 Once more 8 Color TV pioneer 45 Any minute 56 Web address 48 Spills 9 Shriveled up Answers to Previous Crossword: 49 South American 10 Chisholm Trail L A S S O P A R A G U S H river town E N O S A N T E A L L A N 52 Perfectly clean 11 Come across as S T A T E M E N T S U P O N 55 Iberian and 12 Machu Picchu E V A C U A T I O N H O P I Yucatan, e.g. builder H A S T E R W A N D A B O A T E R S T E A M 57 Superfruit berry 13 Yemen port city A P P E T I T E S K A P P A 58 Effortlessness 19 "Not guilty," e.g. A C R E A G E R A P S I P 59 Wear away 21 Treat poorly K E Y E S E R R O N E O U S 60 Knitter's need 24 South African R I D E S K E T T L E 61 Paint can village C A D R E E S C U D O direction 25 Theater worker C O O P E R A T O R U S C G C O U N T E R T O P A L O T 62 Frozen rain26 Watered silk A N N E S I E N A R A K E drops 27 Odysseus' dog S E A S E A R N S D R E D 63 Guys-only party 28 Blue-eyed feline

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Florence • Fort Mitchell • Crestview Hills • Union

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OCTOBER 30, 2026

16 OCTOBER 30, 2026