Greater Dayton Podcast

Federal Legislation

The U.S. House of Representatives passed a bill to establish permanent, year-round Daylight Saving Time across the nation. If signed into law, this will eliminate the bi-annual practice of changing clocks.

Ohio State and Regional News

A Franklin County grand jury indicted a former Powell couple for orchestrating a 93 million dollar Medicaid fraud scheme that targeted refugees and utilized stolen staff identities. On the regulatory front, Ohio hemp businesses are cautiously reopening following a court ruling that temporarily protects sales of specific hemp-derived products. Additionally, the state has updated its public school guidelines for the fall, adjusting kindergarten age requirements and implementing stricter attendance rules. Meanwhile, a viral national smash-burger chain has announced a upcoming expansion into the Ohio market.

Dayton and Montgomery County

• Public Safety and Support: Dayton Police are deploying street outreach teams to support vulnerable populations directly. Simultaneously, the New Season Treatment Center opened a new outpatient facility on Linden Avenue, expanding options for local opioid addiction recovery.
• Business and Infrastructure: A 155 million dollar corporate expansion is underway in the region, bringing over 60 high-paying industrial jobs. In Belmont, the Purple Haze Coffee Lounge has opened its doors. However, the downtown Dayton Montessori High School closed permanently after only one year.
• Hazards: Local officials warn of a dangerous spike in copper utility wire thefts. Additionally, a regional air quality alert was recently issued due to incoming wildfire smoke. Meanwhile, the local animal shelter has reduced its adoption fee to 18 dollars to cope with an influx of over 200 dogs.

Local Community Highlights

• Kettering and Huber Heights: Developers are seeking to transform the historic 1930s Barnes Building into a collaborative COhatch coworking space and Kettering City Schools administrative office. In Huber Heights, the Donut Palace is moving to a modernized facility, and the co-branded Great American Cookies and Marble Slab Creamery is preparing to reopen.
• Yellow Springs and Cedarville: After 54 years of business, the landmark Ohio Silver Co. jewelry store is permanently closing in Yellow Springs. In Cedarville, Silver Cup Lake Adventures has opened its spring-fed lake for private swimming, diving, and paddleboarding.
• Road Closures: A truck crash damaged guardrails and closed the Mason Morrow Millgrove Road bridge near South Lebanon. A similar traffic hazard occurred in Greene County when a dump truck struck overhead power lines.
• Financial Audits: The State of Ohio is seeking to reclaim over 105,000 dollars from the former CFO of Central State University in Wilberforce following fiscal management audits. In Springfield, authorities executed raids at four businesses for selling illegal synthetic hemp and kratom.

In corporate news, The Kroger Co. announced a massive 1.65 billion dollar deal to acquire Giant Eagle, significantly expanding its footprint across Ohio, Pennsylvania, and West Virginia, though some store divestitures in Columbus are expected. Economically, Governor Mike DeWine approved seven new development projects to create jobs and awarded 15 million dollars in Ohio Brownfield grants for environmental cleanups in Brown, Clermont, Highland, and Hamilton counties. DeWine also stated that Ohio will comply with federal law if Haitian migrants lose their Temporary Protected Status. Meanwhile, a family franchise group announced plans to bring the Huddle House restaurant chain to Ohio with multiple upcoming locations.

Legislative updates include the passage of a bill requiring drivers to explicitly identify themselves to law enforcement during traffic stops. Lawmakers also passed a family planning curriculum mandate requiring public schools to teach students the societal benefits of marriage before childbearing. Additionally, Governor DeWine signed a bill enforcing strict regulations and oversight for state Medicaid providers to crack down on billing fraud.

Public Safety and Infrastructure: The Dayton Police Department entered a 1.5 million dollar agreement with the Greater Dayton RTA to station dedicated officers at the downtown Wright Stop Plaza hub to improve security. On the regulatory front, recent state property tax reform legislation is causing unexpected mailing delays for local property tax bills as county treasurers update their systems.

Social Services and Health: Montgomery County commissioners approved 150,000 dollars for a collaborative downtown homelessness outreach program. Concurrently, St. Vincent de Paul's primary men's shelter is undergoing its first large-scale renovation, and the Boys & Girls Club of Dayton announced an 18 million dollar facility expansion. In health news, public health officials are monitoring at least seven local cases of an illness causing explosive diarrhea in Montgomery County.

Utilities and Technology: The Public Utilities Commission of Ohio voted to grant AES Ohio customers an 11 million dollar refund, though the amount fell short of the 82 million dollar break requested by consumer advocates. At Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Joby Aviation is advancing its advanced air mobility expansion despite facing a new federal investigation. Additionally, the VA Secretary noted that the proposed Dayton VA historical center requires stronger congressional backing to secure funding.

Beavercreek and Bellbrook: Beavercreek permanently closed the 40-year-old giant metal slide at Shoup Park due to structural safety concerns, prompting a community fundraising replacement effort. Greene County Parks & Trails also reverted to sunrise-to-sunset hours following a surge in vandalism.

Piqua and Troy: Piqua city officials approved a lease to bring a new Thai 9 restaurant location to Fort Piqua Plaza. Meanwhile, the Piqua Public Library temporarily relocated its children's area due to structural safety concerns.

Springfield and Sunbury: Activists and residents gathered in Springfield for an "Immigrants Are America" rally to support the local Haitian community. In Sunbury, residents launched a petition for a November ballot measure to cap new data centers at 25 megawatts to curb energy-intensive developments.

Regional Updates: Residents in New Lebanon are demanding infrastructure fixes for ongoing discolored and foul-smelling tap water, while local police warned of a scam involving realistic movie prop money. In Fairborn, a major UFO conference is scheduled for the weekend, while Centerville Pops is hosting a film-score summer concert series. Finally, Slim's Neighborhood Bar & Grille in Spring Valley announced its permanent closure, and wildlife officials confirmed a black bear sighting in Greene County.

Meta selected Ohio for its new digital workforce training pilot, while the Ohio Supreme Court is weighing whether cities can legally ban flavored tobacco products. Meanwhile, recent law clarifications have allowed THC-infused beverages to return to brewery menus like Urban Artifact in Cincinnati. In corporate news, Kroger agreed to a 1.25 million dollar calorie-labeling settlement and announced a 37 million dollar Marketplace store in Hamilton. The state also marked the passing of Cheryl's Cookies founder, Cheryl Krueger, who died following a long battle with Parkinson's disease.

Legislative updates include the passage of an absentee ballot law requiring ID photocopies by 2027 and the implementation of Avery's Law, which hikes dangerous dog penalties but is straining local animal shelters. Governor Mike DeWine signed the Joshua Alert bill to create a rapid-response system for missing children with special needs, but he vetoed a strict photo ID voting mandate. Other pending bills propose ending data center tax breaks, allowing non-lethal weapons like pepper spray on college campuses, and establishing voluntary gun surrender protocols during mental health crises. DeWine is also urging the abolition or a public vote on the death penalty due to ongoing lethal injection drug shortages.

Mayor Jeffrey Mims Jr. released his Flight Plan strategic vision targeting safety and economic development. In a major community win, previously high-crime neighborhoods are approaching a milestone of nearly 100 consecutive days without gun violence. On the infrastructure front, the city banned new large-scale data centers over energy concerns and resumed a 2 million dollar federal study to redesign the U.S. 35 corridor. Furthermore, a federal court ruled a city ordinance banning free downtown food giveaways unconstitutional.

The local arts and library scenes face administrative shifts. The iconic Yellow Cab Tavern will permanently close on October 31, the Dayton Metro Library board is searching for a new director after firing the previous one, and Dayton Philharmonic musicians issued a vote of no confidence in the Dayton Performing Arts Alliance. Conversely, Dayton Children's Hospital established a fund to protect the Dolly Parton Imagination Library, and the Air Force Museum is planning a free light show featuring 500 synchronized drones.

Beavercreek and Fairborn: Beavercreek welcomed Einstein Bros. Bagels and Exotic Snack Guys, though local parks are reverting to sunrise-to-sunset hours due to vandalism, and a Shakertown Road widening project faces neighborhood pushback. Meanwhile, Fairborn is reviewing plans for a new 7 Brew drive-thru coffee shop.

Kettering approved 1.3 million dollars to demolish a blighted shopping center portion, while developers continue to pursue a luxury car condo concept despite zoning hurdles. Kettering City Schools is also moving forward with a major new building project. In Centerville, a highly anticipated new commercial tenant is moving in next to Bill's Donut Shop.

Miamisburg, Moraine, and Vandalia: Val's Bakery set an opening date for its new downtown Miamisburg coffeehouse. In Moraine, Shearer's Foods opened its new 110 million dollar potato chip factory. To curb discount retail oversaturation, Vandalia City Council formally rejected a new Dollar General store near Interstate 70.

Regional Updates: The U.S. Air Force confirmed it will advance its B-52 bomber modernization program, and a prominent general stationed at the base was nominated for a second star. Central State University in Wilberforce is slated for 29 million dollars in the state capital budget, attached to strict oversight requirements. Finally, Tuck-N-Red’s micro-distillery in Yellow Springs announced its permanent closure, and Camp Mahanaim in Warren County filed a lawsuit against the Uranus Fudge Factory over a blocked water valve.

Ohio State and Regional News

In Cincinnati, customs agents seized over 300 prohibited agricultural eggs hidden inside jackets. Meanwhile, overseas supply chain disruptions are driving up fuel and fertilizer costs, straining local farmers. Economically, Governor Mike DeWine announced 1,600 new jobs from recent development deals, and local governments have started receiving tax revenue from legalized recreational marijuana sales.

During a public hearing, Ohioans strongly opposed the rise of massive data centers and the use of non-disclosure agreements, citing heavy energy consumption and a lack of transparency. In civic updates, the state announced its annual sales tax holiday, and the Ohio National Guard is preparing to deploy 200 members for federal operations.

Legislatively, a new bipartisan bill aims to expand resources for foster youth aging out of the system, while another proposal introduces harsher penalties to combat Medicaid fraud. Additionally, a massive public petition calls for an update to the Son of Sam law to prevent criminals from profiting off their crimes. Conversely, a Republican-led plan to enshrine strict voter ID requirements into the Ohio Constitution and a rule change allowing state judges to make political endorsements are both facing public criticism.

Dayton and Montgomery County

The Ohio Senate passed a state budget allocating 7.8 million dollars for Montgomery County projects. This funding arrives alongside new Census Bureau data detailing shifting regional population trends.

Billionaire Bill Gates visited Dayton for the dedication of the new NCR Archive Center, which preserves the historical legacy of the National Cash Register Company. Locally, GE Aerospace successfully tested hybrid-electric engine technology, and Sinclair Community College partnered with Sierra Nevada Corporation to launch a new training program for aviation technicians.

Following a string of local incidents, community leaders issued an urgent plea for neighborhood interventions to address gun violence. In lighter news, Miami Valley Hospital's labor and delivery department is experiencing a unique internal baby boom, with 17 of its own nurses pregnant at the exact same time. Additionally, FiveStar Comic Con is expanding its footprint into Dayton, while the downtown Jimmy John's location has permanently closed.

Local Community Highlights

Surveillance and Public Safety: Internal records revealed that the Kettering Police Department shared automated Flock license plate reader data with immigration authorities, violating a prior public pledge. In Huber Heights, officials selected Mike Lang from neighboring Englewood to serve as the city's new Police Chief.

Business and Growth: A regional defense contractor is planning an expansion into Beavercreek and Xenia, bringing 200 high-tech jobs to the area. In Springboro, the bakery Killer Brownie secured a state tax break to support a facility expansion. Meanwhile, several area FedEx Ship Center locations are closing, Troy is welcoming a new Rudy’s Smokehouse location, and plans were submitted for a senior assisted living facility in Miami Township.

Local Disputes: At Miami University in Oxford, students and conservationists are protesting campus landscape plans that threaten several historic, centuries-old trees. In Dublin, a homeowner is seeking answers from the USPS after catching a postal carrier on camera throwing packages onto their property. Finally, Trotwood Mayor Yvette Page issued a statement emphasizing resilience as the city continues its long-term disaster recovery.

The Ohio Department of Natural Resources has detected Chronic Wasting Disease in deer across six counties, prompting strict tracking of the neurological condition. On a positive note, the spring wild turkey hunting season opened with strong statewide harvest numbers.

In the Ohio General Assembly, representatives introduced legislation to legalize medical aid in dying for terminally ill individuals. Other active bills seek to expand access to subsidized childcare for working families and make state crime-solving grant funds permanent to ensure stable technology funding for law enforcement. Additionally, the Ohio Supreme Court issued a major ruling regarding utility submetering, altering how third-party vendors can bill residential tenants for water and electricity.

Dayton

The City of Dayton released two comprehensive reports outlining neighborhood development and municipal system overhauls.

The city successfully leveraged 19.2 million dollars in public funds to spark 387.7 million dollars in private investment, reflecting a 20-to-1 leverage ratio. In Greater Downtown, Phase 1 of the convention center and the 47 million dollar North Arcade renovation are complete, while the 110 million dollar Centre City residential conversion is officially active. West Dayton development projects reached nearly 40 million dollars, including the DuPont expansion and Germantown Crossing affordable housing. Northeast industrial growth was dominated by the 94 million dollar Sierra Nevada Corporation aircraft hangars and the 108 million dollar Dayton Children’s Behavioral Health center.

To handle this spike in construction, the city is revamping its building permit workflow to clear historic backlogs. Reforms include same-day permit intake, digital plan reviews via the Accela platform, and a standardized residential fee structure. A full digital portal will launch in late 2026.

Local

Business and Dining: The local culinary community is mourning the loss of Raymond Wiley, co-founder and CEO of Hot Head Burritos, who passed away at age 60. Meanwhile, the boutique Heart Mercantile announced it is closing its physical storefront in the Oregon District due to rising costs, transitioning to online-only retail. In Huber Heights, Dave's Hot Chicken is planning a new location along the main retail corridor, while the Old Spaghetti Factory in Fairfield is shutting down permanently.

Infrastructure and Transportation: Dayton, Huber Heights, and surrounding townships passed 180-day moratoriums on data center developments to study the immense power and water strain they place on utilities. To assist voters, the Greater Dayton RTA will provide free rides on May 5 for the primary election. Additionally, 19 area commercial locations were chosen to receive new electric vehicle charging stations, and a developer bought 4 million dollars in land near the airport for an industrial park.

Regional Safety and Education: West Carrollton is wrapping up construction on a modernized, high-tech middle and high school campus. Emergency utility crews are managing a massive sinkhole in Jefferson Township, while Franklin officials cleared a recent train derailment. In public health news, a bat in Butler County tested positive for rabies, leading to a reminder for pet vaccinations.

Arts and Leisure: Levitt Pavilion Dayton upgraded its venue with a new sound system ahead of the summer season, and West Chester launched its summer concerts on a new community stage. At Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, officials are updating base facilities to include new virtual golf simulators, gaming rooms, and improved recreational lounges.

This local news broadcast details the financial challenges that led to the brick-and-mortar closure of Heart Mercantile in the Oregon District.

Federal Legislation

Federal lawmakers are preparing to revisit the Sunshine Protection Act, a long-debated bill that would permanently eliminate the bi-annual changing of clocks and establish year-round daylight saving time across the United States.

Ohio State and Regional News

State legislators are advancing several new measures, including a bill to replace standard magnetic-stripe EBT cards with chip-enabled versions to curb cloning fraud, alongside updated rules to help farmers markets accept SNAP benefits. To regulate future elections, a new proposal aims to enshrine strict photo voter identification requirements directly into the Ohio Constitution. Lawmakers have also established a bipartisan data center committee to analyze the heavy grid and infrastructure demands of server farms, while separate bills seek to create a public domestic violence offender registry and mandate digital watermarks on AI-generated deepfakes.

In safety and health news, the state launched Project Plan Ahead, a $20 million educational campaign focused on safe driving and marijuana usage regulations. Following a massive federal investigation into systemic billing fraud, Governor Mike DeWine issued an executive order requiring immediate revalidation for state Medicaid providers.

Dayton and Montgomery County

Fat Boyz BBQ has officially opened a new carryout location on Salem Avenue, and the newly hatched bald eaglets at Carillon Historical Park have been formally named in honor of America's upcoming 250th semiquincentennial. In downtown developments, the Versiti Blood Center is relocating its regional operations to the Tech Town campus, and the Mosaic Institute of Greater Dayton is preparing for its grand opening.

For Memorial Day weekend, the state is offering promotional ride-share credits for discounted Uber and Lyft rides in Montgomery and Butler counties to curb impaired driving. Additionally, the Dayton Knitting Guild will host a celebration for Worldwide Knit in Public Day at The Silos, and Wright State University’s Boonshoft School of Medicine partnered with Premier Health to secure a $2.5 million grant expanding healthcare services for individuals experiencing homelessness.

Local Community Highlights

Xenia and Huber Heights: Central State University will be officially annexed into the city of Xenia following a collaborative agreement to streamline municipal services, utilities, and emergency response. Huber Heights could soon see a retail boost as corporate plans develop to bring new Ollie's Bargain Outlet and HomeGoods stores to local shopping centers.

Centerville and Washington Township: The outdoor Merchant Market is returning to Stubbs Park, and the grilled sweet-dough ice cream chain Crispy Cones is planning a local expansion. Nearby in Washington Township, a trending dessert brand featured on Shark Tank is preparing to open its doors.

WPAFB and Clark County: The U.S. House approved $21 million in federal funding for a new human performance laboratory at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base. Additionally, the National Museum of the U.S. Air Force is preparing to debut a massive Star Wars exhibit featuring iconic props and costumes. In Clark County, Northridge Lanes has permanently closed after decades of operation.

Regional Updates: Defeat of a recent tax levy has left Miami County officials searching for alternative funding strategies to address critical repairs at the county jail. Across the Miami Valley, local city councils are reviewing traffic codes to regulate the rise of e-bikes and electronic motorcycles on sidewalks, while a local Sam's Club is preparing for a massive $8.7 million interior and exterior modernization.

Ohio State and Regional News

In a major political transition, Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost resigned to enter the private sector, leading Governor Mike DeWine to appoint Andy Wilson, former Director of Public Safety, to fill the role through January 2027. State safety protocols have also shifted for SNAP recipients, who must now manually unlock their EBT cards via a mobile app or hotline for any online or out-of-state transactions to prevent benefit theft.

The Ohio Department of Agriculture has issued a warning regarding invasive jumping worms that threaten local soil quality, while Governor DeWine is moving forward with an operational overhaul of Medicaid to reduce fraud and increase financial accountability. In professional sports, the Cincinnati Bengals will expand their international presence with a scheduled Week 9 game against the Atlanta Falcons in Madrid, Spain. Legislatively, families are rallying behind a new Child Protective Services reform bill aimed at increasing agency transparency, alongside an anti-child abuse measure inspired by a tragic Miami County case.

Dayton and Montgomery County

Dayton’s 2026 street resurfacing program is currently active, with crews working to repave over 55 lane-miles, including major sections of East Monument Avenue, Ludlow Street, Valley Street, and South Smithville Road. While infrastructure improves, some residents are pushing back against the use of automated Flock license plate readers, citing privacy concerns over the expansion of surveillance technology.

Public health officials have issued a specific alert regarding collectible, vintage root beer stand mugs that contain dangerous levels of lead and should not be used for drinking. To support local families, the YWCA Dayton is currently seeking donations of hygiene products and baby supplies, while the Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office is finding success using advanced drone technology to locate missing persons and track suspects more efficiently.

Local Community Highlights

Beavercreek recently saw the permanent closure of Off Par Golf & Social at The Greene Town Center, though Centerville is preparing for the return of the popular Merchant Market at Stubbs Park. In Clayton, a new county title office has opened to provide residents with easier access to vehicle titling and passport services.

Fairborn made headlines with a $1.2 million estate listing featuring a private indoor aquatic center and a local recall election that political experts are watching for its potential to set a legal precedent. In Springfield, organizers are working to recover from a $10,000 equipment theft at the Kiwanis Children’s Garden that has stalled local youth programming.

Huber Heights may soon see its second Chipotle location as developers submit new plans, while Vandalia has placed a temporary halt on new small-box discount stores to prevent retail oversaturation. Finally, regional schools are increasingly working to establish policies regarding the use of artificial intelligence in the classroom to balance educational innovation with academic integrity.

National and Regional News

Nostalgia hits the big screen this month as "Shrek" and "Top Gun" return to select local theaters for a limited engagement. Additionally, Target’s car seat trade-in event is back through May 2, 2026, offering a 20% discount coupon in exchange for recycled old or damaged car seats.

Ohio State and Regional News

Infrastructure and Stadiums: Browns owners Jimmy and Dee Haslam officially broke ground on a $2.6 billion domed stadium in Brook Park, slated for a 2029 opening. Governor DeWine also recently rejected calls to suspend the state gas tax, arguing that doing so would jeopardize critical funding for Ohio's roads and bridges.

Legislative and Athletic Updates: State lawmakers are proposing a comprehensive overhaul of child protection laws to improve foster care accountability. In sports, administrators are debating new eligibility rules that would allow student-athletes to compete for schools outside their home districts if their own schools lack specific programs.

Dayton and Montgomery County

State of the County: The 2026 address highlighted a $30 million plan to decentralize the Job Center and $15 million in Courthouse Square upgrades. The county also committed $1 million in annual funding for local arts and culture while launching a new 2026–2028 Strategic Plan for fiscal transparency.

Public Safety and Tech: Dayton Police opened a new temporary substation on South Main Street to increase downtown visibility. Meanwhile, city officials are demanding accountability following a data breach involving Automated License Plate Reader (ALPR) data. On a positive note, a sweep of 15 gas stations in Butler Township and Vandalia by the County Auditor’s office found zero illegal credit card skimmers.

Healthcare and Environment: A local 7 Brew drive-thru is partnering with Dayton Children’s Hospital for a pediatric fundraiser. Health officials are warning of a rise in Lone Star ticks, which can cause Alpha-gal syndrome (a red meat allergy). Residents are also advised of two-week lane closures on U.S. 35 for infrastructure repairs.

Local Community Highlights

Centerville and Kettering: Chase Bank is moving into a former Rite Aid site in Centerville, and the Centerville-Washington Park District is planning upgrades for its all-access playground. In Kettering, the Modern College of Design announced it will permanently close on June 23, 2026, due to financial hurdles. However, Dragon's Guildhall is relocating to a new Kettering storefront, and voters successfully passed a 5.93-mill school levy for a 10-year renovation project.

Fairborn and WPAFB: Wright State University is adjusting its curriculum, cutting low-enrollment programs to make room for new majors. At WPAFB, a new policy allows qualified service members to carry personal firearms on base with commander approval.

Springboro and Springfield: Springboro residents are petitioning against a proposed cement plant expansion. In Springfield, the iconic Mershon’s World of Cars has officially closed after 41 years in business.

Trotwood and Rural Areas: SAY Soccer is returning to Trotwood after a decade-long absence, and the local Humane Society is seeking foster homes for dozens of cats rescued from a hoarding situation. In Coldwater, authorities are investigating the theft of 64 calves from a dairy barn, and Miami County reported a bat testing positive for rabies.

Leisure and Arts: The Fraze Pavilion announced its 2026 "Fraze Flicks" series, featuring titles like "Wicked" and "Black Panther" starting in June.

Ohio State and Regional News

Wildlife and Environment: The Ohio Department of Natural Resources has detected Chronic Wasting Disease in deer across six counties, prompting increased monitoring of the fatal condition. On a more positive note, the spring turkey season saw a strong opening weekend with high harvest numbers reported statewide.

Legal and Legislative Updates: The Ohio Supreme Court recently issued a ruling on utility submetering, changing how third-party companies can bill renters for water and electricity. In the Statehouse, new bills have been introduced to legalize medical aid in dying for the terminally ill, make crime-solving grant funds permanent for law enforcement, and significantly expand access to subsidized childcare for working families.

Dayton and Montgomery County

Infrastructure and Energy: Dayton has joined several surrounding townships in passing a 180-day moratorium on new data center applications. Officials intend to use this period to study the significant water and power demands these facilities place on the grid. Meanwhile, downtown Dayton is currently hosting a major global nuclear conference, drawing hundreds of international scientists and engineers to the city.

Transportation and Business: The Greater Dayton RTA will offer free rides on May 5 to ensure residents have accessible transportation to the polls for the primary election. In regional business news, a developer purchased $4 million in land near the Dayton International Airport for a new industrial park, and "The Silos" food hall has expanded its hours to include Friday lunch and late-night weekend service.

Local Community Highlights

Kettering and Washington Township: Flowerama in Kettering has officially reopened following repairs from a vehicle strike. In Washington Township, Bock Family Brewing is being rebranded as North Sea Brewing under new ownership.

Fairborn and WPAFB: Wright-Patterson Air Force Base is upgrading its quality-of-life amenities with new spaces for golf simulators, gaming, and children's activities. Nearby, Cedarville University announced a new partnership with Walgreens to provide pharmacy students with expanded clinical training.

Schools and Development: West Carrollton is nearing completion on its modernized middle and high school campus. Conversely, Fairfield residents are seeing the permanent closure of The Old Spaghetti Factory. In Trotwood, officials are calling on citizens to report abandoned properties to help combat neighborhood blight.

Arts and Leisure: Levitt Pavilion Dayton has installed a state-of-the-art sound system for its 2026 free concert series, and West Chester officially kicked off its summer concerts on a brand-new community stage. Yellow Springs will soon host the "Big Family Business," a multi-disciplinary concert event.

Conservation and History: Bethel Township implemented an annexation moratorium to preserve local farmland. In a unique local story, a Miami Valley man was recently reunited with an Ice Age fossil he discovered decades ago as a child.

Ohio State and Regional News

In Columbus, an independent investigation at Ohio State University confirmed that former President Ted Carter repeatedly misused his position during his tenure, following his resignation over an inappropriate relationship. In the tourism and recreation sector, Kings Island announced that the suspended boomerang coaster, Invertigo, will officially reopen in 2026 after extensive maintenance.

State lawmakers have introduced several notable bills, including a proposal to regulate Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) deals for high school athletes. Another measure, the Indecent Exposure Modernization Act (HB 249), has faced criticism from opponents who argue its broad dress code language could unintentionally ban women from wearing sports bras in public. Additionally, a new bill seeks to officially designate the "Loveland Frog" as Ohio’s state cryptid. On the economic front, Governor DeWine awarded $7.3 million to local counties for the demolition of blighted buildings to encourage new development.

Dayton and Montgomery County

The City of Dayton officially appointed Eric A. Henderson as Chief of Police following a multi-year selection process. In healthcare, Dayton Children’s Hospital received a record-breaking $40 million donation and plans to rename its main campus in honor of the gift. Additionally, Primary Health Solutions is acquiring South Community Behavioral Health to form a $65 million integrated care enterprise.

Downtown updates include the resolution of regulatory issues for Rabbit Hole Books, which is set to reopen this week. The "Out on 5th" pedestrian promenade in the Oregon District will return on May 1 but with a new schedule: rather than every weekend, Fifth Street will now only close 1–2 weekends per month to improve traffic flow.

Local Community Highlights

• Mad River Advisory: Boaters and recreational users are advised to avoid mile 5.1 of the Mad River through September 2026 due to construction within the local well field.
• Huber Heights: The school board withdrew a proposed $4.5 million budget cut plan following intense community pushback.
• Community Services: St. Vincent de Paul opened a new central donation drive-through at its City Thrift location for easier drop-offs.
• Veteran Support: A local equine therapy program is now offering free sessions to veterans and first responders to support mental health.