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Showing posts with label Licking River Trails. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Licking River Trails. Show all posts

Tuesday, August 14, 2012

NEWS ROUND-UP -- TUESDAY MORNING 14 AUGUST

THE RIVER CITY NEWS MORE COVINGTON NEWS THAN ANY OTHER SOURCE
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by Michael Monks 
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BRENT SPENCE BRIDGE CLEARS FEDERAL HURDLE, WIN FOR COVINGTON
The design has been approved, but without funding:
“It’s like having a green light, but no car to drive through it,” said Mark Policinski, executive director of the Ohio-Kentucky-Indiana Regional Council of Governments, the region’s top transportation planning agency.
And it looks like Covington will retain its Fifth Street exit:
The FHWA report reveals a win for Covington. The plan has been modified to include a Fifth Street exit ramp off northbound I-75. Originally, the plan called for the elimination of the Fifth Street exit, requiring motorists traveling northbound to exit at 12th Street. Access to Covington has been a major concern for city leaders and the public, and the report said the decision to keep the Fifth Street exit was in response to public comments.
Full story: Cincinnati Enquirer/Jason Williams 
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COVINGTON BANK ROBBED, SUSPECT DIES AFTER JUMPING FROM BRIDGE
Wow. Via WCPO:
The man allegedly robbed the Fifth Third Bank on West Fourth Street in Covington at about 6:30 p.m. Police say a Covington police officer spotted the suspect walking in downtown Covington and tried to talk to him. That's when the suspect took off and ran across the bridge to Ohio. The man then jumped off the bridge and died instantly, according to authorities.
More with a video report: WCPO 
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DON'T MISS MONDAY'S NEWS!
Three candidates for Covington School Board have joined together to run as a slate; Story of a bullied Covington teen that took his own life is now part of an anti-bullying video; Plus. word is that the Mike Fink is going to reopen...soon. Those stories and more at the link.
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QUICKIES
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Duke Energy shareholder sues over ousted CEO's $44.5 million exit agreement Business Courier 
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Delta comes to terms with Comair employees Business Courier 
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Gas prices see biggest jump of the year WLWT 
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Judges to review grandparents visitation law Cincinnati Enquirer 
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We're Number Ton! Kentucky among most obese states WFPL 

POSSIBLY RELATED: Driver slams into Krispy Kreme truck WKYT 
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Best places to live in the future? KY is third from the bottom 
:-( Business First 
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POLITICS
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Kentucky legislator worried about Sharia law:
The bills are motivated by claims that Islamic Sharia law and laws of other nations are creeping into American courtrooms. Sharia is a the Islamic moral and religious code that is part of the legal systems of many Muslim nations. It deals with issues ranging from divorce, custody to diet and fasting. (State Rep. Kim) King (R-Harrodsburg) said she’s not singling out any foreign law or culture but addressing the concerns that a constituent brought to her.
Full story: Cincinnati Enquirer/Scott Wartman 
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Former Agriculture Commissioner/UK basketball star wants his child support payments reduced now that he is out of a job Courier-Journal 
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Gov. Beshear's Chief of Staff to be remembered Wednesday press release 
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Lt. Gov. Abramson's remarks about Fancy Farm draw more criticism WFPL 
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Good news for the NKY river cities from State Rep. Dennis Keene:

Great news for our region. The Kentucky Department of Transportation has informed me that they will be issuing a check to the City of Dayton in the amount of $79,399 and the City of Newport will receive $1883.02. These funds are left over municipal road bond funds to be used for road and bridge rehabilitation.
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Political observers are thrilled about the upcoming Vice Presidential debate which will be held in Kentucky WFPL 
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LOL: Your Republican to Explain Why Paul Ryan is a Good Choice The Onion (satire)
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KY EAGLE SCOUT RETURNS MEDAL BECAUSE OF GAY BAN

A Kentucky attorney is returning his eagle scout medal to the Boy Scouts of America over the organization's ban on gays:

Attorney Jackson Cooper, 32, of Louisville, Ky., said in an open letter that he was unsure if any of his fellow Scouts were gay. “But I do know that my now-deceased mother, a lesbian, would not have been allowed to serve as a den mother if her orientation had been public knowledge,” he wrote. “The thought that I have invested such a large part of my life with an organization that would have turned my own mother away breaks my heart.”
Full story: Associated Press 
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SKECHERS SHOES FEDERAL CASE SETTLEMENT OK'D IN LOUISVILLE
A federal judge in Louisville has tentatively OK'd a settlement in the case against Skechers shoes and the company's allegedly misleading ads about its "Shape-Ups":
An undetermined number of people will be able to get a maximum repayment for their purchases — up to $80 per pair of Shape-Ups; $84 per pair of Resistance Runner shoes; up to $54 per pair of Podded Sole Shoes; and $40 per pair for Tone-Ups.
Full story: Associated Press 
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LICKING RIVER TRAIL IS "AN URBAN OASIS"
Covington's newest addition to outdoor enjoyment gets a profile in today's Cincinnati Enquirer:
Phase II plans are to move north toward Randolph Park at Ninth Street. Ultimately officials want the trails to extend from the Ohio River, where the Riverfront Commons walking/biking path is planned, south to Interstate 275, including pieces along the shores of Campbell and Kenton counties. “We think that the trail’s going to be built piece by piece,” in $100,000 segments, Williams said. Proposed parks along the Greenway could raise total costs to $10 million or $12 million range, she said.
Full story: Cincinnati Enquirer/Mike Rutledge 
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LIBRARIES TEAM UP FOR BOOK EVENT
Rick Robinson's latest thriller Writ of Mandamus (which I have read and you should buy IMMEDIATELY) features Covington prominently in the storyline with one of its key plot points happening right on Main Street. Now the three library systems in NKY are teaming up to highlight the work:
The library systems of Boone, Kenton, Campbell and Grant counties are teaming up for the annual reading program. Committee chair Amy Foster, manager of the Boone County Public Library’s Scheben branch, said the program began in 2007 as an initiative to get everyone in the Northern Kentucky counties reading and talking about the same book. The desire to support a local author was one of the major reasons Robinson’s book was selected, she said.
Full story: Cincinnati Enquirer/Stephanie Salmons 
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COVINGTON ROTARY CLUB CHANGES LEADERSHIP
The Covington Rotary Club's new board of directors:
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More pictures: Covington Rotary @ Facebook 
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COVINGTON SCHOOLS MENTOR TRAINING TONIGHT
Help one student, change two lives. Learn how to be a mentor in the Covington Independent Public Schools (students return next week!) during a training session tonight at Holmes Middle School (classroom 1320) running from 6:00PM - 7:30PM. Call 859.392.3188 for more information.
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COVINGTON QUICKIES
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Holmes football team builds for a bigger finish this season Cincinnati Enquirer 
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Which local high school football games will be on your TV each week? ClickTBNK 
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Have you weighed in on the most awesome stuff in Covington? The list is being compiled so hurry up! Awesome Collective of Covington 
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Covington's Wolf & Company Bistro review by Polly Campbell Cincinnati Enquirer 
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XANADU IS A HIT AT THE CARNEGIE
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Good review: City Beat 
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Mixed review: Cincinnati Enquirer 
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Thursday, July 26, 2012

NEWS ROUND-UP -- THURSDAY EVENING 26 JULY

THE RIVER CITY NEWS MORE COVINGTON NEWS THAN ANY OTHER SOURCE
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by Michael Monks 
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MAN INDICTED IN DOWNTOWN COVINGTON MURDER
Timothy Henson, 43, was indicted Thursday morning by the Kenton County grand jury for allegedly stabbing to death Jonathan Lowe, 40, on Eighth Street near Madison Avenue in mid-May. Henson has already spent three stints in prison for other non-violent crimes.
This makeshift memorial tribute to Lowe was erected at the site of the killing:
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COVINGTON WOMAN CHARGED WITH STEALING FROM OHIO FAMILIES
A Covington woman is accused of stealing $20,000 worth of items from families for whom she babysat (and possibly went on a cruise between the thefts and the indictment). Story via WKRC at the link.
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250,000 KENTUCKIANS TO GET $15 MILLION IN REBATE CHECKS
From Congressman John Yarmuth (D-Louisville):
Today, Congressman John Yarmuth (KY-3) announced that by next week, nearly 250,000 Kentuckians will have received approximately $15.4 million in health insurance rebates because of a new provision in the Affordable Care Act. On average, the rebates will total $114 per person.
“This is one of the key ways the Affordable Care Act lowers health costs for consumers,” Yarmuth said. “The law helps consumers get more out of their premium dollar, and that means expanded and improved care delivered more efficiently.”
The Affordable Care Act requires insurance companies to spend at least 80 percent of consumers’ premium dollars on medical care and quality improvement. Insurers can spend the remaining 20 percent on administrative costs. Insurance companies that do not meet the 80/20 standard must provide their policyholders a rebate for the difference no later than Aug. 1, 2012.
Consumers will receive rebates in one of the following forms:
-A rebate check in the mail
-A lump-sum reimbursement to the account used to pay the premium if it was paid by credit or debit card
-A direct reduction in future premiums
-An employer provides one of the above rebate methods, or applies the rebate in a manner to benefit its employees
Nationwide, 12.8 million Americans will benefit from $1.1 billion in rebates under the 80/20 standard.
For more information on the 80/20 standard and insurance rebates, please visit HealthCare.gov.
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DON'T MISS THURSDAY MORNING'S NEWS
Kentucky man charged with stealing ring off the finger of a body inside a funeral home; Fighting the emerald ash borer in Devou Park; Plus, get a look today at five newly renovated homes in Covington. Those stories and more at the link!
The RC News: Thursday Morning Round-Up 
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QUICKIES
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What's the full story behind Cincinnati population loss since 1950? Urban Cincy 
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Kentucky's budget ends fiscal year with $45 million surplus WFPL 
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Kentucky's budget picture is good except for coal severance funds Herald-Leader 
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State finds that cutting high prison costs is an elusive goal Herald-Leader 
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Former KY Governor John Y Brown (D) is upset with both parties cn|2 
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Big names skipping Fancy Farm political picnic this year WFPL 
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KY man pleads to shooting boy who pulled doorbell prank WKRC 
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Early results of new 2011 drug law mixed WFPL 
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Governor appoints new executive director of military affairs commission press release 
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USDA pulls support of "Meatless Mondays" The Hill 
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PHOTOS: Children's, Inc volunteers promote literacy in early education Facebook 
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NEWPORT'S SOUTHGATE HOUSE WILL REOPEN IN NEW LOCATION
The famed music venue will take its name and set up shop at the former Grace Methodist Episcopal Church on Sixth Street in Newport:
Bev Holiday, the city’s community liaison coordinator, said that the Raleighs are renovating the former church, which was purchased from Bob Weber, owner of Dickey’s Glass. Holiday said Morella Raleigh is handling the project, and is hoping for a late August or early September opening.
Full story: Cincinnati Enquirer/Amanda Joering Alley 
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TAYLOR MILL ROAD (KY-16) RECONSTRUCTION AS SEEN FROM SKY
Via the City of Taylor Mill:

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BEHIND THE SCENES OF THE LICKING RIVER TRAILS MURALS
Via WKRC:


Read more here: http://www.kentucky.com/2012/07/25/2270273/bystander-trips-suspect-helps.html#storylink=rss?utm_source=twitterfeed&utm_medium=twitter#storylink=cpy

Read more here: http://www.kentucky.com/2012/07/25/2270273/bystander-trips-suspect-helps.html#storylink=rss?utm_source=twitterfeed&utm_medium=twitter#storylink=cpy
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SUSPECTED JEWELRY THIEF TRIPPED UP BY BYSTANDER
Check out this jerk:

Lexington police spokeswoman Sherelle Roberts said Russell initially met with a victim who was trying to sell jewelry. Russell had replied to the victim's online advertisement and said he might want to buy the items. When the two met, Russell allegedly grabbed the goods and ran off, she said.
But then:
A friend of the victim then contacted the suspect online and told him he had more jewelry to sell. When Russell arrived at the arranged meeting point in the 800 block of North Broadway, the victim was waiting with an officer, Roberts said.
The victim pointed out the suspect to the officer. When the officer tried to speak with Russell, he took off running, she said.
And that's when things take a turn for the awesome.
Full story: Herald-Leader 
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DID COVINGTON-BORN GOV. WILLIAM GOEBEL DESERVE TO DIE?
The author of a recent fictionalized book about Covington hero William Goebel says the assassinated politician may have had it coming:
Now, it has often been said by criminal defense attornies that in a murder case the real issue is, did the victim deserve to die? And most people who knew Willilam Goebel would agree that he was pretty deserving. He destroyed lives, usurped power, undermined democracy and was a murderer. Even his political allies really didn’t like him.
Listen to an interesting interview on the subject at the link.
The Bookcast 
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William Goebel
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UK STUDENT CHARGED AFTER SENDING OUT PICTURE OF 'THE JOKER'
It's not just that the student sent out a picture of the Batman villain, it's to whom he sent it:
A University of Kentucky student pleaded not guilty to a terroristic threatening charge for allegedly sending a picture of Batman's arch enemy to a university official.
Steven I. Kennedy, 28, allegedly emailed a photo of the Joker, an anarchist villain in movies and comic books, to associate vice president Terry Allen after Allen didn't return his messages. Kennedy was allegedly upset about the way officials handled a discrimination complaint, according to a warrant filed in Fayette district court.
Full story: Herald-Leader/Josh Kegley
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LAST CALL FOR ART OFF PIKE ARTISTS
From the event organizers:
Artists working in all media are encouraged to apply for a booth at Covington's premiere Urban Art Festival. Deadline for application is this Sunday July 29, 2012. Everyone can apply by using Zapplication.

Businesses and non-profit organizations are also encouraged to participate in this year's festival, by taking a booth or taking advantage of sponsorship opportunities associated with the event.

Follow Art Off Pike on Facebook or at visit our website. or email us.

Art Off Pike will be held Sunday, September 30 from 11-5 PM, Rain or Shine, at Pike and 7th Streets between Madison and Russell Streets.

Now in its eighth year, 2012 Art Off Pike is bringing together a wide variety of artists whose works will be on display and for sale in an urban setting in the heart of Covington's downtown. Stroll historic Seventh Street where artists stalls line up from Madison to Washington Street. Children will find a cornucopia of art activities in 'Picasso's Playground', hosted by Covington's many arts non-profit organizations including the Carnegie Visual and Performing Arts Center and Baker-Hunt Art & Cultural Center. Listen for the music -- have lunch. Don't miss this fun filled event!   
There is also an opportunity to enlist as a volunteer:
Covington's unique outdoor art show is now in its 8th year. The Call to Artists is out. On Sunday, September 30, the tents will be back up on 7th Street, sheltering 90 artists from throughout the tri-state area. Our urban center will be on display along with fabulous art in a wide variety of mediums.
Join us at the Carnegie Center for the Visual and Performing Arts to find out more about being an ART OFF PIKE Volunteer on SATURDAY, JULY 28 from 7:00 till 11:00. There will be line dancing, too-- and wine, and munchies, of course. This is the Call to Volunteers.
EASTSIDE, WESTSIDE - LET'S ALL GET BEHIND ART OFF PIKE THIS YEAR
It takes at least 50 volunteers to pull this off. Our goal is to have every Covington neighborhood represented on the 2012 ART OFF PIKE team. Find more information atwww.artoffpike.org. SAVE THE DATE and party with us at Carnegie -- SATURDAY, JULY 28 -- 7:00 till 11:00. 
More details: Click Here 
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ANOTHER GREAT WEEKEND IN STORE FOR COVINGTON
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FRIDAY
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Holmes Marching Band Preview Show
Click to enlarge
Here's a video preview:
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SATURDAY
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Bike & Dine makes two stops on Covington
From the event page:
Pedal into summer on the seventh edition of Queen City Bike + Dine 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday, July 28. Ride your bike to Park + Vine for hydration and a quick air-brakes-chain check before departing promptly at 2:30 p.m. on a bike tour of local restaurants and bars. Tickets ($25 plus processing fees) go on sale July 5 and include food and drinks. Proceeds benefit participating businesses and Queen City Bike, our region’s bicycling advocacy organization. Tickets are non-refundable. Event is rain or shine. Helmets required. For more information, e-mail info @ parkandvine . com BIKE + DINE STOPS:1. Streetpops at Park + Vine, Over-the-Rhine2. Bellevue Bistro, Bellevue3. Whack Burger, Covington4. Pike Street Lounge, Covington
More details: Facebook 
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SUNDAY
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10th annual Mainstrasse Village Car Show
Check it out on Sunday from 9:00AM to 5:00PM. More details: Click Here 
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Mother of God Church Yard Sale
From the Church:
On July 29 and August 5 we will collect school supplies for Prince of Peace School. The items that are especially needed are glue sticks (not the kind for glue guns), Elmer’s glue, washable wide markers, #2 pencils, band aids, wide ruled filler paper, red pens, pink wide chunk type erasers, pencil top erasers, solid color folders with clasps and without clasps, rubber bands and safety pins. There will be bins in the back of church and at the side doors. If you wish to make a monetary donation, please put it in an envelope marked Prince of Peace and drop it in the collection basket. Thank you.
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ARE YOU PROUD TO BE FROM COVINGTON?
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BOB ROSS REMIXED
This should make you feel good:

Tuesday, July 24, 2012

NEWS ROUND-UP -- TUESDAY MORNING 24 JULY

THE RIVER CITY NEWS MORE COVINGTON NEWS THAN ANY OTHER SOURCE
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by Michael Monks 
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BUSY, IMPORTANT COVINGTON CITY COMMISSION MEETING TONIGHT
On Tuesday night the Covington City Commission will meet for what will likely be a lengthy, important session. Here are the details:

  • Lots of retirements and one resignation on the agenda. From the Fire Department: Chief Chuck Norris, Asst. Chief Alan Terry, Battalion Chief Bill Shelton, Lt. Chuck Spenlau, Engineer Todd Ryder, and EMT/Paramedic Marty Finan. From the Police Department: Sgt. Steve Sweeney. From the Devou Park Rangers: Karl Fry (listed as a resignation, not a retirement).
  • EMS Director Dan Mathew will be appointed acting fire chief
  • Another part of the Center City Action Plan (CCAP) will be presented for the first time as retail consultant Mike Berne comes back to town to discuss "retail positioning and strategy".
  • The City's efforts to relax zoning restrictions on various types of businesses, as recommended in the CCAP, will have a first reading. For a review of what those zoning restrictions are, click here.
  • A contract will likely be approved for the installation of 115 LED light fixtures in Mainstrasse Village and Riverside Drive at a cost of $105,000
  • A contract for new destination signage for Devou Park will likely be approved at a cost of $36,000 (payable from Drees Pavilion allocation funds)
  • The City will likely shift some of its federal housing funds to the Center for Great Neighborhoods as the organization moves to renovate three vacant properties on the 300 block of Orchard Street (which were purchased from the City earlier this year for one dollar). $74,000+ from the City's community development block grant funds and $44,000+ from the City's home "HOME" funds are being sought for assistance with this project.
  • The Covington Neighborhood Collaborative will also present at the meeting, led by its President, Bill Wells
The River City News will have the most comprehensive coverage after Tuesday night's meeting here at this site, on Facebook, and Twitter.
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ARLINGHAUS: DISPATCH MERGER WILL BE ECONOMICAL
Kenton County Judge-Executive Steve Arlinghaus pens an op-ed in the Cincinnati Enquirer touting what he sees as the economic benefits of a merged emergency dispatch center that serve the whole county:
For the past year and a half, we have met with staff of Covington and Erlanger to discuss what would be necessary to merge the centers into one efficient operation. We all agree the single most important reason for doing this is to enhance the safety of the residents and the first responders throughout the county. The second most important factor is the long-term cost savings.
Without a doubt, the main reason for creating a single dispatch center is enhancing public safety. Increased cellphone use is a major strain on the operations of any communication center. There are numerous documented cases of calls being directed to the wrong center based on tower locations. When using a cellphone to call 911, your call may “hit” the closest tower to your phone, which may very well cause your call to be directed to the wrong dispatch center. This will cause you to be contacting the wrong center, and you will need to be transferred.
Read the full editorial: Cincinnati Enquirer
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Arlinghaus and the Kenton County Commissioners will take up the issue of a $6 fee imposed on utility bills to pay for the merged center at tonight's fiscal court meeting. To see the agenda, click here.
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PROSECUTOR: STATE POLICE CRIME REPORT "ERRONEOUS"
The River City News shared highlights from the annual report by the Kentucky State Police that painted a bad picture of Covington:
Our City is close to the top in several categories of crime across the state, including burglary, robbery, prostitution, arson, and more. (Thank goodness for Lexington!) A full breakdown of a year in crime in Covington and Kentucky -- at the link.
Full story: Covington ranks poorly in state crime report
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Kenton County Commonwealth's Attorney Rob Sanders responded to the report via Twitter: 
Those numbers are so obviously erroneous that I'd place little value on the report. The stats have no comparison value because the data out is only as good as the data in. See also: 0 burglaries in Newport in 2011. Those stats also don't give a true pic of crime in Cov b/c they only represent reports, not outcome. Many BS reports filed. They do give a good idea of what Cov Police are dealing with. AKA Not the time to be cutting police positions.
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STATE PENSION TASK FORCE TO MEET IN FRANKFORT TODAY
This message comes from State Senator Damon Thayer (R-Georgetown) who represents part of Covington:
2nd meeting of the Pension Task Force (Tuesday) at 10 am in Frankfort at the Capitol Annex, open to the public. I will be chairing the meeting, the Pew Center will be testifying.
Thayer is unsure if the meeting will be broadcast or streamed, but if it is, check for it on KET. The Pew Center will be testifying after writing a report that demonstrated that Kentucky is close to the bottom on being prepared to deal with its pension obligations.
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QUICKIES
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Kentucky Right to Life endorses Republican Thomas Massie in his race against Democrat Bill Adkins to represent NKY in Congress  WKYT
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Poverty rate is highest since 1965 with southeast Kentucky being hit the hardest WKYT
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Lawmakers are open to making changes in new law that aims to crack down on prescription drug abuse Bluegrass Politics 
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Study: Horses are more relaxed around nervous humans The Blood-Horse 
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"Wet" state parks report high alcohol sales Herald-Leader
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Episode of History Detectives shot in Kentucky will air tonight press release
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UK, John Calipari have claws in six top uncommitted recruits Herald-Leader 
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DON'T MISS MONDAY EVENING'S NEWS
What happened in 1875 when Covington's baseball team challenged the mighty Cincinnati Reds?; More cities intend to join the consolidated Kenton Co Dispatch Center; Plus, a vehicle damaged in a Covington parking lot during last week's storm shows up on Craigslist. Click it.
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FORMER UK STAR, NBA PLAYER TAYSHAUN PRINCE IN TOWN
From Kicks for Kids:
Olympic and NBA Champion Tayshaun Prince, a former Kentucky Wildcat and current starter for the Detroit Pistons, will partner with Kicks For Kids to host a Basketball Camp July 24th-26th. The three-day clinic is intended to provide quality basketball instruction and be a fun and positive experience for kids entering the 4th, 5th or 6th grades in the 2012-2013 school year.Date: July 24 - 26, 2012 (Tuesday-Thursday)Location: Scott High School  all 3 days Time: 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM (Tuesday Registration: 8:00 - 9:00 AM)The camp will be capped at 125 participants, with reservations being given on a first-come, first-serve basis. Please contact Kicks For Kids at ted.kluemper@kicksforkids.org or 859-331-8484, for registration, questions or more information.
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ARTISTS COMPLETING WORK ON LICKING RIVER GREENWAY MURALS
Artists are in the final stages of completing the series of eight murals being painted on pump stations along the Licking River as part of the Licking River Greenway and Trails network in Covington. The murals are a joint project for Vision 2015 and ArtWorks. "There are six artists who designed the murals and we are reproducing their work. I designed one of the murals and the apprentices designed one mural," said lead artist Kyle Pennuri in a release. "The work is logistically challenging. We have separate murals in a location that we cannot use scaffolding. Also, each artist's work is completely different so in a short amount of time we have to learn how to paint like the artists and recreate their work."
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The Licking River Master Plan, commissioned by Vision 2015 in 2008, proposes to establish a continuous green corridor in the Licking River valley adjacent to the communities of Newport, Covington, Wilder, and Taylor Mill, Kentucky. The Greenway plan calls for the stabilization of the riverbanks, the removal of invasive species and the restoration of native plants, trees, and wildlife in the riparian corridor.
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In addition to the Greenway, the 5-mile corridor, between the confluence with the Ohio River and the I-275 overpass, includes plans for establishing a multi-level trail system that connects neighborhoods with historical, educational, and cultural institutions and recreational facilities. The proposed trail system provides for nature trails, paved trails and water trails.
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PHOTOS:


KENTUCKY COMPANY WRITES THE NICEST CEASE-&-DESIST LETTER
Brown-Forman, famous for its whiskeys which now include Jack Daniels, thought the cover photo on an author's new book looked a little too much like the Tennessee whiskey's label. So, they asked him to change it -- but went above and beyond to be helpful:
“It starts out very stern and legal and lawyerly, but as it keeps going they refer to me as their ‘Louisville neighbor,’ and I stopped worrying quite as much,” says Wensink. “They’re being very nice, and at the end they offered to pay for new cover art, which is unheard of in the publishing world as far as I know. I’m not an expert, but I can’t imagine any other company offering to pay for new cover art when you violate their trademark.”
Read the full story: WFPL
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You can also read the full letter: Click Here 
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KENTUCKY RETURNS WAR MEMORIAL FAVOR TO MICHIGAN
The Commonwealth of Kentucky has placed a memorial at the site of a Central Kentucky Civil War battlefield to honor the Michigan solders that fought there:
The conflict happened in August 1862 as more experienced Confederate troops marched toward Union troops who were raw and outnumbered. The Michigan Artillery tried to turn back the Rebel forces, but Union soldiers ended up losing the battle.
Full story: WKYT 
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BUT DID YOU KNOW...
The State of Michigan honors troops from Kentucky for their role in another losing battle, only this one happened in the War of 1812 in Frenchtown, Michigan along the River Raisin. The Kentuckians were caught off guard in what became known as the River Raisin Massacre:
General Winchester was awakened by the roar of artillery fire and rushed to the battlefield, but was captured by Indians on the way. Chief Roundhead stripped him of his uniform before handing him to the British, which led to the legend that he was captured in his nightshirt. The American were scattered and not in any position to fight. The 17 U.S. Infantry, consisting mostly of green recruits, was caught in the open: it broke and fled. Its colonel, William Allen, was shot dead and scalped. Dozens tried to surrender and laid down their weapons, only to be shot or tomahawked by the Indians. Members of other units also tried to flee, but most were chased down and killed. A few removed their shoes and ran through the snow in their stockings to leave footprints that looked like moccasin and thus managed to escape. The British commanders were occupied a large barn, which was set on fire by William Orlando Butler, who forced them from their shelter.
The Kentucky Rifle Regiment continued to hold in the town. They had killed many of British artillerymen and infantry, but they were finally running out of ammunition. Winchester was urged by Procter to order his remaining men to surrender; otherwise they would all be killed and Frenchtown burned down. Procter demanded an unconditional surrender and refused Winchester's counter-proposals since Winchester was already his prisoner. Major George Madison, an American officer still on the battlefield, persuaded Procter to accept a surrender on the condition that all would be protected as prisoners of war.
Source: Wikipedia 
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The massacre led to the War of 1812 rally cry, "Remember the River Raisin!" Kentucky Counties Allen, Ballard, Edmonson, Graves, Hart, Hickman, McCracken, Meade, and Simpson were all named for Kentucky officers that fought in the battle. Only Ballard survived. 
Monument in honor of KY soldiers in Downtown
Monroe, Michigan
But don't worry folks! Kentuckians weren't always on the losing end of a battle. In fact, in the famed Battle of New Orleans (after the War of 1812 had officially ended), a Kentucky regimen is often credited with boosting Andrew Jackson's victory. The events inspired this kick-ass song about Kentucky:

Friday, June 29, 2012

NEWS ROUND-UP -- FRIDAY MORNING 29 JUNE

THE RIVER CITY NEWS MORE COVINGTON NEWS THAN ANY OTHER SOURCE
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by Michael Monks 
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COMMISSION APPROVES NONSPECIFIC BUDGET; LOSES ON 2 SETTLEMENTS
"I feel sorry for the people in a state of limbo because it's a time of uncertainty." The City Commission passes a budget for next year that is short on specifics, but there is a promise that more details are on the way after they hear from you. Plus, the City finds itself on the losing end of two settlements: $600,000 to be paid to retired & active firefighters and $150,000 to be paid to the operators of a methadone clinic. Also, why one Commissioner did not approve the exit agreement for the departing community development director. Your Commission recap is at the link.
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SPIKE JONES TO BE NAMED POLICE CHIEF FRIDAY MORNING
The Covington City Commission will convene for the third time this week at 11:00AM to name Spike Jones Chief of Police, removing the "interim" from his title. 
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DRUG SWEEP NETS MORE THAN 30 SUSPECTED DRUG DEALERS
PHOTOS: Wondering why those helicopters were hovering over our city Thursday afternoon? A city-wide drug sweep was and is underway with many arrests expected -- and The River City News got to tag along for part of it. Click the link below for details and lots of photos -- including several arrests as they happened!
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KENTUCKY POLITICIANS REACT TO HEALTH CARE REFORM RULING
The United States Supreme Court has upheld what is lovingly referred to as Obamacare as constitutional. Immediately afterwards, several of Kentucky's elected leaders caught a case of the vapors: 
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Sen. Mitch McConnell
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Sen. Rand Paul
"Just because a couple people on the Supreme Court declare something to be 'constitutional' does not make it so. The whole thing remains unconstitutional. While the court may have erroneously come to the conclusion that the law is allowable, it certainly does nothing to make this mandate or government takeover of our health care right," Sen. Paul said.
"Obamacare is wrong for Americans. It will destroy our health care system. This now means we fight every hour, every day until November to elect a new President and a new Senate to repeal Obamacare," he continued. 
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Rep. Geoff Davis
“We cannot mistake the Court’s ruling for an evaluation of effective, commonsense policy. While the Supreme Court judged the health care law’s constitutionality, the American people and actuarial experts have already judged its quality — that it is a disaster for patients, small businesses and future generations of Americans.
“Congress must redouble its efforts to repeal the health care law so we can start anew on reforms that will increase patient access and quality of care while reducing costs.”
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Kentucky Democrats on the other hand see value in the Court's decision...
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Rep. John Yarmuth: 
“The law lowers costs, strengthens care, and – once fully implemented – will guarantee all Americans access to quality, affordable coverage while creating nearly 6 million new jobs in the health care sector. It is already saving seniors hundreds of dollars in prescription drug costs while offering free preventive services such as cancer screenings and routine vaccinations."
“Children can no longer be denied coverage because of a pre-existing condition – a protection that will be extended to all Americans in 2014. More than 3 million young people have been able to obtain insurance through their parents’ plan. And hundreds of thousands of small businesses have used tax credits provided under the law to offer coverage for 2 million workers."
“During my time in Congress, an overwhelming majority of Louisvillians have told me they want guaranteed access to health care, lower premium costs, and more choice in the insurance market. The Affordable Care Act accomplishes each of these goals. Casting my vote in favor of the law was my proudest moment in Congress, and today I join millions of Americans to celebrate again.” 
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Bill Adkins, Democratic candidate for NKY's seat in Congress
“The winners today are those without insurance because now they have a chance at affordable healthcare when all the reforms are in place in 2014,” says Bill Adkins. “The cost of health care in America continues to be double that of other industrialized nations. The Affordable Care Act will take steps to reduce those costs, but most likely more will have to be done.”
“My opponent has repeatedly stated that the Affordable Care Act is unconstitutional,” says Bill Adkins. ”This decision today with the conservative Chief Justice Roberts writing the opinion ruled that the Affordable Care Act is constitutional and that Tom Massie is wrong,” says Adkins. 
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Covington's State Rep. Arnold Simpson
“One of my greatest regrets is that we have so many people without insurance, and if this act is going to create a pathway to afford Americans with insurance coverage, then I think it’s good.” Simpson said.It will also ensure everyone pays their fair share, Simpson said.
“What we’ve had historically is cost shifting,” Simpson said. “We’ve been paying for the uninsured. When they go to the emergency rooms, they are provided care. The people with insurance are who are paying. They shift the cost. Finally, we have a system where we’re going to have a blanket of coverage.” 
Via Cincinnati Enquirer/Scott Wartman
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Meanwhile, Governor Beshear is moving forward with creating Kentucky's health care exchange: 
“This Supreme Court decision removes much of the uncertainty about the Affordable Care Act. Kentucky has been systematically preparing to meet the implementation deadlines set forth in the bill as a precautionary matter, and now we will move ahead to establish a state-operated Health Benefit Exchange. I will soon issue an Executive Order to create the state health insurance exchange so Kentucky will be prepared to operate it by the date the law requires. We continue to review the Supreme Court’s opinion, particularly on the Medicaid portion of the Affordable Care Act to determine what our options may be. “ 
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L'OREAL POSSIBLY TO EXPAND OPERATIONS IN KENTON COUNTY
Some great economic news involving a $42 million expansion in Kenton County: 
The finance authority board on Thursday gave preliminary approval for L’Oreal to get $5 million in payroll tax incentives and $800,000 in tax incentives to be recovered from construction costs.
L’Oreal has proposed the expansion on property the company purchased in 2010 adjacent to its current facility on New Buffington Road in Kenton County along the border with Boone County, the finance authority report states.
211 jobs could be created. Governor Beshear will be in Erlanger today for the announcement. More details at the link.
Cincinnati Enquirer/Scott Wartman
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 BE CAREFUL OUT THERE! ANOTHER SCORCHER IS BEAMING DOWN UPON US.
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Kentucky officials urge caution as temps rise press release 
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NKU moves to conserve energy on these hot days: 
Duke Energy has again requested that we curtail electrical consumption as much as we can to help them meet area demand. The curtailment event will start at noon and end at 8 p.m. today, June 28. This action is necessary because of extended high energy demand due to the current heat wave. It is anticipated that the electrical system in our area will be taxed which could result in localized outages, “brown outs” and high energy prices. To help us do our share we are asking that you turn off lighting that you do not absolutely need and shut down or unplug any electrical or electronic equipment that is not absolutely necessary or will not be in use for an hour or more. We appreciate your support in helping us reduce consumption during this critical period. If you have questions or concerns please contact Facilities Management at X-1927. If your concern involves IT or AV equipment please contact IT at X-6911.
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Officials urge caution when using fireworks this year press release
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QUICKIES
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US Rep. Steve Chabot attempts to thwart federal funding for Cincinnati streetcar Cincinnati Enquirer & WKRC 
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Frankfort: Stumbo, Williams sign off on payments for redistricting lawsuits Bluegrass Politics 
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Frankfort: Ethics commission urges disclosure on funds spent on legislative ads cn|2 
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Fancy Farm organizers send out picnics (DO NOT MISS THIS UNIQUELY KENTUCKY EVENT!) Herald-Leader 
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Multi-state drunk driving crackdown coming Cincinnati Enquirer 
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Kentucky First Lady Jane Beshear offers summer reading list press release 
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WHAT TO DO THIS WEEKEND IN COVINGTON?
In addition to all the usual hot spots around town, there are several fun events...
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FRIDAY
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90s Tribute Show at the Avenue Lounge
There will be thirty bands rocking two stages on Madison Avenue tonight starting at 8:00PM. Admission is FREE! For details, click here.
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SATURDAY
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Volunteer at the Licking River Greenway & Trails
Click to enlarge
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Take a paddleboat tour of the Licking River
From a release: 
The tour, called "Rediscovering the Licking River," is a tour to help educate the public on the importance of two local initiatives. The Licking River Watershed is an organization that works to protect, improve and restore the waters for the Licking River basin by promoting water quality monitoring, public education and citizen action. The Licking River Greenway is an effort to create an urban greenway from the mouth of the Licking River to the I-275 loop.
Tickets are $20. For details, click here.
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SUNDAY
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NKY's Gay Pride Festival
Click to enlarge
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SHOULD THE ASCENT BE DEMOLISHED?
A group of architects were asked by California Home & Design to identify 25 buildings that should be demolished right now, and one of them suggested Covington's own architectural masterpiece -- The Ascent!
The Ascent's curving crescent form was designed to maximize views while the blue and white blotchy grid pattern theoretically reflects the sky and river, but Architect Neal Schwartz is less than impressed. "Just when I thought Daniel Libeskind's crass recycling of his single and dubious architectural idea had reached its apotheosis, I come across this 'gem,'" he says. Likewise, the interior of the building with its laser-like stripes of lights and mirrors on the ceiling and floor is just as lovely. 
See the rest of the list at the link.
California Home & Design
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Hey, how about those Wildcats? Another superb class of UK basketball stars are headed to the NBA.
UK press release on the draft announcement Click here 
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Column: John Calipari is in his element on draft night WDRB 
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Presented without comment...
This photo was submitted by a reader from Covington who went down to Clay County this week.