Search Results

Historic Dayton cemetery honors Black leaders who shaped the city and the nation. By Kelley King During Black History Month, Woodland Cemetery in Dayton holds tours celebrating the lives of those who’ve made an impact on the city and beyond. “I think when people come here, they don’t realize who all is resting peacefully here and how they impacted the Dayton area.” Misti Spillman, Woodland Cemetery Preservation and Community Outreach In the quiet of Woodland Cemetery, 185 years of history is buried on more than 200 acres. Dayton’s own Paul Laurence Dunbar, the first renowned African American poet, is buried in the cemetery. The famed Dayton poet died in 1906 at 33 years old. “He also was associated with early civil rights leaders such as Frederick Douglass and Booker T. Washington,” says Spillman. Inside the cemetery’s indoor mausoleum, Dunbar’s poem “A Death Song” is enshrined in the colorful stained glass. “And one of the first lines of it is ‘Lay me beneath the willows,’ which you can see that in the stained-glass window is depiction of a willow tree,” describes Spillman. That poem is also on the marker at his gravesite. “He had a very robust body of work. He did plays, books, and also over 600 poems,” states Spillman. Also making her mark on Dayton history, founder and artistic director of the Dayton Contemporary Dance Company, Jeraldyne Blunden, is also inside the mausoleum. Dayton’s first Black mayor, James H. McGee, and Charity Adams Earley, commanding officer for the 6888th Central Postal Directory Battalion during World War II, are among the more than 112,000 people buried here. “I think it just brings another part of just the historical aspect of Dayton,” says Spillman. Their history is rooted in the landscaping of the cemetery and the city. Even in death, their legacy lives on, finding peace in their final resting place. The cemetery also holds other events throughout the year and provides private tours.

Written by Brenda Cochran Serving diligently means to put in the effort and go above and beyond and to serve others, by being motivated by a desire to honor God. It involves being persistent, attentive to detail, and striving for excellence in all endeavors. When you use the word diligence rather than diligently, you are referring to the opposite of slothfulness that is often associated with a quality such as faithfulness and perseverance. A person who is described as being diligent is someone who is consistently hard-working, thorough, and dedicated to completely demonstrating perseverance and a strong work ethic to achieve their goals. Diligence means intentionally seeking God’s guidance and following His command, even when faith or difficulties or uncertainty exist. It means constantly striving to grow in our spiritual maturity and wisdom and also being willing to sacrifice for the sake of the gospel. Many people have been called to be diligent at work and at the same time advance their career. Setting specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound goals all represent the first step to actually work diligently. The following are a list of necessities in order to work diligently: Get smart goals Make a list of the tasks needed to complete Set a routine Reduce any distractions Manage time in an effective manner Create accountability Become flexible If you are anxious to become not only diligent at work, there are other means of simply becoming a diligent person. Here are six ways to become a very diligent person: Create a burning desire to achieve a goal Gain clarity of purpose Commit to what you do Don’t overburden yourself with work Adopt a thorough approach Surround yourself with task-oriented people Most would agree that we are living in a world of distractions where both focus and attention span can be tossed around whenever you sit down to get a task done. In such a scene as this, those who can work diligently on their goals are the winners. Basically, the ability to work hard, carefully with focus and persistence and beat all the distractions is a virtue that can bring massive success your way and open the flood gates of opportunities and possibilities. A diligent person is being all day or even working long hours. This person puts their heart and soul into their work and takes consistent action for all their goals. The following are quotes on working diligently: “Everybody can be great because everybody can serve.” Martin Luther King Jr. “I never could have done what I have done without the habits of punctuality, order, and diligence.” Charles Dickens.

Written by Kim M. Williams DAYTON, Ohio — Community leaders, housing advocates, and local residents gathered this week as County Corp hosted the City of Dayton for an open house and ribbon cutting celebrating the completion of four newly constructed homes on North Williams Street and West First Street. The homes, built using federal American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds, represent a continued investment in neighborhood revitalization and market rate homeownership opportunities in the Wolf Creek neighborhood. The ribbon cutting event brought together key city officials including Mayor Shenise Turner-Sloss and Commissioner Chris Shaw, along with Steve Naas, President of County Corp, the project’s builder, members of the media, and community supporters. Four newly constructed single-family homes — two located on North Williams Street at 111 & 115 N. Williams St  and two on West First Street at 1240 & 1260 W 1st St  — are now listed for sale. The properties are marketed by local real estate professionals Cora, Fred, Shaun Diggs of the Diggs Team, and Kim M. Williams , all with Howard Hanna Real Estate Services, who are working collectively to bring qualified buyers into these move-in-ready homes. “These homes are more than new construction,” said one attendee. “They represent opportunity — for families to build equity, for neighborhoods to grow stronger, and for public funds to be invested back into the community in a meaningful way.” ARPA funds, allocated to support pandemic recovery efforts, have been strategically utilized by the City of Dayton and County Corp to increase housing supply, stabilize neighborhoods, and expand pathways to homeownership. The homes feature modern layouts and updated finishes designed to meet the needs of today’s buyers, while also contributing to the broader revitalization efforts underway in the surrounding community. City leaders emphasized that partnerships between public entities, nonprofit development organizations, and private real estate professionals are essential to addressing housing gaps and increasing access to affordable homeownership. The open house allowed guests to tour the properties, speak with agents, and learn more about financing options and eligibility requirements. With media coverage and strong community interest, organizers expressed optimism that the homes will soon be under contract. As Dayton continues to focus on equitable development and community reinvestment, projects like these demonstrate how federal recovery funds can be leveraged to create lasting local impact. To tour the homes or for more information, contact: Cora Diggs:  937-307-4363 Kim M. Williams:  937-286-0410 Home listings: https://1240w1ststreet.howardhanna.com/ https://1260w1ststreet.howardhanna.com/ https://111nwilliamsstreet.howardhanna.com/ https://115nwilliamsstreet.howardhanna.com/

By Donerik Black and Erica Fields In the quiet corners of Dayton, the echoes of the Civil Rights Movement are not found merely in the pages of history books, but in the living testimonies of those who stood on the front lines. This Black History Month, Erica Fields and Donerik Black sat down with two titans of the local movement: Dr. Jessie Gooding, the “Lion of the Dayton NAACP,” and Dr. Anthony Whitmore, a strategic bridge-builder and the visionary behind MLK Dayton, Inc. While their paths famously diverged in 1984 when both sought the NAACP presidency, their lifelong destination has remained identical: a Dayton where equity is a reality, not just a slogan. Today, their insights are more than memories; they are survival tools. As the teaching of Black history faces unprecedented challenges across the country and national civil rights protections are being eroded, both men argue that documenting Dayton’s specific local history is no longer just an act of celebration, it is an act of resistance. To understand the weight of the work, one must first understand the dehumanizing landscape of the late 1940s that forged this resolve. Dr. Gooding recalls a Dayton where the lines of segregation were absolute and designed to break the spirit. To a young Black man in 1947, the downtown landscape was a series of closed doors; you couldn’t eat at lunch counters, stay in hotels, or even use a public restroom without a long trek to the police station or heading all the way back home. Gooding speaks candidly about the internalized inferiority complex that institutionalized racism was designed to create, noting that “we were taught to be inferior” and that extracting that mindset is a lifelong struggle. These indignities fueled a career of “calculated pressure” where Gooding’s legacy became etched into the very infrastructure of the city. He didn’t just talk about change; he forced it and spent his evenings working alongside other dedicated civil rights workers to address systemic issues across Dayton. Gooding became a fierce advocate for the hiring of scientists and engineers from Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). He worked tirelessly to establish equal employment opportunity standards and sensitivity training, a program so impactful it became mandatory throughout the United States Air Force in the 1960s. Under his later 18-year leadership of the NAACP, the organization aggressively increased voter registration and pushed for sweeping reforms to end discrimination in education, employment, housing, and law. Dr. Anthony Whitmore, a student of these elders, views this legacy through a lens of collective genius. He reflects on a golden era of Dayton leadership characterized by an intentional, multi-pronged approach to justice. Whitmore brought a unique global perspective to this local struggle, having served as a Senior Administrator for USAID and a National Liaison for the Lesotho Water Highland Project in Africa. His extensive experience as the Governor’s Regional Director for Ohio’s Department of Development further sharpened his belief that social justice requires both high-level administrative strategy and a deep recognition of our global interconnectedness. In this era, leaders operated in a perfect, if unwritten, harmony. While varied—from the fire of grassroots activists to the calculated maneuvers of politicians and the diplomacy of boardroom advocates—they shared a common purpose. Whitmore notes that while one leader might meet the opposition in the street, another was simultaneously meeting them in the boardroom. This allowed them to carve out change from every possible angle. Whitmore’s own work has been to institutionalize this spirit, ensuring that the legacy of Dr. King is not a one-day event but a year-round mission through MLK Dayton, Inc., and fostering human rights through his deep connections across the community. However, both leaders express a profound urgency regarding the current social unrest. They warn that we are not just fighting far-away federal pressures; we are fighting local pressures in our own backyard. With the erosion of voting rights and the silencing of Black narratives in classrooms, the leaders insist that “the old tactics” must be dusted off. Dr. Gooding points to recent national uprisings as a reminder that people must still get in the street to demand the system’s attention, warning that a movement without a local memory is a movement without a foundation. In the spirit of Dr. King’s legacy, the leaders also challenged the role of faith and allyship in public life. While affirming the Black church as a cornerstone of Dayton’s community, they emphasized that faith must inspire action rather than replace it, warning against “feeling good on Sunday, dying on Monday.” Furthermore, they urged white allies to move beyond symbolic support and confront injustice within their own families and social circles, even when it leads to social discomfort. Perhaps the most stinging warning from both men is the danger of “arriving.” They discuss the irony of progress: as some achieved personal success, a sense of complacency set in. Dr. Gooding cautions against the “gatekeeper” mentality, where individuals who walk through the doors of success spin around and close the gate behind them rather than reaching back. “Too many of us feel we’ve got it made,” Gooding says, warning that the “mental” impact of the past remains even when the physical signs of segregation are taken down. As the conversation turned to the future, the advice for the next generation was one of radical ownership and reconnection to their roots. As national politics dominate public attention, the leaders stressed that the most immediate threats and opportunities still exist at the local level, including voter engagement and leadership accountability. Dr. Whitmore challenged the youth to understand that the movement is much bigger than any one individual, reminding us that true leadership is found in the “we,” not the “I.” He believes the next chapter of Dayton’s history will require the same courage, strategy, and unity that defined those who came before. His message is one of empowerment: young people are the “determiners” of what this city becomes, provided they carry the weight of their history with them. As we celebrate Black History Month, the lives of Gooding and Whitmore serve as a bridge. Their shared legacy reminds us that the work is not finished in the boardrooms or the ballot boxes alone; it is finished when the community remembers how to be together again. In the words of Dr. Whitmore, “If we don’t pass it on, we’re going to be left out here hanging.” In Dayton, the work of building that bridge continues, one story and one strategy at a time.

By: Wanda Haynes There is something powerful about seeing yourself reflected in spaces that once felt distant. For many African Americans, wine culture has often seemed exclusive, intimidating, or simply not designed with us in mind. That’s exactly why our newest columnist, Wanda Haynes, matters. Wanda Haynes is a national wine and leisure columnist whose passion is rooted not just in the glass—but in the joy of living. Origin Story Her love affair with wine began more than a decade ago. What started with curiosity—simply trying different wines—quickly evolved into studying flavors, exploring wine regions, attending tastings, and diving deep into the culture behind the bottle. Over time, she became a brand ambassador, educator, and certified sommelier. Yet, she found her true calling in storytelling. “I like to have fun and soak up joy,” she says, “then share the experiences with my readers.” For Wanda, wine isn’t just a beverage. It’s a lifestyle experience—one that pairs naturally with leisure, travel, and intentional enjoyment. Before she travels anywhere, she’s already researching the local wine bars and studying restaurant wine lists. Wine becomes both a lens and a passport. But her work goes beyond tasting notes and travel recommendations. During the pandemic lockdown, Wanda noticed something striking: rarely did she see Black faces in wine advertisements or visual storytelling. Rather than complain about the absence, she created her own presence. She studied photography and digital media, intentionally capturing urban aesthetics, Black men and women, luxurious textures, and settings that resonate with our community. Her message is clear: we belong here. A Cultural Lens on Wine In her upcoming columns, Wanda will explore wine through a cultural lens—addressing topics that matter to our readers. From navigating intimidating wine lists to understanding vintage differences, she aims to remove the fear factor. “Wine can be intimidating to all of us,” she admits. But her advice is refreshingly practical: ask questions, point to a bottle if you can’t pronounce it, and don’t feel ashamed. Most wine names come from other countries. Learning is part of the journey. She also challenges misconceptions within our community. Wine doesn’t have to be cheap to be enjoyable—but it doesn’t have to be expensive either. There is good wine at many price points. And while some prefer sweet wines, she encourages readers to gradually explore off-dry and dry selections as their palate develops. Her philosophy? Live your best life within your budget. Enjoy quality. Grow your taste buds slowly. Perhaps her most powerful message is about dignity and representation in travel and dining spaces. As African Americans continue to invest billions of dollars into restaurants and the travel industry, Wanda believes we should expect to feel respected and welcomed wherever we spend our hard-earned money. If not, she says plainly—go where you are appreciated. Wanda Haynes brings more than wine knowledge. She brings cultural awareness, joy, sophistication, and a reminder that leisure is not a luxury—it is a birthright. As she puts it: “Life is to be enjoyed and served on a silver platter; you’ll never be sorry you made it such a special matter.” We invite you to relax with Wanda in the weeks ahead. Pour a glass, open your mind, and explore wine—not as an outsider, but as someone who belongs at the table.

Someone once said, “You are capable of achieving greatness beyond measure.”     The ladies of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated, Beta Eta Omega chapter attest this same potential is limitless for the 2026 Ebony Jewels & Gems Cotillion participants.   Since 1981, Beta Eta Omega Chapter has held its signature scholarship fundraising event, the Ebony Jewels & Gems Cotillion. It is a premier event recognizing the outstanding accomplishments of graduating seniors in the greater Dayton area. Preparation includes a five-month process where participants engaged in character building workshops, leadership development, and cultural enrichment activities. The culminating event is an elegant Cotillion Ball which spotlights the participants and the awarding of scholarships to eligible graduating seniors.   Beta Eta Omega Chapter hosted its 46 th  Annual Ebony Jewels & Gems Cotillion on Saturday, February 21, 2026, at the Dayton Convention Center. The theme was, “Soar Beyond the Horizon Where Dreams Take Flight”. The theme represents what it means for the participants to pursue their highest potential and boldest aspirations, living with courage and purpose, daring to explore the unknown, and continuously rising above challenges to make their deepest ambitions a reality.   The Toastmistress was Ms. Lori Ward, a dedicated member of Beta Eta Omega chapter and former superintendent of Dayton Public Schools. The Toastmaster was Mr. Caleb Michael, co-anchor WDTN 2NEWS Today. The guests enjoyed a beautiful promenade of the Jewels and Gems, choreographed by Taylor Jackson, showcasing grace, confidence and poise. A highlight of the evening was the presentation of scholarships totaling $38,500 to 19 participants in recognition of their academic excellence, leadership, and community service.       The outstanding 2026 Ebony Jewels and Gems were: Gem Jason Barclay, Jr. (West Carrollton), Jewel Jiada Conley (Stivers), Gem Nykosi Cummings (Trotwood Madison), Gem Isaiah  Cunningham (West Carrollton/MVCTC), Jewel Anyia Curtiss (DECA), Jewel Brejuan Evans-Yates (Liberty), Gem Tobias Garrison (Alter), Jewel Gabrielle Goosby (West Carrollton), Jewel Indigo Hall (Ponitz CTC), Jewel Myah Howard (Trotwood Madison), Jewel Lauren Howell (Kettering Fairmont), Jewel Anne Iradukunda (Chaminade Julienne), Jewel Jordan Jamerson (DECA), Jewel Brazil Jenkins (Northmont), Jewel Zion Juniel (Chaminade Julienne), Jewel Kha’Mya Little (Chaminade Julienne), Gem Cade Matthews (Northmont/MVCTC), Jewel Shapri McBride (Dunbar), Gem William McMillian (Miami Valley School), Jewel Keyshae Morgan (DECA), Jewel Chase Morrow (Miami Valley School), Jewel Samiya Nelloms (Chaminade Julienne), Jewel Naemah Nzeruem (Miami Valley School), Jewel Shanelle Price (Spring Valley Academy), Jewel Daniya Smith (DECA), Jewel Jae’Lynn Taylor (DECA), Jewel Shia Thomas (Northmont), Jewel Tianna Turner (Chaminade Julienne), Gem Kingston Tyler (Meadowdale), and Jewel Alana Wright (Miami Valley School).   A total of $38,500 was awarded in scholarships. The scholarship recipients were Jewel Anyia Curtiss - $1,100, Jewel Brazil Jenkins - $1,300, Gem Isaiah Cunningham - $1,400, Jewel Alana Wright - $1,500, Jewel Daniya Smith - $1,600, Gem William McMillian - $1,700, Jewel Kha’Mya Little - $1,700, Jewel Chase Morrow - $1,700, Jewel Lauren Howell - $1,800, Jewel Tianna Turner -$1,800, and Jewel Indigo Hall - $1,800.   New Scholarship - Distinguished Gems Scholarship: Gem Cade Matthews - $2,000 and Gem Kingston Tyler - $2,500, Lillian Moore-Moyer Scholarship – Jewel Keyshae Morgan - $2,500, Judy R. Hall Scholarship – Jewel Shia Thomas - $2,500, Jewel Naemah Nzeruem - $2,800, Jewel Zion Juniel -$2,800, Jewel Shanelle Price - $3,000, Jewel Shanelle Price - $3,000.   Congeniality Awards: Mr. Congeniality - Gem Kingston Tyler. Miss Congeniality - Jewel Zion Juniel. Top Sales Awards: First place - Jewel Myah Howard, Second place - Jewel Shia Thomas, Third place - Jewel Gabrielle Goosby.   New Award: Darlene E. Wright Perseverance Award, in honor and memory of Beta Eta Omega member Ms. Darlene E. Wright – Jewel Brejuan Evans-Yates and Jewel Gabrielle Goosby.   To date over 1280 high school seniors have participated in the Ebony Jewels and Gems Cotillion. More than $783,000 has been awarded in scholarships.   Congratulations to all Cotillion participants and parents. Congratulations to the Ebony Jewels and Gems Cotillion Co-Chairpersons Ms. Tonita Davis, Ms. Gail Forest, and Ms. Stephanie Norwood, committee members, and all ladies of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated Beta Eta Omega Chapter. Acknowledgement of thanks are extended to the Al-Ka-Pals Youth Organization, Clint Campbell – Double “C” Productions, Dayton Wedding Photographers, Furst Florist, Linwood Men’s Specialty Shoppe, Gregory’s Tuxedos, and Peak Visions. Expressions of gratitude are extended to everyone who supported the indelible Ebony Jewels and Gems Cotillion.

By RoShawn Winburn I grew up watching Mrs. Susie Roberts walk into St. Benedict the Moor with a straightness in her back that said everything you needed to know about who she was. She never stepped outside without lipstick and earrings. She carried herself with dignity, and in turn, we learned to do the same. When you saw her, you stood a little taller yourself. For Black History Month, we tend to spotlight the bold names of the marchers, the legislators, and the headline makers, as we should. Yet, if you look really closely, the backbone of Black history could simply be your cherished memory of a woman standing in a kitchen, a classroom, or a church pew. She's neither quoted, nor photographed, but everything around her exists because she held it together. Susie W. Roberts was one of those women. Born in 1923 in Montgomery, Alabama, her life stretched across 102 years. Jim Crow. World War II. The Civil Rights Movement. Desegregation. Urban change. The Great Migration's reverberations. She didn't just witness history; she stabilized her family through it, and  that's the part we don't talk about enough . The Matriarch as Anchor Susie's granddaughter, Nikol Miller, tells the family's Dayton origin story. "When my grandparents moved to Dayton, they stayed in DeSoto Bass. At that time, it was wartime housing. There, they met Mr. and Mrs. Washington who helped them convert to Catholicism in 1946. After DeSoto Bass, they rented a house on Weaver Street, and eventually moved into the family home on Wisconsin Boulevard in 1958." The purchase was a land contract. Even though Harold had served in World War II, he couldn't use the GI Bill to purchase a house because he was Black. His brother Richard gave them $5,000 for the down payment—a significant sum in the late 1950s. But the Roberts home on Wisconsin Boulevard became more than property. It represented something in Dayton. It was a launchpad. And it had an open door, especially when someone was in need. If you were sick, she nursed you back to health. If you were hungry, she fed you. If you needed a place to stay, she housed you. If you needed a few dollars, she was the bank. And if you shared a secret, she kept it. That's what a caretaker does. Ten children grew up under that roof - Ten.  That's not accidental. That's management. That's discipline. That's structure. That's a woman who understood that order inside the home creates freedom outside of it. The Family of Harold and Susie W. Roberts Her children learned responsibility early: paper routes, shared chores, accountability. There were rules. There was faith. There was expectation, and there was love. The kind of love that shows up as a warm meal and a firm hand in equal measure. 'She was loving but firm,' one family member recalls. 'She allowed each child to develop their own personality. When we got out of line, she disciplined us. But she always made sure we knew we were loved.' And yes, there was the house shoe. If you know, you know. Stephen Martin Roberts, one of her sons, would go on to serve in the U.S. Air Force, earn multiple degrees, advocate for workers' rights, and dedicate his career to public service in Dayton and Columbus. His obituary reads like a civic résumé. But If you knew him, and if you read between the lines, you see something else. You see a boy shaped by a mother who taught consistency. You see a man formed by a woman who modeled service. When Stability Is Revolutionary We often frame Black history around protest, and rightly so. Protest demands recognition. But what Mrs. Roberts did was its own kind of revolution. While policies shifted and neighborhoods changed, she kept a prayer list. And not just in theory. If you asked her to pray for you, she would write your name down and call you by name in her prayers. Faith was active, personal, and intentional. She watched Mass and Mother Angelica every day on television. She said her morning and evening prayers faithfully. She was involved in the Leisure Club, the Altar Rosary Society, the Ladies Auxiliary, and the Bereavement Committee at St. Benedict the Moor. After Harold passed, her travel companions—the 'Awesome Foursome'—were Sister Virginia, Mrs. Peasant, and Mrs. Poole. Mrs. Roberts along with her travel companions. She taught school. She raised children. She served faithfully. She made dinner rolls for Thanksgiving that people still talk about. She enforced discipline with what family lore describes as remarkable aim and a well-timed house slipper. And she lived by one rule she repeated often: Do unto others as you would have them do unto you. A stable Black household in mid-20th century America was  resistance. An educated Black mother who insisted on order was resistance. Ten children who grew into professionals, advocates, teachers, and community leaders—that's legacy, and legacy compounds. Here's what often gets missed when we talk about the struggles of the Black family: we spend so much time cataloging what broke that we forget to study what held. What held wasn't always loud. It was often a grandmother's voice at the dinner table. A mother's insistence on Sunday clothes. A woman who made you feel seen even when the world was trying to make you invisible. Roots in Montgomery Susie's upbringing in Montgomery was both sheltered and significant. She attended school on Alabama State's campus for sixteen years. Her father was an alumnus who became the Buildings Supervisor after graduating. He was a carpenter by trade. Their cousins owned a funeral home, and she worked for a Black jeweler. Because they lived so close to campus, homecoming was a family-centered event. Even within the segregated South, their community was somewhat insulated, supported by Black institutions and businesses they patronized. It was a world of entrepreneurship, education, and self-sufficiency born of necessity and determination. However, the violence of Jim Crow was never far away. She shared only a few stories about segregation, but they were telling. When she was a child, her father was beaten by police, and his teeth were knocked out. Her mother's family had connections to a prominent white family in Montgomery, the Reese family, who were attorneys. They filed a lawsuit, and her father received $500. Another incident involved her brother when he was fifteen. She did not recall the details, but whatever occurred was serious enough that her parents sent him to live with an aunt in Detroit afterward. What strikes me is how, in the late 1920s or early 1930s, a Black man was able to receive $500 following an altercation with the police. It suggests complexity in that era that we do not often discuss—networks, advocacy, and the power of strategic relationships even within oppressive systems. She carried those lessons north. Deep ties to Montgomery, the birthplace of the Civil Rights Movement, connections to Dexter Avenue Baptist Church, and a family tradition of public service shaped the era in which her children came of age. Growing up in the 1950s, 60s, and 70s meant witnessing movements within the Catholic Church for Black Catholics, the formation of Black student organizations, and broader civil rights advocacy and legislation. She was active, and they were, too. She was proud of each of them. The Ripple Effect You Can See I've watched the Roberts family for decades now. Not from a distance, but up close at church services, community meetings, school events, neighborhood gatherings. Wisconsin Boulevard was filled with families who had five or more children around the same age as one of the ten. The Roberts, Davis, and Childs families all lived on the street. From St. John's to St. James, the children went to church and school together. Even some non-Catholic neighborhood children attended high school at Julienne or Chaminade. Mrs. Roberts never had a driver's license. Her husband drove her everywhere. After he passed, she had plenty of drivers. As she aged, she often expressed gratitude that her children still visited her regularly. On any given day, at least five of the ten would stop by her house. On special occasions, all ten, along with their children and in-laws, would gather. Because she rarely had to leave home, she would say, 'I took care of them, and now they take care of me.' A matriarch doesn't just raise children. She sets tone. She sets temperature. She establishes what 'normal' looks like. In Susie's home, normal meant faith was practiced, not just discussed. Education was not optional. it was expected. Her home was a place of learning, with encyclopedias for research reports and books for every age level. As a teacher, she corrected speech regularly. Work was honorable. She was proud that all of her children had jobs, whether they held degrees or not. Family was central, and community involvement was a duty, not an option. There was one rule in Susie’s house that was absolutely non-negotiable: 'If you don't have anything nice to say, then don't say anything at all.' That kind of household produces citizens in the truest sense. Mrs. Roberts raised people who understand that their individual success is tied to collective well-being. The Quiet Blueprint There's a temptation in modern conversation to talk about the Black family only through crisis statistics. We hear about broken homes, economic gaps, social strain. And those realities exist and matter. Yet, what about the households that held? What about the women who enforced structure without applause? What about the grandmothers who became spiritual headquarters? This is where the narrative often diminishes women's work, particularly Black women's work. We call it 'soft' or 'private' or 'traditional,' as if those words mean 'less important.' But creating the conditions for ten children to thrive, to believe in themselves, to serve their neighbors is community building. Black History Month isn't just about those who changed laws. It's about those who changed trajectories. Susie W. Roberts was not famous in the national sense, but in Dayton, and in the lives of hundreds of former students and dozens of descendants, she was foundational. Why This Still Matters Strong matriarchs have long functioned as stabilizing forces in Black communities, especially during eras when external systems were unreliable or openly hostile. They were culture keepers. Discipline setters. Spiritual anchors. Economic managers. Conflict mediators. Memory holders. They turned houses into institutions. Susie's life reminds us that the Black family's resilience has often rested on the shoulders of women who understood that their consistency mattered, even when no one outside the home noticed. Even when the broader culture treated their labor as invisible. Even when the professional world undervalued their intelligence and capability. The traditions she brought north with her continue to permeate the generations. She loved when the family gathered, not just her direct lineage, but her siblings' families as well. Family gatherings often include spirited debates, but she always encouraged the family to remain respectful and loving. “Since her passing, there has been a noticeable void when visiting her home. She was always there, so you expect her to still be there. As a family, we are adjusting to life without her physical presence. She was such an optimistic person that her words, prayers, encouragement, and even her gentle chastisement, kept us grounded,” shared Nikol. If we want strong communities, we must recognize and support the women who quietly build them. Not with platitudes, but with resources. Not with empty praise, but with systems that honor their work as essential infrastructure. This Black History Month, as we celebrate activists, entrepreneurs, and trailblazers, let's also honor the matriarchs. The teachers who shaped minds in classrooms and kitchens. The women who held families together when everything outside threatened to pull them apart. The grandmothers whose prayers covered generations. Because sometimes the most powerful leadership doesn't happen at a podium. It happens at a kitchen table. *** I think of Mrs. Roberts often. Not just during Black History Month, but whenever I see young people from Dayton stepping into leadership. Whenever I watch a Roberts family member show up for community work—and they always do—I see her influence. The straightness in the back. The insistence on excellence. The understanding that service is not optional. Because she was both beloved and respected, she modeled a way of being that held our family together. That's what a matriarch builds. Not just a family tree, but a forest.

Daniel Joseph Sessions, Sessions Lending Group Written by Daniel Joseph Sessions For more than two decades working in mortgage lending and community development, one truth has remained constant: our neighborhoods can only rise when the people who live in them have real access to opportunity. In today’s market—burdened by rising rates, shrinking inventories, and widening affordability gaps—we must think differently about how to expand that access. Across the country, policymakers and lenders are debating bold ideas like 40- and 50-year mortgages to stretch housing payments over longer timelines. These conversations matter. They push us to rethink traditional structures and explore tools that might increase affordability. But long-term solutions require more than extended loan terms. They require creativity, collaboration, and a willingness to challenge what we think is possible. This article launches a new ongoing series called “Community Conversations,”  focused on advancing solutions that rebuild our neighborhoods from the inside out. The Affordability Challenge: A Barrier & an Opportunity Families across Dayton and similar cities face the same issues: Monthly payments outpacing incomes Construction costs continue rising Investor guidelines tighten cycles of exclusion Many residents don’t fit traditional lending models, even though they are hardworking and financially responsible As a Foundational Black American business owner and mortgage professional, I’ve seen how these factors disproportionately affect Black communities and underserved neighborhoods. Yet I also see opportunity—because the people in our communities have strength, resilience, and the desire to build generational wealth when given the chance. A New Approach: Strength Through Collaboration One of the solutions I’ve been developing is simple but powerful: Combine qualified borrowers to increase purchasing power and approval odds. This strategy—sometimes called shared equity, cooperative buying, or community partnership lending—allows: Multiple buyers to combine income Shared ownership structures that meet investor guidelines Greater affordability without sacrificing sustainability Families, trusted partners, or community members to acquire properties together Neighborhoods to anchor reinvestment from within rather than through outside speculation This is not a workaround. It is a strategic alignment of lending guidelines, borrower eligibility, and community goals that already exist within the rules. It simply requires a lender willing to structure the loan properly and borrowers willing to think collaboratively. In a world where affordability challenges grow faster than wages, collaborative buying may be one of the most overlooked levers for economic mobility. Financing as a Tool for Neighborhood Revival Revitalizing a neighborhood is not a one-year plan. It is a 10-, 20-, even 40-year commitment . The same way we view extended mortgage products, we must view community renewal as long-term, strategic, sustainable, and community-driven. Responsible lending can support neighborhood improvement through: Construction financing for new builds and infill development Renovation loans that modernize aging properties Energy-efficient upgrades that reduce long-term costs Smart technology integration that improves safety and maintenance My work with the Possum Creek Retreat development  reflects a similar philosophy—creating self-sustaining, energy-efficient, community-oriented living environments that uplift people while preserving affordability. The lesson is simple: if we build with intention, affordability can co-exist with quality, sustainability, and dignity. Why 50-Year Mortgages Matter in This Conversation Longer-term mortgage products will not solve every problem, but they may play a meaningful role when paired with: Smart construction strategies Innovative borrower eligibility pathways Modern underwriting aligned with real-life economics Community investment incentives Shared-purchase models A 50-year mortgage by itself is only a tool. But combined with thoughtful, community-centered lending, it can help hardworking families get into homes they might otherwise be priced out of—and stay in them. The Path Forward: Uplifting Our Communities One Block at a Time Revitalizing neighborhoods is not charity—it is economic development, public safety, and wealth creation all in one . But the people who live in these communities must be the ones who benefit first. Our mission at SLG | Sessions Lending Group  is to: Provide accessible financing Educate borrowers Build partnerships rooted in trust Create sustainable opportunities for generational wealth Support community-led redevelopment This is slow work. Intentional work. Faith-driven work. It is not about flipping houses; it is about flipping outcomes for families who deserve stability, dignity, and a future. With each article in this series, we will explore additional strategies, address real barriers, and share practical solutions. Because the truth is this: Communities do not change overnight. But they do change when we commit to rebuilding them together.

Rev. Jesse L. Jackson, Sr., founder of Rainbow PUSH Coalition Dayton NAACP President Derrick Foward recently reflected on the national and local impact of Rev. Jesse L. Jackson Sr., one of the most influential civil rights leaders of the modern era. Rev. Jackson, founder of Rainbow PUSH Coalition and two-time presidential candidate, has long been recognized for expanding the civil rights movement into economic justice, voting rights, and corporate accountability. His leadership helped normalize the idea of Black presidential candidacies long before they became politically viable. Foward emphasized that Jackson’s work laid the foundation for broader political representation, opening doors that many leaders walk through today. He noted that Jackson’s presidential campaigns were not symbolic gestures but strategic efforts to demand inclusion at the highest levels of American politics. “Rev. Jackson changed what was possible,” Foward shared. “He challenged systems, built coalitions, and forced conversations around equity that continue today.” Beyond national politics, Foward highlighted Jackson’s ability to mobilize communities at the grassroots level. From economic boycotts to voter registration drives, Jackson’s organizing strategy focused on empowering everyday people. Foward encouraged the Dayton community to study leaders like Jackson—not just to honor them—but to understand the strategy, discipline, and courage required to sustain long-term change. As civil rights conversations evolve in 2026, Foward noted that the lessons from Jackson’s leadership remain relevant: persistence, coalition-building, economic leverage, and civic engagement. “History isn’t something we just celebrate,” Foward added. “It’s something we build on.”

Richard L. Hairston - President, African-American Community Fund The African American Community Fund (AACF), a component fund of The Dayton Foundation, continues expanding its impact across the Miami Valley through strategic grantmaking and community partnerships. In its latest update, AACF highlighted ongoing investments in education, entrepreneurship, youth development, and community-based programming designed to strengthen the Black community in Montgomery County and surrounding areas. The fund’s leadership reaffirmed its commitment to addressing disparities while building long-term sustainability through philanthropic collaboration. AACF works by pooling resources from donors and directing funds toward nonprofits and initiatives that align with its mission. Recent grants have supported initiatives focused on: Youth mentorship and academic enrichment Economic empowerment and workforce development Cultural programming and historical preservation Health equity initiatives AACF leaders emphasized the importance of community participation—both through financial contributions and volunteer engagement. By strengthening its endowment and expanding partnerships, the fund aims to increase its annual grant capacity in the coming years. Community members interested in supporting or applying for funding are encouraged to connect through The Dayton Foundation’s website for eligibility requirements and upcoming grant cycles. AACF continues to position itself as a vehicle for collective impact—ensuring that philanthropy directly benefits the Black community in measurable and sustainable ways. For more information on the African-American Community Fund: https://www.daytonfoundation.org/african-american-community-funds

Academy Award Nominee, Hannah Beachler Centerville High School and Wright State University graduate Hannah Beachler has received her second Academy Award nomination for Best Production Design for her work on the film Sinners . The nomination marks her second career Oscar recognition. Beachler previously won an Academy Award in 2018 for her work on Black Panther  and has been credited on several major productions, including Fruitvale Station , Creed , and Moonlight . Downtown Dayton’s NEON Theater will offer a return, week-long screening of Sinners  beginning January 30. The 98th annual Academy Awards will be hosted by Conan O’Brien on March 15.

On Monday, January 19, 2026, Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated Beta Eta Omega Chapter held their Martin Luther King Jr. Day of Service – Honoring Our Community of Champions Without Applause!  The event was held at St. Margaret’s Episcopal Church, 5301 Free Pike, Trotwood, Ohio 45426. The purpose of the program was to recognize select community leaders who serve daily and often without recognition. A warm welcome was provided by Cynthia Booker-Neilson, President of Beta Eta Omega Chapter. The purpose was shared by Carla Scott, Vice President. An inspirational message was delivered by Ashley Miller of the Beta Eta Omega Chapter. She shared that true service is the act of using our time, talent, and resources to help others. She emphasized that service shapes who we are, not what we receive, noting that service is about impact, not attention, and that service welcomes everyone. Her encouraging words inspired attendees to remember that service to others empowers growth, builds trust, and fosters excellence—not weakness. The honorees consistently and selflessly help improve the well-being of others through unpaid work, acts of kindness, and sharing skills driven by empathy and a desire to make a positive impact rather than personal gain. The honorees’ service reflects altruism, empathy, connection, and action. Their work includes volunteering, mentoring, offering direct help, resource sharing, and community building. Awards were presented by Myra Bozeman and Veronica Dudley, Co-Chairmen of Sisterly Relations, to the following honorees: Sharon Babb, James Crutcher, Sh’ron Henderson, Roberta Lynn Holt, Kim Jarvis, Shawnkekia Pope, Lauri Ridley, Nicole Weaver, Eddie Dudley, and LaShea Smith Lofton. Closing remarks and heartfelt thanks were provided by Cynthia Booker-Neilson. Following the program, attendees enjoyed fellowship and refreshments. The ladies of Beta Eta Omega Chapter continue to embrace the words of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.: “Everyone can be great because everyone can serve,”  remaining steadfast in their commitment to Service to All Mankind.