LINK Kenton Reader - Volume 4, Edition 19 - April 3, 2026

KENTON

VOLUME 4, ISSUE 19 — APRIL 3, 2026

THE VOICE OF NKY

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Design-build team named for $125M Covington project

By Kenton Hornbeck

T

he $125 million “Commonwealth Center for Biomedical Excellence” project by the University of Kentucky and Northern Kentucky University now has its construction and design firms on board.

Chicago-based Pepper Construction and Cincinnati-based MSA Design will serve as the design-build team for the project that will bring NKU’s Salmon P. Chase College of Law and the UK College of Medicine-NKY Campus to Covington’s riverfront, according to a press release from Kenton County.

The design-build team also includes SLAM, THP Limited, Heapy, The Kleingers Group and Design 27.

Pepper Construction is a well-known company in Greater Cincinnati, having completed projects such as renovations to the Great Parks of Hamilton County headquarters and the Recreation Center at NKU. Currently, the firm is working on the new City Continues on page 3

A rendering of the new Commonwealth Center for Biomedical Excellence at the Covington RiverCenter. Rendering provided | MSA Designs

Community Voices: God’s gift to Kentucky A look back at Bluegrass Nights at Camp Springs Tavern

By Cody Pelle

I

spent every Sunday morning of my childhood in a small Baptist church in Alexandria.

Between Sunday services, Wednesday night youth group and countless weekend trips, it was more or less my home away from home. There was so much I loved about the place, but one thing I could never get into was the music. It just never moved me the way other music did.

Cody and Kat Pelle on their wedding day. Photo provided | Cody Pelle

For the longest time, I thought something was wrong with me. I carried that strange feeling into adolescence, and only by growing in my faith did I come to the conclusion I hold now: If you can find God in some-

thing, the rest will take care of itself.

NKY leaders welcome international biomed company to region p5

In those adolescent years, one of my best pals in the world was Mason Neltner. If you’re a native Northern Kentuckian, you likely recognize that last name for the farm his family owns in Camp Springs. He would work part time there during school, and every year in the heart of harvest season, they would hold the Neltner family pig roast. In the fall of my sophomore year at Campbell County High School, I got the invite.

Gov. Beshear talks economic development p7

Everything about the pig roast was intoxicating. Camping out in the field, being amongst a fantastic family in the Neltners and the best pulled pork you could ever taste. Don’t tell anyone I told you this, but the first beer I ever drank was lifted from

Ohio THC beverage law drives brands to Kentucky p10

Continues on page 4

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of Covington building and Boone County’s new emergency management and public safety communications facility.

PRESIDENT & CEO Lacy Starling EXECUTIVE EDITOR Meghan Goth SPORTS EDITOR Evan Dennison LINK nky Kenton Reader is published weekly by LINK Media LLC, 31 Innovation Alley, Covington, KY 41011.

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MSA Design has designed numerous projects in NKY, including several parts of NKU’s campus, such as the Central Plaza, Student Success Center and NKU Soccer Stadium.

Northern Kentucky Port Authority Executive Director Christine Russell said the selection of both firms was a “critical step” in the project.

“Pepper and MSA brought a clear vision for how to execute this project at the highest level possible,” Russell said in the release.

“Following a competitive selection process, it became clear that their depth of experience, particularly in delivering complex higher education and research facilities, set them apart, making this the clear and confident choice of both universities.”

The 1.89-acre site, located at 11 E. Rivercenter Blvd., was selected in October 2025 following a search led by HDR, the project manager, with support from developer Pizzuti. The goal of the project is to enhance the surrounding streetscape with new outdoor amenities, creating a more active and inviting public space, while providing both universities with room to grow and expand their programs.

A rendering of the new Commonwealth Center for Biomedical Excellence at the Covington RiverCenter.

Rendering provided | MSA Designs

The site also provides direct access to the 1,500-space Kenton County Parking Garage, which generally has over 900 spaces available on weekdays.

Love what we're doing? Want to support public-interest journalism in Northern Kentucky? Make a tax-deductible donation to support our work. Scan the QR code below, or mail a check payable to the Northern Kentucky Community Journalism Fund to 50 East Rivercenter Blvd. Suite 431, Covington, KY 41011.

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A groundbreaking ceremony is expected to take place later this year. Once completed, Chase Law School will move back to Covington, its original location from 1972 to 1981. Moreover, the additional space will enable the UK College of Medicine to expand its NKY campus enrollment by 40%.

“The Commonwealth Center for Biomedical Excellence reflects what’s possible when institutions come together around a shared vision,” NKU President Cady Short-Thompson said in the release. “This is ultimately about creating more opportunities for students by expanding access to high-demand fields and providing the kind of learning environment that prepares them to make an immediate impact in the Northern Kentucky region.”

A rendering of the new Commonwealth Center for Biomedical Excellence at the Covington RiverCenter.

Rendering provided | MSA Designs

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Continued from page 1

one of the coolers that night. The biggest thing I took from that night was the music.

Hearing bluegrass played live was like discovering a new color. Hymns I had known as dry and stale were bursting at the seams with flavor.

The spring I turned 21 was the year that Keith Neltner turned the Camp Springs Tavern across the street from the farm into my all-time favorite bar (with the exception of Pelle’s Café for obvious and biased reasons). He took a relatively standard country tavern and injected it with a level of soul I’ve not seen anywhere else. From walls covered with art installations and family photos to the sense of community formed by the Camp Springs faithful.

At the heart of that community is music. So naturally, the tavern became the space for neighborhood pickers to congregate and make magic on their guitars and banjos in the truest Kentucky fashion. Over time, they formalized their gatherings to take place on Thursday nights. Once I caught wind, I was there as often as possible.

Drowning in the hum of bluegrass standards like “In The Pines” and “I’ll Fly Away” gives me the sacred peace and comfort that others find in a pew on Sunday mornings.

My wife and I hold the place so dearly that when we were looking for a place to get married, we didn’t have to think hard. We were wed in the same field I camped out in all those years ago. My groomsmen and I raised a toast of Blantons in the same barn that we once snagged those Miller Lites.

And Kat and her bridesmaids got ready for the big day upstairs at the tavern. We wouldn’t have had it any other way.

Today, the tavern is owned and operated

by Tyler Shelton, a great friend who fully understands what makes the space special. He has expertly continued the traditions that set them above all others in my estimation. If you find yourself with a free Thursday night on the calendar, stop in and help yourself to a slice of God’s gift to Kentucky.

This Community Voices column is written

by Cody Pelle, a marketing and copywriting professional who has a knack for telling stories that bring us back to the nostalgic days of Northern Kentucky’s past. Have an idea for him? Email Cody at codympelle@gmail. com.

If you have an idea for a Community Voices column, email Meghan Goth at mgoth@ linknky.com.

Cody Pelle and his wife, Kat, at Bluegrass Night. Photo provided | Cody Pelle

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Local, state leaders welcome Japanese biomed company to NKY

From left to right: Executive Director of LifeSciKY Christin Godale, Mitsui Chemicals America CEO Antonios Grigoriou, Mitsui Chemicals CEO Osamu Hashimoto, Gov. Andy Beshear, Kenton County Commissioner Beth Sewell and Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Center for Stem Cell & Organoid Medicine Director of Director of Research and Development Magdalena Kasendra, Ph.D. Photo by Nathan Granger | LINK nky

By Nathan Granger

L

ifeSciKY, a biomedical incubator located at the OneNKY Center in Covington, welcomed its first international tenant on March 24.

Gov. Andy Beshear and local leaders joined a special ceremony to herald the arrival of Mitsui Chemicals, a Japanese biomedical and chemical manufacturer. The company will be the first international business to establish itself at the incubator.

Mitsui Chemicals is an autonomous business owned by the Mitsui Group, a family-owned Japanese international conglomerate with origins dating back to the 17th century. Mitsui Chemicals is known mostly for manufacturing polymers; its MR series of optical lenses is one of its flagship products. The company will operate locally under its brand Innocell.

The company is currently collaborating

with Cincinnati Children’s Hospital on research into stem cells and genetic medicine. Specifically, Cincinnati Children’s Center for Stem Cell & Organoid Medicine uses stem cells to create organoids: small, in vitro organ tissue that pulls from the unique genetic signatures of patients. This allows researchers to create personalized medical interventions and conduct genetic research without relying on donors.

“By harnessing stem cells, we create organoids,” said Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Center for Stem Cell & Organoid Medicine Director of Research and Development Magdalena Kasendra, Ph.D., “and those model human disease, predict drug responses and unlock new opportunities for regenerative medicine.”

“So for many years, Mitsui Chemical has pursued innovations that improve the quality of life and contribute to the healthier, more sustainable society,” said Mitsui Chemical CEO Osamu Hashimoto. “And

today, we believe that the next generation of medical and life science innovation will be powered by organoid technologies platforms that enable more accurate disease modeling, safer drug development and ultimately a future of personalized medicine.”

global company is looking toward the future of healthcare and scientific discovery, when they decide to invest, they look at Covington because Covington stands out.”

Beshear, as well as several local leaders, characterized it as a win for the region and its economy.

“Right here, Kentucky scientists, engineers, technicians and more will be working on some of the world’s most cutting-edge projects,” Beshear said. “The company’s innovative Innocell platform will revolutionize pharmaceutical testing and development that makes it easier for Kentuckians and people across the world to have access to safe and effective medications.”

“For Covington, this moment is bigger than a ribbon cutting,” said Covington Mayor Ron Washington. “It shows that when a

Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear greets Osamu Hashimoto, president + CEO of Mitsui Chemicals, Inc. Photo provided | Scooter Media

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$80M mixed-use development approved in Bellevue

By Staff Report

A

n $80 million mixed-use development is approved in Bellevue.

The Bellevue Planning Commission voted on March 23 to move forward with the development of multi-family housing and a parking garage, a partnership of Neyer Properties and Uptown Rental Properties. The site is located at the intersection of Harbor Greene Drive and Berry Avenue between Fairfield Avenue and the Ohio River.

Phase one of the project is expected to break ground in late 2026, with completion anticipated in 2028.

The Harbor Greene Drive development includes the acquisition of city-owned property and the vacant building on Fairfield Avenue that formerly housed Assured Partners.

The project consists of approximately 200 units ranging from 600 to 1,400 square feet. Multiple layouts will be available, including studios, one-bedrooms, one-bedrooms with dens, two-bedrooms and two-bedrooms with dens.

The first phase will also include a structured parking garage with about 300 spaces. Additionally, 8,000 square feet of new restaurant/retail space will be introduced on Fairfield Avenue. The commercial design will accommodate restaurant users and create outdoor experiences at the corners of Lafayette Avenue and Berry Avenue.

A rendering of the Harbor Greene Drive development. Rendering provided | Neyer Properties

“Neyer Properties appreciates its several years of partnership with both the city of Bellevue and Campbell County as we work to create a new gateway into the city of Bellevue, Kentucky,” said Neyer Properties CEO and President Dan Neyer.

The mixed-use development will be integrated with improved public street infrastructure and landscaping that complements Fairfield Avenue’s existing design.

Key architectural and infrastructure features include garage access from adjacent streets and amenity spaces created to embrace views of the Ohio River while preserving the riverfront.

The entire development will also connect to the next section of the Riverfront Commons Trail, which crosses the riverfront portion of the site. A new gathering and access point at Lafayette Avenue will allow

trail users to easily reach the Fairfield Avenue business district, supporting walkability and regional recreation.

“This is a beautifully located project in the city of Bellevue that we are thrilled to be partnering on as we expand our Northern Kentucky footprint,” said Dan Schimberg, founder and president of Uptown Rental Properties.

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Governor talks economic development, major projects at NKY Chamber event

Gov. Andy Beshear speaks at the Northern Kentucky Chamber of Commerce Government Forum on March 24, 2026. Photo by Nathan Granger | LINK nky

Brent Cooper (left) talks with Gov. Andy Beshear at the Northern Kentucky Chamber of Commerce Government Forum on March 26, 2026. Photo by Nathan Granger | LINK nky

By Nathan Granger

problem, he argued.

conomic development, infrastructure, education and housing were top of mind for Gov. Andy Beshear at the Northern Kentucky Chamber of Commerce Government Forum on March 24.

“It means lower reimbursements to our hospitals, to our doctors, to our nurses,” Beshear said. “It means we can’t do as much for struggling families that are out there. It means that the largest payroll in rural communities, which is that rural hospital, is going to take another hit.”

the event as the “most efficient economic development trip I’ve ever been on” because it put him in close proximity with business leaders throughout the world. He argued that direct relationships with business leaders and the state’s economic incentive programs were key selling points.

E

The event featured a speech from the governor, followed by a brief Q&A with Chamber President and CEO Brent Cooper. Major projects, including the Brent Spence corridor, were also part of the discussion.

“I look around, and I can see that this room is totally sold out,” Beshear said. “To me, that shows how engaged this community is on our collective success. It means Kentuckians are invested in their communities, and that folks know the importance of working together.”

Beshear highlighted both the state’s and the region’s economic success, as well as major infrastructure projects like the Brent Spence companion bridge.

Although he admitted the price tag of the project had increased from $3.6 billion to over $4 billion, according to project officials in March, Beshear said, “we have secured that final price, that final contract. And last week, I announced that construction on the companion bridge will begin this spring.

We’re going to get it done.”

Beshear also advocated for universal pre-k programs throughout the state, a longtime platform of his, and for investing in public education generally. He was also critical of the Big Beautiful Bill, passed in July 2025, which cut Medicaid dollars.

Beshear argued the cuts would be especially destructive to rural hospitals, which rely on Medicaid and other subsidized programs. The Kentucky General Assembly’s budgetary process just exacerbated the

“They want a direct relationship, right?”

Beshear said. “If they’re going to bet $600

million or $700 million from the company, if something goes wrong, they want to be able to pick up the phone and call the governor. And I can tell you, on our multibillion-dollar projects, there have been calls that I’ve made to their decision maker — or they have made to me — that have gotten us past roadblocks, and that’s so important.

I make them a promise that we’ll get them up and running.”

Beshear also touted the Kentucky Affordable Housing Trust Fund as a way to alleviate the state’s affordable housing shortages, specifically by pulling “$150 million” from the state’s rainy day fund to invest in housing.

Cooper briefly mentioned a regional version of such a fund, which hasn’t been officially established yet, during the Q&A section at the end of the forum.

“I propose $150 million investment in our affordable housing trust fund, one time,” Beshear said. “That is a fund that leverages $9 of private sector money for every $1 of public money. What does that mean at a time when all of America is in a housing crisis? By taking $150 million from a $3.7 billion rainy day fund, we can build a billion dollars of housing in the next couple years across Kentucky.”

Cooper fielded questions submitted by the chamber’s board and some audience members. Given that it was a Chamber of Commerce event, many of the topics concerned business and economic development, especially as they related to attracting international businesses to the state and region.

“What are some more things that you talk about when you sell the state?” asked Cooper.

Beshear discussed a recent trip to international economic forum Davos in Switzerland, which has become a point of contention among his critics. Beshear described APRIL 3, 2026 7

kenton county briefs Judge Charlie Moore is Covington Education Foundation’s Person of the Year

our entire alumni community to join us for this once-in-a-lifetime celebration.”

To learn more, purchase tickets, or get information about sponsorship opportunities for the gala, contact Janice Krumwiede at (859) 392-1034 or at janice.krumweide@ covington.kyschools.us.

Covington votes to fund ‘Green Dot’ violence bystander training

The foundation funds scholarships and other financial aid for students at Holmes High School in Covington.

“I am just honored and thankful for my family and friends,” Moore said in a press release. “We tell the same stories, but the fish get a little bigger and golf scores get a little lower. I’ve just been so blessed.”

Moore graduated from Holmes High School in 1970 and earned a law degree from Salmon P. Chase College of Law at Northern Kentucky University in 1980. He worked in private practice and was appointed to the district court by former Gov. Wallace Wilkinson. He served on the court for 28 years before retiring in 2019.

He also served as a guest lecturer on domestic violence for the Kentucky Bar Association and was appointed in 2008 as a special judge for the Northern Kentucky Regional Mental Health Court. Additionally, he was a member of the Boone County Planning Commission from 1987 to 1989 and served as domestic relations commissioner and special trial commissioner for Boone Circuit Court from 1988 to 1990. He is still active in the Holmes Alumni Association.

“I am quite honored by this recognition; I don’t feel nearly worthy, but I will do my best,” Moore said. “I am thankful. I am going to try to make all my friends and family proud of this award.”

The foundation’s gala will take place on June 18. It will coincide with the 200th anniversary of public education in Covington.

“We are marking history as we celebrate one of the finest individuals to ever emerge from Covington schools,” said Dan Francis, foundation president. “As we honor this significant 200-year milestone, we invite 8 APRIL 3, 2026

Sexual violence victimization rates in years three and four were 12% to 13% lower in the schools where the Green Dot program was implemented, according to the study. Research also shows that in year three alone, sexual violence victimization rates were significantly lower among both male and female students in schools with the program.

This was not the first time that Smith broached the issue. She brought it up during the board’s recent prioritization meeting, saying the board members had all agreed at one point to grant the $10,000, but it never came about. Smith argued for continued funding of such programs at that meeting, but it didn’t make the cut.

Charlie Moore. Photo provided | Covington Independent Public Schools

Charlie Moore, who formerly served as a judge in Kentucky’s 54th District Court, which covers Gallatin and Boone counties, will be honored as the Covington Education Foundation‘s Person of the Year in June.

gram’s impact by surveying nearly 90,000 students in 26 Kentucky high schools over five years.

Still, the other commissioners were in support of the measure.

Green Dot paraphernalia. Photo provided | Ion Center for Violence Prevention

In a surprise vote on the night of March 24, the Covington Board of Commissioners unanimously agreed to grant $10,000 to the Ion Center for Violence Prevention, a nonprofit that specializes in power-based violence prevention, training and resources. The agency has offices in Covington and elsewhere in Kentucky.

Vice Mayor Shannon Smith, the only woman on the board, made an unscheduled motion toward the end of the meeting to issue the grant in honor of Women’s History Month, which is observed in March. Smith briefly discussed some grim statistics related to violence against women.

Nearly half of all American women have experienced sexual violence of some kind in their lifetimes, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, or CDC. One in two women (and one in three men) in Kentucky specifically have experienced domestic violence, according to the 2023 Kentucky Domestic Violence Data Report.

Kentucky has the second-highest rate of domestic violence, behind Oklahoma, according to the CDC. “I’m the only gal on this board, and I appreciate all of you, but I bring a different lens and because I bring a different lens, I’m going to bring a different sort of ask before the board,” Smith said before making the motion.

The grant would expressly go towards the Ion Center’s Green Dot initiative, which provides training to businesses, organizations and people to spot and intervene when power-based violence (which includes not only spousal abuse but also child abuse, sexual violence, stalking, bullying and harassment) is committed. The initiative was first developed for use in schools, but several Covington businesses have put their staff through the training.

A 2017 study from the American Journal of Preventive Medicine evaluated the pro-

“I’d like to thank you for the time that you served and appreciate what you’ve done for the city,” said Commissioner Tim Acri.

Smith is the only commissioner (besides the mayor) who is not running for reelection.

“It’s one of those things (that) speaks to Commissioner Smith’s character,” said Commissioner Tim Downing, “Where it’s ‘hey, we’re not just going to do something,’ but ‘hey, I’m going to follow up and make sure that we’re holding ourselves accountable.’”

Mayor Ron Washington, who formerly worked as a police officer, reflected on how laws and practices around partner violence had changed, even during his lifetime.

When he was a young officer, he said, “the law did not allow the police to arrest the perpetrator” of partner violence if police were called to a household.

“I remember when that changed, and they allowed probable cause of a misdemeanor to arrest a person that assaulted their significant other,” Washington said.

Covington commissioner clarifies airline food company incentives after approval

occupy the former White Castle processing facility on Rolling Hills Drive.

Toebbe’s comments came after the vote to approve both a municipal financing package and a payment in lieu of taxes, or PILOT, deal with the company. You can read LINK nky’s previous reporting for more information on those deals on our website, but Toebbe’s comments focused on several discrepancies in information related to the jobs slated to come to the facility.

Public records indicate that developers and officials have coordinated to move the food company into the old distribution center, bringing an expected 98 full-time jobs, 78 of which are slated to be physically located in Covington and Kenton County. The 78 local jobs are expected to pay at least $34.61 per hour in wages, according to state records, yet the City of Covington put the average salary of the local jobs at about $56,000 annually.

The arithmetic for that doesn’t work out.

Toebbe explained why.

“The hourly rate is part of the (state incentive), and that includes the benefits in it because the State of Kentucky is looking at the overall economic impact,” Toebbe explained. “Where the City of Covington, if you look to any of our (meeting) documents, it only references $56,000 a year, which is what the annual salary will be.”

The city, Toebbe explained, only taxes the actual salary, so any incentives given by the city would only account for the salary itself, benefits not included. He also clarified the discrepancy why only 78 of 98 jobs would be in Kenton County.

“The plant is hiring 98 jobs, but the Kentucky incentive is only assuming that 78 of those 98 will live in the state of Kentucky, and only those employees will be eligible for that incentive,” Toebbe said.

Both the financing package and the tax incentive passed unanimously.

Former Bromley council member, Ludlow bank manager indicted in federal court Reagan France, a former bank manager at Home Savings Bank on Elm Street in Ludlow and a former Bromley City Council member, was indicted in federal court on 22 counts of financial crimes, including embezzlement and bank fraud.

Court documents indicate that France allegedly pilfered at least $21,000 (possibly more) from bank customer accounts between July 2022 and May 2024.

Covington Commissioner James Toebbe. Photo provided | James Toebbe

Covington Commissioner James Toebbe addressed residents’ concerns at a Board of Commissioners meeting on March 24.

Speaking at the podium, he answered questions about financing and tax incentive deals tied to Marfo & FMA, an airline food manufacturer. The company is set to

“We hold ourselves to the highest standards of ethics and security,” said Stephanie Berry, president of Home Savings Bank, in a written statement. ”Maintaining the trust of our customers is our highest priority. We deeply regret that these incidents occurred and are fully committed to making things right for those affected.”

kenton county briefs The statement indicates that any affected customers have been reimbursed and that the bank has cooperated with law enforcement officials on the investigation. Reagan apparently left the bank on the last day of 2024; court documents state she resigned.

The bank declined to comment further when contacted.

Reagan was first hired on as a bank teller in 2015. She famously secured a spot on the Bromley City Council by just one vote in 2020. She was reelected in 2022 and became a bank manager in 2023, a new role that granted her access to the back ends of customer accounts and information therein.

In “over 100 unauthorized transactions,” according to court documents, Reagan squirreled money out of customer accounts in three primary ways. The first was by simply moving cash out of accounts and into accounts belonging either to her or her family members.

The second way was by removing cash from customer accounts and then forging withdrawal slips to make it seem like customers had removed the money themselves.

Finally, she would stop payment on escrow refund checks, “issuing new checks in a reduced amount, and depositing the difference to other victims’ accounts to reimburse them for previous unauthorized withdrawals,” according to court documents, essentially moving money around

between accounts in an effort to cover her tracks. Reagan allegedly used multiple bank teller ID numbers to pull this off.

stituted a new set of internal controls to prevent incidents like this from happening again, although it was slim on the details.

Complete names of the alleged victims are not listed in the court documents. Instead, they’re identified with initials. Six distinct initial combinations appear in the filings, corresponding to $21,000 worth of transactions. The total amount allegedly taken over the aforementioned 100 transactions is not elicited in the documents.

”We understand the trust our customers place in us,” Berry said. “That trust is our highest priority. We are taking every step necessary to prevent this from ever happening again.”

These alleged crimes have landed France with charges of violating a variety of feder-

Piner Elementary 3rd grader wins Spear Ridge Café’s Design a Burger contest

Charges were grouped into three clusters.

If found guilty of first the two, France could get up to 30 years in prison for each (plus more years of supervised release), as well $1 million in fines. The third could net her two more years in prison.

France’s attorney was not immediately available to comment, but we will update this story if she responds to our inquiry.

The bank’s statement indicates it has in-

Hazel created a beef smashburger topped with lettuce, cheese, creamy mac and cheese, pulled pork, BBQ sauce and a pickle, which she dubbed the “Hazel Burger.”

“We loved seeing the creativity from these kids,” said Timmy Crofford, President of Spear Ridge Café. “Hazel’s burger is a little unexpected, but it’s exactly the kind of fun idea we were looking for. We can’t wait to get her in the kitchen to see it made for the first time.”

al laws, including ones against bank fraud, embezzlement and using identification documents to make illegal transfers.

Additionally, if found guilty, France may have to pay restitution and be forced to forfeit any property to recoup the money she allegedly stole from the bank customers.

The contest, which was launched in March, received thousands of submissions. The contest was specifically for students across Boone and Kenton counties, who were tasked with submitting their own custom burgers. After the final votes were counted, Hazel, a third grader from Piner Elementary, was named the winner.

For her winning design, Hazel will receive free burgers for a year. Her namesake creation was featured on the menu for a limited one-week run from March 23 to 29 at Spear Ridge Café locations in Independence and Florence.

Local third grader Hazel won the Spear Ridge Café’s “Design a Burger” contest. Photo provided | Spear Ridge Café

A local third grader at Piner Elementary School won the inaugural Spear Ridge Café “Design a Burger” contest.

The Spear Ridge Café is a locally owned restaurant concept from the One Holland Restaurant Group. The café has locations in Florence at 7301 Industrial Road and in Independence at 11990 Mitch Drive, where it is part of a larger development that features a general store and gas station called the Downs of Nicholson.

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APRIL 3, 2026 9

Ohio THC beverage law drives brands to Kentucky

By Kenton Hornbeck

E

stazzi co-founder Ryan Horan stood in a dimly lit warehouse, his eyes fixed on several pallets stacked with around $150,000 worth of THC-infused beverages.

“I’m standing in our warehouse right now watching my partner prepare our entire inventory to ship out of state,” Horan told LINK nky.

The plan? To move as much inventory as he could from Ohio into Kentucky.

Horan was preparing for March 20, when THC-infused drinks were officially removed from shelves at retailers in Ohio, including bars, breweries, grocery stores, gas stations and convenience stores, as enforcement of Ohio Senate Bill 56 took effect.

Since launching in March 2025, Horan said the brand has experienced tremendous growth, expanding into roughly 250 accounts throughout Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky. Following that, Estazzi inked a contract with Heidelberg, a major alcoholic beverage wholesaler in Ohio and Kentucky, to distribute his product. With the agreement in place, Horan said Estazzi was well positioned for expansion.

Then, the rug was pulled out from underneath him.

“Heidelberg really intended to do this thing right,” Horan said. “They were approxi-

mately four selling days into the (hemp-derived THC beverages) category in Ohio before (Gov. Mike) DeWine announced in October his intention to ban the category.”

Last December, Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine signed Senate Bill 56, which officially updated the regulatory framework for legal “In my opinion, moving it to dispensaries in cannabis and intoxicating hemp. Ohio law- the state of Ohio is the equivalent of banmakers crafted the legislation to address ning it outright. It’s not the same consumconcerns about unregulated hemp-de- er,” he said. “The person that’s going to a rived THC, particularly high-potency prod- dispensary is not the person that’s buying ucts like gummies and vapes sold at conve- these THC beverages.” nience stores and other loosely regulated venues. The legisla‘I think that Dispensaries function as contion also governs hemp-derived it’s capricious, trolled retail environments that THC beverages. follow strict security procedures.

I think that it’s Due to this, coupled with limited Initially, the legislation targeted unfair, and I floor space, dispensaries typhigh-potency items but permit- think that it’s ically have slower transaction ted lower-dose THC beverages, times compared to gas stations typically under five milligrams. unpredictable’ or liquor stores. Dispensaries However, DeWine used a linealso tend to attract a different -Ryan Horan item veto to eliminate important kind of consumer compared to provisions that would have permitted the traditional alcohol retailers, as customers beverages to remain available in standard typically visit less frequently, but purchase retail stores. larger quantities, Dennison said.

Under the new law, any intoxicating THC product, including THC-infused beverages, may only be sold through state-licensed cannabis dispensaries.

Nationally, legal sales of THC-infused beverages surpassed $1 billion in 2024, while alcohol consumption is declining, with only 54% of Americans claiming to drink alcohol on occasion — a 90-year low, according to a 2025 Gallup poll. This trend has led several notable Cincinnati-area breweries, such as Rhinegeist and Fifty West, to develop their own THC-infused beverage lines.

For emerging brands like Estazzi, the legislation has essentially disrupted their growth trajectory. Entrepreneurs like Horan are feeling the brunt of the stress created by the situation.

Sunflower THC Seltzer. Photo provided | Fifty West Brewing Co.

Micah Dennison, the general manager of Party Source in Bellevue, said that limiting THC-infused beverage sales to state-licensed dispensaries in Ohio reduces sales volume, as dispensaries are not generally suited for high-volume transactions.

“It’s awful,” Horan said. “The highs and lows of running any business have been replaced with just a series of body blows that the state is deciding to deliver on this category, and I think that it’s capricious, I think that it’s unfair, and I think that it’s unpredictable.”

Some THC-beverage producers in Cincinnati are seeing Kentucky as a viable alternative market. Since liquor stores and beverage distributors must remove these products to comply with the new law, they face a choice: move their inventory to Kentucky before the deadline or destroy it.

“They’re definitely trying to move more of this product over into Kentucky just to make sure it doesn’t have to get dumped,” Dennison said.

Kentucky’s THC-infused beverage market may stand to benefit from Ohio’s new law since the Bluegrass State’s regulations are considered more favorable to retailers.

Currently, Dennison said that THC-infused beverages are a small but growing sales category at Party Source, making up roughly 2.5 to 3.5% of total sales.

In early 2025, Kentucky lawmakers introduced Senate Bill 202, which would have effectively banned all hemp-derived THC beverages from the market. However, after facing pushback from the hemp industry and businesses, lawmakers moved away

Estazzi boxes sitting in a warehouse. Photo provided | Ryan Horan

from an outright ban and instead focused on implementing market-regulating restrictions.

The regulations capped the amount of THC per serving to five milligrams per serving, restricted sales to people aged 21 and older, and required beverages to be sold only through licensed package liquor stores instead of bars or general retail outlets.

“One thing I will say is that Kentucky, in a lot of ways — maybe up front, they didn’t — but in the end, I feel like they got a lot of things right,” Dennison said. “They curbed the risk of these products being available to anyone. They set up some good standards to make sure that the products themselves are safe.”

Moving forward, Horan expressed his faith in the THC-infused beverage industry, telling LINK nky that his product is more than a novelty.

“I love the fact that we have a product that appeals across the spectrum of consumers,” he said. “Those are the voices that I think the state (Ohio) is failing to listen to.”

In the coming week, Horan said he is traveling to Washington, D.C., to meet with members of Congress to discuss the industry and, hopefully, carve out a viable path forward.

WE START

WITH YOU.

Florence • Fort Mitchell • Crestview Hills • Union

Member FDIC

10 APRIL 3, 2026

CASE NUMBER 25-CI-00650

CASE NUMBER 19-CI-00918

DIVISION 2

DIVISION 1

CARRINGTON MORTGAGE SERVICES, LLC

DEUTSCHE BANK NATIONAL TRUST COMPANY, AS TRUSTEE

VS.

VS.

NANCY A. SMITH, ET AL.

MAE MAYES AKA MAY MAYES, ET AL.

BY VIRTUE OF A JUDGMENT RENDERED 3/16/2026 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 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.

To the highest or best bidder at public auction on 4/14/2026 at 3:00pm, the following property, to-wit:

To the highest or best bidder at public auction on 4/14/2026 at 3:00pm, the following property, to-wit:

114 Rossford Avenue, Fort Thomas, Kentucky 41075 Group No: 41639/K2

COMMISSIONER’S SALE

PIDN: 999-99-13-451.00

CAMPBELL COUNTY CIRCUIT COURT

700 Smith Hiteman Road, Alexandria, Kentucky 41001 Group No: 70123/Z PIDN: 999-99-30-652.00

CASE NUMBER 25-CI-00411

CASE NUMBER 25-CI-01158

CASE NUMBER 25-CI-00603

DIVISION 2

DIVISION 2

DIVISION 2

WILMINGTON SAVINGS FUND SOCIETY, FSB, NOT IN ITS INDIVIDUAL CAPACITY BUT SOLELY AS OWNER TRUSTEE OF THE ASPEN INCOME TRUST, A DELAWARE STATUTORY TRUST

THE CITY OF NEWPORT, KENTUCKY

LAKEVIEW LOAN SERVICING, LLC

VS.

VS.

NOLAN RECHTIN, ET AL.

RUSTY DIETZ, ET AL.

BY VIRTUE OF A JUDGMENT RENDERED 3/16/2026 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 2/27/2026

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.

VS. KENNETH M. ROGG, 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. To the highest or best bidder at public auction on 4/14/2026 at 3:00pm, the following property, to-wit: 126 4th Avenue, Dayton, Kentucky 41074 Group No: 30288/A2

To the highest or best bidder at public auction on 4/14/2026 at 3:00pm, the following property, to-wit: 904 Columbia Street, Newport, Kentucky 41071 Group No: 30178/A3 & 30178/A4 PIDN: 999-99-00-716.00

To the highest or best bidder at public auction on 4/14/2026 at 3:00pm, the following property, to-wit: 45 17th Street, Newport, Kentucky 41071 Group No: 30472/A1 PIDN: 999-99-03-304.00

PIDN: 999-99-09-878.00

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

APRIL 3, 2026 11

sports Three NKY girls basketball coaching jobs open Cooper, Dayton and St. Henry will be looking for girls basketball coaches for the 2026-27 season.

Cooper’s Christian Prohaska, Dayton’s Laura Hall and St. Henry’s Dan Trame have all resigned from their positions recently.

Prohaska steps down after one season with the team, guiding the Lady Jaguars to a 20-9 record and a constant in the top 10 of the state polls throughout the year. Next season, Cooper will have its third coach in three years after Justin Holthaus moved over to the boys program after the 2024-25 season.

Entering the season with high hopes and in search of a fifth straight region title, Cooper’s season came to a crashing halt after a 39-point loss to Ryle in the 33rd District championship and then were upset by Highlands in the first round of the region tournament.

Prohaska, a Boone County alum, came in after spending 13 years in the college ranks as an assistant. Her Division I coaching experience came with stops at Xavier, Seton Hall, Kentucky, Bucknell and Morehead State, primarily as an assistant and recruiting coordinator.

The school is in the process of getting the head coach opening posted. Those inter-

ested will need to apply through the Boone County schools website and send resumes to Athletic Director Randy Borchers at randy.borchers@boone.kyschools.us.

With more than three decades shaping young athletes behind her, Laura Hall is stepping down as girls basketball coach at Dayton High School.

Hall, a 1986 Dayton graduate, ends her two-year run as head coach with an 18-25 record. It’s the program’s strongest twoyear stretch since 2018-20. Her departure marks a transition in a 33-year coaching career that began at the middle school level. That’s where she built a résumé of Northern Kentucky Middle School Athletic Association championships, multiple undefeated seasons and a reputation for consistency and care.

Hall took over the varsity program in 2024 after 31 years of coaching. Most of it was at the middle school level. She replaced Dave Hinton, who led the Greendevils for three seasons. At the time of her hiring, Dayton was coming off an 8-21 campaign. The Greendevils had not posted a winning season since 2018-19.

Hall’s departure sends Dayton back into a familiar cycle of transition. The next hire will be the school’s 11th girls basketball coach this century. The longest-serving in that span was Troy Clifton, who led the program for five seasons from 2008-09 through 2012-13.

After two seasons with the girls basketball program at St. Henry, Dan Trame has resigned as head coach of the program.

Trame led the Crusaders to a 31-30 record in his two seasons, most notably ending an 18-game losing streak to Dixie Heights with a win over the Colonels in the regular season this past season. Trame led St. Henry to back-to-back runner-up finishes in the 34th District tournament and trips to the 9th Region tournament both seasons.

Trame has tallied 339 wins in his coaching career as a varsity coach in boys and girls basketball. Prior to being the head coach, he was an assistant with the St. Henry girls under Todd Smart and took over for him after Smart resigned in 2024. He served as a boys head coach for 18 years at St. Henry, Simon Kenton, Holy Cross and Walton-Verona. He led the Pioneers to a region championship in 1995.

The next coach of the program should inherit a team with a lot of returnees. Kelcey Bollman and Ellise Armbruster were the only seniors on the team this past season that went 17-13. They hit their stride around Christmas time when they won the Mercer County Tourism Clash and defeated Ursula Academy in the Crosstown Catholic Challenge for a fifth straight victory and an 8-2 start to the season. The win over Dixie Heights came on Jan. 16 to improve them to 11-4, but went 6-9 after that.

St. Henry last won a 34th District championship in 2014 and the last All “A” 9th re-

THE WEEKLY COMIC

gion crown came in 1996. The Crusaders last 9th Region Tournament win came in 2012, when they won four straight region quarterfinal games from 2009-12.

Anyone interested in the varsity girls basketball job at St. Henry should contact Athletic Director Jim Demler at jdemler@ shdhs.org.

Lorenzen, Queen make college commitments

Highlands High School’s Tayden Lorenzen (22) has committed to Miami University. Photo provided | Charles Bolton

Beechwood High School junior quarterback Emmett Queen made a verbal commitment to Wake Forest University. Photo provided | Charles Bolton

Highlands football star Tayden Lorenzen announced March 20 his verbal commitment to Miami University.

by Andrew Buchanan

Cooper High School girls basketball coach Christian Prohaska has resigned after one season with the team. Photo provided | Charles Bolton

Lorenzen, the son of the former NFL quarterback and 1999 Highlands graduate Jared Lorenzen, is the second reported verbal commitment to the RedHawks in the 2027 class, according to 247 Sports. Elder quarterback Kaden Estep is also verbally committed to the Mid-American Conference program.

Highlands had a 10-3 record in 2025 and was a Class 4A state quarterfinalist. Lorenzen rushed for 541 yards and 18 touchdowns. He had 26 receptions for 321 yards and four touchdowns.

Dayton High School head girls basketball coach Laura Hall, shown here gesturing to her team, has stepped down after two seasons. Photo provided | Dayton High School

Jared, a Super Bowl champion with the 2007 New York Giants, was a former University of Kentucky star who helped to lead Highlands the 1998 Class 3A state title.

Jared, a Kentucky Mr. Football recipient at Highlands, died in 2019 at the age of 38.

Beechwood 2027 quarterback Emmett Queen announced March 23 he has verbally committed to play football at Wake Forest University.

Dan Trame has stepped down as St. Henry District High School girls basketball coach after two seasons at the helm. Photo provided | Charles Bolton

12 APRIL 3, 2026

Queen, who is 6-foot-4 and 220 pounds, committed to Wake Forest after visiting the campus March 21 and 22.

Queen was 150-of-210 passing for 2,710

sports yards and 39 touchdowns with only two interceptions in 2025 for the Tigers (11-2) in 2025, who were a Class 2A state semifinalist. He also had six rushing touchdowns.

HIGHLANDS HIGH SCHOOL SWIM AND DIVE

He transferred to Beechwood in January 2025 from Covington Catholic. In just seven months, he was voted a captain as a junior.

Queen has a 4.3 grade-point average and earned a 33 on his ACT. Sponsored by

NKFCA to host combine in May The Northern Kentucky Football Coaches Association is giving rising seniors an opportunity for some exposure as they head into their final high school season.

It will host a spring combine on May 19 at Dixie Heights High School. All 22 NKY schools will have an opportunity to be represented.

The NKFCA will be hosting a combine on May 19 at Dixie Heights High School. Graphic provided

It’s an invite-only combine with a cost of $25 to attend. For anyone interested, contact Patrick Burke at Patrick.burke@kenton.kyschools.us.

The Highlands High School swim and dive team won the combined team state title. Photo provided | Charles Bolton

DIVISION I

DIVISION I CASE NO.: 23-CI-01414

CASE NO.: 25-CI-02267

FREEDOM MORTGAGE CORPORATION

U.S. BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION

VERSUS}

VERSUS}

ROBERT G. WERMELING, IV, ET AL.

BRENDA BAKER (NOW DECEASED), ET AL.

By virtue of a judgment and order of sale of the Boone Circuit Court rendered FEBRUARY 6, 2024 the above case, I shall proceed to offer for sale at the Justice Center Building in Burlington, Kentucky, to the highest bidder, at public auction on THURSDAY, APRIL 16, 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 MARCH 3, 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, APRIL 16, 2026 at the hour of 9:00 a.m. or thereabouts, the following described property to-wit:

ADDRESS: 7775 CEDAR WOOD CIRCLE, FLORENCE, KENTUCKY 41042 PVA PROPERTY IDENTIFICATION NUMBER: 073.00-04-075.00 AMOUNT OF JUDGMENT: $144,180.22 GROUP NO.: 1206

DIVISION III CASE NO.: 25-CI-01585 TRIPLE CROWN HOMEOWNER’S ASSOCIATION, INC. VERSUS} NARINDER DABHIA, ET AL. 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, APRIL 16, 2026 at the hour of 9:00 a.m. or thereabouts, the following described property to-wit: ADDRESS: 1051 SPECTACULAR BID DRIVE, UNION, KENTUCKY 41091 PVA PROPERTY IDENTIFICATION NUMBER: 064.04-07-331.00 AMOUNT OF JUDGMENT: $9,955.46 GROUP NO.: 4428 THIS SALE IS SUBJECT TO THE MORTGAGE OF PNC MORTGAGE, A DIVISION OF PNC BANK, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, RECORDED ON NOVEMBER 2, 2012, IN MORTGAGE BOOK M 3642, PAGE 699, OF THE BOONE COUNTY CLERK’S OFFICE. THE TOTAL AMOUNT OWED TO PNC MORTGAGE, A DIVISION OF PNC BANK, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, THROUGH APRIL 1, 2026, IS THE PRINCIPAL SUM OF $229,720.22, MORE OR LESS, PLUS INTEREST AND OTHER CHARGES ALLOWED BY THE MORTGAGE AND THE PROMISSORY NOTE IT SECURES, AND KENTUCKY LAW.

COMMISSIONER’S SALE BOONE COUNTY CIRCUIT COURT

ADDRESS: 18 LYNN STREET, FLORENCE, KENTUCKY 41042 PVA PROPERTY IDENTIFICATION NUMBER: 061.10-26-026.00

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.

AMOUNT OF JUDGMENT: $105,172.36 GROUP NO.: 263

DIVISION III CASE NO.: 25-CI-00696 ROBIN NECESSARY VERSUS} THE HEIRS AT LAW, DEVISEES, AND BENEFICIARIES OF THE ESTATE OF FRANCES D. WHITE 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, APRIL 16, 2026 at the hour of 9:00 a.m. or thereabouts, the following described property to-wit: ADDRESS: 1930 BLK GUN CLUB ROAD, VERONA, KENTUCKY 41092 PVA PROPERTY IDENTIFICATION NUMBER: 069.00-00-009.06 AMOUNT OF JUDGMENT: $3,735.58 GROUP NO.: 2089

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.

APRIL 3, 2026 13

real estate

Nine bedrooms and a stone fireplace Address: 114 W. Maple Ave., Fort Mitchell Price: $1.89 million Bedrooms: Nine Bathrooms: Seven (plus two half baths) Square footage: 9,152 School district: Beechwood Independent School District County: Kenton Special features: This expansive Fort Mitchell estate offers more than 9,000 square feet of living space across four finished levels, featuring a grand two-story foyer, multiple fireplaces and a gourmet kitchen with a breakfast bar and nook designed for entertaining. The home includes a luxurious primary suite with a fireplace and walk-in closets, a lower level with a media room, bar and walkout access and a detached carriage house with its own kitchenette and living space, providing flexibility for guests or extended stays.

The exterior of this Fort Mitchell home. Photos provided | Susan Huff, Huff Realty - Florence

The massive kitchen inside this Fort Mitchell home.

The home has a stone fireplace outdoors.

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 Notice is hereby given that the City of Cold Spring Board of Adjustment will hold a public hearing on Monday, April 13, 2026 at 5:30PM at the Cold Spring City Building, 5694 E. Alexandria Pike Cold Spring, KY 41076 for a hearing on whether Section 9.10 of the Cold Spring Zoning Ordinance allows for the rebuilding of a non-confirming structure (gas canopy) at 3906 Alexandria Pike Cold Spring, KY 41076. Interested persons may attend the meeting, and/or submit their comments in advance to the city clerk at robin.m@coldspringky.gov by 12:00PM on April 13, 2026.

CAMPBELL COUNTY

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

14 APRIL 3, 2026

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SUDOKU

The Weekly Edited

by MargieCrossword E. Burke

Difficulty: Medium

5

1

7 3 8 6

6 9 2 8

4

26/26 - 2/1/26

3 6

7

9 3 9 4 1 8 2 9 5 9 8

Copyright 2026

by The Puzzle Syndicate E. Burke Edited

by Margie

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:

4 3 5 8

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

by Margie E. Burke

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 ACROSS 1 Comedy routine HOW TO SOLVE: 15 16 14 5 Grouchy Muppet Each row must contain the 19 17 18 10 Greenish-blue numbers 1 to 9; each column must 14 Colombian crop 1 to 9; and contain the numbers 21 22 20 15 Woodworking each set of 3 by 3 boxes must 23 24 25 tool the numbers 1 to 9. contain 16 Stare flirtatiously 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 17Answer Out oftothe blue Sudoku: Previous 19 Romances 34 35 33 5 204Jon2Hamm 6 1 9 367 3 8 37 38 39 3 216series 8 7 4 2 9 5 1 Adds to, in a 45 40 41 42 43 44 9 1way7 5 8 3 464 6 2 47 48 Rush order?

6 23 2 5 1 7 4 8 9 3 25 Far from wordy 49 50 51 dwellings 7 269Crude 1 3 5 8 6 2 4 52 53 54 55 56 57 58 FBI folks 4 30 8 3 2 9 6 5 1 7 33 Young billy 60 61 59 1 345Branch 9 4of 3 7 2 8 6 63 64 62 8 367dentistry 6 9 2 1 3 4 5 One to worship 66 67 2 383Ewe's 4 mate 8 6 5 651 7 9 39 Smoker's puff Copyright 2026 by The Puzzle Syndicate 40 Dependability 45 One of the 6 Utah airport 35 Strikes 52 Prima donna Gershwins initials 37 Set free 53 Tree of life 46 Stereo knob 7 "Black Bag" 41 Downwind locale 47 Ancient Italian actress 42 Canopy support 54 Newbie 49 Bird feeder fill 8 With regard to 43 Ancient Greek 56 Child's challenge 51 Turbaned 9 Lucille Ball, e.g. ship 57 Say it ___ so Punjabi 10 Charlie ____ of 44 Territory of NW 58 Barely gets by 52 In bad shape "Charlie's Canada 61 Director Van 55 Band tour toter Angels" 48 Humiliates Sant 59 What comes to 11 Self-absorbed 50 Extra sense mind 12 Tissue additive Answers to Previous Crossword: 60 Breathing aid 13 More or ___ H I S S F A K E S A P S E 62 Let off steam 18 Marinara E D I C T R E E L A K I N 63 Pull strings? alternative L E G I S L A T O R I T E M 64 Sea eagle 22 Jason's ship L E S S E N S S A N C H O 65 A chip, maybe 24 Dish in a lab K I N G F I S H E R 66 That and that 26 Hula or hoop J A N E E Y R E S E N S E S 67 Places for props follower E R R E D B E E U S E R S 27 Playground H E R E S S U R E I L E S DOWN quarry C A R A I K E N A C R I D 1 Pond crud 28 Young person E N D I N G L E A K A G E S 2 Hawaiian coffee 29 Kind of oil O N T H E L E V E L 3 Tended to a 31 Bejeweled S A W M I L L E R L A N G sprain headwear I M P E R S O N A L A R E A 4 IRS worker 32 "Cosmos" F E E L S P E S O G A L T 5 Alfresco creator E R N I E S W A P A B L E

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