November 19, 2023

The Voice - November 2023

November 19, 2023/ Paula Brandon

East Row Historic District Christmas Tour & Tea: December 2-3, 1-7pm

Step back in time with the East Row Victorian Christmas Tour & Tea, the perfect way to experience the magic of the holiday season.

Christmas is coming and with it the much anticipated, annual East Row Historic District Christmas Tour & Tea. This year’s event on December 2-3, showcases our beautiful historic architecture and of course, the warm and welcoming community that makes the East Row so unique.

The Winter Block Party will take place Saturday, December 2 at Hamlet Alley and Coaches Corner. Time: 6:30- 10:00 pm. Live music will be featured on Coaches’ stage, plus you’ll enjoy a food truck, outdoor tent, firepits and gas heaters to keep warm. Coaches will serve drink specials all night and Santa and his sleigh will be there – so bring the kids and grandchildren! Bonus: This will be a great opportunity for a special family photo op!

Come join your neighbors, friends & Christmas tour guests for some holiday cheer and celebrate the beginning of the holiday season! Jerry’s Jughouse, Coach's Corner, Pompillos, and O’Bryon’s will have food and holiday specials all weekend. Online link for tickets: https://eastrow.org/victorian-christmas-tour

Thank you to the more than 200 residents who volunteer their time for the Block Party, and Christmas Tour & Tea each year.

East Row Halloween: Spooky, Spunky and Fun

The votes have been counted! Tom Rose and Katlin Rust at 806 Monroe were the people’s choice as winners of this year’s inaugural Halloween home decorating contest. Their frightful display, pictured here, attracted a big crowd on Halloween night.

Fear, fog and friendly neighbors filled Kentucky’s 2nd largest historic district as we put on our frightening best again this year, showcasing a distinctive array of fun and jovial dark fare this autumn.

The East Row typically attracts hundreds of children and families from Newport and beyond. In fact, residents routinely report handing out 700-1,000 pieces of candy during trick-or-treat hours on Halloween night.

Ghouls got social at Jerry’s Jug House on Saturday the 28th for an evening of food and fun.

Who doesn't like friendly competition and neighborly boasting?

To recognize all the hard work our neighbors put in decorating their houses for Halloween, we hosted the inaugural Eerie Row Historic District Halloween home decorating competition. Dressed to impress, homes were judged on the merits of both style and presentation. Neighbors cast their votes for favorite Halloween decorations on the listserv.

Congrats to the winners and boo-hoo to everyone else!

If you missed the fun on Halloween night, be sure to view our video for a recap!

Enjoy the Holidays in the East Row

Tom’s legacy lives on. Tom Mitts Christmas Trees continues the tradition and spirit of Newport resident/artist Tom Mitts (6/16/1962-4/26/2017).

Step Back in Time at the Tom Mitts Christmas Tree Lot.

For many East Row residents, a visit to the Tom Mitts Christmas tree lot is a well-loved tradition. Located next to Peluso’s Market, you may want to park and enter behind the market from Dayton St.

If you are yearning for the nostalgia of the old-time Christmas tree lot, then this is your place! Smell the pine scent as you wander through the quality selection of trees sourced from the same supplier for more than 30 years.

Find Holiday Candy at Peluso’s Market.

While you’re at it, Peluso’s Market (where everything is down aisle 1) is a step back in time when it comes to Christmas nostalgia. Be sure to stop by this holiday season to enjoy old-time candy and great conversation.

Peluso’s Market is at 623 Monmouth.

Does Your Project Require a COA?

In order to preserve the integrity of Newport's Historic District, residents and businesses in the East Row, York Street, and Monmouth Street Business Districts must obtain a Certificate of Appropriateness for any exterior alterations of their property PRIOR to commencement of the work.

Learn about the architecture of our neighborhood and how we preserve it in the comprehensive Architectural Guidelines document (90 pages of fascinating, historical information!).

If time you have questions, feel free to contact Historic Preservation Officer Scott Clark at 859.655.6347 or email Newport's Historic Preservation office. For more details, visit the Newport Historic Preservation website.

It’s a RUFF-LE. You can win big by supporting our Dog Park!

Thanks to all our supporters who help make our Dog Park a fun destination for our furry friends and family!

It’s raffle time at the Newport Dog Park! Make a donation and be entered for a chance to win one of the three baskets available! Community Donations help fund the Newport Dog Park.

Basket One: Two Club Level Tickets to the Bengals vs Browns Game- 2 $50 Concession tickets included!
Basket Two: New Riff Distillery Tour Gift Card, Applehead City Pet Gift Bag, Commonwealth Sanctuary Gift Card.
Basket Three: Music Salon GC, Newberry Brothers Coffee Shop & Prohibition Bar Gift Bag, Commonwealth Sanctuary Gift Card.

Suggested Donations

$5 (1 entry), $30 (10 entries), $50 (25 entries), $100 (75 entries), $200 (150 entries), $250 (250 entries).

To make a donation and be entered to win one of the baskets, follow the link below and choose Make a Donation.

Visit the dog park web page and make your donation today. Good luck in the raffle!

Thank you for your continued support for our community led, non-profit dog park. Your donations help keep the park running!

The Voice

Editor: Rory Sandhage

Send articles to voice@eastrow.org. The editor reserves the right to edit or reject submissions due to length or content.

November 20, 2022

The Voice - November/December 2022

November 20, 2022/ Paula Brandon

  Experience the Magic of Christmas December 3 & 4 at the Victorian Christmas Tour & Tea

By Kym Sutton

Reminiscent of yuletides past, the East Row Victorian Christmas Tour & Tea is the perfect way to experience the magic of the holiday season.

Kentucky’s 2nd largest historic district will be all dressed up and waiting for you with home tours from 1 to 7 pm on Saturday and Sunday, December 3 and 4.

You’ll embark on a self-guided walking tour that takes you through a variety of Italianate, Queen Anne and other styles of homes, all decorated for the holidays and filled with distinctive character inside and out. In addition to holiday decor, we are featuring newly renovated kitchens, living and dining rooms, and bathrooms.

The tea sitting is available each day, along with an exterior home and stained-glass window lighting event each evening. The East Row will sparkle with lights and luminaries, and a holiday block party takes place on Saturday evening.

Getting underway at 7 pm on 7th St. between Overton and Monroe, the block party features food, live music, carolers, and a Santa visit with photo ops on the sleigh. Everyone is invited!

Please note that restrooms and hospitality stops are included along the tour route. Tour tickets are $20. Tea is a separate cost.

Purchase tickets in advance at https://eastrow.org/victorian-christmas-tour or on the days of the event at Movement Church, 415 E. 8th St., in the East Row.

Baker's Table Bakery: Feeding People with Love

By Paula Brandon

In The Voice, we recently asked you to share what makes the East Row special and we’re happy to keep that topic going! Many of you mentioned a destination that we’re lucky to have nearby – the Baker’s Table Bakery. Here’s a peek inside the oven at this unique, local establishment.

From anywhere in the East Row, it’s a short walk to The Baker’s Table Bakery, a neighborhood treasure featuring locally sourced ingredients, organic wines and a creative menu that changes often depending on what’s in season at the area’s farms. Baked goods are the stars of the show, made with stone-ground, whole grain flour and a flair for flavorful combinations. Stop by for the morning café / lunchtime fare / evening pizzeria and you’ll likely find some of your neighbors soaking up the atmosphere and good food.

“A tremendous amount of thought goes into our ingredients,” says staff member Erica DiMartino. “A popular starter today includes honeycrisp apples with local ginger, basil and shallot. ‘Feeding People with Love’ is our mission and that’s how our owners live.”

Owners of the Baker’s Table Bakery and The Baker’s Table are Chef David Willocks and designer Wendy Braun, Newport residents.

erica dimartino, top right, takes a break to enjoy one of the seasonal desserts at the baker’s table. at left, lia heinze introduces a diner to one of the unique wines.

Just across the street, The Baker’s Table was first to arrive at the corner of Monmouth and 10th, now nationally recognized on EATER.com’s 2018 Best New Restaurants, and USA TODAY’s Best New Restaurants list. Because The Baker’s Table baked 100% of its bread since day one – and people couldn’t get enough of it – the logical step was to open a separate bakery, pizzeria and wine bar in newly renovated space on the opposite street corner.

The Baker’s Table Bakery has a European vibe with its casual atmosphere and overall approach to food. Relaxing there is like sitting in a café in the Trastevere neighborhood of Rome, with the hum of conversation, the smell of freshly made coffee and donuts, and some big windows for watching the world go by.

“We celebrated our 1-year anniversary in October with an ‘80s party,” Erica says. During the weeks ahead, keep an eye out for slice nights, Wednesday’s live accordion music, and of course the ongoing treat of the sourdough-crust pizza and wine bar.

The Baker’s Table Bakery is at 1001 Monmouth St. and offers takeout, delivery and catering. Visit their website and Facebook page for hours, menus and details.

How does the East Row rock your world? Send your thoughts and a photo if available to pabrand1@yahoo.com and we’ll include it in the next issue of The Voice.

Holiday Happenings in and around the East Row

Step Back in Time at the Tom Mitts Christmas Tree Lot. For many East Row residents, a visit to the Tom Mitts Christmas tree lot is a well-loved tradition. Located next to Peluso’s Market, you may want to park and enter behind the market from Dayton St.

The lot is open daily during the Christmas season while supplies last. Hours are Sunday-Saturday 9 am - 8 pm. Visit the website for more information.

East Row Historic Foundation Holiday Party. Every year, we replace our ERHF monthly business and social meeting with a holiday party, as always, open to everyone. Join us Tuesday, December 6, 6:30 pm, at St John's (415 Park) for a night of socializing and fun. The ERHF will provide the catering plus some beverages. If you can, please bring an appetizer, side or dessert to share, and maybe that special drink you've been saving.

Newport’s Christmas Tree Lighting is Saturday, December 3, 5:30 pm at the Newport City Building, 998 Monmouth St. Please join your neighbors for refreshments inside. Many thanks to the Newport Primary students who made ornaments, and to the volunteers. This year’s tree is provided by Newport business, Tom Mitts Christmas Trees located behind Peluso’s Market.

Kids, Send Your Letters to Santa.

Dear Kids,

Remember to write a letter to Santa this year! You can drop off your letter in the special mailbox in the lobby of the City Building at 10th and Monmouth or mail it to: Santa Claus, c/o Newport Community Services, 998 Monmouth St., Newport, KY 41071.

If Santa receives your letter by Friday, December 16, he will send you a response from The North Pole and don’t forget he will be in town at the City Building on December 3, so stop by for a great photo op!

Free Photos With Santa are Saturday, December 3, 2-4 pm - Newport City Building Fire Department bay. Have your photo taken with Santa and receive a Free 4” x 6” photo.

While You’re Christmas Tree Shopping, Visit Peluso’s Market

They say everything is down aisle 1 at Peluso’s Market, and it’s the truth! Stop by this holiday season for some local favorites including Mom Blakeman’s Kentucky pull cream candy. Choose from original, peppermint, strawberry, Kentucky bourbon, and chocolate flavors … and potato candy.

You’ll also find old fashioned cream drops, nonpareil candy, filled raspberries, vanilla peanut clusters, sponge candy, opera creams, French creams, peanut butter patties, cream filberts, and a whole lot more.

Find more details, visit the Peluso’s Facebook page. Peluso’s Market is at 623 Monmouth.

Does Your Project Require a COA?

As a Historic District, the East Row requires residents to obtain a Certificate of Appropriateness (COA) prior to making some exterior alterations to your house. This includes, but is not limited to, replacement of architectural features, work on windows, doors, porches, box gutters, and color selection for painting. Online resources will help you:

Learn about the architecture of our neighborhood and how we preserve it in the comprehensive Architectural Guidelines document (90 pages of fascinating, historical information!).
Submit a COA Application in advance of any projects that require a COA.

Drop Your Drawers is Underway November - December

There are many ways to help others this holiday season and we’d like you to know more about one particular worthy cause known as Drop Your Drawers.

Running through December 31, this initiative aims to meet a crucial need for public schools in Campbell County: Keeping Family Resource Centers’ emergency supplies of socks and underwear stocked.

Schools hand out 100 or more pairs monthly to children who need them due to accidents at school or circumstances at home. Our community has gone above and beyond for Drop Your Drawers since its launch in 2015, with 2022 marking its seventh year. Having started at the Campbell County Public Library, the campaign has made its way to other library systems across the country.

Please note that bras and t-shirts are also accepted. Find more details about the program on its web page. For a complete list of library events, visit the website of the Campbell County Public Library.

Newport Dog Park: Make a Donation, Buy a Brick, Be a Volunteer!

Many thanks to everyone who supports our big and beautiful East Row Dog Park, located behind the library on 6th St.

As a reminder, we rely on donations and fundraising to cover the costs of this pawsitively wonderful addition to our neighborhood, so please consider helping out as you make a donation, buy a brick or sign up to be a volunteer.

Yearly costs to keep the dog park safe, clean and fun are more than $6,000. You can lend a hand in a variety of ways while meeting new friends at the park.

Visit our Newport Dog Park website for all the details on our community-supported dog park and how you can pitch in for our furry friends!

The Voice

Editor: Paula Brandon

Send articles to voice@eastrow.org. The editor reserves the right to edit or reject submissions due to length or content.

August 28, 2022

The Voice - August/September 2022

August 28, 2022/ Paula Brandon

Eight Reasons Why the East Row Rocks

Quaint, quirky, sassy and bold. The East Row looks like a time warp, but blazes into the future. We all have reasons why our neighborhood is special. Here are a few of them.

History. The second-largest historic district in Kentucky, our roots stretch back to the late 1800s.
Fairy Doors. Fairy families live here, too, locating their doors on front stoops, curbs and trees. Some people make a special trip here just to look for them.
Hellstrips. That’s the colloquial name for the slice of dirt between sidewalk and street, and in the East Row, some hellstrips are carefully maintained with rocks, walkways, pollinator plants, and elaborate gardens.
Books & Bagels. A popular gathering spot, Roebling Books & Coffee is one of the newer businesses to join the neighborhood. What’s your favorite local establishment?
Stained Glass. There’s so much stained glass in the East Row, we’ve held special tours to admire it. The window pictured here is on the side of Movement Church.
Cats with Attitude. They have a mind of their own.
Fountains and water features. Water spurts from fountains, small pools and even a backyard ornamental fire plug.
Quiet spaces to contemplate. In 1996, Gerri Jones started the East Row Garden Club and the park maintained in her memory is a great spot to admire the handiwork of our gardeners.

How does the East Row rock your world? Send your thoughts and a photo if available to pabrand1@yahoo.com and we’ll include it in the next issue of The Voice.

Volunteer for Our Christmas Tour & Tea

Submitted by Kym Sutton

Mark your calendars! Our much-anticipated Christmas Tour & Tea is scheduled for December 3 & 4. To organize and pull off a successful Tour takes a lot of help and volunteers, especially chairpersons to organize and run various aspects of the tour. So as to get better organized this year, we have broken the tour committees down to 11 in number, including:

Home solicitation and homeowner assistance
Ticket sales, both pre-sales and day of the event sales
Advertising and social media
Business sponsorship solicitation
Tickets: design, layout, route map and printing
Home histories
Event signage, banners, both throughout the east row and home signs
Volunteer recruitment and coordination
Tea
Saturday night block party, which was new last year
Homeowner thank-you dinner

Some of these committees have returning chairpeople and just need volunteers to assist. Others need a chairperson to spearhead. If you would be interested in chairing a specific committee or volunteering and have questions or just want to talk about the duties and responsibilities, just contact me at kymsutt@gmail.com.

Keep in mind that even if you are out of town or not available the weekend of the tour, you can still chair and/or volunteer for tasks prior to tour weekend.

Like any event, it takes a lot of time and effort to pull it off and make it successful. in the end it’s a lot of fun and you meet a lot of new people, in our case, your neighbors of the East Row!

August 31 NBA Luncheon: State of the City Update

The Newport Business Association (NBA) August 31 meeting features the State of the City luncheon presentation by Newport City Manager Tom Fromme.

Registration & Networking: 11:30 am
Luncheon & Presentation: Noon-1:30 pm
Location: BB Riverboats River’s Edge Event Center, 101 Riverboat Row (non-cruise event)
Luncheon Details: Luncheon registration is $25 per person for NBA members and guests

Register by mail or email.

Mail: Send name, address and phone number along with payment payable to Newport Business Association. Mail to NBA, PO BOX 843, Newport, KY 41072.

Email: Send name, address and phone number to bholiday@newportky.gov and pay at the door (cash or check only no credit/debit card).

RSVP: Name _______________________ Business ___________________________________

Guest(s): ______________________________________________________________________

Payment: $25 x __________ Due with mailing (check) or at check-in

NBA Mission statement: Newport Business Association serves the local businesses through its problem-solving forum, unified voice to policy makers, and through its member support, education and networking.

All About Riverfest: The Big Boom on Labor Day Weekend

Our Newport Riverfront is the site of one of the biggest and best fireworks displays in the nation. music and pyrotechnics converge every labor day weekend for a spectacular sendoff to summer. get ready for the big boom!

It’s the last blast of summer! Riverfest is our region’s big booming tradition that blasts off at 9:07 p.m. Sunday, September 4. That’s when the Western & Southern/WEBN-FM Rozzi's Famous Fireworks light up the Ohio River, right here in Newport.

The East Row Historic Foundation (ERHF) benefits from t-shirt sales, thanks to a longstanding agreement with organizers of the event. Stop by and purchase your shirts on the riverfront.

From daylong happenings to road closures, here are some details to help you enjoy Riverfest:

Newport Police Press Release: Covers rules, regulations and road closures.

Renovation Happy Hour is August 30

Renovation Happy Hours are a great way to learn about historic preservation. Mark your calendars for the next event:

Tuesday, August 30
6-8 pm
233 E 7th St.

The location is just two doors away from the intersection of 7th and Washington streets where you can tour a really old historic home which has just made it to the drywall stage of renovation. A couple notable features are the unique facade and the incredible view to Cincinnati from the upper deck.

We hope to do a follow up visit in a few months when this home, which is being renovated by Ramzi Nuseibeh, is completed. As always, the East Row will provide refreshments. You are welcome to bring additional food and beverages if you would like to contribute.

Does Your Project Require a COA?

Learn about the architecture of our neighborhood and how we preserve it in the comprehensive Architectural Guidelines document (90 pages of fascinating, historical information!).
Submit a COA Application in advance of any projects that require a COA.

Ever Wondered About Newport's Historic Districts? View the Map

We all know that Newport is rich in historic districts and landmarks. If you’ve ever wondered about the boundaries of some of these officially designated districts, the map linked below will show exactly where they begin and end.

Newport KY Local Historic Districts Map

There's So Much Going on at our Campbell County Public Library

Submitted by Mackenzie Manley, PR Coordinator, Campbell County Public Library

Friends of the Library Book Sale

9 am-5 pm Thursday-Saturday, Sept. 8-10, 9 am-noon Thursday, Sept. 22

Stock up on reads at the Friends of the Library Book Sale. Held in the Friends Room on the lower level of the Newport Branch, the cost is 25 cents for paperbacks, 50 cents for hardcovers and up to $3 for select titles. Some are even free! Registration is not required.

Signature Series: Bobby and Teddi Cyrus

7 pm Friday, Sept. 16

The cousin of famed country artist Billy Ray Cyrus, Bobby grew up in Louisa, Kentucky listening to music like Waylon Jennings, Ricky Skaggs, Larry Crodle, Kris Kristofferson, Keith Whitley and Tom T. Hall. Teddi comes from similar roots, joining the Kentucky Opry Theater when she was just 13 years old. The duo has performed and recorded together since their marriage in 2015. The event is free to attend. Registration is required. For more information, visit www.cc-pl.org/signature-series.

For a complete list of events, please visit the website of the Campbell County Public Library.

Newport Dog Park is Pawsitively Awesome!

As always, thanks to everyone who has volunteered, donated, moved dirt, raked mulch, bought bricks, and helped with our terrific East Row Dog Park, located behind the library on 6th St.

Yearly costs to keep the dog park safe, clean and fun are more than $6,000. You can lend a hand in a variety of ways while building a community and meeting new friends at the park.

Visit our Newport Dog Park website for all the details on our community-supported dog park and how you can pitch in for our furry friends!

The Voice

Editor: Paula Brandon

Send articles to voice@eastrow.org. The editor reserves the right to edit or reject submissions due to length or content.

November 13, 2021

The Voice - November 2021

November 13, 2021/ Paula Brandon

Read our Annual Report!

Submitted by City Manager Tom Fromme

Are you familiar with the latest update on our city’s progress?

Our goals for 2021 are outlined in the latest Annual Report, covering progress, plans and challenges for our city. Goals include further redevelopment of residential and commercial properties, quality of life issues such as parks and recreation, and maintaining a safe, walkable community. From a fiscal perspective, we continue to work on growing revenues, improving our credit rating and keeping our expenses reasonable. Read all the details in our Annual Report.

As always, if you have any questions, please email bholiday@newportky.gov or call 859-292-3687.

Great things are happening in Newport! Thanks for making Newport a great place to live, work, shop and play!

Christmas Tour, Tea & More: Help Light Up the East Row!

Submitted by Kym Sutton

Festive holiday lights, luminaria, food, and fun highlight this year’s Victorian Christmas Tour and Tea. Here’s how you can help make it a sparkling success:

Dates for the tour and tea are Saturday and Sunday, December 4 & 5, 3-7 pm.

Help light up the East Row! Decorate and illuminate your home’s exterior by Friday, December 3 for a walking/driving tour of the neighborhood. Complementing the exterior light show is a stained glass window tour and a luminaria display on Saturday evening. Be sure to turn on your Christmas lights and decorations by 5 pm on those dates!

Yes, stained glass windows will be featured. If you have a stained glass window that you would like to be highlighted on the tour map, let John Morrow know at kjohnmorrowjr@yahoo.com.

Speaking of luminaria, please order your kits. We hope to have at least 40 luminaries per block and are asking you to donate $5.00 for your luminary kit which includes 4 candles, (2 for each night), 2 bags and kitty litter. Kits come with instructions covering how to assemble and where to place the luminaries. Please try to ensure your block is fully decked out with luminaries. Volunteers to help are much appreciated! Please contact Kym Sutton if interested in helping (kymsutt@gmail.com or 759-512-6742).

The Christmas Home Tour includes six homes this year, with first-floor rooms only open to visitors. This decision was made to accommodate safety, sanitizing and volunteer resources. Tickets are $10 each and tour hours run later than usual this year, from 3 to 7 pm, to blend in with the exterior lights.

Join the fun! Order your luminaries now to help light up our beautiful East Row neighborhood for the Victorian Christmas tour.

The Victorian Christmas Tea will take on a different form, as a Tea-To-Go. Place orders online for sweet and/or savory pick-up boxes, scones and our much-loved pumpkin soup! See the East Row website for pricing and to place your order.

A street party is planned for Saturday evening featuring food trucks, music and more. Seventh St. between Monroe and Overton will be closed, food trucks will be serving great fare and neighbors can set up lawn chairs to enjoy the carolers and other festivities. There might also be a surprise visit from the jolly red man, himself!

There’s more! Watch for more information as plans unfold. Remember, we are happy to add your address to a “points of interest“ map for lights and stained glass. Just send your address to Kym Sutton at kymsutt@gmail.com.

Order Your Luminaries Now!

are you all set to make the east row glow? Get your luminaria orders to cathy farkas now and be ready for a brilliant display of light during the victorian christmas tour.

Can you imagine what the East Row looked like way, way back in the 1800s? To give our historic neighborhood an extra-special glow, we’re planning two evenings of luminaries during the Victorian Christmas Tour.

We hope to have at least 40 luminaries per block and are asking you to donate $5.00 per luminaria kit. Each kit includes 4 candles, (2 for each night), 2 bags and kitty litter plus instructions for assembly and placement. Please try to ensure your block is fully decked out with luminaries each evening, filling in any blank spaces if you can.

When you order, please include your name, phone number, email, address, number of kits, and payment amount. Submit cash or check payment (made out to East Row Historic Foundation) when ordering.

Send luminaria information and payment to Cathy Farkas at 844 Overton St. Newport, KY 41071. The foundation will accept Venmo, so just mention it if you prefer that method of payment.. Watch your email for details on how to pick up your luminary kits.

Purple People Bridge Reopens November 19

Great news! Our wonderful Purple People Bridge reopens Friday, November 19 and will be illuminated as part of our annual “Winter Nights, River Lights” event. To take part, be there by 6 pm on the bridge approach on the Newport side, off E. 3rd Street.

This event is made possible by sponsors, including Newport on the Levee, Corporex, CIG Communities, The Newport Foundation, Inc., Southbank Partners, and the Newport Southbank Bridge Company.

“Winter Nights, River Lights” is open to the public and FREE to visit during the holiday season.

Comprehensive Plan Public Hearing is November 16

Submitted by Larisa Sims, Assistant City Manager

The Newport Planning and Zoning Commission will hold a special public hearing on November 16 at 5:00 pm to hear comments and questions on the proposed 2020 NewportFORWARD Comprehensive Plan. The meeting will be held in the first-floor multi-purpose room at City Hall, 998 Monmouth St. Public comments and questions will be limited to the published agenda items to comply with special meeting requirements.

A draft version of the proposed plan is available on the city’s website: www.newportky.gov and is on file in hard copy at 998 Monmouth St., second floor, during weekdays, 8 am-4:30 pm. Comments and questions may be provided in writing in advance of the public hearing, addressed to Mark Boswell at mboswell@newportky.gov.

ERHF Update

Reminder: ERHF Christmas Party is December 7!

The East Row Historic Foundation’s Christmas Party for the neighborhood is quickly approaching! Join your neighbors at St John’s Church, 415 Park Av., on Dec 7 at 6:30 pm (our normal monthly meeting time). Food will be catered, but if you would like to bring appetizers and desserts, that would be great!

ERHF Bylaws Revisions Underway

The Bylaws Committee has met a number of times over the summer to put together a revision to the East Row Historic Foundation (ERHF) Bylaws. Changes and edits are mostly to clean up the bylaws, since they were last revised back in 2007, but there are no major changes that affect the operation of the ERHF and its relationship to the neighborhood.

Major structural changes, aside from general typos and formatting are:

Remove mentions of the Newport Citizens Coalition. This organization no longer exists, but was a primary reason for the ERHF to exist in the early 2000s.
Standardize all votes to require a two-thirds majority of all members present. This includes bylaws revisions, philanthropic grant approval, expenses/budget, and resolutions. This change standardizes the process across the bylaws and would have minimal effect on the results of votes, since the vast majority are passed unanimously.
Remove references to counter or dual-signed checks, but add a requirement for the chair to approve in writing any expenditures by the treasurer. This is to allow electronic payments and other expenses where checks are not appropriate. This was not a bank requirement on checks, so the written approval was deemed a sufficient check.
Updates to the list of standing committees, including combining the Finance/Audit Committees and adding the Dog Park Committee.

Per the existing bylaws (and with no changes made in this revision), the Bylaws edits were announced at the Oct 5 ERHF meeting and available for review. The 1st reading was at the Nov 2nd ERHF meeting. We have no meeting in December, so the 2nd reading will be at the Jan 4, 2022 ERHF meeting, and adopted immediately upon passage by a two-thirds vote of the members present.

A huge thank-you to the committee members that joined Jason Kramb in this effort: Elizabeth Robson, Corey Siddal and Ian Budd. Reading bylaws is never exciting work, but very necessary to ensure the organization continues to operate smoothly.

Get in the Holiday Mood at Peluso's

For an authentic holiday experience, visit Peluso’s Market at 623 Monmouth St. The Christmas tree lot will take you back to your childhood as you wander through rows of trees, soaking in the smell of pine and evergreen. You’ll also enjoy an old-fashioned assortment of Christmas candy including Mom Blakeman’s Kentucky Creamed Pull Candy. Yes, it’s back and so fresh! Have fun selecting from a full array of old-time candies, available by the scoop.

Tom Mitts Christmas Tree Sales is getting ready. Set-up has begun and they are looking forward to seeing everyone this season. Christmas trees will be sold starting November 18 at 9 am. You’ll enjoy visiting Peluso’s Market in historic downtown Newport, “Where everything is down aisle one!”

Campbell County Public Library: Drop Your Drawers!

Submitted by Mackenzie Manley, PR Coordinator, Campbell County Public Library

Coming to our Newport branch – Signature Series: Jeremy Pinnell Friday, November 19 and Drop Your Drawers Now through December 31 & More! 901 East 6th Street.

Signature Series: Jeremy Pinnell, 7 pm Friday, November 19: Fresh off the release of his third studio album, Goodbye LA, Northern Kentucky native and country artist Jeremy Pinnell will perform at our Newport Branch as part of our Signature Series. Free tickets are required.

Drop Your Drawers Campaign: Campbell County Public Library's annual Drop Your Drawers campaign runs through December 31. The donation drive aims to meet a crucial need for public schools in Campbell County, keeping Family Resource Center’s emergency supplies of socks and underwear stocked. New pairs of socks and underwear of any size in their original packaging can be dropped off at all CCPL branches, with the goal of collecting 7,000 items. Schools hand out socks and underwear to students for a variety of reasons, including accidents, illness, homelessness, etc.

This is Drop Your Drawers’ 6th year, following a one-year hiatus due to the pandemic.

For a complete list of events, please visit the website of the Campbell County Public Library.

We Love our Dog Park!

As always, thanks to everyone who has volunteered, donated, moved dirt, raked mulch, bought bricks, and helped with our terrific East Row Dog Park, located behind the library on 6th St.

Yearly costs to keep the dog park safe, clean and fun are more than $6,000. You can lend a hand in a variety of ways while building a community and meeting new friends at the park.

Visit our Newport Dog Park website for all the details on our community-supported dog park and how you can pitch in for our furry friends!

The Voice

Editor: Paula Brandon

Send articles to voice@eastrow.org. The editor reserves the right to edit or reject submissions due to length or content.

September 06, 2021

The Voice - September 2021

September 06, 2021/ Paula Brandon

Newport Forward Comprehensive Plan: Asking for Your Input!

Submitted by City Manager Tom Fromme

We are asking for your input!

The policies and implementation strategies in the Newport Forward Comprehensive Plan ultimately affect your day-to-day experience in the city. The plan provides guidance on improvements to future mobility and travel options, what new development should look like, priority locations for park improvements and other urban amenities, and how we interact with our social, economic, and natural environments.

Public engagement in this process is essential. This plan will be YOUR plan and must reflect the community’s vision, goals, and priorities for the future. Every step of the process relies on participation from Newport’s diverse community to ensure that these needs, desires and values are reflected in the plan.

The prioritization survey can be found on our webpage and also here: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/LGHF8J3.

For more information or to get more involved please contact Larisa Sims at lsims@newportky.gov.

As always if you have any questions, please email bholiday@newportky.gov or call 859-292-3687.

Great things are happening in Newport! Thanks for making Newport a great place to live, work, shop and play!

East Row Block Party is September 18

Submitted by Paul Johnson

The unforeseen circumstances of 2020 handed Monroe St. a respite from the rollicking stage, the joy of unfettered children, the sweet aroma of smoked barbecue, and the stepping out of rarely seen neighbors.

The hush is over.! The East Row Block Party is making its return for the 18th time.

Mark your calendars for Saturday September 18. For the uninitiated, here are the essentials:

The East Row Block Party is a summertime (usually June) tradition of celebrating the incredible musical, artistic and culinary talents of the people who live in the East Row neighborhood. The event is made possible by the efforts of Monroe St. residents, the generosity of the East Row Historic Foundation (ERHF), the smoking skills of Joe Webb and Jeff Richardson … and of course, all of the residents of the East Row and Newport who come out to support this fun event!

What’s different: With an abundance of caution around COVID, we will NOT have a potluck table at this year’s block party. Instead, the ERHF is supplying Webb’s barbecue and bags of chips. Please limit any food that you bring to your own family and remember to practice social distancing.

Where: 600 Block of Monroe St.

When: 5 pm, when the stage opens and barbecue is served.

Please note that the 600 block of Monroe will be closed early Saturday morning until midnight.

See you in September, East Row!

State of the City is September 29

Submitted by Bev Holiday, NBA Vice President

Newport Business Association members and guests are invited to the September monthly meeting for the State of the City update with City Manager, Tom Fromme.

When: Wednesday, September 29.

Time: 11:30am-noon for registration and networking. Noon-1:30 pm for luncheon and presentation.

Where: BB Riverboats Rivers Edge Event Center, 101 Riverboat Row (non-cruise).

Topic: State of the City update, City Manager Tom Fromme.

Luncheon Details: Luncheon registration is $20 per person for NBA members and guests.

REGISTRATION OPTIONS:

Mail: Send name, address and phone number with payment payable to Newport Business Association. Mail to NBA, PO Box 843, Newport, KY 41072.

Email: Send name, address, phone number to bholiday@newportky.gov and pay at the door (cash or check only no credit/debit card).

Registrations must be received by Friday, September 24.

RSVP: Name _______________________ Business ________________________

Guest(s) ____________________________________________________________

Payment: $20 x __________ Due with mailing (check) or at check-in.

Mission Statement: Newport Business Association serves the local businesses through its problem-solving forum, unified voice to policy makers, and through its member support, education and networking.

Please visit the NBA Facebook page.

A Taste of Newport is Underway

Submitted by Bev Holiday

A Taste of Newport 2021 is underway throughout the month of September! The city, in collaboration with meetNKY, NKY Convention and Visitors Bureau and Bandwango has created an app for this year’s Taste of Newport. More than 20 restaurants, bars and pubs are participating. Get your mobile digital passport for the Taste by visiting Taste of Newport Pass (meetnky.com)

The mobile-exclusive FREE passport for the Taste is delivered via text and email to passholders’ phones. The passport is similar to a coupon book via a phone app.

Participating businesses confirmed as of 8/20 are:

Blaze Cigar Lounge and Bar
Brio Italian Grille
Carabello Coffee
Clean Eatz
Coaches Corner
Colonel De’s Herbs & Spices
Crazy Fox Saloon
Edible Arrangements
Full of Bologna – Burkart’s Carry Out Location
Full of Bologna – Cricketts Location
GameWorks
Hot Head Burritos
Jerry’s Jug House
JerZees Pub & Grub
Jet Age Records
Kon-Tiki On The Levee
Lana’s Diner
Pensive Distilling Co.
Pepper Pod Restaurant
Port South Foods at Walt’s Center Lanes
Roebling Books & Coffee (opening soon)
Rotolo Bowling Bocce Eatery
Sis’s On Monmouth
Taco Bell
The Baker’s Table Restaurant
The Boardroom
The Little Spoon Bakery & Café
Trailhead Coffee
Webb’s BBQ
Wooden Cask Brewing Company – York Street
Wooden Cask Brewing Company at Newport On The Levee

In addition to discounts at Newport venues, passholders will be able to check-in and be eligible for prizes. The main prizes (2) are:

Visited most participating businesses
Visited most restaurants
Random drawings

Prizes will include other hospitality businesses in the city with get-a-away packages, tickets for entertainment venues and gift cards from participating businesses. Winners will be announced in early October.

As part of this year’s Taste, Bonnie Stacey at Newport High School requested her students to submit Taste of Newport logos for 2021. A logo was selected, and the winning senior, Drake Ward was recognized at the August 16 Board of Commissioners meeting. Drake was presented a $50 gift card to AMC Theater and a plaque by Julie Kirkpatrick, President & CEO, meetNKY.

Newport Board of Commissioners Information and More

Submitted by Bev Holiday, Community Liaison Coordinator

The Newport Board of Commissioners, consisting of an elected mayor and four elected commissioners, meets on Mondays at 7 pm (see dates listed below). Meetings are held at the City Building in the Multi-Purpose room, 1st floor. The facility is handicap accessible.

Meetings are open to the public to attend and are also available for viewing on the city’s Facebook page.

2021 Commissioner Meetings: September 20, October 18, November 15, December 13

Visit the city’s website.

Visit the city’s Facebook page.

The City Building, 998 Monmouth St., is open Monday through Friday, 8 am-4:30 pm.

Visit the Facebook page of the Newport History Museum @ The Southgate Street School. (The Museum is currently closed to the public.) Mark your calendars now for the Newport Arts & Music Fest Saturday, October 2 from 11 am-4 pm at the museum. Watch for details!

Visit Our Farmers Market, 700 Block of Monmouth

Reminder: Our Farmers Market is open every Saturday, 9 am-noon until October 30. The market is conveniently located in the city parking lot right next to the Pepper Pod restaurant.

Campbell County farmers bring their produce straight from their fields and valleys directly to Newport. Their livelihoods are supported by providing fresh produce for your summer recipes and they have been providing simple, safe, good food long before it was a trend.

Participating farmers include the “other” Neltner Farm – Mary Ann & Bert Neltner, Tinker Ridge Farm, Susan Turner and Chef Amy, Becki’s Mercantile and many other new additions, depending on the availability of produce.

Here is a sampling of produce available at the Farmers Market, while supplies last: Spinach, kale and mustard greens, onions, cucumbers, jams, herbal mint teas, flavored nuts, honey items, tomatoes, corn on the cob and baked tasty creations – all while supplies last.

Your continued support is greatly appreciated!

Campbell County Public Library Fall Programming

Submitted by Mackenzie Manley, PR Coordinator, Campbell County Public Library

Our Newport library, part of the Campbell County Public Library system, offers a handful of spooky programs at each branch for all ages, including creepy crafts, Halloween parties, movie nights and more.

October will also see the return of Curbside Trick or Treat, held 6-7:30 pm, Saturday, October 16 at three branches: Newport, Cold Spring and Carrico/Fort Thomas. Patrons may come in costume and visit different stations with candy and prizes without leaving their cars. Walkers are also welcome. Just be mindful of traffic and social distancing. Library staff will be dressed as their favorite characters and creatures and there will even be a fun surprise for adults! Rain date is October 30.

Did you know that the library is now permanently fine free? There will no longer be late fines on library materials, no matter how overdue they are.

Visit the website of the Campbell County Public Library.

We Love our Dog Park!

As always, thanks to everyone who has volunteered, donated, moved dirt, raked mulch, bought bricks, and helped with our terrific East Row Dog Park, located behind the library on 6th St.

Yearly costs to keep the dog park safe, clean and fun are more than $6,000. You can lend a hand in a variety of ways while building a community and meeting new friends at the park.

Visit our Newport Dog Park website for all the details on our community-supported dog park and how you can pitch in for our furry friends!

The Voice

Editor: Paula Brandon

Send articles to voice@eastrow.org. The editor reserves the right to edit or reject submissions due to length or content.

June 16, 2021

The Voice - June 2021

June 16, 2021/ Paula Brandon

Newport City Building REOPENED to General Public

Submitted by City Manager Tom Fromme

The Newport City Building is now open for your in-person visit! Drop boxes will remain available on the first floor at both main entrances for leaving payments, permit applications, job applications, and bids.

Please note: Passports are still SUSPENDED at the City Building! The Covington Post Office is processing passports and can be reached at 859-261-0809. Please note that appointments are probably required.

The following services are now available:

PERMITS: City staff will accept building, zoning and historic preservation permit applications in person, via email, fax, and regular mail or online. Please contact Allyson Schaefer at 859-292-3637 or email.
PAYMENTS: Finance Department staff is available in person for payment of property tax, payroll tax, business tax or any finance matters. Please contact Finance Department staff via email or by phone at 859-292-3660 with questions.
PAYMENT for PARKING TICKETS can be paid in person to the Police Department.
MEETINGS: All public meetings/hearings before the Board of Commissioners, Planning Commission, Board of Adjustment, Historic Preservation Commission, and Code Enforcement Board will resume as in person in the 1st floor Multi-Purpose Room and streamed at the Newport, KY city government YouTube page.
PASSPORTS: Acceptance of Passport applications is still suspended until further notice. Please check the US Dept of State website (travel.state.gov) for locations to apply and call ahead to confirm they are open.
ACCIDENT REPORTS: Accident reports can be obtained from buycrash.com.
ALL PARKS AND PLAYGROUNDS ARE OPEN. Veterans Pool opened June 1.

MASK MANDATE: Fully vaccinated people do not need to wear a mask.

Have You Been Fully Vaccinated?

In general, people are considered fully vaccinated 2 weeks after their second dose in a 2-dose series, such as the Pfizer or Moderna vaccines, or 2 weeks after a single-dose vaccine, such as the Johnson & Johnson vaccine.

If you don’t meet these requirements, regardless of your age, you are NOT fully vaccinated. Keep taking all precautions until you are fully vaccinated.

Great things are happening in Newport! Thanks for making Newport a great place to live, work, shop and play!

East Row Yard Sale is July 10

Submitted by Paula Brandon

Our annual East Row yard sale is always a hit with shoppers and sellers. Interrupted in 2020 due to the pandemic, the sale makes a triumphant return this year on Saturday, July 10, 9 am to 3 pm.

Now is the time to clear out what you don’t need, scoot it out the front door and watch it disappear. Best of all, you can leave all the coordination to your East Row Historic Foundation (ERHF).

Residents participate at NO COST, since the ERHF pays all fees and advertising. Signs are posted, ads are placed and a map of participants is distributed. With all the advance publicity, the sale always attracts a big, enthusiastic crowd of shoppers from around the tristate.

To participate, just send your name and address to Paula Brandon at pabrand1@yahoo.com. Feel free to mention what types of items you are selling and as the sale draws closer, you can send photos for the map which is distributed online.

See you at the yard sale!

NBA: Presenting Marketing Tips for Your Business

Submitted by Bev Holiday, NBA Vice President

At its upcoming June meeting, the Newport Business Association (NBA) will discuss “Marketing Tips For Your Business” featuring David Dalton of The Think Shop and Red Hot Promotions, and Mike Smith of Headquarters and ReNewport President. Do you have business questions or topics for the presenters to discuss and answer during the meeting? Just email your questions to Bev Holiday by Monday, June 21.

The virtual meeting will be held Wednesday, June 30, at 8 am. The meeting is open to the public to view on the NBA Facebook page.

The NBA is planning to return to in-person meetings/gatherings for the July 28 meeting. Watch for more details!

If you missed the May 26 General Assembly Updates by State Representative Rachel Roberts, with additional comments from Rocky Adkins, Advisor to Governor Andy Beshear and Lt. Governor Coleman, and Scott Clark’s updates on “Historic Tax Credits,” please visit the NBA Facebook page.

Explore Newport’s Past: 50 Artifacts on Display at Newport on the Levee

Submitted by Scott Clark, Historic Preservation Officer & Newport History Museum Executive Director

The Newport History Museum is all set to feature a “Museum Without Walls” display with 50 objects at Newport on the Levee. The display, collected over the years, represents significant artifacts from Newport’s past spanning 1770 to 2021.

These artifacts include the desk of a former mayor and recent finds from a privy dig at the former Green Derby site at East 9th and York Streets. The display will open in mid-June. Watch for details in the city e-newsletter.

Please Note: The Newport History Museum @ The Southgate Street School at 215 East Southgate Street remains closed to the public.

Mark your calendars now! Newport Arts & Music Fest returns to the Newport History Museum on Saturday, October 2, 11 am-4 pm. The event will feature oral histories by former Southgate Street School students, local artists and live music. More details to come.

If you missed NKY Restoration Weekend 2021, it will soon be available on the NKY Restoration Facebook page.

Visit our Farmers Market for Local Produce, Baked Goods and More!

Submitted by Bev Holiday, Community Liaison Coordinator

As you do your weekly grocery shopping, remember to make a stop at our Farmers Market. Conveniently located, the market is in the 700 block of Monmouth in the city parking lot adjacent to the Pepper Pod restaurant.

Campbell County farmers bring their produce straight from their fields and valleys directly to Newport. Their livelihoods are supported by providing fresh produce for your summer recipes and they have been providing simple, safe, good food long before it was a trend.

Come on over and visit your Farmers Market! Your continued support is greatly appreciated.

Ever Wonder about the History of Your East Row Home?

Submitted by Jeff Richardson

Editor’s Note: Most of us think of ourselves as caretakers of our well-loved, East Row homes, honored to be part of the fabric of time that makes our neighborhood special. Jeff Richardson has researched and written many house histories over the years for publication in our garden walk and Christmas Tour brochures, and we continue to feature some of these histories in The Voice.

Let’s look into the past of 723 Overton, the Creutz-Spicer House. This ca. 1883 two-bay Italianate home is distinguished by decorative corner quoins and painted window hoods. It features full-height windows on the first floor façade and a castellated limestone retaining wall.

The home was built by Eugene P. M. Creutz, an attorney and notary public with offices on York Street. He sold the home in 1886 and later moved to Chicago and then Los Angeles, where he was elected State Senator in 1910. The home was purchased in 1919 by Charles and Jennie Spicer. She lived there for almost 40 years until her death in 1958 at age 93.

The beautiful courtyard garden, with its vintage brick walks, statuary, and koi pond seemingly carved into a stone walkway, has been featured in Better Homes & Gardens Do It Yourself magazine.

Campbell County Public Library Summer Programming

Submitted by Mackenzie Manley, PR Coordinator, Campbell County Public Library

What’s summer without a good book? You’ll find all that and more at our local library. Highlights of the Campbell County Public Library's July programming include the annual Art After Hours event; a Friends Book Sale; a drive-in screening of How to Train Your Dragon; and a fun handful of family-friendly events, including several that partner with other community organizations such as the Newport Aquarium and Louisville Nature Center.

Find out more about our Summer Reading program and all the other library activities on the website of the Campbell County Public Library.

Celebrating Our Awesome Dog Park

It takes a village to raise up a new dog park! From left are Bill Mackison, Elaine Pearl, Tim Appleton, Tom Guidugli and children, Rachel Roberts, Noelle Johnson, Alexia Patton, Eric Aschinger and his dog Maci, and Bev.

Our June 6 Grand Opening of the Newport Dog Park was a big success, especially with our 4-legged, furry friends and family members. Thanks to everyone who volunteered, donated, moved dirt, raked mulch, bought bricks, and helped distribute dog park t-shirts during the Grand Opening!

Yearly costs to keep the dog park safe, clean and fun are more than $6,000. You can lend a hand in a variety of ways while building a community and meeting new friends at the park.

Visit our Newport Dog Park website for all the details on our community-supported dog park and how you can pitch in for our furry friends!

The Voice

Editor: Paula Brandon

Send articles to voice@eastrow.org. The editor reserves the right to edit or reject submissions due to length or content.

May 18, 2021

The Voice - May 2021

May 18, 2021/ Paula Brandon

Memorial Day Ceremony Includes 21-Gun Salute

Submitted by City Manager Tom Fromme

Monday, May 31 – 9 am at the Newport City Building, 998 Monmouth Street

The City of Newport is hosting a Memorial Day Ceremony on Monday, May 31, recognizing Newport veterans with a 21-gun salute. The ceremony begins at 9 am at the City Building, 998 Monmouth Street.

The event is open to the public, free to attend and COVID-19 health and safety guidelines will be observed. Face masks are required, along with social distancing. Hopefully, the annual Memorial Day Parade will return in 2022.

PLEASE NOTE:

The Newport City Building continues to remain closed to the public. During the City Building’s closure to the public, all departments continue to function processing occupation licenses, tax payments, certificates of appropriateness (COA), development project requests, sign requests, public works projects, the Newport Forward Comprehensive Plan, etc., to keep the city moving forward.

Most required applications are available on the city website for processing via email or the city lockbox inside the entry doors at 998 Monmouth Street.

Meetings of the Board of Commissioners, Board of Adjustments, Planning & Zoning, and Historic Preservation will be available for viewing on the city’s Facebook page. Please check the city’s website for dates and times of meetings.

Newport’s Online Resources:

City Website: http://www.newportky.gov/
City Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CityofNewportKY/
Newport History Museum @ The Southgate Street School: https://www.facebook.com/NewportHistoryMuseumattheSouthgateStreetSchool/

Great things are happening in Newport! Thanks for making Newport a great place to live, work, shop and play!

East Row Yard Sale is July 10

Submitted by Paula Brandon

The much-anticipated East Row Yard Sale is a GO and participant sign-ups are underway.

This annual event is a bonanza for shoppers and sellers – interrupted in 2020 due to the pandemic, but back this year on Saturday, July 10, 9 am to 3 pm.

Now is the time to clear out what you don’t need, scoot it out the front door and watch it disappear. Best of all, you can leave all the coordination to your East Row Historic Foundation (ERHF).

See you at the yard sale!

NBA: General Assembly and Historic Preservation Updates

Submitted by Bev Holiday, NBA Vice President

Mark your calendars for Wednesday, May 26, 8 am, for the Newport Business Association (NBA) virtual meeting. This month’s topic, General Assembly and Historic Preservation Updates, will be presented by our District 67 House Representative, Rachel Roberts, and Newport Historic Preservation Officer and History Museum Executive Director Scott Clark.

Pat Crowley, Strategic Advisers, will serve as the moderator for this discussion.

Be sure to tune in for this informative session! The public is invited to attend this event which will be available on the NBA’s Facebook page.

Mission statement: Newport Business Association serves the local businesses through its problem-solving forum, unified voice to policy makers, and through its member support, education and networking.

Sign Up! NKY Restoration Weekend Helps You Learn About and Care for Your Historic Property

Submitted by Scott Clark, Historic Preservation Officer & Newport History Museum Executive Director

NKY Restoration Weekend is an event you won’t want to miss, coming up Friday, Saturday and Sunday, May 21, 22 and 23!

Do you own a historic home? Thinking about buying one? Enjoy bourbon? Or love history? Then the NKY Restoration Weekend VIRTUAL event is for you!

You can’t beat the FREE learning opportunities that make NKY Restoration Weekend so special. This annual series of workshops is coordinated by representatives from the River Cities of Bellevue, Covington and Newport, and there is still time to register at www.nkyrestoration.com.

From roof to foundation to courtyard, local experts will share their knowledge and advice on maintaining, fixing and enhancing your historic property. It’s no surprise that the always-popular session on historic tax credits draws a big crowd every year. Who isn’t interested in saving money?

Highlights include:

May 21 – Friday Evening: Keynote Speaker and bourbon archaeologist Nick Laracuente, presents The History of Bourbon and Bourbon Tasting. Sponsored by New Riff Distillery.
May 22 & 23 – Saturday & Sunday: Practical advice and hands-on demonstrations are available for everyone interested in historic preservation and historic tax credits for residential and commercial buildings.

NKY Restoration Weekend is funded in part with federal funds from the National Park Service and U.S. Department of the Interior, and administered by the Kentucky Heritage Council.

Please Note: The contents and opinions do not necessarily reflect the views or policies of the Department of the Interior, nor does the mention of trade names or commercial products constitute endorsement or recommendation by the Department of the Interior.

The U.S. Department of the Interior prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, national origin, disability or age. Any person who believes that he or she has been discriminated against should contact the Office of Equal Opportunity, National Park Service, 1849 C Street NW, Washington, DC 20240.

Farmers Market Opens Saturday, May 22: Stop by for Local Produce, Baked Goods, Music and More!

Submitted by Bev Holiday, Community Liaison Coordinator

The Campbell County Farmers Market will be returning to Newport on Saturday, May 22 at 9 am-noon! Conveniently located, the market is in the 700 block of Monmouth in the city parking lot adjacent to the Pepper Pod restaurant.

Farmers Markets are an essential business in the Commonwealth of Kentucky and COVID-19 safety guidelines will be followed. Guidelines include spaced set-up for farmers, directional instructions for entrance/exit, hand washing station at the entrance area, marked waiting spots to maintain social distancing, and limitations related to farmer selling sites.

Campbell County farmers bring their produce straight from their fields and valleys directly to Newport. Their livelihoods are supported by providing fresh produce for your summer recipes and they have been providing simple, safe, good food long before it was a trend.
The Hills of Kentucky Dulcimers Group will provide various selections from 10 am-noon. Did you know that the Appalachian dulcimer was designated as the official state musical Instrument of Kentucky in 2001?

Come on over and visit your Farmers Market as it kicks off the season! Your continued support will be greatly appreciated.

Swinging at the Bell Concerts are Underway

Submitted by: Joyce McMullin, Southbank Partners

“We are thrilled to bring back the ever-popular Swinging at the Bell concert series,” says incoming President of Southbank Partners, Will Weber. Southbank Partners, along with a group of local sponsors, is hosting the summer concert series at the World Peace Bell Park in downtown Newport.

Free and open to the public, concerts start at 7 pm and end at 9 pm. At the end of each concert, Southbank Partners will ring the World Peace Bell for guests!

Upcoming concerts on Wednesdays include:

JUNE 9, REVOLVER
JULY 14, PETE WAGNER BAND & NANCY JAMES
JULY 28, SOUND BODY JAZZ ORCHESTRA
AUGUST 11, REVOLVER
AUGUST 25, JUMP ‘N’ JIVE

The Swinging at the Bell concert series is family friendly and free to the public. Guests will need to bring their own chairs or seating. Southbank Partners asks that guests maintain social distancing and practice COVID-19 safety guidelines.

We extend a big THANK YOU to our sponsors whose continued support provides these concerts for the Northern Kentucky community: VS Engineering, Fedders Construction, Republic Bank, Newport Business Association, and Strategic Advisers. Be sure to come on out to enjoy a relaxing night of great music!

Campbell County Public Library June Programming

Submitted by Mackenzie Manley, PR Coordinator, Campbell County Public Library

June marks the start of Summer Reading, which runs through July. This year's theme is "Wild About Books." There are events for everyone in the family – from dreaming up a fantasy zoo to drive-in movies featuring everyone's favorite hedgehog, Sonic. Patrons can track their reading with the Beanstack app or a paper log for the chance to win giveaways.

Find out more about our Summer Reading program and all the other library activities on the website of the Campbell County Public Library.

Many Ways to Lend a Hand to Support Our Newport Dog Park

The Newport Dog Park is a place for furry residents of Newport and surrounding communities to enjoy the great outdoors. The Park is located at 901 E. 6th St. Newport, KY (behind the Newport Branch of the Campbell County Library). Come visit and enjoy! Open year round from dawn to dusk.

Here’s your opportunity to support our Newport Dog Park! We rely on donations and fundraising to cover the costs of this pawsitively wonderful addition to our neighborhood, so please consider helping out as you make a donation, order a t-shirt, buy a brick or sign up to be a volunteer. Yearly costs to keep the dog park safe, clean and fun are more than $6,000. You can lend a hand in a variety of ways while building a community and meeting new friends at the park.

Visit our Newport Dog Park website for all the details on our community-supported dog park and how you can pitch in for our furry friends!

The Voice

Editor: Paula Brandon

Send articles to voice@eastrow.org. The editor reserves the right to edit or reject submissions due to length or content.

April 05, 2021

The Voice - April 2021

April 05, 2021/ Paula Brandon

State of the City

Submitted by City Manager Tom Fromme

At this time of year, we step back to reflect on the activities and condition of the city. The past year has been difficult and challenging, but we are beginning to see light at the end of the tunnel. During 2020 we discovered how resilient our community can be during stressful times. Now is the time to reignite our optimism, review our accomplishments and look forward to our goals!

Newport has enjoyed one success after another during the past 15 years, even through one of the worst recessions in American history. From a financial point of view, 2020 was a good year for the city even in the midst of the COVID pandemic, which caused many local businesses to close during a significant portion of the year.

During this period of time from 2006- 2020, the following projects have been undertaken and completed:

Southshore Condominiums
Vue 180 Residential Development
Monmouth Row Residential Development
Aqua on the Levee Residential and Hotel Development
Hampton Inn & Suites Hotel Development
Nexigen Communications
Ethos Labs
St. Elizabeth Healthcare Urgent Care Development
Newport Pavilion Retail Center Development
Route 9 Connector Road
New Riff Distillery and Rickhouse East and West campuses
City-wide street light conversion to LED
Redevelopment of historic Green Line bus barn
Purchase of new Public Works facility
Redevelopment of Carothers Road
Clifton Hills Senior Citizens Residential Development
BB Riverboats Redevelopment
Millions of dollars of single-family home construction and rehab
Street and sidewalk repairs and restoration in excess of $8M
Significant infrastructure repairs dealing with water runoff issues
Ongoing improvements to Riverfront Commons

These projects are just a few of the many improvements and developments during this 15-year period. In 2020, we celebrated many ground breakings and ribbon cuttings throughout the city. Corporex completed construction of the Music Venue and will begin construction of a hotel and office building in the near future. The Route 9 project is nearing completion of its final phase, opening a new growth corridor for the city. The Academy on Fourth residential development was completed bringing new residents to the downtown area. Newport on the Levee, under new ownership, has also commenced a $100M renovation. When complete the levee will present a new vision and a fresh new look.

On the fiscal side, the city has continued its work on on improving and stabilizing our finances. For the calendar year, the city ended with a general fund cash balance of $4,308,020, an increase of $882,140 from 2019. We have also established reserve funds for compensated absences, equipment and legacy pension obligations. Our fiscal year 2020 budget ended with revenues surpassing our budgeted projections.

Over the last six years, the city’s net payroll revenues have increased by $1,348,181. In 2020 ,the city gained a net 72 new companies and 263 net new employees. This growth is critical since payroll taxes are our primary source of revenue, accounting for approximately 32% of our budget. Some of our largest businesses are PL Marketing, Kroger, Defender Direct, Divisions, Inc., Impact Sales, St. Elizabeth, DJ Joseph Co., National Band and Tag Co. Inc., I-Wireless and Nexigen Communications.

While many great things are happening in the city, we also are confronted with ongoing serious challenges. Rising costs related to personnel – specifically, crippling increases in pension costs dictated by the state pension system – are expected to add $1.2M to our pension contribution. Due to these increases and other rising costs, we are continually examining ways to maintain an excellent level of service in the future within the constraints of our revenue.

Perhaps the most difficult challenge for Newport and for surrounding cities is addressing the delivery of public services to our residents. We continue to operate with a very small, efficient staff and make every effort to provide a high quality of service in a cost-effective manner (having reduced city staffing by nearly 30 employees in recent years). Currently, we have approximately 114 full-time employees, with more than 80 in public safety.

The city continues to invest heavily in our infrastructure and equipment, however the aging infrastructure and rising costs continue to be a significant issue. During the next few years, we anticipate spending several million dollars on infrastructure-related projects and equipment acquisition, including upgrades to the 800 MHz radio system used for public safety. The fiscal year 2021 and fiscal year 2022 budget and work priorities include a focus on capital improvements, such as South Monmouth corridor improvements and Festival Park renovation.

Much was accomplished in 2020, and 2021 continues to look very promising. Construction on Ovation and changes at Newport on the Levee will continue throughout the year and beyond. Construction on Carothers Road and design work on South Monmouth street (US 27) will commence and continue throughout the next few years, including a partnership with surrounding cities on smart corridor initiatives. Development of a mixed-use hotel and office development is also expected to begin during the year on the site adjacent to the Peace Bell. We will also continue with our City- wide street and sidewalk repaving program and streetscape improvements on Monmouth Street. The Baptist Home condominium development is scheduled to be near completion and the 13th Street Citi-Rama project will begin construction in late spring. We also plan on finishing The Comprehensive Plan 5-year review as required by statute.

Our goals for 2021 continue to include further redevelopment of residential and commercial properties; working on quality-of-life issues, such as parks and recreation; and maintaining a safe, walkable community. From a fiscal perspective, we continue working on growing revenues, improving our credit rating and keeping our expenses reasonable.

The goals for 2021 are listed in their entirety in our Annual Report and metrics can be found on our online transparency portal.

Most required applications are available on the city website for processing via email or the city lockbox inside the entry doors at 998 Monmouth Street.

Newport’s Online Resources:

City Website: http://www.newportky.gov/
City Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CityofNewportKY/

Newport History Museum @ The Southgate Street School’s Facebook page.

Great things are happening in Newport! Thanks for making Newport a Great place to live, work, shop and play!

Congrats, East Row Historic Foundation Executive Board!

The East Row Historic Foundation (ERHF) is our 501c3 nonprofit organization, dedicated to bettering our neighborhood by promoting historic preservation, civic engagement and social events. Meetings are held virtually at this time, the first Tuesday of every month.

We are excited to recognize our new ERHF Executive Board members and we thank them - and those who have served in the past - for their efforts!

Jason Kramb, Chairperson, chair@eastrow.org. Jason and his wife, Katie Tamarelli, have lived in the 600 block of Linden for the last 4 years. After moving here, they immediately got involved with the ERHF, mostly for social events and to meet new neighbors, but it wasn't long before Jason was asked to volunteer. He has served as the ERHF treasurer for the past 3 years. Jason is an aerospace engineer for a small consulting firm in Michigan, and enjoys wrenching on cars, flying airplanes, rowing, computers, and maintaining and improving their great historic home.

Tony Heekin, Treasurer, treasurer@eastrow.org. Tony and his wife were born in Cincinnati and grew up there. They raised their six children in Anderson and moved to Covington in 2016. When it was time to buy a house, Newport was the clear choice and they moved to the East Row in May 2019. Tony has a business degree from UC and an MBA from Xavier. He and his wife enjoy spending time with family, especially their 4 grandchildren.

Maggie Brown, Secretary, secretary@eastrow.org. Maggie has lived in the East Row since 2013. She grew up in Fort Thomas, was educated at Georgetown College and George Washington University, and is a practicing physician assistant (PA) in emergency medicine. Maggie majored in Spanish and is on the board of the Campbell County Public Library. She enjoys collecting colorful beach cruiser bikes.

Frank Wray, Gateway Rep, gateway@eastrow.org. Frank and his wife, Katie Kool-Wray, have been in the neighborhood since October of 2019. With a Ph.D. in Ecology, Frank was a Professor of Biology at the University of Cincinnati (UC) for 20+ years and retired in 2014. Frank and his wife opened a CrossFit gym in 2014 and sold it in 2019 so he could get back into teaching. He now teaches Biology at Western Governors University, the largest online university in the world and he loves it! While Frank was at UC, he created sustainable development plans for different regions in the world. He looks forward to finding ways to make our neighborhood more sustainable. Frank loves the walkability of the area and you can see Frank and Katie walking their dog, Sydney, a brown AussieDoodle several times a day.

Katie Kolpin-Gustafson, Mansion Hill Rep, mansionhill@eastrow.org. Katie lives on E. 4th St., and has been in the neighborhood for about 1 ½ years. She grew up in Wisconsin, attended college there, went to graduate school in Oregon, and just prior to living in the East Row, was living in Minnesota. She moved here for work (as a principal scientist in product development with ADM), and loves Northern Kentucky. In our neighborhood, she and her husband and have helped with the new dog park and the 6th St. Bike Trails, and they take pride in being involved in the community.

Henry Potts, Alternate.

*Alternate position is on a stand-by basis in case a board member is unavailable to fulfill his or her obligation.

NBA Panel Discussion Focuses on Newport Development Updates

Submitted by Bev Holiday, NBA Vice President

Stay tuned for more details on our upcoming meeting of the Newport Business Association (NBA). We will be discussing “Newport Development Updates” presented by panelists representing the various projects going on around the city.

The virtual meeting will be on Wednesday, April 28 and the time of the meeting will be posted in an East Row listserv email once confirmed with the presenters.

The public is invited to attend this event which will be available on the NBA’s Facebook page.

Historic Preservation Needs Your Support in Frankfort

Submitted by Scott Clark, Historic Preservation Officer & Newport History Museum Executive Director

UPDATE: Great news! This house bill was approved for an increased amount of $100M. This is GREAT news for historic designated neighborhoods throughout the Commonwealth!

You can support the improvement of Kentucky’s historic preservation tax credit by endorsing HB 344, so more communities can benefit. In 2020, the Kentucky Heritage Council received a record number of 153 applications from 22 counties for the state Historic Preservation Tax Credit; 127 of these were approved pending completion of the work. These approved projects represent $1,161,585,277 in proposed private investment in rehabilitation.

To support HB 344, call your State Senator and House Representative. Tell the legislative aide who answers the phone that you want your elected official to support HB 344.

Many Newport property owners have benefited from the tax credit. Historic Preservation Tax Credits are administered by the Kentucky Heritage Council, an agency of the Tourism, Arts and Heritage Cabinet.

Key Points of HB 344:

Raises current program cap from $5M to $30Million annually
Provides a 30% credit for projects in counties with populations below 50,000
Reserves 40% of the $30 Million for rural counties with populations below 50,000
Maintains 20% credit for income producing/commercial properties
Maintains 30% credit for owner-occupied residential properties
Makes Kentucky more competitive with contiguous states that have better state historic preservation tax credits, including Ohio, Virginia, West Virginia, Missouri and Illinois

How Kentucky's Historic Tax Credit Helps Communities:

Provides credit for owner-occupied homes, unlike Federal HTC
Benefits the state immediately with tax revenue during construction
Returns more to the state treasury than it costs
Returns vacant, underutilized, endangered buildings to tax rolls
Boosts tax revenues - sales, payroll, property
Provides income for community improvements
Serves as a catalyst for additional local investment
Creates construction and permanent jobs
Encourages revitalization in blighted areas
Encourages adaptive reuse of buildings that risk demolition
Reverses economic decline in central business districts
Helps spur redevelopment in surrounding areas
Restores civic pride to communities
Provides a positive return on investment for owners and state

You can take action now! Call your State Senator and House Representative in support of HB 344.

Newport Legislators:

State Representative Rachel Roberts – LRC: 1-502-564-8100 Ext. 641
State Senator Wil Schroder – LRC: 1-502-564-8100 Ext. 624

NKY Restoration Weekend Moved to May 2021

Submitted by Scott Clark, Historic Preservation Officer and Newport History Museum Executive Director

Due to COVID-19, the NKY Restoration Weekend team will offer its educational events in a virtual format this year. Look forward to this much-anticipated event on May 21-23.

A Northern Kentucky tradition, this year marks our 10th annual NKY Restoration Weekend. It is made possible through generous grants from the National Park Service and U.S. Department of the Interior, and is administered through the Kentucky Heritage Council to the cities of Covington and Bellevue, along with the dedicated NKY Restoration team from Newport.

Be sure to mark your calendars for this FREE engaging and educational program and watch for announcements regarding our May events to complement National Historic Preservation Month.

Six@Six Virtual Series Focuses on Justice and Injustice in America

Submitted by Scott Clark, Historic Preservation Officer and Newport History Museum Executive Director

Register now for the upcoming Six@Six virtual series, Justice and Injustice in America by Danielle McDonald and David Singleton. The presentation will be held Tuesday, April 20, 6-7:30pm. More details will be shared prior to the event.

RSVP is required: sixatsix.nku.edu. This Six@Six Lecture will be presented via Zoom and a link will be sent prior to the event.

The Newport History Museum @ The Southgate School continues to be closed to the public due to COVID-19. Thanks to the Scripps Howard Center for Civic Engagement for its continued support of sponsoring Newport History Museum events.

Tom Mitts: Home is a Must-see Exhibit at Curt Bessette Art Gallery

By Paula Brandon

A very special art exhibit, Tom Mitts: Home, will continue through Saturday, April 10 at the Curt Bessette Art Gallery.Tom captured the heart of Newport in his paintings of our East Row homes, iron gates, streetscapes, bridges, and river scenes. This opportunity to see 20 of his works will add to your appreciation of our unique, historic neighborhood as well as showcase Tom’s talent as an artist who captured beautiful moments in time.

Of course, Tom’s Christmas tree business behind Peluso’s and the East Row houses he painted are legendary. Be sure to visit this exhibit of his oil paintings and pastels, and learn more at the BCPL website. https://bcplundiscovered.org/tom-mitts-home-local-art-from-newport-and-more-on-display-at-the-curt-bessette-art-gallery/. The gallery is located inside the Boone County Public Library’s main branch in Burlington, KY.

Editor’s Note: If you look closely at some of the painted homes in our neighborhood, you’ll notice that Tom was also an amazing house painter who actually signed his work, usually at the bottom right corner of the house, as he also added other special touches. He was painting a purple house on 4th St. during the untimely passing of Prince. If you look toward the top of the house, you’ll see he included the Prince symbol at its pinnacle – in purple, of course. When my house needed repainting, Tom asked me about my preferred color combo. “I have no idea,” I said. “You’re the best, so just do your thing.” He chose an amazing teal with beige trim, plus metallic accents and some subdued orange here and there. I could never have imagined those colors together. Tom was one of the jewels of our neighborhood, talented, funny and dedicated, and greatly missed.

The Newporter: Newport Independent Schools Newsletter

Open the latest issue of The Newporter for an overview of what’s happening in our schools. This issue features a first look at a new esports program, which will allow students to compete virtually, along with school staff insights and a message from Superintendent Tony Watts.

Jump into Spring with Campbell County Public Library April Programming

Submitted by Mackenzie Manley, PR Coordinator, Campbell County Public Library

Fun, educational and engaging programs for the whole family await you at the Campbell County Public Library. April’s programs offer plenty of new activities, including the first-ever outdoor Signature Series performance at Tower Park featuring bluegrass musician Junior Sisk. You can also mark your calendars for the drive-thru El Día de los Libros (Day of the Book) event.

Find March and April activities on the website of the Campbell County Public Library.

Bluegrass Musician Junior Sisk to Perform at CCPL’s Signature Series Concert

Submitted by Mackenzie Manley, PR Coordinator,
Campbell County Public Library

Campbell County Public Library is holding its first-ever outdoor Signature Series performance at Fort Thomas’ Tower Park amphitheater. Bluegrass musician and vocalist Junior Sisk will take to the stage at 7 pm Friday, April 9.

Free registration is required. Social distancing will be enforced and masks are required throughout the entirety of the concert. The library asks that patrons register with those they plan to sit with. Concert-goers should bring their own lawn chairs and blankets.

Tower Park is located at 900 S Fort Thomas Ave., Fort Thomas, KY 41075. Call 859-781-6166, ext. 8 or visit www.cc-pl.org/signature-seriesto register.

Sisk’s most recent release, “Load the Wagon,” remained in the #1 position on the Bluegrass Unlimited National chart for six consecutive months. He is the recipient of multiple International Bluegrass Music Association awards, including 2012 Song of the Year for “A Far Cry from Lester and Earl” and Album of the Year for “The Heart of the Song.” In 2013 he was named Male Vocalist of the Year and in 2016, was awarded for Recorded Event of the Year for his song “Longneck Blues.”

Support Our Dog Park with a Personalized Brick

jake sandhage demonstrates why our expanded newport dog park is such a great addition to the east row. There’s nothing like a spirited run through the snow to put a smile on your face! (Photo credit: Jason Sandhage.)

Submitted by Paula Brandon

What better way to honor a dog- or cat-loving friend or family member? Another round of bricks will appear at our dog park when enough orders have been received for the next section. Let’s get those orders in now to be part of this legacy. Here’s how to order:

$75 Donation – 4x8 in. brick
$500 Donation – 12x12 in. brick
Visit PolarEngraving.com/NewportDogPark
PayPal or checks accepted
Thank you for your continued support of our Newport Dog Park!

The Voice

Editor: Paula Brandon

Send articles to voice@eastrow.org. The editor reserves the right to edit or reject submissions due to length or content.

February 16, 2021

The Voice - February 2021

February 16, 2021/ Paula Brandon

City Update

Submitted by City Manager Tom Fromme

At the Board of Commissioners Meeting Monday, January 25, the Virtual Ceremonial Swearing-in event was held. Pledging to continue the prosperity Newport has enjoyed over the last decade, Thomas L. Guidugli, Jr., was sworn in as mayor, filling the office held for 12 years by Jerry Peluso. Commissioner Frank Peluso was appointed vice mayor, and city commissioners were also sworn into office.

Peluso, who was term-limited as mayor, was elected to the Newport City Commission in November and was also sworn in along with fellow city commissioners Beth Fennell, Frank Peluso Sr., and Ken Rechtin. All three were re-elected last year.

Financial Assistance Program (FAP): The City of Newport has been the recipient of CARES Act funds via the Commonwealth of Kentucky. These funds have given the city the opportunity to offer financial assistance to more than 80 businesses in excess of $160,000 to help meet the needs of their day-to-day activities. Our business owners are the backbone of the city’s economic development, providing 40% of the city’s budget through occupational licenses and payroll withholding taxes.

Support Local Businesses: Your support is needed to help keep our brick-and-mortar businesses open and our storefronts occupied. During these difficult times, most businesses have pivoted to offer online, pick-up and curbside service. Please join me in supporting our local business owners. Gift cards make perfect gifts and provide much needed income!

Alcohol Beverage Control (ABC) License Renewals: In an effort to support our bars and restaurants that serve alcohol, the city’s Licensing Department waived the annual ABC renewal fee for all businesses in compliance with ABC Guidelines for one year. This is another example of the city helping its business owners.

Public Works: The city’s Public Works crew has been busy the past couple of weeks maintaining streets during our ice/snowstorms. We appreciate your patience as crew members follow their schedule to address state routes first, hills in the Clifton area and the various neighborhoods.

Sidewalk Project: The city-wide 2020 sidewalk replacement project is completed.

The Newport City Building continues to remain closed to the public. During the City Building’s closure to the public, all departments continue to function, processing occupation licenses, tax payments, certificates of appropriateness (COAs), development project requests, sign requests, public works projects, the Newport Forward Comprehensive Plan, etc., to keep the city moving forward.

Most required applications are available on the city’s website for processing via email or the city lockbox inside the entry doors at 998 Monmouth Street.

City Website: http://www.newportky.gov/

City Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CityofNewportKY/

As always, if you have questions, please email bholiday@newportky.gov or call my office at 859-292-3687. Great things are happening in Newport! Thanks for your efforts to continue to make Newport a great place to live, work, shop and play.

As always, if you have any questions, please email bholiday@newportky.gov or call the office at 859-292-3687.

Newport’s Online Resources:

City Website: http://www.newportky.gov/
City Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CityofNewportKY/

Newport History Museum @ The Southgate Street School’s Facebook page.

Thanks for making Newport a great place to live, work, shop, dine and play.

  Executive Board Positions Open: 
  Get Involved and Help Shape the Future of the East Row

Submitted by Robert Weiler

Our East Row neighborhood is unique, filled with history, walkability and friendly people. You have an opportunity to support our community by getting involved in the East Row Historic District (ERHD). We welcome your participation!

Every year, the ERHD elects new officers. Due to the current COVID situation, we request that nominations be submitted via email. If you or someone you know are interested in participating in the advancement of the ERHD, please submit your name and contact information to the Nominating Committee members below. The term of office is one year, May 2021 - May 2022.

Positions open are:

Chairperson
Secretary
Treasurer
Gateway Representative
Mansion Hill Representative

Please give some thought to serving the East Row through your participation in the ERHF! Just submit your name or nomination to the following members listed below by February 20.

Feel free to contact the Nominating Committee with any questions. Thank you for your continued support of the ERHD.

Nominating Committee Members:

John Morrow: kjohnmorrowjr@yahoo.com

Jeff Richardson: demondeke87@gmail.com

Corey Siddall: travelbuddies@fuse.net

Robert Weiler: robertaweiler@yahoo.com

NBA Meeting and Panel Discussion is February 24

Submitted by Bev Holiday, NBA Vice President

Join members and guests of the Newport Business Association (NBA) for a panel discussion on Wednesday, February 24, 8-9 am. This virtual meeting via Zoom will focus on COVID-19 updates. Use the NBA Facebook link below to access the event.

Panelists will be from the Commonwealth of Kentucky, St. Elizabeth Healthcare, NKY Health Department and the City of Newport. The meeting will be livestreamed on the Newport Business Association Facebook page, and saved for later viewing. Please use the link https://www.facebook.com/NewportBusinessAssociation/.

Please Note: As concerns about COVID-19 continue and in the interest of public health and safety, we are offering NBA meetings virtually. It is still important to remain vigilant against the spread of infectious diseases. Please mask up and practice social distancing.

Hop Into Spring with March Programs at the Campbell County Public Library

Submitted by Mackenzie Manley, PR Coordinator, Campbell County Public Library

March is shaping up to be a busy month at the Campbell County Public Library, with programs at various branches scheduled for all age groups. Please note that masks are required for age 6 and older. Social distancing is expected and all in-person programs will be cancelled if the county is in the red zone for COVID-19.

The Programs: Spring thaw brings a new array of opportunities for learning, growing and fun at Campbell County Public Library branches. An array of classes are scheduled on a variety of topics. Teens will be able to learn how to code, children will learn about science while making color-changing slime and adults will practice yoga and meditation online through Zoom. Of course, there’s much more! The Cincinnati Museum Center will present an online program, Incredible Insects, that allows children to see the world through the eyes of a fly while learning about insect defense, including camouflage and mimicry.

Book clubs, discussions and coffee and conversation are also waiting for you.

Check out the full schedule for all age groups for February and March on the Campbell County Public Library website.

Honor Your Furry Family Members with a Dog Park Brick

Submitted by Paula Brandon

$75 Donation – 4x8 in. brick
$500 Donation – 12x12 in. brick
Visit PolarEngraving.com/NewportDogPark
PayPal or checks accepted

New Riff community bourbon barrel bottles are available for purchase: The limited edition 225th anniversary bottles “Proudly Celebrating Our Diverse Past & Making History Every Day” are available for purchase in the New Riff Distillery Gift Shop at 24 Distillery Way. Thanks to New Riff’s generous donation, a portion of each bottle sold will benefit the 225th Anniversary Celebration of Newport’s History.

The Newport History Museum @ The Southgate Street School is offering for purchase a limited supply of architectural pieces from the former 1936 Fourth Street School. All proceeds from the sale will benefit the promotion and interpretation of the 225-year history of the City of Newport. Items include:
Terra Cotta Decorative Block - $55
Slate Deli Cheese Board - $28
Oak and Brass Stair Railings - $75

Newport 225 coasters and magnets are also available, locally handcrafted by Studio Vertu.
Coasters - $10
Magnets - $6

Contact Scott Clark at sclark@newportky.gov to order items from the former Fourth Street School.
Thank you for your continued support of the Newport History Museum!

  Virtual Event: The Story of Plessy v. Ferguson and America’s Journey from Slavery to Segregation

Submitted by Scott Clark, Historic Preservation Officer & Newport History Museum Executive Director

Snow or no snow, there’s a virtual event happening Tuesday, February 16, 6-7:30 pm:

Six@Six Virtual Series: The Story of Plessy v. Ferguson and America’s Journey from Slavery to Segregation by Author, Steve Luxenberg.
Presented by The Scripps Howard Center For Civic Engagement @ NKU.

In support of Black History Month, join Steve Luxenberg, author and associate editor of the Washington Post, for a talk and Q&A discussion on his critically-acclaimed 2019 book, Separate, a myth-shattering narrative of how a nation embraced "separation" and its pernicious consequences.

RSVP required: sixatsix.nku.edu. This Six@Six lecture will be presented via Zoom and a link will be sent to you before the event.

The Voice

Editor: Paula Brandon

Send articles to voice@eastrow.org. The editor reserves the right to edit or reject submissions due to length or content.

January 19, 2021

The Voice - January 2021

January 19, 2021/ Paula Brandon

City Update: Mayor and Board of Commissioners Sworn into Office

By City Manager Tom Fromme

City Attorney, Dan Braun, administered the Oath of Office for Newport elected officials whose new terms in office began January 1:

Mayor – Tom Guidugli, Jr.
Vice Mayor Frank Peluso, Sr.
Commissioner Beth Fennell
Commissioner Jerry Peluso
Commissioner Ken Rechtin

The Newport City Building continues to remain closed to the public. During the city building’s closure to the public, all departments continue to function, processing occupation licenses, tax payments, certificates of appropriateness (COA), development project requests, sign requests, public works projects, the Newport Forward Comprehensive Plan, etc., to keep the city moving forward.

Most required applications are available on the city website for processing via email or the city lockbox inside the entry doors at 998 Monmouth Street.

Meeting of the Board of Commissioners, Board of Adjustments, Planning & Zoning, and Historic Preservation will be available for viewing on the city’s Facebook page. Please check the city’s website for dates and times of meetings.

As always, if you have any questions, please email bholiday@newportky.gov or call the office at 859-292-3687.

Newport’s Online Resources:

City Website: http://www.newportky.gov/
City Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CityofNewportKY/

Newport History Museum @ The Southgate Street School’s Facebook page: www.facebook.com/NewportHistoryMuseumattheSouthgateStreetSchool/

Thanks for making Newport a great place to live, work, shop, dine and play.

Southgate Street School Restoration Project Update

Submitted by City Manager Tom Fromme and Historic Preservation Officer & Museum Executive Director Scott Clark

When CRG Residential started to plan their purchase and demolition of the Fourth Street School property, they were required to obtain a historic review of the impact of removing the building. This review was performed between the developer, the state preservation office and Newport’s Historic Preservation Officer, Scott Clark. As talks progressed, it was determined the best way to mitigate the loss of Fourth Street School was for the developer to not only provide artifacts from the old school but to also conduct restoration work on another former school building, the Southgate Street School just a block away.

Newport Masonic Lodge 120 has owned the building since the late 1950s after the segregated school closed. Its use and condition had declined over the years. Robert Ingguls, Lodge member, alumnus of the school and lifelong resident of Newport had been caring for the building for years. He was looking for an opportunity to see it preserved for the future and to tell the stories of Newport’s past.

Mr. Ingguls approached Scott Clark about his concerns and a meeting was arranged with alumnus of the School, Mayor Jerry Peluso, City Manager Tom Fromme, Community Liaison Coordinator Bev Holiday, and Scott Clark. In this meeting, it was determined the best way to preserve the building was to open it to the public as a city museum. With the promised work that would be done by CRG Residential, the Newport History Museum @ the Southgate Street School was opened in November 2017.

This past autumn, as CRG Residential dedicated their 202-unit apartment complex, they started the restoration on the old Southgate Street School building. Following through on their agreement, the building has been tuckpointed, dozens of crumbling bricks replaced, a new paint job using Historic Sherwin Williams colors completed, stairs to the lower level rebuilt, inappropriate non-functioning doors replaced with period salvaged doors, and a handicap ramp being assembled onsite. Still to come is the re-creation of the metal cornice and repair of the historic windows.

It has been a joy to see the school building preserved to become a gathering place for seminars by Northern Kentucky University and local preservationists.

Due to COVID-19, the Newport History Museum is currently closed to the public. If you are interested in learning more, please reach out to Scott Clark at sclark@newportky.gov.

Newport History Museum @ The Southgate Street School Facebook: www.facebook.com/NewportHistoryMuseumattheSouthgateStreetSchool/

As always if you have questions, email bholiday@newportky.gov or call my office at 859-292-3687.

Visit Taqueria Nogal, Home of the KenTaco

By Jeff Richardson

Lidia Domingo-Cinto takes a quick break with some of the fans of Taqueria Nogal, a local favorite.

Taqueria Nogal is our own home-grown, Mexicano-Guatemalteco taqueria. Its co-owners, East Row resident Vale Nogal, and his sister-in-law Lidia Domingo-Cinto (long-time west Newport resident), represent its two central American influences. Vale and Lidia and their extended families have long resided in Newport, with two decades of experience among many family members working with Cincinnati’s best chefs and restaurants. Their children have grown up here and attended Newport schools, and they have themselves gained their own experience at local restaurants including Cincinnati-area Latin American restaurant institution, La Mexicana in Newport.

Taqueria Nogal opened as a food truck in September 2019 in Newport Shopping Center where it operated until July 2020. After negotiating a lease on a new brick-and-mortar location (which will be 524 Sixth Avenue, Dayton KY), the Taqueria moved to the plaza/lot at 614 Sixth Ave. in Dayton pending completion of the new restaurant.

The taqueria serves a fantastically delicious, authentic menu of tacos, burritos, quesadillas, and tortas (sandwiches), with meat options including pastor (pork), asada (beef), pollo (pork), and lengua (tongue). Periodic specialties also include birria (shredded meat slow cooked), chorizo (sausage), chuchitos (Guatemalan tamales), and loaded nachos (nachos de muchas cosas muy bien). Other frequently available sides include elotes loco (Mexican street corn on a stick) and atol de arroz en leche (hot rice milk). Always available are Mexican soft drink “Jarritos” in various flavors.

A particular specialty is the “KenTaco,” which is like a large taco/quesadilla hybrid with your choice of meat. (I named this, though my idea for the KenTaco was a two-pound taco for $16.00. Available on request, I bet!!)

My own personal go-to favorite is the large burrito al pastor (pork) with Lidia's special, cannot-be-matched, salsa verde (“green sauce”). Combined with elotos locos, if on offer that day, and the grapefruit Jarritos.

This warm, all-Newport family will welcome you like their own family. Introduce yourself when you visit. It will be good for you to know each others’ names. You will see one another “una y otra vez” (over and over again) unless you hate Latin American food and nice people!

All cooking is to order, so assume a 10-minute wait. Alternatively, feel free to call in your order to 859-878-6989, or request your order by Facebook Messenger at www.facebook.com/taqueria.nogal.7.

There's Something for Everyone at the Campbell County Public Library

Submitted by Mackenzie Manley, PR Coordinator, Campbell County Public Library

Coming up in February is a Zoom workshop for kids/teens with graphic novelist Shannon Wright, author and illustrator of Twins: A Deeper Dive into Your Car with Mechanic Shop Femme, and The Ancient Olympics with professor Kathleen Quinn, the second installment of the library’s annual Food for Thought lecture series.

Note: You may notice a new format in the program listings. In February, the adult book clubs are moving to a hybrid format. Patrons will have the option to join via Zoom or in-person (with a limit of 10 in attendance for the latter). The clubs will move to Zoom-only if Campbell County is in the red zone for COVID-19.

Check out the array of programs for January and February on the Campbell County Public Library website.

Dolly Parton's Imagination Library Sends a Free Book Every Month to Young Children in Campbell County

The Campbell County Public Library is proud to continue to offer Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library, which mails a free book monthly to enrolled children under age five. The Imagination Library puts hand-selected, age-appropriate, high-quality books into the hands and hearts of children across the world. Families who live in Campbell County can sign up their children, newborn to age 5, online or at all Campbell County Public Library branches. Enrolled children are mailed a new book every month at no cost or obligation to recipients.

The program is made possible thanks to a partnership between the Campbell County Public Library, Campbell County Schools and the independent school districts in Newport, Bellevue, Dayton, and Fort Thomas. For more information, visit https://www.cc-pl.org/imagination-library.

Honor Your Furry Family Members with a Dog Park Brick

By Paula Brandon

Many of Newport’s beloved four-legged friends are honored at our new Dog Park — immortalized on the brick walkway just outside the entrance. Just a few weeks ago, I ordered bricks for my crew, one who is at the rainbow bridge and the others sitting here watching me type. The girl who, as a puppy, was tossed inside the door of the Crazy Fox; the beagle-boy wandering 9th St., determined to find a home; the fierce little terrier with the biggest heart; and the giant moose of a dog who came to us so starved that he tried to eat birdseed and crayons. Their bricks are not installed yet, but I look forward to seeing them with the next batch.

$75 Donation – 4x8 in. brick
$500 Donation – 12x12 in. brick
Visit PolarEngraving.com/NewportDogPark
PayPal or checks accepted

Newport 225 coasters and magnets are also available, locally handcrafted by Studio Vertu.
Coasters - $10
Magnets - $6

Contact Scott Clark at sclark@newportky.gov to order items from the former Fourth Street School.
Thank you for your continued support of the Newport History Museum!

Ever Wonder about the History of Your East Row Home?

The East Row home at 645 Monroe (Frye-Wall House) has second-floor decorative brickwork and an impressive, projected front gable .

Submitted by Jeff Richardson

Editor’s Note: Most of us think of ourselves as caretakers of our well-loved, East Row homes, honored to be part of the fabric of time that makes our neighborhood special. Jeff Richardson has researched and written many house histories over the years for publication in our garden walk and Christmas tour brochures, and we continue to feature some of these histories in The Voice.

History of 645 Monroe (Frye-Wall House):

This circa 1886 Queen Anne home is characterized by decorative brickwork on the second floor façade and an impressive projected front gable. The brick porch, balustrade and front door were likely later additions to the home.

Built as an investment property by Prussian immigrants Elizabeth and Fred Frye, a manufacturing tailor, the home’s initial residents appear to have been the family of Carl M. and Anna (“Nannie”) Feine, immigrants from Saxony (Prussia). Feine was a professor of music and served in the Confederate Army as a musician, enlisted in the 22nd Virginia Infantry by George Smith Patton, General George S. Patton’s grandfather. The Feines lived in the home until his death in 1907. Joseph A. Wall, a waterworks engineer, later purchased the home in 1926 where he lived for more than 40 years until his death in 1967.

The side entrance to the home presents to a two-story staircase with open view from top to bottom. The home features original hardwood floors, transoms, woodwork and windows, with a working gas fireplace in the parlor. The kitchen was remodeled several years ago and is the home’s entertainment hub. The second floor baths were also recently remodeled. A rear “servants” staircase leads from the master bedroom to the kitchen.

The Voice

Editor: Paula Brandon

Send articles to voice@eastrow.org. The editor reserves the right to edit or reject submissions due to length or content.

December 02, 2020

The Voice - December 2020

December 02, 2020/ Paula Brandon

City Update: New Dog Park & New Trails

Submitted by City Manager Tom Fromme

This is an article that I find great pleasure in writing. I’m pleased to announce that alongside the new Dog Park, trails have been cleared nearby that go under I-471 adjacent to the library. Previously this area was approximately four acres of overgrown and litter-strewn land that was an absolute eyesore.

Considering that this work has mostly been done during the ongoing pandemic, it was quite a feat. During the past ten months, the work included removal of trash that had been dumped in the area over the past several decades. Approximately four dump truck loads of garbage were removed, involving countless trips to the dumpsters at the city garage with loads of debris from the area.

Cutting trails through the heavy overgrown brush has been accomplished slowly during these past ten months. Painting over large amounts of graffiti on the concrete overpass, along with moving a large amount of dirt to make a bike trail directly under the overpass, has created an area for our youth to enjoy.

A lot of this work has been done by Newport Police recruits Tyler Hatfield, Jason Samples and James Hauenstein. Several citizen volunteers including Will Gustafson, Zach Newman and Dennis Schaber, under the direction of Police Captain Paul Kunkel, have provided their valuable time and assistance to the cause.

More work is planned, but people in the area are already taking advantage of the trails to walk their dogs, hike, ride bikes, or just walk while we continue working on the trails. This green space and the area under the bridge, along with the sidewalk that encircles the Dog Park, connects Providence Park, 6th Street and hopefully in the future, the Party Source and New Riff lot.

Please enjoy this wonderful area and help us keep the area safe and clean for the enjoyment of everyone.

As always, if you have any questions, please email bholiday@newportky.gov or call the office at 859-292-3687.

Newport’s Online Resources:

City Website: http://www.newportky.gov/
City Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CityofNewportKY/

Newport History Museum @ The Southgate Street School Facebook: www.facebook.com/
NewportHistoryMuseumattheSouthgateStreetSchool/

Thanks for making Newport a great place to live, work, shop, dine and play.

Think Big Shop Small

Submitted by Bev Holiday, NBA Vice President

This holiday season, our Newport Business Association (NBA) is hosting a virtual tour, Think Big Shop Small, to showcase our city’s brick-and-mortar businesses for holiday shopping, dining, entertainment, and more! Step inside Newport’s many venues to see what gift selections and services are available for gift giving this holiday season!

Take time to view the five videos (takes approximately two minutes to view all five) and see a variety of business owners telling their stories: Red Hot Promotions, Mokka and the Sunset Bar and Grill, The Yoga Bar, Pompilio’s, Headquarters Historic Event Center, Seventh Street Gifts, Karmaic Beauty, eat well celebrations and feasts, 828 The Turn Event Venue, York Street Café, Sis’s on Monmouth, Urban Chick Boutique, Costume Gallery, Knit On!, James Noll Law, Jerry’s Jug House, Mazzocca Bros. Furniture & Antiques, Sweet Tooth Candies, Dresser Up Vintage Boutique, and Interactive College of Technology.

Launch the 5 videos (see right column on the video page).

Be sure to check websites and Facebook pages for the featured video businesses to confirm hours of operation and any other details.

A Big THANK YOU to David Dalton and his co-workers at The Think Shop for compiling the vignette of Newport businesses promoting Shopping Local this Christmas Season!

Please note: The NBA videos were made before Governor Beshear’s Executive Order prohibiting inside dining at restaurants and bars/pubs from November 20 through December 13.

A Beary Merry Christmas around the City: Animatronic Bears Have Returned!

Visit mama bear at The Sweet Tooth. (Photo Credit: The Sweet Tooth Candies.)

Our popular animatronic bears are back, brightening Newport’s storefront windows and offering great selfie photo opportunities. A Big Thank You to the following businesses for hosting Christmas bears:

Northern KY Open Box Outlet, 1813 Monmouth Street, Newport Shopping Center
The Baker’s Table, 1004 Monmouth Street
915 Monmouth Studio, 915 Monmouth Street
Monmouth Street Antique Gallery, 822 Monmouth Street
The Think Shop, 811 Monmouth Street
Knit On! 735 Monmouth Street
Heritage Bank, 647 Monmouth (Momma Bear is wearing a face mask!)
Dickey’s Glass, 525 Monmouth Street (A year-round staple with ever-changing attire!)
Mokka and the Sunset Bar and Grill, 500 Monmouth Street
John Nolan Auto Service, 15 East 4th Street
Karmaic Beauty, 737 York Street
Kentucky Furniture, 201 East 10th Street
Sweet Tooth Candies, 125 West 11th Street

What's Cooking in the East Row?

By Paula Brandon

Culinary Farmer Brett Sutton and Chef Dominique Khoury are adding flair and zest to the East Row during the pandemic, making creative, local food products available to our neighborhood. Their artisanal pies were the highlight of many Thanksgiving tables and in September, they created pawpaw ice cream and sorbet, plus delicious angel food cake made from the leftover egg whites. Through notices on our listserv and word of mouth, they quickly sold out of every product.

Brett Sutton and Dominique Khoury kept the home fires baking with EXQUISITE pie creations this thanksgiving.

“Great food starts with great ingredients from the best farmers, millers, distillers, and beekeepers,” says Brett. “During September, we harvested pawpaw fruit in the Cincinnati/Kentucky area from our own trees, local farmers and adjacent native forests. This delicious, native-heritage fruit offers a palate of banana, mango, guava, and pineapple and has an incredibly creamy, custard-like texture.” Thanksgiving’s made-from-scratch pies included Kentucky bourbon butter pecan, spiced honey apple and pumpkin. “We partnered with Scott's Farm in Burlington and incorporated some of the best local butter, honey and bourbon out there,” Brett says.

Brett and Dominique, who got engaged last spring, explain that while the pandemic sparked quite a transition in their lives and roles in the Bay area of California, our area has always been on their radar. Brett is the son of East Row residents, Mike and Kim Sutton.

Dominique is a former sous-chef and traveling sous with Chef Dominique Crenn of three-Michelin-starred Atelier Crenn, and Brett, a culinary farm director (Bleu Belle Farm, Sonoma) for the Crenn Dining Group. In addition, Dominique has experience working for Portside Bakery in Sausalito, where she also created the perfect brioche breads and more for Petit Crenn, San Francisco, for years. Brett has experience baking for Cincinnati's own Blue Oven Bakery and for Avenue Bakery in Bellingham, Washington.

If you missed out on any of the amazing creations of Brett and Dominique, fear not. Rumor has it that sourdough breads may be in our future.

Peluso's Market is a Well-Loved Holiday Tradition

By John Gilliam

Season’s Greetings! Please enjoy this touching and entertaining tribute to one of Newport’s small businesses, written by longtime East Row resident, John Gilliam. This article first appeared on the East Row Foundation’s website, and we’ve updated it for 2020.

From left, peluso’s market is a well-loved landmark on newport’s monmouth street. tom mitts, pictured at top right with his mother, mary, was a well-known, fine artist who captured the essence of northern kentucky and in particular, our east row hom… — From left, peluso’s market is a well-loved landmark on newport’s monmouth street. tom mitts, pictured at top right with his mother, mary, was a well-known, fine artist who captured the essence of northern kentucky and in particular, our east row homes. tom’s christmas tree lot behind peluso’s now belongs to david dennis and is a popular local tradition. Below right are frances and andrea, who along with other family members help keep peluso’s running smoothly.

Peluso's Market is a time-honored treasure of Monmouth Street. It is the place to go for your Christmas trees and bulk candy.

Sherry is running the store these days. She will be glad to fix you a deli sandwich for $2.50. When she doesn't have a customer, she plays gin rummy with her mother Frances. It might not sound like much, but recently when I took a friend there, she burst into tears at the sight of Frances, a spitting image of her beloved grandmother. Frances is actually 92 years old. She started working there when she was 18. That means she has been on the job for 75 years. I asked her son Jerry if she ever gets the day off. What a crazy idea!

The Christmas trees have been sold out back since World War II. Tom Mitts, the well-known artist and house painter had been in charge for a decade, but after his passing his good friend David Dennis took over the Christmas tree lot. Many of you are fortunate enough to know his mother, Mary Mitts, with whom he shared a close bond. She is very pleased that Tom Mitts Christmas Trees will continue on. Dave is taking over one of Newport's best Christmas traditions.

Giovanni Peluso arrived in the United States in the early 1920s. A few years later he made it to Newport and started the market in the middle of the depression. He opened his produce market on the west side of the 700 block of Monmouth St. in 1931, where the former State Theater movie house was located. He had 12 children. His career as a grocer came to an end when he was in a head-on collision with a Green Line bus on the Short Way Bridge.

For those of you keeping score, Jerry, our former mayor, who was once in charge of the Christmas trees, is Giovanni's grandson, Frances's son and Sherry's brother. Jerry is the one you will see out front with a shovel any time it snows. There is another sister, Angie, a self-described good girl. Twice a day for the last ten years of his life, she would deliver a meal to her Uncle Johnny, also a Newport mayor.

Frances's other son, Jimmy, serves us well as our constable. And let us not forget Red, the store cat, whose spirit watches over the store. One glance at him and you knew he too could tell a story or two.

Merry Christmas, everyone!

Gift Ideas Help Us Celebrate Newport

What better way to honor a dog- or cat-loving friend or family member? Another round of bricks will be installed at our new dog park when enough orders have been received for the next section. Let’s get those orders in now to be part of the legacy of our new dog park. Here’s how to order:

$75 Donation – 4x8 in. brick
$500 Donation – 12x12 in. brick
Visit PolarEngraving.com/NewportDogPark
PayPal or checks accepted

Newport 225 Coasters and magnets are also available, locally handcrafted by Studio Vertu.
Coasters - $10
Magnets - $6

Contact Scott Clark at sclark@newportky.gov to order items from the former Fourth Street School.
Thank you for your continued support of the Newport History Museum!

Ever Wonder about the History of Your East Row Home?

Submitted by Jeff Richardson

Editor’s Note: Most of us think of ourselves as caretakers of our well-loved, East Row homes, honored to be part of the fabric of time that makes our neighborhood special. Jeff Richardson has researched and written a number of house histories over the years for publication in our garden walk and Christmas tour brochures, and we plan to feature some of those histories in upcoming issues of The Voice.

History of 635 Overton: This home is one of Newport’s best examples of a patterned masonry Queen Anne style townhouse. The patterned masonry style is an uncommon form, combining traditional Queen Anne elements with expressive brick corbeling, stone and tile work in the porch and main front gables. The house was built in 1887 by Thomas Laurens and Mary Keturah Taylor Jones, daughter of Colonel James Taylor (from whose estate the East Row was developed). The home was initially occupied by the family of James Taylor Jones, their son, a clerk in his uncles’ James Taylor & Sons private banking firm. The house was purchased from another Jones heir in 1902 by William and Della Hamilton and remained in the Hamilton family until 1995.

The house is two-and-one-half stories tall and two bays wide, with a stone stringcourse that separates the first and second floors. It has a projecting full-height gable front bay framed by brick piers. The first and second floors have triple windows with stone sills and lintels topped with stained glass transoms. The upper half story is characterized by an arched, divided window with stone keystone with patterned tiles in the gable. The overall motif is replicated in the piers, arch and gable of the single story entry porch. Also of note is the decorative stone swag in the main façade, which is believed to possibly represent a Jones family emblem (and may have originally been replicated above the porch).

The home was fully restored by the previous owners. The interior is marked by original pine plank floors and custom molding around the doors and windows. The five ornately designed mantels and sconce lighting are also original. The back of the home features exposed brick walls in the kitchen and a delightful garden courtyard. The current owners have updated the second and third floors while attempting to maintain the original character.

The Voice

Editor: Paula Brandon

Send articles to voice@eastrow.org. The editor reserves the right to edit or reject submissions due to length or content.

October 13, 2020

The Voice - October 2020

October 13, 2020/ Paula Brandon

Enjoy Our Safe and Socially Distanced Halloween Celebration

Submitted by City Manager Tom Fromme and Police Chief Chris Fangman

Halloween Celebration - Rain/Shine Event
Saturday, October 31, 6-8 pm
City Building, 998 Monmouth St.
Neighborhood groups and businesses encouraged to participate

Autumn 2020 is descending upon us and with it – Halloween! As parents, we cannot imagine the feelings and emotions our children have encountered throughout this atypical year.

In an effort to keep everyone as safe as possible, while still allowing for our children’s happiness, we are looking forward to hosting a small, socially distanced Halloween event at the City Building. Our Newport Police Department and our Newport Fire Department will have their mascot dogs McGruff and Sparky ready to meet our residents and their children to collect individual bags of candy, while sanitizing their hands and wearing masks. Please note that Halloween masks are not a proper substitute for appropriate COVID-19 masks.

We are encouraging neighborhood groups and businesses to set up tables at the City Building with an advertisement or sign showing community support. Kentucky Public Health guidelines are to be followed as well as these specific rules:

Bring a table with signage.
Have plenty of hand sanitizer on your table.
Have individually packaged candy ready to be picked up by a child.
NO CANDY BAGS WILL BE HANDED OUT, ONLY PICKED UP FROM YOUR TABLE.

Yes, trick or treat procedures will be different this Halloween. However, participating at the City Building will be something for the community to do together. For those interested in setting up a table, please email Captain Paul Kunkel. Please reference the below documents as you make plans for Halloween:

PLEASE NOTE THE FOLLOWING UPDATE TO THIS ARTICLE REGARDING THE AT-HOME TRICK OR TREAT OPTION - NEIGHBORHOOD TRICK OR TREATING, SATURDAY, OCTOBER 31, 6-8 PM:

Please Trick-or-Treat the Safe Way.

Follow social distancing as much as possible.
Stay close to family members. Please do not crowd.
Place individually wrapped candy on table, not in bowls and place table on your porch, driveway, or sidewalk.
Avoid handing candy directly to trick-or-treaters.
Maintain a social distance of a least 6 feet from anyone not within your household.

Remember to always wear a face covering – Halloween masks DO NOT count as a face covering.

Clean hands before and after touching the wrapped candy.
Trick or treat in family groups. Do not congregate in large groups.
Trick or treat in your own neighborhood. Do NOT travel to other neighborhoods.
Use hand sanitizer often, especially after contacting frequently touched surfaces and before eating anything.

As always, if you have any questions, please email bholiday@newportky.gov or call the office at 859-292-3687.

Newport’s Online Resources:

City Website: http://www.newportky.gov/
City Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CityofNewportKY/
Newport History Museum @ The Southgate Street School Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NewportHistoryMuseumattheSouthgateStreetSchool/

Thanks for making Newport a great place to live, work, shop, dine and play.

Newport School Board Election: Be Informed - Don’t Guess!

Submitted by Ed Davis

It’s not that surprising. You are faced with 32 “boxes” on the Newport ballot this year plus 2 constitutional amendments, so knowing everything about everything can be tough. There is some good news, however. Below is the link to a community sourced website dedicated to the Newport School Board election. Given that 79% of our property taxes go to the schools, we all have an important stake, whether we have a child in the schools or not. To learn more about the election including a preview of the actual ballot go to: https://www.vote4newportschools.org.

Fun Fall Programs Underway at Campbell County Public Library - Newport Branch

Curbside Trick or Treat is 6-8 pm Saturday, October 17. Visit the Newport, Cold Spring or Carrico/Fort Thomas branches for curbside trick or treat. (Rain date is October 24.) If patrons do not drive, it is okay to walk. Just be mindful of traffic and social distancing.

Our library is collecting masks in partnership with Coverings for Kids. Schools across the country are working with Covid-19-related precautions and that means many, many masks are needed. Enter Coverings for Kids, a campaign developed by First Lady Britainy Beshear and Lt. Gov. Jacqueline Coleman. The idea is to collect masks at no cost to the schools, an effort to help ensure that no one, regardless of their circumstances or resources, will go unprotected. All four branches of the library (including the Newport branch at 901 E. 6thSt.) are serving as drop-off locations until further notice. Donated masks can be homemade or purchased and in child or adult sizes, which are also suitable for middle and high school students. Masks are divided equally among all public schools in Campbell County. Visit the website to learn more about donating masks.

Our Newport branch is busy with fall programs for children and adults, both in-person and virtual. Yes, Zoom programs are available! Register for online programs at www.cc-pl.org/events, and you will receive an email with the login information on the day of the program. These are live events only offered at the time and date listed. You are not required to have a Zoom account to join. Zoom events include book discussions; helpful resources on topics such as job hunting and remote learning; and timely and interesting programs for adults, children, teens, and families. Visit the website for a list of programs.

Honor Your 4-Legged Furkids with a Dog Park Brick

By Paula Brandon

Step onto the first batch of bricks installed at the Newport Dog Park and the messages will make your heart soar. Tributes to beloved pets, past and present, are not the only sentiments you’ll find, since many bricks honor spirited East Row residents and businesses that have made our historic neighborhood special.

Routine expenses will always be part of the dog park’s upkeep, and the purchase of bricks will help provide needed funds, all while leaving a permanent legacy at the facility. Buying a brick is a great way for petparents to celebrate their four-legged family members or honor a family member or friend’s birthday, anniversary or special occasion.

Bricks are installed when the appropriate number of orders is received for each 12x12 ft. section, with space for a total capacity of 500 bricks. Another round of bricks will be installed when enough orders have been received for the next section, so let’s get our orders in now to be part of the legacy of our new dog park. Here’s how to order:

$75 Donation – 4x8 in. brick
$500 Donation – 12x12 in. brick

Visit PolarEngraving.com/NewportDogPark
PayPal or checks accepted

Reminders: City Services, Leaf Collection and Census

Submitted by Bev Holiday, Community Liaison Coordinator

All city departments are functioning as the City Building remains closed to the public. All departments continue to function including work related to occupation licenses, tax payments, Certificates of Appropriateness (COA), development project requests, sign requests, public works projects, the Newport Forward Comprehensive Plan, and more. Most required applications are available on the city’s website for processing via email or the city lockbox inside the entry doors at 998 Monmouth St. Please note: The next Board of Commissioners meeting is Monday, October 19, at 7 pm via the city’s Facebook page. Meetings of the Board of Commissioners, Board of Adjustments, Planning and Zoning, and Historic Preservation will also be available for viewing on the city’s Facebook page. Please check the city’s website for dates and times of meetings.

Leaf collection is underway. Leaf Collection began the week of October 12 and runs through December with designated days for specific streets each month. Visit the city’s website to view the schedule.

Be sure to take the census. Our Newport census 2020 response currently stands at just 62%. Please help us get the word out through our entire Newport community that the census is of great importance to our funding! For every person missed in the census, the City of Newport and Campbell County loses approximately $2,000, per year for the next 10 years for federally funded projects and services. It Is our legal obligation to submit our information and be counted. The 2020 census will end Saturday, October 31, per the census 2020 updated website at press time. Login to the census website today!

Campbell County Farmers Market Open Saturdays Only Until October 31

You have only until October 31 to enjoy the Campbell County Farmers Market! Located in the city parking lot at 709 Monmouth St., next to the Pepper Pod, the market is open 9 am-12 noon. Here’s what’s in season at the Market: A nice variety of fall produce is available and Chef Amy has fresh-baked cinnamon coffee cake squares, muffins, flat breads and cookies.

Farmers Markets are an essential business in the Commonwealth of Kentucky and COVID-19 safety guidelines are followed. Guidelines include, spaced set-up for farmers, directional instructions for entrance and exit, a hand washing station at the entrance, marked waiting spots to maintain social distancing, and limitations around farmer selling sites.

Reminder: Bring Home Some of Newport’s History

New Riff Community Bourbon Barrel Bottles Available for Purchase: The limited edition 225th anniversary bottles “Proudly Celebrating Our Diverse Past & Making History Every Day” are now available for purchase in the New Riff Distillery Gift Shop at 24 Distillery Way. Thanks to New Riff’s generous donation, a portion of each bottle sold will benefit the 225th Anniversary Celebration of Newport’s History.

Items Available for Purchase:
Terra Cotta Decorative Block - $55
Slate Deli Cheese Board - $28
Oak and Brass Stair Railings - $75

Newport 225 Coasters and magnets are also available, locally handcrafted by Studio Vertu.
Coasters - $10
Magnets - $6

Delivery within Newport will be arranged. Please contact Scott Clark at sclark@newportky.gov for ordering items from the former Fourth Street School. Thank you for your continued support of the Newport History Museum!

The Voice

Editor: Paula Brandon

Send articles to voice@eastrow.org. The editor reserves the right to edit or reject submissions due to length or content.

September 07, 2020

The Voice - September 2020

September 07, 2020/ Paula Brandon

City Update: Growth Continues at a Rapid Pace

Submitted by City Manager Tom Fromme

Although we are in the midst of a severe pandemic, projects and activities in the City of Newport have continued at a rapid pace. Currently we have several economic development and infrastructure projects that are either ongoing or recently completed. The following list is a just a small representation of the many projects underway:

The Academy on Fourth Street: Located on the corner of Fourth and Monmouth Streets, this project has recently been completed. It consists of over 200 apartments ranging in size from single bedroom to three bedrooms. It also has space for commercial use along Monmouth Street.
Ovation project: This project kicked off several months ago with the first phase being a world-class music venue and parking garage. Currently the music venue is nearing completion with a projected opening date at the end of 2020. Discussions are underway regarding start dates for the next component of this phase, which includes a hotel and office building.
Baptist Home project: An adaptive reuse of the former nursing home located on Main Street in Newport’s Clifton neighborhood, this project will contain 42 condominium units with many having a great view of downtown Newport, Covington and Cincinnati.
Newport Racing Facility: This development is located in the Newport Shopping Center located in the 1700 block of Monmouth Street. The total improvement cost exceeds $30 million. When complete, the building will allow patrons to play historic horse racing machines and will also include space for simulcast racing. Nearly 80 full-time employees will be employed, with the projected opening in late 2020.
Newport on the Levee renovation: North American Properties, with headquarters in Cincinnati, purchased Newport on the Levee in 2018. A $100 million renovation is currently underway, with many exciting improvements. Receiving rave reviews is the recently dedicated Bridgeview Box Park.
New Riff Distillery expansion: Work is well underway on this expansion to the West Side campus of New Riff, which allows it to increase its annual distilling and storage of product. New Riff is part of the Kentucky Bourbon Trail and has become a destination point for people who are taking the trail.
Taylor Southgate Bridge Connection to the Newport Flood Wall: This project has recently been completed and is now open for use by pedestrians. As part of the Riverfront Commons walkway that spans from Ludlow to Fort Thomas, the bridge connects pedestrians to additional recreational activities as well as serves as a catalyst for ongoing and future economic development within the Newport region.
Newport Dog Park: Read all about the Newport Dog Park in this issue of The Voice! Located adjacent to the Campbell County Library on Sixth Street, it replaces the older park located at the foot of Providence Drive. The new park is larger in scope and provides spaces for both large and small dogs. It also features a walking area that circles the perimeter of the new park, linking Nelson Place to East Sixth Street. This project relied on the cooperation and partnership with the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet as well as the Campbell County Library. It also involved volunteer efforts of several local residents working hand-in-hand with city staff. At press time, opening date for the dog park is on hold pending the Governor’s COVID pandemic orders.
Ralph Mussman Park: Extensive repairs have been completed at the tennis and basketball courts of Mussman Park. Tennis courts will also be striped to allow pickle ball.
Tree-Damaged Sidewalks & Waters Alley Repair Project: Work has started in the West End of the city and will then proceed to other neighborhoods. All work is projected to be complete by the end of November 2020.

In total, we have more than $1.1 billion in projects currently underway or already completed in addition to the developments mentioned above. Newport is truly a city on the move, and we have not missed a beat due to various setbacks over the past years—including the recession and economic downturn due to COVID-19. We also have many other future developments in various stages in the pipeline. These developments promise to keep us busy and growing for many years to come.

Although these projects are underway and may others to come, we are still wary of what lies ahead. We are severely understaffed due to lack of resources. We also face very large increases in pension-related costs. Demands for service have increased significantly during the COVID pandemic. Our staff has done a remarkable job trying to keep up, but there are inevitable delays due to the sheer volume of service requests.

As year-end draws near, we remain cautiously optimistic that things will return to normal once the outbreak has subsided, and business and other activities will re-open to the public.

Please remember to complete your census form either online or by mail.

As always, if you have any questions, input or comments, please contact my office at 859-292-3687 or by email at jrovno@newportky.gov orbholiday@newportky.gov

Newport Resources:

City Website: http://www.newportky.gov/

City Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CityofNewportKY/

Newport History Museum @ The Southgate Street School Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NewportHistoryMuseumattheSouthgateStreetSchool/

Thanks for making Newport a great place to live, work, shop, dine and play.

Paws for Celebration! Newport Dog Park to Open Soon

Eric Love and Mira walk the perimeter of the dog park, checking out the new amenities and pet-friendly agility features.

By Paula Brandon

After tremendous effort by East Row residents, the gate is about to be unlocked at our Newport Dog Park, the new, off-leash destination created by our community under East Row Historic Foundation leadership. East Row resident, Timothy Appleton, stepped into the role of dog park chairperson two years ago to help reimagine a greatly expanded park and coordinate details of its funding and construction. He and his core team gathered support from the neighborhood, city and business community, overcoming more than a few obstacles along the way.

“Our Newport Dog Park is a true community effort,” says Timothy. “Twice the size of the previous location, it accommodates a separate small-dog area and also includes exercise and agility features for all dogs. We were able to move and re-install the original fence, water fountain and benches to make good use of previous donations.” The new, expanded location is behind the Newport Branch of the Campbell County Library, 901 E. 6th St., an easy walk for everyone in the East Row.

On this once unwieldy, brush-covered hillside, Timothy, Will Gustafson and other volunteers saw potential as they started cleaning up the area several years ago. They enthusiastically pitched in to help the site evolve into a bigger, better dog park with the help of Tom Fromme, city manager, and Larisa Sims, assistant city manager, who engaged in conversations at the state level to secure the property for this new purpose. The City of Newport made important improvements in re-grading the site and installing sidewalk areas.

“It was very generous of the city to help get this done,” Timothy adds. “The nonprofit Newport Foundation, Inc., has provided significant support. Financial sponsorships, brick sales and countless hours of volunteer efforts from mulch spreading to setting railroad ties along the hillside and much more combined to make the new park a reality—and possibly the spark for other new, diverse recreational amenities to come.”

Not all communities are lucky enough to have a dog park. “Looking to the future, we want more shade, and we know we will need to fundraise to pay for water, mulch, landscaping and other maintenance costs,” says Tim. “Look for more opportunities to help support the dog park with the return of popular pup crawls, in addition to ongoing brick sales.”

During dog park construction, Belmont Zeus accompanied Timothy Appleton on most days to oversee the activities and progress. Here he is giving his stamp of approval to the first concrete pads poured at the work site.

Thanks to members of the Newport Dog Park committee for all their efforts! Committee members, in addition to Timothy Appleton, are Bill Mackison, Josh Horn, Elaine Pearl and Madison Farr. When you see our committee members and sponsors, please give them a big thank you for everything they have done for our furkids, pet parents and community!

Platinum Sponsor ($5,000)

East Row Historic District
National Band & Tag Company, International Identification, Inc.

Gold Sponsor ($2,500)

MedVet
Newport on the Levee

It takes a village to create a dog park. volunteers drove bobcats, spread mulch, painted pawprints on dedicated parking spots and much more during construction of the new facility.

Silver Sponsor ($1,000)

Ron and Monica Gardner

Bronze Sponsor ($500)

Jeff and Missy Richardson
Audrey Owczarzak
Tom White
NK Stone

Keep up with the latest happenings on the Newport Dog Park Facebook page.

Dog Park Bricks Honor Beloved East Row Furkids

By Paula Brandon

$75 Donation – 4x8 in. brick
$500 Donation – 12x12 in. brick

Visit PolarEngraving.com/NewportDogPark
PayPal or checks accepted

NBA Hosts Candidates Night September 30

Submitted by Bev Holiday, NBA Vice President

Here’s an opportunity for you to become better acquainted with candidates running for the Newport Commission and Newport Independent School Board. The Newport Business Association (NBA) will host a Candidates Night on Wednesday, September 30, from 6-8:00 pm via NBA Facebook/Zoom.

Newport Commission candidates will be featured from 6-7:00 pm and Newport Independent School Board candidates from 7-8:00 pm.

All participating candidates will answer questions provided to them prior to the forum. This virtual event is hosted by the NBA and co-sponsored by ReNewport, the East Row Historic Foundation and Westside Citizens Coalition. Watch for more information on the East Row listserv.

Visit the Newport Business Association Facebook page.

Reminder: Bring Home Some of Newport’s History

Items Available for Purchase:
Terra Cotta Decorative Block - $55
Slate Deli Cheese Board - $28
Oak and Brass Stair Railings - $75

Newport 225 Coasters and magnets are also available, locally handcrafted by Studio Vertu.
Coasters - $10
Magnets - $6

The Voice

Editor: Paula Brandon

Send articles to voice@eastrow.org. The editor reserves the right to edit or reject submissions due to length or content.

August 09, 2020

The Voice - August 2020

August 09, 2020/ Paula Brandon

City Update

Submitted by City Manager Tom Fromme

While the city building is closed to the public, all meetings of the Board of Commissioners, Board of Adjustments, Planning and Zoning, and Historic Preservation will be available for viewing on the city’s Facebook page listed below. Please check the city’s website for dates and times of meetings.

Applications for occupational licenses, signage, zoning issues, conditional use permits, Certificates of Appropriateness (COA), and more are available on the city’s website. Enter the specific application you seek and you will be directed to the related information and application.

Applications can be processed online or you may place them in one of the lockboxes located inside the city building’s entry doors at 998 Monmouth St.

City employees continue to meet with business and residential owners to ensure development, construction and renovation projects move forward. I am happy to report that more than 30 new businesses have opened during COVID-19! This is a good sign for Newport. Hopefully, delayed ribbon-cutting ceremonies will take place in a couple months.

Your continued support of shopping and dining in the city is greatly appreciated by our business owners. The regulations and guidelines that business owners follow ensure they are able to keep their brick and mortar businesses open during these unprecedented times.

Newport Resources:

City Website: http://www.newportky.gov/

City Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CityofNewportKY/

Sign-up to receive timely city updates, and tune in for the Board of Commissioners meeting on Monday, August 17, 7pm.

Newport History Museum @ The Southgate Street School Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NewportHistoryMuseumattheSouthgateStreetSchool/

As always, if you have any questions, please email bholiday@newportky.gov or call my office at 859-292-3687. Great things are happening in Newport!

Thanks for making Newport a great place to live, work, shop, dine and play.

In Search of the Elusive NEWPORT Brick

Hershell Freeman, longtime brick collector, is pictured here with his derrick brick.

By John Gilliam

Bricks are a big deal — both in Newport and around the world. Our local brick collectors enjoy trading and giving away bricks from their collections. Perhaps you’ve passed by some of the most coveted local bricks in our East Row walkways, alleys, walls, and even in your own backyard, and wondered about the story behind them.

If you look around town for bricks that say NEWPORT, good luck! They are out there, but hard to find.

The first one I saw was in Loveland, Ohio where I met Peggy French, the beloved editor of the International Brick Collectors journal. She gave me a NEWPORT brick and that got me started. There is now on Brown Alley (behind Lexington Av.), a 6' high wall that I built. Another NEWPORT brick is faintly readable right at the end of Brown Alley. Unfortunately, the fading is typical since most NEWPORT bricks have not aged well. If you want to see one in good condition, head to Central Avenue.

Mike Kolb has an excellent NEWPORT brick that he found while digging up a privy for bottles on York St. Mike is an interesting guy with all kinds of talents such as mixing up mortar or shellac to just the right shade. We have something in common. We both broke our pelvis in spectacular fashion, but that’s a story for another day.

John Phelps happened upon a stray NEWPORT brick at his Park Av. house and now he has two of them mortared up near his rooftop. A must see!

Hershell and Nancy Freeman are longtime members of the Brick Collectors. Married for 60 years with a daughter, Jo Ellen, they live on Oak St. and operate Star Building Materials out of Florence. You can actually buy used bricks there. And yes, Hershell has a NEWPORT brick.

I live on the 700 block of Washington Av. these days, with plenty of bricks. The Guatemalan workers up the street made a deal with me: Ladrillos por duraznos. They had the even rarer NPB Co. bricks; I had peaches. All the evidence pointed to the fact that the Newport Pressed Brick Company must have made the NEWPORT bricks.

You can also find DERRICK bricks out there. Some were made in Newport, some in Cincinnati but there is no way to know if a DERRICK brick is actually from Newport.

The former mayor of Newport, Johnny TV Peluso, knew as much as anybody about our town. I asked him where I could find NEWPORT bricks, but I was too late. There had been a whole hillside of them but they were buried by a bulldozer.

As it turns out, the best place for NEWPORT brick spotting is on O'Fallon St. in Bellevue. Young rehabbers Shawn Morris and Holly Campbell have an all NEWPORT sidewalk leading up to their house. It’s best viewed on a wet day.

Back in the day, bricks were big business with at least 12 Newport brick manufacturers, including:

Newport Pressed Brick and Stone Company made the NEWPORT and NPBCo bricks
Frank J Derrick & Co. might have made the Derrick bricks.

As far as we know, the other companies didn't make any marked bricks.

Adam Ebert
Henry Fundchar
Dr. Aug Hembolt
Newport Brick Co. 1906
L'T' Pyle
Bernard Silman
H.C. Spinks Clay Co.
Richard Judkamp
George Tippehauer
Peter Tippenhauer

From left, As far as we know, Shawn Morris and Holly Campbell are the only local residents with an all-NEWPORT brick sidewalk leading up to their home. While excavating an old outhouse, mike kolb found his fine specimen of a Newport brick amidst ot… — From left, As far as we know, Shawn Morris and Holly Campbell are the only local residents with an all-NEWPORT brick sidewalk leading up to their home. While excavating an old outhouse, mike kolb found his fine specimen of a Newport brick amidst other discarded items and John Phelps, far right, installed his Newport bricks into the wall of his home (see brick toward bottom right of photo).

Sanborn Fire Insurance Maps: Finding Your Home's Roots

By Paula Brandon

Living in our historic neighborhood, we of course wonder who and what came before us. Is the half-buried foundation in my backyard a remnant of a stable? Was my home ever a business? Is the extension on the back original to the house? What kind of store existed in that building on the corner? A great place to dive into the past is the Kenton County Public Library, with its Sanborn Fire Insurance Map collection. With a little digging, the library branch at 502 Scott Blvd., Covington can help reveal a fascinating, historical record of your home and its urban surroundings.

Sanborn maps were created for insurance purposes, to document the structures and hazards of urban settings. As a happy coincidence, they can offer you an early snapshot of your neighborhood and your home. Start your search upstairs in the library’s Local History & Genealogy Department where the large-scale, original Sanborn maps of Newport are bound into oversized books. Knowledgeable librarians will point you in the right direction to find the maps you need, to reveal interesting and unexpected details. Snap photos with your cell phone or print out information using the library’s digital map collection. Sanborn maps may look cryptic at first, but the key to deciphering symbols and abbreviations is included. Get ready to have fun and learn something new when you open the Sanborn map books.

Learn more about:

Above, Newport’s 1886 riverfront was bustling with industry and manufacturing, as noted on Sanborn maps. Although many of our street names have changed over the years, once you get acquainted with the maps, they are easy to use. Here we see the structures of the Cincinnati & Newport Iron & Pipe Co. at the foot of Washington St., along with the nearby Moore, Harkness & Bayless Alligator Stove Foundry.

At left, Sanborn Fire Insurance maps can reveal details about your home’s original construction and configuration using abbreviations for windows, bedrooms, porches, businesses, outbuildings, and more.

Reminder: Get Your Certificate of Appropriateness BEFORE Starting Your Project

Submitted by Scott Clark, Historic Preservation Officer and Executive Director, Newport History Museum

Greetings from the Newport Historic Preservation Office and the Newport History Museum! As of this writing, the City of Newport Historic Preservation office is continuing to work without direct contact with the public. This is for the safety of the public and the employees of our city.

We are still accepting COA applications by mail and email, and are available to talk with contractors and citizens by phone or email, so that any outside projects you may have within our historic districts may go forward without interruption.

Please submit your projects to Scott Clark, sclark@newportky.gov or contact Scott at 859-655-6347.

The Newport History Museum at the Southgate Street School has cancelled all planned events and will be using the time to make repairs, establish new displays and clean and prepare to reopen to celebrate Newport's 225th anniversary.

Thanks to the digital age, there are plenty of online resources for virtual tours of museums, historic houses and parks connected with international museums, the National Trust for Historic Places and the National Park Service. Please enjoy these online tours while we are paused for the current situation.

Our historic city has weathered many changes and challenges throughout our 225 years as a vibrant community. We are proudly celebrating our diverse past — and making history every day.

Celebrate Newport’s History

Items Available for Purchase:
Terra Cotta Decorative Block - $55
Slate Deli Cheese Board - $28
Oak and Brass Stair Railings - $75

Newport 225 Coasters and magnets are also available, locally handcrafted by Studio Vertu.
Coasters - $10
Magnets - $6

The Voice

Editor: Paula Brandon

Send articles to voice@eastrow.org. The editor reserves the right to edit or reject submissions due to length or content.

July 04, 2020

The Voice - July

July 04, 2020/ Paula Brandon

Citizens Police Academy Applications Available

Submitted by City Manager Tom Fromme with Chief of Police Christopher Fangman

Over the years, the City of Newport has been proud to conduct a Citizens Police Academy, offering insight into the function of law enforcement within the city. As a former Newport Police Chief, I enjoyed interacting with the citizens of Newport as it was an opportunity to teach interested residents the various functions of the police department.

Starting with this class, we want to offer an opportunity to educate the participants on what our city government has to offer, as well. We are expanding the academy program to include all facets of our city operations and responsibilities. The course syllabus will include the inner workings of everything from the function of my office to all other branches of our city.

Over a 14-week period, a group of up to 15 Newport residents can see our streets and neighborhoods through the eyes of a Newport police officer. They will walk through buildings to identify potential fire safety hazards with Newport fire personnel, have questions answered, gain insight into the operations of the Finance Department, and the list goes on! I promise it will be an exciting experience from which you will receive a certificate, and most importantly, a better idea of how your city government operates and the many obstacles we face on a day-to-day basis.

Our plan is to begin the Fall 2020 Citizens Police Academy on Tuesday, September 15, 2020 with each weekly class lasting from 6 to 9 pm, with pizza and drinks provided at 5:30 pm. As we all know, due to COVID-19 the dates and times are fluid and can change rapidly. It would be optimal to follow the planned dates as stated, however. We will do everything we can to keep our residents and employees safe. With that being said, please understand if changes need to occur due to state mandates and/or other factors. Applications are available on the City of Newport’s Official Website and Facebook page, as well as on the Newport Police Department’s Facebook page. We plan to continue our academies twice a year with fall and spring sessions. If attendance is at capacity, there will be further opportunities!

Speaking for the mayor and Board of Commissioners, we are proud to work with so many great people who identify as public servants. We pride ourselves on working at maximum efficiency and doing all we can for the people we serve to make our city better. This is a great course for those that are interested in how city government operates, especially for the aspiring next generation of city leaders. So, to all of the civic-minded people out there, please join us in this exciting adventure!

If you have any questions, please contact me at 859-292-3637 or email Joy Rovno at jrovno@newportky.gov or Bev Holiday at bholiday@newportky.gov.

Thanks for making Newport a great place to live, work, shop, dine and play.

Urban Magic: The True Story of the East Row Fairy Doors

Rhonda Atkins, our local visual storyteller, routinely documents the countless fairy families that have made themselves at home in newport.

By Paula Brandon with Fan Newport

Walk down any East Row sidewalk, pay careful attention and you are sure to see tiny doorways tucked next to trees, porches, steps and curbs, all leading to the magical homes of our neighborhood fairy families. To learn the details of this unusual migration, The Voice made contact with the fairies’ confidant, Fan Newport. Although Fan has a popular Facebook presence focused on East Row fairy doors, his or her human identity is a closely guarded secret. Years ago, our fairy families needed a human ambassador – and Fan stepped up to help, anonymously.

Here’s what we learned when we interviewed Fan to uncover the story behind our local fairy doors and families.

How did fairy families pick the East Row as their home? Like most humans who live here, fairies love the architecture and history, and enjoy the convenience of nearby shopping and businesses. Many may be surprised to learn that fairies are greatly concerned about climate change and are working diligently to reduce their carbon wing print. Newport is in close proximity to where many are employed, so it’s an ideal location. Oh, and just recently the Newport Levee has reached out to us about locations!

Fairies are very careful about choosing humans to work with to find housing locations. We were lucky to get a recommendation from other fairy services that the local human realtor, Michael Jackson, was a safe contact. After reaching out to him and learning that Newport would be welcoming, we set up the East Row Fairy Relocation Service and Realtor Group. Along with finding homes where small humans live, he has been helpful with locations that may not have small humans but are nonetheless welcoming to fairies.

Have fairies ventured into any other areas of Newport? Fairies have also been moving to the West Side of Newport. Although their contacts are not as strong with West Side families, with the Facebook page and group, we are hoping to add more fairy locations on the West Side. Just for informational purposes, currently fairies are only moving north of 11th St., on the East and West sides of Newport.

When did fairies start moving into the neighborhood? After making contact with Michael Jackson, the first fairy family moved into the location at the East Row Pool and Social Club in 2016. After being so welcomed by neighbors, and especially the small humans, they spread the word and other families started to arrive in the spring of 2017.

Unfortunately, in the early years most of the families were choosing poor locations along the curb. Between the street cleaner and some fairy nonbelievers, many homes were deliberately removed or damaged. In late 2017 and 2018, fairies started finding safer locations at homes with local families on their doorsteps or foundations.

The fairy doors are all so unique and special. Can you describe the process? Since all of the doors are handmade and painted, when we know the interests of the small humans living in the home, we try to cater to their needs. Recently we learned of a family who has the boy type of small human visit in the summer, so we located a fairy family that wanted to live near a boy small human and helped with their move. It was an unusual request because most fairy door requests have been for the girl type of small human.

What do you think of the occasional breakage or disappearance of fairy doors? Other than one true fairy nonbeliever in the neighborhood who removed and disposed of countless doors during the first year, I do not think the damaged or missing doors are by humans that are unwelcoming to the fairies. They are likely the result of normal decay and medium-sized humans being mischievous or just wanting their own fairy family.

Early on when we would learn about missing fairy doors from homes and parks, we were upset, but the small person that often helps with location and building reminded me that there are probably small humans who see them and do not know how to request one or think they can’t afford one, so taking it appears to be the only way to acquire one for themselves. This is the main reason we set up the Fan Newport Facebook page and the Newport Fairy Door Group.

As for decay, we have learned that like most human homes, some materials in the fairy doors hold up better than others. We went through several different types of glue/epoxy before settling on our current choice, which is a fairy secret recipe.

How do you manage to help the fairies move in without being seen by people? Well, the East Row Fairy Relocation Service and Realtor Group scouts locations during daylight hours but the fairies do not move in until dusk, after the small humans are asleep. We have been caught once or twice but work hard to be stealth fairy movers.

Since the East Row has had their fair share of mischievous humans also out during the evening, there are times we have run into the bigger humans watching us, wondering what we are doing. So far we have not been approached.

We know your identity is a well-kept secret. Would our human neighbors be surprised to know who you are? Yes, I’m sure some humans would be surprised to find out, but let’s hope they don’t. To obtain access to various locations, some important figureheads in the East Row had to learn our identity, but we do our best to keep our anonymity. So, if you know, shhhhhh!

What motivates you to stay involved with the “moving in” of East Row fairies? Honestly, it is fun. We enjoy making the doors, helping the East Row Fairy Relocation Service and Realtor Group find locations and, especially, helping the fairies set up house.

We truly enjoy seeing the smaller humans in Newport find our homes. As long as we are welcomed by the humans of Newport, we plan to stay.

Do you believe that there is REAL magic in the East Row? Absolutely, yes!

Newport Business Association Meet & Greet, 7/29

By Bev Holiday, NBA Vice President

The Newport Business Association (NBA) will host a Social Meet & Greet on Wednesday, July 29 from 4 to 6 pm at Hofbrauhaus, 200 East 3rd St. Complimentary hors d'oeuvres will be provided along with a cash bar. The meeting is open to the public.

COVID-19 Update: As concerns about COVID-19 continue and in the interest of public health and safety, we are taking necessary precautions about upcoming scheduled events. It is still highly important to remain vigilant against the spread of infectious diseases. Attendees are asked to wear a mask at this event.

Mission statement: Newport Business Association serves the local businesses through its problem-solving forum, unified voice to policy makers, and through its member support, education and networking.

NewportFORWARD Public Forum

By Larisa Sims, Assistant City Manager

I am not a native of Newport. I’m proud of my hometown, but many times I wonder what it might have been like to be a part of the history of this great city. As an adult, I had a choice where to live, work and raise my family and as I considered my choices, much like many of you, I looked for a place that was safe and affordable, a place that had character and fun activities for all ages, and that valued diversity and the environment…a place in which I could invest my future.

I’m a planner by nature and by trade. I believe you cannot achieve your vision if you don’t have goals – measurable goals – that are realistic and attainable, but not always easy to achieve. These goals must be followed up with strategy and action, and collaboration with those who have the same goals in mind.

If you’re like me, if you are invested and care about your community, these things I’ve outlined are the same reasons that you should participate in the NewportFORWARD Comprehensive Planning Process. Below are listed the draft goal statements for the city’s plan update. Please take some time and give us your feedback. Are these your values? As residents and business owners, do you have different ideas on what we should accomplish together? TELL US!

You can participate by visiting our online public forum at https://stories.opengov.com/newportky/published/5JEDK2NSE to review and comment on the entire list of draft goals and objectives for the city’s future plan, or simply email me your thoughts at cityofnewport@newportky.gov. Thank you for your time and your voice.

NewportFORWARD Draft Goal Statements:

Strong Vibrant Neighborhoods: Newport’s neighborhoods are part of our unique identity. A system of strong, vibrant neighborhoods with a variety of housing options and quality of life amenities is the foundation to retaining existing residents and attracting newcomers.

Meaningful Connections: Newport will be a strong community that takes pride in its history, appreciates and celebrates the many cultures that make up our community, and maintains our diversity through frequent dialog and interactions. We aspire to retain the individual identities of our neighborhoods and business districts AND establish a cohesive and unified identity for Newport in a way that enhances our sense of community. Preserve and restore historic places, landmarks and architecture.

Economic Prosperity and Resilience: Newport’s economy will be a balance of vibrant retail districts with lively music venues for local and regional visitors, and office/commercial areas that are home to contemporary jobs that provide a living wage for residents and a solid tax base for the community. Maintain and strengthen attractive and vibrant business districts.

Well-Connected, Multi-Modal Transportation Network: Newport will have and maintain a well-connected and safe multi-modal transportation network that increases people’s ability to reach destinations that can influence their health and well-being. Such a network is characterized by accessible and seamless bicycle and pedestrian infrastructure, direct routing for cars and trucks, and few physical barriers. Improve and maintain infrastructure so residents of all ages can move easily throughout Newport.

Sustainable Environment: Newport values the numerous contributions that natural resources make to human well-being, and recognizes the importance of protecting and enhancing the natural environment. We will conserve and manage our natural resources in a sustainable manner to ensure their long-term health. Protect and enhance our natural resources including the Ohio and Licking Rivers, hillsides, and urban tree canopy (e.g. Increase tree canopy throughout all areas of the city.)

Healthy Community: Newport will offer a high quality of life and a community that fosters healthy and active lifestyles by utilizing its valuable open space assets to gather, exercise, recreate, and provide local food sources.

Good Government: Newport will continue to provide effective local governance in order to foster an overall high quality of life for our citizens. Good governance is characterized as being accessible, open, and fiscally responsible; continually looking for ways to improve and collaborate for the benefit of the community.

Campbell County Libraries are OPEN!

By Kiki Dreyer Burke

The Campbell County Public Library opened to the public on Monday, June 15. Hours at all four of our branches are 11 am–7 pm Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays and 1-5 pm on Saturdays. Hours for at-risk patrons are suggested from 11 am – noon Monday, Wednesday and Friday.

All library branches – Cold Spring, Alexandria, Carrico/Fort Thomas and Newport – will continue to offer and encourage the use of curbside services for quick pick up of library holds. Patrons are asked to limit their visits to one hour so the library can accommodate as many visitors as possible while maintaining occupancy recommendations. Computer use is limited to one hour, but reservations may be made online at www.cc-pl.org/coronavirus or by calling the preferred branch. Printing/scanning, faxing, and document shredding services are also available.

Meeting and study rooms are currently unavailable for public use. These rooms are being used to quarantine returned materials and to store furniture removed to meet social distancing guidelines. No fines for overdue materials are being assessed since quarantined items are held for four days before patron accounts are cleared.

All staff will be wearing masks and plexiglass shields have been installed at information and patron services desks. Keeping our staff and patrons safe while providing the services our community expects is our top priority. For more information on what services will be offered and other safety precautions, visit www.cc-pl.org/coronavirus.

Fundraising Efforts Underway

By Scott Clark, Historic Preservation Officer and Newport History Museum Executive Director

New Riff Community Bourbon Barrel Bottles Available for Purchase: The limited edition 225th anniversary bottles “Proudly Celebrating Our Diverse Past & Making History Every Day” are now available for purchase in the New Riff Distillery Gift Shop at 24 Distillery Way. Thanks to New Riff’s generous donation, a portion of each bottle sold will benefit the 225th Anniversary Celebration of Newport’s History.

Own a Piece of Newport History: The Newport History Museum @ The Southgate Street School is offering for purchase a limited supply of architectural pieces from the former 1936 Fourth Street School. All proceeds from the sale will benefit the promotion and interpretation of the 225-year history of the City of Newport.

Items Available for Purchase:
Terra Cotta Decorative Block - $55
Slate Deli Cheese Board - $28
Oak and Brass Stair Railings - $75

Newport 225 Coasters and magnets are also available, locally handcrafted by Studio Vertu.
Coasters - $10
Magnets - $6

The Voice

Editor: Paula Brandon

Send articles to voice@eastrow.org. The editor reserves the right to edit or reject submissions due to length or content.

June 04, 2020

The Voice - June 2020

June 04, 2020/ Paula Brandon

City of Newport Update

Submitted by City Manager Tom Fromme

This is a new update that I wanted to provide to include some insight into the operations of the city during the COVID-19 outbreak. I will also address a few questions that have been posed on the East Row listserv.

Since many businesses have been forced to close, we realize that we will have a significant impact to our revenues, particularly a reduction in payroll taxes. Due to the timing of closures, we will not be able to get a clear reading of the impact until well after the current fiscal year which ends on June 30. Since we are currently formulating the 2021 budget, we will have to rely on our best guesstimate moving forward.

As previously reported, City Hall is still closed to visitors. We strive to assure that vital city services have been minimally impacted, especially public safety and public works. All other services are also being provided such as code enforcement, permits and historic preservation COAs. We are still doing street cleaning as well, but are not issuing parking tickets if you cannot move your vehicle.

While some public safety calls have decreased, other calls have increased. All city projects are still moving forward such as street and sidewalk repairs. We are also readying a drainage project at 16th and Monmouth streets. The city has recently experienced an uptick in water main breaks. At the end of February, the Northern Kentucky Water District took on a major rehab to the Memorial Parkway plant. The change in the system caused significant fluctuations in water pressure, resulting in several breaks due to weak spots in the pipes. Steps have been taken to remedy this as much as possible until the plant is reopened.

Newport in general has responded well to the inconveniences that have occurred during the COVID-19 outbreak. Without doubt, these closures have greatly reduced potential virus outbreaks. Unfortunately, it will take a while to get back to normal once everything comes back online. The Veterans Pool will not open this year and several festivals, particularly Italianfest, have been cancelled. Taste of Newport is being postponed and reimagined for 2020. Once restaurants and other businesses reopen, social distancing will need to be practiced. Please stay tuned for any future cancellations or postponements that may occur. These will be communicated through our website, email, social media and Facebook sites.

In the end, we will come through this period and keep moving forward. When businesses do reopen, it is imperative that we all support our local businesses. The local small businesses are the backbone of our city and will need our continued patronage.

The following information is being provided for questions that we have received over the past few weeks.

We plan on City Hall reopening shortly after July 4. Several modifications and precautions need to be implemented, and we are working toward their implementation.
The Dog Park along with other recreational facilities remain closed due to state directives. Currently the state has issued directives that do not allow more than 10 people in a social setting. We are not in any position to monitor or enforce this rule. On July 1, this rule is being expanded to groups up to 50 as long as other appropriate measures are in place. Fencing for the old park is being removed prior to that date.
There have been requests to sweep the alleys. Most alleys are not wide enough to accommodate the 12-ft. necessary for our sweepers. In addition, the repair and repavement of alleyways is beyond the financial capability of the city. This is the reason we are relegated to a constant cycle of simply filling in potholes. While most residents feel that city property taxes are high, that simply is not the case. In a typical year, we receive less than $2.2 million in revenue from property taxes, including commercial property. Our Public Works budget alone is approximately $2.8 million annually. Since the city does not impose assessments for streets and curbs, you can easily see that there is not enough money to take on any other projects. Most people, including myself, do not want to pay more taxes. With that in mind, if there is sufficient interest in the restoration of the alleyways, then we must embrace assessments on abutting property owners. I would be more than willing to attend neighborhood meetings to explain how this process works.

Census Reminder

In closing, I again want to reiterate the need for everyone to fill out their census information either online or by mail. We are still lagging behind most other local communities by a large margin. This truly has a very negative impact on federal funding for our city, and we have no one to blame but ourselves. This will be evident in the allocation of COVID relief funding. This funding will be allocated based on a community’s most recent census data. Our current city allocation is based on a population of 15,000 residents. We feel this is definitely an under-representation of the city’s current population base.

As always, if you have any questions, input or comments, please call my office at 859-292-3687 or send an email to jrovno@newportky.gov or bholiday@newportky.gov. You can also ask me any questions as I am out walking our dog from time to time. Our elected board members are also more than happy to address questions as well.

Take care of yourselves! Soon we will emerge better from the lessons learned.

Great things are happening in Newport! Thanks for your efforts to continue to make Newport a great place to live, work, shop, dine and play.

Tree Down, Man Up!

By John Gilliam

john Phelps knows his way around bricks and stone, and as a bonus, he’s a regular on scaffolding.

I well remember the evening of April 8th. I was heading home over the bridge when the sky suddenly darkened and the wind picked up. By the time I got home it was a major storm.

The next morning revealed how bad it was. A giant tulip tree lay across Overton at 8th St. It had flattened an SUV, blown a transformer and worst of all, severely damaged the brick front of two houses.

One homeowner knew who she was going to call: John Phelps, the East Row’s Tom Builder from The Pillars of the Earth. And this is where this story actually begins.

John is a carpenter and mason who shares the house at 637 Park with Jeanette Rosing. They have a lovely garden and the house is totally renovated. But I have long been drawn to the backyard where John's skill and ingenuity with bricks and stone are showcased.

John is a regular on scaffolding. More impressive, he is a rigger who sets up shows while suspended up to 100 feet above the stage.

Sunday mornings see him at church in Mason. As a campanologist (grab your dictionary!), he has been in the bell choir for 40 years. Not as easy as it sounds. He rings the bells of the lowest octave. The C bell alone weighs 28 pounds. Big bells indeed!

For relaxation, John likes to build model tanks. Only Sherman tanks, thank you. Each one is slightly different. He's been doing that since childhood.

Back on Overton, the trickiest part was repairing, replacing and rearranging the quoins – masonry blocks that go up the corner of the home. Most East Row homeowners recognize that they are caretakers of these old buildings, respecting their integrity and preserving them for future generations. No one knows this better than John, who makes his own mortar using Newport sand, same as the craftsmen of 100+ years ago. His repairs are seamless. The scaffold is still up, but other than that, you cannot tell John was ever there.

No one has been more grateful for John’s expertise than Christina Anderson, whose tree-damaged, historical and much-loved home is being put back together.

christina anderson checked out the storm’s shocking aftermath at daybreak the following morning. Her house is pictured on the far right of the above photo, just beyond the massive tree roots.

Before Starting Your Project, Be Sure to Submit Your COA Application

Submitted by Scott Clark, Historic Preservation Officer and Executive Director, Newport History Museum

Please submit your projects to Scott Clark, sclark@newportky.gov or contact Scott at 859-655-6347.

Our historic city has weathered many changes and challenges throughout our 225 years as a vibrant community. We are proudly celebrating our diverse past — and making history every day.

Farmers Market Opens Saturday, June 20

Submitted by Bev Holiday, Community Liaison Coordinator

The Campbell County Farmers Market will be returning to Newport on Saturday, June 20 at 9 am to 12 noon! You’ll find the Farmers Market in the 700 block of Monmouth, in the city parking lot adjacent to the Pepper Pod Restaurant.

Farmers Markets are an essential business in the Commonwealth of Kentucky. COVID-19 Safety Guidelines will be followed. Guidelines include spaced set-up for farmers, directional instructions for entrance and exit, hand washing station at entrance area, marked waiting spots to maintain social distancing, and limitations per farmer selling sites.

Campbell County farmers bring their produce straight from their fields and valleys directly to Newport. Their livelihoods are supported by providing fresh produce for your summer recipes. They have been providing simple, safe, good food long before it was a trend!

A request for 2-3 volunteers would be quite helpful during the first couple Saturdays to assist with the new guidelines. The time needed would be 8:45 am to 11:30 am. This time period can be divided into shifts, depending on your availability. If you are interested in being a volunteer, please send me an email: bholiday@newportky.gov.

Your continued support will be greatly appreciated. Watch for details on available produce on Saturday, June 20!

Scarecorona collage.png — Scaring the Corona Out of Newport

Have you seen the scarecoronas in the East Row? In the tradition of the scarecrows of old, they are shooing away the pests — in this case, COVID-19. Look around the neighborhood and you’ll see many more. Stay safe everyone!

The Voice

Editor: Paula Brandon

Send articles to voice@eastrow.org. The editor reserves the right to edit or reject submissions due to length or content.

May 04, 2020

The Voice - May 2020

May 04, 2020/ Paula Brandon

City of Newport Update

Submitted by City Manager Tom Fromme

I want to provide a brief update and some insight into city operations during the COVID-19 outbreak.

2021 Budget
Since many businesses have been forced to close, we realize we will have a significant impact to our revenues, particularly a reduction in payroll taxes. Due to the timing of closures, we will not be able to get a clear reading of the impact until well after the current fiscal year which ‪ends on June 30. Since we are currently formulating the 2021 budget (July 1-June 30, 2021), we will have to rely on our best guesstimate moving forward.

City Services
Although City Hall is closed to visitors, we want to assure everyone that city services have been minimally impacted, especially public safety and public works. All other services are also being provided such as code enforcement, permits, licensing, and historic preservation certificates of appropriateness. We are still performing street cleaning services on assigned days, but are not issuing parking tickets if you cannot move your vehicles.

While some public safety calls have decreased, other calls have increased. All city projects are moving forward such as street and sidewalk repairs. We are also readying a drainage project at 16th and Monmouth. For yet-to-be-determined reasons, we have experienced huge increases in broken water mains at several locations. The pedestrian bridges are being set in place, connecting the Levee to the Taylor Southgate Bridge. Monmouth Street sidewalk improvements will soon be starting again.

Comprehensive Plan
Progress continues for our Comprehensive Plan update and we will be transitioning our typical public meetings to virtual platforms, moving forward. The Steering Committee is refining the plan's priority topics, developing goals and objectives, and asking for the first round of community input. The NewportFORWARD public input survey is now open and available, and is also linked to the city’s website and Facebook page. Deadline for input is Monday, May 11.

COVID-19-related Cancellations
Newport in general has responded very well to the inconveniences of the COVID-19 pandemic. Without a doubt, closures have greatly reduced potential virus outbreaks. Unfortunately, it will take a while to get back to normal once everything comes back online and at this point, it appears the Veterans pool will not open this year. The Memorial Day Parade has been cancelled and several festivals including Italianfest and Taste of Newport are being postponed and will likely be cancelled for 2020. Once restaurants and other businesses reopen, social distancing will still need to be practiced. Please stay tuned for any additional cancellations or postponements, which will be communicated through our website, email, local media sources, and Facebook sites.

In the end we will come through this period and keep moving forward. When things reopen, it is imperative that we all support our local businesses. The local small businesses are the backbone of our city and will need our patronage.

Census Reminder
In closing, I want to reiterate the need for everyone to complete their census information either online or by mail. We are lagging behind most other local communities by a large margin. This truly has a very negative impact on federal funding for our city. We have no one to blame but ourselves.

As always if you have any questions, email jrovno@newportky.gov or bholiday@newportky.gov.

Take care and thanks for staying healthy at home and practicing social distancing.

Great things are happening in Newport! Thanks for your efforts to continue to make Newport a great place to live, work, shop, and play.

At Home in the East Row with Novelist Jack Kerley

Jack Kerley’s psychological thrillers have been translated into 10 languages and are in 20+ countries.

By Paula Brandon

During the monotony of quarantine, you may be inspired to pick up a book to escape the current boundaries of life. If you are drawn to psychological thrillers, one of Jack Kerley’s acclaimed novels may be just what you need. His work follows fictional characters Carson Ryder and Harry Nautilus – Mobile, Alabama, homicide detectives – through a series of 13 books as they track down various deranged killers.

If you believe two hardened detectives slogging through the Alabama swamplands are far removed from life in the East Row, think again. Jack and his wife, Elaine, have been at home here since 1981 when they moved in and became part of our neighborhood’s pioneering force for change. They and other residents formed NEWPAC (Newport Political Action Committee) to push back against inappropriate development, invasive highway ramps and a legacy of Newport crime to lift our historic neighborhood up to its current status. Jack wrote NEWPAC’s fliers. During that time, he was working as an advertising writer and producer, but in the late ‘90s, after 25 years in the business, Elaine urged him to walk away to write the novel he was always talking about, and so he did.

“I’ve always been inspired by large bodies of water,” Jack explains and while Newport is not the setting for any of his literary crime sprees, his walks along the Ohio River provided plenty of time and inspiration for plotting and character development. “My parents had a getaway cottage on Mobile Bay,” he adds. “With wild storms rolling through, plus extreme heat and humidity, the weather became one of the characters in my books.” In addition to the Gulf Coast, Jack, Elaine and their son and daughter, John and Amanda, have enjoyed their Kentucky cabin in the Red River Gorge. In fact, the Gorge became a fictional crime scene in another of his books, Buried Alive.

The Hundredth Man, Jack’s first Carson Ryder novel, was published in 2004 to rave reviews that compared him to Thomas Harris and Patricia Cornwell. Thanks to his internationally connected publisher, HarperCollins UK, his novels are popular around the world and especially in the UK and Australia. He released 13 books spanning 2004-17 and his novels have been translated into 10 languages and are in 20+ countries. In 2010, Jack’s book, The Death Collectors was voted “Best Foreign Mystery of the Decade” in Japan.

Moving to Newport in ’81 was a homecoming. “I grew up here until age 13,” Jack says. “My family lived on Joyce Avenue at the time.” Inspired by books he read during his youth and a lifelong interest in psychology and dysfunctional minds, Jack’s books took shape and spilled out in rapid succession. Certainly, Newport has a rich, notorious history featuring many memorable characters, but none are more interesting than those that have sprung from the keyboard of Jack Kerley.

Newport Census 2020 - Everybody Counts!

Census Partnership Web Badges_1A_v1.8_12.10.2018.jpg

Submitted by Assistant City Manager Larisa Sims

Approximately 50% of Newport residents have completed and submitted the Census 2020 questionnaire. This information is critical for Newport, Campbell County and the Commonwealth of Kentucky. If you have been affected by COVID-19 and have completed an application for unemployment, SBA loan program, Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) or the city’s Business Financial Assistance application requesting funding for you or your business, Census 2020 needs your information – NOW!

Federal Fund allocations are based on census information. The questionnaire will take less than 10 minutes to complete. Census 2020 needs your information to continue funding much-needed services in Newport. You are the benefactor! Thanks to everyone who has already responded.

Reminder: For every person missed in the census, the City of Newport and Campbell County lose approximately $2,000, per year for the next 10 years impacting federally funded projects and services. Your response is so important because it directly impacts the City of Newport's access to billions of dollars in federal funds for schools, roads, and other public services.

Completing the census is fast and easy.

Log on to the census website at https://my2020census.gov/

o Click “Start Questionnaire” and answer the questions.

o You will be asked to verify your address.

o You will also be asked if you own or rent your home.

Then, you’ll enter the names, age and race of the people who live in your home.

Hit submit!

You must complete your questionnaire once you begin. If you leave the questionnaire and return later, you will have to start over.

If you do not respond, you will receive a paper survey you can fill out and return by mail. You can also complete your survey by phone.

The Stadium Inn Revealed

By Brian Malone

Most of us in the East Row live in homes that are more than 100 years old. If you’ve researched the history of your home, maybe you’ve uncovered a colorful story or interesting personality. I began digging into the story of our house several years ago with searches of the Williams City Directories and a Newspapers.com search. Pretty quickly I discovered that at least six people have died in our house (see Nov. 2016 Voice article). This isn’t surprising given that our home is 125 years old and contained a rental unit until we purchased it.

The second owners of our house were the Offenbachers. Their unique name turned up often in Google, Facebook and newspaper searches. Through pure coincidence, I discovered that a long-time friend of mine is related to the Offenbacher family. They were able to find some photos that shed light on a strange bit of Newport history, yet perhaps poses more questions.

clockwise from top left, Wilbert and Elsie Offenbacher on the porch of 822 Park Av., July 16, 1928; Inside The Stadium Inn, Eddie and Marie Offenbacher, around 1940; and from left, Eddie, William, Anna, and George Offenbacher in front of 1026 Vine S… — clockwise from top left, Wilbert and Elsie Offenbacher on the porch of 822 Park Av., July 16, 1928; Inside The Stadium Inn, Eddie and Marie Offenbacher, around 1940; and from left, Eddie, William, Anna, and George Offenbacher in front of 1026 Vine St. in 1918.

The Offenbachers moved to our address, 822 Park Av. from 1026 Vine St. around 1923. Parents William and Anna owned the house and son Edwin (Eddie), his wife Marie, and their children Wilbert, Elsie, and Shirley rented. Eddie's family moved around 1938 to 538 Linden and opened a bar/restaurant called the Stadium Inn at 901 E. 6th at the northeast corner of Oak and 6th, where the Campbell County Library now stands. In true Newport fashion for the era, the Stadium Inn had a slot machine even though Eddie was a former police officer. The establishment operated from 1939 to around 1959 when the building was sold, demolished and the land developed to build an A&P grocery. That building later became the I-471 Antique Mall and was razed in 2003 for the new library construction.

Here’s where things get weird… Several folks remember the nooses being on display in the Inn from the executions of Scott Jackson and Alonzo Walling for the murder of Pearl Bryan in 1896. If you're not familiar with this creepy bit of Newport history, it was one of the biggest stories of the era and led to the executions (the last in Campbell County) of Jackson and Walling by hanging, behind the Newport Courthouse. There is documentation that the nooses (which were color coded) had been on display in the basement of the Campbell County Courthouse in the 1910s along with other artifacts from the trial and execution. Eddie Offenbacher was chief of the Campbell County Police from 1934-1938 so it would stand to reason that he might have had access to these artifacts. Stranger still is the fact that both Eddie and his father eventually took their own lives by hanging. The whereabouts of the nooses are unknown today.

This slightly macabre story highlights the rich history of our neighborhood and our own homes. The Offenbachers were just one of many families to reside here before us and their lives are part of the fabric of Newport to this day. What stories will your house tell?

Emergency Business Assistance

The Newport Board of Commissioners approved the implementation of an Emergency Business Assistance Program in response to small businesses impacted during the COVID-19 crisis. The City of Newport’s Emergency Business Assistance Program is offering incentives of up to $500 a month that small business owners and operators can use for rent, lease or mortgage payments during the business closures ordered due to the virus. In anticipation of necessary approvals, and to streamline applications as much as possible, the city has been accepting pre-applications for the program. Learn more about the program’s details. To view the Special Call meeting that was held on April 27 visit the city’s Facebook page. The deadline to apply is Friday, May 22.

Dog Park Update

The Dog Park Committee would like to thank the volunteers who have come out to help lay 4x4s and spread a massive amount of mulch throughout the property, as well as those who have provided other support to the project. Tim Appleton, Bill Mackison, and Corey Siddall were recently spotted driving bobcats at the site. If you haven’t walked past lately, enjoy a sidewalk stroll around the new dog park located right behind the library!

Stay tuned for more opportunities to get involved. Please purchase your BRICK today! It’s a great way to have your family name, business or pet represented at the beautiful entrance of the park.

Find more details on the Newport East Row Dog Park Facebook page.

Amnesty for All! Fines and Fees Waived at Your Local Public Library

The boards of trustees of all four Northern Kentucky public libraries -- Boone, Campbell, Grant and Kenton counties -- voted at their April board meetings to provide “Amnesty for All” and waive all fines and fees for all library patrons. This amnesty offer includes charges for lost or damaged items assessed prior to March 14, 2020 when area libraries closed to protect the health and safety of staff and patrons. Patrons do not need to come to the library to clear their accounts.

Dave Schroeder, director of the Kenton County Public Library, said waiving fines and fees allows people to use all of the library’s services at a time when they need the library the most. Items currently checked out are expected to be returned to the respective libraries so that others may use the materials. Overdue fees for returned items will not be charged until the libraries fully reopen.

“People have been through a lot and we want to make it as easy as possible for our patrons to use their library again,” said JC Morgan, director of the Campbell County Public Library. “Amnesty for All wipes the slate clean and provides a fresh start. This is especially important for people who have suffered through this pandemic.”

The Voice

Editor: Paula Brandon

Send articles to voice@eastrow.org. The editor reserves the right to edit or reject submissions due to length or content.

May 03, 2020

The Voice - April 2020

May 03, 2020/ Paula Brandon

City of Newport Public Notice

Submitted by City Manager Tom Fromme

Until further notice, the City Building at 10th and Monmouth is closed to the general public. Drop boxes for payments and permit applications are available on the first floor at both main entrances, (glass doors at front and rear).

The following provisions are in effect:

City staff will be accepting Building, Zoning and Historic Preservation permit applications by email, fax, regular mail or drop box. Please call 859-292-3637 or email Allyson Schaefer or Joy Rovno or 859-292-3687 with any questions.
The Finance Department staff will be available via email or phone at 859-292-3660 for issues concerning property tax, payroll tax, business tax or any finance matters.
All public meetings/hearings before the Planning Commission, Board of Adjustment, Historic Preservation Commission and Code Enforcement Board shall be postponed until further notice. As conditions change, alterations may be made to city operations without prior notice. Any changes will be distributed through www.newportky.gov, our Newport Facebook page (CityofNewportKY), the neighborhood list serves, and posted at the city building.
Acceptance of passport applications has been suspended until further notice. Please check the US Dept of State website for locations to apply and call ahead to confirm they are open.

These procedures are being instituted to assure that critical city services will continue without interruption. We believe that this public health emergency will be brought under control much sooner if the advice of public health officials is being followed by residents and businesses.

Our emergency services will continue to operate during this period. Some reports may be taken by the Police Department by phone.

Thank you for your patience and understanding and for making Newport a Great place to Live, Work, Shop & Play!

The McIlvains, Immortalized on Overton St.

overlooking a quiet east row corner, Anne McIlvain is frozen in time as she admires a garden flower.

Forever captured in stained glass, the women of 301 Overton St. have some tales to tell – including stories involving marriage, money, family relationships, and litigation. The impressive Queen Anne now occupied by Jim Price was built by Thomas McIlvain, partner in the McIlvain & Spiegel Boiler & Tank Co. of Cincinnati, who also built two stone “sister houses” on E. 3rd St. adjacent to the Taylor Mansion. He built the house next door at 305 Overton for his secretary, and McIlvain Alley between Overton and Park is named for him.

Constructed in 1889, the house at 301 Overton features numerous stained glass windows. Two of those windows depict the home’s first female residents. Anne was the original lady of the house, and the other window immortalizes her daughter Clara, who was 17 when the house was built.

You won’t find a window depicting Catherine McIlvain, however. Anne died in 1895 and Thomas then married Catherine, his niece (his sister’s daughter), in a Tennessee ceremony. They later moved to Florida for his health and he died there in 1897. Catherine ended up rejecting his will which allowed for “a sufficient sum for my wife” in favor of claiming her full dower rights as his widow, which would have included his entire estate valued at about $200,000, or about $6.25M today.

Ultimately, the legal debate focused on the validity of Thomas and Catherine’s marriage since they were uncle/niece, and the ultimate decision, which went all the way to the Kentucky Supreme Court, took years to litigate. Read more about the legal entanglements of this case. (Spoiler alert: Catherine McIlvain lost her bid for the entire estate, but was deemed entitled to the support mentioned in Thomas’ will, involving an amount said to be “suited to her station in life.” The case was decided in 1917, 20 years after Thomas’ death. Meanwhile, as you can see, Anne is still the lady of the house.

Does your East Row home have an interesting or unusual story? Let us know so The Voice can feature it in an upcoming issue.

Take the 2020 Census Now!

You should have received your 2020 Census Invitation to Respond mailer. Please take time to fill it out now! If you are homeschooling your kids, have them assist you with the completion of the questionnaire and maybe it can count as an extracurricular assignment!

Did you know that for every person missed in the census, the City of Newport and Campbell County loses approximately $2,000, per year for the next 10 years for federally funded projects and services? Your response is so important because it directly impacts the City of Newport's access to billions of dollars in federal funds for schools, roads and other public services.

The 2020 census questionnaire takes about 10 minutes to complete, in three easy steps. Thanks to everyone who has already responded!

Logon to the census website at https://my2020census.gov/.

Click Start Questionnaire and answer the questions.

You will be asked to verify your address.
You will be asked if you own or rent your home.
Then, you will enter the names, age and race of the people who live in your home.

Click Submit!

Please note: The process is safe, secure, and confidential. Your information and privacy are protected.

You must complete your questionnaire once you begin. If you leave the questionnaire and return later, you will have to start over.

If you do not respond by April 1, you will receive a paper survey you can fill out and drop in the mail. You can also complete your survey by phone.

Results from the 2020 Census will be used to determine the number of seats each state has in Congress and your political representation at all levels of government. Please complete the census today.

Rumpke Update: Newport Trash and Recycle Pickup Days Remain the Same

The Rumple family has a 90-year history serving our communities. Now more than ever, teamwork is needed to help combat the spread of illness. Rumpke is taking additional steps to ensure the safety of its team members and customers, and there are a few ways we can help.

What You Can Do:

Bag all your trash. This reduces employee exposure to items such as used tissues and other personal hygiene products.
Continue to place loose recycling items in your bin. Ensure you only place the correct items in your recycling container.
- Remember that items such as trash bags and grocery bags, tissues, napkins and paper cups are not accepted.
Properly dispose of medical sharps. Medical sharps used to administer medication to individuals or pets should be placed in a rigid plastic container, clearly marked “Sharps,” sealed shut and placed in trash.
Place trash at the curb/alley the night before scheduled service.

What Rumpke is Doing: Rumpke is closely monitoring the rapidly changing public health environment and following sanitary protocols recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), as well as OSHA.

Employees have been instructed to follow CDC recommendations regarding proper hand washing and sanitization.
The safety team is reinforcing that field employees including drivers, landfill and recycling team members continue to wear required personal protective equipment, including gloves and protective eyewear.

Please note: Rumpke is experiencing a higher volume of phone calls. If you have questions, please consider contacting Rumpke Customer Service via email at www.Rumpke.com or through a Facebook private message.

For additional information about Rumpke services, please visit: https://www.rumpke.com/newsroom/article/2020/03/13/coronavirus-update-from-rumpke

From the Newport Historic Preservation Office: COA Applications Still Accepted

Greetings from the Newport Historic Preservation Office and the Newport History Museum. As of this writing, the City of Newport Historic Preservation office is continuing to work without direct contact with the public. This is for the safety of the public and the employees of our city. We are still accepting COA applications by mail and email, and are available to talk with contractors and citizens by phone or email so that any outside projects you may have within our historic districts may go forward without interruption.

Please submit your projects to Scott Clark, sclark@newportky.gov or contact Scott at 859-655-6347.

Our historic city has weathered many changes and challenges throughout our 225 years as a vibrant community. Here we are proudly celebrating our diverse past - and making history every day. — Scott Clark, Historic Preservation Officer, City of Newport, and Executive Director, Newport History Museum.

Help Keep Our Streets Clean

Newport Public Works is cleaning our streets during April on the assigned, posted dates. Although the city will not enforce the No Parking instructions if you are unable to move your vehicle, it still helps greatly for you to continue the normal routine. Please try to continue to move your vehicle on your assigned street cleaning day.

Of course, the city realizes that many residents are working from home and on-street parking is limited. Our Public Works crews are working daily on various projects with the goal of keeping our city looking nice with clean streets, while they perform other routine duties. Thanks for your consideration in this matter and thanks to the City of Newport for all that they do!

The Voice

Editor: Paula Brandon

Send articles to voice@eastrow.org. The editor reserves the right to edit or reject submissions due to length or content.

March 02, 2020

The Voice - March 2020

March 02, 2020/ Guest User

State of the City 2020

Submitted by City Manager Tom Fromme

As we enter 2020 it’s time to reflect and report on the activities and condition of the city during 2019. This new year has added importance since it is the city’s 225th birthday. While preparing to write this report, I looked through a few of the past annual reports and it became apparent that we are in the midst of one, if not the most productive period of our 225-year history.

From 2006 through 2018, Newport has enjoyed one success after another, even through one of the worst recessions in American history. Throughout the housing recession, property values held steady, and by 2019 the city’s overall property tax revenue increased by 58% compared to pre-recession values. 2019 was another very good year for the city, especially when you consider our rising pension costs.

In 2019 we celebrated many ground breakings and ribbon cuttings throughout the city. Corporex broke ground on the first phase of the Ovation project. This phase includes an indoor/outdoor music venue, a potential office building and parking garage. The Route 9 project is nearing completion of its final phase, opening up a new growth corridor for the city. The Academy on 4th residential development is nearly complete and currently leasing.

The former K-Mart site was redeveloped and is currently home to the ALDI grocery store, and Burlington and Ross Department stores. The former Baptist home site is also undergoing redevelopment as a 45-unit condominium complex, repurposing the old building. Newport on the Levee, under new ownership, has also commenced a $100 million renovation. When complete, the Levee will experience a new vision and fresh new look.

On the fiscal front, the city has continued working on securing and stabilizing our finances. For the calendar year 2019 the city ended with a general fund cash balance of $4,754,873, up $1,300,000 from 2018. We have established critical reserve funds for the general fund, compensated absences and legacy pension obligations. Our 2018-2019 budget reflected success with revenues surpassing budgeted projections. Over the last five years, the city’s net payroll revenues have increased nearly $1,200,000. In 2019 we gained a net 70 new companies doing business in the city, with 194 net new employees.

Business growth continues in the city, which is critical since we rely on payroll as our primary source of revenue, accounting for approximately 35% of all revenue. Our largest or fastest growing businesses are PL Marketing, Kroger, Defender Direct, Divisions, Inc., Impact Sales, St. Elizabeth, DJ Joseph Co., National Band and Tag Co. Inc., I-Wireless, CompMed, and Nexigen.

While many great things are happening in the city, we also are confronted with serious challenges in this new year. Increased costs related to personnel, specifically, crippling increases of over $1.6 million in pension costs dictated by the state pension system are expected over the next few years.

Due to these increases and other rising costs, we are continually examining ways to maintain an adequate level of service in the future within the constraints of our revenue. Perhaps the most difficult challenge for Newport and surrounding cities is addressing the delivery of public services to our residents. We continue to operate with a very small but efficient staff and make every effort to provide a high quality of service in a cost-effective manner (having reduced city staffing by nearly 30 employees in recent years). Currently we have approximately 114 full-time employees, with more than 80 in public safety.

The city has continued to invest in its aging infrastructure and equipment, however aging infrastructure and rising costs continue to be a challenge. During the next few years, we anticipate spending several million dollars on infrastructure-related projects and equipment acquisition, including upgrades to the 800 MHz radio system used for public safety. The 2019-2020 budget and work priorities include a focus on capital improvements, including expending the funds from bond issues for several critical projects.

Much was accomplished in 2019, and 2020 continues to look very promising. Construction on Ovation and changes at Newport on the Levee will continue throughout the year and beyond.

Construction on Carothers Road and design work on South Monmouth street (US 27) will commence and continue this year, including a partnership with surrounding cities on smart corridor initiatives. A mixed-use hotel and office development at the Peace Bell site is also expected to begin during the year. We will continue with our city-wide street and sidewalk repaving program and streetscape improvements on Monmouth Street. We are commencing our 5-year Comprehensive Plan review as required by statute.

Our goals for 2020 continue to include further redevelopment of residential and commercial properties; working on quality of life issues such as parks and recreation; and maintaining a safe, walkable community. From a fiscal perspective, we continue working on growing revenues and keeping our expenses reasonable.

The goals for 2020 are listed in their entirety in the Annual Report and metrics can be found on our online transparency portal at https://newportky.opengov.com.

Great things are happening in Newport!

For the complete State of the City, 2020, visit:
http://www.newportky.gov/City-Government/2019%20Annual%20Report_FINAL.pdf

As always, if you have any questions, email bholiday@newportky.gov or call my office at 859-292-3687. Thanks for your efforts to continue to make Newport a great place to live, work, shop and play.

NKY Restoration Weekend: March 21

Submitted by Scott Clark, Historic Preservation Officer & Newport History Museum Executive Director

Do you own a historic home? NKY Restoration Weekend provides a day of FREE practical advice, demonstrations, workshops, and services for the historic homeowner, property owner or building professional. Mark your calendars now for:

Saturday, March 21, 9am - 3:30pm
Newport Intermediate School, 95 W. 9th St.
Free parking in school lot off of W. 9th St.

RSVPs are helpful for planning coffee, sweet treats and lunch. To register online visit NKY Restoration Weekend 2020.

NBA Annual Meeting & Awards

Pat Budd, who for decades helped shape Newport and the East Row, received a well-deserved, posthumous Volunteer of the Year award at February’s Newport Business Association (NBA) Annual Meeting. Pat’s award was one of many that honored noteworthy individuals, businesses and organizations at this annual event. Congratulations to everyone recognized!

Community Leadership Awards

NBA 2019 Community Leadership Award to Police Captain Paul Kunkel for his continued support and compassion for Newport Night Out.
NBA 2019 Community Leadership Award to Pompilio’s Restaurant.
NBA 2019 Volunteer of the Year Award posthumously to Pat Budd.
NBA 2019 Volunteer of the Year Award to Newport resident and Community Organizer Josh Tunning.
NBA 2019 Business of the Year Award to Perfetti Van Melle, USA, Inc. for the KaBoom! Community Build project at the Bernadette Watkins Park.
- Two additional businesses who made financial contributions to the KaBOOM! Community Build project are Neighborhood Foundations and Brighton Center.
NBA 2019 Business of the Year Award to St. Elizabeth Healthcare for its financial support of Northern Kentucky’s First Outdoor Gym at the Buena Vista Park.
NBA 2019 New Business Award to The Baker’s Table.
NBA 2019 New Business Award to Incubator Kitchen Collective.
NBA 2019 “Marvin” Award for long-standing unwavering commitment to the City was presented to two businesses who each have been part of the Newport Business community for over 100 years: Ebert’s Meat Market (123 years) and Kentucky Furniture (100 years).

NBA 2020-21 Officers

President, Mark Ramler, Mansion Hill Properties.
Vice President, Bev Holiday, City of Newport.
Secretary, Tammy Weidinger, Brighton Center.
Treasurer, Michael Bach, Michael P. Bach, P.S.C.

NBA 2020-2021 Board Members

Matt Atkins, Primary Principal at Newport Independent School District.
Chris Bednar, Nexigen & Newport Parks Renaissance, Chair.
David Dalton, The Think Shop.
Charlie Fry, Master Fry Defense Systems.
Joe Klare, The Catalytic Fund.
John Marlow, Mokka and the Sunset Bar & Grill.
Jack Moreland, Southbank Partners.
Rachel Roberts, The Yoga Bar.
Mike Smith, Headquarters Event Center.

NBA New Board Members

Brandon Quillen, Newport on the Levee.
Amber Sipple, Impact Cowork.
Nick Eberhard, Heritage Bank.

NBA Economic Development Panel Discussion is March 25

Join the Economic Development discussion! The Newport Business Association (NBA) will host a panel discussion on Economic Development at its meeting on Wednesday, March 25, from 8-9 am at Headquarters Event Center, 935 Monmouth St. Complimentary coffee from Trailhead will be available from 7:45-8 am. The meeting is free and open to the public.

Booze and Bootlegging Author Event is March 12

As the inspiration for “The Great Gatsby,” George Remus led a notorious lifestyle. Learn all about this criminal mastermind from the author who has chronicled the murder, mayhem and illicit activities that surrounded him.

“The Bourbon King: The Life and Crimes of George Remus”
The Newport Syndicate, 18 East 5th St.
7-9 pm Thursday, March 12

Author Bob Batchelor, a critically-acclaimed, bestselling cultural historian and biographer, tells the incredible story of Cincinnatian George Remus, his rise to infamy in the Prohibition Era and his ultimate downfall. “The Bourbon King: The Life and Crimes of George Remus, Prohibition’s Evil Genius” is a true-life story of love, murder, an extravagant lifestyle, and how Remus grew an illegal bourbon empire that stretched nationwide. He murdered his wife Imogene in cold blood in Eden Park, and the resulting trial was a national media sensation.

Batchelor currently teaches in the Media, Journalism & Film Department at Miami University in Oxford, Ohio. He will sign copies of his book after his talk. Refreshments will be provided along with a cash bar.

Note: The Newport History Museum will have a limited amount of architectural pieces from the former 1936 Fourth Street School available for purchase at the book signing event.

This adults-only event is made possible through a partnership among the Campbell County Historical & Genealogical Society, the Newport History Museum, the Campbell County Public Library, The Newport Syndicate, and American Legacy Tours (the Gangster Tour).

The event is free but registration is required. Register at www.cc-pl.org or www.cchgsky.org.

Maker Week is Coming! Newport Branch, Campbell County Public Library Programs

Our Newport library, 901 E. 6th St., 859-572-5035, is packed with programs this month, from the Booze and Bootlegging author event at the Newport Syndicate, to Library Night at Falcon Theatre, to library-based programs for adults, teens and babies with arts and crafts, book discussions, free tax prep, fairy and gnome home projects, the Friends book sale, a magic show, storytelling, and – well, you get the picture.

In particular, Maker Week offers a great opportunity to let your creativity shine. For one week in March, the Newport Branch will have a makerspace. Monday through Friday, March 9-13, you will have access to equipment from sewing machines, leather-making tools and more to make your creative dreams come true. Hours for Maker Week are 9 am - 6 pm. Questions? Contact Valerie, 859-572-5035, ext. 12 or vdavis@cc-pl.org. Ages 13 and up can participate and there is no need to register.

For more details about March programs, events and activities at the Newport library branch, visit the Campbell County Public Library’s website.

Be a Census Taker and Help Create a Positive Economic Impact for Newport

Census jobs are available now! This is your opportunity to help create a positive economic impact for Newport. Please note that the census counts all US citizens and when we miss one person, a census taker must travel to that address to re-canvas. For every person missed, the city and county loses approximately $2,000 per year for the next 10 years for federally funded projects such as infrastructure (highways, bridges, sidewalks) and homeland security (police and fire/EMS equipment/services, educational, health and wellness).

That is why Every Person Counts! The once-a-decade census counts everyone living in the US, not just citizens. To clarify, there are other Census Bureau surveys that ask about citizenship. The 2020 Census is to count people regardless of citizenship.

2020 census jobs provide:

Great Pay - $17 per hour (Rate for Campbell County census takers)
Flexible hours
Work in your own city
Weekly pay

Additional information:

Volunteer applications are only accepted online.
Individuals receiving monthly food stamps are eligible to apply. They will continue to receive their monthly Food Stamp allocation.
The Newport Branch of the Campbell County Library at 901 E. 6th Street will have computers available for online application access. A BIG Thank You to Campbell County for providing this FREE service to apply online!
2020 census mailers will be distributed mid-March.

For an online application, visit https://2020census.gov/en/jobs.html / 1-855-JOB-2020

Beyond the Curb Urban Living Tour Returns to Newport

Mark your calendars for Sunday, April 19, when some of Newport’s most luxurious and eclectic properties open their doors for Beyond the Curb. The tour includes Skypoint Luxury Condos, the in-progress Tailor Lofts on Monmouth and numerous other homes that take advantage of the views and access unique to our city. Newport’s West Side is featured, with its business investments, including New Riff’s rick house, and more.

“We are so excited to be back in Newport for our spring tour,” says Jill Morenz, Director of Community Initiatives and Communications, Catalytic Development Funding Corp. of Northern Kentucky. “We can’t wait to show off all the gorgeous properties and new projects.” Beyond the Curb, which runs 10 am - 4 pm, typically attracts 600+ enthusiastic attendees who love exploring neighborhoods, touring houses and learning the history of our river cities.

Get $15 early bird tickets and find more details on the Beyond the Curb Newport web page.

Street Cleaning/Sweeping is Back as of March 1

Let’s have a word about street cleaning! As you know, our Public Works crews operate the city´s street sweeper, which routinely covers the entire street grid of the city on a monthly basis from March through November. The street sweeper makes a huge difference in keeping our neighborhood clean and tidy. Please abide by the posted No Parking signs and remember that street cleaning in the East Row is the second Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday.

First, be aware that our crews frequently work in rainy weather since sweeping when the road is wet can be more effective.
Second, there are times that the street sweeper needs to return to make a second pass. Having the path cleared for the street sweeper is the best way for you to help us keep the streets clean.
Cars can be ticketed during the posted days and times for street sweeping even if you think the sweeper may have passed or isn't coming that day.

Please do not blow grass clippings, debris, and litter into the street because this can clog the storm sewer basins and cause localized flooding.

Our Very Own “Henge” Right Here in the East Row

Climb onto an East Row rooftop deck for some of the best views in town. Rich and Mary Sheer call this one St. Mark’s Henge. It’s a spectacular phenomenon that appears for just a couple days every February, aligning the sun perfectly between the gap of the steeple and their third-floor deck.

Photo credit: Rich Sheer.

The Voice

Editor: Paula Brandon

Send articles to voice@eastrow.org. The editor reserves the right to edit or reject submissions due to length or content.

November 01, 2019

The Voice - November 2019

November 01, 2019/ Guest User

Tree-Damaged Sidewalk Inventory Reminder

By City Manager Tom Fromme

The Code Enforcement Department has created an inventory of sidewalks in the public rights-of-way currently damaged by tree roots.

The locations from the comprehensive list will be grandfathered with the city repairing these portions of sidewalks currently damaged by tree roots (as time and budget allow). Subsequent to the completion of the inventory and the appeal period, any damage to sidewalks by tree roots will be the responsibility of homeowners as provided for in an ordinance adopted July 22, 2019. Before the adoption of the new ordinance, any other sidewalk damage not caused by trees has been the responsibility of the property owner and this practice remains.

Phase 1 Inspections Complete

The first phase of inspections has been completed for the area bordered by E. 2nd and E. 10th Streets, from Oak Street to Washington Avenue.

Appeal Process for Addition to List

If you own property on a block where inspections have been completed and have a sidewalk you believe to be damaged by roots from a tree in the right of way, you may email Joy Rovno at jrovno@newportky.gov with your address to confirm if it has been included on the list or request re-inspection. Such requests should be made by December 1, 2019.

As always, if you have any questions email bholiday@newportky.gov or call my office at 859-292-3687. Great things are happening in Newport! Thanks for your efforts to continue to make Newport a great place to live, work, shop, and play.

Happy Thanksgiving

By City Manager Tom Fromme

On behalf of the Mayor, Board of Commissioners, and myself, we wish you and your families a Happy Thanksgiving. The City Building will be closed Thursday and Friday, November 28 and 29.

NBA November Meeting

By Bev Holiday, NBA Vice President

The Newport Business Association (NBA) will be hosting a "Healthy Lifestyle Tips and Services" panel discussion at its meeting on Wednesday, November 27, at 8:00 am at the City Building (998 Monmouth Street) in the Multi-Purpose Room. The meeting is free to attend and open to the public.

Newport High School Hires New Baseball, Wrestling Coaches

By Kelly Middleton

The Newport Independent Schools have hired new coaches for their high school varsity baseball and wrestling teams.

Baseball coach Dominic Lewis has more than 30 years of coaching experience, including five years as an assistant coach for Newport High School.

Wrestling coach Derek Webster has 10 years of experience as a wrestling, football and weightlifting coach at Deltona High School in Florida. He is currently the defensive coordinator for the Newport Wildcats Varsity Football team.

"I am very pleased and excited about attributes that these coaches bring not only to the student athletes but to the community as well," said Newport Athletic Director Robert Haire. "With his 30 years of baseball coaching knowledge, Coach Lewis has come to know and build relationships with the parents and the children of Newport.

"Coach Webster has a passion for helping and coaching high school student athletes," Haire said. "He is very detail-oriented while never losing sight of what is important in high school sports,which he believes is preparing young people to become good young adults and make sure they know that they are not only coached hard, but loved hard."

Coach Webster said he has a passion for coaching and molding young men, whether in football or wrestling.

"My philosophy is that I want my athletes to grow and become better students, athletes, and people," Coach Webster said. "I truly believe that the real results from coaching are if the young men I coach become good men, fathers, husbands, and members of society.

"They will not only learn lessons about becoming a better wrestler, but hopefully a better student and person as they grow in our program," he said. "I believe that if we do the little things right, not only on the mat, but in the classroom as well, the wins will come."

Coach Lewis said he is thrilled to have the opportunity to coach the Wildcat baseball team.

"I have been coaching for Newport for the last five years as an assistant coach," Coach Lewis said. "I knew if the opportunity presented itself that I would jump right on it. I love the game of baseball. I played baseball my whole life and have coached for the last 30 years in knothole. Newport baseball has always had great coaches, and I am just glad I can join the ranks.

"M philosophy about coaching is you get out what you put into it," he said. "The harder you work the better you become. The lessons that the boys will learn is that it takes a team, not an individual, to achieve a goal, and if they work together, anything is possible."

Haire said both Coach Lewis and Coach Webster are already recognized community leaders in Newport.

"Along with three other parents, Coach Lewis started a youth league, so that the kids would have another activity to do to represent their city," Haire said. "The program is going on its eighth year now and has grown to six sport offerings.

"Coach Webster has already made a positive impact as a part of the faculty and as the defensive coordinator for the varsity football team," Haire said. "He has a great relationship with the students, works hard, and will help them to become the best student athletes they can be with the emphasis being on the student first."

"I love being here at Newport," Coach Webster said. "This is my second year here coaching football and now as the new wrestling coach, and I have to say we have great kids and a wonderful staff and administration that do everything to help make our kids successful every day."

The Voice

East Row Historic District Christmas Tour & Tea: December 2-3, 1-7pm

East Row Halloween: Spooky, Spunky and Fun

Enjoy the Holidays in the East Row

Does Your Project Require a COA?

It’s a RUFF-LE. You can win big by supporting our Dog Park!

The Voice

Experience the Magic of Christmas December 3 & 4 at the Victorian Christmas Tour & Tea

Baker's Table Bakery: Feeding People with Love

Holiday Happenings in and around the East Row

While You’re Christmas Tree Shopping, Visit Peluso’s Market

Does Your Project Require a COA?

Drop Your Drawers is Underway November - December

Newport Dog Park: Make a Donation, Buy a Brick, Be a Volunteer!

The Voice

Eight Reasons Why the East Row Rocks

Volunteer for Our Christmas Tour & Tea

August 31 NBA Luncheon: State of the City Update

All About Riverfest: The Big Boom on Labor Day Weekend

Renovation Happy Hour is August 30

Does Your Project Require a COA?

Ever Wondered About Newport's Historic Districts? View the Map

There's So Much Going on at our Campbell County Public Library

Newport Dog Park is Pawsitively Awesome!

The Voice

Read our Annual Report!

Christmas Tour, Tea & More: Help Light Up the East Row!

Order Your Luminaries Now!

Purple People Bridge Reopens November 19

Comprehensive Plan Public Hearing is November 16

ERHF Update

Get in the Holiday Mood at Peluso's

Campbell County Public Library: Drop Your Drawers!

We Love our Dog Park!

The Voice

Newport Forward Comprehensive Plan: Asking for Your Input!

East Row Block Party is September 18

State of the City is September 29

A Taste of Newport is Underway

Newport Board of Commissioners Information and More

Visit Our Farmers Market, 700 Block of Monmouth

Campbell County Public Library Fall Programming

We Love our Dog Park!

The Voice

Newport City Building REOPENED to General Public

East Row Yard Sale is July 10

NBA: Presenting Marketing Tips for Your Business

Explore Newport’s Past: 50 Artifacts on Display at Newport on the Levee

Visit our Farmers Market for Local Produce, Baked Goods and More!

Ever Wonder about the History of Your East Row Home?

Campbell County Public Library Summer Programming

Celebrating Our Awesome Dog Park

The Voice

Memorial Day Ceremony Includes 21-Gun Salute

East Row Yard Sale is July 10

NBA: General Assembly and Historic Preservation Updates

Sign Up! NKY Restoration Weekend Helps You Learn About and Care for Your Historic Property

Farmers Market Opens Saturday, May 22: Stop by for Local Produce, Baked Goods, Music and More!

Swinging at the Bell Concerts are Underway

Campbell County Public Library June Programming

Many Ways to Lend a Hand to Support Our Newport Dog Park

The Voice

State of the City

Congrats, East Row Historic Foundation Executive Board!

NBA Panel Discussion Focuses on Newport Development Updates

Historic Preservation Needs Your Support in Frankfort

NKY Restoration Weekend Moved to May 2021

Six@Six Virtual Series Focuses on Justice and Injustice in America

Tom Mitts: Home is a Must-see Exhibit at Curt Bessette Art Gallery

The Newporter: Newport Independent Schools Newsletter

Jump into Spring with Campbell County Public Library April Programming

Bluegrass Musician Junior Sisk to Perform at CCPL’s Signature Series Concert

Support Our Dog Park with a Personalized Brick

The Voice

City Update

Executive Board Positions Open: Get Involved and Help Shape the Future of the East Row

NBA Meeting and Panel Discussion is February 24

Hop Into Spring with March Programs at the Campbell County Public Library

Honor Your Furry Family Members with a Dog Park Brick

Virtual Event: The Story of Plessy v. Ferguson and America’s Journey from Slavery to Segregation