Ann Thompson

The City of Covington is preparing to officially announce a possible new development downtown.

The public relations firm handling Thursday's announcement confirms plans for a 25-million dollar boutique hotel in downtown Covington.

Channel 9 reports the hotel, pending state funding, would be located in the Covington city building. City government would move elsewhere. The structure, on the northeast corner of Madison and 7th was built in 1910 and housed the Coppin Department Store.

Greater Cincinnati home sales are up for the fifteenth month in a row. In Cincinnati the gain was bigger at 11% when compared to the same month last year.

Northern Kentucky's sales increase was just 2%. In both places median prices are increasing and home inventories are declining, a sign realtors say indicates the buyer's advantage is starting to shrink.

(Cincinnati)

• September  2012: Closings: 1,588   Average Price: $158,219
• September 2011: Closings: 1,430    Average Price: $151,633

(Northern Kentucky)

Having a smart phone, a tablet, an e-reader and more costs a lot of money and it’s more than just the purchase price. In this week’s Focus on Technology, Ann Thompson reports on how to stay connected and stay within your budget.

The Cincinnati Police Chief is appointing the city's first ever liaison with the gay and lesbian community.

Equality Cincinnati Board President Matt Murray says it is extremely encouraging that Chief James Craig is appointing an officer as the police liaison for the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender community.