Preble County • April 17, 2025
Good morning, Preble County. The bulldozers are eyeing Miami University's beloved Cook Field as controversy swirls around a proposed $200 million "Arena District." This massive project has sparked significant pushback, with thousands signing petitions to save the recreational space while Professor David Prytherch questions the wisdom of taking on millions in debt during a time of academic budget cuts. The financial gamble raises profound questions about the institution's priorities and identity.
Meanwhile, Grammy-winning bluegrass legend Rhonda Vincent returns to the historic Sorg Opera House on April 25, bringing her world-class talent back to Middletown after a sold-out 2022 performance. In sobering local news, a Wilmington family faces tragedy after 33-year-old Kyler Whitt was charged with murder following the fatal shooting of his mother, 55-year-old Kelley Blazer, in what police describe as a "heartbreaking and tragic incident."
🌤 Sky Skoop | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|

🏗️ Miami's iconic Cook Field faces bulldozers for a controversial arena. Professor David Prytherch voices deep concerns about the university's plan to build a $200 million "Arena District" on this beloved campus space. The project would require up to $200 million in borrowed funds, costing $6-13 million annually to service the debt during a time of budget cuts to academics. Thousands have signed petitions opposing the loss of this recreational space central to campus life. Prytherch argues this financial gamble threatens Miami's core values and educational quality for a sports vision that may not align with the university's identity.
🎵 Bluegrass legend Rhonda Vincent returns to Middletown for encore performance. The Grammy-winning artist will grace the historic Sorg Opera House on April 25, following her sold-out show in 2022 that attracted 700 fans. Vincent, who began her musical journey at age five and was inducted into the Grand Ole Opry in 2021, brings her world-class talent to a venue that's helping revitalize downtown Middletown. Visitors can enjoy local restaurants and breweries before experiencing the eight-time Female Vocalist of the Year's performance, with tickets ranging from $40-50.
💔 Son charged with murder after mother's fatal shooting. Kyler Whitt, 33, was arrested after allegedly killing his 55-year-old mother, Kelley Blazer, in a Wilmington apartment Tuesday night. Police responded to reports of a shooting on Brownberry Drive at 7:49 p.m., where they found Blazer dead at the scene. Whitt was immediately taken into custody and is currently being held in Clinton County Jail. "This is a heartbreaking and tragic incident," said Wilmington Police Chief Robert Wilson.
| Team | Opponent | Score |
|---|---|---|
Tri-County North (7-2) | ||
@ Bradford | W 16-1 | |
Twin Valley South (3-6) | ||
vs Ansonia | W 4-2 |
Tri-County North delivered a softball clinic Tuesday, blanking Bradford 11-0 in a dominant league performance that balanced their season record at 6-6. The Panthers' pitching staff was untouchable, serving up a shutout special that left the Railroaders searching for answers at the plate.In other WOAC action, Preble Shawnee found their groove with an 8-3 victory over National Trail, giving the Arrows their first win against three losses this season. Meanwhile, Ansonia's bats came alive in a 13-1 rout of Twin Valley South, improving the Tigers to a respectable 5-4 mark as they continue their climb up the conference standings.
| Team | Opponent | Score |
|---|---|---|
Preble Shawnee (1-3) | ||
vs National Trail | W 8-3 | |
Tri-County North (6-6) | ||
@ Bradford | W 11-0 | |
Twin Valley South (3-3) | ||
vs Ansonia | L 13-1 | |
National Trail (4-6) | ||
@ Preble Shawnee | L 8-3 |
Lakeside ranch with community perks: Priced at $240,000, this 3-bedroom ranch in Lake Lakengren offers a split floor plan with recent updates including new windows and water systems, along with community amenities like boating, fishing, and private marina access.
Auction home zero dollars: This foreclosure property is selling through Auction.com with a list price of $0. The online marketplace offers a chance to invest and potentially profit in this neighborhood, with support available throughout the bidding process.
| ||
| ||
|
|
|