There will be no more smoking or vaping at Newport on the Levee.

The entertainment destination is partnering with St. Elizabeth Healthcare to create a wellness series that will include a transition to becoming a smoke- and vape-free property.

As part of the effort, the Levee will host more than forty wellness classes that will include yoga, dance, and tai chi which will all be open to the public.

St. Elizabeth will provide free smoke cessation classes for Levee tenants.

“We take our role in the community very seriously when it comes to wellness and health, so when Newport on the Levee approached us about a partnership, we were eager to help," said John Mitchell, senior vice president and chief operating officer of St. Elizabeth Ft. Thomas and Covington. "Kentucky is ranked number one in the nation in deaths from cancer and chronic lower respiratory disease and top ten in deaths caused by heart disease, Alzheimer's disease, flu/pneumonia, kidney disease, and septicemia. So there is a very real need in our state and in our community to offer education and activities to help the public understand the very serious consequences of smoking and the negative effects of a sedentary lifestyle.”

“This program is a small part of a larger vision to transform Newport on the Levee into the community hub of activity and gathering that we know it can be," said Barney Estes, Newport on the Levee general manager. "St. Elizabeth has been an excellent partner, offering their expertise so that we could develop classes and information to our guests that will improve their lives. We are excited to provide unique experiences for our neighbors and guests throughout the year, especially programs like this which will enhance their health and well-being.”

The wellness classes will begin May 18 with on-property messages around Newport on the Levee beginning June 5th. The schedule of classes can be found here. The first 200 guests to attend three wellness classes will receive a complimentary Lulu Lemon water bottle.

Newport on the Levee was sold last year to Cincinnati-based North American Properties Group for $100 million. The company plans to invest $100 million more in redeveloping the site along the Newport riverfront.

-Staff report