Best of NKY 2013 by Cincy Magazine

Olive Oil Guru

Kentuckian Hopes to Revolutionize Olive Oil Industry

New Man on Campus David Armstrong Takes Reins at Thomas More

THE BEST: CUISINE FASHION STORES BOURBON SELECTION GARDEN CENTER FITNESS CENTERS LIVE MUSIC WINE MARKET JEWELER COFFEE SHOP CATERERING TRAINER AND MORE...

AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2013 VOLUME 3

ISSUE 3

$3.95

Dee Reusch of Studio Dee: Winner of Best Dance/Theatre Instruction www.BestofNKY.com

Olive Oil Guru

Kentuckian Hopes to Revolutionize Olive Oil Industry

New Man on Campus David Armstrong Takes Reins at Thomas More

THE BEST: CUISINE FASHION STORES BOURBON SELECTION GARDEN CENTER FITNESS CENTERS LIVE MUSIC WINE MARKET JEWELER COFFEE SHOP CATERERING TRAINER AND MORE...

AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2013

Dee Reusch of Studio Dee: Winner of Best Dance/Theatre Instruction www.BestofNKY.com

Xavier MBa in northern KentucKy Xavier University understands the challenges MBA students face. Commuting to campus shouldn’t be one of them. That’s why we opened a campus on Buttermilk Pike in Fort Mitchell. It’s the same nationally ranked MBA program, just closer to you. With the Xavier MBA, the return you get is always greater than your overall investment. Start inveSting now. ClaSSeS Begin in January.

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Voted Best Place for a Spa Day Thank you to all who voted for us in the Best of NKY. Owners, JJ and Jon Campbell along with their staff are so honored and appreciate the support of the community. We have created a client centric approach that ensures you will leave feeling relaxed, looking beautiful and literally on cloud 9. Cloud 9 offers salon services such as: haircuts, color, highlights, perms, keratin smoothing treatments, hair extensions, mineral makeup, eyebrow waxing and spa services including: full body waxing, nail services, facials, chemical exfoliation, massage and spa day packages. For a truly unique experience we offer optional limousine service with our Ultimate Daycation Package. We also host bridal, birthday and all kinds of spa parties. Simply contact us with any questions or special requests. Cloud 9 Salon & Spa was voted â&#x20AC;&#x153;Best of NKYâ&#x20AC;? for 2012 and 2013 because we are passionate about the latest beauty trends, your best interest and the overall experience for each and every client! 2013 2013

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NK Y C ON TEN TS

August/September

24 A look at NKY’s best in

bourbon, hairstyling, outdoor dining, dance instruction, bike sales and much more. BY DANNY RESTIVO

PUBLISHER’S VIEW

THE KING OF OLIVE OIL

COMMENT

HEALTH

INSIDE NKY

CHAMBER NEWS

NEW PRESIDENT

TRANSIT

NKY welcomes former KY Post editor, Judy Clabes. BY ERIC HARMON Remembering the World’s Fair. BY RICK ROBINSON Celebrating NKY’s music legends and a child’s heart. BY DANNY RESTIVO AND CHRIS SAULNIER

LETTER FROM JUDY

NKY a region of growth and accomplishment. BY JUDY CLABES

NKY native Bill Sander’s transition from politics to the world of olive oil. BY JUDY CLABES Tri-State Gastroenterology uses technology to reduce cancer risk. BY MIKE BOYER Business and networking opportunities. David Armstrong plans on leading Thomas More in the right direction. BY RORY GLYNN

EVENTS

CHEF PROFILE

Bouquet Restaurant chef is one of NKY’s best. BY DANNY RESTIVO

The Transit Authority of Northern Kentucky expands to meet new demand. BY PAULA CHRISTIAN

DINING

ADULT EDUCATION

STYLE

SCENE

Top calendar picks for arts and entertainment.

Your best listings for NKY. Prepare for fall with back-to-school items and sporty team apparel. BY JULIE BETHLENFALVY 2

NKY MAGAZINE August/September 2013

Indiana Tech provides educational options for a wide range of student needs. BY MIKE BOYER Community and business events in NKY.

N K Y WE LCO ME

Welcome to the 2013 Best of NKY Issue T

he Northern Kentucky business community offers an unparalleled set of services, but the cream has certainly risen to the top for our annual Best of NKY issue. Based on your feedback, we’ve highlighted the NKY elite. We asked for your votes and nominations, and you didn’t disappoint. More than 700 ballots were cast for the best restaurants, bars, coffee shops, entertainment venues, cuisine and more. The winners are a shining example of the gem that is Northern Kentucky. I also want to thank all the readers and participants who attended our annual Best Of event this May. Without your help and support, this issue wouldn’t be possible. We had some pretty amazing displays during our May event at Receptions Conference Center in Erlanger. Scott Good Landscaping built a beautiful concrete bench with decorative plants, while Velocity Bike and Bean created a vintage booth with eclectic decorations that resembled a coffee shop. These were just a couple of the great presentations among a host of others. Our Best of NKY issue features some pretty fascinating people as well, including Josh Wilford, general manager at the Old Kentucky Bourbon Bar in Covington. He operates an establishment that’s located in the heart of MainStrasse and embodies the Commonwealth’s taste for bourbon. It’s a location unlike anywhere else in the region. Dee Reusch (featured on our cover) has a dance studio that teaches young women an art that they can practice their whole life. It’s a studio that symbolizes the growth and prosperity of our community. Northern Kentucky is truly a great place to work and live. We also would like to welcome our new editor, Judy Clabes, to this issue. The awardwinning journalist and columnist was editor of The Kentucky Post for 14 years and served as president and CEO of the Scripps Howard Foundation for another 14. She is also the editor of Kyforward.com, the only online newspaper serving Kentucky. Judy has written an intriguing piece on NKY native Bill Sanders and his quest to create the best blend of olive oil. Sanders is a shining example of the Northern Kentucky work ethic and innovative thinking that continues to shape our region. Hope you enjoy!

NKY N O R T H E R N K E N T U C K Y M AG A Z I N E

Publisher & President Publisher & President Eric Harmon Editor Associate Editor Junior Editor Business Editor Custom Editor

Judy Clabes Danny Restivo Corinne Minard Mike Boyer Julie Bethlenfalvy Contributing Writers Rick Robinson Rory Glynn Paula Christian Art Director Guy Kelly Contributing Designer Anne Brocklehurst Editorial Interns Maggie Heath Chris Saulnier

Sales Manager Brad Hoicowitz Account Executives Kurt Niemeyer Pat Parshall

Circulation Director Sue Harmon

Advertising Manager Events Coordinator Marketing Coordinator Production Coordinator Promotions Coordinator Marketing Interns

Kristine McDonough Jenna Toon Jordan Staugler Keith Ohmer Lindsey Gooch Brittany Besl Kevin Dillion Kerissa Hicks

Cincy Co. LLC Cincinnati Club Building — 30 Garfield Place, Suite 440 Cincinnati, OH 45202 For questions: email info@BestofNKY.com or call (513) 421-2533 www.BestofNKY.com

Eric Harmon, Publisher & President (513) 297-6209 or eharmon@bestofnky.com Associate Editor Danny Restivo (513) 297-6209 or drestivo@cincymagazine.com Go to www.BestofNKY.com to get your complimentary subscription of Cincy and NKY magazines. Only NKY residents and businesses receive NKY magazine. Like NKY magazine on Facebook to receive updates.

www.BestofNKY.com

NK Y C OMMENT

BY RICK ROBINSON

Where’s the Fair? W

hen I was a kid, the World’s Fair held a certain mystical appeal for me. I distinctly remember watching television in my grandmother’s living room as Walt Disney brought me all the highlights of the 1964 New York’s World’s Fair “in living color.” Of course, Grandma’s old Zenith was black-and-white, so at the time I didn’t quite know what “in living color” meant. The phrase added to the magical nature of it all. Along with many my age, my earliest world view came from watching people from other nations dancing around in (presumably) colorful outfits as Uncle Walt narrated their charming customs on the Wonderful World of Disney. According to Walt, life around the globe was a joyful place where

opportunity abounded, innovation seemed endless and everyone got along like the “It’s a Small World” ride introduced by Disney at the 1964 World’s Fair. From Grandma’s living room, I envisioned the Bromley Street Fair with visitors from around the globe playing bingo, riding the tilt-a-whirl and eating fish sandwiches. I hoped to someday attend the happy gathering of the world’s citizens. As I grew older, Walter Cronkite replaced Walt Disney in shaping my worldview. News clips of the war in Vietnam taught me the world wasn’t quite so happy. Still, I never lost my fascination with Disney’s clips of people walking around the concourse at the World’s Fair. It’s a shame they don’t have the World’s Fair anymore. Or do they? Northern Kentucky filmmaker, Jeffrey Ford became interested in the World’s Fair when he purchased a ViewMaster – my generation’s version of Google Images – that included discs on the World’s Fair. He became intrigued by 3-D images of the fair, similar to those Disney clips that got my attention as a kid. Ford’s startling discovery that the World’s Fair had not gone the way of the ViewMaster and the Wonderful World of Disney, led him and Brad Bear into making an award-winning documentary entitled Where’s the Fair? that premiered recently in Cincinnati. Apparently, the World’s Fair still exists. But by congressional fiat, the United States government is no longer able to spend any tax

A poster promoting Ford’s award-winning documentary.

NKY MAGAZINE August/September 2013

Filmmaker Jeffrey Ford and reporter Rick Robinson reminisce about the World’s Fair, a topic they are both passionate about.

dollars participating. The viewers judgment on whether our nation’s withdraw is good or bad rests on the fact that the United States pavilion has become a shining monument to corporate sponsors, slick advertising and … well … nothing really about the spirit of American ingenuity. Where’s the Fair? explores how America left the global gathering, allowed it to be taken over by seedy promoters and corporate pitch-men, and questions the nature of our nation’s future involvement. One particular interview in the movie stands out as sadly comical as the person who had the rights to develop the last U.S. pavilion tries to explain the effort’s dismal results. An open records request to the government on the recent failure yielded one document – entirely redacted. An 84-minute journey into America’s future involvement in what remains the world’s largest global event, Ford and Bear’s documentary is an excellent opportunity for people on both sides of the political spectrum to question their own world view. And, more importantly, how we go about shaping the manner in which others in the world view us. Where’s the Fair? won the Cape Fear Film Festival. Whether it will reignite a national dialogue on the issue remains to be seen. If you’d like to discuss this with me, drop by the Bromley Street Fair later this summer. I’ll be there playing bingo. ■

RICK ROBINSON IS A FOR T MITCHELL L AW Y ER, AUTHOR AND POLITICIAN. HIS BOOKS ARE AVAIL ABLE AT AM A ZON.COM.

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We hope you enjoyed the 2013 event! Special thanks to our participating finalists. A New Rooftime Altar’d State Beef ‘O’ Brady’s Berks Landscaping Blinkers Tavern Boone County Arboretum Boone County Farmers Market Bouquet Restaurant & Wine Bar Bowman Music & Creative Outlet Brian Voorhees - Town & Country Sports Brooklyn Wood - Mi Salon Spa Chef Barone Catering Chris Weist - McHales Catering Cloud 9 Salon & Spa Colonial Cottage Cork N’ Bottle

Cru Cutters Donna Salyers’ Fabulous-Furs Drees Pavilion Emily Wagner - CrossFit Covington Exercise & Leisure Equipment Company Florence Antique Mall Flow-A Shop for Men Grandview Tavern Half Price Books Healthy Alternative Heather Arlinghaus - Arlinghaus Bootcamp Herzog Jewelers Izzy’s Johnnys Car Wash Keystone Bar & Grill Lazer Kraze

Licking River Greenway and Trails Little Red School House Mad Mike’s Burgers Mammoth Coffee & Co. McHale’s Events and Catering Mellow Mushroom Melody Hoppiums - Melody’s Boot Camp Metropolitan Club Mi Salon Spa MJM Studios Monmouth Street Antique Gallery Motch Jewelers Newport Syndicate Old Kentucky Bourbon Bar Oriental Wok Pioneer Park

Pompilios Restaurant Racing to Read 5k Redwood Roebling Point Books & Coffee Rosedale Green Sableux Spa Scott Good Landscaping Smiles & Miles 5K for the Maria Schaffstein Fund Sports of All Sorts Studio Dee The Blue Marble The Madison Event Center Totter’s Otterville Town & Country Sports Velocity Bike & Bean Vitamin Shoppe

I NS IDE NKY WELCOME TO HITSVILLE

BY DANN Y RE S TIVO

BEHRINGER-CRAWFORD MUSEUM OPENS A ROCKING NORTHERN KENTUCKY MUSIC EXHIBIT

orthern Kentucky may not have the same musical notoriety as Nashville, Detroit or Seattle, but plenty of national acts got their start in the upper regions of the Commonwealth. “It’s amazing to think about all the names that have originated here,” says Jerry Gifford, a Northern Kentucky Music Legends committee member. “People can’t forget about the contributions our area has made to the American music scene.” Gifford’s committee has partnered with the Behringer-Crawford Museum and opened the Northern Kentucky Music Legends Hall of Fame exhibit to recognize the area’s rich music history. The temporary showcase, which opened June 2 and runs until Sept. 1, highlights 13 musical legends and bands that hail from the area.

Opening night at the NKY Music Legends Hall of Fame

The exhibit is filled with vintage records, photos, guitars and other memorabilia from artists who got their start here. Each inductee has a dedicated plaque that spotlights their accomplishments in their respective genres and their contributions to the music industry.

“We have a diverse set of musical talent on display here,” says Tiffany Hoppenjans, curator of exhibits and collections at Behringer-Crawford Museum. “We have jazz, country, rock artists and even a composer,” says Hoppenjans. Some of the more recognizable inductees include Bob Braun, Skeeter Davis and Rosemary Clooney. The Hall of Fame even features a navy-blue dress that Clooney wore during a performance for President John F. Kennedy. Clooney entertained the President alongside Sammy Davis Jr. and Marilyn Monroe that same evening. “If you’re talking about music in Northern Kentucky, Rosemary Clooney is definitely going to get mentioned,” says Hoppenjans. But Clooney’s star doesn’t outshine the other inductees, which include Steve Men-

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NKY MAGAZINE August/September 2013

I N S I D E N KY

dell, Charles Tharp, Adrian Belew, Skeeter Davis, Gary Winters, Kenny Price, Mike Connor, Mike Reilly, Bobby Mackey, the band Strange Brew and Haven Gillespie, who co-wrote “Santa Claus is Coming to Town.” “It’s just amazing to hear that a guy from Covington wrote a song that is sung by millions of people every year,” says Gifford. By recognizing accomplished local musicians, the committee and museum hope up-and-coming Northern Kentucky musicians can carve out futures for themselves. “We are always getting lumped in with Cincinnati, but we have to highlight the achievements made here,” says Hoppenjans. “This is something younger artists can see and draw inspiration from.” The initiative started when Gifford teamed up with Charlie Coleman, a former high school football coach and selfproclaimed music lover. Coleman was influential in creating exhibits for Northern Kentucky athletes, but never for musicians.

“We’ve had a lot of great athletes come from the area who we’ve recognized, but we had nothing in regards to musicians, and it was a shame,” says Coleman. “A lot of locals have forgotten about the rich musical history that came from this area.” After formulating the idea, Gifford and Coleman formed a 10-member committee to determine which musicians would be included in the hall of fame. The committee received 325 submissions before narrowing it down to the current 13. But the committee didn’t exclude the other submissions from the hall. They allocated a wall with the names and pictures of all the musicians who helped make Northern Kentucky a musically diverse community. “They may not have been national acts, but they are the little guys that entertained our mothers and fathers and they never got any recognition,” says Gifford. “This is for everyone that helped shape the Northern A display inside the Music Legends Hall of Fame. Kentucky music scene.” ■

www.BestofNKY.com

N KINS Y S IDE P OT LNIGHT KY

A HE ART OF GOLD

BY CHRIS SAULNIER

LOCAL HEART PATIENT INSPIRES COMMUNITY

or those who don’t know him, Logan Morse is an ordinary 9-year-old boy. He attends school at St. Joseph in Cold Spring, enjoys reading, swims at the YMCA, rides his bike, watches videos on the computer and has a passion for art. Unlike most boys his age, he is preparing to undergo his fifth heart surgery. Logan suffers from a complex congenital heart defect; he was born with only one heart chamber. Congenital heart defects affect eight of every 1,000 newborns and are the most common type of birth defect in the United States, according to the National Heart,

Lung and Blood Institute. He underwent his first surgery three days after being born and has had numerous procedures since. His last surgery included the implantation of a mechanical valve. His upcoming surgery will remove a blockage from underneath his aortic artery. “I’m kind of used to all of it by now,” says Logan, who is well-informed of his condition. “But I’m still a little nervous.” The latest surgery came as Logan Morse with Bob Eubanks of the Strange Brew Band. a shock to Logan’s great aunt, “I was so excited because he had grown Mary Jo Watkins, who has had custody of Logan since he was 2 years old and is in the and gained weight, which is a good thing… process of adopting him. then when the doctor said he needed

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NKY MAGAZINE August/September 2013

NK Y I SNPSOT HT I D LI E G N KY

is scared, but refers to him as “a trooper.” Watkins isn’t the only one impressed by Logan’s attitude and outlook on life. Cyndi Mendell, owner and operator of The Children’s Art Academy in Fort Thomas, has been teaching Logan art for nearly two years and describes him as “incredible” and “enthusiastic about everything.” “The academy is my favorite place to go because I like drawing people and making things,” says Logan. Mendell says kids always inspire her, but Logan is “number one” and even inspires the other students at the academy. One day at the academy, Mendell noticed Logan drumming on the floor and chairs with two empty paper towel rolls. She was impressed with Logan’s rhythm and encouraged him to keep drumming. The next Friday evening, while out with her husband, Mendell asked friend

“The [Children’s Art Academy] is my favorite place to go because I like drawing people and making things.” —Logan Morse and drummer Bob Eubanks of the Strange Brew Band where she could purchase drum sticks for Logan. After hearing Logan’s story Eubanks decided to give Logan a pair of his own. When Mendell gave Logan the drumsticks the next day he said it was “the most exciting thing of his whole life,” and proceeded to design his own drum to play. Mendell threw him a party in hopes of raising his spirits. The party included games, treats, close to 50 guests including Eubanks, and the gift of an electronic drum set. The community support was “quite

overwhelming,” says Watkins. “He has a lot of support coming in, so many people showing support to a child that most don’t even know. It has really helped him a lot.” Logan will be granted a wish from the Make A Wish foundation following recovery from his surgery, a loving gesture for a child who has touched the hearts of so many. ■

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NK Y C OMMENT

BY JUDY CL ABE S

It’s a Good Time to Live in Kentucky H

ere we go again, my friends, just like old times and just like we started – connecting in print and connected in caring about our community. It’s been a while since my incredible days as editor of The Kentucky Post, when together we saw – and helped make happen – some amazing progress for Northern Kentucky. Anybody remember the “WE HAVE IGNITION” headline in The Post when Bill Butler – after many other hits and misses – finally came to the rescue of riverfront development on our “South Side” of the river? And created a whole new front door and a long-awaited sense of pride – a renaissance truly – for the Northern Kentucky community? It was the catalyst for us to think better of ourselves and to believe all good things were possible. The good times kept rolling on – Toyota came and transformed, while Newport blossomed on its riverfront and in its urban core. Florence and Boone County grew by leaps and bounds. Northern Kentucky University expanded and reached out to the community in important, impactful ways. Vision 2015 still focuses strategically on quality of life issues, and UpTech, BioLogic and other business innovators/incubators bring vitality, new ideas and opportunities to our marketplace. All these things we should continue to celebrate and appreciate. They matter. Keep your eyes on one of the most visionary projects in recent times and on its visionary leader, Ed Hughes, president of Gateway Community and Technical College. His grand plan for a magnificent, expansive urban campus in Covington will fuel our next renaissance. It’s an amazing plan, life-changing for Covington and the region. So many traditional and nontraditional students’ lives will be transformed as well. We’ll be talking about these issues and

NKY MAGAZINE August/September 2013

more as we go along, and I hope you’ll engage in the conversation. The more the merrier. I’ll also be reminding you that people matter, and each one of us can make a difference. Laura Cook Kroeger has been a real anchor in our community for a long time. She’s now vice president at Gateway and executive director of the Gateway Foundation. For several years now, Laura has been battling what she thought was multiple sclerosis. Though the progressive disease did not slow Laura down much in the real sense, she fought it everyday, began using a walker and stared a harsh reality bravely in the face. Miracles happen. Laura fell earlier this year after experiencing difficulty with her balance and increased trouble walking. She “took a sick day” – if you know her at all, you’ll understand this – to “race” to her MS specialist (again, typical Laura). Next day, she was worse – untenable pain sent her to the ER and the Neurology wing at UC Hospital. There, she heard news she never expected: You DO NOT have MS. Miracles happen. Laura and her husband, Bob, could not believe what they were hearing. The problem was not MS but a stress-induced muscle disease. With lots of physical therapy, Laura will be able to reverse her debilitating condition, and walk again. “Falling was the best thing that ever happened to me,” says the unsinkable Laura. She’s determined, as always, but today it’s a very real hope she faces. Full recovery. “This whole journey is a lesson to everyone,” she says. “Stress can get hold of any part of your body and create havoc. Because my particular muscle problem mimicked so many aspects of primary progressive multiple sclerosis, it started taking a life of its own. Now I have a new plan for the rest of my life.

Laura Cook Kroeger, vice president at Gateway, continues working to make Northern Kentucky great while battling back from a condition that debilitated her for several years.

“I am grateful to God for giving me a second chance and for all my friends and family who have been incredibly supportive the past two and a half years.” ■

JUDY CL ABE S IS EDITOR OF NORTHERN KENTUCK Y MAGA ZINE AND EDITOR/PUBLISHER OF KYFORWARD.COM, AN ONLINE-ONLY 24/7 NE WSPAPER SERVING KENTUCK Y. SHE WAS EDITOR OF THE KENTUCK Y POST FOR 14 YEARS AND PRE SIDENT/CEO OF SCRIPPS HOWARD FOUNDATION FOR ANOTHER 14. SHE IS AN AWARD -WINNING EDITOR, JOURNALIST AND COLUMNIST. SHE WANT S TO HE AR FROM YOU AT JUDY @ K Y FORWARD. FOLLOW HER (JUDITH CL ABE S) ON FACEBOOK .

NK Y E V E NTS

Entertainment Guide

Northern Kentucky’s TOP Events in Arts, Culture and Entertainment

August THE WORLD’S LONGEST OUTDOOR YARD SALE Aug. 1-4 The nearly 700-mile long yard sale returns for its 26th year with 100 booths in MainStrasse Village and more on either side. 6th and Main St., Covington. 859-491-0458 or mainstrasse.org.

GLIER’S GOETTAFEST Aug. 1-4 Goettafest returns with more than 30 ways to enjoy our local delicacy, plus live music, games and rides. Newport on the Levee, One Levee Way, Newport. 859-292-1613 or goettafest.com.

TOMAHAWK DEMONSTRATION

THE HOUND OF THE BASKERVILLES

Aug. 10 Learn the art of throwing a tomahawk during this one-day demonstration. All ages are welcome to watch, but participants must be 12 or older to throw. Prehistoric skills field at Big Bone Lick State Park, 3380 Beaver Rd., Union. 859-384-3522 or parks.ky.gov.

Through Aug. 12 See the classic Sherlock story as you’ve never seen it before as three actors play all the roles at once. Cincinnati Shakespeare Company, 719 Race St., Cincinnati. 513-381-2273 or cincyshakes.com.

BOONE COUNTY FAIR Aug. 5-10 Rides, live entertainment and a horse show are just a few of the attractions at this year’s fair. The focus on family and community makes this a fun event for everyone. Boone County Kentucky Fairgrounds, 5819 Idlewild Rd., Burlington. boonecountyfair.org.

GREAT INLAND SEAFOOD FESTIVAL Aug. 8-11 Great seafood from restaurants in Northern Kentucky and the greater Cincinnati area. Live music and free admission. Newport Riverfront, 1 Riverboat Row, Newport. 513-477-3320 or greatinlandseafoodfest.com. www.BestofNKY.com

N K Y EVENT S

CHICAGO Aug. 10-25 The beloved movie and Broadway musical comes to The Carnegie Theatre with updated choreography. Shows on Friday and Saturday nights, as well Sunday afternoons. The Carnegie Theatre, 1028 Scott Blvd., Covington. 859-957-1940 or thecarnegie.com.

HOMEFEST Aug. 10-25 Take in the latest home trends and meet professionals at Northern Kentucky's new home showcase featuring five professionally built, fully furnished homes. Tickets can be purchased at the door, Kroger or Remke Biggs. 2751 Circleport Dr., Erlanger. 859-331-9500 or hbanky.com.

TREASURES OF THE NATURAL WORLD Through Aug. 18 Nature-inspired art and wildlife displays make up this interesting exhibit. Cincinnati Museum Center, 1301 Western Ave., Cincinnati. 513-287-7000 or cincymuseum.org.

BLACK-N-BLUEGRASS ROLLER GIRLS Aug. 17 Experience all the excitement of a roller derby with the Black-n-Bluegrass Roller Girls. The event includes two action packed matches and a live show. Midwest Sports Complex 25 Cavalier Blvd., Florence. 859-371-4263 or black-n-bluegrass.com.

NKY MAGAZINE August/September 2013

ICE CREAM SOCIAL SUNDAYS Through Aug. 26 Relax on an afternoon cruise, while drifting on the Ohio River with ice cream and beautiful sights of Northern Kentucky and Cincinnati. 101 Riverboat Row, Newport. 800-261-8586 or bbriverboats.com.

RIDES ON MONMOUTH DOWNTOWN NEWPORT CAR SHOW Aug. 25 With more than 200 cars shown at last year's show, it's sure to please any automobile enthusiast. Monmouth between 3rd and 11th St., Newport. 859-547-9329 or newportky.gov.

VILLAGE VINTAGE AND ARTS BAZAAR

ALEXANDRIA FAIR & HORSE SHOW

Aug. 25 & Sept. 22 Vendors line MainStrasseâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s promenade to sell vintage items, collectibles and art. Admission is free. 6th and Main St., Covington. 859-468-4820.

Aug. 28 - Sept. 2 A yearly local favorite, this event, perfect for all ages, includes a parade, animal contests, auctions, 4-H exhibits, music and a variety of horse shows along with

NKY E V E N T S rides, games and food. 100 Fairground Rd., Alexandria. 859-635-2667 or alexandriafairandhorseshow.com.

NKU WOMENâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S VOLLEYBALL Aug. 30-Nov. 16 See the Norse go head to head with Clemson, Michigan, Xavier and many more on select dates this season. Regents Hall, NKU, Highland Heights. nkunorse.com.

CIRQUE DEVOU DEUX Aug. 31 The Kentucky Symphony Orchestra and Circus Mojo collaborate to put on a Cirque du Soleil-inspired performance. Devou Park Amphitheater, 638 Madison Rd., Covington. 859-431-6216 or kyso.org.

OLD TIMER'S DAY Aug. 31 Rabbit Hash will host its 34th annual country festival featuring various vendors, live music, games, food and more. The event runs from 11 a.m. - 11 p.m. with live music beginning at 6 p.m. 10021 Lower River Rd., Rabbit Hash. 859-586-7744 or rabbithash.com.

www.BestofNKY.com

N K Y EVENT S

NORTHERN KENTUCKY MUSIC LEGENDS

CHRISTIAN MOERLEIN BEER & BBQ CRUISE

Through Sept. 1 Musicians, lyricists, bands and others are honored at this exhibit featuring artists who have contributed 20 years or more to music. Behringer-Crawford Museum, Devou Park, 1600 Montague Rd., Covington. 859-491-4003 or bcmuseum.org.

Through Sept. 2 Sample beer from a local brewery and fill up on barbeque on this Friday night cruise. 101 Riverboat Row, Newport. 859-261-8500 or bbriverboats.com.

NKY MAGAZINE August/September 2013

DINOSAURS: GIANTS OF PATAGONIA Through Sept. 2 Learn about dinosaurs and their ancient world in the Cincinnati Museum Centerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Omnimax Theater. 1301 Western Ave., Cincinnati. 513-287-7000 or cincymuseum.org/ omnimax.

NKY E V E N T S

September RIVERFEST Sept. 1 The biggest and brightest fireworks display in the area will once again illuminate the banks of the Ohio River. Bring a blanket and the family for a full day of fun along the river. Pete Rose Way, Cincinnati. 513686-8590 or riverfestcincinnati.com.

FLORENCE FREEDOM BASEBALL VS. WINDY CITY THUNDERBOLTS Sept. 3-5 Frontier League baseball is entertainment for the entire family. Each game features contests, promotions and of course great baseball. Games begin at 6:35 p.m. 7950 Freedom Way, Florence. 859-594-HITS or florencefreedom.com.

BANDSTAND BLUEGRASS

SUMMER CONCERT SERIES

Through Sept. 5 Unwind with live music and fellow bluegrassenthusiasts in the comfort of Cincinnati’s cool summer nights. Washington Park, 1230 Elm St., Cincinnati. washingtonpark.org.

Through Sept. 5 Free live music every Thursday night with a new band every week. Riverwalk Plaza, One Levee Way, Newport. 859-291-0550 or newportonthelevee.com.

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N K Y EVENT S

CINCINNATI COMICON

ZOOFARI 2013

Sept. 6-8 Exhibits, panels, merchandise and more from the comic community’s artists, writers and actors. Northern Kentucky Convention Center, 1 W. River Center Blvd., Covington. 859-261-4677 or cincycomicon.com.

Sept. 20 Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden’s night of “wild luxury” entertains 2,500 of the region’s leaders with up-close animal encounters, raffles, authentic African entertainment and more. Individual and table tickets are available online. 3400 Vine St., Cincinnati. 513-281-4700 or cincinnatizoo.org.

KEVIN JAMES Sept. 11 Sit back and laugh with this award-winning comedian and actor in the Proctor & Gamble Hall. Aronoff Center, 650 Walnut St., Cincinnati. 513-721-3344 or cincinnatiarts.org.

ROCKY HORROR PICTURE SHOW Sept. 14 If you’re feeling adventurous, head to the Esquire Theatre for a riotously good time. 320 Ludlow Ave., Clifton. 513-281-8750 or rhps.net.

SECOND SATURDAY ART WALK Sept. 14 & Oct. 12 Explore the beautiful Mount Adams

THE FINAL FRONTIER area while perusing fine art from more than 40 artists. Mount Adams, Cincinnati. cincinnati.com.

Sept. 20-22 The Pops series continues with a Star Trekthemed performance featuring George Takei. Music Hall, 1241 Elm St., Cincinnati. 513-621-1919 or my.cincinnatisymphony.org.

BURLINGTON ANTIQUE SHOW

CIAO ITALIA!

Sept. 15 & Oct. 20 Celebrating its 32nd birthday, this show features more than 200 different antique dealers. Burlington Fairgrounds, 5819 Idlewild Rd., Burlington. 513-922-6847 or burlingtonantiqueshow.com.

Sept. 23-Nov.11 Learn basic conversational Italian in this eight-week noncredit course offered by NKU, registration is required. 1 Nunn Dr., Newport. 859-572-5600 or communityconnections.nku.edu.

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s of 2013 s a l C s tion a l u t a C ongr Challenging Minds, Strengthening Spirits (859) 331-6333 • 2500 Amsterdam Road, Villa Hills, KY 41017 • www.villamadonna.net 16

NKY MAGAZINE August/September 2013

NKY E V E N T S

CRUISE INâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S

MERCHANTS & MUSIC FESTIVAL

KINGS ISLAND HALLOWEEN HAUNT

Through Sept. 27 Whether you have a car to display or you just want to peruse the selection, this car show is sure to please. Janeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Saddlebag, 13989 Ryle Rd., Union. 859-384-6617 or janessaddlebag.com.

Sept. 28 Join the Fort Thomas Renaissance Board for their 10th annual Merchants & Music Festival. The event combines local merchants with nationally known musicians adding up to a day full of fun. Tower Park, Douglas Dr., Fort Thomas. 859-572-1278 or merchantsandmusic.com.

Sept. 20-Oct. 27 Experience the hidden horrors of Kings Island as ghouls, vampires and all sorts of evil creatures take over the amusement park. Visitors are recommended to be over 13, and beware. 1300 Kings Island Dr., Mason. 800-288-0808 or visitkingsisland.com.

USS NIGHTMARE HAUNTED HOUSE STEAMBOAT

NEWPORT OKTOBERFEST Sept. 27-29 A local favorite, this Oktoberfest promises great German beer, food and entertainment as guests congregate under tents on the Newport riverfront. Riverboat Row, Newport. 513-477-3320 or oktoberfestnewport.com.

Sept. 28-Nov. 3 This haunted boat ride is sure to give you chills as you face the zombies and monsters that lurk in the shadows. This is not recommended for children under 12. 101 Riverboat Row, Newport. 859-740-2293, or ussnightmare.com.

www.BestofNKY.com

N K Y DIN I NG

A Natural Bouquet CHEF CREATES DELICIOUS EATS WITH LOCAL PRODUCE BY DANN Y RE S TIVO

hef Stephen Williams finds it difficult to classify his restaurant.“Some people call us French-Southern with an American twist, but we also do Chinese, Indian and South American,” says Williams. “You can’t really label us. We just love to cook.” That’s because the Bouquet Restaurant and Wine Bar never has a menu set in stone. The meals depend on available produce and ingredients from local farms. “We don’t do anything out of a can,” says Williams, who serves as head chef and owner. “It’s all fresh and we make the most of the ingredients.” His menu includes everything from Kentucky lamb rack with potatoes, mushrooms and beans, to tofu with fresh vegetables and basil sauce. Williams’ culinary provocations begin with a small but tight-knit staff, which meets each week to discuss menu items. “Everyone here is just as much into the craft as I am,” says Williams. “You have to have a passion to be in this business.” Their collaboration results in an elegant and delectable menu derived from Northern Kentucky’s farm-raised animals and vegetables. “It takes creativity and ingenuity and that’s the fun part,” he says. For six years, Williams has called the Bouquet his home. He used to live above the restaurant with his girlfriend and general manager, Jessica Cotrell. The couple moved out in 2012, but they’re renovating their old living quarters to seat 60 more people in the restaurant. With white tablecloths, wooden floors, chairs and ceiling fans, Bouquet has a classic upscale Southern feel. It’s a fitting environment for a restaurant located in Covington’s historic MainStrasse Village. “I love it here,” says Williams. “Everyone is chill and not in too much of a hurry.” Bouquet also has more than 200 bottles of wine and was voted best restaurant for overall excellence in the 2013 Best of NKY. Williams believes it validates all the effort he’s put into the restaurant. “It can be a lot of work sometimes, but I love coming to work so its worth it,” he says. ■

Bouquet Restaurant & Wine Bar 519 Main St., Covington (859) 491-7777 or bouquetrestaurant.com

NKY MAGAZINE August/September 2013

N KY D I N I N G

COMFORTABLE CLASSICS AND EXOTIC EATS — NORTHERN KENTUCKY HAS THEM ALL AT THESE LOCAL RESTAURANTS American

BEHLE STREET CAFÉ 50 E. RiverCenter Blvd., Covington (859) 291-4100 behlestreetcafe.com Steak, ribs, pasta, sandwiches, and “skinny pizza.”

360 AT THE RADISSON 668 W. Fifth St., Covington (859) 491-5300 threesixtydining.com Steak, pork, chicken, pasta. ARNIE’S 120 E. Third St., Newport (859) 431-4340 arniesonthelevee.com Burgers, pizza, sandwiches and drinks.

BELLEVUE BISTRO 313 Fairfield Ave., Bellevue (859) 581-5600 enjoybellevuebistro.com Menu changes monthly to offer fresh, seasonal ingredients and dishes. Vegetarian friendly.

BAR LOUIE 1 Levee Way, Newport (859) 291-4222 barlouieamerica.com Oversized sandwiches, pasta, entrees and eclectic drinks.

BLINKERS TAVERN 318 Greenup St., Covington (859) 360-0840 blinkerstavern.com Sandwiches, steaks and pasta.

BARLEYCORN’S COLD SPRING 1073 Industrial Road, Cold Spring (859) 442-3400 barleycorns.com Burgers and top-notch wings. (Multiple locations)

BOUQUET RESTAURANT & WINE BAR 519 Main St., Covington (859) 491-7777 bouquetrestaurant.com Locally grown vegetables and meat; fine wine.

Grandview Tavern

experience

T H AT W I L L TA K E YO U P L ACE S (no passport needed)

$3.95 Tuscan Tasters & $5 Drink Specials, Monday - Friday 3pm- 7pm & 9pm - Close at the Bar BRIO NEWPORT

1 Levee Way | Newport, KY | (859) 431. 0900 | BRIOITALIAN.COM www.BestofNKY.com

N KY DINING

BUCKHEAD MOUNTAIN GRILL 35 Fairfield Ave., Bellevue (859) 491-7333 eatatbuckheads.com Meatloaf, pot pies, steaks, ribs and lighter fare made fresh daily. CHEZ NORA 530 Main St., Covington (859) 491-8027 cheznora.com Sandwiches, quesadillas, pasta, chicken and seafood. COLONIAL COTTAGE 3140 Dixie Highway, Erlanger (859) 341-4498 thecottagenky.com Pasta, steak, chicken and homemade pies. FIVE MILE HOUSE 2642 Dixie Highway, Lakeside Park (859) 331-6633 barleycorns.com Wings, burgers, sandwiches and entrees. FUNNY BONE 1 Levee Way, Newport (859) 957-2000 funnyboneonthelevee.com Enjoy a meal with comedy acts.

GAMEWORKS GRILL 1 Levee Way, Newport (859) 581-7529 gameworks.com Appetizers, burgers, fish and chips. GRANDVIEW TAVERN & GRILLE 2220 Grandview Drive, Fort Mitchell (859) 341-8439 grandviewtaverngrille.com Pizza, burgers, steak, chicken. GREEN DERBY RESTAURANT 846 York St., Newport (859) 431-8740 thegreenderby.com Salads, pasta and specialty sandwiches. GREYHOUND TAVERN 2500 Dixie Highway, Fort Mitchell (859) 331-3767 greyhoundtavern.com Fried chicken, pork chops and Southern cuisine. Sunday brunch. JOHN PHILLIPâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S RESTAURANT & BAR 2809 Dixie Highway, Crestview Hills (859) 344-0444 drinkeatenjoy.com Chicken, pork chops, seafood, steak and pasta.

Greyhound Tavern

7 DAYS A WEEK

2013

Mammoth Coffee & Co. Best Bagel NKY MAGAZINE

www.boonecountyfarmersmarket.org | (859) 586-6101 20

NKY MAGAZINE August/September 2013

N KY D I N I N G

KEYSTONE BAR AND GRILL 313 Greenup St., Covington (859) 261-6777 keystonebar.com Appetizers, wraps, sandwiches and burgers. Classic mac and cheese.

TOUSEY HOUSE TAVERN 5963 N. Jefferson St., Burlington (859) 586-9900 touseyhouse.com Southern cuisine featuring fried chicken, pork chops, fish, prime rib.

MAD MIKE’S 342 Monmouth St., Newport (859) 360-6453 madmikesburgers.com Burgers, chicken, hot dogs and fries. (Multiple locations)

TOM + CHEE 1 Levee Way, Newport (859) 291-2433 tomandchee.com Unique gourmet grilled cheese, tomato soup, salads.

OTTO’S 521 Main St., Covington (859) 491-6678 ottosonmain.com Chicken, seafood, steak and pasta.

YORK STREET CAFÉ 738 York St., Newport (859) 261-9675 yorkstonline.com Sandwiches, seafood, chicken, steak and cheese boards.

PEPPER POD RESTAURANT 703 Monmouth St., Newport (859) 431-7455 A local late-night favorite open 24 hours that serves breakfast, lunch and dinner. REALITY TUESDAY CAFÉ 1518 Dixie Highway, Park Hills (859) 261-4939 realitytuescafe.com Made-to-order breakfast sandwiches, hot grilled lunches and homemade salads.

Asian NAKED TCHOPSTIX 1 Levee Way, Newport (859) 261-7600 newportonthelevee.com Delicious Pan Asian cuisine in a fun, trendy, casual setting.

Barbecue

Chili

MONTGOMERY INN 400 Buttermilk Pike, Fort Mitchell (859) 344-5333 montgomeryinn.com Ribs, sandwiches, chicken and pork chops.

DIXIE CHILI & DELI 733 Monmouth St., Newport (859) 291-5337 dixiechili.com State’s first chili restaurant still serving traditional coneys and chili. (Multiple locations)

FAMOUS DAVE’S BARBEQUE 4931 Houston Road, Florence (859) 647-7788 famousdaves.com St. Louis style ribs, sandwiches, chicken, burgers.

Cajun DEE FELICE CAFÉ 529 Main St., Covington (859) 261-2365 deefelice.com Steak, pasta and homemade bread. KNOTTY PINE ON THE BAYOU 6302 Licking Pike, Cold Spring (859) 781-2200 Gumbo, steak, seafood, frog legs, red beans and rice.

Chinese CATHAY KITCHEN 8049 Connector Drive, Florence (859) 282-0770 cathaykitchen.com Authentic Chinese and Chinese fusion cuisine. ORIENTAL WOK 317 Buttermilk Pike, Crescent Springs (859) 331-3000 orientalwok.com Noodles, steak, fish, vegetarian and Peking style duck. (Multiple locations) RAYMOND’S HONG KONG CAFÉ 11051 Clay Drive, Walton (859) 485-2828 hongkongcafe.us Noodles, chicken, beef, seafood and vegetarian.

9 Greater Cincinnati Locations

Ft. Wright

NOW OPEN| 1965 Highland Pike Besides Walmart

Florence

7905 Mall Road in front of Toys R Us 2013

Mammoth Coffee & Co. Best Bagel NKY MAGAZINE

www.BestofNKY.com

N KY DINING

German HOFBRAUHAUS 200 E. Third St., Newport (859) 491-7200 hofbrauhausnewport.com Soups, salads, sandwiches, Bavarian specialties. STEINHAUS 6415 Dixie Hwy., Florence (859) 371-3000 steinhausrestaurant.com Schweinebraten, sauerbraten, schnitzels. WERTHEIM’S 514 W. Sixth St., Covington (859) 261-1233 mainstrasse.org/wertheims Salads, soups, schnitzel and traditional German fare.

Intercontinental EUROPA BISTRO & CAFÉ 50 E. River Ctr, Ste 30, Covington (859) 261-3663 europabistrocafe.com Pasta, seafood, steaks, and sandwiches

VIRGIL’S CAFÉ 710 Fairfield Ave., Bellevue (859) 491-3287 virgilscafe.com Seafood, pasta, sandwiches and vegetarian.

VITO’S CAFÉ 654 Highland Ave., Fort Thomas (859) 442-9444 vitoscafe.com Chicken, pasta, veal and pork. Home of the Singing Servers.

Italian

Japanese

BRIO TUSCAN GRILLE 1 Levee Way, Newport (859) 431-0900 brioitalian.com Steak, housemade pasta and flatbreads. BUCA DI BEPPO 2028 Florence Mall, Florence (859) 282-8451 bucadibeppo.com Share dishes in family style dining. CARRABBA’S 2899 Dixie Hwy., Crestview Hills (859) 344-6163 carrabbas.com Homemade Italian dishes cooked to order. POMPILIOS 600 Washington Ave., Newport (859) 581-3065 pompilios.com Pasta, chicken, veal, beef and fish. Homemade sausage, sauces.

FUJI STEAK HOUSE 7687 Mall Road, Florence (859) 746-8180 gofujihouse.com Hibachi, noodles, seafood and sushi. JO AN JAPANESE 3940 Olympic Blvd., Erlanger (859) 746-2634 joanjapanese.com Noodles, sushi, sashimi and fish. MIYAKO SUSHI & STEAK HOUSE 2511 Ritchie Ave., Crescent Springs (859) 578-0031 miyakorestaurant.com Hibachi, steak, seafood and sushi. MIYOSHI 8660 Bankers St., Florence (859) 525-6564 miyoshirestaurant.com Teriyaki, seafood and sushi.

360 Restaurant

Thank you for voting us the

BEST OF NKY Voted Best Pizza in NKY 2 years in a row! 2013

Mammoth Coffee & Co. Best Bagel NKY MAGAZINE

Make your reservation online now Ft. Mitchell

317 Buttermilk Pike-Lakeside Park, KY 41017 | 859.331.3000 2444 Madison Rd. | Cincinnati, OH | 513.871.6888

NKY MAGAZINE August/September 2013

Craft Beer & Craft Pizza in a family-friendly,

funky enviroment! 1014 Town Dr., Wilder, KY 41076 • (859) 441-6600 www.mellowmushroom.com

NK Y S T Y LE

Back to School Cool Start the school year off in style with fun finds from local shops BY JULIE BE THLENFALV Y

CALLING ALL SUPERFANS Be a superfan with Vandor lunchboxes ($12-$18), paying homage to the greats in music, movies and pop culture. Available at the Purple Monkey in Historic Bellevue, designs such as The Beatles, Star Wars and Marilyn Monroe make carrying your lunch to work or school cool. And superhero lunchboxes such as Iron Man, Superman and Batman are on their way. 401 Fairfield Ave., Bellevue, 859-261-0245, shopbellevueky.com.

CREATIVE COLORS Show off your school spirit and do something creative at Color Me Mine in Crestview Hills. With friends or family, hand paint a ceramic Pigosaurus Bank ($30) as NKUâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s mascot, Norse, to save for college or a getaway. Show your support for Thomas More at a party with your own Tommy Mo chip dip tray ($27). Note: Prices for ceramics vary, additional $9 for paint/studio time. 2874 Town Center Blvd., Crestview Hills, 859-344-6463, crestviewhills.colormemine.com.

BIG BLUE BACKING Back the Big Blue? The Kentucky Shop has an abundance of UK tees to get your whole family ready for the big game. Fans from toddlers to adults can display their Wildcat pride with T-shirts starting from $15.99. 6805 Houston Rd., Florence, 859-371-8585, and 2882 Town Center Blvd., Crestview Hills, 859-341-8585, ukwildcatshop.com.

www.BestofNKY.com

s BEST JEWELER

The democratic process is complete

for this year’s Best of NKY. After tallying 700 votes from event attendees, we’ve compiled our “Best of” list in 62 categories including cuisine, shopping, entertainment, recreation and more. Enjoy!

BEST BURGER

Herzog Jewelers

Mad Mike’s Burgers & Fries

BEST SUSHI

BEST LIVE MUSIC

Fuji Steak House

BY DANNY RESTIVO

NKY MAGAZINE August/September 2013

Molly Malone’s

BEST CAR WASH

BEST FARMERS MARKET

Johnny’s Car Wash

Boone County Farmers Market

BEST ICE CREAM

BEST FITNESS TRAIL

Graeter’s

Licking River Greenway and Trails

BEST

BOURBON SELECTION

Old Kentucky Bourbon Bar 629 Main St., Covington 859-581-1777 SITTING AT THE OLD KENTUCKY BOURBON Bar while staring at 250 bottles might stir indecisive thoughts for a liquor novice trying to decide on a drink. “A lot of people come in here afraid because they’re not used to drinking bourbon,” says Josh Wilford, general manager. “But we’ve tasted everything on the shelves and we can point anyone in the right direction.” Wilford and his staff are barrels of knowledge for all things bourbon and whiskey. The bar’s employees underwent three months of classes before opening in May 2012. It was time well spent for Wilford. “It would be hard to find another place that has the knowledge we have here,” he says. “Our bartenders can make anything. We even have our patented drinks the bartenders have created.” The bar has no menu, just a black board with drink specials and an astute staff willing to serve any taste. It’s a perfect setup for a bar that serves a Commonwealth staple. “Bourbon is an unpretentious drink,” says Wilford. “It’s wonderfully colloquial.” The establishment has the same type of simplicity. With a long wooden bar lined with leather swivel stools, it’s easy to catch a drink, learn about bourbon and enjoy a conversation with a friendly stranger. “We get bachelor parties, bachelorette parties, businessmen, older folks and younger folks,” says Wilford. “We’re the type of place for people who want to grab a bourbon and just hangout.”

BEST

FRIED CHICKEN Colonial Cottage

3140 Dixie Highway, Erlanger thecottagenky.com 859-341-4498

COLONIAL COTTAGE EXEMPLIFIES THE BLUEGRASS State’s reputation for savory fried chicken. “We only have one flavor and that’s the best flavor,” says Matt Grimes, Colonial Cottage owner. Grimes says the restaurant only uses fresh whole chickens that are hand-breaded in a secret recipe that includes salt, pepper and garlic before being fried in a specially blended oil.

The Colonial Cottage’s status precedes itself; they were featured on the Travel Channel and the History Channel for their award-winning goetta. They were also featured in the Behringer-Crawford Museum’s “Gourmet Dixie” exhibit. But the notoriety hasn’t changed the prices on the menu. “You can’t find the same quality of chicken at other places for the same value,” says Grimes. “We’re a value conscious restaurant.” www.BestofNKY.com

BEST FITNESS CENTER Town & Country Sports

BEST BAKERY

Servatii Pastry Shop & Deli

BEST CATERING

McHale’s Events and Catering

BEST CHINESE CUISINE Oriental Wok

BEST FAMILY DINING Beef ‘O’ Brady’s

FRESH CATCH

Knotty Pine on the Bayou

BEST INDEPENDENT COFFEE HOUSE

Roebling Point Books and Coffee

BEST ITALIAN CUISINE Pompilios

inspiredLiving

BEST PIZZA

Mellow Mushroom

Turfway Commons 4999 Houston Rd. Florence, KY 41042

inspiredLiving

4250 Glenn Avenue Covington, KY 41015

We are celebrating half a century in Northern Kentucky We are celebrating half a with a few changes. century in Northern Kentucky proudly serving our community 50 years For fifty years, we have served the surrounding communities for as

2013

4250 Glenn Avenue Covington, KY 41015

with a few changes. proudly serving our community for 50 years

a not-for-profit nursing care facility. During that time, we have Compassionate people providing Forhelps fifty years, weof have the surrounding evolved to meet the needs ourserved residents. Now wecommunities as individualized carechanging that inspire our a not-for-profit care facility. During that time, we have Compassionate people providing are residents focused on even greater levels ofnursing resident-directed living, to live each day to the fullest. evolved to meet the our residents. Now we individualized carechanging that helpsneeds inspireofour which has led to developments: This is who wesome are. key are residents focused on even greater levels of resident-directed living, to live each day to the fullest.

Mammoth Coffee & Co. Best Bagel NKY MAGAZINE

Covington, KY 41015

We are celebrating half a century in Northern Kentucky • Our new name (replacing Rosedale Manor) • Switching to morewith homelikea neighborhoods few changes. • A new look and a range of new amenities proudly serving our community 50 years For fifty years, we private have served the surrounding communities for as • Expanded rehabilitation center with rooms which has led to This is who wesome are. key developments:

• Our new name (replacing Rosedale Manor) • Switching to more homelike neighborhoods • A new look and a range of new amenities • Expanded rehabilitation center with private rooms

a not-for-profit nursing care facility. During that time, we have Compassionate people providing

For more information: to meet the our residents. Now we For more information:evolved individualized carechanging that helpsneeds inspireofour RosedaleGreen.org focused on even greater levels of resident-directed living, to live each day to the fullest. RosedaleGreen.org are residents Beverly Huntting, Admissions Director which has led to some This is Director who we are. key developments: Beverly Huntting, Admissions 859.431.2244 ext. 166 859.431.2244 ext. 166 • Our new name (replacing Rosedale Manor)

• Switching to more homelike neighborhoods • A new look and a range of new amenities • Expanded rehabilitation center with private rooms

Store Hours Monday-Thursday 10 am - 10 pm Friday-Saturday 9 am - 10 pm Sunday 10 am - 8 pm

859.283.0546 | www.hpb.com/107.html 26

4250 Glenn Avenue

NKY MAGAZINE August/September 2013

For more information: Lena Shaw, Admissions Director RosedaleGreen.org Beverly Huntting, Admissions Director 859.431.2244 ext. 166

After 40 years of dancing and 17 years of teaching, Dee Reusch finds her greatest enjoyment from watching her young protégés blossom. “Truly, my favorite thing is really the kids,” she says. “There is nothing like watching a girl from 3 years old to high school

BEST

DANCE/THEATER INSTRUCTION Studio Dee

3420 Valley Plaza Parkway, Fort Wright studiodeenky.com 859-261-3337

graduation, and then following her dreams to become a dancer.” Reusch has danced since she was a toddler and even studied the art at Northern Kentucky University. Following her graduation, she became a flight attendant, but it wasn’t the future she had in mind. “I just missed dance too much,” she says. After a year, she returned to her passion and taught at a studio in Mason. With her husband’s support, she decided to open her own studio. “It was something I always wanted to do, but I never had the confidence,” Reusch says. “He really helped and supported me.” Since 1996, Reusch has been teaching jazz, tap, classical, hip-hop, musical theater and nearly every modern dance. While she was the lone instructor for her

first class of 80, she now has 10 instructors who assist her with 350 students. “It’s a lot to manage sometimes but I still find time to teach,” she says. “My forte is still the little ones. A lot of instructors wouldn’t say that, but to me, I just love watching them grow in their coordination.” Reusch credits the mainstream success of dance for her studio’s popularity. “The only exposure to dance used to be through theater and the arts,” says Reusch. “Twenty years ago you would have never seen shows like Dancing With the Stars, or So You Think you Can Dance? These shows have really brought dance to the forefront.” Popularity aside, Reusch says dance is still an art that channels a gamut of emotions while helping people stay limber and in great shape. “It’s wonderful when you can appreciate an art your whole life.”

www.BestofNKY.com

BEST

PATIO DINING

Grandview Tavern & Grille 2220 Grandview Drive, Fort Mitchell grandviewtaverngrille.com 859-341-8439

“The patio always has a crowd when the weather is nice.”

NKY MAGAZINE August/September 2013

Colleen Haws says she didn’t know what to expect when she opened her restaurant in 2007. “The economy and the housing market were both down,” says Haws. “Everything was more challenging than it already was.” After six years and two expansion projects, Haws turned her tavern and grille into one of the premier locations for wine, spirits and dining in Northern Kentucky. Her establishment’s additions include a brand new patio area and a full service bar with four flat-screen TVs. “The patio always has a crowd when the weather is nice,” says Haws. Although the patio is a customer favorite, she says it’s the family atmosphere that keeps people coming back. “We like to think of this place like the TV show Cheers,” says Haws. “I tell all my employees to make customers feel comfortable and treat them as part of the family.” Haws, who has a degree in interior design, decorated her tavern with couches and warm colors so customers could sit back and relax. “I want people to feel like they are at my home,” she says.

BEST RESTAURANT

Bouquet Restaurant & Wine Bar

BEST SANDWICH SHOP Izzy’s

BEST SPORTS BAR Dickmann’s Cafe

BEST STEAK Blinkers Tavern

BEST SUNDAY BRUNCH Keystone Bar and Grill

BEST HOT BROWN Along with the family-like atmosphere, patrons love the 17 beer taps, daily drink specials and menu, which includes pizza, steaks, pasta and seafood. “We have something for everyone here,” says Haws. Some of Cincinnati’s well-known sports figures, including Dusty Baker and Marvin Lewis, visit the casual up-scale establishment. “People come here if they want to be seen,” says Haws. “It’s that type of environment.”

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Izzy’s

BEST VIEW FROM A RESTAURANT Metropolitan Club

BEST DRY CLEANER Widmer’s

BEST FLORIST The Secret Garden

The CRH O’Regan System® utilizes a non-surgical, patented device. • Quick, effective, and painless • No prep, no sedation • Return to work the same day • Internal hemorrhoids Schedule your appointment with Dr. Patton who performs this hemorrhoid procedure.

425 Centre View Blvd. Crestview Hills, Ky. 41017 (859) 341-3575 www.tristategastro.com

Ross McHenry, Gregory L. Salzman, Daniel G. Fagel, Michael E. Jones, Karlina M. Patton, Chadwick W. Hatfield, Scott C. Leverage,

M.D. M.D. M.D. M.D. M.D. M.D. M.D.

www.BestofNKY.com

MASTER STYLIST Brooklyn Wood Mi Salon Spa

BEST

Brooklyn Wood’s i ntere st i n cos metology sparked while styling her sister’s hair as a teenager. “I always enjoyed doing it, but I never thought I could make a career out of it,” says Wood.

7535 Burlington Pike, Florence misalonspa.com 859-647-2566

“I’m always trying to learn and continue my education.”

NKY MAGAZINE August/September 2013

BEST BAGEL

Mammoth Coffee & Co.

515 Monmouth St. #100, Newport mammothcoffeeco.com 859-291-8875

Her path to beauty school began while studying human services at Northern Kentucky University. During her third semester, she met a high school friend who told her about the opportunities at Michael’s College of Hair Design. “I initially started just to get a cheap haircut,” says Wood. “In a short time, I fell in love with it.” Ten years later, the Erlanger native has a prosperous career at Mi Salon Spa in Florence. Her craft takes her throughout the United States and across the Atlantic to Europe. “I could never have imagined it ending up like

MAMMOTH COFFEE & CO. GENERAL MANAGER Nicole Black believes it’s the ingredients that make her restaurant a success. “We make whatever we can in-house, and we buy whatever we can locally,” says Black. Since Black bought Mammoth Coffee & Co. almost 18 months ago, the restaurant now makes its own salsa, dressings, soups, roasted ham and cookies.

this,” says Wood, who believes her success is derived from a work ethic that was instilled at a young age. “My mother and father raised my sisters and I to work hard,” says Wood. “I’m always trying to learn and continue my education.” Wood’s star has risen over the years, but her greatest satisfaction comes from seeing the smile on her client’s face. “I enjoy making people look good on the outside, but it’s making them feel good on the inside,” she says. “That’s the rewarding part.”

“It used to be just a coffee shop that made great bagels, but we’ve revamped our menu to make it more trendy and local,” says Black. The gourmet coffee house also features an eclectic breakfast and lunch menu and may add more items to an already diverse selection. “We’re constantly trying to improve and make ourselves better,” says Black.

BEST GARDEN CENTER Maddox Garden Center

BEST HOME REMODELER A New Rooftime

BEST LANDSCAPER Scott Good Landscaping

BEST NURSING FACILITY Rosedale Green

BEST MANICURE/ PEDICURE Sassy Nails

BEST PLACE FOR A SPA DAY Cloud 9 Salon and Spa

BEST PLACE TO HAVE A WEDDING

The Madison Event Center

An Education for Your Whole Life.

Andrew is headed to medical school at Washington University in St. Louis this fall.

“I always can think back to my time at TMC as an undergrad and the foundation that it helped me set for the rest of my life.”

ANDREW LINKUGEL ’13 BA - BIOLOGY Saint Thomas More Scholar Florence, Ky.

13tmc_nkymagsummer_andrew.indd 1

thomasmore.edu | 800.825.4557 Located in Crestview Hills, Ky., just 10 minutes from downtown Cincinnati.

6/18/13 3:31 PM www.BestofNKY.com 31

BIKE SHOP

Velocity Bike and Bean 7560 Burlington Pike, Florence velocitybb.com 859-371-8356

“It’s a place to hang out, kick back and have some coffee.”

BEST

M a rk B a l l a lw ay s thought having a bike shop t h at ser ved coffee was a good business model. “Bikes are busier in the summer and coffee is busier in the winter. It’s kind of a cyclical effect,” says Ball. For two years, Velocity Bike and Bean has been an area for cyclists and coffee lovers to imbibe in a communal atmosphere. Ball, who owns the coffee/bike shop with his wife, Lisa, says he enjoys working on the bikes, but creating a place of communit y i s wh at m ake s hi s place special. “It’s a place to hang out, kick back and have some coffee,” says Ball. “It’s a place to connect.”

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NKY MAGAZINE August/September 2013

Besides repairing bikes and selling accessories, Velocity roast s it s ow n in-house coffee. Ball says the high-quality roasted beans aren’t found at other mainstream coffee houses. “If you go to a commercial place, those beans were roasted six months before,” adds Ball. “We roast our beans everyday. It’s a different kind of quality.”

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“Bikes are busier in the summer and coffee is busier in the winter. It’s kind of a cyclical effect.”

BEST HEALTHFUL MENU York Street Café

BEST PLACE TO BUY FITNESS GEAR Bob Roncker’s Running Spot

BEST YOGA STUDIO Moksha Yoga

Going back to college was a big step. Indiana Tech made the decision easy. At Indiana Tech, my personal admissions representative guided me through enrollment and connected me with all the right people. She even showed me how I could customize my schedule with a mix of online and classroom courses. A call to Indiana Tech is your first step toward a career-boosting degree.

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BEST BOOKSTORE Half Price Books

BEST MEN’S FASHION Flow-A Shop for Men

BEST PLACE FOR HOME ACCESSORIES/ ANTIQUING Florence Antique Mall

BEST

HEALTH FOOD STORE Healthy Alternative

7570 Burlington Pike, Florence healthyalternativemarkets.com 859-282-5888

BEST WOMEN’S FASHION Altar’d State

BEST BIRTHDAY PARTY LOCATION Lazer Kraze

THE HEALTHY ALTERNATIVE HAS BEEN TRIMMING waistlines and toning muscles by providing nutritious supplements and products for the health conscious since 2007. “There is no other place that has our selection of products with our knowledge,” says Matt Johnson, Healthy Alternative general manager. “I’ve grown up in the industry and our products beat all the others.” Besides the standard supplements, the 7,500 square-foot store sells produce, frozen items and even dog food. It’s not just the variety that makes

WINE MAY BE MORE POPULAR THAN ever, but the Cork ‘N Bottle has an exclusive selection unlike anywhere in the area. “We buy all our wine from small vineyards from around the country,” says Lisa Colina, events

BEST GYMNASTICS CENTER

coordinator for the Cork ‘N Bottle. “We have the largest selection of items that you can’t get anywhere else, and we like to pride ourselves on that.” The Cork ‘N Bottle has done more than just

“We buy our wine from small vineyards...”

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NKY MAGAZINE August/September 2013

COME VISIT OUR NEW STORE

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Healthy Alternative the best in Northern Kentucky, but the quality of service. “What separates us from all the other commercial-

owned stores is our customer service,” he says. “We can talk to anyone and give them knowledge and information about products that no other store can.”

BEST MUSIC INSTRUCTION

Bowman Music and Creative Outlet

BEST PARK Pioneer Park

“There is no other place that has our selection of products with our knowledge.”

sell wine to Kentuckians for nearly 50 years. The family-owned store opened in 1964 and has provided an array of libations since. Along with wine, the Cork ‘N Bottle has Kentucky microbrews and a wide selection of single malt bourbons. “There are so many options out there right now, but we want people to try them all,” says Colina. “We pride ourselves on knowing and we want to share that knowledge with our customers.”

BEST

WINE STORE/ TASTING Cork ‘N Bottle

501 Crescent Ave., Covington corkandbottle.com 859-282-5888

BEST PRESCHOOL Little Red School House

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Covington Catholic High School

BEST CHEF

Chris Weist, McHale’s Catering

BEST FITNESS CLASS INSTRUCTOR

Melody Hoppius, Melody’s Boot Camp and Lifestyle Fitness

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For the Love of Olive Oil

NKY MAGAZINE August/September 2013

By Judy Clabes

Local man hopes to revolutionize the olive oil industry with a higher quality extract t first you might think that Bill Sanders just couldn’t figure out what he wanted to be when he grew up. But the fact is that the multi-careered Maysville native is a fellow with an inquiring mind, a sharp intellect and so many interests that he’s just cramming as many as possible into one busy, productive and entrepreneurial lifetime. Following careers in banking, thoroughbred racing and government, Sanders is finally hitting his stride. After launching Crush+Press, an online store for olive oil and gourmet food products, he founded Sanders and Co. LLC. and discovered a formula for what has become one of the world’s best extra virgin olive oils – First Fresh, an exclusive blend of oils from three olive varieties: arbequina, manzanillo and ascolano, produced in Corning, Calif., by Lucero Olive Oil for Sanders’ company. “We perfected a fruity, buttery, spicy blend,” Sanders says, “with each olive bringing something special to it.”

ROCK-STAR STATUS Sanders has reached rock-star status as an advocate for the oil Socrates called “liquid gold.” He’s on a continuous international “Extra Virgin Tour,” inexhaustible in his advocacy for the real stuff and its health benefits. And he doesn’t mean that stuff you buy off the grocery shelves. He stops short of calling it motor oil, but it doesn’t take much to catch his drift. It might be his unmistakable expression of pure disdain. Mass-marketed olive oil is the dregs of the olive oil process with virtually all healthy properties extracted from it – and too old by the time it reaches shelves. Sanders blames non-truth in labeling and lax standards for the “fraudulent” oils foisted on unsuspecting consumers. Sanders is the only child of William and Mary Helen, who were proud of their son’s academic accomplishments at Mason County

High School, the University of Kentucky and the Salmon P. Chase College of Law at Northern Kentucky University.

SHIFTING FOCUS The good son returned to Maysville to head the trust department of the local bank, but after seven years he couldn’t deny the siren call to Washington, D.C. His political activism had begun in high school and later with the College Republicans, so, without a clear job in mind, he turned away from a banking career and headed to the nation’s capital. He worked in senior positions in the administrations of Reagan and both Bushes, primarily in the departments of Labor and Energy and the Farm Credit Administration. During law school, Bill became passionately involved in thoroughbred racing and breeding and eventually served in several capacities as a thoroughbred pedigree consultant, president of AmTote International and director of government affairs for Television Games Network. In the mid-‘90s, lightning struck in the form of back problems that led him to an obsession with health and fitness. He resolved to change his life – or at least his lifestyle. Doing nothing by half – do you see a pattern here? – he ran the first of seven marathons, pain-free. He was focused on healthy eating, established his first health-related business, More Life, More Sunrises, and gave inspirational “living-thebetter-life” seminars. He did related video production and event planning. How com m itted wa s he in his pursuit of excellence in olive oil and wines? Well, he went to w ine school

in ste ad of t he Republic an Nat ion al Convention, when the choice was his. In 2011, he came home after his dad’s death to be closer to his mother, and he began to expand Crush+Press.

LIQUID GOLD The United States is the third-largest olive oil consumer in the world, but most of the consumption is of inferior oil. Sanders is determined to change that. The first batch of First Fresh extra virgin olive oil, produced in 2012, enjoyed a winning streak with three high-profile awards: the silver medal at the 2013 New York International Olive Oil Competition, qualifying to be listed among 2013 World’s Best Olive Oils, a gold medal at the California Olive Oil Council Annual Olive Oil Competition, and a 2012 Prestige

www.BestofNKY.com

“I’m on a mission, not just to sell olive oil, but to change the way people think about olive oil.” Gold award at TerraOlivo, an international olive oil competition in Jerusalem, Israel. “It’s a true honor to earn recognition from such prestigious organizations. These awards are a testament to the authenticity and freshness of First Fresh, when many olive oils on the market today claim to be extra virgin, but aren’t.” Long-time friend and fellow Kentuckian, Mac Riley, president of BAHR Associates in D.C. and also a Chase Law School grad, says, “His many friends know Bill as an

BILL SANDERS’ OLIVE OIL CREDENTIALS: TRAINED IN SENSORY EVALUATION OF OLIVE OIL AND IN TUSCAN COOKING IN ITALY COMPLETED A SENSORY EVALUATION OF OLIVE OIL COURSE AT THE UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA – DAVIS STUDIED WINE AT THE CULINARY INSTITUTE OF AMERICA-GREYSTONE TRAINED AT THE L’ACADAMIE DE CUISINE IN BETHESDA, MD TRAVELED EXTENSIVELY TO WINE AND OLIVE OIL REGIONS OF THE WORLD SERVED AS THE U.S. SPOKESMAN FOR 100 PERCENT TUNISIAN OLIVE OIL AND CONDUCTED CONSUMER AND EMPLOYEE EDUCATION PROGRAMS FOR MAJOR RETAILERS

NKY MAGAZINE August/September 2013

incomparably bright, talented and captivating personality. He could successfully apply his energies to many endeavors. But, Bill’s passion, his love, is olive oil. “My wife and I entertain regularly and we use olive oil in the majority of foods we serve. We were among the fortunate few to first taste Bill’s oil. Since then, we haven’t bothered with anything else.”

BOTTLED BRILLIANCE Bottled in California and distributed from a warehouse in Springfield, Ky., First Fresh sold 10,000 bottles in its first year. Sanders’ goal this year: 25,000. First Fresh comes in 500 ml. bottles for about $20. A smaller 250 ml bottle is planned for this summer. The oil is sold at Fairway Market in New York City, at Good Foods Co-op, Wine+Market, and Lexington Seafood in Lexington, Jon Carloftis’ Rockcastle River Trading Company in Livingston. It’s is also sold at Liquor Barns throughout Kentucky, Paul’s Food Markets and Lotsa Pasta in Louisville, Kremer’s Market The Party Source in Northern Kentucky, and 100 other locations in 15 states plus D.C. Sanders launched a second brand this summer with Manfredi Barbera, a fourthgeneration Sicilian olive oil producer. Fresh 2 Village Blend is an exclusive blend of three olive varieties from three Mediterranean villages; Andria in Puglia, Italy; Écija in southern Spain; and Kalamata in the Peloponnese region of Greece. “I’m on a mission, not just to sell olive oil,” he says, “but to change the way people think about olive oil. Americans are using olive oil that is the equivalent of a brown

or black banana. They are just a fat with not enough juice. I aim to introduce more Americans to authentic and affordable extra virgin olive oil. Olive juice!” Sanders is a one-man advocacy band, personally doing 500 hours a year of tasting demos in stores. Having perfected his taste buds and the perfect olives for his oils, he won’t stop until as many people as possible join him in a taste. It’s for your own good, after all. Information about First Fresh: SandersFirstFresh.com. You can follow First Fresh on Facebook. Email bill@sandersfirstfresh.com or call 202-744-2176. ■

N K Y H EALTH

Keeping NKY Patients Healthy and Happy Tri-State Gastroenterology Staff Offers Procedures that Reduce Cancer Risks BY MIKE BOY ER of the gall bladder, bile duct, and pancreas where other imaging tests are inconclusive. It is often used in the evaluation of chronic abdominal pain, thought to originate from the pancreas. In certain cancers of the digestive tract, EUS can determine the depth of invasion, involvement of local lymph nodes, and impact on adjacent vital structures, such as major blood vessels. In selected patients, EUS can be used to perform a needle biopsy of a lesion to help determine the appropriate treatment. The innovative CRH O’Regan System for non-surgical hemorrhoid removal requires no pain medication before or after the procedure. The average procedure time is less than a minute and the average time off work is a day or less. Many patients with office jobs can return to work following the appointment.

Unlike other banding techniques that use a metal clamp to grasp the hemorrhoid, the CRH O’Regan System uses a smaller, gentler, single-use and disposable suction device to minimize discomfort and complications. The physician places a tiny rubber band around the internal hemorrhoid to cut off its blood supply. It then shrinks and falls off within a day or so, usually without the patient even noticing. Once the hemorrhoid is gone, so are the symptoms – no more creams, ointments or suppositories. In 2012, Tri-State Gastroenterology, located at 425 Centre View Blvd., was awarded a three-year term of accreditation by the Accreditation Association for Ambulatory Health Care, Inc. For more information go to tristategastro.com or call 859-341-3575 ■

Daniel G. Fagel

Michael E. Jones

Scott C. Leverage

Ross McHenry

Karlina M. Patton

Gregory L. Salzman PROVIDED BY WWW.MANSIONHILLSTUDIO.COM

he doctors and staff of Tri-State Gastroenterology Associates in Crestview Hills are dedicated to helping their patients cope with the fear of testing and treatment for colon cancer, which claims more Kentuckians than any other cancer. Specializing in gastroenterology and associated digestive diseases, Tri-State Gastroenterology Associates is a multiphysician group practice and accredited ambulatory surgery center founded in 1976. Serving patients across Northern Kentucky, greater Cincinnati and southeastern Indiana, its mission is “to provide compassionate, high quality, cost-effective care to patients with gastrointestinal related problems.” In addition, the doctors and staff are engaged in a number of activities supporting local community cancer awareness and other health-related concerns. Tri-State’s seven physicians, including Doctors Daniel G. Fagel, president; Chadwick W. Hatfield; Michael E. Jones; Scott C. Leverage; Ross McHenry, ambulatory surgical center medical director; Karlina M. Patton; and Gregory L. Salzman are consistently selected by their peers among Greater Cincinnati’s “Top Doctors.” The practice was the first in Northern Kentucky to offer endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) and the CRH O-Regan System for non-surgical hemorrid removal. “Our EUS technology and our offering of a non-surgical hemorrhoid removal procedure are just two of the enhanced treatment options we’ve added recently to better serve our growing practice in Northern Kentucky. We have dedicated ourselves to high standards and are committed to constant self-evaluation and continuous improvements to help our patients,” Fagel says. EUS technology can be used to evaluate a lump or lesion seen during a previous endoscopy or on an x-ray, such as computer tomography. It can also diagnose disease

www.BestofNKY.com

NK Y C HAMBER EVEN TS

Local Business Planner PROMOTION

■

E VENTS

EGGS ‘N ISSUES: ECONOMIC IMPACT OF NKU DIVISION I Aug. 13 7:30-9 a.m. Receptions Banquet and Conference Center 1379 Donaldson Rd, Erlanger Northern Kentucky University athletics is sure to make some waves while playing in Division I. The local business community is taking note and will discuss the implications on the local economy.

MERX 2013: INTERNATIONAL BEST PRACTICES SUMMIT AND AWARDS LUNCHEON Aug. 15 8:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. The METS Center 3861 Olympic Blvd, Erlanger International trade is a growing importance for businesses of any size. Learn how your company can compete beyond borders at a summit and luncheon with leaders in transportation and logistics.

A CHANCE TO MEET: PROCTER & GAMBLE Aug. 16 8-9:30 a.m. Holiday Inn Cincinnati Airport 1717 Airport Exchange Blvd, Erlanger Learn about the best purchasing practices from one of the most well-known companies in the country. Procter & Gamble will present at this informative networking opportunity.

ANNUAL CHAMBER GOLF CLASSIC Aug. 20 7:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Summit Hills Country Club, Inc. 236 Dudley Rd, Crestview Hills

■

OPPORTUNITIES REVAMPING THE RIVERSIDE BY DANN Y RE S TIVO

The banks of the Licking River offer some of the most beautiful scenery in Northern Kentucky. “The Licking River is a great natural asset that is often overlooked,” says Kara Williams, vice president for strategic initiatives for Vision 2015. “People want greater access to it.” Vision 2015, a shared public plan that represents the region’s priorities, is working with communities along the river to create the Licking River Greenway & Trails, an urban green space with 5.2 miles of trails that will stretch from the mouth of the Licking River to the Interstate 275 loop. After 18 months of planning and trail creation, two miles of the trail are already open and another two miles are under construction. “This area used to be no-man’s land,” says Natalie Gardner, Covington recreation director who is spearheading a volunteer campaign to build and beautify the new trails. Gardner and a crew of volunteers have cleared brush, trees and invasive plants as part of a volunteer effort for the new nature friendly park. “Covington has 3 percent parks and green space and we want more to offer,” says Gardner. “We want more opportunities for recreation.” Hit the links with some chamber members at one of the oldest and best golf outings in the area. The all-day event includes breakfast and lunch, as well as afternoon social time with appetizers, beverages and golf awards.

FOR MORE INFORMATION OR TO REGISTER: (859) 578-8800 OR VISIT WWW.NKYCHAMBER.COM/EVENTS 40

NKY MAGAZINE August/September 2013

2013 ANNUAL DINNER Sept. 12 5-8:30 p.m. Northern Kentucky Convention Center 1 W. RiverCenter Blvd, Covington It’s the Chamber’s largest event of the year and an opportunity to mingle with more than 1,000 members and guests. Enjoy dinner, an opportunity to network and the awarding of the traditional chamber awards.

NK Y E DUCATI O N

Bringing in the New Talent

Ohio native takes reigns as new president of Thomas More BY RORY GLY NN

rom his suburban home south of Cleveland, Dav id Ar m st rong i s apologizing. The doorbell is ringing (a deliveryman is inquiring about the Corvette he’d rather sell than move). The dogs are barking (his wife, Leslie, works with rescue animals; they have three). There are rooms to be painted, boxes to be packed. “It’s a madhouse here right now,” the new president of Thomas More College says. But Thomas More didn’t tap Armstrong, vice president and general counsel at Notre Dame College in South Euclid, Ohio, for his ability to juggle the household jobs inherent in relocation, nor did Thomas More choose him just to keep its own house running smoothly. Among the qualities Thomas More liked most in Armstrong, chosen to succeed the retiring Sister Margaret Stallmeyer as president of the Catholic diocesan school in Crestview Hills, was his vision for how to best position the liberal-arts college

someone with experience in where the challenges in higher education will be going forward.” The Most Rev. Roger J. Foys, bishop of the Diocese of Covington and chancellor of Thomas More, said of Armstrong in a statement: “I was very impressed with him during my interview and I have every confidence that he will build on the solid foundation of those who have gone before him.” And John F. Hodge III, incoming chair of the Thomas More board of trustees who also chaired the search committee, added Armstrong has “the experience and skill set to serve successfully as president of Thomas More College. He will bring enthusiasm, passion and energy to the position. I look forward to him building upon what Sister Margaret has achieved.” The 14th president in the history of the school – founded as Villa Madonna College

“He will bring enthusiasm, passion and energy to the position. I look forward to him building upon what Sister Margaret has achieved.” — John F. Hodge III, Incoming Chair of the Thomas More Board of Trustees

in a changing 21st-century landscape for higher education. “I love Sister Margaret,” Armstrong says. “She’s been incredibly helpful, and she’s a wonderful woman, which tells me why she’s been so successful and why everybody loves her. But I couldn’t be more different from Sister Margaret. “I think what Thomas More saw in me, and Sister Margaret would say ‘this is

in 1921 and rededicated as Thomas More in current-day Crestview Hills by President Lyndon B. Johnson in 1968 – doesn’t stand on formality. He prefers to be called Dave. He celebrates and suffers with the Cleveland Browns. He likes chicken wings, the occasional round of golf, spending vacations porch-sitting in Chautauqua, N.Y., and is happiest when watching his son, David, 15, pitch in a baseball game, or seeing daughter

David Armstrong is Thomas More’s 14th president

Johanna, 13, act or sing on stage. “That’s my heaven on earth right there,” he says. Though he’s not the first layman to hold the top post at Villa Madonna or Thomas More, a priest or nun has been president for 18 of the past 21 years. But Armstrong, 49, is rooted deeply in the Catholic faith. One of seven children, he attended parochial grade school and high school, and was one of the four siblings who moved on to a Catholic college. “I’m what you’d call a cradle Catholic,” he says. Aside from his calling, here’s where Armstrong further diverges from his predecessors in the president’s chair: his background in higher education – his alma mater, Mercyhurst University in Erie, Pa., at Thiel College in Greenville, Pa., and at Notre Dame – has come in the arenas of legal support, development, fundraising and athletics. The initiatives he has spearheaded are focused on growing enrollment and online education. Working seven years in a variety of roles at Mercyhurst, Armstrong helped secure a $1 million charitable trust, the school’s largest gift. At Notre Dame, he helped secure the school’s largest gift, $2.1 million. He’s looking forward to doing the www.BestofNKY.com

N KY EDUCAT I O N

Thomas More College’s welcoming ceremony for David Armstrong.

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NK Y B U S I N E S S

same for Thomas More, by asking not so much for open checkbooks as for open ears and minds. “What I’ve learned is, if you’re not part of something special that is mission-centric, you can’t raise money,” Armstrong says. “You have to have a quality product.” “I’m not asking you for money; what I do is I tell people the story of Thomas More College, the past, present and future. By our passion, by our excitement, by our mission focus, people will want to invest in that. I want them to be part of what we do at Thomas More. I want them to know it’s worth their time and investment, because what we do is special.” While at Notre Dame, Armstrong helped bolster enrollment to around 2,000 (from 20 states and a dozen different countries) in part by advocating the expansion of successful programs for adult education and online learning. He plans to do the same at Thomas More. “To be in the adult education business, you have to be in the online business,” he says. “Adults are looking for convenience

“What I’ve learned is, if you’re not part of something special that is mission-centric, you can’t raise money. You have to have a quality product.” — David Armstrong, Incoming Thomas More College President

and lower costs to get that degree quickly and get out in the marketplace, and that makes online the best mode of delivery. That doesn’t change the educational requirements and standards; it’s just a different mode of delivery.” From experience, Armstrong says expansion of online learning “is not without its bumps and bruises,” but that it’s vital for the future of college campuses. “In the future, there’s still going to be a place for brick and mortar, certainly,” he said. “If you look at where students say they get the best education and the best overall experience, it’s in that traditional setting.

But we have to be open to serving students where they are, and online allows us the opportunity to do that.” Armstrong and his family have been house hunting in Northern Kentucky, though he says friends thought he’d surely stay on the Ohio side of the river. Armstrong said he and his family were taken with the friendliness of the Kentucky side and want to be part of it. “Cleveland is one of the greatest places on earth. People are shocked that I’m leaving,” he said. “It would take a very special place to get me to leave. But Thomas More is that place. Northern Kentucky is that place.” ■

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N K Y BUSI N ESS

TANK Takes Aim More East-West Service at New Routes For Students, Workers BY PAUL A CHRIS TIAN

he Transit Authority of Northern Kentucky (TANK) is launching a plan to connect local colleges, suburbs and new job centers with better bus service. Currently, riders who travel to and from spots within Boone, Kenton and Campbell counties must take a bus to downtown Cincinnati, transfer to a different bus, and then ride back to Northern Kentucky on a two-hour ride that could soon be cut to 45 minutes. “If you look at future trends, there is going to be more suburb-to-suburb travel,” says Gina Douthat, spokesperson for TANK. “But currently if you want to get from east to west, it’s difficult.” In November, the transit authority will open a new hub on Mall Road in Florence as a transfer point and offer a new direct route to downtown Cincinnati. The hub will have a large passenger waiting area, three-sided shelter and 150-space parking lot. It is the second of several new hubs that TANK leaders want to add over the next few years, including others near Northern Kentucky University and Cincinnati-

Northern Kentucky International Airport. The only existing hub is in Fort Wright. “This creates a line of east-to-west hubs,” says Andrew Aiello, TANK’s general manager. “One of our biggest challenges is to keep up with the demand in the community.” As the region grows and attracts new business, more commuters are choosing to work close to home instead of traveling to jobs in downtown Cincinnati. Transit leaders have also realized that more baby boomers and local college students are riding the bus and would use the service if more routes existed. In 2012, ridership numbers were at its highest in nine years, topping 3.8 million. TANK provides transit service in 35 cities and encompasses 267 miles within Kenton, Campbell and Boone counties. While more routes may be needed, TANK gets most of its $20 million budget from local funding and operates on a tight budget. Transit leaders will use a planning study to decide which routes to add and which routes may be cut to save money.

Roughly 75 percent of riders use the bus for work. Since new jobs have been added at the airport and in cities such as Hebron, which has several new industrial parks, there is more demand for service in those areas, Douthat says. Another 10 percent of bus riders are students at Northern Kentucky University and Gateway Community and Technical College. Within the last five years, both schools signed contracts with TANK. The bus service allows those students to ride for free in exchange for the schools picking up the tab in lump sum payments. The deal has created more ridership on those routes. “Younger folks are less likely to own cars or have a driver’s license than we were at that age,” Aiello says. “And baby boomers who retire…their ability to drive comes to an end prior to their desire to move out of their homes. These are the changes that are going to come during the next decade.” ■

The Transit Authority of Northern Kentucky is hoping to provide the surrounding area with better bus service.

NKY MAGAZINE August/September 2013

NK Y E DUCATI O N

A Convenient Classroom Indiana Tech in Fort Wright offers affordable and flexible classes BY MIKE BOY ER

hether you’re busy with a full-time job or have been away from formal education for awhile, Indiana Tech’s College of Professional Studies in Fort Wright provides a path to careeradvancing education. The College of Professional Studies offers undergraduate and graduate programs in an accelerated format to accommodate students who also have to balance work, family and community responsibilities. The college focuses on adult learners who already have workplace or previous college experience. Classes meet one evening per week for five weeks at the undergraduate level and six weeks at the graduate level. Online classes also span five weeks or six weeks, but allow students to access materials and complete coursework at any time. Textbooks, which are included in the cost of tuition, are shipped to students prior to the start of each class. Located at 809 Wright’s Summit Parkway, the Fort Wright campus is Indiana Tech’s second Kentucky campus. The first opened in Louisville in 2011. The Northern Kentucky location is about 11,000 square feet and features eight classrooms, a library, a computer lab, a student lounge and wireless connectivity

Indiana Tech offers a variety of classes for adults looking to continue their education.

throughout the facility. One of the attractions of the College of Professional Studies is its flexibility. New class sessions start every five weeks and three out of five students attend classes online rather than on site. Students aren’t locked into taking classes in a predetermined order with the same group of classmates during the same night and place throughout t heir enrollment. While many classes do have prerequisites, Location: 809 Wright’s Summit Parkway, Suite 310, students have a great Fort Wright, KY 41011 deal of flexibility in schedul i ng cl a s se s Phone: 859-916-5884 • Web: IndianaTech.edu/CPS and locations that are Contact: Lynn Hummel, Admissions Representative convenient for them. Students also earn LSHummel@indianatech.edu credits based on life

Indiana Tech-Northern Kentucky

experience through the Credit for Learning Program or by passing standardized tests. Transferring credits for classes completed at another institution is another option. They may also defer tuition until after each class is completed if their employer offers tuition assistance. Formally known as Indiana Technical College, Indiana Tech is a private university founded in 1930. It offers career-oriented degree programs in high-demand fields such as accounting, business, criminal justice and leadership. In addition to the main campus in Fort Wayne, other satellite campuses in Indiana are in Elkhart, Fishers, Greenwood, Huntington, Indianapolis, Jeffersonville, Kendallville, Mishawaka, Munster, Plainfield and Warsaw. Indiana Tech is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools. ■ www.BestofNKY.com

NK Y S CENE

DANCING WITH THE CLC STARS Some notable members of the Northern Kentucky community hit the dance floor this May and raised $50,000 for the Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Law Center. Dancing with the CLC Stars participants were Helen Carroll, manager of community relations for Toyota, Lynda Jackson, superintendent of Covington Independent Schools; Jennifer Mearns, JPM Consulting and First Lady of Northern Kentucky University; Kim Tandy, executive director of Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Law Center; Tony Chavez, professor at Chase Law School; Marcus Coleman, attorney; Charlie Pangburn, senior VP/ UC Health; and Mike Wong, owner of Oriental Wok Restaurants. The local celebs teamed up with dancers from the Arthur Murray studio for the competition held before a packed crowd at Receptions in Erlanger.

Emcees Rachel Votruba and Terry Foster

Tony Chavez and Kate Alexander

Contestants Kim Tandy, Summer Glasmeier, Charlie Pangburn and Marcus Coleman

Jennifer Mearns and Donnie Svab

Judges score a perfect 50 for Helen Carroll and Jeremy Mainous

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NKY MAGAZINE August/September 2013

N KY S C E N E

HBA OF NORTHERN KENTUCKY 50TH ANNIVERSARY GOLF OUTING On June 3, the Homebuilders Association of Northern Kentucky hosted their 50th Anniversary Golf Outing. Participants played 18 holes at the Triple Crown Country Club and enjoyed a cookout lunch and buffet dinner. The winning team of the day took home bragging rights and the Champion Cup Trophy. Tom Reusch and Steve Glacken

Diana DeVore, Pat Parshall, Lesley Rahschulte and Jennifer Hennessey

Tim Stevens, Todd Rieger, Adam Miller and Eric Kraft

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2013 BEST OF NKY CELEBRATION At NKY Magazineâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s second annual Best of NKY celebration, more than 700 guests partied, ate and rocked to the music of DJ E. The event was held at Receptions in Erlanger on May 16. Guests were invited to cast their votes for the Best of NKY in 62 categories of food, service, entertainment and more. Vendors filled the large ballroom to showcase what makes them the best of the best. Guests enjoyed food samples of sandwiches, fried chicken, sâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;mores and chocolate covered confections. The Northern Kentucky Chamber of Commerce was a partner in the event, and sponsors included Northern Kentucky University, Citi and Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield.

Chloe Cornelius, Samantha Cornelius, Olivia Sketch & Claudia Hillmann

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Jessica Cotrell and Stephen Williams

Maria Meade, Raechel Siemer, Taylor Hughes, Katrina Proud & Dana Papas

Sydney, Chris and Jacob McDonough

NKY MAGAZINE August/September 2013

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