Preble County • September 11, 2025
Good morning, Preble County. In an age when our lives increasingly depend on digital systems, Middletown's ongoing cybersecurity crisis offers a sobering reminder of our vulnerability. The August attack has left the city unable to generate utility bills, forcing officials to suspend shutoffs while working with specialists to determine if personal information was compromised. Residents can still make payments through previous channels, but the city warns the recovery process remains "complex and time-consuming."
There's better news for local veterans as the Dayton VA Medical Center secures critical funding for electrical and steam system improvements. The facility, which serves nearly 46,000 veterans annually, will benefit from a national VA initiative allocating nearly $1 billion for deferred maintenance. Meanwhile, mixed developments in missing persons cases bring relief to one family as 14-year-old Klaya Whitlock returns home safely, while authorities continue searching for 16-year-old Jada Price, missing since September 3rd.
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🔒 Middletown's cyber attack leaves utility billing system crippled. The Ohio city continues struggling with fallout from an August cybersecurity incident that has disabled its ability to generate new utility bills. Officials have suspended all utility shutoffs while systems remain down, with no timeline for restoration. Residents can still pay previously issued bills in person or online through InvoiceCloud. The city is working with third-party specialists to investigate whether personal information was compromised, describing the process as "complex and time-consuming" but promising appropriate notification for affected individuals.
🏥 Dayton VA Medical Center gets funding boost for critical repairs. The facility will receive improvements to its electrical and steam distribution systems as part of a national VA initiative allocating nearly $1 billion for deferred maintenance. This funding comes from savings achieved through Veterans Health Administration reform efforts, contributing to a total $2.8 billion maintenance program for fiscal year 2025. The Dayton campus, which serves nearly 46,000 veterans annually with 351 beds and a $710 million budget, will also see preparations for a new cardiac catheterization laboratory. Local VA officials plan to release specific details about the Dayton projects at a later date.
🔍 Missing Hamilton teen found, Middletown girl still being sought. Hamilton police successfully located 14-year-old Klaya Whitlock, returning her to her family after she was reported missing last week. Authorities had suspected an adult might have been harboring the young girl. Meanwhile, Middletown police continue searching for 16-year-old Jada Price, who was last seen September 3rd walking away from her home wearing a gray hoodie and black pants. Police believe Price, who turns 17 next week, may have run away and are asking the public to call 911 with any information.
Family retreat on wooded acres: Priced at $399,747, this well-maintained family home on 1.77 wooded acres features 3 beds, 2.5 baths, updated systems, and an oversized garage, with possession available as early as October 10.
Countryside quiet needs TLC: This Eaton 1-story home is listed at $124,900, featuring three bedrooms, two baths, an eat-in kitchen, and a tranquil backyard that feels like the countryside despite its in-town location. The property needs some TLC and is sold as-is.
Renovated three-bedroom oak dreamhome: Priced at $189,900, this completely renovated three-bedroom home features two fully remodeled bathrooms, a jacuzzi tub, oak kitchen with new stainless appliances, and a detached two-car garage.
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