Successful development projects require more than just a good idea. They require navigating property acquisition, zoning, financing, governmental approvals, construction, leasing and the many legal and regulatory issues that can arise along the way. Coolidge Wall is pleased to welcome David H. Montgomery, an experienced real estate, land use, business and public-sector attorney who has spent nearly three decades helping clients navigate those challenges throughout Southwest Ohio. David joins Coolidge Wall’s Commercial Real Estate, Corporate and Business Law, and Public Sector Law practices. His work encompasses commercial real estate transactions and development, land use and zoning, commercial leasing, business formation …
Ohio BWC Safety Grants Are Back: Here’s What Employers Should Know
If a workplace safety improvement has been sitting on your organization’s wish list, it may be time to revisit it. The Ohio Bureau of Workers’ Compensation has reopened its Safety Grants Program, with more than $41 million available in fiscal year 2027 to help eligible Ohio employers invest in equipment and interventions designed to reduce workplace injuries. The reopening is significant. BWC paused the program in March 2026 after overwhelming demand for grant funding. The Ohio Manufacturers’ Association has also highlighted the renewed availability of the grants, encouraging manufacturers considering safety investments to explore the opportunity. What is the Safety …
The Hidden Financing Risks Facing Small Businesses
Coolidge Wall attorney Patricia J. Friesinger is sharing an important warning for business owners about a growing source of financial stress: financing that solves an immediate cash-flow problem but can create a much larger one down the road. In a new article published by the Dayton Business Journal, “The Hidden Financing Risk Facing Dayton’s Small Business Community,” Friesinger examines the increasing use of merchant cash advances (MCAs) and the significant impact they can have on a company’s working capital. With more than 25 years of experience in bankruptcy and business reorganization, Friesinger has seen firsthand how otherwise viable businesses can …
Patricia J. Friesinger Named a 2026 Woman Who Means Business
Twenty-six years ago, Patricia J. Friesinger came to Dayton to begin a career, what she didn’t realize was that she was choosing her home. But somewhere between building a law practice, raising a family, developing relationships that would span decades and helping businesses through some of their most difficult days, that is exactly what Dayton became. “Dayton gave me a home, a career, and a future,” she told the audience as she accepted a 2026 Dayton Business Journal Woman Who Means Business award. For those who know Pat and the career she has built as a partner at Coolidge Wall, …
Coolidge Wall Attorney Lu Ann Stanley Named Ohio’s 2026 Local Library Champion
Coolidge Wall is proud to congratulate attorney Lu Ann Stanley, who has been selected by the Ohio Library Council to receive its 2026 Local Library Champion Award, one of the organization’s major statewide honors, for her service to Wright Memorial Public Library in Oakwood According to Wright Library’s Director, Kristi Hale, “Lu Ann Stanley has guided Wright Library’s success for nearly twenty years, serving on both the Wright Library Board of Trustees and the Foundation Board. Her vision and commitment resulting in a strong culture of philanthropy, highly effective leadership, responsive strategic planning, and a transformative renovation.” For Stanley, the …
New Attorney Lucas Strakowski Joins Coolidge Wall
Every business reaches moments where experienced legal counsel can make all the difference. Whether launching a new company, negotiating a significant acquisition, drafting key agreements or addressing day-to-day operational challenges, businesses benefit from attorneys who understand both the legal and practical sides of running an organization. That’s why we’re excited to welcome Lucas Strakowski to the Coolidge Wall Business Law team. Lucas focuses his practice on serving small and medium-sized businesses throughout Dayton and Southwest Ohio. Since becoming an attorney in 2022, he has represented businesses in transactions ranging from straightforward asset purchases to complex equity sales valued in the …
Coolidge Wall’s Natasha Mumford Named a 2026 Dayton Business Journal CFO of the Year Honoree
The best financial leaders do far more than manage budgets and balance spreadsheets. They help shape strategy, inspire innovation, strengthen organizations and create the foundation for long-term success. That is why Coolidge Wall is proud to announce that Chief Financial Officer and Chief Operating Officer Natasha Mumford has been named a 2026 Dayton Business Journal CFO of the Year honoree. The Dayton Business Journal’s annual CFO of the Year Awards recognizes financial visionaries who are driving business growth and helping shape the economic future of the Dayton region. Honorees are selected through an independent editorial review based on their professional …
Coolidge Wall Attorney Merle Wilberding Awarded Honorary Doctor of Laws by Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota
Some honors recognize professional achievement. Others recognize a life dedicated to making a difference. Coolidge Wall is proud to congratulate attorney Merle F. Wilberding on being awarded an Honorary Doctor of Laws (LL.D.), honoris causa by Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota, one of the University’s highest distinctions. The honor was announced during Wilberding’s 60th class reunion, where Father James P. Burns, IVD, shared that the University’s Board of Trustees was recognizing Merle for his distinguished legal career and his lifelong service and leadership to his community. For Wilberding, a 1966 graduate of Saint Mary’s, the recognition carries special meaning. It …
Coolidge Wall Announces David P. Pierce as New Firm President
DAYTON, Ohio — Coolidge Wall Co., L.P.A. has announced that David P. Pierce will serve as the firm’s next president, effective July 1, 2026. Pierce succeeds Daniel J. Gentry, who is stepping down from the firm’s presidency after more than two decades of service to the firm. Gentry will continue serving clients and supporting the firm as a shareholder and advisor. Pierce is a shareholder at Coolidge Wall and chairs the firm’s Litigation and Labor & Employment Departments. He also serves on the firm’s Executive Committee. During more than 30 years as an attorney, Pierce has represented clients in complex …
Manufacturing in Motion: Why the Best Business Strategy Includes Legal Strategy
Manufacturing has always been an important part of the Miami Valley’s identity. Today, it remains one of the region’s greatest strengths. Approximately 16% of the local workforce is employed in manufacturing, making it one of the most significant drivers of our economy. From aerospace and defense to precision machining, food production, advanced materials and industrial technologies, manufacturers continue to shape the future of the Dayton region. That future of was the focus of discussion at Sinclair Community College’s Manufacturing Forum on June 11, a dynamic gathering designed to inform, connect and inspire the region’s manufacturing community. The event brought together …
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