February 23, 2012
Thou shalt never listen to denials
So, I did the journalistic way yesterday. Called the Diocese, talked to a couple official types there. Called Walgreen's, talked to an official type there.
All denied Walgreen's was planning a new Covington store at the southeast corner of 12th and Madison.
Of course, let me say politely that they were wrong.
Walgreen's is planning a new store, using it's butt-ugly suburban architecture, and that is unacceptable to most in Covington. Worse yet, they want to tear down the historic bishop's mansion ... and that is a mortal sin!
[ OSS Facebook ]
February 22, 2012
Paeth didn't get a 'thank you'
I have to watch the City Commission meetings for the C.KY and the OSS Facebook pages.
Even while in Florida, I can view a feed through the internet. So, I'm pretty much up on the ways of the Commission.
So, I was shocked last night that Greg Paeth didn't even get a "thank you for your service," after resigning from a city board to run for a Commission seat.
When people resign from volunteer positions, the Commissioners + Mayor always extend a kind thank you.
Even Matt Dressman and Ed Faulkner, who resigned their board positions to run, got a recent tip of the hat.
But nothing for Paeth. Nothing. Total silence. And I find that very interesting.
February 21, 2012
The OSS + C.KY: Always busy on Facebook
Check out some of the big headlines from yesterday through this morning!
Firefighters and churches ready for fish fries; gasoline prices in KY and elsewhere going up and up and up; NKY woman shoots cheating Husband In Crotch (ouch!).
Covington suspect struck by vehicle during pursuit; Mardi Gras celebration raises funds to help homeless children (a follow-up from l...ast week); highway lights remain out on the Cut-in-the-Hill; rain gardens along Madison Avenue; NKY officials creating oral health task force.
Library sponsoring "Hunger Games", Riverside Marketplace in Ludlow is on track to open this Thursday; The Waterfront will create a ballroom/party hall/meeting hall on the second floor; Housing authority publishes an open letter to the Covington Community; Rivers Edge at Eastside Pointe seeking local contractors.
Meet & greet with Mayor Scheper this coming Thursday; more graffiti removed from the Suspension Bridge; The story of slave Margaret Garner as she escaped to freedom near Covington; and more, more, more!
And that's why the OSS Facebook and Covington @ Facebook (C.KY) are Number One. Thanks folks!
February 20, 2012
Getting fried this
coming Friday
The Covington Firefighters will again host a Fish Fry each Friday during Lent.
These will be held at the Firemen's Hall at 23rd & Howell St. They will be serving their fish and shrimp dinners with all the trimmings from February 24 through April 6.
So will Holy Cross and St Augustine Churches, as CKY Facebook points out.
[ Covington @ Facebook ]
Yup, it's yet another new week. Welcome back!
February 17, 2012
Setting sail on the riverfront
The City of Covington got three proposals yesterday for developing its riverfront. One is quite interesting.
Boca Group proposes to build a 28-story hotel and apartment complex that looks like a sail boat, similar to the one in Dubai as seen in this photo.
Lots and lots of comments about it at OSS Facebook, you'll have to check it out.
"The city is truly excited to see the interest shown in doing riverfront projects in the community along the Ohio River," said Covington Mayor Chuck Scheper.
"These opportunities certainly raise the bar for our Covington riverfront vision as we seek to highlight and underscore development opportunities in the city that will lead to significant growth."
[ WXIX ]
February 16, 2012
MainStrasse Mardi Gras weekend
The two-day Mardi Gras celebration in Covington's Mainstrasse kicks off Friday (Feb. 17) with the Big Head Parade on Main Street. Saturday night will be the Grande Parade on Main Street. Both parades will start at 8 p.m. and will head down Main Street.
The festivities will continue until 1 a.m. at the tent – and longer at the MainStrasse bars. Baubles and beads will be available at MainStrasse Village businesses and also at the Goose Girl Fountain and the Mardi Gras Entertainment Tent.
[ Website ]
February 15, 2012
No casino for Covington
If you're a regular reader of the OSS Facebook, then you already know that casino gambling for Covington will not happened.
As soon as the news broke yesterday morning that the Governor had inroduced a bill to allow for gambling, I knew the city was in trouble. Here's why:
The bill does not allow for casinos within 60 miles of each other. Turfway will have a casino, so that rules out Covington.
I am beginning to think that the city is curse. A casino would create jobs, lots of them. There would be more restaurants, more bars/taverns, more entertainment, and there would be jobs for all the back-up services necessary to maintain a big operation.
Not to mention the thousands of new visitors it would bring to the city.
February 14, 2012
Saint Valentine's as a religious event
Most people call it Valentine's Day now, without the 'Saint.'
The day really did have religious connotations at one time, starting in the Catholic Church.
Saint Valentine's feast is on February 14, but nothing is known except his name and that he was buried on the Via Flaminia north of Rome on February 14.
[ Wikipedia ]
The next Catholic holy day turned secular will be Mardi Gras.
It refers to the practice of eating richer, fatty foods before the fasting ritual of the Lenten season, which begins on the day after, Ash Wednesday. At one time, Catholics had to fast during the entire Lenten season, so folks liked to stock up for a day.
So now, you know!
February 13, 2012
Round the 'town
Still need Valentine's Day plans? Cincinnati World Cinema presents the Oscar-nominated animated film "Chico & Rita" at 7:30 p.m. Tuesday and Wednesday at the Carnegie Visual and Performing Arts Center, 1028 Scott Blvd.
[ Recorder ]
Covington wants to talk
about its parking issues. A "public parking input session" will be held February 15 at 6 pm at City Hall. Meanwhile, the City of Covington is asking for feedback from residents, business and property owners regarding parking in the central business district by way of a parking survey
[ Cov Newsletter ]
Covington's Dave Culbreth last week broke the stories about troubled former Clermont County commissioner Archie Wilson and Bengals linebacker Rey Maualuga's alleged downtown bar fight.
[ Enquirer ]
February 10, 2012
If you're not doing anything
If you're planning a home remodeling project this spring, you can get some ideas at a convention in Covington this weekend.
The 39th annual Home & Remodeling Showcase is going on from Feb. 10 through Feb. 12 at the Northern Kentucky Convention Center in Covington.
[ KY Post ]
Sorry, kind of in a blah mood today. But, you can catch the latest at OSS + C.KY as usual. See you on Monday!
February 9, 2012
Still time for gambling
Will Covington ever have a gambling casino?
Gov. Steve Beshear said Wednesday he will wait "a few more days" to unveil his long-anticipated constitutional amendment to expand gambling because of the uncertainty of legislative redistricting.
[ Kentucky.com ]
The Gov says there is still plenty of time to OK casino gambling, so fingers are crossed!
Unique Russell Street building sold
That beautiful/unusual all brick Victorian at 515 Russell Street has been sold. With large parking area. Partial fenced yard. 2 family that has commercial & single family possibilities. $175,000.
[ Sibcy Cline ]
"Beautiful is the only word for this house. No cookie cutter here," Steve Vickers wrote at Covington @ Facebook.
John Mills wrote: "This was the home of the people whoowned Kelley-Koett, who manufactured Xray machines and radiation detectors..."
"This building was renovated about 20 years ago. At that time it was a very nice owners unit, and a smaller mother in law unit. It has a lot of neat features and could be a nice single family. The parking could contain a garage and nice yard space. Think up scale residential," says Everett Dameron.
Christi Love-Blair wrote: "That's a dream house for me! Love the unusual."
So now ... you know!
February 7, 2012
New patrol cars for Covington police
The Covington Commission meets later today, with the public session beginning at 6 pm. Among items on the agenda is the purchase of 15 Ford Interceptors for the police department, paid for by the Capital Improvement Funds. $351,219 .
[ Commission agenda ]
Up, down and up, down. Gas prices in Kentucky jumped 8.2 cents per gallon to an average of $3.49 per gallon over the past week and according to one expert, that increase is only a harbinger of the price at the pump as spring draws near.
[ KY Post ]
What's shaking?
Nearly one million Kentucky and Indiana residents will play it safe Tuesday and take part in the "Great Central U.S. Shakeout."
[ News report ]
Film at 11 pm ... and see you tomorrow!
February 6, 2012
Catching up with this and that
Let's check out a few things that are affecting Covington. Call this a Monday round-up:
Foreclosed homes in Covington may
become rentals. "It makes sense for them to not flood the market all at once," said Rachel Hastings, director of neighborhood and housing initiatives at the Center for Great Neighborhoods.
[ News report ]
High school grad calculator changes. Get ready for graduation rates to drop this year, but don’t blame your high school. Instead, blame the new way Ohio, Kentucky and most other states will be calculating those rates for federal and state rating.
[ Enquirer ]
Holmes display highlights
Black History Month. Black History Month is in full swing and events around Northern Kentucky are being held to honor those who have aided in the African-American Civil Rights Movement.
[ Louisville paper ]
Mind, music of Beethoven
explored at Carnegie. It is a rare opportunity to enjoy the musical gifts of a Julliard-trained pianist as he plays the works of a great composer. It is far rarer for the same virtuosic performer to delight his audience with a full psychiatric profile of that composer, and how it influenced the evolution of his cherished music.
[ Recorder ]
The debate continues. And already, as this is posted this Monday morning, the conversation has already begun at the OSS + C.KY at Facebook. Check it out!
[ Old Seminary Square ]
February 3, 2012
Crews to clean graffiti off Roebling
Expletives are spray painted on the 145-year-old stone towers of the John A. Roebling Suspension Bridge and permanent marker mars the bridge's brand new blue paint job
[ Enquirer ]
That's it for this week ... see you on Monday!
February 2, 2012
'Luv the Lud'
The Mayor's introduction of new slogan, Courage + Vision = Growth, has brought about a lot of discussion with regard to its usefulness and meaning.
A few narrow-minded people thought some of the discussion at the OSS was, gasp, negative.
Teri Meyer wrote: "I really didn't see anything negative about the Mayor, or his speech on here (at the OSS). I think he is an outstanding man and I truly hope that he is able to implement his plan to get Covington back on track."
"I do, however, agree that the Courage in our new city logo is a bit hokey. I have never felt that I had to be courageous to live in Covington," Teri wrote.
"I love this city and hope more than anything that we can get it revitalized. I personally feel that the words Creativeness + Vision = Growth would have been a better choice for a logo."
"Remember that whole argument we had last year with FOX over the CVG? LOL, I still feel the same! They don't call Walton Walt, or Newport New, why call Covington CVG?"
Joyce Smith Snow wrote: I sure do remember that, and it is so true! How about Dayton, "day" or Ludlow "lud" or Bellevue "bell" or Constance "con" or Florence "flo" and the list could go ON.
"Hate that Covington is losing it's meaning," Joyce wrote.
February 1, 2012
C+V=G, says the Mayor
The Mayor gave his State of City address last night. Pretty much a pep talk given most of content in his speech was already known. In short, the city is in bad shape.
He's trying to rally the masses with a slogan: C+V=G, whichs means "Courage + Vision = Growth."
I get the vision-thing and the growth-thing, but people in Covington need courage to make change. Seriously?
One person posting at the OSS said leaders need "the courage to make the hard decisions required to move the city forward."
It's not hard. It won't take courage ... because there's no other choice.
January 31, 2012
This is so exciting: Can't wait, can't wait!
But I will try to muster as much self-control until the right time to, shall be say, expose Greg Paeth.
He's running for Commission. This is so exciting, I can feel a tingling up my leg. Can't wait, can't wait!
January 30, 2012
History: Mother of God
survives all odds
"If fire that infested the dome of Mother of God Church a quarter-century ago couldn't destroy the historic house of worship, water used to drown the flames might have," writes Mike Rutledge at the Enquirer.
"To quote the Mayor as he paraphrased from author Jim Collins in his book Good to Great, 'Before you can move forward you have to face the reality of where you are.'"
But firefighters spared the majestic church from a Sept. 25, 1986, blaze that nearly claimed the inspirational landmark
[ Enquirer ]
January 27, 2012
Mayor speech was a disappointment
The Mayor gave his speech yesterday. Mayor Scheper stated "We can't just look in the rearview mirror and still move forward with visions of the past."
To quote the Mayor as he paraphrased from author Jim Collins in his book Good to Great, "Before you can move forward you have to face the reality of where you are."
I really hate to say this: The speech was a major disappointment. No major revelations, all that the Mayor spoke about was previously known. No specific plans to bring Covington back from the precipice. Well, perhaps next week during the official State of City address.
Commission Steve Casper wrote at the OSS: "The commission believed it would be inappropriate to give all the report at a paid event during the day, that is why only part 1 of what will be a 2 part presentation was given today.
"The city will provide health care for our 1st responders as well as our other employees, just needs to be more in line with our neighboring communities have already done. Appreciate your concern, we share it"
So, hopefully, a better presenation next Tuesday when the Mayor gives his State of the City address.
Have a good weekend.
January 26, 2012
Mayor to talk about city's challenges today
Newly appointed Covington Mayor Chuck Scheper will discuss his first 90 days in office and efforts he, his fellow city commissioners and city staff are undertaking to help the city overcome challenges that have robbed it of its competitive advantages over the past several decades.
11:30am - 1:00pm at the Madison Event Center ... I'm pretty sure the speech will broadcast on public access.
January 25, 2012
Not mainstream news
Interesting, the things people at OSS Facebook and Covington @ Facebook talk about ...
Commissioner Frank recently made a snarky remark at Covington @ Facebook about fire runs. The Covington firefighters have been angry ever since.
Deteriorating relations between the firefighters and the Commissioner is, thus far, the big story of the week in Covington ... and only the OSS + C.KY has covered it.
[ Covington Firefighters ]
Made a quick notation at both Facebook pages last night during the President's speech concerning his suggestion requiring children by law to stay in school until age 18.
That, too, has gotten a rather large reaction from readers. Looks like opinion is split 50-50.
[ Covington @ Facebook ]
The Mayor begins his State of City presentation with a speech tomorrow at the monthly Covington Business Council luncheon. Next week, he will make a formal presentation ... and hints are, major changes are on the way within City Hall. Hope so.
January 24, 2012
Bingo on
Pike Street
I did not know that bingo has been played inside the J.C. Penney building for years ... and seems to be quite popular.
Pike Street resident and entrepreneur Rick Hoffman wrote at the OSS:
"Many are poor or in ill-health, and their bingo night is sort of their social night. They come early and play cards, etc. They used to get about 200 people in there, especially on a Wednesday night, but since the smoking thing started, I'm not sure it is quite as busy."
He continued:
"Many in city hall have commented on getting rid of the bingo hall, thinking that it has a negative affect on populating the street, but I disagree.
"Having the bingo-goers on the street keeps other people away who we really don't want to be here (dealers, etc). I feel better walking my female students to their cars after class knowing that the police officer is there. The main reason Pike Street isn't populated is because of the negative effect of City Hall, not bingo."
[ OSS Facebook ]
January 23, 2012
Lowly Covington schools and the Facebook
If you're a regular reader of OSS Facebook and its companion page, Covington @ Facebook, then you're already aware of the brouhaha with regards to Covington schools.
[ Covington @ Facebook ]
Somebody is posting videos at YouTube in a valiant attempt to bring attention to the dismal condition that the local schools have become. As students advance in Covington schools, their achievement scores have worsened.
Much of the discussion has taken place at Covington @ Facebook and OSS Facebook, too the point that whomever is doing the video -- felt obligated to respond to the postings with yet another video.
[ YouTube videos ]
The producer of the videos has not been openly identified, but one online site was able to get a few answers as far as motive. Take a look:
[ NKY Spot ]
January 20, 2012
Pike St. coffee house space for sale
The space that formerly housed a coffee house on Pike is for sale: $129,900.
Commissioner Frank wrote at Covington @ Facebook: "I miss that coffee house. They had some mean panini."
[ Covington @ Facebook ]
Huge discussions yesterday at Covington @ Facebook and the OSS about the sad shape of the Covington schools. Time for Superintendent Lynda Jackson to go.
[ OSS Facebook ]
Remember a few months ago, those photos of empty offices down on Pike Street being rented by Covington schools? Everybody thought that I had taken the photos. Nope, the real photographer came clean yesterday with a posting at Covington @ Facebook.
[ Covington @ Facebook ]
Granite World, a new business to Covington, is pleased to announce a Grand Opening weekend on Friday and Saturday, January 20 and 21.
The event will introduce the public to Granite World's new 8000 square foot showroom located at 123 West 14th Street, Covington.
[ WXIX ]
This show is a dinosaur! Over 60 replica and moving museum quality dinosaurs at a national traveling exhibit. Northern Kentucky Convention Center, January 20-22.
[ Website ]
Have a great weekend!
January 18, 2012
What to do about Pike Street
Yesterday, we'd "talked" about Short Pike and what to do about it.
I think ripping up the mall and re-opening the street to vehicular traffic was a mistake ... because doing so really didn't make things better.
Commissioner Casper had a good idea:
"I've suggested we consider converting 7th St to a smaller version of 4th St Live in Louisville, meaning some kind of permanent covering," Commissioner Casper wrote.
"The arcade would allow Pike to play a role, too. Would also want a trolley to loop to Mainstrasse so both areas could feed off each other."
Of course, never one to not make a suggestion, I think closing Short Pike during warm weather months and creating an outdoor cafe atmosphere would be a good first start.
[ OSS Facebook ]
January 17, 2012
Up and down weather
Mercy. Now the weather is turning cold once again ... but will warm later in the week.
[ Covington USA ]
Keep telling you ... there's lots going on over at the OSS Facebook, but if you want more there's Covington Facebook with its 4211 fans!
[ Covington @ Facebook ] Historic photos, too!
Covington police chief, Lee Russo, says that leads are coming in for three church break-ins in that happened over the holidays in Latonia. However, releasing them would compromise the investigation said Russo.
[ KY Post ]
75 years after the worst flood ever to hit Cincinnati, historians and history buffs will revisit some of the hardest-hit areas on the Belle of Cincinnati.
[ WXIX ]
January 13, 2012
Let me ramble
People can't understand the loss I am feeling because Dad "had a long life, be happy with that."
Such comments came from several who lost parents who were in their 60s, even 50s.
So, I'd changed my tune. Can't show the devastation I am feeling. I'm not allowed to openly mourn because others have lost younger parents.
Dad did, indeed, live a long life. But we had expected him to be around much longer ... based on the longevity genetics of his side of the family. So, I am shocked. Very shocked, as are people who knew him well.
And I was shocked to find out from his older sisters that he was still in deep despair following Mom's death a year and a half ago. He had hid it from his children. Yes, we knew he had down days, but didn't realize its extent until his hospitalization.
He'd died of an emotional broken heart.
At the hospital, Dad was heavily-sedated but we could still talk somewhat to him. We would ask him, "How are you doing?" More often than not Dad would shake his head and point to heaven. He was ready to go, Dad wanted to be with Mom.
Late Friday evening, I had rushed back to Christ Hospital to plead with him not to give up. "We need you here, Dad, you're going to be OK. For Mom, it's just a blink in time since her death.
"You're needed here, promise me you'll fight it." A few seconds later he nodded his head "yes" and quite literally, Dad started to rally ... to the point that the tubes were eventually removed as were most of the medications.
Nurses and doctors were amazed. He was talking a lot and eating a lot. He seemed happy to be alive. Then on Tuesday, Dad was in the process of being moved out of the ICU to a regular room for a couple more of days of observation ... and collapsed just seconds after teasing the nurses.
Tomorrow, we will say our final farewells. I'd returned to the area part-time to keep an eye on him and Mom. Then something happened along the way ... he became my best friend.
And I will miss him so very, very much.
January 12, 2012
Thursday evening's commute could be messy
Thursday morning's rain and drizzle will turn to snow during the afternoon, setting up a potentially messy evening commute.
[ WLWT ]
Gas prices in the area area took an expected jump up yesterday. Probably because of the Iranian situation which is getting tense.
[ Business Courier ]
I guess we have to accept changing gas prices. Seems to be never ending.
January 11, 2012
Goodbye, Dad
Dad died yesterday, probably of a broken heart. Mom passed a year and half ago and he'd missed her so. Now, they are reunited forever. I'm happy for him.
January 10, 2012
Tickets for
Mardi Gras
The 16th Annual 96Rock MainStrasse Village Mardi Gras will happen Friday, February 17 and Saturday, February 18 from 8:00 p.m. until 1 a.m.in the Entertainment Tent, with the party continuing in the MainStrasse bars.
[ WXIX ]
Behringer-Crawford Museum presents "Ice, Ice Mammoths," a day full of ice-age family friendly fun free to the public as part of its Super Sundays Family Programming.
[ WXIX ]
75 years after the worst flood ever to hit Cincinnati, historians and history buffs will revisit some of the hardest-hit areas on the Belle of Cincinnati.
[ WXIX ]
So now, you know!
January 9, 2012
Perhaps some snow on Thursday
The weather has been rather comfortable but come Thursday, it may snow.
[ Enquirer ]
Even Fort Mitchell had an Occupied demonstration. Occupy Fort Mitchell, the fourth Northern Kentucky occupy movement, led protesters from Fort Mitchell to Fort Wright ending at Sen. Mitch McConnell’s office on Dixie Highway.
[ Struggling causes ]
A company that makes Excedrin has its own headache today. It has issued a recall on it and some other products.
[ Yahoo ]
Read something, somewhere referring to the neighborhood as Seminary Square, without the "Old." Funny that some don't even know the name of their own neighborhood!
Commissioner Frank reports on his Facebook page that a friend, who lives on the 1400 block of Russell, found a stray Yorkie that was too well-fed and groomed to be very stray. Anyone missing a Yorkie?
[ Steve Frank ]
January 6, 2012
Nothing to Simpson redistricting rumor
Thought so. Held off on the Arnold Simpson's district rumor until yesterday. Just couldn't believe it, didn't make any political sense.
Apparently, reports that Democrats plan to move Arnold Simpson's district were made in error. OSS + CKY held off on the "story" because of those suspicions, and only reported on it yesterday in response to the City Commission's decision to hold a special session on the matter. Was the Commission punk'd? Sure looks like it.
The Enquirer was punk'd, too.
There were never any plans to change Mr. Simpson's district. Even the article concedes "no one in the state legislature has formally proposed new boundaries for local legislative districts." KY Speaker of the House Greg Stumbo was forced to issue a statement, saying there were no plans to re-work Simpson's district.
January 5, 2012
Angry Democrats giving
Simpson a hard time
Insider talk has it that state Democrats are quite angry with Covington state representative Arnold Simpson (D), accusing him of being ineffective, non-aggressive in fighting for issues. They're threatening to move him into a tougher district to win.
Speaking of ineffective: The Covington City Commission -- which has cancelled umpteenth meetings recently -- has decided to meet at 4 pm today in order to vote on a non-binding resolution in support of Mr. Simpson.
The new schoolchildren curfew is getting widepread attention nationally. Unfortunately in the most negative sense.
[ Yahoo blog ]
Dad was hospitalized a few days ago. He has been heavily sedated and the family has not been able to speak to him, comfort him ...
Except for one hour yesterday when the medical staff made him lucid. He can't speak because of the tubes but we all had the chance to talk to him.
The good news ... in time, Dad will be just fine.
January 3, 2012
What a mess
last night!
Do I have to tell you what a mess the roads were last night?
No, because OSS Facebook and the Covington Facebook provided constant updates, including links to traffic cameras ... and even a few drivers posted reports while sitting in their cars. One regular at the OSS posted from Tennessee!
It was a busy evening. The 12th St/MLKJr Blvd bridge was closed for a while for salting and sanding, as were the 19th Street and Clay Wade Bailey Bridges.
At 10 pm, traffic was still a mess on the interstate. The explanation today was that road crews "were unprepared" for the snow ... no kidding.
January 2, 2012
Bob Sanders
won't run
Bob Sanders announced on his Facebook page on Saturday that he will not be a candidate for Congress, citing family and his law practice as the reasons.
Widespread rumors that Arnold Simpson may lose his home area of Old Seminary Square to redistricting. A Campbell County state representative's district may be extended to cover the neighborhood.
Those stolen toys? A couple of yahoos who live on Russell Street were the ones who stole $10,000 of goodies from the Toys For Tots organization. No address was listed in news reports.
And, my goodness, what a switch from rather nice, warm weather to cold and snow flurries this morning. Brrrrr!
December 30, 2011
Brownout delayed Banklick fire response
WXIX reported online and on the air that response to the fire on Banklick was delayed because "the nearest fire company was browned out." A firefighters' union official wrote at Facebook: "Crews were close to running out of water."
[ WXIX ]
Well, that is it for this year. I've got a bad cold or severe allergies, not sure which one ... so, not in the mood. See you on Monday? Happy New Year.
December 29, 2011
Now, it's the streetlights on
12th Street
OSSers reported on the Facebook page yesterday that the streetlights are out on 12th Street / MLKJr. Blvd. Called the city's public improvement office and was told that the state is in charge, gave me a telephone number for the KY Transportation Cabinet District 6 ...
Got a callback from someone by the name of Melissa at the KY Transportation Cabinet District 6 office who said the city of Covington was in charge of streetlight outages. "We only take care of lights on the interstates," Melissa said.
Jon Ryker wrote: I have always been a little concerned about who is in charge of that road....and the median in the middle.
Rebecca Pettigrew wrote: Heh... Covington loves a game of telephone transfer... Nobody seems to know who does what in the city... No wonder nothing gets done, everybody just thinks it's someone else's job.
Shawn Masters wrote: I have our asst city engineer looking into this.
Debbie Bailey wrote: And someone had to read FB to find out about it to get something done.
December 28, 2011
Talking about the new boulevard
Facebook users are expressing concern about the turn lane onto Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd. (12th Street) from northbound Madison Avenue.
Candace Witte wrote: We almost had a head on last Wednesday. It does needs a big sign.
Kimberly Latham wrote: Definitely needs something... like arrows painted brightly on ground all the way the up through the turn , because it looks as if when you are turning you are supposed to turn where we used to before the bridge construction was finished.
Bill Dennis wrote: That whole 12th street fiasco is a big waste of money!
Linda Cochran wrote: Yes...I have twice seen people turn into the wrong lane.
Jeff Murden wrote: The whole street alignment at that intersection is FUBAR... I thought there were standards for street design... apparently everywhere EXCEPT in Covington.
Ann Longo wrote: Right, that intersection LOOKS like a major accident waiting to happen
Marshall Hacker wrote: The designers were too busy trying to make it look pretty with little red bricks to pay attention to making it safe and practical.
December 27, 2011
Bob Sanders for Congress
Old Seminary Square's Bob Sanders seems to be debating a run for Congress, and is asking for comments. Here's what he posted at Facebook:
"Since Geoff Davis announced he is not running for reelection, a number of very nice people have flattered me by suggesting that I should run to represent Kentucky's Fourth Congressional District in Congress.
"Let's do a straw poll on FB: What do you think the chances would be of electing a liberal Democrat who strongly supports President Obama; thinks paying taxes is a duty of citizenship; strongly supports public education; thinks that no child should go to bed hungry in the planet's most prosperous nation ...
"Supports a single-payer program of national health insurance; believes you ought to be able to marry your cat if that makes you happy; and that government should be sufficiently limited to leave reproductive decisions to the conscience of the individual?
"Would it make a difference if you knew I also like to shoot guns, ride a motorcycle without a helmet, and play in the woods with big gas-guzzling 4WD trucks?
"Be honest and don't worry about hurting my feelings. . ."
December 26, 2011
Down on Pike Street
I have been using the Sibcy Cline website to look at property for sale in Covington.
Lotsa great deals out there. Still, Pike Street caught my interest. I know, I know ... things aren't going well down there but it does have some cool abodes.
10 Pike Street has been on the market for quite some time. $179,900 for a three story home. Not bad at all.
[ Sibcy Cline ]
A block away at 122 Pike Street is a cool condo and pretty elegant in its style. $169,900.
[ Sibcy Cline ]
The point is, really are a lot of great properties for sale in Covington, for all tastes. If there only was a way to get folks from elsewhere to like the city and all of its potential ...
December 23, 2011
Found the
Christmas lights!
Just as I was giving up on decorating the windows with twinkling lights ... I found some hidden in a plastic bin!
Christmas Day Dinner for the down and out will be at a new and bigger location this year. The need has increased, and they can serve more people at the Northern Kentucky Convention Center.
[ WXIX ]
That crime-ridden Fort Mitchell hotel will be closing its doors after several violations under the city's 'chronic nuisance ordinance.'
[ Enquirer ]
A 15-year old has been arrested in the fatal shooting of a man behind a Covington home.
[ WLWT ]
Finally, everybody ... have a Merry Christmas and a great weekend! See you on Monday.
December 22, 2011
Check those gasoline prices!
Drivers are getting a rude shock at the pumps today. Gas at stations across the Tri-state has jumped as much as fifty cents.
[ Local 12 ]
Toys for Tots offers late toy distribution to remaining families.
The United States Marine Corps' Toys for Tots program will offer it few remaining toys to families on a first-come first-served basis from 08:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. on December 22 at Holmes High School.
[ WXIX ]
And every place I went to yesterday ... sold out of Christmas lights. May have to skip doing the windows after all. Bah. Humbug!
December 21, 2011
Gifts for
Carlisle kids
The efforts of many, including the local Rotary Club and Bob Sanders, has brought joy to the kids at Carlisle School. Nice touch.
[ Enquirer ]
It was close: Police Chief Lee Russo's new month-to-month contract, beginning in January, was accepted by the Covington Commission last night, 3-2. Commissioners Masters and Frank voted against. Commission Frank said his "no" vote had to do with contract's six month severance pay provision.
Also at last night's Commission meeting, a Linden Grove official said the cemetery would like to restore the old pond and create a new visitors' entrance. The cemetery hopes to raise $460,000 or so to start the project.
And that ... will be a great project for the community!
December 20, 2011
Covington residents' health report
The Greater Cincinnati Community Health Status Survey's oversample in Covington found that 40 percent of Covington adults say they are in excellent or very good health.
Five percent of Covington adults admit to driving at least once in the past 30 days after having too much to drink.
[ WXIX ]
Enquirer's paper size to shrink even more:
The new Enquirer will be 10-and-a-half inches by 14-and-two-thirds inches, and printing will now be handled by the Columbus Dispatch, according to a press release.
[ Biz Courier ]
So, I'd hung lights in the windows at my Covington hut yesterday and a lot of the darn little twinklers were burnt out. May have to pass this year.
Given that the house is being put on the market in the spring, thought it would be nice to have lights for a final time. Oh, well!
December 19, 2011
Credible candidate announces for Congress
As expected, Republican Alecia Webb-Edgington has announced for Congress, posting it on her Facebook page, as the OSS was first to discover this morning.
Webb-Edgington wrote: "Congress as a whole currently has an historically low approval rating for good reason. We need more leaders who are problem solvers willing to work towards consensus on very difficult decisions.
"It is essential for our future that we act now to get our fiscal house in order, turn back the tide of ever-increasing debt and deficits and avoid the crippling economic effects that will result from unrestrained government spending," said Webb-Edgington.
Ha, ha ... we'll see about that.
Hot and heavy rumors that the Covington Police Chief may be told to hit the road tomorrow. I'm not saying another word about it, too important of a job to be playing games.
We'll wait and see what happens at tomorrow's Comission meeting.
December 16, 2011
A miracle! 12th Street almost finished
A road project they've been talking about since Nixon was president is just about finished. Covington's Martin Luther King Blvd. (12th Street) has been a clogged artery for decades.
The road carries traffic off of I-75 from the Cut-in-the-Hill. Plans to fix it have been delayed and derailed for the last 40 years, but now it looks like it's done.
[ Local 12 ]
As the OSS was fast to note at Facebook early Thursday evening, Congressman Geoff Davis has decided not to run for re-election. Good story at the Louisville Courier-Journal.
[ Courier-Journal ]
December 15, 2011
Getting the animals under control
Kenton County will soon take over the duties of animal control for the city of Covington. No more Mrs. Raccoon in the neighborhood?
[ Enquirer ]
The unneccessary war is finally over in Iraq.
[ Yahoo News ]
Welcome House hosting
special event for children.
The shopping event will take place on Fri., Dec. 16 from 3-6 p.m. at the Garden Center located at 133 E. 11th St. in Covington. This event is made possible by Welcome House volunteers and donors.
[ WXIX ]
And, yes, I am still traveling which explains the faulty updates. Am in North Carolina. See you soon!
December 13, 2011
Tuesday's news
I'd completely forgot to update Russell Street News yesterday. It didn't even cross my mind! Anyway ...
Old Seminary Square's Bob Sanders was honored yesterday by the local Democrats for years of service to the party. Congrats!
Covington's Oakley and Eva Farris were named Benefactors of the Year by Gateway Community and Technical College in honor of their commitment to provide $500,000 to create a child development center at the college's proposed Urban Campus in downtown Covington.
[ Recorder ]
Gas prices are cheaper in NKY:
In Northern Kentucky reported gas prices ranged from $3.04 per gallon to $3.06 per gallon. In Cincinnati, the average price for a gallon of self-service regular stood at $3.25 to begin the week.
[ Recorder ]
And the best news of all ... temps are going to be pretty nice this week, highs in the 50s!
December 9, 2011
Candy cane hunt tomorrow
A candy cane hunt at Goebel Park on Saturday, at 2 pm!
Should be a lot of fun for the kids ... brought to you by the Main Strasse Village Association, of course.
Ever wonder why your car has a layer of dust on it the day after washing it? It's soot pollution.
Kentucky is one of the filthiest states in the nation, along with Ohio and Indiana, mostly because of pollutants from all the power plants that dot the Ohio River.
[ WHAS TV Louisville ]
Florence is the latest to get a Kroger Marketplace super duper store. Covington? Lucky to have what it has, I guess, given that it is the poorest consumer market in the NKY.
Well, that's it for this week. See you on Monday!
December 8, 2011
Try MainStrasse for unique gifts
Family Friendly Cincinnati points out some of the cool places in MainStrasse for unique gifts. Check it out!
[ Family Friendly ]
The members of the Covington Rotary Club are working to answer John G. Carlisle Elementary School's recent call for help in giving Christmas gifts to every student in the school in Covington.
Within the last week the Covington Rotarians raised $1,420 (enough for 142 gifts) plus an additional donation of 125 gifts for a total of 267 Christmas gifts for the children.
[ WXIX ]
Commissioner Steve Frank has posted photos from today's dedication of the Covington Latin School addition, plus the unveiling of the General Leonard Covington statue.
[ Commissioner Frank ]
December 7, 2011
School dedication today
As noted a couple times at the OSS, the new addition at Covington Latin School will be dedicated today, a nice addition to the school and to the city. 1 pm.
Next big holiday event: Join the City of Covington for their annual Candy Cane Hunt in Goebel Park, MainStrasse Village, on Saturday, December 10th.
As expected, the Covington city commission voted unanimously to enact an ordinance that will give police new abilities to crack down on kids who are found off school grounds during school hours.
[ KY Post ]
Covington's Ninth District Elementary School received a $10,000 check Tuesday, Dec. 6 courtesy of Lexus.
A federal court agrees that the proposed methadone clinic for Latonia is not an "addiction treatment facility" but a medical services facility as the company backing it, NKYMed, Inc. had claimed.
The judge will now receive arguments on whether the City of Covington has violated "substantive due process" and whether the city has violated the federal Americans with Disability Act.
So now, you know!
December 6, 2011
Litter pick-up will continue
Colder temperatures and the nearing official end to fall have not stopped the Urban Partnership of Covington’s clean and safe initiative, reports Channel 19.
Partnership Executive Director Pat Frew says some of the activities of the crews will alter as the effort begins to enter its first Winter season of operation.
 "We have winterized the power washing equipment so you won't see any of that activity for the next five months. We do plan to shovel sidewalks at street corners at crosswalks. And during the precipitation-free periods, you will see us continuing litter pickup and graffiti removal."
[ WXIX ]
December 5, 2011
OSS was a lot of fun Friday night
Old Seminary Square Facebook had an online celebration after Holy Cross won the state championship. OSS was the rallying point and the Facebook page was even the first to publish photos from the game ... which delighted everyone.
Bleak news for Carlisle School. As we noted a couple weeks ago at Facebook, many of the 470 students at John G. Carlisle Elementary School won't have much under their Christmas trees this year.
That's why the school staff is working to ensure every child receives a gift, and they are asking the community for help in making that happen.
The paper has a story today.
[ Enquirer ]
St Nick arrives in MainStrasse Tuesday evening, appropriately enough on Saint Nicholas Day (Santa Claus Day).
Each child will receive a gift from Saint Nicholas and free hot chocolate and cookies. 6 pm at MainStrasse.
December 2, 2011
Bob Sanders to be honored
The Kenton County Democratic Club will honor Covington attorney and longtime Democratic supporter Robert "Bob" Sanders with its lifetime achievement award at the club's annual dinner on Dec. 12.
Today (Friday), you can purchase your fresh-cut Christmas Tree and wreaths from the Boy Scouts in MainStrasse Village. Tree sales will take place on the Sixth Street Promenade close to the Goose Girl Fountain.
And a reminder about the most excellent holiday display at Sims Furniture, just around the corner from the neighborhood. A local organization is a having a window decorating contest, winners will be announced this weekend. Gee, wonder who will win first place?
Have a great weekend!
December 1, 2011
Oh, the hypocrisy
The work being done at the 900 block of Banklick Street is important but, oh, the
hypocrisy.
Once again, the Ladies & Older Gents Social Club shows up yesterday and touts its wonderfulness.
Since when is the L&OGSC interested in Banklick Street? It invites 2-3 upscale households from the street to its meetings while the poor people are not. People in the Pulse Apartments are not overtly welcome, either.
I'm glad that other progressives in the neighborhood have finally recognized this travesty. Attendance at the L&OGSC is down to about 7 households and nobody wants to pay dues, even if it's only $5 a year!
The L&OGSC is shameful, and an embarrassment for a city that likes to claim that it's diverse.
November 30, 2011
So, what happened to Chiquita?
As you know, Chiquita is leaving the area. Money, of course, is the main reason.
Another is the dwindling number of key flights that Chiquita wanted and needed at CVG to get to its vast empire in Central and South America, and to Europe.
Plus an additional item, as noted in today's Charlotte Observer: That the Cincinnati region is not culturally diverse. In fact, it's pretty provincial for a company like Chiquita ... so away it goes.
November 29, 2011
Tree lighting is tonight
The annual Christmas tree lighting ceremony over at MainStrasse will be tonight (Tuesday) at 6:30 pm. Should be a nice event but there may be snow showers.
November 28, 2011
Commission cancels scheduled meeting
Not certain the Mayor and Covington Commissioners will be at the Christmas Tree lighting at MainStrasse, given that the commission will be in session. It's a "make-up meeting," one that was scheduled earlier in the month but postponed.
UPDATE: Commissioner Casper just posted a note at the OSS that the Commission Meeting has been cancelled.
A sidebar to all the holiday decorations over at Main Strasse ... somebody recently took the toy soldier that was on duty at Goebel Park.
The Village Association posted this notice at its Facebook page:
"MISSING: Toy soldier guard last seen hanging around a lightpost on 6th and Philadelphia around midnight last night. Soldier is about 8' tall and is wearing a ceremonial guard uniform with white pants. Please return him to his post greeting MainStrasse Village/Clock Tower visitors!"
November 23, 2011
Commissioner Frank writes about the OSS
No other politician has received more negative comments written by yours truly than Commissioner Steve Frank, particularly because of his actions with regard to the city's fire and police.
Mr. Frank really put the city in a very tense and angry period. It was ugly, just plain ugly.
Conversely, I've held a certain respect for the Commissioner because of his willingness to explain, his willingness to speak out.
So obviously, I was interested when Mr. Frank answered a comment by Kathy/Jeff Groob aka Nineteenth Century Punk, which is their latest alias in the couple's latest obsessive attempts at me.
Commissioner Frank wrote: "I noticed Richard was beginning to if not defend me, at least ban some of the more offensive Larry Decline personal attacks; so he is starting to edit ... perhaps out of a sense of fairness or fear of loss of readership. I don't mind the antics. When you get into public life you do have a big target on you. "
Yes, Commissioner, things did get a bit out of control at OSS Facebook because of its open policy. And things are changing, even for myself as I learn more and more about Covington behind the scenes.
That's it for this week at Russell Street News. Enjoy your holiday weekend and see you on Monday!
November 22, 2011
Artists converge on
Covington for Winterfair
More than 200 artists from across the country will gather here this weekend to connect with shoppers at Winterfair, an annual fine art and craft fair organized by Ohio Designer Craftsmen.
[ Recorder ]
Urban Partnership of Covington secures PNC grant. The program, which involves four paid staff and up to another volunteers, picking up litter and weeds from sidewalks, power washing sidewalks and removing graffiti from buildings has been ongoing since April 1.
In that time more than 38,000 pounds of litter has been collected and more than 400 instances of graffiti removed, including in the Old Seminary Square area.
[ Enquirer ]
That Page One Kentucky is at it again with regard to that angel of a politician, Kathy Groob.
I have counted at least 42 references from POK with regard to Groob (probably more than take ... it was a quick check) since 2008.
If she wasn't such an obsessive, shameless, relentless, contradictory self-promoter, Groob would not be getting that kind of attention.
Anyway, Page One Kentucky thinks Groob "of all people" got an appointment to sit on a board after making a political donation.
[ Page One Kentucky ]
November 21, 2011
Important march in Covington tonight
The Eastside and Helentown Neighborhood Associations are telling people all through the city, "It takes a village to stop a crime. It is time for Covington to unite for a city-wide rally against crime & violence."
[ WXIX ]
November 18, 2011
Tolls likely for new Ohio River bridge
The major news yesterday at OSS Facebook: Two new bridges will be built over the Ohio River in Louisville with construction beginning next year. They will be toll bridges, which means if and when a new bridge is constructed next to the Brent Spence, it will likely charge tolls.
The concern has to be the space that will be needed on the KY side for the toll lanes. Queensgate on the OH side, not so much of a problem.
Looks like the tolls will be $1.50 and $2 which is the guesstimate for the Louisville bridges. We'll see ....
[ Courier Journal ]
November 17, 2011
Me and Commissioner Frank
So, Commissioner Frank and I are having at it again at Facebook. Not the first time, won't be the last.
Frank has a habit of using music videos to make a subtle statement, along with a few cryptic postings ... I have always found it fun and interesting to figure them out.
But the Commissioner is not amused.
"Some humorless prigs seem upset that I enjoy sharing music with my friends." Frank wrote laste night. "Perhaps they'll appreciate the sharing of humor ... take this OWS and OSS."
Then, he links to a Monty Python video called "The Annoying Peasant."
And, of course, I interpreted that to mean he was looking down on the people of Covington once again.
Back and forth. Up and down. A failed attempt by the Commissioner to turn the table. Mr. Frank, you need to stop taking lessons from clueless Kathy Groob!
[ OSS Facebook ]
November 16, 2011
Nothing to say today
I know, it's incredible! Nothing to write about today so head on over to the OSS Facebook were there's always something happening ...
[ OSS Facebook ]
November 15, 2011
Nice touch for the holidays
Renaissance Covington and MainStrasse Village Association have invited Covington retailers to participate in the annual storefront decorating contest for the holdays.
There will be two separate contests; one in the Renaissance District and the other in Mainstrasse Village. Judging will take place between November 29th and December 3rd.
Is the old Norb's Service Station at 11th and Russell Street for sale again? I'd noticed it's listed again at the Sibcy Cline website. $137,000.
November 14, 2011
Coats for the poor
St. Vincent De Paul has placed barrels in each of the Covington Firehouses again this year. Times are tough for many of our citizens, young and old, and this is a small way to give a helping hand.
One coat can make all the difference to a person doing without this year.
The SuperValu off Madison Avenue has closed, at least for now. A smaller version may open later at the same location. The local company owns the market -- it is licensed by SuperValue -- and it is building a brand-new store in Ludlow.
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New Walgreen's planned
for Madison Avenue
Despite all the denials, Walgreen's is planning to build a new store at the southeast corner of Madison and 12th Street. (Martin Luther King Blvd.) It plans to tear down the historic bishop's mansion.
[ OSS Facebook ]
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