Florence

Perhaps better known than the Florence Mall itself — one of the Tristate's largest retail centers — is the "Florence Y'all" tower visible from I-75. The tower was originally erected for advertising purposes, but highway regulations mandated it be changed and the new welcome message took hold with residents.   Florence is the second-largest city in Northern Kentucky and one of the fastest growing in the state. A number of industrial employers are headquartered here alongside myriad hotels, restaurants and retailers that benefit from interstate and airport access as well as the city's favorable tax policies.   Fun is Florence's other stock-in-trade. The city is home to the Florence Freedom independent baseball team, Florence Family Aquatic Center, Ollie's Skatepark and a full community calendar of events that include classes and workshops, Veterans Day parade, Halloween Night Out and annual lighting of the community Christmas tree.