Preble County • September 10, 2025
Good morning, Preble County. For over half a century, a special kind of education has been happening just down the road in Dayton, where Learning Tree Farm has connected more than 8,000 students annually with hands-on farm experiences. This 50-year-old institution isn't just about petting goats and holding chickens—it's cultivating the next generation of environmental stewards while offering everyone a chance to "tune out and just relax" in an increasingly digital world.
Campus landscapes are evolving as Miami University plans to demolish three aging buildings at a cost of $7 million, relocating the Department of Media, Journalism and Film to the renovated Bachelor Hall before fall 2026. Meanwhile, the county justice system remains active with seven new grand jury indictments covering charges from domestic violence to drug possession. As autumn approaches, consider supporting Learning Tree Farm's mission at their September 20 Autumn Fest fundraiser, complete with pony rides, hayrides, and seasonal crafts.
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🌱 Learning Tree Farm brings nature to life for thousands of kids. For over 50 years, this Dayton educational farm has connected children with hands-on experiences like petting goats and holding chickens. The farm serves more than 8,000 students annually from 130 regional schools, offering unique opportunities for children to interact directly with farm animals. Their upcoming Autumn Fest fundraiser on September 20 will feature pony rides, hayrides, and crafts, with proceeds supporting improvements to their historic 1840s farmhouse. Learning Tree Farm's mission emphasizes environmental stewardship while providing a peaceful retreat where visitors can "tune out and just relax."
🏢 Miami University plans to demolish three aging campus buildings. The university has determined that Williams Hall, Wells Hall, and Joyner House are not financially worth renovating due to structural inefficiencies and outdated designs. The Department of Media, Journalism and Film will relocate from Williams Hall to the renovated Bachelor Hall before fall 2026. University officials estimate the demolition project, including utility work and site preparation, will cost approximately $7 million. The decision stems from a long-range housing master plan that assessed the viability of campus structures.
⚖️ Seven indicted by Preble County grand jury on various charges. The September 2 indictments include cases involving domestic violence, drug possession, and vandalism. Carolyn George faces charges for vandalism and failure to stop after an accident, while Caleb Nickels is charged with strangulation and domestic violence. Several defendants face drug-related charges, including possession of fentanyl compounds and illegal conveyance of drugs into a government facility. All seven individuals are from various locations throughout Preble County and surrounding areas.
Historic farmhouse needs updating now: This vintage farmhouse with 3 bedrooms and 2 baths on half an acre offers tall ceilings, refinished hardwood floors, and country charm for $184,900, with recent updates including a new water heater and kitchen plumbing.
Renovated Camden acreage: Priced at $239,900, this fully renovated 3-bedroom home sits on nearly 1.2 acres in Camden and boasts a new kitchen, modern bathroom, refinished hardwood floors, and updated mechanical systems throughout.
Spacious family home with pool: This $275,000 New Paris home offers 2,056 square feet with 4-5 bedrooms, 2 baths, cathedral ceilings, and a cedar-fenced backyard with pool on a 0.616-acre lot in National Trail Schools district.
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