The Dayton Weekly News - Vol. 29, Issue 33

July 21 - 28, 2023

VOTE NO on ISSUE 1

Marcus Bedinger City Commissioner Candidate

By: Marcus Bedinger

As we approach the August 8th special election– what I regard as a costly and egregious Republican power grab– it is crucial for the Black community in Dayton to consider the potential consequences of the only voting item on the ballot: Issue 1. Issue 1 is a desperate, last-ditch effort to change how Ohio voters can organize to amend the Ohio State Constitution, and all things considered, we must vote no. While it is important to ensure a fair and transparent democratic process, this amendment risks stifling our voices and impeding progress on a range of critical issues.

Issue 1 aims to introduce new legal guidelines for the process of amending the state constitution, potentially limiting the power of grassroots organizations and disenfranchising communities that have historically needed to fight for justice and equity. At question are new requirements to gather a statutorily designated number of signatures in all of Ohio’s 88 counties instead of just half, as well as a 60% voting threshold to approve constitutional amendments at the ballot box, as opposed to a 50% + 1 majority.

These new stringent parameters lay waste to over 100 years of ballot initiated constitutional amendment precedent. Looking ahead to the referendums in November, we must recognize the profound impact they will have on the Black community and vote no on Issue 1. Reproductive healthcare and choice is crucial for Black women, who we know face disproportionate risks in pregnancy and childbirth.

And while we don’t all agree on the issue of recreational marijuana, we understand the criminal justice implications of bringing marijuana from the shadows of our streets to the open light of government regulation. By altering the process through which we can amend the state constitution, Issue 1 threatens our ability to effectively address these critical issues and protect our community's interests. Issue 1 also

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Sinclair Community College Preparing Students for STEM Courses and Careers

Sinclair Community College is inspiring students to explore degrees and careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) through the Louis Stokes Alliance for Minority Participation (LSAMP) program. This week, 12 students are participating in Sinclair’s LSAMP Summer Bridge Institute.

Sinclair College is one of 10 higher education institutions in Ohio participating in the Louis Stokes Alliance for Minority Participation (LSAMP) program.

The purpose of the alliance is to significantly increase underrepresented minority student recruitment, retention, persistence, and attainment of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) degrees. Louis Stokes was an attorney, civil rights pioneer, and the first African American congressman to represent Ohio. He served 15 terms in the U.S. House of Representatives.

Sinclair’s 2023 LSAMP Summer Bridge Institute gives students a handson preview of a variety

of STEM programs including mechanical engineering technology, engineering, biology, biotechnology, computer science, and chemistry.

Throughout the week, students are meeting Sinclair’s STEM faculty, touring classrooms and labs, developing study skills to be successful, receiving specialized instruction for college-level courses, and learning time and stress management skills.

“Sinclair’s LSAMP Summer Bridge Institute is a tremendous oppor-

tunity to prepare our students for college STEM courses and guide them on their journey to academic and career success,” said Marita K. Abram, Associate Professor, Department of Biological Sciences and Sinclair LSAMP Program Coordinator.

The Sinclair LSAMP Summer Bridge Institute is specifically designed for students who have enrolled in a STEM program at Sinclair. The goal of the “bridge” program is to aid students’ transition to the

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America’s Traffic Stop Coach Says African-American Drivers Are Being Hunted Every 13 Seconds, Another Driver Gets Pulled Over

“It’s alarming and overwhelming that Black America still gets disproportionately pulled over more than everyone else,” notes esteemed African-American author Eric Bryant who is considered to be America’s Traffic Stop Coach. “Yes, they are hunting us,” he adds.

“Correct pullover etiquette is always an afterthought until it’s too late,” he continues. “I’ve heard many say, ‘that’s common sense’ but I have been involved with this for a long time and literally when you see the red/blue lights behind you, everything goes out the window.”

Bryant says that there are as many stories as there are actual traffic stops themselves. However, he believes that there is a proven science

Eric Bryant to having safe, uneventful, ticketless traffic stops.

Arrest Me Not’s 2023 Top 10 Do’s & Don’ts When Stopped By Police Include: #1. Best Line to Avoid a Speeding Ticket #2. What Not to Say #3. Best Question to Ask Police #4. What Police Think You Lied #5. 2nd Do after Parked #6. Biggest Mistake When

Stopped #7. Two Trick Questions Police Ask #8. What You Never Do to Police #9. Correct Position When Talking to Officers #10. Know Your Rights 2023 Top 10 Do’s & Don’ts When Stopped By Police

1. BEST Line To Avoid A Speeding Ticket DO Ask

written

it isn’t “Guaranteed To Work” in every pullover situation)

2. What NOT To Say DO NOT admit that you are guilty of any violations. If you do, it can be used against you later (i.e. traffic court).

3. Best Question To Ask DO politely ask the officer(s) “May I ask why I have been stopped?” and wait for his/her answer.

4. WHY Police Think You LIED DO look directly into the officer(s) eyes when speaking to him/her. If you don’t, you may be looked at as not being truthful.

5. 2nd DO after Parked

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Dayton Holiday Festival Returns for 51st Season this November

The 51st annual Dayton Holiday Festival Grande Illumination and Children’s Parade will return to downtown Dayton’s Courthouse Square on Friday, November 24, 2023. Event organizers have been working extensively with the Dayton Police Department and other community partners on a comprehensive analysis of the event. While guests’ favorite activities will return and remain unchanged, recommended logistical and security enhancements have been made to the 2023 kickoff event.

Safety continues to be a top priority following the 2022 Grande Illumination and Children’s Parade.

Near the end of last year’s kickoff event, a disturbance between juveniles occurred and a single gunshot was fired into the air. The Dayton Police Department quickly responded to ensure no one was injured

and that there was no further danger to attendees.

The DPD investigation is ongoing. In the days immediately following the incident, event organizers, Dayton Police, and other key community members held a comprehensive and thorough review of the event. Meetings and discussions have continued in the months since to further examine event programming, operations, timing,

location, and safety protocols.

To ensure the safety of all participants and attendees of this long-standing community event, several recommendations have been made for the 2023 Grande Illumination and Children’s Parade:

• Reposition and better disperse on-duty officers around the event footprint to create better coverage and visibility at the event, including the addition of

“Every so often, there are people whose very presence can change the trajectory of an entire nation. For over 60 years, Reverend Jesse Jackson has been that presence. Throughout his life, Reverend Jackson has dedicated himself to forging a nation that reflects the lofty ideals outlined by our Founding Fathers, that all people are created equal and endowed with the unalienable rights to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. Simply put, Reverend Jackson has left an indelible mark on our nation’s history.

“As a poor, Black kid growing up in the South, my first encounter with politics came when I was a 12 year old watching Reverend Jesse Jackson’s speech at the 1988 Democratic National Convention in Atlanta. For the first time, I was watching someone who looked like me speaking about what it meant to not only hope, but fight for a better America. An America where people of color have a seat at the table and an America that works for everyone – not just those at the top.

“Whether it was inspiring future generations, pushing for economic policies that extended a hand to the middle and lower class, or fighting to protect our sacred right to vote, Reverend Jackson has been a champion for everything we stand for as Democrats. We congratulate Reverend Jackson on a well-earned retirement and we look forward to continuing to draw upon his wisdom to keep hope alive in America.”

highest priority,” said Sandra K. Gudorf, president of the Downtown Dayton Partnership.

“It is our obligation to carefully examine all aspects of the event to

bike patrol officers

• Use supplemental security resources to increase the safety presence at the event

• Move the event start and end time one hour earlier (3:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.)

“Continuing this beloved holiday tradition is important to our community. In doing so, the comfort and safety of our guests at the Dayton Holiday Festival remains our

Reverend Jesse Jackson Retires

Rev. Jesse Jackson

L to R - 2023 Sinclair LSAMP Summer Institute students Evelyn Enoma, Justin Sherrod, and Bobbie Butler participate in the math workshop

L to R - 2023 Sinclair LSAMP Summer Institute student Precious Jones and Dr. Sarah Finch, Sinclair Community College Biology Department

Negley Place & McIntosh Park Community Updates

Please join us for the Negley Place & McIntosh Park Community Updates Meetings on Thursday, August 24 at 1:00 pm at McIntosh Park Shelter and at 6:00 pm at the House of Bread, located at 9 Orth Ave.

Both meetings will share the same information, we just wanted to offer multiple times for busy people! We will be sharing information about the closure of Negley Pl. between Orth Ave. and Edwin C. Moses Blvd and updates to McIntosh Park.

Please invite residents from the area, we hope to see you there.

Jean Montgomery Passed at the Age of 75 on July 24, 2023

It is with deep sorrow and grief to inform you of the home going of Ms. Barbara Jean Montgomery! Ms. Montgomery was the first City of Dayton employee of the then Department of Planning and Citizen Participation division, when I entered into community service, activism, and advocacy, back in 1996! Her openness, drive, and wonderfully joyous person, made all who entered into her presence, gravitate to her! I will miss her immensely!

Her home going service will commence with family visitation, Monday July 24th at Canaan Mis-

sionary Baptist Church, at 10:00am. Her service will begin at 11:00am. Her preparations are entrusted to the House of Wheat Funeral Home!

Free Community Auditor’s Forums at DML

Dayton Metro Library, in partnership with the Montgomery County Auditor’s Office, will host Auditor’s Community Forums at several DML Branch locations.

Montgomery County Auditor Karl Keith will discuss the new 2023 property value updates –how they are determined and what steps one can take if there is a disagreement with a proposed value. The forum sessions are free, open to the public, and require no registration.

Schedule of Sessions: Kettering-Moraine Branch, Monday, July 31, 5:30 - 6:30 pm

Vandalia Branch, Tuesday, August 22, 5:306:30 pm

New Lebanon Branch, Monday, September 25, 5:30 - 6:30 pm

Main Library, Tuesday, September 26, 5:30 - 6:30 pm

Northwest Branch, Monday, October 2, 5:30 - 6:30 pm

based on recent sales throughout neighborhoods. The new values will impact property tax amounts beginning in 2024, but taxes will not rise nearly as much as values. Notices of tentative new property values will be sent to most Montgomery County property owners this summer or fall. Informal review sessions can be scheduled with the Auditor’s Office to discuss proposed values, which will begin in late summer or fall of this year. The dates to file a formal property value appeal with the Board of Revision will be Monday, January 1 – Sunday, March 31, 2024.

For more information on the county’s property value update, visit mcreval.org. Additional questions about DML’s community forum sessions may be directed to the Library’s Ask Me Line at 937.463.2665.

Three Dayton Metro Library Branches will host Teen Lock-Ins at the Library on Friday, July 28, from 5:30 – 9 pm.

The Teen Lock-In after-hours events promise to be jam packed with fun, including live-stream author chats, games, crafts, food, and socializing – and they are all free.

Teens who wish to attend must be in or entering grades 7-12, register, and have a completed permission slip. Teens will be required to be in the Branch when the doors lock at 6 pm and must be picked up promptly at 9 pm.

The Lock-Ins will be held at the following DML locations:

Huber Heights Branch, Tuesday, October 24, 6:15 - 7:15 pm

About the 2023 property value update: The state of Ohio requires that the County Auditor update the value for all property in the county every three years, which are adjusted

Library’s Ask Me Line at 937.463.2665. Friday Cloudy High 81 Low 62 Sunday Mostly Cloudy High 83 Low 64

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.

Teens Are Invited to DML’sAnnual Lock-Ins

• West Branch, 300 Abbey Avenue, Dayton, 45417

• Southeast Branch, 21 Watervliet Avenue, Dayton, 45420

• Vandalia Branch, 330 South Dixie Drive, Vandalia, 45377

committed to providing access to all of our Monday Mostly Sunny High 85 Low 66

tact 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

Additional information, including Branch registration and permis-

the Ask Me

Please conTuesday Mostly Sunny High 88 Low 69 The Dayton Weekly News Published By MWC Publishing, Inc. 1501 N. Main St. Dayton, Ohio 45405 (937)223-8060 DaytonWeek@aol.com Publisher MWC Publishing, Inc. Subscription Rate $50 Per Year Single Copy Rate $1.00 The Dayton Weekly News is published weekly by th MWC Publishing, Inc. Second class priviledges are pending in Dayton, Ohio Subscribe or Pay online at DaytonWeeklyNewsonline.com

Barbara

Barbara Jean Montgomery

National

Restore the American Dream for Inventors and Their Businesses

By Doug Collins

Imagine you're an inventor. After investing your life savings, and spending countless late nights refining your product, you've managed to turn your good idea into a thriving small business.

But then, a bigger company comes along, copies your design, and starts selling its own version of your product at a lower price.

In desperation, you turn to the courts -- and your lawyers are able to convince a court that the larger corporation has indeed infringed your patent. Finally, justice is served, right?

Unfortunately, probably not. Because of disastrous court precedent, there's a good chance the judge will allow the corporation to continue pirating your patented design, so long as it pays you some monetary damages. Now, your dream of turning your product into a household name will likely be impossible.

This isn't fair; it isn't right -- you started your company to sell products, not to collect royalty checks. It's time for Congress to stand up for inventors by setting the law straight.

The precedent in question started with a Supreme Court ruling in eBay Inc. v. MercExchange, L.L.C. The case concerned injunctions,

which are court orders that compel a patent infringer to stop its infringing activities. The justices determined that injunctions were no longer the default solution to patent infringement, and that judges ought to have leeway to grant other remedies.

In the wake of Ebay, many judges turned to awarding monetary damages to patent owners, rather than imposing injunctions on patent infringers. These damages are usually based on what an infringing company would have paid had they licensed the patent from the patent owner.

While some payment is better than nothing, monetary damages frequently do not approximate the true value to a patent owner from commercializing, producing, and selling products that incorporate their hard-earned intellectual property.

Not every innovator wishes to create tangible products from their patents, of course. Some inventors choose to license their intellectual property to established companies, who in turn agree to pay ongoing royalties to the patent holder.

The problem is that the Ebay decision and lower court decisions following it have taken this choice out of inventors' hands, establishing a system of forced patent licensing. And in deciding that injunctions are no longer the default response to patent infringement, the Supreme

Court has actually made patent infringement more attractive to many large corporations.

To put a finer point on the perverse incentive described above, let us say an inventor does not wish to license her valuable IP, but instead hopes to build a business around it. Under our current forcedlicensing regime, a large company may decide to simply infringe the inventor's patent, knowing full well a lawsuit is likely. Even if the court agrees patent infringement took place, it is quite likely the court awards monetary damages rather than impose an injunction.

In this case, the inventor has been deprived of the exclusive right to sell her own products free from a competitor using her technology. This usually drives the start-up out of business, killing the inventor's American Dream, and enables the big corporations to get bigger at their expense. The modest licensing fee the inventor gets hardly makes up for the lost business opportunity.

Congress must act to right this wrong and restore injunctive relief as the presumptive solution to patent infringement.

Doug Collins represented Georgia's 9th Congressional District from 2013 to 2021 in the U.S. House of Representatives and is a former U.S. Senate candidate.

Black Entrepreneur Opens Her Heart to African American Foster Children and Their Unique Hair Needs

Nationwide -- Lena Ford, a blossoming serial entrepreneur from Marietta, Georgia, is proud to announce her new initiative “Embrace Their Roots Campaign.”

She is proof that age is just a number for this future teenage business leader. Although she is only 13, she has already accomplished much including being an author and spear-heading various platforms. She is a testimony to the fact that people are never too young to make a positive impact on society.

Lena is wise beyond her years and unselfish in her approach. Along with Co-Founder/ Executive Director, Tressie Bloodworth -Ford they have formed Kinship Family Initiative, a nonprofit 501(c)(3). This dynamic undertaking is a support network for kinship families developed under the banner of “the power of giving back to your community.”

According to Fosterva, “In 2021 there were 214,421 foster parents in the United States, fostering children of all ages, from toddlers to high school age to young adults.” This is a considerably large

Storytelling Expert Launches Professional Development Program for Black Women to Accelerate

Their Careers with Thought Leadership

Nationwide -- Shereese Floyd, CEO of Witness

My Life, has launched Break the Glass: Thought Leadership Academy, a 12-week professional development curriculum teaching mid-career and senior-level black women to become thought leaders so they can get paid for their ideas and not their labor. The program starts on August 11.

Floyd, an award-winning speechwriter, storyteller, and consultant, has worked with thousands of women throughout her 20-year career to uncover profitable and marketable skills garnered through their lived experiences.

Encouraging Black women to be impossible to ignore

Black women earn the majority of bachelor’s and master’s degrees (American Association of University Women), yet are passed over for leadership positions and are more likely to have their competence and judgment questioned (Lean In, McKinsey, and Company Women in the Workplace Report 2022).

In her work, Floyd notices a pattern where no matter how accomplished Black women are, some believe obtaining one more credential will earn them the respect they seek. There is an internal voice that needs to be silenced.

number but many more are required. The impending need is greater than the supply and the hope is that more people will open up their homes to these unfortunate children.

The “Embrace Their Roots Campaign” highlights a concern that is close to Lena’s heart.

The mission is: To bridge the gap between African American hair products and African American children in foster care and experiencing homelessness by raising awareness, educating care givers and service providers, and providing resources for proper haircare.

African American children have unique hair needs that are often overlooked and underserved because of the lack of understanding on the part of their foster families. They require hair products that

are culturally correct and highlight their ethnicity. The “Embrace Their Roots” campaign’s focus is to facilitate partnerships with hair care companies to provide resources and products for foster families and homeless shelters. In addition, they endeavor to create a supportive community that encourages the embrace of African American hair culture.

The plan is to: (1) incorporate social media to facilitate awareness (2) host educational workshops and seminars for foster parents, (3) collaborate with haircare companies to secure product donations or discounts for foster families and homeless shelters, and (4) community building by creating an online platform, Facebook group where participants can share.

For more details about

the Kinship Family Initiative, visit KinshipFamilyInitiative.org

About the founder

“I’m the CEO of Positively Lena, a youth-oriented business that promotes positivity through a range of products and services. At the age of seven, I started an initiative called ARTing for You, I collect art supplies and donate them to shelters, foster homes, and transitional homes that help children. I started this business, (Positively Lena), when I was just nine years old, inspired by my desire to spread positivity to everyone I meet.”

For more information on how to donate to the “Embrace Their Roots Campaign,” please contact tressie@kinshipfamilyinitiative.com or 678-8269208.

Shereese Floyd

Floyd’s insights coupled with the data inspired this program built for black women to stop auditioning for their value and to speak, write, teach, and brag. Break the Glass addresses oppressive narratives and societal norms black women face when external voices become internal barometers that limit their self-perception.

Since COVID, thought leadership has emerged as a proven path to professional advancement. 56% of recruiters said thought leaders can command a premium salary compared to non-thought leaders and 82% said thought leadership is more important to employers than before the pandemic. (Thought Leadership on Your Career)

“As a Black woman, to combat inequities, we have to be our own solution. With Break the Glass, my goal is to bridge the gap between aspiration, ambition, and achievement. In the program, you learn then implement so by the end, you’ll either command your seat at the table or create your own,” says Floyd.

Becoming the greatest story ever told Break the Glass’ curriculum emphasizes the importance of Black women seeing their expertise and perspective as assets that transcend limitations and helps them transform their personal stories into profitable brand stories so they can take up space in their industries.

In 12 weeks, participants develop essential skills to be successful thought leaders such as ideation, storytelling, writing, public speaking, pitching, branding, and relationship building. Participants leave the program with a complete thoughtleadership talk and action plan ready to execute. This experience is designed for black women to center themselves and take charge of their brand by building a platform that positions them for higher salaries and/or in-demand professional services.

Break the Glass: Thought Leadership Academy August cohort is open for enrollment.

Additionally, organizations can sponsor their employee’s participation in the program or license it for their own learning and development initiatives.

“Black women are

uniquely positioned for thought leadership. Our stories are the one thing we really own. When we don’t know who we are, we live life like a mannequin behind glass with a memo: In case of emergency, break glass. We can break through a glass ceiling and still be in a box. Truly owning ourselves and telling our stories with full audacity breaks the glass. Forget about the glass ceiling, I want black women to shatter the whole damn box,” says Floyd.

To learn more about Shereese Floyd and Break the Glass: Thought Leadership Academy, visit ShereeseFloyd.com

About Shereese Floyd

Shereese Floyd is a speaker, author and CEO of Witness My Life, a people and culture firm that partners with corporations and universities to create and implement women’s leadership programs. She is on a mission to equip women with the tools to raise their voices and tell their stories so they are impossible to ignore.

Shereese has developed and delivered leadership workshops for companies around the world.

She is an award-winning TEDx speaker and the organizer of TEDxMintStreet and an advocate for social change who believes telling our stories is the one true way to change the world. Her work has been featured in Chief Learning Officer, Essence, Blavity, Entrepreneur Magazine, and CEO World. She was recently named one of 100 Women to KNOW in America.

About Break the Glass: Thought Leadership Academy

Break the Glass: Thought Leadership Academy is a 12-week implementation incubator designed for black women leaders. Participants receive individual assessments identifying their strengths and credibility markers, engage in group learning, access on-demand training, and develop a customized action plan, thoughtleadership strategy, and small talk for graduation. Break the Glass: Thought Leadership Academy was created by Witness My Life, LLC.

Lena Ford

Editorial Comments &

Something to Consider: Are You Leading a Contributive Life?

By: Brenda Cochran Contributing Writer

There are synonyms for the word contributive and include: conducive, contributing, and producing an effect. The definition for contributive is tending to bring about and being partly responsible. Whenever we want to make a difference doesn’t have to be difficult. We can contribute to society in simple and meaningful ways.

Thinking about the big questions we have in life; we often wonder about the meaning of life and what is our role is in it? There are many explanations, but the conclusion leads us to ask how can we actually contribute to society?

When we think about the problems facing our society today, we find that we are usually perplexed by the sheer size and complexity of issues. Looking at the United Nations, it is difficult not to feel overwhelmed, but it is interesting to note that even small contributions to the world can

lead to a large impact. We don’t have to change the world in one day. In fact, most changes that are lasting and worthwhile will actually take time.

The question is finding the time to dedicate toward change may not be a possibility. We may not have the skills or the resources or the freedom in order to pursue the actions that will contribute to society in a big way, but there are many ways to contribute in small ways as we live our daily lives.

Here ae some tips on how we can contribute: We can begin by making the lives of our loved ones better, supporting our spouse, encouraging our children, helping our parents, or being there

for our friends. These are small, but important contributions to our society. It is important to remember that each little drop in the bucket can count for something because no contribution is more than another. We should remember that all of us are here for a purpose and in order to make a difference, our purpose can be as simple as making a difference with our family, or the friends that make up our community.

What about Mentorship? When we are able to help our young people or who have had less experience than we have, creating a meaningful impact on one person is a significant contribution to society.

What about practicing kindness? Thinking about the situation in our lives, we realize that it does not always allow us to help anyone in any possible way, but there is still a way to contribute. I think that if most of us believe in kindness, this can be a powerful force that can change many lives. Being kind, sounds simple, but is not particularly easy. It requires complete submission,

Why Black Voters Should VOTE NO on ISSUE 1

threatens to upend future organizing such as allowing municipalities to raise the minimum wage and ending qualified immunity for police who have abused their authority.

In addition to voting no on important ballot measures like Issue 1, we should also rally behind leaders who prioritize these concerns and work tirelessly to uplift our community. My campaign for Dayton City Commission is organizing an Issue 1 Canvassing Countdown from July 29 - August 7 centering Dayton's West Side neighborhoods and we would be honored to have you join us. It will be an opportunity for us to unite, amplify our

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voices, and bring about positive change in our community while informing our neighbors to vote no on Issue 1.

As we consider the implications of Issue 1, let us remember the legacy of those who fought tirelessly for our civil rights and voting rights. We owe it to them and to future generations to preserve our ability to effect change through democratic processes that are inclusive and representative of our community's diverse voices. We must be vigilant in safeguarding our democratic rights and ensuring that our community remains empowered to address the pressing challenges we face. While thoughtful and responsible constitutional reform is necessary,

1)

Issue 1 does not strike the right balance. Instead, it threatens to impede our progress and hinder our ability to influence policies that directly affect our lives.

In conclusion, Issue 1 in Ohio's special election on August 8 jeopardizes our democratic voice and threatens our ability to address crucial issues facing the Black community. By recognizing the significance of the upcoming referendums and supporting leaders like Marcus Bedinger for Dayton City Commission, we can ensure our concerns are heard and our interests are protected. Let us stand united, vote thoughtfully, and safeguard the democratic progress that has been hard-won by our community.

Letter to the Editor

Research presented at the Alzheimer’s Association International Conference 2023 (AAIC 2023) is providing new insight into advances in early and accurate diagnosis, and reducing risk of cognitive decline and dementia.

More than 6 million Americans, including 220,000 Ohioans, are currently living with Alzheimer’s. My family and I witnessed how devastating and debilitating dementia can truly be. My grandfather, the late Reverend Sutton Richards Jr., a Korean War veteran and business owner, was diagnosed with vascular dementia in 2017.

Thankfully, since the passage of the National Alzheimer’s Project Act (NAPA) and the Alzheimer’s Accountability Act, Congress has made addressing Alzheimer’s and dementia a priority. With these two laws set to expire in 2025, updated legislation is critically needed by people living with Alzheimer’s and their caregivers.

As we enter a new era of treatment and advance toward a cure, the research presented at AAIC 2023 gives us hope. It is important to continue our investment in Alzheimer’s and dementia research. You can help by participating in this year’s Walk to End Alzheimer’s. Register at alz.org/walk.

Also, please join me and the Alzheimer’s Association and ask Congressmen Mike Turner and Mike Carey to cosponsor the NAPA Reauthorization Act and the Alzheimer’s Accountability and Investment Act.

To learn more and take action, visit the Alzheimer’s Association at alz.org/ advocate.

Camren Harris, Alzheimer’s Association Public Policy Manager and Ohio Research Champion

purpose and giving up being right. No matter what the day brings, being kind to the people that we come in contact with makes a profound influence. What about sending those positive vibes? Our whole world is vibrating at different speeds. When we meditate and send those positive vibrations to the world, we are helping to shape the outcome of the world. There are many scientific studies that show evidence in the way the world reacts to many people who are meditating.

What about practicing Gratitude? When we practice gratitude, we send strong, positive vibrations to the world and they influence not just for those who are physically around us, but also those who are included in our gratitude affirmations.

Gratitude is one of the strongest positive emotions and contribute greatly to the betterment of our society.

What about Paying taxes? This may seem like a very strange tip, but when we pay taxes, we give the government the resources

that they need not just to build the infrastructure and govern it effectively, but to also the government programs.

Depending on where you live, the government employs hundreds of thousands of people each year and their livelihood depends on paying your taxes. Even the troops defending our country can only survive when we pay what is due. By simply paying our taxes, we are contributing to society.

What about investing in learning? We are not just investing in helping the person who is teaching us, but it is also lifting the entire family that will receive a positive impact from the knowledge that we gain. When women learn how to care for their babies, the infant mortality rates are decreased. When someone learns about culture and history, they contribute to a more just and fair society. When a student in science learns how to turn sea water into fresh water that is consumable, they are contributing to society as a whole. All of this is possible when we are investing in learning and apply our knowledge for the

betterment of society. What about when you are being uniquely you? This might sound rather simple, but just by being who you are, you ae contributing to society. Think about this – we are all on this planet for a reason. We have been created with our own unique characteristics, our own habits, and behaviors. Remember that no one is quite like us and for good reason, the world needs you to be well –you. When we try to be someone that you are not, you’re not fulfilling your purpose in being here. Sometime, the bravest thing you can do to contribute to society is to be yourself.

Here is a quote for being contributive to society: “Everyone can be great because everyone can serve.”

Martin Luther King Jr says, “This country will not be a good place for any of us to live in unless we make it a place for all of us to live in.”

TechCred Funding Renewal

Ohio Governor Mike DeWine recently signed into law Ohio’s FY ’24-’25 operating budget, which includes a historic $50 million investment in Ohio’s businesses and workforce through the TechCred program. TechCred provides Ohio businesses with the ability to upskill their employees by reimbursing employers’ costs of providing tech education. Ohioans will earn roughly 20,000 tech-focused credentials each of the next two years as a result of the continued funding.

Ohio registered employers of any size or industry are eligible to apply for reimbursement of up to $2,000 per credential earned by existing or future employees. Employers can easily browse programs and apply for reimbursement online at techcred.ohio.gov.

Programs offered include over 100 certificates and certifications in construction technology; by bridging the gap between traditional construction practices and emerging technological

advancements, TechCred helps ensure that Ohio remains at the forefront of innovation, productivity, and competitiveness.

“One of the best things you can do for your business is invest in your employees,” said John Morris, President of Ohio Valley Associated Builders and Contractors. “Technology has quickly become a fundamental part of our daily lives, so knowing how to use it to your advantage is crucial to establishing your business as an industry leader.”

Ohio Valley ABC is one of the organizations offering tech-focused education programs to employers. In addition to the business development services they provide to their members, they offer a robust apprenticeship program and numerous safety training courses. Morris expressed high praise for TechCred and its benefits to Ohioans and their businesses. “It’s beneficial to both employers and employees— employers get

a more skilled workforce to drive their business’ success, and employees earn high-quality education credentials at no cost.

“And not only that, but it benefits the state economy and general population, too; tech-trained employees help support innovation across all industries.”

Ohio Valley ABC is thrilled with TechCred’s funding renewal and offers great praise and gratitude to Governor DeWine and Lt. Governor Husted for their dedication to supporting Ohio’s businesses and workforce. Their continued investment in TechCred will serve as a catalyst for growth and transformation in the construction sector, fostering a resilient workforce capable of embracing technological advancements and propelling our state economy and its businesses forward.

Brenda Cochran

Arts & Entertainment

Dayton Air Show July 22 – 23, 2023

The U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds return to the skies this weekend along with an all-star lineup for the 49th annual CenterPoint Energy Dayton Air Show Presented by Kroger on July 22 and 23 at the Dayton International Airport.

Gates open at 9 a.m. with the feature show beginning at 11:15 a.m. – 45 minutes earlier than previous years. The show schedule, parking information along with ground attractions and additional guest in-

formation can be found at www.daytonairshow.com.

The Thunderbirds’ F-16

Fighting Falcons will be joined by other fan favorites, including the Red Bull Air Force, a team of the most accomplished and experienced aerial athletes that specialize in highly-coordinated aerial jump demonstrations, Red Bull aerobatic flier Kevin Coleman in his Extra 400 LX aircraft, and U.S. Air Force F-22 Raptor Demo Team performing precision aerial maneuvers to demonstrate the jet’s

unique capabilities.

The 2023 show will feature many top military and civilian aircraft, including:

• U.S. Army Golden Knights, the Army’s official aerial parachute demonstration team, will kick the show off with their world-renowned skydiving.

• U.S. Navy Rhino Demo Team, a high-speed FA-18 Super Hornet demo designed to highlight the jet’s mobility, versatility and power with high-G minimum radius turns to the slow-speed high-alpha

Education

DML Partners with Space Museum for Programs

Armstrong Air and Space Museum will visit Dayton Metro Library to deliver two unique space-related programs for children in grades 1-4.

During Mission Nutrition with Armstrong Air and Space Museum!, kids will learn about space-appropriate food and MyPlate (the current nutrition guide published by the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Center for Nutrition Policy and Promotion). Participants will also practice packing a balanced days’ worth of food for an astronaut along with taste-testing real astronaut food.

Wilmington-Stroop Branch

Tuesday, July 25, 10-11 am

Northwest Branch

Tuesday, July 25, 2-3 pm

Kettering-Moraine Branch

Tuesday, July 25, 4-5 pm

West Carrollton Branch

Thursday, August 3, 10-11 am

Miamisburg Branch

Thursday, August 3, 2-3 pm

Black Holes with Armstrong Air and Space Museum will be held at the Miami Township Branch on Thursday, August 3, from 12-1 pm. Kids will learn how black holes are

formed and the science behind their existence by using balloons and aluminum foil.

Registration is not required for these programs. For more information, visit DaytonMetroLibrary. org. Additional questions 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.

Happy Birthday Falcons

The Nettie Lee Roth High School Class of 1971 gathered for fun, games and fellowship while celebrating 70 years of life on Saturday, July 15, 2023. The fourth quarter of 2022 marked the 70th for many. The calendar year of 2023 will mark the 70th for others. Their special bond has kept them together as classmates and lifelong friends. Like a family, they have stuck together over the years. Some classmates have passed on. In remembrance of them, classmates had a moment of silence. The class of 1971 have retained their bond since their young, teenage days. Now they have grown and matured and most all have enjoyed reunions and special gatherings together.

SUPPORT PROVIDED BY:

Dayton Holiday Festival Returns for 51st Season this November...

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ensure we do all we can to keep this downtown tradition of 50 years a safe and welcoming place for all.”

The 2023 Dayton Holiday Festival and Grande Illumination are pre-

sented by AES Ohio and the Downtown Dayton Partnership. Additional support comes from the Mrs. Virginia W. Kettering Dayton Holiday Festival Fund, Montgomery

County and the City of Dayton. Details about this year’s Dayton Holiday Festival will be made available in the coming months.

America’s Traffic Stop Coach Says African-American Drivers Are Being Hunted...

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DO lower your driver’s side 3” inches and pleasantly greet the officer(s) immediately when he/she approaches your vehicle. It’s for your safety.

6. BIGGEST MISTAKE When Stopped

DO remain in your vehicle unless otherwise directed by a police officer. Exiting your vehicle without being requested is seen as an aggressive move by police. Remember this - OPEN doors. OPEN problems.

7. Two Trick Questions

Police Ask

DO know the two trick questions police officers may ask (“Why were you going so fast?” or “Do you know why I stopped you?”) Questions like these are designed for you to admit

guilt. Your response in similar questioning is to wait to be told why you were pulled over.

8. What You NEVER Do to Police

DO NOT lean forward in you seat under any circumstances as you are being pulled over, after your are stopped, or as the officer approaches. It is perceived as an aggressive move.

9. Correct Position When Talking to Officers

DO keep both hands on the steering wheel as the officer(s) approach your vehicle. WAIT until asked, before searching for license/ registration.

10. Know Your Rights

DO know your “Miranda” rights and that any passenger(s) may also legal-

ly be required to exit the vehicle.

MOST IMPORTANT! About Arrest Me Not, the first nationally published title/book for AfricanAmerican teenage & adult drivers in the mid-90s, details “correct pullover etiquette” when stopped by police & has been featured on Oprah, MTV News, and even in Playboy magazine to mention a few of the countless news media coverage. Created because of a very negative white-cop blackmotorist traffic stop plus following day in Cleveland (OH) traffic court, Arrest Me Not provides timeless what-to-do and what-to-avoid instructions in multiple formats.

Sinclair Community College Preparing Students for STEM Courses and Careers...

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academic rigor expected at the college level and increase student confidence and ability to navigate campus resources to help them be successful in their STEM program. The students were hon-

ored on Friday, July 14, 2023, at the LSAMP Summer Bridge Celebration Banquet featuring keynote speaker Dr. Marc Allen Smith, biology professor and U.S. Air Force Veteran.

Launched in 2013, Sin-

clair’s LSAMP Summer Bridge Institute is funded through a grant from the National Science Foundation. Learn more about the program at: www.sinclair.edu/ lsamp.

SOUL II SOUL INFLUENCE: HEART OF HEARTS, Part 1 Pastor/Chaplain Pamelajune (Pj) Anderson, DMin. Lt. Commander (RET) USN Chaplain Corps TFAM National Veteran’s Support Chaplain Certified Peer Support Specialist

"Your word is a lamp for my steps; it lights the path before me. Psalm 119:105 The Message

Dear Eternal God and faithful Friend, thank you for traveling mercies during our "WE" time. Last week, "WE" drove from Lansing to Atlanta, stopping for fuel and a three-hour snooze, arriving just in time for my 3:30 p.m. Gathering with Veterans at The Fellowship of Affirming Ministries Convocation 2023. I felt vigilant for the rest of the day and grateful to God for The Veteran in Our Pew's first gathering since before COVID.

Of course, the rest of the week of worship, praise, prayer, musicals, consecration service elevating Bishop-Elects to Bishop, and the fellowship with one another and the Holy Spirit, whom I call Wisdom, was incredible.

I left Atlanta for Augusta, where I was honored to BE Dr. Israel Gunn's guest hostess on his show Body Conqurer: Range of Motion. I shared, "For two years since taking two ounces of Range of Motion daily, I have been pain-free from arthritis and all other joint discomforts. He has a viewership of 80 million. Maybe you’ll see one and order his amazing Range of Motion or one of his other produces for weight loss and nerve repair.

Today, I’ll stop to write and submit today’s article HEART OF HEARTS Part 2. I am a six-hour drive from home, six more hours of WE time.

Mark 4:14-25 tells us of other types of Heart. The first Heart receives the WORD (seeds of good news regarding the way of salvation) superficially. As soon as they hear WORD, satan comes and takes it away. Others hear and receive WORD with joy. Because this Heart has no roots, it last only a short time. When trouble and persecution come, this Heart faints and falls away. Still others hear the WORD, and the cares of life and the deceitfulness of wealth and desires for other things come in and choke the WORD, making it fruitless. The last of these four Hearts hears, receives, accepts, and produces receipts. This Heart grows into the best of Hearts as it becomes a servants Heart.

Bless yourself with my book HEALING MY

Month and the perfect time to check-in with yourself and loved ones, as well as learn how you can support your mental wellbeing outdoors.

One in five American adults live with mental illness, according to the Centers of Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Of those who were screened by Mental Health America, BIPOC people were most likely to screen positive or at-risk for anxiety, depression, eating disorders, psychosis and alcohol/substance abuse disorders.

People from racial and ethnic minority groups can face greater difficulty getting support for mental health, according to the CDC. From the cost of care to the stigma associated with mental health challenges, there are many reasons people may avoid seeking professional help. Additionally, BIPOC individuals can experience or witness racial discrimination or face violence, both of which can cause stress and trauma.

While there is no replacement for addressing mental health concerns with a professional, there are some easy ways to support your journey to better physical and mental wellness by simply spending time outdoors.

In fact, research shows that spending just 20 minutes a day immersed in nature significantly lowers stress hormone levels, lowers depression and anxiety, enhances mood, and more.

NEED HELP RIGHT

NOW? While nature is a valuable tool to alleviate feelings of anxiety and depression, it is not a replacement for speaking with a mental health professional. If you need to talk, call:

• The Miami Valley Warmline: 937-5287777

bathing is simply spending a peaceful moment in nature with your senses engaged. Spending mindful time in nature is thought to boost both physical and mental wellbeing.

Stay

Nature Is Open Head Outside To Improve Your Mental Health

ket’s picnic area

• Possum Creek MetroPark adjacent to the farm and nature play area

• Wesleyan MetroPark near the shelter and trail by the playground

Learn more about Dayton Children’s On Our Sleeves by visiting www. childrensdayton.org/onoursleeves.

Talk a walk, run or bike: Mental and physical health are closely related. Moving your body has many benefits and exercising outdoors provides benefits traditional indoor workouts do not. Exercising releases endor-

For those who need a little guidance, focus on your feet, hands, ears, eyes and nose for two minutes each. Note what you’re experiencing during these sensory moments, be present and relax during your time immersed in greenspaces.

Tap into your blue mind: “Blue mind” refers to the mildly meditative state people fall into when near, in, on or under water, according to marine biologist Wallace J. Nichols. Research has proven that spending time near the water helps elevate happiness.

MetroParks is home to expansive lakes, ponds, streams and rivers, all of which can help provide a calming, blue mind effect. Here are just a few places to visit in MetroParks:

with input from Dayton Children’s and Montgomery County Alcohol, Drug Addiction & Mental Health Services — are designed to help people learn how reduce stress and improve their mental health outdoors. Find MetroParks Mindfulness Walks in Eastwood, Huffman, Sunrise and Possum Creek MetroParks. Prompts are also available in Spanish online at metroparks.org/mindful. Visit metroparks.org/mobile to

download the mobile app. On Our Sleeves Walks: Children don’t always wear their emotions on their sleeves, which is why Dayton Children’s and MetroParks have teamed up to create special On Our Sleeves walks designed to prompt parents to explore feelings with their children in nature.

You can find signs with prompts during July at:

• The 2nd Street Mar-

phins, which help boost your mood. Additionally, spending time outdoors helps you stock up on Vitamin D – the “sunshine vitamin.” Vitamin D is critical for your body and mind to function well, and a lack of it contributes to seasonal affective disorder.

Forest bathing: A concept started in Japan called “shinrin-yoku,” forest

• Eastwood MetroPark: Sit by the lagoon or watch the Mad River Run’s water swirl around.

• Possum Creek MetroPark: Walk the short trail around Argonne Lake then sit and relax by the water and watch it rip• Aullwood Gardens MetroPark: Sit along the banks of the Stillwater River to watch the calm movement of the water.

Note: Swimming is not permitted in any of your MetroParks. Always wear a lifejacket when near, in or on water.

Find more ways to benefit your mind and body by visiting the outdoors at metroparks.org/ blog.

For more about the outdoors, head to metroparks.org and visit Five Rivers MetroParks’ blog at metroparks.org/ natureisopen. To plan a visit, navigate trails, find amenities and more, download MetroParks’ free app, powered by OuterSpatial, for Apple and Android devices by visiting metroparks.org/ mobile. This Nature Is Open column contains content provided by your Five Rivers MetroParks. We invite your input and story suggestions by emailing multi. media@metroparks. org or calling 937-275PARK (7275).

Kettering Health Nationally Recognized for High-Quality Stroke Care

Kettering Health’s stroke program has been recognized with The American Heart Association’s “Get With The Guidelines®Stroke” quality achievement award. The award honors programs that provide stroke care in accordance with nationally recognized guidelines of best practice.

Following these guidelines ensures that all stroke patients receive efficient and coordinated care, leading to more lives saved, fewer readmissions and shorter recovery times.

“Providing quality care is our top priority,” said Megan Smith RN, Neuroscience Manager at Kettering Health. “We’re proud to receive this recognition from the American Heart Association as it further demonstrates our commitments to excellence and supporting the health of our communities.”

All qualifying Kettering Health medical centers earned the Gold

Kettering Health Dayton: Get with the Guidelines – Stroke Gold Plus with Target: Stroke Honor Roll Elite and Target: Type

2 Diabetes Honor Roll

Kettering Health Frank-

lin: Get with the Guidelines – Stroke Gold Plus with Target: Stroke Honor Roll Elite and Target: Type

2 Diabetes Honor Roll

Kettering Health Greene

Memorial: Get with the Guidelines – Stroke Gold Plus

Kettering Health Ham-

ilton: Get with the Guidelines – Stroke Gold Plus with Target: Stroke Honor Roll Elite and Target: Type

2 Diabetes Honor Roll

Kettering Health Huber: Get with the Guidelines

– Stroke Gold Plus with Target: Stroke Honor Roll

Elite and Target: Type 2

Diabetes Honor Roll

Kettering Health Main Campus: Get with the Guidelines – Stroke Gold Plus with Target: Stroke Honor Roll Elite, Advanced Therapy and Tar-

get: Type 2 Diabetes Honor Roll

Kettering Health achieves quality standards of stroke care for the sixteenth year Plus designation, indicating more than two years of demonstrated performance.

Kettering Health Miamisburg: Get with the Guidelines – Stroke Gold Plus with Target: Stroke Honor Roll Elite Plus and Target: Type 2 Diabetes Honor Roll

Kettering Health Middletown: Get with the Guidelines – Stroke Gold Plus with Target: Stroke Honor Roll Elite, Advanced Therapy and Target: Type 2 Diabetes Honor Roll

Kettering Health Preble: Get with the Guidelines

– Stroke Gold Plus with Target: Stroke Honor Roll Elite and Target: Type 2 Diabetes Honor Roll Soin Medical Center: Get with the Guidelines – Stroke Gold Plus with Target: Stroke Honor Roll Elite and Target: Type

2 Diabetes Honor Roll

Kettering Health Washington Township: Get with the Guidelines – Stroke Gold Plus with Target: Stroke Honor Roll Elite and Target: Type 2 Diabetes Honor Roll

“Receiving high-quality care as quickly as possible

is critical, especially after a stroke when every minute matters,” said Bruce Chan, Kettering Health Executive Director of Brain & Spine. “Our participation in Get With The Guidelines® ensures that we’re giving our patients the best possible chances for survival and recovery.”

As a faith-based, notfor-profit health system, Kettering Health follows in the steps of Jesus to help guide every person to their best health. Kettering Health is made up of 15 medical centers and more than 120 outpatient locations throughout western Ohio, as well as Kettering Health Medical Group— with more than 700 board-certified providers dedicated to elevating the health, healing, and hope of the community. Kettering College, a division of Kettering Health Main Campus, is a fully accredited college that specializes in health science education. For more, visit ketteringhealth.org.