Statewide News

• Bengals: Signed veteran QB Joe Flacco from the Browns.
• New Driving Laws: Driver's ed is now required for all applicants under 21, who must also submit detailed 50-hour practice logs. A new state app helps track hours.
• Greene Co. Tax Refund: A $3.2M tax refund will be issued via a temporary tax reduction in 2025, saving the average homeowner about $112.
• Drought & Burn Ban: Southwest Ohio is in a moderate drought, increasing wildfire risk. The seasonal open burn ban (6 a.m. - 6 p.m.) is in effect for October and November.
• Pest Alert: The invasive Boxtree moth, which destroys boxwood shrubs, has been confirmed in several SW Ohio counties.
• AES Ohio Dispute: AES Ohio is offering customers a $1.6M refund, while a consumer group is demanding $61M for alleged "excessive earnings."
• Cannabis Lawsuit: Businesses are suing the state for applying old medical marijuana advertising rules to the new recreational market.
• Education Bill: HB 485 would require schools (grades 3-12) to teach fetal development using materials from an anti-abortion group.

Dayton Area News

• Record Rain: Dayton broke a 94-year-old rainfall record on Oct. 7 with 2.4 inches.
• Kettering Health: As of Jan. 1, 2026, Kettering Health will no longer be in-network for Humana and Devoted Health Medicare Advantage plans. Patients must switch plans during open enrollment (Oct. 15 - Dec. 7) to maintain access.
• Business Updates:
  • Opening: Koji Burger (Dayton, Oct. 14), Azul Agave (Miamisburg), Dillard's (Beavercreek, March 2026).
  • Closing: Baker Benji’s (Dayton), China Dynasty (Centerville, Oct. 15).
  • In Memoriam: Franco Gallo, owner of ‘Franco the Foodie’ in New Carlisle, has passed away.
• Hara Arena Site: Trotwood and Harrison Township are in dispute over a proposed $300M state behavioral health facility at the former arena.
• Local Briefs: Dayton's airport is adding new restaurants, including Warped Wing. Kettering's mayoral election is Nov. 4. Wright State's enrollment is up slightly.