NEWS ROUND-UP -- WEDNESDAY MORNING 29 AUGUST

THE RIVER CITY NEWS MORE COVINGTON NEWS THAN ANY OTHER SOURCE

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FACEBOOK: The River City News

@theRCnews on Twitter  

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by Michael Monks 

Email Michael

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SCHOOLS HOST FOCUS GROUP ON DRUG TESTING STUDENTS WEDNESDAY

If you wish to weigh in on the current debate at Covington Independent Public Schools, consider attending this focus group about the possibility of drug-testing the district's students:

Many schools have random student drug testing programs in place. These programs randomly test students who participate in extracurricular activities such as sports and clubs, as well as students who drive to school. Court decisions have upheld the test of these categories of students. The purpose of the program is to serve as a detterent. The Covington Board of Education is currently exploring the possibility of implementing a program for students in grades 6-12. The district also is hosting a focus group meeting from 5-7 p.m. Wednesday, August 29, to hear from students, parents and the community regarding a student drug testing program. The meeting will be in the Holmes High School Cafe'. We value your opinion. Please take a few moments to answer the following questions. Thank you for your participation.

There is an online survey to take at the link: Click Here 
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GOVERNOR REORGANIZES TECH, CAREER SCHOOLS
Governor Steve Beshear signed an executive order Tuesday that would move technical and career education under the same umbrella at the middle and high school level:

Currently, local high schools can operate career and technical programs using local and state funds. Those programs report to the Kentucky Department of Education. The state also has 53 technical centers for 123 school districts that are paid for with state funds. That career and technical program reports to the Department for Workforce Investment. The executive order moves both systems to the Kentucky Department of Education.

Full story: Herald-Leader/Beth Musgrave
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IF SCHOOLS KILL CREATIVITY, CAN TOYS BRING IT BACK TO LIFE?
Computers save the day:

In an education world obsessed with curriculum standards and high-stakes testing, students are funneled onto particular tracks, rather than being allowed to choose their own adventures and explore their passions (a phenomenon that education expert Sir Ken Robinson says is killing creativity) But if the contemporary education model discourages kids' curiosity and creativity, a new generation of companies are finding ways to emulate Lego and encourage those traits through play.

Full story: GOOD 
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JOHN G. CARLISLE SCHOOL PTA HOSTS GRILL-OUT
From Covington Independent Public Schools:

Nearly 100 parents, students, staff and community members attended John G. Carlisle's Cubs Council PTA kickoff on Tuesday. Organizers were thrilled with the turnout. But its not too late to become a member of the PTA. Cubs Council meetings will be held the fourth Tuesday of every month at 6 p.m., usually in the school cafeteria.

The officers include President, Sande Shepherd; Secretary/Treasurer, Kerry McHugh; Vice President/Organization and Communications, Kerry Holleran; Vice President/Membership,Francisco Pabon; Vice President/Activities, Shana Lack; Vice President/Fundraising, Christi Blair.

More photos: Facebook 
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DON'T MISS TUESDAY EVENING'S NEWS!
Lawsuit hopes to force election for vacant Covington School Board seat; Workers inside an historic Kentucky building discover the remnants of an old sex club; Plus, it's time for another installment of "What is Covington Selling on Craigslist?"

Full story: The RC News: Tuesday Evening Round-Up |
QUICKIES
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Democratic state senate candidate Jim Noll says he has been endorsed by former Congressman Ken Lucas Facebook 
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State Police: Human remains belong to woman who was scalped WBKO 
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KY Court weights $24 million gas royalty verdict CBS 
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Speaking of gas... how much did you pay this morning?

$3.95 at Liberty Tobacco & Beer on Fifth Street

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KY Appeals Court to decide immigration case AP 
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Man flies from England to KY to meet underage girl WKYT 
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Cincinnati threatens Duke Energy over streetcar costs Cincinnati Enquirer 
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Former Republican US Senator from Kentucky disappointed with GOP's shift to the right cn|2 
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Sons tell KY delegation about growing up Romney cn|2 
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Lexington city council poised to ban aerial fireworks Herald-Leader 
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A BUSY NIGHT IN DOWNTOWN COVINGTON
Rapper Machine Gun Kelly drew a big crowd to the Madison Theater in Covington...

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PROGRESS CONTINUES ON COVINGTON LIBRARY EXPANSION

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DONNA SALYERS FABULOUS FURS FALL FASHION PREVIEW TONIGHT

A fashion show tonight in Downtown Covington...

More details: Click Here 

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GLBT MAGAZINE FEATURES MAINSTRASSE VILLAGE'S PAWRADE

Check out this great photo from the publishers of CNKY Scene:

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LEADING THE WAY ON A 21ST CENTURY WATERFRONT

Something to learn from for Covington?

"Most of all, there’s a growing awareness that the great waterfronts are the ones where there’s a lot of activity in the water itself," says Stan Eckstut, EE&K's senior principal. He points to Baltimore and Sydney, where revitalization schemes didn’t end at land but extended into the water and its uses, making for busier ports with more services and more amenities.

Waterfronts attached to urban cities have evolved too far from their historic character, Eckstut says. As a result of new ideas about zoning as well as trends specific to the maritime industry, such as containerization, some urban waterfronts have fallen into disuse. But not all waterfronts need to be harbors to be successful. And certainly not all waterfronts need to be parks.

Full story with lots of great photos: The Atlantic Cities 

NEWS ROUND-UP -- MONDAY EVENING 27 AUGUST

THE RIVER CITY NEWS MORE COVINGTON NEWS THAN ANY OTHER SOURCE

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FACEBOOK: The River City News

@theRCnews on Twitter  

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by Michael Monks 

Email Michael

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L&L DRY CLEANERS BUILDING DEMOLISHED

Following Sunday's devastating fire, the L&L Dry Cleaners building where the Landrum family had operated its business since 1947, was demolished. Yesterday, code enforcement officials decided it would be best to take the building down since its structural integrity had been so badly compromised. Calling the building "unstable", acting Covington Fire Chief Dan Mathew said that any investigation would be difficult because of the severity of the damage. "It's not safe enough to truly discover where the fire started and it's not worth risking a life for," Mathew said. Though Covington Police were first on the scene responding to an intrusion alarm, Mathew believes that alarm sounded because the flames had cause windows to burst. Firefighters are still working on their individual reports about the fire.

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RELATED: Traffic is moving again on this stretch of Twelfth Street. Also, while taking these photos, I ran into WKRC reporter Joe Webb who was on the scene for a live shot and he told me that owner Paul "Butch" Landrum was able to salvage the business's sign and that if insurance allows for it he will reopen his business in a newly constructed building at this site. For Joe Webb's report: WKRC

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You can find links to the original story about the L&L Dry Cleaners fire as well as 100 photos from the several-hour fire battle in the Monday Morning Round-Up below.

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DON'T MISS MONDAY MORNING'S NEWS

Readers share their photos from Sunday's devastating fire at L&L Dry Cleaners; Sen. Paul says we could learn from Canada on how to get a new bridge faster; Plus, why the NKY tea party has turned its focus toward the Covington School Board.

The RC News: Monday Morning Round-Up

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QUICKIES

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State Senator Damon Thayer (R) criticized by Democratic state representative for outburst from audience member that suggested President Obama was born in Kenya cn|2 

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Sen. Rand Paul implies that President Obama would rather support the South African Constitution LEO Weekly 

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Kentuckian will announce state delegate totals at Republican National Convention WFPL 

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Gov. Beshear is in Newport Monday night for State Rep. Dennis Keene fundraiser Facebook 

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Judge stops ex-Toyota worker from leaving country Herald-Leader 

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Gov. Beshear orders flags at state buildings at half staff for fallen Ft. Campbell soldier press release 

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Company to expand in Kenton County Business Courier 

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Restaurateur Jeff Ruby to announce reward in Stacy Peterson disappearance Cincinnati Enquirer   

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5 die on Kentucky roadways last week KSP 

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First Lady Jane Beshear, Agriculture Commissioner James Comer launch Ready, Set, Grow initiative press release 

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George Clooney aids President Obama with fundraiser in Geneva WKYT 

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NKY FAMILIES FEEL EFFECT OF HEROIN THROUGH LOSS OF LOVED ONES

Heroin is a drug that affects more than its users:

“He borrowed my car and left to go out with a friend,” Goetz said. “He said ‘I love you mom, I’ll be back later.’” But, Dietz never came back. The 30-year-old was found dead in a parking lot in his mother’s car a few days later after overdosing on heroin.
Bill Mark, director of the Northern Kentucky Drug Strike Force, said that heroin accounts for 63 percent of arrests in Northern Kentucky, with the region leading the state in heroin-related arrests.

Full story: Cincinnati Enquirer/Amanda Joering 
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Kenton County Commonwealth's Attorney Rob Sanders weighed in on this very issue in Monday morning's mugshot round-up. 
Commonwealth's Attorney Rob Sanders calls heroin a plague and says many other crimes in our area are caused by addicts looking for drug money. An interview with Sanders, as well as your weekly mugshot round-up -- at the link.

Full story: Convicted: Mugshot Round-Up 

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CHARGES OF RACISM AT LOUISVILLE ATTRACTION SPARK DISCUSSION

Louisville's Fourth Street Live is one of that city's highlights, but allegations of discrimination there have led activists to plan a forum:

Community activist Theresa Boyd says residents need to address this long-standing issue locally now. “This issue of racial inequality or discrimination at Fourth Street is not a new issue. It’s an issue that’s always been there and seemingly continues to be there," said Boyd.
Boyd and her activist group Connected Voices organized Tuesday’s forum. She says the purpose is to give the community a chance to voice any frustrations minorities and others may have had with Fourth Street Live.

Full story: WFPL 
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DANGEROUS INTERSECTION COULD BE IMPROVED SOON
More roadwork coming to the South Covington/Taylor Mill/Independence area:

Improvements may be coming soon to the intersection of Fowler Creek and Senour Road. According to Nancy Wood, spokesperson for the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet District 6, which oversees state roadways, an upcoming meeting between local and state transportation employees could result in funding for improvements.

Full story: Cincinnati Enquirer/Amy Scalf 
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PRINCE OF PEACE SCHOOLS SWITCHES TO ALL-MONTESSORI
The Catholic School on Pike Street is going all-in with its Montessori education efforts:

Prince of Peace began as a traditional school for grades 1-8 in 1986. It added its first Montessori classroom for children ages 6-9 in 1999, and had Montessori at all grade levels by 2005. Due to budget constraints and the success of the Montessori program, the school started to phase out the traditional side a couple of years ago.

Full story: Cincinnati Enquirer/William Croyle
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HOLMES BAND PUBLISHES YOUTUBE "WEBISODE"
Check it out:

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RENAISSANCE COVINGTON HONORS LONGTIME PRESIDENT

From Renaissance Covington:

Last Thursday August 23, 2012, proclaimed Barney Stengle Day in the City of Covington, the Board of Renaissance Covington said thank you to Barney as he termed out after 3 years as President and 6 years on the Board. Barney has been a terrific leader and will be greatly missed!

NEWS ROUND-UP -- FRIDAY 24 AUGUST

THE RIVER CITY NEWS MORE COVINGTON NEWS THAN ANY OTHER SOURCE

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FACEBOOK: The River City News

@theRCnews on Twitter  

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by Michael Monks 

Email Michael

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COVINGTON PHILANTHROPIST OAKLEY FARRIS WEIGHS IN ON SCHOOLS

Oakley Farris, whose contributions to the people of Covington are well documented by several city monuments, posted this message to The River City News Facebook page:

To whom it may concern,I would like to share some more information regarding our education system. We are all now aware that Covington faces difficult challenges when it comes to education. The statistics on poverty and performance speak for themselves on this challenge. Recently we have had some good news as the ACT scores show a small increase in our average composite score to 15.7. Also Harvard University has had some wonderful things to say about the improvements that Kentucky has seen in Public education over the last ten years. I will save the Harvard report for a later date. For now I would like to share my perspective on the good ACT news, because as I have learned in this life, good news can sometimes come with a sales pitch.Our performance on the ACT determines how bright our student’s future is. We have been told that the scores can be poor indicators of student performance because some students are simply not motivated to attend college. But I feel that we should not so easily dismiss those students, for they deserve a chance to succeed on a level playing field. We must not consign them to permanent second class status as a way of explaining a poor showing on the ACT. We cannot allow a good sales pitch for poor performance to confuse the issue.Now our recent improvement to 15.7 is encouraging, but we cannot forget the students behind it. Around three hundred students appear to have entered Holmes High School as freshmen, but only 181 took the test in grade 11 last year. So, already 120 students have fallen out of the system somehow. Those 181 who took the test scored an average of 15.6 last year. However 20 more students dropped out of the class between taking that test and graduation. The 161 who graduated bear the stigma of that 15.6 score even if their individual scores were higher. Do we really want to accept that among those 161 students, who stuck with the system for 12 years, that there were enough who were so uninterested in college that they intentionally did poorly on the test? Or will we admit that there is a possibility they were doing the best they could? We know that 45% of their classmates dropped out in some form since entering high school; presumably they were the least motivated and lowest performing. The 55% who are left must represent the most motivated and best students in Covington. Yet those few students who are left…..just 161 out of a district population of 4000 are still scoring poorly on the ACT….the test which most determines whether they have a future in higher education. Can this really be the result of low motivation?So the question before us is a difficult one. Do we accept, as we are told, that these low scores are the result of low motivation? To do so would mean that we are admitting that we are failing some portion of our students every year. That we have spent 13 years and about $180,000 on each of them without managing to instill in them the most basic of human desires the desire to succeed. Or will we make it our goal to find in each of them the person who wants to succeed who wants the tools they need to go forward in life as a well-rounded individual. And that begs the question, how can it be that they give us 13 years to educate them and in return we give them the lowest average ACT scores in the state as a graduation gift?
Sincerely,Oakley Farris

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DON'T MISS THURSDAY EVENING'S NEWS!
There is yet another update involving the vacant seat on the Covington School Board as the member who originally resigned now wants her seat back; A conviction in the murder of a Covington teenager; Jeff Ruby talks about being kicked out of an Illinois courtroom; An abandoned home in Latonia is causing problems; Plus, has your dog made you mad? Shame him on the internet! Shame him!
Full story: The River City News 
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LOCAL AUTHOR RICK ROBINSON DISCUSSES POLITICAL GAFFES
Rick Robinson, the independent author whose latest book is Writ of Mandamus(which you should buy immediately!) penned a new column this week that touches on the recent "legitimate rape" comment made by a US Senate candidate in Missoure. Robinson compares Rep. Todd Akin (R)'s gaffe to some of the bigger gaffes in history:

But Akin is not the only person to open his political pie-hole and insert his foot. His gaffe, however, does rank as one of the biggest career-ending utterances in modern American political history. Before last Sunday, what were the top 10? 

10.) Edwin Muskie’s snowflake tears: An emotional outburst on a cold and snowy morning ended the presidential bid of Edwin Muskie. The Maine senator was the Democratic front-runner when a New Hampshire newspaper ran two scurrilous editorials, one accusing Muskie’s wife of hard drinking and off-color humor. Muskie held an impromptu press conference on the steps in front of the newspaper’s offices, offering an emotional rebuttal to the attacks. The press said he cried. Muskie’s aides said it was melted snowflakes. Whatever it was, Muskie was done and Sen. George McGovern won the right to face President Richard Nixon in 1972. 

9.) McGovern: “I am 1,000% for Tom Eagleton”: Speaking of George McGovern and the 1972 presidential campaign, when a story broke that his running mate, Sen. Tom Eagleton, had been hospitalized for depression and treated with electro-shock therapy, McGovern said he stood “1,000% for Tom Eagleton.” Eagleton was dumped from the ticket after 18 days and replaced by Sargent Shriver. It was all downhill from there. 

8.) McCain/Palin: It’s hard to imagine that a gaffe-free campaign could have stopped the Obama juggernaut, but the 2008 GOP ticket still had plenty to offer. McCain made the mistake of saying in the middle of the financial collapse that “the fundamentals of our economy are strong.” And Palin looked like a moose-in-the-headlights in her initial television interviews. Her responses regarding the “Bush Doctrine” and reading anything other than the Wasilla Gazette gave way to “Saturday Night Live” skits that, fairly or unfairly, forged her image in the eyes of many voters.

See the rest of the top 10: The Daily Caller 
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SEE ALSO: Robinson had a terrific radio interview on WGN 
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TRUCKIN' BOZO DALE SOMMERS HAS PASSED AWAY AT THE AGE OF 68

Pat Barry, the local TV and radio personality, reported on Facebook that Bruce Dale Sommers, better known to radio listeners as The Truckin' Bozo, passed away this morning. He was 68. You can share your condolences in a Facebook group and learn how to give to charity in his name at the Truckin' Bozo website.

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QUICKIES
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A Kentucky man who has launched a write-in campaign for President wants to see President Obama removed from the ballot here because he claims Obama is not an American WFPL 
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The geography of homes whose mortgages are underwater The Atlantic Cities 
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Gov. Beshear announces expansion, rebranding of state innovation network (there is an office in Covington) press release 
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NKY Community Action Commission rekindles micro-enterprise development Soapbox Cincinnati 
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NKU announces its Six at Six lecture series NKU 
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CHILDREN, INC ANNOUNCES MERGER WITH UNITED WAY AGENCY
From Rick Hulefeld, founder and executive director of Children, Inc:

There are exciting things happening at Children, Inc. The board of Visions Community Services, a United Way agency located in the West End neighborhood of Cincinnati, has voted to become part of Children, Inc. This merger will take effect on January 1st of 2013. It is important to know that in this merger, no one will lose their job and the program of Visions will continue as it has for the foreseeable future. We are excited about this opportunity because the unique strengths of Visions will allow Children, Inc. to explore some new and expanded services for the children and families we currently serve.

This is a union of two respected and collaborative agencies that have the best interests of young children at their core. Our partnership will allow for a broader, deeper impact across our community. The outstanding services that Visions has provided for the past 22 years complement the work of Children, Inc. Together we will provide comprehensive high-quality services for children and families in Greater Cincinnati.

Both agencies share a common history serving inner city children and families as well as teen moms. We are excited to welcome the Visions staff, teachers and administration into the Children, Inc. family and will keep you informed over the coming months as both agencies continue along this path.

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LOUISVILLE GOVERNMENT WEBSITE WINS TOP HONORS
The official website of the City of Louisville won first place at the Center for Digital Government's annual Best of the Web competition:

The Best of the Web awards recognize outstanding government portals and websites based on innovation, functionality and efficiency. Louisville’s website took the top prize for its focus on making city services and government widely available online.
In its 15th year, the Best of the Web awards recognize outstanding government portals and websites based on their innovations, functionality and efficiencies. Louisville has been entered in the awards since 2006. This is the city’s highest finish to date. The website finished 3rd in 2009.

Full story: Louisville.com 
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So what makes Louisville's website so great? See for yourself by clicking here.
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Covington, on the other hand, is in dire need of a new city website. Have you ever played on the Internet Way Back Machine? Click the link below and there will be some calendar dates that you can click on to see how little Covington's website has changed in the past EIGHT years. Plus, it's fun to look at what any website used to look like in the late nineties. Click Here 
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A new website is supposed to be on the way for Covington. There have been hints that a new city website will be forthcoming as part of a new marketing and rebranding effort. Let's hope!
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ARE YOU READY FOR SOME FOOTBALL?
The Holmes Bulldogs welcome the Scott Eagles to campus tonight at 7:00. It's the first game of the season for Holmes while Scott is coming off an easy win over Lewis County. 
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Holy Cross travels to Cooper for an 8:00PM game.
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What are te top 10 NKY high school football games to see this year? NKY Fan 
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15 WELL-KNOWN COMPANIES THAT USED TO SELL SOMETHING ELSE
Famous brands weren't always known for what they're known for now:

1. AvonDavid H. McConnell started Avon in 1886 without really meaning to. McConnell sold books door-to-door, but to lure in female customers he offered little gifts of perfume. Before long, the perfume McConnell was giving away had become more popular than the books he was selling, so he shifted focus and founded the California Perfume Company, which later became Avon.(snip)
15. Abercrombie & FitchWhen David Abercrombie founded the clothing store in 1892 in New York City, he wasn’t dreaming of clothing high school and college students everywhere. The store was originally a sporting goods shop and outfitter; Abercrombie even outfitted Charles Lindbergh for his famous flight across the Atlantic. The version Abercrombie & Fitch you see in your local mall started to come about after Limited Brands bought the company in 1988.

Read more: Mental Floss  

NEWS ROUND-UP -- MONDAY MORNING 13 AUGUST

THE RIVER CITY NEWS MORE COVINGTON NEWS THAN ANY OTHER SOURCE

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FACEBOOK: The River City News

@theRCnews on Twitter  

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by Michael Monks 

Email Michael

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THREE SCHOOL BOARD CANDIDATES TO RUN AS A SLATE

With Tuesday August 14 marking the filing deadline for candidates seeking a spot on the Covington School Board, some declared candidates are already hitting the pavement. Everett Dameron, Tom Miller, and Jo Rogers spent Saturday afternoon campaigning together at a picnic in Helentown, even passing out shared campaign material. Under the slogan, "Destination Education - We Can And Must Do Better", the piece reads: "We support a new direction for Covington Schools: increase the quality of education for all students; reduce administration cost, conserve taxpayer dollars; increase money in the classroom for books and supplies; set goals for students and staff and support achievement; increase communication with parents and the community; establish a strong early childhood education program." The campaign piece says it was paid for by E. Dameron.

Dameron, Miller, and Rogers have all been active in the Facebook group "Fix Covington Schools" which has been active since the spring. Other candidates that have filed or stated their intention to run include Christi Blair, Kerry Holleran, and Rebecca Pettigrew. Incumbent Mike Fitzgerald has also indicated his intent to run again while fellow board members Glenda Huff and Krista Powers have yet to confirm. The rest of the field will be known Tuesday afternoon after the filing deadline passes. Three of five seats on the school board are up for election in November with a fourth seat now vacant following the resignation of Denise Varney whose term, which runs through 2014, will be filled by an appointment approved in Frankfort.

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COVINGTON TEEN'S SUICIDE STORY TO BE FEATURED IN NEW VIDEO

It has been nearly a year since Sam Denham, 13, shot and killed himself inside his family's home. The Woodland Middle School student's parents say young Sam had been tormented by bullies. Now his story is being told by Lexington Fairness:

It was meant to be a collection of stories from the community, said Fairness chairman Craig Cammack. That was in 2008. Over the years, the project grew to include the video and the certification and training of 28 people to carry the message into the community with the hopes of training school staffs, civic leaders, church groups — basically anyone who asks — how to best handle bullying.
As with all non-profit efforts, raising money has been the most difficult task.
The group has raised $19,000, including a $5,000 grant from JustFundKy, a non-profit dedicated to ending discrimination of lesbians, gays, bisexual and transgender people in Kentucky.

Read more here: http://www.kentucky.com/2012/08/11/2295520/fairness-group-produces-video.html#storylink=rss?utm_source=twitterfeed&utm_medium=twitter#storylink=cpy

Full story (with remarks from Denham's parents): Herald-Leader
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Bully victim continues to struggle Herald-Leader 

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KY teens speak out about violence Herald-Leader 

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MIKE FINK FLOATING RESTAURANT TO REOPEN?

After years of serving the Covington riverfront as a popular dining destination, in recent years the Mike Fink has deteriorated into a floating eyesore in the front yard of one of the City's finest neighborhoods. Its presence has been a point of controversy in recent months as many more residents raise their voice, wanting it to go away if it shall remain dormant. However, the old boat may finally be close to reopening. Covington City Commissioner Steve Frank tells The River City News that one of the Bernsteins (the family that owns the Fink and BB Riverboats) told the Covington Rotary Club that the restaurant may reopen. In fact, an update from the Bernstein family is expected to be presented to the Historic Licking Riverside Civic Association next Wednesday, August 22. Stay tuned.

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COVINGTON'S MOST COMPREHENSIVE WEEK IN REVIEW

Don't miss The Sunday Edition! Heated arguments at City Hall, Food Trucks to roll in town again, School Board moves away from raising taxes, a Covington strip mall is full again, this year's most beautified homes are honored... wow, another busy week for news in Covington. The week in review and a look ahead to this week -- at the link.

The River City - The Sunday Edition 

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CONVICTED: MUGSHOT ROUND-UP

Who's going to prison, who got probation, and who's still on the run? Details on all the action inside the Kenton County Courthouse last week -- at the link. 

Full story: The River City News 

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TICKETS SPORTS CAFE TO REOPEN THURSDAY, ACCORDING TO OWNERS

Tickets, the once popular sports bar located in an old Covington firehouse, will be back in business this week. In fact, it was expected to reopen last week but posted this message on its Facebook page:

We have been working very hard to get Tickets up and running for tomorrows games, however, there just has not been enough time to get everything done! We have decided to move the re-grand opening from 08-09-12 to 08-16-12! Tickets will NOT be open for this weekends games. We appologies for any incomvenience this may have caused anyone!

In any case, welcome back, Tickets. 

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ERLANGER CRITICIZED FOR USING 911 FEES TO PAY SALARIES
Interesting:

Erlanger is paying its own employees with about half the money it charges other cities to use the municipality’s 911 emergency dispatch center.
Fort Mitchell council cited that fact as part of the reason it passed a resolution Monday to quit using the Erlanger dispatch center. In July of next year, Fort Mitchell intends to switch to the consolidated 911 emergency dispatch center that will be created this fall when Kenton County takes over Covington’s dispatch operations.

Full story: Cincinnati Enquirer/Jim Hannah & Cindy Schroeder 
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QUICKIES
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Gov. Beshear's Chief of Staff Mike Haydon dies suddenly Courier-Journal 
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Beshear statement:

“Jane and I are shocked and devastated by the sudden death of my chief of staff and good friend, Mike Haydon. Mike’s deep experience in state and local government and his vast knowledge of the issues that really matter to the people of this state made him an invaluable leader in our administration and a strong advocate for local governments. Jane and I will always be grateful for his dedication, counsel, knowledge and sense of humor. We have not only lost a man who dedicated his life to improving the future for Kentuckians; we have also lost one of our best friends.
But the pain of our loss pales in comparison to that of his wife, Lisa, and their three children, Blair, Kate and Ben, as well as the many members of his extended family. Mike was a dedicated husband and father, and he was never happier than when he was with his family. We grieve with them now, and are praying for them."

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House Speaker Greg Stmbo:

"He had a great understanding of the issues both locally and at the state level, and that experience helped him and those he worked with immensely. On behalf of the Kentucky House, our thoughts and prayers go out to the Haydon family. He will be missed.”

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NKY Congressional candidates have different reaction to Republican Presidential candidate Mitt Romney's selection of Congressman Paul Ryan as his running mate. 
For Republican Thomas Massie's take: cn|2 
Democrat Bill Adkins:

Four months ago I was asked by Ryan Alessi about the Ryan Budget. What I said then still holds true -- the Ryan Budget will cost the nation trillions in added national debt and it will destroy our Medicare system. Tom Massie supports the destruction of Medicare and simplistic Tea Party economic theory would destroy our economy.

For Adkins's interview: cn|2 (6:00 mark)
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Pill mill bill affecting legitimate doctors and patients Cincinnati Enquirer 
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Fancy Farm organizers react to Lt. Gov. Abramson's remarks that the picnic is outdated Bluegrass Politics 
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101st Airborne marks 70th anniversary Herald-Leader 
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Three accused of trying to traffic pot through mail Herald-Leader 
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Reducing the black-white achievement gap Herald-Leader 
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You can learn a lot from the Kentucky Historical Society's new iPhone app Herald-Leader 
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Anthony Davis's gold medal in basketball is storybook ending WDRB 
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CAN EMINENT DOMAIN SOLVE OUR MORTGAGE WOES?
Interesting:

MRP wants to let cities use eminent domain to take control of the mortgages. Here's how it would work: cities would condemn "underwater" homes that meet this criteria. Under the law, they would then pay mortgage holders (the trusts) only the "market value" of the home, or the value the house is worth today.*
Then, instead of booting the residents, the city would allow them to refinance their mortgage and pay a new, lower rate. This would reduce the principal the mortgage owners owe, saving them money that could, ostensibly, be spent on things like dishwashers and vacuum cleaners.
"What you do is you find a way for that mortgage to move from the trust to community," says MRP Executive Chairman Steven M. Gluckstern.
It's a clever idea. But is it legal? "It's very unusual," says Thomas W. Merrill, a law professor at Columbia University who specializes in property law. But, he notes, "this doesn't mean it's unconstitutional."

Full story: The Atlantic Cities 
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DOOR-TO-DOOR DAIRY PRODUCT DELIVERY RETURNS TO KENTUCKY
The milkman is back:

Ehrler, 54, is now the only person in Kentucky licensed to sell dairy products door to door. He launched his business, Ehrler's Micro Dairy, in May. Since then, he has attracted more than 40 customers - he said his goal is to add 30 per month - and expanded his delivery route from one day a week to three.
He handles most of the business himself, from fielding calls to making deliveries, but said he plans to hire the company's first full-time employee soon.
He credits the local food movement for inspiring a renewed interest in local milk - especially among consumers who are willing to pay more for the sake of supporting local producers who provide a high-quality product.

Full story: Courier-Journal/Matt Frassica
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BACK TO SCHOOL BACK TO SCHOOL BACK TO SCHOOL BACK TO SCHOOL
Summer is just about over, kids! Kenton County Schools is first to return with students reporting to class on Wednesday, August 15. Holy Cross goes back this week with classes starting again on Thursday, August 16 followed by Covington Latin which returns Friday August 17. Covington Independent Public Schools heads back on Wednesday, August 22.
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Check out this beautiful video of Covington Latin:

Read more here: http://www.kentucky.com/2012/08/13/2297186/door-to-door-delivery-of-dairy.html#storylink=rss?utm_source=twitterfeed&utm_medium=twitter#storylink=cpy

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HOLY CROSS FOOTBALL RANKED HIGHLY FOR UPCOMING SEASON
Kentucky high school football coaches have made their picks for the preseason polls and in Class 2A, defending state champions Holy Cross is picked #3. However, Newport Central Catholic is the #1 pick in that class. Other local schools ranked in their respective class's top 10: Campbell County (#10/Class 6A), Conner (#7/Class 5A), Highlands (#1/Class 4A), Covington Catholic (#3/Class 4A), Beechwood (#2, Class 1A).
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High school football season means cooler weather is on the way, folks! #LoveAutumn

NEWS ROUND-UP -- TUESDAY EVENING 7 AUGUST

THE RIVER CITY NEWS MORE COVINGTON NEWS THAN ANY OTHER SOURCE

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FACEBOOK: The River City News

@theRCnews on Twitter  

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by Michael Monks 

Email Michael

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CITY COMMISSION IN SESSION TO DISCUSS FOOD TRUCKS

At the time of this report (7:00PM), Covington City Commission is in session taking up the issue of zoning ordinances and the one that has inspired the most debate is one involving food trucks. For the full agenda and for Tuesday morning's headlines, click here.

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OWNERS OF CHEZ NORA EXPLAIN OPPOSITION TO FOOD TRUCKS

Comparing the food truck vs. brick-and-mortar restaurant debate to RVs moving into residential neighborhoods, Pati Gilliece of Chez Nora pens an op-ed in The River City News that you can read at the link.

The River City News 

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CINCINNATI TV NEWS STATIONS START TO COVER THE TRUCK ISSUE

Via WKRC:

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Dear WCPO, where is the love for The River City News?

WCPO (Channel 9) offered a half-hearted report on Covington's food truck debate and included this nugget:

The city tested the popularity of food trucks last week with it's Food Truck Invasion. Four mobile food vendors gathered outside city hall to serve meals on wheels. According to one blog, 400 orders were taken at the four vendors.

According to one blog. That would be this blog. Hey, WCPO, it's OK to say The River City News's name and maybe throw a link up to cite the source.
Full story: WCPO (<---- See? That wasn't hard at all!)
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COUNTY COMMISSIONERS EXPLAIN 911 DISPATCH VOTE
After failing to pass a law that would fund Kenton County's consolidated 911 emergency dispatch center through a $6 fee attached to Duke Energy bills, Commissioners Beth Sewell and Kris Knochelman explain their votes against it:

Sewell called the tactic “sneaky” and said after the meeting that she voted against this method of payment because she doesn’t think it’s transparent.
“It’s on the bill, it’d be on the Duke (Energy) bill, well that’s true,” she said. “I just worry when it’s not in one lump sum on a tax bill where you can see it, there’s opportunity for government to put it other places.”

Cincinnati Enquirer/Libby Cunningham 
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QUICKIES
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Governor Beshear orders flags at half staff in honor of deadly Wisconsin shooting press release 
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Cincinnati/NKY rank 16 in top 50 cities for global trade Global Trade Magazine 
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Calling it an "entrepreneurial city", The New York Times profiles Louisville The New York Times 
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KY distilleries form partnership with universities here to curb college drinking WKYT 
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27 arrested in drug trafficking bust in Georgetown Herald-Leader 
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Kentucky State Police launch documentary-style series press release 
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Kentucky ranks 20 in nation for lightning deaths WLWT 
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POLITICS
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Senator Rand Paul will speak at GOP National Convention WFPL 
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Senator Mitch McConnell confronted with tea party criticism WFPL 
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Campbell Co Democrats endorse Bill Adkins in special Congressional election press release 
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Judge orders Legislative Research Commission to pay winners' attorney's fees in redistricting lawsuit cn|2 
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PAPA JOHN'S CEO VOWS TO PASS COSTS ON TO CONSUMERS
The chief executive officer of Kentucky-based Papa John's is quite upset with the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (AKA Obamacare). Here is what John Schnatter said on a conference call Tuesday:

"Our best estimate is that the Obamacare will cost 11 to 14 cents per pizza, or 15 to 20 cents per order from a corporate basis," Schnatter said.
"We're not supportive of Obamacare, like most businesses in our industry. But our business model and unit economics are about as ideal as you can get for a food company to absorb Obamacare," he said.
"If Obamacare is in fact not repealed, we will find tactics to shallow out any Obamacare costs and core strategies to pass that cost onto consumers in order to protect our shareholders best interests," Schnatter vowed.

Politico via WFPL 
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MORE MOVEMENT ON COVINGTON'S EASTSIDE
The final building left from the Jacob Price housing project is still standing and may last another week, though it was supposed to go down this week. Instead, the wrought iron fence was pulled as Covington's Eastside neighborhood gets closer to having its new River's Edge at Eastside Pointe development. Here are a few photos:

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Win dinner with NKY-born Hollywood star Josh Hutcherson Cincinnati Enquirer