The Dayton Weekly News - Vol. 29, Issue 32

Dayton Foundation Competitive Grant Awards

In recent months, The Dayton Foundation has awarded $802,600 to 21 Greater Dayton charities through its competitive discretionary and Greenlight GrantsSM programs. These grants, which were awarded by the Foundation’s volunteer Grants Committee and approved by the Governing Board, were made possible thanks to individuals and families who have established unrestricted or lightly restricted charitable funds that address the region’s emerging needs and opportunities.

Discretionary grants

totaling $750,000 were awarded to the following organizations.

Catholic Social Services of the Miami Valley ($75,000) to help construct a 6,000-squarefoot pantry, including inventory storage space, new refrigeration, and a ground-floor welcome center and additional space for clients to shop.

The Conscious Connect Community Development Corporation ($75,000) to revitalize the current Delaware Avenue park, including

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Black Lives Matter Dayton Resist Republican Lawmakers Push for Issue 1

The Black Lives Matter Dayton group is responding to Republican State lawmakers' push for Issue 1, which we deem amounts to obstacles put in place by those Republicans to block citizens' attempts to amend the Ohio Constitution.

BLMD recognize that Issue 1 would change how amendments to the Ohio Constitution would occur; however, BLMD believes the impact of Issue 1 would adversely affect holding government officials and police accountable if they violate citizens' constitutional rights.

On June 21, 2020, BLMD outlined a 10-point demand for Dayton police reform in response to the national outcry for police

accountability after the police killings of Breonna Taylor and George Floyd.

One of our demands was eliminating Qualified Immunity, which we soon learned had to be addressed on a state level via the Ohio Constitution.

Subsequently, BLMD, On September 2, 2022, joined forces with a group out of Columbus, Ohio, called Ohio Coalition to End Qualified Immunity (OCEQI), pressing for amending the Ohio Constitution as a call to action to hold police and government officials responsible for violating citizens' constitutional rights.

Unfortunately, the Coalition has encountered multiple delays due to corrections needed to the pe-

Young Ladies Aspiring Greatness Celebrates 10 Years of Service

By: Emmalee Dotson Young Ladies Aspiring Greatness Contributor

tition summaries over the past year.

Today, the Coalition is on its fourth attempt at trying to amend the Ohio Constitution, which, if Issue 1 passes, we can't help but believe will stifle our efforts to reflect the people's will for accountability.

With the Republican's barriers to amending the Ohio Constitution, it would be impossible to hold local, state government officials and police accountable for violating our Constitutional rights if Issue 1 passes; we must vote NO on Issue 1!

Black Lives Matter Dayton was founded on May 25, 2019

On June 24,2023, Young Ladies Aspiring Greatness (YLAG) celebrated 10 years of empowering teen-aged African American girls to make a difference in the communities around them. With the help of many sponsors and organizations that were willing to offer opportunities, as well as the great work of founder Ms. Shirelle Stroud , YLAG has been able to continuously fulfill it’s mission.

“I felt as a Ylagger the 10-year anniversary fundraising gala was a great way to celebrate the work we have done in the community and really see how YLAG has impacted us as people and to see how we are supported by people in the community. It was also nice to see everyone be recognized from the great work they have done.” states current Ylagger, Kennedy Andrews.

During the gala, YLAG’s many initiatives were recognized for the great impact they have

LeBron James Ends All Doubt About His Retirement

LeBron James officially announced Wednesday that he will be returning to the Lakers for his 21st NBA season.

James addressed his future after accepting the ESPY award for Best Record-Breaking Performance — commemorating him surpassing Kareem Abdul-Jabbar on the NBA's all-time scoring list last season.

“I don’t care how many more points I can score or what I can or can’t do on the floor,” James said. “The real question for me is, can I play without cheating this game? The day I can’t play without giving everything on the

floor is the day I’ll be done. Lucky for you guys, that day is not today.”

The 38-year-old superstar sparked speculation about his future shortly after the Lakers’ four-game sweep at the hands of the Denver Nuggets in the Western Conference finals. In the immediate aftermath, James cryptically floated the idea of retiring.

“We’ll see what happens going forward," James said at the time. "I don’t know. I don’t know. I’ve got a lot to think about to be honest. I’ve got a lot to think about to be honest.

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Patrick Mahomes Wins Best Male Athlete

The Super Bowl-winning quarterback with the Kansas City Chiefs told fans: "We're going to do this thing again, we're going to keep this thing rolling"

After winning the 2023 Super Bowl alongside the Kansas City Chiefs in February, the quarterback, 27, was named the best male athlete at the 2023 ESPY Awards.

In his speech, Mahomes celebrated their rollercoaster of a season.

"It was an incredible season, many ups, many downs," he said. "I have to thank my teammates, my coaches, basically just making me look good. I'm the quarterback, i just throw the ball and they make it all work."

He also thanked his family, teammates and "the best fanbase in the world" for getting him on the stage.

"I appreciate my teammates, my coaches, the guys that are here," Mahomes continued. "I have to thank my family; Brittany, Bronze and Sterling. I'm glad that all that hard work is paying off. they're making me the guy that I am, the man that I am, so I want to thank them."

"And finally, Chiefs Kingdom. Chiefs Kingdom, I truly believe, is the best fan base in the world. We're going to do this thing again, we're going to keep this thing rolling. I appreciate all y'all."

had on the community. “ YLAG represents the heartbeat of community service. They continue to shine as examples of leadership and commitment with a willingness to making a difference in all that they do. 10 years of volunteer service in the community shows the strong commitment these young ladies have given themselves too. We are proud of each of them and their contributions to our community. Shirelle Stroud is to be commended for her dedication to the young ladies of the Greater Miami Valley. Her hard work and consistent dedication over these 10 years has made the girls of YLAG’s lives and experience immensely greater through volunteerism and philanthropy. “states Trotwood Mayor Mary McDonald.

Over the years, YLAG has touched over 70 girls, many parents, and our community with the hopes of making a difference each step of the way. Throughout their journey, the community have begun to grow an unconditional love and support for YLAG. “ I absolutely LOVE the opportunity to be connected with Shirelle Stroud and the work she is doing with YLAG. Because her work is an alignment with what I believe- to whom much is given much is required- I will always say “Yes!” when she calls on me. WE are the village that is responsible for the growth and development of the young ladies in our community.” states Dr. Karen Townsend.

In the past 10 years, YLAG has given many girls a new beginning and a new perspective of how to change things little by little. YLAG has instilled in it’s members that anything is possible with the help of those they surround themselves with.

High-Quality Sleep Found to Alleviate Cognitive Deficits Linked to Genetic Risk for Alzheimer’s Disease in Older African Americans

By Stacy M. Brown,

In a study focused on the interplay between sleep and genetic factors associated with Alzheimer’s disease (AD) in older African Americans, researchers have discovered that highquality sleep may mitigate cognitive deficits related to the ABCA7 gene.

The study sheds light on the importance of sleep in reducing the risk of cognitive decline in this vulnerable population.

“This new finding suggests that someone with a high-risk variant might be able to overcome their genetic inheritance by improving their sleep habits,”

Bernadette Fausto, a member of the research

faculty at Rutgers University-Newark in New Jersey, said in a news release.

“The findings were striking,” declared Fausto, the lead author of the study.

The findings, published in the latest issue of The Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease, highlighted the

disproportionate impact of both sleep deficiencies and AD on older African Americans.

Furthermore, genetic susceptibility to AD, particularly the ABCA7 rs115550680 locus, compounds the risk for cognitive decline among individuals in this group.

The study’s goal was to look at how the quality of sleep and the ABCA7 rs115550680 gene variant affect cognitive function.

The study focused on hippocampal-dependent cognitive tasks closely linked to AD and involved 114 cognitively healthy older African Americans

genotyped for ABCA7 risk.

Of the participants, 57 were carriers of the risk “G” allele, while the remaining 57 were non-carriers.

The participants completed lifestyle questionnaires, underwent cognitive assessments, and provided self-reported sleep quality ratings (poor, average, good).

Age and years of education were considered covariates in the analysis.

The results obtained through analysis of covariance (ANCOVA) revealed a significant interaction between the ABCA7 risk genotype and sleep quality. Carriers of the risk genotype who reported poor or average sleep quality exhibited markedly poorer

generalization of prior learning—a cognitive marker of AD—compared to their non-risk counterparts.

In contrast, no genotype-related difference in generalization performance was observed among individuals who Continued on Page 8

LeBron James

Patrick Mahomes

The Montgomery County Fair

Join us July 14-15 for the 171st Montgomery County Fair!

Friday & Saturday 10am-11pm

We will feature all the fair favorites including demolition derby, 4H, junior fair, livestock, petting zoo, dog show, circus, flower show, games, rides, awesome fair eats & treats, harness racing, rodeo, free entertainment with paid admission, plus much more!

Admission is $10 per person - price includes admission to track events and free parking. See our website for full details.

Ride Schedule: Friday & Saturday 1-4pm & 5-10pm - opening and closing times may vary without notice. Wristbands are $25 - good all

Dayton Foundation Competitive Grant Awards...

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upgrading all park amenities, helping to transform the abandoned community space into a vibrant neighborhood asset.

Crayons to Classrooms ($60,000) to secure a 10,000-square-foot warehouse space so that they may securely store educational items, as well as stock special items, including socks, underwear, menstrual hygiene products, social-emotional learning tools and financial literacy learning aids.

4 Paws for Ability, Inc. ($15,000) to expand the number of dog runs, add a play yard and increase functional outdoor space for dogs being trained for individuals with disabilities.

Homefull ($75,000) to assist in building a 48,000-square-foot Health, Food and Jobs Center on Gettysburg Avenue.

Planned Parenthood Southwest Ohio Region ($75,000) to help fund upgrades to a new, piloted staff training center within the Dayton Health Center.

Ronald McDonald House Charities Dayton ($75,000) to support the construction of a 38,000-square-foot facility that will deliver wraparound services to address the social determinants of health which pose barriers for caretakers to participate in pediatric healthcare.

Sunlight Village ($75,000) to create the Healthy Family Market, providing West Dayton’s low-income women, families and young children with convenient access to nutritious, affordable, fresh and high-quality food products.

United Church Homes ($75,000) to help develop a 126-unit, age 55+ residential community that will be welcoming and enriching for the LGBTQ+ community and its allies.

Victory Project ($75,000) to help renovate a West Dayton facility for a Boys Campus that will aid in empowering

young men through afterschool programs.

Wild Hearts African Farm ($75,000) to support a new, 27-acre Education Center, including an EcoDome, pastures, STEM barn, livestock buildings and cropland, that will encourage discussions on water quality, sustainable agriculture and endangered animals.

The Foundation’s Greenlight Grants program assists organizations seeking quick, small grants for special projects, program expansions, capital improvements or capacity building. In recent months, $52,600 in Greenlight GrantsSM was awarded to the following organizations.

Brukner Nature Center ($1,087) to add an informational kiosk to help raise awareness of the organization and to display hours, hiking trails and various community engagement opportunities.

Family Violence Prevention Center ($2,500) to help repair the Safe Housing program building, creating a safe and healthy living environment.

Good Neighbor House ($7,500) to purchase two, reach-in freezer and refrigerator units and a pallet scale.

Good Samaritan Foundation Dayton ($5,000) to build a new, cloud-based database to increase efficiency, improve user experience and increase the security of data storage.

Hatch Architects Design Center ($7,500) to offer a six-week program for Omega CDC’s Camp HOPE Freedom School students who will design and build an architectural element for the community.

Humane Society of Greater Dayton ($7,500) to purchase an animal trailer for transporting farm animals in need of care and rehabilitation, as well as aiding in the rescue of large hoarding cases of domesticated animals and to help reunite displaced or injured pets with their families during

community disasters.

Little Art Theatre Association ($5,000) to upgrade, replace, and add technology equipment and software, as well as expand the types of programming, that will increase services and create greater work efficiency.

Miami Valley Nonprofit Collaborative ($2,656) to incorporate technology that will enable the organization to grow and effectively serve the community.

The National Conference for Community & Justice of Greater Dayton ($7,500) to create a new, three-year strategic plan, including identifying future revenue sources, program opportunities, grant directions and potential new development positions within the organization.

Single Parents Rock ($6,357) to purchase a vehicle for transporting victims of domestic violence, especially African-American females with children. More information about The Dayton Foundation and its competitive grants programs is available at daytonfoundation.org or by calling (937) 2220410.

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 nearly $68 million awarded last fiscal year. Assets from all funds exceed $1 billion. For more information about The Dayton Foundation, visit daytonfoundation.org or follow the Foundation on Facebook, Twitter or LinkedIn.

day!

Friday, July 14 - Flashback Band 7:00 PM10:00 PM..

Saturday, July 15 - Kaleidoscope 12:00 PM1:00 PM and 1:30 PM2:30 PM.

Cincinnati Circus (daily - see schedule be https:// www.daytonlocal.com/ images/slides/montgomery-co-fair-entertainment-2023.jpg low) for Aerial Silks, Juggling, Fire Performances, Whip Cracking, Chair Stacking, Aerial Lyra, Wheel of Death, and more!

To help reduce lines we are asking you to purchase your tickets on-line. You also have the option to purchase your tickets at the gate by scanning the QR provided.

Arts & Entertainment

DML Welcomes Dr. Battle and Guests

Dayton Metro Library will host a unique program this month as part of its Social Justice Speaker Series. Comprised of awardwinning speakers providing insights from their professional fields and personal journeys, the Series addresses some of the most critical social justice issues of today. Dr. ShaDawn “Boobie” Battle and Company will be held on Saturday, July 22, from 2-4 pm at the West Branch. Patrons of all ages will enjoy a discussion on the art of Chicago Footwork and how it can be used as a tool to create spaces of belonging. Accompanying Dr. Battle will be performers Ja-

DML Welcomes Inspirational Author

Dayton Metro Library’s Brookville Branch will be hosting author Shelley Shepard Gray on Tuesday, July 18, from 6:30-7:30 pm.

Gray writes Amish and Inspirational Fiction. She will discuss her writing journey and process and introduce her new series, “A Season in Pinecraft.” A meet and greet and book signing

will follow the discussion. Books will be available for purchase. Registration is required.

The Brookville Library is located at 120 Blue Pride Drive, Bellbrook. For more information and to register, 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.

DML Night Outs Promise Family Fun

Dayton Metro Library Branches are hosting three different “night outs” this month. Patrons of all ages are invited to enjoy these fun events at the following locations:

Night Out On the Westside, Friday, July 21, 7-9 pm, West Branch: Families can dance the night away outside with live music from a DJ, then partake in food, arts, and crafts. The theme for July is R&B. In the event of rain, this event will be held in the Branch’s Community Room.

Night Out New Lebanon, Friday, July 28,

6-8:30 pm, New Lebanon Branch: The Branch’s monthly summer block party will include music, games, crafts, book giveaways, and food trucks. Families are welcome to bring lawn chairs or blankets.

National Night Out 2023, Tuesday, August 1, 6-8 pm, Northmont Branch: Northmont’s annual community-building campaign promotes community partnerships and neighborhood camaraderie to make area neighborhoods safer, better places to live. Families can play games, win prizes, and enjoy refreshments. DML’s Bookmobile will also stop

by for a visit.

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.

ron “Prince Jron” Boyd, Donnetta “LilBit” Jackson, Pause Eddie, and DJ Corey. Together they will demonstrate an interactive history lesson on moves and the relationship between Chicago Footwork and Hip Hop music. Audience members will also be able to participate in learning how to do Chicago Footwork.

Sponsored by Dance Stomp Shake, this program is also part of DML’s Hip Hop’s 50th Anniversary programing. Registration is not required. The West Branch is located at 300 Abbey Avenue, Dayton. Additional information about the program, Dr. Battle, and the Social Justice Speaker Series can be

found at DaytonMetroLibrary.org/SocialJustice. Additional questions may also be direct 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.

Emmy Award® Winner Richard Thomas Will Star As Atticus Finch In Harper Lee’s “To Kill A Mockingbird”

A New Play By Aaron Sorkin Based On Harper Lee’s Classic Novel Playing The Schuster Center October 17-22. Tickets On Sale Now. A MOCKINGBIRD has played more than 500 performances in 44 cities, seen by more than 1 million theatergoers (1,107,617 as of July 2, 2023) and hailed as “A must-see” (Northwest Herald, Chicago), “The most powerful telling of this story you’ll ever experience” (St. Paul PioneerPress) and “Amazing – a perfect 10!” (KOA News Radio, Denver).

Dayton Live is pleased to have the history-making production of TO KILL A MOCKINGBIRD at the Schuster Center October 17-22, 2023. The new play by Academy Award® winner Aaron Sorkin’s new play and directed by Tony Award® winner Bartlett Sher is based on Harper Lee’s classic novel. Tickets currently range $29-129 and are available at daytonlive.org/mockingbird and through the Dayton Live Ticket Office Tuesday-Friday, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. at 937-228-3630.

Overview: Richard Thomas as Atticus Finch has been embraced by critics and audiences alike. His performance has been called “Easily the most powerful work I’ve seen from Richard Thomas” (BWW Charlotte), “A memorable performance rarely seen in a touring Broadway production” (Curtain Up Phoenix), and “Sheer perfection - this role was made to be played by Thomas” (Around the Town Chicago). The Buffalo News proclaims “Both modestly human and divinely heroic. All rise for Richard Thomas,” and the Dallas Voice declares “Richard Thomas as Atticus Finch is at the height of his career.” Complete casting will be announced later.

Since its tour launch in March 2022, the First National Tour of TO KILL

TO KILL A MOCKINGBIRD holds the record as the highestgrossing American play in Broadway history. It began performances on November 1, 2018, at the Shubert Theatre and played to sold-out houses until the Broadway shutdown in March 2020. On February 26, 2020, To Kill a Mockingbird became the first-ever Broadway play to perform at New York’s Madison Square Garden, in front of approximately 18,000 New York City public school students, also marking the largest attendance at a single performance of a play ever in world theater. The production resumed performances on October 5, 2021 and concluded its run at the Shubert Theatre on January 16, 2022. On May 20, 2023, TO KILL A MOCKINGBIRD concluded its run on London’s West End, playing for more than a year to packed houses at

the Gielgud Theatre. Set in Alabama in 1934, Harper Lee’s enduring story of racial injustice and childhood innocence centers on one of the most venerated characters in American literature, small-town lawyer Atticus Finch. The cast of characters includes Atticus’s daughter Scout, her brother Jem, their housekeeper and caretaker, Calpurnia, their visiting friend Dill, and a mysterious neighbor, the reclusive Arthur “Boo” Radley. The other indelible residents of Maycomb, Alabama, are Bob Ewell, Tom Robinson, prosecutor Horace Gilmer, Judge Taylor and Mayella Ewell.

TO KILL A MOCKINGBIRD is designed by Miriam Buether, with costumes by Ann Roth, lighting by Jennifer Tipton, sound by Scott Lehrer and an original score by Adam Guettel. Musical direction is by Kimberly Grigsby, hair & wig design by Campbell Young Associates, casting by The Telsey Office, and design adaptation and supervision by Edward Pierce. The national tour is produced by Barry Diller.

Showtimes:

Tuesday, October 17 at 7:30PM

Wednesday, October 18 at 7:30PM

Thursday, October 19 at 7:30PM

Friday, October 20 at 8:00PM

Saturday, October 21 at 2:00PM

Saturday, October 21 at 8:00PM

Sunday, October 22 at 1:00PM

Sunday, October 22 at 6:30PM

Background on Broadway:

Join us 60 minutes before each performance of Disney’s TO KILL A MOCKINGBIRD for Background On Broadway! You’ll learn about the development, history, and artistry of the show. This free event is held in the Schuster Center’s 4th Floor Lobby. You must have a ticket to that day’s performance.

Editorial Comments &

HBCU Pride

Something to Consider: The Virtue of Responsibility

By: Brenda Cochran Contributing Writer

By David W. Marshall

Last year, Sports Illustrated magazine compiled a ranking system that acknowledged the most valuable and desirable programs throughout college football’s five most powerful leagues.

Out of 69 Power 5 schools, the University of Wisconsin Badgers ranked seventh overall. The impressive ranking doesn’t hurt when it comes to recruiting.

With the recent commitment from four-star running back Darrion Dupree, the Badgers beat out the University of Illinois and Missouri in a tough competition to land one of its top sought-after players.

Like many other top high school players nationwide, Dupree is a Black athlete attending a predominately white school.

While Wisconsin football is big, it doesn’t compare to the South’s obsession with college football, particularly the passionate fan base of the Southeastern Conference (SEC).

The late Marino

Casem, a longtime Alcorn State and Southern University coach, once said, “On the East Coast, football is a cultural experience. In the Midwest, it’s a form of cannibalism. On the West Coast, it’s a tourist attraction. And in the South, football is a religion, and Saturday is the holy day.”

The dominance displayed by the SEC and other schools in the South during the past 20 years is obvious by the number of national championships. Eigh-

teen out of the last 20 college football champions were from schools in the South. The University of Alabama, alone, has won six.

The Alabama Crimson Tide football program has a long tradition of championship teams. Football legend Paul “Bear” Bryant coached three national championships between 1961 and 1966, but the winning streak suddenly hit a wall. Over the following four seasons, the Crimson Tide won only 28 games. Winning became much more difficult when the most talented Black athletes who would normally play at historically Black colleges or universities started attending white schools outside the South. Affirmative action was unnecessary in 1971, to convince a losing Bryant to sign the school’s first Black scholarship athlete. In 1973, he won his fourth national title.

It’s about race and culture, but it’s also about winning. Winning in college football is power, prestige, and money.

The subject of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) is a sore spot for conservatives nationwide.

While DEI refers to organizational frameworks that promote “the fair treatment and full participation of all people,” it is also perceived as a liberal takeover of higher education.

Only hours after the Supreme Court’s ruling striking down affirmative action in college admissions, one of Wisconsin’s top elected state officials signaled interest in attacking other ways colleges promote campus diversity. Wisconsin State Assembly Speaker Robin

Vos (R) suggested cutting scholarships and grants, among other programs that benefit minority students.

“We are reviewing the decision and will introduce legislation to correct the discriminatory laws on the books and pass repeals in the fall,” Vos tweeted in reply to a post suggesting the state take such measures.

Assembly Speaker Vos has emerged as a staunch opponent of DEI efforts, calling such programs “indoctrination.” He has previously suggested potential budget cuts to the University of Wisconsin system if it doesn’t phase out DEI offices at its campuses. The Republican plan seeks to cut over 180 DEI positions over the system’s 13 universities despite a projected record-high $7 billion state budget surplus. The state of Wisconsin is not alone.

Republican lawmakers in at least a dozen other states have proposed more than 30 bills targeting DEI efforts in higher education to abolish DEI offices and end mandatory diversity training.

What is the message when the Wisconsin football program targets the signing of Black athletes for its highly successful football team while Republicans in the state legislature seek to eliminate scholarships designated for minority undergraduate students?

Football and basketball are the top two revenueproducing sports for colleges. Therefore, can we expect the same lawmakers to eventually thwart campus diversity efforts by denying athletic scholarships for Black players who are key contributors

There are so many things that we are given throughout the year, but most would agree that with all we are given, we need to be responsible for what we receive. An example is to think about when we got our drivers license. This is always a pleasant occasion, but the fact is that getting our drivers license also means that we should be responsible and follow the rules which ensures that other drivers and people will be safe.

If we really want to be successful and be able to reach the goals that we set for ourselves, there is a price that we should pay and it does not come easily. The price includes hard work, dedication, and the determination that whether we win or lose, we have applied the best characteristics that we have toward whatever we hope to achieve.

When we think about it, those things that are given to us often may cause us to become lazy, selfish, and insensitive to the real

to football and basketball teams?

I believe Coach Bear Bryant answered that question decades ago. Wisconsin lawmakers are sending no mixed signals; the messages are clear. The Black collegiate athlete and Black scholar are not valued the same. Students of all backgrounds need a positive and healthy learning environment to thrive. That would include Black students at predominately white institutions. Inclusion does not automatically mean a person is welcomed. When minority students feel unwelcome on campus and in the classroom because of their race, it destroys

Brenda Cochran

values of our lives, but the person who is always striving and hardworking are those that we often try to avoid because they are often the major building block to the person that we seek to become in the future.

Thinking about improving the quality of our lives, we often must remember that whatever the aspects of our lives are, we need to disregard what has happened or what has not happened or the relationships that we have.

Leading a responsible life comes with many benefits. The first is for us to take full responsibility

the healthy learning environment. It opens the argument that their underperformance is due to other factors. A student having the peace of mind of knowing that their presence is welcomed, fully supported, and not questioned allows them to perform at their highest level.

Josh Jones is a high school senior from Fayetteville, North Carolina, who received over $3 million in academic and athletic scholarships. The high school quarterback established school records for passing yards, passing touchdowns, and yards per game while maintaining a 4.1 GPA in the classroom. His choic-

to boost our confidence. Taking full responsibility for our lives means taking responsibility for everything including our thoughts, feelings, words, actions, circumstances and the impact for each of these. It means also taking responsibility for our health, relationships, education, career, finances, choices, behavior and our free time.

Being able to take responsibility for the things though, depends on our sense of agency which means being able to influence events and direct them toward the achievement of our goals.

The following are quotes concerning responsibility:

1) To say you have no choice is to relieve yourself of responsibility.

2) Your life begins to change the day you take responsibility for it.

3) Responsibility is accepting you are the cause and the solution of the matter.

es of schools included Duke, Princeton, Dartmouth, North Carolina A&T, Navy, Air Force, and Army. With all the options available to him, the prized studentathlete chose an HBCU. North Carolina Central University may not be a Power 5 school with all the facilities and the big name, but he will be welcomed in ways he may not receive elsewhere.

David W. Marshall is the founder of the faithbased organization, TRB: The Reconciled Body, and author of “God Bless Our Divided America.” He can be reached at www.davidwmarshallauthor.com.

Worship At The Church Of Your Choice

COLLEGE HILL COMMUNITY CHURCH

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

Otis Kemp’s “Daily Bread” Tops Billboard’s Gospel Airplay Chart

a young boy. Kemp is no stranger to the music industry. He began his career writing with Miamibased artists Rick Ross and Flo Rida, and was surrounded by the excitement of hip hop culture. While it was a great experience, it didn’t make him want to be a hip hop or R&B artist himself. Otis Kemp was always committed to Gospel music.

(more)

Miami, FL – Independent artist Otis Kemp has been making music relentlessly over the past 18 months. His vision and work ethic are paying off, as his latest single – “Daily Bread” – is number one on Billboard’s Gospel Airplay Chart. This is a rare accomplishment for an independent artist, and it is extra special for Kemp, who is the first Gospel artist from South Florida to have a national #1 single.

“I am South Florida through and through. I’m proud of where I’m from and the culture that I represent,” says Kemp. “For me to break through like this from a region that doesn’t always get a lot of attention for this genre is mind blowing to me, and I just thank God as well as the radio programmers around the country who are playing ‘Daily Bread.’”

“Daily Bread” jumped three positions in one week to reach the #1 spot.

Inspired by Matthew 6:9-13, “Daily Bread” personifies an expression of daily gratitude that provides a respite from the daily challenges people inevitably face. It is a memorable, supple song with an R&B groove and a faith-filled message that satisfies the soul. The song has also been a #1 11@11 fan favorite on SiriusXM’s Kirk Franklin Praise two consecutive weeks, and just this week impacted the Urban AC chart.

Otis Kemp is carving his own lane in Gospel music, one where the good news is shared through the vivid lens of South Florida culture with a dose of Bahamian flavor for seasoning. It’s a distinctive vibe that comes naturally to Kemp, who grew up a “rowdy PK” with a smooth voice that stood out in the family group he sang with as

“I have always been clear about the legacy I want to leave,” says Kemp. “I want to be remembered for giving God the glory for the life that He gave me. Even though I have done other types of music, it was always behind the scenes, in the writing room. As an artist, there was never a doubt that I would sing Gospel music.”

“Daily Bread” is available now on all digital service providers.

Black Author Releases Safe Touch Children’s Book, “Don’t Touch My No No Parts”

Knowing the importance of introducing younger children to good touch, bad touch, and boundary conversations at a young age, author and entertainment publicist Adrienne Alexander has released her latest children’s book entitled Don’t Touch My No No Parts!

Complete with individual and group safe touch affirmations and an original animated jingle, Don’t Touch My No-No Parts!, uses kid-friendly language and illustrations to help parents and concerned adults begin the conversation surrounding potential abuse and guide children to recognize and better understand possible abuse when it happens.

Adrienne comments, “This moment is surreal to me but at the same time. I know it’s bigger than me. Stories like the one in my hometown of MD, where more than

Introducing

WASHINGTON — Today, the Postal Service announced the launch of its new shipping offering, USPS Ground Advantage. The enhanced ground solution provides a simple, reliable, and more affordable way to ship packages in two-to-five business days across the continental United States.

“USPS Ground Advantage is a game changer – for our customers, the industry and USPS. By efficiently and effectively integrating our ground transportation model to the magnificence of our last mile delivery operations, we can now offer the most compelling ground shipping offering in the market,” said Louis DeJoy, United States Postmaster General and CEO. “With USPS Ground Advantage, we are ready to compete for an increased share of the growing package business.”

USPS Ground Advantage provides America’s businesses and the public with a compelling new ground shipping option leveraging USPS’ unpar-

Adrienne Alexander

150 priests and others associated with the Archdiocese of Baltimore were accused of sexually abusing more than 600 children.

Or the situation with the Dali Lama, I want to be the voice for children I didn’t have when sexual abuse happened to me.”

In his statement for the March 2023 White House Proclamation, President Joe Biden says, “Freedom from sexual assault is a basic human right. Yet, tens of millions of Americans, our family and friends, colleagues, neighbors, and classmates, carry the trauma of sexual assault with them.”

Research shows that children who disclose their abuse within one month are at a reduced risk for depression. In addition, if children can talk about their abuse, they are less likely to suffer from depression later in life.

“Don’t Touch My No-No Parts!” was written to help children recognize and set

healthy boundaries for their private area while helping guide the sometimes-awkward conversation surrounding abuse with parents, counselors, and educators.

Because boys and girls are equally at risk of sexual abuse, Don’t Touch My No No Parts! was printed from both the female and male perspectives and will be available in both English and Spanish versions.

Don’t Touch My No No Parts! is currently available on Barnes & Noble and Amazon, with additional retailers being added.

Be sure to check out the official “Don’t Touch My No No Parts!” jingle in English and in Spanish. Visit DontTouchMyNoNoParts.com to learn more about the movement and purchase a book copy.

Education National

USPS Ground Advantage New coast-to-coast 2-5-day shipping offering now available Competitively priced for America’s businesses and retail customers alleled last-mile delivery route system and improving integrated mail and package postal logistics network. With the product’s launch, USPS is retiring three offerings: USPS Retail Ground, USPS Parcel Select Ground and USPS First-Class Package Service as well as Ground Returns and First-Class Package Return Service. USPS Ground Advantage is a key element of the Postal Service’s shipping service growth strategy as part of the 10-year Delivering for America plan. A new shipping portfolio –comprised of USPS Ground Advantage and USPS Connect Local and Regional –positions USPS to compete very effectively for any package under 25 pounds that can be transported by ground, within a region across states, and across the country.

• USPS Ground Advantage Key Features

• Packages delivered in 2-5 business days across the continental United States.

• Free package pickup service at home or in-office.

• Business customers can use USPS Ground Advan-

tage return service as a convenient option for customers who need to send items back.

• $100 insurance included on USPS Ground Advantage and USPS Ground Advantage Return packages. Customers can purchase up to $5,000 in additional coverage.

To bring USPS Ground Advantage to market, the Postal Service is launching an integrated marketing campaign through the fall leveraging Direct Mail, digital, search, social and radio to reach every American business. Where to Find USPS Ground Advantage

• Available now wherever customers ship from including all 34,000 Post Offices or on Click-N-Ship.

• USPS Ground Advantage is available for shippers of all sizes who want reliable domestic ground shipping to all 50 states, PO Boxes, APOs FPOs, DPOs, U.S. military bases, territories, and Freely Associated States. For more information about USPS Ground Advantage, go to: www.usps. com/groundadvantage.

LeBron James Ends All Doubt About His Retirement...

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"Just for me personally going forward with the game of basketball, I’ve got a lot to think about.”

It was a stark change from James’ previous sentiments. James has said on several occasions, including as recently as May, that he would like to play alongside his oldest son, Bronny, in the NBA.

“I was serious,” James said. “And I’m still serious about it. Obviously, I’ve got to continue to keep my body and my mind fresh, I think my mind most im-

portantly.”

Lakers general manager Rob Pelinka even reportedly said James was “doing the behind-the-scenes work” in preparation for the upcoming season.

James is coming off another successful campaign. In 55 regular season games, James averaged 28.9 points (the fifth-highest total of his career), 8.3 rebounds and 6.8 assists for a Lakers team that made a resurgent run after the trade deadline that culminated in a Western

Conference finals appearance. This offseason the Lakers returned the majority of its core from last season and added Gabe Vincent and Taurean Prince to supplement a roster that hopes to make an even deeper playoff run in 2023-24. Regardless, it appears as if the Lakers’ biggest (non)-question this offseason has finally been answered.

Social Injustice 7 on 7 More Than Just Football Teams Flock to Dayton to Participate in Event

This week kicked off the Social Injustice 7 on 7 Football Showcase, as over 45 high school teams traveled from as far as Detroit to the Miami Valley to be apart of the annual event.

The event, which was started by coaching legends Jim Place and Al Powell and with the help of people like John Fantauzzo, Marc DeWitt, & others, have made this a must stop for high school teams all across the state and in other states as well.

With the likes of Ickey Woods (Bengals legend), Ronald Todd II (House Rep), and others speaking passionately to the kids, the event took on a different vibe.

And here’s the topper: Brandon McKinney, who now owns his own BBQ Business, was in full force with great food for all to enjoy.

McKinney was a legend at ChaminadeJulienne before starring at Michigan State and forging a very good career in the NFL with Baltimore, San Diego and Indianapolis.

“Were very happy to see how successful the event has become in the Miami Valley.” Coach Jim Place said.

The 7 on 7 hosted a luncheon recently with a variety of guest speakers to join the coaches and players. With the emphasis on social justice, equality, and other topics that are important to the positive development of the next generation of student athletes, this event is here to stay.

The luncheon was held at Sinclair Community College and featured over 400 people at the luncheon.

With teams from Lima, Cincinnati, Columbus, and even Detroit coming, the event is becoming a bigger and bigger attraction every year. For more information follow us at: @ SELive365 and @ DaytonWeek

NFL Legend Ickey Woods (L), Centerville Coach Aubrhee Woods and Son (M), and Deon Cash (Dayton Weekly News)

List of schools who participated in the event:

Ohio’s Hospice Launches Day to Support: Community Is Invited to Make a Difference in 24 Hours

July 24. One day. Twenty-four hours. Ohio’s Hospice invites the community to join in a day to support its mission on July 24.

Donations made on July 24 will contribute directly to complementary therapies, grief counseling, and all the tools needed to provide patients with the individualized, comprehensive care they deserve.

“Our mission is to celebrate the lives of those we have the privilege of serving by providing superior care and superior services to each patient and family,” said Lori Igel, president of the Ohio’s Hospice Foundation. “Thanks to donors from the communities we are honored and privileged to serve, we’re here to support patients and their families when they need it most.”

The first $5,000 raised during this Day of Support

will be matched dollar for dollar, thanks to an anonymous donor. To learn more and to help Ohio’s Hospice turn $5,000 into $10,000, visit: www.OhiosHospice. org/Seven24

“We’re able to provide complementary therapies to our patients above and beyond what is required by the Medicare and Medicaid Hospice Benefit, thanks to the support of generous donors,” Igel said. “We invite the community to share, volunteer or join us in our Day to Support on July 24.”

Ohio’s Hospice is a partnership of mission-driven, not-for-profit hospices in Ohio committed to a shared vision of strengthening and preserving community-based hospices. Members of Ohio’s Hospice share the values of serving each patient in an atmosphere of hospitality, respect and caring;

DML and DCDC Host Dance Workshops

Dayton Metro Library and Dayton Contemporary Dance Company (DCDC) have teamed up to bring Motion & Wellness Workshops to Tweens in August.

Dancers will demonstrate how dancing contributes to your overall wellness, teaching different ways to move that will help improve how you feel. Tween participants should wear comfortable clothes. Registration is not required.

Sessions will be held on the following dates at these Branch locations:

Tuesday, August 1, Kettering-Moraine

Tuesday, August 8, Wilmington-Stroop

Tuesday, August 15, Burkhardt

Thursday, August 22, Southeast

Tuesday, August 29, West Carrollton

For tweens who can’t make one of these sessions, the Motion & Wellness Workshops will carry on through November at the remaining DML Branches not listed here.

Visit our event calendar at DaytonMetroLibrary.org and search for the program title, where a complete list of sessions is available.

Adult-equivalent sessions

will also take place coming up in September at select Branches. Additional questions about this program may 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.

High-Quality Sleep Found to Alleviate Cognitive Deficits Linked to Genetic Risk for Alzheimer’s Disease in Older African Americans...

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reported good sleep quality.

“These findings suggest that high-quality sleep may have a neuroprotective effect against the genetic risk for Alzheimer’s disease,” the researchers commented.

“Improving sleep quality could potentially be an effective strategy in reducing cognitive decline in older African Americans.”

Researchers said the study’s conclusions underscored the need for further investigation into how sleep affects the pathogenesis and pro-

gression of AD associated with the ABCA7 gene.

The researchers concluded that future studies employing more rigorous methodology and examining sleep neurophysiology are warranted to elucidate the specific role of sleep in AD development.

Further, they emphasize the importance of developing non-invasive sleep interventions tailored to racial groups, considering their specific genetic risk profiles for AD.

“Such interventions could prove crucial in mitigating the cognitive impact of genetic suscep-

tibility in older African Americans and reducing health disparities in AD,” the study found.

Researchers determined that, as the scientific community gains a deeper understanding of the complex relationship between sleep, genetics, and cognitive function, the findings may pave the way for novel approaches to prevent or delay the onset of Alzheimer’s disease in vulnerable populations, ultimately improving the overall well-being of older African Americans.

attending to the social, physical and spiritual needs of each person we are privileged to serve; preserving and enhancing patient dignity; celebrating the life of each individual we serve; and reducing unnecessary suffering in the communities we serve.

Affiliates of Ohio’s Hospice include: Community Care Hospice, Ohio’s Community Mercy Hospice, Ohio’s Hospice at United Church Homes, Ohio’s Hospice LifeCare, Ohio’s Hospice Loving Care, Ohio’s Hospice of Butler & Warren Counties, Ohio’s Hospice of Central Ohio, Ohio’s Hospice of Dayton, Ohio’s Hospice of Fayette County, Ohio’s Hospice of Miami County, and Ohio’s Hospice of Morrow County.

Donors Needed in July to Prevent a Blood Shortage

The American Red Cross continues to see a concerning trend – blood donations are being sent to hospitals faster than they are coming in. The Red Cross has collected about 50,000 fewer blood donations than needed over the last two months. Donors are asked to make an appointment to give blood or platelets now to avoid a looming blood shortage

To help head off a more serious situation, the Red Cross is teaming up with Warner Bros. Discovery for the 35th anniversary of Shark Week and the theatrical release of Meg 2: The Trench. The public is encouraged to celebrate a summer of sharks and help shore up the national blood supply by giving in July.

In thanks for helping, the Red Cross is offering several incentives to donors who come out to give blood or platelets in the coming weeks. Additionally, in response to the great need for blood, those who hurry in to help by coming to give July 1-16 will receive a limitedtime bonus $15 gift card by email to a merchant of their choice.

• July 12-Aug 12: Those who come to give will be automatically entered for a chance to win a three-night New York getaway for two with a private shark dive adventure at Long Island Aquarium. Details are available at RedCrossBlood.org/Shark.

• July 17-31: Presenting donors will receive an officially licensed Shark Week T-shirt, while supplies last. Donors will also be automatically entered for a chance to win a three-night New York getaway for two with a private shark dive adventure at Long Island Aquarium. Details are available at RedCrossBlood.org/ Shark.

By scheduling and keeping appointments in July, donors can help provide for those in im-

mediate need of lifesaving care. To schedule an appointment to donate, download the Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit RedCrossBlood.org or call

1-800-RED CROSS (1800-733-2767).

Upcoming blood donation opportunities July 1131: Champaign Urbana

7/29/2023: 8 a.m. - 2 p.m., Champaign Family YMCA, 191 Community Dr. Greene

Beavercreek

7/19/2023: 1 p.m. - 7

p.m., Fairfield Commons, 2727 Fairfield Commons Logan

Bellefontaine

7/17/2023: 12 p.m. - 6

p.m., First United Methodist Church, 201 Main N Miami

Tipp City

7/13/2023: 1 p.m. -

7 p.m., Zion Lutheran Church, 14 W. Walnut St. Troy

7/25/2023: 12 p.m. - 6

p.m., Red Cross BuildingTroy, 1100 Wayne Street

How to donate blood

To make an appointment, simply download the American Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit RedCrossBlood.org, call 1-800-RED CROSS (1800-733-2767) or enable the Blood Donor Skill on any Alexa Echo device to make an appointment or

for more information. A blood donor card or driver’s license or two other forms of identification are required at checkin. Individuals who are 17 years of age in most states (16 with parental consent where allowed by state law), weigh at least 110 pounds and are in generally good health may be eligible to donate blood. High school students and other donors 18 years of age and younger also have to meet certain height and weight requirements. Amplify your impact − volunteer! A stable blood and platelet supply is critical to national preparedness. Additionally, as we approach the beginning of what is expected to be another active hurricane season, the Red Cross urges everyone to get ready now and consider becoming a volunteer to help people affected by the growing number of climate-driven disasters. Support impacted communities by assisting at Red Cross shelters, using your professional skills as a licensed health care provider or becoming a member of the Red Cross Disaster Action Team. To learn more, visit redcross.org/volunteertoday.