NEWS ROUND-UP -- MONDAY MORNING 27 AUGUST

THE RIVER CITY NEWS MORE COVINGTON NEWS THAN ANY OTHER SOURCE

| 

FACEBOOK: The River City News

@theRCnews on Twitter  

|

by Michael Monks 

Email Michael

|

READERS SHARE PHOTOS FROM SUNDAY'S FIRE AT L&L DRY CLEANERS

The fire that raged Sunday morning, destroying a business that operated on Covington's Twelfth Street since 1947, cast a thick gray plume of smoke that was visible all across Downtown Covington and Downtown Cincinnati. Here are some photos submitted by readers of The River City News:
|

From Rob Sanders (Kenton Co. Commonwealth's Attorney, though he credits the photo as one being shared around on Facebook):

Sanders adds: "Big thanks to Covington Fire Dept. for a valiant effort today. Takes a big set to go after a fire like this with an interior attack. Ultimately went defensive from the looks of what left but this could have taken out 1/2 a city block if they didn't stop the spread. What might not be apparent from this photo is the fact they were actually fighting 2 fires at once because it spread to my building next door and burnt the back of the 3rd floor off. The painful irony is I may be the very first victim of Pumper1 being browned out but I'll save that argument for another day. Right now, I'm just glad no one from CFD was hurt. Say a prayer for the owners of L&L cleaners. It's a father-son business thats served many in Covington, including myself, for years.
p.s. Also thanks to the firefighters from Newport Firefighters, Ft. Mitchell, Taylor Mill, and Ludlow who moved up to cover the entire City of Covington. Some folks don't seem to understand how much mutual aid Covington receives, but I do!"

|

From Katie Woodring:

|

From a reader in Helenton:

|

From Michael Grabiel in Mainstrasse:

|

A blogger in Cincinnati also captured a shot of the heavy smoke that was visible from Smale Park: Cincinnati Blog 

|

Jennifer Landrum, daughter of L&L Dry Cleaners owner Paul "Butch" Landrum, weighed in at The River City News Facebook page:

My father owned L&L Dry Cleaners. I want to thank the covington Fire Department, as well as the fire fighters from neighboring areas that showed up to help today. My dad said that everyone was so nice, not just there and treating it as any regular job. I appreciate how well you treated my family and the situation. You truly are everyday heroes.

|
DID YOU MISS ANY OF THE MOST COMPREHENSIVE COVERAGE OF THE L&L DRY CLEANERS FIRE? Check out the links below.
|

Hear from L&L's third generation owner and the acting fire chief

"Every morning since I graduated high school I got up at 7 o'clock in the morning and I came to work and now, 7 o'clock in the morning I come and sit by work I guess. I don't know. I just don't know." A huge Fire destroys a long-running Covington business Sunday.
Full story: The River City News 
|

|

100 photos from the scene of the fire: The River City News 

|

COVINGTON'S WEEK IN REVIEW

What a week... From a contentious meeting at City Hall, a park disappearing from a city neighborhood, news that the Mike Fink aims to reopen in the spring, to the devastating fire Sunday morning, no one covers Covington like The River City News. The proof is at the link in your week in review, The Sunday Edition!
Full story: The Sunday Edition 
|
COVINGTON SCHOOL BOARD VACANCY GETS MORE ATTENTION
After several weeks of only The River City News shedding light on the lengthy list of developments that followed the resignation of Denise Varney from the Covington School Board, the Cincinnati Enquirer began to offer coverage Monday morning:

Denise Varney resigned three weeks ago from her board of education seat with Covington Independent Public Schools because she was moving out of the district.
She never imagined it would lead to the turmoil that has erupted.

Full story: Cincinnati Enquirer/William Croyle  

|

The Northern Kentucky tea party has also weighed in:

It appears that Kenton Clerk Gabe Summe and County Attorney Gary Edmondson who are embroiled in several lawsuits over a petition to allow voters to decide the fate of the Northern Kentucky Area Planning are again standing in the way of allowing voters to select a replacement for an open seat on the Covington School Board. The Clerk, who has the sole responsibility to approve the petition to put the NKAPC on the ballot also has the sole responsibility to place the open school board seat on the ballot. A practicing attorney herself, the Clerk appears to be deferring, in both cases, to the County Attorney and an outside law firm for the actual decisions. The following information is provided from Mr. Mark Young, who is apparently the only resident of Covington interested enough in the open school board seat to take the initiative to get involved. Read Mr. Young's description of what the established power brokers are doing to shut him and the voting, taxpaying residents of Covington out to allow them to maintain the status quo.

More: NKY Tea Party 
|
YOUR WEEKLY MUGSHOT ROUND-UP FROM KENTON CO. CIRCUIT COURT
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: The River City News 

|

QUICKIES

|

NKY leadership focuses on 25 years of growth Tri-Ed 

|

Another "creationism attraction" hopes for a home in NKY Cincinnati Enquirer 

|

Kentucky civilians working normal jobs in war zones AP 

|

US Rep. Brett Guthrie (R) does not rule out a run for KY Governor in 2015 cn|2 

|

US Rep. John Yarmuth (D) won't challenge Sen. McConnell in 2014 cn|2 

|

Vehicle overturns near Suspension Bridge over the weekend WKRC 

|

Man stabbed in Newport park Cincinnati Enquirer 

|

Farmers: Local cantaloupe is safe WBKO 

|

Though Kenton's was down 19%, county fairs report increased attendance Cincinnati Enquirer 

|
For Sale signs pop up at Muhammad Ali's boyhood home Courier-Journal 
|
New Mammoth Cave superintendent excited to return to Kentucky WFPL 
|

Louisville native wins hot air balloon competition Courier-Journal 

|

SEN. PAUL, GOV. BESHEAR DISCUSS NEW BRIDGE FOR NKY

Could we learn from Canada? Via cn|2:

More: cn|2 

|

MONDAY MORNING MESSAGE FROM COVINGTON SCHOOLS LEADER

Covington Independent Public Schools Superintendent Lynda Jackson:

It's a phrase often used to describe individuals that have committed their lives to education - unsung heroes.

We know that working in education is not for the faint of heart. The hours can be long and the challenges numerous. Still, the personal fulfillment and satisfaction that come with the job can make it the most satisfying of careers.

As I travel around the district, I continue to be constantly pleased at the work and dedication of all staff. I have been in classrooms everyday this past week and have witnessed the outstanding, caring adults throughout the district who are developing positive relationships with our students. I have watched the bus drivers giving high fives as students get off the bus in the morning, the cafeteria personnel greeting our students and asking about their day, the custodians who are talking to students as they walk down the hall, and the teachers and support staff who are focusing on establishing relationships of respect and care as the necessary foundation for intellectual as well as social development.

Success and fulfillment are often based on the educator's passion for his or her work, along with high expectations for students and a desire to help them succeed.We all know that it will not be standards, technology, curriculum or new programs for schools that will get at the root of the problem, UNLESS they are also accompanied by relationships between adults and students. Thanks for your hard work!

See the list of weekly honors and the upcoming week's schedule here.
|
SEE ALSO: Weekly message from Scott High School principal click here 
|
RUNNIN' ON THE RIVER!
The new Licking River Greenway & Trails got some action on Saturday as Holmes High School hosted the Licking River Run cross country meet:

Lots more photos: Facebook 

|

SPORTS QUICKIES

|

Businesses hope for boost from NKU's move to NCAA Division I AP 

|

NCAA visited a friend of UK basketball top recruit Nerlens Noel Herald-Leader 

|

Terrance Jones may be the most underrated player from the NBA draft Bleacher Report 

|

What years did UK basketball (and other traditional powerhouses) truly suck? KSR 

|

NBA debate resumes in the Bluegrass Wildcat Blue Nation 

|

Sen. McConnell is against bringing the NBA to Louisville KSR 

|

1972 US Olympics basketball team(which still refuses to accept its silver medal) reunites in Kentucky WDRB 

|

College football: Comparing expectations for the UK/UofL rivalry game Herald-Leader 

|

THE GROWING MOVEMENT TO BUILD HOUSES OUT OF HEMP

Mix together hemp, lime, and water and you got yourself some "hempcrete":

Hemp makes a good building material because it's extremely energy-efficient, non-toxic, and resistant to mold, insects, and fire. Plus, it absorbs carbon dioxide, making it good for the environment. Hemp Technologies, a North Carolina-based construction company working on the California project, already has built homes out of hemp in Hawaii, Texas, North Carolina, and Idaho. The North Carolina project, known as "NauHaus," received LEED platinum status.

Full story: GOOD 

NEWS ROUND-UP -- WEDNESDAY EVENING 1 AUGUST

THE RIVER CITY NEWS MORE COVINGTON NEWS THAN ANY OTHER SOURCE

| 

FACEBOOK: The River City News

@theRCnews on Twitter  

|

by Michael Monks 

Email Michael

|

SHOW SOME LOVE FOR WEST PIKE STREET BUSINESSES

After the successful Food Truck Invasion and the debate that followed (SEE: Food Fight: Shut The Truck Up), it was determined that similar foodie events should be organized for the "bricks-&-mortar" establishments. What started as an event for this coming Saturday to encourage people to spend some cash at Bred & Spice, a new bakery/cafe, has developed into a week-long effort to patronize three news businesses in that area. In addition to Bread & Spice, that includes Charley Maxwell's malt shop/lunch spot and the Pike Street Lounge:

Our new businesses on West Pike have a challenge - they are located on the far west edge of Downtown and the far east edge of Main Strasse Village.
Make West Pike a destination for lunch, coffee, cocktail hour, a trip to find great baked goods.

Check out the event on Facebook for more information by clicking here.

|

WHAT HAPPENS NOW THAT GEOFF DAVIS HAS RESIGNED?

WKRC reporter Joe Webb went to find out:

Davis's resignation was effective yesterday. A Kentucky special election to replace him could be held as early as September 4, but past precedent leads the experts to speculate there will be two elections on November 6. Kenton County Clerk Gabrielle Summe says, "You could have the special at the same time you have the general. Which would mean the names of both candidates would appear twice on the ballot. There would be a section for the special election. Whoever won that would fill out the term to January 1."

That's presuming Massie and Adkins would be the names on the special election ballot, too. Adkins says that's not a given. "No, it's not. I think the parties have to, that would be a logical conclusion, but I think the parties would have to meet to nominate, and I would anticipate they would simplify it and make it that type of nomination circumstance."

Full story: WKRC
|
MEANTIME: Surprised allies react to Davis's sudden resignation cn|2 
|
SEE ALSO: Sens. McConnell & Paul team up for Thomas Massie fundraiser WBKO 
|
LOCAL AUTHOR RICK ROBINSON WEIGHS IN ON #VEEPSTAKES
Rick Robinson's latest column for the conservative website The Daily Caller explains "why Brian Williams and the left are afraid of Rob Portman":

But for some reason, silly season is starting early this cycle. It was kicked off last week with Brian Williams’ London interview of Mitt Romney. Sounding more like President Obama’s press secretary than an NBC reporter, Williams asked Romney if he is going to choose “an incredibly boring white guy” as his vice-presidential nominee.
Showing humor he does not often display, Romney replied: “You told me you were not available.”
The initial coverage of the exchange focused on Williams’ biased question and Romney’s uncharacteristically witty retort. However, the coverage of Williams’ characterization of Romney’s short list of VP choices misses an important underlying point: The left is scared of the competence and experience of those on the list.
Case in point: Rob Portman.

Full story: The Daily Caller
|
KENTUCKY INTRODUCES "TAMPER PROOF" DRIVER'S LICENSES
From a news release:

Kentucky in August begins a transition to a new driver’s license that, while similar in appearance to current licenses, contains security features for greater protection of privacy and resistance to tampering. 

“The new licenses are the manifestation of Kentucky’s efforts to improve the level of service provided to our customers, in addition to securing a credential Kentuckians use each day,” Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (KYTC) Department of Vehicle Regulation Commissioner Tom Zawacki said. 

“It was already time to replace the cameras and computer equipment – most of it more than 10 years old – that our circuit court clerks use in issuing driver’s licenses,” Zawacki said. “That made it an ideal time to also make this transition to a new license.” 

The new license has multiple layers of security features, all linked to each other, so counterfeiters must compromise multiple technologies – not just one. 

The licenses’ new features include:• Digital watermark imperceptible to the human eye• Bank note-level fine line printing• Improved dual-side lamination for greater tamper resistance and durability• Hologram with single-color, ultraviolet “ghost” image 

Kentucky last updated driver’s licenses in 2001, with the introduction of digital licenses. The new format offered improved security. Kentucky was the first state to put the driver’s image in the bar code on the back of the license. With the next stage of Kentucky’s driver’s license, those security measures will be tightened to provide even greater resistance to fraud. 

Installation of new cameras and computer equipment will require a one-day suspension of driver’s license processing at each circuit court clerk’s office. Installations are scheduled to begin in August and be completed by October. The first installation of equipment will be in McLean County Aug. 7. The new licenses should be available there the next day. 

Starting in the fall, new licenses will also feature veteran and organ donor designations. 

Customers are not required to obtain new licenses until their current licenses expire. The process for obtaining or renewing a driver license will not change. The cost of $20 will also remain the same. 

More information and answers to some frequently asked questions can be found on KYTC’s website: http://transportation.ky.gov/pages/digital-drivers-license.aspx. 

MorphoTrust USA, which provides driver’s license issuance solutions for 41 states and the District of Columbia, is partnering with the state to implement the new work stations and camera systems, including new security features in the driver’s license.

|
GOOD NEWS, BAD NEWS ABOUT KY'S HEALTH CARE FUTURE
A new study issued by the University of Kentucky’s Community Economic Development Initiative of Kentucky finds:

“Since the (U.S.) Supreme Court upheld the Affordable Care Act, there likely will be 400,000 Kentuckians that now have access to health care who did not before,” said Alison Davis, the initiative’s director and author of the study. “This report is timely, because it provides a comprehensive overview of the current access to health care across the commonwealth and projects where expected shortages might occur.”

Read this: Kentucky Forward
|
QUICKIES
|
SAD: 1,194 workers will lose their jobs when Comair ceases operations Business Courier 
|
Attorney: KY death row inmate missing part of brain WBKO 
|
Group urges kids to be vaccinated for meningitis WKYT 
|
University of Louisville considers Chick fil A controversy over 84 WHAS 
|
KY has 3rd highest car insurance rates in nation WKYT 
|
KY sales tax is 16th highest in nation Business First 
|
Court documents: Mom tried to hide phones of ex-Ben-Gal cheerleader/teacher accused of sex with student WLWT 
|
RELATED: Attorney Eric Deters issues this release on the case Facebook 
|
Most Kentucky Democrats won't speak at Fancy Farm WFPL 
|
Fort Thomas brothers show off their political memorabilia Cincinnati Enquirer 
|
Dog may have stopped bear attack WKYT 
|
Dalai Lama to visit Louisville in May WBKO 
|
US digital infrastructure is also bad American City 
|
SPORTS: New offers rolling in for Holy Cross senior basketball player Cincinnati Enquirer
|
IN CASE YOU MISSED...
PUBLIC WEIGHS IN ON PROPOSED CUTS TO COVINGTON POLICE, FIRE
What cuts are to come to the police and fire departments? What is the City Commission's position on de-annexing South Covington? Should the G in C+V=G stand for greatness? A full recap of last night's meeting on proposed cuts to public safety -- at the link.

Full story: The River City News |
DON'T MISS WEDNESDAY MORNING'S NEWS!
Man accused of kidnapping, sexual assault of teen in Mainstrasse expected to appear in court; The mother of a teen missing from Covington weighs in on new search in the RCN comments; Plus, Kentucky marks the beginning of "breastfeeding week". Those stories and more at the link.

The RC News: Wednesday Morning Round-Up |
URBAN VIBES, VIBRANCY RENEW HAMILTON'S DOWNTOWN
"Studios, lofts, coffee houses make new city." You know, whenever consultants come to town and present all these ideas and examples of other cities, I wonder why places like Hamilton, Ohio aren't included since it is far more comparable to Covington. Check out what's going on up there in the city between Cincinnati and Dayton:

Dilapidated buildings, some 200 years old, are being transformed into swank loft apartments, new retail space, studios where artists can live and work, a ballet center and other uses. The city plans to spruce up its east entryway on High Street in a $10 million project.
The local school district also is proof that change is happening in Hamilton. While other urban districts are losing students, 135 new students enrolled in Hamilton City Schools in the recent school year, Superintendent Janet Baker said.
The district has undergone a makeover of its own in recent years to stay in line with the city’s plans to attract economic development. Hamilton’s 11 schools have been rebuilt or renovated, also adding the latest in technology, to the tune of $250 million.

Small cities can be cool, too.
Full story: Cincinnati Enquirer/Sheila McLaughlin 
|
SANITATION DISTRICT'S PUBLIC SERVICE PARK SHOWCASED ONLINE
So, this is happening:

Caption: "A 7,000-gallon cistern made from reinforced concrete pipe collects runoff from the adjacent garage. A roof solar panel was intended to feed a pump for recirculating the stored water. The cistern water is used for demonstrations throughout the Stormwater Garden. The fountain in the Stormwater Garden is carved from Indiana limestone. Water recirculates via a small, self-contained pump and basin."

|

Check out the full article: Landscape Online 

|

#NOM NOM NOM ALERT!

Graeter's revealed its new flavor today:

From Graeter's:

Our new Mystery Flavor is... Black Cherry Chocolate Chip!! All natural black cherry flavored ice cream loaded with black cherries and our signature dark chocolate chunks. Available at all Graeter's locations, while supplies last!

|
KENTUCKY #SWAG

Don't you love that? Me too. Want to buy it? Click here 

|

Hat tip to those kick-ass Kentuckians at Kentucky for Kentucky 

NEWS ROUND-UP -- FRIDAY MORNING 29 JUNE

THE RIVER CITY NEWS MORE COVINGTON NEWS THAN ANY OTHER SOURCE

| 

FACEBOOK: The River City News

@theRCnews on Twitter  

|

by Michael Monks 

Email Michael

|

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.

The RC News: City Commission Recap 28 June 

|

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. 

|
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!

The RC News: Drug Sweep Leads to Arrests All Over Covington 

|

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: 

|
Sen. Mitch McConnell

|

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. 

|
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.”

|
Kentucky Democrats on the other hand see value in the Court's decision...
|
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.” 

|
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. 

|
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
|
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. “ 

|

|

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
|

 BE CAREFUL OUT THERE! ANOTHER SCORCHER IS BEAMING DOWN UPON US.

|

Kentucky officials urge caution as temps rise press release 

|

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.

|
Officials urge caution when using fireworks this year press release
|
QUICKIES
|
US Rep. Steve Chabot attempts to thwart federal funding for Cincinnati streetcar Cincinnati Enquirer & WKRC 
|
Frankfort: Stumbo, Williams sign off on payments for redistricting lawsuits Bluegrass Politics 
|
Frankfort: Ethics commission urges disclosure on funds spent on legislative ads cn|2 
|
Fancy Farm organizers send out picnics (DO NOT MISS THIS UNIQUELY KENTUCKY EVENT!) Herald-Leader 
|
Multi-state drunk driving crackdown coming Cincinnati Enquirer 
|
Kentucky First Lady Jane Beshear offers summer reading list press release 
|
WHAT TO DO THIS WEEKEND IN COVINGTON?
In addition to all the usual hot spots around town, there are several fun events...
|
FRIDAY
|
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.
|
SATURDAY
|
Volunteer at the Licking River Greenway & Trails

Click to enlarge

|

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.
|
SUNDAY
|
NKY's Gay Pride Festival

Click to enlarge

|

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
|
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 

|

Column: John Calipari is in his element on draft night WDRB 

|

Presented without comment...

This photo was submitted by a reader from Covington who went down to Clay County this week.