May 10 - 17, 2024

Sinclair Community College

Empowering Students through Program Honoring Late Congressman Louis Stokes

Three Sinclair Community College students are graduating through the LSAMP Program.

Sinclair Community College is celebrating students who participated in the Louis Stokes Alliance for Minority Participation (LSAMP) Program as they prepare to graduate this week. Sinclair is one of 10 higher education institutions involved in the Ohio LSAMP Alliance that assists colleges and universities with significantly increasing underrepresented 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. This academic year, 30 Sinclair students participated in the program. Three Sinclair students are graduating as 2024 LSAMP Scholars:

Associate Degree – Biology Abdelqadar has been a Sinclair student and active member of LSAMP for three years. In addition to demonstrating academic success in the classroom, he completed two undergraduate research internships opportunities, one offered through Sinclair's Physical Sciences: Chemistry Program, mentored by Professor Kim LaSala

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Centerville Merchant Market Brings Shopping to New Location

The area’s largest free one day open-air market is heading to a new location this year, and will be bigger and better than ever as a result. The third annual Centerville Merchant Market on Sunday, May 19, from 12 p.m. to 5 p.m. will be held on the lawn at St. Leonard—a CHI Living Community, 8100 Clyo Rd., Centerville.

The event is organized by the Heart of Centerville Washington Twp. (HOCWT) business association and the city of Centerville. The event is being held at St. Leonard while Stubbs Park, where it previously was held, undergoes renovations. The new location and partnership with St. Leonard allowed for the addition of 50 vendors, about 8 more food trucks,

and additional space for free kids activities, said Jessica Olson, marketing director for HOCWT.

“We are very excited for our new partnership with St. Leonard to host our events done in conjunction with the city of Centerville. We think this year’s event will be the best yet thanks to the additional space plus easy

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The Risen Empowerment Resource Center Launches in Trotwood

The Trotwood community is about to experience a significant uplift with the grand opening of The Risen Empowerment Resource Center in collaboration with Studio 109. This pioneering initiative aims to provide essential resources and exciting programs to empower and enrich the lives of residents in Trotwood and surrounding areas.

The Risen Empowerment Resource Center, a non-profit organization dedicated to community development, has partnered with Studio 109, a dynamic creative space, to establish a multifaceted community hub. Together, they will offer a wide array of programs and services tailored to meet the diverse needs of the local population.

Located at 109 E. Main St. Trotwood, Ohio, the new center will serve as a focal point for community engagement, education, and empowerment. It will feature state-of-the-art facilities equipped to host a variety of activities, workshops, and events aimed at fostering personal growth, skill development, and social cohesion.

"We are thrilled to announce the opening of The

Risen Empowerment Resource Center in collaboration with Studio 109," said Reverend Dawn Martin, Executive Director of The Risen Empowerment Resource Center. "Our vision is to create a vibrant space where individuals and families can access the support and resources they need to thrive. By partnering with Studio 109, we are able to combine our strengths and expertise to offer innovative programs that cater to the diverse interests of our community."

The center will offer a wide range of programs, including but not limited to:

• Educational workshops on financial literacy, career development, and entrepreneurship.

• Artistic and creative expression classes, including painting, music, and dance.

• Health and wellness initiatives, such as fitness classes, nutrition workshops, and mental health support groups. Such as, Grief To Purpose Support Groups, Silver Success (for Seniors 55+), Urban Farming with Tamiko

• Youth programs focused on academic enrichment, leadership development, and recre-

ational activities. Such as, Girls Empowered and Mentored To Success (G.E.M.S), The Read With Me Program and many more.

"We believe that collaboration is key to creating lasting impact in our community," said Tamiko Troutman, Founder of Studio 109. "By joining forces with The Risen Empowerment Resource Center, we are able to leverage our resources and expertise to provide transformative experiences for individuals of all ages."

The Risen Empowerment Resource Center in collaboration with Studio 109 has programming starting immediately. The center is open weekends and currently and will feature guided tours of the facility, interactive demonstrations, and opportunities to meet with program coordinators and community partners.

For more information about The Risen Empowerment Resource Center and Studio 109, please visit [Website URL] or contact [Contact Information].

Courthouse Square Revamp Takes Shape as CURIO Debuts in Downtown Dayton

A new addition is coming to Courthouse Square, and the Downtown Dayton Partnership (DDP) can hardly contain its excitement. CURIO at Courthouse Square will make its official debut during the Downtown Housing Tour on Saturday, May 11, with regular programming set to begin on Tuesday, May 14.

“We are so excited to debut this new feature to Courthouse Square that is breaking out of the box to become a new hot spot downtown,” said Katie Meyer, President of the Downtown Dayton Partnership. “CURIO is proof that big ideas can come in small packages and that a shipping container can be

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Acknowledging Mental Health Awareness is Important

1. Destigmatization: Mental health awareness helps break down the stigma surrounding mental illness. By openly discussing mental health issues, people feel more comfortable seeking help and support without fear of judgment or discrimination.

The stigma of mental health isn’t new to the Black community. Martin Luther King Jr. reportedly had severe depression during periods of his life and refused psychiatric treatment, even when urged to seek care by his staff. Unfortunately, that scenario continues to be common today, with Af-

rican Americans not seeking mental health care because of stigma.

2. Education: Increased awareness promotes understanding of various mental health conditions, their symptoms, and their impact on individuals' lives. This knowledge enables people to recognize signs of mental distress in themselves and others and encourages them to seek appropriate help.

3. Support: Awareness campaigns provide resources and support for those struggling with mental health issues. They connect individuals with mental health services, hotlines, support groups, and other resources that

can offer assistance and guidance.

4. Advocacy: Acknowledging mental health awareness helps advocate for better mental health care policies, funding, and research. It raises public awareness of the importance of mental health and encourages policymakers to prioritize mental health initiatives.

5. Prevention: Awareness efforts can also focus on prevention strategies, such as promoting healthy coping mechanisms, stress management techniques, and early intervention programs. By addressing mental health issues proactively, individuals can reduce the risk of devel-

oping more severe conditions.

Overall, acknowledg-

ing mental health awareness is crucial for creating a society that prioritizes

mental well-being, supports those in need, and works towards reducing the stigma and barriers associated with mental illness.

Abdelqadar Radhwan,

Around DAYTON

Miami Valley Weather

access to Centerville Merchant Market on the St. Leonard campus at the corner of Clyo and Franklin,” Olson said. “It’s going to be an amazing day of shopping and dining and supporting local businesses and our community, which

Dayton

is what The Heart is all about.”

This one-day popup shopping and dining event gathers in-demand, majority women-owned businesses for a fun, upscale shopping experience featuring one-of-akind treasures, vintage finds, furniture, boutique clothing, jewelry, home décor, handmade items, food, beer and wine sales from local breweries, plus live entertainment.

Centerville High School to St. Leonard. All RTA buses are accessible for those who use a mobility device.

559-5582

New this year will be an expanded kids area with bubble cannons, lawn games, and chances to interact with Disney princesses and super heroes from The Fairy Godmother Events. There will also be a playful “husband daycare” sponsored by Beckel’s Humidor complete with cigars, games, and outdoor seating. Centerville Merchant Market will also include a new bag check area, allowing shoppers to stow items in a secured location near the event entrance so they can shop without becoming overloaded. To ensure there’s plenty of parking and access to the market, the Greater Dayton RTA is providing a shuttle service from the parking at

In addition to these new features, there will be free raffle tickets available at select HOCWT member booths, which can be used to win raffle prizes provided by market vendors, totaling more than $2,000 in value. The first 500 participants at Centerville Merchant Market will also receive a free canvas shopping bag.

There’s no ticket required, and parking is also free at the event, and the Centerville Police department will be assisting with security as well as handicap access. Those using a mobility device are encouraged to use the RTA shuttle. Merchant Market is also dog-friendly! A portion of alcohol sales will be donated by HOCWT to local charities. More information and profiles on vendors and entertainment can be found on the HOCWT social media pages.

When: Sunday, May 19 from 12 p.m. to 5 p.m.

Where: St. Leonard—a CHI Living Community, 8100 Clyo Rd., Center-

ville, OH

What: A free, familyfriendly event where you can shop with more than 150 area small businesses, merchants, and

crafters, treat yourself to delicious food items from over a dozen food trucks, imbibe on local brews, participate in activities, and enjoy live entertain-

ment. Plus, receive free raffle tickets from select vendors to enter to win prizes throughout the day!

Education

Sinclair Community College Empowering Students through Program Honoring Late Congressman Louis Stokes...

Continued from Page 1

and Dr. Cari Gigliotti, and the other in the Biological Sciences laboratory of Dr. Thomas Williams at the University of Dayton. Abdelqadar is also one of the founding members of the Sinclair student chapter of the American Chemical Society. Abdelqadar, who is a member of the UDSinclair Academy, will be transferring to the University of Dayton in Fall 2024 to pursue a bachelor’s degree in Biological Sciences.

Sophia Guzman, Associate Degree – Chemistry

Sophia has been a student at Sinclair since Fall 2021 and an active member of LSAMP for two years. In addition to demonstrating academic success in the classroom, she completed an undergraduate research internship opportunity offered through Sinclair's Physical Sciences: Chemistry Program, mentored by Dr. Kelly Ripperger. In Summer 2023, Sophia was also selected for a paid research fellowship at the University of Dayton through the prestigious SURE (Summer Undergraduate Research Experience) program.

Sophia is also one of the founding members of the Sinclair student chapter of the American Chemical Society. Sophia, who is a member of the UDSinclair Academy, will be transferring to the University of Dayton in Fall 2024 to pursue a bachelor’s degree in Chemistry.

Ryann Crockett, Associate Degree – Computer Science

Ryann has been a student at Sinclair since Spring 2022 and an active member of LSAMP for two years. In addition to demonstrating academic success in the classroom, she completed an undergraduate research internship opportunity, in the Knowledge and Semantic Technologies Laboratory (KASTLE) of Dr. Cogan Matthew Shimizu at Wright State University, performing research in computer science. Ryann will be transferring to Wright State University in Spring 2025 to pursue a bachelor’s degree in Computer Science.

Sinclair’s LSAMP Scholars were honored during a special end of year celebration on Friday, April 26, 2024, featuring keynote speaker Dr. Eric Charlton, an emotional wellness consultant with Charlton & Charlton & Associates. Dr. Charlton’s presentation focused on "Harnessing Happiness in Your Leadership."

“Sinclair Community College is thrilled to celebrate our LSAMP students and acknowledge their incredible achievements. The LSAMP Program perfectly embodies Sinclair’s mission to find the need and endeavor to meet it by fostering academic and career success in STEM fields and providing invaluable mentorship and guidance. As we honor these students, we are proud to be part of the Ohio LSAMP Alliance, dedicated to empowering underrepresented students in their pursuit of STEM degrees," said Dr. Marita K. Abram, LSAMP Prin-

cipal Investigator and Associate Professor, Sinclair Community College Department of Biological Sciences

As part of the program, Sinclair Community College also offers the LSAMP Summer Bridge Institute that gives students a hands-on preview of a variety of STEM programs. For one week during the summer, students meet Sinclair’s STEM faculty, tour classrooms and labs, develop study skills to be successful, receive specialized instruction for college-level courses, and learn time and stress management skills. The students also participate in immersive, hands-on activities in mathematics, biology, chemistry, and physics. Launched in 2013, Sinclair’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.

Four Sinclair Community College Students Named to 2024 All-Ohio Academic Team

Four Sinclair Community College students are being recognized for their excellence in academics, leadership, and community service as part of the 2024 All-Ohio Academic Team.

Sinclair Community College students chosen for the 2024 All-Ohio Academic Team:

Robert Schultz – 1st Team

Robert Schatzer – 2nd Team

Meagan Gegner – 3rd Team

Angelica Serrato – 3rd Team

Sinclair’s honorees are members of Phi Theta Kappa (PTK), the international honor society of two-year colleges. Nu Pi is the PTK Chapter at

Sinclair Community College. Membership offers students opportunities for personal growth and development of leadership skills by focusing on Phi Theta Kappa's four Hallmarks: Scholarship, Leadership, Service, and Fellowship.

56 outstanding students

from Ohio’s 23 community colleges are being honored as members of the 2024 All-Ohio Academic Team.

“Ohio’s economy and the careers it supports are transforming at a thrilling pace, and our community colleges play an essential role in preparing the

workforce this exciting new technology-focused age requires,” said Tom Walsh, interim president of the Ohio Association of Community Colleges (OACC). “The 2024 AllOhio Academic Team, coming from all parts of the state, are in the vanguard of this transformation. Their success as students and the promise they show for their chosen careers is testimony to the contributions that Ohio’s 23 community colleges are making as they help develop the well-educated, motived workforce that will drive our state’s economy for many years ahead.”

The All-Ohio Academic Team program is a collaboration between the OACC, Phi Theta Kappa

national honor society and Honda, the event sponsor.

“I am honored to congratulate these All-Ohio Academic Team members,” said Ohio Department of Higher Education Chancellor Mike Duffey.

“Through their academic achievement and breadth of leadership, each will contribute to the strength and vitality of our state.”

"Being recognized as part of the All-Ohio Academic Team is a testament to the exceptional dedication and commitment these students have shown not only to their academic pursuits but also to their leadership roles and community service. As members of Phi Theta Kappa, they exemplify the values of scholarship, leadership, service, and fellowship,”

added DeAnn Hurtado, Sinclair Community College Professor of Management and Phi Theta Kappa Advisor. The top-performing students were nominated by college faculty, staff and other campus leaders. Students recognized as first-team honorees will receive $500 scholarships, while secondteam members earn $250 scholarships to assist students transferring on to universities to complete their bachelor’s degree requirements. The All-Ohio Academic Team also includes highachieving students who are planning to move directly into the workforce. They also receive recognition and awards.

56 Outstanding Community College Students Honored

COLUMBUS – Fifty-

“Ohio’s economy and the careers it supports are transforming at a thrilling pace, and our community colleges play an essential role in preparing the workforce this exciting new technology-focused age requires,” said Tom Walsh, interim president of the Ohio Association of Community Colleges (OACC). “The 2024 All-

As Members Of The 2024 All-Ohio Academic Team Ohio Academic Team, coming from all parts of the state, are in the vanguard this transformation. Their success as students and the promise they show for their chosen careers is testimony to the contributions that Ohio’s 23 community colleges are making as they help develop the well-educated, motived workforce that will drive our state’s economy for many years ahead.”

The All-Ohio Academic Team program is a collaboration between the OACC, Phi Theta Kappa national honor society and Honda, the event sponsor.

“I am honored to congratulate these All-Ohio Academic Team members,” said Ohio Department of Higher Education Chancellor Mike Duffey.

“Through their academic achievement and breadth of leadership, each will

contribute to the strength and vitality of our state."

The top-performing students were nominated by college faculty, staff and other campus leaders. Students recognized as firstteam honorees will receive $500 scholarships, while second-team members earn $250 scholarships to assist students transferring on to universities to complete their bachelor’s degree requirements. The

All-Ohio Academic Team also includes high-achieving students who are planning to move directly into the workforce. They will also receive recognition and awards.

Members of the 2024 All-Ohio Academic Team are: First Team Marissa Brigger, Brunswick, OH

Morgan Dornbusch, Cincinnati, OH

Heisenberg Francis, Columbus, OH

Samantha Knepper, Delphos, OH

Faith Meraz, Paulding, OH

Isabella Morales, Vermilion, OH

Ayodele Onoyungbo, Willoughby Hills, OH Robert Schultz, Dayton, OH

Rachel Shelton, Lima, OH

Continued on Page 4

Angelica Serrato Robert Schultz

Arts & Entertainment

DML Garden Program

Crafts and gardening come together at Dayton Metro Library to create programs that will help patrons get started on their spring and summer gardens.

Garden to Go Kit with Five Rivers MetroParks, Friday, May 17, 11 am-12 pm, Southeast Branch: Gardening professionals drop by to discuss the best layout for gardens, and patrons can pick up a to-go kit while there. Registration is required – only a few spots remain.

Quilt Lawns: Save Money and Help the Earth, Saturday, May 18, 11 am-12 pm, Wilmington-Stroop Branch: This program is rescheduled from both April 27 and May 11. Dr. Ryan McEwan, a

professor at the University of Dayton, will talk about this alternative to traditional lawns.

Adult DIY: Seed Bombs, Saturday, May 25, 11 am-12:30 pm, Brookville Branch: Patrons can create their own seed bombs that can later be planted in their yard for colorful blooms. Registration is required.

Pollinators, Plants, and You, Monday, June 3, 6-7 pm, Wilmington-Stroop Branch: Learn how to help increase the nesting and feeding areas of your garden to serve the pollinator population.

Wildflower Seed Balls, Thursday, June 6, 2:30-3:30 pm, Northmont Branch: Make seed bombs using native wildflower seeds. Registration is required – very few spots are left!

For more information, and to register if required, visit DaytonMetroLibrary.org or call the Library’s Ask Me Line at 937.463.2665.

DML is committed to providing access to all of our events. If you would like to request accommodations for sign language interpretation, audio amplification, and/or language translation please contact us through the method that best meets your needs. Additional accommodations may be available upon request. Advance notice is necessary to arrange for some accessibility needs.

You can submit an Accommodations Request on our website or call our Ask Me Line at 937.463.2665.

56 Outstanding Community College Students Honored... Continued from Page 3

Bryan Ward, Eastern Gateway Community College Second Team

Isayah Curtis, Westerville, OH

Madison Curtis, Hillsboro, OH

Joseph Demore, Painesville, OH

Jamie Feuerbach, Morrow, OH

John Hancock, Cincinnati, OH

Helena Hardy, Marietta, OH

Robert Schatzer, Waynesville, OH

Amanda Stricker, Columbus, OH

Valerie Voss, Cincinnati, OH

Lillian Westbrock, Marietta, OH Third Team

Gloria Aguiar, Eastern Gateway Community College

Sean Allen, Clark State College Deziree Ayers, Rhodes State College

Showcase Your Talent at DML Rainbow Mic Night

Dayton Metro Library will be hosting Rainbow Open Mic, Thursday, May 16, from 6-8 pm in the Main Library’s Eichelberger Forum.

Various types of performances are encouraged. Patrons who wish to perform must register. A few spots remain. Content that is appropriate for a public setting and that is original is requested. No AI-assisted pieces please.

Audience members do

not need to register. This LGBTQIA+ friendly program is for an adult audience. For more information, and to register, visit DaytonMetroLibrary.org or call the Library’s Ask Me Line at 937.463.2665.

DML is committed to providing access to all of our events. If you would like to request accommodations for sign language interpretation, audio amplification, and/or lan-

guage translation please contact us through the method that best meets your needs. Additional accommodations may be available upon request. Advance notice is necessary to arrange for some accessibility needs.

You can submit an Accommodations Request on our website or call our Ask Me Line at 937.463.2665.

What’s New? and Talk Explore AAVAG Artists

As part of Dayton Metro Library’s celebration of Juneteenth, the Library welcomes a traveling exhibit, What’s New?, from the African American Visual Artists Guild (AAVAG), that will be on display in the 2nd Floor Gallery of the Main Library through Thursday, June 30.

What’s New? is the fourth project for the AAVAG under their Exposition Through Art Program (ETAP), which celebrates the ideas, places, personalities, and facts of the AAVAG community. What’s New? specifically focuses on both a visual and written view of its artists – representing “what is new” in their lives, the community they live in, their world of art, and/

or any new viewpoints the artists may have developed regarding social, political, and religious ideals.

Additionally, DML will host Artists Talk at Bassani Theater on Thursday, June 13, from 6-8:30 pm at the Main Library, in the Bassani Theater Off Third, 3rd Floor. AAVAG artists Andrea Cummings, Nathan Connor, Clarice Moore, and Cedric McGhee will discuss the various themes found in their artwork that is included in the AAVAG’s traveling exhibit. Moderated by DML’s Karen D. Brame from Special Collections, this program is for all ages. For more information, visit DaytonMetroLibrary.org or call the Li-

brary’s Ask Me Line at 937.463.2665. DML is committed to providing access to all of our events. If you would like to request accommodations for sign language interpretation, audio amplification, and/or language translation please contact us through the method that best meets your needs. Additional accommodations may be available upon request. Advance notice is necessary to arrange for some accessibility needs. You can submit an Accommodations Request on our website or call our Ask Me Line at 937.463.2665.

Free Tickets for Area Performances

Dayton Metro Library (DML), Dayton Live, and Dayton Performing Arts Alliance (DPAA) have partnered to provide free tickets to Dayton Metro Library card holders for a variety of select performances that will open for registration on Tuesday, May 7.

Four free tickets will be available for the following Dayton Live performances to be held at the Victoria Theatre, 138 North Main Street, Dayton, 45402:

Performance: Photographer Cristina Mittermeier: Edge of Two Worlds – Ocean & Humanity

Show Date/Time: Sunday, May 19, 3-4:30 pm

Information: Mittermeier, an awarded and accomplished photographer, will share information she has collected aboard the SeaLegacy 1, where she calls home six months each year. In light of the growing challenges our oceans face, she will invite the audience to ask themselves, “What is enough?”

Dominique Ballard, Cuyahoga Community College

Kirby Bjostad, Cuyahoga Community College

Clara Blau, Eastern Gateway Community College

Samantha Cain, Cuyahoga Community College

Cedrick Dave R Charles, Clark State College

Continued on Page 5

Age recommendation: This program is ideal for patrons age 10 and up. Children/babies on laps/ in arms are not permitted.

Performance: The Kite Runner Show Dates/Times: Tuesday, May 28 and Wednesday, May 29, 7:30-9 pm

Information: Based on the international best

seller by Khaled Hosseini and adapted by Matthew Spangler, The Kite Runner takes place across two continents and two decades, and tells the story of childhood friends torn apart. This is presented by both The Human Race Theatre Company and Dayton Live.

Age recommendation: Recommended for audiences age 14 and up, patrons are encouraged to determine for themselves if this show is suitable for all members of their party prior to securing tickets. Four free tickets will be available for the following DPAA performances to be held at Schuster Performing Arts Center, 1 West Second Street, Dayton, 45402:

Performance: Opera Series: An Afternoon with Will Liverman Show Dates/Times: Sunday June 2, 2:30-4:30 pm

Information: Grammynominated baritone Will Liverman will perform works from Black composers as well as pieces from the traditional classical music canon.

Performance:

Masterworks Series: New World Symphony Show Dates/Times: Friday, June 7 and Saturday, June 8, 7:30-9:30 pm Information: To honor Black Music Month, DPAA celebrates African American musical traditions with Florence Price as she blends Joplin-esque

ballroom and ragtime idioms into her Dances. Dvořák’s New World Symphony embraces Black folk music, infusing it with the composer’s Bohemian heritage. During the second part of the program, a community choir will join the orchestra to recognize the African American experience in song. Additional Information: Obtaining tickets: Tickets can be reserved by calling the Box Office at 937.228.3630, Tuesday-Friday, between 10 am-6 pm and will be available for pick up at the Box Office two business days after a reservation is made. Patrons will be asked to show their physical Dayton Metro Library Card. Ticket availability is on a first come, first serve basis and cannot be exchanged or refunded for cash value. Cancellations must go through the Dayton Live Box Office.

Accessibility: Requests can be made at the time of registration. Detailed information about each performance can be found by visiting DaytonMetroLibrary. org. To obtain a free, physical DML card, visit a neighborhood Branch. Additional questions may also be directed to the Library’s Ask Me Line at 937.463.2665.

Classified

Help Wanted

Riegel Financial CPAs Inc. seeks a Tax and Small Business Accountant for its Dayton, OH location.

Duties include: Preparation and analysis of client workpapers and documents, including corporate, partnership, fiduciary, and individual Federal, State and local tax returns. Prepare monthly and quarterly bookkeeping duties, and research tax related issues.

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Editorial & Comments

Something to Consider: Are you Having Difficulty With These Changing Times?

By: Brenda Cochran Contributing Writer

Even though change is an inevitable part of our lives, understanding this does often make such an experience easier to handle. There are ways that are profitable that can make it easier for you to accept all the changes that we have experienced lately and these transitions can be made to move much smoother and less troubling.

Dealing with change does require making adjustments. Sometimes these adjustments may be very small things such as looking for a new way to do something or perhaps adding a new step to the routines that you are used to. At other times, you could find that change introduces many disruptions to the manner in which you live your

life. These disruptions can produce a great deal of stress as well as feelings of anxiety and depression all at the same time. This does not mean that change is usually bad, but even those good changes that make you feel excited can promote stress. You begin to think that things were not that bad before in your daily life. You were comfortable with your routine; you knew what to expect and you were not thrown off by those surprises or those challenges that you never expected. As this change happens, those routines that you loved have suddenly been disrupted and you find that you need to adapt as you work toward pushing forward and further. This automatically means that your comfort zone has been completely gone and you begin to feel that overwhelming sense of things not being right or

Brenda Cochran

good. You begin to notice that you are having headaches that you never had before and you no longer felt like eating those delicious treats you use to crave; you’re not sleeping well and a feeling of real sadness seems to appear often. You also find that you are no longer able to hold your temper. Keeping these things in mind, you feel that you are loss, but don’t forget that

RTA’s Award-Winning ‘Proudly Serving’ Fleet is Complete

The Greater Dayton RTA is celebrating the completion of its 21st and final “Proudly Serving” bus featuring the city of Huber Heights. The bus is part of the agency’s “Proudly Serving” project, which pays tribute to the communities the agency serves.

The Huber Heights bus made its debut during Rushmore Elementary School’s Career Day on May 3. The kids were able to get a firsthand look at the bus, which features Herbert C. Huber Community Park, Carriage Hill MetroPark, Wayne High School, the Rose Music Center at the Heights, and Thomas A. Cloud Memorial Park.

“Huber Heights is grateful for the initiative and effort put into the new city bus by RTA. The bus expresses so many things about our community that anyone who sees it will know immediately it is the Huber Heights bus,” said Huber Heights Mayor Jeff Gore. “Public transportation is becoming more popular, and I know the residents

of Huber Heights join me in being proud of the new bus and the statement it makes about our city. We appreciate the great partnership the city has had over the years with RTA and look forward to continuing that relationship, and the future of that collaboration begins with the new “Proudly Serving” Huber Heights bus.”

This project was the vision of RTA CEO Robert Ruzinsky. He wanted to honor the communities the agency serves and showcase how its buses can connect people to these places.

“From the moment the first two buses were released into service, I knew we had created something special. City leaders sstarted reaching out and asking when their community would get a bus,” said Ruzinsky. “The 21 Proudly Serving community-themed buses have helped foster a sense of community pride throughout Montgomery County and in addition to running in daily service, are used for community events, parades, festivals, etc.”

Each bus design was carefully crafted to emphasize points of interest in a specific community

where the RTA takes riders. Communities featured include Kettering, Trotwood, Montgomery County, Dayton, West Carrollton, Vandalia, Harrison Township, Moraine, Englewood, Jefferson Township, Washington Township, Riverside, Miami Township, Centerville, Huber Heights, Oakwood, Butler Township and Miamisburg. To capture these locations, RTA collaborated with a professional photographer to collect high-resolution photos of about 130 public locations around Montgomery County. The buses also feature a fun fact, estimated population and the year the city or township was founded.

The RTA won a firstplace 2023 Ad Wheel award for its “Proudly Serving” project. The awards go to American Public Transportation Association (APTA) member systems and business members for outstanding marketing, communications and customer experience efforts that contributed to strategic organizational goals.

To learn more about the project, visit www.iriderta.org.

there are strategies that you can use that will make a huge difference for you. Basically, how you cope with the changes in your life plays a significant role in your overall mental wellbeing. This could include how you really feel about your life. If you find yourself struggling with the changes you have had to make, you might often find yourself feeling negative, bitterness or regret about an outcome. I you have a tendency to be resilient in the face of life challenges, you may be able to bounce back and be able to adapt with no trouble at all, but if you tend to struggle more with change, you might require more help so that you are able to get back on track. The good part is that there are some steps that you can take when you are dealing with change which can make your adjustments a lot easier.

The first one is that you need to prepare yourself. You already know that change often happens when you don’t expect it. If you are able to keep an eye on your future and prepare yourself at least mentally, this might be able to help you.

Perhaps you could take some time to think about the events that are coming up in the future that might lead to more changes or disruptions. Remember there other things you can try:1) create checklists of things you need to do before something happens. 2) Save money so that you can avoid financial stress.

3) Talk to a career planner or professional financial expert about the goals that you had. 4) Make choices about what you want to change in your life.

Sometimes you will be the one who initiates the change and there might

be a strong chance that you will have more control over what is going to happen. There are so many unplanned changes that can occur such as a job loss, a divorce, the death of a love one. They can make you feeling afraid and really unsure of what is going to happen. There is one thing that you should not do and that is to avoid the stress although avoidance can sometime reduce the stress, but most research has shown that it actually increases the stress and anxiety.

Here is one life-changing quote. “You can make positive deposits into your own economy every day by reading and listening to powerful, positive, life-changing content and by associating with encouraging and hope-building people.”

“Check Out” Free Admittance to Carillon Park @ DML

Dayton Metro Library is now offering Dayton History Membership Passes for patrons to check out.

The pass is good for entrance into Carillon Historical Park for two adults and up to 10 of their children/ grandchildren, age 17 and under. The pass can be checked out with a patron’s Library card for three weeks at a time, but the passes are not able to be automatically renewed.

The passes are not valid for discounts on items in Carillon’s museum store or for food purchases. Normal ride fees will apply for the Carousel of Dayton Innovation ($1 per person) and the

Carillon Park Railroad ($5 per person per ride).

Stop by any Branch’s Ask Me Desk for more information or visit DML’s online catalog, search for Dayton History Membership Pass, and place a hold for pick up.

Additionally, DML also offers patrons the opportunity to check out Dayton Art Institute Member Cards, which offer entrance into DAI. Those passes can also be checked out for three weeks (cannot be renewed), and are good for admittance for two adults and up to four children. Just search Dayton Art Institute Member Card in DML’s online catalog. For more information, call the Library’s Ask Me Line at 937.463.2665. DML is committed to providing access to all of our events. If you would like to request accommodations for sign language interpretation, audio amplification, and/or language translation please contact us through the method that best meets your needs. Additional accommodations may be available upon request. Advance notice is necessary to arrange for some accessibility needs. You can submit an Accommodations Request on our website or call our Ask Me Line at 937.463.2665.

56 Outstanding Community College Students Honored...

Continued from Page 4

Patronica Cohen, Clark State College

Troy Combs, Eastern Gateway Community College

Drew Conley, Zane State College Ashton Cooper, Cuyahoga Community College

Rebecca Dillon, Clark State College

Amy Everhart, Central Ohio Technical College

Jeannie Fritz, Stark State College Katrusia Fritzky, Cuyahoga Community College

Meagan Gegner, Sinclair Community College

Chloe Jackson, Eastern Gateway Community

College Allyson Janes, Hocking College Kayla Klugh, Marion Technical College Gregg Laukhuf, Owens Community College Alyk Lippincott, Southern State Community College Ikia Martin, Stark State College Miranda McClurg, Southern State Community College Frederick McKitrick, Washington State College of Ohio

Seth Millhoane, Cuyahoga Community College

Taylor Mountcastle, Cuyahoga Community

College Melissa Norris, Eastern Gateway Community College

Victor Palermo, Lakeland Community College Brenna Remy, Hocking College

Jenna Rhoades, Southern State Community College

Kimberly Sallee, Hocking College

McKenna Schramm, Zane State College

Angelica Serrato, Sinclair Community College

Justin Showman, Zane State College

Bethany Wallace, Rhodes State College

Worship At The Church Of Your Choice

ST. MARGARET'S EPISC OPAL CHURCH Episcopal Church Women (ECW) YOUR SOUL MATTERS: MOTHER’S DAY 2024 Pastor/Chaplain Pamelajune (Pj) Anderson, DMin. Lt. Commander (RET) USN Chaplain Corps TFAM National Veteran’s Support Chaplain Certified Peer Support Specialist BE STILL AND YOUR SOUL WILL SPEAK

Cordially Invites you to our Annual Women’s Day Celebration Church Service

Keynote Speaker DR. KAREN TOWNSEND Author, Speaker and Organizational development consultant dedicated to helping you live and lead … confidently

You are to honor your father and mother. If you do, you and your children will live long and well in the land the Eternal God has promised to give you. Exodus 20:21 The Voice

Mother's Day can be a challenging time of year - especially when you're struggling and in grief. On Mother’s Day, I think of my Mother, colleagues whose Mothers died, Sands, and friends, and I think of the Mother of Jesus. I also think of my fellow Veterans and their mothers.

Mothers, in my generation and before, were prayer worriers who prayed for their husbands, lovers, sons, and daughters; they worked in the homes of the wealthy to supplement the household income.

A Grief Yogaist wrote, “Mothers who have lost children, Those who have lost mothers, Those with strained mother relationships, Mothers with strained child relationships, Those who have chosen not to be mothers, Those yearning to be mothers, Those who longest a sibling with whom you shared your mother,

The loss of someone who made you feel special as a mom, And all the other ways Mother's Day hurts,” you are not alone. The Spirit of Motherhood is always with you.

Mothers, regardless of the circumstances, have a unique power to pray for their children and to show them the unconditional love that comes from God through the Spirit of Motherhood. Even when it's difficult to honor our parents, we can still treasure them, support them, and make their lives easier. And in return, we are promised a long and hearty life, filled with the blessings of this love.

LOVE YE ONE ANOTHER

YOUR SOUL MATTERS: MOTHER’S DAY BE STILL, AND YOUR SOUL WILL SPEAK

transformed into a hub of community, connection, and collaboration.”

CURIO was partially supported by a $75,000 Community Placemaking Grant from Project for Public Spaces (PPS), funded by General Motors. PPS and DDP collaborated on several community info sessions to learn what would be the most impactful use for the grant funds.

“Courthouse Square is at the center of our downtown, and CURIO will help to emphasize its importance as a gathering space,” said Laura Woeste, Director of Strategic Projects for the Downtown Dayton Partnership. “The guidance, planning and input from PPS and our community will help CURIO and Courthouse Square become a place that can give back.”

From May through September, the Downtown Dayton Partnership will program CURIO at Courthouse Square with lunchtime events from noon to 2 p.m. Tuesdays through Thursdays, and themed social events from 4 to 6 p.m. each Wednesday.

“We want CURIO to be a destination for everyone. We’re planning a wide variety of events including live entertainment, fitness, games, pets, vendors, and more,” said Lynn Robertson, Special Events Manager for the Downtown Dayton Partnership.

“Whether you're craving a midday pick-me-up, a post-work wind-down, or a chance to connect with your community, CURIO has got you covered!” CURIO Lunch Box is the evolution of The Square Is Where and will take place from noon to 2 p.m. Tuesday through Thursday. Downtown employees, residents, and visitors are encouraged to get take-out from a nearby restaurant or stop by a visiting food truck and dine on Courthouse Square to enjoy free entertainment. Gather coworkers, friends, or even strangers to compete for prizes during Trivia Tuesday, turn lunch hour into a fitness break on Workout Wednesday, and enjoy live, acoustic entertainment during Unplugged Thursday.

Break out of the box and embrace the extraordinary on Wednesday evenings from 4 to 6 p.m. at CURIO

Midweek Mix! The first Wednesday of the month is The Market, where guests are invited to shop a variety of vendors. Grab a mic and give it your all during the second Wednesday of the month at Curioke. The Arts take center stage on the third Wednesday of the month with performances, classes, and more from downtown’s diverse arts community. Week four is all about pets as Wild Whiskers hosts cash bingo with proceeds supporting local animal rescues. Friendly, leashed pets are welcome to join the party and varying activities like pet costume contests, agility courses, and photography. Finally, enjoy Spotlight Performances from local bands and performers on the fifth Wednesday of the month when they occur. Schedules and more information about CURIO Lunch Box and CURIO Midweek Mix will soon be available on the CURIO webpage.

Black Author/Creator’s Coloring Book Series Addresses Mental Health Issues, Bullying and Suicide

Meet Henderson Vaughan, the mastermind behind The Real Adventures Of Captain85, a coloring book for Black children that has proven to be a powerful tool to raise awareness and inspire action on issues such as gun violence, bullying, suicide, and mental health. More than just a fun activity for kids and adults, his coloring book features comic real-life stories and characters that are based on his personal experiences.

Vaughan, who also used the name Captain85 as a DJ and entertainer, was inspired to create the comic book character in 1979 after reading a verse from the Bible. He wanted to share his message of hope and faith with others, especially the youth who are facing challenges and hardships in their lives. He has received

Henderson Vaughn many awards from local and national organizations, including the 2024 President’s Volunteer Service Award, for his work and dedication.

The coloring book allows readers to engage with the character and their world in a different way by actively participating in the coloring process. Each page depicts a specific scene or moment from the character’s adventures, which are based on real-life situations. The reader becomes the colorist of the story, adding color to the characters, backgrounds, and other elements on the page. They can also use their imagination to create their own versions of the scenes, adding personal touches and interpretations as they color.

The combination of a comic book character with real-life stories and

characters can offer a rich and immersive coloring experience. It allows readers to not only enjoy the act of coloring but also become more involved in the narrative and world-building aspects of the story. It can be a great way to spark creativity and imagination while engaging with the Captain85 character and their storylines.

The Real Adventures of Captain85 Coloring Book was released in February 2024 and is a coloring book with a message for the Black community as well as a creative twist to the traditional coloring book experience that can make a difference.

To learn more information and/or to purchase the coloring book, visit his official website at StableBoyPublishing. com

Caregivers: Your Mental Health Merits Care!

Every year in May, mental health is the topic of discussion.

Mental health challenges come from an array of circumstances. Considering the mental health of a caregiver is often a second thought until they experience burnout, a health challenge, or even an early death. Yes, the caregiver has died due to the lack

of caring for themselves. Let’s talk about it! Let’s make it make sense.

When taking on the role of a caregiver, losing your identity follows close behind. Many do not even see it coming. Going about the days and nights of caring for our loved ones, we lose ourselves without realizing it.

I am speaking from true experience!

Caring for my mother was a full-time job, mentally and physically. All hands and feet, eyes and ears, were on deck watching over her, managing her doctor visits, being present during hospitalization (grateful there were few of those), medication management, equipment management, meal preparation, bathing, grooming, toileting, dressings, undressing, laundry, grocery shopping, exercising the mind and body of our loved one, and somewhere in there, delivering entertainment …shall I go on?

This is the reality of caring for our loved ones. The care is always directed toward the care recipient. The caregiver rarely

gets a break or breather. The truth is that all attention is directed toward loved ones, and caregivers lose themselves. Hearing the stories of many caregivers… the reality is they become guilty (I did), angry (I did), frustrated (I did), hostile (I did), isolated (I did), sleep deprived (I did), sick (I did), and burnt out (I did).

Caregivers’ Mental Health Merits Care

First, acknowledge that what you do matters. Second, recognize your ability and inability to deal with the many factors that caregiving demands.

Daily caregiving rituals can begin long before the sun rises and well after the sun sets. The demands are many, and they occur in no set order, or time of day. When demands of the role happen, action is required for safety’s sake, and moments of personal self-care become less and less.

Family caregivers must take daily steps to address their physical, emotional, and mental well-being.

Tips I’d like to share include:

• Getting up an hour or more to self-care

• Find times in the day to nap (nap when loved ones nap)

• Invite your village to help out (family and friends)

• Respite care is affordable

• Make time for health care (physicals, eye care, mammograms, and prostate examinations

• Listen to your favorite music

• Read a good book

As Your Proactive Caregiver Advocate, know that I know the journey. I share from a place of empathy and experience. This is not what I heard; this is what I know.

Let me emphasize that taking care of yourself is not selfish or shameful!

Finally, have a sense of humor. Some things that happen in the caregiving space require you to laugh out loud! Just do it!

Black Doctor’s Head-To-Toe Health Book Empowers African American Women to Live a Phenomenal Life

If anyone wonders why today’s Black women need a health book geared specifically to them, look no further than BLACK WOMEN’S WELLNESS: Your “I’ve Got This!” Guide to Health, Sex & Phenomenal Living (Sounds True; $26.99).

The author, Dr. Melody T. McCloud, is an obstetrician-gynecologist, public speaker, and experienced all-media consultant.

Dr. Melody T. McCloud

presents how gun violence is not only a public safety crisis but also a public health crisis that requires “all hands on deck” — especially Black parents— to save the community.

Women should see an obstetrician even before becoming pregnant and should not delay prenatal care. “Women are usually the health stewards of the family. Changing the health of Black women can change that of her family, and all future generations. Get your babies off to a solid start.”

Notably endorsed by musician, Pauletta Washington (yes, Denzel’s wife); ABC News/ Red Cross Blood Donors

While no one can predict when an accident might happen, donors can help keep hospitals stocked with blood products and ready to go the moment a patient needs them. That’s why, during Trauma Awareness Month in May, the American Red Cross asks donors of all blood types to make an appointment to give now and help save lives this month.

Thanks to Sport Clips Haircuts, all who come to donate April 29-May 31 will get a coupon for a free haircut by email. Plus, those who come to give April 29-May 19

Good Morning America’s Chief Medical Correspondent, Dr. Jen Ashton; and

will be automatically entered for a chance to win a trip for two and VIP racing experience to the 2024 NASCAR Cup Series and Xfinity Races at Darlington Raceway Labor Day weekend.

Those who come to give April 29-May 19 will also get a bonus $10 e-gift card to a merchant of choice. Visit RedCrossBlood.org/ racetogive for more details on all offers.

The attached news release details the current need for blood donors.

Please let me know if you’d like to schedule an interview or need additional information.

“America’s Psychologist,”

Dr. Jeff Gardere, the book includes comparative data for all women, but focuses on Black women given current healthcare outcomes. Importantly, the author addresses what other authors often omit: The effect racism and microaggressions—psychosocial stressors—have on Black women’s physical and mental health.

McCloud’s exclusive

“Societal Stress & Black Women’s Health: The ‘Rejection Connection’” flowchart demonstrates how psychosocial stress can also affect physical health and can even lead to death. “Stress increases your cortisol and other stress hormones,” she says, “that can lead to hypertension, heart disease, obesity, and diabetes…all

potential killer diseases.”

The easy-to-read book presents clinical data, motivating anecdotes, and tools to enable readers to overcome longstanding health inequities and improve their physical, psychological, and social well-being. It is a “keep handy” resource for women to learn the signs, symptoms, treatments, and preventive measures for head-to-toe conditions including heart disease, diabetes, cancers, HIV, multiple sclerosis, eye, lung, and gyn conditions, as well as mental conditions dementia and personality disorders.

The book has intriguing chapters about sex and sexual health, “down-low risks,” love, relationships, also domestic abuse. It

Pregnancy-related mortality is addressed at length. “We have such high rates of maternal, perinatal, and infant, mortality,” says McCloud; “and yes, implicit bias is real: Many times, Black women’s concerns are not ‘heard.’ But note: The number-one reason for pregnancy-related mortality is that Black women do not start prenatal care early—in the first trimester. Almost 90% of maternal morbidity and mortality cases are preventable.”

The book is written for the general public but also can be valuable to health professionals. There is a checklist for readers to review their family’s medical history, and also a selfinventory checklist for readers to complete and show their doctors.