COVINGTON KY NEWS | OLD SEMINARY SQUARE | RUSSELL STREET NEWS |
  < Click to go to COVINGTON KY DAILY NEWS

  
LAST UPDATED: May 17 2013 | COVERING ALL ALONG RUSSELL STREET IN COVINGTON KY   
<< 1900 of your neighbors are now at Old Seminary Square at Facebook [ Link ]   
And over 6300 people at our Covington @ Facebook page [ Link ] >>   


May 17, 2013
Neighborhood associations' embarassment

Any association that can't collect a few dollars from residents should just pack it up.

I remember Paeth's comment that he couldn't get people to donate money for projects. Why not?

Why do neighborhood associations have such a hard time getting a few bucks out of people?

What has gotten me on this tantrum is because of what happened in Peaselburg. Vandals destoyed a few flower pots and apparantly the local association is seeking money elsewhere because residents there are not coughing up the bucks.

Comparing it to my place in Florida, my association president there is always knocking on doors for this project and that one and, generally, people will donate. And that is on top of the monthly $500 HOA fee we all pay.

So if these so-called groups in Covington can 't collect sustainable funds from the locals, then it's time for them to pack it up. I swear.


May 16, 2013
Two hours to answer questions

With over 6000 readers, I have become the "go to" person when people have questions about Covington.

It's taking about two hours a day to answer those questions, part of that time is seeking answers for folks.

How did this happen? As I said, Covington News Facebook has a large readership. Plus, the City of Covington no longer has an ombudsperson.

Somebody has to do it, and it turns out ... I'm the one.


May 15, 2013
When the Enquirer misleads

MainStrasse isn't 'bustling' as Enquirer says. Everybody but the paper seems to know that.

The problems in MainStrasse have been written about, quoted by officials about and a simple walk about proves it.

There are a growing number of empty storefronts on its south end. A local restaurant owner says the Village buisnesses are getting 'the snot kicked out' by The Banks and Over-the-Rhine. And I would add, Newport and Bellevue as well.

Crime is on the uptick and people have been complaining about alleged funny business going on in parking lots there.

The street is looking shabby. The decorative lights outlining the buildings have been turned off.

I don't think Enquirer should be doing misleading puff pieces, but it did.

Maybe because the paper is also stressed, trying to operate with a limited amount of staffers.

It seems to be moving into doing more PRish type article because they are easier to do, using press releases as background.

By far, people still depend on the local newspaper. But if this keeps up ...


May 13, 2013
Rumors flying that City Manager will be shown the door

Speculation, highly unconfirmed rumors, just chatter at this point with regard to a change of administration at City Hall.

We know that two commissioners want to fire City Manager Larry Klein for alleged insubordination -- which explains Commissioner Williams angered order for him to, in effect, shut up at the last Commission meeting.

Another Commissioner is sitting on the fence and, if this persistent rumor is true, could tilt in favor of firing Klein at any time.

Anyway, a "special meeting" of the Commission has been called for 4:15 pm on Tuesday. Subject unknown, so stay tuned.


May 10, 2013
Moaning and whining at City Hall

The people at City Hall who thought they were in control continue to moan and complain about Commissioner Williams' brillant manuever to condemn the Sanitation District's rate increase.

It's all rather interesting. Enquirer is working on a story, so stay tuned for another episode of "As the City Hall turns."


May 9, 2013
Don't hold your breath for the press release

Waiting to read about the city's opposition to the Sanitation District 1's proposed rate increase?

Don't hold your breath.

The City Manager controls the release of press notices and he's dead against the resolution, as are the Mayor and Charles Eilerman.

But it is the official position of the city now, thanks to a brillant manuever by Commissoner Williams last Tuesday. Commissioners Rains and Frank agreed with the resolution as well.

The interesting part is the how the city government continues in disarray. Who's in charge is anyone's guess .. and it's all rather pathetic.


May 8, 2013
Commissioner Williams shows her extreme independence

When Michelle Williams was running for Commissioner, there were a few people -- including myself -- concerned about her association with the sleazy politicial operatives.

That association even caused a brief schism between herself and the leadership on the Eastside.

But the now-Commissioner has proven her independence, and you just gotta like it. A couple examples from last night's commission meeting:

(1)Williams exposed an effort from City Manager Klein and Mayor Carran to block the Commissioners from receiving information. In one case, the duo tried to block a resolution by the City of Covington that would oppose the Sanitation District's rate increase.

Commissioner Williams was able to successfully ram it through last night, but not without an angry discussion between herself, Klein and Carran. Even Eilerman -- the Mayor's poodle -- got angry and belittled Commissioner Frank for siding in favor of the resolution.

In the end, the resolution opposing the rate increase passed with Williams, Rains and Frank voting in favor.

(2) Commissioner Williams thinks appointments to city boards need to be broaden and opened to all residents of the city. She implied, as Commissioner Frank did on another matter, that the current appointments are good-old-boy picks.

"I don't know these people, I've never met them," exclaimed Williams.

She was expected to vote for appointments to city boards that didn't even give her the courtesy of an introduction.

So Williams abstained. And we say, good for her. Maybe that crack in the city's Good Old Boy system is about to get wider because of her.


May 7, 2013
Business worries about city's sex workers

An interesting email sent to The Covington News Facebook:

"Now that I have moved down in the city, I am having a real problem with prostitutes soliciting my customers which, in turn, makes them no longer come to see me .

"Today, I had an older gentleman approach one of my customers and tried to solicit her. This guy was an older man with a work badge around his neck pulled up got out of the car walked up to her and asked her if she was working .

"I was totally blown away by his actions. I called the police and they said they can write them tickets but before the ink dries they are out working again.

"My question is what ever happen to the program that went after the people hiring these girls and posted their pic in the newspaper and such?

" I need all the help I can get, keeping the customers I have and with these problems I'm gonna be another closed Covington business."
[ Covington News
Facebook ]



May 6, 2013
Exploring the Ludlow Lagoon

A friend and I decided to see the site of the Ludlow Lagoon for ourselves, so we did.

It's beautiful ... in the sense that the area where the lake was located is now a wetlands and would make a great spot for a nature preserve.

The lake area is just to the west of Deverill St./Sleepy Hollow Road, just south of Lake St. If you go ... wear boots!


May 3, 2013
More firefighters, that's the rumor

After being relentlessly persecuted on Facebook for not bringing the fire department up to speed, looks like the City Commission has finally seen the error of its ways.

Rampant rumors that the city will hire up to a dozen new firefighters.

The criticism of the Commission for things like hiring arborists and replacing new bricks on Madison Avenue before restoring the fire department has been constant, so if this rumor is true, it will be a very good thing. Covington will finally be able to move on.
[ Covington News
Facebook ]



May 2, 2013
Bricks issue still getting attention

Looks like the replacement of new bricks on Madison Avenue will continue to be in the spotlight for a while. WXIX gave it some big attention last night.
[ WXIX ]


May 1, 2013
Madison Ave pavers in TV spotlight

A local TV has been working on the story about the multi-color pavers on Madison Avenue being ripped out because someone(s) at City Hall didn't like the colors.

On WXIX, Channel 19, at 6:30 pm and 11 pm today (Wednesday). Maybe tomorrow. I do know the station has been working on it for a while, should be interesting.


April 30, 2013
Streetscape project was bungled from the start

An internal City Hall memo by Assistant City Manager Larissa Sims admits there have been problems with Renaissance Covington's streetscape project from the beginning.

"Let me start off by saying that the frustration you are feeling about this project is shared by staff," wrote Ms. Sims.

"We sort of 'inherited' numerous issues relative to this project – that began before any of us were here. We have had to go back and fix issues related to drainage and procurement, along with the basement issue.

"It has taken about 4 years to correct these issues and get approval from the state (since this is a grant).

"That said -- we are rounding third, we are almost done and ultimately it is going to look great.

"I apologize for the length of this email, but think it is appropriate to give all of you the background/detail considering the confusion, and the potential for it to come up tomorrow night," Ms. Sims wrote.

Apparently, the city was concerned that questions would be asked at the City Commission meeting. As you know, Mayor Carran ended up cutting off Charlene Dietz, claiming questions were no longer allowed to be asked during the residents' comments segment.


April 29, 2013
New attraction by unheralded volunteers

I have always loved volunteers who do not seek attention for themselves.

Like the four people who did a recent clean-up of a small section of the riverfront for a day and seemed to have more pictures of themselves than the trash that was picked-up.

Up on the hillsides of Devou Park, volunteers have been doing backbreaking clearing of land to create mountain bike and hiking trails for years. To this day, don't know their names even though I have the city's largest and most influential news site.

And I like that. Volunteering should be focused on the effort, not on self-congratulating.


April 26, 2013
Facebook page in the spotlight after Frank rant

After two obscenity-laced diatribes on Facebook -- one on his own page against the firefighters union, the other at The Covington News Facebook against a West Covington developer -- Commissioner Steve Frank has apologized.

The rant at our Facebook page put it in the spotlight once again. But gosh, folks, I'm worn out about all this stuff going on in Covington, never a dull moment. So click over and see for yourself.
[ Covington News
Facebook ]





April 25, 2013
Commission Frank gone wild

Some interesting words posted last night at Facebook by Commissioner Frank.

I'll just copy and paste his remarks, as written. The first has to do with the firefighters winning their grievance complaint yesterday:

Commissioner Frank wrote:
"OK, I am glad that I am impossibly rich and if Covington actually fails; that said after tonights Union Grevance ;


"... if I was actually somehow a person who depends on the system working right; I think I would leave Covington post haste.


"... Even the Commissioners who were appalled by Local 38 are ashamded of their vote. Even if we are behind a legal 8 ball it was worth the worst downside risk....losing another $10,000 as a worse cased to avoid losing another $100,000 plus thousand a year for years on end to the assholes.


"... Now that Local 38 has won; why should the FOP and ASCME who I've opposed but who have been I must admit, honest and real negotiators given the financial position of Covington anything but pissed off.


"My last words on the subject and yes I've been doing what I do BEST....drinking....Fuck LOCAL 38 AND THE SHIP THEY RODE IN ON.


"LONG LIVE COVINGTON FOP AND ASCME!!!!!!!!!"


Commissioner Frank's second tirade had to do a with a member of a group that wants to develop a West Covington hillside.

Mr. Frank wrote:
"Wes (Bittlinger) is a mini prick. By that I mean, a useless piece of shit. If he had anything worth considering; this would be the last place it should be considered.

" I'll be available any day and twice on Sunday if the little piece of shit would show his face in public."
[ Covington News
Facebook ]





April 24, 2013
I've got nothing

After all this personal ramblings this week, I've got nothing today! See you tomorrow.
[ But Facebook is going strong ]


April 23, 2013
Loaded down by Facebook

The Covington News Facebook page is approaching 6200 likes and, boy, am I feeling loaded down.

Kind of in a good way because I am happy with its success.

Much of my day has to do with leading people to the page. It's a really involved marketing effort but is definitely working. You just can't set up Facebook pages and expect total strangers to flock to it ... unless there's a lot of marketing.

The other reason for that "loaded down" feeling is that people are getting on the page at 6:30 am and start debating. It's great! But it also has to be monitored and that means yours truly is up before the crack of dawn, ready to oversee (and add to) the page.

So, the Covington News Facebook page is my contribution to the community. Others may do a one-day or 2-day project a year, then puff their chests out and shout "look how great I am for volunteering!"

I do it each and every day and try very hard NOT to make it about me. it's about Covington, it's not about me. Which is the way it should be ... for everyone who gets involved.


April 22, 2013
Putting the house up for sale

How long have I've been talking about this? Two years or so?

I think it's time to officially put the house on Russell Street up for sale.

Saying "officially" because it was casually on the market last year, if someone was looking for a place in Covington with a driveway and garage, etc, the realtor showed it. Indeed, it was nearly sold last December. We'd agreed on a price and an exit date on my part but something went wrong along the way.

Thinking the potential new owners's plan to do an add-on in the back was stymied.

Obviously, the real estate market has improved greatly ... so maybe this time around will be a charm!

  • Truth is, I am far more active in Florida and Atlanta than up north. Now that I am looking for a place in the mountains, if successful, that would make it even more difficult for me to get back to Covington anyway.

    And -- LOL -- it would put an end to my wild weight fluctuations! On every return to the area, I start putting on weight ... and that is not a good thing.


    April 19, 2013
    Waterfront anti-climatic news

    The Waterfront will finally be moved to the foot of Madison Avenue and Jeff Ruby promises an incredble restaurant.

    You already know, that is, if you're a regular reader of the Facebook page. The Covington News Facebook has been telling you about the pending move for months now.

  • The 1000 block of Russell Street got an early wake-up call. Someone's car starting honking this morning on its own ... and honked and honked.

  • Sure, we knew about the requested zoning change for the old Remke's Warehouse, for a 7-8 story building. The owner says that's not the plan, but he needed that particular ordinance to make leasing the current building easier. We'll see about that. Right now, the zoning request is on hold for three months.


    April 18, 2013
    Meet and greet tonight

    No word if people will be allowed to ask the Mayor questions.

    The City of Covington will have a "meet and greet" tonight. Your chance to meet city officials and department heads. We do not know if Mayor Carran will allow the peasants to ask her questions.

    The event will take place this Thursday, April 18 at 6:00 P.M. at the Department of Public Works, 4399 Boron Drive, Covington, KY 41011.

    You may recall the brouhaha after Carran told a person at the most recent Commission meeting that residents were not allowed to ask questions, and promptly cut the resident off.


    April 17, 2013
    Not enough activities for Covington youth

    You'll recall the young adult who went to the Commission meeting and noted that kids and young adults do not have much access to recreation in the City of Covington.

    He'd noted the now-closed Northern Kentucky Community Center (photo) on Greenup Street.

    And at that heartbreaking thread initiated by Mikey Taylor -- the one with over 200 likes -- comments about the need for more recreation facilities and activities as a way to help bored young people from turning to drugs.

    There were residents of Latonia who echoed the same at yet another thread here at the CKY, that the Water Park was not enough.

    So, what do you think Covington? Are the city's youth overlooked and often forgotten? A lot of comments over at the Facebook page.
    [ Facebook ]


    April 15, 2013
    Why downtown Covington has so many cigarette butts

    We don't think downtown Covington looks that dirty and littered but some folks here at the page do. Help may be -- or may not be -- on the way.

    Two groups, Covington Business Council (CBC) and Urban Partnership, have been trying since last August to get the commercial property owners to agree to a special tax to pay for clean up in the area. >

    Pat Frew, executive director of CBC, says 38% of property owners have agreed to the tax. It's the same percentage used a few months ago in an article by the Enquirer.

    So things are apparently at a standstill with 62% of the commercial property owners against the tax.

    The good news for Mr. Frew is that only 51% of the owners have to eventually go along with it, for the self-tax to go into effect.

    But that will be tough. For example, a resolution of support by the City Commission was barely approved this week. Fiscal conservatives Mildred Rains and Michelle Williams aren't sold on the idea. Rains voted against and Williams abstained.

    Plus, there is apparently a lawsuit already filed by one property owner to stop the effort.

    Obviously, a lot of division from commercial property owners to elected officials inside City Hall.


    April 12, 2013
    Day 9 of
    PaverGate


    The Enquirer says it had no idea there was a controversy concerning the pavers on Madison Avenue and nearby streets, thus the "puff piece" yesterday.

    "Puff piece" is the term used for PRish type articles which, you may have noticed, are being done more and more by the paper because they're easier to do than investigative stories.

    Which also explains the big photo of the multi-color bricks published yesterday at the Enquirer. The writer and the photographer did not know the new multi-color bricks were being changed out because someone(s) at City Hall didn't like them.

    The C-Forward executive, who was the focus of the article, did not tell them ... maybe he didn't know himself.
    [ Facebook ]


    April 11, 2013
    Residents not allowed to ask questions
    Commissioner Frank was just as surprised as everyone that residents are no longer allowed to ask questions at Commission meetings.

    Mayor Carran has claimed that the residents' comments segment of this week's Commission was not a time to be asking questions, although many questions have been asked and answered during previous meetings.

    Commissioner Frank wrote at the Facebook page: "No one on (the) Commission was briefed about any change in policy about comment time being only for comments."

    So, when can people ask questions? No wonder people are flocking to my Covington News Facebook page, because there is no other place to ask and vent.
    [ Facebook ]


    April 10, 2013
    Carran cuts off resident asking questions
    The Mayor cut off public safety advocate Charlene Dietz's questioning with regard to the pavers that were removed from Madison Avenue after just two years because somebody at City Hall didn't like the colors.

    Carran claimed that the residents' comments segment of last night's Commission was not a time to be asking questions, although many questions have been asked and answered during previous meetings.

    Most people believe it was Carran who ordered the brickwork replacement, didn't expect anyone to notice.

    And, of course, this revelation caused people at our Facebook page to explode.
    [ Facebook ]


    April 9, 2013
    Restaurants and the city's good old boy network
    Getting word that a well-liked restaurant in Covington has been denied a loan from the City of Covington for expansion.

    (Would rather not name the restaurant.)

    Meanwhile. the city is set to loan a huge amount of money to a "friends of City Hall" couple who want to open a new restaurant in MainStrasse.

    Growing opposition to that in the MainStrasse Community.

    Meanwhile, Latonia is once again begging for a little attention from City Hall.

    Should be a most interesting meeting tonight at City Hall!

    And, of course, this revelation caused people at our Facebook page to explode.
    [ Facebook ]


    April 8, 2013
    Request for funds latest controversy
    Let me get through this as quick as possible, because it's really getting tiring:

    A couple of people who have been deemed "friends of the city" are about to get a huge loan from the City of Covington to open a restaurant.

    They did a little booklet on Covington that 99.5% of residents know nothing about because it hasn't been properly marketed.

    They want to open a restaurant in MainStrasse and have asked the city for the money to do so. The city seems open to it and why not? They already -- through Center for Great Neighborhoods -- gave them the money to do their little booklet that nobody knows about.

    Some of the established restaurants are enraged because they have been denied loans.

    MainStrasse community leader Chris Henry is against the loan because he worries that the venture will fail and he's probably right given stats showing a high failure rate for new eateries. He would prefer that the money be used elsewhere.

    Rick Trulley is against, but didn't express has reason.

    People inside City Hall love the couple because they're kind of "kiss up" folks to the politicians.

    Commissioner Frank says if the venture fails, that the city will get the two buildings where the restaurant was housed.

    Hey, more real estate for a city that doesn't know what to do with the inventory it already has!


    April 5, 2013
    Facebook explodes after brickwork revelation
    Decorative brickwork along Madison Avenue -- from 4th Street all the way down to City Hall -- is currently being replaced because someone "doesn't like multi-color" bricks.

    The multi-color bricks were installed/planted just two years ago. You may recall that quote from public improvements officer Mike Yeager, made last year at a commission meeting.

    The proposal to change out the bricks seemed to have been shot down by an incredulous commission, but obviously somebody at City Hall really does not like those multi-color bricks!

    And, of course, this revelation caused people at our Facebook page to explode.
    [ Facebook ]


    April 4, 2013
    Good luck with that, he'll need it
    So, former Commissioner Shawn Masters has started his own organization to help elect Democrats in Northern Kentucky?

    Good luck with that, he'll need it. Afterall, this is the guy who quit in the middle of a campaign for city commission ... and voted to turn the city government over to the Republicans during the last commission.

    Me thinks he has a huge credibility problem.


    April 3, 2013
    Hypocrisy among Covington Dems
    Remember how certain Covington Democrats tried to persecute Republican Steve Frank because of his stand with regard to the firefighters?

    Now that Democrat "Chuck" Eilerman has hopped into bed with Frank and Carran on the issue ... they're totally silent.

    Just amazes me the hypocrisy that abounds within the local Democratic Party. No wonder it's in such disarray, and going nowhere.


    April 2, 2013
    Gosh, darn it!
    Nothing to say/write today.


    April 1, 2013
    Shawn Masters and strange politics

    A political brouhaha last Friday at my Covington News page at Facebook.

    Somebody involved in politics has been floating the idea of Shawn Masters running for state representative.

    I was amused, because Masters has no chance in hell to be elected to anything.

    Seriously, if a politician can't get pass the sleazy political operatives and is forced to quit in the middle of a campaign when people are depending on you ... then you're weak, very weak.

    Besides, Arnold Simpson will stay state representative as long as he pleases.

    Commissioner Steve Frank wrote at THE COVINGTON NEWS:

    "I talked with Arnold," Commissioner Frank wrote.

    "He's not upset with the idea of a primary. It was Shawn and I after all that defended Covington from being redistricted into thirds with what is north of 12'th street being gerrymandered into Dennis Keene's district.

    "That kept Arnold from being redistricted out of office. The official Democrat(ic) Party turned on Shawn (and Arnold) via your friend the political operative (Groob) and a few others.

    "Shawn subsequently decided to form his own chapter of the Democrat Party ... one that would be more in tune with local issues."

    Well, Masters may have started a competing Dem organization, but he's going nowhere. And if State Representative Simpson has competition, it ain't going to be Masters. More likely it will be Michelle Williams.

    Anyway, Masters ended up denying everything. In respond to the brouhaha at THE COVINGTON NEWS, he posted this at his own Facebook page:

    " My official statement: With recent posts regarding a 2014 run for me, I consider Arnold Simpson a dear friend and a wonderful political ally, not just for Covington (which I dearly love) but for our great Commonwealth," Masters wrote at Facebook.

    "I chose to leave political office to focus on family and business. I am content in doing just that, as well as working to promote the newly formed Northern Kentucky Democratic League.

    "A future political office for me is still up in the air, and will be considered if the time is right and the opportunity arises.

    "For the time being, I will focus on building our base in NKY and work along side Arnold and our other Democratic colleagues to build a better Commonwealth."
    [ Facebook ]


    March 29, 2013
    War of words

    The firefighters have rejected the latest agreement with the city and the war of words has been renewed.

    The union leader told Enquirer that Commissioner Frank's recent comments at "social media" played a role. That social media was, of course, THE COVINGTON NEWS where Mr. Frank told the firefighters -- in particular, Chip Terry -- to "go pound salt."

    But Commissioner Frank seems happy with the rejection. "I also want to thank Local 38 for voting down the agreement," he wrote at the Facebook page. So here we go ... once again.
    [ Facebook ]


    March 27, 2013
    Pumper 1 and fire protection

    A lot of discussion, impassioned pleas to restore Pumper 1 at the Commission meeting last night.

    Former assistant fire chief Chip Terry and public safety advocate Charlene Dietz separately expressed concerns about response time without it.

    Chief Terry talked about a possible reorganization of the Fire Department in order to get the Pumper in service, even with only 27 personnel on duty.

    From residents on the Eastside, most affected by the engine brown out, came more pleas for its restoration.

    Sharon Brown, speaking to the Commission, said "You talk building this and building that, let human life be the most important in this city."

    Community leader Bennie Doggett also spoke as did other Eastside residents.

    A letter from the Licking Riverside Neighborhood Association's president noted the infrastructure problems in the city and worried about fire plugs not being able to fully work.

    Concerned residents were, in effect, "thrown a bone." Pumper 1 will be put in service when staffing levels at any particular time are above 27 people.

    About 10% of the time.

    Otherwise, no promises.

    Seems as though the vote remains 3-2 with regard to keeping Pumper 1 out of service most of the time.

    Commissioners Rains and Williams support more firefighters, the others are apparently against.

    Had a majority supported full restoration, surely some kind of action would have been taken tonight.


    March 26, 2013
    Commissioner Eilerman in the
    hot seat


    Will Commissioner Eilerman betray the firefighters, too?

    The Eastside community has already accused Commissioner "Chuck" Eilerman of betrayal on another matter.

    Let's see how he votes tonight on restoring Pumper 1.

    Endorsed for election by the firefighters, Eilerman may vote against them. Commissioner Frank says his vote, Eilerman's and the Mayor's vote will be against restoration. Commissioners Willams and Rains are supporting it, both were also endorsed by the firefighters.


    March 25, 2013
    Another plea for meeting attendance

    Commissioner Michelle Williams renewed her call yesterday (Sunday) for residents of Covington to show up at Tuesday's Commission meeting to push for the restoration of the Fire Department's Pumper 1

    Former Assistant Fire Chief Chip Terry says keeping Pumper 1 out-of-service is making the city unsafe.

    Interestingly, there was background info that the firefighters union and the city reached yet another understanding on fire protection, but details are unknown.

    Maybe the agreement collapsed, don't really know in a city known for its secret behind-the-scenes shenanigans.

    So, I guess we'll just have to wait until the meeting on Tuesday.


    March 22, 2013
    Go pound salt

    Interesting exchange of comments at my Covington News Facebook page.

    Former assistant fire chief Chip Terry says the current brown-out of Pumper 1 is endangering the lives of Covington residents.

    Members of the Eastside community say alleged slow response because of the brownout killed a resident.

    The Facebook page has noted Commissioner Williams call for a march on City Hall next Tuesday for the regular meeting.

    Everybody is waiting to see if wishy-washy Commissioner Eilerman holds true to the Firefighters, who endorsed him for election. Right now, only 2 votes for restoring the pumper -- Commission Rains and Williams.

    Meanwhile, Commissioner Frank has posted several times, including one where he told Mr. Terry to "go pound salt." He claims the city doesn't have the money to restore Pumper 1.

    Clearly, Covington News Facebook is ground zero for the debate, as it usually is.
    [ Facebook ]


    March 20, 2013
    March on City Hall coming

    Mayor Carran's arborist hiring has created growing anger in Covington.

    Some people, like members of the Eastside Neighborhood Asociation, say more firefighters are needed instead and the group plans to march on City Hall next Tuesday for the next Commission meeting.

    But Commissioner Steve Frank implies that they are wasting their time. Writing at THE COVIINGTON NEWS, Frank predicted that any effort to hire firefighters will fail by a 3-2 vote.

    "It will fail 3 to 2," Commissioner Frank wrote.

    "Bottom line, we were spending 40% more for public safety than the median city of comparible size... See the brutal facts in re Chuck Scheper and his 2011 State of the City speech. I will not let the city slide back towards bankruptcy."
    [ Facebook ]


    March 19, 2013
    Major city resignation; Mayor under seige

    Tom Logan, the head of the city's public improvements, has resigned according to City Hall insiders who say he was fed up with the politics going on.

    Another blow to the new Carran administration which has been under seige by some residents, especially after accusations that the Mayor is retaliating against those who did not vote for her.
    [ Facebook ]


    March 18, 2013
    Meeting on the bridges over train tracks

    What do you think should happen to the11th & 15th Street bridges?

    There's a public meeting is on March 20, at 6pm, at the Center for Great Neighborhoods, located at 1650 Russell Street. Thought you should know!
    [ Facebook ]


    March 15, 2013
    Festive weekend in Covington

    Starting tonight and running through Sunday evening, Covington will be extra festive!

    It's St. Patrick's weekend and the bars at Roebling Point and in MainStrasse are ready. Originally, St Patrick's was a solemn Roman Catholic event and just like the others -- Mardi Gras, St Valentine's, Halloween and even St Nick's -- have turned into secular events celebrated by all creeds.

    Extra police will be on duty. Have a great time!


    March 13, 2013
    Stunning power play, retaliation by the mayor

    A stunning -- and angry -- revelation during last evening's Covington Commission meeting. A power play -- possibly illegal -- by the City Manager and the Mayor, an elected official who has but one vote, same as the Commissioners. The fact that Mayor Carran has been retaliating against people who didn't vote for her or do not agree with her presents serious ethical questions that may have to be dealt with.

    Commissioner Frank was asked this morning at THE COVINGTON NEWS on why some kind of action has not been taken. His response:

    "... had we decided to take the reins of government over last night before the public had a chance to see what we were dealing with behind closed doors; we would have looked like the bad guys for picking on a new Mayor. Now that the people are more aware ..."

    Needless to say, this is an absolute mess inside City Hall. You'll have to read all the threads at Covington News to understand what's going on.
    [ Facebook ]


    March 12, 2013
    Mayor still pushing for an arborist

    Apparently the Mayor still wants to expand the hours of the city's arborist to full-time with a salary of over $40,000 with benefits. That's on the agenda for tonight's Commission meeting.

    Steve Frank says at least three commissioners are trying to restrain "the environmental green types" inside City Hall.

    "As per out of touch, I think that environmental green types do have an inordinate amount of sway over city policy that at least three of us are trying to restrain," Commissioner Frank wrote.

    "I want a clean, beautiful town too, but there are more basic services that have to be covered first..... like not bouncing the worker's paychecks. "
    [ Facebook ]


    March 11, 2013
    Newport's Monmouth Street comeback

    Covington's Madison Avenue continues to struggle but over in Newport, its main street is hustling and bustling. I would assume one reason things are working there is because competent people have been put in charge of making it happen.
    [ Enquirer ]


    March 8, 2013
    Time change this weekend

    Time changes this Sunday morning, to Daylight Savings Time. Don't forget to spring forward! That's it for this week at the Russell Street News, see at the Facebook page all weekend!


    March 7, 2013
    Lights out in MainStrasse

    Most of those beautiful lights that outline the buildings in MainStrasse have been off for a few years now.


    Promoters and public relations people understand the value of lighting displays, but for MainStrasse ... it's lights out.


    After an inquiry, the local association says it has plans to restore the display and we'll get into that later today. But why did it let an important part of any entertainment district fall into this state in the first place while others like Fountain Square, Newport Levee and the casino move ahead?


    March 6, 2013
    MainStrasse believes it can overcome loss of customers to The Banks

    Its association thinks it's just temporary.

    "Often when new entertainment venues open, businesses within a close proximity will experience a decrease as patrons want to go try something new.

    "The Banks have opened lots of entertainment and dining options (several of which are now having financial difficulties), as well as the new Horseshoe Casino," notes the MainStrasse Village Association director.

    "However, the historic buildings, old world charm and locally-owned shops, restaurants and bars have a unique quality that keep patrons coming back to MainStrasse Village.

    "MSVA will continue to assist the City of Covington in promoting MainStrasse Village with our marketing, capital improvements and special events. We have several new, exciting businesses that will be opening in the Village over the next several months."


    March 5, 2013
    First 'fowl' meeting this Thursday

    Covington resident Louis Cornelius is forming a group for folks interested in raising chickens and other fowl in the city.

    First meeting is this Thursday, March 7th at 5PM. All are invited.

    The get-together will be held at the new Monkey Brew Coffeehouse at 402 Bakewell (4th and Bakewell), at 5 pm. The commission recently approved the raising of poultry in the city
    [ Covington News
    @ Facebook ]



    March 4, 2013
    Congrats Holmes!

    One of those days when there's nothing to say but ... Congratulations to Holmes boys basketball for winning the district championship Sunday evening!

  • The Facebook page has been all abuzz.
    [ Covington News
    @ Facebook ]



    March 1, 2013
    Bouquet could save MainStrasse

    Recent kudos for Bouquet Restaurant by the mainstream media has hopefully given besieged MainStrasse a shot in the arm, especially after Cock & Bull owner Chris Penn told the world that The Banks in Cincinnati is "kicking the snot out of us."

    Still, no plans to counter the competition across the river, as far as we know, from the MainStrasse Village Association.

    And it better hurry because we're hearing that merchants are beginning to withdraw from the group in frustration ... so get going!

  • That's it for this week here, but The Covington News is always on ... including weekends.


    February 27, 2013
    Key MainStrasse tavern: We're getting the snot kicked out of us

    Chris Penn, owner of the Cock 'n Bull restaurant/tavern in MainStrasse says "we are getting the snot kicked out of us" by The Banks in Cincinnati.

    Says something has to be done to counter the competition. Mr. Penn's admission was made at last night's Commission meeting.

    February 26, 2013
    People freaking out about Bishop's House
    After posting a photo of the historic Bishop's House ending up as rubble, people at the Facebook page really freaked out.
    [ Covington News
    @ Facebook ]



    February 25, 2013
    Miracle on Madison Avenue
    It's a miracle! Two months after taking office, the city has finally posted a photo of the new mayor and the commissioners at its website.
    [ Take a look! ]


    February 22, 2013
  • That's it for this week! Don't forget that Covington News at Facebook is always on ... see you there this weekend.


    February 21, 2013
    Free pizza! That's a way to bring in business!
    A very good PR promotion for a new pizza joint in downtown Covington.

    PizzaBomba will give away 1000 slices beginning at 11 am on Tuesday, February 26th at its new location at 14 E. Fifth Street.


    February 20, 2013
    Don't need a
    new bridge

    How much more of this drumbeat for a new bridge? Commissioner Frank seems to be correct ... if I-71 traffic is diverted to I-471, there would be no need for a new bridge.


    February 19, 2013
    Covington losing part of its quaintness
    Those carriage horses that trot down Russell Street from time to time are no more, says Elegant Carriages.

    "Our building was sold to Gateway so we are currently working from our barn in Over-the-Rhine but hoping to find another building in Covington because we really love it there," wrote at Kimberly Lightner.

    Apparently, the city -- which now has a business retention office -- hasn't helped. Unless someone offers a place to stable the horses, then one more piece of the city's quaintness will be gone.


    February 18, 2013
    Facebook page growing by leaps and bounds
    Remember when Groob and Paeth were running around telling people not to access my Facebook pages?

    Well, they are losers once again because The Covington News Facebook picked up 800 new likers over the past month, making the grand total 5,540 + likers.

    Paeth would have been a commissioner today had it not been for The Covington News. Must have been karma biting him in the you know what.

    Or maybe his associates and even people who consider him a friend are right in describing the former candidate as an asshole (amazed how many used that slur about him) -- and the voters knew it, too.
    [ Covington News ]


    February 15, 2013
    Commissioner Frank doubts toll price estimate
    "They are saying that tolls won't be over $2," Commissioner Steve Frank wrote.

    "Well here is the toll on every toll bridge in the USA built on an interstate highway. "No such bridge built since 2008 has a toll under $3 with most being $4 to $5."
    [ Covington News ]

  • That's it for this week at Russell Street News. Don't forget, it may be the weekend but the Facebook page is always on!


    February 14, 2013
    Kids putting on cute Dalmations show at Holmes
    The Disney Kids musical version of "101 Dalmatians" and will focus on the evil Cruella DeVil as she tries to capture the adorable Dalmatian puppies is tonight and Friday evening at Holmes High School, 7 pm.

    Elementary and middle school student will perform in this show, produced by Holmes High School Creative and Performing Arts Career Cluster students.

    The show is sponsored by generous grants from Covington Independent Public Schools, Children, Inc. , Bulldogs Give Back, and Learn & Serve America.

    This service learning project features over 70 actors age 3-13 & high school directors age 14 - 18 teaching the younger children. Over 400 saw the show opening night Wed. The show lasts approximately 30 minutes and is free and open to the public.

    Bring the family and enjoy a great show at Holmes. High school seniors Josh Ramos & Trevor Rhodes are producing & directing the show. Rex Sholar is the artistic director at Holmes and is the sponsor for the show.

    It's free, but promoters won't refuse a donation.


    February 12, 2013
    Commission expected to talk about riverfront, trailer park
    The city may discuss Riverfront plans today at the Commission meeting.

    One commissioner promises action on the unbelievable and heartless situation the City of Covington created over at the Austinburg travel park. Meeting begins at 6 pm, open to the public.


    February 11, 2013
    City of Covington officials now promise to help trailer park residents
    Covington Trailer Park resident Chris Fry said the Mayor and a Commissioner told them they did not realize the treatment allegedly being carried out by the landowner. Said the city -- which is taking over the property and will convert it into green space -- will make things right.

  • Promised the city will offer more assistance in finding housing and residents do not have to vacate the property in
  • Austinburg, as ordered by the current property owner, that residents can stay longer until housing is found.

  • Promised that the residents will not be forced out with no home this winter.

  • The property owner ordered the residents out by March 15 with allegedly little or no financial assistance. Residents asked the current property owner if the final month's rent could be waived to use the funds for a deposit on housing elsewhere, the landowner allegedly refused and allegedly said they would be immediately evicted if the rent was not paid.

  • Just Friday, a city representative coldly told the residents to seek federal assistance if they were having trouble with moving expenses.

  • Talk that a prominent Covington attorney was preparing to sue the pants off the city on behalf of the residents.

  • Mr Fry said the residents contacted THE COVINGTON NEWS as a last resort, in frustration.


    February 8, 2013
    Safety tips for those
    attending MardiGras

    If you're going to Mardi Gras, be careful because of crime wave:

    (1) Park your car in a lighted location, best that it has attendants on duty until the wee hours. (2) Make sure to empty the contents inside the car (3) Travel as a group (4) Put your wallet in a front pants pocket

    (5) Do not use your smartphone, it can be grabbed quickly by thieves (6) Note security personnel locations. (7) And, oh yeah, have a great time!

  • That's it for this week. Of course, Covington News Facebook is always on, see you there.


    February 6, 2013
    City wants to hear from residents, special event Thursday
    City of Covington residents and stakeholders are invited to have their voices heard on the needs of the community. A public hearing is scheduled for Thursday, February 7 at 6pm at City Hall Commission Chambers.
    [ WXIX ]


    February 5, 2013
    Bottle manufacturer to move to Covington
    This is the good economic news I was trying to tell you about yesterday:

    A glass bottle manufacturer plans to move to Covington, and the company has received preliminary approval for up to $1.5 million in state and local tax incentives over the next 10 years.
    [ Enquirer ]


    February 4, 2013
    More jobs for Covington
    Gov. Steve Beshear will be here today, Monday, to announce a new economic development project for the area. Likely has to do with Westpack LLC opening a factory in Covington.

    Westpack LLC is a glass packaging company and will add 63 jobs to Covington. It is a spin-off of the Russian-based glass bottling company, Unipak.
    [ Covington News ]

    UPDATE: The governor's announcement will be made in Erlanger, so maybe it isn't about Westpack ... or the company decided to open in Erlanger instead. We'll see.


    February 1, 2013
    A lot of Facebook
    So much going on at the Facebook page, that I don't have time to comment today. But head on over to Facebook, cause there's never a dull moment!
  • A reminder that Russell Street News takes weekends off, see you on Monday!
    [ Covington News ]


    January 31, 2013
    11th Street Bridge permanently closing

    City Hall has just received news from the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (KYTC) that they will be closing and barricading the 11th Street bridge over the railroad very soon due to the "serious condition of the steel superstructure".

    An exact date was not given, but it is likely to occur this week. Residents should prepare to find alternative vehicular routes in preparation for this change.

    The City has been working with KYTC regarding the potential closure or replacement of both the 11th and 15th Street bridges. The 15th Street bridge has also been closed to vehicular traffic for some time.

    The City's Transportation Task Force has held public meetings, in conjunction with KYTC, to discuss the future of both bridges and possible options.

    City Staff is still working with KYTC to analyze the possibilities of a final solution for the bridges; this current measure is only to address the immediate safety concerns.


    January 30, 2013
    Latonia computer company restoring Johnny's Toys castle
    Laura and Andy Blair are moving their computer store to the old Johnny's Toys location in Latonia, promising to restore the castle and will pass out commemorative keys.

    January 29, 2013
    Whiners in the neighborhood
    Great event that brought hundreds of people into Covington over the weekend, as has been noted by CKY.

    Barbell Blitz at Crossfit, Eighth and Russell Sts, drew as many as 400 athletes into town.

    There were some spoiled residents in the area who, of course, complained that their parking spaces were blocked. The event was only for a few hours, stop your whining.


    January 28, 2013
    MainStrasse suffering business closings,
    property sales

    Three restaurants have closed in the MainStrasse area, among them are Fatty Patty's Pizza and Lime. A least two bars have been put on the market for sale.


    January 25, 2013
    Covington man arrested hours after leaving jail
    Maybe Willie just wanted to go back to jail?

    Willie Rowlett, 23, of Covington and Andrew Graham, 27, who is homeless, had just been released from the jail earlier in the day, at 5:22 a.m., after Cincinnati police charged Rowlett with receiving stolen property and picked up Graham on minor outstanding warrants.
    [ Enquirer ]

  • Anyway, that's it for this week. Russell Street News always takes the weekend off ... but The Covington News at Facebook is always on, just in case you need a news fix this weekend! C U here Monday.


    January 24, 2013
    A reminder about the city's Meet & Greet tonight
    In support of the City's goal to be accessible to our residents and businesses, the City of Covington now offers Meet & Greet events. These sessions will begin Thursday, January 24, at 6:00 pm in the City Commission Chambers. This will be the first of a series of events that are planned to occur on a quarterly basis.



    January 22, 2013
    What to do about those wild cats
    Not the ones down there in Lexington, the other ones. In downtown Covington. Feral cats taking over there.

    Capture them, neuter them ... perhaps kill them? I don't know. What makes it all the more difficult is the city no longer has an animal control division.
    [ The Covington News ]


    January 21, 2013
    Commissioner Frank: Get
    your money out
    of Fifth / Third

    Reacting to reports that Fifth/Third Bank is backing tolls for the new bridge, Commission Frank says people should "pull your money from (the bank) to protest."

    Nice suggestion, but it's not going to fly. Yes, people should go elsewhere because it charges the highest fees in the country ... but folks aren't going to do that either. People are creatures of habit. Change, even when it's for the good, is hard for many to do.
    [ The Covington News ]


    January 18, 2013
    Holmes lifts city's depressed spirits
    In a depressed city that really needs a pick me up, comes Holmes basketball.

    Senior forward Chris Englemon hit a free throw with 3.6 seconds remaining as Holmes extended its winning streak to 20 by edging Scott, 60-59 on Thursday.

    The team remains undefeated.
    [ KY Post ]


    January 17, 2013
    Yup, go nothing to say today ... as shocking as that may be. :-) But there's always The Covington News! [ Covington News ]


    January 16, 2013
    Forgetting to do Russell Street News
    Actually forgot to update Russell Street News morning.

    Guess I better start doing a checklist of all my Covington adventures. The latest is a new series called "Awesome Collections of Covington Cools," which will be, well, an awesome collection of some of coolest things in the city that most people do not know about.

    First two items out of the box of coolest: Funky Farny Park and the train tunnel which was a playground for kids many years ago.

    The awesome collection will take time, but it will be fun to do ... and hopefully fun for people to read.


    January 14, 2013
    New Commission held secret meeting Monday
    The Commission will meet in special closed session on Monday to discuss the city's real estate dealings, talk about pending/current lawsuits and collective bargaining with city employees.

    Which reminded me of the last election and the candidates who won and lost:

    I am absolutely certain that Greg Paeth lost because of The Covington News. The News wrote nothing about Paeth -- rather good or bad -- which kept his name out of the spotlight online. He'd only lost by a few votes, a few mentions at The News would have made all the difference.

  • My news site did talk about Mildred Rains a lot ... thus sealing her victory.

  • And the Covington News persecuted Chuck Eilerman just enough that he almost lost the election, which shocked many. Backed off the comments on Eilerman going into the final weeks of election, but had The News continued its drumbeat, he surely would have lost. And Paeth, ironically, would be a Commissioner today.

    Glad that I'd backed off Eilerman.


    January 11, 2013
    Carry a shotgun around?
    Not really. But I have noticed an increase in crime in Covington, even in Old Seminary Square where there was a robbery the other day.

    The info provided by the Covington Police shows reported crime incidences in the greater Main Strasse area nearly doubled in December. And that poor, poor convenience store on 12th Street at Banklick has been hit for the third time.

    When will it end? Never. Chief Jones says the biggest -- and still growing problem -- is heroin and its related crimes to get money for it.


    January 10, 2013
    Tolls have been around in Covington
    The new bridge crossing the Ohio River and the Brent Spence Bridge will probably charge tolls. Here's a look at some of the toll roads and bridges from our area's past.
    [ Covington News ]


    January 8, 2013
    Frank says bridge jobs figure is flawed
    Commissioner Steve Frank says the study done by Northern Kentucky University that claims the new bridge will create 24,000 jobs is flawed.

    "The software they use isn't reliable. It can be tweaked to provide any results ...", Commissioner Frank wrote at The Covington News. "The software NKU used was developed to manage forests not plan financial commerce."

    Well, Mr. Frank does have a point about studies like this being flawed. They always are.
    [ Covington News ]


    January 7, 2013
    Crime worsening in MainStrasse area
    Crime increased throughout the City of Covington in December and nearly doubled in the greater MainStrasse area.
    [ Covington News ]


    January 4, 2013
    Prostitutes, cats and friendly people
    Larry Gross writes about life in downtown Covington at his regular CityBeat column called, "Living Out Loud."
    [ CityBeat ]


    January 3, 2013
    Arnold Simpson fights for leadership job
    Rep. Johnny Bell, D-Glasgow, is running for Majority Whip against Rep. Tommy Turner, D-Owensboro, and Rep. Arnold Simpson, D-Covington, will challenge Speaker Pro Tem Larry Clark, D-Okolona.

    Simpson says his campaign isn't about personalities or personal ambition. He wants a change in style and direction in the way party leaders deal with the Democratic caucus.

    He said the Kentucky House is "one of the last stands" for Democrats in southern state legislatures which have steadily gone Republican over the past 15 years. "Unless we change our direction, I sense we could lose our majority in the next election or so," Simpson said.
    [ News report ]


    January 2, 2013
    Street cleaning program shuts down
    Monday was the last day for Urban Partnership's street cleaning program after it failed to get financial backing from businesses.

    Its executive director, Pat Frew, had high hopes a year and a half ago. "We really think that cleaning up the urban core and residential units will spur investment and business to Covington," said Frew told SoapBox Media in May 2011.

    "A priority for us is to increase middle income market rate housing because we have very high income and also very low income housing in the area. If you bring a new business to the community, you must have middle income range housing in order for the business to sustain growth, and that's where we're really lacking."

    Frew, in conjunction with the City of Covington, had hoped to create a Business Improvement District (BID) thanks to a collaborative private/public partnership that includes the city of Covington, philanthropic foundations, and the Urban Partnership of Covington.

    But less than 35% of downtown Covington businesses agreed to participate.


    December 28, 2012
    Meeting to discuss the Brent Spence Bridge Project
    Consider attending this meeting at City Hall on the 8th of January at 6 pm. You will have the opportunity to learn about and comment on the Kentucky and Ohio Departments of Transportation toll study and the City's independent study on access and tolls.

    This is a special City Commission meeting in Commission Chambers for the purpose of providing you full information on the Brent Spence Bridge project including:
  • Its current design and access points for Covington.
  • A presentation by Kentucky and Ohio Transportation Department officials on the toll study they are currently doing.
  • The results of Phase I study by the UC Economics Center the City has commissioned to look at the design and impact on Covington businesses.

    ...
    Don't worry ;-) I'll be getting into commentary again next week as the holidays end. So we'll see you next year, 2013!


    December 26, 2012
    Let it snow, or something
    Not quite sure what is going on: icy rain or snow or blizzard, it's going to be an interesting day after Christmas.

    It looks like Covington will miss the worse of it, hopefully.

    "Parts of the Tri-State, including Butler County and parts of SE Indiana, are under a blizzard warning," reports WLWT. "Warren and Clinton counties are under a winter storm warning, while the rest of the region is under a winter weather advisory."
    [ WLWT ]


    December 21, 2012
    Mysterious attacks leave livestock earless in Kentucky
    An unknown animal is attacking, but not eating, livestock in Kentucky, leaving many of the victims with gnawed or detached ears.

    Kentucky officials are investigating, but there's no word yet on the culprit in the attacks. Odd livestock attacks often get blamed on supernatural creatures, especially the mythical beast el chupacabra, which means "goat sucker" in Spanish.
    [ Yahoo News ]


    December 20, 2012
    Klingenberg's to stay open in Covington
    "The first Klingenberg’s to shut down was in Erlanger, followed by Fort Thomas, Dayton and now Newport.

    "John Humpert's father bought the original Covington store at 13th and Greenup from Klingenberg patriarch, Joe. He then opened a Latonia location which Humpert and his family still operate. The Covington and Latonia stores will be the two remaining Klingenberg stores after Newport closes."
    [ Enquirer ]


    December 19, 2012
    Doctors' Building being converted into apartments
    The City of Covington will work with the Salyers Group to convert this building on the southwest corner of Scott and 7th Street into apartments.

    The city also agreed to restructure loans already given to the Salyers Group, as noted earlier at C.KY. Salyers Group is also working with the city to convert the current City Hall into a hotel.

    I suspect that construction work will be done by Orleans Development which also maintains a close working relationship with the city government.
    [ The Covington News ]


    December 18, 2012
    Covington's serial robber arrested
    A Covington man was arrested on Monday following a series of robberies in Northern Kentucky. He's probably the one who robbed the old AmeriStop on 12th Street.
    [ WXIX ]


    December 17, 2012
    Grant funds recycling equipment to keep Kenton green
    Kenton County leaders are saving money and the environment, thanks to a grant from the Kentucky Pride Fund, which financed eight new recycling containers and a remote-controlled fifth wheel trailer with which to empty them.
    [ Enquirer ]


    December 14, 2012
    7th Street Makers Market December 14-15
    The first annual 7th Street Makers Market will be held on December 14th and 15th at the Artisan’s Enterprise Center (AEC) in downtown Covington.

    Sponsored by Make Covington Pop and Renaissance Covington, the two-day event will feature over 20 local artists, farmers, bakers, and makers selling a variety of handcrafted, homemade, and homegrown goods.

    The event will run from 5-8p on Friday, December 14th and 12-5p on Saturday, December 15th. Free parking will be available and the market will also feature a Food Truck Happy Hour outside the AEC on Friday evening and a complimentary gift wrapping station sponsored by the Awesome Collective of Covington both days.

    The AEC is located at 27 W. 7th Street in Covington, Kentucky.

    Sponsored by Renaissance Covington, Make Covington Pop is a community-driven effort to restore creativity, pride, energy, and vitality in Covington through the creation of pop-up shops, art galleries, and other events.

    The program is aimed at revitalizing the city’s urban core by attracting entrepreneurs and artists and encouraging them to activate vacant storefronts along Covington‘s main corridors.


    December 13, 2012
    Commissioner Frank accuses Governor of mugging Covington
    Commissioner Frank apparently asked OH Governor Kasich yesterday if he was at the Radisson "to mug Covington." Apparently referring to prospect of tolls for the new bridge.
    [ The Covington News ]


    December 11, 2012
    Swearing in brouhaha could have been avoided
    The controversy with regard to the "secret" swearing in of the new Commission could have been easily avoided, if only the people of Covington were told in advanced.

    Commissioner Steve Frank explains at C.KY why it was done:

    "Every Commissioner HAS TO BE sworn in before January 1'st or they become 'unelected.' It is a bizarre point of Kentucky law...just like swearing that one hasn't fought a duel nor been a second in one. We will all publically be sworn in in January.

    "The new Commissioners had to also be sworn in, but they are not 'official' commissioners yet. Very bizarre.

    "So if the three of them meet, it doesn't upset the sunshine laws prohibiting any three commissioners from getting togeather to discuss policy....until their second swearing in in January.

    "That we were all in one room made the task simpler for Maggie (commission clerk)."


    December 10, 2012
    New Commission not getting off to a good start
    Mayor Carran and the new commissioners had themselves sworn-in at a closed to the public event on Friday without telling the people of Covington. Not good.

  • The convenience store on 12th Street -- the old AmeriStop -- was robbed over weekend for the second time in a week. Not good.

  • The new commission is considering installing 250-300 parking meters in MainStrasse. Not good.

    But I hope you have a great week! Real good.


    December 7, 2012
    Lawmakers still wasting time
    Lawmakers reluctant to accept bridge tolls . But you and I know what this is all about for some of them, the more time it takes to make decisions ... the more publicity for them! And what politician doesn't like seeing their name in the paper?
    [ Enquirer ]


  • Tired of shopping, decorating, and eating? Get out and enjoy a game of kickball this Saturday! Game starts at 3:00 so get there early. We'll be playing in the field at John G. Elementary school on W. Pike Street. [ Some Facebook page ]


    December 6, 2012
    How much longer with the bridge?
    Legislation to allow private entities to help fund the Brent Spence Bridge project tops the Northern Kentucky Chamber of Commerce’s priority list for state lawmakers in 2013.
    [ Enquirer ]


    December 5, 2012
    Whimsical look at Pike Street twinklers
    The Covington News has been typing its fingers to the bone for 2 years, calling for festive lighting downtown. Behold, it has happened!
    [ Covington News ]


    December 4, 2012
    Crime problems nearby
    Hasn't been a good week near the neighborhood:

  • There was a break-in in the 1100 block of Russell Street week.
  • A woman was robbed of $150 yesterday at 11th and Bankwell Streets.
  • The old AmeriStop was robbed over the weekend.
  • Police were called to check on an open window at the Aldo House.
  • A fire on Banklick Street, but probably not crime-related.
  • The failed politician at 1023 reportedly called the fire department after smelling smoke, still trying to get attention. And people are still laughing at her.


    December 3, 2012
    Picking the right design for the new Walgreen's in Covington

    Looks like the design for new Walgreen's is set, as is the location -- at 12th and Madison -- but we have a few last minute ideas.
    [ Covington News ]

    November 30, 2012
    Some holiday
    things to do

  • Make Covington Pop will host an official launch party on Friday, November 30th at 6:00p. Covington Mayor Chuck Scheper will be in attendance to "Light Pike" kicking off the celebration at Madison Avenue and West Pike Street in Covington.
    [ Info ]


  • Holiday Toy Trains at Behringer-Crawford. "The Holiday Toy Trains have pulled into BCM Station and will be here for the whole holiday season! Come visit and continue this great family tradition, or start a new one. Also don't miss our other great exhibits DIVIDED WE STOOD and our FOTOFOCUS exhibit Flags by Brad Austin Smith."
    [ Info ]


  • Circus Mojo will be performing (inside across from AMC ticket booth) at Newport on the Levee this Saturday, December 1. 1:00PM & 3:00PM Show. Stop by and enjoy a little fun! [ Info ]


    November 29, 2012
    Storied
    Drawbridge Inn closing

    Are you surprised that the Drawbridge in is closing? The place became a dump!

    But it did have a storied history. Once the a major social center for Northern Kentucky. But, it is closing this Sunday.
    [ Enquirer ]


    November 28, 2012
    Bishop's mansion a goner
    The fight came to a head Tuesday night as the city heard debate on the fate of Bishop's Mansion.

    Opponents of the plan said the three-story mansion was built in the late 1800s in the shadow of one of Covington's iconic cathedral.
    [ WLWT ]


    November 27, 2012
    Make Covington Pop kick-off party
    Make Covington Pop will host an official launch party on Friday, November 30th at 6:00pm. Covington Mayor Chuck Scheper will be in attendance to “Light Pike” kicking off the celebration at Madison Avenue and West Pike Street in Covington.

    The event will also feature the unveiling of Santa’s Workshop at Roebling Point, the grand opening of two pop-up shops at 12 West Pike Street and "1 East Pike Street", a holiday craft hour and movie for children sponsored by B-Books at the Artisan’s Enterprise Center, and a surprise visit from Santa.

    The party will be the first of several events taking place in Covington's Central Business District this holiday season.


    November 21, 2012
    Have a great holiday!
    Got nothing to write about, except ... have a great holiday. This column will be back on Monday. You can always check in at The Covington News (C.KY) which is always on!


    November 20, 2012
    Police chief to address growing heroin problem
    The Covington Business Council is hosting Police Chief Spike Jones to talk about what his department is doing to combat the heroin issue. He will share tips on how business owners can assist.
    [ Business Council ]


    November 19, 2012
    Holiday decorations on the streets
    Even I am participating this year ... even though Bob and Jeanne had to put up the decorations on my property.

    My protest has always been that the "poor streets" aren't included but what the hell, this is my last Christmas on Russell Street, so why not?


    November 16, 2012
    History
    repeats itself

    It's like history repeating itself. Gateway grabbing old buildings for educational purposes, just as Villa Madonna College did in Covington decades ago!
    [ The Covington
    News (C.KY) ]



    November 15, 2012
    Downtown is
    on a roll!

    You know where to get all the info on the Gateway College Urban Campus for downtown Covington, at the link. And hey ... it includes a Barnes & Noble bookstore!
    [ The Covington
    News (C.KY) ]



    November 14, 2012
    Best news for downtown Covington
    This afternoon, Gateway College will announce that its urban campus will move forward in downtown Covington.

    3000 students will be educated in Covington: learning skills, trades, and how to start businesses.

    It will later grow to over 5000 students including classes for older adults who need job retraining. Gateway will also make a commitment to work with area schools to help prepare high school students for technical skills and degrees.

    Classes currently being conducted at the Amsterdam Road location will be moved downtown.

  • Covington political operative Kathy Groob has another loser on her hands.

    Every time Groob does a self-written press release about herself, she introduces herself as publisher of "ElectWomen.com."

    Ah, nobody is paying attention.

    Alexa -- which specializes in readership stats -- ranks her site as being the 7,773,137th most popular in the world.

    But presumably, she'll keep faking it until she makes it.
    [ Website
    Traffic Rankings ]



    November 13, 2012
    Seceding from the Union
    4,117 people who live in Kentucky are petitioning the Obama administration, asking permission for the state to secede from the Union. Some of the comments at Covington News (C.KY) seemed, well, interesting:
  • "This is why Kentuckians are considered dumb and inbred by the rest of this country!"
  • "Oh, Good Lord! Get over it! Another time for me to be ashamed of being from KY."
  • "After what is happening in Washington, there will be more doing that too. So many more jobs being lost, soon we'll all be in a Muslem nation. What a shame. Our service men and women didn't give their lives for this. Everyone feels so sad."
  • " I really don't think we will become a Muslim nation, God is the Lord of Lords, King of Kings, God is sending our missionaries all over this world to share his word, I feel people have so little faith in our God, that will be the price those will have to face."
  • "A muslin nation, Gwen, really?? Sheesh! Do some research & quit making the rest of us here in KY look like complete idiots! Speak for yourself as I'm happy that Obama is our POTUS! You need an education & some respect! You do not speak for all of us in this state!"

    Never a dull moment at C.KY. No wonder it's so popular!
    [ Covington News ]


    November 12, 2012
    Election
    peccadillos:


  • Steve Frank is vindicated after landslide vote for him.
  • Sherry Carran will be mayor, but received less votes than Commissioner Frank.
  • Greg Paeth and Jo Rogers' election losses mean the Old Seminary Square neighborhood jinx continues.
  • People are still marveling at Michelle Williams' big showing in the Commission race.
  • People are surprised that "Chuck" Eilerman almost lost.


    November 9, 2012

    That's it for this week ... see you on Monday!


    November 8, 2012
    Neighborhood candidates just
    can't win

    There must be a jinx or something on neighborhood candidates.

    Other than Arnold Simpson, the others just can't win.

    Joe Meyer was ousted years ago as a state senator. Groob blew it in her attempt to become a state Senator. Rick Trulley lost in the primary a couple years ago. Someone ran for jailer and lost. Paeth came close this year but his refusal to play on social media (free publicity!) killed his chance. Jo Rogers came in dead last in her school board bid.

    Steve Casper was on social media, but faced an uphill battle against someone who had better name identification.

    It's a neighborhood of jinxes, for goodness sake! But the good news is ... there will be other opportunities. Maybe the neighborhood should call in an exorcist first.


    November 7, 2012
    Avoided
    mentioning Paeth

    There's a saying, "I don't care what you say about me, as long as you spell my name right."

    Meaning, of course, just mentioning a candidate's name can help their election chances no matter what is being discussed. Adds to the person's name identification, the ... oh yeah, I'd heard of him (or her).

    I made it a point to never mention Greg Paeth's name at the Covington News for that reason.

    Mr. Paeth almost won. Had his name been entered into discussion at C.KY, I'm certain he would be an elected commissioner today.


    November 6, 2012
    Barack Obama
    re-elected

    Looking at the projections this Tuesday morning, does not look good for Mr. Romney. Florida is moving into the Obama column, Ohio is lost as is Nevada, Colorado and New Hampshire. The only battleground state going for Romney is North Carolina.
    [ Projections ]


    November 5, 2012
    One more day to go
    Yup. We're yapping about the election over at The Covington News, the city's largest news site by far.
    [ C.KY ]

  • The big news among readers is not the election, but the revelation that Walt's Hitching Post on Madison Pike is opening in January. The new owners are sprucing the place up right now!

  • The first phase of the Covington Library's renovation has been completed. The new lobby, circulation department and drive-thru are now open. And there is a ribbon-cutting ceremony today at 2:30 pm.

    Nice looking building!


    November 2, 2012
    C.KY endorses Mildred Rains,
    Chip Terry for commissioners

    Here's the endorsement:

    " This is a tough one because most of the candidates for the City Commission have no appeal to Covington @ Facebook.

    We had high hopes for Roger Hamilton and Neil Gilreath but they have disappeared from the election trail. Ed Faulkner quit in the middle of the campaign for claimed health reasons. Matt Dressman is gone and Shawn Masters also quit.

    We will absolutely not support any Commission candidates associated with the sleazy political operatives. We will not endorse any of Campbell County State Representative Dennis Keene’s hand-picked cronies.

    At this point, there’s only two candidates for Covington Commissioner that C.KY likes:

    Mildred Rains
    for Commissioner >>

    Mildred Rains has been there. Not only is Ms. Rains a former member of the City Commission, she’d worked at City Hall for decades and later became the first female code enforcement director with proven results during her tenure.

    During this campaign, Ms. Rains has spoken of the role that code enforcement can play in uplifting neighborhoods.

    Mildred Rains knows her way around City Hall and will be able to cut through all the political roadblocks and alliances that still confront and confound the city government today.

    Chip Terry
    for Commissioner >>

    By all accounts, Alan “Chip” Terry has the highest standards possible as he seeks election to the Covington Commission. Beholden to no one, Mr. Terry entered the field belatedly as a write-in candidate after retiring as an Assistant Fire Chief with the city.

    The fact that Chip Terry is free of political alliances other than his natural association with fellow firefighters makes him an excellent candidate for City Commission. Thus, the reason for our endorsement.

    Mr. Terry wants to make Covington a “shining light” and pledges to work hard to make the city a great place to live, play and work.

    The city faces a long, hard road ahead and we are hoping that the two candidates will be free of political bonds so that they may truly care for the city each loves.

    For the reasons expressed, Covington @ Facebook in consultation with others ask you to vote for Mildred Rains and to write-in Chip Terry for Covington Commissioners."
    [ C.KY ]


    November 1, 2012
    Covington @ Facebook endorses Steve Casper
    Here's the endorsement:

    "Steve Casper has nothing to prove because he has already done it. Mr. Casper has already convinced many that he can lead Covington into a new era.

    Over the past two years, we have watched as Mr. Casper worked his magic through the mine fields of a city near failure.

    A consensus builder, not a divider. A person with a positive attitude and a strong belief that good things are ahead.

    Through all the challenges, whether dealing with the budget cuts or those gut-wrenching city personnel challenges, Steve Casper has come out of it unscathed. He has been open, willing to talk and ready to listen.

    That kind of attitude will be needed as the city begins to rebuild.

    In addition, we like the ideas Mr. Casper has presented. His proposal to create a new entertainment district along 7th Street is most appealing given that the Madison Theater is nearby. We like his idea of an attraction to peel some of those people away from Cincinnati’s new riverfront park.

    We know of his strong commitment to bring more jobs into the community, and he will work hard to keep those already here. We know Mr. Casper wants to make Covington a more livable place for its residents.

    We like Mr. Casper’s common sense, in sharp contrast to his opponent.

    Who can forget during those agonizing budget cuts when his opponent had the audacity to push for a full-time and unnecessary arborist for the city, a proposal so ridiculous and so untimely that she couldn’t get any member of the commission to back it.

    Her fight to stop a methadone clinic from opening in an industrial area is another example. Did the opponent not foresee the final outcome?

    His opponent has not fully participated at Facebook, the new gathering place for people interested in Covington.

    Steve Casper will use his common sense to guide the city to better days. His willingness to be open to one and all, to end the secrecy inside City Hall and his ideas for Covington are most appealing.

    For these reasons, Covington @ Facebook in consultation with others endorses Steve Casper for Mayor of Covington."
    [ C.KY ]


    October 31, 2012
    Superstorm Sandy strands
    many Kentuckians

    Karlina Patton's 40th birthday jaunt to New York City got an unexpected extension after thousands of U.S. flights in the path of superstorm Sandy were canceled.
    [ NKY ]

  • The 10 worst Halloween candies for kids?

    Of course you don't want to take candy completely out of the Halloween equation-what fun would that be for your child?

    But you may want to keep your costumed cutie away from treats that are truly horrible for her health.
    [ Yahoo News ]


    October 29, 2012
    Prostitutes
    in MainStrasse

    Complaints at Covington @ Facebook that prostitution is growing in MainStrasse and along Pike Street.

    The Covington Police Department is monitoring an increase in heroin use and prostitution in the city, reports Fox 19.

    "The last two weeks we've made 19 arrests for prostitution," said Chief said last September. Jones also met with the MainStrasse Village Association to talk about ways homeowners can help police.

    But the 'tutes won't stay away.

    Kim Blank of the MainStrasse Village Association wrote: " ... unfortunately they are released quickly after being arrested. Then, due to the heroin addiction, they are right back at it. This is why the CPD is continuing to address it. They have had undercover officers on it for weeks, all over Covington. "

    CityBeat writer Larry Gross writes:

    "Being a writer, I talk to the prostitutes. For the most part, they are very open about their addictions and open about the fact that they have to keep moving.

    "When I first moved to Covington in July of 2011, their focus seemed to be in front of the Walgreens on Madison Avenue. I've seen more than a few arrested in that area.

    "Now, I see the prostitutes walking up and down Pike Street -- around Pike and Holman.

    "They can be aggressive, too, approaching cars stopped at red lights. A little scary."

    Chief Jones, notes WKRC, believes the amount of prostitution and also copper thefts, car break-ins and car theft are all on the rise -- and heroin is at the root of those crimes.

    The addiction therapist WKRC spoke to says more and more people are turning to heroin because the prescription pills are drying up on the street. "

    Chief Jones say heroin dealers will often give potential customers the first hit for free... and from that point, there's no returning to prescription pills.

    They both say a new law is necessary and good but now Northern Kentucky needs more treatment centers to help people recover from their addictions, notes Channel 12.


    October 26, 2012
    Complete details on the new hotel
    Strangely, a newspaper in South Carolina has the best information of all.
    [ New hotel ]

  • Everything turned out just fine with regard to the hotel announcement. C.KY broke the news early Wednesday morning and was asked to pull back but the cat was already out of the bag. So, instead of one day of publicity for Covington, the city ended getting three days of good, solid coverage!
    [ Covington @ Facebook ]

  • Big "ghoulish" weekend. Not just at Old Seminary Square, but plenty of goodies at MainStrasse!
    [ MainStrasse ]

    October 24, 2012
    City Hall to be converted into boutique hotel
    City officials have scheduled a press conference for Thursday at Commission Chambers for a major announcement concerning good news for downtown Covington.

    Now that the cat is out of the bag, it may be moved to today. Downtown Covington is getting a boutique hotel, a $25 million venture. It will be located at the current City Hall.

    Covington @ Facebook broke the news shortly after 7 am this morning and was asked to take it down because the info was embargoed. We'd thought C.KY was free to post.

    C.YA started to seriously ask questions about the fate of the current City Hall beginning October 11th, as you may recall.
    [ Covington @ Facebook ]


    October 23, 2012
    Chicken coops in Covington
    Urban chicken coops have become one of the latest trends across the country, right up there with food trucks. The City of Covington may vote tonight to allow property-owners to raise chickens. Here's a look at "8 awesome urban chicken coops" across the nation
    [ Urban Chicken Coops ]


    October 22, 2012
    Firefighters, Frank at it again
    Covington firefighters have sounded the alarm with regard to the next Fire Chief. They claim the City of Covington may hire from the outside.

    "We need your support for the two candidates from inside the Covington Fire Department that are in the running for the fire chief's position: Acting Fire Chief Dan Mathew and Captain Chris Black," a firefighters' posting pleas.

    That brought ire from Commissioner Steve Frank who has accused the union of interference:

    "When the fire department actually learns that they are not in a position to be running the city; then maybe we'll listen to them," Mr. Frank wrote at Facebook. "If there was a need for an outside chief; it would be to once and for all change this part of their culture."

    "That the next chief will probably come from within is a testament to the quality of the candidates. The union's interference in the process isn't going to help their case," Mr. Frank wrote.


    October 18, 2012
    Pantries having
    hard time
    keeping up

    "Previously we've been able to help out between 600 to 800 people a month here in our Covington office. Last month, we were only able to serve 137," Salvation Army Capt. Heather Holt said.
    [ WLWT ]


    October 17, 2012
    Free Covington medical clinic for uninsured
    It is a first of its kind in Northern Kentucky. A medical clinic for folks without health insurance began at the this year at 2040 Madison Ave. in Covington.

  • The clinic was started by a group of nuns that belong to the Franciscan Daughter of Mary. The operate an early pregnancy center, food pantry and distribute clothing to people with little monetary means.
    [ KY Post ]


    October 15, 2012
    Willie's on the hillside is for sale
    Was surprised to read that Willie's Restaurant is for sale. The place is still open while the owners find buyer.

  • Indeed, there's a lot of commercial property on the market in Covington. Almost like everyone is heading for exits.
    [ Covington for sale ]


    October 12, 2012
    City Hall moving
    Persistent rumors that the city of Covington is seeking to move City Hall to another location, as noted earlier at C.KY, are apparently true.

  • Police Chief Spike Jones' call for more medical treatment centers for drug addicts is of interest, given all the time and effort the city has spent against the proposed methadone clinic.

  • And it sure looks like there won't be a methadone clinic inside the old Sav-A-Lot building on Madison Avenue. The building is again on the market, up for sale.


    October 11, 2012

    I've got nothing today, but there's plenty posted over at the C.KY!
    [ Covington @ Facebook ]


    October 10, 2012
    Last night's commission meeting
    At the Board of Commissioners' Meeting, held at Covington City Hall last night, clearly the Reds-Giants game was on the mind of the board.

    "What’s the score?" were the first words uttered by Commissioner Steve Frank when the meeting started at 6 p.m. At that time, it was one to nothing, Reds.

    The only old business was the ordinance approving the reduction of authorized police sergeant positions in the Covington Police Department from 15 to 14. All on the board approved.

    There was plenty of new business -- 49 first reading of ordinances. New ordinances won't be voted on until October 28.

    One ordinance amending an ordinance on criminal activity as a public nuisance to the City of Covington confused some in attendance. The amendment attaches crimes involving alcohol intoxication, menacing, assault, terroristic threatening and resisting arrest to the property owner. Property owners, commercial or residential, will be sent a warning letter of crimes on their property. After that, if it continues, fines will be enforced.

    Confused business owner Barry Johnson asked "What if the crime happens after five o'clock or on the weekends?" Police Chief Spike Jones informed Johnson that the Covington Police would handle all matters and that property owners didn't have to physically be there.

    Chief Jones also seemed confused when he asked if the amended ordinance would increase the time the police could hold prostitutes at the police station. With the answer being no, a frustrated Jones stated, "They're released as soon as they get there!"

    Also at the meeting, the board accepted the resignation for retirement of James Gardner, a dispatcher in the Covington Police Department which is part of the city’s budget cut.

    Standing at the podium, an emotional Chief Jones said, "Whenever I think of this situation, my eyes start sweating." Talking to Gardner who was in attendance, Chief Jones said, "You always made us feel safe out there, Jim."

    Gardner stood up and thanked the city stating, "It was a good ride," after which he got a standing ovation.

    Last order of business: Halloween. The "Trick or Treat" celebration will be between the hours of 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. in the City of Covington. -- Larry Gross for C.KY


    October 9, 2012
    Reds deeply ingrained in the region's fabric
    "There's no debate about that," said Lance McAlister, a Cincinnati native and host of the WLW Sports Talk local radio show.

    "The Reds are woven into the fabric of the city and the surrounding community. They always have been, and always will be."
    [ Columbus Dispatch ]


    October 8, 2012
    What ever happened to Mayor Beehan?
    Remember him, Tom Beehan? He was at one time the Mayor of Covington.

  • Beehan's company transferred to Oak Ridge TN where, wait for it, he's Mayor today, as noted at Covington @ Facebook.

    The item caught has attention. Mayor Beehan responded this morning:

  • "Thanks for remembering. Covington was a very special place in my life." he wrote at C.KY.

    "I still get back on a regular basis for what I call my 'Covington Fix'. I moved to Oak Ridge to continue my career with State Farm Insurance.

    "I'm very proud of what we accomplished in my time there (in Covington). Supporting the Neighborhoods was hopefully a lasting legacy. "

    So now, you know!


    October 5, 2012
    Writer learning about Covington
    CityBeat writer and C.KY contributor Larry Gross has become a little unnerved by some things in Covington:

    "Fall is in the air here in Covington. I can’t help but notice there’s another change in the air too.

    I live close to Madison Avenue. There are angry people waiting, standing at bus stops because "Advertising" benches have been removed. Almost daily when I go for walks, people are complaining about this. I also hear yelling and fighting among people owing people to each other.

    Across the street from the Madison Avenue Baptist Church, there's an apartment building where the party never ends. Loud music, drunken people and fighting is almost 24/7. Where are the cops?

    On my street, I’ve witnessed three fights this week. I live on a quiet street.

    Fall is in the air, but there’s something else too. What’s going on in Covington? It’s a little unnerving."

  • Larry is a new Covington resident ... he's learning fast!


    October 4, 2012
    I've got nothing today ... see you tomorrow!


    October 3, 2012
    Two debates tonight
    Covington voters will have a chance to hear from candidates running for city commission Wednesday at the American Legion Hall in Latonia.

    The "Meet the Candidates Forum" will begin at 6 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 3 at the hall at 38th and Winston avenues . The doors will open at 5 p.m. and the forum is expected to run until 8 p.m.
    [ KY Post ]

  • Then, of course, there's the presidential debate at 9 pm. I'm going to watch the presidential debate just to see if Mr. Romney puts a foot in his mouth ... once again.


    October 2, 2012
    Ad benches off the streets
    TANK passengers did more sitting than standing at bus stops last Friday but that all changed this morning, notes C.KY contributor Larry Gross.

    The City of Covington passed an ordinance deeming bench sign advertising was unsightly and as September 28, those benches had to be removed.

    In front of the Walgreens at 1026 Madison Avenue this morning, the wooden bench with the advertising was gone just leaving the dark green, plastic bench owned by the city for sitting.

    Some bus commuters seemed confused by the change with one commuter asking, "Did someone steel that other bench?"


    October 1, 2012
    Enquirer starts charging tonight
    This evening, October 1, the Enquirer "will begin transitioning to our new full access subscription plan on our digital devices for computer, tablet and mobile websites."

  • In other words, it begins charging to view most of the articles online. Interesting to see how it all works out.

  • The Trulleys have resolved the latest issue with their neighbor. Apparently under pressure from Code Enforcement, the neighbor has agreed to dismantle the air vent that was hanging over the Trulleys' yard.

  • City Attorney Frank Warnock once told me that if a neighbors' property like vents, electric boxes and meters are hanging over your property, that you have a right to seek removal. So, issue resolved.

    The Trulleys had openly complaint about their neighbor online, for all the world to see. Copying it to all the Facebook pages of all the local politicians.


    September 28, 2012
    The situation over on West Robbins
    The battle rages at Facebook with regard the Trulleys and their neighbor, here are some excerpts:

    Ann Lang Trulley wrote: This is (photo) my "neighbor" trampling my ground cover landscape. Here's a big thank you to the City of Covington...8 years of ineptitude and lack of follow through. I've had it!!!!!

    Rick Trulley wrote: There is a furnace installed in the basement and now drilling for hvac purposes.

    Carole Judd Carter wrote: Grrrrr, after 8 years really?? And we are waiting for him to fix his downspout on the other side that flows into our foundation......Code enforcement did say they sent him a LETTER last week about that. Sorry neighbor :(

    Rick Trulley wrote: This "property" can sum up just about every issue that needs to be addressed in the COV. Not to mention the raw sewage that has been in the basement for four years and has been left to sit there.

    Carole Judd Carter wrote: Since they are inept, they cite responsible residents who are in the middle of rehab, then when said residents fix their house they say "see how effective we are? We got action !"

    Laura Bird Knight wrote: We need an even and fair approach to code enforcement and not be told you are being singled out because you can "afford it" and then hear from someone else they told the same person they could not afford it and the citation went away.

    Chris Henry wrote: I don't care how much code enforcement we have, it is the quality we get. And it has not been at an acceptable level in years!

    Steven L Frank wrote: Before you throw a brick at me, do you talk with or have much of a relationship with your neighbor? Seems like a preventable problem without blaming the city if you all talked. If this is a venting issue for a furnace, given the size of houses in your neighborhood, a little PVC pipe could have directed it out the back. Caps on these things are usually white. That might help. Other option is move the fern a little to the right. The hole in the wall is now there.

    Ann Lang Trulley wrote: Steven L Frank you have heard this situation for 2 years. Rick has repeatedly expressed to you, everyone on commission, the mayor du jour, and code enforcement (most inappropriately named department in the history of Covington) for the past 8 years. To suggest that that we just need to talk it out or, better yet, move the 550 lb. focal point of our professionally designed landscape is absolutely pathetic, irresponsible, and unprofessional.

    Steven L Frank wrote: Ann Lang Trulley; I've not heard about a man putting a hole in his wall until you posted a picture of it. After checking, apparently he went to NKAPC and got a permit to do what he is doing. I don't like what he is doing either. It's a violation of common decency if not the building codes. What I find troubling is why you believe what your neighbor is doing is somehow the city's fault. It is not like we told him today would be a good day to upset you. Rick I sympathize. Has the owner been a jerk for a long time? Look I'm trying to help not pile on.

    Jeff Murden wrote: Wow. this guy is apparently drilling a hole for the HVAC. He appears to be using a tarp and 'trying' to respect your landscape, but the reality is it appears he is trespassing onto your property without permission (given that you are upset about it). This is not the fault of Code Enforcement however, as they inspect after the job is complete and the contractor calls for a final inspection. They cannot control what or how a contractor does his job, they can only approve or not approve the work. If the work is not approved, then the contractor has to correct any deficiencies in the work product.

    Richard Hines wrote: Unfortunately, the city will not take action. I personally spoke to Frank Warnock with a similar problem with regard to my neighbor on the south side of my house on Russell Street with their utility boxes and whatnots. Mr. Warnock acknowledged that the neighbor's protrusions were on my property but the city does not have an enforcement policy, that redress would have to be sought in court. That I would have to seek a court order to have them moved. (Bob Wheeler hit the like button on this.)

    Richard Hines wrote: With regard to Code Enforcement, a rep showed up on the same day of my complaint to look at the secret drainpipe that the neighbor on the southside of my property had. It was spewing all kinds of stuff into my back yard.

    Rick Trulley wrote: Update-talked with owner. He is not moving it. "let the marbles fall where they may."

    Rick Trulley wrote: I'm ready for self help - with a sawzall......

  • PS Don't Art Off Pike is Sunday. Have a great time!


    September 27, 2012
    Another neighbor having issues with a neighbor
    Ann Lang Trulley on West Robbins Street has gone public with her disdain for the next door neighbor.

    She posted a photo on Facebook the neighbor working on the house next door to her with the posting:

    "This is my 'neighbor' trampling my ground cover landscape. Here's a big thank you to the City of Covington, 8 years of ineptitude and lack of follow through. I've had it!!!!!"

    Apparently upset about her yard getting messed up or something.
    [ Steve Frank page ]

  • LOL. Reminds me of the Groob's secret drainpipe that was spewing stuff all over my backyard. It's all so hilarious that history repeats itself in the neighborhood.


    September 26, 2012
    Bengals do good in Covington
    There was no food outside, although the kids get fed every night at all 11 sites of the Greater Cincinnati Boys and Girls Clubs.

    But Tuesday had a family picnic feel as kids gathered out there on the greensward behind the Marge Schott-Unnewehr Club in Covington for their annual punt, pass and kick competition.
    [ Bengals.com ]


    September 25, 2012
    City election pretty much decided
    Well, the first official debate among Commission candidates was held last night.

  • Given that three candidates have dropped out and two current candidates are MIA, it means the quest for Commissioner seats is pretty much over. Commissioner Frank will be re-elected, Chuck Eilerman and Mildred Rains will win. But the 4th slot for Commissioner remains up for grabs. But ... does it really make any difference? I don't think so.

  • The mayor's race looks like a toss-up, so there's at least some drama remaining.


    September 24, 2012
    Talking politics
    The first candidates' debate, or presentation, is tonight at the Ninth Street Baptist Church, beginning at roughly 5:30 pm.

  • Hey, Fort Wright has figured out a way to make money. City leaders are considering adding a billboard visible to drivers on Interstates 75 and 275 in an effort to generate funds for city projects. Not a bad idea!
    [ NKY.com ]


    September 21, 2012
    TGIF
    Hope the weather holds for the outdoor movie tonight at Bill Cappell Sports Complex.

  • Old Seminary Square neighborhood's Rob Sanders has endorsed Steve Casper for Mayor and is holding a fundraiser for him tonight at the Sidebar.

    Smart choice. Anyone who pushes to officially hire an arborist in the middle of budget cuts -- as Sherry Carran did -- is lost in space. Anyway, have a nice, cool weekend.


    September 20, 2012
    Watch movie under the stars this Friday
    Free outdoor movie this Friday, September 21st at the Bill Cappel Sports Complex.

    Hey, free popcorn and punch! Featuring the movie "Puss In Boots," movie starts at dusk. Bring your chairs and blankets ... enjoy the evening! Sponsored by the Covington Recreation Department.


    September 19, 2012
    Fire department cutbacks
    through attrition

    The over three hour meeting of the Board of Commissioners for the City of Covington last night left one thing certain: People are not fond of Commissioner Steven L. Frank.

    >>Before it came time to vote on the proposed Fire Department budget, a $12.4 million annual budget being reduced to 11.9, Charlene Dietz, a Latonia resident, let it be known she didn’t think Frank, because of his antics on Facebook, should vote on the proposal. In fact, she demanded that he not. Her request was meant with a loud round of applause from those attending the meeting.

    >> Ray, also from Latonia, was angry about the cuts from the Fire Department budget. He suggested that all the commissioners "Need to take a ride with the firefighters" to see what they go through every day.

    >> The Commissioners said nothing to Ray and Commissioner Frank voted on the Fire Department proposal despite Charlene's objection. To save half a million dollars with the Covington Fire Department, three Captain positions, three Inspector positions and three Engineer positions were eliminated -- through retirements, or resignations. No layoffs were required.

    The rest of the long evening turned into an "all other" type of agenda which left those in attendance frustrated. Generalities and vagueness to budget cuts lead one audience member to plead, "We want specifics! People wanta know if they're gonna get fired!"


    September 18, 2012
    Busy day
    The Commission meets tonight. The fire department has been under pressure to cut its budget by $500,000 or so. The proposed cuts will be talked about tonight.

  • Also, a reorganization of City Hall duties is expected to be announced. Expect some layoffs but one interesting item ... there's a plan to officially hire an arborist for the city. So, while public safety is being cut back, the city will at least have an arborist!

  • Republican Ed Faulkner has dropped out of the Commission race for health reasons, the third candidate this election round to quit.

  • Jon Ryker's remark that Covington school children are "slaves" and school administrators are "slavemasters" brought condemnation, including children's advocate Ryan Courtade who promptly quit Ryker's Facebook page in disgust, as other have.


    September 17, 2012
    Running late!
    Yes, am running late and will try to update later in the day because there are two very big items this Monday. Ed Faulkner has dropped out of the commission race and an eyebrow-raising comment by Old Seminary Square resident Jon Ryker. C U later today!


    September 14, 2012
    Give the Walgreen's clerk her prize
    CityBeat columnist Larry Gross writes on his personal blog of a kindly Walgreen's employee at the Madison Avenue store who should get the company's $10 gift card.
    [ Larry Gross ]

  • Yup, forgot to do an update on Thursday. Never on the weekend, so I'll see you on Monday! Keep in mind that Covington @ Facebook is constantly updated so see you there.


    September 11, 2012
    Zinger of the week
    After the brouhaha about billboard benches in Covington, frequent poster at C.KY and Pike Street resident Rick Hoffman wrote:

    "Well now that we finally got rid of those ugly, development-stopping bus benches, things are really going to take off!

    "If they could find it within themselves to fill a sink hole or fix a curb, we could really be on the verge of (having) a whole new city."

    Zing!


    September 10, 2012
    My Florida accountant told me it was sold
    So, I was meeting with my accountant in Deerfield Beach FL, who told me that 1041 Russell Street was sold for $285,000.

  • Was talking about how I had 1021 casually up for sale. That is, if someone wants it for the price that I want, then it'll be sold. ( But it's not on the MLS listings.)

  • Anyway, Mr. Accountant -- who knows absolutely nothing about Covington and could care less -- pulls up Russell Street on Zillow.com and notices the 1041 sale.

    And that's how I found out. News really does travel in strange ways!


    September 7, 2012
    Oktoberfest!
    MainStrasse Village's Oktoberfest opens today and runs through Sunday.

  • The festival extends over 6 city blocks, along the tree lined 6th Street Promenade, Philadelphia Street, Main Street and Goebel Park, creating the perfect backdrop for the variety of appealing foods, drinks and works by over 75 artisans and crafters from all over the country
    [ MainStrasse ]


    September 6, 2012
    Reward offered for fires in vacant Covington homes
    Another suspicious overnight fire in Covington has people there keeping a close eye on abandoned homes.

  • Covington has somewhere between 300 and 400 abandoned properties. Like in so many other cities, they are easy targets for arson fires.
    [ WKRC ]


    September 5, 2012
    No benches for bus riders
    Folks who ride the Transit Authority of Northern Kentucky (TANK) may have to stand at bus stops that normally have benches.

  • The city of Covington passed an ordinance that claims bench sign advertising is unsightly.
    [ KY Post ]

  • Kenton dispatch fee continues to irk some. Although Kenton County taxpayers will again have the same county property tax rate, some are critical of Fiscal Court's recent decision to add a fee to those bills to pay for emergency dispatch services.
    [ NKY.com ]

    ... and don't forget, if you don't pay, the county could arrest you. It is a felony to not pay the new 911 dispatch fee!


    September 4, 2012
    Downtown on cusp of revival?
    Two commissioners are hinting that good things are about to happen with regard to reviving downtown. Commissioner Casper says the city is "on the cusp of several announcements so I continue to remain positive in spite of nay sayers."

  • The other day, after a reader's inquiry about the closing of the The Avenue Lounge, Commissioner Frank replied: "The Avenue's problems were beyond the City's to solve. There is a vibrant change coming. Good announcements soon."

    So, we shall see.


    August 31, 2012
    Have a great weekend
    See you on Tuesday ... hope the threat of rain doesn't mess up Riverfest!
    [ Covington @ Facebook ]


    August 30, 2012
    Commissioner Frank announces ideas winners
    Steve Frank announced the winners of the best idea to "Save Covington Money" and both are from our Fire Department. Mike Clendenen and Matt Chastain both win $2,000 for their idea of getting more revenue for our EMS runs.

  • Hey, Covington @ Facebook pushed this idea for weeks, if not months, but it didn't win. Boo-hoo ;-)


    August 29, 2012
    Commissioner Frank's survey: Increase ambulance fees
    Commissioner Frank had a highly unscientific survey on budget cuts and / or raising money for the city.

  • The winner: Raise ambulance transport fees.

    The person who suggested it gets $2000.00. But wait a second ... Covington @ Facebook has been calling for an increase in fees for weeks now!

    So Commissioner Frank, where's my check so I can donate it to the Welcome House. ;-)


    August 28, 2012
    Those headlines in the center column
    So, what's with the photos and headlines in the center column of this page? Just running a test.

  • Considering doing more graphics to spruce things up. But still not sure because, well, it's a lot of work and I receive no compensation for my ventures in Covington ... so not sure how far I want to go with regard to being all fancy and such!


    August 27, 2012
    Firestorm at the school board
    You may already know about this, but the Enquirer has finally done a story on the incompetence being exhibited by the Covington School Board following the resignation of one of its members. It's a mess.
    [ Enquirer ]

  • Speaking of fires, you also know about the big fire on East 12th Street yesterday. Seriously, can anybody support police and fire personnel cutbacks after witnessing the quick action from the firefighters yesterday?
    [ Covington @ Facebook ]


    August 24, 2012
    Maybe there was an incident, maybe not
    Got word that there was a serious incident at the Holmes High School cafeteria yesterday, confirmed by two people.

    Here's early info: A VIP emailed me that there was an incident at Holmes but would not give additional info. A second individual has confirmed that.

    Having a hard time getting absolute confirmation on what actually happened but apparently, supposedly, maybe a child was tasered on Thursday after getting into a tussle with a female resource officer.

    As they say on TV reports, "Details remain sketchy at this point." [ Covington @ Facebook ]


    August 23, 2012
    Bernsteins pledge to re-open Mike Fink
    The Bernstein family has announced that the Mike Fink will be renovated and reopened, hopefully by the next Reds' Opening Day.

    The city has been pressuring the Bernsteins to do something soon or else. Plus, an investor was found to help with the expense. A person who has backed ventures like the Hofbräuhaus in Newport and elsewhere.
    [ Covington @ Facebook ]


    August 22, 2012
    Hell of a lot going on today
    Hell of a lot going on today at C.KY. Catch up by clicking on the link!
    [ Covington @ Facebook ]


    August 21, 2012
    Oakley Farris expresses concern about the schools

    Covington philanthropist Oakley Farris writes at Covington @ Facebook about the schools situation. One practice in particular is irritant to him, that of overpaying vendors for services rendered.

    "To take an example, the district spends around $160,000 per year on the services of its attorney ... That firm is a Vendor to the schools and is an example of the problem with the schools budget. If that contract were bid out periodically we could pay much less for an attorney," Mr. Farris wrote.

    He also suggested that Covington schools work harder on ACT scores. "The minimum required to enter an area university is 18. Covington Independent Schools ranks at the very bottom of the state, #174 out of 174 districts with an astounding 12.8 Composite score. "
    [ Covington @ Facebook ]

  • BTW, it turns out status quo school board candidate Kerry Holleran has blocked numerous people from her Facebook page. This pretentiousness is a terrible sign of things to come if, God forbid, Ms. Holleran is elected or appointed to the Covington school board.


    August 20, 2012
    Pretentious candidate for
    school board


    Let's talk about school board candidate Kerry Holleran ... seems to be rather vindictive. Ms. Holleran has blocked school board candidate Christi Blair from accessing her Facebook page.

    Holleran may have blocked another candidate as well. Really setting the wrong tone, don't you think?

    While claiming to be open to new ideas, Holleran is blocking those who actually have presented solutions for better Covington schools.


    August 17, 2012
    Firefighter jumps into Commission race

    Former Assistant Fire Chief Allen "Chip" Terry announced on his Facebook page yesterday morning that he is running for Commissioner: "Ok! It is official...as of 0834 hours on 8/16/2012; I am a write-in candidate for City of Covington Commission."

  • Writing at Covington @ Facebook (C.KY), Chief Terry explained his reason for jumping in:

    "First, yes I am running for commissioner. I have chosen to do so because I feel, despite the best efforts of many good people at city hall, the problems that have plagued us for the past several years still remain.

    "As a long time public servant with the city, and a small business owner, I believe I bring a different and unique grassroots perspective to the needs and wants of the community.

    "Additionally, current problems notwithstanding, positive change can take place without making drastic cuts in essential services or other departments within the city, but it will take the collective effort of city leaders, employees and citizens.

    "At this point, as I meet with citizens and employees, I don’t feel the solidified sense of community required to bring about needed changes.

    " I do, however, sense a feeling of hopeful optimism tempered with uncertainty. There is also a sense of pent-up energy and excitement for what the future holds.

    "I believe, with the right leadership, Covington can become a bright light in the region propelled forward by sound, efficient, and community oriented governance.

    "Furthermore, while the reports and studies of outside consultants have been helpful in fleshing out some long overlooked dysfunctions within the city organizational structure, I contend that the most productive way to solve our issues going forward is to continuously engage the stakeholders…the business owners, residents, and employees of Covington.

    "On the local level, elected officials can and must enlist the collective intelligence of their constituency and empower them to be an integral component in developing solutions to the many complex issues inherent in modern society.

    "If elected, my mission, my passion…my purpose will be to develop the sense of community and collaboration needed to solve our many problems, capitalize on our strengths, and make Covington that 'bright light in the region'; a place where people want to live, work and play."


    August 16, 2012
    Surprising development for school board

    Mark Young, who lives on the edge of Old Seminary Square, has been in effect elected to the Covington School Board! He had filed papers this week, the only one to do so for a special election to fill a vacant seat on the board.

  • While the school system said the vacated seat would be filled after a Secretary Joe Meyer appointment, Mark Young found a law that requires an election and the Kenton County election clerk agreed.


    August 15, 2012
    Vandals discover Licking River trail

    Jim Gardner told readers at C.KY last evening that two benches along the Licking River Greenway Trail have been damaged.

    " Vandals tore two of them out. I actually built all three for my nephews Eagle Scout Project," Jim Gardner wrote. "We bolted them to concrete we poured inside the boxes to try to keep it from happening.

    "My B-N-L's built the three picnic tables that were placed at the deadend of Oakland Ave. -- as of last week they were still there and in good shape. Great place for a lunch before a hike to see the murals."

  • Yup, still a nice place to go for lunch!


    August 14, 2012
    Bank robber a
    poor smuck

    Did you hear about the Covington bank robber?

    "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," writes WCPO.

    "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."
    [ WCPO ]


    August 13, 2012
    Wild, wild Facebook

    If you're a reader of Covington @ Facebook (C.KY), then you know how wild it has been there.

  • First off was the war of words between Commissioner Frank and a realtor in West Covington with regards to developing part of the neighborhood there.

    Not going into detail here, you can catch at the C.KY.

  • Then the firefighters jumped in after a comment by Frank, questioning the need to send a certain number of firefighters and equipment to an undetermined fire.

  • Today, there seems to be a growing debate about outsourcing payroll preparation to a private company. Again, it was started after a comment made by Commissioner Frank.
    [ Covington @ Facebook ]

  • BTW, Tickets down on Sixth Street -- closed for several months -- will give it another try. Reopening of the restaurant and bar is this Thursday!


    August 10, 2012
    It's a wacky world inside City Hall

    "Mayor Chuck Scheper was surprised to learn last week a major reason Covington’s Code Enforcement Department isn’t as effective as many residents believe it should be.

    "It's because code-enforcement inspectors spend half their time not dealing with new blight problems, but managing the upkeep of ongoing blighted buildings and yards."
    [ Enquirer ]


    August 9, 2012
    Important city hearing tonight

    That public hearing is tonight on possible Code Enforcement office and Community Development office changes.

  • The City of Covington will host the meeting to gather input on proposed cutbacks or discontinuation of the city's Code Enforcement Department as well as changes being kicked-around with regard to the Community Development office. It begins at 6:00 pm today, Thursday, August 9.


    August 8, 2012
    Food trucks for Covington

    The Commission allowing food trucks with restrictions was a foregone conclusion because three on the Board had already spoke approvingly of the trucks.

    Commissioner Frank asked a lot of questions about checks and balances, but in the end the trucks will be allowed under controlled circumstances.

    No breaking news, every one pretty much knew food trucks would be approved.

  • The restaurants are not happy, neither is the MainStrasse Village Association which first expressed it unhappiness online at Covington @ Facebook (C.KY).

    "Three Covington business people argued Tuesday against the change, predicting it will harm already struggling restaurants in the area," reports the Enquirer.

    "We have an awful lot of great restaurants in this town," said Pete Jordan, general manager of the Radisson hotel, "and I don't know any of them that are setting records or have set records over the last couple of years."

  • This food truck episode is likely an effort to pander to those who want the smelly, noisy, gas-guzzling, polluting trucks because they're "cool " right now. Which, of course, will help the pandering politicians in the fall.


    August 6, 2012
    C.KY makes its
    first rolling endorsements

    Gosh darn it! Things were so busy over at C.KY on Friday that I'd completely forgot about Russell Street News

  • When that happens, just go on over to C.KY. You won't be disappointed.
    [ Covington @ Facebook ]

  • Anyway, C.KY has started what it calls "rolling endorsements" for the city commission, based on the current events:

    Mildred Rains
    for Commissioner >>

    Mildred Rains has been there. Not only is Ms. Rains a former member of the City Commission, she’d worked at City Hall for decades and later became the first female code enforcement director with proven results during her tenure.

    Mildred Rains knows her way around City Hall and will be able to cut through all the political roadblocks and alliances that still confront and confound the city government today.

    Ed Faulkner
    for Commissioner >>

    Ed Faulkner will be the “go to guy” with regard to the city’s finances. A business executive who was on the board of several city-related entities, Mr. Faulkner will likely offer a non-confrontational hand in righting the sinking ship that is Covington.

    Roger Hamilton
    for Commissioner >>

    Roger Hamilton will be an important addition because he is a former assistant fire chief at the airport. Chief Hamilton will be able to expertly navigate any proposed changes within the fire and police departments with class and dignity, and will put a stop to the demonizing tactics being deployed today against Covington's bravest and finest. He also lives in South Covington, giving that area direct representation on the Commission.

    Neil Gilreath
    for Commissioner >>

    Likewise, former Covington police sergeant Neil Gilreath will stay true in his support of the city’s finest. In addition, Sgt. Gilreath is an expert on traffic patterns and will be a critical addition to the Commission as planning for the Brent Spence Bridge replacement moves ahead.

    There will be no endorsements of any sitting Commission members today for the following reasons: (1) Its tardiness in finishing the budget for fiscal 2012-2013. (2) Its support of non-essential cadillac jobs and departments inside City Hall over Covington’s fire and police. (3) Its blatant insensitivity toward the plight of long struggling bricks and mortar restaurants downtown when it brought in fly-by-night food trucks to compete against them.

    No endorsement for the Office of Mayor today because both candidates are members of the current commission.

    We can only hope that the downward spiral currently being displayed by Board of Commissioners will be corrected before our next rolling endorsements in a few weeks.


    August 2, 2012
    Food truck controversy gets more bizarre

    You'll recall last week's hauling in of fly-by-night food trucks by Renaissance Covington and the city in blatant competition with the suffering bricks and mortars in downtown Covington?

  • In response, some good citizens are putting on an event currently underway to show support for bricks and mortars along Pike Street called "Show Your Love," or something cutesy like that.

    Now get this:

  • One of the bricks and mortar that wants some lovin' is the Pike Street Lounge ... which is owned by the executive director of Renaissance Covington ... the very organization that put on the food truck event!


    August 1, 2012
    Commissioner Frank's
    testy exchange

    Maybe it's the summer heat, but things continue to get hot with the Covington Commissioners vs. others.

    This time, it was a testy exchange between a developer, Wes Bittlinger, who has been interested in reshaping a section of West Covington, and Commissioner Steve Frank.

    At issue are rows of dilapidated buildings around the Altamont and Lexington Streets area, many are owned by Bittlinger that were to be torn down before the economic collapse.

    Commissioner Frank had posted photos of buildings on his Facebook page and was particularly angry that Bittlinger's company had posted no trespassing warnings, including signs that forbid people from using public city streets.

    "Want to find the most disgusting blight in Covington? Look no further than Altamont and Lexington in West Covington errr Botany Hills," Commissioner Frank wrote at his Facebook page.

    One building, according Bittlinger, was "used by the City of Covington and the City of Ludlow to practice for their fire departments."

    The developer also protested that at least one of the decayed buildings did not belong to his company.

    At the time of Mr. Frank's posting, he seemed not to know whom or what owned the buildings: "These homes have been bought via straw buyers for some future development, then stripped of copper and aluminum siding and left to decay," he wrote.

    Commissioner Frank was particularly angered by the closing of city streets and promised swift action by the city, including sending code enforcement to the area.

    "Some people who are not sympathetic to restricting the property of the citizens of Covington. Even if you own every lot, that does not give one ownership of public right of ways," Frank later wrote at Facebook.

    Then all hell broke loose.

    Bittlinger wrote: "I was trying to be a man with you and a tax paying citizen!! Who do you work for???" Then Bittlinger began to fling personal insults at the Commissioner which C.KY won't get into.

    Bittlinger continued: "... according to Mr. Logan w/ the City of Covington because I own all the land up here, I can apply to close this street at any time! But thanks again."

    Then Shawn Masters jumped in: "Wes, Mr. Logan is correct, you may apply. but...it is the commission that determines whether the street can be closed, not staff."

    Commissioner Frank said: "Not likely to happen given all five of us are not pleased."

    Bittlinger responded: "Shawn, thank you for that. I was unaware. But as stated shawn we are well on the way to demolishing everything."

    The developer said his dilapidated buildings will be torn down within the next two weeks. No one knows when the the structures not owned by Bittlinger will be actually dealt with by the city.


    July 31, 2012
    Catching up with Banklick Street
    Five homes in Covington's Old Seminary Square that were renovated under the Neighborhood Stabilization Program (NSP) were opened to the public for tours on Thursday evening.

    The properties, located at 908-916 Banklick Street and 304 Berry Street, are all near completion and ready for purchase, priced between $122,000 and $175,000.
    [ Building Cincinnati ]



    July 30, 2012
    Commissioners express surprise by the reaction
    At least two Covington Commissioners are expressing surprise with regard to the blowback after last Friday's food truck promotion.

    Commissioners Masters and Casper thought it was a good idea. Commissioner Carran expressed kudos on her Facebook page and the Mayor attended the event.

  • To explain, City Hall thought it would be a great idea to bring in some fly-the-night food trucks downtown to serve lunch. It even passed out flyers, put up posters and even "urged" public sector employees to attend.

  • All hell broke loose. The long-suffering downtown brick and mortar restaurants strongly objected, wondering why, after all these years of angst, the city would put up even more competition against them, to the point of suggesting to city employees that they spend money with the fly-by-nights over the bricks and mortar.

    The Kentucky Realtors Association also stepped in and expressed its dismay.

  • And, of course, the online blogs had a field day.

    I'm not sure that the Commission to this day understands what it did wrong but, indeed, it was buffoonery at its best once again from City Hall.


    July 27, 2012
    Airplanes and cars
    Delta Air Lines Inc. confirms it will shutter the Comair Inc. subsidiary Sept. 29, a move that impacts 1,600 employees, more than 800 of whom live in Greater Cincinnati.

  • Some of the Comair employees lived in Covington.

    The MainStrasse classic car show will take place on the tree-lined streets and walkways of MainStrasse Village and Goebel Park, the home of the Carroll Chimes Bell Tower. Sunday, July 29th, from 9:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m.

  • The car show should be pretty cool!


    July 26, 2012
    Could a small movie theater help Covington?
    A neighborhood theater could raise property values by 14-30%. A specialty grocery store could raise property values by 20%. It's an older study, but interesting.
    [ Article ]

  • Renaissance Covington has hit its all time high with regard to doing stupid things.

    This page implied the other day that many restaurants in downtown Covington are suffering from a lack of business, now get this:

    Food trucks are being brought into downtown Covington to compete against those brick and mortar restaurants! Somebody, please stop the madness.


    July 24, 2012
    Local businesses in need of customers
    Was sorry to read at Covington @ Facebook that Charlie Maxwell's on Greer near Pike Street is struggling.

  • It's a great place for burgers, fries and that occasional chocolate malt but, once again, the locals aren't supporting it and that's a shame.

  • Covington definitely has a problem with residents, many prefer to spend money outside of the city limit, leaving local retailers and restaurants in the dust.

  • You know, if it weren't for outsiders coming into the city, MainStrasse would be in big, big trouble.

  • I'm still mad at the neighborhood busybody trashing the now-closed Pike Street Cafe, people need to stop listening to that Old Bag and try out what Covington has to offer.

  • I do it when in town, spending 2-3 hours each day in the early afternoon ... making the rounds at local shops. It's important for residents to get out and get about. If not, then the outcome will be more empty storefronts and the continuing deterioration of a city that is already on its knees.
    [ Covington @ Facebook ]



    July 23, 2012
    World's largest yard sale nears!
    Cleaning out your basement or garage? Consider selling your unwanted items at the Corridor 127 World's Longest Yard Sale. MainStrasse Village will host over 100 vendors during this event on August 2,3,4 and 5th.
    [ MainStrasse ]


  • Before that is the monthly MainStrasse antiques and collectibles sale at the Sixth Street Park. It's this coming Sunday!

  • Charlie Maxwell's over at Greer Street near Pike got some good buzz over at the C.KY. Tracy Cordova wrote: "good food and ice cream and shakes at affordable prices!"

    Jill Bruegge wrote: "They have great fudge also!"

    Mark Steward Young: "Great burger and fries, cheap!"

  • Sounds good! You'll have to stop by Charlie Maxwell's.


    July 20, 2012
    Oh wonderful :-(
    Sinclair Broadcast Group Inc., known for its far right-wing activities and editorial positions, has purchased Cincinnati's WKRC-TV (Local 12) and five other TV stations from Newport Television.
    [ Business Courier ]

  • Mass shooting at movie theater. My God, can't even go to a movie these days.
    [ Yahoo News ]


  • Screen printers open for business. "If it's hot inside the building at 620 Scott Blvd. in Covington, it's not just because there's no air conditioning.

    "It's because the employees at The Point Logo and Design are working hard. A venture by The Point/Arc of Northern Kentucky, the screen printing business opened this spring. The Point/Arc of Northern Kentucky serves area residents who are developmentally disabled.
    [ Pretty cool! ]


    July 19, 2012
    Nothing to say
    Nothing to say today, but there's always plenty over at the C.KY! [ Covington @ Facebook ]


    July 18, 2012
    Looks like Comair is finished
    There were a couple people in the neighborhood who used to work for Comair. Now, nobody will be working for Comair.

    "Multiple sources inside and outside Comair told the 9 News I-Team that pilots and other employees fear the airline may be shutting down. Pilots with Comair said they believe the target date to close is Oct. 1," the KYPost reported yesterday.

  • Then, there's the Enquirer. It's editor wrote that the paper, along with the Columbus Dispatch, this fall will be the first daily newspapers in the country to switch to a new 10-inches-wide by 14-inches-long format. The Enquirer beginning in October is also changing its business model by charging for subscriptions to access both online and print content.
    [ Enquirer ]


    July 16, 2012
    Diocese acts on Covington's 12th Street development
    Ambitious hopes for the newly-expanded 12th Street / Martin Luther King Blvd. corridor.

    But so far, only the Catholic Diocese of Covington has stepped up to compliment the vastly-improved thoroughfare (although it's looking more and more that a new Walgreen's will also be built).

    The Diocese will move its central offices to the old St Mary's School, now called the Lyceum, located on northwest corner of Madison Avenue and 12th Street.

    The project will feature the refurbishing of the interior of the front part of the Lyceum building facing Madison Avenue, replacing the rear section with a new two-floor office wing and expanding areas for parking.
    [ CovingtonUSA ]


    July 13, 2012
    Anchor Grill as a tourism attraction
    If there's a list of recommended places to visit, surely the Anchor Grill is on it. The dive on Pike Street gets a lot of attention!

  • A blogger writes: "People have been telling me that I need to go to the Anchor Grill since like the first day I moved to Cincinnati.

    "Obviously, I had to go to this place, but somehow I could never make it happen. Nobody ever wants to drive to Covington after they are already drunk, and nobody I know hangs out in covington to drink.

    "I would occasionally throw it out there as a brunch suggestion but people would laugh at me. "Go to the anchor grill SOBER?!?!," they would exclaim in pure and utter shock. "You can't go to the anchor grill SOBER! And you can't go NOW! you have to go at THREE AM!!!"
    [ Get in Mah Belly ]


    July 11, 2012
    Brownouts and fire protection
    A fire that broke out at a Covington house early Wednesday morning left a family looking for a place to stay and the fire department questioning its budget cuts, reports WCPO.

  • "Budget cuts to the Covington fire forces may have led to a delay in response to the fire. The residence is about a half mile from a Covington Fire Department station that would normally dispatch crews, however, because of recent budget cuts, the engine was dispatched from Covington's much farther Station 8."

  • "The nearest station to the fire was located at Station 1, 100 East Robbins Street -- a distance of .4 miles from the house, according to Google Maps. Station 8 is located at 3315 Church Street, a distance of 2.1 miles, according to Google Maps," Channel 9 noted in its report.

    Folks, this is not a good thing.


    July 10, 2012
    Cigarette butts and 'doggie doo'
    So what was the big discussion about this morning at Covington @ Facebook? The mounds of cigarette butts and dog crap in the city. Here are a few of the comments:

  • Keep Covington Beautiful wants us to "adopt a spot" to keep clean. Here's an idea: Why don't business owners and homeowners just get out there and keep there sidewalks clear of cigarette butts, weeds and trash?

  • Aaron Kerley wrote: Dog excrement?

  • Christi Love-Blair wrote: I like the big wet shirt someone threw on my steps the other day.....or when they considerably fold cheeto bag and stick in my railing. I know him, corncob! Ava calls him the man with the frosty the snowman pipe.

  • Tom Gaither wrote: Smokers don't care a lot about themselves, why think they may care about the city?

  • Marlene H. Neiheisel wrote: One of the yuck things I found as I walked around Covington was the dog poo..

  • Mike Petrey wrote: Ok, so you are special but you cant instill pride or cleanliness in folks who just dont want it...

    A lot more comments on this and others things at -- you know where -- the C.KY!
    [ Covington @ Facebook ]


    July 9, 2012
    Alcohol binge on election day
    State Rep. Arnold Simpson, D-Covington, next week will discuss before lawmakers in Frankfort a bill he's tried to get passed in some form or another for four years to make alcohol sales legal on election day.

  • I'll drink to that.

  • Last time I talked about Greg Paeth was when he'd resigned a seat on some city board and no one on the Commission thanked him for his service and didn't express best wishes, as is pro forma. Insiders say it's because Paeth is "an asshole," that's why.

  • Now people are joking about his expressed reason for wanting to be elected to the Commission ... because he "needs a job." It's one of his campaign quips and all I can say is ... OMG.


    July 5, 2012
    Firefighters vs the city of Covington
    Not a legal fight, yet, but the Covington Firefighters Union has posted a lengthy reason why there should not be any further cuts in the department, as has been suggested by the outside consultants -- with probably a nudging by city officials.

  • The consultants explored several options with regard to reducing fire services, such as contracting emergency medical services to a third-party vendor and / or eliminating pumper Company 5 in Latonia and negotiating automatic aid agreements with Taylor Mill and Independence fire districts.

    Needless to say, firefighters are not happy.
    [ Covington Firefighters Union ]

  • There's a concert Saturday night in Devou Park. The Kentucky Symphony Orchestra performs beginning at 7:30 pm. Enjoy a free concert in the park featuring World Choir Games participants with the Kentucky Symphony Orchestra!


    July 5, 2012
    Yesterday was a
    busy news day
    It may have been a holiday, but C.KY was still posting on July 4th and its eve. Here are some of the items:

  • The pacemaker of Covington murder victim Donnell Brown will be analyzed in connection with the trials of three people accused of killing and dismembering him last fall.

  • Huge crowds attended Fort Mithchell's Fourth of July parade. Peaselburg? Not so big.

  • Insight / Time Warner at impasse with WLWT. Which may mean no more Channel 5 on cable.

  • Investigators believe mulch may be to blame for a fire that damaged a park -- not the one in Covington -- but in Cincinnati's Camp Washington. Playgrounds are a target for destruction these days.

  • A Covington Commissioner says Holy Cross in Latonia was considering moving to Independence. Steve Frank wrote at his Facebook page that had the methadone clinic opened in Latonia, that would have been the last straw for the stellar Catholic school.

  • Excitement in Cincinnati: Let the World Choir Games begin The World Choir Games open Wednesday and groups from around the globe are arriving for the eleven-day event.

  • C.KY first noted revisions coming to the city's reorganization plan on June 29th. No word today on its progress.

  • Behringer-Crawford Museum wrote: "Don't let your Independence Day festivities end on the 4th, keep them going at BCM on Thursday night with our Music@BCM Concert featuring The Comet Bluegrass All-Stars at 6 p.m. It’s Red, White, and Bluegrass on Thursday night!

  • C.KY wrote on May 12: " Expect some kind of decision within the next 60 days " on moving The Waterfront to the old Covington Landing site. Announcement may come this Friday

  • Seems rather amazing that the consultants are recommending that the city look into ceding Devou Park to Kenton County. "Investigate the feasibility of transforming Devou Park into a regional facility under the auspices of Kenton County with financing from a regional base."

  • Latonia spraypark open again. A popular waterpark and spraypark in Latonia is open again as families look for ways to cool off during this summer heat wave. "It serves a lot of people, especially younger people," said Natalie Gardner, the Recreation Director for Covington.

  • And so much more. Seriously, there's a lot posted at Covington @ Facebook. Jump on over and see for yourself!
    [ You won't be
    disappointed ]



    July 3, 2012
    Time for a parade
    It may be hot, and it may be humid but the annual Fourth of July Parade in Peaselburg is set for 11 a.m. on Wednesday, beginning at St Augustine Catholic Church.

  • Should be fun, so check it out!

    But don't expect the weather to improve any time soon. "If you are reading this, your computer or phone hasn't melted despite Mother Nature's best efforts. It will continue to be hot and humid again today -- and into the holiday weekend," writes the Enquirer.
    [ Enquirer weather ]


    July 2, 2012
    It's official: Eilerman is a flake
    Oh, mercy. I'd completely forgot to update Russell Street News on Friday. Didn't realize it until this morning. Hey, when that happens, just go on over toCovington @ Facebook where there's never a dull moment.

  • Anyway, it's official. 60s flower-child Chuck Eilerman is the flakiest of candidates running for commission.

    Eilerman is upset because he overheard Steve Frank use the F-word, apparently offending his virgin ears. But Eilerman had no problem hiring the "nastiest political operatives in Kentucky" to help with his campaign.

    The couple Jeffrey and Kathy Groob specialize in character assassination against opponents.

  • I strongly suspect that given his political operatives' modus operandi to character assassinate opponents, it was probably suggested to Eilerman at some point to start assassinating, but he totally botched it.


    June 28, 2012
    Renaissance Covington is finished
    Getting confirmation from an official that Renaissance Covington is being shut down, that it will no longer be funded by the city.

    Of course, if you're a regular reader of Covington @ Facebook, you know that I've been harping about its ineffectiveness for some time.

    Looks like a newly-constituted group, currently called Urban Partnership, will be put in charge of downtown Covington events and will play a major role in trying to revive the downtown area, something Renaissance Covington utterly failed to do.


    June 27, 2012
    Jam-packed news over at the
    C.KY today
    There's so much going on at Covington @ Facebook, also known as the C.KY, that I don't have time for Russell Street News today. So, head on over to the C.KY.
    [ < You won't be
    disappointed ]



    June 26, 2012
    City Hall changes could affect locals
    Getting hints from City Hall VIPs that either Renaissance Covington or the office of Preservation will be dismantled as part of the forthcoming budget cuts. Perhaps both ... we'll see.

  • Which, of course, would affect one or two people closely associated with the Old Seminary Square Neighborhood.

  • Got an email yesterday that there was a fire in the dumpster on W. Robbins Street over the weekend? Somebody probably tossed a cigarette.


    June 25, 2012
    Big, big week for Commission
    The city of Covington continues to struggle with its budget deficit, which has grown bigger after the loss of tax revenue from two major companies and its nearly 1000 workers who have jumped across the river to Cincinnati.

    City Manager Larry Klein has been searching for ways to cut another $1.5 million dollars in the annual budget and the City Commission is expected to hear those recommendations and begin voting on the cutbacks this Tuesday at its regular meeting which has been moved to a different location to accommodate the expected crowd in attendance.

    Publicly known:
  • The Covington Fire Department is under orders to cut its operating budget by at least $650,000 perhaps even as much as $1,000,000. That means reduction in some services and personnel is forthcoming. (Commissioner Casper has noted at Covington @ Facebook that the cuts will now be less than $650,000.)

  • The Police Department is under pressure to make more cuts … even after the closing of the emergency call center.

  • At least one Commissioner has publicly stated that a shake-up in city’s community development and its finance department is imminent.

  • The merger of the code enforcement and permit departments with nearby cities will likely be a topic of discussion.

    In addition, Management Partners' comprehensive study and resulting recommendations on city government reorganization will be publicly presented this week and will probably create quite a stir once revealed. Management Partners is expected to make close to 60 recommendations on government reorganization and its resulting financial savings.

    The public portion of Tuesday’s meeting begins at 6 p.m. at the Madison Events Center across the street from City Hall.

    But most of the budget discussion will likely not occur until Thursday's special meeting. Tuesday's meeting will be devoted to a progress report by the Mayor, and the presentation by Management Partners on city reorganization recommendations.

    In other news:
  • Covington Commission candidate Chuck Eilerman has parted ways with the Groobs following Jeff Groob's participation in yet another sleazy web page, the latest was against Commissioner Frank whom, by the way, says the Groobs played a role in Commissioner Masters' decision not to run.

    There are behind-the-scenes actions underway to pressure others to disassociate from the Groobs.

    I think the political operatives next door -- in their arrogance -- have finally met their Waterloo.


    June 22, 2012
    Commissioner Frank: I'll fight!
    Commissioner Frank, writing at the C.KY Thursday night, says he'll fight when it comes to toll bridges across the Ohio River:

    "No one as yet has calculated what if any tolls might be required and if the bridge to Covington is going to get tolled; 471 needs to be, too. I'm not paying to see Newport get all of the free bridge business at Covington's expense.

    "This isn't going to be an easy problem to solve. I just know that I'm prepared to fight if the only bridge that is disadvantaged is the one to Covington such that our friends in Cincinnati decide that its cheaper to party in Newport," Commissioner Frank wrote at C.KY.

    He continued " ... I took the lead and fought to keep our Fourth and Fifth Street exits open. Two years ago when this first came up, the Covington wasn't prepared to fight for those exits. I led the business community and later the people and organized political support to save our bridge exits.

    "Now that they look saved, I do not want to grab defeat from the jaws of victory because our town was tolled and others were not."

    So now, you know!


    June 21, 2012
    Good for nothing Center
    The Center for Great Neighborhoods is a moribund organization.

  • Instead of having a huge payroll, instead of putting on failed events and conferences, instead of overseeing the rehab of 2-3 buildings a year ... it is in glaring need of a change of direction.

  • One idea floated is to use the CGN money to start tearing down. As one person wrote at the C.KY, "There are over 30 buildings that have demolition orders issued, some over two years ago. The money is not there to tear them down, instead we pay to keep them boarded up, pay police to respond to thefts, vandalism and squatting."

  • "I would much rather see green space (aka a vacant lot) than to see these eye sores that continue to drag down surrounding values and generate negative tax revenue."

  • The CGN has the money to get it done. Time to make a change in its direction, for the good of Covington.


    June 20, 2012
    The 'castle' at 515 Russell Street
    Historic Koett House at 515 Russell Street sold, as noted yesterday.

  • "The Albert B. Koett house is perhaps the most eye-catching of the strictly residential homes in this district," writes notes the Mutter Gottes Walking Tour Brochure. "

    "Built in a block of houses with more common looking architecture, the Koett House is a three story narrow, elaborately detailed castle with a side entrance. The facade with its rounded sleek-surfaced brick work and other details accented withcolored tile, constantly attracts the attention of passers-by." Asking price was $175,000.
    [ Sibcy Cline ]


    June 19, 2012
    Preservation fails to save another building
    That old townhouse down on Fourth Street looks like a goner. It's likely to be torn down for a parking lot to serve employees at Legacy Financial.

  • Legacy has promised to attractively landscape the parking lot, so that's a plus, I guess.

  • The old Bishop's Mansion at 12th and Madison is just about gone for a Walgreen's ... no preservationist kicked in money to save it.

  • Preservationists do a lot of yapping ... until it's time to kick in some of their own cash.


    June 18, 2012
    Everything is for sale
    The old Norb's is for sale again, the Albro House is for sale, and I'm seriously considering selling the little cottage on Russell Street while looking around for something else in the area.

  • Condos at 605 Russell Street remain for sale with top asking price at $189,900.
  • 911 Russell Street is still on the market for $139,900. As is 909 Russell Street.

  • That funky red-brick building has recently sold. The asking price was $175,000 for 515 Russell St.


    June 15, 2012
    Gotta goetta
    Now it's not just for breakfast! If you've never tried Goetta, now is the perfect opportunity to enjoy Goetta and other favorite festival foods and refreshments this weekend.
    [ Main Strasse Village ]

  • For goodness sakes, have a great weekend!

    June 14, 2012
    Some of this,
    some of that
  • A man shot in the back in the 2300 block of Alden Court late Wednesday is expected to recover, Covington police said this morning.
    [ Enquirer ]

  • River Sweep is an event organized by the Ohio River Valley Water Sanitation Commission, an interstate water pollution agency for the Ohio River Valley, along with environmental protection and natural resource agencies from Illinois, Indiana, Ohio, Kentucky, West Virginia, and Pennsylvania. The event is this Saturday.
    [ River Sweep ]

  • Cougars are again spreading across the Midwest a century after the generally reclusive predators were hunted to near extinction in much of the region, according to a new study billed as the first rigorous statistical look at the issue.
    [ Lexington paper ]

  • The Creation Museum where dinosaurs roam the biblical Garden of Eden is unveiling a national billboard campaign featuring the popular prehistoric reptiles
    [ Some website ]

    And, you know where to find the rest of the news for the day ... Covington @ Facebook!


    June 13, 2012
    Painful decisions on city budget cuts
    With two weeks left before city commissioners must approve a spending plan for the 2012-13 year, officials still must find a way to cut about $1.5 million more, they revealed Tuesday.
    [ Enquirer ]

    "Keith Bales predicted Covington’s proposed $46 million budget may be 'a death sentence' to the Code Enforcement Department, which he leads, and which is responsible for eliminating blight across the city.

  • Fire Chief Chuck Norris was the other expressing concerns.


    June 12, 2012
    Things for sale
    Yup, the old Norb's Garage is back on the market again.

    Actually, it's been sort of on the market all along, but in pending status. Apparently, the intended purchaser couldn't get a mortgage loan or something like that.

  • The political operatives next door have put their little building on Bakewell Street that housed their "firm" up for sale.

    BTW, more and more, Democratic know-hows are saying they've had enough of the Groobs and their behind-the-scenes political crap. Yes, there is an effort underway to make them persona non grata.

    Separately, there seems to be some pressure on Jeff Groob with regard to his associations. I'm waiting on that one before telling all.

  • And, as Covington @ Facebook has been telling you for weeks now, the new Walgreen's store at 12th and Madison Avenue is working its way through the approval process. Looks like the old Bishop's Mansion may be a goner.


    June 11, 2012
    Checking on things as the week begins
    Fort Wright Mayor Joe Nienaber's concern about street parking on East Henry Clay Avenue sparked a debate about drivers speeding to cut through to Covington at the Fort Wright City Council meeting on June 6.
    [ Enquirer ]

  • Except for a few pockets in Covington like Old Seminary Square, home prices continue to collapse within the city. And no, I still haven't decided on selling the house on Russell Street!
    [ Covington @ Facebook ]

  • Did you see the Goodyear Blimp last night? The Spirit of Goodyear was seen flying over Cincinnati and NKY to provide live aerial coverage to ESPN of the Reds and Detroit Tigers game on Sunday Night Baseball.

  • What is Bread & Spice? It's a new cafe and bakery just down the street at 212 W. Pike Street offering pour over coffee made fresh to order, fresh wholesome baked goods and bread as well as savory vegetarian fare and more. Opens at 7 am!
    [ Facebook ]


    June 8, 2012
    Amusement park seems to be
    crowd-pleaser
    There's an easy way to bring life back to Covington Landing ... with an amusement park theme, similar to Chicago's Navy Pier. And a big, colorful Ferris Wheel would draw people's attention from across the river.

    A lot of people at Covington @ Facebook thought that was pretty good idea:

    Chris Hummel wrote: As someone who lived right down the road from Navy Pier but NKY born.....I think its an awesome idea.

    Brenda Beach McIntosh wrote: They just opened the pier in Galveston, TX along this line. Ferris wheel out over the water is impressive. I think Covington would do well with this!

    Debbie Gower Weinel wrote: Maybe re-use Mike Fink for ferry? Owner said rehab for restaurant cost prohibitive but maybe this...

    Donald Powell wrote: Great idea - would attract a different/additional demographic to the riverfront and would not have a real rival in downtown Cincinnati or in Newport.
    [ Covington @ Facebook ]


    June 7, 2012
    Attempting to silence debate
    Pro-school board supporters have been trying to silence the opposition.

    In many ways, but one of the most interesting is an attempt to "socially embarrass, " by frequently using the terms "hateful" and "negative" against those who disagree with the current school agenda.

    It's simply more character assassination.
    [ Fix Covington Schools ]


    June 6, 2012
    Nothing to write today
    But betting there's plenty of muckraking going on over at Covington @ Facebook. Take a look!
    [ C.KY ]


    June 5, 2012
    No yard sale, just give it away
    Old Seminary Square should do what other neighborhoods across the country are doing. Instead of yard sales, folk are just giving their leftovers way.

    "Today, the online network of Freecycle communities has nearly 9 million members around the world all collecting hand-me-downs from each other’s doorsteps," writes Atlantic Cities. "These people have gone even further than "collaborative consumption" or a "sharing economy." They've created a massive gifting economy."

    Sociologists have long been intrigued by these kinds of benevolent "generalized exchange communities"

    "This old idea that gift-giving communities generate lots of solidarity, is it true and does it hold up outside of the lab?" asks Robb Willer, a sociologist at the University of California. "We found that it does."

    Giving it away makes for better neighborhoods.
    [ Atlantic Cities ]


    June 4, 2012
    Smear site getting Groob, Eilerman into hot water
  • I think Jeff Groob and his darling wife have really stepped in it this time.

    As noted on Friday, an unsigned smear site emerged on Facebook against Commissioner Steve Frank. Guess who was a part of it? Jeff Groob.

    As were members of Chuck Eilerman's election team, including the wife of his campaign treasurer. The Groobs are doing campaign work for Eilerman, as he has admitted at Covington @ Facebook.

    Here 's what may become a big, big problem:

    I am wondering if campaign laws were broken, given that it was an unsigned page. You may recall an unsigned, printed flyer against Democrat Shawn Masters that was produced by some other Democrats who were eventually prosecuted and convicted.

    After Covington @ Facebook exposed the smear page, it was quickly taken down which, in itself, is an admission of wrongdoing.

    The Groobs -- such a sweet couple -- are no strangers to doing smear sites, like the one called "Rick Hines Exposed" which was online for two years and jumped from webhosting company to webhosting company after being kicked offline by each of them for malicious content ... ending up at a webhosting company based in the United Arab Emirates!

  • Frankly, I'm surprised that Eilerman hired those two losers, given their history.
  • And I don't think Steve Frank is going to sit still after an attempted smear. I'm expecting a rocky ride for Jeff Groob and his lovely politician wife over the next few weeks.


    June 1, 2012
    Catching up on the news
  • A lot of rain. More coming today.

  • The sleazy Facebook page against Commissioner Frank has been taken down. Here's a suggestion for the nearly-extinct NKY Democrats: Try using issues instead of attempting character assassination, you may start winning elections again.

  • Kudos to Commission Frank for attending and addressing the Covington school board, as noted last night here at the C.KY. Frank was there to offer suggestions, in an attempt to get CIPS to hold off on yet another tax increase.

  • Five hospitalized in Covington interstate crash late yesterday afternoon. A four-vehicle crash closed some northbound lanes of northbound Interstate 71/75.
    [ WLWT ]

  • Covington projects honored for preservation efforts. Preservation Project Awards recognize outstanding examples of restoration or rehabilitation of historic buildings, or other types of projects that have had a positive impact on Kentucky's built environment, as noted by the Kentucky Heritage Council:

    Thomas Edison School Apartments on Scott Street, rehabilitated by AU Associates Inc., of Lexington, for rehabilitating a 1939 Works Progress Administration school into affordable housing and preserving its original Art Deco charm and historic features both inside and out.

    Also, the Historic Preservation: Saving Place video, produced by historic preservation staff of the cities of Bellevue and Covington, for its effectiveness as a teaching tool to educate northern Kentucky residents, business owners and others about the benefits of preservation and carrying this message throughout the state.


    May 30, 2012
    The mess that is City Heights
    Let's put the crime threat at City Heights aside. Everybody knows about that.

    OSS + C.KY several months ago had written about the poor physical shape the neighborhood is in ... from crumbling roads to even a threat of major landslide and its threat to Latonia Terrace down below.

    Because of the death of Baby William, the condition of the City Heights has finally gotten the attention of the city commission.
    [ Covington
    @ Facebook ]



    May 29, 2012
    Wasn't all fun over the weekend
    A touch of sadness over the weekend.

    For those who served in the military, of course. But also because of the sad death of that toddler from City Heights. Friday night, there was a massive search for the boy in the woods surrounding the complex on the hill.

  • But to no avail. Turned out, the babysitter had taken William Cunningham to Cincinnati where he was later found dead. The sitter said the boy fell down the stairs and that she had hidden the boy in fear.

  • It was pretty shocking when Covington @ Facebook broke the news that the baby was dead, yet another scoop for the online page.

    Rather than enjoying a long weekend, many people hung around the C.KY Facebook page, "talking" about it. And I'd thought, how amazing the internet has truly become.
    [ Covington
    @ Facebook ]




    May 25, 2012
    A holiday weekend
    If you can't make it out to the Reds games this weekend, there is a rather tempting alternative for you to sink your teeth into.

    Taste of Cincinnati, the annual food lover's dream is the area's way of welcoming summer. Prepare to gorge on close to 230 dishes from 45 of the region's top-rated restaurants.
    [ KY Post ]


  • And don't forget about Covington's own event, the Memorial Day Parade on Monday. Here's the City of Covington press release on Monday's Memorial Day parade:

    "Covington will participate in the day with a parade at 2:00 pm beginning at Holmes High School and travelling to Linden Grove Cemetery where a Memorial Service will be held at 3:00 pm.

    "Line up anywhere along the parade route! The parade will leave the campus at 2:00 PM, proceed north on Madison Avenue, west on 19th Street, north on Holman and conclude at the Linden Grove Cemetery where there will be a Memorial Day Program at approximately 3:00 PM at the conclusion of the parade. Marchers and viewers alike will honor those in all branches of service."

  • Have a great weekend. See you on Tuesday!


    May 24, 2012
    Getting a permit for yard sales
    A discussion started this morning at Covington @ Facebook with regard to getting a permit to have a yard sale:

  • Michelle Wright wrote: "You have to get a permit from the city, can only have so many a year and you can't have signs posted on electric poles. They will check if you have a permit if they see the yard sale. Will also collect signs if they are put on the poles and come to the address that's listed on them to give ticket. All of the guidelines are on Covington's website, I believe."

  • Covington Kentucky wrote: "Oh, for goodness sakes."

  • Debbie Gower Weinel wrote: "I think you have to pay for a permit, and maybe they restrict which day you can do it. God knows we can't have any citizens trying to make a buck without govt getting some."

  • Joshua Downing wrote: "All cities do this."

  • Kelly Lewis wrote: "Many urban areas do indeed want one to have a permit.. HOWEVER, it takes someone with a bug up their rear and nothing better to do to enforce the code."

  • Kelly Lewis wrote again: "Code enforcement needs to stop messing with innocent people and start ticketing these scum lords who don't even cut their grass. Seriously."

  • Sharon Pryor wrote: "When I moved to the rural town I live in, I called about getting a yard sale permit. They had no clue what I was talking about. I do think it is a good idea. Some people where I live have 'yard sales'every day, so it is like having a business a few houses away."

  • Pamela Cunningham wrote: "Total BS there is a house on Holman that has stuff hanging on their front porch for sale everyday. I am thinking they are not ticketing them."

  • Jackie Slone wrote: "I like the rule. It can keep the city from looking like a big flea market. If you have to have more than three or four a year, then maybe you should get a business license, and open a store."
    [ Covington
    @ Facebook ]



    May 23, 2012
    New congressman, muddled election and no trespassing
    Thomas Massie will be NKY's next Congressmember, and a Tea Partier at that. Democrat opponent Bill Adkins should throw in the towel now because there is no way on God's green earth that he'll ever be elected.

  • Still cracks me up that Her Fakeness, the uber-hypocritic politician Kathy Groob, is backing the recently-bankrupt Adkins after having posted online for two years the business bankruptcy of a private citizen. Not to mention she's once again backing a loser, just like herself.

  • You know, Groob is under standing orders not to trespass on my property. No trespassing. That includes her paint crews.

  • Not just because I'm part of the growing crowd who can't stand her, but also for legal reasons. What if a painter hurts himself on my property? What if paint splatters on my house?

    Again, I repeat ... no trespassing. The signs are being planted today.

  • The city commission election results mean nothing. How could they after such a low turnout? The only thing that I had noticed ... those with yard signs did better!


    May 22, 2012
    Dislike school board but voting for its supporters
    Keep running into people on Facebook who are upset with the direction of Covington schools ... yet are supporting people who are running for Commission who continue to back the current school board and its superintendent. Stunning!

  • Of course, the city commission is separate from the school administration, but it does and can have influence.

    Two commissioners would like to have a word with Covington schools about the situation there.

    "Commissioner Casper and I are meeting tomorrow with Superintendent Jackson about CIPS proposed 4% tax increase," wrote Steve Frank.

    "The city commission has done its part to hold the line on taxes and cut costs. There is a school board meeting on Thursday May 31'st at 7. Inquiring minds want to know why CIPS needs more money. We are spending over $14,000 per child," wrote Commissioner Frank.

  • There is a problem with Covington schools. But I think the bigger problem are the idiots who support other commission candidates who think the school is doing a fine, fine job.


    May 21, 2012
    A police chief and other city news
    As OSS Facebook predicted last December, police chief Russo is resigning. The "running line" is that his departure was mutual and that it's time for some changes in the police department.

  • There has been some interesting rumors floating around about the Chief, one was nearly confirmed by an official in a private email ... but I'm just not going there.

  • Weekend was just perfect for MainStrasse's Maifest!

  • And one more prediction: Everyone on the Covington Commission ballot tomorrow will be voted into the next round!

  • See what else is going on over at Covington @ Facebook ... the C.KY!
    [ Covington @ Facebook ]


    May 18, 2012
    Drinking, entertainment fest this weekend!
    The 33rd Annual Mainstrasse Village Maifest will fill six city blocks in Covington on Friday, May 18 and Saturday, May 19. Live entertainment, rides, games and food. Admission is free. Visit www.mainstrasse.org for more information.
    [ MainStrasse ]


    May 17, 2012
    Political operatives are bottomfeeders
    Seeing that campaign sign in Groob's front yard just makes me shake my head. What a hypocrite, what a fake, what a shame.

    You will recall that for two years, Groob maintained a website "exposing" someone's business bankruptcy back in 1989.

    The sign in Groob's yard is for William Adkins, the leading Democratic candidate for Congress. Now get this ...

    The Enquirer yesterday reports that Adkins went bankrupt in 2009 to the tune of $1,000,000!

    So Groob is now backing a recently-bankrupt candidate for major office. It just goes to show her fakeness, as I have been saying all along.

    No principles at all. Just another political bottomfeeder.
    [ Enquirer ]



    May 15, 2012
    The mess that is Covington
    Omnicare continues its move from Covington to Cincinnati. Including the departure of Nielsen Company, the city has lost 900+ workers this year, but will gain a couple hundred+ back after the new collection agency in Latonia hires more people.

  • The city's rehabbed parking garage at RiverCenter is near empty. And, storefronts continue to be empty in downtown Covington in spite of generous incentives by the city.

  • And while that was going on, the housing market in Latonia collapsed, the steepest drop in home values in Northern Kentucky.

  • There is a "feel good campaign" going on right now. But that "we saved the city" stuff is bogus. The commission had no other choice, it figuratively had a gun to its head.


    May 14, 2012
    Catching up
    on things
  • Commissioner Casper wrote at the OSS Facebook last night that "for Latonia, there is a major project under consideration, but until it's finalized it can't be made public."

  • Chuck Scheper made commissioners promise to behave before accepting Mayor's job. "Scheper, aware of the political infighting, told commissioners he would not become mayor unless they agreed to a "social contract," promising to be civil toward each other."
    [ Enquirer ]

  • No preservation group has stepped forward to save the old Bishop's House at 12th and Madison Avenue, slated to be torn down for a new Walgreen's. Preservationists have been told that if they want to save it, then they have to buy it.

  • Weeds, weeds ... lots of weeds growing along Madison Avenue. I'm sure those looking to rent space will be impressed.

  • Still cannot make up my mind about selling the Russell Street home. My instincts, which have always guided me, are telling me nothing. Just keep going back and forth, back and forth on what to do.

    And that's about it for today, pretty sure I can come up with more tomorrow!


    May 12, 2012
    A lotta no shows last night
    Not many attended the Covington candidates' forum last night. Either people have lost interest ... or the event was not promoted well.

  • As OSS + C.KY told you a few weeks ago, the "preserved properties" on 12th Street are about to be sold by the state. Let's see how many preservationists who were screaming about saving the buildings ... actually buy one!
    [ Enquirer ]

  • Duveneck Memorial Art Show is this Sunday, May 13, on Riverside Drive!


    May 11, 2012
    Cool night for a concert
    The Bluebirds perform tonight as part of the Behringer Crawford music series.
    [ Behringer Crawford ]



    May 9, 2012
    Consultants present plan for downtown
    If you're a regular reader of OSS Facebook + C.KY then you already knew last week -- and even earlier -- what the consultants' suggestions for downtown Covington would be.

  • Here's the Enquirer account of last night's presentation before the City Commission.
    [ Enquirer ]



    May 8, 2012
    Late nights at the auto repair shop on 11th Street
    I'm guessing that some of the folks on Russell and 11th Streets have become a little irritated with the the late night car repair service that has become the old Norb's. Crowded, too. Lots of people hanging out.


    Preparing for a toll bridge
    Business leaders are preparing the public for the probability of charging tolls on the new bridge across the Ohio River.
    [ Business Courier ]

  • The outside consultants plan for downtown Covington will be talked about tonight before the City Commission. Not news to you since the C.KY @ Facebook was the first to let you know. Anyway, expect to hear emphasis on five focal points for downtown: Riverfront, MainStrasse, St Elizabeth Hospital area, Gateway College area and a "Cultural Campus" along Madison Avenue.

  • These areas have been talked about on a regular basis long before the consultants stepped in. I'm guessing PUMA's main task will be to find a way to finance all the suggestions for downtown.

  • One way is to create a quasi-government agency to oversee downtown revival. Where the money will come from seems to be unknown at this point.


    May 7, 2012
    Selling a house is a pain in the ...
    Getting the house ready for sale actually takes a lot out of a person.

  • I did not realize how much effort was involved. Repainting this, doing that, doing this ... it's a lot of work.

  • Looking at MLS listings on the internet, seems to me that most people don't bother to fix-up and spruce up when they put property up for sale.

    But I do.

  • A few weeks back, it looked like the place was sold, even before going on the market ... but that fell through. I would have been happily sitting by the sea in Pompano by now.

  • Oh, well, it won't be long ... hello ocean, here I come!


    May 4, 2012
    Historic bishop's house will be
    torn down
    Getting word that the historic Bishop's mansion at 12th and Madison Avenue will be torn down to make way for a new Walgreen's store. No preservation group offered money to buy it.

  • The new Walgreen's will look different from others. I'm told the working rendition looks very much like the one seen in the photo, which was built in another city.

  • The Boca Group has withdrawn its plan to build a hotel, conference center & dinner playhouse on the riverfront, nicknamed the Kentucky Queen, because of uncertainty with regard to the interstate exits. The developer may look at the proposal again some time down the road.

  • The company hired by the city is suggesting using four "foundations" to improve downtown: MainStrasse; Roebling Point / River Center; Gateway College; the St Elizabeth Hospital area; and a "Cultural Campus" from roughly Pike Street to 12th Street, mostly along Madison Avenue.
    [ Covington @ Facebook ]

  • What happened to Latonia? While city leaders remain focused on improving downtown Covington, a disaster has been occuring just a few miles south in Latonia. Property values have collapsed with the median price falling the steepest in Northern Kentucky -- a whopping 48 percent to $34,781.

  • Attend Saturday, May 5th from 10:30 am - 1:00 pm for the official groundbreaking of the Licking River Greenway and Trails project in Covington

    There will be plenty of food and fun for the whole family including prizes and free give-aways, children's activities and a live band. Join us as we celebrate the beginning of the next step in our Greenway and Trail master plan!
    [ More information ]



    May 3, 2012
    World Choir at MainStrasse
    It's official, MainStrasse Village Association's application was selected to host a World Choir Games Friendship Concert in The Village! Sunday, July 8th, 2012, 4:00 p.m. More details to follow at the MainStrasse Facebook page.
    [ Facebook ]

  • The expected date for the hearing on the latest Walgreen's design at 12th and Madison Avenue is May 10th before the Urban Review Design Board.

    That's the probable date. But no matter, the appearance before the board is expected to be pro forma, given that the developer -- Anchor Properties -- is working with the city in advance to have the right architectural look and location that will be acceptable to all.

  • Have already noted to you that the outside group, PUMA, is about to make its recommendations for improving downtown Covington. As noted at the C.KY the other day, expect the consultants to recommend a quasi-governmental agency to oversee the effort.

  • And, what in the heck is going on in Latonia?!

    While city leaders remain focused on improving downtown Covington, a disaster has been occuring just a few miles south in Latonia. Property values have collapsed with the median price falling the steepest in Northern Kentucky -- a whooping 48 percent to $34,781.

    Mercy.


    May 2, 2012
    New Walgreen's store back on track
    Expect an announcement any day now that Walgreen's has reached an agreement with the city and its preservation office for construction of a new store, probably just south of 12th Street near Madison.

    The developer is working with the city to come up with an acceptable building design.

    City benefits for domestic partners
    "With speed – by political standards – comparable to the lightning flashing outside, Covington commissioners unanimously voted Tuesday to give city employees domestic-partner health benefits."
    [ Enquirer ]

    That, of course, is good news but am still kicking myself this morning because even though the legislation was a "surprise" ... I was tipped off in advance via email and guess what? I hadn't checked my email, thereby missing the big story for the Facebook pages. Oh, well.

  • The Mayor did confirm our report that the consultants (P.U.M.A) will make public their recommendations for downtown Covington next week. Fingers crossed.

  • Behind the scenes hopes that Progressive Urban Management Associates (P.U.M.A.)'s recommendations will be enough to convince KY Education Secretary to give up on his preference to locate Gateway College's Urban Campus south of 12th Street, and favor the popular location for the Urban Campus on Scott Street.


    May 1, 2012
    Oakley Farris takes issue with new Facebook page
    Covington philanthropist Oakley Farris yesterday took a new Facebook page critical of Covington schools to task:

    "There has been so much criticism leveled agains the Covington Independent School District, the Board, and sometimes the superintendent.

    "How about a suggestion -- let's find out all the good things that have been put into place in the School system," Mr. Farris wrote.

    Commissioner Frank was able to turn the subject back to the current commission:

    "The conversation would never begin until the problems were voiced. Nothing would have happened on Covington budget issues unless I and fellow commissioners made it an issue," Frank wrote.

    "The problems ended up being settled more quitely, because that is how it is done.

    "Fault me for being aggressive and loud on the city's financial woes, but that brought things to a head before we ran out of money.

    "Now has the problem of performance levels of CIPS reached the point where the parties are willing to settle differences? "I don't know but its worth exploring. My hunch is it will not happen until those who are discontented have a seat at the table," Commissioner Frank wrote.
    [ Fix Covington schools ]


    April 30, 2012
    Reorganization, downtown plans due
    Expect recommendations for re-organizing City Hall departments within the next two weeks by that outside company evaluating the comings and going within the City of Covington.

    I strongly suspect that Preservation will be merged with code enforcement and that the ineffective Renaissance Covington, the group in charge of promoting and building-up downtown, will be shown the door.

    The Preservation Office is in trouble. While the city has been trying to expand and encourage new business to the city, the office of Preservation tried to stop three economic development projects, in conflict with the objectives of the Commission.

    But, we'll see. Politics usually gets in the way of practicality at City Hall.


    April 27, 2012
    Metro one of the most polluted cities
    You probably already know this:

    While dangerous pollutants still threaten the health of millions of Americans, the United States has made great strides in clearing the air, according to the American Lung Association. Metro Cincinnati is in the thick of it.

  • It is the eighth most polluted region in the country. Louisville is also listed.
    [ Yahoo News ]

  • Commissioner Frank wrote at his Facebook that the state highway department was in favor of eliminating "the 4'thand 5'th street exits into KY" and that he and some of his associates successfully moved them to endorse Plan I ... though until this week Plan E was still an option.
    [ Commissioner Frank ]

  • Well, not much to say today, except ... have a great weekend!


    April 26, 2012
    Part of hillside neighborhood will be wiped out
    Someday in the future, houses on the eastern side of Crescent, in Covington's Lewisburg neighborhood, will vanish to make way for widened approaches for a companion span for the Brent Spence Bridge.
    [ Enquirer ]

  • A very brief power failure in parts of Covington this morning. Still enough that you may have to reset your clocks.


    April 25, 2012
    Police chief tells officers to not
    voice opinions
    CKY/OSS Insider Report: After a Covington officer made inappropriate comments about the city and Section 8 housing over the weekend, Police Chief Lee Russo was forced to send a memo yesterday afternoon telling all officers and staff to ... knock it off.

    No more editorial comments by officers, at least publicly.

  • Residents voice concerns with new Brent Spence Bridge design last night:

    Changes could be coming to how you get on and off the highway in Covington and that concerns many residents and business owners in Northern Kentucky.

    "I really think it's important that we have this bridge, but I also think it’s important not to kill a city," said Patricia Miller, who lives and owns a business in Covington.
    [ KY Post ]


    April 24, 2012
    All-important hearings on new bridge begin
    Public hearings are being held this week to discuss a replacement for the Brent Spence Bridge.

    The first hearing is taking place Tuesday, April 24, at Longworth Hall and the next hearing is Wednesday, April 25, at the Northern Kentucky Convention Center. The meetings run from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.

  • Closing some of the exits at 4th and 5th Streets would be devastating to Covington. Just can't happen.
    [ WCPO ]


    April 23, 2012
    That peeing dog!
    At my Covington @ Facebook page, I asked folks this question: What does a person do when a certain woman, just about every single day, allows her dog to pee on a certain someone's flowers?

    Mark Steward Young wrote: Look the other way and smile? Or dust the plants with cayenne. It's that old Good Neighbor/A-hole dichotomy.

    Sue Griffith wrote: Sprinkle hot pepper in the area around it or turn the hose on the dog

    Chris Shivner wrote: For about $30 from Tractor Supply, low voltage electric fence at the base of the flowers. The stream of peepee will light him up. He will walk on the street in front of your house & the owner will wonder why. A friend of mine did this and it worked great for him.

    Christi Love-Blair wrote: I saw a young man pissing across the street and I screamed "that's not a urinal go pee in your moms front yard!" and he apologized. Tell that dog off ;)

    Connie Graff Godby wrote: : Mothballs keep the dog away but won't harm the plant.

    Don Stevens wrote: : Don't blame the animal here. Blame the idiot. hHook up a sprinkler and when she walks by, turn it on."

    Yeah, but you know social etiquette, Don, is weird in these parts. The aggrieved is the bad guy/gal if they dare to complain. Should be the other around.

    Anyway, the woman must be new to the neighborhood because I've just recently noticed her. And the good news: She's stopped allowing her dog to pee on the flowers ... so, I'm guessing she's a regular reader of Covington @ Facebook and got the hint.

    Ah, the power of the internet!
    [ Covington @ Facebook ]


    April 20, 2012
    Covington event examines
    Castle Doctrine
    Local residents will gather here on Saturday for a Stand for Justice Rally at Randolph Park, reports the newspaper.

    "The lineup of speakers that includes Bennie Doggett, president of Covington's Eastside Neighborhood Association; Jerome Bowles, president of the Northern Kentucky chapter of the NAACP; Sherry Carran, Covington mayor pro tem; Bishop Nerrick L. Jackson, pastor and founder of the Grace of God Ministries."
    [ Enquirer ]

  • Saturday is the Great American Clean-up. Unfortunately, it may rain ... just like last year. Anyway, a busy weekend for many. See you on Monday!


    April 19, 2012
    Unfulfilled plans for the little house
    You probably already know of my talk to put the Little House on Russell Street up for sale.

    I've been talking about it since early fall, and still have not fully made up my mind.

    But, I am preparing to get it on the market. The plumber was here to fix a few things. There's painting going on inside. Perhaps the porch will be painted today.

    I was thinking about the unfulfilled plans for the Little House:

  • A brand-new kitchen.
  • A courtyard in the back with fancy pavers and great landscaping.
  • Decorative driveway gate and fencing on both sides of the house.

    The fencing was OK'd, but delayed after I'd caught wind of a forthcoming change in the height restrictions for side fences. A higher fence would be better.

    Room by room, wall-by-wall, bit-by-bit, the Little House on Russell Street has been improved. I'm betting that at least $20,000 in improvements have been made over the years.

    So, what will be the asking price? Interesting, most people -- many real estate folks -- are valuating the property at a higher price than I'd thought!

    Now that probate on Dad's estate is near over, I'm going to be leaving for FLA. Still have that lingering question to resolve, however: To sell or not to sell?

    Stay tuned.


    April 18, 2012
    Talk of tolls for the current Brent Spence Bridge
    The House budget committee has passed the first of this special session's 2 major bills on the call. The 25 to 2 vote sends the measure authorizing $4.5 billion in spending on road projects to the full House for a Wednesday vote, reports a news service.

    "A major concern, expressed early in the meeting by Louisville Rep. Jim Wayne and Covington's Arnold Simpson, is whether key bridges including the Brent Spence in northern Kentucky and the Sherman Minton at Louisville would start collecting tolls from drivers in the near future. "
    [ WKU ]


    April 17, 2012
    Reason why Urban Campus is in trouble
    There's a reason why that sign at Gateway College's Urban Campus lacks permanency the school may not stay at its present location on Scott Blvd.

    There's a tug-a-war going on and it involves two prominent Democrats. State Representative Arnold Simpson is in favor of the college's designated location and continues to push for $70+ million in state funding for expansion there.

    On the other side of the fractured local Democratic Party is Joe Meyer, secretary of the state's Education Cabinet. He wants the school south of Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd. (12th Street).

    While it's true that the state is money-pinched, the current tug-a-war between local Democrats has contributed to putting the proposed-expansion plan on the financial back burner.

  • A faction of the local Democratic Party continues to have its way with Shawn Masters. Word came down today that he was been ousted from the party. Some of those involved with showing him the door live on Russell Street.

    Meanwhile, the Covington gay and lesbian community has been quiet about all this ... and this is, oh, so very interesting.


    April 16, 2012
    Still talking about the interstate exits
    What if the Yellow Brick Road didn't go directly to the Emerald City anymore?

    Businesses in Northern Kentucky’s biggest city don't want such a thing happening to them. Covington doesn’t want to straddle Interstate 71/75, as it does now, yet be distressingly separated from the expressway that carries 150,000 vehicles per day through the region’s core.
    [ Enquirer ]

    April 13, 2012
    Covington reaches agreement with its labor unions
    City leaders have reached tentative agreement with all three labor unions at City Hall -- police, firefighters and employees represented by AFSCME. [ Enquirer ]

  • Already there are mulch fires in Northern Kentucky and elsewhere, so early in the season.

    "Mulch fires aren't uncommon, but with spring and summer-like weather appearing early this year, mulch fires are showing up earlier this year. Because of their early arrival, many may not be taking the usual precautions they normally would in June or July." [ Recorder ]

    And that is it for this week ... C.U. on Monday!


    April 12, 2012
    Rally against 'Stand your ground' law
    The Covington community is invited to convene for a rally to discuss community issues and Kentucky's Castle Doctrine, which is similar to the Florida law that has been used as a reason not to arrest, and suggested as a defense, in the case of George Zimmerman, who shot Martin in a situation that Zimmerman appeared to have started. [ WXIX ]

    There's already some discussion about the rally at Covington @ Facebook:

    Keith Eubank wrote: "As a LAW ABIDING Gun Owner, I think I will attend this. I will be wearing my NRA Charleston Heston "From My Cold Dead Hands" Shirt!"

    Mark Steward Young wrote: "It's totally about race. The reactions are pulling from some serious emotional places and are totally divorced from the actual facts. I understand and respect those emotional places, but the manipulation of such (for political and/or pecuniary gain) is reprehensible in the extreme."

    Jon Ryker wrote: "Heaven forbid we allow people to defend themselves....this racemongering is unhealthy, and will not win an election for our Fearless Leader...."


    April 11, 2012
    More on the bridge
    The key difference between the preferred design and other options is that it preserves access to Covington from southbound I-75, but officials in Northern Kentucky's largest city still have major concerns about the quality of access to their central business district.

    So, it looks like the 4th/5th Street exits will stay open ... to the relief of some about everyone. [ Enquirer ]

  • So, if it looks like my attentions are diverted, it's because they are. Yet another death in the family. Everyone, please stop dying for a while.

  • And the other thing is getting the house ready for sale and heading permanently to my Florida condo.

  • It should be on the market in about 2 weeks ... after I've gone back to FLA. That way, the realtor can show it at will, 24/7.


    April 10, 2012
    Talking about the new bridge
    On Wednesday April 11, Covington leaders will outline some of the issues in the current Alternative 1 plan in a public meeting at city hall. The meeting will begin at 6 p.m.

    All comments and questions that KYTC receives at the Public Meetings become part of the official project record.
    [ KY Post ]

    Commissioner Frank wrote: "One option we all must stop is plan E where the first exit would be 9'th / 12'th Street. Our current riverfront businesses will dry up, West Covington will be cut off, and frankly, the City would begin to feel the financial effects immediately even though it might take another 10 years to get the bridge.

    "Why would a business come to our Riverfront if they know that one day their access will be cut? Frankly this would probably kill off Mainstrasse too."

    There's a lot on the line for Covington.


    April 9, 2012
    Farny Park ahead of its time
    Henry Farny Park was built on the site of an old home, a nice and quirky refuge from 100s of empty and foreclosed homes in the city.

    One big city has a bigger idea with its empty buildings. Los Angeles is embracing the idea and turning foreclosure sites and vacant properties into pocket parks.

    While creating more green space, the new parks could have a positive economic impact on neighborhoods struggling with foreclosures and vacant properties, Richard Green, president of the University of Southern California Lusk Center for Real Estate, told LA Daily News. "If the city can make an amenity out of a foreclosed house, they can raise the value of the surrounding houses and neighborhood," he said.
    [ Article ]

    Not a bad idea, and good one for Covington to consider.


    April 6, 2012
    Dressman latest to quit Commission race
    Matt Dressman is the latest candidate to drop out of the Covington Commission race, just a few days after Shawn Masters did the same. Dressman says the decision was for business reasons. That leaves eight remaining candidates. Four will be elected in November as well as a new mayor.

  • Well, that's it for this week. Have a Happy Easter!


    April 5, 2012
    Flowers on the porch
    Some kid swiped one of the flower pots on the porch yesterday morning. I'd chased him down the street, barefoot and all. Got it back! :-)

    Some of the comments at Covington @ Facebook:

  • Karen Black: AWESOME about the chasing and getting it back,not the swiping
  • Leah Dubstep Peace: you should put an electric field only around the flower pots. Or at least that's what i would do.
  • Mike Means: Did you explain 'in no uncertain terms' that it was wrong to steal, or just "throttle the kid"!
  • Amy Gastright: You can chain them up pretty discreetly with a porch built like that.
  • Joyce Smith Snow: Poor lil thug...lol Rick, he prob about crapped himself. I can just see you chasing him....
  • Benjamin Malott: Baddest bitch on the block, yo.

    I like the last comments the best. Have a fun Reds day!


    April 4, 2012
    Methadone clinic will open on Madison
    Ron Washington, the partner in charge of finding a site for a methadone clinic in Covington tells CKY/Old Seminary Square Facebook that the location will be at the old Sav-A-Lot store off Madison Avenue.
    [ Covington @ Facebook ]

    Here's a bit more on the rift among Covington Democrats:

  • Getting behind the scenes reports that Eastside leader Bennie Doggett is livid with Commisssion candidate Michelle Williams' association with a Covington political operative allied with a Campbell County State Representative who wants to have political/financial interests within the city of Covington.

    Emails say Bennie removed Williams' campaign sign from her yard, as a visual way to express her dismay.

  • Steve Frank writing at the OSS takes frontman-puppet-flake Kathy Groob to task: "At least Shawn Masters no longer has to worry about those in his own party who would stab him in the back, Kathy" ... referring to the wife of the political operative allied with the Campbell County State Representative. She acts as the front person.

  • There is a budding effort among some Democrats to withdraw support of any candidate associated with the political operative.

  • One top Democrat says the last straw for Shawn Masters came after some people in the party who wanted to financially support his bid for re-election were threatened.

  • It may sound a bit confusing, folks, but I already know the end game and will reveal it as time goes on. Lots more coming, stay tuned.


    April 3, 2012
    The buzz about the Masters incident
    Getting this from highly-placed and highly reliable sources, so none of that "you don't know what you're talking about" denial crap.

    A faction of the local Covington Democrats -- under the alledged control of Campbell County state legislator Dennis Keene -- wanted the Commissioner gone because Masters would not support Keene's agenda.

    Participating was a Covington political operative who did all the dirty work for Keene, whose wife has had run-ins with Masters in the past. (But, who hasn't had run-ins with the Commissioner ... and run-ins with the operative's flaky wife?)

    Trying to find out what they got on Masters. The only buzz I am getting is that there was an effort to cut-off campaign donations but surely, there had to be more.

    Again, this is coming from highly-placed and highly reliable sources. Nice job Democrats, keep up the get-even infighting as NKY becomes more and more Republican red. We're all proud of you.


    April 2, 2012
    Masters drops out of race
    Shawn Masters announced over the weekend that he will not seek re-election for a commission seat.

    He is claiming family responsibilities as the reason; while insiders say he's had it would the two factions within the local Covington Democratic Party, especially those allied with Campbell County State Representative Dennis Keene who has political and financial interests in the area.

    That's enough for today ... never a dull moment in Covington politics.


    March 30, 2012
    End of the month already
    Wow. The month is just about over. Went pretty fast, don't you agree?

    So, I can't make up my mind about the house. Sell it or rent it? That is the question.

    Some neighbors may have noticed the steady stream of junk being placed on the driveway, as I go through stuff -- room by room, box by box.

    Next week, some touch up here and there and I am hoping that by the time my Dad's probate is finished, my mind will be made up.

    No matter what, got to get back to Florida where other challenges await because, as you know, life goes on. Some times in the fast lane, some times not.

  • Hope you win the lottery tonight. See you on Monday!


    March 29, 2012
    The Triangle
    on Pike Street
    Yesterday, I had asked at the OSS Facebook why there aren't tables and chairs at the Triangle at Pike and Washington Streets?

    Christopher Gastright had the best response:

    "I would guess you would have to apply to the state for a use exception in the right of way for Dixie Highway.

    "There is an issue of traffic volume and pedestrian/sitting safety there. During peak usage for bar seating you will also likely have peak drunk driving going on just 24 inches from the curb.

    "Homelessness is an actual non-prejudicial issue here since I assume you are talking about tables used by customers of some private business. You cannot ask a person to risk their investment when there is a known, visible, and verified homeless population just feet away at the statue."

    I guess he's correct and that's a shame.


    March 28, 2012
    Nobody got really rich last night
    The lack of a winner from Tuesday night's drawing means the jackpot will grow to an estimated $476 million for a drawing Friday, according to the official Mega Millions website.
    So, you have another chance to be mega rich!

  • I'm using a photo of Russell Street for now with the new format for OSS Facebook,. Will use other photos later on.

  • A little buzz with regard to the Pike Street Triangle at Eighth Street. It's slated to become an expanded parking lot. Some, however, would like to see seasonal table and chairs there. Others fear that drug dealers will hang out there.

  • Looking more and more probable that the 4th and 5th Street exits will remain after the new bridge is finally built.

    Kevin Lamaster reports at Building Cincinnati that "although both designs were found to have similar impacts, Alternative I would require five fewer acres of new right-of-way (31.37 acres) and fewer displacements (54, versus 109)."

    Plus, it would keep the all-important exits open!


    March 27, 2012
    I've got nothing today
    Hard to believe, but I've got no news today. See you tomorrow or check in at the OSS Facebook.


    March 26, 2012
    Murals along the Licking River
    This is interesting.

    As part of the proposed Licking River Greenway and its companion "Blueway," artists this summer will paint eight murals on outside walls of pumping stations along the river, near where the hiking and canoeing trails will pass, writes the Enquirer.

    The Greenway is a proposed set of 5-mile trails along each shore of the Licking River from where it meets the Ohio River at least as far south as Interstate 275, through the cities of Covington, Taylor Mill, Newport and Wilder.
    [ Enquirer ]


    March 23, 2012
    Looking for something good
    After all the city commission drama over the past week, I'm looking for something good to note. Oh, look, here's one!

    Things are going well at Devou Park. "Drees Pavilion glimmers: Some $3,025,000 in profits from the not-for-profit pavilion have let cash-strapped Covington upgrade several aspects of the 704-acre park," writes the Enquirer.

    "Covington resident Pete Nerone chairs the Devou Park Advisory Committee, which oversees the park's operations and examines how money from the pavilion can best be spent.

    "I certainly consider Devou Park to be one of those emeralds in the crown of the Queen City," Nerone said.

    Indeed.
    [ Enquirer ]


    March 22, 2012
    Covington government
    has imploded
    If you're a regular reader of the OSS Facebook, then you already know what
    happened ...

    A realization that the Covington government has imploded. The Commissioners have no idea what is going on inside City Hall and some have even openly confessed.

    All of the commissioners had no idea that the city's public works department was tearing up landscaped cul-de-sacs in South Covington, for example, until residents began to sound the alarm.

    Who approved it? How much is it costing? The Commission is at a loss. It has no clue, as some of them noted last night.

    The debacle in MainStrasse over the weekend: Commissioner Masters wrote at the OSS this morning that he had "assumed" that plans were in place to deal with crowd control. He assumed, never asked to see the plans, if any.

    Three opportunities arose over the past month for economic development, something the Commission has been touting. Then a department of the city tried to throw roadblocks against the plans.

    It's a mess, folks, the Commission has lost control. And there seems to be no signs at all that things will improve -- until an all-new commission is in place next January.


    March 21, 2012
    It's getting worse, not better for downtown Covington
    Despite all the upbeat public relations coming out of City Hall, clearly things have worsened since the new commission took control.

    The departure of Izzy's is the latest example. There didn't seem to be any effort on the part of the city to keep it here.

  • No business, nor retailer has taken the empty storefront spaces at RiverCenter and the reta...il space at the Ascent remains empty.
  • Short Pike and Madison Avenue have less storefront tenants than a year ago.
  • 500 Nielsen Company workers have left RiverCenter, and another 500 workers from Omnicare will be crossing the river soon.
  • The recently-remodeled parking garage owned by the city is emptying out; perhaps a bad move on the part of the city when it didn't sell the garage to Corporex when it had the chance.
  • A $30 million development proposal for the riverfront was quickly withdrawn.

  • City nearly sabotaged the expansion of the Madison Theater because its preservation officer didn't like the design plans.
  • The city risks angering Legacy Financial on Fourth Street because the city's preservationist and others are fighting its plans to tear down an old building for a parking lot.
  • A new Walgreen's store on the edge of downtown.
  • Rental assistance program for downtown Covington is a failure.
  • Covington Renaissance, the downtown promotional group, is ineffective. Its director is splitting her take between renting-up downtown and running a bar.
  • No known promotional plans for downtown.
  • No outdoor cafes or seating anywhere on Madison Avenue nor Pike Street.

    It's pretty bad.


    March 20, 2012
    Looking for CrimeWatchers
    Some residents in the Russell-Banklick-Holman area, south of Martin Luther King Blvd., are looking into the possibility of organizing a neighborhood watch program for that area. Seems to be an uptick in crime there.
    [ Westside
    Action Coalition ]


    "Place Matters funding in 2012 may be available to support organizational activities later this spring and summer. At the February meeting, WAC members voted to submit a grant application to Place Matters asking for support. Place Matters applications are due on March 23.

    "Many Covington neighborhoods have formal block watch programs. There is evidence that this can be an effective community strategy to prevent or reduce crime. Block watch programs take many forms with specific activities and focus determined by the participants," notes the WAC website.


    March 19, 2012
    Funding for new bridges on the way
    Funds for a new bridge at 15th Street over the train tracks are working through the approval process in Frankfort.

    Looks like it'll be a footbridge, no vehicular traffic. Total amount expected to be granted is $550,000, spread over 2 years. Based on that, work could begin in late 2013, perhaps early 2014.

  • $1,110,000 for an 11th Street Bridge replacement is expected to be funded in 2014.

    Jon Ryker wrote at OSS Facebook: I went to a meeting about this a while back. It seems to me that if they made this a vehicle bridge, with the new guidelines, there would be a much larger incline leading up to a much higher bridge, it would basically take that whole block to the west of the bridge

    Jeff Murden wrote at OSS Facebook: It's the height requirements over the railroad. The existing structure is too low. That's why the new side of the 12th St. bridge is higher. Kinda silly, but that's the reason.

    And now, you know!


    March 16, 2012
    Chinese restaurant's
    cool sign
    If you haven't seen it yet, there is some very cool signage at the Amerasia Chinese restaurant at 521 Madison Ave. Plus the restaurant gets lots of great reviews at Yelp! by diners
    [ Yelp! ]

  • "A Covington Independent Public Schools board member was arrested Thursday evening on a domestic violence charge.

    "Denise Varney, 40, is charged with fourth-degree assault/domestic violence with minor injuries. Her husband Donald Varney, 41, was also arrested on the same misdemeanor."
    [ Enquirer ]

  • "This is no blarney: Skyline Chili, established by Greek immigrants, is giving a nod to the Irish turning its pasta green this St. Patrick's Day.

    "In 'a playful take on the spirit of St. Patrick's Day' will be offered at participating Skyline Chili locations in Greater Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky all day Saturday.
    [ Enquirer ]

    Yuck! Anyway, see you on Monday!


    March 15, 2012
    Major Madison Avenue eatery closes
    Things continue to worsen in downtown Covington.

    Office workers leaving the Gateway Center West building at Madison and Third said Izzy's was still open last Friday, but obviously packed up and left its street corner location in the building over the weekend.

    There are "for lease" signs already in the windows at the vacated space.

    A commissioner wrote that the owners of the building refused to grant permission to place tables and chairs on the sidewalks, which prompted Izzy's departure.

    Didn't realize that building owners could order what can go and not go on sidewalks.


    March 14, 2012
    Friendly neighborhood didn't answer the door
    So, the friendly neighborhood kept its doors shut last night from a driver who lives in Hebron who couldn't get her car started and needed help with a jump start.

    "You're the only one who answered the door," she told me.

    I'd looked up and down the street and nearly everyone was home and inside for the evening.

    They wouldn't open their doors for a person in need.

    I don't have jumper cables, but did notice that the lights were on at the service garage at 11th and Russell Street, where the woeful traveller got the help she had needed, for free.

    So glad that they were able to help out.


    March 13, 2012
    Downtown Covington businesses just want company
    A decline in population and a steady loss of employers in Covington has compounded the city's budget woes.

    That has prevented Covington from fixing roads and infrastructure, which has no doubt hampered its ability to attract more residents and businesses. And that had exacerbated the city's revenue troubles.
    [ cn2 ]

  • Good story and video report on downtown's woes. And really, nothing has changed since the new Covington commission pledged last July to fill up the empty storefronts and office downtown.

    Take a look at the video to the right of this column.

  • So what the heck is going on with me with regard to the local sites and Facebook pages? Because I am selling the Russell Street house, I've lost interest.

    But ... people like the pages, as I'd discovered last Friday, and will keep it going with them. Don't want to disappoint.


    March 12, 2012
    Third townhouse has been sold
  • So, the third townhouse across the street to go on the market has been sold. Pretty incredible when you consider the price. Obviously people like the the building, they like the updates inside.

    So, message to developers and rehabbers: Make your place modern and you'll have no trouble in selling it. It can even be accomplished on a busy, noisy road like Russell Street!


    March 7, 2012
    Going 'exclusive' at the OSS Facebook
    One after another, the OSS Facebook continues to post exclusive information. Yesterday, there were at least three items:

  • City may rip out new brickwork at 421 Madison.
    Remember our notation about the city creating rain gardens on Madison Avenue? Remember this photo, posted because some unknown people have complained to City Hall that they do not like the multi-color brick on the street? The photo was taken near 421 Madison Avenue. Guess what? The city is planning to rip out the brickwork and create a rain garden there.

  • Reason for Industrial Building Bonds for the Diocese.
    The Diocese of Covington is asking the city to approve a loan for $1,400,000, paid for via Industrial Building Revnue Bonds. Apparently the bonds will cover construction costs for Covington Latin School. Word is: Fundraising efforts by the school have fallen short, thus the need for a loan to pay for construction and renovation costs.

  • Another building to bit the dust for a parking lot.
    119-121 East Fourth Street has been sold and will be torn down to create a parking lot for Legacy Financial Advisors, located next door.

    So now, you know!


    March 6, 2012
    No Walgreen's at 12th and Madison
    Walgreen's made it official yesterday. It is withdrawing plans to build a store at southwest corner of Madison and 12th, where the old bishop's mansion still stands.

    This should not be breaking news to you because the OSS Facebook already reported a couple weeks ago that Walgreen's had postponed its plans until "the end of March, perhaps indefinitely."

    Now there is buzz that the company will build just a bit south on Madison Avenue, where there is an abandoned parking lot. So, we'll see about that.

  • And, Boca Group has withdrawn its proposal to build a new highrise at the foot of Madison Avenue. Inside talk says the city told Boca that it's a no-go and the company would have a hard time getting any approvals for the project.

  • Boca Group's other proposal west of the RiverCenter complex is still on for now ... but the city is demanding that the company include apartments, which it will consider. So, we'll see about that as well.


    March 5, 2012
    Tornado victims flock to Facebook for helping hand
    Piner Baptist Church member Bea Angel turned to a Facebook group coordinating help in northern Kentucky to ask for flashlights, baby bottles, baby juice, sippy cups, newborn diapers and other items the church was collecting.
    [ Toronto Sun ]

  • Covington City Commission Steve Frank announced on Facebook that Procter & Gamble's Tide, Loads of Hope truck will help clean the mountain of donated clothes bound for those affected by Friday's tornado.

    Frank said Covington Mayor Chuck R. Scheper asked P&G CFO John Moeller, a Covington resident, for the help.
    [ Kenton Connects ]


    March 2, 2012
    No 12th Street spruce up this spring, dang it
    A city committee, believed to be led by Commissioner Sherry Carran, has thrown in the towel and will not seek funds, for now, for the 12th Street median.

    There will be no plantings this spring nor summer, the median will be seeded to grow grass.

    The committee will wait to see conceptual drawings of the landscaping plan before attempting to raise funds to beautify the median.

    Some of the folks wrote at the OSS:

    Dean Manning wrote: And they act like the decision to plant grass is a bad thing.

    Chuck Eilerman wrote: It's also a very long stretch for a small group of volunteers. It's disappointing that this wasn't resolved long ago :( It needs to be a priority going forward since it is a key gateway to the City.

    Christi Love-Blair wrote: Get someone like Duke to adopt it and pay for it. Call it the Duke Energy 12th Street Median. Put some lights on it too ;)

    Rachael Winters wrote: There is always rogue vegetable planting that could be done at dusk. It's not money, but it is food. I dare someone to arrest me for putting a plant in the ground. I see peppers on MLK BLVD.

    Debbie Gower Weinel wrote: Are we to understand that nobody thought of this years ago when it was supposed to be such a good idea? This "plan" WASN'T planned very well. But I guess we should count ourselves lucky the daggone lights work.

    Rick Hoffman wrote: If they plant the grass it will be a weed patch in a little over a month. It will make a lovely postcard.

    Paul J. Dickman wrote: ?$103,000???? I could get that landscaping done in two weekends for under $30,000.00. c'mon people!


    March 1, 2012
    $103,000 needed to
    landscape median
    If someone doesn't come up with roughly $103,000, the once-greatly anticipated landscaped median along the new 12th Street / Martin Luther King Jr Boulevard could be nothing but grass and weeds.

    That's how much landscapers are estimating to start and complete the job for the city of Covington.

    It's an ambitious project that includes topsoil mounds at a cost of $28,500; 2 feet in height to help separate the eastbound and westbound lanes. Trees and shrubs will cost $47,000. Some sod at $3,500. And a water system tagged at $24,000 to install.

    A broke city probably won't be able to come up with the money, so what to do?

    One suggestion floating around via email and memos is to ask the local neighborhood associations to donate their Place Matter grants from the Center for Great Neighborhoods to help out.

    There's hope that St Elizabeth Health Care and Duke Energy might kick in some bucks.

    There's also talk about reducing the scale of the project. One suggestion was to have area residents do the planting, but that was quickly ruled out for safety and insurance reasons. Don't want anybody run over by a speeding car going down the boulevard.

    The state of Kentucky has washed its hands of the median project; it's only willing to plant seeds to grow grass … and that's it.

    So, it's either the state's plan or something nice and pretty as has been hoped over the past few years. Time will tell.


    February 29, 2012
    St E buying up land around hospital
    Getting word that St Elizabeth Healthcare is buying up land on the the south side of 12th Street from the interstate to Main Street as funds become available.

    Wouldn't call this breaking news, apparently it has been going on for a while. St E hopes to build medical offices near its new hospital.

  • Sorry about the short updates. Been distracted. But ... you can always catch the latest at the OSS Facebook + Covington @ Facebook (C.KY). Always a click or two away!
    [ OSS Facebook ]


    February 28, 2012
    Still talking about Walgreen's at the OSS Facebook
    The discussion continues about the proposed Walgreen's at OSS Facebook. Everybody in town seems to have an opinion.

    Why doesn't Walgreen's save itself some grief and build a new store just a lot south of the old Bishop's mansion?

    Maybe the Diocese would be open to selling some of its land at the southeast corner of 12th and Madison for a drive-way to and fro Walgreen's from 12th Street, if it needs that kind of access.

    The mansion stays, Walgreen's gets its new store, a long-vacant parking lot will be no more ... win, win!


    February 27, 2012
    So far, only the Diocese has acted on 12th Street development
    Ambitious hopes for the newly-expanded 12th Street / Martin Luther King Blvd. corridor.

    But so far, only the Catholic Diocese of Covington has stepped up to compliment the vastly-improved thoroughfare.
    [ CovingtonUSA ]


    February 24, 2012
    Walgreen's delays zoning request for new store
    If you're a regular at the OSS Facebook + Covington @ Facebook (C.KY), then you already know.
    [ OSS Facebook ]

    Archaeology dig could slow new project
    While groundbreaking is on track for March 30th, the development project on the grounds of the old Jacob Price Homes site may be slowed by what's underground.

    According to Housing Authority co-ordinator Sheryl Schneider, parts of the property are required to undergo a federally-mandated archaeology dig before construction can begin.

    It's the law when federal funds and public land are involved, says Ms. Schneider.

    The good news: Only parts of property will require the dig, just open land that has not been disturbed by construction of the Jacob Price Homes structures which began back in 1937.

    Ms. Schneider says some work has already started. And what was found? Just a few marbles and a couple of old glass bottles, so far.

  • So, now you know! Have a good weekend!


    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.













  • Worry that weather may get in the way of MaiFest
    After the fog rolls out, there's a 60 percent chance for scattered showers and thunderstorms this afternoon and tonight.

    Hit REFRESH or RELOAD for the latest updates. This page best viewed using Firefox or Google Chrome browsers



    Block sale to benefit Latonia Elementary School on Saturday
    It's from 8am-1pm, this Saturday. The vendors all paid $10 to set up, and that money and proceeds from the concession stand are going to the school's playground fund. They desperately need a new playground.





    Atlanta's airport the most crowded, but there are others
    The neighborhood streets outside Atlanta's Hartsfield-Jackson Airport are mostly quiet during the day. Inside the airport, things are rather different.



    Monster Texas tornado kills six, seven people missing
    Six people were dead and seven missing after a powerful tornado ripped through a neighborhood that included housing for the poor.



    And the Season 12
    'American Idol' winner is…

    The third time was the charm for Candice Glover on "American Idol."



    Umbrella-toting Marines protect Obama, Turkish PM from raindrops
    When you're the president of the United States, you don't hold your own umbrella. Highly trained Marines do it for you.



    The 10 coolest
    high-performance cop cars

    The urban myth is that American cop cars are packed with a mysterious collection of performance parts that eclipse anything you can find at your local dealer.



    7 Reasons You're Not Losing Weight
    There are sneaky factors -- your friends, your family, your mindset -- that can sabotage the best weight-loss plan.



    Chris Kluwe is joining the Raiders
    Ten days after he was released by the Minnesota Vikings, veteran punter Chris Kluwe will reportedly sign a one-year contract with the Oakland Raiders.



    Los Angeles ranked worst U.S. city for dog attacks on mail carriers
    Los Angeles has earned the dubious distinction for the second year in a row as the U.S. city with the most dog attacks on mail carriers, the U.S. Postal Service said.



    6 Things That Affect
    Men's Blood Pressure

    Strange, then, that most men don't sweat it when their body's most important gauge--blood pressure--rises into the red zone.



    Disney World Scheme: Entitled Families Hire Disabled Guide to Bypass Lines
    Now this is rich: Disney World is investigating news that a handful of upper-crust Manhattan moms have a pricey, secret way to get their kids to the front of the lines.



    The craziest thing Google
    announced on Wednesday

    At its huge Google I/O keynote on Wednesday, Google announced some pretty bewildering, crazy products.



    Surprisingly good cheap beers
    Bartender Jeff Winslow shows Roger Hailes how to drink like a cheapskate, not look like one.



    The real villain in
    the IRS scandal

    In a nutshell, here's how the whole IRS scandal seems to have developed. Photo: Cincinnati IRS office.



    Southern cities ranked among laziest in U.S.: magazine
    It was last on the list of 100 cities based on the activity level of its residents, along with Charleston, West Virginia; Nashville, Tennessee; Columbia, South Carolina; Birmingham, Alabama; and Lexington, Kentucky, which rounded out the bottom five.



    New utility scam is popping
    up across the nation

    The Better Business Bureau says that a new utility bill scam is popping up throughout the U.S. and Canada.



    Bacon dogs are here!
    Thanks, Oscar Mayer

    It's as if they read the minds of bacon lovers everywhere: Oscar Mayer on Monday introduced five new hot dogs, one of which has bacon cooked right into it.



    Budget cuts pare real-time
    monitoring of volcanoes

    Scientists monitoring Alaska's volcanoes have been forced to shut down stations that provide real-time tracking of eruptions.



    Notre Dame 'chickening out' of the series against Michigan
    Brady Hoke's response to Notre Dame getting out of its series against Michigan was to lob some grade-school playground taunts at the Irish.



    Mark Cuban wants your designs for new Dallas Mavericks uniforms
    The basketball world is lucky enough to be in a fairly acceptable era of NBA jersey style.



    Sandra Bernhard On Censored Roseanne Gay Love Scene
    Where she was supposed to kiss Morgan Fairchild.



    Chinese Creating New Auto Niche Within Detroit
    Dozens of companies from China are putting down roots in Detroit, part of the country’s steady push into the American auto industry.



    Boston Bombing Suspect Tsarnaev's Disturbing Female Fan Club
    Since his arrest in April, 19-year-old Tsarnaev has grown into a bit of an online heartthrob.











    Weather >
    Before you get to where you want to go, a quick check on the weather by making one fast click.



    Traffic Cams >
    Weather sometimes affects traffic, might want to check the interstate cameras.



    Events and Food
    in Covington >

    This month's listings of special events in Covington is just a click away.



    Movies and
    Showtimes >

    Get showtimes and movie listings for the theaters at Newport on the Levee, in Wilder, Florence and across the river in Cincinnati.



    Covington
    Neighborhoods >

    We have a lot of great neighborhoods in Covington. Catch up on what your neighborhoods are up to.



    Covington
    at Facebook >

    Thousands of your neighbors and Covington natives flock to Facebook to keep in touch.