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One of the last living witnesses of the 1921 Tulsa Race Massacre passes away. Viola Ford Fletcher, one of the last survivors of the 1921 Tulsa Race Massacre, has died at age 111. Fletcher spent her later years seeking justice for the devastation inflicted on Greenwood’s Black community, known as Black Wall Street. At age 7, she witnessed armed white mobs destroy more than 30 city blocks, killing hundreds and displacing thousands. Her testimony before Congress and her memoir Don’t Let Them Bury My Story  brought renewed national attention to the atrocity. Fletcher continued advocating for reparations and awareness until her passing. Her legacy remains a powerful reminder of resilience and the fight for historical truth.

Dayton native and OSU-trained physician returns home to lead. Dr. Lora Vance-Cox, MD - Chief of Staff, Dayton VA Medical Center Dr. Lora Cox-Vance, MD, has been appointed Chief of Staff of the Dayton VA Medical Center. A native of Dayton and a graduate of Dayton Public Schools, Dr. Cox-Vance earned both her Bachelor of Science and Medical Degree from The Ohio State University. She completed her family medicine residency and fellowships in geriatric medicine and faculty development at the University of Pittsburgh. Her VA career began in 2015 as Community Living Center Medical Director before progressing to Service Chief, Deputy Chief of Staff, and Chief of Staff at the Chillicothe VA Medical Center. She is board certified in family and geriatric medicine and is a graduate of multiple VHA leadership programs. Dr. Cox-Vance brings decades of clinical leadership, academic excellence, and a deep commitment to veterans’ health.

A dazzling evening celebrating sisterhood, service, and community impact. (L-R) LaTonya Denson, Jackie Davis-Betseri, Carla Scott, Charlene Truitt Nelson, Cynthia Booker Neilson, Shannon Teague, Richelle McCoy Members of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated® Beta Eta Omega Chapter exemplified strength and beauty at the 44th Annual Frosted Pearls Ball, held on Saturday, November 22, 2025, at the Presidential Banquet Center in Kettering. The event opened with a welcome from Chapter President Cynthia Booker Neilson and greetings to distinguished guests including Charlene Truitt Nelson, 27th Great Lakes Regional Director. Program initiatives—Strengthen Our Sisterhood, Empower Our Families, Build Economic Wealth, Enhance Our Environment, Advocate for Social Justice, and Uplift Our Local Community—were highlighted by Vice President Carla Scott. Nearly 300 attendees enjoyed live music, dancing, and an atmosphere filled with elegance and unity. The event continues to be a social highlight in the Dayton community and a platform for honoring leadership and service.

The 2025 election cycle delivered historic change to Dayton's political landscape, but the story extends far beyond downtown's Third and Main intersection. Across the eight-county metropolitan area, from Trotwood's predominantly Black west side to Beavercreek's government worker suburbs, the results reveal both progress and persistent inequality for African American communities. Historic Shift at City Hall Dayton Mayor-Elect Shenise Turner-Sloss and family Shenise Turner-Sloss made history by defeating incumbent Mayor Jeffrey Mims Jr. 52%-48%, marking the first time a sitting Dayton mayor has lost in over a decade. The 43-year-old Wright-Patterson Air Force Base logistics specialist becomes just the third woman to hold the office and continues as the third Black woman mayor, but her victory represents more than demographics. It signals generational and ideological shifts within Black political leadership itself. The commission races told an equally complex story. Darryl Fairchild retained his seat with 29% while Darius Beckham, a 28-year-old former Mims aide, secured victory with 26%. This outcome maintains a divided commission despite Turner-Sloss and Fairchild having campaigned together as reformers. The intra-Black political division (both slates led by African Americans) raises critical questions about unity versus competing visions for community advancement. Healthcare Justice: A Hard-Fought Victory The passage of Issue 9 with 58% support represents a triumph of grassroots organizing over institutional skepticism. The 1-mill levy will generate $2 million annually for a decade toward building a public hospital in West Dayton, addressing the medical desert created when Good Samaritan Hospital closed in 2018. Led by the Clergy Community Coalition and Bishop Richard Cox, the campaign mobilized predominantly Black communities who have lived without adequate healthcare access for seven years. Critics argue $2 million is insufficient for a facility costing $450 million to build and $500 million annually to operate. Yet supporters view the levy as seed money to leverage additional funding, echoing how the Dayton community raised $1 million in 1928 to help build the original Good Samaritan. The 11-person board forming in early 2026 will determine whether this becomes a model of community power or a cautionary tale. Suburban Disparities Deepen Robert L. Kelley Jr. - Trotwood Council Martha H. Clark - Trotwood Council Beyond Dayton proper, the representation gap becomes stark. Trotwood saw Robert L. Kelley Jr. and Martha H. Clark win council seats in the predominantly African American community, but residents rejected a Jefferson Township school income tax by 60%, suggesting either tax fatigue or eroding confidence in struggling districts. Meanwhile, predominantly white suburbs told different stories. Springboro passed a $115 million bond for new school facilities while Franklin and Jefferson Township schools face potential state takeover after voters rejected funding. Affluent southern communities invest in their futures while economically struggling areas—often with higher Black populations—spiral toward crisis. Kettering, Huber Heights, and Beavercreek elections featured few if any African American candidates, despite these communities employing thousands of Black residents at Wright-Patterson, hospitals, and universities. The message is clear: A frican Americans work throughout the Miami Valley but remain largely excluded from suburban political power. What's at Stake The Dayton MSA's 800,000+ residents share interconnected fates regardless of municipal boundaries. Issue 9's success demonstrates what's possible when Black communities organize, but school funding failures reveal the consequences of segregated tax bases and unequal representation. As Turner-Sloss takes office and Issue 9 implementation begins, the DWN's coverage must reflect this reality: "Dayton" isn't just the urban core—it's every community where African Americans live, work, vote, and fight for equitable access to opportunity. The 2025 elections show progress is possible, but regional equity remains unfinished business.

MVRPC Resiliency Planning Manager, Elizabeth Baxter, and MVRPC Executive Director, Brian O. Martin The Miami Valley Regional Planning Commission was recognized with a 2025 Aliceann Wohlbruck Impact Award from the National Association of Development Organizations (NADO) for the Regional Resiliency Guidebook & Toolkit. These award-winning efforts were honored during NADO’s 2025 Annual Training Conference, held this past October in Salt Lake City, Utah. MVRPC staff presented the toolkit to attendees. All selected projects are featured in an interactive StoryMap that showcases summaries, images, and key partners. The map is avail able at www.nado.org/2025impactawards . A Toolkit Built from Recovery and Community Strength The toolkit was created as a result of the lessons learned and resources developed from the Memorial Day 2019 Tornadoes. The resources support communities’ efforts to adapt to changing conditions, identify future natural and human-related disaster threats and hazards, and withstand, rapidly recover, and improve from disruption due to future emergencies. MVRPC’s Resiliency Planning Manager, Elizabeth Baxter, worked with the design firm Sasaki & Associates, with support from Laurie Johnson Consulting, to develop the Regional Resiliency Guidebook & Toolkit. The resources cover a variety of topics such as transportation resiliency, establishing recovery networks, and best practices for building and land use. A Regional Honor with National Recognition “To be able to come together as a Region and rebuild our community so quickly was an amazing accomplishment but to turn this disaster into a plan for the future is true resiliency. And now to be recognized with this award and share it across the country with other professionals working to build resilient communities is an honor,” stated MVRPC Executive Director, Brian O. Martin. Presented annually, the NADO Impact Awards honor regional development organizations and their partners for strengthening communities, building regional resilience, and enhancing local economies through innovative approaches to economic and community development. NADO is a Washington, DC-based membership association of regional development organizations that promotes programs and policies that strengthen local governments, communities, and economies. About MVRPC Established in 1964, the Miami Valley Regional Planning Commission promotes collaboration among communities, stakeholders, and residents to advance regional priorities. MVRPC is a forum and resource where the Board of Directors identifies priorities and develops public policy and collaborative strategies to improve the quality of life throughout the Miami Valley Region. MVRPC performs planning and research functions for the region that ensure: Livable and equitable communities Clean air and water Robust roadway, transit, and active transportation options Strategic community plans that guide long-term development MVRPC’s geographic area includes Darke, Greene, Miami, Montgomery, Preble, Shelby, and northern Warren counties in Southwest Ohio. Learn more at mvrpc.org/our-region .

By Greater Dayton Realtist Staff At a packed community forum focused on “Zoning & Housing Solutions for a Stronger Dayton,” local planners, builders, lenders and housing advocates agreed on one thing: Dayton’s housing challenges won’t be solved by old rules or slow processes. The Oct. 27 panel—hosted by the NAACP Dayton Branch at Grace United Methodist Church and moderated by Traci Martin—brought together municipal staff, township planners, small-scale and traditional builders, lenders and community organizations to talk practical solutions for producing and preserving affordable homes. Panelists & Moderator Traci Martin (Moderator) — Housing Chair, NAACP Dayton; President, Greater Dayton Realtist Association Kémo A’akhutera — Mod Fab Inc. / Design to Build (factory/modular homebuilding) Chad M. Adkins, AICP — Harrison Township (planning director/representative) Khalid & Dana Joshua — Integrity & Trust Builders (local residential builders & developers) Tony Kroeger — City of Dayton (city planning/zoning representative) Daniel (D.J.) Sessions — Sessions Lending Group (lending/financing specialist) Kim Williams — Greater Dayton Realtist Association (community real estate leader) Speed Up the System, Make the Rules Flexible A recurring theme was process friction. Builders described projects stalled for months navigating multiple departments and repetitive plan reviews. They urged the city to streamline permitting and introduce single-point-of-contact coordination. City staff confirmed that a new online permitting portal is underway—allowing all reviewing departments to see the same plans simultaneously. Planners say this will cut down on delays, lost documents and duplicate submittals. Panelists also emphasized zoning flexibility. Much of the city’s code still defaults to strictly single-family districts. The city is exploring “gentle density,” including duplexes and accessory dwelling units (ADUs), to increase housing supply without overwhelming neighborhoods. Small Developers Need Clarity and Speed Local builders shared how even modest construction jobs can be slowed for weeks or months. Time delays hurt small developers the most, especially those using private capital or financing with interest costs. Recommendations from the panel included: Clear checklists for plan requirements Unified comments instead of conflicting departmental feedback Staffing support to shorten review timelines Funding, Rehab Programs and Financing Tools Lenders explained financing programs that support both investors and first-time homebuyers, including renovation loans for distressed properties. They stressed the importance of public/private partnerships—especially when projects serve low- or moderate-income residents where subsidies may be needed. Panelists urged more community outreach so residents become aware of the programs available to them. Preventing Displacement & Building Ownership Neighborhood advocates highlighted the need to protect long-term residents from displacement while attracting new development. Community solutions discussed included: Pre-purchase education Credit and lending readiness programs Pathways to homeownership to keep wealth local One panelist summarized: “Development should not happen to a community—it should happen with the community.” Innovation and Cost-Saving Construction Some builders discussed modular and factory-built components that could reduce labor and material costs. However, panelists acknowledged that building codes, permitting processes, and market perception create hurdles for newer methods—particularly for smaller projects. What’s Next City representatives confirmed that Dayton is initiating a comprehensive zoning code update—the first major overhaul in years. Public workshops and community feedback sessions will be scheduled in the coming months. Panelists encouraged residents, neighborhood associations, builders, and business leaders to stay engaged: “Housing solutions require collaboration—city, developers, lenders, and community.” Event note: The NAACP Dayton Branch hosted the forum at Grace United Methodist Church (1001 Harvard Blvd.) on Oct. 27. For more information, contact the NAACP Dayton Branch or the Greater Dayton Realtist Association. See the full video: NAACP Dayton Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/share/v/1CsPRjEkoh/

(L-R) Derrick Foward, Cora Diggs, Lu Dale The Dayton Branch of the NAACP proudly presented the Community Service Award to longtime educator, real estate leader, and civic advocate Cora H. Diggs  during its annual Freedom Fund Banquet. The award was presented by Mattie White, Vice President of the Dayton Branch NAACP, recognizing Diggs for her decades of unwavering commitment to service, leadership, and community empowerment. The Community Service Award honors individuals who have demonstrated an extraordinary dedication to improving the lives of others. Recipients of this recognition must show a sustained commitment—over ten years or more—of giving their time, talent, and influence to uplift the community and further the advancement of democracy. The honoree must embody what it means to be a true servant leader. This year’s recipient, Cora H. Diggs, exemplifies that standard. A Life Shaped by Determination and Community Born and raised in Foreman, Arkansas, Diggs was one of eleven children. A driven scholar from the beginning, she graduated from Foreman High School in 1965 and went on to earn a bachelor’s degree in business education from Philander Smith College in 1969. Following her passion for teaching, Diggs relocated to Ohio, accepting teaching positions in McConnelsville, Zanesville, and ultimately Dayton. During a visit to Dayton in 1971, she was offered a position that would change her life’s trajectory—Business Education instructor at the Montgomery County Joint Vocational School (now Miami Valley Career Technology Center). While teaching, Diggs continued her education, earning a master’s degree from Wright State University. After ten years shaping young minds in the classroom, Diggs transitioned into corporate work as a Marketing Analyst at General Motors. It was there she met her future husband and business partner, Frederick J. Diggs, Jr. Champion of Fair Housing and Entrepreneurship In 1986, Fred and Cora earned their real estate licenses, followed by broker licenses in 1989. That same year, they co-founded Realty World People First Realty , a minority-owned firm built on the principle of “fulfilling the American Dream of homeownership by putting people first.” Under their leadership, the company became one of Ohio’s largest minority-owned real estate brokerages, partnering with HUD, VA, Freddie Mac, Fannie Mae, and local government agencies. Their company was later acquired by HER Realtors (now Howard Hanna Real Estate Services) in 2005, where the couple became Founding Partners. With more than 39 years in real estate, Diggs continues to serve as a licensed Realtor and President of the Greater Dayton Realtist Association, the local chapter of the National Association of Real Estate Brokers (NAREB), whose mission is to “promote democracy in housing.” Service Beyond Business Diggs’ impact reaches well beyond real estate. She has: Mentored youth through Montgomery County Youth Services Volunteered with Habitat for Humanity and local food pantries Served on Dayton Realtors’ Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Committee Her leadership and advocacy have earned multiple awards, including: Marie Kindrick Fair Housing Award KeyBank Community Recognition Award Dayton Real Estate Ambassador for the City of Dayton Legacy Honoree, Dayton Montgomery County Black Elected Officials (2022) Diggs and her husband were also featured in the PBS documentary Redlining: Mapping Inequality in Dayton and Springfield , highlighting their advocacy for fair housing and neighborhood revitalization.

Helen Jones-Kelley, Executive Director Montgomery County ADAMHS Montgomery County ADAMHS announces the retirement of Executive Director Helen Jones-Kelley. Jones-Kelley has led policy setting, funding, and strategic programming for the delivery of Montgomery County’s public behavioral health system since 2011. She has provided oversight for federal and state behavioral health programs at the local level while developing partnerships across the continuum of care, including hospitals, law enforcement, the court system, social services, and other key stakeholders, to ensure quality delivery of evidence-based mental health programs. ADAMHS employees 32 staff and maintains a $40 million annual budget. Jones-Kelley’s career of service and leadership has been well regarded throughout the region. “Helen’s exemplary leadership and expertise will be difficult to replace. But with every change new horizons unfold. Helen leaves a very strong foundation for ADAMHS to continue to thrive; Montgomery County ADAMHS has become a strong organizational model. On behalf of the Board, the very best is extended to her on her future personal and professional journey. It has been a pleasure working with her in my tenure and leadership of the ADAMHS Board,” said Victor McCarley, Psy.D., Chair, ADAMHS Board of Trustees. Reverend Vanessa Ward, President, Omega Community Development Corporation, added, “We extend heartfelt gratitude to Helen for her years of distinguished service that has rippled throughout the Dayton community, the State of Ohio, and the Nation. Her dedication and leadership have laid the groundwork for organizations like Omega Community Development Corporation to expand our reach, strengthen our professional standards, and enhance both our expertise and impact.” “Helen is a visionary thinker, an expert in her field who has demonstrated what it looks like to lead alcohol, drug addiction, and mental health services. She leads with yes, and her empathy and compassion are present in all she does, not just for the clients she serves, but also the stakeholders with whom she collaborates,” said Michelle Riley, CEO, The Foodbank. Before joining ADAMHS, Jones-Kelley served as the Special Assistant for External Affairs to the President of Central State University (CSU), where she also served as University Counsel and Secretary for the Board of Trustees. Prior to CSU she served as Director of the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services (ODJFS), where she was responsible for policy setting and the allocation of state and federal funds for child welfare, public assistance, child support enforcement, unemployment services, and other grant-funded programs. Key accomplishments include implementing gap coverage for youths aging out of the foster care system who desired to attend college, leading the expansion of Ohio’s Medicaid programs to cover pregnant and parenting women, and increasing eligibility for uninsured children. Jones-Kelley also led in many roles in Montgomery County, all focusing on improving the lives of children and their families. As the Director of Job and Family Services, she reduced the number of children entering foster care while increasing the number who went on to higher education opportunities. As the Assistant Legal Director of the Montgomery County Juvenile Court, she implemented the Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) Program to prepare community volunteers to serve as Guardians at Litem, thus enhancing the quality of representation and reducing the Court’s cost to pay attorneys for this role. The CASA Program continues to serve children today. Helen credits the staff and Board at ADAMHS for the strong position the organization is in. “The team we’ve built is knowledgeable, compassionate and tireless. I know I leave the organization in great hands, with strong Board leadership and the most effective, talented staff getting the work done every day, on behalf of all the entire community,” said Jones-Kelley. Jones-Kelley is a servant leader, serving on many boards, including: Sinclair Community College Dayton Children’s Hospital Parity, Inc. OnMain, Inc. Montgomery County Family and Children First Council Immediate Past President of the Dayton Chapter of The Links, Incorporated Co-Founder of the African American Women’s Giving Circle Prior civic service includes: Clothes That Work (Co-founder) The Dayton Foundation University of Dayton School of Law Advisory Board Ohio Supreme Court Co-Chair of the Advisory Committee on Children, Families, and the Courts PEW Commission on Children in Foster Care Miami Valley Hospital and Premier Health Helen has been recognized with multiple honors for her community service and leadership, including: Dayton Daily News Ten Top Women YWCA Women of Influence Lifetime Achievement Top Ten African American Women in Dayton DBJ Power 50 and Women Who Mean Business NCCJ Humanitarian Award Urban League Pillar Award John E. Moore Sr. Diversity Lifetime Achievement Award Service Leadership Award, Dayton Area Chamber of Commerce Leadership Dayton She received her Juris Doctor from the University of Dayton School of Law and her undergraduate degree from Miami University, where she also completed graduate studies in Aging and Human Services Leadership in the Scripps School. Throughout her career, her family has remained her top priority and is the reason she is driven to improve the lives of families and children. Her last day with Montgomery County ADAMHS will be February 5, 2026.

In a social media post this past Saturday, Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA) Director Bill Pulte noted that the Trump administration is planning to introduce 50-year mortgage terms for prospective homebuyers. This could make 50-year mortgages a common option. Here’s a breakdown of how a 50-year mortgage works, who it may benefit, and where it may fall short. What Is a 50-Year Mortgage? A 50-year mortgage is a home loan with a repayment term of 50 years. Like other fixed-rate mortgages, the borrower makes regular monthly payments of principal and interest over the life of the loan. On the surface, it appears to be a practical solution to today’s affordability crisis. But will it truly benefit homebuyers—or simply increase lender profitability? Let’s take a closer look. Key Features Lower Monthly Payments : This makes homeownership more accessible for some borrowers. Longer Repayment Period : The 50-year term is significantly longer than the conventional 15- or 30-year mortgage. This can be both a benefit and a drawback. Higher Total Interest : Borrowers pay considerably more interest over the life of the loan. Limited Availability : 50-year mortgages are uncommon today. However, the current administration and FHFA may push to make them mainstream. Advantages Affordability : Buyers may qualify for larger loans or afford homes that would otherwise be out of reach. Cash Flow Flexibility : Lower monthly payments free up cash for savings, debt reduction, or other financial goals. Appeal for First-Time Buyers : Lower payments can help new buyers struggling with affordability challenges. Disadvantages Greater Total Interest Cost : The amount of interest paid over 50 years may outweigh the benefit of a lower monthly payment. Slower Equity Build-Up : A longer term means smaller principal payments—and much slower equity growth. R isk of Negative Equity : If market values decline, borrowers may owe more than the home is worth. Potential for Higher Interest Rates: Lenders may charge higher rates for a longer-term product. Bottom Line The 50-year mortgage is not new—it has been used in extremely high-cost markets like California for years. But now, the affordability pressure driving these products is spreading across the country, including Ohio. While lower monthly payments are appealing, a 50-year mortgage does not  solve the housing affordability crisis. Prices often rise as demand increases and inventory drops. And once borrowers calculate the lifetime interest paid and slower equity buildup, the benefits appear far less compelling. Many people rely on equity to purchase their next home or supplement retirement. A 50-year term delays that opportunity significantly. Conclusion Homebuyers have two essential partners in navigating these decisions: their real estate agent and their mortgage loan officer. A 50-year mortgage may make sense if you need temporary cash flow relief—such as during the children’s college years or when eliminating major debt. And remember, even a 50-year loan can be retired early with consistent principal prepayments. So perhaps homebuyers can  have their cake and eat it too— if  they fully understand the trade-offs. Reach out to trained and experienced professionals for guidance tailored to your goals, budget, and long-term plans. We’re here to help. Alfred Patterson, Mortgage Loan Officer – C&G Mortgage LLC, alfred@candgmortgage.com

Retailers tout cheaper holiday meals, but per-person portions tell a different story By RoShawn Winburn, Dayton Weekly News When scrolling through headlines this November readers might think the grocery aisles are finally offering relief. Walmart announced a Thanksgiving dinner for ten people at under $4 per person — a dramatic improvement from 2024's $7-per-person deal. Kroger and ALDI made similar claims. Political voices quickly seized the narrative, as proof that inflation is cooling, that economic policy is working, and that American families can breathe easier. But walk down the aisles of Kroger, Aldi, or Walmart, and a different story emerges. The deals are real. The savings are advertised. Yet, the plates — the actual food Americans will put on their tables — are noticeably smaller. What's Really Being Compared? In 2024, Walmart's Thanksgiving basket contained 29 items and served eight people for approximately $56 total. In 2025, the company announced a meal for ten people at roughly $40, offering a $16 price drop and what appears to be a 40% improvement per person. The catch? The 2025 basket contains only 15 items. That's 48% fewer products feeding 25% more people. The math doesn't add up to more. It adds up to less. This isn't unique to Walmart. Across retailers, the pattern repeats: maintain the price point, reduce the contents, celebrate the "savings." It's a marketing strategy that works because it tells us what we want to hear, even as it delivers less than what we need. What Dayton Shoppers Are Actually Buying For Dayton families, Kroger remains a Thanksgiving staple. In 2024, Kroger's "Freshgiving" bundle promised a meal for 10 at less than $4.85 per person, featuring a 14-16 pound turkey at 49¢ per pound, along with stuffing, sides, and pumpkin pie. In 2025, Kroger maintained similar promotional language. But the American Farm Bureau Federation reports that turkey prices have risen from $0.94 per pound in 2024 to $1.32 per pound in 2025 — a 40% increase. To keep the advertised price point attractive, something had to give. What gave was the plate itself. The 2025 "deal" maintains its affordability through a combination of smaller turkeys, increased store-brand substitutions, and reduced side dish quantities. The promotional price stays politically palatable. The portion size becomes economically necessary. A Neutral Analysis To cut through the political noise, we need transparent methodology. I analyzed the real value, comparing meal components, per-diner portions (turkey weight, sides, desserts), inflation adjustment (≈3% from 2024 to 2025), and benchmarked against American Farm Bureau Federation's national average ($58.08 in 2024, or $5.80 per person). The Result:  Thanksgiving isn't cheaper. It's smaller. When normalized for inflation and portion size, the "$4-per-person" 2025 meal would cost approximately $50-$54 if it matched 2024 servings — roughly equivalent to the previous year. The "savings" are real only if we accept that less food for the same occasion counts as economic progress. As for me, and my house, we still want full plates! Visualizing the Truth: Two Plates, One Reality The clearest way to understand this isn't through political debate or economic theory. It's through two dinner plates, side by side. The 2024 Plate:  A thick slice of turkey, two helpings of mashed potatoes, corn, stuffing, green beans, a roll, and a generous slice of pie. Traditional abundance. The 2025 Plate:  Smaller turkey portion, single scoop of potatoes, one roll, thinner dessert slice. Functional, but noticeably less. This isn't a political statement. It's a physical reality. The 2025 plate isn't just "restructured for efficiency," it's smaller because economic pressures, from farm to table, demand it be smaller.  "Smaller plates aren't just a marketing trick — they reflect a larger economic squeeze." The Broader Pressure: Why Consumption Is Shrinking Across the Board The Thanksgiving plate is a microcosm of a national trend. Americans are being pressed toward reduced consumption from multiple directions, regardless of political affiliation or economic philosophy. SNAP Benefits Under Pressure:  Changes in federal reconciliation packages have resulted in 22.3 million families losing some or all of their SNAP benefits, according to the Urban Institute. During the recent government shutdown, the Trump administration initially cut November SNAP benefits by 50%, later adjusted to 35%, with significant delays in distribution. Nearly 42 million people who rely on SNAP faced benefit disruptions starting November 1, 2025. For Dayton families already stretching budgets, this isn't abstract policy — it's empty pantries. Government Shutdowns and Delayed Assistance:  Continuing budget battles and shutdown threats delay funding for nutrition programs precisely when families need them most. The uncertainty compounds the problem: even when benefits eventually arrive, the gap period forces impossible choices. The Housing-Food Trade-off:  Rising housing costs and utility bills eat away at disposable income. When rent increases but wages don't keep pace, the grocery budget becomes the release valve. Inflation in food prices might appear "tame" in government reports, but households experiencing it directly know that "tame" still means choosing between quality and quantity. Corporate Shrinkflation:  Beyond holiday deals, everyday grocery shopping reveals the same pattern: smaller packages at the same prices, fewer items per box, thinner cuts of meat. The price tag stays familiar; the value inside diminishes. What It Means for Dayton Families From a shopper's perspective, a $40 meal for ten sounds like progress. It's a headline that suggests relief, an indicator that maybe things are getting better. However, if those ten people leave the table less satisfied, if children get smaller portions, if grandparents skip seconds they used to enjoy — then the "savings" become hollow. The benefit is psychological, not nutritional. It's a temporary comfort that doesn't fill the actual need. This is the quiet tension of 2025. We're told prices are improving while experiencing that what we get for those prices is less. Both can be technically true. Both can feel dishonest. The Takeaway Whether you view the current economy as strengthening or weakening, whether you credit or blame current or past administrations, the truth sits quietly between the headlines: Americans aren't necessarily paying less — they're eating less. The smaller Thanksgiving plate isn't just a retail strategy or a political talking point. It's a snapshot of the American household in 2025 — stretching what's left to feed everyone at the table, making less feel like enough, and normalizing a gradual reduction in what we once considered standard. The political debate will continue, but at kitchen tables across Dayton neighborhoods, the reality is visible on the plate itself. Smaller portions. Tighter budgets. More pressure. Less abundance. That's not a political statement. It's Thanksgiving 2025. For Dayton families needing additional food assistance, The Foodbank, Inc. serves Montgomery, Greene, and Preble counties. Call 937-461-0265 or visit thefoodbankdayton.org for resources.

For over 40 years, The Foodbank, Inc. has stood as the backbone of hunger relief across the Miami Valley. As the region’s only food bank, it serves as the primary source of nourishment and support for a vast network of local pantries, community kitchens, and shelters. Through its ongoing commitment to “Eliminating hunger and its root causes,” The Foodbank provides the infrastructure that empowers more than 110 partner agencies serving Montgomery, Greene, and Preble counties. Each day, The Foodbank acquires, sorts, and distributes thousands of pounds of food to community partners—making it possible for families, seniors, and individuals in crisis to access nutritious meals. Beyond immediate food distribution, the organization works to address the root causes of food insecurity, tackling issues like poverty, unemployment, and access to healthy food options. As part of Feeding America’s national network of 206 food banks and a proud member of the Ohio Association of Foodbanks, The Foodbank’s reach extends far beyond hunger relief. It also contributes to disaster recovery, workforce development, and community development, ensuring that the region is not only fed—but equipped to thrive. Connecting Resources, Building Community Inspired by The Foodbank, Inc.’s Resource Guide , the Dayton Weekly News is compiling a community-wide directory of essential services to support residents in times of need. This living list  will bring together local resources for food, housing, employment, health care, and financial assistance—making it easier for families to find help when they need it most. By uniting organizations and information in one place, the Dayton Weekly aims to strengthen the region through access, awareness, and community care. Like The Foodbank, our mission is rooted in the belief that no one should face hardship alone—and that when we share resources, we build a stronger Dayton together. How to Get Involved Residents can support The Foodbank by donating funds, hosting food drives, or volunteering their time. V isit thefoodbankdayton.org  to learn more about how you can join the fight against hunger in the Miami Valley.

Let’s be honest — most of us don’t pay close attention to what’s happening in Washington until it starts to hit our pockets. Well, the federal government officially shut down again on October 1, and for a lot of families right here in Dayton, that means real-life stress. When government offices close, things we depend on — like income verifications, tax transcripts, and housing programs — start to slow down or stop altogether. For anyone trying to buy a home, refinance, or close on a loan, that can mean unexpected delays, extra paperwork, and a whole lot of worry. Big lenders like PennyMac have already started adjusting their rules to deal with this situation. It is temporary, but it shows how quickly political decisions can shake up the housing market. What It Means for Homebuyers If you’re a government worker, a contractor, or even a small business owner who depends on federal work, this shutdown can hit close to home. Here’s what’s happening behind the scenes: Lenders can’t always verify your income the usual way, so they might ask for older paystubs or a furlough letter from your job. Some loan programs, especially USDA and FHA loans, could face delays because they rely on government offices that are now closed. Flood insurance renewals and tax transcripts might take longer than usual to process. None of this means your home dreams are over — but it might take extra patience and communication with your lender to keep things on track. Why Black Families Feel It the Most In our community, homeownership isn’t just about buying a house — it’s about building generational wealth. But the truth is, the Black homeownership rate still trails far behind that of white households across the country. And every time the government shuts down, it sets us back even more. Many of us work in public service — as postal workers, teachers, military members, or federal employees. When those paychecks pause, it’s harder to qualify for a loan or close on a home. It’s not just a money issue — it’s a stability issue. And in neighborhoods like ours, stability is everything. Standing Strong Together At SLG | Sessions Lending Group , we see how these shutdowns affect everyday people. But I also see something powerful: the determination in our community to keep moving forward. Even when things get tough, families still show up ready to buy that first home, refinance their property, or invest in real estate. That’s the Dayton spirit — strong, steady, and hopeful. So, what can we do right now? Stay informed.  Ask questions and make sure you understand how national changes affect your local situation. Work with people who care.  Partner with lenders who know your story and are ready to fight for your success. Use your voice.  Whether it’s through voting or community engagement, make sure your concerns are heard where decisions are made. Closing Thought The government might shut down, but our determination doesn’t have to. We’ve been through harder times and come out stronger. This is just another reminder that we can’t rely on policy alone — we have to rely on each other. Let’s keep building, keep learning, and keep creating opportunities for our families right here in Dayton.