Greater Dayton Podcast | Podcast on RSS.com

Greater Dayton Podcast

Greater Dayton Podcast

by Aaron Chamberlin and Jamie Yost

Ep 50 - "National Donut Day"

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.

Ep 49 - "Cheeeeese Fest"

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.

Ep 48 - " A Memorial Weekend"

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.

Ep 47 - "Chipfaced"

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.

Ep 46 - "Meat Twinkie"

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.

Ep 45 - "Big Boy is Coming to Town"

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.

Ep 44 - "Light as a Feather"

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.

Ep 43 - "R.I.P Kipper"

Ohio State and Regional News Ohio lawmakers have introduced a bill to make academic and financial comparisons between public and private schools more accessible to the taxpayers. Additionally, the state launched a new data dashboard to track chronic absenteeism. However, many districts are warning of looming property tax levies as they face a financial crisis caused by the expiration of federal pandemic relief funds and rising operational costs. Dayton City Development and Modernization The City of Dayton released two major reports on April 8, 2026, outlining a surge in neighborhood investment and internal system reforms. 2025-2026 Development Update In 2025, the city leveraged $19.2 million in public funds to drive $387.7 million in private investment. Key highlights include: Greater Downtown: Completion of the $47 million North Arcade and $40 million Convention Center Phase 1. The $110 million Centre City Redevelopment is now active. West Dayton: Projects totaled $39.4 million, including the DuPont expansion and Germantown Crossing affordable housing. Over $100 million in new projects are underway. Northeast: Major industrial and health growth led by the $94 million Sierra Nevada Corp hangars and the $108 million Dayton Children’s Behavioral Health center. Southeast: Investment is expected to hit $142.6 million, anchored by the $110 million "Think Dayton" building at onMain. Permitting Modernization To support this growth, the city is overhauling its permitting process to eliminate backlogs. Reforms include same-day permit intake, digital plan reviews, and standardized fee structures. A full digital review portal is scheduled to launch in late 2026. Local Community News Infrastructure and Safety: East Third Street is slated for bike lane and pedestrian upgrades. Franklin recently managed a train derailment, while Lebanon installed a new all-way stop to curb accidents. In Brookville, authorities are investigating the cause of a sudden two-story building collapse. Business and Dining: 7 Brew Coffee is hiring for its drive-thru near UD, while El Toro Express and Einstein Bros. Bagels are expanding into Kettering and Beavercreek. Conversely, the beverage plant Refresco is closing its Carlisle facility in July, and the Pedal Wagon will not return to Dayton this season. Transportation and Tech: 19 local sites (including Meijer and Sheetz) were selected for new EV charging stations. In Miami Township, a new ordinance requires open-bed trucks to tarp their loads to prevent litter and debris. Public Service and Jobs: The Air Force Materiel Command is hosting a massive job fair at Wright State on May 6. In Englewood, the City Manager announced retirement after a 50-year career. Legal and Health: A medical malpractice lawsuit was filed in Centerville alleging a surgeon operated on the wrong knee. In Warren County, health officials warned residents after detecting a rabid bat. Community Highlights: Michelle Obama was spotted on a low-profile visit to Yellow Springs. The community is also mourning the death of Kipper the Wallaby, a beloved animal ambassador.

E42 - "After Easter Special"

National News Target’s car seat trade-in event returns April 19 through May 2, 2026. Parents can recycle old or damaged car seats at participating stores in exchange for a 20% Target Circle bonus toward new baby gear, such as strollers, high chairs, and car seats. Ohio State and Regional News In Columbus, a lawsuit challenges the 2020 executive decision to remove the Christopher Columbus statue from City Hall, arguing the process bypassed proper legal channels. Statewide, lawmakers are debating the constitutionality of a new law restricting drag performances as free speech advocates launch legal challenges. Effective April 3, 2026, Ohio real estate law now requires residential sellers to sign an Anti-Discrimination Disclosure form before their property can be marketed or shown. Additionally, House Republicans are proposing tighter regulations on the sports betting industry to combat problem gambling and limit aggressive advertising. With the May 5 local elections approaching, officials remind residents that the voter registration deadline is nearly here. Ohio has also joined a multi-state crackdown on distracted driving, with law enforcement increasing patrols to enforce hands-free cell phone laws. Dayton and Montgomery County The Downtown Dayton Partnership recently underwent a major restructuring, resulting in the elimination of most of its nonprofit staff positions to refocus its mission. In the Oregon District, the Out on 5th pedestrian promenade returns this May with updated traffic flow patterns and improved outdoor dining spaces. Day Air Credit Union announced a local expansion with two new branches, while SAY Soccer is returning to Trotwood after a ten-year hiatus to provide more recreational options for youth. In business news, Mershon’s World of Cars in Springfield has officially closed after 41 years, and a new Dunkin' is planned for a former Tim Hortons site in Moraine. Local Community Highlights Beavercreek and Englewood continue to grow with new amenities, including a Jimmy John’s with a drive-thru in Englewood and expanded financial services in Beavercreek. At Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, a new Department of Defense memo now allows qualified, off-duty service members to carry personal firearms on base, provided they receive individual commander approval. Huber Heights celebrated a milestone with the grand opening of Ohio’s first Buc-ee’s travel center and honored a local resident on his 101st birthday. In Xenia, construction in the Market District is nearing completion, aiming to revitalize the downtown core. Finally, Young’s Jersey Dairy in Yellow Springs hosted its 43rd annual Easter Egg hunt on April 5, with over 10,000 eggs hidden for local children.

E41 - "Egg-cellent Podcast"

Ohio State and Regional News In professional sports, veteran quarterback Joe Flacco has signed a one-year deal with the Cincinnati Bengals to serve as the primary backup to Joe Burrow. On the legislative front, Ohio high schoolers graduating in 2026 can now earn an "America 250" diploma seal for excellence in civics and history. Additionally, Governor Mike DeWine approved several economic projects expected to create over 1,000 jobs in the manufacturing and tech sectors, while members of the Ohio Army National Guard’s public affairs unit are preparing for a deployment to Europe. Health officials are currently monitoring a new COVID-19 variant nicknamed "Cicada," which is rising in Ohio and 24 other states. Meanwhile, the U.S. Department of Justice has opened an investigation into the admissions practices at the Ohio State University College of Medicine to ensure compliance with anti-discrimination laws. In the business sector, shifting state and federal regulations on hemp are forcing some local retailers to close, and state lawmakers remain divided on competing plans to address Ohio’s housing affordability crisis. Dayton and Montgomery County The Dayton Dragons have officially returned to Day Air Ballpark for the start of the 2026 baseball season. To address safety, the Dayton Police Department is launching a joint initiative with federal agencies to crack down on illegal firearm possession and repeat offenders. In the business world, a Trotwood-based company announced 53 upcoming layoffs, representing a setback for the local workforce. However, the Dixie Drive-In in Vandalia has officially reopened for the season, continuing its tradition of outdoor double features. Regional healthcare received a major commitment as Governor DeWine affirmed plans to build a new behavioral health hospital at the former Hara Arena site in Trotwood. This facility will provide critical mental health and addiction services for the Miami Valley. Additionally, the parent company of AES Ohio has moved forward with a $10.7 billion acquisition aimed at grid modernization and renewable energy investments. Local Community Highlights Beavercreek and Fairborn continue to see growth in the defense sector. A new radome production facility opened in Beavercreek, adding 101 jobs, while Wright-Patterson Air Force Base is projected to add 2,000 new positions this year. In Springfield, a Canadian manufacturer has purchased the massive former International facility, signaling a major reinvestment in the city’s industrial corridor. Centerville has released its 2026 Summer Concert Series lineup, offering a variety of outdoor community performances. In Springboro, city officials are working to establish a Community Entertainment District to increase liquor license availability and attract more diverse dining options. Finally, GoBus has officially launched its expanded rural-intercity routes, providing new daily stops in Dayton, Springfield, Middletown, and Yellow Springs.

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