DECLARATIONS of Independence, Fall/Winter 2017 9 Donatos and Whit’s Frozen Custard will unveil a new combination restaurant in early 2018, bringing both pizza and dessert to one location at Independence Square. The sleek look of Donatos coupled with Whit’s made fresh daily frozen custard (the first in Kentucky!) will offer a unique dining experience to the heart of Kenton County. Managing partner and Independence resident Bill Aseere says the stores will have separate entrances, but will share some of the 3600-square-foot space, with dining area for 60 customers inside, and additional seating on the patio. Donatos will serve beer and wine and will offer live music for a fun, family-friendly night out. If takeout is on the evening’s agenda, Donatos will not only deliver pizza, but will also bring Whit’s frozen custard right to your doorstep.With three custard flavors made fresh daily, and a wide variety of toppings,Whit’s aims to satisfy every sweet tooth. Look for updates on their Facebook page. The Independence Business Association is a great resource for local business owners and professionals, but they’re not strictly business.Yes, the IBA is a platform for its members to collaborate and create awareness of the more than 300 businesses in town. But, the nonprofit is also an amazing community partner dedicated to bringing the city and its residents together. In fact, as co-sponsor of the Christmas Walk, the IBA brings merriment and holiday cheer to our city streets as an array of IBA members open their doors to welcome the community. The IBA also sponsors the Lighted Christmas Parade, the Miss Independence Pageant and Santa’s 5K Fun Run during Christmas Walk weekend! Plus the IBA sponsors events throughout the year like the Spring Clean-Up, to keep our city beautiful, and of course, The Annual Cars and Pipes, Classic Car and Motorcycle Show, a staple at the Fourth of July Independence Celebration. IBA fundraising events help provide scholarship money to local organizations, like the American Legion, youth baseball and school groups, because not only does the IBA support businesses who support our community, but they support our community directly! IBA President Rob Jent presents a $1,000 IBA Academic Scholarship to Savannah Corwin.The IBA awards multiple scholarships to various individuals and groups in the community. If you’re a local business owner who wants to help drive good things for the city as an IBA member, or for more information, visit www.indepba.org, visit the IBA Facebook page or email membership@indepba.org. Don’t forget to check out the IBA sign in the Kroger Marketplace parking lot for upcoming events. IBA President Rob Jent presents a $1,000 IBA Academic The IBA – doing good in the community New inTown—check out these businesses! T-Mobile opened Aug. 31 at 2045 Centennial Blvd. With no contracts and all taxes and fees included in the price, this is the newest option for cellular service in Independence. Rapunzels Salon II held a ribbon cutting ceremony on Oct. 14 celebrating their new location at 5284 Madison Pike, next to the courthouse. Photo courtesy of Greg Corwin COMMUNITY PARTNER IBA Independence Business Association