LINK Kenton Reader - Volume 4, Edition 16 - March 13, 2026

KENTON

VOLUME 4, ISSUE 16 — MARCH 13, 2026

THE VOICE OF NKY

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Covington softball field to be named after girls’ sports pioneers

By Nathan Granger

C

ovington Independent Public Schools Board of Education voted to name the district’s new softball field after two pioneering coaches from Holmes whose efforts and advocacy helped establish organized girls’ sports programs in Northern Kentucky: Donna Wolfe and B. Joan Mitchell.

“My kids would have died to have the field facility that they’ve got now for girls’ softball,” Wolfe told LINK nky. “That’s awesome; I’m tickled pink.”

Wolfe was a student and eventual co-coach of Mitchell’s. Mitchell, who died in 2019, was highly regarded as both an advocate and coach in her lifetime. In 2004, the Kentucky High School Athletic Association granted her a “Legend in Her Own Time” honor, and she was inducted into numerous sports halls of fame throughout the region and commonwealth, including the Northern Kentucky Sports Hall of Fame and the Kentucky High School Athletic Hall of Fame. Wolfe would also earn numerous Continues on page 3

Donna Wolfe (center left) and B. Joan Mitchell (center right) coordinate during a game. Photo provided | Donna Wolfe

4th Street Bridge demolished as leaders tout connectivity, progress

By Haley Parnell

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ovington and Newport’s mayors joined Gov. Andy Beshear and state transportation officials on March 2 for the controlled demolition of the Fourth Street Bridge.

Since 1936, the bridge has carried families, workers and goods, Beshear said.

“But the region, like the rest of the Commonwealth, is evolving,” Beshear said. “It is booming. The economy is growing every day.”

The Fourth Street Bridge right after the blast happened. Photo by Haley Parnell | LINK nky

After a slight delay following the 10-second countdown, Beshear quipped “come on, we’re losing votes here,” to a chorus of

giggles. Then came the blast, followed a few seconds later by a huge boom.

Covington Mayor Ron Washington told the crowd gathered before the blast that the project is clearing the way for new economic opportunity in Covington and Newport.

“As nearby developments continue to rise on both sides of the Licking River, a modern, reimagined crossing will support tourism, attract new investment and make it easier for residents and visitors alike to experience everything our city has to offer,” Washington said.

Newport Mayor Tom Guidugli Jr. had similar sentiments.

Continues on page 4

Community Voices: Learn how to make your own business plan p5 How much would a public drinking area cost in Covington? p7 Transportation barriers threaten workforce growth in NKY, experts say p10

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accolades, both for her work as a coach and for her own athletic accomplishments.

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Athletic achievements are only one reason for naming the new field after Wolfe and Mitchell, though. Without the efforts of Mitchell, Wolfe and others, modern girls’ sports in NKY wouldn’t exist. Or, at least, they wouldn’t have the kind of institutional backing and recognition they have today.

“Really, a lot of the work that was done by Miss Mitchell was done by Miss Wolfe, as well,” said Davana Gulley, whom Wolfe had coached in softball. “They did that work side by side.”

Gulley is a former student at Covington Independent and now works in the administrative office. She’s also a member of the Tom Ellis Athletic Memorial Foundation, a nonprofit alumni foundation that raises money and does community outreach for Covington sports programs. It was the foundation that proposed naming the field after Wolfe and Mitchell.

A letter written by Mitchell, which Gulley provided to LINK nky, tells how she “didn’t play any high school sports because none were available at my high school at that time.”

Mitchell graduated from Shelbyville High School in 1953. There were girls’ sports programs at the collegiate level at the time, Mitchell writes, and she was on the starting teams for basketball, field hockey, volleyball and softball during all four years of her time at Eastern Kentucky University.

Mitchell was hired as a physical education supervisor in Covington in 1958 before being transferred to Holmes High School the following year, where she helped establish “a Girls’ Athletic Association,” Mitchell writes, which served as a kind of precursor program for the more organized programs that would eventually follow.

Wolfe participated in this early program as a student. It was all organized on a volunteer basis. There were no official conferences or sanctioning bodies, and only a handful of schools even had teams. In NKY when Wolfe was a student, teams from Holmes, Campbell County, Dayton, Highlands and sometimes Bellevue high schools would meet up for “sports days of sorts,” she said.

Joan Mitchell (center) coaching girls as a young woman. Photo provided | Donna Wolfe

“We would play each other,” Wolfe said.

“One of the coaches that wasn’t involved in that game would officiate.”

They got little help from the schools themselves, Wolfe said. Unlike the boys’ programs, nothing was provided for the girls — not practice space, not uniforms, not shoes or other equipment. Women coaches weren’t paid.

“I can remember when I played for Holmes as a student, we bought black felt, cut our numbers out, sewed them on and put them on a shirt and dyed our shorts red,” Wolfe said. “That was our uniforms.”

Mitchell graduated from Holmes in 1965, got a bachelor’s and then a master’s degree from EKU before returning to NKY to become a teacher. After a two-year stint in Newport, she was hired to work at her alma mater in 1972, where she became a coach with Mitchell. Both of them coached softball, volleyball and basketball.

In 1972, when Wolfe returned, girls’ programs were not part of the Northern Kentucky Athletic Conference, or NKAC, so Wolfe, Mitchell and three others — Loyce Meadows, Margi McKenna and Naomi Delaney — requested a meeting with Kentucky High School Athletic Association Head Commissioner Joe Billy Mansfield to inquire about what it would take to start a sanctioned girls conference in NKY. Mansfield said there was no rule against starting one, Mitchell writes in her letter, and Mansfield gave his approval to start a local girls conference. “The NKAC refused to have a separate conference for girls but did agree to incorporate all girls’ sports programs into the NKAC,” Mitchell writes.

Wolfe said this allowed the girl athletes to “be picked for all-district, all-regional [and be] given better recognition to try to get a college scholarship.”

Through the advocacy over their careers, Wolfe, Mitchell and other members of their cohort successfully secured pay for women coaches in Covington and inclusion of women on the Kentucky High School Athletic Association Board of Control. They also successfully advocated for opening membership eligibility on the Board of Control to people who were not principals or superintendents. A Title IX complaint Wolfe filed led to volleyball becoming a sanctioned sport with its own state tournament.

Donna Wolfe shoots a basketball as a student.

Photo provided | Donna Wolfe

“Back in those days, football was the state sport for boys in high school,” Wolfe said.

“There was no state sport recognized for girls.”

Wolfe also advised on a different Title IX complaint that led to softball becoming state-sanctioned.

Mitchell and Wolfe both coached multiple sports for over 20 years. Mitchell won four NKAC titles in volleyball during her time at Holmes. In softball, her team won all but one of the league titles they played during her 15-year tenure as coach. Wolfe led her teams to NKAC championships in all three sports and is a member of seven sports halls of fame.

“Joan and I, along with some other people, did a lot to make sure girls sports was going to get the same recognition as boy sports,” Wolfe said, “and in my opinion, they should.”

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Continued from page 1

“The bridge is tired,” Guidugli said. “It does need to be put to rest, and the new bridge is going to do so much to better connect our cities to achieve that connectivity that strengthens the pedestrian, the biking and, of course, the vehicular traffic.”

The truss bridge, which was erected in 1936, served pedestrians, cyclists and motorists alike, seeing large volumes of traffic from morning and afternoon commuters.

State Route 8, also known as the Mary Ingles Highway, is the roadway that crosses the bridge. The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet oversees the route and performs routine maintenance on the bridge.

new one, leaders are trying to find ways to make sure local businesses don’t suffer.

At the end of the day, Beshear said, it’s all about community.

Beshear also emphasized the future when delivering remarks on the importance of the next phase of the bridge.

“We heard one thing loud and clear from the community,” Beshear said. “You didn’t just want a replacement bridge. You wanted something that would make it smart, a signature bridge that embodies the pride, the history and the character of this region.”

However, after nearly 90 years of daily use, the bridge’s age prompted local and state officials to announce a replacement. With a years-long bridge replacement project on the horizon, established commuter routes will be disrupted by the construction. The bridge was closed to all traffic starting in January.

“Today we say goodbye to a bridge that has served Kentuckians for nearly a century, and we make room for something new,” Beshear said. “The new Route 8 Bridge will be a signature bridge that’s safer, stronger and better equipped to support the continued momentum we are seeing in this region for future generations.”

The community came out in force over the years to tell local and state officials what they wanted from the bridge. As the Newport and Covington communities have prepared to navigate life without a bridge at Fourth Street during construction of the

After the demolition, a crane barge was brought in to clean the pieces of the bridge out of the river.

A photo of the Fourth Street Bridge falling into the river. Photo by Haley Parnell | LINK nky

A photo of the Fourth Street Bridge falling into the river. Photo by Haley Parnell | LINK nky

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Community Voices: How to create a one-page business plan • Booked appointments • Repeat clients

By Tonya Bolton This Community Voices column is written by Tonya Bolton, who shares advice, tips and ideas for entrepreneurs. You can reach her at info@tonyaboltonphotography.com.

You don’t need fancy dashboards. You need awareness.

Actionable step: Choose one number you’ll check weekly and one number you’ll check monthly. Write them on your page.

I

f the phrase “business plan” makes you break out in a cold sweat, you’re not alone.

Use the one-page plan as a decision filter

Most entrepreneurs don’t fail because they lack passion or ideas — they fail because they’re overwhelmed. Somewhere along the way, business planning turned into a 40-page document full of projections, jargon and spreadsheets that no one ever looks at again.

Here’s the truth: You don’t need a complicated business plan to build a successful business. You need clarity.

That’s where the one-page business plan comes in. This isn’t about impressing investors or winning an MBA competition.

This is about creating a simple, visual roadmap you can actually use — one that keeps you focused, grounded and moving forward without drowning in details.

Let’s break it down into five simple sections that fit on a single page.

Start with your “why” (the anchor of your business) Before you write a single goal or strategy, you need to answer one question: Why does this business exist? Not the fluffy version. The real one.

Your “why” keeps you grounded when things get hard (and they will). It helps you say no to distractions and yes to the right opportunities: • To create financial stability for your family • To help people feel confident and seen • To build a flexible career you enjoy • To solve a problem you experienced yourself Actionable step: Write one sentence that completes this phrase: “This business exists because…” If it doesn’t feel honest or motivating, rewrite it until it does.

Define who you serve (be specific on purpose) Trying to serve everyone is the fastest way to serve no one. Your one-page business plan should clearly answer: • Who do I help?

• What stage of life or business are they in?

• What problem are they actively trying to solve?

Instead of saying “I help small businesses,” try “I help local entrepreneurs who are overwhelmed and need simple systems to grow.” Specific doesn’t limit you — it clarifies your message.

Actionable step: Fill in the sentence “I

This might be the most powerful part.

When a new opportunity comes up, ask: • Does this support my “why”?

• Does this serve my audience?

• Does this help one of my three goals?

Creating a business plan shouldn’t be scary — or too complicated, writes Tonya Bolton. Photo provided | Curated Lifestyle via Unsplash

help __________ who are struggling with __________.” If you can’t finish it easily, that’s a sign you need more clarity here.

Clarify what you offer (without overcomplicating it) Most entrepreneurs offer too many things — and then wonder why people are confused. Your one-page plan should list: • Your core offer (the main thing you want to be known for) • Optional secondary offers (if needed) his helps you avoid shiny-object synT drome and stay focused on what actually brings in revenue. For example:

For each goal, ask: • What can I do weekly that moves this forward?

• What actions are actually in my control?

For example, if your goal is to book more clients, your weekly actions can be: • Reach out to three referral partners • Post once on LinkedIn • Follow up with two past clients No perfection required — just consistency.

Actionable step: Under each goal, write three weekly actions you can realistically complete. If it feels overwhelming, you’ve added too much.

• Core offer: Professional branding photography • Secondary offers: Headshots, content sessions, events

Decide how you’ll measure progress (keep it simple)

When everything feels important, nothing is.

If you don’t track anything, everything feels chaotic. Your one-page plan should include one or two numbers that tell you if you’re on track:

Actionable step: Write down one main offer that drives your business and up to two supporting offers. If you have more than three, ask yourself which ones are distractions.

If not, it’s a no — even if it sounds exciting.

This is how you stay focused instead of busy.

Actionable step: Keep your one-page plan visible — on your desk, wall or desktop. If you can’t see it, you won’t use it.

Final thought You don’t need a perfect plan. You need a clear one. A one-page business plan isn’t about predicting the future — it’s about creating direction. It gives you something to return to when you feel scattered, overwhelmed, or stuck.

So grab a blank sheet of paper today. Write messy. Write honest. Write simple. Because clarity beats complexity every single time — and your business will thank you for it.

Scan this QR code to fill out your own business plan template.

• Monthly revenue • Number of inquiries

Identify your top three goals (not 20) This is where people go off the rails. They write down 15 goals and then feel defeated when none of them happen.

A one-page business plan forces discipline. Choose three goals for the next six to 12 months. That’s it. Good goals are clear, measurable, and actionable. For example: • Increase monthly revenue to $X • Book X new clients per month • Build a consistent referral system Actionable step: Write “In the next 12 months, success looks like…” Then list only three goals that support that vision.

Scan here for tickets!

Break each goal into simple weekly actions This is where the plan becomes usable. Big goals fail because they feel too far away.

Small actions win because they’re doable.

MARCH 13, 2026 5

Latonia, sidewalks, new dog park on Covington’s new priority list

By Nathan Granger

Alternatively, the city could amend the current ordinance and restrict the above program to residents only; rental owners and businesses would not be eligible. Everything else would stay the same, but the up-front cost for the city would be smaller because the pool of eligible people would be smaller.

T

he Covington Board of Commissioners and city staff set new priorities for themselves at a special meeting.

The roughly three-hour meeting included discussions on everything from skate parks to police drones to non-compliant landlords, but in the end, the commissioners came away with five priorities they wanted to focus on and dedicate budget space to in the future.

The third option would be to remove the contractor provision altogether and create a grant-funded program to fund repairs for low-income residents only. Everyone else would be responsible for their own repairs.

Lastly, the city could abolish the current ordinance altogether and take everything over itself — repairing and replacing any sidewalk throughout the city as needed. Of course, this option would be the most expensive.

These priorities are continued investment in the Central Riverfront Development, increased economic development in the Latonia neighborhood, sidewalk repair, the city’s affordable housing initiative and the establishment of a new dog park in South Covington.

“Initial costs are going to be $7 million,” Bales said, “and you would budget $7 million a year if [the board] should take this route.”

No official action on these priorities was taken at the meeting.

A map showing the location of the potential dog park. Map provided | The City of Covington

Mayor Ron Washington described the Central Riverfront project as “our number one economic development project. We have too much invested not to give it sustained focus.”

While the commissioners eventually came away agreeing with this, there was discussion about how the benefits of economic development could be extended to the rest of the city, specifically in the areas south of 12th Street, which have seen comparatively less economic re-development than the areas to the north.

“I understand that’s a priority, but we cannot neglect anything from other parts of the city,” City Commissioner James Toebbe said.

As it related to Latonia, Economic Development Director Tom West discussed several big developments at the Latonia Commerce Center on Winston Avenue, including the new Thermo Fisher facility. The center also includes a new library branch and the Enzweiler Building Institute. Toebbe, who lives in Latonia, said the commerce center doesn’t really look like a shopping center, and, as a result, has less of an impact on community morale.

“It’s not really a shopping center,” Toebbe said. “It’s turning slowly into an industrial

park, which I’m totally fine with” for bringing in taxes, he said. However, he added, “the actual shopping left in that center is the Dollar General and a cell phone store and the thrift store.”

Commissioner Tim Downing said the city could do a better job about communicating the benefit of the development.

West, on the other hand, reminded the commissioners that “we have to get that payroll tax in order to feed the budget,” even if the current state of the commerce center didn’t offer “sexy visual results.”

The commissioners agreed that Latonia deserved to be a point of focus for economic development in the future.

Downing suggested the idea of a new dog park in South Covington. He’d identified a city-owned tract of land on Hands Pike, which is largely green space. City staff predicted the project, if ever approved, would cost about $40,000, which would likely need to come from the city’s general fund as it wouldn’t be eligible for federal grant funding.

The commissioners were broadly in support of the idea, but noted that upkeeping dog parks, particularly maintaining the

grass, could be onerous. Commissioner Tim Acri recommended putting down some kind of grass “that’s not going to get beat down by the dogs,” pointing to issues the city had with grass at Kenney Shields Dog Park in Mainstrasse.

The topic of sidewalk repair was among the more in-depth discussions of the morning.

Strategic Infrastructure Initiatives Director Keith Bales presented some basic information about the city’s sidewalks — there’s about 800,000 linear feet of sidewalk in Covington — and offered a handful of proposals for a systematic repair of sidewalks in the city, not including Mainstrasse, which is slated to undergo a longer-term project with a city contractor.

The city’s current sidewalk ordinance, adopted in 2014, mandates property owners maintain and repair the sidewalks in front of their properties. There is a provision, however, that the city can hire a contractor to do it on an owner’s behalf if the cost is then attached to a three-year assessment on the owner’s tax bill. The city could establish a fund to cover upfront costs for the contractors and then replenish their coffers over time as people paid the city back.

Anyone in the city could use this program, which Bales didn’t believe had ever been activated.

City Solicitor Frank Schultz pointed out the city needed to be careful with adding payments onto people’s tax bills, as some lenders might register it as a lien and accelerate their mortgages, which could lead to people defaulting. One way to get around that would be to issue repayment contracts to owners, rather than adding onto their tax bill, but that option had its own risks if someone didn’t pay.

“Obviously, we don’t have $7 million that we could dedicate to this project,” Washington said, but the commissioners were in agreement that the issue needed to be addressed in some way.

“I think it’s going to be an issue where we’re going to kind of learn along the way,” Washington said.

Finally, housing as a topic influenced much of the discussion. The city’s affordable housing initiative, launched last year, aims to catalog and develop city-owned land throughout Covington in an effort to address the region’s housing woes. The city recently accepted a development proposal from a local developer to develop some city-owned land.

“Momentum is building,” Washington said.

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How much would a public drinking area cost Covington?

Two West Sixth beers overlooking the Ohio River. Photo provided | West Sixth Brewery

By Nathan Granger

C

ovington has released projected expense figures for maintaining a public drinking area — known officially as a common consumption area, or CCA — in the Central Business District.

The projections were presented to city commissioners at a special meeting on Feb. 28. City staff projects an upfront cost of between $5,800 and $6,400, followed by a monthly cost ranging between roughly $7,500 and $9,300, mostly to bankroll police patrols.

The move follows a vote from the Board of Commissioners in November 2025 to investigate the monetary costs and safety risks of establishing such an area. Covington Commissioner James Toebbe first proposed the idea of investigating the costs. Vice Mayor Shannon Smith, who owns a business that serves alcohol in the proposed CCA, recused herself from the discussion.

Most of the upfront costs would come from waste collection infrastructure (i.e., installing more trash and recycling canisters), installed by the Public Works department.

City Manager Sharmili Reddy characterized the public works projections as a “broad brush best estimate.” Monthly costs after the initial installation of the infrastructure was estimated at $733 a month, mostly for trash pickup.

Police expense projections were another matter.

The patrol estimates were based on the most recently proposed operating hours of the CCA: in the evenings on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays (and sometimes Mondays during Bengals and Reds games).

Police Chief Justin Wietholter said he deliberately created the projections using salary figures of the highest-paid patrolmen in the department. That way, the city could peel back expenses in the future if the initial patrol presence proved to be excessive.

“This was to provide the worst-case scenario of the cost up front,” Wietholter said.

Projections called for a three-month trial period that could be revised based on how things worked out.

Some of the commissioners weren’t keen on the costs.

“We can’t spend $9,000 a month for the CCA,” Commissioner Tim Acri said, asking why the city felt it had to include police costs.

“I’ve talked to lots of municipalities that have this in place, and they do not have additional police,” Acri said. Acri first proposed the CCA in April of last year.

Wietholter said that CCAs in other cities had a variety of layouts.

“Cincinnati, their area, they have a sub-station sitting right in the middle of it, so it’s a little bit of a different scenario,” Wietholter said. “Some of the others that I talked to

said — and this is another reason for the upfront portion — is they said, when the newness of it was very popular… they had initial stuff that they dealt with. But as the newest wore off, it tended to be like the novelty of the area wore off, it got less and less.”

Toebbe said that cost was important to consider, but qualified that by saying “we typically over budget things.” He was skeptical that the city would need those figures long-term.

“We’re very conservative with our numbers…,” Toebbe said. “We’re looking at $25,000 for a three-month period, which I really don’t think we will need that here.”

The board indefinitely tabled legislation on the CCA in August, and no legislative action related to the CCA occurred at the Feb. 28 meeting. The city manager estimated that the area, if ever enacted by legislation, would take four to five months to functionally implement.

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kenton county briefs Student entrepreneurs awarded $44K at pitch competition in Covington

Student entrepreneurs posing with their funding checks won through the recent Governor’s School for Entrepreneurs Collegiate Pitch competition.

Photo provided | The Governor’s School for Entrepreneurs

Student entrepreneurs from across Kentucky received thousands of dollars in funding through the Governor’s School for Entrepreneurs, or GSE, Collegiate Pitch competition on Feb. 28.

The Collegiate Pitch competition was held at SparkHaus in Covington, where 17 teams from eight colleges and universities competed in two categories: the Exploratory Track for early-stage concepts and the Developed Track for ventures nearing launch or already in operation. In total, $44,000 in funding was awarded to student entrepreneurs through the competition.

Due to a record number of submissions, GSE added a non-competitive Feedback Track this year, allowing additional teams to present and receive feedback from judges before the competitive rounds.

To qualify for prize funding, winning teams must base their businesses in Kentucky as they grow.

Developed Track First Place ($15,000) Claustrum Design, University of Louisville Founders: Justin Houts and Keiran Richards Claustrum Design is developing medical devices intended to improve clinical practices and patient outcomes.

Second Place ($7,000) EdgeTrack Solutions, University of Kentucky Founders: Bryce Gentner, Shem Odhiambo and Eric Wambua EdgeTrack Solutions is building an AI-powered shipment visibility and predictive logistics platform for small and mid-sized freight fleets.

Third Place (Tie, $5,000 each) Wav-Aid, Kentucky State University Founders: Mugisha Donatien and Eric Murwanashyaka.

Wav-Aid is an AI-based audio engineering platform designed to help independent musicians and content creators produce studio-quality recordings.

Gov. Andy Beshear speaking. Photo by Liam Niemeyer | Kentucky Lantern

orities, economic strategy and workforce initiatives, as well as issues affecting businesses in Northern Kentucky. The forum is meant to provide an opportunity for local business leaders to hear directly from Beshear about his administration’s agenda and state-level efforts related to business growth, talent recruitment, infrastructure investment and long-term economic competitiveness.

Sunny Sign Up, Northern Kentucky University Founders: Dashiell Macke and Chad Gesenhues.

Sunny Sign Up designs solar-powered, illuminated street signs using retrofit sleeves that fit over existing signs.

Exploratory Track First Place ($5,000) CochleoFit, Midway University Founder: Evie Clare CochleoFit is developing custom helmet inserts designed to accommodate cochlear implant devices.

Second Place ($4,000) The Dapper Kernal, Campbellsville University Founder: Bryce Osbourne The Dapper Kernal produces and sells gourmet kettle corn.

Third Place ($3,000) Commencement Closet, University of Kentucky Founder: Wyatt Hench Commencement Closet offers rental cap and gown packages intended to reduce costs associated with graduation regalia.

How to contribute to the Goebel Park Master Plan Covington residents can now contribute their recommendations to the new Goeb-

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The Mainstrasse Bell Tower at Goebel Park in the 1980s. Photo provided | Kenton County Public Library

el Park Master Plan. Goebel Park, located in Covington’s Mainstrasse neighborhood, is one of the city’s key landmarks, but its proximity to the impending work on the Brent Spence Bridge means the future of the park is in flux.

“The Master Plan will explore opportunities to enhance park facilities, improve connections, re-imagine underused spaces, plan for the future of the Bell Tower and strengthen the park’s role as a welcoming gateway to Covington,” reads the City of Covington’s website.

The affected areas of the master planning process include Goebel Park itself, as well as the adjacent Kenney Shields Park.

Residents can fill out KZF’s community survey and leave anonymous suggestions using the “Ideas Wall” feature, or reach out directly to the Parks & Recreation Department.

Beshear to headline NKY Chamber Government Forum Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear is scheduled to speak before the Northern Kentucky Chamber of Commerce at an upcoming government forum later this month.

The NKY Chamber of Commerce’s Government Forum, set for March 24, will be held from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Radisson Hotel Cincinnati Riverfront in Covington.

For spaces or info see our web, http://www.kyanaswapmeet.com

According to a NKY Chamber news release, the forum will focus on policy pri-

8 MARCH 13, 2026

Tickets are $50 for NKY Chamber members, $60 for nonmembers and $40 for NKY Young Professionals participants.

Kentucky House passes bill to ban machine gun conversion devices

The city has contracted with KZF Design, a Cincinnati-based architecture firm, to head up the planning process. The contract with KZF was OKed by the Board of Commissioners late last year.

Admission: $10 per day $15 for 2 Day Pass Children under 12 Free With a Parent

Maureen Vannatta 502 619 2917 -- kyanaswapmeet@gmail.com Chester Robertson 502 619 2916

“This is a unique opportunity for our members to hear Gov. Beshear directly address the issues most important to our region and its economy,” NKY Chamber Vice President of Government Relations Tami Wilson said in the release. “Our region’s long-term stability and growth depend on strong support from Frankfort, and we look forward to hearing more about the commonwealth’s investment in Northern Kentucky.”

Rep. Jason Nemes, R-Louisville (right), confers with Rep. David Meade, R-Stanford (left), in January 2026. Meade was among the Republicans who opposed House Bill 299, a bill sponsored by Nemes. Photo provided | LRC Public Information

The GOP-controlled Kentucky House of Representatives passed a bill on March 2 to ban devices that can convert semi-automatic firearms into automatic weapons, though a significant number of Republicans opposed the measure.

House Bill 299, sponsored by House Majority Whip Jason Nemes, R-Lousville, would allow local law enforcement to enforce at the state level an existing federal prohibition against possessing what are known as machine gun conversion devices.

Louisville Metro Police Department Chief Paul Humphrey told a committee of lawmakers that local law enforcement can’t seize such devices when found because the prohibition is not in state law.

kenton county briefs “We don’t need more laws on guns. What we do need to do is enforce the laws that we have,” Nemes said on the House floor. “All this bill does is allow local law enforcement to enforce the law that already exists.”

Democrats in the minority joined a plurality of Republicans to approve the bill by a vote of 65-25. All of the votes in opposition were cast by Republicans.

Some Republicans in the legislature previously voiced concerns over the constitutionality of such a measure. The bill heads to the Kentucky Senate for its consideration.

Freestore Foodbank announces new president, CEO Freestore Foodbank’s Board of Directors has appointed Kreg Keesee as the organization’s next president and CEO. Keesee brings extensive leadership expeKreg Keesee, the new rience in operations, president and CEO of Freestore Foodbank. strategy and organiPhoto provided | Free- zational transformastore Foodbank tion. Most recently, he served as interim chief financial and operating officer at The Springer School and

Center, with prior executive roles at Cold Jet, Michelman, Sun Chemical and Procter & Gamble.

The Freestore Foodbank, located at 3401 Rosenthal Way in Cincinnati, also serves Northern Kentucky.

Keesee also serves on the Cincinnati Regional Chamber Board of Directors and on committees for the United Way of Greater Cincinnati. He previously spent 10 years on the board of trustees of the Southwest Ohio Regional Transit Authority, including six as chair.

“Kreg brings a proven track record of building high‐performing teams and turning strategy into action,” said Dwinelva Zackery, chair of the Freestore Foodbank Board.

“We are confident he is the right leader to guide Freestore into its next chapter.”

Jeff Wyler announces over $14M Fort Wright land acquisition The Jeff Wyler Automotive Family released additional information in early March regarding major land acquisitions worth millions of dollars.

The organization purchased three parcels of land under the DWSB, LLC, on Dixie Highway between September 2025 and February 2026 for future redevelopment, according to a news release and property records. This announcement follows the purchases of two other land parcels back in December.

The organization paid more than $14.32 million for all three parcels combined, according to property records.

Keesee succeeds Kurt Reiber, who is retiring after serving as president and CEO for 15 years. During Reiber’s tenure, Freestore expanded the number of annual meals provided to 47.2 million, supported nearly 12,000 volunteers, launched the LIFT the TriState and KIND programs, and grew its partnerships to 575 community organizations.

“This acquisition represents a forward-looking investment in Fort Wright and the surrounding communities,” David Wyler, CEO of the Jeff Wyler Automotive Family, said in a press release. “We are committed to responsible development that enhances the local landscape, supports economic growth and delivers longterm value for our customers and neighbors.”

“Freestore Foodbank is an organization with a remarkable legacy and essential mission,” Keesee said. “I look forward to working with our team and partners to meet the evolving needs of our community.”

The three properties on Dixie Highway are all next to each other on the former sites of a Days Inn on 1937 Dixie Highway, an Atlas Home Gym on 1939 Dixie Highway and an

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old Infiniti dealership on 1945 Dixie Highway. The details of the developments haven’t been released yet, but the company has already begun cleanup, site prep and due diligence.

A portion of the funding for the site comes from the Kenton County Community Redevelopment Fund. The fund was developed with the help of the Northern Kentucky Catalytic Fund, a private nonprofit that specializes in redeveloping land that conventional developers would find unappealing.

Cities can request funding from the county so long as it’s tied to a particular development project, and the city can match 10% of the contribution. In this case, the city will provide $150,000 from its tax increment financing district fund in addition to the county’s contribution of $1.35 million.

“They (Jeff Wyler Auto) recognize how important this corridor is not just to Fort Wright but the entire region,” Fort Wright Mayor Dave Hatter said. “They have chosen to make a significant investment in our community, and we believe it will bring positive change and improve the quality of life for our residents.”

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MARCH 13, 2026 9

Transportation barriers threaten workforce growth in NKY, experts say

By Kenton Hornbeck

N

orthern Kentucky University economics professor Janet Harrah believes reliable transportation is one of the central pillars for maintaining and growing the region’s workforce.

Transportation is often a prerequisite for employment, as workers need to reliably get from where they live to where jobs are at the right times. Regional infrastructure largely determines the public transportation options accessible to workers. In Northern Kentucky, a widespread public rail system does not exist. As a result, workers rely on either a personal vehicle, carpooling or the Transportation Authority of Northern Kentucky, or TANK, bus system to commute to and from their jobs.

To inform the public about the state of NKY’s transportation network, the Northern Kentucky Forum hosted a panel on Feb. 24, featuring speakers who discussed the transportation system and the real-world barriers workers face. The panel, moderated by Harrah, included Gina Douthat, executive director of TANK; Gina Stough, vice president of human resources for the Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport, or CVG; and Correy Eimer, director of NKY Works, a regional workforce development organization.

“There’s a more basic question underneath all that, for many people in the region, and that’s, ‘Can I actually get to the job I want to have?’ So before we can participate in the workforce, they have to be able to physically get to the job, or where they live, to where the work is and reliably and at the right time,” Harrah said. “Transportation really shapes access to the workforce. It affects who can work, which employers can attract talent and how competitive our region is over time.”

Regarding shifts in regional transportation, Douthat said that commuting patterns in Greater Cincinnati have changed over the past 15 years. According to Douthat, TANK passengers previously used the service to travel from the NKY suburbs into downtown Cincinnati, which was described as the Cincinnati region’s center of jobs because of its corporate presence.

10 MARCH 13, 2026

A TANK bus. Photo provided | TANK

downtown,” Douthat said. “And they were writing because they were trying to save money on parking that has completely flipped today. Almost 10% of our customers are going to downtown Cincinnati for jobs that are that type of work, and most of the people that ride the bus today are going out from downtown to jobs in the suburbs of Northern Kentucky, primarily in the airport region.”

Eimer, sharing his experience managing a workforce development organization, noted that transportation barriers affect key sectors in the regional economy, including healthcare, logistics and retail. These barriers are particularly evident in NKY’s entry-level, low-wage positions, with some people never even applying for certain jobs because of a lack of reliable transportation.

“Talking with employers and hearing them describe how employees may only be able to last a few weeks or a month, because they’ve got private transportation, but it may not be reliable,” Eimer said.

The panel also discussed housing affordability, highlighting the widening gap between areas where housing development is taking place and job locations. Douthat said that as housing costs rise in NKY’s denser, transit-rich urbanized areas, affordable housing options spread outward, often into places that are not yet prepared for transit service.

“As those more urban dwellings start to get more and more expensive and they turn over and they become less affordable for people to live, the more affordable housing opportunities are spreading out, and I’m not sure exactly where they’re going to be 10 years from now.”

As the regional economy changed, transit demand has reversed, with more people traveling from urban areas to suburban job centers, particularly around CVG and Interstates 71/75, which serve as the region’s main hubs for air and trucking logistics.

CVG is home to Amazon Air’s North American Superhub and DHL’s North American Superhub, two of the largest employers in NKY.

In terms of solutions, the panel emphasized collaboration among transit agencies, workforce organizations, employers, educators, nonprofits and local governments. The panel stressed that there is no single organization that can fix the issue.

Instead, it depends on long-term progress achieved through regional coordination and investment among different stakeholders.

“I would say, 15 years ago, 90% of our customers got on a bus in a suburban city in Northern Kentucky and rode to their job

“There are solutions,” Stough said. “They may not be easy ones, but there’s always solutions.”

MASTER COMMISSIONER’S SALE BOONE COUNTY CIRCUIT COURT

DIVISION III CASE NO.: 23-CI-01549 WYNDS AT OAKBROOK HOMEOWNERS ASSOCIATION, INC. VERSUS} STEPHEN D. VAUGHN, ET AL.

DIVISION III

DIVISION I

CASE NO.: 24-CI-01700

CASE NO.: 25-CI-00507

PLANTATION POINTE MASTER ASSOCIATION, INC.

AMERIHOME MORTGAGE COMPANY, LLC

VERSUS}

VERSUS}

By virtue of a judgment and order of sale of the Boone Circuit Court rendered JANUARY 21, 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, MARCH 19, 2026 at the hour of 9:00 a.m. or thereabouts, the following described property to-wit:

MICHAEL R. HOWARD, ET AL.

LOREN M. SCHEFFLER, ET AL.

ADDRESS: 6459 SUMMERFIELD DRIVE, FLORENCE, KY 41042

By virtue of a judgment and order of sale of the Boone Circuit Court rendered JANUARY 27, 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, MARCH 19, 2026 at the hour of 9:00 a.m. or thereabouts, the following described property to-wit:

By virtue of a judgment and order of sale of the Boone Circuit Court rendered JANUARY 21, 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, MARCH 19, 2026 at the hour of 9:00 a.m. or thereabouts, the following described property to-wit:

PVA PROPERTY IDENTIFICATION NUMBER: 049.08-12-017.04

ADDRESS: 1829 WAVERLY DRIVE, FLORENCE, KENTUCKY 41042

ADDRESS: 8655 LELY COURT, FLORENCE, KENTUCKY 41042

PVA PROPERTY IDENTIFICATION NUMBER: 062.00-36078.00 AMOUNT OF JUDGMENT: $6,605.08 GROUP NO.: 4481

PVA PROPERTY IDENTIFICATION NUMBER: 050.00-11-210.00 AMOUNT OF JUDGMENT: $163,391.17 GROUP NO.: 3924

AMOUNT OF JUDGMENT: $2,223.00 GROUP NO.: 1516 THIS SALE IS SUBJECT TO THE MORTGAGE OF J.P. MORGAN CHASE BANK, N.A., RECORDED ON MARCH 26, 2013, IN MORTGAGE BOOK 3688, PAGE 217, OF THE BOONE COUNTY CLERK’S OFFICE. THE TOTAL AMOUNT OWED TO J.P. MORGAN CHASE BANK, N.A., THROUGH FEBRUARY 10, 2026, IS THE PRINCIPAL SUM OF $24,213.42, MORE OR LESS, PLUS INTEREST AND OTHER CHARGES ALLOWED BY THE MORTGAGE AND THE PROMISSORY NOTE IT SECURES, AND KENTUCKY LAW.

DIVISION I

DIVISION I

DIVISION III

CASE NO.: 23-CI-00515

CASE NO.: 25-CI-02047

CASE NO.: 25-CI-02050

TARA AT PLANTATION POINTE COUNCIL

HERITAGE BANK, INC.

KENTUCKY HOUSING CORPORATION

VERSUS}

VERSUS}

MERLITA WHITE, ET AL.

MASON JONES

By virtue of a judgment and order of sale of the Boone Circuit Court rendered FEBRUARY 10, 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, MARCH 19, 2026 at the hour of 9:00 a.m. or thereabouts, the following described property to-wit:

By virtue of a judgment and order of sale of the Boone Circuit Court rendered JANUARY 21, 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, MARCH 19, 2026 at the hour of 9:00 a.m. or thereabouts, the following described property to-wit:

ADDRESS: 1800 HAMILTON COURT, FLORENCE, KY 41042

ADDRESS: 3229 FEELEY ROAD, BURLINGTON, KENTUCKY 41005

ADDRESS: 9 SWEETBRIAR AVENUE, FLORENCE, KENTUCKY 41042

PVA PROPERTY IDENTIFICATION NUMBER: 062.00-34-101.41

PVA PROPERTY IDENTIFICATION NUMBER: 025.00-00-017.14

PVA PROPERTY IDENTIFICATION NUMBER: 061.06-26-017.00

AMOUNT OF JUDGMENT: $152,798.90

AMOUNT OF JUDGMENT: $83,073.47

AMOUNT OF JUDGMENT: $208,823.83

GROUP NO.: 4709

GROUP NO.: 2018

GROUP NO.: 260

OF CO-OWNERS, INC. VERSUS} DAVID S. SPINNER, ET AL. By virtue of a judgment and order of sale of the Boone Circuit Court rendered JANUARY 8, 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, MARCH 19, 2026 at the hour of 9:00 a.m. or thereabouts, the following described property to-wit:

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.

MARCH 13, 2026 11

sports Conner senior Badida wins state wrestling title

Badida the eldest organized the Conner program in 1970. At first, he said Clayton’s match would be like every other.

“When you go out there, I don’t ever remember not getting excited during the match for our kid that was out there wrestling,” he said. “I wanted him to win ‘cause that’s why we came here — to win a title — and I got excited for every kid.”

A couple minutes later, Wayne decided watching Clayton was different.

Conner High School senior Clayton Badida leapt into older brother Tristin after winning the KHSAA 126-pound title. Photo provided | Charles Bolton

He was the youngest in his family to wrestle for Conner High School.

Senior Clayton Badida was also the best Cougar at the KHSAA state wrestling championships at Alltech Arena in Lexington on Feb. 27. He won the 126-pound state title over Meade County’s Peyton Vowels, 2-1 in triple overtime.

Three generations of Badidas watched the final. Clayton’s grandfather, Northern Kentucky wrestling legend Wayne Badida, and older brother Tristin were on the mat coaching, and Clayton’s and Tristin’s dad, John Badida, was in the stands.

Clayton, however, was the only one who went airborne when he joyously leaped into Tristin’s arms.

“It’s special because it’s your grandson,” he said. “But at the same time, he’s a senior that’s leaving, that’s gonna graduate and go on, and you’re gonna miss him.”

Badida won the match eight seconds into the third overtime with an escape.

As expected, Union County overwhelmingly won the team title over Paducah Tilghman 271-168.5. Harrison County was third with 140 and Boyle County was fourth with 135.5.

Ryle was fifth with 117, and Conner and Simon Kenton tied for eighth with 94.

An NKY triple threat: Moore, Svec, Hood win state wrestling titles

“I had a great (wrestling) room this year,” Clayton said. “It’s the most fun year I’ve probably ever had. We had nine seniors; as long as we all wrestled together and we worked together, I could conquer anything.”

What was maybe better, Clayton’s title bested Tristin’s two semifinal finishes.

“He gives me a lot of grief,” Tristin said. “I had the record at Conner for 10 years for most wins with 214, and he’s at, like, 223 or something. He’s placed four times, and I only placed three times.”

Walton-Verona High School’s Emma Moore finished her high school career with a third straight state title. Ray Schaefer | LINK nky contributor

Walton-Verona’s Emma Moore surpassed her wrestling brothers in her final high school match.

Cooper freshman Aaliyah Svec showed chronological age didn’t define her.

And Highlands junior Emma Hood erased the memory of a painful 2025 loss.

Svec is the first Jaguar to win a wrestling title.

The result: Moore, Svec and Hood brought home a triumvirate of girls KHSAA state wrestling titles on Feb. 28 at Lexington’s Alltech Arena.

“We could see it coming, with all the hard work that she’s done,” Cooper coach Mike Flaherty said.

Moore won the 107-pound title, a 13-5 majority decision over Ryle’s Peyton Brinkman. Svec won at 138 by pinning North Hardin’s Payton Perry, and Hood took down Prestonsburg’s Braylyn Maynard, 3-2.

The backstories were at least as interesting as what happened on the mats.

Moore was a two-time state champion at 100 pounds. She moved up to 107 this year, with the idea of surpassing older brothers Spencer and Ryan, who won two each.

“Part of the reason I started wrestling is because I wanted to get more state titles than them,” Moore said after winning the Region 3 title on Feb. 14.

Moore had a relatively easy road to the finals — pins over North Hardin’s Iris Wells and Boyle County’s Hayley Cappelli and a 16-1 technical fall over Woodford County’s Genevieve Cox in the semifinals.

Brinkman, meanwhile, scored a 10-1 majority decision over Fern Creek’s Aaliyah Bronger, a 7-1 win over North Hardin’s Mia Green and a semifinal pin against Lafayette’s Mackenzie Medley.

When Moore scored a 17-1 technical fall over Brinkman, an eighth grader, two weeks ago, it was largely because she caught Brinkman with multiple front headlocks. Ryle coach Tim Ruschell’s Saturday strategy seemed simple.

“Well, don’t get caught in the front headlock,” Ruschell said. “Don’t take any bad shots. Go from there.”

Moore scored four takedowns and an escape to Brinkman’s three escapes and a reversal.

Spencer Moore gave Emma her gold medal.

If you were wondering whether she would forevermore badger her brothers over what happened, there was a one-word answer: definitely.

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CONNER BOYS WRESTLING

“Actually, (Spencer) brought it up to me after the match,” Emma said. “He’s like, ‘you did something we were never able to do’.”

Moore has committed to PennWest Edinboro, an NCAA Division II school in Pennsylvania. Saturday, she taught her dad, Walton-Verona coach Jason Moore, a lesson about priorities.

“Wins and losses are important,” Jason Moore said, “but it’s not the only thing.”

Svec’s journey to this day began years ago.

The LINK nky Team of the Week for Feb. 16-22 presented by Ortho Cincy is the Conner boys wrestling team.

12 MARCH 13, 2026

“Well, it’s just lots of hard work,” she said.

“I’ve been wrestling since I was 5, and I’ve just been preparing for this moment since I was little.”

Nobody scored a point against Svec over her first three wins. She pinned Greenwood’s Misoko (Ashley) Kilozo and Louisville Moore’s Amirah Macklin and added a 16-0 technical fall win over Seneca’s Ash Patton in the semifinals.

Svec started the final with her usual routine; kneel and pray away from her coaches and pace about 30 times.

“I just think about the Lord bringing me peace, and just that it’s already in his hands,” she said.

After Perry’s two-point reversal closed Svec’s lead to 3-2 with 33 seconds left in the first period, Svec countered with a near fall with 11 seconds to go in the second and the pin five ticks into the third.

A year ago, Maynard, then at Pike County Central, pinned Hood with three seconds left in the match — a hurt that dogged Hood every day until Saturday.

“That’s all I thought about,” Hood said.

“That’s been my only goal … this season.

Hood started the day by pinning Louisville Central’s Alaina May and Greenwood’s Scout Brockman and taking a 13-7 win over Franklin County’s Cathlynn Smith.

Hood was ahead of Maynard, 3-0, when she received the scare of the tournament – a left knee injury a little less than a minute into the third period. She didn’t know what happened. “(Maynard) had in a normal move, what you try to do if you’re trying to do if you’re trying to reverse someone and pull their leg out,” Hood said. “Something tweaked in it; I felt it pop.”

When the final whistle blew, Hood’s dad, Highlands coach Joey Hood, screamed loudly enough to be heard in Nicholasville if not Fort Thomas. A few minutes later, he cried a little.

“It’s coach and dad role here, so that just adds that much more energy to the process,” he said.

Emma Hood, however, mostly keeps her emotions in reserve.

“But it was cool seeing him in the corner, having my dad,” she said. “I wouldn’t have rather won it with anyone else in my corner.”

Lafayette won the team title over Boyle County, 120-113.5. Cooper was 13th with 38.5 points, Ryle was 16th with 32, Walton-Verona was 17th with 31.5, Campbell County was 22nd with 28.5 and Highlands was 25th with 26.

COMMISSIONER’S SALE CAMPBELL COUNTY CIRCUIT COURT

CASE NUMBER 25-CI-00853

CASE NUMBER 23-CI-00452

CASE NUMBER 25-CI-00308

DIVISION 1

DIVISION 1

DIVISION 1

M&T BANK

THE HUNTINGTON NATIONAL BANK

AMERIHOME MORTGAGE COMPANY, LLC

VS.

VS.

VS.

PATRICIA THOMAS, ET AL.

KENNETH URLAGE A/K/A KENNETH E. URLAGE, ET AL.

ROBERT TAYLOR, ET AL.

BY VIRTUE OF A JUDGMENT RENDERED 2/17/2026 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.

BY VIRTUE OF A JUDGMENT RENDERED 10/23/2023

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 2/6/2026 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 3/17/2026 at 3:00pm, the following property, to-wit: 234 Evergreen Avenue, Southgate, Kentucky 41071 Group No: 41263/A1

To the highest or best bidder at public auction on 3/17/2026 at 3:00pm, the following property, to-wit: 45 Burney Lane, Fort Thomas, Kentucky 41075 Group No: 30385/F2

PIDN: 999-99-10-957.00

To the highest or best bidder at public auction on 3/17/2026 at 3:00pm, the following property, to-wit: 707 Walnut Street, Dayton, Kentucky 41074 Group No: 30458/A3 PIDN: 999-99-10-009.00

PIDN: 999-99-16-859.00

CASE NUMBER 25-CI-00852

CASE NUMBER 24-CI-01154

CASE NUMBER 23-CI-00060

DIVISION 2

DIVISION 1

DIVISION 1

NATIONSTAR MORTGAGE LLC

DONALD H. JOHNS AND DOROTHY H. JOHNS

KEVIN SCHULENBERG

VS.

VS.

VS.

PHILLIP ROY AKA PHILLIP C. ROY, ET AL.

CLIFFORD REEKERS III, ET AL.

BRADLEY J. CULL, ET AL.

BY VIRTUE OF A JUDGMENT RENDERED 2/16/2026 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.

BY VIRTUE OF A JUDGMENT RENDERED 2/6/2026 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.

BY VIRTUE OF A JUDGMENT RENDERED 1/23/2026 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 3/17/2026 at 3:00pm, the following property, to-wit:

To the highest or best bidder at public auction on 3/17/2026 at 3:00pm, the following property, to-wit:

To the highest or best bidder at public auction on 3/17/2026 at 3:00pm, the following property, to-wit:

79 Southview Avenue, Fort Thomas, Kentucky 41075

4134 Greis Road, Melbourne, Kentucky 41059

2 Beverly Circle, Wilder, Kentucky 41071

Group No: 41004/A1

Group No: 70334/Z

Group No: 41372/AA2

PIDN: 999-99-16-647.00

PIDN: 999-99-27-821.00

PIDN: 999-99-38-124.00

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

MARCH 13, 2026 13

real estate

Ranch on a half acre in Independence Address: 1468 Shirepeak Way, Independence Price: $550,000 Bedrooms: Three Bathrooms: Three School district: Kenton County County: Kenton Special features: Built by Lunsford Homes and set on more than half an acre, this ranch offers an open floor plan connecting the family room, kitchen and breakfast room for comfortable everyday living and entertaining. The kitchen features marble countertops, stainless steel appliances, 42inch white cabinetry, a pantry and a breakfast area with walkout access to a screenedin porch and Trex deck overlooking the backyard. LVT flooring runs throughout the main living areas, and the family room includes a stone gas fireplace with a walnut mantel. The primary suite offers a walk-in closet and adjoining bath with double vanities and an oversized walk-in shower with dual showerheads.

The exterior of this Independence home. Photos provided | Mike Parker with Huff Realty

A look at this home’s family room.

This home’s kitchen.

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

PUBLIC NOTICE The City of Edgewood, Kentucky is accepting bids for Wildrose Dr, Martha Ct, and Maple Ln Resurfacing. Bids will be received until Thursday, March 19, 2026 at 11:00 a.m. Please visit https://edgewoodky.gov/bids/.

KENTON COUNTY

SCAN THIS QR CODE TO GO TO OUR DIGITAL PUBLIC NOTICE PAGE

14 MARCH 13, 2026

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SUDOKU

TheE.Weekly Edited by Margie Burke Crossword ACROSS

Difficulty: Easy

6

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9 2 1 2 6 3 5 8 9 k of 1/5/26 - 1/11/26 6 3 1 9 5 4 6 8 7 2 7 3 1 4 Copyright 2026

by The Puzzle Syndicate E. Burke Edited

by Margie

HOW TO SOLVE:

8

2

6

contain the numbers 1 to 9.

Answer to Previous Sudoku:

3

1

4

Each row must contain the 1 numbers 1 to 9; each column must the numbers 1 to 9; and 4 contain each set of 3 by 3 boxes must

9 6

4 2

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1 Type of saw HOW TO SOLVE:

1 14

2

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by Margie E. Burke 5

6 15

7

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9

10

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THE WEEKLY COMIC

by Andrew Buchanan

MARCH 13, 2026 15

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