Home / Newsletters / Ohio / Preble County / May 1, 2025

🏛️ Democracy doors widen

Preble County • May 1, 2025

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Good morning, Preble County. The doors of democracy are opening a bit wider across Ohio as Senator Husted establishes regional offices, including a new southwest location in Middletown. With nearly 500 constituent meetings already conducted since January, this expansion reflects a refreshing commitment to accessibility—ensuring all 11.9 million Ohioans can connect with federal services regardless of their zip code. Meanwhile, military families are receiving well-deserved recognition as 367 schools, including Brookville Intermediate, earn the prestigious Purple Star designation for their exceptional support programs.

On a more turbulent note, New Lebanon's political landscape has transformed into something resembling a small-town soap opera. The new administration's dramatic overhaul—firing five administrators and triggering multiple lawsuits—has divided the community between those seeing necessary reform and others fearing personal vendettas. As legal bills mount and infrastructure concerns grow, residents find themselves wondering if their village government is focusing more on settling scores than serving citizens.

🌤 Sky Skoop

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☕️ What's Brewing Locally

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🏛️ Senator Husted brings constituent services closer to Ohioans. The newly elected U.S. Senator is opening a southwest office in Middletown at 300 N. Main Street, expanding his statewide presence. Since taking office in January, Husted and his team have conducted nearly 500 meetings with Ohio residents and businesses. His office emphasizes that "customer service is my overarching priority" as they establish locations in Middletown, Cleveland, Columbus, and Toledo. Mobile team members will also serve southeast Ohio counties, ensuring all 11.9 million Ohioans have access to federal assistance.

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🌟 Ohio honors 367 schools for supporting military families. Governor DeWine announced the Purple Star designation for schools demonstrating exceptional commitment to students connected to armed forces. Brookville Intermediate School was among those recognized in the Class of 2025, which includes 115 first-time awardees and 252 renewal schools. To qualify, schools must designate a staff liaison who completes professional development and coordinates support activities like military kids clubs or schoolwide celebrations. The announcement coincides with April's Month of the Military Child, with Ohio now home to 700 active Purple Star schools.

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🗳️ Small-town politics turns toxic after election shake-up. New Lebanon, Ohio has experienced unprecedented turmoil since a new mayor and council took office in 2024, firing five administrators and sparking multiple lawsuits. Mayor David Nickerson, previously fired from a village position by the former administrator, led sweeping changes that critics call a "vendetta" while supporters frame as necessary reform. Political experts see the drama as mirroring national politics, with conservative newcomers claiming a mandate to "clean house" while opponents allege overreach and abuse of power. Meanwhile, residents worry about mounting legal costs and neglected infrastructure as the village has cycled through five administrators in just one year.

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⚾ Baseball Scoreboard

The Arcanum Trojans made quick work of Twin Valley South on Tuesday, blanking the Panthers 10-0 in a dominant league performance. The victory pushes Arcanum to 9-3 on the season as they prepare to face the Franklin Monroe Jets, while the Panthers (5-11) will look to regroup against Newton Local's impressive 10-3 squad. Sometimes baseball isn't fair, and Tuesday was one of those days for the Panthers.

TeamOpponentScore
Twin Valley South (5-11)
@ Arcanum
L 10-0

🥎 Softball Scoreboard

TeamOpponentScore
Twin Valley South (5-6)
@ Arcanum
L 17-0

🏡 Real Estate Reveals

Real estate listing image Country ranch paradise awaits: For $329,900, this 3-bedroom brick ranch on 3 acres offers peace and wildlife along a quiet country road, with updated features, multiple garages, and room for the whole family to spread out.
Real estate listing image Brick Ranch Remodel Opportunity: For $199,900, this brick ranch with 3 beds and 2.5 baths features a fireplace, full basement, and updated kitchen. The out-of-state seller began remodeling and building materials will transfer with this two-lot property.
Real estate listing image Rough diamond needs TLC: A fixer-upper with potential, this large two-story home priced at $99,900 needs significant renovation. Bring your tools and imagination to transform this diamond in the rough into a valuable property.

🗓️ Happenings & Hoopla

🌿 May 1 - Wine & Herb Planter Workshop: Sip and create at Olde Schoolhouse Vineyard & Winery on May 1! Build your own herb planter featuring unique varieties while enjoying a glass of wine in this delightful evening workshop.
🌸 May 2 - Spring Vendor Bash: Kick off spring at KeenCreations' first annual bash! Vendors of all kinds welcome at Preble County Fairgrounds on May 2 - bring your crafts, vintage items, produce and more for this community celebration.
🔥 May 2 - Smoke Nation BBQ: Fire up your taste buds at Smoke Nation BBQ at Olde Schoolhouse Vineyard & Winery on May 2! Savor mouthwatering barbecue while enjoying the charming vineyard setting in Eaton.
👤 May 2 - Ethan Moles: Sip and sway with Ethan Moles at Olde Schoolhouse Vineyard & Winery on May 2! Enjoy live music among the vines at this charming Eaton venue, just the perfect way to welcome spring.
🔍 May 3 - Discover Preble Scavenger Hunt: Embark on a family adventure with "Discover Preble!" on May 3 – a thrilling county-wide scavenger hunt featuring 25 exciting locations. Meet at the Preble County Genealogy Room to join the fun!
🎸 May 3 - Jim Burns Live Performance: Catch heartfelt melodies as singer/songwriter Jim Burns takes the stage at Worley's Country Store in Eaton on May 3. Stop by 4272 OH-732 for an evening of soulful country tunes!
🚗 May 3 - Classic Car Cruise In: Rev up your spring at the Classic Car Cruise In! Admire cool cars, trucks and motorcycles while enjoying food and music at Preble County Historical Society on May 3, 1:00-4:00pm. Free admission for all!
🎨 May 3 - Stained Glass Masterpiece: Transform ordinary glass into dazzling art at "Colorful Reflections" with Lisa! Learn stained glass techniques using grout in this three-week class at 207 E Main St, Eaton on May 3.

🙏 In Remembrance

Philip L. Rexrode

Philip L. Rexrode, 88, of Eaton, Ohio, died on April 28, 2025, at Indiana University Methodist Hospital. A 1955 graduate of Jackson High School, he served in the Ohio National Guards for over 8 years and worked at Sanders Implement and Parker Hannifin before retiring. Philip enjoyed farm work and watching sports, particularly the Cincinnati Reds and Bengals. He is survived by his wife June, son Greg, and several grandchildren, with funeral services scheduled for May 2, 2025, at Barnes Funeral Home.

Philip L. Rexrode
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