(Whitewater Valley)--A part of the Whitewater Valley is now officially in a drought.  A new U.S. drought monitor is issued every Thursday.  This Thurday’s showed the eastern halves of Preble and Butler County are now in a drought, while the rest of the Whitewater Valley is still classified as abnormally dry.  It’s prompted one county to issue a burn ban.  In Franklin County, all open burning has been banned until further notice.  Outdoor grilling is still permitted.  Earlier this week, Richmond Mayor Dave Snow said a similar ban was under consideration, but that has not been implemented.