Darius Beckham, Karen Wick, Jeffrey Mims, Derrick Foward, Daryl Fairchild, Jacob Davis, Shenise Turner-Sloss, Tom Roberts (L-R) October 3, 2025 On a recent Monday evening, the NAACP hosted a mayoral and city commission forum at the Dayton Metro Library. Residents packed the room to hear how candidates plan to guide the city through issues of leadership, safety, economic development, and, at the heart of it all, housing. The event featured familiar leaders and first-time candidates alike. Questions ranged from cybersecurity and water billing to city management and neighborhood investment. But time and again, the conversation circled back to where people live, how homes are maintained, and what city government should do to make neighborhoods stronger. The Event and the Candidates Mayor Jeffrey Mims  emphasized economic development, job creation, and large-scale demolition as steps toward city growth. He pointed to investments in hotels, infrastructure, and education initiatives as measures that indirectly support housing stability. Commissioner Shenise Turner-Sloss  pressed accountability, stressing that behind positive headlines, the city faces growing homelessness and eviction crises. She called for transparent partnerships with the county and clear performance metrics for the city manager to ensure housing policies are executed fairly. Commissioner Daryl Fairchild  focused on neighborhoods, calling for stronger youth investment, better code enforcement, and technology upgrades that make it easier for residents to navigate city systems. Jacob Davis , attorney and first-time candidate, proposed linking nuisance abatement directly to first-time homeownership opportunities, and backed a Housing Trust Fund to expand repair and down-payment assistance programs. Darius Beckham , nonprofit leader, and Karen Wick , longtime business owner and school board member, emphasized relationship-building and more accessible mini-grant funding for neighborhood projects, especially in areas with fewer resources. Housing Implications Neighborhood Stabilization Candidates differed on how to balance demolition with repair and rehab. Mims highlighted the city’s demolition track record, while Turner-Sloss and Fairchild stressed that continued teardown without enough reinvestment risks hollowing out neighborhoods. Affordability & Homelessness Several candidates underscored the urgency of addressing a rising unhoused population, high eviction rates, and persistent poverty. Turner-Sloss and Davis tied these issues to accountability, insisting that housing programs need more transparency and measurable outcomes. Utility & Billing Reforms Water billing was cited as a hidden burden on residents, with Davis advocating for longer notice windows and Turner-Sloss calling to bring billing back under city control. Both framed this as part of protecting housing stability. Mini-Grant Accessibility Wick and Beckham argued that small-scale neighborhood grants should be simpler to access and equitably distributed. Their proposals included guaranteed set-asides for each neighborhood and tiered micro-grants, ensuring even low-capacity groups can launch housing-related projects. City–County Partnerships The strained relationship between Dayton and Montgomery County was flagged as a barrier to tackling housing and homelessness head-on. Turner-Sloss pledged quarterly joint meetings, while Davis described collaboration as essential for nuisance property abatement, supportive housing, and mental health services. Why It Matters for Housing Dayton’s housing future depends not only on funding but also on functioning governance. The candidates’ housing visions reveal the city’s crossroads: Will demolition dominate, or will rehab and repair share equal footing? Will nuisance properties remain a drag, or become affordable homes for first-time buyers? Will mini-grants and utility reforms relieve pressure, or will red tape keep frustrating residents? With housing identified as a top issue by both candidates and community leaders, November’s election will play a decisive role in whether Dayton neighborhoods stabilize, grow, and thrive in the years ahead.

Quinones Corniel Dayton, OH  — Cure Violence Global (CVG), a nationally recognized organization that treats violence as a public-health issue, is bringing its proven model to Dayton. The initiative will initially focus on the Residence Park  neighborhood and the Main Street corridor , areas identified as high-need by community stakeholders. CVG’s approach is built on the idea that violence spreads like a contagious disease, and can be interrupted through early intervention, outreach, and community support. Local leaders and organizations are working alongside CVG to adapt the program to Dayton’s unique needs. By partnering with grassroots groups, faith-based organizations, and social service providers, the program aims to interrupt cycles of violence, mediate conflicts, and connect at-risk individuals with critical resources. “Violence is a public-health issue—partners are wanted,” said organizers, emphasizing the importance of collective community involvement. The success of the program depends on collaboration, with a call for more neighborhood groups, nonprofits, and residents to step forward. Cure Violence has shown results in cities across the country, reducing shootings and homicides by addressing root causes and building positive alternatives. Dayton’s rollout is seen as a promising step toward safer neighborhoods and stronger community bonds.

By Lauren Wood Living with Sickle Cell, siblings Marcus and Emma Marcus is the quiet, gentle type who’s into arts and film. His favorite subject is math. His little sister is strong willed and stands up for herself, though mom Angela says she has “a heart of gold.” She lives for gymnastics and loves reading. Though Marcus and Emma are opposites in how they live their lives, they do share one thing. They live with sickle cell disease, a group of inherited red blood cell disorders. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, six types exist, with three being more common. Healthy red blood cells are round and move through small blood vessels to carry oxygen to all areas of the body. In someone with sickle cell disease, the cells become hard and sticky and look like sickles, C-shaped farm tools. The misshapen cells die early and clog blood flow in the small vessels. This can cause not only pain crises, but other serious problems such as infection, acute chest syndrome and stroke. “I knew I had the trait, but my husband did not know,” Angela says. That means that though Angela didn’t have the disease, she had one of the genes responsible for it, which could be passed along to her children. If the other parent also has the trait and another copy of the gene gets passed along, then their children will be born with the condition. When Angela was six months pregnant, her obstetrician ordered a test for her husband, Marcus Sr. They learned then that he had sickle cell trait. The couple spent the remaining three months of the pregnancy preparing for the possibility that their baby boy would be born with sickle cell disease. They learned all they could by scouring medical websites and talking with family members, including Marcus Sr.’s cousin, who was in her early 40s and had sickle cell disease. “We reached out to her to lean on her experience,” Angela said. Three months later, Marcus Jr. arrived. He was born with sickle cell disease but otherwise was healthy. That’s when the family turned to the Sickle Cell program at Johns Hopkins All Children’s Hospital in St. Petersburg, Florida. They knew their son would receive the highest quality of care. The first visit to the hospital was “nerve wracking,” Angela says. “We didn’t know what to expect. All I knew was my son had this condition, and I needed to do my best to keep him healthy.” Two years later, Emma arrived. Angela describes her as “a blessing from the Lord.” Like her brother, Emma also has sickle cell disease. This time, the family felt more confident that their second child was in expert hands. Both children have the HBSS-type, the most common form of sickle cell disease. This type is marked by reduced oxygen flow through the body resulting in fatigue, skin pallor, shortness of breath, lightheadedness, dizziness or a fast heartbeat. The siblings come in every two months for monitoring and routine labs. They are also on a daily dose of hydroxyurea, a preventative oral medicine that causes the body to increase its production of fetal hemoglobin and therefore lower the production of sickle cells. Though not a cure, it can significantly decrease the risk of life-threatening complications such as stroke and acute chest syndrome. It can also decrease the frequency of vaso-occlusive pain crisis and decrease the risk for organ damage that can occur later in life. Angela says the regular visits provide peace of mind in that they offer her and her husband a chance to ask questions and the staff opportunities to check them thoroughly and address anything that the family may not have noticed. Marcus Jr. began taking art class five months ago. During a recent clinic visit, he showed off a painting inspired by the condition he and Emma share. With Gann’s encouragement, he used his talents to help design a shirt to raise awareness of sickle cell disease. “He wanted to do something on the creative side that would attract attention to other kids but also wanted to express himself and what sickle cell means to him,” his mom said. Angela says both children are doing well, thanks to their positive attitudes and the care team at Johns Hopkins All Children’s Hospital. “Kids with sickle cell can have the normal lifestyle as any child without conditions,” she says. “We as parents just have to make sure that they are staying hydrated throughout the day and given breaks when needed. I have noticed them having more energy, especially when playing outside, and it also gives us parents a sense of peace that it’s working and keeping them from getting into crises as often as they were.”

By Traci Martin, Greater Dayton Realtist President & NAACP Housing Chair Abandoned home in Westwood [Photo: Juliet Fromholt / WYSO] A rise of investor groups and large corporations purchasing single-family homes has become an alarming trend. Instead of these properties going to individual families, they are increasingly being bought up in bulk, turned into rental units, and held for profit. Corporate Landlords:  These investor groups — often backed by Wall Street or private equity — often come with cash offers, easily outbidding local families who must rely on mortgages. Shrinking Homeownership Opportunities:  Every house that becomes a rental is one less house available for a first-time buyer or family trying to build wealth. Future Projection:  If this trend continues, experts warn that in the next five years, a much larger share of single-family homes will be held as rentals, leaving very little inventory for potential homeowners. Why This Matters for Black Homeownership: For Black families — already facing systemic barriers to mortgages, credit, and appraisals — this trend is especially alarming. Even when qualified, many families find themselves competing not with another local buyer, but with an investor group that can buy entire blocks in cash. That means… Higher rents:  Families are stuck paying more with no ownership stake. Lower inventory:  There are fewer affordable homes available to purchase. Wealth gap widens:  Renting does not provide equity or long-term wealth. Local Impact for Dayton: This issue isn’t just national. Dayton neighborhoods have already seen investor purchases rise — particularly in areas with lower-priced homes where working families would normally get their start. If unchecked, the city could see: Neighborhoods dominated by absentee landlords. More transient residents, weakening community stability. Generational wealth opportunities disappearing as fewer families are able to buy. Beyond investor activity, Black families continue to face steep challenges: Access to credit, down payment assistance, fair appraisals, zoning incentives for affordable housing, and protections against predatory investor practices. What Needs to Change To help reverse the trend, several steps are crucial: Expand affordable housing stock — especially entry-level homes for first-time buyers. Strengthen down payment and closing cost assistance, particularly for Black households. Enforce fair lending and appraisal practices, ensuring Black buyers aren’t unfairly denied or undervalued. Curb predatory investor activity by supporting policies that prioritize owner-occupants in affordable price ranges. Educate families on estate planning and heirs’ property issues, so generational wealth isn’t lost through legal loopholes. Conclusion With declining affordability, systemic bias, and an investor-driven market tilting toward rentals. For Black Daytonians, the stakes could not be higher. The fight for homeownership is about more than buying a house — it is about securing stability, building wealth, and preserving the future of entire communities. The question now is how Dayton, alongside national policymakers and industry leaders, will rise to meet this moment.

Originally published in Dayton Weekly News | September 12–19, 2025 A transformative new chapter is unfolding in sickle cell care for local families, thanks to the powerful collaboration between Dayton Children’s Hospital and Nationwide Children’s Hospital. Seventeen-year-old Carlos, a Dayton resident living with sickle cell disease (SCD), is now thriving at home—pain-free after becoming one of the first patients in the nation to receive CASGEVY , a cutting-edge gene therapy recently approved for clinical use. Carlos’ journey with sickle cell disease began at just one year old. For years, he endured severe pain crises, organ damage and frequent hospitalizations. But thanks to Nationwide Children’s and Dayton Children’s one program, two campus approach to bone marrow transplants, Carlos was able to receive this groundbreaking therapy with the support of both institutions every step of the way. “Thanks to the active collaboration between Nationwide Children’s and Dayton Children’s, Carlos’ care following discharge will continue closer to his home,” said Mukund Dole, MD , pediatric hematologist-oncologist at Dayton Children’s Hospital and medical director of the West Central Ohio Comprehensive Sickle Cell Center in Dayton. Carlos’ 18-month journey to gene therapy included close coordination between his Dayton Children’s care team and specialists at Nationwide Children’s. He received monthly exchange transfusions, multiple rounds of stem cell mobilization, chemotherapy and finally, the CASGEVY  infusion—a CRISPR-based therapy that reactivates the body’s ability to produce fetal hemoglobin. The result: red blood cells that can once again flow freely, without causing the painful blockages that define sickle cell disease. “Carlos has been through a very traumatic journey with his sickle cell disease, so when we presented this gene therapy option to his family, they were excited to pursue it,” said Hemalatha Rangarajan, MD , pediatric stem cell transplant physician at Nationwide Children’s. “The type of gene therapy Carlos has undergone resulted in a reawakening of the fetal hemoglobin, the hemoglobin that is present in utero. Now, Carlos is making his own fetal hemoglobin, which should not cause further sickle cell crisis.” While the infusion itself took less than an hour, the impact is lifelong. Carlos is now pain-free and optimistic about what lies ahead. “I want to enjoy life before I get to the grind. I want to go outside for longer, be in extreme temperatures for as long as I want, because my physical strength can be up for it,”said Carlos . “I wish that this had been available earlier in my life, and I hope that a lot more kids get access to this, not just me.” With recovery now underway, Carlos will continue his follow-up care at Dayton Children’s, thanks to the shared program’s integrated approach. This joint effort ensures seamless continuity of care, from gene therapy consultation through long-term monitoring and support. “We didn’t think people cared enough about sickle cell, because it only affects a certain demographic of Americans,” said Carlos’ grandmother, Crystal Sullivan . “Now, Carlos has his freedom. We can finally do whatever he wants—without fear of pain.” Nationwide Children’s  became an authorized treatment center for CASGEVY in December 2023. The therapy, which uses CRISPR technology  to edit a patient’s own stem cells, is the first of its kind and represents a promising leap forward in the search for a cure. About the West Central Ohio Comprehensive Sickle Cell Center: The Center’s mission is to provide continuing, coordinated, and comprehensive care to children and adults with sickle cell disease, sickle cell trait, and other hemoglobinopathies. It also coordinates the Region II Ohio Newborn Screening Program. Contact: 937-641-5014  or 1-800-228-4055 ext. 5014 Visit Dayton Children’s Sickle Cell Services

Tom Roberts Originally published in Dayton Weekly News | September 12–19, 2025 On Saturday, August 23, 2025, the Ohio Conference NAACP held its biennial election at the Hilton Polaris Hotel in Columbus, Ohio. The newly elected officers will serve two-year terms beginning August 23, 2025, and ending September 11, 2027. Former Ohio State Senator Tom Roberts was re-elected as President of the Ohio Conference NAACP. He ran unopposed. Dr. Derrick L. Foward, NAACP Image Award-winning activist and President of the Dayton NAACP, was also re-elected as 1st Vice President. Andre Washington, President of Ohio APRI, retained his position as 2nd Vice President. Annette McCoy, President of the Trumbull County NAACP, was re-elected as 3rd Vice President. They all ran unopposed. Chais Ross, a member of the Stark County NAACP, was elected as Secretary, defeating Dr. Dora Bronston, former Vice Mayor of Middletown, with 54.43% of the vote. Sheila Dawkins-Flinn, a member of the Akron NAACP, was elected as Assistant Secretary. Danielle Sydnor, former President of the Cleveland NAACP, was elected as Treasurer. Rev. Dr. Willie L. Perryman, Jr., former President of the Toledo NAACP, was elected as Assistant Treasurer. They all ran unopposed. The Ohio Conference NAACP Youth & College Division also held elections. Emari Edmonds, President of the Warren-Trumbull County Youth Council, was re-elected as President of the Youth & College Division. Lynnisha Foster, Vice President of the Toledo NAACP Youth Council, was elected as Vice President of the Youth & College Division. LTC (R) Claudia L. Mason, a member of the Dayton NAACP, was re-elected as State Youth Advisor, while Matthew White, a member of the Cleveland NAACP, was elected as State Youth Co-Advisor. They all ran unopposed. “I appreciate my colleagues all across the Buckeye State of Ohio for believing in my leadership and I’m ready to get back to work on behalf of all Ohioans from an advocacy standpoint,” said Roberts. “I ask every Ohioan to stand up and move forward by registering an alarming and unprecedented number of people to vote throughout our 88 counties and ensure they have rides to the polls on election day! I’m fired up and ready to go! Are you?” said Roberts. Founded in 1930, the Ohio Conference of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) is the state’s oldest and largest nonpartisan civil rights organization. Its members across the great Buckeye State of Ohio are the premier advocates for civil rights in their communities. Their core goal is to “Build the Conference One Unit at a Time” to empower the Citizenry as they pursue justice and equality for all Americans. For more information on the Ohio Conference NAACP, please call (937) 478-7895.

Written by Sessions Lending Group, LLC | NMLSR ID 2531674 On September 5, 2025, a major victory for homebuyers—and especially for Black Americans navigating the mortgage process—was signed into law. The Homebuyers Privacy Protection Act (H.R. 2808) is now official, and it brings long-overdue safeguards to protect your personal financial information during one of life’s biggest milestones: buying a home. What This Law Does This bipartisan legislation amends the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) to stop credit reporting agencies from selling your credit information—known as “trigger leads”—without your permission. These leads are often sold to third-party lenders the moment you apply for a mortgage, flooding your phone and inbox with unsolicited offers, many of which are misleading or predatory. Under the new law, your credit report can only be shared if: You explicitly consent to it, The lender has a pre-existing relationship with you, or The offer is a firm offer of credit or insurance. This means no more surprise calls, no more bait-and-switch offers, and no more exploitation of your financial data. Why This Matters for Black Communities For Black Americans, who already face systemic barriers in housing and lending, this law is a powerful step toward equity. Trigger leads have disproportionately affected our communities by: Exposing buyers to scams that promise low rates but deliver high fees, Undermining trust in legitimate lenders, And complicating the homebuying journey with confusion and misinformation. By limiting who can access your credit data, this law helps ensure that your path to homeownership is safer, clearer, and more respectful of your privacy. What You Can Do Next Work with trusted lenders like Sessions Lending Group who prioritize your privacy and financial well-being. Know your rights under the new law—ask questions and demand transparency. Spread the word to friends and family who are thinking about buying a home. This is more than a policy change—it’s a protection of your power, your privacy, and your path to generational wealth. Sessions Lending Group , also known as SLG , offers our clients a tailored comprehensive macro approach to short and long-term goals . https://sessionslending.com/

Originally published in Dayton Weekly News | September 12–19, 2025 Some of us are old enough to remember exactly where we were and how we felt when we watched in horror as the planes hit the twin towers on September 11th, 2001. Our country was under attack and there were so many unknowns in that moment. Now imagine it being your job to run toward the danger instead of fleeing from it. For a group of Black first responders on 9/11, that’s exactly what they did, among other heroes. The New York City Fire Department has within its ranks an organization created by Black firefighters. The Vulcan Society was founded in 1940 to advocate for Black firefighters and fight discrimination within the department. On 9/11, twelve members of the Vulcan Society lost their lives while fighting to protect those in harm’s way. Gerard Baptiste  was 35 years old and a National Guard reservist. Tarel Coleman  was described as energetic, earning him the nickname “Prozac.” He was a father of two. Keith A. Glascoe  worked at Ladder 21. He was a former college football player who had a tryout with the New York Jets but ultimately played overseas in Italy. He also had some acting credits, including a role as one of the Stansfield Men in The Professional . William L. Henry Jr.  was a 20-year veteran. He was described as an excellent handyman. Everyone called him “Buddy.” Keithroy Maynard  was a leader in the Vulcan Society and passionate about diversity in the FDNY. He was also a dedicated father. Vernon Allan Richard  was the first Black firefighter promoted to Lieutenant from his eligibility list. The department honored him by posthumously promoting him to Captain after his death. Leon W. Smith Jr.  enjoyed building miniature cars in his spare time. He was dedicated to the FDNY and his duties despite being the victim of racism early in his career. Shawn E. Powell  was described as having a love for life with various interests. He was also an Army reservist. He worked at Engine Company 207. Karl H. Joseph  was a probationary firefighter. His peers described him as “having the right stuff.” Ronnie L. Henderson  was a father of four and a Marine veteran. He was with Engine 279. Andre G. Fletcher  was a firefighter with Rescue 5. He was off-duty that day but decided to go help due to a shortage of manpower. He was posthumously promoted to Fire Marshal. Vernon Paul Cherry  was 49 years old and planning to retire at the end of the year. He was known for being instrumental in helping to bridge the racial barriers within the department. He was a talented vocalist and served the department for 29 years. Aside from the firefighters, there were also other Black heroes that stepped up. Jason Thomas  had recently left active duty as a Marine in August. That day, he was dropping his daughter off at his mother’s home when he found out about the attack. He didn’t hesitate. He changed into his camouflage uniform and made his way into the city. He, along with another serviceman, climbed the debris with nothing but an infantryman’s shovel and were able to rescue two Port Authority police officers. He also returned to Ground Zero every day for two and a half weeks to help. Thomas told the Associated Press: “Someone needed help. It didn’t matter who,” he said. “I didn’t even have a plan. But I have all this training as a Marine, and all I could think was, ‘My city is in need.’” LeRoy Homer Jr.  was a pilot on Flight 93 from Newark to San Francisco. After the four al-Qaeda terrorists hijacked his plane, he, along with others, fought to take back the plane. The struggle ultimately resulted in the plane crashing in a field near Shanksville, Pennsylvania, potentially saving hundreds, if not thousands of lives. We honor the bravery of these Black heroes who answered the call, not just on 9/11, but every day. May we never forget their sacrifice—and may their stories inspire generations to come. - The Dayton Weekly News

Jesse Patterson When Dayton native Jesse Patterson opened the doors of Southern Hospitality on Juneteenth, it wasn’t just the launch of a new restaurant — it was the beginning of a cultural movement. Located at 5031 Chatterton Road in Columbus, Southern Hospitality is a casual restaurant that blends the bold, rich flavors of West African cuisine with soul food staples from the American South. From Jerk Chicken Egg Rolls to Lamb Chops and Lobster Mac & Cheese, the menu is as much a culinary journey as it is a tribute to Patterson’s heritage. “This has always been bigger than food,” said Patterson. “It’s about creating a space where culture, community, and comfort come together. Southern Hospitality isn’t just the name — it’s the way we make people feel the moment they walk through the door.” Patterson, who grew up in Dayton and now resides in Columbus, has spent over a decade in the hospitality and restaurant industry, managing numerous Southern Hospitality is his first owned and operated food venture — a longtime dream fueled by his passion for service and creating meaningful experiences. Before opening his own place, Patterson gained his footing through leadership roles at national chains and independent restaurants alike. His experience, paired with his entrepreneurial spirit, laid the foundation for what has quickly become one of Columbus’ most talked about new eateries. The opening on June 19th — a symbolic date marking Juneteenth — was intentional. “Juneteenth represents freedom and forward movement,” Patterson said. “It was the perfect moment to launch something that honors our history while creating space for celebration.” With a capacity of 250 and an atmosphere that feels like Sunday dinner at Grandma’s house, Southern Hospitality offers not only exceptional food but also live music every weekend with Soulful Saturdays, featuring live music R&B, Funk, and Reggae. The venue is also available for private events, further strengthening its place in the community. But Patterson isn't stopping in Columbus. “My roots are in Dayton, and that’s where my heart is,” he shared. “My goal is to bring Southern Hospitality back home — and eventually expand into Cincinnati and Cleveland too.” Patterson is also the co-owner of The Speakeasy, downtown Columbus, and he’s building a brand that reflects excellence, authenticity, and culture. “I want to show young people from Dayton that it’s possible,” he said. “Possible to build, to dream, to lead — and to always stay grounded in where you come from.” Southern Hospitality 5031 Chatterton Rd. Columbus, OH Tues–Thurs: 5-11 p.m. | Fri–Sat 5-11 p.m. Soulful Saturdays every weekend with live music Follow @soho614 on Instagram

Honoring Legacy. Investing in the Future. Building Forward. By RoShawn Winburn Every August, Dayton Weekly News joins communities across the country in observing Black Business Month - a time to elevate Black entrepreneurship and drive conversations around equity, ownership, and generational wealth. For us, it’s more than a tribute. It’s a commitment. We honor the visionaries who built businesses despite discrimination and systemic barriers. In Dayton, legends like W.S. McIntosh and CJ McLin stood as beacons of economic self-determination, proving that Black enterprise is about far more than income. It’s about empowerment and community. Today, Black-owned businesses remain underrepresented and underfunded. Although Black Americans make up 14.4% of the U.S. population, they own just 2.4% of employer businesses [U.S. Census Bureau, 2023]. Yet they continue to create jobs, close wealth gaps, and uplift neighborhoods. This August, Dayton Weekly News is featuring stories, profiles, and resources that showcase Black excellence across industries—from food and beauty to tech, trades, and finance. But celebration alone is not enough. We must move from symbolic support to intentional investment. “If just 15% of Black consumer spending were redirected to Black-owned businesses, it could generate over 600,000 new jobs.” — Brookings Institution, 2020 Black Business Month, co-founded in 2004 by historian John William Templeton and engineer Frederick E. Jordan Sr., was designed to push for policy change and promote the economic agency of Black communities. In Dayton, it also serves as a time to recommit to our local business ecosystem and confront the barriers that persist. Dayton’s Black business legacy runs deep. In the early 20th century, West Fifth Street, often called the “Harlem of the Midwest,” was a thriving commercial and cultural corridor. Anchored by Black-owned shops, theaters, offices, and clubs, the area was both an economic driver and a sanctuary for Black residents during segregation. Grand Opening of the Palace Theatre on Christmas Day 1927 (Photo Credit) Not far from there, Wright-Dunbar Village became home to influential Black figures like poet Paul Laurence Dunbar, alongside entrepreneurs, craftsmen, and professionals. West Dayton, shaped by redlining and urban renewal, bore the burden of displacement while also nurturing a vibrant culture of enterprise. Though mid-century development projects fractured these neighborhoods, the spirit of ownership endures. Today’s Black business community stands on the shoulders of that legacy, by rebuilding with innovation, creativity, and purpose. The legacy of Black business in West Dayton is far from a relic. It has evolved through adversity, shaped by a history of exclusion, redlining, and resilience. While challenges remain, the entrepreneurial spirit is strong. According to the Miami Valley Regional Planning Commission and the Dayton Area Chamber of Commerce, Black-owned businesses now account for 19–21% of all small business registrations in Montgomery County. These businesses span sectors such as: Personal Services (barbershops, beauty, wellness) Food & Beverage (restaurants, catering, food trucks) Construction & Trades Transportation & Logistics Retail & Apparel Consulting & Professional Services However, most remain sole proprietorships or microenterprises, with relatively few having scaled to employer firms. Support organizations like the Miami Valley Urban League, the Minority Business Assistance Center (MBAC) at the Entrepreneurs’ Center, and the Minority Business Partnership (MBP) are working to close these gaps. Their 2024 impact includes: 121 minority-, women-, and veteran-owned certifications assisted, and $742,500 in loans awarded to 140+ Black- and Brown-owned businesses. Despite progress, business owners still face challenges accessing capital, commercial space, procurement opportunities, and marketing visibility. But across Dayton, new ventures, from mobile salons and e-commerce brands to tech startups and tradespeople, are reimagining what Black business looks like. A Call to Action Black Business Month is not the culmination of our support. It must be the beginning. Entrepreneurs are clear. They need more than seasonal visibility. They need sustained, tangible investment. What Business Owners Need: Year-Round Customers – Not just a moment of hype, but consistent support Access to Flexible Capital – For inventory, hiring, and growth Affordable Commercial Space – In visible, accessible areas Mentorship & Market Access – Strategic connections and supplier inclusion Media & Storytelling – To build brand visibility and customer trust What the Community Must Build: A Culture of Circulation – Prioritizing Black-owned businesses year-round Youth Education & Exposure – Teaching entrepreneurship and investing early Directory & Discovery Tools – Easier ways to find and support Black businesses Policy & Procurement Equity – Holding institutions accountable for inclusive practices More Than a Month – A Movement As a Black-owned publication, Dayton Weekly News understands the power of visibility, consistency, and local investment. “Dayton Weekly News doesn’t just highlight Black business - we are one. We know the journey, and we don’t want to be a trend. We want to be a trusted part of the local economy. These businesses don’t just serve customers. They serve as models of what’s possible.” - Donerik Black, Publisher - Dayton Weekly News Black Business Month should be seen as a launchpad, not a victory lap. Let this month be your opportunity to reset, reimagine, and redirect your energy toward equity. This August, we challenge you to: Discover a new Black-owned brand Make your spending more intentional Advocate for equity in policy and partnerships Whether you’re a customer, decision-maker, or neighbor, you play a role in shaping the future of Dayton’s economy. When we build Black businesses, we build stronger communities. Let this month spark the mindset. Let the rest of the year carry the movement!

By RoShawn Winburn Image of the FirstEnergy Corp. Perry Nuclear Generating Station in Perry, Ohio. Photo by David Maxwell of Bloomberg via Getty Images. Columbus, Ohio — Nearly six years after the passage of House Bill 6 (HB 6), the controversial energy bailout legislation tied to the largest public corruption case in Ohio history, taxpayers are still paying the price. The law has cost Ohioans more than half a billion dollars, and questions remain about who was involved and how deeply. HB 6, passed in 2019, provided state financial support to certain Ohio energy companies, including Akron-based FirstEnergy. Federal prosecutors later alleged that the bill was advanced through a $60 million bribery scheme involving corporate funds, dark money groups, and high-ranking state officials. The fallout led to multiple convictions, including that of former Ohio House Speaker Larry Householder, but not all questions have been answered. The Role of Lt. Gov. Jon Husted One unresolved matter involves the role of Lt. Gov. Jon Husted, referred to as “State Official 2” in court documents related to the case. While prosecutors have not charged Husted with any crime, recent filings — including text messages from former FirstEnergy executives — have renewed public interest in whether additional elected officials may have been influenced during the legislative process. Husted has publicly addressed these questions in the past. When earlier reports surfaced identifying him as “State Official 2,” his spokesperson, Hayley Carducci, said: “There is nothing new here. The Lt. Governor has long maintained that saving the nuclear power plants was a priority… He has been on the record with that position both as a candidate and as Lt. Governor. The Lt. Governor has no vote, nor the capacity to sign bills into law. This kind of advocacy is well within his responsibilities as a public official, and, as we know, the bill was ultimately passed with bipartisan support.” (statenews.org) In more recent reporting, Husted denied knowing HB 6 was the product of a bribery scheme, saying he believed at the time the legislation was about preserving jobs and supporting the state’s energy grid. His office has emphasized that law enforcement has not accused him of wrongdoing and that his actions were consistent with his role as a public official. Public Reaction and Political Context Critics argue Ohioans deserve more transparency. “Voters want politicians who will fight for them, not sell them out to the highest bidder,” said Ohio Democratic Party spokesperson Katie Seewer, referencing the billions in corporate interests at stake. Watchdog groups like Common Cause Ohio note that the HB 6 scandal continues to shape the state’s political climate. “Cases like this erode public trust in government and can have lasting impacts on state policy,” said Common Cause Ohio’s Catherine Turcer in a prior statement. Local Impact For Dayton and Montgomery County residents, the consequences are tangible: the financial burden of the bailout has been absorbed by ratepayers across the state, including local households and small businesses. Estimates suggest that, in total, subsidies tied to HB 6 have cost Ohioans over $500 million since 2019, with some of those charges only ending in 2025. As Ohio heads toward the 2026 election cycle, the HB 6 scandal remains a touchpoint for debates about ethics, corporate influence, and accountability in state politics. Whether more information will emerge, and whether voters will receive the answers they seek, remains an open question.

By GDRA Contributor • Dayton Weekly News Your Roadmap to Homeownership in Dayton Buying a home is one of life’s biggest milestones—and here in Dayton, it’s also a powerful step toward building generational wealth . Whether you’re just starting out or returning to the market, these 10 essential steps  will help you navigate the process with clarity and confidence. 1. Get Ready Financially Lenders want to see stable income  and a solid work history . Receiving Social Security or disability? Provide your award letter. Explore down payment assistance  through local programs like the HomeOwnership Center of Greater Dayton . Also, request a credit evaluation  to understand your starting point. 2. Choose the Right Real Estate Agent You only need one  agent—but it should be the right  one. Ask for referrals from people you trust and choose an agent who: Specializes in first-time buyers Listens to your goals Advocates on your behalf 3. Know REALTOR® vs. REALTIST REALTOR® : A licensed agent who’s a member of the National Association of REALTORS® , required to follow a strict code of ethics. REALTIST : A member of the National Association of Real Estate Brokers (NAREB) —the oldest Black real estate trade association , focused on Democracy in Housing  and serving communities of color. 👉 Learn more at nareb.com Choose the professional whose values align  with yours. Both support fair housing—but Realtists are rooted in equity and empowerment. 4. Get Pre-Approved for a Mortgage A pre-approval letter  shows sellers you’re serious and financially ready. Compare multiple options: FHA VA (for veterans) USDA (for rural areas) Rehab/renovation loans 5. Begin Your Home Search Your agent will send listings and schedule showings. Set your top priorities —like location, number of bedrooms, and school district—and let your budget guide your choices . 6. Make an Offer When you find the one , your agent will help craft a strong offer. Key parts of an offer include: Earnest money Inspection timelines Home warranties Move-in dates Negotiation terms 7. Schedule Inspections Although it’s an upfront buyer cost , a home inspection is essential . It can reveal problems with: Electrical & plumbing Roof or foundation Appliances or HVAC systems 8. Get the Appraisal Your lender will order an appraisal to confirm the home’s value. If issues arise, repairs may need to be made before closing . 9. Finalize Your Financing The underwriter  reviews your file—possibly more than once. Be ready to: Submit documents quickly Avoid new credit or big purchases Stay responsive until closing 10. Secure Insurance & Close You’ll need homeowners insurance —and it impacts your monthly payment. Shop for competitive quotes. Then comes the final walkthrough , closing appointment, document signing… and celebration ! 🎉 You’re officially a homeowner. The Bottom Line The homebuying process can feel overwhelming—but when broken down into 10 simple steps , it becomes doable. With the right preparation and trusted support, homeownership in Dayton is within reach. Together We Are Realtist At the heart of our mission is the rallying cry: “Together We Are Realtist.” As Realtists , we stand for: ✊🏾 Fairness 🏛️ Equality 💎 Excellence We honor the legacy of Democracy in Housing  while lifting up our communities through education, advocacy, and access. Check Out the 2025 Realtist Magazine Tap the link below to explore the interactive digital magazine , packed with stories, tips, and resources for buyers and advocates alike: 👉 2025 Realtist Magazine – Together We Are Realtist