Powell • June 18, 2025
Good morning, Powell. June's erratic weather isn't just affecting weekend plansβit's creating real challenges for our farming community. Fortunately, the Small Grains Field Day on June 18 at OSU/Wooster arrives just in time, offering farmers crucial updates on wheat profitability and pest management as they navigate this season's unusual conditions. Leading researchers will be on hand to share insights and answer questions during tours of wheat breeding plots and the USDA Soft Wheat Quality Lab.
Beyond the fields, housing affordability has emerged as central Ohio's top economic concern, with 73% of residents in a new regional survey saying costs are simply too high. One in five families report sacrificing childcare to afford housing, highlighting the difficult trade-offs many neighbors face. Meanwhile, the community mourns Plain City mechanic David McKinley Watson, whose passing at 90 marks the end of an era. The man who "could fix anything" leaves behind a legacy of generosity and mechanical wizardry that won't soon be forgotten.
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πΎ Ohio's erratic spring weather brings new challenges for farmers. The Small Grains Field Day on June 18 at OSU/Wooster will provide crucial updates on wheat profitability, fertility, and pest management. Leading researchers will be onsite sharing their latest findings to help regional growers navigate this season's unusual conditions. The half-day event includes tours of wheat and barley breeding plots plus the USDA Soft Wheat Quality Lab. It offers farmers a valuable opportunity to ask questions, get advice, and connect with other Ohio growers about their operations.
π Central Ohio residents fear housing costs are crushing economic dreams. A new survey by the Mid-Ohio Regional Planning Commission reveals housing affordability tops economic concerns, with 73% saying housing is too expensive. Job quality and childcare costs follow as major issues, with one in five families sacrificing childcare to afford housing. Despite 54% expressing optimism about job prospects, residents believe increasing affordable housing would strengthen the economy more than business attraction. Infrastructure investment received broad support, though only 42% would back tax increases to fund it.
π A Plain City mechanic who could fix anything has died. David McKinley Watson, 90, passed away on June 15, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of hard work and generosity. The 1953 Chuckery Darby School graduate worked as a mechanic and farmer while pursuing his passion for collecting antique cars and tractors. Family and friends knew Watson as the go-to person when vehicles broke down, always willing to share his time and abilities. He is survived by his children, grandchildren, great-granddaughter Alice, and four sisters.
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