Darke County • October 16, 2025
Good morning, Darke County. After 37 years of shaping young minds, Northmont superintendent Tony Thomas is closing his gradebook for the final time. The longtime education leader, who views his work as "a calling from God," has announced his retirement after a decade at the helm of the Montgomery County district. His departure sets the stage for significant transitions across our region, where change seems to be the theme of the season.
In Piqua, residents are embracing transformation with their fresh brand identity featuring a cleverly designed lowercase "p" logo and the optimistic tagline "It's happening here." Meanwhile, Auglaize County voters face important decisions on November 4 with two renewal measures on the ballot—a 0.5% sales tax that funds nearly 20% of county operations and a 1-mill levy for elderly services. Both measures represent the behind-the-scenes financial decisions that keep our communities functioning while leaders like Thomas leave lasting legacies.
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🎓 Longtime Northmont superintendent Tony Thomas announces retirement after decade-long tenure. Thomas, who has worked in education for 37 years, informed the board in October to allow time for a successor search. He has led the Montgomery County district since 2013, viewing his work as "a calling from God" to create systems that provide hope and prepare students for successful futures. Board members praised Thomas as a "strong and positive leader" who made significant impacts on both the district and community. Northmont City Schools serves areas including Clayton, Englewood, and Union with Thomas earning a current salary of $173,353.
💰 Auglaize County voters face crucial tax decisions on November 4. The ballot includes a renewal of the county's 0.5% sales tax that generates $4 million annually for the general fund, representing nearly 20% of county finances. Commissioner Doug Spencer views the vote as a "grade card" on fiscal responsibility, emphasizing this is a continuation of an existing tax, not a new one. Residents will also decide on a 1-mill levy renewal for the Council on Aging, which would provide $965,000 for elderly services. Both measures aim to maintain essential county operations and services.
🏙️ Piqua unveils fresh brand identity after months of community input. The Ohio city revealed its new logo and messaging during a celebratory commission meeting attended by residents and employees. The rebranding features a lowercase "p" logo with a uniquely shaped "u" that resembles a smile, along with the tagline "It's happening here" to highlight progress and activity in the community. The process involved extensive research including surveys, interviews, and workshops with local stakeholders to ensure the brand authentically represents Piqua's values and aspirations. Implementation will begin immediately on digital platforms, with gradual updates to uniforms, vehicles, and infrastructure.
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