Ohio News
- Prison Reform (HB 338): The Ohio House passed a bill banning higher education programs in "high security" prisons (Level 3+). This affects ~262 Sinclair Community College students. Sponsors argue it incentivizes good behavior to earn privileges; critics note it hinders rehabilitation. The bill now moves to the Senate.
- Hemp & Marijuana (SB 56): The Senate passed legislation likely to be signed by Gov. DeWine soon.
- Hemp Ban: Intoxicating hemp (Delta-8/THCA) will be banned from gas stations/vape shops and sold only in licensed dispensaries.
- Pot Rules: Recreational marijuana must stay in original packaging; out-of-state cannabis possession is criminalized.
- Funding: Signing unlocks $28.3M for local dispensary host communities.
Dayton News
- Obituary: Karen Wick, co-owner of Coco’s Bistro and DPS Board member, passed away Dec. 6 at age 64.
- White Lotus Café Retiring: Owner Yong Shoop is retiring after 21 years. Her final day at the downtown staple is Dec. 30. The business has been sold, and new owners plan to keep the menu.
- New Bakery: "5 Frenchies Old North Dayton Bakery" is opening at 700 Troy St. (formerly Evans Bakery). Owner Patrick Parin will use original Evans family recipes.
- Animal Shelter Fees: Miami County Animal Shelter proposes a 2026 fee increase for spay/neuter services; commissioners vote next week.
Greater Dayton & Suburbs
- Beavercreek: The city is purchasing 62 acres near U.S. 35 and Factory Rd for $650,000. This secures land for a future highway interchange and blocks unwanted development (like the previously rejected truck stop).
- Englewood: Kroger Marketplace (885 Union Blvd) reopened its fuel center after a $3M expansion. Deal: 20 cents off per gallon with loyalty card through Jan. 3, 2026.
- Fairborn: Michael’s House Child Advocacy Center completed a $40k renovation to add a sensory room—the first of its kind in an Ohio advocacy center—to help calm children recovering from trauma.
- Huber Heights: City Council will vote on a 12-month moratorium on new gas stations to rewrite zoning codes. This does not affect the Buc-ee’s opening in April 2026.
- Miamisburg:
- Night Owl Barber Co.: Opens Saturday, Dec. 13 (130 N. First St.). Event: Donate canned goods or a winter jacket between 11 a.m.–4 p.m. for a free haircut.
- Ohio Red Barn: Closing its physical storefront Dec. 20 to transition to an online model.
- Sycamore Trails Pool: Renovations are 40% complete. Reopening is targeted for Summer 2026, though likely after Memorial Day.
- Oakwood: The Board of Education is moving offices to 400 Sugar Camp Circle after their previous building on Rubicon Rd was deemed structurally unsafe.
- Tipp City:
- Tax Cut: Council approved a property tax rate reduction, limiting revenue increases to 5% to offset soaring property valuations.
- Grant Contest: Tipp City Area Arts Council needs votes to win a $5,000 grant. Voting is open now through Dec. 13. Link: https://bit.ly/Carols_for_a_Cause
