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 -- TUESDAY MORNING 21 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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NEIGHBORS CONFUSED OVER PARK'S REMOVAL

Following The River City News report that Father Hanses Park had been entirely removed late last week, Lewisburg residents spoke out on RCN's Facebook page to discuss the situation. The park was removed, according to parks & recreation director Natalie Gardner, over neighborhood concerns for safety. The playground equipment had also been reportedly damaged by fire. "Being an active member of the neighborhood association, I never heard any concerns from residents and living six houses down from the park for the past ten years I don't recall any major fires there," said Dan Krebs. "I do consistently recall parks & recreation complaining about maintaining it. Something doesn't smell right. Over ninety percent of the park was steel. I helped paint it in the past. The only thing that could have burned was the slide portion, but the whole park is gone. We requested and have been waiting years for one new picnic table. I'm sure a new park will get here sooner. I think there's more to the story."

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"If the problem is troublesome kids trashing the park, removing the playground equipment hasn't fixed anything," said Marissa Tucker. "At least with the park the kids congregated in one place. Now they have no central location and will be causing trouble throughout a much bigger, harder-to-patrol area. The root  of the problem still remains and as someone who frequently works with the neighborhood kids, finding any kind of solution to this ongoing problem just got much harder."

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A letter from City Hall to the neighborhood association on August 14 read, "The Recreation Department will be addressing the neighborhood’s concerns regarding the safety and condition of Fr. Hanses Park. We are aware of the fire damage and general destruction to the playground equipment as well as the ongoing battle to keep the park clean. We will be removing the damaged playground equipment in the near future. There have been significant improvements made in the materials used for playground equipment and we are searching for a more fire-resistant alternative to replace what is currently there. We ask for your patience as we strive to enhance Fr. Hanses Park providing a safe and enjoyable recreation experience for the Lewisburg community."

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ANOTHER JAM-PACKED CITY COMMISSION MEETING SCHEDULED

The Covington City Commission will convene Tuesday evening at City Hall for a legislative meeting. Highlights of the agenda include:

• A presentation from Police Chief Spike Jones on how the department is implementing the changes recommended by an outside consulting firm as part of a budget-cutting effort
• The commission will vote on cutting the number of available police captain positions from five to four (with the eventual goal of eliminating the position all together)
• The commission will vote on accepting a deed of conveyance on the City Center parking garage from the Commonwealth of Kentucky
• A contract worth $153,000 will be on the table for repainting the RiverCenter garage
• Guidelines for the upper floor residential rehab program will likely be adopted (this is part of the list of incentives available to attract more businesses and residents to Downtown Covington, with word being that there has been much interest in this particular part of the effort)
• A contract will be on the table worth $126,000 to replace the culvert and restore the pavement on Wayman Branch in South Covington
• Bryce Rhoades will be named assistant city solicitor, replacing Alex Mattingly who departed to become city administrator in Erlanger Elsmere.

As always, the most comprehensive coverage of the Covington City Commission will be found right here at The River City News.

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SPECIAL CONGRESSIONAL ELECTION CAUSING CONFUSION

While both races to replace Geoff Davis in Congress will happen on the same day, the ballot deadlines are different:

The general election ballot must be certified on Sept. 10 but candidates have until Oct. 9 to file to run in the the special election.
Secretary of State Alison Lundergan Grimes has filed suit in the Franklin County Circuit Court, asking a judge to move up the special election filing deadline to Sept. 10.

Full story: Cincinnati Enquirer/Scott Wartman 

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TEA PARTY, ANTI-TEA PARTY RALLIES IN FRANKFORT

Here is one description of what is shaping up for Tuesday in Frankfort:

On August 21, 2012, Senator Mitch McConnell and Senator Rand Paul will be speaking at a Tea Party rally on the front steps of the Capitol, in Frankfort, Kentucky.
The rally, free to the public, is to begin at 11:30 a.m. Aug. 21 on the front steps of the Capitol and last about 90 minutes. The Lexington and Northern Kentucky Tea Party groups will co-sponsor the event with Louisville's. And, as the Hillbilly Report says, "It's Time For The Progressive Community To Shi*t Or Get Off The Pot."

Event details: Facebook 

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DON'T MISS MONDAY EVENING'S NEWS!

Kenton County added to list of disaster areas in Kentucky; City Commissioner: energy efficient equipment has saved Covington more than $500,000; Plus, why the guy who owns the new Mainstrasse Popeye's thinks his business will work at a corner location where so many others have failed.

Full story: The RC News: Monday Evening Round-Up 

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GAY KY BOY SCOUT LEADER SAYS HE WAS FORCED OUT

After telling executives of the organization of his sexual orientation, a long time scout leader had to go:

Greg Bourke, who has been a registered Scout volunteer for five years, told The Courier-Journal that he relinquished the role last week after the pastor at the church where his troop meets said the facility might lose its Scouting charter if he stayed. A Boy Scouts policy enacted in 1991 and reaffirmed last month doesn't allow gays to join. Bourke said after the affirmation, he wrote to Boy Scout executives asking whether he was still welcome.

Full story: AP 
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QUICKIES
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New rules expose bigger funding gaps for public pensions Washington Post 
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Newport seeks bids for market-rate housing project Building Cincinnati 
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ABC's Nightline covers story of sexually assaulted Louisville teen who faced jail time after tweeting out the identities of her juvenile attackers ABC 
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Northside branding efforts ramp up Building Cincinnati 
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UK, UofL athletes banned from using long list of words on Twitter Courier-Journal 
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UK Football Coach Joker Phillips selects Maxwell Smith to start as quarterback Herald-Leader 
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HOW DOES COVINGTON SCORE ON THE PHILANTHROPY CHART?
Not bad... The Chronicle of Philanthropy recently compiled data on the charitable giving made by Americans and then breaks it down into searchable state, city, and even neighborhood information. 
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In total contributions, Kentucky ranked 31 out of the 50 states, giving $135.8 billion. Greater Cincinnati ranked 26 out of 366 metro areas by giving a total of $975.6 million. Kenton County ranked 331 out 3,115 counties across the country giving $74.9 million (Boone Co ranked 443 and Campbell Co ranked 613). Covington ranked 1,253 out 11,522 cities giving $19.1 million. You can also break the search down by specific zip code at the link below.
Chronicle of Philanthropy 
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WHY THE RICH DON'T GIVE...
Interesting, related piece:

Rich people are certainly giving a lot. Those with annual incomes of $200,000 or more represent 11 percent of the tax returns but account for 41 percent of the money donated, according to the report. But as a share of their income, the richest people in the U.S. are giving at a significantly lower rate than the less affluent.

The study looked at tax returns for people with reported earnings of $50,000 or more from the year 2008 – the most recent year for which data was available. The report found that for people earning between $50,000 and $75,000, an average of 7.6 percent of discretionary income was donated to charity. For those earning $200,000 or more, just 4.2 percent of discretionary income was donated.

Full story: The Atlantic Cities 
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HOT AGAIN THIS WEEK... SHOULD GROWN MEN WEAR SHORTS?
From The New York Times:

It’s a sentiment echoed by many style arbiters: men of a certain age and distinction, the thinking goes, cannot wear shorts and be taken seriously. This applies not only to the workplace, but also in social settings. Much of the fashion establishment seems to agree. “I avoid them,” said Glenn O’Brien, the fashion editor and writer of GQ magazine’s “Style Guy.” “If it’s like 100 degrees, or if I’m just going to Whole Foods, I will break down and wear shorts, but I try to avoid them for business.”

Full story: The New York Times 
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HIGH SCHOOL PRODUCTION OF 'OUR TOWN' FEATURES LINE MEMORIZATION
LOL:

Surprised audience members reported Sunday that Morgantown High School's production of Thornton Wilder's Pulitzer Prize–winning play Our Town features line memorization, a marked change from last year's staging of Guys And Dolls.

Full story: The Onion (satire)

NEWS ROUND-UP -- WEDNESDAY MORNING 15 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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ATTORNEY REACTS TO SCHOOL BOARD SPECIAL ELECTION DEMAND

First, check out Tuesday's exclusive coverage of this story: Crowded Field to Seek 3 Seats on Covington School Board 

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Brandon Voleker, the attorney representing Mark Young in his quest to put a special election on November's ballot to fill the vacant seat on the Covington School Board, had this to say about the events:

Mr. Young has retained me to have the Clerk accept his nominating petition for the unexpired term of Denise Varney, who resigned August 2, 2012, mandating a special election this year. I have called County Attorney Garry Edmondson and advised of the clerk's refusal to accept the petition, but Mr. Young did file nonetheless, leaving his petition and filing fee with the clerk. I am unsure why Covington did not advise of the special election for the unexpired term, other than to not allow the electorate to have a vote.

School Board candidate Everett Dameron, who is running in the regularly scheduled election for one of three open seats, also weighed in with a similar charge that the district misled the public:

This entire matter that Mr. Young has brought up is very interesting. I made an inquiry about a special election for the seat vacated by Mrs.Varney by phone to the Kentucky Department of Education legal department and in person at the Kenton County Clerk's office on Thursday August 9th and I was told by both that there would not be a special election. At the school board meeting held that evening, in response to a question regarding the vacant seat by a member of the public (Superintendent) Mrs. (Lynda) Jackson said that the position would be filled by appointment by the Commissioner of Education and there would be a legal ad in the paper on the next day. That ad was run as stated in the Kentucky Enquirer, giving notice that the appointment would be made by the Commissioner of Education and that applications would be accepted until August 24, 2012. Thus I and others were misinformed and denied the opportunity to file for the special election for the vacant seat.

A request for comment from the Covington School Board's attorney, Mary Ann Stewart, has been made.
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CURRENT COMMISSIONER IN ONLINE SCUFFLE WITH FORMER COMMISSIONER
One of the most entertaining websites in all the land is the Facebook page of Covington City Commissioner Steve Frank who enjoys a lengthy comment thread from time to time. Over the weekend, Frank stirred up some heated debate by posting a photo of the fire department's response to a small fire in Wallace Woods. "8 pieces of apparatus, big emergency?," Frank wrote as the caption. Then Covington firefighters and Commissioner Frank engaged in another one of their online back-and-forths, but things took a fresher turn when Kenton County Commonwealth's Attorney Rob Sanders, a former Covington City Commissioner, weighed in:

Before making judgements about the response, you have to know how the call was dispatched. What it turned out to be is really beside the point. If it was dispatched as a house fire, you need that many trucks to get enough firefighters to the scene since Cov only staffs 1-3 firefighters per truck. Did it turn out to be overkill? Maybe, but the dispatchers control it, not the firefighters. The expenses are in the trucks, which are already purchased, and the firefighters, who are paid by the hour, not per run. Argue budgets all you want but give CFD some credit for being professionals. They were still protecting the rest of the city. I'm sure if another emergency arose all but one truck would leave this call and go to the next. Do we really need them to hurry back to the station to wait for the next call?! If they did that everyone would just complain that they don't do any work and spend all day in the recliners.

Now, the thread continues, four days after it originally started. Frank charged at Sanders:

Rob, we are simply talking past one another. If you had done your job properly while on city Commission, we wouldn't be facing the problems we have. Now the adults have to clean up the mess. Frankly, I do learn by asking pointed questions.Sometimes I even change my mind. Right now, what i am gathering from this and other interactions is that one department in the City can't handle any criticism and resists rather than embraces any change. Well i can tell you that its not just me. Right now its 5-0 for change on the commission.

Sanders replied:

So now you resort to insulting my service on Commission. Not surprised. I'm not the least bit ashamed of my service. Did we fix the whole city? Obviously not. I served one term. How many have you served? Is the city fixed yet?! Obviously not. I guess you're just as big of a failure as I was. So much for "the adults cleaning up the mess."

You can read the whole thread by clicking here.
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DON'T MISS TUESDAY EVENING'S NEWS!
"Until this final word on the bridge redesign, no one we've been talking to would commit to Covington." City officials react to Brent Spence bridge changes; Plus, KY legislators want creationism taught alongside evolution in public schools. Those stories and more at the link!

The RC News: Tuesday Evening Round-Up 

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ANYBODY UP FOR THIS JOB?

Window washers spotted Tuesday at the RiverCenter Towers.
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QUICKIES
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Missing Kentucky woman possibly found buried in backyard freezer NY Daily News 
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Horseshoe Casino in Cincinnati to start hiring WKRC 
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Sen. Rand Paul introduces amendment to abolish the TSA press release 
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Sen. Rand Paul believes the government is preparing for civil unrest LEO Weekly 
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State officials teach proper treatment of HIV/AIDS WKYT 
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Kentucky firefighters on way to Idaho to help WKYT 
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NKU grad students help at-risk teens NKU 
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Richmond City Council hears from others on its proposed fairness ordinance Herald-Leader 
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Anti-bullying program begins in Harlan Schools WKYT 
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Pat Barry returns to WLWT, at least temporarily Cincinnati Enquirer 
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LEXINGTON BOY WITH RARE AGING DISEASE TO START KINDERGARTEN
A 5-year old in Lexington afflicted by the rare rapid-aging disease progeria is slated to start school:

When Zach removes his hat, one student looks at him, puzzled. "What is that on his head?" he asks, looking at the prominent network of veins. But since heads vary on most people anyway, he quickly forgets the matter and runs off to play. The first weeks of school, Martin said, will include lessons on how each student is special.

Full story with photos and video at the link: Herald-Leader 
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WELCOME BACK TO SCHOOL KENTON COUNTY STUDENTS!
A special welcome back to the kids at Taylor Mill Elementary, Woodland Middle School, and Scott High School who are all back in the classroom today.
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AND IT LOOKS LIKE THESE KIDS WILL HAVE A PRETTY GOOD LUNCH:
Via WKRC:

Read more here: http://www.kentucky.com/2012/08/14/2299020/lexington-child-with-rare-aging.html#storylink=rss?utm_source=twitterfeed&utm_medium=twitter#storylink=cp

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COVINGTON INDEPENDENT RETURNS TO SCHOOL NEXT WEDNESDAY...
Via CIPS Facebook page:

The first day of school for Covington Independent Public Schools is Wednesday, August 22. For school supply lists, dress codes, school lunch menus, transportation schedules and forms for transportation and lunch, click here.

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MEET THE TEACHERS TONIGHT AT SIXTH DISTRICT & LATONIA
According to the Sixth District Facebook page the event is from 4:30PM - 6:30PM:

Come by and sign up for our school's wonderfully active PTA, register your child for the district's after-school Fitness Rocks program, and then visit with your child's teacher in their classroom. We're inviting students with last names A-M from 4:30pm-5:30pm, and students with last names N-Z from 5:30pm-6:30pm. However, if those times are not convenient for you, then you may come anytime between 4:30pm and 6:30pm.

The CIPS website also indicates that Latonia Elementary's open house is today, also from 4:30PM - 6:30PM.
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SEE ALSO: Kentucky spending little to none on textbooks WLEX 
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TWO SURVEYS FOR FOLKS IN LATONIA
First, the West Latonia Neighborhood Association:

It has been 5 years since the West Latonia Neighborhood Association (WLNA) was established and at that time attendees to the meetings were asked to complete two (2) questionnaires describing what they felt were 1) Issues and/or Problems in the neighborhood; and 2) list Goals or Positive Ideas/Items for or about the neighborhood. This was done to help guide the initial activities of the association in order to be effective and represent the concerns of the residents. At this 5-year point, we felt that it would be appropriate to ask our neighbors to complete this process again to make sure that we were proceeding the way that West Latonia residents felt would best serve their needs and interests.
The Executive Committee of the West Latonia Neighborhood Association would appreciate it if you would consider taking a few minutes to either complete this process for the first time or repeat it if you were among those who helped us get started 5 years ago. Some additional questions are asked in this survey in order that we may try to be more purposeful in our efforts.

For the survey, click here.
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The Latonia Business Association also has some questions:

Please complete this survey to help us know your favorite places in Latonia! The top winner in each of the three categories will receive a prize. The survey will be open through September 7. Winners will be chosen after the close of the survey and announced at the September 19th Latonia Business Association meeting.

For that survey, click here.
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ENJOYING THE FALL-LIKE WEATHER? WHAT SHOULD YOU WEAR?
With autumn mercifully approaching, let's check in with Jerod Theobald, owner of flow - a shop for men on Scott Boulevard, to see what's hot as the temperatures cool:

Bright and bold colors are in this season. Brick red, steel blue, and deep plum are the heavy hitters this fall and should be paired accordingly with classic shades of camel, brown, charcoal, and black. For those of you not brave enough to wear a patterned sweater or solid chinos in a bold color, follow the trend by adding a pocket square or polka dot tie in a bright shade. Still too much? Throw on a pair of patterned or striped socks from Richer Poorer and flash some color only when you feel the urge to do so.

Read more from Jerod and then get down to his shop to get your autumn look: Cincinnati Profile 

NEWS ROUND-UP -- TUESDAY MORNING 14 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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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.

Full story: The RC News: Monday Round-Up 

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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 
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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? Click: TBNK 

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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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Overview: Behind the Curtain Cincinnati

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