🚒 Chief's farewell

Good morning, Preble County. Behind every emergency response, there's a person who's dedicated their life to serving others. For over two decades, that person in New Paris was Fire Chief Brad Simpson, affectionately known as the "President of New Paris." His recent retirement marks the end of an era for the Northwest Fire and Ambulance District, where a community gathered to honor his service despite the health challenges that prompted his difficult decision to step down.

In sobering news, a split-second decision at an intersection had tragic consequences when 30-year-old Bridgett Harper failed to yield, resulting in a crash that claimed the life of 64-year-old Roger Flannery. Meanwhile, Westbrooke Village Elementary School experienced a brief lockdown Monday after a summer program participant reported a possible intruder. The situation proved to be a false alarm, but as Police Chief Erik Wilson noted, vigilance is always preferable to regret.

🌤 Sky Skoop

Eaton

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Lakengren

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Camden

67°

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Lewisburg

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West Alexandria

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Gratis

65°

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New Paris

68°

91°

West Manchester

68°

91°

Eldorado

68°

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Verona

66°

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West Elkton

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☕️ What's Brewing Locally

🚗 Indiana woman's fatal error leads to vehicular homicide conviction. Bridgett Irene Harper, 30, pleaded no contest after failing to yield at an intersection, causing a crash that killed 64-year-old Roger Flannery. The May 2024 accident occurred when Harper's Ford Flex struck Flannery's Dodge Ram, which then overturned twice and ejected him. A 20-year-old passenger in Flannery's vehicle suffered serious injuries, while Harper and her 1-year-old passenger escaped unharmed. Harper is scheduled for sentencing on August 14.

🏫 False alarm triggers Trotwood elementary school lockdown. Westbrooke Village Elementary School received the "all-clear" Monday after reports of an unauthorized person prompted a security response. A summer program participant thought they spotted someone in the hallway around 9:30 a.m., leading to a police search. Security footage confirmed no unauthorized individuals were present in the building. Police Chief Erik Wilson praised the vigilant reporting, saying "I'd rather be safe than sorry" despite the false alarm.

🚒 After 20 years, New Paris bids farewell to its fire chief. The New Paris community gathered on June 21 to honor Northwest Fire and Ambulance District Chief Brad Simpson's retirement after more than two decades of service. Known affectionately as the "President of New Paris," Simpson served as a firefighter, advanced EMT, and department leader before suffering a stroke in August 2024. Despite ongoing recovery and therapy, Simpson made the difficult decision to retire, expressing deep gratitude for the community's support throughout his career and health challenges. The celebration concluded with the presentation of a class A uniform and shadow box commemorating his dedication to public service.

Ranch Haven Near Woods: This 3-bedroom, 2-bath ranch home on Woodland Drive offers wood floors, a spacious layout, and a tree-lined backyard for $245,900, with potential for an additional bedroom or rec room.

Fixer-upper with modern essentials: Priced at $100,000, this corner lot investment property needs TLC but offers 3 bedrooms, 1 bath, and 1,386 sq ft, with recent updates including a new furnace, roof, and water heater from 2018.

Lofty Contemporary Steal: Priced at $169,900, this 1.5-story contemporary home offers cathedral ceilings, a kitchen/dining combo with ample natural light, a loft that can be used as a study, and a large patio overlooking a scenic yard.

🗓️ Happenings & Hoopla

🎆 Jul. 4 - Party in the Park: Celebrate Independence Day with a bang at Peace Park's annual Party in the Park! Enjoy food vendors, crafts, raffles, and a car show on July 4th at 50 E Dayton St, West Alexandria.

🏍️ Jul. 4 - Bikers' Independence Day Bash: Celebrate Independence Day at Behind Bars Biker Collective with tattoos, cool biker gear, and unique treasures from noon to 8ish. Stick around for prime viewing of the Glow Parade and Fireworks right out front!

🧀 Jul. 4 - Lakengren Summer Concert: Celebrate Independence Day with Atlas & CO's gourmet charcuterie at Lakengren's Summer Concert! Enjoy delicious bites while soaking in marina views on July 4 - exclusively for Lakengren community members.

🐎 Jul. 5 - Western Ohio Youth Rodeo: Young cowboys and cowgirls show off their skills at the Western Ohio Youth Rodeo! Join the excitement on July 5 at Bullen Equestrian Center, 722 S Franklin St in Eaton.

🎸 Jul. 5 - Heath Bowling Acoustic Set: Catch the captivating sounds of Heath Bowling at Bushrod Brew Works on July 5! This Ohio native delivers soulful acoustic performances blending original tracks with rock, grunge, and country favorites at 117 E Main St.

🦖 Jul. 5 - Jurassic DNA Expedition: Dinosaurs roar back to life at Eagles Point! Catch "Jurassic World: Rebirth" on July 5 at The Gym & Star Theatre, where an expedition's DNA quest promises thrilling prehistoric encounters. PG-13, 2h 14m.

🍽️ Jul. 06 - Monthly Community Meal: Gather around the table at our Monthly Community Meal on July 6 at 120 N Maple St in Eaton! Everyone's welcome to enjoy good food and friendly conversation as we share a nutritious feast together.

💰 Financial Friday

Consider creating a budget that aligns with your values and goals; this not only helps you manage your finances more effectively but also ensures that your spending reflects what truly matters to you.

🙏 In Remembrance

Heather Nichole Doughman

Heather Nichole Doughman, 38, of Georgetown, IN, died on July 1, 2025, at her home after living with Cystic Fibrosis and celebrating 26 years since her double lung transplant. A college graduate with degrees in English Language and Literature, Heather served as an ambassador for Children's Medical Center in Dayton and was recognized as a Wright-Patterson Young Hero. She enjoyed fishing, had a generous heart, and especially cherished time with her nieces and nephews. Heather is survived by her parents, siblings, nieces, nephews, and her beloved cat Mau, with services scheduled for July 8-9, 2025, at Gard Funeral Home in Eaton, OH.