Volume 11, No. 21 March 21, 2007

In This Issue

The Truth Editorial: Vouchers and Charter Schools Page 2

My View Page 3

Letters and Opinion Page 4

Gov. Strickland Visits Toledo Page 5

Cover Story: Earl Mack Jr. The Truth Business – Insurance Special Why Have Insurance? Ask: • Vince Davis • Kevin McQueen • Jan Scotland • Romie Brown • Odis McGee • Floyd Carter

“Chicago” The Musical Page 11

Minister on Rock Page 13

BlackMarketPlace Page 14

Classifieds Page 15

Earl Mack Ohio Department of Public Safety

“During the 2006 youth summit, I presented a workshop on ‘What to do when stopped by police’ which assists in the safety of our kids and communities. It also provides information to assist in making the right choices when encountering a police officer.” Page 2 The Sojourner’s Truth March 21, 2007 This Strikes Us … Community Calendar A Sojourner’s Truth Editorial March 24 • The ReMix: Space 237 (237 N. Michigan); 7 pm to 1 am; Local performers, silent auction of Governor Ted Strickland presented his vision for a new Ohio last week and we heartily artwork, food from Diva: 419-254-2787 applaud most of the initiatives he promises to bring to a state so sorely in need of an • Prayer Breakfast: Church of the New Covenant Baptist; “Together, Rooted and Grounded overhaul on so many fronts. in Love:” 419-531-4119 • Citywide Christian Trustees Meeting: James B. Simmons Bldg; 10 am: 419-380-9477 Strickland promised, among other things: to bring health care to every uninsured child and youth 21 and under, to boost state funding for elementary and secondary public March 25 schools, to sell Ohio’s settlement with tobacco companies to fund school construction • Operation Re-Seed Christian Ministries: Ministry workshop “Ministering in a Nursing and prevent future debt and to increase funding to institutions of higher learning. Home;” 9 am to Noon: 419-297-3530 All of those goals are laudable but there are two others that captured more attention • Super Sunday: Bethlehem Baptist Church: Morning Service at 10:45 am; Ministry Carnival for several reasons. Strickland promised to put a halt to the creation of new charter schools, from 1 to 4 pm featuring food, fun and fellowship, give-aways, DJ, clowns and face painting; to put an end to for-profit companies operating such schools and to stop the voucher Sunday Night Musical – gospel choirs, praise dancers: 419-241-9360 • The Clarence Smith Community Chorus: St. Philip Lutheran Church; Soloist Vicki Simpson- program that permits parents in underperforming schools to obtain subsidies to move their Brooks; St. Philip Senior Choir; St. Philip Men’s Choir; Dessert reception after concert; All children into private and parochial schools. proceeds to benefit the St. Philip Debt Retirement: 419-475-2835 “By virtue of eliminating some of these opportunities for children, we by nature send them back to schools that are failing,” said Republican House Speaker Jon Husted who March 27 has been the driving force behind the voucher program. • ACT-SO Orientation Session: For students who will be competing in the ACT-SO local That is an argument that we think makes no sense whatsoever if one is at all inclined competition on April 29; Kent Branch Library; 6:30 pm: 419-215-1087 to look at the total picture of public education. If, in fact, the State of Ohio could afford March 29 to send all children to private or parochial schools and if there were enough private and • YWCA Milestones: A Tribute to Women; SeaGate Centre; co-sponsored by the YWCA, parochial schools to accommodate the demand, then we might agree that vouchers make WTVG and ProMedica Health System: 419-241-3235 sense. The problem is, of course, that public schools are going to be around for a long time March 29-31 and when students, and the accompanying funds, are siphoned away from them, there is Second Annual Women of Worth Conference: “Called to be Doers;” Genesis Dreamplex little hope of improving a failing school. And funds are being siphoned away from public Hotel & Conference Center; Thur and Fri evening open session at 7 pm; Friday 8:30 am to schools both by the voucher program and by charter schools. Noon; Saturday 9 am to 1:30 pm: 419-472-2316 or 419-944-1033 The argument has been put forth that neither program has been allowed sufficient time March 31 to determine whether it will be effective or not. We cannot accept that argument. • Landlord Advocacy Seminar: Property management and legal issues discussion; 8 am; The We believe that neither program made any sense to begin with and neither should have Catholic Center: 419-244-6711 ext 417 or 425 been given a chance to be put into operation. • United Missionary Baptist Church: “The Challenge of the Crass;” Presented by the The best-case scenario for the charter school program is that a number of alternative Transportation Ministry schools would spring up, markedly improve the academic opportunities for those who fled • National Association of Negro Business and Professional Women’s Clubs, Inc: Annual from failing public schools and thereby become great success stories. That has not Luncheon to celebrate National Women’s History Month and to honor six great women of Toledo; 11 am; Botanical Gardens: 419-244-5390 happened by a long shot and it wasn’t likely to happen. Charter schools by their nature do not have the funds to compete effectively and do not have to maintain the professional April 1 teaching standards to ensure consistency across the board. • Indiana Avenue MBC: 42nd Pastoral Appreciation for Rev. Dr. John Roberts and first Lady As a group, charter schools are failing. Bernice Roberts; Guests are Rev. Dr. John Williams and the Eastern Star Baptist Church But even if these schools had proved to be successful, the experiment itself would still • Chicken/Ribs Dinner and Craft Bazaar: UAW Local 12 Hall; Proceeds to benefit Local 12 have been a failure. Charter schools are taking much needed state funds from public Women’s Committee Education and Charity Fund: 419-474-8575 schools and, in urban districts such as Toledo, that lack of funding means that children April 3 must inevitably suffer the consequences – that is, the vast majority of students who remain • Scott High School Alumni Association: Monthly Tuesday meeting; 6 pm in the Scott High behind in the financially depleted public school system. School New Teacher’s Cafeteria As for vouchers, we cannot even comprehend what anyone was thinking who might have supported such a ridiculous notion. It is not just the funds that are being siphoned April 4-6 away from public schools but also, potentially, the best and the brightest of the student • Pre-Easter Revival: Church of the Living God; 7 pm nightly; Guest evangelist Bishop F.D. body – those who can pass the tests, those who would help to make public schools Turley challenging for all of the other students. April 9-13 The voucher program is only in its second year and already we are seeing that some • Spring Break Mini Camp: For third through six graders; Art projects, cooking lessons, games; parents, eager to try to take advantage of such an opportunity, are actually pulling their Crossroads Family Resource Center: 419-475-3258 children out of schools that are performing well, such as the Old West End Academy or Grove Patterson Academy, moving them into schools on academic watch or academic April 10-11 emergency, with the hope of being able to get into the voucher program to then move their • American Red Cross Babysitter’s Training: Crossroads Family Resource Center; For youths children into a private school. What sort of nonsense have we wrought? aged 11 to 15; Knowledge, skills and confidence to care for infants and school-aged children; As a society, we can put our faith and trust in a public school system or we can make Noon to 3 pm each day: 419-475-3258 the decision that public schools have run their course and it’s time to privatize the April 14 educational process entirely. We cannot afford to deprive public schools of resources, • Toledo Interfaith Mass Choir: “Yesterday;” Stranahan Theater: 7 pm: 419-241-7332 or 419- financial or human, and expect that improvement will follow – we have to commit to one 241-3330 or the other. • Scott High School Alumni Association: “Scholarship Reunion Dance;” Civic Center Trying to create mass competition for public schools and funding both systems Promenade; 7 pm to midnight: 419-349-2125 simultaneously reminds us of what might occur when a society attempts to switch from driving in the left-hand lane to driving in the right … gradually. The Sojourner’s Truth Toledo’s Truthful African-American The Sojourner’s Truth Owned and Operated Newspaper Kevin McQueen Publisher Fletcher Word Publisher and Editor Becky McQueen Business Manager 6161/2 Adams Street, Toledo, Ohio 43604 Phone 419-243-0007 • Fax 419-255-7700 Alan Abrams Reporter Geneva J. Chapman Reporter Published weekly on Wednesday Tamir A. Shaw Reporter Printed by Webco Graphics Artisha Lawson Reporter Ashlee Austin Reporter Jack Ford Political Columnist 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 # (_____) _____-______

Address: ______City ______State ____ Zip ______A Certified MBE, 2006 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] www.thetruthtoledo.com March 21, 2007 The Sojourner’s Truth Page 3 My View By Jack Ford The Truth’s Political Columnist Looks can be deceiving in historical events and Dou- the mayor. Robert Torres, justify why people of color in addition to his own per- be notched up incrementally public life. glas, as a big union labor demoted recently to an eco- were let go. Simply saying sonal residence. So for that over the years. Maybe it will It looks as if war was de- leader, has a vested interest nomic development special- that someone is “lazy” will property investor, he would eventually reach $18 per unit clared between Mayor Carty in what direction the state is ist from manager, has asked not be sufficient unless it is face a bill of $18 per month – as it is in Akron, Ohio. Finkbeiner and publisher going in the future. that the mayor’s action be well documented. personal and business – for By the way, the 2008 To- John Block of The Blade Douglas probably put the reviewed by the City’s Office The city plan to impose a an annual total of $216. What ledo budget is predicted to be based on last week’s ex- dinner together. He is known if Affirmative Action. garbage fee will reverberate if he owns a 10-unit dwell- $17 million out of whack. Af- change: the release of the simply as the “Redhead” to It might appear to observ- beyond single households. ing? Someone is going to pass ter this year’s draconian cuts, Zogby Poll, Finkbeiner’s rant political observers. Say the ers that these complaints are This fee is for “each unit.” So, the fee along in the form of where will the City go to make in a letter to the editor and the name Redhead and everyone being filed by disgruntled for example, the owner of a raised rents. Plus, once it is up that deficit? And, oh by next day’s Blade editorial knows who that must be. The workers who have been de- duplex will pay for two units, imposed, look for the fee to Continued on page 16 which blasted the mayor. Redhead has a most deft po- moted or fired and are ticked The beginnings of a nasty litical touch. I have watched off. Actually there is more war? Not really, based on the him influence Toledo City afoot than appears at first fact that the two “combat- Hall and UT politics for a glance. Just Don’t Count Our Vote ants” sat down and ate din- generation. The issue of fairness in ner together the same night I was always amused when employment extends to “any … Be Counted the editorial was written and Vic Kapoor was president of condition of employment.” was on its way to press. The UT and the Redhead was right This means that you as em- By Jan Scotland two warriors were joined for there in the mix but out of the ployer must treat everyone Guest Columnist dinner by Dr. Lloyd Jacobs, public eye. He had the same the same even when there is I can’t tell you how porters happy or they will president of The University impact with the Toledo city a reduction in force. The stan- many times I have been not be able to garner sup- of Toledo, and Andy Dou- leaders. His influence was dard is whether the action asked as a Republican, why port in the future. glas, former Ohio Supreme evident in the 2001 campaign taken is “arbitrary and capri- blacks should vote for our 2) The Democrats should Court justice, and long-time and in the 2005 battle as well. cious.” So if Carty and Co. candidates. They say Re- be bending over backwards confidant of both Finkbeiner Andy helps his friends in disproportionately let minor- publicans have never sup- to maintain the overwhelm- and Block. many ways. ity managers go or if they ported the black commu- ing support the community Jan Scotland That the four men would And while he is clearly a demoted them and not white nity and that’s why they gives them. The responsibil- meet in Columbus on the eve Carty partisan, I must thank ones, Carty has a problem. don’t get our vote. ity to their constituents Except for during Jack of the governor’s State of the him for the guidance he gave That means the city will I typically respond by should include significant Ford’s term in office, affir- State makes sense for obvi- me when I was a legislator ultimately give someone back pointing out that voting focus and support for their mative action, contract ous reasons. Dr. Jacobs and later when I started out pay, or even damages, with 85 to 95 percent of the time most loyal constituent. compliance and adminis- wanted to hear how much as mayor. His influence with your tax funds. I hope Theresa for the Democratic candi- Democrats not Republi- trative representation has cash UT could expect, Carty police and fire unions should Gabriel clearly advised the dates should create two cans have controlled the not no reflected the sup- wanted to hear about urban never be underestimated. mayor step-by-step on the expectations: mayor’s office and Toledo port African-Americans support and revitalization, The fallout over affirma- firings and demotions be- 1) Republicans will City Council for most of the give to the party. Whether Block likes those types of tive action continues to hit cause she will be asked to pursue support from other last 30 years. Donna Owens on simple issues such as groups if they are going to was the only Republican renaming Dorr Street to have any chance at win- mayor during that stretch and, that of Martin Luther King ning office. When re- if my memory is correct, Re- Blvd or the pitiful response sponding to their constitu- publicans may have con- to discrimination com- ents they will naturally trolled council for a total of plaints. No Democrat on work to keep their sup- two of those years. (Continued on Page 14) Yesterday’s Today Guest Editorial By Marvin Milsap The past has a power has taken centuries to de- to fire a black female for her over us that we not ready velop and nurture can be refusal to sit and be silent to admit. The past is ex- cured almost instantly. It is rather than being seen and tremely powerful! Much of just as ridiculous to think that heard – as a black woman. what outwardly appears as marginalized populations in- The signs are no longer discord is in reality a cluding the poor, African- written on placards and struggle between our Americans, Latinos, and posted in the windows of present and our past. Even other minorities will get their business establishments or when we are challenged to fair share of economic and over restrooms and drink- go forward we keep return- social benefits without ad- ing fountains, but I see the ing to the comfort and fa- equate safeguards. blinding brightness of the miliarity of the past. It is mandatory that we “No Blacks Allowed” poli- The profound effects of have a separate, autono- cies and actions in spite of 400 years of the legalized mous, and independent sys- the “it’s too expensive/ atrocities of slavery and tem of checks and balances costs too much/can’t afford segregation are not going to ensure an economically it” camouflaged and over- to be wiped out in 40 years just society for all. It is easy used excuses of govern- of federal legislation or 20 to understand the inability of ment. I hear it and I see it! years of civil rights com- some to admit racism when As we continue to take mission mandates. Until 388 years after the first Afri- more from those who have the mid to late 1960’s, dis- can slaves were brought to least and give more to those crimination and segrega- Jamestown, Virginia the na- who need it least, the gap tion based upon race was tion cannot bring itself to offer between the haves and the legal in the United States an apology for these heinous have-nots continues to and acceptable to the ma- crimes against humanity. Our widen. The cries continue jority of everyday common past is too painful for some to to go out for more equity in people. The most powerful even admit; too painful to the social and economic seats of power in this coun- see it even when it is placed policies for all as we have try were occupied by seg- right in front of our faces. seen that those who are regationists and racists. We claim that we cannot shut out of society’s re- What policies have hear racism unless the “N wards truly have no stake been passed since that time word is used, but I hear it in nor respect for - that sys- reflect the marks of com- loudly, in the degrading, dis- tem. We would be wise to promise and homage to this paraging and disrespectful act now. The longer we wait, de jure condition. It is un- patriarchal supremacy of one the worse the problems and realistic to think that what who feels that it is necessary divisions in society get. Page 4 The Sojourner’s Truth March 21, 2007 • Letters & Opinions • Letters & Opinions • Letters & Opinions • Letters & Opinions • In the Matter of Affirmative Dear Editor: My assessment of the Finkbeiner versus Perlean Griffin is one of arrogance in a partnership Action and Justice with economics. I don’t think Carty is cognizant of what Kwame Nkrumah said of women: “You The Interdenominational afford to allow ourselves to be measure the political awareness of a people by the women.” Ministerial Alliance of Toledo separated because of race, Though, Carty wasn’t Toledo’s mayor during the Nazi weekend, when Toledo made the and Vicinity (IMA) has long gender or any other status. national news. He is - “in plan” - so to speak, in a variety of ways and subject to interpretation been a voice in the community Affirmative Action is a as being a racist. This is part and parcel for serving as mayor before and after the first black mayor; for justice and harmony policy or a program taking it has become an American tradition. among all people. Through the positive steps to increase the Especially, as Carty was Toledo’s mayor prior to the initial point when Toledo Zoo became years, the IMA has taken representation of certain des- a practitioner of economic apartheid. I define economic apartheid (specifically for the Zoo stands on racism and many ignated groups seeking to re- Rev. Cedric Brock scenario): the funding of a municipal institution with the taxes of the Toledo’s 25 percent of other issues, serving often as dress discrimination or bias have boots, much less boot- residents of African-Americans, yet African-Americans only held two fulltime positions the moral voice of the commu- through active measures, in straps.” of 152 positions. Generally, I regard a governmental entity funded by tax dollars while nity. As an organization of areas of employment, educa- Unfortunately, things have wreaking pathologically economic deprivation by the use of capitalism, colonialism and racism Christian clergy, it is appropri- tion, and business from which not changed that much in the to be a practitioner of economic apartheid. ate that we remind those who they have been historically past 10 and a half years in our In my opinion, the Toledo Zoo’s workforce definitely should have been or should be of would cause injustice that excluded. Some groups who world and in our own city. Toledo’s implementation of affirmation action. Though, if Carty didn’t address that situation they are not in charge, that we are targeted for affirmative Here in Toledo, the Office of during his first eight years as mayor, why should he do so now that he has been elected? are to live toward a higher action are characterized by Affirmative Action/Contract Additionally, Carty inadvertently contributed to the perception of being divisive when he calling and that if any of us race, gender, ethnicity or dis- Compliance was created in July didn’t suggest that, upon the Nazis second march in Toledo, they post a $700,000 or $800,000 suffers, all of us suffer. The ability status. Through the 1988 by Ordinance #246-88 to peace bond. Yes, I realize if Carty had proposed such a action with then-Mayor Ford - Carty list of religious leaders in the years there have been many administer the city’s Affirma- may have lost the mayoral election. African-American community opinions about the advan- tive Action and Contract Com- Increasingly, it seems that Carty is firing or has alienated African-American leaders such who have been a part of this tages or disadvantages, the pliance Programs. The office as former TPS Superintendent Eugene Sanders along with his questionable “King Kong” great organization is long and fairness or lack of fairness of and the ordinance that cre- comment several months ago about Fire Chief Mike Bell. It seems Fire Chief Bell decided he we owe a debt of gratitude to Affirmative Action in society, ated it are the results of a fed- could show Carty better than he could tell him. My father, Clarence Sr. always said: “An empty them for all that they have and there are some even to- eral lawsuit that was filed wagon makes a lot of noise.” done. day who believe that it is no against the city because of Perlean Griffin shared a very astute and relevant insight when commenting about the 1989 These are new and difficult longer necessary, that we have unfair practices in the police consent decree the City of Toledo had concerning affirmative action. Moreover, isn’t Mayor times. The distance between overcome our biases. Colin and fire departments. Accord- Finkbeiner’s hiring of his Chief of Staff brother-in-law a type of affirmative action for white classes is great and growing Powell, on May 25, 1996 stated: ing to the city’s website Affir- males? Or does that also meet my definition of economic apartheid? greater. The state of the “There are those who say we mative Action office page, the When this scenario has been thoroughly examined from the economic aspect, Mayor economy, war, politics and can stop now, America is a office “operates under the ju- Finkbeiner will be seen as being political. The specific meaning for Ms. Griffin and Toledo’s other major issues have color-blind society. But it isn’t risdiction of the Mayor. A African-American community is revealed that Carty does not define TEAM as Together caused us to live on edge, there yet. There are those who major function of the Office is Everyone Accomplishes More. losing trust in the structures say we have a level playing to ensure regulations are fol- of our society and even our field, but we don’t yet. There lowed to meet contract com- Sincerely, city. Differences have become are those who say that all you pliance objectives and to cer- Clarence Gafeney, Jr. more important than things in need is to climb up on your tify and promote minority and common, and we have been bootstraps, but there are too women-owned businesses to divided. We can no longer many Americans who don’t (Continued on Page 13) The EdChoice Scholarship Program Wake up everybody… This song was song by Harold Melvin and the Blue Notes with relevant lyrics for the No tuition. 1970’s. It appears to me the lyrics are needed today. On the international level we have a crazy war, nationally employment is down because of outsourcing and locally the mayor A private-school is proposing laws to criminalize parents. education that will pay Talk about family values. At first I was going to limit this piece on the (un)constitutionality off for years to come. of this proposal and how NO study has proven whether this approach is effective. However, I find that the problem is much deeper than a proposed ordinance. Registration period It is time for us in the black and Latino communities to WAKE UP! We are allowing this January 29 - April 20, 2007 current administration (you can pick one, local, state, national) to propose and enact policies that are counterproductive to the political and social advancement of our communities. It is time for us to organize and get involved politically. I think this approach must occur in both the legal and extra-legal arenas. You noticed I said extra-legal rather than illegal. It is time for us to embrace concepts outside of the criminal, civil, and administrative law to deal with many of our issues. Whenever there is an internal conflict (and most of our conflict is between us), we can set up our own process to deal with it. Whether it is called restorative or community justice or simply “a village raising a child” we know, and research shows that it can work. Now there are times when we need to use the law, and in those cases we need to be represented at all levels, prosecutors, plaintiff lawyers, defense attorneys, jurors, judges The EdChoice Scholarship Program provides state-funded and magistrates. And I not saying we need simply “black or brown” folk there, but black scholarships that allow students to enjoy the educational advantages or brown folk who represent the best interest of the community. at participating private schools. Parents of eligible students must We need folks in the legal and extra-legal arenas to step up and say: “The death penalty register for admission at a participating private school for the is wrong and negatively impacts my community, the police are not always heroes in my community and do abuse us, our schools are inherently unequal, the war is killing to many 2007-2008 school year. Cities eligible for the EdChoice of my brothers and sister and I DO NOT support staying in a civil war. ScholarshipLQFOXGH6DQGXVN\0DQVÀHOG/LPDDQG7ROHGR We should give more money to proven community-based organizations rather than the police. Places of faith it is time to bring your preaching and action to the masses. The No tuition costs — just the highest University of Toledo you need to provide action research and service to the community quality education for your children you are located in, businesses invest back in the city, etc.” at the private school of their choice. What I am trying to say is the parents and guardians are not the main issue, in fact, the rest of us are the main problem. We lawyers, educators, business people, religious people, foundations and others are the major part of the problem, but we are the major part of the Attend the EdChoice Scholarship Parent Meeting solution. Yeah, there are parents and others who are neglectful and abusive, we have existing Tuesday, March 20, 2007 at 3 p.m. and 6 p.m. laws and even some programs for that. But where is the law that “criminalizes” the behavior Kent Public Library, 3101 Collingwood Blvd. Toledo, OH 43610. of the rest of us. If we are going to criminalize the so-called bad parent, let us criminalize the bad president, governor, mayor, teacher, business, church, mosque, synagogue, etc. For more information about eligibility and participating schools, call 1-800-673-5876. WAKE UP EVERYBODY

Morris Jenkins, J.D., Ph.D. Or visit www.EdChoice.Ohio.gov March 21, 2007 The Sojourner’s Truth Page 5 Governor Ted Strickland Visits Toledo School, Promises Education Reforms By Fletcher Word Sojourner’s Truth Editor Governor Ted Strickland els, from early childhood to Fedor (D. Tol.), Toledo Board ing and his plan to move away hit the campaign trail once adult training, and his stated of Education President from the reliance on property again last Thursday. This goals of ending the prolifera- Deborah Barnett and Toledo taxes for school funding that time, however, Strickland was tion of charter schools and Federation of Teachers Presi- the Ohio Supreme Court has campaigning not to win elec- terminating the state voucher dent Francine Lawrence held is unconstitutional. “I’ve tive office but to drum up program were greeted with walked with Strickland as he chosen to increase per pupil grassroots support for some cheers from those who toured made his way from classroom funding. When we reduce of the bold initiatives, par- Toledo’s Keyser Elementary to classroom at Keyser – property tax and replace it Governor Ted Strickland, Councilman Michael Ashford, ticularly with respect to edu- School with him last week. where Fedor herself used to with state tax – securiturized School board President Deborah Barnett cation funding, that he had Strickland acknowledged, teach – and greeted students by tobacco funds – by 2009 offered the day before in his however, that he was in for a and teachers. the State of Ohio will provide fiscal 2008 and $5,732 in 2009. emergency. State of the State address. fight with the Republican- “This is a great day,” 54 percent of the total fund- Additionally, he promised to Some parents, it has been His budget, incorporating controlled legislature over the Fedor said as she commented ing.” raise poverty-aid based as- reported, are pulling their those initiatives, was released possible demise of some of about her reaction to the He also expounded on his sistance by 22 percent and children from public schools the following day. their pet programs, such as governor’s proposals. rationale for attacking char- parity-aid funding by eight that are performing relatively The governor’s promise vouchers and charter “What I’m trying to empha- ter schools, both from the percent – both are funding well and placing them into to increase state funding for schools. size is how important it is at standpoint of their perfor- sources for districts with a underperforming schools in virtually all educational lev- State Senator Teresa every stage of life to have edu- mance and those who profit high percentage of students an effort to make their chil- cational opportunities,” said from their existence. below the poverty line. dren eligible for vouchers. Strickland. “If we do that, Ohio “I hope we will begin to But it was his stance on In his budget, Strickland will have a bright future. I’ve hold charter schools to the charter schools and the has exempted the Cleveland had to emphasize my dedica- same standards of fiscal ac- voucher programs that pro- Municipal School District tion to public schools and their countability and educational duced the loudest cheers from from his plan to end vouchers availability to every child.” accountability,” said the those in his audience in- because that voucher sys- Strickland held a press governor. “Some are for- volved in public school edu- tem is based on need rather conference after his tour dur- profit operators with failing cation. The Toledo Public than on academic perfor- ing which he answered a schools that [they are operat- Schools will lose more than mance. number of questions about ing] with public tax dollars.” $50 million in state funding to Strickland’s Toledo visit the details of his budget pro- When asked about the local charter schools this year was one leg of a day-long posals on education. chances for success, Strickland and another million to the tour that saw the governor “The inequity in the sys- admitted that a battle loomed. fledgling voucher program. and his staff visiting other tem has bothered me more “I expect a big fight over these Recently TPS employees and Ohio cities – Cleveland, Day- than anything else,” he said initiatives,” he said. “There is administrators have spoken ton, Cincinnati – to beat the Governor Strickland in the classroom on the issue of school fund- a big difference of opinion be- of the possible chaos that bushes about his proposed tween me and some legislators may ensue as parents in two-year budget. on the role of the state in public greater numbers angle for “The budget I unveiled education, but our commitment ways to make their children today will only pass if the must be to all of Ohio’s chil- eligible for vouchers. Such grass-roots folks in Ohio, the KEEP YOUR MONEY dren.” vouchers are worth $5,000 moms and dads, who live in Strickland in his address towards high school tuition these local communities, get SAFE and SECURE SO on Wednesday afternoon, at a private or parochial school behind it and let the legisla- YOUR FUTURE is TOO. promised to increase per-stu- if their public school is an tors know this is important to dent funding by three per- underperforming one – on the future of Ohio,” said cent each year up to $5,565 in academic watch or academic Strickland. Friendship New Vision Has the Vision to Effect Change Sojourner’s Truth Staff Bishop Duane Tisdale, pastor of Friendship Bap- tist Church and CEO of Friendship New Vision, cer- tainly has a vision for neigh- borhood and housing de- velopment. He and the church are watching that vision become a reality as they set about building new houses and rehabbing oth- Bishop Tisdale, Paul Tecpanecatl of Poggemeyer Every customer has unique financial needs. Whether you’re saving for home Design Group, Councilwoman Brown improvements, emergencies or retirement, National City has options, from ers in Toledo’s central city standard saving accounts and financial planning to CDs to retirement plans. neighborhoods. 1586-square-foot newly-con- haps several dozen such In November 2005, structed house on Glenwood. ventures. These days, You may even be eligible for an Earned Income Tax Credit, which is another Friendship New Vision At that time Tisdale said that however, the bishop is great way to keep more of the money you earn. To learn more about the opened its first house, a it would be the first of per- placing no limits on the Earned Income Tax Credit, call 800-829-1040. number of projects New Vi- sion might undertake in the For more information on our savings options, stop by your nearest National City branch, call 800-347-5626 or visit us online at NationalCity.com. upcoming years. “We envision many more,” said Tisdale sev- eral weeks ago. “We would like to put up a neighbor- hood.” On a tour of several To- ledo neighborhoods with The Truth, Tisdale showed Personal Banking • Business Banking • Investments • Mortgage Loans off a number of projects

Mortgage loans are products of National City Mortgage, a division of National City Bank. Greg Harris of Harris Builders, Paul Tecpanecatl, that the community service Member FDIC • ©2007, National City Corporation® Bishop Tisdale and Councilman Michael Ashford (Continued on Page 10) Page 6 The Sojourner’s Truth March 21, 2007 Earl D. Mack, Jr.: Successfully Blending Law Enforcement with Helping to Save Our Kids By Alan Abrams Sojourner’s Truth Reporter Earl Mack has a dream – eran of more than 25 years in can-American Agent in them is that alcohol is bad – he’d like to become Ohio’s law enforcement, including Charge and Deputy Chief in period. They may not be first African-American Sher- 20 in management-supervi- the history of the Ohio De- around until 21 or older when iff. sion. partment of Liquor Control. they can buy alcohol legally. But he’s definitely not The Ohio Department of He was originally Agent in There is proof that the mind sending a subtle message to Public Safety was created in Charge of the Toledo office. deteriorates in young alco- Lucas County Sheriff James 1933 when the 21st Amend- When I was hired, I was as- holics,” says Mack, who Mack addresses youth group Telb. ment, which repealed Prohi- signed to the Cleveland En- works closely with MADD In fact, Sheriff Telb bition nationally, gave en- forcement District office un- and the agency’s innovative doesn’t need to get nervous. forcement rights to the der his supervision. Mr. Pitts Sober Truth underage initia- “He’s my idol,” says Mack of states. “Technically, we’re a instilled in me that it is im- tive program. Telb. “He was one of my pro- continuation of Prohibition perative to learn my job and Mack also developed the fessors at The University of enforcement,” Mack ex- treat people better than I want agency’s binge drinking op- Toledo. He educated himself plains. to be treated. Mr. Pitts also eration in 2000 which covers and through hard work as an The agency is responsible demonstrated he needed to homecoming events each enforcement agent and police for alcohol, food stamp fraud be the best of the best to year at Bowling Green State officer, he achieved the trust and tobacco enforcement – survive and rise to the top University and The Univer- of the people and became but Mack hopes it won’t be through all the adversities he sity of Toledo’s student off- Sheriff of Lucas County. He saddled with smoking patrol faced. He was my mentor and campus areas. is an example of how one can duties as a result of Ohio’s is part of the reason for the “I was a member of former rise above any adversity to new successes I have today as an Ohio First Lady Hope Taft’s the top,” says Mack, who is No Smoking laws in public Agent in Charge,” says Mack. Ohio Team for the National the high-profile Agent in venues such as bars and res- Mack is equally known in Underage Drinking Preven- Mack accompanies local law enforcement officials Charge of the Ohio Depart- taurants. the community for his com- tion Conference in Wash- ment of Public Safety’s To- Mack was Agent in Chief mitment to kids and trying to ington, DC. It was held on state,” recalls Mack. this issue, which was danced ledo Enforcement District of the Toledo District from save them from the many Oct. 31 and Nov. 1-2 of “The Town Hall meetings around, if I may say office. 1997-2005 before his contro- perils they face. 2005, and was hosted by addressed underage alcohol that. Alcohol use in the Earlier this month, Mack versial transfer to Columbus “There is nothing worse the US Department of use, which included strate- United States is such an ac- made the nightly news with where he served as Agent in than losing a child. It is a Health and Human Services. gies to address alcohol ad- ceptable social behavior that two well-covered raids under Chief of Central Office Ad- feeling you can’t understand During the conference, vertisements. When we dis- we shy away from totally his jurisdiction. The first was ministration. That posting until you’ve lost one,” he which included representa- cussed the billions spent on committing to the problem a March 4 early morning raid resulted in a still pending law- says. tives from every state, we advertisements and how to while our kids are killing them- on a party off Alexis Road suit filed by Mack charging Unfortunately, Mack developed the Town Hall address this, one could de- selves and others; while thou netting underage drinkers. discrimination under Title 7. knows that feeling from expe- Meeting concept for each tect the hesitation to address (Continued on Page 11) The coverage in The Blade “I filed a civil action as a rience. He lost his son, Earl D. reported that Ohio liquor en- result of my being forced from Mack III, when he the boy forcement agents and my position in Toledo to a was only 10 years old. “He Sylvania Township police position in Columbus,” says died of a gunshot in his chest. arrested a total of 52 juve- Mack, who returned to his His death was ruled as a sui- niles and adults. Toledo post in June 2006. cide but I still don’t accept The Blade quoted Mack He served as Assistant that verdict. Since then, my as saying that most of those Agent in Chief in Toledo from priority has been to work with arrested were underage juve- 1989-95, and as Agent in kids,” says Mack. niles from Bedford, Notre Charge of Cincinnati Enforce- “I care a lot about our kids. Dame Academy and St. ment and Acting Assistant During the 2006 youth sum- John’s Jesuit high schools. Deputy Director of the mit in Columbus’ First He said the party was appar- agency. His first posting was Church, I presented a work- ently held to celebrate a divi- as an Enforcement Agent in shop on ‘What to do when sional basketball champion- Cleveland in 1982. “We stopped by police’ which ship won by a Catholic Youth couldn’t work in our home assists in the safety of our Organization (CYO) team af- county back then,” he ex- kids and communities. It also filiated with a Catholic church plains. Mack has achieved provides information to as- in Temperance, Michigan. every field supervisor step at sist in making the right choices Not content to rest on his the agency beginning in 1986. when encountering a police laurels, days later Mack fol- He joined the agency from officer. lowed that headline grabber The University of Toledo “I also care about our with his March 9 raid on Police Department, which (law enforcement officers) Yummie’s, a Toledo retail hired him after Mack received relationships in the commu- carryout. That also made his Associate Degree, Ap- nities they serve. Many times news because Ohio attorney plied Law Enforcement Tech- when I am out with agents general Marc Dann was nology from UT in 1981. conducting field enforcement present during the raid, which Mack is only the second operations, I take time to stop resulted in the arrests of six African-American in the 60- and speak with kids about people for food stamp fraud. year history of the Ohio De- respect, alcohol and tobacco As Agent in Chief of the partment of Liquor Control to use. I always carry some type Toledo Enforcement District, be promoted to Agent in of trinket to give to the kids. one of the agency’s five divi- Charge of an enforcement I love the interaction and re- sional offices, Mack oversees district office. sponses, plus such actions operations in 17 counties in “My supervisor, William reflect a positive image for northwest Ohio. He is a vet- Pitts, Jr., was the first Afri- police,” explains Mack. “It is important to tell kids at an early age to stay away from alcohol. It may be work- ing because the stats all show a decline in alcohol use by teens. I work with kids to save them. “I take the alcohol-related traffic fatalities of young people personally. Alcohol has taken kids out there and maimed them, paralyzed them. Mack conducts youth workshop The message I convey to • Special Insurance Issue • Special Insurance Issue • Special Insurance Issue • Special Insurance Issue • Business Ownership, The Last Frontier, Empowering our Community Through Life Insurance Ownership By Vince Davis State Farm Insurance Agent We could empower our African-Americans do not Ranked by Black Population in cent of African-American fe- community for generations live as long as whites. Afri- 1998” (Table CO–98–16), Sep- males are at risk of heart dis- by carrying life insurance. can-Americans do not enjoy tember 15, 1999. ease, compared with 25 per- The younger you buy it, the as good of health as the ma- Our overall health makes cent of whites. cheaper it is. At a $250,000 jority community. insurance a good deal for “In many ways, Ameri- Universal Life Insurance You will more than likely us! cans of all ages and in every policy on an infant will cost not be able to get insurance Health: A condition of race and ethnic groups have about $55.00 per month. after your health starts get- optimal well-being. better health today than a ting bad. Insurance must be (Webster II New College decade ago yet considerable Why take so much out so purchased before bad health Dictionary) disparities remain. We early sets in. Disparity: A chain of should commit our nation • You lock in their age. • Based on 1998 murder events signified by a differ- to eliminate disparities in (they will never be able to rates, approximately one in ence in (1) environment; (2) the next decade, for through buy it cheaper) Insurance every 12 black 15-year-old access to, utilization of, and prevention we can improve rates are based on your age males who live in Washing- quality of care; (3) health the health of all Americans.” and health when you get it. ton, D.C., can expect to be status; or (4) a particular – Former US Surgeon Permanent insurance stays murdered before reaching health outcome that de- General Dr. David Satcher the same price and coverage age 45. serves scrutiny. for as long as you pay on it. • For Brooklyn, the major Diabetes •You lock in their insur- urban community with the Cancer • One in nine African- ability. You can’t wait until lowest 1998 homicide rates • African-American males Americans has diabetes as someone needs it to get it. for young black males, die of prostate cancer at compared to one in 14 whites. Insurance must be pur- roughly one in every 53 black twice the rate for whites. • Although African- chased prior to a illness and 15-year-old males will die • Fewer African-Ameri- Americans comprise only 14 before the claim occurs from homicide before reach- can women get breast can- percent of the population In most cases we barely ing their 45th birthday. cer when compared to they account for about: erage of seven-and-a-half to almost one in eight have enough insurance to • By contrast, based on whites, but more die from it. *19 percent of all people years longer than African- whites bury us. We abscond on our the 1998 murder rates, the • More African-Ameri- with diabetes American males. *Almost one in four Af- family by leaving them with average 15-year-old U.S. cans are diagnosed with, and *34 percent of all people • White females live over rican-American girls are nothing. That is no way to male faces a very low one-in- die from, cervical, colorectal, with kidney disease five-and-a-half years longer overweight compared treat your kids. We are re- 185 probability of being mur- lung, and prostate cancer *46 percent of all people than African-American fe- to one in eight whites sponsible to our children, for dered before reaching age than whites. on kidney dialysis males. • Almost one out of ev- good, bad or dead. 45. Nationally, a similarly • 40 percent of African- ery three African-Ameri- Brothers sometimes tell aged black male faces an Cardiovascular Disease HIV American males do not reach cans adults are considered me,” I do not want to get any average probability of one in • Stroke is the fourth While African-Ameri- the age of 65. obese compared to one out insurance because my wife 45 that he will die from homi- leading cause of African- cans comprise 14 percent of of every four whites. might be with another man cide before reaching age 45. American males deaths the population, they account “The moral test of gov- • A greater percentage of after I die.” That is selfish. If An average white male faces and the third leading for about 60percent of those ernment is how it treats those adult African-Americans you are dead than make sure a one-in-345 probability of cause for African-Ameri- living with HIV. who are at the dawn of life, have inadequate physical your family is O.K. Don’t you being murdered before can females. • Two out of every four the children; those who are activity compared to whites want your women to be reaching age 45. • Heart disease death men and almost three out of in the twilight of life, the (64 percent versus 51 per- happy after you die? Statis- U.S. Centers for Disease Con- rates are over 350 per 100,000 every four women with HIV aged; and those who are in cent in 2003). tics tell us that 75 percent of trol, Compressed Mortality Files population for African- or AIDS are African-Ameri- the shadows of life, the sick • More than one in five African-American women for 1991 and 1997. Americans compared to can. the needy and the handi- adult African-Americans is are without mates. Therefore 2. U.S. Bureau of the Census, about 250 per 100,000 for • One in 99 African- capped.” a smoker. your fear is unfounded in Population Estimates Program, whites. American men and one in – Hubert H. Humphrey fact! Population Division, “Counties • Approximately, 35 per- 276 African-American Ed. Note: Vince Davis is women are living with HIV/ Lifestyle the owner of Vince Davis Yummies Too AIDS. • Among children age State Farm Insurance at • The HIV prevalence rate 12-19 Cherry and Bancroft. Call On March 9, 2007 allegations about Yummies Too, at 801 Nebraska were for African-Americans is *One in five African- (419) 244-2904 or e-mail raised and it was raided by people who say they have the public’s interest nine times higher than that American boys are vince.davis.bun1@ at heart. This is NOT true! Those who know Yummies, the owners and for whites. overweight compared statefarm.com the people that work there know these allegations are NOT true. We ask you to support us at a time when all of our basic rights are being tam- “The test of progress is pered with. The media is continually reporting allegations that are NOT not whether we add more to true and continuing to slander our name and business. We have done the abundance of those who nothing but help the neighborhood to flourish. For some reason, some- have much, it is whether we one or some group of people are trying to try and convict through the provide enough for those media. Yes! A plane crash or a fatal accident is breaking news, but alleged who have little.” – Franklin Delano one sided truths with no proof is not breaking news. Again, this is their Roosevelt way of using one of the most powerful tools they have, the media, against us to assure that the outcome is in their favor. Who will stand for the little Infant Mortality guy? We have to stand up for each other but it is difficult because we have • African-American infant neither the money nor the resources to fight an enemy we can’t even see. deaths occur nearly three Truth will always prevail, but when one man’s truth is another man’s lie, times more often than white all we have is our faith. infant deaths. Bless you, Thank You, Yummies Too Life Expectancy • White males live an av- Page 8 The Sojourner’s Truth March 21, 2007 • Special Insurance Issue • Special Insurance Issue • Special Insurance Issue • Special Insurance Issue • How Much Life Life Insurance on Children? Insurance Do An Option Worth Exploring By Kevin S. McQueen, Northwestern Mutual Financial Network You Need? If you’ve ever been in the way to protect against the risk cant. For example, if a policy market for life insurance, you of an even greater financial was issued by Northwestern By Kevin S. McQueen, Northwestern Mutual Finan- may have noticed everybody loss. Mutual on a healthy baby girl cial Network seems to have advice on the Another reason to insure 18 years ago and the original Here’s a reliable rule-of- amount, your estate may be subject. One common recom- young children is if they are face amount was $100,000, the thumb when it comes to buy- subject to estate taxes. Life mendation from self-pro- sure to have significant wealth annual premium was $519. ing the right amount of life insurance can help replace claimed financial “experts” is: in the future. More and more Today, that policy’s face insurance: there is none. assets that may be lost to Don’t buy life insurance on of these families are planning amount would have grown to more money since premiums While it’s easy for some so- taxation. children. As with most blanket ahead by making certain the $172,778 with a cash value of are lowest at early ages. Insur- called “experts” to say ev- Once you have deter- financial recommendations, next generation has insurance $15,274. At a stage of life when ance on children is an afford- erybody needs life insurance mined your goals, there are this one too has its shortcom- in place to help pay any estate potential college costs may be able way to protect against fi- protection equal to 10 or 20 many other factors that will ings. tax liability. looming, a wedding may be in nancial loss unmatched by any times their income, the truth have an impact on the On the surface, it is easy to 3. Helping to Cope with the works, or a first home pur- other financial vehicle. As with is everyone’s situation is amount of life insurance you see why many kids don’t have the Loss. Many bereaved fami- chase is pending, this potential all permanent insurance, the unique and the amount you need. Here are 10 of them: life insurance. After all, it is lies find comfort in providing financial resource could come proceeds are typically income need can only be determined 1. Age and number of unlikely a child would have a lasting remembrance of their in handy. tax free and any cash value in by looking at your individual family members any dependants or be support- child by making a substantial 5. A Grandparent’s Last- the policy grows tax-deferred circumstances. 2. Blended families ing anyone financially. Few gift to charitable, educational ing Legacy. While parents of and may be used later, possi- Having the wrong 3. Risk tolerance/invest- things in life are more devastat- or other organizations. Pro- young children should con- bly qualifying for favorable amount of life insurance can ment objectives ing to a family than the death of ceeds from a life insurance sider all the points I have cited, tax treatment (see your tax pro- be devastating for your sur- 4. Existing planning, sav- a child, and the mere thought of policy can even help surviving grandparents often see that fessional for details). vivors and “one-size-fits- ings, life insurance, invest- it can be more than many can family members establish an purchasing a policy for a grand- So, despite the opinion of all” recommendations can ments, retirement programs handle. However, having the ongoing memorial or scholar- child can be the most lasting some, life insurance on chil- leave you under protected. or other assets foresight to prepare for the ship fund in honor of the child. gift they can give. For all the dren is a very viable solution In fact, according to a 2004 5. Current and expected worst is key in making it through Family members can even seek reasons above, a grandparent for many families. When those report by the life insurance income such an unimaginable event. counseling or take additional can provide a big lift to the children do survive all those industry’s research associa- 6. Estate tax liability (cur- Assuming the child lives time away from work using financial future of their grand- bumps, bruises and growing tion LIMRA International, rent and expected) into adulthood, several other those proceeds. child that may outlive them. pains on their way to adult- the average person is 7. Current health reasons become evident as to 4. Building a Nest Egg. While life insurance has hood, they’ll have a step-up underinsured by more than 8. Children with special why insuring a minor makes Assuming the child makes it to always been a cost efficient financially because someone $300,000. The study also needs sense. adulthood in perfect health, as way to provide the cash needed gave some forethought to their found that 45 percent of wid- 9. Expected inheritance 1. Ensuring Insurability. many do, the cash value that to pay estate taxes or other financial futures when they ows (35 percent of widow- 10. Budget One of the most important rea- accumulates in a permanent final expenses, buying a policy couldn’t even tie their own ers) say their spouse was While this is not a com- sons to insure a child is to guar- policy can be pretty signifi- on a young child can save even shoes. inadequately insured. And plete list, it gives you an idea antee he or she will be able to one to two years after the of the considerations that have life insurance as an adult, death, half the widows and should be included in proper regardless of their future health one third of the widowers life insurance planning. The or genetic blueprint. This is are just getting by finan- impact of these factors especially important when there Bring This Ad to cially. (LIMRA Interna- should also be measured in is a family history of disease or tional - FastFacts - Special relation to each other. illness or, in the case of adop- Edition August 2004) Because there are so tion, where the family history Your Museum for As you try to decide how many considerations and may not be known. This is not much life insurance you need everyone’s situation is as “unthinkable” as you may to reach your personal and unique, answering the ques- first expect. FREE Sundaes financial goals, there are tion of “how much do I need” Insuring your child while * many questions you need to is not always easy. Many their general health is good is a on Sundays ask yourself. Here are just a people become over- sound idea. Should they de- few: whelmed and put-off buy- velop a serious medical condi- • Is it important to ensure ing any life insurance be- tion it may affect their ability to celebrating that your survivors – whether cause they don’t know how purchase life insurance in the they are parents, siblings, much or what kind they future. spouses, or children – can should have. Meeting with a If the policy on the child take care of their financial trained financial professional includes an additional insur- obligations after you’re who understands your indi- ance rider, it guarantees the gone? vidual needs and goals can child the ability to buy more • Do you want to make help you determine the right insurance as an adult. It also sure those who depend on amount that makes sense for guarantees the premiums of the your income and support you. future policy will be based on have the means to maintain The bottom line is this: the child’s health classification February 23–May 20 their current standard of liv- having or not having the right at the time the original policy Free Admission ing? amount of life insurance was issued, even if his or her • Is it important for you to when you die can have a health has worsened. make certain your children dramatic impact on those 2. Covering Expenses. For will have the money to pay who depend on you. It is a many, the most obvious reason for a quality education even personal decision too impor- to insure a child is to cover the if you are not around? tant to rely on a “one-size- potential financial loss that • How will your spouse fits-all” recommendation. would result at his or her death. cope with your death? Will Don’t make the mistake of While many think only of fu- he or she need to take time having the right amount of neral and burial expenses, off to grieve after your death? life insurance…for someone which can average between Will he or she need assis- else’s circumstances. $5,000 and $10,000 or more tance around your home? depending on the type of ar- Will your spouse need coun- Kevin S. McQueen is a Fi- rangements, other payments seling to recover? nancial Representative with the such as outstanding medical * A token for one ice cream sundae cone per • Will estate taxes be an Northwestern Mutual Financial bills or unexpected expenses Network based in Toledo, Ohio person will be provided at exhibition exit. issue? Add up the value of can be significant. Many people for The Northwestern Mutual Valid while supplies last, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. 419.255.8000 your home, cars, invest- Life Insurance Company, don’t think twice about pur- on Sundays through 5/13/07. toledomuseum.org ments, pension, 401(k), life Milwaukee, Wisconsin.To con- chasing insurance riders on Symphonic Poem: The Art of Aminah Brenda Lynn Robinson insurance proceeds and other tact Kevin please call 419-407- wedding rings or other items is organized by the Columbus Museum of Art and Arts assets. If the total exceeds 8656 or email him at valuing a few thousand dollars. Midwest in partnership with the Ohio Arts Council. the lifetime exclusion [email protected]. Insurance on children is one March 21, 2007 The Sojourner’s Truth Page 9 • Special Insurance Issue • Special Insurance Issue • Special Insurance Issue • Special Insurance Issue • Having the Right Homeowners Insurance!! By Odis McGee Nationwide Insurance Agent

First and foremost, let’s placement Cost Coverage particulars are complete, he outlying area is worth The final decision is talk about Homeowners In- you ask? Replacement cost then lets you know how $90,000. If you had insured yours and rest solely with surance. Statistics show insures your home for the much it would cost for re- your home merely for the you. It is our job to let that 35 percent of Ameri- amount of money it would placement cost coverage. market value, you would you know that you have cans are under-insured. Un- cost to rebuild your house, (The amount it cost to re- receive only $60,000 if it choices. The wisest believable. in the event of a total loss. build your home today in were destroyed. choice for a person to The largest and most im- So let’s put this in per- 2007). However, both homes make is to choose replace- portant investment that a spective. You purchase a Here’s the kicker. You cost the same amount to ment cost coverage. For person or persons could home for $50,000. It is ap- don’t have to insure for the rebuild, location doesn’t more information on make is in purchasing a praised for $52,000. The full amount to replace your matter. And today, it might GREAT HOMEOWNERS veteran of the insurance home. What would you do bank is loaning you home and, quite frankly, cost $90,000 to rebuild, INSURANCE, please call business is an independent if you lost that most pre- $48,000 and you are put- some insurance companies meaning that you will have me Odis McGee III @ 419- agent and owner. McGee cious investment in a cata- ting down $2000. The in- won’t always offer you that to put up the additional 578-2014 and remember has two Nationwide offices: strophic event? That is the surance agent (that’s me!) option, although they $30,000 if you choose to Nationwide Is On Your 570 N. Byrne and 2475 question everyone should takes pictures of your should. Replacement costs remain in the same place. If Side. Collingwood. He can also ask themselves, and ME!!! home … measures your can, especially in the cen- the home at been insured be contacted at Yep, that is where your home … takes into consid- tral city, often outstrip the for the replacement cost, Odis McGee, a 14-year [email protected] insurance agent comes into eration if you have dry- market value of a home. play. Homeowners insur- wall, or plaster, how many For example, let’s say ance is what you must have bedrooms you have, if they that two similar homes, one Renters Insurance: Why before you can close on that have carpet or hardwood in the central city and one particular home you are floors. (The real hardwood in an outlying area, each You Need It purchasing, yet most floors). were purchased for $50,000 By Romie Brown people are unaware of the He checks to see if there in 1990. Property values in State Farm® Agent different types of policies is a basement, if it is fin- the central city have not you can purchase. ished or unfinished, if you risen at the rate they have There are two big Many renters mistakenly Here is your safe-haven. have central air, and so in the outlying area, so to- myths about renters in- believe their landlord’s in- Make sure you request your forth. So now you see what day, perhaps the home in surance. One is that it’s surance will cover their policy has Replacement goes into insuring a home the central city is worth too expensive and the own belongings. In fact, it Cost Coverage! What is Re- properly. After all of the $60,000 and the one in the other is that it’s not would be extremely rare for needed. a landlord’s policy to ex- Not having renters in- tend to tenants’ property. terms of dollars. Rent- surance is a pretty big To determine how much ers insurance also gives gamble considering that insurance coverage you’ll you personal legal liabil- without it, you face the need, take a complete in- ity coverage and medi- cost of replacing your ventory of your personal cal payments to others personal belongings af- items. An insurance agent who are accidentally in- ter an event such as fire can help with this by esti- jured while in your home or theft. What’s more, mating the total value of or apartment or else- you could face the pros- your property. where if the injuries are pect of defending your- You’ll also need to de- caused by your actions. self in a lawsuit because cide whether to opt for de- And, if you are forced to of some accident for preciated or limited re- live elsewhere because which you might be held placement cost coverage. of damage to your resi- legally responsible, Depreciated coverage is dence due to a covered whether it happened the cost to repair or re- loss, renters insurance where you live or else- place your belongings mi- covers additional living where. nus depreciation. Let’s say expenses. In many cases, for less you bought a quality sofa Remember, you may than a couple hundred with an expected useful life not own the building in dollars a year you can of 10 years. If it’s now five which you live, but you protect your valuables, years old and would cost still need to have insur- like your furniture and about $1,000 to replace, ance to protect your clothes, from loss by fire, you could expect to receive property in the case of theft, wind and water about $500 (less deduct- fire, theft or other haz- damage or other covered ible) if your sofa was de- ards. hazards. stroyed by fire. You would Romie Brown, Agent But many renters still pay slightly more for lim- State Farm Insurance don’t believe they need ited replacement cost cov- Romie is owner of the such insurance. A survey erage, but you could ex- Romie Brown State Farm conducted by Cambridge pect to receive $1,000 for Insurance Agency and Reports, Inc. for the In- your sofa minus your de- specializes in Auto, Fire, surance Information In- ductible. Life, and Health Insur- stitute found that fewer You should also keep in ance. Contact him at (419) than three out of every mind that insurance cover- 480-1212 or by e-mail at 10 renters purchase rent- age for some types of per- romie.brown.le1r@ ers insurance. sonal property is limited in statefarm.com Page 10 The Sojourner’s Truth March 21, 2007 • Special Insurance Issue • Special Insurance Issue • Special Insurance Issue • Special Insurance Issue • Protect Your Heirs and How The Rich Get Richer By Jan Scotland Pass Wealth Along for the State Farm Insurance Agent Insurance is how the rich apartment in a nice secure get richer and the poor get building. You get your big Next Generations poorer. It is how people pro- screen TV your stereo equip- tect and transfer wealth. It is ment and leather furniture By Floyd Carter the difference in having a financed; your cloths are All State Insurance Agent predictable financial future purchased over time at high I cannot stress enough rectly to your heirs, it will go and shooting dice. It is a ve- quality establishments, not how important it is to have a into temporary receivership hicle that our community to mention the shoes. You strategy in place to protect and then passed to the probate does not utilize to its maxi- have the best that money can your heirs. court. The court is going to mum benefit. buy. Over a lifetime, property review debts against the estate Let me give you three ex- You don’t buy insurance is accumulated by individual and the various other claims amples of what I am refer- cause it’s too expensive and 20 years then he can provide earning power. You are, in that many other entities may ring to. why have something you will in insurance. You’re going effect, creating assets and make. That stays open in some never use. After all this is a to self-insure by putting that property. For most of us, in- states for as long as two years accordance with the Example one: secure building no one will money into investments. come increases and, as in- … if precautions have not been owner’s wishes. How many people do we be able to break in and that An accident at the job come increases, we buy big- taken. All of this could be no know who have nice cars. insurance money is a waste. takes your life two weeks ger homes, we invest in Unfortunately, the fre- more complicated than a They put a lot of time and One day you deep fry some later. You have no more stocks and bonds and other quency of that happening in simple will and life insur- money into these cars. They fish and fall asleep on the worries but your family is in instruments that reflect our the black community is higher ance settlement options. On need their car to get to work, couch. The grease fire burns pain. Your wife is in stress increased earnings. than that for most others. the other hand, depending drop kids at school, pick up your entire apartment and not just because of losing The benefit of these as- And, as I’m sure you real- upon the assets involved or medicine etc. They may have damages the units on either you but also because she sets, other than giving us a ize, dying without a plan means how they are to be handled five to ten thousand dollars side. You escape with minor can’t see how she will main- certain amount of pride, is that so many times the remain- and disbursed, it may be ex- invested in that car but no smoke inhalation but lose tain the lifestyle you created the fact that we can help to ing family members become tremely complicated and in- insurance. They have never everything you had. The for them. They lose the house provide for the well being of involved and a great deal of ill volve the integration of had an accident so they fig- landlord goes after you for the cars and have to live with our loved ones. So leaving a will is created as a result. trusts, will provisions, ure that if someone hits them the damage to his building. relatives as they struggle to tangible legacy for survivors In an effort to prevent all of stocks, gifts and other mat- their car will be repaired with The insurance companies for survive. is a concept we need to wrap that, it is necessary to have a ters. That may need a team the other person’s insurance. the units on either side attach These are situations that our minds around. systematic way of passing effort of attorneys and trust Now comes a rainy day your wages. You will have play out, in one form or an- Often, accumulating along property. When a per- officers. Agents such as my- with an early frost causing to find a place to live and buy other, every day in our com- property is not as difficult as son dies there are several ways self work with a team of black ice. They hit their brakes new furniture and clothes. munity. The result is what- disposing of that property if to accomplish this, but the key such experts. with plenty of distance be- ever wealth we have gener- that disposal is not planned is to plan in advance, gener- The key thing is – waste tween the car in front of them. Example three: ated is lost or diminished and for ahead of time. Think, for ally with a will or a trust. no more time. Whether you The car keeps going and slams You are a good father and we start all over trying to put example, of the well-publi- Joint ownership is another have a lot of assets or just a into that car. People in both husband that have provided are lives together. Sometimes cized case of Elvis Presley – common way … joint tenancy, few, the orderly disburse- cars are injured, both cars are a nice place for your family we never recover and often who was worth millions. appointing an executor, or, as ment of your property will totaled and everyone goes to to live. You have started a times it limits our future There was no strategy for I said earlier, establishing a save your loved ones a great the hospital. No insurance savings account for yours plans. the disposal of his property trust. Trusts are flexible and deal of trouble and may very means your license is auto- kids education and you’re Insurance is the guard- when he died of a premature with them you can manage well ease their burdens as matically suspended. You your retirement. You have ian of our wealth present and untimely death. In order property, coordinate financial they move on in their lives, have no transportation and no nice new cars to provide safe and future. It allows us to for his estate to remain sol- vehicles such as insurance thus creating a rippling ef- money to pay for a replace- transportation for your fam- push forward with our vent, his home, Gracie Man- policies and so forth. fect of increasing and main- ment car. You owe for the ily. You make enough money dreams while protecting sion, has to play hosts to So how do you take that taining wealth for genera- other person’s car and medi- so your wife does not need to what we have gained. It al- thousands of tourists each step to make sure your loved tions to come. cal bills and you probably owe work. The insurance agent lows us to pass on our ac- year. ones are protected? Floyd Carter is an inde- at least a co-pay on your own wants you to put money into complishments to our loved So we have to give some You contact an insurance pendent agent and owner of medical bills. It will take you a life insurance plan leaving ones and friends. It provides thought as to how our estate agent/personal financial rep- the Floyd Carter All State years in getting back to where hundreds of thousands of a new base for future gen- is going to be passed along resentative. What you want Insurance Agency at 3113 you were before the accident. dollars to your wife and kids. erations to build on. If used to our heirs. If you die with- to do is structure an estate Dustin Rd., Oregon. He may You tell him no thanks you responsibly, it is how you out a will – intestate – most plan, which is the arrange- be contacted at 419-691- Example two: are going to have more create a brighter future in of the time your property is ment for the orderly distribu- 1200 or by emailing You have a beautiful money in savings in the next your community. not going to be passed di- tion of assets upon death – in [email protected]. Friendship New Vision Has the Vision to Effect Change (Continued from Page 5) organization – modeled af- to view not only another Tisdale, and he is assisted ter community develop- rehab but also a vacant lot in his task by a number of ment corporations (CDC) on which ground will be associates including realtor – is developing. broken within months for a Tina Mesley of Danberry The tour stopped first at newly-constructed house. and Paul Tecpanecatl of a rehabilitated house on Friendship New Vision Poggemeyer Design Searles Street in Toledo is the brainchild of Bishop Group. City Councilwoman Wilma Brown’s district. “There are so many that Auto need to be rehabbed,” said Leasing DIXIE Toledo, OH the councilwoman after a walk through of the house that has been made over by 5880 N. Detroit Food for Thought: Harris Construction, a mi- Month to Month Leasing WHEREVER YOU SPEND YOUR MONEY IS WHERE YOU nority-owned residential CREATE A JOB. IF YOU ARE BLACK AND THE BUSINESSES ARE construction and rehab 419-476-8674 RUN BY PEOPLE WHO AREN’T, THEN THOSE PEOPLE COME AND firm. “The more that are TAKE WEALTH TO THE COMMUNITIES IN WHICH THEY LIVE. completed, the better this WE ARE A FULL -Tony Brown community will be and we SERVICE 2550 Nebraska Avenue - Toledo, Ohio 43607 are on our way.” BUSINESS Phone: 419.534.2550 - Fax: 419.534.2570 Then on to Councilman www.houseofday.com Michael Ashford’s district March 21, 2007 The Sojourner’s Truth Page 11 “Chicago” Brings Broadway Earl D. Mack, Jr. (Continued from Page 6) sands are injured each year. a short time pursued a musi- through high school as one Talent to Toledo “Until we address chang- cal career as a drummer with of the tire repair persons for By Geneva J. Chapman, ing attitudes towards using a popular gospel group. his company. Mr. Russell Sojourner’s Truth Drama Critic alcohol as a whole, the ad- “My grandfather, Howard taught me how to drive a car Imagine a live jazz band everything else, with such ease Angelina Jolie or the fight vertisement of alcohol and Johnson, owned a 17-acre and bought me my first car, a providing a musical back- and naturalness, it didn’t seem over Anna Nicole Smith’s making furnishing and/or farm on Frankfort Road. in 1959 Pontiac, when I was drop for a melodrama about forced. But DeJean is not a remains, this tale of murder selling alcohol to minors a Spencer Township. Farming 16. He also taught me com- murder, adultery and all the triple threat, she’s a quadruple and mayhem and the ensu- felony, the problem will only was hard work in those days. passion for those less fortu- stuff we love to read about in threat. Not only can she sing, ing media blitz makes increase,” says Mack. A lot was done by hand. I nate than I and how we truly the tabloids. dance and act, she also does today’s headlines look tame He sees parental involve- know, because I helped work are our brother’s keeper. Anyone lucky enough to pratfalls like a modern day by comparison. ment as crucial. “Parents help his farm. Working his farm “The other individual is see “Chicago” during its re- Lucille Ball. Her red hair in- Even before Whitney and save kids. I stayed in my provided a great work William Harris. Bill, if you cent run here saw a Broad- spired this comparison, in part, Bobby fizzled out, “Chi- daughter’s business. I have a ethic. When I was not in remember, was a news re- way show stripped down to but DeJean has Ball’s comic cago” showed how abruptly the bare bones. There was timing, as well. celebrity can dissolve as big nose and it was always school, I stayed for many porter for TV-13. Bill mar- none of the spectacle of “The Also notable among the newer, more sensational there in knowing where and days with my grandfather and ried my sister, Mary Harris, Phantom of the Opera.” No stars was the surprise per- events make the headlines. with whom she was going. helped on the farm as well as who unfortunately died in amazing special effects or former in the role of “Billy But enough about the soci- My advice to parents is to working on his vegetable 1996. Bill also played a sig- elaborate sets. Flynn,” the shady lawyer. Tom ology of fame and such non- stick your nose in their busi- truck throughout the city of nificant role in my upbring- “Chicago’s” simple set Wopat took a turn as “Special sense! “Chicago” is musical ness,” says Mack. Toledo. He always told me, ing. One thing I will always was just risers where the band Guest Star” in the “Flynn” role, comedy at its most tawdry, His daughter, Armea ‘if you don’t work you don’t remember is after a bird drop- sat with an exit in the middle. much to the delight of Toledo tantalizing and titillating. Lynn, is now a student at a eat.’ ping fell on my head; Bill Everything else was done audiences. His rich baritone Perhaps the funniest bit Tuskegee Alabama veteri- “My uncle, William asked me, ‘Aren’t you glad with costumes and props. (I and his effortless character- of business in the whole nary medicine school at the Johnson, was the warden of that cows don’t fly?’ He is hope all the local dramatists ization of “Flynn” was one of show is the courtroom age of 36. “She originally the Lima Correctional Cen- also one of my mentors,” says who spend so much time the four stand-out roles in the drama, played completely went to Kent State, and she ter. I remember him always Mack. changing sets between scenes show. for laughs. A scene-stealer wanted to follow her dream,” coming to Toledo to visit us Educated in the Toledo saw “Chicago” and learned a The third was Carol Woods from the chorus played ev- says her proud father. thing or two about real the- (“Matron Mama Morton”). ery member of the jury, and providing food, clothes public school system, Mack atre.) When she walked onstage and moving from character to His wife, Annette R. and money to my mother to attended Libbey High School This show didn’t need belted out “When You’re character as he moved from Mack, is a medical transcrip- help take care of the family and graduated from Scott. He anything but the talents of its Good to Mama” as only an seat to seat in the jury box in tionist. after my father became sick served in the US Army dur- amazing stars, the music by African-American who got her a parade of comic turns that Mack was born in and was taken out of our ing 1970-71. Kander and Ebb and Bob start singing in church can do, were so hysterical, I don’t Toledo’s old Maumee Val- home. I had two sisters and Mack’s job requires long Fosse’s choreography. Well, the crowd went wild. Her duet even remember what else ley Hospital, the son of Earl six brothers. My uncle dem- hours, often working on the latter was only used for with “Velma” was the best was happening on stage at D. Mack, Sr. and Willa Mae onstrated kindness and care weekends, appearing and tes- one number, but all of the singing duo in the show, as the time. Mack. His father is deceased, for others, which was in- tifying in courtrooms, and dancing hinted at the great well. While much of the dia- but his mother still lives in stilled in me. He was my sometimes even spending a choreographer’s style. The fourth stand-out per- log is full of double Toledo. inspiration to pursue a career lot of time in bars, although The cast was fantastic. formance was Kevin Carolan entendres and sexual innu- “As a child, I watched my in law enforcement,” says usually in disguise. “You’d First and foremost there was (“Amos Hart”) singing one of endo, it’s not overdone father struggle with all the Mack. be amazed what you can do Michelle DeJean (“Roxie the all-time favorite show because, like the modern adversities he faced in the “There are two people I with a little cotton in your Hart”). She is what’s called tunes, “Mr. Cellophane.” versions of “Roxie” and in the biz a triple threat, mean- The script is by Ebb and “Hart” (think Britney music industry. He was a must mention that were a sig- mouth,” says Mack, whose ing she can act, sing and Fosse and the music and lyrics Spears and Paris Hilton), union musician with the To- nificant part of my life. One disguises have also included dance. Can she! Her voice of the show pay homage to these two are all about get- ledo Federation of Musi- was James Russell who wearing dreadlocks, curly was the strongest in the show Old Chicago with a plot that ting their 15 minutes and cians. My father played an owned Russell’s Tire Ser- hair and glasses. and although her co-star doesn’t take itself or its sub- little more; everything else alto saxophone for large vice that was located off Can- Mack is president of the Terra C. MacLeod (“Velma ject matter (celebrity crimi- is just a means to that end. bands such as the Duke ton in Toledo. Mr. Russell African American Law En- Kelly”) had the dancing role, nals) too seriously. That’s what makes “Chi- Ellington and the Tommy gave me my first job at the forcement Agents’ Associa- DeJean held her own, ex- Predating current “crimes cago” such a great show. Dorsey orchestras. As I age of nine sweeping the tion, Inc. ecuting some pretty tricky of the century” and the sensa- It’s all about how fleeting watched him struggle with floors and cleaning the of- He has developed their choreography. tionalizing of the Simpson trial fame is, how fickle the me- the effects of racism, he dedi- fice of his shop. It was sig- highly-regarded scholarship Her acting was great, too, or Brad Pitt breaking up with dia is and what great fun it is cated himself to be the best nificant because it also program. because she did it like she did Jennifer Aniston to get with to watch it all happen. he could be. My father al- helped to instill a strong work “Two African-American ways told me to be the best at ethic at an early age. Mr. agents have died on the job. what I wanted to do and never Russell was a significant James D. Burns was killed depend on someone to give mentor in my life and he took by another officer and Leroy you anything you do not earn. up the slack of not having Ewing died of a heart at- That stayed with me, even my father at that early age. I tack,” says Mack today,” says Mack, who for worked for Mr. Russell up He is preparing for the AALEAA annual dinner to be held on May 12. Mack is currently an In- structor at the Owens Col- lege Law Enforcement Carole Russell MSNH,CCH Excellence in On-line Education Training Center. In coopera- Natural Health Consultant tion with the FBI, he recently presented a workshop • Grades 7-12 DETOXIFYING FOOTBATH “Homeland Security, Safe • Smaller, less competitive neighborhood settings and Secure” which was spon- sored by the Cleveland Ur- • Flexible scheduling – students may work at home ban League. • Students work at their own pace On March 22, Mack will be at Mon Ami on Catawba • NovaNET cyber curriculum available 24/7 May assist in the following areas: Island for the Catawba • Students guided and supported by certified teachers - Improve sleep patterns - Remove blood clot material Women’s Lunch Bunch As- - Improve liver & kidney function sociation. “I will be present- ing information on personal 2238 Jefferson Ave. • Toledo, Ohio 43604 - Assist in recovery time from injuries & surgery - May relieve pain & joint stiffness due to arthritis safety to seniors, demonstrat- 419-720-4500 • www.toledoeducationcenter.org ing how to create an emer- 5800 Monroe St. Bldg C, STE 201 gency disaster kit and devel- Sylvania, OH 43560 419-882-1089 oping a family disaster plan,” cell: 419-810-3336 promises Mack. Page 12 The Sojourner’s Truth March 21, 2007 Compete Against the Best! YSU Appoints New Director Here is an opportunity the ACT-SO national com- Of Equal Opportunity to compete in the 2007 petition. ACT-SO stands for local ACT-SO competi- Academic, Cultural, Techni- Special to The Truth tion sponsored by the To- cal and Scientific Olympics. Yulanda L. McCarty-Har- ledo Branch NAACP. Gold, silver and bronze med- ris of Toledo has been ap- The competition takes als will be given for the par- pointed the new director of place on Sunday, April 29 ticipants projects, judged by the Office of Equal Opportu- at The University of To- some of the leading figures nity and Diversity at Young- ledo Student Union. As in their fields. stown State University. always, we are looking for You will be eligible for McCarty-Harris, who has talented African-Ameri- scholarship money, commu- a law degree and is currently can students throughout nity recognition and other the procurement administra- the Toledo area to show- prizes for your hard work. tor for Lucas County Jobs case their special skills ACT-SO is looking for the and Family Services in To- Yulanda McCarty-Harris and friends beyond athletics and “Win best … that’s what led them ledo, succeeds Jimmy Myers, Loganne Bond in 2006 the Gold” in something to you. Are you ready to ac- who resigned to take a similar licensed to practice law in law affects every aspect of that will last a lifetime. cept the invitation and the attend the orientation ses- position at Indiana Univer- Ohio and Texas, was a senior our lives, and I have used my First place winners get challenge? sion at the Kent Branch sity of Pennsylvania in July. prosecuting attorney and a legal career to my advantage an expense-paid trip to De- If you would like to learn Library on Tuesday, March Since then, Steve senior labor and employment in various roles in my ca- troit in July to compete in more, call 419-243-7349 or 27 at 6:30 p.m. Lucivjansky, manager of la- attorney for the city of To- reer,” said McCarty-Harris, bor relations, has served as ledo and an associate at the whose undergraduate degree interim director and will con- firm Rohrbachers, Light, from the University of Texas tinue to do so until McCarty- Cron, Zmuda and Trimble, is in journalism. “At YSU, Calling All Youth Harris starts the new position also in Toledo. my legal experience will help on April 2. “I am looking forward to me make sure people under- United Way of Greater Toledo is pleased to announce Youth Joseph Mosca, chairman working with the university stand the laws, rules and United Way. Youth United Way is a new program designed of the YSU Department of and community,” she said. regulations of equal oppor- specifically for youth ages 14 to 24 and provides hands on experience in service Social Work, served as chair- “We all share a common goal tunity.” projects in the Toledo community. man of the 10-member search and that is to educate our lead- She and her husband plan This program will teach youth the importance of service and philanthropy, by committee for the position. ers of tomorrow.” to relocate to Boardman. allowing youth to create and develop service projects to implement the change they He said nearly 40 people ap- McCarty-Harris graduated She has been very active want to see. Youth United Way aims to challenge traditional perceptions of young plied for the job. Mosca also from Southern Methodist in the Toledo community and people; to transform assumptions of passivity and incompetence to initiative and said the committee began University School of Law in with the legal bar associa- capability. looking at candidates in Oc- Dallas in 1998. She moved to tion. McCarty-Harris has The first step and an integral part of jumpstarting this program is to select and train tober, conducted five phone Toledo two years later with served as the chair of the a group of team leaders. Team leaders are college students who will serve as guides, interviews and brought three her husband. Toledo Zoo’s Diversity facilitators and mentors to high school ambassadors. people to campus in January After a stint with a private Committee, secretary Team leaders should exhibit strong leadership skills and possess a commitment to for interviews. law firm, she worked as a of Toledo Bar Association campus and community involvement and service. Candidates must also commit to “Ms. McCarty-Harris’ un- prosecutor and a labor and Diversity Committee, between three and five activities in Toledo over the summer and to serving as a United derstanding of the law was a employment attorney for the the Toledo Bar Association Way Youth Team Leader for a one year period. strong aspect of her creden- city of Toledo. She contin- Grievance and Media Law Applications for team leaders are now available at www.unitedwaytoledo.org/ tials,” he said, noting the ued to serve the public by Committee and a board mem- youth or by calling Greg Braylock at 419-254-4645. Based on the application and an search committee provided working in various capaci- ber of Toledo Legal Aid. interview, United Way will select approximately 30 college students to be trained as President Sweet with an ties for the city, as manager “I look forward to work- team leaders. The deadline for submitting applications is Friday, March 30, 2007. evaluation of each candidate, of administrative services, di- ing in the community Applications for high school ambassadors are not yet available. and Sweet made the final de- rector of affirmative action, and ensuring that the voice cision to ask McCarty-Harris and finally, procurement ad- of YSU is heard and that to lead the YSU office. ministrator. all citizens feel equally val- Scott High School Alumni McCarty-Harris, who is “It’s amazing how the ued and accepted,” she said. Association Presents a Scholarship Reunion Dance The Scott High School Market, Downtown Toledo. scholarship for a Scott Alumni Association is The dance will be held from High School graduate. having a Scholarship Re- 7:00 p.m. to 12:00 midnight. This is also a chance for union Dance on Saturday, Tickets are $10 in advance all Scott alumni to reunite April 14, 2007 in the and $15 at the door. with each other on this Civic Center Promenade This event was planned special occasion. Hall at the Erie Street to raise funds for a student (Continued on Page 14)

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Phone 419.221.0540 * 956 S. Main, Lima, OH March 21, 2007 The Sojourner’s Truth Page 13 In the Matter of Reel Review Affirmative I Think I Love My Wife Chris Rock, Kerry Washington, Gina Torres Action and By Michael Hayes Minister of Culture Justice Funny how The Cosby bodied much of his anti-gov- (Continued from Page 4) Show gave so many of us an ernment stance from his comply with the Mayor’s Ex- was not given. And even when impression of what married stand-up routine. ecutive Order concerning dis- bids were received from these life would be like and we I thought Down To Earth advantaged businesses. The groups, they were passed over bought into it. Hell, I have to was pretty funny, but not one Office also ensures the pro- for other, larger or more rec- admit that I still find myself of his best even though it had mulgation and dissemination ognized businesses. It has clinging to hopes of a all the makings of a typical of the City’s Affirmative Ac- only been through the work fairytale that all my friends hit comedy film. tion Plan. Annual hiring and of the Affirmative Action/ who are married insist does And his first shot at writ- promotional goals are estab- Contract Compliance office not exist. ing was CB4, a cult classic lished for City departments that justice for those minority Truth is, plenty of mar- that is still one of his funniest and divisions in an effort to and women-owned busi- maintain equal employment nesses has been assured. ried folks seem to have a films to date. vey his major point about world. hiring, placement and promo- It is imperative that these disenchanted view of mar- However, as producer/ how married life can suck She shows up at his office tions so that protected class two offices stay intact, and riage. And since I’ve been in screenwriter/writer or direc- the life out of a person. unannounced. She wears individuals are appropriately that they remain separated my late 20’s I’ve noticed how tor of all the above films, Chris plays Richard Coo- provocative clothing with all represented throughout the from Human Resources or much dirt married people do he’s suffered the agony of per, a Wall Street banker types of skin and curves municipal work force.” any other city office or de- and it’s enough to sicken having his pet projects per- married to a beautiful showing. She smokes, curses Our city charter does not partment. Remaining autono- most of us who still have an form badly at the box office. woman… Brenda Cooper like a sailor and always has a allow for changes in the Af- mous from “business as untainted view on matri- But Hollywood is espe- (Gina Torres). handy tale of how her still- firmative Action Office’s usual” in the city government, work or its composition with- any city government, is the mony. cially kind to anyone who’s They have two kids, a nice single life is so satisfying. out the approval of the City only way that fair decisions But somewhere between hosted The Oscars to rave house and a nice quaint little She also knows Richard well Council. Even though we even have a chance of being bliss and Jerry Springer is reviews which means that life that has started to stifle enough that she can see the have a “strong mayor” sys- the norm, and not the excep- where most married couples Chris Rock gets yet another Richard more than he’s even underlying problems in his tem of government here in tion. tend to reside. one of his films off the ground aware of. He and his wife marriage. Toledo, the office of the It’s time we stopped talk- Chris Rock has been the and another chance to iterate don’t have sex and all she So there’s the issue. mayor and the mayor himself ing about personalities and spokesperson for this phe- the poignant humor of his seems to want to talk about is Marriage isn’t exactly may not change anything began talking about the issue. nomenon for the last few comedic style. decorations for the home. exciting anymore. about the work of the office. That issue is justice for all years via his stand-up com- I Think I Love My Wife is Now, I’ve never been mar- Re-entry of sexy old S/He only has the power to workers, but particularly for appoint/hire the director. those who are underserved, edy specials. Any Chris Rock based on that part of his stand ried, but I sincerely hope that friend is exciting. However, our present mayor, overlooked, unprotected and fan has got to know about up routine that deals with Chris Rock didn’t hit that Richard knows that fam- Carty Finkbeiner is propos- often discriminated against. “the big piece of chicken” how some people handle the particular nail on the head. I ily comes first, but he’s strug- ing a change that would be The Interdenominational and his other jokes about the complexities of marriage. wouldn’t know what to do gling to maintain that prior- not only detrimental but un- Ministerial Alliance stands ins and outs of family life. Okay, let’s be honest – it’s with myself if the person I ity. conscionable. Under his plan, with the city charter and with Even though his popular- not that complex. shared a bed with seemed Meanwhile, he’s being the two offices, Affirmative the community in calling for ity may have waned over re- Married people are bor- like the only interest they influenced by a co-worker Action and Contract Compli- the offices to remain together, cent years with people like ing. If you’ve seen Chris had in life is constantly reno- who routinely cheats on his ance would be divided and for our mayor to follow the placed in two separate de- city charter and ordinances, Katt Williams becoming the Rock’s HBO Comedy Spe- vating some part of the house. wife and thinks nothing of it. partments. These offices must and to do what’s right. go-to comedian for Black cial Bigger and Blacker, How much HGTV can a per- The situations that arise stay together if the citizens of Let’s remain a city that America, Chris Rock is one you’ve heard his remarks son really watch? But in the out of this interesting mix of this community are to be as- values everyone. Let’s show of the most successful black about how the transition from case of the Cooper family, conflicts are amusing, but I sured that fairness will be the our own citizens and those actor/comedians ever. But single life to married life af- the hubby is bored out of his don’t exactly feel like the order of the day within City who may be looking to do unlike most Saturday Night fects males. mind. rest of the crowd was able to government and in the grant- business here in the future Live alums, his transition to One minute you’re a free All of a sudden, every- adapt to the humor. ing and handling of contracts that we believe in the dig- the big screen has been a bit man doing freaky things with thing goes haywire when an For one, it seems like a with outside contractors. nity and worth of all indi- more problematic whenever freaky girls, staying out all old friend comes back into nice, neat comedy. However, There have been many cases viduals and the necessity for over the years of contracts all to have a fair opportunity he steps behind the camera night, eating what you want Richard’s life. it is a Chris Rock film so being let for services in our to succeed. to produce, write or direct. to eat and doing as you please Nikki Tru (Kerry Wash- there’s going to be gratuitous city where adequate notice or I loved Head of State with and then you get married and ington) reminds me of many use of profanity. advertising for minority or Cedric Brock, President, Bernie Mac, I thought it was you’re forced to be civilized of the women I know around Some of the jokes just feel women-owned businesses to Interdenominational Ministe- hilarious and even more – LOL. Toledo. flat. have the opportunity to bid rial Alliance meaningful because it em- Now that’s paraphrasing From close friends I’ve But I think this film was Chris Rock’s stance, that’s had to casual acquaintances, among the best this year so not about me. this character represents an far. “Let Us Help You Out” When I want to see this on archetype of the modern You’ve got Tyler Perry a Saturday night, it was plain woman I’ve become all too and Eddie Murphy already to see that more than a few familiar with over the years. locking down the box office Blue Collar husbands and boyfriends Nikki is sexy, but she’s so Black Hollywood is get- were getting in all kinds of well aware of it and all too ting some serious shine right Bonding trouble for agreeing to comfortable with using it to now. strongly with some of what her advantage. Chris Rock has delivered 419-327-BOND unfolded onscreen. Nikki is non-committal, a smart and edgy comedy 419-215-8741 From the previews, I basically what most folks call that begs to be seen and dis- Call Toll Free 24 Hrs. thought I Think I Love My “just out for a good time.” cussed. Eric Hill - Owner Wife was going to be more of Nikki makes bad choices The jokes could’ve been 866-450-2663 a loose comedy with him in men that she routinely better though … this is Chris getting into various situations needs to be rescued from in Rock, after all. “Your word is our bond.” where his libido and wan- some shape, form or fashion. The true grade for I Think Employees Educated & Licensed by dering eye gets him trouble This part of the film was I Love My Wife is B- at home. especially real for me be- P.S. – you’ve NEVER Department of Insurance FREEDOM NOW However, there’s a solid cause I’ve had friends like seen Kerry Washington like Fast Professional Service plot that doesn’t really evolve that and for Richard Cooper, this. into a story line but serves as this old chum of his brings That’s a limitless female 1709 Spielbusch Ave. (Across from the Jail) a series of situations that con- some excitement to his right there! Page 14 The Sojourner’s Truth March 21, 2007 Just Don’t Count Our Vote … Scott High Be Counted School Alumni (Continued from Page 3) council or in the mayor’s tireless advocate for the Resources (HR) and have port than standing by Association seat has given consistent workers of Toledo. She is the status of reporting di- while one of our bright- voice to affirmative ac- professional and effective rectly to the mayor. The est long-time champions tion and discrimination is- and has always been re- mayor must support the ef- in the city is compelled Presents a sues in city government. spected by those whom she forts of the office and make to resign over an issue Despite numerous dis- has had to challenge. Her it clear to his administra- on which she is clearly crimination suits against job quite often puts her at tion that they had better re- right. Republicans must Scholarship the city, no one has cham- odds with her fellow ad- act responsibly to com- also stand up for what is pioned the cause to fol- ministrators, but Perlean plaints. He needs to fix the right. low up and deal with the has always focused on the legitimate problems pointed You don’t need hear- Reunion Dance administrators involved. job at hand and not on out by the office. ings or surveys to deter- (Continued from Page 12) They seem to be more whether people say good Making the AA/CC of- mine what needs to be concerned about what morning to her in the eleva- fice part of HR is a ridicu- done. You need to make Scott High School nizing in Spring of their other constituents tor. Carty picked the right lous idea that should not sure that the AA/CC of- was named after Jesup 2005, the Jesup W. Scott think. After all the black person as director of the receive serious consider- fice stays independent. W. Scott, editor of the High School Alumni vote isn’t going any- office of Affirmative Ac- ation. To the extent that You need to make sure Toledo Blade from Association is a non where so no need to do tion/ Contract Compliance there isn’t a louder cry from that a strong leader like 1844-1847, who was a profit organization, anything rash. (AA/CC). He should have all of the Democrats on Perlean stays at the helm. humanitarian, entrepre- whose goal is to estab- This brings me to my left well enough alone. council may be another in- You need to draw the line neur and renowned lish a connection with good friend Perlean Grif- In order for the office of dication of the lack of re- in the sand. If not the community leader who alumni and friends of fin. I have known Perlean AA/CC to be effective, it spect for the black vote. black community needs envisioned Toledo as Scott and the Scott com- for over 20 years. She is must stay independent of There can be no more bla- to ask Democrats “why the “Future Great City munity, through pro- a hard working, fair and the Department of Human tant disregard for our sup- should we vote for you?” of the World.” Reorga- grams and scholarships. TheBlackMarketPlace

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THE C. BROWN FUNERAL HOME, INC. THE MEDICINE SHOPPE PHARMACY 1629 NEBRASKA AVENUE 43607 2105 W. Alexis Road (between Jackman & Douglas) 419.474.0605 419.255.7682 Eloise A Norwood, R.PH “WHEN TRUTH IN PRICING AND QUALITY MATTERS” Black Owned and Operated IN OR OUT OF TOWN Serving Toledo & Surrounding Communities Since 1989 Free Delivery! March 21, 2007 The Sojourner’s Truth Page 15

ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE Telemarketing position with one of the Computers REGISTERED fastest-growing agencies in the area. Vince Davis NURSE WT05 Toledo’s CW is looking for an aggressive Agency has telemarketing positions from $8.00 to SERVER and energetic Account Executive. This individual $20.00 dollars per hour. Your income will depend on must be a energetic, motivated self-starter able to your productivity. TECHNICIAN STUDENT multi task and deliver under pressure. Radio or HEALTH television sales experience a plus. Qualified ap- Sales position available. Income ranges vary Information SERVICE - plicants must have a HS diploma or equivalent. Five and will depend on productivity. Income ranges in Technology STUDENT years of outside sales experience required, or Bach- the $25,000 to $40,000 the first year. Services AFFAIRS elor degree in a related field. Other requirements include: an acceptable driving record. 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Qualified vendor software in both cal and emotional status responses including job code AE05- received by for FREE. a production and test- of patients in a holistic manner, manages clinic April 4, 2007. EOE DFWP M/F ing environment. Pro- Call 419-810-5879 vides server systems flow, performs triage, and directly supports the ef- support, documentation forts of physicians, nurse Executive Director is sought for Toledo and training to the ITS practitioners and other Attorney Area Ministries, a ministry of 125 congregations staff and performs level members of the two support for the cam- healthcare team, while whose mission is to be the Church in the World, emphasizing patient Assisting Congregations and Church Leadership in Lucas County Children Services is seeking can- pus community with didates for a Staff Attorney position. Will prepare server related prob- education, prevention Meeting Human Need, Creating Community and and self-care. The Reg- Working for Justice. For information and applica- and present agency court cases and provide legal lems. istered Nurse provides tion go to www.tamohio.org. research, advice and consultation. Ohio law license instruction and counsel- and notary required. Experience in juvenile law- Minimum qualifica- ing to the campus popu- related cases desirable. Must be able to work effec- tions: Bachelor’s degree lation on important health Social Work tively in cross-cultural situations. Additional require- in Management Infor- issues and wellness ini- ments can be viewed at www.lucaskids.net. Send mation Systems, Com- tiatives and is an active CASE MANAGER and visible member of resume by 4/13/07 to LCCS, 705 Adams St., To- puter Science or other the university commu- ledo, OH 43604 (Fax: 419-327-3291) EOE valuing closely related field pre- Unison is seeking Case Managers to provide nity. diversity. ferred. Associates de- community support services to adults with serious gree required. Two Minimum qualifica- mental illness. Responsibilities will include provid- years experience as a tions: Bachelor’s of Sci- ing assistance with the social, vocational, eco- systems level program- ence in Nursing plus one nomic, and environmental needs of assigned cli- Certified high school teachers sought to teach year of experience prac- mer or system techni- ents and assisting in their ability to live in the English, Math Science, Social Science (MUST ticing as a Registered cian in Microsoft envi- community. Valid driver’s license required. Ohio BE certified) and/or Foreign Language subjects Nurse or Bachelor’s de- ronment. Official gree plus RN plus one counselor or social worker license and experience for the Upward Bound Summer Residential Pro- transcript(s) will be re- year of experience or As- preferred. gram, June 18- July 21, 2007. Approximately 15 quired of final candi- sociates degree plus RN Consideration will be given to candidates with hours per week, $20/hour (hours vary per subject). dates. plus 5 years experience. four-year degrees in fields related to social work. License to practice as a Excellent salary and benefits package. Submit letter of interest, resume and certifica- registered nurse in the Full-time administra- Send or fax resume with cover letter to: tion to UT Upward Bound Program, 2801 W. Bancroft State of Ohio and CPR tive staff position. Ad- certification required. St., Mail Stop #407, Toledo, OH 43606 or via email ministrative Grade RE: UB Summer Position to [email protected] Level 13. Minimum Sal- Preferred qualifica- by May 25, 2007. ary $34,491. Salary tions include: Certifica- tion as a college health commensurate with For more information call (419) 530-3811. nurse; 2-3 years experi- education and experi- Human Resources - CSP ence in outpatient, emer- ence. Full benefit pack- gency, urgent care or 1425 Starr Avenue age available. To ap- primary care setting. One Toledo, OH 43605 ply: submit cover letter year experience in the Fax 419.936.7574 Who Are Toledo’s with e-mail address, re- following areas: in stu- Email: [email protected] dent/university health sume, and names/ ad- care setting; experience dresses /telephone EOE Best Dressed with networked clinical numbers of 3 profes- information systems sional references post- and/or electronic medi- Women? marked by Friday, cal records. Ambulatory, March 30, 2007 to Ofc. emergency or med/surg OSUE Program Assistant Position experience preferred. We promised you this one way back in of Human Resources Downtown Toledo location, 40 hours per week, the fall when we looked for Toledo’s Best (Search L-60724), 100 Full-time administra- working with youth and families Dressed Men. The announcement will College Park Ofc. Bldg., tive staff position 10 For a complete position description, minimum Bowling Green State month (217 days/12 come in May with a little help from our month). Administrative qualifications, and application instructions, please University , Bowling sponsors. Green , OH 43403-0201 grade level 14. Salary is go to www.jobsatosu.com and click Search Post- commensurate with edu- . (419) 372-8421. (http:/ ing. Under Requisition Number, type 326733 and cation and experience click search. To assure consideration, applications GOT ANY SUGGESTIONS? /www.bgsu.edu/offices/ Submit cover letter w/ ohr) must be received online no later that April 1, 2007 Call us at 419-243-0007 with your email address, resume, To build a diverse work force, Ohio State encour- and names/addresses/ telephone numbers of ages applications from individuals with disabilities, nominations or email BGSU is an AA/EO employer/educator. three professional refer- minorities, veterans and women. [email protected] ences postmarked by Friday, March 30, 2007 EEO/AA employer to: Ofc. of Human Re- House for Sale Cambridge Court sources (Search L- Apartment 60721), 100 College Single Family Home Park Ofc. Bldg., Bowling For Sale 419-472-8701 Green State University , 1763 Wilshire – South Toledo 3 beds, 1 bath, full basement Large 1 & 2 Bowling Green , OH 3 beds, 1.5 baths 1535 Buckingham, 43607 bedrooms 43403-0201 . (419) 372- A/C, Washington 8421. (www.bgsu.edu/ Immediate occupancy offices/ohr) $149,500 Sulpher Springs Realty $22,000 firm Local Barbara Jacobs Eligibility criteria BGSU is an AA/EO 419-865-7355 Tele: 248-250-0179 requested educator/employer. Page 16 The Sojourner’s Truth March 21, 2007 Free Financial NOBMA Newsmaker Award Winners Seminars Help Announced Special to The Truth Families Plan, State Rep. Edna Brown These individuals and administrator for Toledo Pub- and has been active in vari- and Tyrone Bledsoe, Ph.D., groups will be honored dur- lic Schools from 1955 to 1990, ous community organiza- founder of the national or- ing the Impact Newsmaker retiring as principal of Ottawa tions. Rhonda Sewell, a Save and Learn to ganization Student African- Awards dinner on Friday, River Elementary School. She founding member of the American Brotherhood, are May 11, 6 p.m. at the Clarion was a founder of the Toledo NOBMA who wrote for The among the winners of this Hotel-Westgate, 3536 Secor EXCEL program, which pro- Blade for 18 years, helped Afford Catholic year’s Impact Newsmaker Road, in Toledo. For more vided tutoring and enrich- the library win a Crystal Awards given annually by information on tickets, please ment experiences for talented Award in public relations the Northwest Ohio Black call 419-215-1087 or e-mail minority high school stu- her first year with the insti- Education Media Association. clyde1@buckeye- dents, and was former chair tution. Sewell has long been Special to The Truth Joining Brown and access.com. of the Toledo NAACP ACT- known for her community The Catholic Schools of the Diocese of Toledo will Bledsoe are Charles Cohen, Brown is being honored SO program. She was one of work with various organi- for her stand and introducing zations as her poetry events host free financial planning seminars for families in the president of the Toledo the first individuals to seri- Minority Golf Association, legislation on teen dating vio- ously document the history gives young poets a voice Toledo area. The seminars and late educator Edrene lence. The legislation was of African-Americans in To- in the community. Her web will offer families guidance Cole, who will be honored developed after the 2005 ledo through her master’s site on African-American for planning, saving and af- posthumously. The African death of Start High School thesis at the University of twins is becoming one of fording Catholic education American Legacy Project of cheerleader Shynerra Grant Toledo and was constantly the most popular sites for from elementary school to Northwest Ohio and the by her ex-boyfriend who later looked to for historical refer- black twins in the country. college. Bill Harris, a finan- Toledo Museum of Art will committed suicide. Brown ences about blacks locally. Shenikwa Stratford, the cial advisor with Informa- also be honored. was also recently elected sec- The African American evening anchor at WNWO- tive Financial Services and NOBMA will present its ond vice president of the Ohio Legacy Project, under the TV, made history this past a registered representative Media Achievement Legislative Black Caucus. direction of Robert Smith, has year as the first African- with Mutual Services Cor- Awards this year to Alexis Brown won an Impact dedicated its efforts in record- American woman to anchor poration will present the Means, of WTVG-TV, Newsmaker Award in 1994 ing the African-American a weekly evening newscast workshops. Rhonda Sewell, of the To- when she beat the odds to experience in Northwest Ohio in Toledo. She is also rec- Bill Harris Everyone who attends ledo-Lucas County Public win a seat on Toledo City since 2004. Recently, the or- ognized throughout the the seminar will receive two complementary financial Library and Shenikwa Council. ganization forged a working community for her commu- consultations with Harris to help families find the right Stratford, of WNWO-TV. Bledsoe founded the Stu- relationship with The Univer- nity involvement. strategies to reach their financial goals. The Impact Newsmaker dent African-American sity of Toledo, Bowling Green The Northwest Ohio All seminars will be held from 7-8:30 p.m. at the follow- Awards, voted on by the Brotherhood (SAAB) to help State University and the To- Black Media Association, ing locations: NOBMA membership, is develop leadership and other ledo-Lucas County Public the Toledo-based affiliate Tuesday, March 20 – St. Joseph, Sylvania – 5411 Main given to individuals and skills among African-Ameri- Library for additional re- of the National Association Street, Sylvania groups who have made posi- can males in the college set- search and display of black of Black Journalists, is made Wednesday, March 21 – Blessed Sacrament – 2216 tive newsworthy accom- ting in hopes to turn around history. The Toledo Museum up of African-American Castlewood Drive plishments in the Afircan- negative trends he saw while of Art is being honored for its communicators and sup- Thursday, March 22 – Central Catholic High School – American community over a college administrator at effort to recognize the porters from throughout 2550 Cherry Street the past year or for contin- Georgia Southwestern State Juneteenth celebration. The Northwest Ohio. NOBMA, ued outstanding service. University in 1990. SAAB, museum’s Juneteenth pro- though its programs, gives which now has its national gram has quickly grown to out scholarships and sup- headquarters at the Univer- the one of the largest celebra- ports programs honoring sity of Toledo’s Scott Park tions recognizing the ending excellence in the field, fos- MARCH MADNESS SALE campus, has 70 chapters na- of slavery in northwest Ohio. tering relationships be- tionwide. Bledsoe has devel- Alexis Means, a reporter tween the public and me- oped a pilot program in To- for WTVG-TV, won the Ohio dia, and advocate for fair- WALL CLEARING SALE OF CURRENT ART ledo to now grow SAAB chap- Associated Press award for ness in the communication ters in local high schools. spot news reporting last year industry. MOST ITEMS REDUCED Cohen has spent years fostering golf among young UP TO 50% OFF - African-Americans and other My View... OTHERS CAN BE NEGOTIATED minorities. His annual TMGA Continued from page 3 Junior Invitational each year the way, more taxpayers will opt to leave the city limits SATURDAY, MARCH 24, 2007 brings the best minority golf- because it will be cheaper for them to live elsewhere. So, 10:00 A. M. – UNTIL . . . ers from all over country to now you see the impact of the pension pickup that City Toledo. In 2004, the TMGA Council voted for in 2006. It has devastated the finances was recognized by the U.S. of the City of Toledo. RRT IMAGES GALLERY OF ART Golf Association with a Soon we will hear of plans to privatize garbage pickup 6423 MONROE STREET, SYLVANIA, OHIO $5,000 grant for Cohen to and other city services. Count on more layoffs of city 419-460-1343 continue his work. workers before the end of this calendar year. LOCATED INSIDE APEX PRINTING CENTER Cole was an educator and Contact Jack Ford at [email protected]