Good morning, Preble County. The skies above Middletown Regional Airport will transform into a "ballet in the sky" on August 23, when aviation meets craft brewing at the Hops in the Hangar fundraiser. Imagine sipping from 90 different beers while skydivers from Team Fastrax descend through the clouds and World War II aircraft gleam in the sunshine. The unique pairing of history, aerobatics, and artisanal beverages creates what might be the region's most distinctive summer event.
Community developments continue to shape our local landscape, from the somber courtroom where James Norman recently pleaded guilty in a tragic 2023 murder-arson case, to the more heartwarming scene in Lewisburg, where a new farm-themed playground will honor local families. The $129,750 project, sparked by the Gilmer family noticing their grandchildren playing on the same equipment they once used as children, beautifully connects generations through community spaces.
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☕️ What's Brewing Locally
🍺 Craft beer meets aviation at Middletown's Hops in the Hangar. The August 23 fundraising event will feature 90 beers from 30 breweries alongside an impressive airshow at Middletown Regional Airport. Skydivers from Team Fastrax and aerobatic pilots will perform what organizer Tom Spielmann calls "a ballet in the sky," while attendees sample craft beers with their souvenir tasting glass. Historic World War II aircraft will be on display through the Butler County Warbirds Museum, with personnel dressed in period military costumes adding to the unique atmosphere.
🔥 Man pleads guilty in deadly scheme that ended with murder and arson. James Norman, 23, admitted to involuntary manslaughter, aggravated arson, and aggravated burglary in the 2023 death of Jaykwan Hardy. The victim was found shot to death after a house fire in Trotwood, part of what police described as a plot to steal items from his home. Norman faces 25-30.5 years in prison, becoming the second person to plead guilty in the case while two other co-defendants await trial in August.
🛝 Lewisburg park to get farm-themed playground honoring local families. The $129,750 project will replace aging equipment with new installations from Bluegrass Playgrounds, featuring a rural theme that complements the village's atmosphere. Vicki and Kip Gilmer initiated the upgrade after noticing their grandchildren were playing on the same equipment they used as children. The Gilmer and Blankenship families have donated funds in recognition of their parents, who were active in community service and park projects. Municipal manager Jeff Sewert plans to develop a funding strategy to move the project forward quickly.
🏡 Real Estate Reveals
Spacious wooded retreat with barn: This 4-bedroom brick ranch on 15 wooded acres is listed at $799,900. Features include custom details, multiple living spaces, and a pole barn, all set within a well-maintained property with trails and abundant wildlife.
Bucolic dreamland acres aplenty: Pastoral paradise alert: $525,000 gets you 24+ acres of lush hay fields and 5+ acres of hunting woods in Preble County, with easy access to Camden, Oxford, and Eaton, plus proximity to fish-filled Four Mile Creek.
Historic gem modern comforts: This historical home, listed at $190,000, offers four bedrooms with spacious closets, original woodwork, and modern updates like high-efficiency heating and a new dishwasher, plus ample storage options in the detached garage.🗓️ Happenings & Hoopla
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