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For the thousands of Black professionals, parents, and graduates in the Miami Valley carrying the weight of student debt, a significant legal development has emerged following months of uncertainty. On October 18, 2025, the Trump administration agreed to resume loan cancellations under certain Income-Driven Repayment (IDR) programs after settling a lawsuit filed by the American Federation of Teachers (AFT). This agreement, filed as a joint status report in federal court, represents a major shift after the administration had paused forgiveness processing earlier this year. Why This Matters for Black Borrowers The stakes are particularly high for Black families in Dayton and nationwide. Research from the Brookings Institution has documented persistent racial disparities in student debt: Black college graduates owe an average of $52,726 four years after graduation, compared to $28,006 for white graduates—a gap of approximately $25,000. This disparity stems from multiple structural factors, including lower family wealth, higher enrollment in graduate programs (particularly at for-profit institutions), and lower returns on educational credentials in the labor market. In Montgomery County, where significant numbers of Black adults carry student debt, this burden has created substantial barriers to homeownership, business creation, and wealth building. The Legal Background The resumption of forgiveness follows a contentious period: March 2025 : The AFT filed suit (AFT v. U.S. Department of Education, Case 1:25-cv-00802) after the Trump administration removed IDR applications from federal websites and issued directives to halt processing. October 18, 2025 : Both parties filed a joint status report agreeing to resume forgiveness under Income-Contingent Repayment (ICR), Pay As You Earn (PAYE), and Income-Based Repayment (IBR) plans. According to the AFT's October 18 press release, AFT President Randi Weingarten stated: "For nearly a decade, the AFT has fought for the rights of student loan borrowers to be freed from the shackles of unjust debt—and today, a huge part of that affordability fight was vindicated." Winston Berkman-Breen, legal director for Protect Borrowers (the AFT's counsel), added: "The U.S. Department of Education has agreed to follow the law and deliver congressionally mandated affordable payments and debt relief to hard-working public service workers across the country." Who Qualifies Under the settlement agreement, borrowers are eligible for automatic loan cancellation if they meet these criteria: Eligible for Automatic Forgiveness: Borrowers enrolled in ICR, PAYE, or IBR plans who have made 20-25 years of qualifying payments (depending on the specific plan and loan type) Those with undergraduate-only debt: 20 years (240 payments) Those with any graduate debt: 25 years (300 payments) Important Notes: Borrowers enrolled in the SAVE plan remain in administrative forbearance due to separate ongoing litigation and are not currently accruing forgiveness credit The Department of Education began sending notification emails in October 2025 Borrowers have 30 days to opt out after receiving notification This affects an estimated 2.5 million borrowers nationally The Tax Protection Provision A critical component of the agreement addresses what advocates call the "tax bomb." Under the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021, student loan forgiveness is exempt from federal taxation—but only through December 31, 2025. The settlement agreement ensures that borrowers who become eligible for forgiveness in 2025 will be treated as having their loans canceled in 2025 for tax purposes, even if processing delays push the actual discharge into 2026. This protects them from potentially owing federal taxes on tens of thousands of dollars in forgiven debt. What Dayton Borrowers Should Do Now Given the complex history of payment count errors and processing delays, borrowers should take these steps: Verify Your Records - Log into your account at  StudentAid.gov  using your FSA ID. Check: Your current repayment plan Your payment history and count toward forgiveness Whether all past payments have been properly credited Document Everything - If your payment count seems incorrect, gather documentation including: Payment confirmations from your servicer Tax records showing student loan interest deductions Employment verification if pursuing Public Service Loan Forgiveness File Complaints If Needed - If you identify discrepancies, you can: Submit a complaint through the Federal Student Aid feedback system Contact the  Federal Student Aid Ombudsman File reconsideration requests for payment count corrections Seek Local Guidance - For questions about how loan forgiveness might affect your financial planning: Minority Business Assistance Center (MBAC) : Guidance for entrepreneurs on managing business finances post-forgiveness Greater Dayton Realtist Association : Advice on homeownership pathways after debt cancellation Sinclair College Financial Aid Office : General financial literacy resources Ongoing Uncertainty What remains unclear: How quickly the Department of Education will process forgiveness applications given reported staffing reductions Whether future policy changes under the Trump administration might affect these programs The outcome of separate litigation affecting the SAVE plan How the proposed Repayment Assistance Plan (RAP), which would replace most IDR plans by 2028 under recently passed legislation, will be implemented The Department of Education did not respond to media requests for comment on processing timelines or staffing levels. Looking Ahead For many who have been making payments for decades, this settlement represents long-awaited relief. However, the agreement requires ongoing court supervision, with the government mandating to file progress reports every six months on application processing and forgiveness implementation. "The U.S. Department of Education has agreed to follow the law and deliver congressionally mandated affordable payments and debt relief," said Berkman-Breen. "We fully intend to hold them to their word." For More Information: Federal Student Aid:  StudentAid.gov AFT lawsuit information:  AFT.org Protect Borrowers resources:  ProtectBorrowers.org

Notre Dame head coach Marcus Freeman recently presented a $330,000 donation  to the Huber Heights City Schools district to fund construction of a new athletic weight room  at Wayne High School. Freeman, a proud Wayne graduate, announced the contribution via video during the October school board meeting, sharing his deep appreciation for his hometown. “Honor, pride, and gratitude are just a few of the life skills I learned growing up in Huber Heights City Schools,” Freeman said in the video. “The love, selflessness, and care that many people in the Huber Heights community have for its young people is rare. I’ve grown to understand the privilege it is to have grown up in a community like Huber Heights.” Freeman said he feels it’s his duty to give back to the school that gave him his start in life — especially within athletics. “I often tell our players that with tradition comes responsibility; the tradition of Wayne High School reminds me of the responsibility I have to represent the community that helped raise me the right way,” he said. “The values I learned in the weight room were so important to the foundation for my future. Not only did I learn to choose hard, but I learned that to be successful, it takes more than one. I wouldn’t have grown physically or mentally in that weight room on my own. I needed my coaches, teammates, and equipment to help me reach my full potential.” Superintendent Jason Enix  praised Freeman’s gift and his continued connection to his roots. “For all of us that walk the halls of Huber Heights City Schools and Wayne High School, we can relate to that sense of pride,” Enix said. “To have fellow alumni like Marcus Freeman, who have gone on to do remarkable things, and with his prominence at Notre Dame, to take the time and responsibility of providing a financial gift to the district—it really says a lot about what the district did for him and his family.” Freeman graduated from Wayne High School in 2004  and went on to play linebacker for The Ohio State University (2004–2008)  before beginning his coaching career. His coaching journey has included time at Ohio State, Kent State, Purdue, and the University of Cincinnati  before joining Notre Dame in 2021 , first as defensive coordinator and now as head coach. His generous gift reflects his continued commitment to leadership, education, and the values he learned growing up in Huber Heights — a community that continues to shape champions both on and off the field. Have a story of giving back or community leadership in the Miami Valley? Share it with the Dayton Weekly News  team at rw@thedwn.co m  for a chance to be featured in an upcoming issue.

Helen Jones-Kelley, Montgomery County ADAMHS Executive Director Helen Jones-Kelley, Montgomery County ADAMHS Executive Director, will be honored with the Board Service Career Award  at Leadership Dayton’s 50th Anniversary Gala. This milestone celebration will honor five decades of cultivating leaders, strengthening the Dayton community, and shaping Dayton’s future. The Board Service Career Award recognizes a Leadership Dayton member who has exemplified outstanding leadership on nonprofit boards. For the 50th anniversary, the Leadership Dayton Alumni Committee is recognizing career achievement for this award. Jones-Kelley was selected as this year’s honoree due to her extraordinary record of board service, including her current roles chairing the Dayton Chapter of The Links, Inc. and serving on the boards for Dayton Children’s Hospital, On Main Inc., and A Special Wish Foundation of Southwest Ohio. She recently concluded more than a decade of service on Sinclair Community College’s Board of Trustees and has previously served on the boards of the Dayton Foundation, Premier Health, the Family and Children First Council, the Dayton Performing Arts Alliance, and the KeyBank Advisory Board, among others. In addition, Helen has chaired the National CASA Board and the Miami Valley Hospital Board. “Leadership Dayton is such a unique resource in our community. Its impeccable list of alumni includes the top leaders in Dayton, many of whom can attribute their success to the knowledge, networking and support they gained through the Leadership Dayton experience. I treasure working with the Leadership Dayton class each year and am honored to receive this award to celebrate its 50th anniversary,” said Helen Jones-Kelley. “Thank you to the Leadership Dayton Board of Governors, the Leadership Dayton Alumni Association Committee, and the Dayton Area Chamber of Commerce for this prestigious honor.” The Leadership Dayton 50th Anniversary Gala took place on Wednesday, October 22 at the Steam Plant.

Dayton Pioneer, Baltimore Oriole, Mentor, and Servant-Leader M.C. Adolphus “Mickey” McGuire Jr. M.C. Adolphus “Mickey” McGuire Jr., an enduring figure in Dayton sports, community, and faith, passed away peacefully on October 19, 2025, at the age of 84. Born on January 18, 1941, in Dayton, Ohio, as the seventh of 13 children, McGuire’s life journey stretched from the Melba Street sandlots to Major League stadiums, ultimately returning home to a dedicated career as a teacher, businessman, and anchor in the community. He is remembered for his quiet resolve, his passion for developing others, and a deep-seated faith that guided his every endeavor. McGuire was a standout athlete at Paul Laurence Dunbar High School, excelling in both football and basketball. He was the first, and only, freshman to play varsity in all three sports - basketball, football and baseball. He etched his name in local history by becoming the first Black quarterback in Montgomery County to be named All-City. Since Dunbar did not field a baseball team at the time, he honed his diamond skills playing with church, industrial, and amateur teams across the city. He often credited his older mentors for his development, recalling their guidance with a characteristic sense of gratitude. “I remembered most of the things they told me,” he once said, “and I practiced them at every opportunity.” Professional Life On February 15, 1960, the Baltimore Orioles signed the 19-year-old shortstop, impressed by his speed, defensive skills, and strong arm. He debuted in the Major Leagues on September 7, 1962, and returned to the Orioles in 1967. It was during that 1967 season that McGuire notched his first Major League hit, a single off Boston Red Sox left-hander Sparky Lyle. McGuire’s professional career spanned 15 seasons across two continents, during which he played every infield position in the Orioles’ minor league chain. He enjoyed banner seasons under future Hall of Fame manager Earl Weaver at Triple-A Rochester, batting .307 in 1966, and later with the Triple-A Tucson Toros, where he hit an impressive .349 in 1971 and was voted the Pacific Coast League’s top utility player. He concluded his playing career by bringing his glove to Asia, playing for the Hiroshima Toyo Carp (1973–74) and contributing to the early wave of American players who helped globalize baseball. Returning to Dayton, McGuire dedicated himself to what he called "building people." He coached at Wright State University and Central State University, assisted at his alma mater Dunbar, and led programs at the Miami Valley School. He spent countless hours shaping young athletes through First Dayton Little League, the DABC, and Ted Mills’ renowned baseball academy, where his calm, exacting standards left a lasting impression on generations of players.   Embodying his belief in "empowering people," McGuire completed his degree at Central State and transitioned his team-first discipline into the business world. He became an insurance agent and perennial top producer, introducing many Dayton families to the security of life insurance. Later, he served the public as an employee of the Montgomery County Treasurer’s Office. A Life Centered in Faith and Family Faith was the cornerstone of McGuire's life. Baptized at Tabernacle Missionary Baptist Church, he was an ordained deacon, sang in the choir, and worked on the finance committee. In later years, he joined St. Paul Global Outreach Ministries (now The Potter’s House–Dayton International Ministries) to support his son, Bishop Dr. Mark C. McGuire Sr., in ministry. He was preceded in death by his first wife, Betty Jane (Bradley) McGuire. He is survived by his wife, Dora (Hamrick) McGuire; his sons Mark (Angela) and M. Chris Sr. (Sherri); devoted grandchildren and great-grandchildren; a wide circle of loving siblings; and a host of kin and friends who felt like family. Mickey McGuire’s story is a profound Dayton narrative: a barrier-breaking athlete who reached the big leagues, carried his talent to Japan, and then came home to build a legacy rooted in service and mentorship. His Major League stat line—16 games and 4 hits—only hints at the richer measure of the man, whose true impact is reflected in the countless lives he touched as a deacon, a coach, and a community leader. Service Information Visitation:  Friday, October 24, 2025, 6:00 p.m.–8:00 p.m., House of Wheat Funeral Home , 2107 N. Gettysburg Ave., Dayton. Funeral:  Saturday, October 25, 2025, 12:00 p.m., Joshua Christian Ministries , 5800 Bigger Rd., Kettering.

Entrepreneurship should build generational wealth. Entrepreneurship is often hailed as a key driver of wealth creation, yet for many Black founders, it has become a path fraught with structural barriers and financial sacrifice. As side hustles and entrepreneurship is romanticized on social media, it’s critical to shine a light on the real cost of entrepreneurship in Black communities and the bold solutions being built to close the wealth gap. The Wealth Gap Is a Business Barrier According to the Federal Reserve, the median net worth of Black households in the U.S. remains less than 15% of their white counterparts. For aspiring Black entrepreneurs, this wealth gap translates into limited startup capital, fewer personal assets to leverage, and increased vulnerability to economic shocks. Black entrepreneurs are also three times more likely to have their loan applications denied compared to white peers, even when controlling for credit scores and revenue (Kauffman Foundation, 2023). Without generational assets or access to low-cost capital, many Black founders bootstrap their ventures with personal savings, side hustles, or high-interest loans, placing them under immense financial strain before their businesses even gain traction. In response, some Black entrepreneurs are turning to cooperative business models that prioritize shared ownership, community investment, and democratic governance. These models distribute risk more equitably and can create more sustainable outcomes. Local examples include: Shared retail spaces, where multiple entrepreneurs split costs and increase visibility. Worker-owned cooperatives, enabling employees to build equity and shape operations. Community investment funds, allowing neighbors to directly support Black-owned businesses in their area. Building Intentional Support Systems Belinda Stenson, Minority Business Partnership “We’ve moved beyond networking to real-world wins.”— Belinda Stenson , Director, Minority Business Partnership, Dayton Area Chamber of Commerce Support institutions are adapting to deliver more intentional, outcome-driven services. The Dayton Area Chamber of Commerce has expanded its 15-year-old Minority Business Partnership (MBP), which traditionally served scalable businesses over $1M in revenue, to now host the Minority Business Assistance Center (MBAC), serving a broader base of small business owners. “We’ve expanded our services to support even more diverse businesses,” said Stenson. “The addition of the MBAC program to our portfolio provides a one-stop shop experience for small businesses in the Greater Dayton Region. We’re building intentional pipelines—connecting diverse-owned businesses to procurement opportunities, capital partners, and mentorship.” This approach shows what it means to move beyond just making connections and start building real support systems that help close long-standing gaps in access and opportunity. Accessing Capital Through Grants & New Vehicles While traditional financing often falls short, non-dilutive capital options, like grants, have become a lifeline for underfunded founders. Unlike venture capital or private investment, which often require founders to exchange a stake in their company for financial backing, non-dilutive sources—such as grants, pitch prizes, forgivable loans, or crowdfunding—enable founders to retain full control of their vision and future profits. This is especially important for Black entrepreneurs, who often begin with less generational wealth and fewer investment networks. Non-dilutive capital provides critical breathing room to test ideas, build infrastructure, and generate revenue without the long-term cost of losing ownership or decision-making power. In ecosystems where access to capital is already unequal, non-dilutive funding helps level the playing field. In 2024 alone, over $742,500  in loans and grants were awarded to 140+ Black- and Brown-owned businesses in the region, thanks to organizations like the Minority Business Assistance Center, Miami Valley Urban League, and Minority Business Partnership. Still, many business owners miss opportunities due to lack of visibility. Juanita-Michelle Darden, Greater West Dayton Incubator “Most of the time, business owners find out about a grant after the deadline has passed,” shared Juanita-Michelle Darden , Director of the Greater West Dayton Incubator (GWDI). “There’s a growing call for more outreach, simplified applications, and culturally competent technical assistance.” Darden serves as the director of the Greater West Dayton Incubator (GWDI), where she leads the Cultural Capital program —an initiative that invests directly in the creativity, innovation, and lived experiences of entrepreneurs from Dayton’s historically marginalized neighborhoods. Instead of relying solely on traditional business metrics, the program values cultural knowledge, community trust, and resilience as essential building blocks for sustainable ventures. Through a combination of grants, workshops, and mentorship, the Cultural Capital program supports entrepreneurs in transforming their personal stories and skills into marketable products and services. It’s a model that bridges culture and commerce while honoring both the legacy and the promise of West Dayton’s entrepreneurial spirit. GWDI is currently accepting applications for funding. The Economic and Community Development Institute (ECDI) is one of the largest microlenders in the country, helping small businesses in Ohio access the funding and training they need to grow. Through its microlending program, ECDI offers flexible, low-barrier loans—often between $500 and $350,000—to entrepreneurs who may not qualify for traditional bank financing. But ECDI doesn’t stop at funding. Their programs include hands-on business training, one-on-one advising, and support with business planning, marketing, and financial management. This combination of capital and coaching is especially valuable for underserved entrepreneurs, providing the tools and resources needed to launch, stabilize, and scale their businesses with confidence. From Visibility to Ownership, Access & Accountability in Entrepreneurship While headlines often celebrate the rise of Black entrepreneurship, the deeper story is one of resilience, innovation, and collective action in the face of systemic exclusion. True equity requires more than just visibility. It demands Ownership, Access, and. Accountability. Ownership means more than having your name on the paperwork. It’s about controlling the direction, profits, and legacy of your business. For Black entrepreneurs, true ownership has often been limited by predatory lending, lack of capital, and barriers to legal protections like trademarks or real estate. Building pathways to ownership is essential for creating long-term stability and generational wealth. Without ownership, businesses may generate revenue, but the value they create doesn’t stay in the community. Access is about more than just opening the door—it’s about removing the barriers that make it hard to walk through. Access to funding, contracts, training, and networks remains deeply unequal. While programs and grants are growing, many still have eligibility requirements, application processes, or outreach strategies that unintentionally exclude the very people they’re meant to help. Real access means meeting entrepreneurs where they are, providing culturally competent support, and ensuring the systems that offer opportunity are built with inclusion at their core. Accountability ensures that equity isn’t just a buzzword—it becomes a measurable outcome. Institutions that support entrepreneurship, from banks to chambers to city governments, must track who benefits from their programs and adjust when disparities show up. Accountability also means listening to Black business owners, not just surveying them, and sharing power in decision-making spaces. When communities and institutions hold each other accountable, equity shifts from being an aspiration to a shared responsibility. A Call to Action As the gift-giving season nears, don’t just celebrate Black-owned businesses— help them grow. Shop intentionally and often Mentor, fund, or amplify a local Black founder Advocate for equitable procurement and funding policies in your workplace or government Entrepreneurship shouldn’t come at the cost of generational wealth. It should be the vehicle to build it.

Utsey T. Shelton In every community, there are quiet catalysts. These are the people who show up, pour in, and push others toward growth, often without asking for credit. In Dayton, Ohio, one of those catalysts is Utsey T. Shelton. Known for her warmth, her words, and her unwavering commitment to helping others thrive, Shelton’s journey has taken her from radio waves to boardrooms, from pulpits to planning conferences, from community organizing to one-on-one coaching sessions with small business owners trying to find their footing. And through it all, she has remained anchored in a purpose that is both personal and collective: empowering women to become. Rooted in Purpose A proud graduate of Central State University, Shelton began her career in communications, serving as an on-air producer at WCSU-FM. Her voice is measured, thoughtful, and inviting. It was not just meant for broadcasting. It was prophetic. Today, she serves as a Certified Business Advisor and Convening Manager with IBROC (Innovative Business Resource Opportunity Center), located at The Hub in downtown Dayton. There, she helps minority- and women-owned businesses access capital, grow their capacity, and navigate the often-intimidating terrain of entrepreneurship. In her own words, “I don’t just want people to start businesses. I want them to thrive on purpose.” Shelton has helped administer micro-grants, coach entrepreneurs through crisis, and uplift Dayton’s economic landscape one relationship at a time. And yet, despite the many hats she wears—advisor, event planner, producer, minister—Shelton’s greatest work may be her most personal. As a licensed and ordained Associate Pastor under the Pentecostal Assemblies of the World, Inc. (PAW INC.), Shelton also serves as the 1st Vice President of the International Singles Network. Her ministry spans over a decade of leadership and mentorship, especially among women and singles seeking identity, healing, and spiritual clarity. She is the founder of God’s Girls Events, LLC , which organizes conferences and workshops known for their warmth, authenticity, and faith-filled empowerment. The next event, Phenomenally Becoming Her , takes place October 17–18 at BackHouse Your Hospitality Event Center, 4077 Salem Ave., Dayton. For 13 years, Shelton has served as a conference coordinator, successfully bringing together men and women from across the country for transformational encounters through faith and fellowship. The Audacity to Phenomenally Become Her! is available at Amazon. A Journey Inward: Authorship and Audacity Shelton is a three-time author, and each of her books reflects a different dimension of her calling: Success Powered by Relationships  explores how networks, intentionality, and authenticity drive growth. Secret Moments , a 31-day devotional, invites readers to connect with God in quiet spaces. The Audacity to Phenomenally Become Her  is a bold, spiritually rooted guide for women navigating identity and transformation. “In a world that tries to define us by roles, trauma, or timelines,” Shelton writes, “it takes audacity to become who you truly are.” Blending affirmations, prompts, and real-life insight, the book is not a how-to—it’s a permission slip. A mirror held up to remind women that they are enough, even as they evolve. Her message resonates in every aspect of her work—from ministry and coaching to God’s Girls events and mentorship. In 2024, Shelton was named one of WiBN’s “Women to Watch,” a recognition for someone who’s spent much of her life shining the spotlight on others. But Shelton’s legacy is deeper than accolades. Her life and work are branches of the same tree: rooted in faith, watered by purpose, and grown through service. Becoming Her, Becoming Us In The Audacity to Phenomenally Become Her , Shelton reminds readers that becoming isn’t reserved for the lucky or the loud. It’s for every woman brave enough to face herself and still choose joy, healing, and power. For those on that journey, Utsey Shelton doesn’t just offer a roadmap. She offers her hand. Empowering Women: Follow @uniqueutsey  on soci al media for inspiration and event updates. Books are available on Amazon, including: The Audacity to Phenomenally Become Her , Success Powered by Relationships , and Secret Moments .

In the sweltering July heat at Wittenberg University, 120 Dayton Wolverines surged across the track, their spikes flashing as they clinched over 60 spots for the AAU Junior Olympics Nationals in Houston, Texas (July 26–August 2, 2025). The Dayton Wolverines Track Club, a 14-year powerhouse founded by Coach Harry “Keith” Ways, rules Region 4 (Ohio, West Virginia, Virginia, Kentucky, Michigan, Lake Erie). With over 200 athletes, ages 3 to 18, this squad stacks victories like champions, fueled by a relentless heart and an unbreakable mindset that screams, “Another one!” Coach Keith Ways, the visionary behind the club, ignites the team’s spirit: “The girls’ determination to win every season leaves room for improvement. They start from the ground and level up with a strong mind.” Coach Floyd doubles down: “Their mindset drives them. A stronger mind makes them win!” Coach Dayton Boyd, known as the “Vertimax King,” pushes the team to new heights, barking, “Stop talking and train harder!” His intense Vertimax training drills have propelled the Wolverines’ relay teams to #1 in Region 4. The coaching staff prioritizes athlete health, ensuring early arrivals to meets so muscles are rested and ready for explosive performances. Whether it’s 90° summer sprints or year-round training, the Wolverines are built for greatness. The team’s stars light up the track with jaw-dropping performances. Amari Mattison, a four-year veteran ranked #2 in the region, led the charge in Houston. The Wolverines boast an elite roster of AAU All-Americans: Faith Brown (100m hurdles, 400m hurdles), Nia Poole (400m hurdles), Zion Payne (800m), Alayah Walker (800m, pentathlon), Kaniyah Taylor (200m), Kendrick Goff (1500m), Te’Yone Strodes (National Champion, 100m hurdles; All-American, pentathlon), and Damare Smith (2x National Champion, 100m hurdles, pentathlon; All-American, high jump, 200m hurdles). These athletes embody the club’s mantra: run hard, win big, and keep stacking podium finishes. Beyond the medals, the Wolverines are a family. Junior Stacy Brown says, “The Dayton Wolverines are my second family, supporting me academically and athletically, on and off the track.” Freshman Kelis Mayberry reflects, “This team has made me a better person, teaching me discipline and resilience.” Senior Maya Welch, who’s been running with the club since childhood, adds, “The Wolverines are a blessing. They’ve shaped me into a better person and taught me life lessons that go beyond the finish line.” This tight-knit bond pushes the team to excel, creating a legacy of growth and unity. Coach Keith Ways sums it up: “Seeing our athletes compete at Nationals is the reward for grinding in 90° heat!” Be part of the Wolverines’ unstoppable journey—donate, cheer, or run with us! Reach Coach Keith Ways at harry.keithways@gmail.com to help these young stars soar to the next victory. Another one? You bet! Founded to make track accessible to all, the Wolverines never turn kids away for financial reasons, ensuring every young athlete has a shot at greatness. As they gear up for Nationals, they need community support for travel, uniforms, and equipment. You can fuel their fire by donating via Cash App (#DWTC2025) or contacting Coach Keith Ways at harry.keithways@gmail.com . Want to join the pack? Practices run Monday–Thursday, 6:00–7:30 PM at Deweese Park, and Sundays, 2:00–4:00 PM at Dunbar High School, with indoor sessions starting November 2025 due to daylight savings.

October 3, 2025 The Dayton neighborhood of Edgemont is preparing for the sixth Rock-The-Block event, scheduled to take place on Saturday, October 11th from 8 AM to 12 PM. Organized as a community clean-up initiative, this Rock-The-Block event aims to enhance the beauty and appeal of common areas, including alleys and the cemetery, fostering a renewed sense of pride and unity among residents. Volunteers from local organizations will join forces to carry out the work on October 11th. Participating organizations include Lowe’s, County Corp, The City of Dayton, Fifth Third Bank, Five Rivers Health Centers, The Greater Edgemont Community Coalition, Habitat for Humanity of Greater Dayton, MW Metals Group, and Wright-Patt Credit Union. Their commitment to community service underscores their dedication to the betterment of Edgemont. The Rock-The-Block event will commence at Five Rivers Health Center located at 721 Miami Chapel Rd, Dayton, OH 45417. Participants will be provided with tools and supplies. However, individuals are more than welcome to bring their personal equipment if they prefer. Rock-The-Block is an ongoing series of events specifically designed to uplift the Edgemont neighborhood. Community members can look forward to the event each year, further bolstering the positive momentum. The Edgemont neighborhood eagerly anticipates the transformative impact of the Rock-The-Block event, as it brings residents, organizations, and community leaders together in a collective effort to enhance the quality of life and instill a deep sense of pride within the community. The media is invited to attend the event! Join us on October 11th and become a part of this inspiring movement towards a brighter future for Edgemont. Schedule: 8:00 AM  – Check-in begins at 721 Miami Chapel Rd, Dayton, OH 45417 8:30 AM  – Remarks and instructions 8:45 AM  – Groups disperse to begin projects 11:45 AM  – Groups return for lunch Contact for More Info: Amber Barga, Marketing and Communications Director Phone: 937.586.0860 Ext. 112 Email: abarga@daytonhabitat.org About Habitat for Humanity of Greater Dayton: Habitat for Humanity of Greater Dayton, the first Habitat affiliate in Ohio, was founded in March of 1983. Since then, Habitat for Humanity of Greater Dayton has partnered with over 340 families to provide safe housing through an affordable Habitat mortgage and hundreds more through our critical repair program. Mission:  Seeking to put God’s love into action, Habitat for Humanity brings people together to build homes, communities, and hope. Vi sit daytonhabitat.org  to learn more or get involved.

October 3, 2025 Miami Valley Hospital’s Level I Trauma Center will host its annual Trauma Survivors Celebration on Tuesday, Oct. 7, 2025, at 6 p.m. at the Marriott at the University of Dayton, 1414 S. Patterson Blvd. This powerful event honors patients who have overcome life-threatening injuries with the help of Miami Valley Hospital’s trauma and rehabilitation teams, as well as first responders. Four survivors will be recognized this year for overcoming tremendous odds on their journey to recovery: The 2025 Honorees: Crystal Ayers  – In July 2024, Crystal was struck and run over by a pickup truck while out for a summer run with a friend. Thanks to her friend’s quick actions, the Piqua Fire Department, and CareFlight Air & Mobile, Crystal was rapidly transported to Miami Valley Hospital, where trauma surgeon Dr. Gregory Semon and the trauma team provided life-saving care. Brooke Bergman  – On Sept. 18, 2024, Brooke was driving home from school when her car was t-boned by a semi-truck. Bystanders and Versailles Fire & EMS rushed to her aid, and CareFlight Air & Mobile transported her to Miami Valley Hospital, where she was treated by Dr. Yee Wong and the trauma team. Taren Kinnel  – After completing military training, Taren purchased and started restoring a motorcycle. In August 2024, Taren was critically injured in a crash. Troy Fire Department called CareFlight Air & Mobile, and he was flown to Miami Valley Hospital, where he spent 52 days under the care of Dr. Mbaga Walusimbi and the trauma team. Derrick Selhorst  – On June 11, 2024, Derrick was transporting hogs to Louisville, Ky., when his semi-truck crashed. He was found outside his vehicle and unable to move. Clayton, Englewood, and Union Fire & EMS transported him to Miami Valley Hospital, where Dr. Cathline Layba and the trauma team cared for him during a 20-day hospital stay. Event Program Highlights: From 5:30 to 6 p.m., the honorees and their families will reunite with their trauma surgeons, nurses, rehabilitation therapists, and the first responders who played vital roles in their survival. For many, this will be the first opportunity to reconnect outside the hospital setting. At 6 p.m., a recognition program will feature video presentations sharing each honoree’s story of resilience and recovery.

October 3, 2025 The Alzheimer’s Association Miami Valley Chapter is offering two virtual programs about creating care plans and home safety in October. Register for these and other free educational programs at the Association’s 24/7 Helpline at 800.272.3900 or a t alz.org/dayton/events . T he chapter offers local caregiver support groups and social engagement programs for those living with dementia and their care partners. Information and the monthly schedule can be found on the chapter website. “Our free programs focus on supporting our families through every part of the Alzheimer’s journey,” said Dayna Ritchey, program director for the Alzheimer’s Association Greater Cincinnati and Miami Valley Chapters. “Whether you’re looking for ways to approach a loved one about memory concerns, or just learn more about dementia, we offer the programs and services that can help you.” Upcoming October Programs: Thursday, Oct. 23, 6:30–8:00 p.m. EXPERT SERIES: Making Care Plans Meaningful Presented by Susie Wilkins, RN and Community Educator with Day City Hospice Every person living with a long-term disease has the ability and right to express preferences and make choices, which must always be considered in their care plan. To make person-centered care plans meaningful, individuals should design care plans that identify problems, outline specific goals, and plans for interventions needed to help the person meet their care goals. This special virtual education program will be presented by Susie Wilkins, RN and community educator with Day City Hospice. Thursday, Oct. 30, 11:00 a.m. ALZ Talks: Home Safety to Support Independence Home safety needs can change over time for people living with Alzheimer’s disease or another dementia. It’s important to regularly review home safety to support independence and adapt to evolving needs. This virtual program will detail practical home safety checks to maintain a safe home environment. This webinar is supported by Procter & Gamble. Visit alz.org/dayton  to fin d other educational offerings in the Miami Valley Chapter area.

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.