Preble County • June 4, 2025
Good morning, Preble County. At 79 years old, Vera Slamka still rises before dawn to create the pastries that have made Central Pastry a Middletown institution for four decades. Working 10-hour split shifts, this Colombian-born entrepreneur embodies the spirit of dedication that's also visible in Richmond, where Life Sciences Innovations (formerly Life BioSciences) is investing $155 million in a biomanufacturing facility that promises to create 235 jobs by 2025.
The region's cultural landscape is evolving alongside its economic one. After 46 seasons in its previous venue, Middletown Lyric Theatre has found a new home through a promising partnership with the Sorg Opera Revitalization Group. Their music-themed 2026 season at the 134-year-old Sorg Opera House will feature five productions, including "You're a Good Man, Charlie Brown" and "Pippin"—breathing fresh life into a historic venue while celebrating diverse perspectives through performance.
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🏭 Richmond's biomanufacturing future gets a new name. Life Sciences Innovations (LSI) has rebranded from its previous identity as Life BioSciences while continuing development of its manufacturing facility in Richmond, Indiana. The company is investing $155 million to build a state-of-the-art biomanufacturing plant expected to create 235 jobs when it opens in 2025. LSI's facility will focus on producing critical pharmaceutical components and supporting innovative medical treatments. The rebranding reflects the company's expanded vision and commitment to growth in the life sciences sector.
🍩 Vera Slamka bakes love into every pastry at Central Pastry. For 40 years, this Colombian-born entrepreneur has been the heart and soul of this beloved Middletown bakery, working 10-hour split shifts despite being 79 years old. She and her husband John have weathered economic downturns, COVID-19, and road construction challenges without ever considering closing their doors. With six full-time and six part-time employees, including her son-in-law as chief baker, Vera maintains affordable prices because as she says, "I'm not here to be a millionaire."
🎭 Historic theater partnership unveils music-themed 2026 season. Middletown Lyric Theatre and Sorg Opera Revitalization Group announced five productions to be performed at the 134-year-old Sorg Opera House. The lineup includes "You're a Good Man, Charlie Brown," "The Nance," "Pippin," "Master Class," and "A Christmas Carol: A Live Radio Play with Music." This collaboration represents a new chapter for MLT, which closed its previous venue after 46 seasons. President Charley Shafor describes the partnership as the "next phase" for both organizations, with each show connecting to their mission of celebrating diverse perspectives.
Spacious country home near highway: Fully remodeled 3-bedroom home on nearly an acre in Northern Preble County listed at $179,900. Features new kitchen, bath, flooring, HVAC system, metal roof, and sits minutes from I-70 with a fenced yard.
Brick corner paradise pool HVAC: Priced at $499,000, this Eaton brick two-story offers 4 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, hardwood floors, updated kitchen, and a backyard oasis featuring a 16x32 in-ground pool—all on an oversized corner lot with new HVAC.
Needs furnace has cool floors: The $50,000 fixer-upper offers a LARGE living room with hardwood floors and updated windows, but requires a new furnace after relying on wood heat for 22 years. The property includes a wood-burning stove and stainless steel Maytag refrigerator.
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