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December 1 - 8, 2023 - Dayton Weekly News
December 1 - 8, 2023
Officer Ronald Strehle Retires from the Dayton Police Department
Vol. 29, Issue 51
$1.00
Trotwood-Madison Central State University Foundation High School Graduate Honors Hometown, Board Member Appointed to Supporters TourismOhio Advisory Board
William Lumpkin
Officer Ronald Strehle
Officer Ronald Strehle is retiring from the Dayton Police Department on December 8, 2023, after 29 years of service to the Dayton community. “It has been a pleasure to work with each and every one of you who have strived to make our city a safer and better place to reside However, this will not be goodbye, as we may work together in the future in my new role, as Police Community Programs Supervisor. Thank you for making this job seem less like work and more like a group of friends working together towards common goal, the quality of life for our families. It has truly been an honor.” said Officer Strehle.
Wilberforce, Ohio-Columbus native and Central State University Foundation board member Jason Dunn has earlier this month been appointed to the TourismOhio Advisory Board by Gov. Mike DeWine. As a board member of the Central State University Foundation, Dunn has worked with his colleagues to provide Marauders with financial assistance via scholarships and other forms of underwriting, subsidies, endowments, and awards that may be pertinent to stu-
The Montgomery County Prevention Coalition (MCPC) is inviting the media and the public to the dedication of the first of four grant-funded murals to increase awareness of suicide. The mural was painted by MCPC volunteers and students of the Dayton Leadership Academies with the message “The sun will rise, and I will try again.” A QR code embedded in the mural will direct people to mental health resources. “As suicide numbers continue to climb in our community, we knew
we needed to spread positive messages throughout Montgomery County. We are grateful to Culture Works for providing grant dollars that will allow us to paint four murals to provide hope and to help guide people to the mental health support they need,” said Brittini Long, Senior Program Coordinator for Montgomery County ADAMHS and Project Manager of the murals. Culture Works provided $10,000 toward the project, which was matched by the MCPC. MCPC was also awarded a $1,000 grant from Keep Montgomery County Beauti-
Jason Dunn is shown at the the 5th Annual World Kannada Summit welcoming convention participants to Ohio.
dents in need. Such funding goes to student education, housing, and other necessary expenses to ensure qualified Marauders are able to focus on their schooling and achieve success in graduation. While attending the University of Cincinnati from 1998 through 2001, Dunn became intimately involved in community activities and soon “cut (his) teeth in local politics,” as he put it. Dunn became particularly involved in the political scene during what he referred to as the “unrest” and series of
protests that took place in 2001 after the 15th shooting of an African American man by area law enforcement. “The Cincinnati Convention & Visitors Bureau was in the bull’s eye of many of the protests, and many of the conventions, organizations, and concerts that would be coming to the city decided to boycott,” Dunn said. “As more and more groups were pulling out of coming to the city that year, I became something of a bridge between UC and the community.”
Around the time of his graduating from UC, Dunn emailed the vice mayor of the time to tell her that his experiences as mediator during the political unrest had piqued his interest in getting involved with tourism. Dunn was brought in to assist in a variety of capacities to act once again as an intermediary, this time between the city writ large and local community members, ultimately leading to joining the National Coalition of Black Meeting Professionals (NCBMP). Continued on Page 5
Mural to Spread Hope as Death by Suicide Numbers Increase
ful to purchase paint from Sherwin Williams. The mural is located at 2232 North Main Street which according to ODOT data will generate 75,000 impressions each week. The dedication ceremony will take place at 4:00 pm on December 13, 2023, at 2232 North Main
Street. Parking is available at the Dollar General store across the street. To register for this free event, please click here. For more information or to schedule interviews, please contact Tina Rezash Rogal at trezash@ mcadamhs.org or call 937-416-1458.
What is the MCPC? – The MCPC is comprised of community leaders with a passion to prevent substance misuse and promote positive mental health. The mission of the coalition is to mobilize Montgomery County to prevent youth substance use and promote positive mental health through the implementation of evidence-based prevention strategies and community collaboration. The vision of the coalition is a community where every individual lives a substancefree life with optimal mental health.
Mental Health at Christmas: How to Cope During the Holidays
How Christmas Affects Mental Health Christmas is traditionally a time of celebration, eating, drinking, spending time with family and friends, and generally enjoying the festive spirit. However, for those who struggle with a mental health condition, the yuletide season can be an especially difficult time. First of all, it’s important to recognise that if you’re struggling over the Christmas period, you are far from alone. Mental health issues at Christmas affect more of us than you might think. Depression at Christmas Society tells us that Christmas is a time of joy, laughter, cheerfulness, family and celebration. However, for people who struggle with depression, these types of pressures and constant reminders that you should be happy, can make you feel even worse. Key symptoms of depression include: Intense sadness Feelings of hopelessness and worthlessness Anxiety Low energy Changes in appetites and weight fluc-
tuations These symptoms can be especially hard to deal with at Christmas, when everyone around you seems to be in a good mood. This can make you want to withdraw from other people – which, again, can be difficult during a season of goodwill and catch-ups with loved ones, whatever form they take. A specific type of depression, known as seasonal affective disorder (SAD), is also prevalent during this time of year. Also known as ‘winter depression’ or ‘winter blues’, SAD occurs primarily in the months of December, January and February as a result of people being exposed to less sunlight.
“Winter months can trigger seasonal affective disorder (SAD) in those vulnerable to the condition. Shorter daylight hours combined with lack of sunshine can impact negatively on your mood. Many people find themselves staying in the house over the Christmas period. However, try and get out at least once a day, even if it is just for a short walk.” Managing Anxiety over the Holidays Everything seems to be heightened and more intense at Christmas – from the music and lights to the traffic and crowds. All of the above is daunting for most people, but can be even more intense if you struggle with anxiety. People with social anxiety disorder may find the prospect of having to make an effort to see people, in person or over video, overwhelming. If you struggle with panic disorder, you may find that the intensity and frequency of your panic attacks increase at this time of year. Here are some of the most common signs of anxiety to look out for: Continued on Page 4
William Lumpkin is the living embodiment of the saying, “Remember where you come from.” A successful sales and marketing executive based in Houston, Texas, William credits the support and encouragement he received as a standout athlete, class president and one of the top graduates of the TrotwoodMadison High School Class of 2001, for the successes he’s enjoyed in life. “I greatly benefited from family, lifelong friends and coaches who believed in and supported me in every step of my life journey,” Lumpkin said. “It’s important for me to give something back to the community where I grew up.” This desire to give back is rooted in his earliest memories of giving. His parents, Sandra and Floyd Lumpkin, and aunt and uncle, Hortense and John Lumpkin, Sr., were among his strongest supporters in his pursuit of furthering his education and playing football. This support, along with his hard work and determination, led him to Indiana University on a football scholarship, where he achieved Academic AllBig Ten Team honors four times and served as senior team captain. After graduating from IU with a finance degree, he earned his MBA in 2012 from the University of Chicago Booth School of Business. Lumpkin’s mother, in particular, had a big impact on his desire to help others. It’s a philosophy he and his wife, Layla Lumpkin, hope to carry on with their three children and through a scholarship fund he established in 2019 through the African-American Community Fund of The Dayton Foundation. “My mom is the most giving person I know. She regularly serves food, has spent time Continued on Page 5
What’s Inside
General 3 Editorial 4 Education 5 Religion 6 Arts & Enter. 7 Health 8
Dayton Weekly News - December 1 - 8, 2023
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Around DAYTON
Miami Valley Weather
Friday Saturday Rain Cloudy High 53 Low 48
High 53 Low 41
5
day Forecast
Sunday Tuesday Monday Mostly Cloudy Rain Cloudy High 50 Low 35
High 46 Low 34
High 49 Low 35
Dayton Holiday Festival Events Continue Through December
Downtown Dayton is the place for free, familyfriendly fun this holiday season.
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The tree is lit, the music is playing, and the holiday season is in full swing in downtown Dayton! Free, family-friendly events and activities are planned throughout December as part of the Dayton Holiday Festival, presented by AES Ohio. Guests are encouraged to plan Family Fun Days downtown this month to keep the holiday cheer going strong all season long. Enjoy a free light show choreographed to some of your favorite holiday songs with the DOWNTOWN JINGLE LIGHTS! This interactive light show is set to music along East Monument Avenue and Main Street to enjoy on foot with speakers along the route or by tuning in to 95.1 FM in your vehicle. Of course, the Dayton Holiday Festival tree will also remain lit all season long for guests to visit in Courthouse Square. Downtown businesses are showing their holiday spirit and you can vote for your favorite decorations in the WHIMSICAL WINDOWS decorating contest! First-floor windows around downtown have been transformed into winter wonderlands and YOU get to decide the winner of this friendly competition. Be sure to visit all of this year’s displays and then vote for your favorite on Dayton. com. The business that receives the most votes now through noon on Friday, December 29, will win a cash prize! While you’re taking in the sights, keep a lookout for hidden elves among the decorations to enter our ELF HUNT contest. Text us a photo of the elf you find in each window to 937-668-7887 for your chance to win Downtown Dollars! Each photo of an elf in a different window counts as one entry into the contest. That’s just a sneak peek of the holiday fun. Celebrate the season with your loved ones downtown throughout December with these activities during Dayton Holiday Festival’s Family Fun Days, sponsored by AES Ohio and the Downtown Dayton Partnership: FAMILY MOVIE SERIES Dec. 2, 9, & 16; 11 a.m. The Neon, 130 E. Fifth St. Bring the family for
fun, festive films. Enjoy the following movies during this year’s series. Free admission for kids 12 and under, $2 for adults. Sponsored by Dayton Children’s & the Rubi Girls. December 2 – Frozen December 9 – Home Alone December 16 – The Muppet Christmas Carol Titles subject to change – call theater for confirmation. (937) 222-8452. VIRGINIA KETTERING’S TRAIN DISPLAY Now through Jan. 1 Stratacache Tower lobby, Second and Main streets View in building lobby Mon-Sat, or through windows anytime. Visitors can view this one-of-a-kind model train display that was given to the community by Mrs. Virginia Kettering. UNO’S PIZZA WITH SANTA Dec. 9, 10, 16, & 17; 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Uno Pizzeria & Grill, 126 N. Main St. Have a special lunch with Santa Claus! Reservations required. Call 937-910-8000 for cost and reservation information. RIKE’S HOLIDAY WINDOWS Thru Jan 3; Mon-Fri. 6:30 a.m.-5 p.m., Sat. 8 a.m.-5 p.m., Sun. 8 a.m.3 p.m. and before every performance at the Schuster Center. Closed for Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Day Schuster Center Wintergarden, Second & Main Sts. Presented by Dayton Live Experience a reimagining of the Rike’s department store holiday window displays that once stood at this busy downtown corner – but now all indoors and cozy warm. (Not accessible during private events. Call 2287591 to confirm hours.) METROPARKS ICE RINK Thru March 1 RiverScape MetroPark, 237 E. Monument Ave. Sheltered under the
Dayton is something that resonates with all of us, and Sinclair Community College wants to ensure that the families impacted by this unfortunate incident can still experience the joy of the holiday season. In the spirit of Sinclair’s mission to find the need and endeavor to “The devastation faced meet it, we are rallying by Ohio MENTOR in students, faculty, and staff
to help the affected families and salvage the holiday spirit,” said DeAnn Hurtado, Professor – Marketing and Management. Ohio MENTOR offers an array of foster care and behavioral health services that range in intensity, duration and frequency depending on the needs of the individual served. The Dayton location spe-
Sinclair Community College Steps in to Help Local Agency Sinclair Community College is hosting a donation drive for Ohio MENTOR after a fire destroyed holiday gifts for foster families at the agency’s Dayton location. Every year, Ohio MENTOR hosts a Santa workshop for more than 200 foster parents and children. The foster care children and children of foster parents select gifts and wrap them for their biological and foster families. The event allows the children to enjoy a holiday gathering and features pictures with Santa, a photo booth, craft area, and a meal from Napoli's. On Sunday, November 19, 2023, a fire at the agency’s office, located at 1129 Miamisburg Centerville Road in Dayton, destroyed a significant number of gifts intended for foster families during the upcoming holiday season. Through Friday, December 1, 2023, Sinclair Community College has donation bins set up at the Dayton campus in
the walkway bridge from Parking Lot A to Buildings 3 and 4 and the walkway bridge from Building 14 to Building 12. A bin is also located in Building 7 in the Tartan Marketplace. Items needed to support Ohio MENTOR foster families include: • Barbie Dolls • Baseball Cards • Baseball Hats • Coffee Mugs • Earbuds • Hair Bows, • Headbands • Hot Wheels • Journals and Books • Men’s Socks • Ornaments (Ohio State or Football Themed) • Playing Cards • Pokémon Cards • Pop It Toys • Stocking Caps • Teen Girls And Mom • Fuzzy/Soft Socks • Tool Kits • Wrapping Paper, Gift Bags, and Gift Tags
covered pavilion, the MetroParks Ice Rink sets the scene as a perfect winter wonderland in downtown Dayton. Patrons may skate daily. While the rink is open, you can enjoy delicious treats from the concession area, including a cup of hot chocolate. Take advantage of fun skating activities, such as lessons, themed skating nights and more. Visit metroparks.org/ ice-rink to learn more, find daily open hours, and see a schedule of events. More events are planned throughout December. For a full list of activities and events, pick up the Dayton Holiday Festival Calendar at participating businesses or download an electronic version at daytonholidayfestival. org. Find dining guides, parking maps and more at downtowndayton.org to keep up with downtown events and news. The Dayton Holiday Festival is presented by The Downtown Dayton Partnership and AES Ohio and is sponsored by White-Allen Chevrolet and Miami Valley Chevy Dealers, CareSource, and the Virginia W. Kettering Dayton Holiday Festival Fund. Additional support comes from the City of Dayton, Montgomery County, altafiber, NECA/IBEW Electrical Professionals, Premier Health, Sinclair College, Wright-Patt Credit Union, Dinsmore & Shohl LLP, Dayton Children's Hospital as well as media sponsors iHeartRADIO, Dayton. com, and Key-Ads.
cializes in children and family services, behavioral health services, therapeutic foster care, and respite. The gifts will be delivered to Ohio MENTOR in time for the foster family holiday celebration on Sunday, December 3, 2023.
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December 1 - 8, 2023 - Dayton Weekly News
Winter Activities for Everyone at Five Rivers MetroParks’ Ice Rink
This winter, the MetroParks Ice Rink at RiverScape MetroPark will host numerous events, including the first Holiday Mini Market this Saturday, Dec. 2. Offering a safe, family-friendly experience for skaters of all ages, the MetroParks Ice Rink is the region’s largest outdoor ice rink. It offers beautiful views of the Great Miami River in downtown Dayton and is wheelchair accessible. “It’s so important that people have a space to have fun and recreate outdoors during the winter when most people head indoors because of the weather,” said RiverScape Manager MyKaelah Mercer. “While you’re on the ice having fun and making memories with friends and family, you almost forget how you’re also moving your body and getting fresh air. Staying active outdoors is something we all really need for our mental and physical health during the cold-weather season.” Admission is $7 daily, and visitors can rent ice skates for $3. Children younger than 3 are free with a paying adult. There is no charge for those who are not skating. Season passes to the MetroParks Ice Rink are also available: • $120 family passes include season-long admission and skate rentals for up to five people, and $40 individual passes cover the same costs for one person. • Season pass holders receive 25% off products at the RiverScape Café. • Gift certificates are available for purchase at the rink. Additionally, skating lessons for children, teens and adults are held at the rink throughout the season and cover basic skills that provide the confidence skaters need to feel comfortable on the ice. Visitors can also make the MetroParks Ice Rink a family holiday tradition. Open through Friday, March 1, the rink will have special holiday hours on Christmas Eve, New Year’s Eve and Day, Martin Luther King Jr. Day, Galentine’s Day and Valentine’s Day, and Presidents Day. However, the rink will be closed on
Christmas Day. Daily hours change throughout the season and can be found at metroparks.org/ icerink. The ice rink will also hold themed skate nights on Fridays throughout the season, including reggae night, cosmic night, Swiftie night, boy band night and disco night. For more information and a schedule, visit metroparks.org/ programs. Holiday Mini Markets The MetroParks Ice Rink will also host select 2nd Street Market vendors for special shopping days this holiday season. These Holiday Mini Markets will be held on Saturdays Dec. 2, 9 and 16 from 4 to 8 p.m., and are a perfect way to create lasting memories while getting some extra shopping done. Visit the Comfort Tent to shop artisan wares. Special treats prepared by the Market’s vendors will also be available at the RiverScape Café while supplies last. Visit metroparks.org/ programs for a complete schedule. Amenities Ice rink visitors can stay warm under the MSD Warming Zone. The Comfort Tent presented by Butler Heating, Air Conditioning and Plumbing is adjacent to the rink and provides skaters with a warm place to take a break from the winter weather. Additionally, snacks and beverages will be available at the RiverScape Café. New this year, alcoholic beverages — including a variety of beer, seltzer, wine and spiked drinks — will be available at the Café for customers 21 and older. Because RiverScape MetroPark is included in the Downtown Dayton Designated Outdoor Refreshment Area (DORA) footprint, people walking in the downtown area are also welcome to visit the park with their DORA beverages. Learn more
about DORA and participating businesses, including RiverScape MetroPark, at www. downtowndayton.org/ dora. Discounts on Admission and Lessons Reduced admission and skate rentals are available for those who utilize SNAP/EBT benefits. Customers just need to present their SNAP/EBT card to receive a 50% discount, which is $3.50 admission and $1.50 skate rental. Reduced admission is available thanks to the Five Rivers MetroParks Foundation’s Access to Nature financial assistance program. The Access to Nature financial assistance program is also available to cover a portion of the cost of skating lessons for qualifying families in Montgomery County. Learn more and apply at metroparks.org/access. The MetroParks Ice Rink is sponsored by PNC Bank , USI Insurance, Ed Smith Flowers & Gifts, WKEF/FOX45 and Winans Chocolates and Coffees. For ice rink hours of operation and more information, visit metroparks.org/icerink. For more about the outdoors, head to metroparks.org and visit Five Rivers MetroParks’ blog at metroparks.org/ ParkWaysOnline. To plan a visit, navigate trails, find amenities and more, download OuterSpatial to use MetroParks’ free app for Apple and Android devices by visiting metroparks.org/mobile. This Nature Is Open column contains content provided by your Five Rivers MetroParks. We invite your input and story suggestions by emailing multi.media@ metroparks.org or calling 937-275-PARK (7275).
Have Fun, Enjoy Others and Exercise - Go Skating!
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Classic BEAT STREET Screening & Lecture with TL Cross Celebrating 50 Years of Hip-Hop at THE NEON
THE NEON is excited to host a special screening of the classic film BEAT STREET (1984) on the big screen along with a special lecture from producer, musician and Hip-Hop historian TL Cross. This onetime event is scheduled for Wednesday, December 6 at 7:30, and tickets are $12.50 each. Bringing this film along with TL Cross and his lecture was the brainchild of DJ Lu – who provided music on THE NEON’s patio over the summer for THE NEON’s Friday Patio Parties. Several groups have come on board to help sponsor the event including Sinclair Community College Diversity Office, University of Dayton Department of Music, and Wright State University College of Liberal Arts Motion Pictures. BEAT STREET is considered one of HipHop's most important and influential movies. Produced by Harry Belafonte and directed by Stan Lathan (who has directed most of Dave Chappelle's comedy specials), this film arrived on the heels of BREAKIN' in the summer of 1984. "When rapper-DJ Kenny (Guy Davis) meets cultured jazz artist Tracy (Rae Dawn Chong), he is so inspired by her dedication that he vows to use his talents to escape the ghetto. But when his friend, a gifted graffiti artist, is killed in a tragic accident, Kenny comes face to face with the high price of artistic passion." (Orion Pictures) This "gritty, streetwise
Editorial & Comments
Dayton Weekly News - December 1 - 8, 2023
Something to Consider:
Let Go - Live Happier and Keep Choosing to Exhale!
musical" (LA Herald-Examiner) features a who's who of the movement's early stars. TL Cross is a cultural historian, TV personality, musician, platinum songwriter and producer, narrator and educator. Growing up in the Jamaica section of Queens, New York, Cross has experienced a lot throughout his life and career. “Coming up in Queens was lowkey like starring in your own Tribe Called Quest music video mixed with Run DMC and Nas elements,” Cross remarks. Although Cross has received numerous accolades, including an American Music Award and two ASCAP awards, he is widely known today
for his work as a cultural historian. Through his online shows WOW, TL CROSS!, and CROSS IN A MINUTE as well as host of Bounce TV’s HIP HOP STATE OF MIND, Cross has established himself as one of music history's most innovative voices. Cross has worked with an impressive roster of heavy hitters like 50 Cent, Jazmine Sullivan, Musiq Soulchild, Ghostface, Usher, P. Diddy, Jadakiss,112, Yolanda Adams, Mary J Blige, and more. To purchase tickets, visit THE NEON’s website at www.neonmovies. com or visit the box office at 130 E. 5th Street in downtown Dayton.
By: Brenda Cochran Contributing Writer IYANLA Vanzant recently released an expanded twentieth anniversary edition of Tapping the Power Within where she examines the fact that anything that you struggle with will fight right back. The secret? Let go and live happier. She began by noting that so many of us like for life to be difficult. We get turned on by the frenzy of just going and running here and there and trying to fix things- all at the last minute. Working hard and doing the hard work is not the same. When we think about the Bible verse from Proverbs 3:6 says – “Seek His will all you do and it will show you what path to take. And in the path as many of you may agree that kind of lose sight of this promise. In other words, we think that our lives have to be hard to be worth anything. Often, we watch adults around us struggling, but often with a lot of ease, but perhaps we grew up believing that it is necessary in order for your development to be proper. So, what happens, you struggle to raise your children, struggle to make ends meet and then you also struggle with all of those bad relationships thinking that hardships
hurt and pain is what we are going to expect a natural order. When you think about it – even though it is 2023 and we have been through quite a bit already, it still doesn’t have to be hard. Those fast paces that we’re making is really us trying to not think about or deny those paces within that are terrifying us. Think about this – if you serve on five committees in church, you could deny some happiness because your husband does not understand why you are gone all the time working on all those committees. I think that most of us would settle a bit less with all the things we are engaged in because often we are too busy to pursue what we really, really want. How often do we say yes when we need to say no? We just want to avoid the stress or have to
live with all those complications. Maybe this is why we stay at work longer than we need to or have to. There is little doubt that we can live happier lives. There are some definite ideas that we could use. The first is to eat nourishing food, try to sleep seven to eight hours a night, keep company with good people, avoid that overdose of news, get enough exercise, try to do something meaningful every day, and think good thoughts for others. The truth is that we should know who we are, and not keep struggling with all those circumstances and just keep listening and follow your God’s guidance. We really can just keep following that guidance and still remember to Exhale just as IYANLA VANZANT suggested. Remember that working hard and doing the hard work is not the same. When we talk about Divine Guidance, we are referring to a term that means God telling us what to do, when to do it and how to do it. It also means that God is leading us, but we are not really aware of it.
can be the most difficult thing to try and do. But as social beings, our selfesteem receives a timely boost when we interact with each other. If you feel able to, put some time in with a friend you really value Loneliness and Bereavement at Christmas If you’ve suffered a loss in your family, loneliness can combine with grief to make Christmas an experience that is endured rather than enjoyed. Even with the support of friends and family around you, feelings of isolation, loneliness, and not wanting to do anyhting, are natural and entirely normal. Be it a recent or longterm loss, there are things you can try to incorporate into your Christmas routine that could help you to navigate through an incredibly tough period: Plan your time: Fill up your calendar by deciding exactly what you want to do around the festive period and Christmas Day itself. If you don’t feel up to it, don’t feel coerced into celebrating with others Say “no”: Don’t feel like you have to do anything you don’t want to. Your loved ones and family members know what you’ve been through –
they will understand Don’t feel guilty: If you do choose to participate in Christmas festivities, don’t feel guilty if you’re enjoying yourself. Think about how your loved one would have wanted you to carry on with your life Ask for help: If you can’t cope with the overwhelming emotions surrounding your bereavement, reach out for support. Confide in a loved one or close friend, or consider reaching out to dedicated support networks such as Samaritans. Support organisation such as Cruse Bereavement Care could also help you Structure your days: Try not to limit yourself to just watching TV. Include some other activities, such as exercise, going for a walk or just going outside. Low-key events, such as a trip to the cinema, can also provide a welcome escape Be kind to yourself: While it may help to be around others, it’s important not to overwhelm yourself with situations where you may feel obliged to be cheerful. Try not to isolate yourself for the whole time but know that it’s ok to put yourself first. Don’t feel like you have to do all that is traditionally expected of you
Coping with Christmas: Tips for Managing your Mental Health Thankfully, there are things you can do to manage Christmas stress and any of the mental health pressures you are faced with during the Christmas period. It’s important that you don’t bottle it up or attempt to ignore your feelings. Instead, you can put some of these tips in place to help you manage symptoms so you can focus on enjoying yourself. Tips for managing mental health at Christmas 1. Avoid unhelpful social comparisons If we don’t think we measure up to those we see online, it can have a negative impact on our self-esteem. Social media and consumer advertising can make this worse, leading to feelings of inferiority that damage our mental health. These factors are only exacerbated during Christmas, when it becomes the focal point of society. Try to limit your exposure to social media and television adverts over the Christmas period, focusing on the benefits of family time and Continued on Page 8
Brenda Cochran
Mental Health at Christmas: How to Cope During the Holidays... Continued from Page 1 A persistent sense of worry, apprehension, or dread Feeling fearful, paranoid and tense Feeling faint, dizzy or light-headed Increased heartbeat or palpitations Feeling Stressed at Christmas There’s no doubt about it; Christmas can be stressful. Cooking, buying presents, keeping children entertained, decorating your home, cleaning up after family gatherings – the list of tasks is endless. For people who struggle with chronic stress, this time of year can be overwhelming and exhausting. There’s also the added pressure of financial worries and feelings of guilt if you can’t afford to buy your children or loved ones the presents that they really want. Christmas also comes at the end of the year, so if you’ve had an especially difficult one, perhaps with the loss of a job or other financial difficulties throughout the year, this may have added further pressure to the idea of buying presents. Overall, the festive season can be a major catalyst for stress, which
is why it’s so important to recognise the symptoms as early as possible. Here are some of the most significant symptoms of stress:Anxiety, and a constant sense of worry or dread Feeling overwhelmed and as though you have lost control Finding it difficult to make decisions Being restless or unable to sit still down Dr Paul McLaren, Consultant Psychiatrist at Priory’s Hayes Grove Hospital, on Helping a Loved One With Financial Stress at Christmas: “My first piece of advice is to talk to them about their spending habits. Have a conversation and explain why you are concerned. Try to find out if they are concerned about anything else. Are they suffering from depression? Is this an addictive habit? If you think they have an underlying emotional problem, then encourage them to seek professional help.” Coping with Loneliness at Christmas Many of the social pressures of Christmas, fuelled by social media and the perception that we have to have an amazing time, can also lead to sense of emptiness or
loneliness. We don’t even have to be on our own to feel these things. Feelings of loneliness and the mental health issues talked about in this article are very heavily linked. Your loneliness may be a symptom of a mental health problem, or it may become a more serious problem if you don’t take steps to try and address your loneliness. There are self-care strategies for loneliness you can put in place to cope with how you’re feeling. Here are a few ideas: Start a daily gratitude list: Every day, list five things in your life that you are grateful for or happy about. Focusing on the positives can help to lift your mood and put you on course for a more positive long-term mind set Volunteer: Despite what you might think, there is lots going on around your local community at Christmas that doesn’t require you to be part of a big family. Volunteering in the community, at a homeless shelter or care home for example, is one of the best ways to connect with other people and boost your confidence Be around people: When you’re feeling lonely, making plans
Education
December 1 - 8, 2023 - Dayton Weekly News
DML Begins December on the Write Note Dayton Metro Library Minecraft Club featurwill host two visiting au- ing author D. Zollicoffer thor programs and a HuMiamisburg Branch man Race writing proMonday, December 11, gram in December. 4-5 pm The Branch will ofTherapeutic Creative fer a special treat during Writing its Minecraft Club meetMain Library, Com- ing: D. Zollicoffer, author munity Room A of How to Defeat a Blob Friday, December 8 Monster, drops by for a and 15, 4-5 pm presentation. Patrons will The Human Race The- also have a chance to get atre Company visits to a free signed copy of his introduce therapeutic book. Registration is not writing and the benefits required. (Tweens) of it for mental and physical health. Registration Beauty From Ashes: A is not required. (Adults, Journey into Beauty Book Teens, and Tweens) Launch
Trotwood Branch Saturday, December 16, 3-5:30 pm Patrons are invited to celebrate the book launch of Beauty From Ashes: A Journey into Beauty by Carrie B. Farley. Conversations with the author, book enthusiasts, and artists who all have a story to tell will take place amidst a curated exhibition of artwork that echoes the book’s themes. Registration is required. (Adults)
DaytonMetroLibrary.org or call the Library’s Ask Me Line at 937.463.2665.
DML is committed to providing access to all of our events. Please contact the Ask Me Line at 937.463.2665 to request accommodations for sign language interpretation, audio amplification, and/ or language translation. Additional accommodations may be available upon request. Advance notice is necessary to arFor more information range for some accessibilabout these programs, and ity needs. to register if required, visit
Ohio Autism Student, Brianna Reeder, Pursues Her Passion
Brianna Reeder is a remarkable individual who has achieved her goal of working in a salon, despite facing significant challenges. Brianna has autism, anxiety, and depression, conditions that could have deterred her from pursuing her goals. However, her determination, along with support, has allowed her to not only enter the world of salon work but thrive in it. While a student, Brianna connected with Opportunities for Ohioans with Disabilities (OOD) for assistance in planning for her future career. In 2017, she gained work experience at VCS Salon & Spa in Medina. With support from Elizabeth Schauffler, OOD Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor, Brianna chose United Disability Services (UDS) for assistance with finding suitable employment opportunities. Kristen Campagnano, UDS Job Developer, helped Brianna refine her resume and set up a detailed plan on how to approach local salons about the possibility of employment.
Together they talked to salon owners and distributed Brianna’s resume. Today, Brianna proudly works at Legacy Hair Studios, a job she absolutely loves. In addition, she completed her boutique license. For her, hair styling is both a hobby and a profession, and she takes great joy in her work. Her daily tasks include shampooing, cleaning, and warmly greeting customers, which allows her to connect with people in a meaningful way. Julie Dentler, Job
Coach at UDS, provided on-the-job support to help Brianna develop skills at the salon, provide effective customer service, and efficiently handle tasks. “I enjoy all of it,” Brianna explained. “I’m also making new friends. I got mad the one time I had to call off work sick!” Throughout her journey, Brianna's family, including her parents and brother, as well as her friends, have provided unwavering support. Additionally, her faith has been a source of strength and inspiration, guiding her through the
Trotwood-Madison High School Graduate Honors Hometown, Supporters... Continued from Page 1 helping Afghan refugees and literally has given several of our living room couches away. Through her, I learned giving is a privilege and brings joy,” Lumpkin said. “I believe we are called to grow in generosity as we grow in wealth. My wife and I committed to gifting a portion of our income before we got married and have been blessed beyond our imaginations.” He learned about AACF from Calvin Heard and his cousin, John Lumpkin, Jr., both of whom are former board members. He feels it “provides a great platform, has broad reach and makes giving seamless. I’m happy to avoid all the marketing, compliance requirements and other logistics that would come up if I managed the scholarship on my own. I also appreciate the opportunity to
bring some of my childhood friends together to serve as reviewers.” The William A. Lumpkin Endowed Scholarship awards annual scholarships to assist Dayton Public Schools or Trotwood-Madison City Schools graduates, including Devin Lawrence who currently is studying middle childhood education at Wright State University, with a focus in math and science. “I am so thankful for receiving this scholarship. Now I can graduate debtfree and put my efforts into becoming the best teacher I can be,” said Devin Lawrence, who will graduate in the spring. “It means that people saw potential in me and wanted me to achieve my dreams. I want to give back to those in my community who believe I can make a difference.” Lawrence hopes to make an impact in Dayton Public Schools, the school district he grew up attend-
ing, by securing a job after graduation to teach eighth grade science at his alma mater, Stivers School for the Arts. He plans to earn his master’s degree and to hopefully start an afterschool STEM program for minority students in urban school districts. William Lumpkin is happy to support individuals like Devin Lawrence through his fund, just as he was lifted up throughout his formative education years. He feels that his academic, athletic and leadership experiences were key to his development and in building his confidence to explore the world. “People should be encouraged to dream, craft a plan and take action. Financial barriers limit our young and talented from developing into who they were uniquely designed to be,” Lumpkin said. “I’m grateful for the people in my life who supported me as I learned to channel my
challenges she has faced. “Brianna was a joy to work with. She spoke passionately from day one about pursuing her dream to work in a hair salon,” said Elizabeth. “Brianna always had a big smile on her face when she talked about her job. I wish her nothing but the best and know she’ll continue to do great things in life.” If you or somebody you know has a disability and would like to work, visit OODWorks.com or call 800-282-4536.
passion into something positive. All individuals deserve to have the same opportunity. “I encourage others to think of the people who have invested in you, and honor them and their impact by pouring blessings into others.” About The Dayton Foundation For over 100 years, The Dayton Foundation has been the trusted charitable giving resource for more than 4,000 individuals, families and organizations. As the largest grantmaker and community foundation in Greater Dayton, the Foundation has awarded more than $1.1 billion in grants since its founding in 1921, with current assets from all funds exceeding $1 billion. For more information about The Dayton Foundation, visit daytonfoundation.org or follow the Foundation on HYPERLINK "https://
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Central State University Foundation Board Member Appointed to TourismOhio Advisory Board... Continued from Page 1 As of 2022, Dunn runs ing to position Ohio as that organization as ex- a destination choice for ecutive director, founded families, conventions, in 1983, and whose stated and friends, while also goal is to “be the preemi- establishing a way to renent organization in edu- tain talent and create excating African American periences that exemplify association executives and our cultural assets.” With a particular eye meeting planners in all asmulticulturalism, pects of the meeting plan- on Dunn’s work with the ning profession.” Dunn was officially board will additionally invited to start working concentrate on ensuring for the Visitors Bureau in those individuals and organizations who come 2004. “I worked my way up to Ohio will enjoy themthrough the organization selves enough to want to to director of diversity stay or return regularly sales, and that’s when I after their visits. “As large corporations worked with the NAACP come to us, we want to and National Baptist conventions in coming out to show them we have the the city,” Dunn said. “It talent and experiences was those conventions available here that will that pretty much set the make them want to stay standards for what Cincin- here, which in turn will nati is experiencing now, bring more jobs and eqparticularly when it comes uity to the state,” Dunn to having a multicultural said. In his role as a board background. In fact, as of 2018, 25% of all conven- member of the Central tions were from the diver- State Foundation, Dunn sity market, which frankly will be looking to leverhasn’t been heard nor seen age his new appointment anywhere else around the to provide more specialcountry, specifically in the ized job preparation for Marauders, especially Midwest.” Through the Visitors through the school’s Bureau, Dunn met repre- business program and sentatives from Central other appropriate departState in the mid-2000s ments. “In addition to talwho made him aware of the Institution and its ent retention through wealth of diverse talent for the school,” Dunn conprograms he was develop- tinued, “I believe that ing and running through as we work to position Ohio as a destination of his office. “Around 2009, we were choice, we will also be introduced to the Central able to highlight the hisState Hospitality Program, tory of Central State and brought on three of their its home in Wilberforce, students as interns, one of as well as what that whom we later hired on to means to our individual work with us in tourism communities. “As we celebrate the and etc., which is how I first became directly in- school and town, we can volved with the Univer- showcase the cultural identity of the region, sity,” Dunn said. Two years ago, Dunn which in turn will furwas brought on to the ther attract corporations Central State Founda- to move in and set up tion Board and has since shop for more job opbeen affiliated through the portunities for students school in that regard, as and graduates.” Dunn is energized too well. “Our job on the board by the ability to prois to help find resources to mote Central State’s talensure that Central State ent pool when engaging can become one of the with organizations and best colleges in the coun- corporations with whom try,” Dunn said. “Through he’ll be working more some recent restructur- directly through his poing and rebuilding of the sition at TourismOhio. “I’ll be proud to speak board, we’ve been able to start doing much to be what I know,” Dunn more forward-thinking added, “which is that and finding ways of ex- Central State is one of panding this conversa- the oldest educational tion about making Central institutions in Ohio, State even more viable as that it does have riches a higher-educational Insti- of talent, and that the tution in the near future.” people I’ll be talking Dunn continued that the with should come and board is also now working see what Central State to be represented and seen offers, which will help beyond the campus and give students opportuniOhio to the national forum ties outside of Ohio in in order to spotlight what addition to those stateCentral State is and does wide. “Tourism is about for larger audiences, markets, potential donors, cor- economic development, porate partners, educators, job creation, talent retention, and forwardand future students. “It was a great honor to thinking progress. And be appointed to the Tour- I’ve passionately strived ismOhio Advisory Board throughout the 20 years by Gov. DeWine,” Dunn of my career toward said about his most recent those efforts.’” auspicious role. “What the role is focused on is help-
Dayton Weekly News - December 1 - 8, 2023
page - 6
Worship At The Church Of Your Choice
COLLEGE HILL COMMUNITY CHURCH
Mt. Enon Missionary BaptistCHURCH Church ST. MARGARET’S EPISCOPAL
Worship At The Church Of Your Choice Rev. Merritt Worthen, PhD
(937) 222-0867 FAX: (937) 222-7336
Greater Allen AME Church
Church School Worship Services
SUNDAY
Rev. Elmer S. Martin, Pastor 1620 West Fifth Street Dayton, OH 45402-2910
Church Phone: 937-223-5115 Fax: 937-223-8872 Email: greater_allen_ame@att.net
9:00 a.m. 10:00 a.m.
Church Sunday School.....................................9:15 a.m. Sunday Worship..............................................10:45 a.m. Women’s Bible Study - Monday.......................6:30 p.m. Noonday Bible Study - Wednesday................12:00 p.m. Prayer Meeting - Wednesday............................7:00 p.m. Bible Study - Wednesday..................................7:30 p.m.
WEDNESDAY Prayer Meeting/Bible Study Noon THURSDAY Food & Clothing Pantry 10:00 a.m - 1:00 p.m.
Join us for a new beginning...
Zion Baptist Church
Believers Christian Fellowship Church
Bethel Missionary Baptist Church
401 S. Paul Laurence Dunbar St. - Dayton, Ohio 45407 Rev. Xavier L. Johnson, Senior Pastor 937-222-4373 - Office - Email: offices@bmbcdayton.org
"And I, if I be lifted up from the Earth, will draw all men unto me."
3010 McCall Street, Dayton, OH 45417
4520 Salem Avenue, Dayton, Ohio 45416
4520 Salem Avenue, Dayton, Ohio 45416 Tel. No.: 937-279-9343, Fax: 937-279-9342 Rev. Dr. Dr. William William E. Harris, Harris, Jr., Jr., Senior Senior Pastor Pastor Rev. E. Toll Free: 1-844-679-9343 Telephone Number: Number: 937 937 279-9343 279-9343 email:bcfchurch@swohio.twcbc.com Telephone
(937) 275-6906 Fax 276-6267
Fax: 937 279-9342
Fax: 937 279-9342 Sunday Service..............................9:30 a.m. Toll Free: 1-877-279-9343 Toll 1-877-279-9343 Church School -Free: Sunday................8:45 a.m. Rev. Dr. William & Wednesday.................................1:00 p.m. E. Harris, Jr. Bible Study/Prayer Meeting - Every Senior Pastor Wednesday starting at...................6:00 p.m.
Wednesday Bible Bible Study/Prayer Study/Prayer Meeting........ Meeting........ Wednesday
Check out our website: www.believers-christian.org Listen to our weekly radio show every Sunday at 8 am on 98.7 FM
Reverend Rockney Carter, Senior Pastor
Church School Morning Worship
Sunday Church School.................................................9:30 a.m. Morning Worship...........................................11:00 a.m. Tues. Bible Study.............................................6:00 p.m. Wed. Prayer Meeting.......................................6:00 p.m. Other Ministry
Bible Study Word & Worship
SUNDAYS 9:30 a.m. 10:45 a.m. WEDNESDAY 12:00 noon 6:30 p.m.
Bethel services are aired on DSTV Time Warner Wednesdays at 3:00 p.m. and Saturdays at 9:00 p.m. Time Warner Cable 992
email: rockney.carter@gmail.com
1684 Earlham Drive • Dayton, OH 45406
Advertise Advertise Your Church in the Your Dayton Weekly Church News in the Call (937) 223-8060 for more Dayton Information. Weekly News
Dixon United Methodist Church
Office: 937-268-6711
Fax: 937-221-8040
COLLEGE HILL COMMUNITY 1691 CHURCH Infirmary Rd. – Dayton, OH 45417 Church Phone: (937) 835-3366 Email: Dixonumc1691@gmail.com Website: 1547 Philadelphia Drive Dixonumcdayton.org
(corner Philadelphia Dr. and Cornell Dr.) www.collegehillchurch1.com Rev. Dr. Marcettes Cunningham, D.Min., Pastor Sunday School 9:30 a.m Morning Worship 10:45 a.m Wednesday Prayer/Bible Study, 12:00 & 7:00 p.m. Evening Prayer, 6:30 p.m.
Sunday School.............................10:00 a.m. 937-278-4203 Sunday Morning Worship............11:00 a.m. Rev. Dr. Darryll Young Midweek Bible Study- Wednesday........... We are a multicultural, multi-lingual congregation 6:00-7:30 p.m. Via Zoom Morning Worship Prayer Meeting - Saturday............10:00 a.m. Dr. Bridget D. every Sunday at 10:30 am Weatherspoon, Pastor Text In Prayer Request 1-888-646-9678
Religion
Black Author Achieves Milestone With 60k Coloring Books Sold, Launches New Self-Publishing Program
“Creating a coloring book empire and inspiring Black Women along the way”
Latoya Nicole, the esteemed best-selling author and creative entrepreneur could have stopped at making history by selling 60,000 books and creating her line of skin-tone colored pencils for Black women. After all, being a leading Black womanowned coloring book and supplies business aiming to help women increase mental wellness and reduce anxiety is very much needed during these times. But, she has stayed true to giving back and inspiring women and she’s doing just that now by teaching others to self-publish and sell their books online. Along with her bestseller Exhale Self Care Coloring Book and her other 8 books that she has authored, Latoya’s efforts to advocate for representation also in-
SUNDAY Office: 937.837.7741 Sunday School........................................8:30 a.m. Office Hours: 10:00 am-2:00pm-Monday-Friday Morning Worship Services..................10:00 a.m. WEDNESDAY Website: www.stmargaretsdayton.org Reverend Father AM Prayer Meeting................................9:30 a.m. “Because We Bible Benjamin E. K. Speare-Hardy II, Rector Study....................11:00 a.m. and SCHEDULE 6:00 p.m. SERVICE Care, We Episcopal Church Pastor Cory J. The mission of St. Margaret’s Saturday Adult Bible Study - Sunday 9 AM Share” Pruitt is to worship, to serve and to formBible the spiritual Study............................................11:00 Worship Service - Sunday a.m. 8 AM & 10:30 AM and moral growth of1501 individuals according to the Luther King Jr. Way, Dayton, OH, 45412 W. Dr. Martin Sunday School - Sunday 10:30AM teachings of Jesus Christ.
Rev. Gerald A. Cooper, Pastor
“Building a Healthy Church to Serve an Unhealthy Society”
Advertise Your Church in the Dayton Weekly News Call 223-8060 for more Information.
(937) 222-0867 FAX:5301 (937) Free222-7336 Pike, Trotwood, Ohio 45426
Rev. Merritt Worthen, PhD, Senior Pastor (corner Philadelphia Dr. and Cornell Dr.) www.collegehillcommunitychurch.org 937-278-4203 We are a multicultural, multi-lingual congregation Morning Worship every Sunday at 10:30 am
Mt. Enon Missionary Baptist Church
SUNDAY Sunday School........................................8:30 a.m. Morning Worship Services..................10:00 a.m. WEDNESDAY “Because We AM Prayer Meeting................................9:30 a.m. Bible Study....................11:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m. Care, We Pastor Cory J. Saturday Share” Pruitt Bible Study............................................11:00 a.m. 1501 W. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Way, Dayton, OH, 45412
“Building a Healthy Church to Serve an Unhealthy Society”
clude her work as a selfpublishing coach. “When I started publishing in 2018, only 11% of books published were written by people of color, and Black authors only made up a fraction of that percentage, according to the New York Times. I was and am determined to change the narrative and I hope my story will inspire people to not only think big, but to also know that you can create passive income and freedom for yourself,” she said. Latoya plans to kick off 2024 with big plans; leading her signature program Book Bag University: A Roadmap to Establish and Expand Your Author Brand. The program walks authors and aspiring authors through the marketing process of selling books online from beginning to end. “I will literally walk you through the
entire process that I have used publishing on Amazon and beyond— from putting together your bestselling book to helping you build your author business and sell more books, says Latoya.” But, if you’re new to self-publishing you can start by subscribing to and watching her YouTube channel at Latoya Nicole Official. Her coloring books are available for purchase on Amazon or here. For additional information or to join the waitlist for Book Bag University, visit BookBagUniversity. com
SOUL II SOUL INFLUENCE: GUARD YOUR HEART GATE Pastor/Chaplain Pamelajune (Pj) Anderson, DMin. Lt. Commander (RET) USN Chaplain Corps TFAM National Veteran’s Support Chaplain Certified Peer Support Specialist BE STILL AND YOUR SOUL WILL SPEAK
“With the breastplate of righteousness in place,” Ephesians 6:14 Last week, we wrote about clinging to the belt of truth, (the WORD) more than ever when the enemy comes against us. Today, we’re discussing the second piece of the Armor of God: the Breastplate of Righteousness. Lord, how many lives have been lost and marriages and friendships destroyed because we did
not put on the breastplate of righteousness? As our hearts are covered with the knowledge that we have been given right standing with God, Satan cannot condemn us and make us feel worthless or insecure because the breastplate contains and protects our hearts from direct attack to the chest. When we wear the double protection of the breastplate, it’s like wearing a bulletproof vest in a shoot-out. When we serve the Lord, we experience not so few spiritual battles against doubt, depression, temptations, and angry outbursts. The breastplate of righteousness is a piece of God's supernatural armor that protects the heart from sin and enemy attacks. It also protects the core of a person's spiritual life. Who among us has resisted the devil? Remember Jesus and the three temptations in the wilderness? He won the battle by giving the Word back to Satan. And it worked, as always. Luke 4:1-14 tells the story of the three temptations ending with, “ 13And when the devil had ended every temptation, he departed from Him until an opportune time.” Increase your smarts by reading, meditating, and living the WORD. Like Jesus, the Breastplate of Righteousness will protect you, give you just what you need to say back to the enemy of your soul and cause the devil to depart from you until he thinks he can break through your heart gate at another time. The Divik is always lurking about, so Guard Your Heart Gate. God bless you and keep you safe. Your Radically Inclusive Veteran Chaplain
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Arts & Entertainment
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December 1 - 8, 2023 - Dayton Weekly News
A Hip-Hop Legend Brings the Hip Hop Nutcracker to Dayton this Holiday Season
By Denise Martin This week I had the opportunity to speak with Legendary Hip Hop artist Kurtis Blow about the one-of-a-kind Holiday Spectacular the Hip Hop Nutcracker. I asked Kurtis how he got involved with the production and he replied, “Bill Stephanie came to one of my shows 11 years ago and he came
Kurtis Blow
in the culture. People were just saying it’s a fad. It’s not going to be around that long; we will get over it. But here we are 50 years later! So, I am grateful and thankful, to all the media, radio DJ’s, podcasters, on air personalities, newsprint, and magazine. All of you guys made this possible. We thank you for your support for all these years and my hat goes
Eve. Then we start the show. At the end of the show, I the Breaks… We leave everyone revitalized and inspired to spread Love during this magical Holiday Season. That is our theme. Love conquers
backstage and told me about a new project called the Hip Hop Nutcracker. I went to the rehearsal. I opened the door at J Pack, and I saw these kids break dancing and doing power moves. They were doing all these incredible acrobatics. They had a DJ that was playing these funky beats under this classical music. I thought I had to be a part of this. The fusion of music was very important to me. I was the first supporter of the fusion of rap and other genres. That was very special to me. I was the first to do Rock and Roll on my first album and the first to do County and Western rap on my first album a song called Way Out West. I was the first to do Reggae with the Fat Boys in 1984. When I saw this classical music the timeless music of Tchaikovsky. The DJ with the funky beats under this classical music and the kids out there break dancing to this classical music. I said I must be a part of this. That was eleven years ago, and we have been going strong ever since.” Kurtis explained how the Hip Hop Nutcracker has evolved over the eleven years of the show. Kurtis began, “We owe it all to our leader, our main chorographer Jennifer Weber she comes up with all these incredible amazing additions and transitions…She is out there acquiring the greatest talent. We have an all-star dance team, and they change up ev-
ery few years. A lot of the story is still the same we have a Drosselmeyer, we have a Byran Nutcracker. We have a Maria Clara. The story is still the same but the additions that she made was she added a violinist that does colabs with the DJ who plays those funky hip hop beats all night long. There’s a couple of sections where the violinist comes out and does colabs and they go back and forth trading with each other and that’s amazing!” I asked Kurtis to tell me about his heart transplant. Kurtis began by telling me that he was on tour…” I was going through heart disease heart failure in 2017 and I died for 6 minutes and came back to life. I feel like I was resurrected. It was a miracle blessing. Four or five heart operations and the last one being a full heart transplant. I am a walking living breathing testimony that God is still in the miracle business. I’m so grateful and thankful to all my friends and family all around the world who have been praying for me throughout this ordeal and I thank you for your prayers. Our prayers were answered. All I can say is that I’m so grateful. Every day that I wake up I thank God. Every morning that I wake up I thank God.” This year is the 50th Anniversary of Hip Hop. I asked Kurtis what that meant to him. Kurtis replied, “That means it’s a blessing, a miracle blessing. I remember back in 1979 being the first artist to release a song on a major label for Hip Hop
off to you. Because without people like you, there could never be brothers like me. I thank you for playing my Christmas rap all these years. Every year. So, thank you. I asked Kurtis what it’s like to work with Jennifer Weber the director/ choreographer? Kurtis said, “Jennifer is amazing. I call her the Woman King. She does a great job acquiring talent and making changes that adjust to modern times. Like new dance teams. There’s this one guy that she just hired; his name is Batista. He’s from the Congo and he moved to America three weeks before we went out on tour. If you see this kid, you could never tell that he is not from New York. Big shout out to Jennifer Weber, Randy, Eva Marie Price, and the whole MJ Pack team for believing in us, believing in Hip Hop, believing in the theatre and the collaboration and the fusion and the remixing of this classical story to turn it into a Hip-Hop Holiday Season Extravaganza. The Hip Hop Nutcracker.” Kurtis plays the MC and Host of the show. Kurtis described his part in the performance by saying, “I come out in the beginning, and I get everyone prepared for what they are about to see. I take them back to the old school and sing a medley of OldSchool Hip-Hop songs. I get them ready. have them standing up, dancing in the isles, and throwing their hands in the air making a whole lot of noise. Then I sing a song at the end of the into called New Year’s
all and we have a whole lot of fun. People leave the show with a whole lot of love on the inside. That’s our job. If you are looking for something to do with your family or friends consider
checking out the Hip Hop Nutcracker on Sunday, December 10th.. For tickets call The Victoria Theatre at (937) 228-3630 or go to www. daytonlive.org.
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Health
Dayton Weekly News - December 1 - 8, 2023
Enhanced Services for Ohioans Who are Blind or Have Low Vision
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This is real dental insurance from Physicians Mutual Insurance Company that helps pay for over 350 procedures – cleanings, fillings, crowns, even dentures. • No annual maximum, no deductible • See any dentist you want – including your own • Over 50? Coverage as low as $1 per day OOD’s Bureau of Services for the Visually Impaired (BSVI) offers vocational rehabilitation (VR) services to individuals in Ohio who are blind or have low vision, supporting them in achieving meaningful employment or personal independence. Recognizing the challenges that low vision or blindness can pose on the path to employment, BSVI provides tailored assistance through VR/ BSVI counselors. To
bridge the gap for participants engaged in education, job searching, or workplace tasks, BSVI has introduced two new initiatives: AIRA (Access to Information Remote Assistance): AIRA allows individuals with limited vision to connect to a remote agent via a cell phone. Through the phone's camera, the remote agent can provide visual interpreting, aiding with tasks like thermostat adjustments, navigation in unfamiliar areas, docu-
Learn about Sustainable Living with DML
Dayton Metro Library’s Southeast Branch will hold Sustainable Switches with Fiver Rivers MetroParks on Thursday, December 7, from 1011 am. Learn how to make simple switches in life that lead to running a more sustainable household. Five Rivers MetroParks staff will discuss the following topics: composting; fostering habitats; creating carbon sinks; and the best ways to reduce, reuse, and recycle to live a waste-free life. Patrons are encouraged to bring questions
and photos of their own sustainable home projects. Registration is not required. For more information, visit DaytonMetroLibrary.org or call the Library’s Ask Me Line at 937.463.2665. DML is committed to providing access to all of our events. Please contact the Ask Me Line at 937.463.2665 to request accommodations for sign language interpretation, audio amplification, and/ or language translation. Additional accommodations may be available upon request. Advance notice is necessary to arrange for some accessibility needs.
ment reading, or online job applications. Eligible participants receiving BSVI services can now access up to 60 minutes of AIRA assistance per month while they have an open case with OOD. Vispero Products (JAWS, ZoomText, and Fusion): Vispero is a company specializing in software for individuals with blindness or low vision to access computers. JAWS is a screen reader that reads on-screen text aloud and enables cursor control through keyboard commands. ZoomText offers screen magnification and customization of print size, color, cursor shape, and screen background for enhanced visual access. Fusion combines magnification and screen reading features for those gradually losing their vision. Eligible BSVI participants gain access to JAWS, ZoomText, or Fusion for use on computers for educational or work-related tasks through three-year annual licenses, allowing activation on up to three computers at once. To learn more about how BSVI services can help people who are blind or have low vision, visit the BSVI webpage.
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Mental Health at Christmas: How to Cope During the Holidays... Continued from Page 4 any other social events you have going on. 2. Have realistic expectations about family gatherings If you are spending Christmas with your family, the expectation that the festive season is a ‘time for family’ can add further pressure on already strained relationships, particularly among people who don’t see each other often and aren’t used to spending so much time together. Being realistic about what you can expect from this time will help to avoid disappointment and help you get more out of it. It might also help to avoid a few of those traditional Christmas rows around the dinner table! 3. Participate in your local community For some, Christmas can be a time of increased isolation. This loneliness can be particularly painful for those who have suffered bereavements, which many people have struggled with as a result
of the pandemic. If you’ve recently lost a loved one, we understand that it’s likely to feel extremely difficult coping with the first festive season without them. Many organisations offer support at Christmas, so finding out what is available in your local area may provide you with a powerful source of support. Volunteering at one of these events might also be a good way of reducing loneliness and giving you a sense of purpose if you’re spending Christmas alone this year. 4. Take a break Allow yourself to take time out if you find your stress levels rising. You may want to head out for a walk, go out for a coffee or listen to music - whatever will help you to relax or unwind. Of course, we understand that this can be hard to do if you have a lot of responsibilities, so plan your opportunities for breaks in advance. For example, you could arrange with your partner to take the children out for a few
hours to give you a break, or manage relatives’ expectations by saying that you have planned some downtime. 5. Everything in moderation It can be tempting to over-indulge at Christmas, particularly as we navigate our way through spending time largely at home. However, there can be negative side effects from too much excess, such as feeling guilty afterwards, feeling physically bloated and unwell, increased negative emotions from alcohol, which is a depressant, or interference with prescribed medication. Try to avoid overindulgence, whether you’re home alone or in the company of others – don’t be afraid to politely decline if you’re a guest at someone’s house. 6. Look after yourself Your calendar might be filling up fast, but try to put some time aside to look after yourself. Exercise, good diet and plenty of quality sleep are as important at Christmas as at
any other time of the year. Shorter daylight hours combined with lack of sunshine can impact negatively on your mood. Many people find themselves staying in the house over the cold Christmas period. However, it’s important that you try and get out at least once a day, even if it’s just for a short walk. These small moodboosting activities can help keep your mind fresh and focused – and better equipped to deal with any stress that might be around the corner. 7. Don’t look back on the past year As Christmas is the end of the chronological year, people tend to look back on what they have achieved and what they haven’t. If you’re suffering with depression or low selfesteem, there is a real risk that any negative feelings of under-achievement, or the past year not living up to your expectations, are exacerbated. Focus on the positives and set goals you want to achieve in the following year.
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