January 5 - 12, 2024

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January 5 - 12, 2024 - Dayton Weekly News

January 5 - 12, 2024

City of Fairborn Hires New City Manager

Mike Gebhart Fairborn, Ohio – On Tuesday, January 2, 2024, Fairborn City Council approved a resolution to appoint Mike Gebhart as the city’s next City Manager. Rob Anderson served as City Manager from 2017 until his resignation, effective December 31, 2023.

As City Manager, Mr. Gebhart will be responsible for all city departments, which include Development Services, Economic Development, Finance, Fire, Human Resources, Information Technology, Parks & Recreation, Police, and Public Works.

“I am thrilled to announce the selection of Mike Gebhart as our new City Manager,” said Mayor Dan Kirkpatrick.

“Mike has been part of the Fairborn team since February 2013 and is seen by the City Council and staff as a strong and dedicated leader.”

Gebhart has served as the Assistant City Manager and Economic Development. Director for nearly seven years. In addition to those roles, Mr. Gebhart has served as the Executive Director of the Fairborn Development Corporation and the Interim Executive Director of the Wright-Patterson Regional Council of Governments. Mr. Gebhart also oversaw the buildout and initial operation of the Miami Valley’s first kitchen incubator known as SPARKFAIRBORN, worked with staff on the revitalization of the Broad Street Corridor, and created the Hometown Heroes Banner Program.

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Last year has come and gone, but the world of caregiving continues to be top of mind for all caregiver advocates.

You may ask what has changed coming into the new year…well, for mankind, we will become a year older, but the needs for a care recipient remain the same.

If you are blessed to be our angel on earth, maintaining a comfortable environment for your loved ones must continue.

Remember, you are never alone. Caregiver support can be an ask

Joseph T. Cline Awards Fund Honors 10 City of Dayton Employees

Vol. 30, Issue 6

The Dayton Foundation is pleased to announce the recipients of the 2023 Joseph T. Cline Awards. The Joseph T. Cline Awards Fund of The Dayton Foundation was established by his daughter, Carolynne H. Cline, in 1984 to honor City of Dayton employees who strive for excellence in their careers as public servants and in their civic contributions. A longtime supporter of Dayton, Joseph Cline was a Brit- ton’s civic organizations.

Cline’s granddaughter, ish- born optometrist who founded, chaired and vol- Meredith A. Cline, preunteered for many of Day- sented the awards at the

Dayton City Commission Brian Dahm, Division meeting on December 13. Manager-Street MainRecipients of this year’s tenance, Department of award are: Continued on Page 2

Join the Miami Valley Regional Planning Commission (MVRPC) and All Aboard Ohio at the Dayton Metro Library, 215 E 3rd Street in Dayton on Thursday, January 11, 2024, at 1:00 p.m., for an informative session where we will provide updates on our progress in the FRA (Federal Railroad Administration) process. This is a crucial step in securing funding for passenger rail service.

All Aboard Ohio will

share our plans for the future and discuss the next steps in the FRA process and the efforts to bring

Economic Impact Analysis, which was conducted to evaluate the potential economic advantages of initiating passenger rail service in Ohio.

This informational event is an opportunity to learn more about All Aboard Ohio, the work they do, and how they are working to improve passenger rail service in Ohio.

Please visit allaboardopassenger rail service to Ohio. Additionally, All hio.org/ for more informaAboard Ohio will discuss tion. the outcomes of our 3C&D

“The Seed of Life” artist team invites you to come together for a time of peace and healing by placing the first tiles of the large ground mosaic that will be installed in the ground near The Trolley Stop. The Oregon District 8-4 Memorial is in honor of the nine victims, first responders, families, and all those affected by the senseless violence of the August 4, 2019 Oregon District shooting.

Being placemakers and peacemakers has been foundational for The Seed of Life team (consisting of sculptor Terry Welker, poet laureate Sierra Leone, designer James Pate, and mosaic artist Jes McMillan) Their team statement reads, “We are placemakers and peacemakers.

In order to create a place of peace and healing, we must first heal the place.

Rather than simply placing an object in the exist-

ing setting, we’ve chosen to recreate the entire plaza within the existing site.”

The Seed of Life, the name of the memorial and the sacred geometric symbol chosen for the mosaic, represents the cycles of life and the interconnectedness of all things, an excellent reminder when searching for a place and peace in life.

THE DAYTON METRO LIBRARY MAIN 215 E 3rd St, Dayton, Ohio

All Aboard Ohio Announced the Whistle Stop Tour is Coming to Dayton

“We Are Placemakers and Peacemakers”

Caregiving in the New Year!

away, whether it is family or friends, a caregiver website, or a phone call to your healthcare practitioner. Being a caregiver

need not be a lonely existence.

Asking for help seems difficult for many caregivers. I know why, be-

cause I did not seek or ask for help when I needed it most. I had to convince myself that asking for help does not discount the role

45402, Thursday, January 25th, 2024, from 3pm8pm. (Opportunity Center) FREE Sound bath and grief release focused meditation 7p.

More details about the Oregon District 8-4 Memorial “The Seed of Life” can be found at www.84memorial.com. Sign up to VOLUNTEER with us at www.midayton.org.

or ability. Thinking back, asking for help is one of the first things we learn to do growing up. One of the hardest things for many of us to do once becoming adults is to seek help from others. There comes a time when we all need support, and to receive that support, we must ask. No one knows what is required until you share. Eventually, we hurt ourselves and our loved ones by isolating and not reaching for help when necessary. No one is an island.

A word of advice. When you seek assistance, be Continued on Page 6

$1.00

MCPC Celebrates “Uniquely Dayton” Volunteers

The Montgomery County Prevention Coalition (MCPC) will celebrate the hundreds of volunteers who are dedicated to making Montgomery County a healthier community with a themed event called “Uniquely Dayton.” The theme was chosen to recognize the MCPC as one of the hidden gems in our region, made up of volunteers who have a deep understanding of the needs of our community.

“I’m so proud of our volunteers who are passionate about helping others understand the importance of prevention. We work to educate everyone, but especially young people, about the benefits of living a healthy lifestyle before an issue develops,” said Colleen Oakes, Manager of the Montgomery County Prevention Coalition. “We all benefit from a community where mental wellness is a priority, and prevention is valued.”

The media is welcome to join the celebration on January 12, 2024, from 10 am–noon at the Dayton Metro Library.

Awards will be given to the Visionary of the Year, Advocate of the Year, Rookie of the Year, Team Player, Initiative of the Year, Committee of the Year, and the “Moving on Up” Committee.

Community leaders will share how the work of the MCPC has impacted the lives of those served.

The MCPC consists of committees that include - Alcohol & Cannabis Prevention, Opioid Prevention, Suicide Prevention, Gaming & Gambling Prevention, Power-Based Violence Prevention, Self-Care Promotion, Policy & Advocacy, Youth Leadership in Prevention, and Retailers Care.

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 substance-free life with optimal mental health.

What’s Inside

Arts & Enter. 3 Editorial 4 Education 5 Religion 6 Sports 7 Health 8

Dayton Weekly News - January 5 - 12, 2024

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Around DAYTON

5

day Forecast

Miami Valley Weather

Friday Saturday Cloudy Snow High 36 Low 20

High 39 Low 30

Sunday Tuesday Monday Rain Rain Rain High 42 Low 33

High 36 Low 32

High 51 Low 39

Joseph T. Cline Awards Fund Honors 10 City of Dayton Employees...

Continued from Page 1 Public Works; Jeannette Horwitz, Welcome Dayton Coordinator, Planning, Neighborhoods and Development; Jonathan Johnson, Community Engagement Specialist, Planning, Neighborhoods and Development; Marques Kincaid, Firefighter, Dayton Fire Department; Theresa McGeady, Environmental Specialist, Water Department; Abbie Patel-Jones, Director, Procurement, Management and Budget; Christopher Rowlett, Lieutenant, Dayton Fire Department; Mike Squire, Division Manager Community Engagement, Planning, Neighborhoods and Development; Jason Stone, Systems Engineer, Information Technology; and

Susan Vincent, Planner II, Planning, Neighborhoods and Development.

The award amount varies each year, with recipients this year receiving $537.69 each. Since 1991, 230 city employees have been honored with this award for a total of $77,777 awarded to date.

“The Joseph T. Cline Awards Fund encourages excellence by city employees regardless of rank or position. As a testament to that, the 2023 recipients range from 2 to 25 in service years, with an amazing 81 total years of dedication to their jobs and their community,” said Lucy Baker, donor relations officer for The Dayton Foundation.

Citizens, as well as City of Dayton employees, may nominate individuals for this award. Applications for the 2024 award

will be available in September 2024.

The Greater Dayton RTA periodically adjusts bus service in response to the needs of customers, communities, and businesses. A service change affecting several routes will begin Sunday, Dec. 31, 2023.

To improve service, the RTA will be expanding Routes 6, 9 and 12, along with the creation of the new Route 28. Due to the expansion of routes, Route 11 is being retired. In addition, running times are being adjusted for Routes 16, 18 and 22. For a complete list of all routes, time changes and maps, visit www. iriderta.org/Dec31ServiceChange.

Following the addition of the Northwest Connector last year, the RTA is pleased to announce the launch of Route 28.

It will run from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m. with a frequency of approximately 40 minutes. Route 28 will loop through parts of Kettering along Dorothy Lane

to East Stroop Road, to Southern Boulevard and then back to Dorothy Lane. It will replace the southern portion of the retired Route 11. Route 28 will not travel downtown to Wright Stop Plaza.

However, it will intersect with five other existing routes, which do travel downtown. Those include Routes 6, 12, 16, 17 and 19. To learn more about Route 28, visit www.iriderta.org/Route28.

The following adjustments will be made to Routes 6, 9 and 12: Route 6 will be expanded to cover the northern portion of the retired Route 11. West Schantz Avenue will no longer be served due to the retirement of Route 11.

Route 9 will now service Salem Avenue to Shiloh Springs Road going into the Northwest Hub. This will also create better access to the Greyhound bus station.

Route 12 will be expanded south to serve the

Meijer on East Stroop Road. The Woodman Center Drive loop will be eliminated. However, the northbound service will continue along Delco Park Drive with a 45-minute frequency.

Other minor time adjustments include: Route 16: The run time has been adjusted by two to three minutes between 3-6 p.m. on the north and south end.

Route 18: The southbound run time from Fuyao to Dixie Avenue has been adjusted from eight to six minutes and the northbound run time from Hoyle Place to Fuyao and Dixie Avenue has been adjusted from eight to six minutes.

Route 22: The southbound trips on Gettysburg to the Westown Hub have been adjusted by 2 minutes.

You can find full route information at www.iriderta.org.

About The Dayton Foundation For over 100 years, The Dayton Foundation has been the trusted charitable giving resource for more than 4,100 individuals, families and organizations.

As the largest grantmaker and community foundation in Greater Dayton, the Foundation has awarded nearly $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 Facebook, Twitter or LinkedIn.

RTA Adjusts Service Beginning Dec. 31

The Dayton Weekly News Published By MWC Publishing, Inc. 1501 N. Main St. Dayton, Ohio 45405 (937)223-8060 DaytonWeek@aol.com

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Editor/Publisher Donerik Black Production Manager Brenda Coleman Photographer Kenny Wilkinson Writers Brenda Cochran Benette DeCoux Deon Cash LaTonya Victoria Distribution Ras Calhoun Copy Editor Janice Bollinger

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DML Celebrates Martin Luther King, Jr. In honor of Martin Luther King, Jr.’s birthday, and in celebration of his life and legacy, Dayton Metro Library is offering the following programs: Kids Dip and Paint: MLK Jr. Edition West Branch, Wednesday, January 10, 4-5 pm Create artwork that honors King’s legacy of peace and equality.

Registration is required.

(Grades 1-4) Family Storytime: “I Have a Dream” Trotwood Branch, Thursday, January 11, 4-5 pm Enjoy a read aloud and creative activities that celebrate King’s memory.

Celebrating Martin Luther King West Branch, Saturday, January 20, 4-5 pm Listen to King’s speeches, learn a few of his famous quotes, and then create poetry inspired by “I Have a Dream.”

(Teens) Two additional January programs will pay tribute to Black history and culture: Buffalo Soldier in the Heart of America West Branch, Thursday, January 11, 1-3 pm Northwest Branch, Saturday, January 20, 1-2:30

pm DML’s Karen D. Brame of Special Collections discusses the history of the Buffalo Soldiers and the life and legacy of Brigadier General Charles Young. (Adults and Teens) Who am I? Explore Library Genealogy Databases Miamisburg Branch, Saturday, January 27, 1011:30 am Follow your African American heritage, trace your immigrant relatives, or research your family’s military history. (All Ages) For more information, and to register if required, 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.

Our Goal

Reduce the number of people dying from drug overdoses and drug misuse.

The Community Overdose Action Team is Montgomery County's collaborative initiative to combat drug overdoses and addiction.

With over 200 members representing diverse sectors such as government, healthcare, faith-based organizations, and law enforcement, the Community Overdose Action Team operates through seven branches addressing various aspects of overdoses and addiction, including drug supply control, harm reduction, response, education, prescriptions, treatment and recovery, and criminal justice.

The Community Overdose Action Team is committed to reducing stigma, providing comprehensive services, empowering and celebrating recovery, and preventing drug misuse.

Get Involved Host an educational meeting with your organization or group.

For details, call 937-225-6026 or email dschwartz@phdmc.org.

Get naloxone/Narcan training through Project DAWN, a community-based program.

Naloxone can reverse overdose effects. Classes are held virtually, and naloxone will be sent via mail. Call 937-941-9277.

Access the LocalHelpNow web app for free at localhelpnowmc.com to locate addiction, mental health services, and more.

For 24-hour crisis services and screenings, contact Crisis Call Center at 833-580-2255.

Join the Community Overdose Action Team!

937-225-6026

Dschwartz@phdmc.org www.mccoat.org

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Arts & Entertainment

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January 5 - 12, 2024 - Dayton Weekly News

DML and Dayton Live’s Next Ticket Drop

Teens, Get Your Artwork Ready for DML Contest

Teens can begin submitting artwork to Dayton Metro Library’s annual Teen Art Contest on Thursday, February 1.

Artists can submit work in two grade divisions: 7-9 and 10-12. One winner per age division in each of the following art categories will be awarded: watercolor, pencil, photography, oil and acrylic, 3D and sculpture, and mixed or other medium.

Entries must be original in content (no fan art) and should not have been previously submitted to

a contest or published.

Subject matter should be appropriate for a general audience. Entry forms can be obtained at any one of the Dayton Metro Library Branches and should be turned in with submissions, in person to any Branch, by Thursday, February 29.

Gift cards will be awarded to winners in each category, with notification by Friday, March 8.

For more information about the contest and to pick up a contest form, visit the Ask Me Desk at your local Branch. Addi-

tional questions about the contest may also be directed to 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.

DPAA and Dayton Musicians Association, AFM Local 101-473 Announce New Collective Bargaining Agreement New Agreement Runs Through August 2025 and includes wage and service increases.

Dayton Performing Arts Alliance (DPAA) and the Dayton Musicians Association, AFM Local 101-473, announce the finalization of the successful negotiation and signing of a new two-year collective bargaining agreement valid until August 31, 2025.

The deal includes incremental wage increases and guaranteed learning, community engagement, and fundraising services.

“This agreement marks a milestone in collaboration with our musicians,” says Ted Nelson, DPAA’s VP for Artistic Planning and Operations. “The constructive dialogue throughout the negotiation process was instrumental in forging a path toward long-term stability and expansion.”

“DPAA Board President Ed Tomme and I are extremely gratified that this important agreement was reached,” says DPAA President and CEO Patrick Nugent. “The Agree-

ment was reached in the true spirit of collaboration between musicians and management. We were able to have highly collaborative and frank discussions that look forward to a future of growth for everyone involved.”

Details of the agreement with the Dayton Philharmonic Orchestra include a 5% wage increase in the first year, 4% in the second year, and additional guaranteed services allowing for more learning, community engagement, and fundraising performances.

Dayton Philharmonic musicians were represented by Jane Owen of the Symphonic Division of the American Federation of Musicians; also participating were members of the Players Committee, including Chair John Kurokawa and fellow musicians Chad Arnow, Ann Baer, Sheridan Currie, Amy Lassiter, and Rachael Young. DPAA President and CEO Patrick Nugent, CFO Teri War-

wick, and VP of Artistic Planning and Operations Ted Nelson represented the Dayton Performing Arts Alliance.

The Dayton Philharmonic Orchestra is part of the Dayton Performing Arts Alliance, formed in a groundbreaking and innovative merger with Dayton Ballet and Dayton Opera in 2012. DPAA’s learning and community engagement programs reach more than 50,000 persons annually and include collaborative programming among the three art forms.

The DPAA Artistic Leadership Team includes Ballet Artistic Director Brandon Ragland, Opera Artistic Director Kathleen Clawson, and Neal Gittleman, Artistic Director and Conductor of the Philharmonic.

For more information about DPAA’s 2023-2024 Ballet, Opera, and Philharmonic seasons, visit daytonperformingarts.org

For the second year, Dayton Metro Library and Dayton Live are partnering to provide free tickets to a variety of select performances.

Registration is required and will open on the first Tuesday of the month.

Patrons can find a list of participating Dayton Live performances in DML’s Event calendar, under the heading of “Dayton Live Ticket Series.”

To improve customer service and mainstream the obtaining of tickets for patrons, tickets will be reserved through the Dayton Live Box Office. To register for up to four free tickets, patrons should call Dayton Live’s Box Office at 937.228.3630, Tuesday-Friday, between 10 am-6 pm. Tickets for one performance of Futurist Jamie Metzl: How AI, Genetics, and Biotechnology Will Transform Our World become available Tuesday, January 3.

Show date and time: Sunday, January 21,

3-4:30 pm, at the Victoria Theater, 138 North Main Street, Dayton, 45402.

Obtaining tickets: Tickets can be picked up at the Box Office two business days after a reservation is made. Patrons will be asked to show their Dayton Metro Library Card.

Ticket availability is on a first come, first serve basis and cannot be exchanged or refunded for cash value. Cancellations must go through the Dayton Live Box Office.

About Jamie Metzl: Jamie Metzl, a leading technology futurist, explores the big picture implications of this moment in human history (how AI, genetics, and biotechnology will transform our world) and what it means for us. He is a visionary who can both reimagine the future and advise us on how to get there safely.

Metzl writes syndicated columns and is a contributor to major news outlets.

A 13-time Ironman, he is also the founder and chair

of OneShared.World, holds posts in several government arenas, and has authored four books, including the nonfiction bestseller, Hacking Darwin.

Age recommendation: This performance is for ages 10 and up.

Dayton Live encourages patrons to research specific titles to decide what is appropriate for their party.

Accessibility: Requests can be made at the time of registration.

Detailed information about Dayton Live Ticket Series: Futurist Jamie Metzl: How AI, Genetics, and Biotechnology Will Transform Our World can be found by visiting daytonlive.org/ events/Jamie-metzl/.

For more information about DML and Dayton Live’s partnership, visit DaytonMetroLibrary.org or call the Library’s Ask Me Line at 937.463.2665.

ter a reservation is made.

Patrons will be asked to show their Dayton Metro Library Card. Ticket availability is on a first come, first serve basis and cannot be exchanged or refunded for cash value. Cancellations must go through the DPAA Box Office.

favorite, its romantic score is set to Tchaikovsky (performed by the Philharmonic), and features gorgeous sets, beautiful costumes, and dramatic choreography that includes the “Dance of the Small Swans” – one of the most famous scenes in ballet.

Detailed information about this performance can be found at daytonperformingarts. org. For more information about DML and DPAA’s partnership, visit DaytonMetroLibrary.org or call the Library’s Ask Me Line at 937.463.2665.

DML and DPAA Partner

For the second year, Dayton Metro Library and Dayton Performing Arts Alliance (DPAA) are partnering to provide free tickets to a variety of performances.

Registration is required and will open on the first Tuesday of the month.

Patrons can find a list of participating DPAA performances in DML’s event calendar, under the heading of “DPAA Ticket Series.”

To improve customer service and mainstream the process for patrons, tickets will be reserved through DPAA’s Box Office. To register for up to four free tickets, patrons should call DPAA’s Box Office at 937.228.3630, Tuesday-Friday, between 10 am-6 pm, or visit in person at the Schuster Performing Arts Center, 1 West Second Street, Dayton, 45402. Tickets for Septime Webre’s Swan Lake become available Tuesday, January 9.

Show dates and time: Friday, February 16 and Saturday, February 17, 7:30-9:30 pm; Sunday, February 18, 2:30-4:30 pm Location: Schuster Performing Arts Center, Mead Theatre, 1 West 2nd Street, Dayton, 45402 Obtaining tickets: Tickets can be picked up at the Box Office af-

Accessibility: Any accessibility requests can be made at the time of registration with DPAA’s Box Office.

About the Program: Recommended for an adult audience, Swan Lake tells the love story of Prince Siegfried and Princess Odette. A perennial

City of Fairborn Hires New City Manager...

Continued from Page 1 Prior to his role as Assistant City Manager/ Economic Director, Mr. Gebhart was the Community Development Director for the City of Fairborn, Township Administrator and Planning and Zoning Director for Bethel Township-Miami County, and Code Enforcement Officer for the City of Kettering.

Gebhart holds a Mas-

ter’s Degree in Public Administration and a Bachelor’s Degree in Political Science from Wright State University. Gebhart has also earned a Credentialed Manager certification from the International City/County Managers Association (ICMA).

“I am honored and thrilled to be selected as the new City Manager,”

said Gebhart. “I look forward to working with the community, City Council, and city staff to continue to make Fairborn a City in Motion.”

The City of Fairborn is actively working to fill the vacant positions

by Mr. Gebhart’s promotion.

Editorial & Comments

Dayton Weekly News - January 5 - 12, 2024

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A New Year of Promise

By the time you read this message, we will already have said goodbye to 2023. It is my hope you have made your resolutions for 2024 that you really plan to keep! It is my experience that we make resolutions but forget them a few weeks later! I have counted myself among those who forget them, but I am determined to do better in 2024.

Times require us to be serious about keeping many of what I hope will be in your resolutions.

For example: 1. Did you wish for the killing of our brothers and sisters who are still living in Gaza to stop immediately and may the hearts of those still living be healed?

2. Did you wish for our brothers and sisters in Israel to have their relatives who’re hostages returned safely to them, and may their broken hearts be healed for friends and family they lost?

3. Did you wish for all the broken hearts from 2023 to be healed?

4. Will you do all you can do to prevent the senseless killing of our people, including our children?

5. Did you pray for America to end homelessness?

6. Did you pray for ending food deserts, and a way to feed healthy food for all to

eliminate hunger?

7. Will you take any steps necessary to truly make voting a right that is worth exercising?

8. Will you work to make voting easy and urge every citizen to know about and exercise their right to vote?

9. Will you speak with your Members of Congress to pass the John Lewis Voting Rights Act immediately?

10. Will you contact your Members of Congress to urge them to make Rosa Parks’ birthday a Federal Holiday?

11. Will you encourage your local, state, and National leaders to recognize the urgency of working on climate change?

12. Will you work to get politicians to provide more support for Historically Black Colleges and Universities?

13. Will you support efforts to continue taking down Confederate statues representing slavery and glorifying racist actions in this country?

14. Will you support National and World Foster Care?

15. Will you work to support women’s right to choose and take away that practice from politicians?

16. Will you support efforts to find common ground for the U.S. and Cuba to work cooperatively?

17. Will you work to end book bans and support educators who are taking a stand against banning books?

18. Will you do all you

can to improve healthcare for all?

19. Will you work to end racism in every form and for all of our brothers and sisters no matter from whence they have come?

20. Meanness against immigrants has got to stop!

21. Finally, will you do all in your power to make this a kinder, gentler nation for all?

Inaction by our leaders has got to be called out and voted out if they can’t solve the problems. When I heard a seasoned politician like Lindsey Graham respond to Trump’s constant racist ranting about immigrants saying he wasn’t concerned about Donald Trump’s highly offensive rantings and poisoning the blood of this nation, I was shocked. Trump no longer shocks us, but Lindsey Graham is intelligent enough to do better. We have a lot of work to do in 2024, so no one is exempt from helping to resolve the craziness going on all around us. It seems these multiple cases against Trump will never be resolved, so we can’t help by wishing things away.

Voting is more critical now than ever before and Black people can’t be mad and sit out the election because we don’t like one thing President Biden did. You need to vote!

Dr. E. Faye Williams is President of “The Dick Gregory Society” and a member of the Board of the World Conference of Mayors.

Something to Consider:

Dealing With Unfinished Business

By: Brenda Cochran Contributing Writer How many times are you looking at your todo list that has not been crossed off, but the list has been on the paper for more than a month? So why not stop counting them?

Most of us have experienced something just like this. We have nine million things to finish, yet nothing ever seems to get done. You probably could draw up a to-do-list after the first to-do-list and then you feel like you are adding more items than the list that you are checking off. You may feel that you are terrible at timemanagement, but it is probably something else.

It is interesting to note that a whopping 90% of people don’t finish their regular to-do-list, so maybe we shouldn’t worry if we’re part of the percentage.

Between emails, there are items marked for you to read and items marked to do, but there are also phone calls and appointments you need to make, but thinking about all of this seems to build up lots of stress.

It really is so easy to get caught up with all those little things that come up so surely, you probably really want to finish that committee report and then being able to tackle that to-do-list that has been on your mind for weeks.

Remember that worrying won’t help because there are some simple strategies that you can take advantage of. The first is: Take the 1,3,5 rules seriously.

First, think about your daily chores – there are so many that really take up even more of our time.

They seem to follow you around every day. Remember this can really build up stress for you.

I have found that our

Brenda Cochran

brains have a tendency to get stuck on the un- completed tasks. Don’t let those tasks get you down.

Here is a study from 1927- called the Zeigarnick Effect This study cites phenomenon and notes that the brain Simply wants us to finish what you started, and when we leave tasks unfinished, the brain will forget and will nag us with intrusion thoughts until we complete the task. Here is the question – how do you finish your unfinished business?

The truth is, you may not get anything done, but remember to realize that deciding not to do the things that are on your list, can be crossed off if only you clear things up a little.

This really is not too good though – the point is – keep up with the strategies.

Remember the 1,3.5? If you map out one big thing, three medium things, and five smaller things you want to get done that day, you will immediately know where your priorities lie. If prioritizing is your biggest issue when it comes to producing some clearing up, this will help you to improve.

You may well work at a job where many things come up and they need to be done as soon as possible, just move one of your mediums and one or two of your small spots open each day to fill in with

your most important items.

Here is another method you can use.

It means that you need you start to understand two things about each of your to-list. Keep this in mind – 1) How important is it? 2) How urgent is it? The big lesson is that what is important is not always urgent.

Don’t spend too much time on deciding on the tasks that appear urgent, and mess up your time on the ones that are important, but don’t really need to be done at that very moment.

The next one is to commit to only one todo-list. Many people make the mistake thinking that the term - the more the merrier supplies to apps, but for the vast majority of people, it doesn’t. You will spend half your day, messing with everything and there is no way you will be able to learn the ins-and outs.

Look at your productivity app and commit to this one.

Now decide to be specific at about what this to-do-list items involve?

You really shouldn’t be giving the same amount of wait to completely a report that will take you five hours to write – so send an email – this will just take two minutes of your time, so break down the steps that each to-do-list item involves until they all take the same time and effort.

Here are some quotes on dealing with unfinished business: 1) Mark your high priorities, 2) Mark your second tier of priorities, 3) Choose items to delete, 4) Review the remaining items.

Fact Check Team: Inflation Eases But Food Prices Remain High

Inflation has moderated to 3.1% over the past 12 months, marking a significant decline from November 2022, when inflation surged to 7.1%, according to the November Consumer Price Index (CPI) report.

Despite the overall cooling of inflation, American consumers continue to face elevated food prices.

The latest CPI report reveals a 1.7% increase in grocery prices in November compared to the previous year. While this uptick is notable, it pales in comparison to November 2022, when grocery prices were up 12%.

Looking at what is to come, the United States Department of Agriculture predicts all food prices will increase by 1.2% in 2024, with restaurant prices expected to rise 4.9% and grocery prices expected to drop

0.6%.

In terms of specific items, some notable increases include uncooked beef roasts (up 12.5%) and frozen noncarbonated juices and drinks (up 18.6%), while some noticeable decreases include lettuce (down 10.2%) and eggs (down 22.3%) Several factors contribute to these heightened

food prices, including high labor costs, persistent supply chain challenges, and increased expenses related to fertilizers and feed.

Extreme weather events, such as droughts and wildfires in Western states, have further exacerbated the situation. Additionally, the war in Ukraine, historically responsible for 9% of global wheat exports

and 12% of corn exports, has added to the upward pressure on prices.

While grocery prices remain high, the cost of dining out has increased by 5.3% in November compared to the previous year.

Full-service meals, typical of restaurant settings with a server, experienced a 4.3% increase, while limited-service meals, such

as fast food, saw a 6% uptick.

According to CDC data from 2018, as many as 36% of Americans choose to eat fast food on a given day, and it is usually a cheaper option. However, the higher costs of food products and labor have driven these prices higher. Consumers have experienced these higher

costs at fast food chains like Chipotle and McDonald’s.

According to Business Insider, the price of McDonalds’ menu items grew 10% last year and is expected to grow an additional 10% this year.

These restaurant prices may increase in some states that are enacting legislation to increase the minimum wage. California recently enacted a law called the FAST Recovery Act which will raise the minimum wage for fast food workers to at least $20 an hour. For context, the state’s current minimum wage is $16 an hour for most other jobs. Other states could soon follow suit, Virginia has a similar legislative proposal. As a result, workers will be paid a better wage, but these higher labor costs will likely be passed to consumers.

Education

January 5 - 12, 2024 - Dayton Weekly News

page - 5

Central State University Career Development Conference

White House Visit Inspires Black Mom, Teen Daughter to Launch Wilberforce, Ohio Kim Jones, ’89, director “This event is very imCybersecurity Book and Game Excitement on cam- of Strategic Partnerships portant for the career depus is building for the and External Affairs at velopment foundation that for Kids second annual RISE to Central State. “Corporate we want to provide for the Challenge Summit, scheduled for 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 31, at the University Student Center at Central State, 1400 Brush Row Road, Wilberforce, Ohio.

The theme for the Jan. 31 event is RISE to the Challenge: Engaging a Bold Future.

Distinguished speakers and companies will join forces to empower students from diverse backgrounds with the tools they need to transition from college to prolific careers.

“Our goal for the summit is to encourage connections between students and corporate partners,” said

participation is a way for companies to connect directly with students. Over 150 attendees enjoyed the inaugural summit in 2022.

We anticipate an event larger turnaround at this year’s conference,” Jones added.

This year’s corporate sponsors include Bob Evans Farms, Dominion Energy, Duke Energy, Edward Jones, Encova Insurance, Fifth Third Bank, Grange Insurance, JPMorgan Chase Bank, Key Bank, Medical Mutual, Nationwide Insurance, PNC Bank, and SodexoMagic.

Jones said Central State is committed to crafting creative ways for students and companies to interact.

our students while at Central State University,” she said. “It offers unique access opportunities for our students and industry leaders. We all have something to gain from attending this event.

“Many of the companies represented have taken advantage of other opportunities to provide career insight and leadership opportunities for Central State students, such as participating in our weekly Wealthy Wednesdays and career expos and as classroom guest speakers,” Jones added.

For more information contact Kimberly Jones, kjones@centralstate.edu or 937-376-6054.

Dayton Metro Library is excited to offer a new and innovative program that provide tools and knowledge to parents and caregivers to help them ensure their child is ready for postsecondary success.

SuccessLaunch™ at Dayton Metro Library will be held at the Huber Heights Branch on Thursday, January 18, from 6-7 pm. Registra-

tion is required.

WithLove Coaching and Consulting, LLC, will host this program and will provide information on such topics as interest and academic assessments, career exploration, college readiness, financial planning, and essential life skills development.

Through interactive workshops, patrons will learn about effective strategies they can use to

nurture their child’s academic, social, and emotional growth, thus giving them the confidence to empower their child to thrive in future endeavors and embark on a path to a successful and fulfilling postsecondary journey.

Only a few spots remain for this program, so register today at DaytonMetroLibrary.org or call the Library’s Ask Me Line at 937.463.2665.

NPower is launching a free 20-week IT Tech Fundamentals training program in Ohio. The second cohort starts February 26th. The program, designed for veterans and their spouses, as well as young adults (18-26) with a high school diploma or GED, offers a hybrid learning experience.

This instructor-led initiative addresses the increasing demand for skilled IT professionals.

NPower aims to empower participants by providing essential tech skills and bridging the digital divide.

Veterans, their spouses, and young adults looking to kickstart a career in technology are encouraged to apply now.

To secure a spot in this transformative program, interested individuals can visit NPower's website at www.npower.org or contact their Dayton office at 937-249-2230. Don't miss this opportunity to skill up and open doors to a promising future in the tech industry!

Map Out Your Child’s Success with DML Program

Free IT Tech Fundamental Training Program Comes to Dayton

Nationwide -- London Walker, a 15-year-old African American high school student and aspiring lawyer from Oakland, California, has launched a new book for Black and brown children entitled The ABCs of Cybersecurity.

In February 2023, London and her mom, Claudia, were invited to the White House to participate in a roundtable discussion on the state of cybersecurity in the Black community. London, the only teen at the event, wasn’t intimidated by the moment. “She never ceases to amaze me,” says her mother. “Here she is, a kid, sitting next to some of the most influential people in the White House, and she raises her hand, turns on her microphone, and explains why cybersecurity education is such a critical skill for children to learn.”

London’s mom wasn’t the only one impressed by her daughter’s poise. During the roundtable event, London received a full scholarship to Virginia Union University in Richmond, Virginia.

“It was an amazing opportunity,” says London.

“Before participating in the event, I knew very little about cybersecurity because we weren’t talking about it at home or school.”

According to a 2020 report by Cyber.org, only

The Martin Luther King Jr. Community Coalition of Lebanon to Host MLK Day Celebration

The Martin Luther King Jr. Community Coalition of Lebanon (MLK Lebanon) is hosting the 38th Annual Martin Luther King Jr. Day Celebration on Monday, January 15, 2024, at Resurrection Lutheran Church, 1270 N Broadway in Lebanon, 1:00 pm -2:30 pm.

The event is free and open to the public.

This year’s theme is “Genuine Brotherhood: Perfect Peace.” Inspired

by Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s Nobel Peace Prize speech, he stated “I think Alfred Nobel would know what I mean when I say that I accept this award in the spirit of a curator of some precious heirloom which he holds in trust for its true owners, all

those to whom beauty is truth and truth beauty, and in whose eyes the beauty of genuine brotherhood and peace is more precious than diamonds or silver or gold.”

The event is designed to educate the community about Dr. King’s philosophy and to inspire unity. The event will feature Master of Ceremony, Emiko Moore with musical performances by Jay Mills and Friends. The announcement of the Drum Major Awards will also be a highlight of the day.

Following the event, there will be refreshments, fellowship, and networking.

MLK Day Service Project MLK Day is a federal holiday and a national day of service. It is also

Martin Luther King, Jr.

recognized as a nationwide AmeriCorps event calling all citizens to action serving our communities in the way Dr. King faithfully served. MLK Lebanon is encouraging businesses, organizations, civic groups, schools and the entire community to host food drives and fundraisers from January 2nd15th benefiting the Lebanon Food Pantry. This is a blitz campaign because there is an urgent need to

restock and replenish the food pantry after the holiday season. We recognize that hunger and food insecurities occur every day beyond Thanksgiving and Christmas with hundreds of families counting on the pantry for their daily, weekly meals. The Lebanon Food Pantry will be open to collect food donations on Saturday, Jan 13th, from 9 am to 12 noon, and Monday, MLK Day, Jan 15th, from 9 am to 12 noon. Donations will also be accepted at the MLK Celebration at Resurrection Lutheran Church, 1270 N. Broadway, from 12 noon to 3 pm.

For more information, please visit our website at mlklebanon.org.

10 percent of schools offer cybersecurity classes.

Although schools often employ firewalls to limit students’ access to nonacademic sites, London insists that there are dangerous loopholes that educators and policymakers need to be aware of.

“My peers are smart. We know how to get around firewalls. The problem is that some of these workarounds might infect our devices with malware or viruses. These are serious risks that no one is educating us about.”

During the White House event, London and her mom jointly announced their commitment to coauthor The ABCs of Cybersecurity to teach children how to protect their privacy and stay safe online.

After months of researching and collaborating with organizations like Black Girls in Cyber and #ShareTheMicInCyber, the mother-daughter duo is excited to debut their newest book and a cybersecurity game on January 6 — National Technology Day. In addition to teaching children about digital citizenship, the authors also hope to raise awareness about the need for more diversity in the cybersecurity field. Illustrated by Dissirama Laurencia, the book pays homage to African-American trailblazers like cryptographer William Coffee, cybersecurity attorney Camille Stewart

Gloster, and Elijah Muhammad, who earned cybersecurity and computer science degrees when he was 13.

When asked what makes this project unique, London said, “My little brothers love video games, so we created an online cybersecurity game that kids can play by scanning a QR code in the book.

We’re using technology to make learning fun.”

The ABCs of Cybersecurity is available for purchase through HBCUPrepSchool.com and select retailers nationwide.

Dayton Metro Library will host several programs that focus on important topics for teens.

Student to Student Talks: The Dangers of Drug and Alcohol Abuse Students from Boonshoft School of Medicine will host a discussion and slide show that focuses on today’s most commonly used drugs and their effect on the body, with emphasis on the effects of alcohol.

Burkhardt Branch, Thursday, January 11, 4:30-5:30 pm Northmont Branch, Tuesday, February 20, 4:30-5:30 pm What is Consent?: A Module for Teens The Ohio Center for Sex Education will present a consent module (FRIES: freely given,

reversible, informed, enthusiastic, and specific) that will serve as the foundation to discuss how to give and get consent in relationships.

Topics will include laws on the age of consent, how to set boundaries, and how to communicate such boundaries.

Burkhardt Branch, Thursday, January 18, 4:30-6 pm Adulting 101 This monthly program is geared to help teens gain important life skills and knowledge so they can thrive in adulthood.

Main Library, Conference Room 1B, Monday, January 29, 3-4 pm For more information, DaytonMetroLibrary.org or call the Library’s Ask Me Line at 937.463.2665.

About HBCU Prep School, an award-winning multimedia education company founded in 2020

by Claudia Walker, is dedicated to replicating the Black college experience for children through their books, flashcards, puzzles, and classes. Their best-selling books, The ABCs of HBCUs and The ABCs of Black Wall Street, were featured in Target’s 2023 Black History Month Collection.

HBCU Prep School’s products unapologetically celebrate Black culture and inspire children to see themselves as part of the rich tapestry of Black history.

Learn more at HBCUPrepSchool.com

DML Programs Tackle Tough Teen Topics

Dayton Weekly News - January 5 - 12, 2024

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Worship At The Church Of Your Choice

COLLEGE HILL COMMUNITY CHURCH

Worship At The Church Of Your Choice

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

Rev. Merritt Worthen, PhD

Mt. Enon Missionary Baptist Church (937) 222-0867 FAX: (937) 222-7336

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

Church School Worship Services

9:00 a.m.

10:00 a.m.

Join us for a new beginning...

4520 Salem Avenue, Dayton, Ohio 45416

(937) 275-6906 Fax 276-6267

Fax: 937 279-9342

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

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.

THURSDAY Food & Clothing Pantry 10:00 a.m - 1:00 p.m.

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

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.

Church Phone: 937-223-5115 Fax: 937-223-8872 Email: greater_allen_ame@att.net

WEDNESDAY Prayer Meeting/Bible Study Noon

"And I, if I be lifted up from the Earth, will draw all men unto me."

3010 McCall Street, Dayton, OH 45417

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. Elmer S. Martin, Pastor 1620 West Fifth Street Dayton, OH 45402-2910

Zion Baptist Church

Believers Christian Fellowship Church

Advertise Your Church in the Dayton Weekly News Call 223-8060 for more Information.

SUNDAY

(937) 222-0867 FAX:5301 (937) Free222-7336 Pike, Trotwood, Ohio 45426

Greater Allen AME Church

Rev. Gerald A. Cooper, Pastor

“Building a Healthy Church to Serve an Unhealthy Society”

Mt. Enon Missionary BaptistCHURCH Church ST. MARGARET’S EPISCOPAL

“Building a Healthy Church to Serve an Unhealthy Society”

Reverend Rockney Carter, Senior Pastor

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 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.

Caregiving in the New Year!...

Continued from Page 1

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

specific with an action item. Avoid giving options. If you need someone to pick up prescriptions from the pharmacy or change the bed linen, state the specific need, not the desired want.

There is a difference between the two. Caregivers, caring for others, can decrease emotional burnout by being transparent and precise. Do not neglect self…re-

member, self-care is NOT selfish!

As your Proactive Caregiver Advocate, let 2024 be the year of asking for help. The family and friends around us are resources in our lives. Caregivers, you benefit when you take advantage of the presence of others. Don’t make assumptions that support is not available.

Be Safe! Be Well!

Dr. Cynthia J. Hick-

man is a retired registered nurse and case manager, CEO of Your Proactive Caregiver Advocate and author of From the Lens of Daughter, Nurse, and Caregiver: A Journey of Duty and Honor, and The Black Book of Important Information for Caregivers.

Website: www.cynthiajhickman.com

Most Black worshippers attend predominantly Black congregations and see a role for religion in fighting racial injustice, but generational patterns are changing Religion has long figured prominently in the lives of Black Americans. When segregation was the law of the land, Black churches – and later, mosques – served as important spaces for racial solidarity and civic activity, and faith more broadly was a source of hope and inspiration.

Today, most Black adults say they rely on prayer to help make major decisions, and view opposing racism as essential to their religious faith. Also, predominantly Black places of worship continue to have a considerable presence in the lives of Black Americans: Fully 60% of Black adults who go to religious services – whether every week or just a few times a year – say they attend religious services at places

where most or all of the other attendees, as well as the senior clergy, are also Black, according to a major new Pew Research Center survey. Far fewer attend houses of worship with multiracial congregations or clergy (25%) or congregations that are predominantly White or another race or ethnicity, such as Hispanic or Asian (13%).

But these patterns appear to be changing. The survey of more than 8,600 Black adults (ages 18 and older) across the United States finds that young Black adults are less religious and less engaged in Black churches than older generations. Black Millennials and members of Generation Z are less likely to

rely on prayer, less likely to have grown up in Black churches and less likely to say religion is an important part of their lives.

Fewer attend religious services, and those who do attend are less likely to go to a predominantly Black congregation.

For example, roughly half of Black Gen Zers (born after 1996) who go to a church or other house of worship say their congregation and clergy are mostly Black, compared with two-thirds of Black Baby Boomers and members of the Silent Generation who say this.

Protestantism has long dominated the Black American religious landscape, and still does. The survey shows that two-

Faith Among Black Americans

SOUL II SOUL INFLUENCE: Shoes of Peace 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

“Fifth, we have the helmet of salvation.” Ephesians 6:17

My Savior and Lord, thank you for the blessing of studying Your Word and understanding the fifth piece of the Full Armor of God – the helmet of Salvation.

You know, Lord, that I am amid another healing.

I lost my balance in my kitchen, fell, and the back of my head made contact with the floor. Maybe I’ll start wearing a helmet (laugh), and I was not up to writing much.

We are encouraged to wear a helmet when riding a bicycle, working on construction sites, or taking a motorcycle on a trip. For security, the Helmet of Salvation will protect your head if you have an accident or a fall.

The helmet of salvation means that we need to think like someone committed to thinking like Jesus, Loving like God, and letting the Mind of Christ BE in us. It may also mean going back to the place where you first believed and getting all excited again about being saved (redeemed, converted), sanctified (consecrated, holy), and fired up to witness (affirm) that by the fire of the Holy Spirit, you can’t help but tell others that deliverance from sin and its effects is possible through Christ.

In addition to wishing you a fantastic and wondrous 2024, I pray you will study further the Armor of God in Ephesians, Chapter 6.

When the storms of life are raging, and the battle is hot, remember and say that you are a beloved and forgiven child of God. We used to sing in the home church, “I am a child of God. I am a child of God. I have washed my robe in the cleansing fountain. I am a child of God.” The first verse reads: “Praise the Lord!

My heart with His love is beaming; I am a child of God; Heaven’s golden light over me is streaming; I am a child of God. If you can find an old hymnal, please do. The old music is inspirational, with words that draw you close to God. I submit that we will need God more in 2024 than ever before. So get fully dressed with the Armor of God. LOVE YE ONE ANOTHER

thirds of Black Americans (66%) are Protestant, 6% are Catholic and 3% identify with other Christian faiths – mostly Jehovah’s Witnesses. Another 3% belong to non-Christian faiths, the most common of which is Islam.1 But about one-in-five Black Americans (21%)

are not affiliated with any religion and instead identify as atheist, agnostic or “nothing in particular,” and this phenomenon is increasing by generation: Roughly three-in-ten Black Gen Zers (28%) and Millennials (33%) in the survey are religiously unaffiliated, compared with

just 11% of Baby Boomers and 5% of those in the Silent Generation.

Black Protestants are particularly likely to worship in congregations where most of the laypeople, as well as the senior clergy, are Black.

Two-thirds of Black Continued on Page 8

Sports

January 5 - 12, 2024 - Dayton Weekly News

Launch Dayton Partners

We are still working on the details but wanted to share with you a top line of a really exciting program for 2024. Finals for the pitch are April 6, Semis are April 5 at Beavercreek High School.

Reaching out to over 100 High Schools across 11 counties( Auglaize, Champaign, Clark, Darke, Greene, Logan, Mercer, Miami, Montgomery, Preble, Shebly).

I have personally left messages for and/or spoken with over 50 principals:) Working on finalizing which High Schools will participate. One Winning team from each school will make it into the Semi Finals. Top 10 will present on April 6th.

Thank you to Reginald and the Launch Dayton

team for allowing us to use their Pitch deck and rubric as well as agreeing to hold an educational workshop about the deck and Rubric at the Hub. Thank you to WPCU for sponsoring the winners breakfast. Thank you to DaTV for agreeing to record the semis and finals. Thank you to Beavercreek HS for hosting the event....

We are flying the plane as we build it this year but everything seems to be falling into place. Next year we will start earlier and add more educational opportunities for the students.

If you have any interest in sponsoring, or helping in any way, please let me know.

Alan Schussheim Dayton SCORE Outreach Manager

SCORE Daytons' First Annual Miami Valley High School Pitch Competition Hosted by Beavercreek High School $2,000 (First), $1,000 (Second), $500 (Third) FREE SCORE Mentors for Top 3 Celebrity Judges (Nancy Wilson K99.1, Zavier Hershovitz & Kayla McDermott WHIO...)

Opportunity to Present at Launch Dayton Startup Week 2024 (still being negotiated/discussed) 2 Free Business Workshops DaTV will be recording the competition Digital and Printed Programs provided by OnStage(trying to fund)

Nature Programs Lead January Programs at DML

Winter is fast approaching but that doesn’t mean one shouldn’t begin thinking about their seasonal gardens or learning something new about the outdoors. DML has programs happening in January to lead patrons down nature’s path.

Thursday, January 11, 6:30-7:30 pm A Master Gardner shares ideas on how to begin planning a garden.

Registration is required.

Recycling 101 Miami Township Branch, Thursday, January 11, 6:30-7:30 pm Jaime Shepherd, an education program specialist for Montgomery County Solid Waste District, will discuss how to “recycle right.”

importantly they captured the heart and soul of the African American community around the world.

Baseball in inner cities is dying and we have an avenue to give baseball players something to look forward to. This league would afford baseball players the opportunity to play baseball to further advance and develop their baseball skills. We want

this league to capture the heart and soul of the nation as we serve as a lifeline to pump life back into the game by providing an outlet for baseball players to continue playing past the high school and college levels.

This league is open to all baseball players from the East, West, North, and South regardless of their ethnic background, and is

Continued on Page 9

OSU’s Agriculture and Natural Resources Extension office provides tips on companion planting and how to make the most of space.

Animal Habitats Main Library, Children’s Creativity Space, Wednesday, January 17, 4-5 pm Families will pick an animal and create its ideal home out of a box; supplies provided.

Winter Seed Sowing Basics New Lebanon Branch, Thursday, January 4, 6:30-7:30 pm Winter sowing is a method of starting seeds Garden Design outside in the cold and Kettering-Moraine snow without having to Introduction to Fly find the space indoors and Branch, Friday, January Fishing 12, 2-3 pm using a grow light.

Miami Township Main Library, Conference Room 1A, Monday, Branch, Saturday, JanuPlanning a Garden Vandalia Branch, January 22, 6-7 pm ary 20, 2-3:30 pm

Black-Owned Independent Baseball League To Honor Negro League Legends

Nationwide -- A League of Our Own (ALOOO), a selffunded baseball league that is the only African American owned Independent Baseball League in the United States, is honoring the legacy, history and accomplishments of four very distinguished African American Baseball players – Rube Foster, the father of Negro League Baseball; Stachel Paige, one of the greatest pitchers of all time; Sam Allen, a Negro League great; and Dick Allen, one of the Chicago White Sox’s most fierce hitters in his day.

ALOOO will honor these distinguished baseball icons by naming teams in their league after them in an effort to forever invoke their memories in the hearts and minds of past, present, and future baseball generations.

The teams will bear the name Rube Foster Chicago Giants, Stachel Paige All-Stars, Sam Allen Monarchs, and Dick Allen Hittman, and the league will host an official dedication prior to the start of the 2024 season.

A few years ago, a little league baseball team from the Southside of Chicago by the name of Jackie Robinson West captured the heart and soul of the nation. Most

page - 7

currently in the midst of holding open tryouts. Tryouts will remain open until all the spots are filled.

Players interested in being a part of this program should visit the website and register online today for the tryouts.

As a 501(c)3 not-forprofit, ALOOO is looking to develop a network of supporters to help us sustain and cultivate the fu-

ture growth of this league by becoming financial donors or sponsors. All players who are interested in being a part of this league and/or those interested in becoming a financial supporter feel free to contact us at (205) 264-1468 or visit the official website at ALeagueofOurOwn247. com

Miami Valley Fly Fishers, Inc., a nonprofit dedicated to promoting fly fishing and protecting natural resources, will introduce fly fishing.

Ins and Outs of Container Gardening Kettering-Moraine Branch, Friday, January 26, 2-3 pm Main Library, Conference Room 1A, Monday, February 5, 6-7 pm Learn how to maintain an indoor garden, including what types of containers are good to use and what windowsill gardening is, with OSU’s Agriculture and Natural Resources Extension office.

Several other outdoor programs will take place into February – just search the “Animals & Nature” event type on DML’s Events page at DaytonMetroLibrary.org. Questions may also be directed to the Library’s Ask Me Line at 937.463.2665.

page - 8

Health

Dayton Weekly News - January 5 - 12, 2024

Northwest Health and Wellness Campus Opens at Premier Health YMCA Miami Valley Hospital Services, Premier Physician Network Specialty Care Now Available

Premier Health announced today patients will begin to be treated on Monday, January 8, 2024, at the Northwest Health and Wellness Campus within the Premier Health YMCA at 2649 Salem Ave. “Today, we celebrate a community-inspired investment in Northwest Dayton,” said Mike Riordan, president and CEO, Premier Health.

“Premier Health’s mission — We Care. We Teach. We Innovate. We Serve. — is reflected in the various services now available close to home for local neighborhoods and nearby communities. We made a commitment to the community for the redevelopment of this site and through the collaborative efforts of all project partners, we are taking the next step along this path.”

Premier Health services include: Miami Valley Hospital Urgent Care. Open to all ages Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. with plans to expand hours to seven

days a week with evening hours soon.

Miami Valley Hospital Physical Therapy, including comprehensive orthopedic care for both injury and post-operative needs.

Miami Valley Hospital Imaging services, including x-ray and ultrasound.

Premier Physician Network specialty care, The Bull Family Diabetes Center, will see patients and provide diabetes education. Providers: Heidi Buckingham, MD; Miguel Parilo, MD; Rebecca Roberts, CNP; Alexandra Wilson, PA-C; Connor Wolfe, PA-C; and a team of registered dieticians.

Premier Physician Network specialty care, Premier Cardiovascular Institute, will treat a wide range of heart-related conditions. Providers: Erik Poldemann, MD; Christine DiEnna, DO; and George Broderick, MD. Lab services provided

by CompuNet Clinical Laboratories. The CompuNet Elizabeth Place service center has relocated to the Northwest Health and Wellness Campus for easier patient access.

The Premier Health YMCA, together with Premier Health, will occupy most of the 52,000-squarefoot facility. The building also houses services and programming for four other partners: CareSource Life Services, County Corp’s HomeOwnership Center of Greater Dayton, Goodwill Easterseals Miami Valley, and Wright State University. Altogether, the partners are expected to employ about 80 people at the new site.

In 2018, Premier Health hired a consultant to partner with the community and help reimagine the site on Salem Avenue at Philadelphia Drive. That effort, called Phoenix Next, builds on the Phoenix Project, a 15-year community redevelopment initiative. More than 600 stakeholders and residents offered ideas during meetings, workshops, interviews, and through online surveys. The community’s desire for an anchor promoting healthy living and next generation learning was clear.

Health Crisis Looms: CDC Issues Stark Warning Amidst Rising Tide of COVID and Flu Cases

A looming healthcare crisis is on the horizon as hospitals and emergency rooms face the potential need to ration care by the month’s end, according to a chilling advisory from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

The CDC’s latest briefing underscores the swift escalation in COVID-19 hospitalizations, with a particular focus on the surge in multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children (MIS-C). Simultaneously, influenza is gaining momentum nationwide, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) continues to pose a significant threat in multiple regions.

Several reports noted that pediatric hospitals are grappling with a near-maximum patient load, mirroring the levels witnessed this time last year. Emergency room visits for schoolage children have

undergone an alarming, nearly twofold increase, driven chiefly by a surge in flu cases. The CDC said the spike follows a period of stabilized emergency room figures leading up to Thanksgiving. Strikingly, influenza-related emergency room visits have now eclipsed those for COVID-19 across most age groups, with seniors being the sole exception where COVID-19 rates remain markedly higher.

Nursing homes also are reportedly witnessing a sharp uptick in reported COVID-19 cases, particularly in the Midwestern region, where infections among residents have already surpassed last year’s peak. The emergence of the JN.1 COVID variant contributes significantly to the current wave of infections, estimated to comprise up to 29% of cases nationwide—a stark increase from 8.8% at the close of November.

According to the CDC’s projections, JN.1, a direct descendant of the highly mutated BA.2.86 variant,

has become the swiftestgrowing variant in the United States. While a World Health Organization panel asserts that JN.1’s alterations do not warrant a revision to this season’s vaccines, initial data raises concerns about reduced vaccine efficacy against this variant.

Despite the situation’s urgency, the CDC said vaccination rates are experiencing an unprecedented decline. Adult flu vaccinations are trailing by approximately 8 million doses compared to last year, and children’s flu shots have dipped by around five percentage points.

Bridging this gap is anticipated to be a formidable challenge, according to discussions between vaccine manufacturers and the CDC. With only a third of nursing home residents and less than 10% of staff receiving the COVID-19 vaccine this season, Dr. Mandy Cohen, Director of the CDC, expressed deep concern about the sluggish vaccine uptake. Urging healthcare providers to intensify efforts, especially among high-risk groups, she emphasizes the crucial role of vaccinations as the peak of the respiratory virus season looms.

The CDC emphasized the importance of staying updated on vaccinations against respiratory viruses. Beyond COVID-19 and influenza, a global uptick in pneumonia cases in children is also under scrutiny, officials asserted.

Red Cross: Emergency Blood Shortage, Donors Needed Now

The American Red Cross blood supply has fallen to critically low levels, and we now face an emergency blood shortage. In recent weeks, we’ve had to limit our distributions of some of the most transfused blood

types to hospitals. We need donors now, and in the weeks ahead, to help rebuild the blood supply.

Blood shortages are an ongoing issue nationwide – you’ve certainly seen us make this plea for help in the past. One shocking

statistic has contributed to this problem: Over the last 20 years, the number of people donating blood to the Red Cross has fallen by about 40%. We need to reverse this trend.

Protestant churchgoers say they attend this type of congregation. By contrast, majorities of Black Catholics and Black adults of other faiths say their congregations and religious leaders are multiracial, mostly White, or mostly some other race.

Nonetheless, there is a broad consensus among Black Americans of all faiths that predominantly Black churches have played a valuable role in the struggle for racial equality in U.S. society.

Roughly three-quarters of Black adults surveyed say that Black churches have played at least “some” role in helping Black people move toward equality – including three-in-ten who say Black churches have done “a great deal” – while roughly half say Black Muslim organizations such as the Nation of Islam have contributed at least some in this regard.

Yet just a third (33%) of Black Americans say historically Black congregations should preserve their traditional racial character. Most (61%) say these congregations should become more racially and ethnically diverse. This is the majority view among those who attend Black congregations as well as those who do not.

Furthermore, while 34% of Black Americans say that if they were looking for a new congregation, it would be “very important” or “somewhat important” for them to find a congregation where most other attendees shared

their race, most (63%) say this would be either “not too important” or “not at all important.” Higher priorities include finding a congregation that is welcoming and that offers inspiring sermons. Again, this pattern holds regardless of whether respondents currently attend a predominantly Black congregation.

If most Black Americans say these congregations should diversify and the race of other attendees isn’t a top priority to them, what leads so many Black Americans to attend predominantly Black congregations?2 The survey indicates that Black congregations are distinctive in numerous ways beyond just their racial makeup.

Sermons are a prime example: Black Americans who attend Black Protestant churches are more likely to say they hear messages from the pulpit

about certain topics – such as race relations and criminal justice reform – than are Black Protestant churchgoers who attend multiracial, White or other race churches.

And Protestants who go to Black congregations are somewhat less likely than others to have recently heard a sermon, lecture or group discussion about abortion.

Black churches also have a distinctive atmosphere for worship.

Protestants who worship in predominantly Black churches are more likely than other Black Americans to say their congregations feature worshippers calling out “amen” or other expressions of approval.

This report is the first in a series of Pew Research Center studies focused on describing the rich diversity of Black people in the United States.

Faith Among Black Americans...

Continued from Page 6

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