The Dayton Weekly News - Vol. 29, Issue 31

Prepare Now Before Disaster Strikes

Having a plan is critical to help keep you and your loved ones safe during a natural disaster

Emergencies, such as natural disasters, are potentially dangerous. Be sure you’re prepared to keep yourself and your family safe.

Unfortunately, statistics show that not everyone is as prepared as they could be.

According to Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) research, despite 80 percent of respondents to the 2019 National Household survey saying they had gathered enough supplies to last three or more days, only 48 percent said they had an emergency action plan.

Planning ahead is critical. Hurricane season is upon us, and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that those living in coastal areas prepare now. Include these essential items in your family’s emergency plan:

Write emergency numbers on paper. Place these numbers near the phones in your home or on the refrigerator. In addition, program the numbers into your cell phone.

Prepare an emergency supply kit. It’s hard to know what you may need in an emergency, so having an emergency supply kit is essential. There may not be time to gather the supplies you need once disaster strikes. In your emergency supply kit, include the following items:

Food and water. Include three days’ worth of nonperishable food items that are easy to store and prepare and water (1 gallon per day for each person and pet in the home).

If you are able and your pharmacy plan allows, try to have at least a two-week supply of all prescription medications for every individual in your home. If that is not possible, refill your medications regularly and keep them in a place that is easily accessible.

Power sources. You’ll need flashlights, lanterns, extra batteries, and external power sources that can be charged in advance of a hurricane.

Important documents. Medical documents, wills, passports, and personal identification should be kept together and easily accessible.

Locate the nearest shelter and plan your evacuation route. Be prepared to evacuate if and when instructed by local officials. Have a plan in place for pets, such as identifying ahead of time shelters, pet-friendly hotels, or relatives/friends who live outside the evacuation area.

Central State Joins Thurgood Marshall College Fund and Five Other HBCUs for Historic Partnership

Alzheimer's Association Schedules

July Programs

The Alzheimer's Association Miami Valley Chapter is offering free education programs in July covering healthy living for the brain and new communication strategies through each stage of the disease. The programs, which are free to the community, are:

• Healthy Living for Your Brain and Body, 10-11:30 a.m. on Wednesday, July 12, at Vienna Springs Health Campus, 2510 Vienna Pkwy. in Dayton

• EXPERT SERIES:

Next Steps After a Diagnosis, 6:30-7:30 p.m. on Thursday, July 13, on Zoom

• Understanding and

Wilberforce, OhioCentral State University, Ohio’s only public Historically Black College or University (HBCU) and 1890 Land-Grant Institution, is one of six HBCUs participating in a groundbreaking alliance in education, research, and service, Binghamton University and the Thurgood Marshall College Fund (TMCF) announced earlier this month.

New Educational & Research Alliance (New ERA) aims to “foster ho-

Central State will participate in the innovative partnership with HBCUs Alabama A&M University, Tuskegee University, Prairie-View A&M University, the University of the District of Columbia, and Virginia State University. Binghamton is part of the State University of

New York.

Representatives from six Historically Black Colleges and Universities, including Central State University, and the Thurgood Marshall College Fund met with Binghamton University faculty and staff as part of the Emerging Technology & Broadening Participation Summit. Reprinted with permission. listic, equitable, and sustainable collaborations that will shape the future of academia and beyond” based on a shared mission, Binghamton wrote on its website.

Arunasalam Rahunanthan, Ph.D., is chair and a professor of mathematics in the John C. Garland College of Engineering, Science, Technology, and Agriculture (JWGCESTA) Department of Mathematics and Computer Science at Central State. He told summit participants that JWGCESTA faculty members are engaged in unique research activities with many federal agencies.

The agencies include the Air Force Research Labo-

ratory, the National Aeronautics and Space Administration, the National Science Foundation, the Department of Energy, the Department of Defense, the National Institutes of Health, and the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Agricultural Research Service and National Institute of Food and Agriculture.

Central State brings its key strengths in innovative research in cybersecurity, scientific

Continued on Page 5

Native Son Navy Commander Visits During Navy Week

The Presidents Club of Dayton and the Miami Valley Military Affairs Association collaborated on Tuesday, June 20, 2023, with a luncheon celebrating Navy Week at the Sinclair Conference Center. The group welcomed home Altar High School graduate Commander Leon W. Moore, Executive Officer of the Navy Reserve, Navy Office of Community Outreach, in Millington, Tennessee, as keynote speaker. He assumed this position with the Navy in February 2022.

Commander Moore enlisted in the Navy in 1990 and served as the Officer-

Responding to Dementia-Related Behaviors, 6-7 p.m. on Tuesday, July 18, at Dayton Metro Library – WilmingtonStroop Branch, 3980 Wilmington Pike in Dayton • Effective Communication Strategies, 6-7 p.m. on Tuesday, July 25, on Zoom

Pre-registration is required for all events.

To register, call the Alzheimer's Association's 24/7 Helpline at 800.272.3900. Instructions for joining webinars will be emailed following registration.

“This month's programs answer questions at several stages in the dementia journey: ways to prevent or delay Alzheimer's, tips for communicating with your loved one through each stage of the disease, and ways to respond to challenging dementia-related behaviors,” said Dayna Ritchey, program director of the Alzheimer's Association Miami Valley and Greater Cincinnati Chapters. “We are offering both in-person and virtual programs this month to reach as many families as possible.”

When The Pupil Meets The Master

By: Hsanni Scott-Matthews

“david! Nikki Giovanni

is on

the phone!”

That is the sentence that set david’s literary career on fire, the words his mother shouted to him from the porch of his westside home in Dayton. david remembers the start and told it to me this way.

“Basketball season had just ended in March of 1972. In the last game, I blew out my knee. Meaning I tore major ligaments in my knee. The medical field then, as not as advanced as modern day science. Repairs could be made to the knee, but my basketball career was over. Later I found out so was my basketball scholarship. My scholarship contract said, I had to be eligible to play on

the team. My injury had caused my scholarship to end. Fortunately, my grades were enough to finish college on an academic scholarship.

One door closes another one opens. I had been writing poetry since I was sixteen. It was time to see if I was any good, on a professional level. “

david is a due diligence kind of guy, and spiritual on many levels. Before I could ask what lead him to Nikki, he continued to recant the journey and I was remembering that era in time also. Having met Nikki myself I never thought to do what he did.

“Nikki Giovanni was working as an Editorial Consultant for ENCORE Magazine at the that time.

I sent a letter to her at the magazine. My blessing

came that not only did she read it, but that was the only piece of mail she received that day. The first piece on top was, ‘the feel of FEELING’, the second, ‘America Ain’t You Got

Continued on Page 7

Healthy Living for Your Brain and Body teaches attendees about science-backed lifestyle choices that may help keep the brain and body healthy as someone ages. Join to learn about research in the areas of diet and nutrition, exercise, cognitive activity and social engagement, and learn about handson tools to create a plan for healthy aging.

A live webinar, Expert Series: Next Steps After a Diagnosis shares accurate information and support to help know what to expect and what

What’s Inside

No Shame?’, and the third was, ‘Black Love’. There was a total of twenty-five poems in all.

I sent that letter at the end of my sophomore

in-Charge at Navy Reserve Navy Public Affairs Support Element in Norfolk, Virginia. He earned his Bachelor of Arts in Mass Communications from Norfolk State University, Norfolk, Virginia, and an Associates of Applied Science in Information Systems from Thomas Nelson Community College in Hampton, Virginia. Commander Moore received his commission through Direct Commission Officer in 2003. He graduated from the Defense Information School's Public Affairs Officer Qualification, Joint Contingency, and Joint Intermediate Continued on Page

Commander Leon W. Moore, Margaret Kruckemeyer, Veronica Bedell-Nevels, Barbara Hudson-Banner.

Poets david matthews & Nikki Giovannicelebrating in Washington, DC. The 2023 Juneteenth Weekend and the release of Nikki's documentary, "Going To Mars"

Alzheimer's Association Schedules July Programs...

Continued from Page 1

When The Pupil Meets The Master...

Continued from Page 1

year, May of 1972. Finally, on a warm afternoon in June, I received a phone call. My mother came outside, and yelled Nikki Giovanni is on the phone. It was summertime so the whole neighborhood heard it. I remember my legs being weak, as I went home to answer the phone. We talked about twenty or thirty minutes.

I told her my ambitions as a poet. She told me to get certain magazines to read, Writer’s Market and Writer’s Digest. She also told me how to get my poetry in anthologies. She put me under the guidance of Jim Stocks, who was the head of the Black Studies Department at the University of Dayton during that time. Nikki encouraged me to study a variety of poetry courses. Her idea was the more I read and learned about poetry the better writer I would become.”

He smiled at those memories, which given the look on his face, rolled back time.

“The first two years of our relationship consisted of letters of encouragement and advice. However, in February of 1973 Nikki did a workshop at Bolinga Center at Wilberforce University for the Black History Month Celebration. I actually got to meet her backstage for the first time, before her performance. For me it was magical and gave me the opportunity to do my poem, ‘American Ain’t You Got No Shame?’. That poem later that year, was awarded a National Poem of the Year award. Shortly after that Wilberforce event, I put my ‘Evening on Broadway Poetry Production’ on the road.

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

Publisher MWC Publishing, Inc.

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

to do next as the disease progresses. Attend this Expert Series Education to discuss everything that comes next after a diagnosis.

During Understanding and Responding to Dementia-Related Behaviors, participants will learn to decode behavioral messages, identify common behavior triggers, and learn strategies to help intervene with some of the most common behavioral challenges of Alzheimer’s disease.

Join the Effective Communication Strategies program to explore how communication takes place when someone has Alzheimer’s, learn to decode the verbal and behavioral messages delivered by someone with dementia, and identify strategies to help families connect and communicate at each stage of the disease.

There are 493,000 people caring for 220,000 Ohioans age 65 and older living with Alzheimer's disease, according to the Alzheimer's Association “2023 Alzheimer's Disease Facts and Figures.”

The number of Ohioans

living with Alzheimer's is expected to increase to 250,000 by 2025. Those concerned about themselves or a loved one can contact the Alzheimer's Association Miami Valley Chapter at 937.291.3332 to schedule a care consultation and be connected to local resources.

Colleges and Universities have budgets for educational performances, and I was truly an “educational performance”! In April of 1974, I went to New York City with a college friend of mine. Nikki was living in Queens at the time, and I decided to take a chance and contact her. Well, my scheduled

Barnes & Nobles in 2010 quoted david matthews first book of poetry, "the feel of FEELING" published in 1976 by Vantage Press NY,NY an autographed copy worth $202.

short visit turned into well over a week. I took a surprised trip to Paris with her. She was performing at the University of Paris. I was her opening act once again. The poem was ‘the feel of FEELING’, which later became the title of my first book of poetry published by Vantage Press in New York City. (Barnes & Nobles in 2010 quoted the value of a signed copy autographed of david’s first book ‘the feel of FEELING’ is $202 dollars.)

I returned to Dayton with a growing sense of urgency to publish my first book. It took two years. Over the years Nikki and I have talked on the phone, written letters and attempted to see each other in person whenever our schedules would allow.

When I sent her letter a letter explaining that I was to be married again after my first wife had passed away, inviting her to my wedding she sent a note to the location of the second wedding that she was in Iceland and unfortunately could not attend. What a wonderful woman! After over fifty

years of friendship and respect she still thought enough of me to reach out and wish me well in my new environment of a second chance of love after being with my lovely wife of 42 years.

I thought about that friendship and remembered speaking with one of david’s classmates and eventual Production Assistant for his ‘Poetry on Broadway’ show. Billie Williams told me that she lost contact with david after 20 years and she remembered that Nikki was at Virginia Tech teaching, she thought maybe she could reach out to Nikki to find her buddy.

“Nikki was wonderful! She answered my call at the University and spoke to me like we were old friends! She told me she received birthday cards from david every year but hadn’t seen him since 2008. She invited me to come to one of her lectures but did not give me any personal information of how to reach david. I had to laugh

Arts & Entertainment

DML Announces the Next World Music Series Performance

Dayton Metro Library has been partnering with Levitt Pavilion this summer to bring the second annual World Music Series to the stage. The next performance in the series is Nomfusi (AfricanSoweto), on Saturday, July 15.

Showtime begins at 7 pm with a signature Levitt Music and Arts Camp Student Showcase of the Projects Unlimited Gem Series. Students who have participated in a weeklong day camp will showcase their work.

Continued from Page 2

later after that call. She protected her friend after all, I could have been a bill collector or anyone with no real personal interest in her friend.”

I think that love is eternal. Those two have a love for literacy that expands time and space as all creatives should. I so enjoyed seeing them together, looking at time as it revealed itself in their aging. But that aging only brought another maturity of living and responding to needs of poetical advances. WORDS MATTER.

Over the years david has performed in over 21 different states, at 300 colleges and universities and in Europe. He has also

DML staff and/or the Bookmobile will also be present, so patrons are encouraged to stop by and visit.

Remaining performances in this series include: Falu: Indie Hindi (Indian), Thursday, August 24; and Elsten Torres (Hispanic), Friday, September 15.

Visit any area DML Branch for suggested reading and listening material in support of the World Music Series lineup. For more information about Levitt Pavilion, the World Series musical guests, and

been awarded, the ‘National Poem of the Year Award’ from the Los Angeles, American Poet Society twice. First in 1973 for the poem, ‘America Ain’t You Got No Shame’, and then again in 1976 for the poem, ‘They Say Bicentennial But We Are The Ones That Over Came, Can You Get To That?’ And the awards kept coming, he received ‘The Outstanding Young Man of The Year Award’, in Montgomery, Alabama in 1980. He received the ‘Literary Consciousness Award’ from Northern Kentucky University in 1981. He received the ‘Key to the City of Dayton’ in 1982 and the ‘WROU U92 Black Achievement

National

Taco Bell Hires First-Ever Black CEO to Run Its Almost 8,000 Restaurants Worldwide

43-year-old Sean Tresvant has made history as the first-ever African American CEO of Taco Bell. He will oversee the popular Mexican fast-food chain's almost 8,000 restaurants worldwide and is taking on the role just two years after joining the company as its Global Chief Brand Officer. Taco Bell currently serves over two billion customers each year with more than $10 billion in annual revenue. Tresvant worked at Nike for over 15 years, where he worked as the Vice President of Marketing and the Chief Marketing Officer for the Jordan brand. He

Sean Tresvant, CEO of Taco Bell also worked for Pepsico for five years, and his senior-level roles have expanded to include strategy, food innovation, architecture and design, global communications, and international business.

Tresvant has played a significant role in Taco Bell's marketing successes, notably the successful relaunch of the beloved Mexican Pizza. Tresvant's focus on culture and innovation has made him the ideal executive to lead Taco Bell's long-term global growth strategies to new heights.

"The love our fans and team members have for Taco Bell is extraordinary and means we're in a unique position to push the

limits on culture and become a brand that inspires and enables the world to Live Más," Tresvant referred to the brand's motto in a statement, according to Restaurant Business Online.

Taco Bell's parent company, Yum Brands, believes that Tresvant will bring great success to the brand. David Gibbs, CEO of Yum Brands, says that Tresvant is a visionary leader and exceptional brand builder. He has a lot of confidence that he will continue to keep the Taco Bell brand at the forefront of culture and redefine industry innovation.

He will officially begin his role as CEO in January 2024.

other concert lineups, visit levittdayton.org. 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.

Award’ in 2001; in 2006 he received ‘Dayton’s Top 10 African American Award’ and in 2022 he received acknowledgement as a ‘Ohioana Library’ Top Author and Poet.

Nikki felt the amazing talent as she read his work and guided him into the successes he has realized over fifty-one years, and we have not even discussed his musical capabilities!

(david does not use capital letters in his name, he believes that it’s more important to remember his message than his name. Which is why most refer to him as “The Poet).

Dayton Contemporary Dance Company Jeraldyne Blunden Honorary Stamp Campaign Comes to Triumphant Close

The campaign to honor DCDC founder Jeraldyne Blunden wraped up on July 6 when Dayton Contemporary Dance Company mailed 14 boxes containing over 14,000 signed letters and postcards to the Citizens’ Stamp Advisory Committee.

The boxes are stuffed with letters and postcards signed by dance lovers from Dayton, and Ohio, but also from New York, Pennsylvania, Michigan, Illinois, Indiana, North Carolina, Alabama, Georgia, Florida, Louisiana, Texas, California, Missouri and Virginia.

Through a Black History month initiative, we were able to collect over 1700 letters from Dayton Public School students. There are special endorsements from Ohio Representative, the Honorable Mike Turner, as well as from former Dayton Mayor Rhine McLin.

DCDC wishes to thank retired DPS Educator, Patricia Day for her tireless and monumental efforts

in spearheading this campaign, by which none of this would have been possible. DCDC also thanks Dayton, for its unquestioning support and immediate embrace of this initiative.

We are confident that the Citizens’ Stamp Advisory Committee will recognize the importance of Dayton native, Jeraldyne Blunden, to the region and nation, and will rightfully issue a stamp in her honor.

For the latest opportunities to engage with us, visit www.dcdc.org and connect with us on social media: Facebook/Instagram: @daytoncontemporarydancecompany & Twitter: @DCDCLive.

Dayton Contemporary Dance Company (DCDC) was founded in 1968 to create performance opportunities for African American dancers. 55 years later, it remains rooted in the African-American experience, committed to the presentation of accomplished movement artists on the global stage.

DCDC is known for its extraordinary artistic expression, precision, and athleticism. Having the world’s largest repertoire of classic works by African American choreographers, this Dayton, Ohio, company continues to be celebrated at home and abroad. Founder, Jeraldyne Blunden, built a company that is welcome not only in Dayton but on the premier stages in New York, DC, Chicago, Philadelphia, Los Angeles, Toronto, Chile, Poland, France, St. Petersburg, Moscow, Germany, China and South Korea. Artistic Director Debbie Blunden-Diggs continues the company’s long legacy of innovative and classic choreography by 20th and 21st century choreographers, including Donald Byrd, Tommie-Waheed Evans, Kiesha Lalama, Ray Mercer, Paul Taylor, Ulysses Dove, Doug Varone and Rennie Harris.

When The Pupil Meets The Master...

Editorial Comments &

Building Walls

By Bryan Golden

Building mental and emotional walls is a common occurrence. We are used to living with physical walls so this progression is an easy transition. Furthermore, it's a conditioned response that we learn from others as well as a result of our own experiences.

There are a variety of reasons people build these virtual walls. They want to keep undesirable things out. They have a desire to prevent loss. They don't want someone to leave. Walls may create a feeling of security. They offer a sense of protection. Walls are constructed as a result of fear, uncertainty, or vulnerability.

There are those who put up walls as a show of power. Only select people are allowed to cross their boundaries. This process allows them to feel as if they wield power over others by deciding who to exclude.

Some build walls to mark their territory. This approach mimics a child's strategy of drawing an imaginary line around them in order to keep their siblings "off their side."

Walls may be in response to a sensitivity that one wants to avoid. The goal is to keep out any real or imagined emotional threats. It is an attempt to avoid repeating unpleasant experiences.

Regardless of the reason for building virtual walls, their ultimate impact is to hold you back.

Bryan Golden

Virtual walls are constraining, offering only an illusion of security. They are a defensive strategy which inhibits your personal growth.

Limiting beliefs such as, "I can't," "I won't," or "It's impossible," build walls. Conversely, believing, "I can," "I will," or "I'll find a way," tears down virtual walls. These walls are built based on your attitude. Dismantling them requires a change in outlook. You have the power to adjust your thoughts, and therefore can decide to remove your walls.

Virtual walls grow over time. Ironically, most people aren't aware of the walls they have put in place. They are so conditioned to their existence that the walls become integrated into their self-identity. Since these walls are so limiting, dismantling them opens up new potential for you.

Since your virtual walls take time to build, they also require time to tear down. Rather than becoming overwhelmed by the task, start by removing just one brick. Continue brick by brick until the wall is gone. Each brick represents one aspect of your wall.

Don't empower fear. It doesn't matter what other people say, think, or do. Get over your fears by doing what you are afraid to do and going where you are afraid to go. Walls cannot keep out fear.

You are in control of your emotions. You have no control over the actions of others, but you do have control over your response. You stay safe through the proactive management of your feelings. Walls will never ensure happiness.

Utilize your strengths. Appreciate everything you have. Concentrate on abundance rather than worrying about what you think is lacking. You have more to be thankful for than you realize. Walls do prevent you from attracting positive elements into your life.

Walls do not define who you are. Your character is based on your beliefs, attitudes, morals, and ethics. Your character can never be stolen or lost.

Tearing down walls is scary because change is required. Learn from your past. Repeat actions that brought desired results while avoiding unsuccessful behavior. Correct bad decisions by making better ones. As your walls vanish, you will enjoy an amazing view that used to be obscured by your self-imposed banishment within your virtual walled prison.

Bryan is the author of "Dare to Live Without Limits." Contact Bryan at Bryan@columnist.com or visit www.DareToLiveWithoutLimits.com Copyright 2023 Bryan Golden

Bad Affirmative Action Decision Won’t Stop Equal Rights Progress

Something to Consider: Procrastinating: Is This a Problem for You?

By: Brenda Cochran Contributing Writer

Procrastination is a practice that many deal with on a daily basis or perhaps every week. It is defined as: Putting off intentionally the doing of something that should be done.

Another definition is: Procrastination is the action of unnecessarily and voluntarily delaying or postponing something despite knowing that there will be negative consequences for doing so.

I venture to say that this is a practice that very few people you know that do not have a problem of procrastinating.

Here is an example: The hours that you spent re-reading your emails, checking social media and having the coffee breaks. All of the time that you spend on other tasks that you could have left for a different time. This practice is a trap that many, if not all of us fall into. In fact, according to researchers, speakers, ninety-five percent of us procrastinate to some degree. While it may be good to know that you are not alone, it can be sobering to realize that how much this practice can hold you back. The question is why does this happen so much?

Often times procrastination is described as laziness, but there really is a difference. In the case of procrastination, there is an active process. In other words, you choose to do something else instead of the job that you know you should be doing. In the case of laziness, apathy is the villain. This mean that you don’t care about it or inactivity and feeling that you just want to act.

Procrastination also

Black men under the corrections system’s jurisdiction than those enrolled in colleges or universities.

Despite improvement by Blacks and Hispanics, there remain stark differences in access to quality education and opportunity that education affords.

may be ignoring or looking at more important tasks to choose or you find it easier. The problem is that giving in to this impulse may have serious consequences. Here is an example: Even very minor episodes of consequences may make us feel guilty or even ashamed. It may be too a reduction of productivity and it can also make us to miss out of really achieving your objective. If you procrastinate over a long period of time, what happens is that we can become demotivated and also disillusion with our work and this can be depression or even job loss.

Now the question is – if you are procrastinating, how can you overcome it? It is really possible to overcome this practice and if you follow these steps, they will be able to help you to deal with and even prevent this in the future.

The first one is to recognize that you are procrastinating and believe that you are putting off a task because you have had to prioritize. If you are just briefly delaying this task for a good reason, then you probably are not guilty of procrastinating, but if you start to put things off indefinitely, or change your focus because you want to avoid doing something, then you probably are.

You also may be pro-

Black, White, and Brown.

crastinating because you are filling your days with priority jobs that are not high on the list, or you may keep your task on the list for a long time even though it may be very important.

The next reason is to start with a high priority job and then go off and make coffee or how about filling your time with those tasks that are so unimportant?

The last reason that you may be procrastinating is that you are waiting to be in the right mood or wait for the right time in order to begin to tackle that job.

How about taking a self-quiz, which is, are you a procrastinator?

You really can figure out why you are procrastinating, and you need to understand why you are before you can get rid of it. You may be avoiding a task because you think that it boring or unpleasant – if so, then take the steps to get it out of the way and do it quickly so you can put your focus on aspects of your job that you feel are more enjoyable.

Keep in mind that putting organizing high on your list will help and you may not have the ability to be organized, but believe that procrastination is a habit. Just try the good strategy that will let you quit this habit.

Here are two quotes: “The Bend in the road is not the end of the road unless you fail to make the turn” (Helen Keller) “If you can’t fly – then run, if you can’t run then walk, if you can’t walk then crawl, but whatever you do –you have to keep moving forward.” (Martin Luther King)

The decision by the U.S. Supreme Court to end affirmative action in higher education is much more than just a bad ruling; this is an embarrassment on a global scale.

It’s based on the misguided notion that the Constitution, and even our society today, is colorblind. That’s so far from the truth. In reality, what we have is a judicial authority that is in denial; denial of racism, denial of facts, denial of the consequences of this decision, denial of the harm to the people affected, and denial of the hierarchy of human value that this nation was built upon and still reigns supreme in too many minds and institutions today.

Writing for the ma-

jority, Chief Justice John Roberts concluded that the approach used by Harvard University and the University of North Carolina violated the 14th Amendment and “cannot be reconciled with the guarantees of the Equal Protection Clause.” That is duplicitous – that clause was designed to remedy the harm caused by denying rights and protection to people of color over centuries. For this court to use it to deny educational opportunities to people of color in the 21st century is hypocrisy at best and cruel at worst. Their decision lacks empathy and compassion for millions.

Our Constitution was conceived in an environment of racial hierarchy. It was dedicated to the proposition that some

people were not human. Blacks could be enslaved and had no human rights.

During the 1787 United States Constitutional Convention, the infamous Three-fifths Compromise relegated enslaved people to be counted as 3-5ths of Whites in a state’s population.

That created an inequitable and unfair American society. Harvard Professor Roland G. Fryer, Jr. has quantified the consequences. Relative to Whites, Blacks earn 24% less, live five fewer years, and are six times more likely to be incarcerated on a given day.

Hispanics make 25% less than Whites and are three times more likely to be incarcerated. At the end of the 1990s, there were one-third more

In a recent NCHE paper, Susan Eaton, Director of the Sillerman Center for the Advancement of Philanthropy at the Heller School for Social Policy at Brandeis University, cited the racial disparity in poverty nationwide. About 24% of Native Americans, 20% of Blacks, and 17% of Latinos live in highpoverty neighborhoods compared to just 4% of Whites. Disparities in schools are even more extreme, with 74% of Black and Latinos, 70% of Native Americans, and just 32% of Whites attending schools where at least half of the students qualify for free and reduced lunches.

Clearly, American society remains far from a colorblind state where equity and equality are spread across all communities, rich and poor,

It’s astounding that the Supreme Court chose to ignore centuries of racism that has created a society where Blacks, Native Americans, and other people of color are forced to confront bias daily in their everyday life, at school, at work, at play, and in their communities.

But there is hope for America. This Supreme Court is not a reflection of the people. This Court represents the opinions of a minority of our population.

That has been demonstrated by the political uprising after the Court’s rejection of a woman’s right to her own reproductive decisions. We may see a similar reaction to this Court decision limiting access to the nation’s top educational institutions to people qualified to attend but have faced discrimination because of their skin color every day since birth. NCHE has conducted research, which will soon be released, demonstrating that the American people want to put racism and political divisiveness behind us and move for-

ward to create equitable communities. America made tremendous progress after the murder of George Floyd. A watershed of honesty and sincerity opened up to address the realities of police brutality and the legacy of denial of humanity. Anytime there is a moment creating a seismic wave in society, one representing a transformation from the norm, there will be resistance. In this case, the opposition has a high level of authority and power, but it contradicts the minds and hearts of the majority of America. The march towards an equitable society will continue.

Dr. Gail C. Christopher is the Executive Director of the National Collaborative for Health Equity, Senior Scholar at the Center for Advancement of WellBeing at George Mason University, and former Senior Advisor and Vice President of the W. K. Kellogg Foundation.

Brenda Cochran

Education

Central State University Welcomes Interim President

Wilberforce, OH – The Central State University welcomes Dr. Alex Johnson as Interim President.

Johnson has agreed to serve as Interim President for one year. He is serving upon the departure of Dr. Jack Thomas, who did not seek renewal of his contract. His last day was June 30, 2023.

With nearly 30 years of experience as a college president, Dr. Johnson is a nationally-recognized educator, author, and expert in institutional transformation. Most recently, he served as president of Cuyahoga Community College (Tri-C), a position he held from 2013 through 2022. There, he focused on strengthening the institution’s longstanding mission to provide high-quality, accessible and affordable educational opportunities and services.

Dr. Johnson has also served as president of the Community College of Allegheny County, a multi-campus college in and around Pittsburgh; chancellor of Delgado Community College in

New Book by Walter the Educator Uses Poetry to Discuss Life Lessons

never played the game, in my opinion. My football swag never went away. Years removed from the unapologetic decision to move on from the game everybody else loved, people always continuously commented, “Do you play football?” That question asked of me sparked so many debates about life in general that I decided to create this poetry book about the life lessons learned generated from the conversations sparked.”

Continued from Page 1

About the Author Walter the Educator is one of the pseudonyms for Walter Anderson. Formally educated in Chemistry, Business, and Education, he is an educator, an author, a diverse entrepreneur, and the son of a disabled war veteran. “Walter the Educator” shares his time between educating and creating. He holds interests and owns several creative projects that entertain, enlighten, enhance, and educate, hoping to inspire

and motivate you.

Book Details: Do You Play Football?

Poems about Life Lessons from the Greatest Player that Never Played the Game (Available wherever books are sold and at WalterTheEducator.com) Available as a 150page Hardcover ISBN13: 9781088118160, Paperback ISBN-13: 9781088119488, and an eBook.

New Orleans; president of Tri-C’s Metropolitan Campus in Cleveland, and served a two-year term as president of the Pennsylvania Commission for Community Colleges.

His books, Change the Lapel Pin: Personalizing Leadership to Transform Organizations and Communities (2018) and Capturing Change: Creating Systems of Transformation Through Continuous Improvement (2021) provide insight on how leaders can create lasting systems of transformation.

Dr. Johnson’s work on local, statewide, and national boards has focused on workforce development, and institutional innovation and accountability. He has received numerous awards and accolades for his vision and leadership in higher education.

“Dr. Johnson is a proven leader in higher education and an expert in institutional transformation,” said Board Chair Jacqueline Gamblin. “He has a passion for transformation and excellence in higher education. He’s the right person to lead us through this time of transition, and we look forward to his leadership as we search for a permanent president.”

Nationwide -- Helping people with life lessons via unique poems is the subject of a new book by Walter the Educator entitled Do You Play Football: Poems about Life Lessons from the Greatest Player that Never Played the Game. The book is a literary work of poems from the greatest player that never played the game. Readers will discover life lessons about relationships, spirituality, health, finances, education, politics, social issues, and more.

Here’s an Excerpt

From the Book’s Intro:

“Yes, I confess. I am the greatest player that never played the game. My skillset, strength, and speed were the best. So much so that every single (with emphasis) day in college, coaches begged me to play the game they loved and adored. After succumb-

Walter The Educator ing to their consistent groveling, I practiced, competed, and outplayed players that were NFL professional draft picks before determining that the game they loved was not in my heart. I had nothing against the game, but I had no love for the game, and you should have love for a game that can cause you life-threatening injuries. Even after determining that I would not play, football agents insisted on representing an impassionate young man because my unofficial Wonderlic score was perfect (50/50), my strength was enduring (225 pounds 60 consecutive times – unofficial), and my speed was the fastest time ever recorded for a defensive end (4.29 – unofficial).”

“I insisted on not playing; prognosticators predicted that I would. I never did, making me the greatest player that

computing, and artificial intelligence to the partnership, said Emdad Ahmed, Ph.D., assistant professor of computer science and New ERA co-lead for Central State.

In a letter to University President Dr. Jack Thomas, TMCF President and CEO Harry L. Williams said Ahmed and Rahunanthan “were invaluable in framing New ERA.”

Pooling resources, participating universities will co-develop education and research initiatives focused on artificial intelligence, data science, smart energy, future manufacturing, cybersecurity, material science, and biomedical engineering.

“With esteemed academics working together, we will stimulate intellectual growth, foster innovation, and contribute to the academic enrichment of partner universities, while laying the foundation for a more diverse and inclusive enterprise in STEM,” Williams wrote.

External funding and sponsored research are quickly growing strengths

of Central State. Central State students and faculty researchers are contributing to cutting-edge projects every day.

“Binghamton has a reputation of being a great research university, and some of our HBCUs are on the verge of becoming great in some areas,” N. Joyce Payne, founder of the Thurgood Marshall College Fund, told Binghamton. “This was a prime opportunity to bring the two communities together to start the conversation.”

The TMCF was founded in 1987 and today is the nation’s largest organization exclusively representing Black community colleges, according to its website. Member schools are publicly funded HBCUs and predominantly Black institutions (PBIs). It offers scholarships, research capabilities, innovative programs, and strategic partnerships, supporting higher education and K-12 schools.

The announcement came after more than a year of planning that culminated in a three-day

conference, the Emerging Technology and Broadening Participation Summit.

Dozens of faculty members and students from the six HBCUs attended the conference organized by Binghamton’s Thomas J. Watson College of Engineering and Applied Science.

The partnership is a step in Central State’s aspiration to receive Carnegie Research II designation over the next five years. Rahunanthan called the partnership a win-win situation for all involved.

New ERA is continuing discussions about how the collaboration can create remarkable opportunities for students and faculty.

About Central State University: Central State University is a public HBCU and 1890 Land-Grant Institution with a 135-year tradition of preparing students from diverse backgrounds and experiences for leadership, research, and service. Central State ranks among U.S. News & World Report’s best colleges in five categories, including Best Un-

dergraduate Engineering Program and Top Public Schools. The University fosters academic excellence within a nurturing environment and provides a solid liberal arts foundation and STEMAg curriculum leading to professional careers and advanced studies globally.

EEO Statement: Central State University, an 1890 Land Grant Institution, is committed to the full inclusion of all people and does not discriminate based on race, age, ancestry, color, disability, gender identity or expression, genetic information, HIV / AIDS states, marital or family status, military status, national origin political beliefs, religion, sex, sexual orientation, or veteran status. If reasonable accommodation is needed, please contact the Department of Human Resources at (937) 376-6540. Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity institution

Central State Joins Thurgood Marshall College Fund and Five Other HBCUs for Historic Partnership...

Dr. Alex Johnson

Worship At The Church Of Your Choice

COLLEGE HILL COMMUNITY CHURCH

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

am

Empowering Youth Through the BAMN

In a world filled with challenges and uncertainties, providing young individuals with the necessary skills and support is crucial for their personal growth and success. One shining example of such efforts was the BAMN (By Any Means Necessary) Stay Connected to God! Citywide Youth Weekend organized by Reverend Toni Jordan of Mt. Enon Missionary Baptist Church where Cory J. Pruitt is Senior Pastor. This transformative event took place June 23-25, 2023, and made waves, equipping young minds with essential life skills through its Becoming a Young Lady, Boys II Men, and Mental Health workshops.

The BAMN Citywide Youth Weekend recognized the significance and value of proper etiquette as a foundation for success in various aspects of life. Ms. Penny Brown, a Certified Image Consultant, taught the etiquette workshop that provided the young ladies with the knowledge and understanding

of social norms, manners, and interpersonal skills. They learned the art of effective communication, visual poise, and professional conduct. By instilling these essential skills, this workshop cultivated confidence and equipped the young ladies with the tools they need to navigate social and professional settings.

The Boys II Men workshop was a transformative experience designed to help young men develop into well-rounded individuals. Led by Pastor Eugene Wilborn, this workshop offered guidance on selfesteem, character development, leadership, and responsible decision-making. Participants engaged in discussions, activities, and team-building exercises that fostered positive masculinity, respect, and integrity. Through this workshop, the young men gained valuable insights and mentorship that will empower them to become responsible, compassionate leaders in their communities.

Recognizing the importance of mental wellbeing, the BAMN Youth Weekend placed a strong

emphasis on mental health. The mental health workshop offered a safe and supportive space for the youth and adults to explore and address the challenges they may face.

Expert facilitator Trineisha Patterson, provided valuable insights on stress management, emotional resilience, and self-care strategies. By creating an open dialogue around mental health, this workshop aimed to reduce stigma, increase awareness, and provide resources for those who may be struggling.

The BAMN Youth Weekend concluded Sunday morning with a word from guest speaker Minister Christopher McClure followed by a citywide youth concert that evening led by First Lady Kenyatta Pruitt and Ronald Frost, Jr.

As the BAMN Youth Weekend continues to make a profound impact on the lives of young participants, it serves as an inspiring model for communities everywhere to come together and provide the support and tools needed for the next generation's success.

SOUL II SOUL INFLUENCE: HEART OF HEARTS, Part 1

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

Dear Father/Mother God, I used to enjoy playing cards in the day of wine and roses, bid whist, spades, and hearts. Hours upon hours, I would sit across from my partner and play serious bid whist, a lively partnership trick-taking game especially popular with African Americans. Although I have not played cards in decades, I see folk playing at festivals and still bring back memories of those days far spent.

Today, however, I am preoccupied with the Heart of hearts. Walk with me through the Gospel of Mark, chapter 4:3-22, the parable that brings to mind, “What type of heart do I have?” How many hearts are there from which to choose?

According to Open the Bible with Pastor Colin Smith, “Many people associate the heart purely with feelings and emotions. The heart includes our feelings, but it is much more. The heart is the control center of your life. The heart has four chambers. Look at the chambers of the new heart that God promises to give to all his people.”

1. A humble heart. “The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit; a broken and contrite heart, O God, you will not despise.” Psalm 51:17. 2. A believing heart. “If you confess with your mouth ‘Jesus is Lord,’ and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. For it is with your heart that you believe and are justified, and it is with your mouth that you profess your faith and are saved.” Romans 10:9-10. 3. A loving heart. “Though you have not seen him, you love him; and even though you do not see him now, you believe in him and are filled with an inexpressible and glorious joy.”

1 Peter 1:8. And, 4. An obedient heart. “I will give you a new heart… I will put my Spirit in you and move you to follow my decrees and keep my laws carefully.” Ezekiel 36:26-27.

Woody Allen once said, “The heart wants what it wants.” The prevailing desire of your heart controls the direction of your life. So, it’s important to know your own heart.”

Join me next week for Part 2. In the meantime, please purchase my book HEALING MY SOUL ON PURPOSE: A Veterans Guide to Suicide Intervention at SALUTEYOUR SOUL.COM. Therein, I bear my heart and the heart of many Veterans and civilians.

Rev. Merritt Worthen, PhD

Dayton Metro Library’s West Branch is hosting a Book Your Future Job Fair, Thursday, July 27, from 4-7 pm. This is an interview-on-the-spot opportunity for anyone in the community who is interested in applying for Substitute and Library Aide positions

Classified

REQUESTS

FOR PROPOSAL

Sealed proposals will be received in the office of the Director of Procurement, GREATER DAYTON REGIONAL TRANSIT AUTHORITY, 4 S. Main Street, Dayton, OH 45402, for the following:

Legal Notice: RFP GD 23-13

Title: Group Medical & Prescription Insurance

Due Date: 7/28/23 at 2:00 p.m.

Copies of the Request for Proposal are available from the office of the Director of Procurement, RTA, 4 S. Main Street, Dayton, OH 45402 or online at http:// proc.greaterdaytonrta.org/ . All proposals must be submitted in accordance with the requirements set forth in the RFP.

DML Hiring to Fill Sub and Aide Positions

that are open at various DML Branches. Interested candidates should bring a resume and contact information for recent employers. These positions offer flexible hours and a fun work environment and are the only positions DML is having open interviews for at this time. The minimum hir-

ing age for Library Aides is 16.

The West Branch is located at 300 Abbey Avenue, Dayton. A job offer is not guaranteed at the time of the open interview. The Dayton Metro Library is committed to creating a diverse environment and is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Native Son Navy Commander Visits During Navy Week...

Continued from Page 1

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, or veteran status. For more information about the Job Fair, visit DaytonMetroLibrary.org

the front entrance of the National Museum of the United States Air Force.

The memorial recognizes the 58 US Air Force recipients of the Medal of Honor, our nation's highest military award for bravery; they support numerous other projects.

Deborah Howard Director of Procurement

or call the Library’s Ask Me Line at 937.463.2665.

To view a job description for the Substitute position, visit DaytonMetroLibrary. org/Careers.

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.

Trichologist Shawon Gullette to Host a Free Hair Loss Seminar

Studies have shown that approximately 80 million Americans experience hair loss each year, with a variety of root causes and levels of severity. Proper education and treatment awareness is not always prevalent or exaggerated as it may be needed, based on what options are made available to the patient.

can be delivered uninterrupted. They lay cable in the sea, ensuring fighter jets can deploy from vessels in the ocean worldwide. The Commander spoke about there being over 200 different types of jobs available through the Navy.

He emphasized the importance of the Junior Navy ROTC program in high schools and how those students have a higher graduation rate and tremendous success meeting Navy requirements.

The Belmont High School Navy Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps (NJROTC) color guard attended the luncheon and presented the colors.

An astounding number of high school students and adults do not meet the requirements for acceptance into the Navy. Physical conditions, health issues, mental health, and other problems hurt a person’s chances for a career in the Navy. There are programs that are designed to help people become military ready.

The luncheon was an exciting event, with Mayor Mims in attendance, ViceMayor of Beavercreek, Kettering Mayor and other dignitaries and elected officials. The two groups

look forward to highlighting Navy Week again.

The Miami Valley Military Affairs Association (MVMAA) was formed in 1980 through the combined efforts of several local Chambers of Commerce. Recognizing the tremendous economic impact of Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Springfield Air National Guard Base, and other area military units in the Greater Dayton/Miami Valley, local community leaders wanted to provide a support organization to foster military-community understanding and cooperation.

With a membership of over 530, the MVMAA is one of the nation's largest community military affairs organizations and is a dynamic and productive organization. The MVMAA has long supported the Fisher/ Nightingale houses, which provide lodging in a home-like atmosphere for the families of seriously ill patients at the Wright Patterson Air Force Base Medical Center and the Veterans Administration.

The MVMAA also completed a significant fiveyear project, dedicating "Valor Park" alongside the walkway leading to

Brandon Creech, Susy Himelhoch, Brian Jarvis (Past Mayor of Beavercreek), Commander (CDR) Leon W. Moore, Annaliesa Hussey, Dr. Cassie Barlow, Rebecca Westlake Courses, Fort Meade, Maryland. His previous reserve assignments as a public affairs action officer and department head include Navy Information Bureau 108, Atlanta, Georgia; Fleet Public Affairs Center, Norfolk; Joint Public Affairs Support Element, Suffolk, Virginia; Expeditionary Combat Camera, Norfolk; Navy Community Outreach, Millington, Tennessee; and Navy Reserve Navy Public Affairs Support Element Headquarters, Norfolk. His reserve deployments include Public Affairs Officer, Naval Special Warfare Development Group, Djibouti, Horn of Africa and Public Affairs Officer, Combined Joint Task Force Paladin, Bagram, Afghanistan. His presentation was exceptional. He introduced the audience to the Navy and the various ways the Navy plays a vital role in not only the security of our daily lives but the functionality of our daily routines. Protecting the waters so that the merchandise and food Americans have become accustomed to

The Presidents Club of Dayton, Ohio, was founded in 1932 by a group of local businessmen who were genuinely interested in the growth of their respective service organizations. They knew how vital securing and sustaining membership was (and still is) to the health and well-being of any organization, the encouragement of volunteer community leadership, and the importance of being wellinformed and contributing to your community. Based on these critical elements, The Presidents Club of Dayton came to fruition.

Every aspect of this collaborative organization focuses on the volunteer servant leader, communications; fundraising; club training; the celebration of active civic leadership; and student scholarships for future community leaders. Each area is designed to enhance volunteerism's past, present, and future legacy in the Dayton community.

In 1951, the group established the region's most notable community service recognition award to celebrate the incredible work done by volunteer leaders in the Dayton area. The Citizen Legion of Honor Award. These servant leaders live in perpetuity in brass-etched renderings on the 3rd floor of the Dayton Convention Center on our "Wall of Honor."

The Presidents Club of Dayton consists of service clubs that have joined by invitation or application. If your organization would like more information regarding joining The Presidents Club of Dayton, contact Veronica

Dr. Shawon Gullette ND, I.A.T has taken the stance to not only educate but to enrich and empower those that suffer from various forms of hair loss, across the midwest. Over the past four years, Dr. Gullette ND has facilitated informative healthcare seminars that focus on overcoming hair loss using various tools and techniques, some of which are her own prototypical design.

On July 17, 2023 the kickoff event for the “Get to the Root Cause of Your Hair Loss” Seminar will take place at one of the Metropolitan Library locations (215 E. 3rd St.) in Dayton, OH. The touring seminar is also set to make stops in: Cincinnati, Columbus, Cleveland (OH), and Indianapolis (IN).

Event registrants will learn first-hand from Dr. Gullette, as she and her

team will be taking time to educate the group on the 5 step approach to overcoming hair loss and providing a gift certificate valid towards a hair & scalp consultation and care services. In addition to the freebies, guests will learn about common illnesses and their correlation to hair loss such as hypertension, diabetes, and thyroid complications.

“My love and passion for educating the community is my reason for doing this yearly,” says Dr. Gullette. The studies show that by age 30, 25% men and 12% women will begin to lose their hair; the numbers jump significantly by the age 50. That is why Dr.Shawon Gullette is committed to ensuring that more people not only know of their conditions but be informed about all of the best treatments and products for ensuring hair health and care over time.

To learn more about the seminars, be sure to visit Dr. Shawon Gulllette’s ND,I.A.T website www.DaytonTrichology. com register on Eventbrite.

Health

Schedule a Screening Mammography Near You in July

DML Offers Programs for Minority Mental Health Awareness Month

July is National Minority Mental Health Awareness Month (MMHAM) and Dayton Metro Library offers program to help bring awareness to the unique struggles that racial and ethnic minority communities face regarding mental illness.

Craft: Journal Making

Monday, July 10, 2:30-3:30 pm, Kettering-Moraine Branch

For this month’s craft, the Branch reflects by creating journals that can be used for writing or drawing. Materials will be provided. Registration is required. For Adults

Preschool Storytime: Exploring Emotions

Tuesday, July 11, 10:30-11 am, Northwest Branch

This special storytime is presented by Emily Whietz from Children’s Hospital, who will provide stories and activities about exploring emotions and have conversations with parents about how to support adolescent mental

and emotional health. For Pre-k

BIPOC Healing Circle

Thursday, July 13, 6-7:30 pm, Northwest Branch

This powerful BIPOC healing circle is in celebration of the month. It is a safe and inclusive space designed to foster holistic restoration, incorporating practices for the mind, body, and spirit. It includes guided movement, meditation, expressive arts, and group sharing.

For All Ages Therapeutic Creative Writing

Thursday, July 20, 1-2:30 pm, Main Library, Community Room A

Words have power but are stronger when written down. The Human Race Theatre Company joins DML to present a course in written therapy. Be introduced to therapeutic writing and its benefits for mental and physical health. For All Ages

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.

Premier Health is making it easier for busy women to get their annual mammogram screening with its mobile mammography coach that travels to businesses, public venues and events throughout Southwest Ohio.

Equipped with advanced imaging equipment, the coach offers traditional 2D and Genius™ 3D Mammography™ technology to detect breast cancer.

The following dates and times are open for appointments in July:

• Friday, July 7, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Schulte Wellness, 1928 Donn Davis Way, Tipp City, OH 45371;

• Saturday, July 8, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Calvary Missionary Baptist Church, 2067 N. Gettysburg Ave., Dayton, OH 45406, presented by Norma J. Ross Memorial Foundation;

• Wednesday, July 12, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Miami County Internal Medicine, 2600 Mote Drive, Covington, OH 45318;

• Thursday, July 13, 8

a.m. to 4 p.m. at Community Health Centers of Greater Dayton – East Dayton Health Center, 2132 E. Third St., Dayton, OH 45403;

• Tuesday, July 18, 10

a.m. to 6 p.m. at SureCare Medical Center, 360 W. Central Ave., Springboro, OH 45066;

• Tuesday, July 25, 8

a.m. to 4 p.m. at Community Health Centers of Greater Dayton – Chambersburg Health Center, 6255 Chambersburg Road, Huber Heights, OH 45424

Mobile mammogram locations presented by the Norma J. Ross Memorial Foundation must be scheduled by calling (937)

281-4829. All other mobile mammograms can be scheduled by calling (855) 887-7364. For more information about the process and locations, visit www. premierhealth.com/mobilemammo or email MobileMammo@premierhealth.com.

Premier Health welcomes partnerships with area businesses and event organizers to bring the mobile mammography coach to their locations in the community. For more information about how to bring the coach to your event or site, email MobileMammo@premierhealth.com or call (844) 453-4199. Genius 3D Mammography is a trademark of Hologic Inc.

Caregivers-Surrogates of Love

What do you wish you would have known before becoming a caregiver to your loved one?

You are a surrogate decision maker; simply defined, you are a proxy, substitute, stand-in, representative, back-up, and a necessary ambassador…. knee-deep in the role.

What are you chasing to understand?

What medical equipment are you wishing you had “NOW”?

Who are your support systems; and what conversations should have occurred earlier?

These are real questions in need of real answers. The role of caregiving

takes on many forms and is impactful globally. Families are unique, but care is universal. I have mentioned many times that there are stages that one travels in the caregiving space. The complexity is often underestimated by those who have not experienced the challenges, stress, and strain. The overall outcome is the health, safety, and wellbeing of our loved ones, and the mental health of you! We should expect the family to take an active role in caring. If each of us would think back and recall our childhood, we would see our family and support systems doing their part to help those requiring care.

Have you heard the term, once an adult, twice a child?

It means, we were warned at birth, that we will need care as we live, breathe, and age. We came into the world needing care and we will need care in our wonder years, as the end of life is sure to come.

On the journey of caregiving…. taking care of you is required in the pro-

cess.

Caregiving is diverse, and the timing of becoming a caregiver is different for everyone, and the care encounters are different as well. Because of this, do not forget to acknowledge your need for a break. Don’t end up in a pile of tears and frustration. There are many signs as a caregiver saying, “I need a break!”

Do not ignore the signs that may or may not be obvious, like, irritability, feeling alone, anxiety, sleeplessness, sadness,

and even anger. As your Proactive Caregiver Advocate, I am encouraging you to exhale and breathe. Caregiver life is hard work, but a wonderful life when you think about giving to someone unable to do for themselves. Giving yourself to others is a selfless act that will always be valued and appreciated by those who know and understand the journey. Be safe! Be well!