Volume 11, No. 14 January 31, 2007

In This Issue The Truth Editorial Page 2

Jack Ford Page 3

Mike Bell Leaving Page 4

Kattie Bond Moving Up Page 4

The Mayor’s Pride and Passion Page 5

Anita Lopez’s Transition Page 6

Cover Story: Shelley Wilbert Page 7

Museum of Art Presents Aminah Lynn Robinson Page 11

Stephen Ward’s Perspective Page 12

Minister’s Interview Page 13 The Lima Truth Pages 14-15

BlackMarketPlace Page 17

Classifieds Pages 18-19 Big Sister Shelley Wilbert with Little Sisters Erin Cox and Faith Parker “I do not believe there are any at-risk children. I believe that all children have the same capabilities but just different struggles.” Page 2 The Sojourner’s Truth January 31, 2007 This Strikes Us … Community Calendar A Sojourner’s Truth Editorial January 31 • Women’s Entrepreneurial Network: “Getting Started” business seminars; “Financing Wanted: and Record-keeping for Your Business;” 6:30 pm; Maumee Branch of the Toledo-Lucas A few good people of color to help provide leadership for a mid-sized city located in County Library: 419-536-6732 northwest Ohio. February Black History Month!! What a difference four or five years make. Not too very long ago, during then-Mayor Jack Ford’s first year or so in office, the mayor February 3 spoke with a large group of rural/small town school children who were visiting the big city • Toledo Chapter of The Links, Inc: Health & Wellness Luncheon; “Community Forum for a day. for Healthy Living;” Zenobia Shriners; 11:30 am to 2:30 pm; Discussions on domestic The meeting between the school children and the mayor took place in Toledo City violence, teenage prostitution • Amazon Lodge #4 Fish Fry: 11 am to 5 pm; Deliveries available on orders of 3 or more: Council chambers and during the course of the 45 minutes or so that the kids learned a little 419-531-7079 about the inner workings of big city/big county government, they were introduced to a host • Maumee Valley Country Day School’s African-American Society: “Stand Up! Speak of public officials – councilmen, department heads, etc. They met the Fire Chief Mike Bell Up! Be Heard!: Talented Teens of 2007;” Raffles, vendors, workshops, live perfor- who, of course, was in his element explaining to children what a fire man and a fire mances; Day long event starts at 8:30 am: 419-381-1313 department do and how they do it. February 4 Eventually Ford introduced the children to Police Chief Michael Navarre. As he did so, • Ridgewood Church of Christ: A Celebration of Black History Month; 12:30 to 5 pm; Ford commented, only half jokingly, that it was necessary to bring Navarre in because he Blood pressure checks, health screenings, crafts, ethnic food, free haircuts, manicures, did not want the all-white group of rural kids to think that Toledo was run entirely by games, door prizes, among other activities: 419-726-2210 African-Americans. What a difference four or five years make. February 5 Last week, Bell announced his retirement/resignation as the recent exodus of black • “Boys Booked on Barbershops:” Blendz Barbershop; For Boys ages six to 10; Free books, pizza, pop and cookies; Sponsored by Top Ladies of Distinction, Blendz leadership continued unabated – Bill Copeland, Jack Ford, Karyn McConnell Hancock, Barbershop and Ruth Court #6: 419-244-7062 or 419-578-9400 Jimmy Gaines, Yulanda McCarty Harris, Jay Black, to name a few, and now Mike Bell. The question keeps arising in the days since Bell admitted he has submitted his letter February 7 of retirement whether the African-American community would like to see a black person • National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day: Toledo-Lucas County Health Dept from 9 be appointed to lead the Fire Department. am to 4 pm or Planned Parenthood of NW Ohio from 4 pm to 8 pm: 419-213-4131 or 419- 255-1123 ext 308 It’s a shame that the question has to be asked. But there is a definite context for that question. February 9 Back in the day, the day we described several paragraphs ago, many observers within • Mays Chapel United Holy Church: Wyndham Hotel; Speakers Bill and Ann Harris; the African-American community spoke of the numerous black leaders and recalled a time, “Men Are Like Waffles, Women Are Like Spaghetti;” Food, fun and fellowship: 419-246- not so very long ago, when there seemed to be a glass ceiling on the number of positions 4046 or 419-243-4509 blacks could hold in this city. • Northwestern Ohio Missionary Baptist Association: “The Outstanding Servant Leadership Award” and “The Outstanding Stewardship Award;” 6 pm; Union Grove It seemed to be an unwritten rule in Toledo, went the conversation, that only one MBC: 419-537-0420 or 419-213-6902 African-American could serve on City Council at a time. And, of course, the obverse side of that coin, which for a while became almost an article of faith, was that a seat on the Lucas February 10 County Board of Commissioners should be reserved for the black community. • End Time Christian Fellowship: Adult Singles and Couples Valentine’s Dinner; night When the community lost County Commissioner Bill Copeland, no one seemed to object of love, laughter and inspiration; 6 pm; Dinner, music, entertainment and more: 419-729- that an African-American was not automatically slated to fill the post. Of course, there were 1027 or 419-346-7426 • Youth Kwanzaa Committee Meeting: Lighthouse Community Center; Training, edu- so many other black leaders in place at the time, it did not seem to matter much then. cation on Kwanzaa/mentoring: 419-471-1912 Little did we know that the loss of Bill Copeland was just the start of a downward spiral in terms of African-American leadership here in Toledo. February 11 Losing Mike Bell, perhaps to another city since he is in the midst of interviewing for a • Calvary Baptist Church: Annual Culinary Heritage Food Taster; 4 pm; Deadline for similar position in Washington, D.C., will be a huge blow for this entire community but registration for women’s Ministry 2007 Spring Retreat: 419-865-0019/419-531-9443 particularly for the black community. Mike Bell, remarked Mayor Carty Finkbeiner in the February 12 wake of the retirement notice, is Mr. Toledo. As such, there is probably, other than the • Toledo Lucas County Library Kent Branch: Black History Film Series: Rising from the mayor himself, no more recognizable face in town. Mike Bell has been Toledo’s biggest Rails: The Story of the Pullman Porter; 6:30 to 8 pm: 419-259-5381 booster and one of the most involved city leaders we could have. With any luck – at least for Toledo – Bell will be turned down for the post in the nation’s capital, remain in Toledo February 15 and eventually run for elective office during the next phase of his public life. • Fair Housing’s Mardi Gras Party: The Pinnacle; Fundraiser to benefit the Fair Housing Center; Cajun food; Music by KGB; Costume contest: 419-243-6163 That said, there still remains the question of what has happened to the black leadership of this city. February 17 Is this just the normal ebb and flow of politics or is the problem more deeply rooted? • Toledo Lucas County Library Kent Branch: Black History Month program; Slavery to We can’t answer that question, we don’t know anyone who can. Therefore, we have Freedom: The Story of Africans in the Americas; African drummers and dancers, to conclude that the African-American community has to be doubly vigilant in the pursuit speakers, a storyteller and a marketplace full of vendors: 419-259-5381 of developing black leadership – community leaders. February 18 We have to find ways to keep the Mike Bells, and the potential Mike Bells, here in town. • Ridgewood Church of Christ: A Celebration of Black History Month; 12:30 to 5 pm; We have to find ways of identifying and nurturing potential leaders. Blood pressure checks, health screenings, crafts, ethnic food, free haircuts, manicures, All of this requires a cooperative effort. One person or one agency working on its own games, door prizes, among other activities: 419-726-2210 is not enough. Politicians, business leaders, agency heads, church leaders will all have to • Third Baptist Church (Holland): Mass Choir sponsors 20th Annual Black History row in the same direction to stem the tide of the vanishing city African-American leadership. Musical; 4 pm It really is not a matter of whether there is a black person to take the place of Mike Bell. It is a matter of getting to the point at which losing someone of the caliber of Mike Bell will not leave such a gaping hole in the leadership ranks of people of color. The Sojourner’s Truth Toledo’s Truthful African-American Owned and Operated Newspaper Kevin McQueen Publisher The Sojourner’s Truth Fletcher Word Publisher and Editor Becky McQueen Business Manager 6161/2 Adams Street, Toledo, Ohio 43604 Alan Abrams Reporter Geneva J. Chapman Reporter Phone 419-243-0007 • Fax 419-255-7700 Tamir A. Shaw Reporter Published weekly on Wednesday Artisha Lawson Reporter Ashlee Austin Reporter Printed by Webco Graphics Jack Ford Political Columnist Advertising deadline: Friday at noon Carol Chehade Columnist Michael J. Hayes Entertainment Critic Subscribe to The Truth Today! Jennifer Retholtz Layout Designer/Webmaster Aida Maxsam Sales Representative 26 Weeks - Only $40.00 52 Weeks - only $70.00 Pamela Anderson Sales Representative Kathy Sweeny Ad Creation Name: ______Phone # (_____) _____-______A Certified MBE, 2006 Address: ______City ______State ____ Zip ______The Sojourner’s Truth, 6161/2 Adams Street, Toledo, Ohio 43604 Send your check or money order to: Phone 419-243-0007 • Fax 419-255-7700 The Sojourner’s Truth, [email protected] 616 1/2 Adams St., Toledo, OH 43604 www.thetruthtoledo.com January 31, 2007 The Sojourner’s Truth Page 3 My View By Jack Ford The Truth’s Political Columnist Our continued comments reached the point where some bus when the legislature gave field and the other opportuni- for school board, reclaim your about the unnecessary City folks just need to resign from the Cleveland school district ties that exist in northwest schools before it is too late to of Toledo budget deficit has the board. I see no way that a to then-Mayor Mike White. Ohio. make a difference. finally gotten a rise out of school board levy can pass The Cleveland mayor now And, it is clear that the Not much, if any, mention Councilman George Sarantou, given the atmosphere we appoints school board mem- graduates we produce too has been given to the status chairman of the Finance Com- presently operate in at Man- bers. often do not match the basic of the City of Toledo tow lot. mittee. hattan and Elm. There are still some in the needs of the entry or starter You remember that one? Sarantou now says that There are discussions legislature who do not be- jobs in business or industry City Council President the unfunded pension pickup going on involving county lieve wholeheartedly in pub- including retail down to food Rob Ludeman and others Jack Ford that he voted for in 2005 was officials, The University of lic education but rather in service. This all needs to were against anything that first put in place in 1995 when Toledo and business leaders charter schools, vouchers, change. smacked of the city taking on Just think of the hole the the city fathers passed it for concerning the school sys- etc. We need to really get our In the short term, call this function. Now, the city city would be facing if the tow non-uniformed workers. It tem. Dr. Lloyd Jacobs, UT school board act together, School Board President auditors smack their lips and lot had not come on board in has been inferred by some president, went so far as to pronto! Deborah Barnett and offer to drool over the revenues gen- 2004? that I had a hand in that in the disavow a takeover. This is It is clear that the United help. In the long term, go to erated by the tow lot. Two Contact Jack Ford at 1995 vote. I did not. I was in always a dangerous first sign. States is going to be eclipsed school board meetings, run million dollars! [email protected] the legislature in 1995 not on One scenario would have UT within the next 20 years by City Council. becoming a guiding force for either China or India in the Toledoans may be close TPS with the sign-off and area of science and technol- to losing their right to vote cash from the state legisla- ogy unless we change our Toledo Exodus for a real school board. The ture. Far-fetched? ways. It is just as clear that we By Jan Scotland, Special to the Truth most recent flare up among Not really. And maybe have not figured out how to “Give me your tired, jobs. I have a lot of respect school board members while that development would be match high school, or col- your poor, your huddled for anyone willing to take on on retreat at a Metro Parks the lesser of two evils if our lege, graduates with the ex- masses yearning to the task of holding office. building did not look or sound school board cannot get their isting job market, particularly breathe free, the wretched What I mean is that willing- productive. I think we have act together. I was in Colum- in the expanding health care refuse of your teeming ness to serve is not enough. shore. Send these, the In recent weeks both the Promise Land Ambassadors homeless, tempest-tost to Democratic and Republican A nonprofit organization, has been selected as an exhibitor for the 2007 Toledo Art me, I lift my lamp beside the Parties put out their own can- golden door!” didate pleas to the masses. Museum Juneteenth Celebration. The group will be highlighting the African-American Jan Scotland residents that integrated into the Old West End. They are seeking items such as photos That timeless line is from But these parties have differ- and art. Stories of residents’ memories living in the Old West End in the 60’s and prior will the Emma Lazarus poem, ent problems. those that still think that Bill also be accepted. “The New Colossus.” It is The Democrats who domi- Copeland (rest his soul) not engraved on a tablet in the nate Toledo politics don’t Phil Copeland, his nephew, Anyone interested in submitting information can contact Sandra Alexander By email pedestal on which the understand that electing a is an elected official. We at [email protected] or call 770-808-2301. Statue of Liberty stands. It majority of candidates with continue to vote for names, is a world-wide welcome to overweening social agendas party affiliation and cam- immigrants and exiles to such as right-to-work, hire paign rhetoric instead of re- enter our country … a Toledo and smoking bans searching the records of the strong beacon of our melt- must be tempered with candi- people we are electing. Our ing pot tradition that has dates who understand how only two strong majors have made this country great. It to attract business. They been popular councilmen is also an appropriate call have a responsibility to find from the old system. Even Kevin McQueen can help for citizens, foreign and do- candidates who know how the supposed new blood mestic, to come back to the to generate revenue for the either have old council secure the financial future shores of the Maumee or city in ways other than tax names like McNamara or fa- more precisely to the City levies. They need to take an miliar, popular union names of Toledo. But this won’t example from their national like Szollosi. We spend of your business. happen until the politics in party who successfully countless hours at work this city fall in line with the elected middle of the road and on talk shows complain- Let Kevin McQueen put the resources of the Northwestern Mutual Financial present needs of the city. candidates to take back con- ing about it, but then act as Network to work for your business. From employee benefits, to the death, When Toledo went to a trol of Congress. Maintain- if our vote and ability to strong mayor’s form of ing control of the mayor’s influence other votes are disability or retirement of a partner, to pension and estate planning, Kevin government the idea was seat and council has to be meaningless. Let’s also re- can call on a network of specialists dedicated to providing the expert that stronger candidates tempered by the need to re- member the sacrifices of would arise to handle the verse the exodus from our those who preceded us and guidance and innovative solutions to help your business meet its financial daunting task of running borders. demand more from our city goals. Call Kevin McQueen today to arrange a free, no-obligation meeting. the business that is the And what about the Lucas government. We have to act city. The city managers of County Grand Old Party? I now if we are to save the the past were felt to be too have written in the past about long-term strength of the detached from the needs the failure to provide the loyal city we love. of the citizens. The strong opposition. The GOP’s big- Otherwise, the “tired and mayor would combine the gest problem now is the in- poor” aren’t stupid. They desires of the citizens with ability to field good candi- will go to cities that give the know-how to run the dates to provide the balance them hope. “The huddled city. In addition to this we needed downtown. Good Re- masses yearning” will go Kevin S. McQueen would have district and at- publican citizens have for- were they can indeed Financial Representaive large council elections to gotten the sacrifices of their breathe free of the shackles Northwestern Mutual ensure the same results. forefathers who suffered of government bureau- Financial Network-Toledo Unfortunately the par- greatly to serve the masses. cracy. “The wretched 3950 Sunforest Court, Suite 200 ties and the citizens did Republican businessman and refuse” will not leave their Toledo, OH 43623 not fully grasp their re- community leaders have to shores to be buried in ex- (419) 407-8656 sponsibility to the new understand that their busi- cessive city taxes. And the (419) 473-2270 system. They did not un- ness and families are not im- “homeless and tempest- [email protected] www.nmfn.com/toledofinancial derstand that with new mune to the actions of To- tost” will not like the images powers new candidates ledo city government. It is revealed when we lift our needed to emerge. As a our duty to serve. The fears light at Toledo’s golden result the popularity con- of the public exposure that door. test that has always ruled comes with service should Toledo politics continues. not render us stagnant. In Ed. Note: Jan Scotland, This is not to say that we the face of laws and taxes owner of a State Farm In- don’t have some compe- that sicken us our main an- surance agency, was the tent council members or swer can not be exodus. co-chairman of the Ken that all of the members I haven’t forgotten the Blackwell for governor 05-2016 ©2004 The Northwestern Mutual Life Insurance Co., Milwaukee, WI Nortwestern Mutual Financial Network is the marketing name for aren’t sincere about their citizens of Toledo. There are campaign. the sales and distribution arm of The Northwestern Mutual Life Insurance Company and its subsidiaries and affiliates. 4064-152 Page 4 The Sojourner’s Truth January 31, 2007 Moving On . . . . Moving Up . . . . Fire Chief Mike Bell Kattie Bond to Head the Getting Ready for the Next Department of Phase of His Life Neighborhoods Sojourner’s Truth Staff By Fletcher Word Sojourner’s Truth Editor “It’s like coming back earned her home,” said Kattie Bond last bachelor’s of sci- Toledo Fire Chief Mike ing the press conference, week on her excitement at ence degree in Bell has tendered his no- both Bell and Finkbeiner de- being appointed acting Di- business admin- tice of retirement he admit- nied that there was any rift rector of the Department of istration from ted last week on the eve of between them. The mayor, in Neighborhoods. “Before I Ohio Northern a flight to Washington, fact, said that he would make went to the Department of and for the next D.C. in order to interview an effort to change Bell’s Parks, [Recreation and For- 13 years pursued for a similar position in the mind about leaving his post. estry], I was here for five a career in bank- nation’s capital. “Mike Bell is a great fire years.” ing before joining “I’m starting the last chief and Bob Reinbolt and I Bond, who served as the the City of To- third of my life and I want will do what we can prudently Fire Chief Mike Bell Director of the Department of ledo as a Finan- the opportunity to do the do, following his return from Parks for three years during cial Assistance things I want to do,” said Washington, D.C., to keep winner and co-captain of the Jack Ford administration, Specialist in the Bell last Wednesday after- him on his job,” said the the team during his senior was removed from that posi- Department of Kattie Bond noon during a press con- mayor. year. He began with the tion when Carty Finkbeiner Neighborhoods. ference to confirm the re- Certainly part of the equa- fire department in 1980 and, took office and was re-as- As the newly-appointed enforcing the codes against ports of his impending re- tion in trying to keep Bell in in 1990, at the age of 35, signed to the Housing Divi- head of Neighborhoods, abatement nuisances and tirement after 27 years on place would be financial con- was appointed chief. He sion as Manager of Housing. Bond has some big chal- putting in place the city’s the fire department, the last siderations. Bell earns $91,500 supervises 500 uniformed “Kattie Bond is so soft- lenges. “We are in the pro- new building codes. 16 and a half as the chief. and has not had a pay raise members and 40 civilians spoken it’s easy to overlook cess of rolling out a housing “We need to get back to According to Bell, and for the past five years. The who work in the nine bu- her talents,” said Finkbeiner project – working with com- being more neighborhood his letter of retirement – he fire chief’s position in Wash- reaus of the Department of last week. “We interviewed munity development corpo- oriented, more grass roots, was careful state that it was ington starts at $170,000. Fire and Rescue Opera- her and three other capable rations – to do market rate more 501(c)(3) oriented,” said not a resignation – which Finkbeiner also said that tions. During his rise people. Kattie finished first and mixed income projects,” Finkbeiner of the Department was released to the media he has been instrumental in through the ranks, he was in the assessment.” she said. of Neighborhoods mission. at that time, he informed trying to generate interest in a water rescue diver, a para- Bond grew up in Holland, In addition to the housing “and we need to become more Mayor Carty Finkbeiner of Bell as a candidate for the medic and a fire depart- OH where she graduated from projects, the department’s helpful to neighborhood or- his intention to retire on Toledo Public Schools’ va- ment recruiter. When he Springfield High School. She other major tasks include ganizations.” December 26 and made it cant superintendent position. was named fire chief in effective March 22, 2007. The mayor has approached 1990, Bell was the African- “Every career ends at the Milwaukee search firm, American chief of an Ohio 7+(&20081,7<&/8% some point in time,” said Proact Search, Inc., that has a metro city. Bell recently be- 0HPEHUVRI7ROHGR¶VIDVWHVW Bell. “I’ve had a good ca- contract with TPS, on Bell’s came the longest-serving JURZLQJPDOHGULYHQ QRQ reer, I’ve had good people behalf. Toledo Fire Chief in the SUR¿W FRPPXQLW\FOXESRVHG in the department to work “I think you would see history of the department. IRUDJURXSSKRWRDIWHUWKHLU¿UVW with and I’ve had good charter school kids flocking “In 16 and a half years, RI¿FLDOPHHWLQJRIWKH\HDU7KH political people to work back to TPS if he were in we have been able to do a PHHWLQJVHWWKHVWDJHIRUWKH charge,” said Finkbeiner. lot of great things,” he said with. 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.HHSWKH&RPPXQLW\&OXELQPLQG7KHUHLVDOZD\VVRPHWKLQJJRLQJ RQWKDWZH¶UHVXUH\RXZLOODSSUHFLDWH January 31, 2007 The Sojourner’s Truth Page 5 Mayor Carty Finkbeiner: The Pride and The Passion By Fletcher Word Sojourner’s Truth Editor “If you’ve done your working with those who hap- answers. doing what I thought was homework and you stand up pen to be either not on his Finkbeiner is enjoying right,” he says now. “In the and do what’s right, you may side of every issue or those himself during this second gamesmanship that’s get some heat from the press who, for whatever reasons, stint in office, he says, be- played, I have to remember or your opponents, but ulti- are less than inclined to work cause of his past experiences that is what it is.” mately the truth comes out,” with him, even when the goals and the ups and downs of his Choosing his words care- says Mayor Carty Finkbeiner are the same for all parties first eight years. fully, the mayor speaks of his as he describes the underly- involved. “I’m not sure that without own pride in and passion for ing passion he has for taking This mayor’s relations a certain dynamic tension that the citizens of Toledo as he stands that sometimes leave with Toledo City Council, for the Democratic process explains what he under- observers shaking their example, have been trouble- works. So it’s OK if there is a stands of this group of con- heads in bemusement. some at best during this most little gamesmanship going stituents. He acknowledges the fact recent tenure. Unlike the on,” he adds. “I think that there is a wis- that he could every now and pique he expresses over the He also admits that while dom coming through that the then just let matters settle, previously mentioned inci- he doesn’t expect to win ev- public will put up with some matters such as the dust-up dents, he expresses no ran- ery battle, he won’t shy away degree of game playing but at the Ottawa County jail cor at all over the spats he has from speaking up when he ultimately – Toledo doesn’t when he and his wife Amy had with the City of Toledo’s feels that it is the right thing like a whole lot of conniving went to visit their son recently legislative body. to do, even at the cost of or scheming … trying to live or the public spat with a local “It’s hard for me to get too losing a fight in a very pubic by your wits instead of by Of course, fire and police done this two years ago,” he radio station, WSPD, over the upset over that,” says the arena. The battle over Costco hard work. They also look at personnel are always the pri- says of the progress made on objectivity of one of their talk mayor. “I was on council once was one that he still feels was politicians and will put up mary focus of attention when- that project. show hosts who wanted ac- and you are always, in that worth waging even though with a little of that but ulti- ever lay offs are being dis- And by progress, he cess to the mayor. position of being one of many, he found no comfort on City mately they have respect for cussed – always an issue of means specifically the deci- But letting such matters looking for a way to get your Council during that particu- those whom they think are safety vs. cost. The police sion by the administration to settle is not this mayor’s voice and your picture heard lar fight. working very hard for their class that was projected for go with Larry Dillin, rather style. “I’m not going to for- and seen.” Finkbeiner objected to the interests. Toledoans love 2007 will apparently be a ca- that Ron Pizzuti of Colum- get something that’s wrong,” Finkbeiner does interject, Costco project on aesthetic battlers and those who work sualty of the new realism of bus, the previous he insists as he raises those however, with a laugh, that grounds – he did not favor hard.” revenue shortfall. administration’s choice. very issues during a conver- “we may be keeping the Re- the box-styled storefront sur- Many battles loom ahead “This year it will be chal- Dillin, after all, is local. “Dillin sation with The Sojourner’s publican Party alive.” rounded by gas stations for for Finkbeiner, not the least lenging to have a police class is a great gift to northwest Truth well before his visitor But can you accomplish the Westgate area and he felt of which is the difficulty of – not impossible – but chal- Ohio and we are blessed to can ask about those subjects. what you want to accomplish that the company would ac- solving a budget deficit that lenging,” says Finkbeiner. He have him,” says Finkbeiner. But even as he waxes pas- in this environment his visi- cept such style restrictions is projected to be, for this points out, however, that a “If you have a good team, sionately about such per- tor asks? had they been put to the test. fiscal year, just under $12 large police class may not even you are going to win more ceived offenses, he points “As long as headlines are “Council was doing what million if revenues are not be necessary when it comes than you lose. out that he has no trouble being given to everyone,” he they thought was right, I was enhanced or expenses not to maintaining public safety. According to the mayor, drastically cut. While it is often observed that the key to keeping the The past fiscal year uniformed police officers’ project moving is the road- brought revenue growth in numbers have been dwindling way along the river’s edge. the amount of about four and for several years, the reality, Finkbeiner estimates that the a half to five percent. Not the mayor points out, is that developer will need $25 mil- many observers are optimis- the population of Toledo has lion to complete the road- tic that fiscal 2007 will be so been dwindling at a signifi- way and approximately $16 generous to this area. cant rate as well. Indeed, the to 17 million of that, he has Finkbeiner expects that in police department as a whole been told by Dillin, is al- order to balance this budget, – when one adds in the non- ready in place. The roadway and the budgets for the next uniformed civilians – “has is critical because it will spur few years, some structural never had more people than private investment. And this changes will need to be made there are now.” year, the mayor anticipates in the City of Toledo’s ex- Of course, this mayor, as is that the roadway will be pense situation. Structural well known, is not prone to started and that the city “will changes such as lay offs. projecting pessimism on any see the housing footprints Which areas or depart- topic. And as he ponders what in place.” He is also optimis- ments will be hit hardest by the year will bring in terms of tic that the Sports Arena will such lay offs? revenues for the City of To- be razed in the near future, The mayor expects the lay ledo, he points out that there further attracting potential offs to be rather spread out do exist the possibilities for a retailers. over departments. City offi- good year – the coke plant, But as always, when one cials will have to consider the GM plant, the Marina Dis- is speaking to Mayor Jfd\Yf[p >à three things, he says. First, trict, assorted housing initia- Finkbeiner, the conversation Ê-ÌÊÀ>˜VˆÃÊ`iÊ->iÃʈ} Ê-V œœÊ “can we get by without that tives, all of which, he believes, comes back to people – the 9\ person?” Second, are there will help the city continue the people at work in the city or circumstances “when one upward financial trend it ex- the people for whom they are Kl`k`fe person can do several jobs?” perienced in 2006. working … Toledoans all. =I<< And, third, who are the very That part of the discus- The Toledoans and what vœÀÊÃÌÕ`i˜ÌÃʘœÜÊ>ÌÌi˜`ˆ˜} ,œLˆ˜Ãœ˜]Ê V/ˆ}Õi]ÊiÛiÀiÌÌi new city employees who can sion naturally led him to the they expect from their city or, >˜`Êœ˜ià ՘ˆœÀʈ} Ê-V œœÃʜÀÊ>˜ÞÊ«ÕLˆVʜÀÊV >ÀÌiÀÊÃV œœ be cut, or the very veteran subject of development, most given the timing of this dis- ÃÌÕ`i˜ÌʏˆÛˆ˜}ʈ˜ÊÌ iʈLLiÞ]Ê7œœ`Ü>À`Ê>˜` -VœÌÌÊÃV œœÊ`ˆÃÌÀˆVÌð ones who can retire and live particularly, the Marina Dis- cussion, what happens next well off their pensions? trict. “I wish we could have for certain people. Fire Chief Mike Bell had announced, on 9œÕÊV>˜Ê "7ÊÌ>ŽiÊ>`Û>˜Ì>}iʜvÊÌ iÊ" ˆœÊ ` œˆViÊ-V œ>Àà ˆ«Ê­-V œœÊ the previous day, that he was 6œÕV iÀ®Ê«Àœ}À>“Ê>˜`ÊLi˜iwÊÌÊvÀœ“Ê>ʈÀÃÌʈ˜Ê >ÃÃÊ `ÕV>̈œ˜Ê>ÌÊ-ÌÊÀ>˜VˆÃÊ Auto going to retire from his post `iÊ->iÃʈ} Ê-V œœÊ‡ÊÌՈ̈œ˜‡vÀiit Leasing and move on with his life, DIXIE Toledo, OH possibly move to Washing- -ÌÊÀ>˜VˆÃʜvviÀÃÊ}Ài>ÌÊ>Ì ïVÊ«Àœ}À>“ÃÊ ton D.C. to take over that ÜˆÌ ÊÓxÊÃÌ>ÌiÊV >“«ˆœ˜Ã ˆ«Ã°ÊÊ̽ÃÊ>Ê city’s fire department. vÀˆi˜`Þ]Ê«œÃˆÌˆÛi]ÊÃÕ««œÀ̈ÛiÊ«>ViÊÌœÊ 5880 N. Detroit i>À˜°ÊÊ œ˜Ûi˜ˆi˜ÌÊ>˜`ÊVi˜ÌÀ>ÞʏœV>Ìi`°Ê Month to Month Leasing “Mike Bell is Mr. Toledo,”
˜`ʈÌʜvviÀÃÊ>ÊŽˆ˜`Ãʜvʜ««œÀÌ՘ˆÌˆiÃÊ says the mayor. “As much as >˜`ÊÀiÜÕÀVið 419-476-8674 I am or as much as Marcy Kaptur is. He’s special. The >Ê,ˆVŽÊ ˆV >>ŽÊ>ÌÊ{£™‡xΣ‡£È£n œÀÊ WE ARE A FULL city will be evaluating what œ}ʜ˜ÊÜÜÜ°ÃvÃ̜i`œ°œÀ}ÉvÀii vœÀÊ SERVICE we may be able to do to keep ޜÕÀÊi˜Àœ“i˜ÌʎˆÌÊ̜`>Þ°Ê̽ÃÊÌ >ÌÊi>ÃÞt BUSINESS him.” He was, of course, opti- mistic he could get that done. Page 6 The Sojourner’s Truth January 31, 2007 Anita Lopez Prepares to Take the Reins at the Auditor’s Office By Fletcher Word Sojourner’s Truth Editor As has been widely re- “I was so poor in college for relatively low wages of nine says. One of those will be Jim ported, Lucas County Re- that they couldn’t even gar- dollars per hour. Gant, a lawyer in the City of corder Anita Lopez has en- nish my wages,” she recalls “What we have here are Toledo’s Law Department who countered anything but a also noting that her opponent two worlds colliding,” she will be the Auditor’s HR Direc- smooth transition as she pre- managed to cast the roles of says. “I told them ‘do you know tor/General Counsel. pares to take over the Lucas the two candidates as one of how many people there are Gant is African-American, a County Auditor’s office on “borderline corruption versus who could change their fami- matter of no small concern to March 12. struggling girl.” lies’ lives with this position?’ I Lopez who notes that among The current Auditor, Larry Ultimately, the voters could said ‘there’s a student at UT the current cabinet in the Kaczala, whom Lopez defeated relate to her economic now trying to live on Ramen Auditor’s Office, there is “no in last November’s election, struggles, she says, and Noodles every day who would diversity among the decision has attempted, says the audi- “people know that I will never love to have a nine dollar an makers – in the real estate sec- tor-to-be, to protect the jobs of forget those struggles in the hour job and whose dad tion, yes, but not at the top.” to get the job done. My ability value to contact her office at family and friends in the office administration of my office.” doesn’t make $99,000 per The Auditor’s Office is a size- to take responsibility and my 419-213-4412 or 419-213-4406. by a variety of stalling tactics. But even before she has had year.’” able move up for Lopez with its talent at holding people’s feet The board of revision’s tele- Nevertheless, Lopez has the opportunity to assume her That situation has improved 150 or so employees (“I literally to the fire. phone number is 419-213-4464. plowed ahead, making plans, new duties, she has encoun- recently, says Lopez, as she have not been able to get a “I’m not going to be in the The move to the Auditor’s hiring key staff members and tered struggles. First, a number has clearly stated her inten- straight answer about how many office crunching numbers but Office marks the most recent focusing on the issues she of non-supervisory employees tions not to permit such employees are over there”). The I can orchestrate the abilities transition for Lopez who has raised during her campaign, decided to join a bargaining cronyism to continue and she Recorder’s Office has 16 em- of others who do that.” encountered criticism in recent such as the inequities of the unit. Then, as she questioned feels that she is somewhat back ployees. Chief among her tasks will years due to her failure to fin- home valuation process. the fact that the jobs of current on track with her transition The Truth asked Lopez why be to focus on the issue of ish a term in elective office – “My number one qualifica- Auditor’s family and friends plans. she felt qualified for the job given property valuation, a subject even as she continues to win tion is that I am committed to were being protected, commu- “Citizens are entitled to her lack of accounting back- she devoted much time dur- elections. She was elected to serving everyone fairly,” she nication and cooperation shut people who are dedicated and ground. ing her campaign holding the the Toledo Board of Educa- says of her aspirations for the down completely. looking out for their well-be- “I think I’m qualified, num- incumbent’s feet to the fire. tion in 2002, ran for and was new position. “Everyone is Lopez attributes part of ing,” she says of what she ber one, by virtue of the fact of “We have to revamp the elected to the Lucas County someone.” those difficulties to the fact expects in a staff. “Each indi- my ability to understand legally system,” she says promising Recorder’s Office in 2004 and One of the reasons for that that Kaczala was anticipating a vidual will be held accountable how to operate,” she says. “It’s to stay personally involved in ran, in 2006, for Auditor. What’s commitment, admits Lopez, is judicial appointment in the to do their job and do it well – the enforcement of the law that such matters. Indeed the board the next move, we asked jok- the fact that she has had some waning days of the Bob Taft union, non-union, my cabinet. matters and my legal back- of revisions deadline, she ingly? personal history of financial administration. Most of his We are going to weed out those ground helps me understand mentions, is on March 31 and “I promise the public, my struggles and she has learned friends and family would have who don’t. If there is cleansing [the issues.] In addition, my she is already encouraging husband and my mother that I lessons from those difficult gone with him. When the ap- to be done, I won’t shy away years as an administrator have homeowners who have ques- will finish my four years here,” times that are not easily forgot- pointment failed to materialize, from it. Everyone will have to prepared me to understand how tions about their properties’ she responds with a laugh. ten or dismissed. As a college his friends and family at- prove themselves.” and law student, for example, tempted, in large measure, to The early part of the phase she had to overcome some lock down their jobs in the includes getting people on hardships in making ends meet Auditor’s Office. staff in key positions – chief and getting through school. Lopez was particularly in- accountant, assistant chief Some of those hardships were censed when she discovered accountant and human re- brought to light during the re- that managers in the Auditor’s sources director/general coun- cent campaign by her oppo- Office were hiring their off- sel. “I am hiring individuals nent as a way to discredit her. spring for intern positions, even with extensive experience” she

You are cordially invited to My Real Name: Breaking the Silence on Child Sex Trafficking in Ohio

A play about prostitution and real life accounts of life underground.

When: Friday, February 2, 2006 at 7:00pm Where: The University of Toledo Doerman Theatre What: An artistic retelling of stories of women and girls in prostitution and life underground. This is the debut showing of a local play soon to go national.

All proceeds of My Real Name will benefit Second Chance. Second Chance provides services to women and girls who are caught up in a cycle of abuse related to prostitution.

Parking on UT campus is free, except in the handicapped or reserved spaces – however, please mention you are coming to see the play: MY REAL NAME

Please call Toledo Area Ministries for reservations: (419) 242-7401 Or email at [email protected]

Minimum Ticket Donation $10 (donations exceeding $10 will be accepted) Please indicate number of tickets in the space below.

Number of Tickets Needed _____ @ $10 each = ______Total

Make Your Tax Deductible Check out to “Second Chance”

Mail to: Second Chance, Toledo Area Ministries, 444 Floyd Street, Toledo, Ohio 43620

Name ______Address ______City ______State ______Zip code ______Email address: ______Phone: (______) ______-______

Tickets will be sold at the door for $15

Some Facts about Prostitution and Sex Trafficking in Toledo and Lucas County, Ohio: ƒ According to the FBI, Toledo is currently the number one site for recruitment of teens into sex trafficking ƒ Without intervention, teens who are lured into prostitution by traffickers often graduate into adult prostitution ƒ Up to 60% of women being prostituted in Toledo right now were sexually exploited or abused as young girls (Williamson, 2004) ƒ 82% of women being prostituted experience violence on a regular basis (Williamson, 2004) ƒ Almost 50% of women in Lucas County entered into prostitution between 14 and 15 years of age. ƒ More than 600 prostitution and prostitution-related arrests occur in Toledo every year (Williamson, 2006) with most of these arrests involving girls and adult women with children. ƒ According to study completed in 2004, women involved in street prostitution in Toledo experience chronic substance abuse (97%), poor mental health (52%), and HIV health risks (41%). Most will also face deteriorating physical health and homelessness. ƒ 92% of those surveyed have expressed a wish to “escape” the life. January 31, 2007 The Sojourner’s Truth Page 7 Shelley Wilbert: Mentoring the Success of Area Young People By Alan Abrams Sojourner’s Truth Reporter Whenever Shelley oversees the agency’s re- “I’m very thankful that “says Wilbert. “Faith came Wilbert addresses an orga- cruitment of volunteer men- they continue to be in my life. to us as a high school mentor nization about the benefits tors. “I remember being I feel I’m giving back what last year. She is both a men- of becoming a volunteer men- mentored as a child. My was shared with me,” says tor and a mentee. tor for Big Brothers Big Sis- mother and my father were Wilbert who is a Big Sister to “Erin Cox, my other Little ters of Northwestern Ohio, wonderful parents. And I two young women, one a Sister, is 19, and a student at she can easily point to her- had an extended family of teen, the other a college stu- Stautzenberger College. I’ve self as proof that the pro- grandparents, aunts and dent. known her since she was a gram brings positive results. uncles. Even our neighbors “Faith Parker is a junior at little girl. She is a graduate of “I’ve been a mentor all helped mold and shape me Notre Dame Academy. I met Perrysburg High School. my life,” recalls Wilbert, who into what I am. her through my daughter, “I have always had a pas- sion to help kids, especially so-called at-risk youth. I do not believe there are any at- risk children. I believe all chil- dren have the same capabili- ties but just different struggles. Drugs are a prob- lem with rich kids, and drugs are a problem with poor kids. accommodate,” says her area of expertise was Money does not define Wilbert. youth heart transplants. Help Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northwestern Ohio health. We need to give all She adds that high school After living in Birmingham *Form a team today with your Friends or Family children the same opportu- students need mentors to for two and a half years, the nities,” says Wilbert. help them build self esteem Wilberts moved to Toledo. *Team Captains are Needed: “I came to this agency and leadership. ”If we can They have been here for al- It’s Easy! It’s Fun! Give It A Try… because I wanted to con- love ourselves from within, most 13 years. Shelley was tinue working with youth,” we can handle any obstacle pleased because it was closer says Wilbert. or challenge that comes to Detroit. 1.) Choose a time & date to Bowl! “I go into the community along,” says Wilbert. The Wilberts have two to make partnerships. Com- Born in Detroit, Wilbert daughters. Ashley is 16, munity can mean a business, graduated from Cass Tech- Semone is 13. 2.) Name your 5-member Team! a fraternity, a social group. I nical High School. She is the Wilbert’s first job after usually match them to a daughter of the late Chester moving to Toledo was at 3.) Each team member collects school, but it does not have Pelton and Dorothy Pelton Connecting Point as a pre- to be a school or after-school Soroack. Her parents met in vention specialist and spe- sponsor dollars (minimum of $50.00 program. It used to be only high school when they both cialist trainer, later becoming turned in at the event) to receive a community-based. played basketball. Wilbert the after school site director. T-Shirt and/or professional bowler “When I speak to organi- has a brother, Darryl, who She was at the agency for six zations or companies, I not lives in Boston and whose years before joining Commu- cap, 2 games of bowling, shoes, only ask them for money but wife is from Nicaragua. nity Partnership as the com- ball, and a ticket for refreshments for mentors who once a week Wilbert has also spent some munity youth coordinator. and great prizes! through the school year can time in Nicaragua. She came to Big Brothers, go to school to mentor a stu- She married Walter Big Sisters two years ago. *Team Captains will receive a kit containing everything needed to form dent. Wilbert, Jr. whom she had Wilbert is excited about a Bowl for Kids’ Sake team starting December 8, 2006. “One of our best success first met in Detroit when both the agency’s upcoming Bowl stories is the Medical Uni- were high school students. for Kids Sake fundraiser, in versity of Ohio, which we She went on to Howard Uni- which all proceeds go to the Sundays at Southwyck Lanes Saturdays at Interstate Lanes have matched with Pickett versity; he went to Michigan agency. She is honored that Toledo, Ohio Rossford, Ohio School. This is the second State University. last year’s Indianapolis 500 year of that relationship. Last Her husband’s job winner Sam Hornish of Defi- February 4, 2007 February 10 & 17, 2007 year, about 21 people partici- brought them to Memphis ance has agreed to be the 10:30 am & 1:00 pm 10:30 am, 1:00 pm, 3:00 pm pated. This year, the total is where Wilbert worked at the honorary chairman of the

34 and growing. Once a week Methodist Hospital Teen event. February 11, 2007 10:30 am, 1:00 pm, 3:00 pm they mentor the kids. They and Youth Open Psych Unit. She suggests participants can do tutoring for school After “a couple of years,” choose a date from the sched- work. But others give recre- Walter was transferred to ule below and then call the ‰ Yes! I am committed to Bowl For Kids’ Sake ation time and conversation Birmingham, Alabama. While agency at (419) 243-4600 or for Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northwestern Ohio time. The boys really like to living there, Wilbert worked visit their Web site at play football and the young at the University of Alabama www.bbbsnwo.org to regis-

med students are happy to Heart Transplant Unit, where ter. You can count on me to be a Team Captain! Here’s the list:

Sunday, Feb. 4 at 10:30 Name: ______a.m. and 1 pm and Sunday, Address: ______Feb. 11 at 10:30 a.m., 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. at Southwyck City/State/Zip:______Lanes. Saturday, Feb. 10 and Sat- Day Ph: ______Mobile Ph:______urday, Feb. 17 at 10:30 a.m., 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. at Interstate E-mail: ______Lanes. Sign up and say hello to Team Name: ______Shelley Wilbert. It is a great

Bowling Date & Time: ______cause and she promises you’ll have a great time. You Mail form to: BBBSNWO/One Stranahan Square/Toledo, OH 43604 might even meet a few local Email: [email protected] sports and radio personali- Kneeling: Faith Parker and Erin Cox Fax to: 419-243-2402 ties. Standing (l. to r.): Ashley Traynum, Athena Lane, For more information call Semone Wilbert, Taylour Rogers, Ashley Wilbert and Contact Alan Abrams at 419-243-4600 Sara Cox [email protected] Page 8 The Sojourner’s Truth January 31, 2007 Do We Still Need Black The Village Elders – History Month? Part One By James Litwin By Robert Smith Guest Editorial Director, African American Legacy Project About this time of the year, people gawking and some- that was built on the labor Special to The Truth letters to the editor begin to times even posing. and sweat and discrimination Traditions, once passed part of our community. Our question why we are having Second, historian James of others. American college experi- another Black History Loewen has recently docu- The disparities that still generation to generation, community is made of ath- ence through services, pro- Month. Don’t minorities get mented the phenomenon of exist (differentials in assets, are slowly eroding – quite letes and actors, musicians, grams, and events that en- enough attention? When will “sundown towns.” Sundown the wage gaps, etc.) are par- frankly – disappearing. ministers and moms, the help- hance academic excellence we have White History towns made it very clear to tially a result of those histo- That which made us strong less and the helpful. The and strengthen cultural Month and Men’s History blacks (and some others) to ries, and until we understand – the experiences of our stories we are gathering rep- competence for The Univer- Month, etc., etc? be out of the city limits by them, we may not be able to predecessors – has all but resent the our essence. sity of Toledo campus and My stock response to sundown or face severe con- get past them. vanished… and so goes There is a certain majesty surrounding communities” those queries is that we pretty sequences. There are occa- The irony is that those our community! and nobility that time grants Harmon also serves as chair much have mostly white and sions of this in northwest who question the need for The African American to those who are graced with of the 2007 University of men¹s history the other 11 Ohio – people may not have Black History Month and Legacy Project (The AALP(, longevity; while their physi- Toledo Black History months of the year. called them sundown towns, such other months are often thanks to a grant and sup- cal skills are gradually dimin- Month which functions Personally, I look forward but the same dynamic was at from the middle and working port from the Toledo Com- ishing, each remains astute under the Office of to the day when we have one work. The message: you are classes. The greatest trick of munity Foundation, began and particularly aware of the Multicultural Student Ser- connected American History, not wanted here. all by the ruling class is to get an oral history project in present and the past. vices. a history that treats us all If I were a minority, I would the rest of us to argue June 2006 called The Village It is this foundation that Campus will meet com- hope I could forgive, but I equally and fairly but we are amongst each other and to Elders. The AALP has be- we have knowingly and un- munity on Friday, February not at that point yet. would probably not forget. I stir up false accusations of gun documenting the knowingly relied upon as we 16, 2007. Students will travel So, I generally support the would hope I could get past reverse discrimination. This stories and recollections of grew as individuals and as a from the university to The continuation of these special the anger and other emotions is a cruel joke, and one that the most senior members of community. Our Village El- African American Legacy months which include that lynchings and sundown needs further discussion else- our community. These sto- ders have literally breathed Women’s History and His- towns would present. I am where. Project’s facility to view The panic Heritage and lesser glad so many do. Until we all understand ries recorded digitally are life into us. They have sus- AALP’s special collec- known months based on the Yes, we all have it rough at and appreciate the history of being deposited in The tained us. They have tions on African-Americans Native American and Asian times. The working classes blacks and other minorities AALP archives for commu- groomed us. They have left from Northwest Ohio. Stu- American experience. have always fought an uphill and women we need to have nity access. footprints for succeeding dents and faculty will tour These months are neces- battle and have often been these months. I suggest the What is the value and generations to follow. the facility and view recent sary for many reasons. brutalized. But the point is time to end them will be when significance of document- oral interviews collected as First, Americans need to not to compare, the point is to the groups themselves will ing our elder community part of The AALP’s Village understand history of all understand the unique histo- want to end them, not when members? Simply put, UT Students Meet Their Elders Project underwritten kinds. Any idea that can help ries available to us. white or other males say they there are lessons to be History Face-to-Face by the Toledo Community us learn more about our past Until we comprehend that should be ended. learned. They – those who Martino Harmon, director Foundation. is a good idea. experience, can we truly say I am looking forward to migrated or whose families of the University of Toledo’s The Village Elders is the Black History Month has that we understand it? Can learning more in these up- migrated to Toledo, i.e., African American Student beginning of the documen- a distinguished history of its we comment with any assur- coming months, so that we as northwest Ohio – have sto- Enrichment Program recently tation and celebration of own, started by Dr. Carter ance on what images and feel- a people can continue to make ries to tell. They have wis- reached out to The African Toledo’s African-American Woodson as Negro History ings black people or women progress on a diverse, yet doms to offer us, wisdoms American Legacy project and experience. Sandra Rivers, or any other group must let Week in 1926 to share the unified society, one that un- that only living a long life proposes the two organiza- a gifted Toledo writer, many contributions of blacks go of in order to go about derstands and appreciates all can give. They, our Village tions [AASE and The AALP] authored a poem to express to America. But black history their lives? people as special. I do be- Elders, have given of them- develop a special experience the purpose and intent of is not just for blacks. It is also The point of this article is lieve these months help us selves … once again. for students of African The Village Elders Project. for white people. Just like to not make anybody feel make progress. Please con- American descent during Martin Luther King, Jr. is a guilty. That is not what these sider taking advantage of Her words are our words, hero for all people, black his- special months are about. them. Doctors, Lawyers, In- this Black History Month. only better. tory in America is a history of Most white people living ______dian Chiefs According to Harmon, “The all of us. today did not participate in In order to tell a com- mission of UT’s African Next Week: Excerpts of It is my experience that these crimes. I know that. But Jim Litwin, Ph.D. is on the plete, community story, American Student Enrich- interviews from The Village many people literally cannot what we can do is to under- adjunct faculty and teaches The African American ment Program is to Elders and John Scott, identify a person or a signifi- stand that many white people sociology and diversity at Legacy Project continues promote awareness and Ph.D., discusses his early cant event in the history of have benefited from a system Northwest State Community to talk to people from every appreciation for the African- Toledo experiences. black America beyond a of privilege and advantage College in Archbold, Ohio Jackie Robinson or the end of slavery. And, despite the of- “My husband, Willie, found out nothing more could be done for his cancer. He still had one fices and businesses closed that day, some still do not Hospice helped last goal: to see our daughter, Joya, graduate from nursing school – which was nearly know that Dr. King’s Day our family a year away. really is an official Ohio holi- day. reach a “Hospice of Northwest Ohio provided care for Willie, right in our home. I believe their But, to benefit from any of final goal. expertise helped him live to see the graduation, and made a lot more good days possible for these histories we must also him along the way.” go beyond the names and dates approach to history. Laura, Willie’s Wife We must grasp and appreci- ate the raw emotions associ- “Whenever we had questions, Hospice explained every answer. They knew what to provide ated with these events. Having my dad even before we knew what to ask for. And the staff connected on a personal level, too. My I have recently come at graduation dad’s nurse was like part of our family. across two examples that have convinced me of this truth. made my wish “Hospice made all the arrangements to get dad to my graduation, including the wheelchair The first was the photog- come true, too. and portable oxygen. Having dad see me cross that stage meant the world to me. Now that raphy and subsequent post- I’m an RN, I know great care when I see it. My dad had the best.” cards associated with the lynchings of blacks since the Joya, Willie’s Daughter Civil War. Some 2500 people have been lynched, some then doused with kerosene and set on fire before they SM Hospice can help make the end of life meaningful and fulfilling. were dead, with fingers and HOSPICE To learn more, ask for our FREE brochure series, “Hospice Answers.” toes cut off for souvenirs. OF NORTHWEST OHIO These were often called “n— Call 419-661-4001 or visit hospicenwo.org. — barbecues.” Usually pho- tographed with white towns- SM

©2006 Hospice of Northwest Ohio Answers for Living the Last Months of Life January 31, 2007 The Sojourner’s Truth Page 9 2nd Public Meeting re: Living Our Legacy I stand upon the shoulders of the elders who stepped out and took a leap of faith. They Connecting the Pieces were encouraged and knew that the God they served would provide a net that would miraculously appear as they endured tears. They had a purpose, a part to play Project and one day leave a legacy for those who would follow East Toledo Family Cen- toric/modern, exactly like/ Support Corporation se- as they blazed trails and cut down trees in the forests of their lives. They were firsts, not seconds; a commu- ter will hold the second similar to the Marina District, lected this neighborhood nity to be reckoned with. They were queens while in public meeting on the “Con- etc)? transformation planning their teens, allowing their freedom to ring. They became necting the Pieces” - What recreation needs proposal through a com- postmasters that ensured that our messages got Dr. Samantha Adams project. are currently missing? petitive process in which a through to each other. • Public Meeting - What kinds of shops or number of neighborhood They were broadcasters who blew their own horn, because 7:00p.m. Thursday, Febru- businesses would the com- planning proposals were stars were about to be born. They were chiropractors and community activists, persisting never resisting the enemy. ary 1, 2007 at the East To- munity support? received. They knew how to make adjustments and become change ledo Family Center located - What physical improve- LISC is taking a new ap- agents. at 1020 Varland Avenue, ments are needed (i.e. side- proach intended to encour- You stand upon the shoulders of those who have come Toledo, Ohio 43605. walks, lighting, transporta- age collaboration and tighter before you. You are history, a springboard, a foundation, a • This meeting will be tion, roads, etc)? focus among community de- stepping-stone from yesterday, an advocate for tomorrow; the first opportunity for - What types of housing velopment organizations because if you do not know where we have come from, you will not know which way to go. You come from a village of the community to respond are needed that the commu- and other non-profits serv- people who were bound by determination, a peculiar genera- with questions, comments nity doesn’t currently have? ing neighborhoods. “Neigh- tion; men and women from the mother land, time travelers, Mrs. Janet Quinn-Wyatt and present their ideas Partners in the process in borhoods are comprised of field hands who worked the land, mothers who made plans; about the Garfield neigh- addition to the East Toledo people and it is the people in fathers whose bloodlines continuously ran. borhood and the Main- Family Center include: the community that can best You were house slaves who craved and abo- litionists who were brave; extended families of Starr commercial corridor. Housing East Revitaliza- determine its future,” states value who knew how to spend time and en- Residents will specifically tion Corporation, Neighbor- Hugh Grefe, Senior Program courage the discouraged. be asked to share their hood Housing Service, River Director of LISC. Residents He stands upon the broad shoulders of his ideas on the following: East Economic Revitalization and business representa- forefathers who planted the seed to lead, to - What amenities are Corporation, River East As- tives from East Toledo are succeed, after being a called a boy. His eyes needed for a more “walk- sociates, the Design Center, invited to participate in the are cast down in prayer, because he has struggled to be the man that God has called able” or “bike-able” neigh- the Urban Affairs Center of meetings and work together him to be. He stands proud and strong like a borhood? the University of Toledo and with area agencies to tree rooted by the river - he is delivered; Mrs. Jean Overton and - What should the com- Paul Sullivan Architects. develop and implement this someone to look up to, a defender, contender, Mr. Frank Goldie munity identity be (i.e. his- Toledo Local Initiatives endeavor. not a surrenderer. With calloused hands he is a man who dares to dream of hope, he is that spark, because sometimes men do cry in the dark. He is resolute as he opens the windows after doors have been closed in his face. He is not erased. She stands upon the hips of her foremothers. It is a circumference versatile and wide enough to embrace the right and the wrong, the rich and the poor, the saints or the aints, KEEP YOUR MONEY the learned and the unlearned while speaking love into existence. She passes on the recipes of her soul, who is bold enough to say to SAFE and SECURE SO another's child, "Honey you know that's not right" without fear of being beat down in the night. YOUR FUTURE is TOO. We stand because we are role models, lifting each other up, not tearing down. We are compelled to tell our stories of how we got over, because we have a rich legacy to share. We are a community that loves, re- spects, gathers, cultivates, embraces and celebrates Mrs. Thelma Adams ourselves. I stand so you can see. You stand so they can see that we are leaders, teachers, preachers, build- ers, forgivers, actors, rappers, hairdressers, politicians, musicians, scientists, artists, athletes and entrepreneurs and more. We stand collectively upon the shoulders of each other so that we can depart a strong and prosperous heritage. We must give back and pass on the baton, because there is always somebody watching how we walk and listening to how we talk. We stand with hands held through all generations; the old school and the new. If we stand together, somebody will look up and declare, "I can." We were strong. We belong and we are able to reach back and pull someone along as we journey to a reunion of ourselves.

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Member FDIC • ©2007, National City Corporation® 1709 Spielbusch Ave. (Across from the Jail) Page 10 The Sojourner’s Truth January 31, 2007 Lincoln’s All Pro Dads’ Breakfast Sojourner’s Truth Staff Lincoln Academy for whole city how well you can Boys hosted its monthly All do academically and how you Pro Dads’ breakfast on can become great citizens,” Thursday, January 25 as he added. guest speakers Richard Jack- “The most important thing son, Sr. and Richard Jack- you can have with your son son, Jr. addressed a group of is time,” said the younger about 75 students and their Jackson, an executive with fathers or father figures. the Westfield Franklin Park “We know the importance Shoppingmall. “I enjoy that of family and their involve- to this day,” he said of the ment and I applaud each and time he spends with his own every one of you,” said the father. “I can’t remember a Richard and Richard Jackson elder Jackson, a longtime big moment in my life that he administrator with the To- wasn’t there to share with breakfasts since October McDonalds and an inspira- ledo Public Schools. me.” 2005. The breakfasts bring tional speech. The events are “We are very proud of the Lincoln Academy has together students and fathers the brainchild of Mark young men who are here be- been hosting the once-a- or father figures for a break- Robinson, a school-based cause you are showing this month All Pro Dads Day fast sponsored by mental health professional with Connecting Point. Robinson works within the UT to Honor Black History school through the LEAP Project funded by the Lucas Month by Uncovering County Mental Health Board. ‘Hidden Histories: Untold For more information on how you can support or at- tend the events call Robinson Stories of a Journey’ at 419-244-5823 or 419-870- Special to The Truth 3829. The University of Toledo UT Office of Multicultural Stu- Migration” - Speaker Dr. will celebrate Black History dent Services at 419.530.2261. Willie McKether, UT assis- Month with the theme of The rest of the schedule is tant professor of anthropol- “Hidden Histories: Untold as follows: ogy. Noon-1 p.m. Student Stories of a Journey.” Dur- Thursday, Feb. 1 Union Room 2500. ing February, offices and stu- • Black History Month • African-American dent organizations have Kick-off Luncheon - The Dance Exhibitions - 8-9 p.m. planned special activities and Murphy’s, featuring Clifford Student Recreation Center. presentations to highlight Murphy on bass and Claude Friday, Feb. 9 “hidden” or overlooked con- Black on piano, will perform. • Brown-Bag Talk, “Little tributions of African-Ameri- 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Student Wyatt: The Story of “ - cans to society. Union Auditorium. Speaker Dr. Brenda Three-month long activi- Monday, Feb. 5 McGadney-Douglass, UT ties on Main Campus are the • Dining Services Black associate professor of social Black Arts Movement dis- History Month Soul Food - 4- work. Noon-1:30 p.m. Health play in the Carlson Library, 7 p.m. Horton International and Human Services Build- a poster and quiz about well- House Dining Hall. Free for ing Room 1711 known African-Americans students on meal plans, $6.50 • Black Student Union with disabilities in the Of- for faculty and staff and a $.50 Fashion Show and After Party fice of Accessibility in discount with faculty or staff - 7 p.m. Student Union Audi- Snyder Memorial Building ID. torium. $7 for show, $5 for Room 1400, and “Hidden Tuesday, Feb. 6 after party, or $10 for both. Histories: Untold Stories of • African-American Dance Monday, Feb. 12 a Journey,” an art exhibit of Exhibitions - 8-9 p.m. Student • UT NAACP Meeting - works by Thomas Vines, in Recreation Center. 7:30-9 p.m. Student Union the Office of Multicultural Wednesday, Feb. 7 Room 2591. Student Services, Student • R.A.A.P. Session, Union Room 2500. The “Harlem Renaissance” - • Dining Services Black Health Science Campus will Speaker Gerald Natal, visit- History Month Soul Food - 4- feature the “African-Ameri- ing instructor in University 8 p.m. The Crossings dining cans of the Nation: The Late Libraries. 12:30-2 p.m. Stu- hall. Free for students on meal Great Marvin Vines, Artist, dent Union Room 2582. plans, $6.50 for faculty and Works Unseen: Part Two” • African Continent Spin staff and a $.50 discount with in the Mulford Library glass and Win (a la “Wheel of For- faculty or staff ID. connector during February, tune”) - 2-4 p.m. Student Tuesday, Feb. 13 as well. Union South Lounge. • UT NAACP Bake Sale - In addition, Ritter Plan- • Black Student Union 11 a.m.-2 p.m. In front of the etarium will present “The Meeting “Health Issues” - 7:30 Student Union Huntington Skywatchers of Africa” on p.m. Student Union Room Bank location. every Friday, at 7:30 p.m. 2592. • Brown-Bag Talk, “The and “Follow the Drinking Thursday, Feb. 8 History of the NAACP” – Gourd” every Saturday, at 1 • Commuter Break Soul Speaker: TBA. Noon-1 p.m. p.m. Each program cost $5 Food - Even though you’re at Student Union Room 2500. for adults, $4 for seniors and UT, that doesn’t mean you • UT NAACP Old School children 4 -12, free for chil- can’t get a taste of home by Game Night - 7 p.m. The dren 3 and younger. sampling some of the best soul Crossings Multipurpose For more information food dishes. Noon-1 p.m. Stu- Room. about these or any of the dent Union Room 2500. Wednesday, Feb. 14 events listed below, call the • Brown-Bag Talk, “Black (Continued on Page 11) Sponsored by Midwest Communiity Title January 31, 2007 The Sojourner’s Truth Page 11 Toledo Museum of Art to Open UT to Honor Black Symphonic Poem Exhibit History Month by By John Dorsey Special to the Truth Uncovering In late September 2004, Robinson describes as But- jects to create signature works Ohio fiber artist Aminah ton-Beaded Music Box Pop- on canvas and in three-di- Brenda Lynn Robinson re- Up BoOks; they combine the mensional construction. Folk ‘Hidden Histories: ceived a MacArthur Fellows needle and button work she artist, storyteller, and visual Genius Grant. These grants learned from her mother and historian, Robinson cel- provide $500,000 to “talented the craft of bookmaking she ebrates and memorializes the Untold Stories of a individuals who have shown learned from her father. Re- neighborhood of her child- extraordinary originality and gardless of her chosen media, hood, and her journeys to and dedication in their creative Robinson’s works of art mir- from her home. In drawings, Journey’ pursuits and a marked capac- ror the people and places that paintings, sculpture, pup- (Continued from Page 10) ity for self-direction.” have influenced her and serve Aminah Brenda Lynn petry, and music boxes, she Robinson • R.A.A.P. Session, Room 1019. On February 23, the To- as the perfect vehicle for the reflects on themes of family “Male/Female Relation- • Night at the Apollo - 7- ledo Museum of Art will be eloquent stories she tells – all Harkins Gallery. and ancestry, and on the gran- ships” - 12:30-2 p.m. Student 9 p.m. Rocky’s Attic in the opening Symphonic Poem: connected by references to the “My work is about people, deur of simple objects and Union Room 2582. Student Union. The Art of Aminah Brenda past, present and future. historical data, traditions, lost everyday tasks. Her works • Black Student Union • 16th Annual Art Tatum Lynn Robinson. Robinson re- A Columbus native, communities. For me, there are both freestanding monu- Meeting, “Let BSU Be Your Memorial Scholarship Con- lates po- Robinson is no distinction between life ments and fractional compo- Date Tonight” - 7:30 p.m. cert featuring jazz pianist etic stories has created and art. The button work is nents of an ongoing odyssey. Student Union Room 2592. Scott Gwinnell – of the overthe core. It is important be- Robinson is a master of as- Thursday, Feb. 15 8 p.m. Center for Per- people 20,000 cause of long traditions in semblage; her elegant col- • Brown-Bag Lecture, forming Arts Recital Hall. and places works, in- my family, especially from lages are Homeric in content, “The Strange Career of $5 for students and seniors, in her life cluding my mother. quantity, and Jezebel: Black Women, Rep- $12 for Toledo Jazz Society using ma- cloth paint- These tradi- scale (some resentation and Sexuality” - members, $15 for the pub- terials that ings, sculp- tions are still canvases are Speaker Dr. Nikki Taylor, lic, and $40 for patrons. are readily tures, being passed 20 feet or University of Cincinnati as- Friday, Feb. 16 available, drawings, on today, not larger) and sistant professor of history. • “Toledo’s Untold Sto- including prints, only through many of her 12:30-1:30 p.m. in Tucker ries” and a visit to Toledo’s buttons, book illus- me but also exhibited Hall Room 180, 6:30 p.m. in Legacy Center - 11 a.m.- Aminah Studio beads, trations through the pieces are Driscoll Alumni Center (Continued on Page 16) fabrics, twigs, bark, and a and quilts. Her work is based younger gen- works-in- homemade media she calls on extensive research, oral his- eration. It progress, sev- received her formal art train- in existence. hogmawg, By “making do,” tory and first-hand observa- takes time to eral years in ing at the Columbus Art Symphonic Poem was as her ancestors did, tion, but all of it is primarily produce the making.” School (now the Columbus originally organized by the Robinson creates works of concerned with documenting work. It takes My Lord What a Morning Born in College of Art and Design). Columbus Museum of Art art that defy categorization, the lives and history of her everything you have because 1940, Robinson was raised Robinson has been inter- and Arts Midwest in partner- but are grounded by history, family, friends, and commu- it takes your life to leave in the close-knit community ested in art since childhood ship with the Ohio Arts Coun- personal experience, and nity. Robinson often works something for those who are of Poindexter Village, one of when her father showed her cil. In addition to the Toledo spiritual essence. for many years on a fabric coming after,” said Robinson. the country’s first federally- how to combine mud, glue, Museum, the exhibit, which The retrospective exhibi- piece, incorporating buttons, Robinson doesn’t limit her funded metropolitan housing dyes, lime and sticks to form was first displayed in 2003, tion Symphonic Poem spans shells, twigs and fabric to cre- work to strictly fiber. Capital developments. Her artistic hogmawg, a substance used also came to the Brooklyn more than 50 years and fea- ate richly-textured works that University has a collage on ability emerged at a very in making sculpture. Her Museum in March 2006. tures more weave a memory fig leaf by Robinson. That young age memories Charlotta Kotik, Curator and than 100 of into a colorful same collection also includes with her ofChair, Department of Con- Robinson’s and grand col- a Figure Study Triptych, done family’s Poindexter temporary Art coordinated works of art, lage. Her work is in watercolor and ink. From encour- Village that exhibition. including in the collections her constant creativity, agement; are an en- The TMA’s exhibit will paintings, of the Columbus Robinson has also illustrated from her during be available for viewing sculpture, Museum of Art several children’s books, in- father she source of through May 20. prints, jour- and the Wexner cluding “Elijah’s Angel: A learned the inspira- The fully illustrated 199- nals, and her Center for the Story for Chanukah and processes tion, as are page color catalogue, Sym- extensive Arts, the Akron Christmas”, “The Shaking of book her re- phonic Poem: The Art of RagGonNons- Art Museum, Bag” and “A Street Called making, Pres. Roosevelt Poindexter search ex- Aminah Brenda Lynn which she re- Ohio; the Oak- Home.” from her peditions Robinson accompanies the ex- Vendor at Demascus searches and land Museum; Robinson’s MacArthur mother, button and needle- to Africa, the Middle East, hibition. The large format, creates over years and con- the Baltimore Museum of Art; Fellowship biography states, work. Her use of found ob- and South America to study hardbound catalogue is avail- tinuously refines. The and the Studio Museum in “Aminah Robinson uses fab- jects in her later work can be regional traditions and art able for $45 at the Museum RagGonNons are elaborate Harlem. Robinson is repre- ric, needlepoint, paint, ink, traced to her childhood inter- forms. Through her vibrant, Store or by calling 419-254- mixed-media works that sented by the Hammond charcoal, clay, and found ob- est in readily available mate- expressive compositions, 5766. rial such as sticks, leaves, re- Robinson chronicles the cul- Visit www.toledo- cycled paper pulp and fruit ture of both enduring com- museum.org for more and vegetable dyes. Robinson munities and those no longer information. Come Together!: A New Life Production Special to The Truth In celebration of Black help bring us together. Fea- Productions @ (419) History Month, New Life turing a multicultural cast, 514-0668. Productions proudly pre- Come Together! will be per- Turner created New sents the hit stage play, formed on Friday and Sat- Life Productions in 1999 Come Together! Written, urday, Feb. 23 & 24, at The after becoming agitated directed, and produced Maumee Indoor Theater, with the lack of positive entirely by Toledo resi- 601 Conant St. in Maumee, images in mainstream dent, JaJuan Turner, Ohio. Both shows will be- media, in an effort to pro- Come Together! stresses gin promptly at 7:30 pm. vide a counterbalance by the importance of unity Tickets are $12.00 in ad- offering thought provok- amongst all people. The vance and $15.00 @ the door ing, inspirational & mo- play points out problems and are available at The tivational, yet entertain- that often divide us, but Maumee Indoor Theater box ing works of art such as also offers solutions to office or by calling New Life Come Together! Page 12 The Sojourner’s Truth January 31, 2007 Another Perspective: There Is Always Hope for Our Youth By Bishop Stephen Ward, Remix Ministries Special to The Truth “You do the crime, you out of their criminal rut. But transferred from juvenile the need and importance of pay the time,” is a common it must be shown that certain corrections to adult correc- recognizing these problems phrase uttered throughout rehabilitative programs are tions. Juveniles, when given within the juvenile justice our society in regard to juve- worth the time, effort and a punitive sentence and sent system, and addressing them nile delinquency. It has been money needed to put them to live for a long period of appropriately with the most suggested that a punitive re- into play. In this regard, pro- time around criminal peers, effective means available. It sponse to the problem of grams designed for the low- absorb their surroundings is putting the effective pro- youth violence in America is ering of recidivism rates for and are shaped by exactly grams into play that is the an effective means of solv- already institutionalized of- what the system was trying real challenge. ing the issue of youth crime, fenders are especially impor- to eradicate within their lives. I believe that there is hope and would also deter future tant. Not only do effective This holds true for boot- for our youth here in Toledo offenders. As a result, the rehabilitation programs help camps, long terms of con- and abroad. I challenge city existence of rehabilitation to ensure the offender a finement and possibly even officials, politicians, the strategies within the system crime-free future, but they in wilderness challenge pro- school board, clergy and all available to offenders is un- also benefit communities and grams. those who are in position to der threat. neighborhoods in reducing The outlook on youth of- make a difference. I say that A harsh and punitive re- recidivism rates. fenders’ capability for reha- we all must remember that sponse to youth violence was, Despite the damper put bilitation has been all wrong. we were young at some time. in part, brought about by a on intervention programs by Young people are not com- And with that ...we all have moral panic across America. strict authoritarian responses pletely rigid. Rather, they are made some bad choices and Exaggerations by the media to youth violence over the malleable and, with the right decisions. last few decades, today there We all have taken our and political figures act as treatment, can be helped to Bishop Stephen Ward instigators of panic. Both the is an increasing emphasis on change their lives for the bumps and bruises because media and politicians pro- rehabilitation in the juvenile better. Youth have “room- that is a part of life, that is a the key element of true genu- into developing into respect- moted the concept of the su- justice system. The system to-reform” and have “dimin- part of growing up. Despite ine love, it is all done in vain. able young men and women, per-predator youth. The me- recognizes that youths are ished capacity,” and that pro- our various childhood situa- What is love? Love is pa- let us not forgot about the dia played its part by pub- different from adults in their portionality should be re- tions, one thing that we all tient, love is kind. Love al- key element which is love. lishing or airing many indi- capacity to commit crime, garded in considering the looked for and need today is ways protects, always trusts, After all, if no one, better vidual stories of violent and also their ability to re- severity of a crime and its love. I believe that we can always hopes, always perse- yet, if God didn’t take time youth. Those in question rep- cover from a criminal past proper punishment. have all the centers, all the veres. Love never fails. So, out to love you despite of resented only a small amount and become responsible and By “room-to-reform,” I programs in the world for as we continue to search for your flaws, where would you of the adolescent population. law-abiding. Using effective mean that youth are still de- our youth but, if we leave out answers to assist our youth be? However, many Americans punishment that won’t for- veloping mentally and are took these media-conveyed feit life chances as adults is capable of change. “Dimin- stories at face value, and it regarded as an effective ished capacity” relates to the CaptainCaptain D’sD’s SeafoodSeafood seemed to the public that policy. idea that youth are not fully there could be a juvenile de- Further investigation into responsible for their actions RestaurantRestaurant linquent around every cor- the subject of intervention because their logic and un- ner just slavering to steal their strategies would be valuable derstanding of consequences 2060 W. Laskey Toledo, OH 43613 wallet or sell them narcotics. to individuals and society have not fully developed. 419.473.0227 fax: 419.292.0227 As a political ploy, alike. Rallying support for These two outlooks toward many of those running for such programs by teaching the juvenile offender make it office and looking to gain their value and benefits to all evident that rehabilitation support drew on this fear and could be done by such inves- opportunities are the best CATERING called for more punitive mea- tigations. We must explore option for youth in contrast sures toward youth violence. the workings, benefits, and to long sentences and other Politicians pushed to confine societal response to interven- punitive measures. We Can Cater For As Low As $4.59/Person youth within adult prisons. tion strategies such as teach- The Juvenile Court was -or- In some states, those under ing interpersonal skills, built upon this concept. It Conduct A Children’s Birthday Party for the age of 16 can now be teaching family homes, cog- was recognized that youth sentenced to life imprison- nitive-behavioral methods should be set apart from $2.29/Child On Site ment without the possibility and multi-systemic therapy. adults because of their obvi- of parole, and the ratifica- In addition, the history and ous differences in mental All your favorite tastes are here tion of the International Cov- development of the juvenile processes and capability for enant on Civil and Political justice system must be ex- change. The room-to-reform at Captain D’s Rights in the United States amined. Why and how do concept is the main founda- reserved the right to execu- interventions work? How tion of Juvenile corrections. tion of those under the age of have changes within the ju- Unfortunately this has not 18. Eighteen youths have venile justice system affected held true throughout history been put to death in the such intervention strategies? and at times this foundational United States. There were Furthermore, we must review concept had been pushed high hopes of deterring vio- what can and should be done aside. lence in this manner, which in order to put effective strat- There is little evidence was supported by much of egies into motion. that prison has much of a the public. Some punishments deterrent effect, especially Just as the public had or may be an ineffective means for young people who come still has hopes to reduce youth of inhibiting delinquency. from poor, crime-blighted violence via a punitive re- Studies show rates of recidi- neighborhoods with little sponse, there is also hope for vism increasing for those ju- hope for the future. those who have already been veniles who were given the Problems arise in lack of deemed hopeless. Many unfortunate “lock ‘em up and socialization skills, mental Pathy Davis Americans believe it is not throw away the key” nature health problems and unfor- Catering too late to assist in pulling of punishment. One such tunate family situations. For more details call 419.473.0227 ask for Pathy, PJ, or Marcus these young men and women example is that of juveniles Thus, an emphasis is put on January 31, 2007 The Sojourner’s Truth Page 13 Interview with Toledo Radio Legend Jerry Hobbs a/k/a The Drummer Co-host of On The Edge Talk Show By Michael Hayes Minister of Culture I’ve been trying to get with their On The Edge podcast Jerry: I’ve got to give show to feature taboo sub- some of Toledo’s current show back in September af- credit to Virgilio Baker. jects, and be edgy? urban radio personalities for ter my “The Truth About 9/ He’s got an office over at Joe: It kinda just hap- a while just to basically sit 11” article. So it’s only right the Douglas Center and he pened, but the news media down and chop it up with to return the favor, this is remembers me from doing doesn’t always put things out them. But while waiting on how it went. radio back in the day. there that are important to oth- that to come through, I was Michael: The name of the He asked me one day “Do ers. All of our shows are posi- contacted by a personal podcast show is what? you know about tive, but we’re very blunt just friend of mine who just hap- Jerry: ON THE EDGE! podcasting?” and I say ‘no, being ourselves anyway. pens to be an important fix- You want the motto? what the hell is that?’ He Jerry: We met in Karate ture in Toledo’s proud heri- Michael: Please. had been at the bookstore School and just look at our The Minister with Joe Gozdowski and Jerry Hobbs tage of African-American Jerry: We talk about sub- one day and came across a age difference (65 and 28), radio. ject matters up to and includ- book all about podcasting but we’re on the same level. an mp3 format. Then it’s up- Jerry: Billy Joe Smith and No doubt, this is before ing things that are taboo. and he studied it. We just are who we are. loaded to a server site that I were working at Urban my time and probably before Joe: Yeah, that’s what I He and I actually ended Michael: What type of in- holds the files but if you Renewal in 1969 and he de- the time of most of my read- put online. Yeah, we talk up doing our first podcast dividual do you want on your wanna hear an On The Edge cides that he wants to get ership but it’s still very im- about everything. about the show? podcast you need to go to back on the radio. He knew portant. Jerry. That’s why we’ve North Toledo riots. We Joe: We don’t wanna get www.sicilystudios.com and the guy who owned Channel Back in the late 60s/early had psychics on, professional talked about the riots, we into ‘he said, she said’ – you listen to podcasts or you can 11 and Seaway Radio, 70s, the Glass City airwaves people on and everything. talked about Carty and ev- can’t just come and bad mouth subscribe to us through Frasier Reams and he let Billy were treated to a show hosted Joe: It’s a production of erything. I actually thought someone, if you say some- itunes. get back on the air on Satur- by The Mad Hatter and The Sicily Studios, hosted by both he was contacting me about thing controversial it has to Jerry: People are starting days. Drummer every Saturday of us. needing me and Joe to do a have a point. to listen, and we haven’t done Billy was already known evening. It was funky, it was Michael: And you have commercial for him, but I’m Jerry: I set up the people, any promotion. as the Mad Hatter so when funny and it was cutting edge. no stipulations on who the glad it brought me into Joe sets up the schedule and I Joe: Yeah, it’s been real he got his show, I was just Fast forward more than 30 guests can be? podcasting. Me and Virgilio get a framework for our dis- underground but people are sitting there with my orange years, and Jerry Hobbs is still Joe & Jerry: NONE! lost touch for a while and cussion, but I want to wait finding out. pop and bobbing my head to making noise and it’s still Anyone can be on. Joe… who is a genius by the and let it all unfold live when Jerry: Yeah, my wife was the music. One day, he was cutting edge. I sat down with Michael: When did the way, Joe says ‘hey man, we we do the podcast. stopped by someone who rec- on the air playing music and The Drummer and his new show start? can do this’ so we got into it. Michael: What are the ognized her plates and asked he said ‘Drummer! – Say partner in crime, Joe Jerry: March of ’06. Our first guest was a psy- similarities between if she was the Hobbs from Something!’ So.. and this is Gozdowski at Sicily Studios, Michael: So you’re about chic named Pam Ryan. podcasting and other forms the podcast… turns out col- the honest to God truth… I their base of operation. a year into it… tell me where Michael: Was it by de- of media? lege students in B.G. are lis- put down my pop, walked They interviewed me for it all came from. sign that you wanted the Jerry: Podcasting is like a tening to our show, On The around the console went up radio broadcast on the internet Edge. to the mic and I said “some- that goes worldwide. Joe: Not everyone has thing.” That was my first Back in the day Toledo time to sit at the computer word on radio. When he did couldn’t even get WJLB. and listen to a show, so we’re his show that next Saturday, This year, along with 1/2 PRICE ADMISSION, Michael: Man, I grew up gonna make On The Edge he had a mic for me at my on WJLB. Okay, tell me how available for purchase on CD. end of the table and that’s your Zoo is offering an avalanche of opportunities to people can access your Michael: It’s 2007, you how we became The Mad shake off “CABIN FEVER” during the months of podcasts… like the one I did guys are coming up on your Hatter and The Drummer JANUARY & FEBRUARY with you guys, how could year anniversary as On The show on the air. someone just go and listen to Edge podcasting, but Jerry Michael: So you had the —the season we call... that? this started with you and your show, was it talk radio or… Joe: As soon as we record history in radio broadcast- Jerry: Naw, it was music. a show, it gets mixed and ing. Tell me about how it We were like Tommy K’s mastered and compressed to went down back then. (Continued on Page 16) RRT Images of Art Gallery Exhibit Ice-carving Demonstrations EVERY Saturday Artist Dan Cahill grew up on the south side of Chicago where he honed his skills in custom metal work and car painting. This evolved into painting abstracts on large aluminum panels using acrylic enamels. He was fascinated with the transparency and the Cabin Fever Feeds depth this medium provided. Soon he was experimenting with different mediums and EVERY Saturday & Sunday tried his hand at canvas, trading my spray gun for brushes and enamels for acrylic. In order to work on the oversized canvas that he enjoyed so much, he had to start making his own A-Mazing Sea Adventure Maze frames and stretching his own canvas. He has always been inspired by Kandinsky and Picasso, and tried his hands at oils. “I love the variables that this paint allows”. OPEN DAILY Dan has exhibited his work in several juried shows such as (The Bucktown Arts Festival, The Beverly Art Museum, and The Union Street Gallery) in the Chicago area with tremendous response. He currently resides in Swanton, Ohio and works in the Toledo area. His work is All FREE with 1/2 PRICE ADMISSION currently on exhibit at The RRT IMAGES of ART GALLERY located at 6423 Monroe For times & details, visit www.toledozoo.org Street, Sylvania, Ohio. The gallery hours are from 10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. , Monday – Friday. Also by appointment. (419-460-1343) A reception is scheduled for Saturday, February 10, 2007, from 2pm-7pm.

Rehearsals Want to The Toledo Interfaith Mass Choir and Friends increase your “YESTERDAY” business right ®© A Gospel Concert at the Stranahan Theater on April 14 away?! Rehearsals every Tuesday at 7 pm Then place an At St. Paul AME Zion Church Ad in The Truth

Contact 419-241-7332 or 419-241-3330 today! To place an TheThe Lima Truth Page 14 The Sojourner’s Truth January 31, 2007 Reflections of Martin Luther King Day Monday, January 15, 2007 By Sharon Guice Special to The Truth On this day I awoke early Ph.D., and Rhodes State Nunez, Bertha Perry, Lori you God would bless you if as I had to call my sister, College, John Upshaw and Perry, Shirley Perry, Pauline respect others and we both Ethel, and let her know that I The Ohio State University, Pope, Linda Pugh, Leah smiled at seeing it in action. would be attending the Al- Pastor B. LaMont Monford Richardson, Tina Saunders, I proceeded to pull away pha Kappa Alpha Sorority’s Sr. and Philippian Mission- Cleo Stephens, Evelyn when I thought you should 12th Annual Dr. Martin ary Baptist Church, Pastor Smith, Sandra Tate, Brenda do the same thing for the Luther King Jr. Memorial Earnest Stephens, Jr. and Thomas, Arvis Watts, Geor- person who was kind to you Breakfast on that morning. Fourth Street Baptist Church, gia Williams, Paula Wise and so I stopped the car and in- After I left the house, my Pastor Fayne Wise and Constance Young, formed the attendant that I mind wandered to Martin Shiloh Missionary Baptist We did our usual – greeted wanted to pay the person’s Luther King. I wondered if Church, Pastor Melvin people we hadn’t seen in a fee behind me because of his his purpose in life pushed Woodard, Pastor Dunlap of while as well as those we just kindness. The attendant him out of his home when he Friendship Baptist Church, saw the day before, enjoyed jumped out of the booth to would rather have stayed and Pastor Robert Toney, the food and entertainment, take my money. I gave him home with his wife and chil- Eleventh Street Missionary listened to the speaker, $3 and he said no it’s only dren. I thought “is having a Baptist Church, John Doxie clapped our hands, sang the $2. I was feeling pretty good dream the same as knowing of Huntington Bank, Lima National Black Anthem, about the simple transactions your purpose in life?” City School board members, “Lift Every Voice and Sing,” that had just taken place be- I had thought about tak- Ann Miles and Saul Allen, said our good byes of see tween two races of people ing the day off and not at- Tyrone Campbell of Finesse you next year and went about that didn’t know each other tending any of the Martin Fashion, Coleman Clark of our way. vs. those who had known me Luther King functions going Jones Clark Funeral Home, As I was walking to my and didn’t extend the cour- joining the march soon to be of regret surfaced in my mind on in the city in order to work Malcolm McCoy and Oscar car in the parking garage, I tesy that I was expecting from coming up Main Street. The and I thought one day when on unfinished projects Marshall, the first black prin- could see I was going to be them. excitement of the march we get it together the crowd around the house but the day cipals in Lima City Schools, stuck in traffic. After getting I proceeded to drive my overwhelmed me thinking will be much bigger. After before a friend of mine who City Councilmen Potts, Pitts, in the car, I spotted some sister home and informed her that this is how Martin Luther all it was a dreary, rainy day is fighting the battle of can- Nixon, Glenn and Magnus, friends that I have known for that I’m not going to start the King did it in the ‘60s. and who would want to cer had told her sister “Mar- Alberta Shurelds of Allen a very long time. I motioned march at Vine and Main I could wait no longer march in the cold and rain tin Luther King fought for us County Minority Caucus, to them to let me out and Streets instead I’ll start at and left my car to start walk- for a cause that is only the to have the right to go to Ruth Glover of Good Morn- thought they understood Elm and Main Streets so that ing down Main Street to- struggle of a few people not work and not for taking the ing Gospel, Adriane what I said to them; but after I can take people back to wards the marchers thinking well liked in the city or this day off.” This made me think Bradshaw of Ohio Northern, they apparently had not no- their cars when the march is I would see a large crowd nation. Hmmmmm, what again about what the day was Dr. Marcus Cox and retired ticed over. I went back to my house moving up the street. After would Martin think if he was all about. Dr. Robert A. Watts, As I sat there, I looked and worked on a couple of all over 600 people had been here today? I said to myself it would Michelle Slash of Diva Style two more people in the face those projects that needed to at the breakfast and surely I heard the crowd faintly be nice to stay home but you Hair Salon, Major Amerson, as if to say, “let me out” but be done while I waited on the over half of those people chanting before I saw them. can’t take the day off. You photographer, Jana and neither saw my pleading ex- time for the march to start. would come and march in My heart was excited think- need to go to the breakfast Rufus Williamson of Global pression. I said to my sister, As I worked around the remembrance of Martin and ing I would see a large crowd and to the march. There is Travel, Leslie Long past “maybe we will have to sit house, I was thinking that how he rallied the people of people. I was very disap- still much work for you to president of the Southside here awhile before someone maybe since we would be together for change. pointed at how small the do. Neighborhood Association, will allow us to get out.” The marching downtown as part Something else I noticed crowd was. I stuffed my When I arrived at the Ethel Payne, Jackie next car to pull up was a blue of the third annual Iota Phi when I pulled up to park my thoughts back deep in mind Veteran’s Memorial Civic Robinson, Beatrice Johnson, truck. I looked at him and he Theta “I Have a Dream” car was that the streets were and joined in the march try- Center, I was thrilled as al- Mattie Jones, Martin motioned to me that he would March we would have a big- not blocked off. I felt con- ing to get in the flow of the ways to see our people turned Stevens, Alice Jackson, allow me to get out. I nodded ger crowd than in the past cerned about who would chant and the steps of the out for an event. I looked Alberta Peterson, Luella thank you very much to him. years when we marched block the traffic for the people marching up Main around the room and won- Doxie, Grace Breaston, Paul Now this man I did not know down Reese Street and 8th people. About 10 minutes Street. I thought “we are few dered if this was what Martin Hubbard, the owner of the at all but thought that was Street to Martin Luther King later the React Team mem- but strong and mighty.” I was Luther King dreamed of, new Church’s Chicken, and very kind of him. Park. bers showed up and started happy to see Leslie Long whites and blacks working so many, many more of the As I backed my SUV up The march was to start at to direct the traffic and my carrying her sign and keep- together for the same cause. community. to get in the line of traffic, I 3 p.m. so I got in my car and fears went away. I thought ing step with the youngsters Over 600 people were in On the dais was Mayor noticed Karel Oxley, assis- left for the march about 2:45 “OK, they must not think that with no problems. Chief attendance at the breakfast. David Berger, Lori Frazier, tant superintendent Lima so that I could be in place many people will turn out to Garlock led the march with Some were all dressed up in Rev. Samuel Payne of New City Schools, wanting to get before the march started. As march therefore there is no Derry and Judith Glenn, their best and feeling pretty Creation Lutheran Church, out too. I beeped my horn to I sat in my car I started to get reason to block the streets Larry Seay, Mr. and Mrs. good about doing the right Cleo Stephen, Constance alert her that I would let her excited in anticipation of ahead of time.” Again a pain (Continued on Page 15) thing for the day. In atten- Young and Marshall Rose of in line trying to extend cour- dance were the ladies of the Bowling Green State Uni- tesy to a person in authority. Red Hat Society, such as versity as guest speaker. We I said to Ethel that I am ex- Georgia Newsome, Elaine were spiritually enlightened tending courtesy to her due Chandler, Mary Davis, Judy with gospel music by Lewis to the fact that Pastor Rob- Logan, Pat LaBauve, and Jones, II, Mia Jones, Brian erts is always teaching us others in the group. Emanuel Jones and Jessica Bradley. that when we extend cour- Curtis, Jason Upthegrove, The hosts of the breakfast tesy to those in authority that Charlotte Wagner, Nina the Alpha Kappa Alpha So- God will bless us. Cunningham, Julisa Henry, rority wore black suits and As we were waiting in Korriona Jones, Monia and beautiful monogram scarves line to exit the parking ga- Marissa Carter and Marvin with the AKA colors – rage, traffic was again held Kelly to name a few of the salmon pink and apple green. up and I’m thinking “would adults and youth achievers Lima chapter members in- Martin Luther King be happy from The Lima Family clude Patekka Bannister, about what has just taken YMCA Black Achievers. Sandra Bentley, Eva Carter, place between two races of Ann Wilson, Pat Butler Sylvia Clark, Brenda Ellis, people who do not know each and Linda Ousley were there Glenda Ford, Brenda Frazier, other?” I thought Martin with this year Debs and Gents Lori Frazier, Joyce Garrett, would be happy to know this for Christ Cotillion 2007 Theresa Henry, Amy Jack- is happening. When it was court which includes son, Norma Johnson, Jan my turn to pay the attendant Michelle Hurley and LaMar Jones, Andrea King, Myrtle he told me the car in front of Pughsley. Also represented Lighton, Beverly McCoy, me had paid my parking fee. was Deborah McCurdy, Julia Nunez, Santwinaa I said to Ethel see I told The Lima Truth January 31, 2007 The Sojourner’s Truth Page 15 Issues in Minority Health: A Look at AIDS/HIV in Lima By Alberta Shurelds Special to The Truth When Dr. Anthony ture of Lima and Allen of the downward plunge to- lization initiative leading to Atkins accepted the position County, new figures are be- ward total chaos in this com- increase awareness, partici- of being the first doctor for ing entered into the medical munity. pation, and support for HIV Allen County Health record books that are just as There are organizations prevention among African- Partner’s Lima Community alarming among older that have stepped up to the Americans. Health Center, he did so women – more specifically plate, providing vital infor- The goal of NBHAAD is without knowing the impact among women of color. Di- mation and access to advice, to motivate black Americans that his service could have vorcees, widows, even eld- or at the very least, a listen- at risk for HIV to get edu- on his patients. erly women, sometimes, but ing ear, to those who seek cated and tested, and to get It wasn’t long before he not always victims of infi- help. Many churches have HIV/AIDS stakeholders in- detected a serious problem. delity. Making good choices began support groups and volved in prevention educa- Young women were com- about the men and women efforts to offer their youth tion programs, HIV testing, ing into his office with mul- in your life is becoming a groups opportunities to face press conferences, commu- tiple STD’s and pregnan- life and death decision. these challenges – but this is nity forums and other ac- cies. He was taken aback by Dr. Atkins decided this one of those “It takes a Vil- tivities to raise awareness, an 18-year old who came was a mission for which he lage to Raise a Child” things. participation and support for into his office with HIV, had been chosen. He has According to Dr. Atkins, we HIV prevention among herpes, trichomoniasis, gon- great passion for the youth all must pull together in the black Americans. orrhea and chlamydia. What of Allen County, so much so same direction in order to Since 2001, federal, state, made matters worse; this he gives a no-holds barred turn the ship around. and local governmental was not an isolated incident. lecture to every patient about Ultimately, though, it is agencies, community-based It’s been documented that the price of making the the decision of each indi- organizations, AIDS service Lima ranks fourth in the state wrong choice. vidual that will make the organizations; public and in gonorrhea cases and has He looks them straight in most difference. In the mo- private partners in preven- long been known as a high- the eye, and smacks down ment, the choices we make tion, treatment and care, as Dr. Anthony Atkins risk area for teen pregnancy. the cold hard facts about can and, too often, do have well as partners in the busi- Statistics from the Allen STD’s and the effect it can possible pitfalls and errors survive. an undeniable effect on our ness, entertainment, and County Health Department have on their futures. And in judgment; errors that may Dr. Atkins is concerned future. faith communities have all cites 306 cases of chlamy- they listen. They listen be- seem obvious to some, but the community is not taking And what of the new con- joined together in support dia; 159 cases of gonorrhea cause they know he’s tell- for those without a frame of the plight seriously. He be- cern for women of color in of National Black HIV/ were reported in a six-month ing them the truth. And they reference that reflects the lieves the people that have adulthood – and the con- AIDS Awareness Day. period – January to June. know he understands what family life portrayed on tele- to power to exact change do cerns the medical commu- With all the things in our Young adults and teens are challenges are facing them vision sitcoms, the conse- not feel the urgency in- nity now voices concerning lives that demand our atten- having unprotected sex and every day. quences come out of “no- volved in this situation. This their vulnerability? It has tion, it’s easy to neglect your spreading these diseases at Dr. Atkins learned hard where.” makes him very anxious. He become such a concern the health. We can no longer an incredible rate. Accord- lessons from the streets of Dr. Atkins has decided also is very concerned about CDC has designated Febru- afford this fact of life. Each ing to officials at the Cen- Detroit. It took the violent the best way to reach his the ramifications of the lack ary 7 as National Black HIV/ one of us must vow to take ters for Disease Control, deaths of several of his best target audience is to take the of swift and organized ef- AIDS awareness day. This an active, aggressive role in anything above a rate of friends to bring him to the message “where they live” forts toward gaining control effort is a community mobi- preserving our community. three percent is significant. realization that there had to inside the beats of hip-hop. Of those tested in Allen be a better way to live. He Enlisting the help of local County, 17.4 percent tested found his path in the armed talents and his friends from Reflections of Martin Luther positive for chlamydia. With services. Ironic but true. The Detroit and Chicago, he has percentages four times the discipline he learned al- recently released his State “acceptable” rates, Dr. lowed him to see a possible of Emergency CD. Cloaked King Day Atkins has declared this area positive future for himself. within the confines of lyrics (Continued from Page 14) in a state of emergency. He tries to guide his pa- put into rhythms they un- Casey, Dale Estelle and We were all very excited about their dress and to It doesn’t end there. As tients along their positive derstand, the youth can get youth from Cheryl Allen and nervous at the same time. remember the sacrifices we focus on saving the fu- life path by pointing out the information they need to Center. Brenda Johnson Black folks marching up others had made for their led the group in chants as Main Street not sure if any- benefit. To act like young we stepped with a swift one was going to be there to adults are suppose to act. pace towards the public hurl insults at us or not. We After all the speeches square. knew we were involved in were done, we departed In the center of down- something bigger than us, but left to pursue our own town Lima we gathered very proud to have an oppor- dreams. around those who wanted tunity to express how we feel. Later Monday night, I to speak, Councilman In America marching and again reflected on the day’s Derry Glenn and Tommy moving for change, the fight activities and was thinking Pitts, Brenda Johnson, goes on. what my dreams are? Do I Bryan Miller and Mr. The excitement and an- know what it is to have a Russell’s young daughter ticipation of wanting more dream? Is having a dream reading facts about Mar- change was heard in the the same as knowing your tin Luther King Jr. Post- people voices as we chanted, purpose in life? ers held high with pic- “United we stand, divided I decided to conduct a tures of Martin Luther we fall” and “no more racial survey to investigate the King Jr. and signs read- profiling, justice for all.” We matter. I got up out of the ing “non-violence and were again encouraged to bed and went to my com- peace,” “no justice, no keep the dream alive and do puter and sent out an email peace,” and “no racial pro- something that many of our to 25 people in my address filing,” Bryan carried a t- fore fathers and mothers died book to answer the ques- shirt with pictures of for. VOTE and continue to tion. “I have a dream.” Next Malcolm X and Martin educate our children. time I will share with you Luther King, Jr. The youth were chided the results of the survey. Page 16 The Sojourner’s Truth January 31, 2007 Interview with Toledo Radio Legend UT to Honor Black Jerry Hobbs a/k/a The Drummer History Month by Co-host of On The Edge Talk Show Uncovering (Continued from Page 13) competition once a week. allowed us to use the studio we did our commercials, but of these sex toy parties. ‘Hidden Histories: But I have to give to do our thing. they were wild. Dick Epstein from the credit to Barbara Hill for Michael: You had the ad- See, we used to do it all. Better Business Bureau Untold Stories of a talking to me and Billy vertising business going for Comedy and even a lot of and we did a show called about going into market- a while, but how did the ra- rhymes. “Consumers Beware” ing. And me and Billy dio show come to an end? Had we bridged the gap which was one of our Journey’ would always go up to Jerry: There was a guy another seven or eight years most-listened to shows. (Continued from Page 11) Detroit to hang with the named Gary Miller who we would’ve been at the be- People that practice noon at the Office of Thursday, Feb. 22 black radio personalities came in one evening to tell ginning of hip-hop. Not just Wicca, conspiracy theo- Multicultural Student Services • Brown-Bag Lecture, up there. One day Dr. us that we had to go. I’ll rhyming, even with scratch- rists, magicians and even Gallery (Student Union Room “Harriet Tubman: A Life of Cox up in Detroit told us never forget it, he said “You ing records. an internist. A physician 2500). 12:30-2 p.m. at the Courage and Determination; we should sell people a guys are 20 years ahead of Michael: With you hav- who wrote Legacy Center. Bus provided A Portrayal” - Speaker Joyce package deal. your time, you need to be in ing a history in radio and, Dying Was The Best to Legacy Center. Brown of the Toledo branch of The idea of doing a Detroit or a Chicago or a Joe, you run a studio and Thing That Ever Hap- • Recreation Night with UT the American Association of commercials just came New York”. See, what was work as producer/engineer pened To Me. NAACP & BSU - 10:30 p.m.- University Women. 12:30- together. happening is that the white – how do you view the need Jerry: You know me 2 a.m. Student Recreation Cen- 1:30 p.m. in Tucker Hall Room We came back and listeners in suburban areas for independent media? and my wife are partners ter. Free to students with ID. 180. started doing commer- were starting to call in to the Joe: Everything is so with Tahitian Noni, and Saturday, Feb. 17 Friday, Feb. 23 cials, our first account station to be put on the dedi- slanted these days. Nega- we even had two of the • Bus Trip to National Un- • Multicultural Jeopardy on was Capital Tire which cation list for our show. And tive. You turn on the news big money guys from derground Railroad Freedom Black History - Noon-1 p.m. is now Tom’s Tire… our we were only on Saturdays. and all you hear is bad, bad, Detroit come down and Center - 8 a.m. departure. 8 Student Union South Lounge. slogan was Some of the white jocks bad. We’re firm believers get on the show and tell p.m. return. $7 per person. • “Blues All Around Me” - “Put A Mag Wheel On got jealous and Gary told us that whatever you think their story. Also, we had Register in the African-Ameri- 2-10 p.m. photography show. Your Mo-Bile” and we we had to go. about is what will happen John Livingston – a black can Student Enrichment Ini- 3-4 p.m. lecture. 7-9 p.m. per- tiatives Office, Student Union formance by David put it on WKLR and a lot But in 1971, a radio sta- the most, that’s why we just motivational speaker. Room 1531. “Honeyboy” Edwards. Center of white folks heard us tion in Berkey, Ohio called let guests on our show just Michael: People feel Monday, Feb. 19 for Performing Arts Recital for the first time and WGLN and we got on tell their story. There’s no like Toledo is a boring • Dr. Martin Luther King Hall. that’s how we flipped our Saturday nights there and spin. No editing. place or is un-interesting Jr. Scholarship Benefit Dinner Monday, Feb. 26 show into doing com- once again in direct compe- Jerry: I even learn from place, but you guys have - Speaker Dr. Alvin Poussaint, • Dining Services Black mercials. We became tition with Tommy K. Oprah. I watch how she’ll found a way to showcase director of the Media Center of History Month Soul Food - 11 like sales reps for WKLR When they started WIOT, bring on an expert, but then how unique our city is and the Judge Baker Children’s a.m.-2 p.m. Student Union promoting to the Afri- they kicked us out. After when they start talking she’s that’s why it’s called On Center in Boston and profes- South Dining Hall. Free for can-American market that we just focused on do- answering her own ques- The Edge. Guys I wanna sor of psychiatry and faculty students on meal plans, $6.50 here in Toledo. ing our radio ads so we had tions like she’s the expert. thank you for your time. associate dean for student af- for faculty and staff and a $.50 They already had a 20 year history doing com- We don’t do that, we just sit Anyone who would fairs at Harvard Medical discount with faculty or staff Leon Watson, Brother mercials. back and let it go. like to hear or even be School. 7-10 p.m. Student ID. Ted Wright and Jim Michael: Why do you Michael: Completely un- invited to appear as a Union Auditorium. $30 for stu- • Dining Services Black Billups who were among think your commercials had scripted? guest, go to dents and $60 for all other History Month Soul Food - 4- the luminaries on the sta- such a far-reaching re- Jerry and Joe:C o m - www.sicilystudios.com attendees. 8 p.m. The Ottawa House Din- tion at that time. sponse? pletely un-scripted. and you can get down with • Dining Services Black ing Hall. Free for students on Michael: That’s wild, Jerry: We did our com- Michael: What are some On The Edge. History Month Soul Food - 4- meal plans, $6.50 for faculty it’s amazing you were mercials different. Back in of the controversial topics Truth readers, thank 8 p.m. Parks Tower Skyrise and staff and a $.50 discount able to accomplish all those days, things were wild. you’ve had? you all for rocking with Café. Free for students on meal with faculty or staff ID. that back then. We even got to hang out Joe: We’re open me yet another week. plans, $6.50 for faculty and • “History Is a People’s staff and a $.50 discount with Memory” - Speaker Kevin Jerry: But I have to with James Brown. We minded, so we’ll talk to any- I’m sure this isn’t the faculty or staff ID. Powell, author of Who’s also say that there would be with him from the one. last time you’ll see me Tuesday, Feb. 20 Gonna Take The Weight? would’ve been no Madd time he touched down at the We had the owner of mention Sicily Studios or • Brown-Bag Talk, “Black Manhood, Race and Power in Hatter and The Drum- airport to when he got Cupid’s Closet on here. Jerry Hobbs in my ar- Fathers” - Speaker Dr. Janice America. 7 p.m. Student Union mer show if not for onstage at the Sports Arena. She has these sex toy par- ticles, so stay tuned. Carson, UT assistant profes- Auditorium. Charlie Chuck. He had a lot of influence on ties around town, and she sor of social work. Noon-1:30 Wednesday, Feb. 28 Once he became sta- us. came on and told stories Questions/comments – p.m. Health and Human Ser- • R.A.A.P. Session, “My tion manager, he really We couldn’t swear when about what goes on at some [email protected] vices Building Room 1711. Story” with UT administrators • Dr. Lancelot Thompson - 12:30-2 p.m. Student Union Achievement Program - 6:30 Room 2582. MARTIN POPE p.m. Student Union Audito- • Black Student Union Soul rium. Food Lunch - Noon-2 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 21 Student Union South Lounge. BAIL BONDS • R.A.A.P. Session, “The • Black Student Union Color Complex Brown-Bag Meeting, “History of Black Test” - 12:30-2 p.m. Student Leaders at UT” - 7:30 p.m. Union Room 2582. Student Union Room 2592. • Black Student Union For more information, call Meeting “Tribute to Black the UT Office of Multicultural Music” - 7:30 p.m. Student Student Services at Union Room 2592. 419.530.2261.

/DZ2I¿FHRI -LPPLH/-RQHV “We’ll Come Get You” $WWRUQH\DW/DZ 419-241-POPE $*HQHUDO3UDFWLFH/DZ2I¿FHLQFOXGLQJWKHDUHDVRI (419-241-7673) &ULPLQDO/DZ)DPLO\/DZDQG5HDO(VWDWH/DZ 24 Hour Service All Ohio 0DGLVRQ$YHQXH 3KRQH & Southern Michigan 6XLWH MOMRQHV#VEFJOREDOQHW Courts 7ROHGR2KLR January 31, 2007 The Sojourner’s Truth Page 17 The Black Toledo Named One of 100 Best NORTHGATE Communities for Young People APARTMENTS Now Accepting MarketPlace Special to The Truth Applications United Way of Greater national competition for marijuana use has fallen to 1 AND 2 BEDROOM Toledo along with the City of which more than 750 applica- below 10 percent; and '5-($1+$6029(' APPARTMENTS 1HZDGGUHVVLV Toledo announced last week tions were submitted. • more than 17 thousand ('1$0-($1'30 that Toledo has been named Many factors contributed Toledo youth volunteered ap- 'RUU6WUHHW7ROHGR2+ one of 100 Best Communities to Toledo’s success, accord- proximately 686,000 hours in Mature Adult Com- 3KRQH   )D[   munity for Persons &RPH6HH8V)HHO*RRG$OO2YHU for Young People. ing to information provided 2005; and 6WDUWLQJ:LWKscreen TV, Neat private back yard. ledo. “This is a tremendous Call Bessie Humphrey honor for our community,” Office 419.824.2443419.874.1188 - Cell 419.260.0215 stated Bill Kitson, president and CEO of United Way. 4403 Bromley Drive 5.)15%#/,,%#4)/.3 1918 Peacock Lane Kitchen has marble floor, 2 fireplaces, 2.5 ,!$)%3-%.3$%3)'.%2#,/4().' 4 bd, step down living rm w/vaulted ceiling baths, finished Rec rm, 4 bd possible 5, .-)#()'!.3435)4% 4/, /( and skylight, first floor laundry, master suite circular staricase - MUST SEE! 34/2%(/523 -/. 3!4!- 0- with cathedral ceiling, walk in closet Call Bessie Humphrey 0(%./.0(/%.)8 "5-053   Call Bessie Humphrey Office 419.874.1188 - Cell 419.260.0215 /7.%2&!8   Office 419.874.1188 - Cell 419.260.0215

ROCKET SHOP AUTO REPAIR CENTER GREAT BUY! 2631 West Bancroft 419-535-3258 FALL 14 BIRCKHEAD PLACE * 1 Block East of UT Near Westwood SPECIAL Brick, 4 bd, living rm w/Fireplace, new slate roof, finished Lowest Auto Service Prices Available! 10% OFF 6423 Monroe St - Sylvania, OH 43560 • Full Auto Repair basement w/bar, utility rm, cedar closets, 3 car garage, ANY • Engine Diagnostics Wilma Smith * DiSalle Real Estate Company 419.460.1343 • Towing SERVICE Digital Art Photography, Posters, Business Cards • Tires COUPON Office 419.866.5900 * Home Office 419.350.7514 Owner - RAMON TIGGS 380 Pinewood $159,900 1HEUDVND$YHQXH THE MEDICINE SHOPPE PHARMACY Mint Cond 3 bd, 2½ bth, 2½  2105 W. Alexis Road (between Jackman & Douglas) car gar,lovely sun rm. Quiet 419.474.0605 7ZLQ3OH[7RZQ+RXVH(DFKXQLWKDVXSSHU Eloise A Norwood, R.PH neighborhood. Private Show- DQGORZHUOHYHO)XOO\LQVXODWHGQHZURRI Black Owned and Operated ing. Move in at closing.Call VHSDUDWHXWLOLWLHVLQFOZDWHUWLOWHGZLQGRZV Serving Toledo & Surrounding Communities Since 1989 Grace 419-729-9494 %HVVLH+XPSKUH\ &HOO Free Delivery!

Mike’s AutoWorld 1127 Waite 3RZHOO·V%DUEHU %HDXW\6XSSOLHV Great Investment Property Toledo’s Premier Buy Here Pay Here 1HEUDVND7RO2+ Cars from $300 & Up Two Units, Separate Utilities, Large Rooms, 2440 Dorr near Westwood 419-754-1215 &RPSOHWH/LQHRI%DUEHU %HDXW\6XSSOLHV 3KRQH)D[ Three Bedrooms Each, Good Condition Bring This Ad In For $100 Off on Your Next Purchase Call Bessie Humphrey We Can Finance You! 0RQ 7XHV6DW &DOYLQ3RZHOO Office 419.824.2443419.874.1188 - Cell 419.260.0215

Better Care Lawn & Snow Removal Service IT’S MY BAG RELOCATION SALE! P.O. Box 351744 Commercial/Residential Everything must go! Toledo, OH 43615 “Free Estimates” Designer handbags, watches, etc. Phone: 419-346-7963 Monday - Saturday 11:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. Fax: 419-535-1218 Everything discounted [email protected] Licensed and Bonded 711 N. Reynolds Rd. 419.534.2422

3441 Upton - $76,000 Midwest Dental Center YOU’ThisRE INVITED Home, SIsEPT Waiting 24TH, For2:30 You! - 5 P.M. Conventional well maintained home, Two Locations 4330 Truxton Place Drive * $110,000 enclosed front porch, central air, dishwasher, 1843 W. Alexis, Ste 4 2915 Lagrange Tri-level, 3 bd, 2 baths, Family Rm, Laundry disposal, finished lower rec-room 419.475.5450 419.244.1691 Our Mobile Unit also goes to nursing homes, Rm, Storage Area and Enclosed Sunroom Call Bessie Humphrey retirement homes, MRDD homes, Ngo, Taiwo, DDS Alma Dortch-Gilbert * Whittington Group Realty Office 419.874.1188419.824.2443 - Cell 419.260.0215 day care centers and schools Dental Director Office 419.297.2301 MARSYL’S SOULFOOD RESTAURANT *UDQG$YH 3652 Maxwell Road * Reduced $128,000 3652 y FALL SPECIAL  3 BD, 1 and 1/2 Bath, Move-in Condition and Deep Fried Whole Chicken Wings Now EGXSGDWHGNLWFKHQQHZFDELQHWVDFEULFN Beautifully Landscaped, Roof 2004 Regularly $1.25 ¿UHSODFH¿QLVKHGEDVHPHQWURRIQHHGVUHSDLU Call Bessie Humphrey Must have coupon Hot or BBQ Available 50¢! RUUHSODFHPHQW Office 419.874.1188 - Cell 419.260.0215 Minimum 10 wings %HVVLH+XPSKUH\ &HOO

MARSYL’S SOULFOOD RESTAURANT '2%!4"59
2633 West Bancroft 419-531-8327 6WHYHQ$3DUNHU 1 Block East of UT Voted Toledo’s %DUEHU6W\OLVWDW 2IVER2OAD A nice casual sit down restaurant. Best Soulfood "RICK2ANCH "EDROOMS #ENTRAL • +REEV%DUEHU6DORQ  Carry out available Restaurant! !IR &ULL"ASEMENT • Large menu Try our famous &DOOIRU$SSRLQWPHQW :&HQWUDO #ENTRUY+ASTEN2EALTY • Delivery available Hotwater Cornbread! 1R:DLW 7ROHGR2KLR $EE"ATES #ELL

THE C. BROWN FUNERAL HOME, INC. For Sale – Beauty Salon 1629 NEBRASKA AVENUE 43607 2916 Stickney - $89,900 419.255.7682 Upscale beauty salon with 6 booths. Additional separate area for “WHEN TRUTH IN PRICING AND QUALITY MATTERS” another business venture for extra income. New furnace & C/A, WHITTINGTON GROUP REALTY IN OR OUT OF TOWN Call Nettie Jackson – 419-250-1895 Page 18 The Sojourner’s Truth January 31, 2007

Clinical Therapists Social Work Job Developer CASE MANAGER Dynamic outpatient facility committed to provid- Seeking an energetic, team player to call on area ing extraordinary care to children and families is Unison is seeking Case Managers to provide companies to develop job opportunities for our seeking dedicated team players to provide clinical community support services to adults with serious clients. Requires Bachelor’s degree in business, services. Masters degree in mental health field mental illness. Responsibilities will include provid- plus 1 year experience in sales/marketing; or with Ohio license (LSW, LISW, PC, PCC); plus one ing assistance with the social, vocational, economic, Associate’s degree and 1 year vocational rehabili- year experience working with troubled children and and environmental needs of assigned clients and tation experience; or 3 years sales, marketing, or families required. Must be computer literate and assisting in their ability to live in the community. job recruitment experience. Duties include market- have word processing skills. Duties include provid- Valid driver’s license required. Ohio counselor or ing program and resources to area employers, ing diagnostic assessments, formulating client treat- social worker license and experience preferred. actively developing job opportunities for clients, and ment plans and providing ongoing individual, fam- Consideration will be given to candidates with four- providing job seeking skills training. Must be profi- ily, and group therapy. Excellent organizational, year degrees in fields related to social work. Excel- cient and accurate in computer use and have a communication, and documentation skills are es- lent salary and benefits package. Send or fax commitment to providing excellent customer ser- sential. Commitment to excellent customer service resume with cover letter to: vice. Valid driver’s license and good driving record a must. Submit cover letter with salary expecta- required. Commitment to excellent customer ser- tions and resume by 2/7/07, to vice a must. Send resume, with cover letter and salary expectations, by 2/7/07 to Harbor Behavioral Healthcare, Attn: Human Resources (22), Harbor Behavioral Healthcare, 4334 Secor Road, Human Resources - CSP Attn: Human Resources (T-FT), Toledo, OH 43623-4234 1425 Starr Avenue 4334 Secor Road, or fax to 419-720-6103 Toledo, OH 43605 Toledo, OH 43623-4234 or e-mail to [email protected]. Fax 419.936.7574 or fax to 419-720-6103 Email: [email protected] or e-mail to [email protected]. EOE. EOE EOE.

TOLEDO-LUCAS COUNTY PORT AUTHORITY Behavior Assistant 11013 AIRPORT HIGHWAY SWANTON, OH 43558 Seeking a dedicated professional to work in a partial-hospitalization setting with youth experienc- NOTICE TO PROPOSERS ing severe behavioral problems. Must have Bachelor’s degree in psychology, social work or related field; licensure preferred. Position requires NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN by the Board of Directors that proposals will be received by the Toledo- valid driver’s license and good driving record, ability Lucas County Port Authority for: to perform therapeutic holds, and desire to work in a team setting. Experience working with troubled Dedicated Airline Ticket Booking Engine for youth preferred. Duties include providing support Website and Airport Loyalty Program to students, managing behaviors in the classroom, for and implementing group and individual activities. Toledo Express Airport Assists with transportation duties as needed. Must possess assessment and treatment skills and be The Toledo-Lucas County Port Authority is requesting proposals for a firm to provide a Dedicated Airline proficient in computer use. Submit cover letter with Ticket Booking Engine for Website and Airport Loyalty Program in connection with the Toledo Express Airport salary expectations and resume by 2/7/07, to website. The purpose of the Dedicated Airline Ticket Booking Engine is to provide the general public with a convenient method to shop comparatively and purchase airline tickets from the Airport’s website and to Harbor Behavioral Healthcare (BA), promote the usage of Toledo Express Airport with an Airport Loyalty Program. 4334 Secor Road, Toledo, OH 43623-4234 Firms interested in providing a Dedicated Airline Ticket Booking Engine and Airport Loyalty Program or fax to 419-720-6103 should submit two (2) printed copies and one (1) electronic version (PDF) before 5:00 p.m. (Eastern Time) or e-mail to [email protected]. on February 12, 2007. Proposals should be clearly marked Proposals for Dedicated Airline Ticket Booking Engine for Website and Airport Loyalty Program on the outside of the sealed envelope and addressed to Eric EOE. Frankl, Airports Director, 11013 Airport Highway, Box 11, Swanton, Ohio 43558 and submitted electronically to [email protected]. Medical Assistant Proposals should include: 1. A statement of qualifications and competence of the firm. Provide a statement outlining the firm’s Seeking dedicated professional to provide medi- background, experience, and skills in providing a Dedicated Airline Ticket Booking Engine and an Airport cal assistant and front desk services at our hospital- Loyalty Program. affiliated outpatient office, Children’s Safe Harbor. 2. A statement of references (name, address, telephone number, e-mail address) and a description of Duties include greeting clients, answering phones, the project and/or services performed for each reference. scheduling appointments, and taking blood pres- 3. Compliance with the Specifications of Proposal. sure and other vitals. Requires current medical 4. Outline of all fees and costs associated in implementing this project. assistant certificate plus two years recent office experience. Must be proficient and accurate in data entry, have Microsoft word processing experience, Notice to Proposers, Instructions to Proposers, Forms of Proposal, General Conditions, and Technical ability to work routine office machines, and be able Specifications may be obtained at the administrative offices of the Port Authority at Toledo Express Airport to communicate clearly with a variety of people. and on its website, www.toledoexpress.com, under Public Notices. Commitment to providing excellent customer ser- vice a must. Submit cover letter with salary expec- Following submission, the proposals will be reviewed by a selection committee and evaluated based on tations and resume by 2/7/07, to the above criteria. No one criterion or combination of criteria will be controlling in the selection of the best- qualified proposer. Firms may be invited for interviews and presentations prior to selection. Harbor Behavioral Healthcare (MA), 4334 Secor Road, Questions regarding the Request for Proposals should be directed to Kris Nichter, Director of Air Service Toledo, OH 43623-4234 Development & Marketing, via e-mail at [email protected] or by fax, number (419) 867-8245 or fax to 419-720-6103 prior to 5:00 p.m. on February 9, 2007. Please provide a fax number along with your question. All interested or e-mail to [email protected]. parties will receive a copy of the question and answer by fax. Any proposal may be withdrawn prior to the scheduled closing time for receipt of proposals. EOE.

The Port Authority reserves the right to reject in whole or in part any or all proposals, to waive any technicalities, to advertise for new proposals, or proceed with the work otherwise as it may deem to be in the FREE TOWING best interest of the Port Authority. Attention Landlords or Property Owners, if you have abandoned cars (in any condition) TOLEDO-LUCAS COUNTY PORT AUTHORITY Bad Boyz Towing will remove it for FREE. James H. Hartung, President Call 419-810-5879 January 31, 2007 The Sojourner’s Truth Page 19

Remodeled Homes for Sale 2324 Putnam FOR RENT Single Family Home 298 W. Park – 3 Bdrm - $54,900 1 Bedroom Apartment - $400 3 Beds, 1 bath, full basement 234 Kevin Place – 3 Bdrm - $54,900 2 Bedroom Apartment - $525 1521 Norwood – 4 Bdrm - $44,900 Light, gas and cable included 1535 Buckingham, 43607 For Rent (419) 243-6246 (419) 243-6246 phone 248-250-0179

DIRECTOR – AMERICORPS HOUSING PROGRAM Place your classified ad in The Sojourner’s Truth Call Aida at 419-243-0007 Make a Change for the Better Classifieds are also posted online at www.thetruthtoledo.com

Legal Aid of Western Ohio (LAWO), a non-profit law firm that provides free legal assistance to low-income persons, seeks a dynamic attorney committed to providing legal services to the poor to serve as Director of its Homelessness Director of Advocacy Prevention and Housing Opportunity Program. LAWO’s 10 member AmeriCorps Program provides newer attorneys an opportunity to use their legal skills to Make a Positive Difference in the Lives of Others serve low-income individuals and groups by working to prevent homelessness and expanding the supply of safe, affordable housing. The Director works in Advocates for Basic Legal Equality, Inc. (ABLE), a Toledo based non-profit conjunction with other staff to oversee and implement the Program’s legal work. law firm that provides high quality legal assistance in civil matters to low-income The position will be located in either Toledo or Dayton. Membership in Ohio Bar individuals and groups, seeks a creative, energetic and outstanding lawyer to or ability to be admitted by motion or temporary certification required. Experi- serve as Director of Advocacy. The Director of Advocacy oversees the advocacy ence in legal services, working with community groups, and housing preferred. and legal work of 30 advocates and works in collaboration with advocates Excellent legal and communication skills; strong organizational and interper- sonal relationship skills; computer proficiency; and commitment to legal ser- throughout a 32 county service area on a variety of cases, matters, and projects vices to the poor required. Salary depends on experience. Excellent fringe addressing the legal problems of low-income people. Special emphasis will be benefits. Send resume ASAP, electronically preferred in Microsoft Word format, placed on identifying and resolving legal issues that have a significant impact on to: the rights of our clients. This is a leadership position with major responsibility within the program, working with individuals and groups interested in or related E-mail: [email protected] to the provision of legal assistance to the poor. The Director of Advocacy also Subject: AmeriCorps Director Position is responsible for staff training and development, various administrative tasks, or and coordination of services with ABLE’s affiliate, Legal Aid of Western Ohio, Inc. AmeriCorps Director Position (LAWO). The position is housed in ABLE’s Toledo office. Travel required. c/o Recruitment Coordinator Membership in Ohio Bar or ability to be admitted upon motion or temporary LAWO certification. At least five (5) years of litigation and trial experience, excellent 520 Madison Ave. Ste. 640 legal, administrative, and communications skills, and a commitment to legal Toledo, OH 43604 services required. Experience in legal services, federal litigation, and working Those applicants requiring accommodation to the interview/application with community groups highly preferred. Salary depends on experience. Excel- process should contact the Office Manager at the address listed above. Equal lent benefits. Send cover letter and resume as soon as possible to Attention: Director of Advocacy, electronically preferred in Microsoft Word format, to:

[email protected] or Director of Advocacy Position INVITATION FOR BIDS c/o ABLE Recruitment Coordinator 520 Madison Ave. Ste. 740 The Lucas Metropolitan Housing Authority is seeking qualified contractors to Toledo, OH 43604 furnish all labor, materials, and equipment for the following projects: Equal access to ABLE offices is available. Those applicants requiring JOB NO. Job #27008 accommodation in the interview/application process should contact the Recruit- PROJECT Harry Hansen Repaving Project ment Coordinator, at the address listed above. EOE WALK-THRU DATE February 6 @ 10:00am BID OPENING DATE February 20 @ 11:00am INVITATION FOR BIDS JOB NO. Job #26084 PROJECT Renovation of 3308/10 N. Erie (fire unit) The Lucas Metropolitan Housing Authority is seeking qualified contractors to WALK-THRU DATE February 8 @ 10:00am furnish all labor, materials, and equipment for the following projects: BID OPENING DATE February 20 @ 11:15am JOB NO. Job #27009 JOB NO. Job #27012 PROJECT Elevator Upgrade at Dorrell Manor PROJECT Renovation of 6056 Douglas Rd. WALK-THRU DATE February 7 @ 10:00am WALK-THRU DATE February 7 @ 10:00am BID OPENING DATE March 6 @ 11:00am BID OPENING DATE February 20 @ 11:30am Contract Documents and Technical Specifications will be available on Mon- Contract Documents and Technical Specifications will be available on Mon- day, January 29, 2007, at 201 Belmont Street, in the Modernization Department day, January 29, 2007, at 201 Belmont Street, in the Modernization Department (419- 259-9462), and will be provided upon request. A non-refundable fee of (419- 259-9462), and will be provided upon request. A non-refundable fee of $20.00 will be charged for each set of plans provided. All bids will be publicly $20.00 will be charged for each set of plans provided. All bids will be publicly opened and read aloud in the 2nd Floor conference room on the dates shown nd opened and read aloud in the 2 Floor conference room on the dates shown above, in the Modernization Department. above, in the Modernization Department. Each bid will require a bid guarantee as described in the contract documents. Each bid will require a bid guarantee as described in the contract documents. The prevailing wages for this locality, as established by the Department of The prevailing wages for this locality, as established by the Department of Labor as Wage Determination OH20030028, as modified, must be paid all Labor as Wage Determination OH20030028, as modified, must be paid all persons employed for this work. persons employed for this work. All bidders shall be required to meet the Affirmative Action requirements and All bidders shall be required to meet the Affirmative Action requirements and Equal Employment Opportunity requirements as described in Executive Order Equal Employment Opportunity requirements as described in Executive Order #11246. Each bidder must insure that all employees and applicants for employ- #11246. Each bidder must insure that all employees and applicants for employ- ment are not discriminated against because of their race, color, religion, sex, ment are not discriminated against because of their race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, handicap, age, or ancestry. national origin, disability, handicap, age, or ancestry.

LUCAS METROPOLITAN HOUSING AUTHORITY LUCAS METROPOLITAN HOUSING AUTHORITY MODERNIZATION DIVISION MODERNIZATION DIVISION Page 20 The Sojourner’s Truth January 31, 2007 What Have You Done Today? Ohio Legislative Black The New Robinson Middle Caucus Elects Executive School Opens Its Doors Committee Officers “The new Wild Cats have some shoes to fill,” said To- Officers will provide leadership during ledo Board of Education Presi- th dent Deborah Barnett during the 127 General Assembly the ribbon-cutting dedication The Ohio Legislative Black DeBose ceremony for the new Caucus (OLBC) has elected (D-Cleve- Robinson Middle School on its 2007 to 2008 Executive land) and Thursday, January 25. Committee officers. The Ex- House Mi- “So while you are here, ecutive Committee is com- nority get everything you can from it, so you can be the best you prised of the seventeen Afri- Leader can be,” Barnett told the stu- can Americans who serve in Joyce dents of Robinson, the sec- the Ohio General Assembly. Beatty (D- Ribbon Cutting Ceremony ond middle school to be com- 2007 marks the 40th anniver- Columbus) pleted in the Toledo Public The original Robinson, 77 years ago and named for sary of the Caucus. respec- Schools Building for Success part of the Scott High School Jefferson D. Robinson, the Representative Tyrone K. tively. program. feeder pattern, was opened president of Libbey Glass Yates (D-Cincinnati) was Senator Manufactoring at the time. elected to the position of Presi- Ray Miller The dedication ceremony dent where he will serve as (D-Colum- was held in the school’s Cafetorium that serves as OLBC’s Chief Executive Of- bus) was both an auditorium and a caf- ficer by overseeing all organi- appointed eteria. Other features of the zational activity. “I am hon- Dean of the new school include state-of- ored that OLBC members have Caucus. House Min. Leader Joyce Beatty the-art technology in every given me the opportunity to As the classroom, a media center, a provide leadership for the Caucus’ most senior member, Trustees are the elected mem- large gymnasium and an ad- Caucus,” said Representative he will be looked to for internal bers of the Ohio Legislative vanced security system. Yates. “We look forward to leadership and direction on leg- Black Caucus. “This is our legacy to working with our fellow gov- you,” said Board Member islation and policy. The Caucus is working to Steve Steel, Ph.D. “This is erning elected leaders of Ohio develop state budget and what we leave for you, this is to address critical issues such other legislative priorities for what we bequeath to you.” as work and employment, the 127th General Assembly. public education, criminal jus- Previous priorities have fo- tice and community reentry. cused on the re-entry of ex- During the 127th General As- offenders into communities sembly OLBC will continue to across the state, Medicare push forward our mission to and Medicaid issues, and secure a fair share of govern- job-readiness training. The ment services for the many Caucus has consistently communities that we repre- Rep. Michael DeBose championed issues such as sent.” primary and secondary edu- Representatives Shirley A. In addition to electing Ex- cation, minority health dis- Smith (D-Cleveland), Edna ecutive Committee officers, parities, and minority busi- Brown (D-Toledo) and Caucus members elected Board ness development. of Trustees officers for the Ohio Legislative Black Caucus Foun- dation, a separate non-partisan and non-profit 501(c)(3) orga- nization that was created to im- prove the quality of life of Afri- can American residents of the State of Ohio through activities designed to eliminate prejudice and discrimination. The 2007- Rep. Edna Brown 2008 officers are Representa- Rep. Dale Mallory Clayton Luckie (D-Dayton) tive Tyrone K. Yates, Chair; were elected to the positions House Minority Leader Joyce The Ohio Legislative of First, Second and Third Beatty, President; Representa- Black Caucus was created in Vice President respectively. tive Clayton Luckie, Treasurer; 1967 to promote, foster, and The vice president positions and Senator Tom Roberts (D- sponsor the education of Af- provide leadership by assist- Dayton) Secretary. Members rican Americans and other ing the president in his duties of the Foundation’s Board of minorities on the importance and helping to coordinate of involvement in party poli- public policy initiatives and tics in order to secure a fair the development of OLBC share of government ser- chapters across the state. vices for their communities. Senator Eric H. Kearney The organization continues (D-Cincinnati) and Represen- to ensure equality for all citi- tative Tracy Heard (D-Co- zens by encouraging, nur- lumbus) were elected Trea- turing and developing civic surer and Secretary respec- and political initiatives. tively. The Sergeant-At- OLBC also provides direc- Arms and Chaplin and Parlia- tion and encouragement to mentarian posts went to Rep- groups seeking legislation resentatives Michael Rep. Clayton Luckie on all governmental levels.