Columbus and Dayton October 2017 Edition

Columbus & Dayton

FREE

October 2017

DR. MYSHEIKA ROBERTS 6 9

A Woman of Achievement

Pretended Patriotism Versus Peaceful Protest

By William McCoy, MPA

Strategies for Reducing Gun Violence in American Cities - National Urban League Report

24

Groundbreaking on the new Martin Luther King Library

By Edward Bell, MBA

OUR VOLUNTEERS ARE MAKING A DIFFERENCE IN OHIO.

To find out more about what we’re doing in the community and how you can get involved visit aarp.org/oh.

GUEST EDITORIAL Founder & Publisher Ray Miller

Layout & Design Ray Miller, III

Assistant Editor Ray Miller, III

Associate Editor Edward Bell Media Consultant Rod Harris Distribution Manager Ronald Burke OSU Student Intern Kabrina Thompson

Lead Photographer Steve Harrison

Contributing Editors

Tim Anderson Edward Bell, MBA Lisa Benton, MD, MPH Rodney Q. Blount, Jr. MA Alethea Gaddis, MBA Isabel Giles Eric L. Johnson, PhD Daphne Kackloudis Jacqueline Lewis-Lyons, PsyD Cecil Jones, MBA William McCoy, MPA Alan Singer, PhD Valerie Strauss Senator Charleta B. Tavares Jeffrey Toobin President Pro Tem Priscilla Tyson

The Columbus African American news journal was founded by Ray Miller on January 10, 2011

The Columbus & Dayton African American 503 S. High Street - Suite 102 Columbus, Ohio 43215 Office: 614.826.2254

Fifty-eight dead and counting; 500 sent to hospitals. The deadliest mass shooting in modern American history took place Sunday in Las Vegas, as a lone gunman firing from a window on the 32nd floor of the Mandalay Bay Hotel savaged a crowd gathered to watch a country music show. It was, as one observer noted, like shooting fish in a barrel. The automatic rifle fire lasted for minutes. The shooter didn’t really have to aim; he only had to pull the trigger.

We watch scenes of the massacre on our TVs. The crowd panics and begins to run. The police run toward the shooter, even though their guns cannot reach him and their vests cannot protect them from his military ammunition. Their valor no doubt saves lives.

This is an act of domestic terrorism. The killer apparently acted alone. He had been in the hotel for four days; authorities report he had about 10 guns with him. We will learn more about him, his idiosyncrasies and motivations, as authorities probe for what led him to commit this heinous act. The shooter was a white male. His relatives express shock that he could do this.

If he had been an African-American, there would be a rush to connect this to the demonstrations for equality. If he had been an immigrant, it would have stoked our fears of the stranger. If it were a foreign terrorist, it would be an act of war. (The Islamic State didn’t hesitate to claim “credit” for the act, although authorities say there is no evidence at this point to support that claim.) Instead, the search will focus on what created the madness inherent in this act of mass murder and suicide.

In the Bible, Jesus asks, “Why do you see the speck that is in your brother’s eye but fail to notice the beam in your own eye?” (Matthew 7:3). Even as the authorities investigate the mental health of the killer, we need to question our own collective insanity. Why are military assault weapons not banned in the United States as they once were? Why do we accept such easy access to guns? Nevada has no gun control laws; it is an open-carry state. Rifles are part of the West’s rural culture. Las Vegas, the sin city of casinos and alcohol, might want to put limits on guns, perhaps requiring them to be checked as they once were in the towns of the old West. The state legislature, however, has prohibited any municipality from passing its own gun control laws.

No foreign power is as much a threat to us as we are to one another. There is no sanctuary.

No place is safe. A Bible study class in Charleston, S.C. A movie theater in Aurora, Colo. A nightclub in Orlando, Fla. College campuses across the country.

Twenty children were shot dead at Sandy Hook Elementary in Newtown, Conn.

Members of Congress have been shot. President Reagan and his aides were shot. His press secretary, James Brady, formed a group to push sensible gun control laws. But our addiction to guns continues.

After Las Vegas, we should have a national day of prayer. We need a greater wisdom to break our addiction to guns. We make more guns, sell more guns and buy more guns than any other developed country. We also lose the most lives to gun violence.

We have learned to adjust to this addiction. We accept it. When terrorists attacked the twin towers on 9/11, we did not adjust. We resented the attack and we resisted.

Yet as the toll of domestic terror keeps rising, we simply pray for the victims, shrug our shoulders and move on. The Republican candidate for the Senate in Alabama flashes a gun before a campaign rally and gets a big laugh and loud applause.

If we chose to resist the addiction, we could change. We could teach nonviolence and conflict resolution in schools. We could ban military-style assault weapons. We could allow cities to pass far more restrictive gun control measures than rural areas. We could stop peddling a glorified culture of guns and violence in our movies and television. We could make certain that mental health services were accessible and affordable. We could change the cultural morays to help define and enforce acceptable behavior.

Will this country remain addicted to guns? Will it remain impossible to end the easy access to guns? Nothing will change unless we collectively decide we are not going to adjust to this reality. It is time to resist.

Rev. Jesse Jackson, Jr. is the Founder and President of the Rainbow P.U.S.H. Coalition.

editor@columbusafricanamerican.com www.CAANJ.com

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The Columbus & Dayton African American • October 2017

In This Issue

28

9 Million Kids Get Health

Insurance from CHIP -

Congress Let it Expire

28

“Home”

29 Book Bags & E-Readers

Dr. Mysheika Roberts is the Assistant Health Commissioner with the Columbus Health Department.

Cover Story – Page 20

10

Giving a Second Chance to Restored Citizens

26

ACLU Study Documents Criminalization of Minority Teens in U.S. Schools

36

By: Honorable Priscilla Tyson

By:Alan Singer, PhD

William Henry Fouse: Educator and First Black Graduate of Otterbein College By: Rodney Blount, MA

5

Considerations for the November Elections of 2017

6

Pretended Patriotism Versus Peaceful Protests

7

Legislative Update

8

The Great Divider: The Racial Biogtry of Donald Trump

9

15

18 Regina Belle: Empowering Caregivers 20

COVER STORY

23

Spark Their Interest Early

Strategies for Reducing Gun 24 Violence In America:

An Urban League Report 25 10 Giving a Second Chance to

Restored Citizens

11 Yesterday’s Lessons 26

Enhance Tomorrow’s

Opportunities

ACLU Study Documents Criminalization of Minority Teens in U.S. Schools

The Columbus & Dayton African American • October 2017

Groundbreaking on the New MLK Library Funding Fix Needed to Address Community Health Centers Know the Costs to Win on and Off the Field 4

30

Opposition to Issue 2

31

Technology: Is Your

Business In The Streets

32

Perspectives: Who

Exactly is Africa’s

Consuming Class?

33

Consumer Financial

Protection Bureau

Finalizes Rule to Stop

PayDay Lending Traps

34

Want to Buy a Home?

Know Your Student Loans

35

The Supreme Court’s

Gerrymandering Case

and Strategies for Winning

Justice Kennedy’s Vote

36

William Henry Fouse:

Educator and First Black

Graduate of Otterbein

College 37

Community Events

All contents of this news journal are copyrighted © 2015; all rights reserved.

Title registration with the U.S. Patent Office pending. Reproduction or use, without written permission, of editorial or graphic content in any manner is prohibited.

Unsolicited manuscripts, photographs, and illustrations will not be returned unless accompanied by a properly addresses envelope bearing sufficient postage. Publisher assumes no responsibility for return of unsolicited materials.

POLITICS

CONSIDERATIONS FOR THE NOVEMBER ELECTIONS OF 2017

By Eric L. Johnson, PhD The upcoming elections in November serve as an excellent opportunity to revisit priorities, establish demands, and assess future projections. No principle is more fundamental in a democracy than the notion “one person one vote.”

While elections provide the body politic with the power and occasion to impact the future of American politics, only about half (Sometimes a little more) of the eligible voters in the U.S. actually vote. Which means often times elections, including the Presidency, are too often determined by a quarter to a third of eligible voters. This reality is further complicated in the Black community by the fact that many have lost their lives in both trying to exercise the right to vote and working to attain it. Indeed the struggle to realize the right to vote in the black community is worthy of admiration and respect. Moreover, it is also true that Black people have been voting for the better part of a hundred years and changes have been slow at best. Given that voting has proven not to be a silver bullet to the woes that have plagued the Black community for almost 400 years, what now?

How do we express our demands, revisit our priorities, and assess future projections? As with most questions worth asking, this one requires a sobering assessment of proven facts, facts under dispute and facts that remain to be determined. As we prepare to go the ballot box in November it is imperative that each of us settle in our own minds what we expect from the democratic process. It is a private burden that each of us must bear, each of us is required to arm ourselves with the information necessary to make informed choices. To the extent that we don’t we not only fail in our duty as citizens but we also compromise our legitimacy as parents, professionals, clergy or any other category of persons asked to be good stewards of things more important than our own individual lives. Too often voting is perceived as an allinclusive and comprehensive political activity when in most cases voting is more passive than purchasing the next kitchen appliance.

Most of people would put more effort into choosing their next appliance than where they will place their next vote.

The expression of demands, the visitation of priorities or future projections is best when a full analysis of the whole political scenery is taken into account. The existential threat posed by North Korea is probably something we could factor into our concerns more. Should Kim Jun Un decide to launch a nuclear weapon there is no immunity that protects us because we Black. We have to be

engaged in the full spectrum of the political on-goings. Not to mention that the shooter in Las Vegas probably did not make special precautions for Black people in the crowd.

As unimaginable as it maybe his intent seemed settled on the goal of taking as many lives as he could, regardless of race, gender, sexual orientation, religion or ethnicity.

As we organize and plan to go to the polls this November lets insure that our political calculus accounts for a wide spectrum of issues. Gun violence impacts the Black community more than any other and we have a demand, a priority, and a projection about gun violence of all sorts. While we have just witnessed the most horrific mass shooting in the country’s history the unsettling reality is that it is only the worst until the next unhinged person decides to do something even more heinous while expressing second amendment rights.

The November elections and all elections for that matter are in part a visitation of priorities because the process requires an identification of the issues to which we want politicians and political candidates to respond. Either implicitly or explicitly what is demanded from the democratic process is exemplified by both the criteria we put forward for our vote and the willingness we have to be held accountable for our own behavior between elections. The reoccurring question appropriately, is to what extent have each us given the effort necessary to develop ourselves, our families, and our communities in ways that move us forward? In the end, we cannot assign more responsibility to political candidates than we do to ourselves for the happenings in our families and communities.

While the sacrifice for the right to vote must always be honored with the execution of our enfranchisement, what is as important is what we do between elections. The priorities we establish, the demands we express and our future projections are not or should not be based on what happens on Election Day but more about what is happening or not happening between elections. The progress 5

that elections represent is only realized to the extent that we have clarity on our priorities, demands, and projections. When the work between elections is absent, the ballot box becomes just another way in which we participate in our own destruction.

Christopher Hitchens, once said “The only people truly bound by campaign promises are the people who believe them.” In the end whatever priorities we set, demands we express or projections that we make, we are the ones responsible to ensure they are realized and it is a responsibility we cannot delegate. Elections serve at best as imperfect tools to express and implement ever changing goals and realities. As a consequence, no election ever represents a panacea, nor does any candidate ever represent more than his or her candidacy. As a consequence, it is vital that we understand what elections are and what they are not. When we have clarity about the limitations of the how we can realize priorities, express demands and project our future based off the outcome of elections, we can better prepare ourselves to engage in work that supports circumstances we wish to bring about. Understanding it is our responsibility to bring about the realities we want to see and elections represent one of many tools in the kit that can be utilized to address priorities, express demand and make projections about we should be doing next.

Dr. Eric L. Johnson currently serves as the Chief Consultant with Strategies to Succeed and he is on the faculty at Virginia International University. He is the former Chief of Research Publications for the United States Air Force Academy. He also worked in Columbus Public Schools for the eight years. Moreover, he has conducted seminars in many organizations nationally and internationally in places such as Russia, China, Canada, Africa and Central America.

In addition he has published three books Livin’ in the Shade, co-authored with his son, 10 Deadly Aspects of Pride, and Beyond Self Help: A Journey to be better.

The Columbus & Dayton African October 2017 The Columbus African American NewsAmerican Journal • •February 2015

POLITICS

PRETENDED PATRIOTISM VERSUS PEACEFUL PROTEST

By William McCoy, MPA George Washington said Americans should “guard against the impostures of pretended patriotism.” That is precisely what the National Football League (NFL) players were protesting, the shooting of unarmed Black people are facing- “pretended patriotism.”

Donald Trump has ignited another controversy by attacking professional football players who have joined unsigned quarterback Colin Kaepernick in kneeling during the national anthem to protest police shootings of unarmed African-Americans.

Kaepernick began his silent protest last year and it has, in the eyes of many, cost him a roster spot on a NFL team. Other NFL players have taken up Kaepernick’s cause by kneeling during the national anthem.

Trump refuses to address the shooting of unarmed Black people by police. Instead, he asserts these protests disrespect the American flag and those serving in the military.

Pandering to an (almost) all-white crowd in Alabama, Donald Trump said, “Wouldn’t you love to see one of these NFL owners, when somebody disrespects our flag, to say, ‘Get that son of a bitch off the field right now.

Out. He’s fired. He’s fired!’ You know, some owner is going to do that. He’s going to say, “That guy that disrespects our flag, he’s fired.’ And that owner. . . (will) be the most popular person in this country” (Aric Jenkins, “Read President Trump’s NFL Speech on National Anthem Protests,” http:// time.com/4954684/donald-trump-nfl-speechanthem-protests/ September 23, 2017).”

Oh, boy.

The National Football League, professional basketball and baseball players, television and radio commentators, politicians, entertainers, and a host of others responded quickly and forcefully. Every NFL team, the NFL players’ association, NFL league office, and over 200 NFL players, coaches, and owners responded with various forms of protest on the next game day (Sunday). After

his game, Denver Bronco’s star Von Miller, tweeted, “We felt like President Trump’s speech was an assault on our most cherished right, freedom of speech.” Many people defended the players’ First Amendment (constitutional) right to free speech- just as others had defended the Alt-Right, Ku Klux Klan, and White Nationalists’ right to protest and exercise their free speech in Charlottesville (VA).

Donald Trump was also taken to task for referring to the professional athlete that protests by kneeling during the national anthem as a “son of bitch.” Over 70% of NFL players are Black. Political commentator Al Sharpton hit the bullseye when he said, “calling an African-American’s mother a ‘bitch’ usually does not end well.” Several NFL players have already challenged Trump to “say it to my face.”

Critics point out that Trump’s immediate, angry response to African-American athletes’ protesting police brutality was in stark contrast to his slow, almost apologetic, “condemnation” of the white supremacists and neo-Nazi sympathizers who “crept from the shadows to defend a confederate statute in Charlottesville. . . (and included) ‘many fine people’” (Philip Bump, “Of course Trump’s outrage at the NFL protests had to do with race,” WashingtonPost.com, September 25, 2017). In Trump’s view, a Black athlete who protests racial injustice is a “son of a bitch,” while a White supremacist, neo-Nazi chanting anti-Semitic and racist slogans as he/she rails against the removal of confederate flags and statutes may be a “fine person.”

Yes, we should be wary of “pretended patriotism.” A lot of angry, hate-filled words have been uttered in response to the so-called “unpatriotic” protests of Black athletes.

However, there is no greater disrespect that can be shown to the American flag, Constitution, and Bill of Rights than the embrace, display, and use of the confederate flag and related symbols. The confederate flag was adopted by Southerners who rejected America’s flag, Constitution, government, and values. These “unpatriotic” confederate traitors and their supporters fought, killed, and died to preserve slavery and the mistreatment of African-Americans. The

The Columbus & Dayton African American • October 2017

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folks in Alabama and other Southern states committed treason by seceding from the Union and initiating a Civil War that claimed over 620,000 American lives- or almost half of those killed in all USA-involved wars and conflicts combined! The confederate flag has also been embraced by those who oppose civil rights and integration.

If the national anthem is a litmus test for patriotism, then what should we make of Trump’s failure to place his hand on his heart- until prompted by his Slovenia-born wife? (John Bonazzo, “Trump botched the. . . national anthem,” observer.com, April 2017).

Should we question the patriotism of those who used manufactured medical deferments, money, and connections to avoid fighting in Vietnam? Should we question the patriotism of those who still embrace the confederate flag and legacy of those who fought against America’s Constitution, government, and way of life?

Founding Father Samuel Adams said, “If ever the time should come, when vain and aspiring men shall possess the highest seats in government, our country will stand in need of its experienced patriots to prevent its ruin.” Senator Rand Paul said, “We should stand up for the entire Bill of Rights whether it’s the 1st Amendment, 4th or 2nd. The Constitution is non-negotiable.” Founding Father John Adams told us, “Liberty, once lost, is lost forever.”

William McCoy is the founder and principal consultant with The McCoy Company- a personal services consulting firm specializing in economic development, planning, and training. Mr. McCoy has been involved with over $1 billion in financing, served on the U.S. Economic Development Administration’s financial roundtable, and convened several national urban policy roundtables on minority enterprise development. He has managed a city development department, two local development corporations, and several business loan and equity capital funds. Mr. McCoy is a certified industrial developer and certified economic developer, published author, and holder of BA and MPA degrees. William McCoy can be reached at (614) 785-8497 or via e-mail at wmccoy2@ themccoycompany.com.

POLITICS

LEGISLATIVE UPDATE longer an immediate danger to student’s self or others; (b) Occurs in a specifically

By Senator Charleta B. constructed or designated room or space that Tavares is physically isolated from common areas T h e O h i o G e n e r a l and from which the student is physically A s s e m b l y i s s t i l l prevented from leaving. contemplating several vetoes of the Governor and Senator Tavares’ partial testimony in the whether or not to override Senate Education Committee on September them. The vetoes were to Ohio’s 2-year 20, 2017: “…In the February 2015 Issue Operating Budget, Amended Substitute Brief from the Children’s Defense Fund, it House Bill 49. The Senate as reported in the discussed the seclusion room issue. Here are last edition of the Columbus/Dayton African a few of its findings. In Ohio alone, around American indicated that the House had 4,000 total children accounted for the more overridden 11 of the vetoes and the Senate than 14,000 total incidents of restraint and took up six of the eleven and also overrode seclusion in 2013-2014, indicating the them. One of the vetoes not overridden to practice is used far more often than just date is the increase in the Health Insurance where there is a risk of physical harm. There Corporation (HIC) fee that would address were over 5,000 incidents of seclusion funding cuts that disproportionately harm reported. The Substance Abuse and Mental local governments and public transit Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) authorities throughout the state including estimated in 1998 the use of seclusion and Columbus/Franklin County and COTA. restraint resulted in approximately 150 There were discussions over the last several deaths per year across the nation. In 2009, weeks with the Governor, legislative leaders, the disability advocacy organization TASH the County Commissioners Association of found that in a survey of 1,300 children with Ohio and the Ohio Transit Authorities to find disabilities, 65 percent had been subjected a solution to the $207 million annual funding to seclusion, restraint, or another aversive loss. Unfortunately, the Governor and the procedure.

Majority Leadership gave them a final offer of $50 million for the first quarter of 2018 Seclusion is a profoundly harmful practice, (January) and possibly up to $30 million especially when used on children whose in the next quarter. The funds would either brains are still developing and whose come from the Unclaimed Funds, Rotary developmental stages are always in flux.

Accounts and/or other unspent accounts. This Multiple studies show that children who would be a one-time fix which would still are secluded are more likely to commit leave at a minimum a $127 million hole. This suicide, attempt suicide, and engage in selfcut will disproportionately impact Franklin harming behaviors. Seclusion fails to respect (Columbus) and Cuyahoga (Cleveland) children’s right to dignity and dehumanizes Counties. them, often for minor infractions or because school officials failed to provide S. B. 104 Seclusion Rooms appropriate treatment options for students with disabilities. In February 2016, Disability Senator Tavares introduced and provided Rights Ohio published a report highlighting sponsor testimony on Senate Bill 104 which the many flaws in the use of seclusion would prohibit the use of seclusion of rooms. According to the report from DRO, students in public schools. The legislation 80% of all restraints used in Ohio were will require the State Board of Education to on students with disabilities, despite the update its policy and standards for student fact that they make up only 14% of Ohio’s behavior interventions and the use of school population. The report also found physical restraint and seclusion on students that reporting incidents of seclusion was to prohibit the use of seclusion on students within 90 days after the bill’s effective date. incredibly spotty. The Ohio Administrative This legislation will require each school Code requires that when a child is secluded, district, community schools, STEM school, the incident must be documented via written or college-preparatory boarding school report and given to the parents within 24 to comply with the updated policy and hours. Since this data is not audited there is no way to know if schools are in compliance standards. with the notification process or not. The lack This bill defines seclusion as both of the of sufficient recourse for seclusion rooms is following: (a) Isolates and confines a student another major problem. Currently a parent in a separate area until the student is no may make a complaint if they feel that their

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child is improperly secluded but if the school does not address this complaint there is no way to appeal with ODE. Disability Rights Ohio highlights a parent who was at her child’s school for a meeting and happened to see the schools seclusion room. The room had no door handle and an automated lock that could only be unlocked by staff. Seclusions rooms cannot have locks as stated by the OAC. The school admitted that they knew of the rule but had no plans to come into compliance. This is unacceptable and there is currently no way for ensure that the school will ever comply with the rule.

This bill is not banning seclusion rooms outright. It is making sure that when they are used, they are used properly with adult supervision. We do not want to leave our children locked in a room, smaller than a closet, by themselves without any supervision. The State of Ohio can phase out the use of seclusion rooms if it chooses to fund the implementation of Positive Behavior Interventions and Supports and considers using other preventive tools, such as comfort rooms…”

If you would like to receive updated information on the Ohio General Assembly and policy initiatives introduced, call or email my office at 614.466.5131 or tavares@ ohiosenate.com to receive the Tavares Times News monthly legislative newsletter. The committee schedules, full membership rosters and contact information for the Ohio House and Senate can be found at: www.ohiohouse. gov and www.ohiosenate.gov respectively.

If you are interested in getting the House Calendar each week of the General Assembly, contact the House Clerk, http:// www.ohiohouse.gov/housecalendar/house_ calendar.pdf or your state Representative.

Senate calendars are available at www. ohiosenate.gov; contact the Senate Clerk’s office at (614) 466-4900 or your state Senator.

Sen. Charleta B. Tavares, D-Columbus, is proud to serve and represent the 15th District, including the historic neighborhoods of Columbus and the cities of Bexley and Grandview Heights in the Ohio Senate. She serves as the Ohio Senate Assistant Minority Leader and the vice-chair of the Finance – Health and Medicaid Subcommittee; Ranking Member of the Senate Transportation, Labor & Workforce and Health, Human Services and Medicaid Committees.

The Columbus & Dayton African October 2017 The Columbus African American NewsAmerican Journal • •February 2015

POLITICS

THE GREAT DIVIDER: THE RACIAL BIGOTRY OF DONALD TRUMP

By Tim Anderson In Alabama, more than fifty years ago, Governor George Wallace in his inaugural speech stated to his all white audience, “segregation now, segregation tomorrow, segregation forever”. Fifty-three years later, the President of the United States, travels to Huntsville, Alabama and tells a white audience of supporters that he would fire NFL players who protest during the playing of the National Anthem, calling those players, “sons of bitches”. Later he declares that his remarks are defending against what he calls an act of disrespecting the American flag. Trump has stated his unabashed support for the confederate culture and confederate statutes of civil war leaders on public land. He has referred to the Charlottesville’s demonstrators of neo nazis, the klu klux klan and white supremacists as good people. In his latest display of Trump patriotism, he condemns African American NFL players who silently protest on bended knee for the shootings and killings of unarmed African American men at the hands of law enforcement officers.

So revolting is their protest, that it evokes the ire of the President of the United States of America to refer to these NFL players’ mothers as bitches.

The President of the United States of America is on a mission to divide the nation along racial lines. Trump’s message to the law enforcement community in July of 2017 was to be more physically aggressive in taking suspects into custody. It would appear that Trump may be referring to tactics of Birmingham, Alabama Public Safety Commissioner “Bull’ Connor in using police dogs and high-pressure water hoses on peaceful protestors during the civil rights protests. Or maybe, he is condoning the behavior of police officers who shoot and kill unarmed African American men, the very incidents that spurred NFL quarterback Colin Kaepernick to begin his silent protest during the playing of the National Anthem.

Trump has certainly not spoken against these shootings by the hands of law enforcement, however, as President, Obama directed the Justice Department to investigate these shootings.

Trump’s perversion of patriotism is void of one key component which the protesting NFL players possess, a moral compass. The criticism by Trump to the NFL is that these high income (black) athletes are disrespectful and unpatriotic. On the contrary, their protest is a patriotic display drawing attention to an egregious misapplication of justice by law enforcement agencies across the country upon African Americans. Their form

our moral authority for equality and justice.

This national dialogue between races, should take place in all segments of our lives; our churches, our homes, local governments, local law enforcement agencies, the media, our schools and workplaces. Through a national dialogue we inoculate ourselves against the divisive and harmful rhetoric of Trump’s racially bigoted remarks and those of his base who share his extreme and John Lewis with other black youth, kneeling in protest unacceptable views. A national dialogue against inequality and jusitce. (Danny Lyons 1965) furthers the understanding of the legacy of of protest, kneeling during the National oppression and illustrates the inimitable Anthem is a respectful form of protest African Americans experience in seeking demonstrating patriotism and love of country, equality and justice. yet recognizing the inequalities and injustices that remain. Historically, black athletes have President Abraham Lincoln stated, “A house exercised their moral authority to draw divided against itself cannot stand.” He attention to injustice, inequality and the fight made this statement in his address against for civil rights. By doing so, these athletes the institution of slavery while searching in taking a stance against injustices have for a way to abolish slavery in the southern come under severe condemnation. Whites states. More than one hundred and fifty years saw these athletes as uppity and some African later, the current President of the United Americans feared these athlete’s actions States is resurrecting racial animosity that would cause a backlash from white America. could send this nation into social unrest as Only years later, have these athletes been experienced during the turbulent civil rights vindicated by society for their stance against era. Trump’s perverse brand of patriotism injustice, inequality and for their patriotism. serves as a catalyst to those who seek to bring back a bygone age of white supremacy Trump’s perverse brand of patriotism has during this nation’s darkest time, the rise of divided this nation along race. He has given the Confederacy. a voice and platform to those groups of white supremacists who have held longstanding Hate groups will continue to see Trump as hatred to racial minorities and non-white a favorite son. His pre-election and now ethnic populations. Trump stokes the flames presidential slogan, Make America Great of racial bigotry with his rhetoric and Again, shrouds their activities of white imagery, delivering the most racially divisive nationalism and anchors their disruptive remarks since the civil rights era. He has and dangerous protests into other cities like mastered the ability to divide the country to Charlottesville. Left unchallenged, Trump’s such a low level, that his rhetoric is creating racially charged statements and perverse a powder keg in exploding racial tension. The patriotism will migrate into policy through site for the placement of the powder keg of his use of executive authority, as evident in racial animosity is a familiar place, Alabama. rescinding the DACA program and enacting For Alabama continues to be a racially the Muslim travel ban. These executive orders divisive state, where Trump’s supporters play to his base in promoting a nationalists’ and the alt right movement have elected a directive. republican primary candidate for the U.S. Senate, the former Alabama Chief Justice Patriotism is best defined as the vigorous and Roy Moore. Moore has pledged his support full support of one’s country. Patriotism is not for Trump’s policies if elected to the U.S. defined by the current President of the United Senate. Trump will undoubtedly campaign States of America divisive remarks, actions for Moore using his racially charged and and policies rooted in bigotry. The Trump divisive rhetoric to alienate and suppress the presidency lacks the moral authority to unite black vote and augment the white support this nation. As patriots, let us demonstrate a for Moore. Be ready for the b-word, the higher level of respect and dignity towards all n-word and other profane language used by Americans that will unite us all. misguided and manipulated Trump supporters and alt right voters in the Alabama senate Tim Anderson is an essayist, writing on election process; instigated by and courtesy topics related to health, healthcare and other social issues affecting the African American of Trump’s racially divisive rhetoric. community. Tim is the founder of In My Make no mistake, we are experiencing in Backyard Health and Wellness, providing every sense the struggles of the civil rights health education and wellness activities to era all over again. As a nation to counter- urban communities. To reach him contact him balance Trump’s racial divisiveness, we must at 614-02-2089 or by email at timanderson@ implement a national dialogue, rooted by inmybackyardhope.com.

The Columbus African & Dayton American African American News Journal • October • February 2017 2015

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POLITICS

STRATEGIES FOR REDUCING GUN VIOLENCE IN AMERICAN CITIES: A SPECIAL REPORT BY THE NATIONAL URBAN LEAGUE

Urban gun violence touches on issues central to American life: safety, equality, opportunity, and community. As thousands of city residents are killed or injured with guns each year, mayors and other community leaders face an urgent challenge: finding effective solutions and implementing them to make a difference now and into the future. This report, a collaboration between Everytown for Gun Safety Support Fund, Mayors Against Illegal Guns, and the National Urban League, is a tool for all city leaders who want to reduce gun violence.

First, the report summarizes much of what is known about urban gun violence: its causes, the ways it differs from violence in other settings, and the ways it undercuts many other aspects of city life. It is not the intent of this report to explain all the variation in gun violence across cities; instead, it is a primer for cities that want to act today, in spite of uncertainty. Far from presenting novel ideas, it brings together the knowledge of academic

researchers, community activists, nonprofit Mayors Against Illegal Guns is a bipartisan leaders, and civil servants who have been coalition of more than 1,000 current and addressing gun violence in cities for decades. former mayors united around the common goals of protecting communities by holding Second, the report describes seven strategies gun offenders accountable; demanding that dozens of cities have taken to reduce access to crime gun trace data that is critical gun violence in their communities, drawing to law enforcement efforts to combat gun on specific case studies. The identified trafficking; and working with legislators to fix interventions address factors known to weaknesses and loopholes in the background contribute to urban gun violence, are check system that make it far too easy for supported by a growing body of evidence, criminals and other dangerous people to get and can each be a part of any city’s larger guns. strategy for reducing gun violence. This is not a comprehensive account of the hard The National Urban League is a historic work taking place in communities across the civil rights organization dedicated to country, the volume of which is impossible economic empowerment in order to elevate to capture, but these case studies demonstrate the standard of living in historically that cities can learn from one another, underserved urban communities. Founded building on successes, and informed by a in 1910 and headquartered in New York growing body of evidence.

City, the National Urban League spearheads the efforts of its local affiliates through the This report is a collaboration between: development of programs, public policy research and advocacy. Today, the National Everytown for Gun Safety is the largest Urban League has 95 affiliates serving 300 gun violence prevention organization in communities, in 35 states and the District the country with more than three million of Columbia, providing direct services that supporters and more than 100,000 donors, impact and improve the lives of more than including moms, mayors, survivors, and two million people nationwide. everyday Americans, who are fighting for public safety measures that respect the To read the entire report, visit the website Second Amendment and help save lives. At below and download the PDF version. the core of Everytown are Mayors Against Illegal Guns, Moms Demand Action for http://nul.iamempowered.com/content/reportGun Sense in America and the Everytown strategies-reducing-gun-violence-americanSurvivor Network. cities

The Columbus African American News Journal • February 2015

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The Columbus & Dayton African American • October 2017

COMMUNITY GIVING A SECOND CHANCE TO RESTORED CITIZENS

By Councilmember Priscilla Tyson In an era where first impressions are considered vital for success, second chances can be hard to come by. And for those with criminal backgrounds, the veil of incarceration can be difficult to remove.

The barrier posed for restored citizens to obtain employment is why the City of Columbus created Restoration Academy. It serves as a means to help residents eliminate the stigma of incarceration and re-introduce themselves to the world as productive tax paying members of our community.

Restoration Academy (R.A.) was initiated by former City of Columbus Mayor, Michael B. Coleman in 2012. He recognized that citizens with a criminal background needed help securing meaningful employment.

The purpose of the program is to help its graduates obtain permanent employment and reduce opportunities to become repeat offenders.

In order to understand the significance of R.A., it is helpful to put the issue of re-entry in context.

Franklin County has the third highest population of ex-offenders being released from incarceration in the state. In 2013, 30,089 individuals were released from the Franklin County Jail into the communities and surrounding neighborhoods, according to the Franklin County Re-entry Coalition.

Unfortunately, data from The Bureau of Justice Statistics indicates that within the first six months of release, almost 30% were arrested again and that figure increases to 44% within the first year. This rate of recidivism has a grave impact on our society.

Why does this happen?

When transitioning back into the community, formerly incarcerated individuals may not have simple items we take for granted such as a driver’s license or identification which is needed when applying for a job. Many times they go back into the same environment and surround themselves with the people they

knew prior to serving time. Moreover, they may be homeless, without access to money or employment opportunities and re-offending may seem like the best solution.

A multi-pronged approach is essential to the success of R.A. and its participants.

Human service organizations provide wraparound services such as health screenings, work-readiness workshops and other critical life-skills workshops. Private and public sector employers provide job training and subsequently hire many of the participants as permanent employees.

Programs such as R.A. provide a second chance. It is a rigorous four-to-six month work experience program provided by the City of Columbus in partnership with several community organizations and employers. The program helps participants build confidence, Restoration Academy is about much more learn skills and recognize their value in the than numbers. Re-entry programs are about workforce. people. We know people’s lives are changed through R.A. It’s evident when graduates The need to help restored citizens reintegrate tell their stories. Many have hit bottom and into society serves as a benefit not only to the are now soaring because of the support and individuals but also our entire community. resources provided by R.A. Employers are That is why Restoration Academy is so also impacted and comment on the work ethic important. and dedication of graduates. These employers now see restored citizens through a different, Data from the Franklin County Re-entry more positive lens.

Coalition indicates that reducing recidivism in Franklin County by 1% could potentially While no program is a one-size fits all save over $1.13 million in incarceration costs. solution, the City has excelled in developing Restoration Academy has experienced a program that can be used as a model in phenomenal results. structuring re-entry programs across the Since its inception in 2012, there have country. been 170 participants and 143 graduates. In addition to the impressive 84% graduation For more information on selection criteria rate, 85% of graduates are employed, and how to sign-up please contact Tearicka 63% of the graduates are employed in the Cradle at (614) 645-8038 or TLCradle@ private sector and 37% in the public sector columbus.gov.

– the City of Columbus alone has hired 45 graduates. The average hourly wage is The Honorable Priscilla Tyson is the $12.50. Most importantly, there has been President Pro Tem of the Columbus City 0% rate of graduate recidivism. (For more Council. She currently chairs the Finance, information visit www.columbus.gov/ Health and Human Services, and Workforce Development Committees. restorationacademy/)

To Advertise in The Columbus - Dayton African American contact us at: editor@columbusafricanamerican.com Ray Miller, 503 S. High StreetPublisher - Suite 102 750 East Long Street, Suite Columbus, OH 43215 3000 614-571-9340 Columbus, Ohio 43203

The Columbus African & Dayton African American • October 2017 2015 American News Journal • February

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COMMUNITY

YESTERDAY’S LESSONS ENHANCE TOMORROW’S OPPORTUNITIES Chapter, BGSU, opened the event with an Ice Breaker Activity. They were very successful in getting maximum attention of the Esquires.

On September 16, 2017, the Throughout the day they inserted, short, Brothers of Alpha Phi Alpha snappy and timely fun activities which kept Fraternity, Inc., Alpha Rho the Esquires engaged and attentive.

Lambda Chapter located in Columbus, Ohio conducted their National After the icebreaker the Esquire were seated.

Campaign, “Go To High School, Go To The Brothers then spoke about a number of College”. They did this by taking the enrollment requirements that must be met in young men of their Alpha Esquire Youth order to be accepted into BGSU. It was filled Development Program on a college visit to with questions from the Esquires and answers Bowling Green State University (BGSU). from the College and Alumni Brothers alike.

Alpha Brothers J. Douglas Bailey, Sr. and Shortly thereafter, the College Brothers and Bro. John Michael Gore are BGSU Alumni a Sigma Gamma Rho Sister led the Alpha and are serving as Co-Advisors of the Alpha Esquires on a tour of the BGSU campus. The Esquire Youth Development Program. They Esquires also had a chance to eat lunch in jointly ensured that this event seamlessly the dining facility among college students. happened without a hitch. The three Brothers After lunch they engaged with a panel of of Epsilon Theta: Mike Foster, Derrick various BGSU students who spoke about Rodgers, Joshua Wilson along with a young their respective personal journeys of being lady of Sigma Gamma Rho, Onaysia Lindsey, admitted into BGSU. They also talked about hosted and conducted the activities at BGSU. the kind of grades they had in the 9th grade; The following individuals were at this event: about the ease that several of the panel 27 Alpha Esquires, 15 Brothers of Alpha Rho member had on finishing high school with Lambda (Columbus), and two Brothers of a great GPA especially because they started with a high GPA in the 9th grade. On the Alpha Xi Lambda (Toledo). other hand, the panel members who started The three College Brothers of Epsilon Theta high school with a low GPA had serious

By J. Douglas Bailey, Sr.

hurdles to overcome in order to work through the difficulty of increasing their GPA. All of the panel members also shared what grade they currently have and lastly how they got their money to pay for college. Once again, the Esquires asked a number of meaningful questions and received great words of experiences from the panel.

Finally, we culminated the day by having fun bowling and eating pizza before convoying back to Columbus. The Esquires continued to ask questions on their ride home and reportedly, some continued to ask questions of their parents. Job Well Done!

The Alpha Esquires is a youth development group sponsored by Alpha Rho Lambda Chapter. The group consists of young men from the Franklin County area who are in grades 9-12. The group objectives are to involve the young men in programs in leadership development training, career a w a re n e s s , c o m m u n i t y i n v o l v e m e n t , educational planning, communication skills and social awareness. The group goals are for each Alpha Esquire to strive for scholastic excellence and the development of good leadership skills that maintain focus towards their life goals.

Selected, High Caliber BGSU Student s Carry out a Meaningful Panel Discussion with the Esquires

Alpha Phi Alpha College Brothers of Bowling Green State University: Mike Foster, Derrick Rodgers, and Joshua Wilson

Brothers of Alpha Phi Alpha Alumni Chapter and Alpha Esquires from Columbus, Ohio. Additionally, Several Alumni Brothers from Toledo, Ohio, along with Three College Brothers and a College Sister of Sigma Gamma Rho of Bowling Green State University

Esquires intently focus on the words of wisdom that the college students share.

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The Columbus & Dayton African October 2017 The Columbus African American NewsAmerican Journal • •February 2015

The Columbus African & Dayton American African American News Journal • October • February 2017 2015

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The Columbus & Dayton African October 2017 The Columbus African American NewsAmerican Journal • •February 2015

The Columbus & Dayton African American • October 2017

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The Columbus African American News Journal • February 2015

COMMUNITY

ACLU STUDY DOCUMENTS CRIMINALIZATION OF MINORITY TEENS IN U.S. SCHOOLS

By Alan Singer, PhD “Bullies in Blue,” an ACLU white paper written by Megan French-Marcelin, argues that stationing police officers in schools has effectively criminalized teenage pranks, especially for minority youth, and fed the school-to-prison pipeline. This is an especially timely piece because recent events in the Bronx, in New York City, have led to calls for an increased police presence in schools.

As many as 20,000 police personnel are already stationed in U.S. schools and President Trump’s anti-immigrant and anti-gang initiatives may pour thousands more into school buildings searching for undocumented immigrant youth. In suburban Suffolk County, part of the greater New York City metropolitan area, after school officials shared disciplinary records with police, innocent high school students were swept up in a police anti-gang action applauded by the President.

‘disturbing schools’ — an unconstitutionally vague and broadly worded law that allows police to arrest students for any behavior deemed ‘disruptive’ or ‘obnoxious.’”

In the 2013-14 school year, schools referred over 223,000 incidents to law enforcement officials. Teenagers are arrested and charged with felonies for pranks like releasing “fart spray” in class. A Texas teen was charged with forgery when a $2 bill he used to pay for lunch was fake. A middle school student in Virginia was charged with assault and battery for throwing a baby carrot at her teacher.

Under the wording of this law, every middle school boy I know is a felon; “obnoxious” defines a middle school boy’s behavior.

If I had to spend an additional 90 days in jail every time I shouted out an answer in class or willfully didn’t do homework, or unnecessarily blew my nose too loudly, I would still be in jail today, sixty years later.

In fact, I think the jails would be overflowing with boys of all ages who got caught picking their noses, knocking books off shelves, pushing each other in the halls and copying homework, and with the girls who disturbed school functioning by letting us copy their homework.

A major ACLU concern is the violation of fundamental student rights. The report finds that police in classrooms “often become involved in noncriminal matters, jeopardizing students’ rights to be free of unwarranted ‘search and seizure’ in violation of the Fourth Amendment.” Privacy rights are further undermined when police conduct surveillance on students, search student records, and The ACLU study charges that assigning share information with other branches of law police to manage student behavior in schools enforcement.

The ACLU study offers eight specific was “driven by the same punitive criminal recommendations. justice policies and assumptions that drove According to Dennis Parker, director of the overcriminalization of Black and Latino the ACLU’s Racial Justice Program. “The 1. End the routine policing of schools. communities and spawned an era of mass atmosphere of fear and mistrust experienced 2. Provide equal educational opportunities incarceration.” In many parts of the country by many people of color on the streets as a and positive school climate for all students the move to put cops in the classroom was result of abusive and unwarranted stops and in all schools. a direct response to the African American arrests has even greater consequences when 3. End the practice of arrests and referral civil rights movement’s push to desegregate it occurs in schools, which are supposed to to law enforcement for common adolescent the South. “By the 1970s, police regularly be safe spaces conducive to learning, not behaviors. patrolled newly integrating or majority places to prepare young people for a place in 4. Hold police to the same standards Black and Latino schools in 40 states, the criminal justice system and correctional in schools as applied elsewhere in our looking for behaviors deemed disruptive institutions.” Children are body slammed, communities. under the justification that it would prevent tasered, pepper sprayed, choked, and placed 5. Invest in supportive resources. the outbreak of larger crime.” Advocates for in handcuffs. In one documented incident in 6. Enact policies that create specific the “broken windows” theory that justified Virginia, a four-year-old boy with attention protocols for when and how police should police occupation of minority schools and deficit disorder was handcuffed for throwing interact with students in schools. communities specifically wanted to target a temper tantrum in class. In another case, 7. Police should reform policies and training a 16-year-old boy in Pasadena, Texas was for responding to youth, including, but not what they described as “rowdy youth.” arrested and struck eighteen times with a limited to when responding at schools.

Placing police in classrooms expanded in metal nightstick, with the blows continuing 8. Collect, review, and provide the public the 1990s, sometimes in response to crimes, after he had fallen to the ground. with quality data on police activity in but more often out of fear of teenage Black schools. and Latino youth deemed “superpredators.” South Carolina and seven other states During the Clinton and Bush administrations, have what they call a “Disturbing Schools Based on research, the ACLU concludes federal tax dollars poured into school Law.” Under the South Carolina statute, it that police in schools do not make schools districts, but instead of funding education, is a misdemeanor “For any person willfully safer. That is the job of trained and caring or unnecessarily . . . to interfere with or educators. It calls for counselors, not cops, they were directed toward policing. to disturb in any way or in any place the in schools.

The ACLU reports that school arrests students or teachers of any school or college disproportionately affect students of color, in this State” or to “act in an obnoxious Alan Singer is a social studies educator and especially students with emotional disabilities manner.” Willful meaning on purpose; historian in the Department of Teaching more likely to act out. “Nationally, Black unnecessarily means a student can violate the Learning Technology at Hofstra University students are more than twice as likely as law, even when the disruption is not willful. in Long Island, New York. Dr. Singer is a their white classmates to be referred to law The penalty for these “crimes” is a “fine of graduate of the City College of New York enforcement.” In one state, South Carolina, not more than one thousand dollars or be and has a Ph.D. in American history from “Black students are almost four times as likely imprisoned in the county jail for not more Rutgers University. He has a regular blog on as their white counterparts to be charged with than ninety days.” educational issues on Huffington Post.

The Columbus African American News Journal • February 2015

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The Columbus & Dayton African American • October 2017

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The Columbus & Dayton African American • October 2017

COMMUNITY

REGINA BELLE: EMPOWERING CAREGIVERS

By Edward Bell, MBA On Wednesday, September 13th at the historic Lincoln Theatre, AARP held a seminar titled: Empowering Caregivers. A subject that is close to our community as so many of our people are either caregivers or will eventually need caregivers. The AARP secured the speaking services of Oscar and Grammy Award winning performer Regina Belle, herself a former recipient of caregiving and currently serving as a caregiver to her brother. To everyone’s delight Ms. Belle graced her audience with a very impassioned discussion concerning caregiving, narrated by WBNS TV10’s Anchor Jerry Revish.

Ms. Belle pointed out that caring for a loved one at home with nearly half (48 percent) of family caregivers caring for someone who lives in his or her own home, while an additional 35 percent are sharing a home with the loved one for whom they’re caring. Some are caring for a spouse or partner, many for a parent — all working to help that person stay at home for as long and as comfortably as possible. Their caregiving role might involve simply stopping by to check in every few days (if they live separately) or assisting with everything from bathing and meal preparation to medication management and administering injections.

She said It’s important to develop a plan.

Always think in both short term (prescriptions are due for refill) and long term (the “what ifs”). You can’t anticipate every scenario, but being forward-thinking now will help them respond more quickly and effectively in an emergency. And not to go it alone. Reach out to form a larger team of family, friends and others who can help them. She further exhorted everyone to determine tasks and find consensus. Ask team members what they’re willing to do to contribute to your loved one’s care. Even if they live far away, they can handle jobs like paying bills, ordering prescriptions and scheduling medical appointments. Work with the team on a plan.

She stated that everyone should summarize the plan in writing. A written record will ensure that everyone on your team, including the loved one, is on the same page and avoids misunderstandings (while remembering, the plan will likely evolve as time passes).

Ms. Belle, provided some simple tips she learned caring for her brother, make simple fixes for fall prevention. Some basic, low-cost changes include removing trip hazards, such as throw rugs, making sure the home is well lit (use automatic night-lights) and installing things like handrails, grab bars and adjustable shower seats.

She was very adamant in stating that each

caregiver should be honest with their self.

What are you prepared to do? If you are uncomfortable with hands-on caregiving tasks, such as helping a loved one bathe, ask if another team member can step in. Or discuss whether there is money available to hire assistance. She stated if the person you’re caring for has difficulty getting around or compromised vision or hearing, they’ll need to consider ways to make home less hazardous. If they’re unsure, consult a professional who can assess the home and make recommendations — an occupational therapist, geriatric care manager or aging-inplace specialist, but they should be alert to changing needs as time passes.

She also pointed out that everyone needed to make adjustments for dementia. Dementia brings with it particular worries about selfinjury, though there are many ways to lower the risk. They include installing remote door locks, using GPS devices, disabling the stove and lowering the water heater temperature to 120 F or less. Simple fixes that could save catastrophic results from happening later.

It was discussed that more extensive modifications may be necessary. When physical limitations are more severe with their charge, they may need to hire a contractor to make structural changes, such as installing wheelchair ramps and adjustable countertops and widening doorways.

homebound, or unable to make an office visit, qualifies for these services on an ongoing basis.

If they are sharing a home with the person their caring for — most likely a parent or spouse — caregiving can become allconsuming. Create a healthy lifestyle. They may find they are playing nurse, coach, nutritionist and social director. All of these roles are important for maintaining your loved one’s mental and physical health. Just don’t neglect their own. Further, address social needs. Isolation and loneliness are associated with poorer health — so helping your loved one (and their self) avoid them is a key part of caregiving. They might find a community arts program for seniors, invite friends and family members to visit, or go out to eat together. On that note, Ms. Belle instructed: be conscious of any dietary restrictions, and encourage your loved one to maintain a balanced diet, avoiding processed foods. Look into homedelivered meal programs and be sure your loved one drinks plenty of fluids; dehydration can cause fainting, headaches and more.

They should encourage their charge to get excited about staying active. Staying mobile is crucial for maintaining — among other things — strength, balance, energy and brain health. Your loved one’s abilities will vary, and they should check with a doctor, but the routine may include activities such as walks, seated yoga, swimming or lifting small She issued this caveat: because hospitals weights. have been discharging patients more abruptly to cut costs, tasks once reserved for nurses At the conclusion of Ms. Belle’s dialogue, are now often handed off to caregivers, she surprised the appreciative crowd of who sometimes get little or no training or approximately 250 with her latest single instruction. Meanwhile the caregiver may be “You Saw The Good In Me,” off the CD trying to keep track of a confusing mix of titled: The Day Life Began. With a melodic medications for a range of different ailments. flow that reached several octaves, her The key is to stay organized and know how audience responded with rousing applause to get the help they need. One of the most and a standing ovation. Ms. Belle followed important things a caregiver must learn and this with her exuberant rendition of an old do is to stay on top of meds. Create and Al Green classic: “Let’s Stay Together,” maintain an updated medication list, with the during which she encouraged her audience name, dosage, prescribing doctor and other to participate in an impromptu sing-along. relevant information — a handy document to bring to medical appointments. AARP’s At the end of well-deserved and thunderous Rx app is one easy way to manage both applause Ms. Belle bid everyone good by theirs and their loved one’s prescriptions. with the resolution that every caregiver They should also be ready to handle medical should watch out for their own health tasks. Many family caregivers are required simultaneously with their charges. She to handle challenging tasks at home, such as encouraged each caregiver to begin injecting medicines and inserting catheters. networking with other caregivers because It’s important to get detailed instructions and only they could understand the strain, stress even a demonstration of how to perform the and emotions that go along with providing procedure before they leave the hospital. much needed assistance to those who can no longer take care of themselves.

Ms. Belle was on point with her audience when she stated, set up home health services. Across the country, the American Association Medicare will cover certain in-home of Retired Persons (AARP) has been working services deemed medically necessary — such as doctor/nurse visits, X-rays, lab tests Continued On Next Page or therapies. A patient who is considered

The Columbus African & Dayton African American • October 2017 2015 American News Journal • February

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COMMUNITY

with governors, state legislators, and community partners to take commonsense steps to support America’s 40 million family caregivers — who help their older parents, spouses and other loved ones to live independently at home. Proposed legislation, called the Credit for Caring Act, would create a federal, nonrefundable tax credit of up to $3,000 for family caregivers who work while also financially helping their parents, spouses, children with disabilities or other loved ones.

information and advocacy on behalf of people age 50 and over. But since joining the organization in 2010 and heading it since 2014, Jo Ann Jenkins has sponsored groundbreaking work to transform AARP into a leader in social change, dedicated to enhancing quality of life for all as we age. A fearless champion for innovation and impact, Jenkins is often lauded for her ability to create business opportunity and competitive differentiation. She has been described as a visionary and thought leader, a The national and Ohio state offices of the catalyst for breakthrough results, accelerating AARP both took major steps in naming progress and contribution while fostering qualified African American women to head positive relationships inside and outside the up their chapters. AARP has long been organization. recognized for the value of its services, 1

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Here in Ohio, Barbara A. Sykes–former distinguished legislator, community leader and devoted advocate for the underserved in Ohio for more than three decades–has been appointed State Director for AARP in Ohio, which became effective August 29. AARP is looking for great things from Ms. Sykes as she prepares the states’ agenda for the future.

Edward Bell, MBA, AAMS, CMFC, CSS was born and raised in Columbus, Ohio. He earned a Master’s degree, as well as designations as: Accredited Asset Management Specialist (AAMS); Chartered Mutual Fund Counselor (CMFC), and Certified Customer Service Specialist (CSS).

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1. Jerry Revish - 10TV News, served as the moderator for the event. 2. State Senator Charleta Tavares shared remarks. 3. Barbara Sykes - AARP State Director for Ohio shared opening remarks. 4. Guest participate in a pre-reception. 5. Jerry Revish welcomes Regina Belle.

6. Guests arrive at the Lincoln Theatre. 7. Regina Belle shares her story. 8. Regina poses with her fans. 9. Barbara Sykes, Regina Belle and State Senator Vernon Sykes.

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The Columbus & Dayton African October 2017 The Columbus African American NewsAmerican Journal • •February 2015

COVER STORY

DR. MYSHEIKA ROBERTS: A WOMAN OF ACHIEVEMENT

By Edward Bell, MBA Over the last eleven years, Dr. Mysheika Roberts has quietly and gracefully emerged as one of the most respected and accomplished Healthcare leaders in the State of Ohio. This month, The Columbus and Dayton African American news journal sat down with Dr. Roberts, who since July 2006, has served as Assistant Health Commissioner and Medical Director for Columbus Public Health. In that capacity and as Chief Medical Officer and spokesperson for the Health Department she is responsible for the medical supervision and policy for all of the department’s clinical programs, the Center for Epidemiology, Preparedness and Response (CEPR) and the City of Columbus’ Employee Assistance Program (EAP). Proficient at developing strong outreach relationships and managing complex health initiatives, she is focused on excellence in medical education, disease control, health equity and meaningful health policy development. We are proud to have Dr. Roberts, grace the cover of this month’s issue.

She was born in Ann Arbor, Michigan and raised in Los Angeles, California. After graduating from Marymount High School in 1988, she earned a Bachelor’s of Arts degree in Psychology from the University of California at Berkeley in 1992. In 1994, a Master’s degree in Public Health from the University of Michigan was bestowed upon her. In 1998, she earned her Medical Degree from the University of Maryland’s School of Medicine. She is married to Ed Roberts, the son of Retired State Senator Tom Roberts of Dayton, Ohio.

Foundations for Dr. Robert’s career and life were laid early with parents in the medical field. Her father was an Internist while her mother was a school nurse, both, as a team, ensured young Mysheika maintained good grades and the drive to accomplish, never pushing her to enter the medical field. She was asked - with both parents in the medical profession, pressure to exceed must have been great, how did you handle any accomplishment curve? “I wanted to be a doctor at a young age,” She responded. “I was thirteen or fourteen and both parents would listen to me, they never tried to force me, they never really pointed me in any direction. I was a Candy Striper in high school doing a lot of volunteering and worked in my Dad’s office. It seemed like a natural fit but I remember when applying to Med school, my Mom asked me at least a half a dozen

Dr. Roberts spending time in the laboratory.

times ‘are you sure this is what you want, are you sure this is the lifestyle you want?’

She wanted to make sure I wasn’t doing it because of pressure from either of them. My father never discouraged me but didn’t try to encourage me either. I told him my goal was to practice a different field than he did.

He had his private practice and saw patients in the hospital and his office. He had patients in four hospitals and was always busy and I was determined to be a physician, but not work as hard as he did. I think they are proud of me and can see that I was successful in pursuing my career in medicine without the same stressors my father had.”

From 2001 through 2004, she served as Clinical Instructor at John Hopkins – School of Medicine, while working at Baltimore City Health Department, where she provided clinical care to patients during episodic/acute

Mysheika receives her Medical Degree from the University of Maryland’s School of Medicine.

The & Dayton African American • October 2017 2015 The Columbus Columbus African American News Journal • February

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care visits at Moore Clinic. She went on to serve as Epidemic Intelligence Officer for Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, detailed to the Ohio Department of Health.

From July 2001-June 2004, she served as Medical Director of the Eastern Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STD) Clinic. In that position she oversaw clinical functions of the clinic which included supervision over six to eight providers who provided clinical services. She was responsible for continuing medical education for STD clinic staff with weekly grand rounds.

Dr. Roberts was asked: After accepting the position as Assistant Health Commissioner, what stands out most as a positive diagnosis for the health of the city and what do you see as an area which needs extensive work? “I look at this as a fantastic journey,” she said.

“I’ve learned a lot over eleven years, not only about myself but our community and the health of our community. Things which stood out over the years were the outbreak of mumps, Salmonella, and pertussis -- but I also think about H1N1. I was three years into my position, which gave me an opportunity to see how the local Health Department came together with the community to help combat that flu. I also think about Ebola.

Ebola was an interesting experience for the Health Department and our community. It showed the cultural differences we have in our community as well as a lot of the stigma that persists in our community. There were people who were concerned, sometimes unnecessarily, about the stigma of anyone coming from an African country and the fear of getting Ebola. That was an enlightening eighteen months and months in which we dealt with the Ebola. Fortunately, in Franklin County we never had a case, so that’s a good thing. We still have disparities in this

COVER STORY

be because of genetics or from experiences they had as a child – we call that adverse childhood events, where it’s a coping mechanism so look at all addictions but since we are talking about opiates, we look at it as a relapsing brain disease and how we help these individuals get on the right path or foot so they can deal with underlying issues and with their addictions.”

Dr. Roberts and her husband Ed.

community but I wouldn’t say we are alone because you can see it across the country, whether talking about HIV or syphilis we have a disparity, whether talking about infant mortality, and even opiates, there’s a disparity. However many years I have the luxury to be in this position, I’d like to focus on how we as a community can solve and decrease disparities.”

You mentioned opiates, with the addition of Fentanyl to heroin, a cocktail that is killing users. How do you assess the mindset of users in light of so many deaths of their friends? “We have learned about addiction over the decades, more so now than in the eighties with crack. What we need to realize, if we’re talking crack cocaine, opiates, or whether we’re talking about alcohol, these are all addictions. Addiction is a disease of the brain, not of the weak, it’s a disease of the brain and needs to be treated like that, a disease. When you treat disease you treat it multi-factorial, you treat with counseling, you treat with behavior changes and you treat with medication… a drug of some sort.

It is not an easy or quick fix and there are certain individuals more inclined to addiction because that is how they’re wired. It could

Dr. Roberts with former Columbus Health Commisioner Dr. Teresa Long

Dr. Roberts was asked about flu vaccines and the propensity of the African American communities to avoid the shots because of government experiments. She stated, “The African American community has a history of distrust and poor treatment from the health care community. There have been a lot of measures put in place that should prevent it from happening but there is still a history.

The flu vaccine is something we deal with every year and it is recommended that you get an annual shot. Every year I am approached

by African Americans who ask ‘does it help?

Should we get it? I don’t think it’s necessary’.

There is a science behind it and with science we look at strains that circulated around Asia and Africa and determine what would be the best strain for North America and then based on that, we develop a vaccine for our flu season. I understand the mistrust but as

an African American first and a Physician, I would recommend you get the flu vaccine to protect you from possible misery later.”

Outside of the medical profession, she has compassion for Children, the Arts and Culture, Civil Rights and Social Action, Education, Health, Human Rights and Social Services. She is active in the community with memberships in the YWCA of Columbus (In 2014, She was a YWCA of Columbus “Woman of Achievement” honoree), Columbus Medical Association and MidOhio Food Bank. While she has been awarded with many honors one stands out foremost with her, in 2014, she was the “Women WELDing the Way” calendar honoree for the Women for Economic and Leadership Development (WELD). WELD described Dr. Roberts as passionate about improving health of women and children. She commented on her calendar page: “I have steadfast belief and focus on the power of prevention as a critical foundational factor to improving public health. If we can successfully instill positive practices in our youth (such as eating right, engaging in healthy activities and exercising their minds), we are more likely to prevent many unfortunate, unhealthy outcomes that we see today – and our tomorrow will be a

Dr. Roberts (r) with her mother and sister

Dr. Roberts meets with members of her staff at the Columbus Department of Health

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The Columbus & Dayton African American • October 2017

HARDIN

BROWN

TYSON Franklin County Democratic Party

Baptist Ministerial Alliance of Columbus and Vicinity

Teachers for Better Schools Columbus Fire Fighters, IAFF, Local 67 AFSCME Power in Action

Central Labor Council, AFL-CIO

Columbus and Central Ohio Building and Construction Trades Council Franklin County Young Democrats

EARLY VOTING BEGINS OCTOBER 11

ELECTION DAY IS NOVEMBER 7 Paid for by Citizens for Priscilla Tyson.

The Columbus African & Dayton African American • October 2017 2015 American News Journal • February

22

COMMUNITY

“SPARK” THEIR INTEREST EARLY

By Alethea Gaddis, MBA “Secure tomorrow today by sowing good seeds today and by watering them with faith and love . . .” ― Enock Maregesi “Plant your tiny seeds and keep watering them every day. Soon, they’ll grow.”

― Israelmore Ayivor I love and collect quotes that speak to living life with purpose and intentionally.

I found the above quotes in my archives while preparing for this article. The basis of these quotes remind me of a concept I strive to share with children and youth.

Whenever I have an opportunity, I love to encourage conversation about the importance discovering their purpose early in their lives. From my personal experience, I joyfully added my two cents to the development of Parents and youth participants in my Jump my beloved four nephews. I watched for Start U4 College program are exposed to the inclinations where there was a “spark” and importance of developing a personal mission invested the time to encourage and nurture statement which prayerfully also leads to their interest. Every adult who influences searching early for a meaningful career that children has the privileged obligation to be represents more than a paycheck, health a gardener and nurturer. One incident I love insurance and retirement benefits. Prior to to share is about my oldest nephew Randal a college tour we offer college readiness II. Randal has a brilliant mind. When sessions and I always ask the question, “How he attended Franklin Middle School and many of you know someone who hates or has was not fully living up to his potential, a strong dislike for their job?” Typically most teacher, Hanafah Kambon saw his potential of those in the room know someone to whom for mathematics and reasoning. A writing that question applies. I am very transparent assignment about accounting as a career was, and always share my personal testimony of we believe, the beginning of pivotal moment triumphs, challenges and disappointments for him. Well, the rest his history. Not only both personally and professionally. If I knew has he earned the title of Certified Public then, what I know now, I’m certain my Account, he is also an IRS Special Agent. journey would have followed a few different What is a “Spark?” paths.

So, consider this: how early is too early, to plant seeds for a career path in the heart and mind of children? I love and absolutely enjoyed a rewarding time serving in the non-profit sector. It is extremely rewarding when youth or parents from past programs recognize me and reminisce about how programs were a source of guidance and inspiration. People I have forgotten amaze me when they remind me they were beneficiaries of clean, safe, decent affordable housing I was able to help develop on the near east side years ago. And now, I find pleasure in helping people to secure their assets and plan for their own personal wealth with the best life and medical insurance options available. Yet, as a child, I always had a book in my hand so my love for reading began early. I was thrilled when I was finally permitted to walk to the library then located on the corner of Taylor and Long from my grandparents’ house at Eastwood and Burt.

As a child I also loved to write poems and stories. This interest followed me through my days at Bowling Green State University.

So I wonder, just maybe, if someone had recognized my interest and watered the seed, perhaps I would have majored in Journalism and pursued a career as a journalist. Who knows?

Search Institute describes it as follows: • A special quality, skill, or interest that lights us up and that we are passionate about.

• Something that comes from inside of us, and when we express it, it gives us joy and energy.

• It’s our very essence, the thing about us that is “good and beautiful, and useful to the world.”

So, a few years ago I introduced this concept to youth and parents in Jump StartU4 College.

We engaged in exercises to scratch the surface and reveal possible career opportunities that would render a life that brings fulfillment and purpose.

Search Institute research shows that kids who thrive have two important supports: knowledge of what their sparks are and adults who support the development of those sparks.

When youth discover and embrace their sparks, they’re more likely to stay engaged in school and are well on their way to discovering their own sense of purpose. I have seen the idea of “sparks” play out countless times over the years in working with children and youth.

have • higher grades • better school attendance and physical health • empathy and social competence • concern for the environment • a desire to help others and a sense of purpose Generally there are three types of sparks teens identify: • Something they are good at – a talent or skill • Something they care deeply about – such as the environment or serving their community • A quality they know is special – caring for others or being a friend When it is expressed, we feel alive. We feel useful. Life has a purpose. We feel we are drawing on our best potential. I submit to you that helping a young person discover their spark will support academic achievement as we provide a foundation for focusing on their life purpose which could very well be a career.

I have observed a “spark” in my child, now what?

Personally, I think parents and any adult within the sphere of influence in the life of a child should observe interests and inclinations that children and youth display. Note those areas where they excel, then water and nurture those interests with encouragement and access to opportunities. Here are some suggestions that will require an investment of time and treasure: • There are specialized programs that nurture students who excel in subjects, such as math, reading, digital design, art and music, to name a few.

• There are programs for students who exhibit keen critical thinking and problem solving skills. These are certainly skills employers covet when hiring the best and the brightest.

• Some students have entrepreneurship in their blood; find a way to nurture that by enrolling them in a program or finding a mentor.

• If a child has a vivid imagination perhaps a writing program would cultivate that gift.

• A creative child who enjoys building things and working with their hands may benefit from a program that nurtures engineering or architecture.

• There are even programs designed to teach young children how to write computer programs.

The late Myles Munroe said, “Every human heart cries and yearns for the same thing: a chance to fulfill his or her own dreams and desires. Even the poorest man has a dream.

Plant and nurture seeds in the children, they are counting on us!

Is there a child in your life? Help them discover and pursue their sparks. The investment of time will yield eternal rewards.

The Jump Start U4 College program is Search Institute also reports that children and sponsored by The Willie and Vivian Gaddis youth who know and develop their Sparks— Foundation for KIDS (Kids Inspired and and who have adults in their lives to help— Destined for Success).

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The Columbus & Dayton African October 2017 The Columbus African American NewsAmerican Journal • •February 2015

COMMUNITY

GROUNDBREAKING ON THE NEW MARTIN LUTHER KING LIBRARY

By Edward Bell, MBA On October 3rd, the Columbus Metropolitan Library broke ground on the new Martin Luther King Branch which will be located at the corner of Taylor Avenue and Long Street, sitting next to the historic and iconic East High School, and two blocks west of the existing library, which sits at 1600 E. Long Street. Marking the occasion, were approximately 200 attendees including dignitaries from throughout the city’s political and medical fields: Columbus Mayor Andrew Ginther; Columbus Schools Superintendent Dr. Dan Good; personnel from project architect Moody•Nolan and construction manager at risk Turner Construction Company, as well as various medical personnel from the nearby Ohio State Medical Center East.

While the current Martin Luther King Branch is one of the library systems smallest, the new branch will add roughly 10,000 more square feet to its structure which will allow for expanded usage and more programs. It was in December of last year the Ohio General Assembly approved the sale of some Ohio State University land to the Library System for the building of the new library. This larger and much better equipped setting will meet the needs of its patrons and the growing near east side community. The improvements don’t stop there however, the library system has transformations and upgrades planned for seven more of its branches with a completion date planned in 2020.

The afternoon began with those in attendance listening as Mayor Ginther explained the city’s vow to assist the Library system in renovating the existing sites while expanding with newer locations. He also predicted the new library on Taylor Avenue would be a huge success because of the increased space, larger conference rooms, more computers and other technology that its patrons would be able to use.

M e m b e r, F r i e n d s o f t h e C o l u m b u s Metropolitan Library Board; The Honorable Shannon Hardin, Member, Columbus City Council; Stephanie Hightower, President & CEO, Columbus Urban League; Charles Hillman, President & CEO, Columbus Metropolitan Housing Authority; Cindy Hilsheimer, Managing Principal, BeecherHill; Sandra Jamison, community volunteer; Doug Kridler, Chief Executive Officer, The Columbus Foundation; The Honorable David Leland, State Representative, District 22; Patrick Losinski, Chief Executive Officer, Columbus Metropolitan Library; Jordan Miller, Secretary, Columbus Metropolitan Library Foundation Board; Senator Ray Miller (Ret.), Publisher, The Columbus and Dayton African American; Jonathan Moody, President, Architectural Designer, Moody Nolan; Curt Moody, Chief Executive Officer, Moody Nolan; Brian Mooney, Vice President & General Manager, Turner Construction; Shannon Morgan, Vice President, PNC Foundation; The Honorable Jaiza Page, Member, Columbus City Council; Frederick Ransier, Vorys, Sater, Seymour and Pease LLP; Charles Richardson, Principal, East High School; Elizabeth Seely, Executive Director, University Hospital East; Renée Shumate, Manager, External Affairs, American Electric Power; Reita Smith, Poindexter Foundation; The Honorable Michael Stinziano, Member, Columbus City

Council; The Honorable Priscilla Tyson, President Pro Tempore, Columbus City Council; Robert Weilbacher, Office of U.S. Representative Joyce Beatty; Catherine Willis, Founder and Director, Urban Strings Columbus, and Ellen and Edward Yen, community volunteers.

Columbus Metropolitan Library Marketing & Communications Specialist Ben Zenitsky stated “The current building will be closed once the branch moves into the new building.” The new design is from Moody Nolan, the architectural firm behind the recently-completed Parsons and Shepard libraries. At about 18,000 square feet, the new Martin Luther King branch will be roughly twice the size of the old one, and will feature more public computers, expanded community space, and a much larger children’s area.

It will also feature more parking spaces, according to information on the Columbus Metropolitan Library’s website. Zenitsky said that two public meetings were held at the current branch to get feedback on plans for the new library, and that the design has been presented to the Near East Area Commission.

The new Martin Luther King branch will be the eighth new or renovated library branch to open in the last three years.

It is his dream that more of the youth in the near east side would make the new library a nice, quiet place to hang out and learn. Joining the Mayor in this momentous groundbreaking was a veritable who’s who of the City’s movers and shakers, who donned hard hats and wielded shovels to symbolically break the ground at the new site including: Kathleen Bailey, Chair, Near East Area Commission; Trudy Bartley, Associate Vice President for Community Relations, The Ohio State University; Carzel Betton, VolunTeen, Martin Luther King Branch, Columbus Metropolitan Library; Lela Boykin, Commissioner, Near East Area Commission; The Honorable Mitchell Brown, Member, Columbus City Council; Katie Chatas, community volunteer; Erika Clark Jones, Member, Columbus Metropolitan Library Board of Trustees; Tom Dillard, community volunteer; Keisha Gibbs, Manager, Martin Luther King Branch, Columbus Metropolitan Library; The Honorable Andrew Ginther, Mayor, City of Columbus; Dr. Dan Good, Superintendent, Columbus City Schools; Mary Jo Green, community volunteer; Jennifer Hadden,

The Columbus & Dayton African American • October 2017

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The Columbus African American News Journal • February 2015

HEALTH FUNDING FIX NEEDED TO ADDRESS COMMUNITY HEALTH CENTERS

By Charleta B. Tavares More than 60,000 patients impacted.

Congress has several weeks to fix the Funding Cliff for our community health centers. Franklin County’s Community Health Centers include: Heart of Ohio, Lower Lights, Faith Mission, PrimaryOne Health and Southeast. We collectively serve more than 60,000 residents with primary care and other health services. PrimaryOne Health, the oldest and largest community health center in the county, served 38,800 patients in 2016. If the Funding Cliff is not fixed by the deadline 70% of our federal funding will be cut - meaning more than 5300 patients will lose access to care, one + health center sites may close and up to 50 staff could lose their jobs. Our sister organizations would also see their budgets reduced by 14%.

According to the federal government’s own estimates, this potential 70% reduction in funding would result in the closure of 2,800 health center sites, layoffs of more than 50,000 providers and staff, a loss of access to primary and preventive care for 9 million patients who often have no other place to turn. Cuts would affect every health center in the nation. Right now we need to demonstrate deep, bi-partisan support for action to fix the cliff – the best way to do this is by growing the list of Congressional co-sponsors of the Community Health Investment,

Modernization & Excellence Act (CHIME).

Both the House and Senate versions of these important bills map out a 5-year extension of Health Center funding to fix the cliff. The more Members of Congress that co-sponsor these important bills, the stronger the signal to Congressional Leadership that real support can be counted on when it comes time for a vote to fix the cliff.

We need our Ohio Congressional delegation to support the five year extension of our program funding. Call, email, Facebook and Tweet your U.S. Senators Sherrod Brown and Rob Portman and your member of Congress.

Send your member of Congress a message right now asking them to co-sponsor the CHIME Act, H.R. 3770 and ask Senators

Brown and Portman to co-sponsor S. 1899.

Time is short and our patients and community need your advocacy.

Charleta B. Tavares is the Chief Executive Officer at PrimaryOne Health, a Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC) system providing comprehensive primary care, OB-GYN, pediatric, vision, dental, behavioral health and specialty care at 11 locations in Central Ohio. The mission is to provide access to services that improve the health status of families including people experiencing financial, social, or cultural barriers to health care. www. primaryonehealth.org.

The Health Insurance Marketplace opens November 1st to December 15th PrimaryOne Health can help you navigate and find the doctors to fit your and your family’s needs!

primaryonehealth.org • 2780 Airport Drive, Suite 100 • Columbus, OH 43219 • 614.645.5500

The Columbus African American News Journal • February 2015

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The Columbus & Dayton African American • October 2017

HEALTH

KNOW THE COSTS TO WIN ON AND OFF THE FIELD

By Lisa Benton, MD, MPH I’ll bet you’ve been paying a little more attention to the NFL in these past few weeks whether or not you are a football fan. You’ve also been watching the sports news a little more closely to hear the latest from basketball’s Steph Curry, LeBron James, Kevin Durant, Carmelo Anthony and other athletes who have been dragged into President Trump’s twitter vortex.

You’re probably getting whiplash from the quick topical back and forth without a deeper understanding of the real dispute. Remember, it’s often hard to have a meaningful and deep conversation or Twitter, Snapchat or Instagram.

For example, in watching NFL players kneel, stand and lock arms, raise fists or not take the field during the pre-game playing of The StarSpangled Banner, America and the world became hyped up over whether the protest was disrespectful rather that responding to the inequity or injustice, the action was meant to draw attention to.

I heard more debate over whether the players should be fired, fined, benched or lose endorsements than on how to address the disparities that got us to this flashpoint.

Perhaps buying into the hype was easier for many as an excuse to be able to circumvent the genuine discussions on resolving racism in America.

You probably now know that at least 70-75% of all NFL players are AfricanAmerican or non-white. You also have heard about the brain injury, chronic traumatic encephalopathy, known as CTE which comes from having repeated knocks and hits to the head over time. The 2015 movie “Concussion” starring Will Smith as Nigerian born pathologist, Dr. Bennett Omalu dramatizes the tragic course of the disease in pro football players.

Getting hit at high velocity is repeated trauma to your body all the way down to the tiniest cell and leads to lasting damage that builds up over time and breaks the body down.

Knowing and having cared for the professional, semi-pro and college football men in my life, they seem to be struggling with arthritis, stiffness and pain in the joints of the knees, hips, back, neck and ankles. So why not closed head injuries and concussion problems too?

Anyone who gets hit and kicked in the head again and again and again is at risk for developing a concussion and CTE. Veterans,

boxers, mixed martial artists, soccer, hockey players and even race car drivers can be at risk. Simple math tells us that since more African Americans play football, they will be at greater risk for developing CTE due to the hits and head blows.

Chronic traumatic encephalopathy could only be confirmed as a player’s cause for strange, depressed, manic, aggressive and erratic behavior after the player died and his brain was examined in an autopsy.

and learn how to manage their money.

There is a retired players association at the professional level but not much to assist nonpro retired athletes.

It would be helpful to know if the athletes were showing early signs of CTE in these instances and what is being done to prevent brain damage. But in all the back and forth on how inappropriate it is to kneel, we heard a lot less about these part of bigger picture of keeping athletes on top of their game on and off the field.

Studies to develop a new test are happening on a molecule called CCL-11 that responds Whether it is the controversy about the to the inflammation that happens in the nerve confederate flag and statues, hate speech, or cells of the brain when it gets hit repeatedly. racial injustices, or any other issue that moves you, you are in the front row. These are the CCL-11 can even be measured in the cerebral struggles that will define this generation and spinal fluid (CSF) of younger athletes before era in history when you kneel, stand, sit raise longer term brain damage happens. CCL- a fist or even lie down to give voice and 11 gives a different response in patients at visual to vent, disagree and protest. risk for brain function decline related to Alzheimer’s disease.

It is important not to lose sight of the main issue, keep the end game in focus and having CCL-11 levels correlate with the length of a clear vision of what winning for your side time athletes played pro ball. The thinking is will look like. that a day is coming soon when an athlete will get a spinal tap to check his or her CSF and Learn a little more… be able to decide how long he or she wants to risk their brain in professional sports.

Chronic traumatic encephalopathy Prevention - Mayo Clinic www.mayoclinic.

My master’s thesis examining domestic o r g / d i s e a s e s - c o n d i t i o n s / c h r o n i c . . . / violence in pro football players pointed to prevention/con-20113581 the need to help athletes get help with their psychological and behavioral health so that CCL11 is increased in the CNS in chronic anger, mood changes, substance abuse and traumatic encephalopathy but not in aggression-related conditions such as seen in domestic and partner abuse or violence could Alzheimer’s disease Jonathan D. Cherry, et al. September 26, 2017: https://doi. be checked. org/10.1371/journal.pone.0185541 Many players seemed to benefit from h t t p : / / j o u r n a l s . p l o s . o r g / p l o s o n e / assistance to transition to everyday living article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0185541 from life on the field and in the spotlight, but there is not enough help to go around. A Lisa D. Benton, MD, MPH (The Doctor is related issue for former professional athletes In) breastsurgeonlb@gmail.com, Twitter:@ is often the need to complete their education DctrLisa (415) 746-0627

The Columbus & Dayton African American • October 2017

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The Columbus African American News Journal • February 2015

PROTECT YOUR FAMILY AND THE ENVIRONMENT Board of Commissioners

MEDICATION DISPOSAL DROP OFF SATURDAY, OCTOBER 28 | 10AM–2PM Bring your unwanted, unneeded or expired prescription and overthe-counter pills for safe disposal. Eliminate safety and health hazards by allowing law enforcement officers to dispose of these medications in a safe, legal, and environmentally conscious manner.

For additional details about medication disposal visit SWACO.org.

hr-boc.franklincountyohio.gov/job-openings/

Learn how to prevent prescription drug misuse at GenerationRx.org.

Franklin County employees help Central Ohio thrive Local government employees contribute to the community while being a part of a dynamic, fair and flexible environment.

Visit our website today to see how you can make a difference!

DROP-OFF LOCATIONS

NOTE: Only medications in the form of pills will be accepted at all locations unless otherwise noted.

BEXLEY Bexley Police 559 N. Cassingham Rd. (Front Lobby)

DUBLIN Dublin Justice Center 6565 Commerce Pkwy Perry Twp Police 7125 Sawmill Rd.

CANAL WINCHESTER Diley Ridge Medical Center 7911 Diley Rd. (Parking Lot) COLUMBUS Columbus Public Health 240 Parsons Ave. Accepting pills, sharps (in puncture resistant container), and lancets Franklin Twp Police / Fire Station 192 2193 Frank Rd. 9am-2pm (Accepting pills, needles, and liquid medicines)

JOHN O’GRADY

MARILYN BROWN

GROVEPORT Groveport Police 5690 Clyde Moore Dr. HILLIARD Hilliard Police 5171 Northwest Pkwy NEW ALBANY New Albany Police / Plain Twp Fire Dept.

9500 Johnstown Rd. UPPER ARLINGTON Upper Arlington Police Municipal Services Center 3600 Tremont Rd.

WORTHINGTON Worthington Police 6555 Worthington Galena Rd. KROGER LOCATIONS Accepting pills, liquid medicine, aerosols, needles, creams, patches Canal Winchester 6095 Gender Rd. Columbus 3637 S. High St. 2090 Crown Plaza Dr. Gahanna 300 S. Hamilton Rd. Hilliard 4656 Cemetery Rd. Westerville 55 W. Schrock Rd.

SPECIAL THANKS TO OUR LAW ENFORCEMENT OFFICERS FOR THEIR PARTICIPATION.

KEVIN L. BOYCE

Councilmember Jaiza Page, chair of the Housing Committee, is convening a public hearing to discuss the critical need for affordable housing throughout Columbus. Within our Capital City, affordable housing is in short supply but in large demand. Hear testimony from individuals aggressively working to tackle the challenges our city is facing, as it relates to affordable housing.

Councilmember Jaiza Page

printed in house

Council Announces Affordable Housing Public Hearing

Representatives from the Affordable Housing Alliance of Central Ohio, Affordable Housing Trust, Columbus Metropolitan Housing Authority (CMHA), Department of Development (Housing Division), Habitat for Humanity-MidOhio, Homeport, the Real Estate industry and more will participate in a panel discussion and answer questions.

When: Tuesday, October 10th @ 5:30pm Where: Elim Manor, 3180 Elim Manor Ct.

Staff Contact Information

Ralonda Hampton Legislative Aide rshampton@columbus.gov 614-645-5524

The Columbus African American News Journal • February 2015

All interested citizens are invited to offer public testimony. Comments are limited to three minutes. Anyone wishing to address City Council on this matter must fill out a speaker slip between 8 am - 4:30 pm at Columbus City Hall or from 5:00 - 5:30 pm at the site location on the day of the hearing.

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The Columbus & Dayton African American • October 2017

HEALTH

9 MILLION KIDS GET HEALTH INSURANCE UNDER CHIP - CONGRESS JUST LET IT EXPIRE

By Valerie Strauss Congress just allowed the Children’s Health Insurance Program, which provided low-cost health insurance to 9 million children, to expire.

If action is not taken soon to restore the funding, the effects will become obvious in schools across the country, with many of the children in the program unable to see a doctor for routine checkups, immunizations, visits when sick and other services.

The program, created under a 1997 law passed with bipartisan support during the administration of President Bill Clinton, provided coverage for children in families with low and moderate incomes as well as to pregnant women. It was instrumental in lowering the percentage of children who were uninsured from nearly 14 percent when it started to 4.5 percent in 2015. It was last reauthorized in 2015 and was due to be renewed by Sept. 30, 2017.

Amid unsuccessful efforts to repeal and replace the Affordable Care Act, the Republican-led Congress allowed the CHIP deadline to pass without action.

The program was primarily funded by the

federal government, with states paying a good deal less. States still have some CHIP money available, but if Congress does not act quickly to restore the program, they will start to run out. Several states and the District of Columbia are expected to drain CHIP funding by the end of this year and many more by March 2018, according to this government report.

The program cost the federal government about $13.6 billion in 2016. The program provided services that included, according to the government’s website: - Routine checkups - Immunizations - Doctor visits - Prescriptions - Dental and vision care - Inpatient and outpatient hospital care - Laboratory and X-ray services - Emergency services How much did it cost families? The website said: Routine “well child” doctor and dental visits are free under CHIP. But there may be co-payments for other services. Some states charge a monthly premium for CHIP coverage. The costs are different in each state, but you won’t have to pay more than 5% of

your family’s income for the year.

That could soon change.

Dorothy R. Novick, a pediatrician at Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, recently penned a plea to Congress to save CHIP, writing in The Washington Post: Every day I see patients in my practice who stand to lose their health care if Congress does not act to extend CHIP funding. Consider my patient who grew up in foster care, put herself through college and now earns a living as a freelance clothing designer. She is now a mother herself, and I treat her children. Her 1-year-old son has asthma and her 3-year-old daughter has a peanut allergy. They are able to follow up with me every three months and keep a ready supply of lifesaving medications because they qualify for CHIP. Or consider the dad with a hearing impairment whose wife passed away two years ago. He supports his teenage daughters by working as a line cook during the day and a parking attendant at night. He sends the girls to a parochial school. He lost their Medicaid when he was given extra hours at his restaurant last year. But I still see them because they qualify for CHIP. That could change soon, too.

Valerie Strauss is an Education reporter with The Washington Post.

“HOME”

By Jaqueline Lewis-Lyons, Psy.D. When you think of ‘home’, what comes to mind? Do you get an image of your childhood home or is it your present one? Do you imagine a future residence decorated with your dream furnishings? For many people, ‘home’ brings up a variety of ideas and feelings. Did you know that the average American moves 11 times over the course of a lifetime? When you add in college, it could be 15 times (different dorms or apartments each year). It seems to me that with all this moving around, we choose residences that meet our needs for around five to 10 years. I thoroughly enjoy watching a few HGTV programs where houses are being renovated for sale, or being ‘flipped’. It is a growing part of the marketplace and can be a great investment, if you know what you are doing.

I wondered how ‘flipping’ actually works, away from the television cameras and interviewed Ms. Karnesha Brooks, from Allied Homes LLC. She shared that she has always been interested in design and decorating and that it led her to a career in real estate. “I love the energy! It’s taking something of low value and turning it around and increasing the value.” She described several “hot” neighborhoods in Columbus, including the Parsons – Children’s Hospital community and Old Towne East. “Many of the older, more stately homes just weren’t taken care of, handed down to relatives, had repair costs that were too high, whatever.

Now, we have people who are willing to invest in those neighborhoods and restore them.” Ms. Brooks explained that you can tell when a neighborhood is coming back – windows may be boarded up to help protect what’s inside, some landscaping to add curb appeal, and the realtors’ sign in the yard.

I asked how potential first home buyers should start the process. Ms. Brooks outlined some important steps towards home ownership. First, check your credit and get approved for a loan. Second, check out various neighborhoods and research what the homes are worth. “This is often easiest with a real estate agent, first-timers should definitely have someone helping them.” Third, as you start looking at houses, know what you really want – not everyone wants an attached garage or finished basement. Make a list of what’s important to you. Next, be mindful of how long you plan to live there. Not every residence will be forever. Last, realize that you are making an investment.

The Columbus & Dayton African American • October 2017

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So, what if you are not planning to make a move but want to get ready for the change in seasons. Have you heard of “HYGGE”?

Believe it or not, there are over 1.5 million followers on Instagram for #hygge. It is a Danish concept of ‘cozying’ up your home which means ’enjoying the simple things in life’. Do you look forward to snow days where you can curl up with a book and cup of cocoa? That’s hygge. Are you likely to be found relaxing at home on a rainy day wearing sweatpants and thick socks? You are already practicing hygge. As we prepare for another winter in Ohio, it certainly won’t hurt if we put some effort into making our homes a little more comforting and relaxing.

Buying and lighting candles or wax melts can add a layer of warmth to a home. Hygge also addresses how we feed ourselves – who doesn’t associate a favorite comfort food dish with childhood? Mac-and-cheese, pot roast with tiny potatoes, or a big pot of homemade soup - these all meet the criteria for hygge.

Let’s make ‘home’ our place to relax, renew, and restore our bodies, minds, and spirits this fall and winter. After all the divisiveness and stress of 2016 and this year, let’s nurture in some peace and restoration.

Dr. Jacqueline Lewis-Lyons’s office is located in north Columbus. Her practice centers on helping clients with depression and anxiety related disorders. In recent years, after discovering a love of running, she expanded her practice to include servces related to Sports Psychology for athletes of all ages and levels. To reach her, call 614-443-7040 or email her at Jacqui@DrLewisLyons.com

The Columbus African American News Journal • February 2015

By Ray Miller, MPA Dark Matters - On The Surveillance of Blackness

Behave - The Biology of Humans at Our Best and Worst

By Robert M. Sapolsky

By Simone Browne In Dark Matters Simone Browne locates the conditions of blackness as a key site through which surveillance is practiced, narrated, and resisted. She shows how contemporary surveillance technologies and practices are informed by the long history of racial formation and by the methods of policing black life under slavery, such as branding, runaway slave notices, and lantern laws. Placing surveillance studies into conversation with the archive of transatlantic slavery and its afterlife, Browne draws from black feminist theory, sociology, and cultural studies.

Over a decade in the making, this game-changing book is Robert Sapolsky’s genre-shattering attempt to answer that question as fully as perhaps only he could, looking at it from every angle. Sapolsky starts by looking at the factors that bear on a person’s reaction in the precise moment a behavior occurs, and then hops back in time from there, in stages, ultimately ending up at the deep history of our species and its genetic inheritance. Sapolsky builds on this understanding to wrestle with some of our deepest and thorniest questions relating to tribalism and xenophobia, hierarchy and competition, morality and free will, and war and peace. Wise, humane, often very funny, Behave is a towering achievement, powerfully humanizing, and downright heroic in its own right.

What Happened

By Hillary Rodham Clinton For the first time, Hillary Rodham Clinton reveals what she was thinking and feeling during one of the most controversial and unpredictable presidential elections in history. Now free from the constraints of running, Hillary takes you inside the intense personal experience of becoming the first woman nominated for president by a major party in an election marked by rage, sexism, exhilarating highs and infuriating lows, stranger-than-fiction twists, Russian interference, and an opponent who broke all the rules. With humor and candor, she tells readers what it took to get back on her feet—the rituals, relationships, and reading that got her through, and what the experience has taught her about life.

Principles - Life and Work

By Ray Dalio In Principles, Dalio shares what he’s learned over the course of his remarkable career. He argues that life, management, economics, and investing can all be systemized into rules and understood like machines.

The book’s hundreds of practical lessons, which are built around his cornerstones of “radical truth” and “radical transparency,” include Dalio laying out the most effective ways for individuals and organizations to make decisions, approach challenges, and build strong teams. He also describes the innovative tools the firm uses to bring an idea meritocracy to life, such as creating “baseball cards” for all employees that distill their strengths and weaknesses, and employing computerized decision-making systems to make believability-weighted decisions.

Astrophysics for People in a Hurry

By Neil DeGrasse Tyson

Can’t Stop, Won’t Stop - A History of the Hip Hop Generation

By Jeff Chang Forged in the fires of the Bronx and Kingston, Jamaica, hip-hop became the Esperanto of youth rebellion and a generation-defining movement.

In a post-civil rights era defined by deindustrialization and globalization, hip-hop crystallized a multiracial, polycultural generation’s worldview, and transformed American politics and culture. But that epic story has never been told with this kind of breadth, insight, and style.Based on original interviews with DJs, b-boys, rappers, graffiti writers, activists, and gang members, with unforgettable portraits of many of hiphop’s forebears, founders, and mavericks, including DJ Kool Herc, Afrika Bambaataa, Chuck D, and Ice Cube, Can’t Stop Won’t Stop chronicles the events, the ideas, the music, and the art that marked the hip-hop generation’s rise from the ashes of the 60’s into the new millennium.

What is the nature of space and time? How do we fit within the universe? How does the universe fit within us? There’s no better guide through these mind-expanding questions than acclaimed astrophysicist and bestselling author Neil deGrasse Tyson.

But today, few of us have time to contemplate the cosmos. So Tyson brings the universe down to Earth succinctly and clearly, with sparkling wit, in tasty chapters consumable anytime and anywhere in your busy day.While you wait for your morning coffee to brew, for the bus, the train, or a plane to arrive, Astrophysics for People in a Hurry will reveal just what you need to be fluent and ready for the next cosmic headlines: from the Big Bang to black holes, from quarks to quantum mechanics, and from the search for planets to the search for life in the universe.

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The Columbus & Dayton African October 2017 The Columbus African American NewsAmerican Journal • •February 2015

HEALTH

OPPOSITION TO ISSUE 2

By Daphne Kackloudis The Ohio Drug Price Relief Act, or “Issue 2”, on the November 2017 statewide ballot would require the State of Ohio, including its state departments, agencies, and entities (e.g. the Ohio Department of Medicaid, state prisons, and the Ohio HIV Drug Assistance Program), to not pay more for prescription drugs than the price paid by the United States Department of Veterans Affairs (“VA”). While this may sound like the perfect opportunity to lower drug costs, Issue 2 does not do that. Equitas Health and 70 coalition partners strongly oppose Issue 2 for the reasons described below.

First, the lowest price paid by the VA is not knowable. Under federal law, the VA receives special discounts on prescription drugs for veterans in honor of their service to our country. In addition to these discounts, the VA negotiates additional price reduction on many prescription drugs. Because we do not know the value of these additional discounts, there is no way to know what the VA pays for certain drugs. This means that using the VA price as a benchmark against which the state must compare the prices it pays for drugs is meaningless and makes the very essence of Issue 2 impossible to implement.

Additionally, many drugs used by Ohioans,

specifically those drugs purchased by the Ohio Medicaid program and the Ohio HIV/ AIDS Drug Assistance Program, already receive discounts very similar to, if not better than, those achieved by the VA. There is no guarantee that Issue 2 will result in lower drug prices and, in fact, the ballot proposal could end up increasing drug costs for state programs. While Issue 2 restricts the amount of money the state can pay for drugs, it does not restrict what the VA pays.

So drug manufacturers could raise the price they charge the VA for drugs, and the state could then in turn increase what it pays for drugs. This would not result in paying less, but could result in paying more.

Lastly, Issue 2 will not even lower drug costs for the vast majority of Ohioans.

Seven million Ohioans - 64% of the state’s population - are insured through their employers, have private insurance or Medicare, or otherwise don’t obtain their prescription drugs through state programs, so these Ohioans aren’t even covered under this ballot proposal.

The number of health care professionals who oppose the ballot measure may be the most influential and revealing aspect of Issue 2. Health care trade associations, including the Ohio Nurses Association, the Ohio State Medical Association, the Ohio Hospital Association, the Ohio Chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics, and the Ohio Pharmacists Association all

King-Lincoln Medical Center & Pharmacy

Medical

Wellness & Prevention

Pharmacy

oppose Issue 2. Ohio health care providers, including Equitas Health, are concerned about affordable medications for our patients.

Issue 2 is not that solution. Passing this ballot measure could result in a two-fold problem – increased drug costs and, perhaps even worse, reduced access to needed medications for vulnerable Ohioans. For instance, the majority of Medicaid recipients are lowincome women, children and infants who use numerous medications that are not on the VA’s relatively narrow formulary. How would the State of Ohio determine what to pay for a drug that the VA does not provide or have a price for?

The time and effort our state government would expend in trying to implement a plan that experts say is unworkable will cost money – taxpayer money. Specific details and information regarding the implementation of Issue 2 are lacking and will likely lead to bureaucratic in-fighting, delays, lawsuits and high costs for Ohio taxpayers. Worst of all, Issue 2 gives the sponsors of the ballot initiative the right to intervene at taxpayer expense in any legal challenges filed against the initiative after the election. If this initiative becomes law, taxpayers would be stuck paying attorney’s fees, regardless of the outcome of any lawsuit.

Equitas Health strongly opposes Issue 2 and asks that you vote “No” in November.

Daphne Kackloudis is the Chief Public Policy and Government Affairs Officer for Equitas Health.

| NOW OPEN!

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We offer an accepting and welcoming healthcare experience for everyone.

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750 E. Long St., Suite 3000 Columbus, OH 43203

Visit equitashealth.com to submit an appointment request.

Call us at (614) 340-6700 to join our new patient list.

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The Columbus African & Dayton African American • October 2017 2015 American News Journal • February

8/22/17 4:39 PM

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BUSINESS TECHNOLOGY: IS YOUR BUSINESS IN THE STREETS?

By Cecil Jones, MBA New Capabilities Web-based online technology has given us small computers in our hands that also serve as telephones. It has given us via access to the prices and dollar amounts of many things: from how much our neighbor paid for their home to the average salary for a position at many companies. It provides ever increasing methods to connect to others, sometimes inexpensively.

Do you believe you might have unclaimed money left at a bank, insurance company or other organization? The Ohio Division of Unclaimed Funds has a listing of those funds www.com.ohio.gov/unfd/ for you.

co.uk/life-style/gadgets-and-tech/news/ If you (or someone you know) have court donald-trump-internet-browsing-historycases filed in the Franklin County Municipal bill-chrome-federal-communicationsCourt, http://www.fcmcclerk.com/ will show commission-a7665821.html) the cases.

What Should You Do? Potential Cost to Pay Do you have a password set up to access Equifax has exposed intimate information your phone? Have you changed the default (name, address, social security number, driver password that came with your router when license data, etc.) of all (or at least, most) of your in-home internet access was set up? us. (https://www.nytimes.com/2017/09/07/ Do you have a password set up to access your personal computer, laptop or tablet? Do you business/equifax-cyberattack.html) avoid doing a lot of financial transactions Your online searches, browsing history via the internet while on some strange and web behavior information is sold to organization’s Wi-Fi? companies. Why do you believe that you continuously receive email ads targeted to Take care of that, now. Be sure to back up you at your email address? (https://www. any data that is important to you. The emails, pcworld.com/article/2986988/privacy/the- instant messages and other communications price-of-free-how-apple-facebook-microsoft- are monitored. If there were a virus that hit your internet service provider’s computer and-google-sell-you-to-advertisers.html). servers, your information could be made Cell phones carriers have many options public. Would you be embarrassed? A good of what they can do with the information policy that you have heard is send only from your behavior on your cellular phone. information that might be ready by anyone, Your cellular phone provider can (and because it may. does) sell your information. (https://www. washingtonpost.com/news/the-switch/ Individuals (and large organizations) wp/2017/03/29/what-to-expect-now- are being hacked each day. While large that-internet-providers-can-collect-and- organizations are bigger and more lucrative sell-your-web-browser-history/?utm_ targets, individuals like you also have had their files locked and held ransom term=.7b52e489205c). (ransomware) by hackers. Something as Congress and the current president passed simple as accessing your bank’s website and signed legislation that gives companies while you are at a public site (coffee shop, the ‘green light’ to sell the history of your etc.) can make you vulnerable to stealth of online habits. (http://www.independent. your bank account log-in information. There

The Columbus African American News Journal • February 2015

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is a solid reason that Information Security is one of the most in-demand positions to be filled by companies, today. Give a bit of thought to keeping your information safe as you use the web.

Be Safe Out There!

Help Us to Help You The purpose of this column is to provide useful information and knowledge that you can use, today. If you have a technology question (how to get something done, what business, process or software solution might be available for your situation, how to secure that technology position, etc.), please email the question or comment to the email address Admin@Accelerationservices.net for a quick response.

People, Process and Technology Are you looking for a technology networking group to help you get smarter? What new technology or process have you learned this month? Need advice on how to look for that technology position? Are you considering technology education (courses, certificates or degrees) and need information? Do you have a business, process, project management, personnel or technology question? Please let me know.

Cecil Jones MBA, ABD, PMP, CCP, SCPM, FLMI, Lean Professional admin@accelerationservices.net www.accelerationservices.net

The Columbus & Dayton African American • October 2017

BUSINESS

PERSPECTIVES: WHO EXACTLY IS AFRICA’S CONSUMING CLASS?

By Ailsa Wingfield The term “untapped potential” is often bandied about when it comes to Africa, but when we drill down to the reality, the numbers speak for themselves. Africa is home to 54 countries, 1.3 billion people, the world’s second-fastest growing economy, millions of retail outlets and rapid urbanisation—more than 55 African cities have populations of more than 1 million people, 80% of which have mobile subscriptions. These cities are also seeing steep smartphone ownership growth rates.

It All Starts With The Consumer The African Development Bank ballparks the continent’s middle class between 60 million (upper middle class, able to spend between $10 and $20 per day) and 420 million (total middle class, able to spend between $2 and $20 per day), depending on which definition of middle class you use. But is the middle class really everything it’s cracked up to be?

Is it a mountain or molehill?

In sub-Saharan Africa, Nigeria has the biggest absolute middle class population (able to spend between $2 and $20) at 42 million people, while Ethiopia/Kenya and South Africa’s middle class populations are almost equal, at 21 million and 24 million, respectively. But aside from these select countries, the average middle class population per country in Africa ranges between 1 and 8 million people (i.e., 60 million-420 million split across 54 countries).

In comparison, the middle class populations of China and India are roughly the same in total size and range of potential as Africa’s, but the average incomes between Africa and China are notably different. The average middle class income in Africa is only $4,000 per annum (India is similar), compared with $8,000 in China. Added to the disparity is that in Africa this income is spread far and wide, and Africa’s consumption story will be different from that of other emerging markets.

What’s Not To Like?

It’s therefore clear that the foundation is there, and there is no debate about the base of opportunity. But within the broader middle class range, it’s important to drill down further and look at Africa’s globally comparative, rising consuming class, defined as those who spend more than $10 per day.

Globally, the consuming class represents a massive rising opportunity in emerging markets. In fact, McKinsey forecasts that by 2025, the world’s consuming class will swell to 4.2 billion (53% of the global population) and account for 47% of consumption spending.

In Africa, today’s consuming class includes 120 million people, or 10% of its total population (versus 35% globally), accounting for 31% of income and closer to 40% of spend. However, in the near term, this figure could double as lower middle class incomes ($4-$10 per day) stabilise. In the longer term, the consuming class could expand to 40% to include the mass middle class with fluctuating

spending ability between $2 and $4 per day.

And in the more distant future, the additional 720 million people who live on incomes of less than $2 per day could rise up.

It’s therefore clear that Africa’s growing markets represent massive consumer spending potential as political, economic and social advancement continue and consumers’ circumstances improve. And with that in mind, businesses need to develop product portfolios, media plans and retail strategies that serve today’s consumer needs and have consumers’ future purchasing potential in mind.

A Matter of Mind-Set As part of this reality check, businesses can’t simply focus on income and demographic numbers. They need to understand the diverse and evolving consumer spectrums: how consumers live, shop, buy, interact and experience products, as well as what influences their choices, what they watch, and the impact that technology has on their daily lives.

To look at opportunities in comparative ways, Nielsen created seven consumer categories across 17 countries to identify and understand consumers and how to engage with them.

These categories are based on lifestyle, habits, shopping dynamics, purchasing and media drivers.

Keeping It Real Amid the changing consumer landscape, we need to be cognisant of consumer realities and how they translate into opportunities for brands. There is a significant opportunity in Africa to understand that a consumer’s ability to consume doesn’t usually start with the branded product. In that regard, it’s critical to identify a brand’s mandate/role for today and tomorrow, and pinpoint which stage of the need state each business is prepared or able to tap into.

Unfortunately, this is where many new and existing businesses have fallen short, as less than 20% of consumers in Africa are able and willing to purchase branded products.

That means the overwhelming majority of

The Columbus & Dayton African American • October 2017

32

consumers are fulfilling their needs outside of the branded format. With an in-depth understanding of consumer needs, businesses will be able to adapt their offerings to match those needs, across a broader spectrum and build equity for the future.

Build A Reason and They Will Buy Anot h e r millio n - d o lla r q u e s tio n f o r businesses is whether to create new propositions for Africa or bring ones in from other emerging markets and hope that Africa’s consumers will buy them.

As they ponder this question, brands need to be mindful that success requires more than just bringing another affordable or available product to market. Marketers and manufacturers need to look at the specific day-to-day lives of consumers and identify needs to solve. With deep analysis, brands can identify many unmet needs, whether based on tradition, taste preference, new needs, ease of use, scarcity, accessibility, health and wellness, aspiration or sustainability, or differentiation.

Opportunities Across the Continent Potential for growth exists across the continent, whether viewed in absolute or relative terms, among current and future consumers. The key for brands is identifying where to execute based on overall consumer potential and ask these questions to ensure success: 1. Which part of the consumer needs spectrum does your brand operate, and are there opportunities there to extend purchasing beyond the brand to build future loyalty?

2. Do you have the right products, and can you adopt, adapt or innovate them to match specific consumer needs?

3. Can you reach your consumer through tailored marketing and media, and can you optimize your retail execution, distribution and activation in the stores that matter most?

Ailsa Wingfield is the Executive Director of Marketing and Communications for Nielsen Africa.

The Columbus African American News Journal • February 2015

BUSINESS

CONSUMER FINANCIAL PROTECTION BUREAU FINALIZES RULE TO STOP PAYDAY DEBT TRAPS Lenders Must Determine If Consumers Have the Ability to Repay Loans That Require All or Most of the Debt to be Paid Back at Once

than 36 percent that includes authorization for the lender to access the borrower’s checking or prepaid account. The specific protections under the rule include:

WASHINGTON, D.C. — The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) finalized a rule that is aimed at stopping payday debt traps by requiring lenders to determine upfront whether people can afford to repay their loans. These strong, commonsense protections cover loans that require consumers to repay all or most of the debt at once, including payday loans, auto title loans, deposit advance products, and longer-term loans with balloon payments. The Bureau found that many people who take out these loans end up repeatedly paying expensive charges to roll over or refinance the same debt. The rule also curtails lenders’ repeated attempts to debit payments from a borrower’s bank account, a practice that racks up fees and can lead to account closure.

Full-payment test: Lenders are required to determine whether the borrower can afford the loan payments and still meet basic living expenses and major financial obligations. For payday and auto title loans that are due in one lump sum, full payment means being able to afford to pay the total loan amount, plus fees and finance charges within two weeks or a month. For longer-term loans with a balloon payment, full payment means being able to afford the payments in the month with the highest total payments on the loan. The rule also caps the number of loans that can be made in quick succession at three.

“The CFPB’s new rule puts a stop to the payday debt traps that have plagued communities across the country,” said CFPB Director Richard Cordray. “Too often, borrowers who need quick cash end up trapped in loans they can’t afford. The rule’s common sense ability-to-repay protections prevent lenders from succeeding by setting up borrowers to fail.”

Payday loans are typically for small-dollar amounts and are due in full by the borrower’s next paycheck, usually two or four weeks.

They are expensive, with annual percentage rates of over 300 percent or even higher. As a condition of the loan, the borrower writes a post-dated check for the full balance, including fees, or allows the lender to electronically debit funds from their checking account. Single-payment auto title loans also have expensive charges and short terms usually of 30 days or less. But for these loans, borrowers are required to put up their car or truck title for collateral. Some lenders also offer longer-term loans of more than 45 days where the borrower makes a series of smaller payments before the remaining balance comes due. These longer-term loans – often referred to as balloon-payment loans – often require access to the borrower’s bank account or auto title.

These loans are heavily marketed to financially vulnerable consumers who often cannot afford to pay back the full balance when it is due. Faced with unaffordable payments, cash-strapped consumers must choose between defaulting, re-borrowing, or skipping other financial obligations like rent or basic living expenses such as buying food or obtaining medical care. Many borrowers end up repeatedly rolling over or refinancing their loans, each time racking up expensive new charges. More than four out of five

payday loans are re-borrowed within a month, usually right when the loan is due or shortly thereafter. And nearly one-in-four initial payday loans are re-borrowed nine times or more, with the borrower paying far more in fees than they received in credit. As with payday loans, the CFPB found that the vast majority of auto title loans are re-borrowed on their due date or shortly thereafter.

The cycle of taking on new debt to pay back old debt can turn a single, unaffordable loan into a long-term debt trap. The consequences of a debt trap can be severe. Even when the loan is repeatedly re-borrowed, many borrowers wind up in default and getting chased by a debt collector or having their car or truck seized by their lender. Lenders’ repeated attempts to debit payments can add significant penalties, as overdue borrowers get hit with insufficient funds fees and may even have their bank account closed.

Rule to Stop Debt Traps The CFPB rule aims to stop debt traps by putting in place strong ability-to-repay protections. These protections apply to loans that require consumers to repay all or most of the debt at once. Under the new rule, lenders must conduct a “full-payment test” to determine upfront that borrowers can afford to repay their loans without reborrowing. For certain short-term loans, lenders can skip the full-payment test if they offer a “principal-payoff option” that allows borrowers to pay off the debt more gradually. The rule requires lenders to use credit reporting systems registered by the Bureau to report and obtain information on certain loans covered by the proposal. The rule allows less risky loan options, including certain loans typically offered by community banks and credit unions, to forgo the fullpayment test. The new rule also includes a “debit attempt cutoff” for any short-term loan, balloon-payment loan, or longer-term loan with an annual percentage rate higher 33

Principal-payoff option for certain shortterm loans: Consumers may take out a shortterm loan of up to $500 without the fullpayment test if it is structured to allow the borrower to get out of debt more gradually.

Under this option, consumers may take out one loan that meets the restrictions and pay it off in full. For those needing more time to repay, lenders may offer up to two extensions, but only if the borrower pays off at least one-third of the original principal each time. To prevent debt traps, these loans cannot be offered to borrowers with recent or outstanding short-term or balloon-payment loans. Further, lenders cannot make more than three such loans in quick succession, and they cannot make loans under this option if the consumer has already had more than six short-term loans or been in debt on short-term loans for more than 90 days over a rolling 12-month period. The principal-payoff option is not available for loans for which the lender takes an auto title as collateral.

Less risky loan options: Loans that pose less risk to consumers do not require the fullpayment test or the principal-payoff option.

This includes loans made by a lender who makes 2,500 or fewer covered short-term or balloon-payment loans per year and derives no more than 10 percent of its revenue from such loans. These are usually small personal loans made by community banks or credit unions to existing customers or members. In addition, the rule does not cover loans that generally meet the parameters of “payday alternative loans” authorized by the National Credit Union Administration. These are low-cost loans which cannot have a balloon payment with strict limitations on the number of loans that can be made over six months.

The rule also excludes from coverage certain no-cost advances and advances of earned wages made under wage-advance programs Continued on Page 34

The Columbus & Dayton African October 2017 The Columbus African American NewsAmerican Journal • •February 2015

BUSINESS

Continued from Page 33 offered by employers or their business partners.

Debit attempt cutoff: The rule also includes a debit attempt cutoff that applies to short-term loans, balloon-payment loans, and longer-term loans with an annual percentage rate over 36 percent that includes authorization for the lender to access the borrower’s checking or prepaid account.

After two straight unsuccessful attempts, the lender cannot debit the account again unless the lender gets a new authorization from the borrower. The lender must give consumers written notice before making a debit attempt at an irregular interval or amount. These protections will give consumers a chance to dispute any unauthorized or erroneous debit attempts, and to arrange to cover unanticipated payments that are due. This should mean fewer consumers being debited for payments they did not authorize or anticipate, or charged multiplying fees for returned payments and insufficient funds.

five years of research, outreach, and a review of more than one million comments on the proposed rule from payday borrowers, consumer advocates, faith leaders, payday and auto title lenders, tribal leaders, state regulators and attorneys general, and others.

The final rule does not apply ability-to-repay protections to all of the longer-term loans that would have been covered under the proposal. The CFPB is conducting further study to consider how the market for longerterm loans is evolving and the best ways to address concerns about existing and potential practices. The CFPB also made other changes in the rule in response to the comments received. These changes include adding the new provisions for the less risky options. The Bureau also streamlined components of the full-payment test and refined the approach to the principal-payoff option.

The rule takes effect 21 months after it is published in the Federal Register, although the provisions that allow for registration of information systems take effect earlier.

All lenders who regularly extend credit are The CFPB developed the payday rule over subject to the CFPB’s requirements for any

loan they make that is covered by the rule.

This includes banks, credit unions, nonbanks, and their service providers. Lenders are required to comply regardless of whether they operate online or out of storefronts and regardless of the types of state licenses they may hold. These protections are in addition to existing requirements under state or tribal law.

A factsheet summarizing the CFPB rule on payday loans is available at: http://files. consumerfinance.gov/f/documents/201710_ cfpb_fact-sheet_payday-loans.pdf Text of the CFPB rule on payday loans is available at: http://files.consumerfinance. gov/f/documents/201710_cfpb_final-rule_ payday-loans-rule.pdf The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau is a 21st century agency that helps consumer finance markets work by making rules more effective, by consistently and fairly enforcing those rules, and by empowering consumers to take more control over their economic lives.

For more information, visit consumerfinance. gov.

WANT TO BUY A HOME? KNOW YOUR STUDENT LOANS

By Isabel Giles Higher Ed Borrowing Can Impact Mortgage Lending Heading off to college for the first time this September, students might be thinking about their first courses and grade point average goals. They also might want to think about the first home they will buy -- even if it is years away.

Not that college is unimportant, but students need to know that loans that pay for their higher education can negatively impact their credit scores if not managed properly.

Circumstances vary as to why someone falls behind or fails to make good on their college loans. Employment could be a problem.

Others, whether they have graduated or not, choose to make their student loan the last of their bills to consider paying.

One thing is certain: If you fall into default on a student loan your credit score can be damaged, making lenders reluctant to provide a home loan. Your chances of getting a mortgage are slim if encumbered with a federal government lien. The fallout extends further. Some companies may not hire you if you have a negative credit report, diminishing the chances of working in the field you studied. The government can also garnish salaries or your tax refund to cover your unpaid student loan.

You may also want to consider starting out at a community college where transferable credits on baseline courses are available much cheaper than the same classes offered at a state university or private college.

There are other ways to cut the cost of getting through college, some less painful than others: ·Some colleges will allow you to work at the school, covering the cost of some of the credits; ·Explore organizational scholarships that So, what can you do to head off student loan often are underutilized; issues? ·If feasible, live at home initially if you are uncertain what your major will be. It avoids Examine how many opportunities are in the costs from renting a dorm or an apartment; profession you aspire. Ask yourself, “Is it ·Investigate types of loans available. worth it to me to borrow $80,000 for a career Subsidized government loans are available that has few jobs?” without accruing interest during the period

The Columbus & Dayton African American • October 2017

34

you are enrolled. Other loans, including federal loans, can accrue interest while you are in school. The difference can be very significant.

In some instances, a federal loan is the preferred loan because it can protect you – and your credit score -- in the event of full disability. There are other Loan Forgiveness qualifications a housing counselor or expert financial counselor can help you identify.

If you have graduated from school and want to buy a home, and have student loan issues, schedule a meeting with a Homeport housing counselor. We can review loan repayment options and create a better monthly budget.

Call 614 221-8889 or visit our web site.

Isabel Giles is a Loan Program Manager at Homeport

The Columbus African American News Journal • February 2015

POLITICS

THE SUPREME COURT’S GERRYMANDERING CASE AND STRATEGIES FOR WINNING JUSTICE KENNEDY’S VOTE

By Jeffrey Toobin The secret to advocacy before the contemporary Supreme Court is no secret: it’s all about pandering to Justice Anthony Kennedy.

With the other eight Justices evenly split between liberals and conservatives, lawyers in controversial cases spend most of their energy indulging the idiosyncratic passions of the rangy Californian who sits beside the Chief Justice.

That means, for the most part, talking about the First Amendment. In his thirty years on the bench, Kennedy has displayed an almost Pavlovian receptivity to claims of infringement on the freedom of speech. This has alternately pleased and enraged partisans on both sides. Liberals rue Kennedy’s opinion for the Court in Citizens United v. FEC, the 2010 landmark decision that invalidated campaign-finance regulations, on the ground that they violated the free-speech rights of corporations. At the same time, Kennedy has been a reliable vote in favor of the rights of political dissenters, such as flag-burners.

To get on the right side of Justice Kennedy, advocates know, it helps to get on the right side of the First Amendment.

Paul Smith, who represented the Democratic challengers to Wisconsin’s gerrymandered legislative map this week, in Gill v. Whitford, gave a state-of-the-art demonstration of Kennedy-centric advocacy. Gerrymandering has traditionally been seen as a Fourteenth Amendment issue; in other words, when a majority party draws district lines to make it harder for its opposition to win seats, it’s often been suggested that this behavior deprives the smaller party of the equal protection of the laws. But, in an earlier case about gerrymandering, Kennedy made a different argument in a characteristic way— and Smith took the unusual step of reading it out loud before the Court. “It’s just a twosentence description of our claim,” Smith told the Justices (one of them in particular). “First Amendment concerns arise where a state enacts a law that has the purpose and effect of subjecting a group of voters or their party to disfavored treatment by reason of their views.

In the context of partisan gerrymandering, that means that First Amendment concerns arise where an apportionment has the purpose and effect of burdening a group of voters’ representational rights.” Smith was betting that Kennedy would be more likely to strike down the Wisconsin gerrymander on free-speech grounds, rather than on an equal-protection basis. Though it’s perilous to predict the outcome of cases based on oral arguments, Kennedy did seem to give Smith’s claim a more than respectful hearing.

Conservatives, too, try to push Kennedy’s First Amendment buttons. In another big case this term, a gay couple is challenging the refusal of a Colorado bakery, on religious grounds, to make their wedding cake. The lower court sided with the couple, asserting that the case represented a straightforward instance of a business discriminating against gay people, which is prohibited under Colorado law. But the Trump Justice Department has sided with the bakery, citing the First Amendment. The baker in the case, according to the government’s brief, “views the creation of custom wedding cakes as a form of art, to which he devotes his creativity and artistic talents.” The Justice Department goes on to argue, with rare eloquence for a legal brief, “An artist cannot be forced to paint, a musician cannot be forced to play, and a poet cannot be forced to write.” The implication, in this bold and clever bid for Kennedy’s vote, is that the same goes for bakers.

get things right most of the time. He often worries less about long-term implications than about correct results in the here and now. For example, in 2002, a West Virginia jury awarded a fifty-million-dollar damage judgment against a local coal company. Don Blankenship, the chairman of the company, then spent more than three million dollars to elect his candidate to the State Supreme Court, and that justice then provided the deciding vote to overturn the judgment against the company. But the United States Supreme Court reinstated the judgment, in an opinion by Kennedy. It was true, Kennedy noted in his opinion, that no one could prove that the campaign contributions led to bias on the part of the state judges, but the whole matter, in simple terms, stunk to high heaven.

“It is true that extreme cases often test the bounds of established legal principles, and sometimes no administrable standard may be available to address the perceived wrong,” Kennedy wrote. But sometimes, he In the gerrymandering case, there was a concluded, you just have to do what’s right. rare unanimity among the Justices about the This, then, may be the plaintiffs’ best hope nature of the problem. Incumbent politicians in the gerrymandering case. As Paul Smith have used advanced computer technology to stated in a stirring conclusion to his argument, draw district lines so that the outcome of the “We’re here telling you that you are the only vast majority of elections is now preordained; institution in the United States that can solve even Justice Samuel Alito, no friend to the this problem, just as democracy is about to plaintiff Democrats, described the current get worse because of the way gerrymandering situation as “distasteful.” At the same time, is getting so much worse.” In Wisconsin, as the Justices recognized that it was difficult to in West Virginia, enough may be enough, at craft a solution to the problem; Chief Justice least for Justice Kennedy.

John Roberts was especially wary of asking Jeffrey Toobin has been a staff writer at The the courts to use “sociological gobbledygook” New Yorker since 1993 and the senior legal to weigh the propriety of district lines. Here analyst for CNN since 2002. again, though, the plaintiffs may have Justice Kennedy on their side. While other judges worry about the competence of their peers to make tough calls, Kennedy has a reverence for the work of jurists, and he trusts them to 35

The Columbus & Dayton African October 2017 The Columbus African American NewsAmerican Journal • •February 2015

HISTORY

WILLIAM HENRY FOUSE: EDUCATOR AND FIRST BLACK GRADUATE OF OTTERBEIN COLLEGE

By Rodney Q. Blount, M.A. It has truly been an honor writing articles for The Columbus African American news journal for the past several years. I thank each reader for their positive feedback and suggestions for future articles. After having a great conversation with Mrs. Catherine Willis about Dr. Clotilde Bowen (whom the Bowen House residence hall on Ohio State University’s campus is named after and for whom I had the pleasure of writing about in the April 2017 edition), she talked to me about another distinguished African American who I did not know about: William Henry Fouse. Several of my previous articles featured African Americans in education who were often the first in numerous accomplishments and Mr. Fouse is also in that category. I think it should not be taken lightly the fortitude one would have to have to survive, and even thrive, in an environment where no one looks like them and often facing hostility from their peers, faculty, and staff.

Mr. Fouse is an important Ohioan and his accomplishments are a source of inspiration.

William Henry Fouse was born in 1868 in a log cabin a mile outside of Westerville, Ohio, three years after his parents, Squire and Sally Fouse moved there. Squire Fouse, William Fouse’s father, was born enslaved in North Carolina in approximately 1842.

He had acquired considerable skill as the plantation blacksmith by the time he was 15 years old. His skills increased his “value” and he was later sold on the auction block for about $2,000. Squire and Sally Fouse were slaves on a plantation near WinstonSalem, North Carolina by the end of the Civil War. After the Civil War, the Fouse’s journeyed northward and moved to the area near Westerville, Ohio. “From its founding, Westerville was a community with citizens of conscience who opposed the institution of slavery. Putting these convictions into action, they aided and abetted runaway slaves on their journey traveling on the Underground Railroad from forced servitude to freedom. The first settler in what later became the village of Westerville, Garret Sharp, and his six sons all hid runaways in their homes.”

In December 1871, Squire Fouse purchased a house called Hanby House for $50.

William Henry Fouse was three years old.

The house was named after the previous owner William Hanby: a conductor on the Underground Railroad, a bishop in the United Brethren Church, and a founder and a trustee of Otterbein University. Their home was a safe haven for many slaves that were in search of freedom. It was in Westerville, Ohio, that Squire and Sally Fouse raised three sons--William, Oliver, and James. A daughter, Sallie, died in 1879.

Despite their own illiteracy, Squire and Sally Fouse encouraged all of their children to attend school and to value education.

Squire Fouse remained active in the Westerville area and upon his death in 1909, his funeral service was held in the Otterbein College Chapel and the headline in the local paper stated “Highly Respected Ex-slave is Dead.” Squire and Sally are buried in Otterbein cemetery, also the final resting place of many United States Colored Troops (African American Civil War veterans).

In 1938, William Fouse wrote an article about the legacy his father left behind. “Three interests dominated the life of Squire Fouse. They were a home, the education of his children and his church. If he could speak now, Squire Fouse would say that the spirit and literary gifts of Ben Hanby (former Otterbein College professor and abolitionist who inspired William Fouse) had been infused into his own son”.

William took heed to his parents’ advice and matriculated through the local school system, becoming the first African American to graduate from Westerville High School. He subsequently enrolled in Otterbein College in the Fall of 1888. William had to pay his own way to college by blacking boots, waiting on tables in Columbus, and working for a local tile manufacturer; therefore, it took him seven years to graduate from Otterbein. It was during those seven years that William Fouse began to evolve as an activist for change in the education of Blacks. It is important to note that while William Fouse was a young man, Booker T. Washington and Dr. W.E.B. DuBois’ both had theories for the education of the “Negro” that were very popular. They’re main concern was the educational uplift of the Black community.

Dr. Dubois offered suggestions that would help to eradicate illiteracy and poverty among Blacks: post-secondary education, collegiate education and industrial training. The theory presented by W. E. B. DuBois, one in which Fouse supported, was very much in favor of the economic improvement of Black people. Fouse was proof that education, not just high school but college as well, was the instrument needed to uplift the Black race.

“Fouse felt that there were groups within the Black school system that played a very critical role in helping to solve administrative problems.

Parents were the key--they organized with the teachers into parent-teacher associations that extended the school’s influence. William Fouse

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was instrumental in spearheading the move of Black education from an inadequate system to one of modern development.” In 1912, the Board of Education in the state of Kentucky had a mission of selecting a supervisor of the Black schools in Lexington. In Kentucky, Fouse served as principal of William Grant High School in Covington, Russell School in Lexington (1913), and was the first principal of Paul Lawrence Dunbar High School (1923) as well as supervisor of African American schools in Lexington, KY. Fouse wanted to raise the standards of the Black students in education. Mathematics, Latin, Physics, Chemistry, Manual training and Domestic science were all a part of the high school curriculum. Dunbar High School, under the guidance of Fouse, was the first high school in Kentucky to qualify for membership in the Southern Association of College and Secondary Schools. During his 23-year tenure, the high school enrollment grew from 89 to 535. Dunbar evolved from its initial existence of three rooms in a small antiquated building with a faculty of five or six to a modern high school worth well over a quarter of a million dollars. He developed the Bluegrass Oratorical Association, the Bluegrass Athletic Association, and the Pennies Saving Bank, developed to assist Black students develop the habit of conserving their resources and saving money.

William Henry Fouse died in 1944. He was married survived by his wife of over 46 years, Elizabeth Fouse, who was also very accomplished. A house on Otterbein’s campus was named after William Fouse; currently known as the House of Black Culture. William Fouse indicated that his alma mater was “largely responsible for helping me to set the sails that have all to do in determining the way I have done.” Fouse’s accomplishments are remarkable. Equally remarkable was the love and support he had from his parents who encouraged him and his siblings to get an education and succeed.

This article emphasizes the importance of education, determination, and parental guidance. I encourage each of you to instill the value of education into the young people in your lives because you could be helping the next William Henry Fouse.

Works Cited http://seeohiofirst.org/why-we-came http://www.ohiomemory.org/cdm/ref/ collection/p267401coll36/id/23895 http://shopuptownwesterville.com/williamhenry-fouse/ http://nkaa.uky.edu/nkaa/items/show/386 https://otterbein.digication.com/otterbeins_ religious_history/Students_of_Color Rodney Blount is an Educator and Historian.

He received two Bachelor of Arts degrees from Ball State University and a Masters of Arts degree from The Ohio State University. His work has been featured in several publications. Rodney is a native of Columbus, Ohio and is a member of several organizations.

COMMUNITYEVENTS Columbus, Ohio October 7, 2017 2017 Kingdom Image Awards The Kingdom Image Awards is an annual event that honors independent and Christian artists for the contribution to their local faith-based communities. Hosted by Marcus D. Wiley.

Honorees, Lady Patricia A. Ross (Legacy Award) and Bishop Jerome & Lady Patricia Ross, Sr. (Community Leadership Award).

Location: Lincoln Theatre Address: 769 E. Long Street, 43203 Time: 4:00 PM Red Carpet & VIP pre-reception; 6:30 PM Awards Production Admission: $60 VIP; $30 General Admission Web: www.kingdomimageawards.com October 10, 2017 Affordable Housing Public Hearing Join Councilmember Jaiza Page, chair of the Housing Committee, as she hosts a public hearing on the issue of affordable housing. Participants can learn more about available programs and ask questions. This event is open to the public. For more information call 614-645-5524.

Location: Elim Manor Address: 3180 Elim Manor Ct., 43232 Time: 5:30 PM Admission: Free Web: www.Columbus.gov October 13, 2017 Mann’s World Family Tour Join Grammy Award winning Tamela Mann in concert along with her husband, David Mann for his highly acclaimed comedy show all in one night. For more information or for tickets, call 614-416-9673.

Location: Columbus Christian Center Address: 2300 N Cassady Ave, 43219 Time: 7:00 PM Admission: $30 Web: www.EILM.org

October 15, 2017 The Taste for Face 2017 - A Fundraiser Join the Friends of Art for Community Enrichment, Inc. (F.A.C.E.S.) for their annual fundraiser. This event will help young people who participate in the Urban Strings program of Columbus and other great projects aimed at uplifting the community. For more information or for tickets, call 614-946-2056.

Location: Columbus Convention Center (Short North Ballroom) Address: 400 N High Street, 43215 Time: 3:00 PM - 7:00 PM Admission: $50 Web: www.Facebook.com/FriendsofArtforCommunityEnrichment October 20, 2017 Morris Day & The Time In Concert A founding member of Prince’s band, The Time, Morris Day has had a successful career that covers 30 years. A dynamic dancer and smooth, yet gutsy, vocals, he is gauranteed to get the party started.

You don’t want to miss this concert. For more information visit the website below or call 614-308-3333.

Location: Hollywood Casino Address: 200 Georgesville Rd, 43228 Time: 9:00 PM - Midnight Admission: Free Web: www.HollywoodColumbus.com November 7, 2017 Election Day Get up early and cast your vote! There are several important races taking place in Columbus, so make it a day ON, not a day OFF! For more information about candidates, issues and polling locations, visit the website below or call 614-525-3100.

Location: Various Address: Various Time: 6:30 AM - 7:30 PM Admission: Free Web: www.VoteFranklinCounty.gov

October 14, 2017 2017 Black Expo America - Columbus, OH Join Black Expo America and the Ohio Small Business Development Center at Columbus State for this special event. Visit various vendors and network with black-owned businesses from Central Ohio. For more information call 917-501-0614 or visit the website below.

November 14, 2017 Conversation with Marian Wright Edelman The Barbara K. Fergus Women in Leadership Lecture Series will host a special event featuring Marian Wright Edelman, Founder/ President of the Children’s Defense Fund. A graduate of Spelman College and Yale Law School, Edelman has received over onehundred honorary degrees and many prestigious awards including the Presidential Medal of Freedom. This event will fill-up fast -please register by November 9th.

Location: CSCC (Workforce Development Building) Address: 315 Cleveland Ave, 43215 Time: 11:00 AM - 7:00 PM Admission: Free Web: www.BlackExpoAmerica.com

Location: The Ohio Union Address: 1739 N High St, 43210 Time: 4:30 PM - 6:00 PM Admission: $5 (OSU Students) $20 (General Admission) Web: www.Glenn.OSU.edu

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The Columbus & Dayton African American • October 2017

COMMUNITYEVENTS Dayton, Ohio October 12, 2017 State of Black Dayton Join the Town Hall Meeting to discuss “The State of Black Dayton.” The continuing conversation is based on the Miami Valley Urban League’s report which addresses issues of housing, criminal justice reform, healthcare and more. For more information call 937-278-1006.

October 18, 2017 Greater Dayton Candidates Forum Meet candidates and elected officials running for public office - mayors, city/village officials, school boards, judges and more.

Sponsored by the Home Builders Association of Dayton, this event is free and open to the public.

Location: Dayton Convention Center Address: 22 E 5th Street, 45402 Time: 3:00 PM - 5:00 PM Admission: Free Web: www.OVABC.org

Location: Omega Baptist Church Address: 1821 Emerson Ave, 45406 Time: 6:00 PM Admission: Free Web: www.PAC.ClarkState.edu

October 21, 2017 Central State University Vs. Fort Valley State University Come out and support the Central State University Marauders as the welcome the Fort Valley State University Wildcats to McPherson Stadium. This is the last home game of the season.

For tickets, call 937-376-6343 or visit the website below.

October 14, 2017 Black Violin in Concert Black Violin blends classic, hip-hop, R&B, and bluegrass music, combined with a DJ and drummer, you have two men who have changed music as you hear it. Check them out for one-night only. For tickets or for more information, visit the website below.

Location: McPherson Stadium Address: 1400 Brush Row Rd., 45384 Time: 1:00 PM Admission: $15 Web: www.CentralState.UniversityTickets.com

Location: Kuss Auditorium at Clark State Performing Arts Center Address: 300 S. Fountain Ave., 45506 Time: 8:00 PM Admission: Call for prices.

Web: www.PAC.ClarkState.edu

October 29, 2017 Greater Allen A.M.E. Church - 125th Anniversary Come out and celebrate the 125th Church Anniversary of Greater Allen A.M.E. Morning worship service starts at 10:45 AM, with a special luncheon to follow at 1:30 PM. To RSVP, call 937-9038508.

October 16, 2017 UpDayton Candidates Forum Join UpDayton, the YWCA Dayton and the Dayton Daily News for a special forum featuring candidates running for the Board of Education. This event is free and open to the public.

For more information, call 937-681-9793.

Location: Greater Allen A.M.E. Church Address: 1620 W Fifth St, 45402 Time: 10:45 AM (Worship Service) 1:30 PM (Luncheon) Admission: $20 (Suggested Lunch Donation) Web: www.Facebook.com/GreaterAllenAMEDaytonOh

Location: Dayton Metro Library - Main Branch Address: 215 E Third St, 45402 Time: 5:30 PM - 8:00 PM Admission: Free Web: www.UpDayton.org

November 7, 2017 Election Day Get up early and cast your vote! There are several important races taking place in Dayton, so make it a day ON, not a day OFF! For more information about candidates, issues and polling locations, visit the website below or call 937-225-5656.

October 18, 2017 2017 Workplace Diversity & Inclusion Forum The Dayton Area Chamber of Commerce will host a Workplace Diversity & Inclusion Forum at the Sinclair Conference Center. A series of workshops will be held throughout the day including a keynote presentation from Mel Jones, National Director of Diversity & Inclusion for Skanska USA. For more information call 937-226-8258.

Location: Various Address: Various Time: 6:30 AM - 7:30 PM Admission: Free Web: www.MCBOE.org

Location: Sinclair Conference Center Address: 301 W Fourth Street, 45402 Time: 8:00 AM - 1:30 PM Admission: $50 (Members), $75 (Non-Members) Web: www.DaytonChamber.org

Please note: Information for this section is gathered from multiple commnuity sources. The Columbus & Dayton African American is not responsible for the accuracy and content of information. Times, dates and locations are subject to change. If you have an event that you would like to feature in this section, please call 614-826-2254 or email us at editor@columbusafricanamerican.com. Submissions are due the last Friday of each month.

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The Columbus African American News Journal • February 2015

VOTE NO ON ISSUE 2.

“Two out of three Ohioans get left out.”

—Rey Thurston, Columbus, OH

✖ TWO OUT OF THREE OHIOANS GET LEFT OUT Issue 2 could increase costs for two out of three Ohioans, including those with private or employer-based coverage and those who rely on Medicare.1

✖ HIGHER DRUG COSTS Experts say Issue 2 could increase drug costs for our most vulnerable citizens, which is why former Medicaid directors and organizations representing children’s hospitals, pediatricians, and obstetricians are opposed to it.2

✖ INCREASED COSTS FOR VETERANS Veterans who get their prescriptions through the Department of Veterans Affairs could face higher drug costs.3

✖ FUNDED BY OUT-OF-STATE CEO Issue 2 is being promoted by a billion-dollar Californiabased organization that makes 80% of its revenue selling prescription drugs.4

On November 7, Vote NO on Issue 2.

NoOnIssue2.org

Get the Facts: 1. Corcoran et al., “Analysis of Proposed Ohio Initiated Statute,” p. 1.; 2. Corcoran et al., “Analysis of Proposed Ohio Initiated Statute,” p. 25.; 3. California Legislature Joint Committee on Rules, Letter to Bell, McAndrews and Hiltachk and attached “VHA Issue Brief,” August 19, 2016.; 4. AHF Audited Consolidated Financial Statement and Supplementary Information, Years Ended Dec. 31, 2015 and 2014, with Report of Independent Auditors, http://www.aidshealth.org/wpcontent/uploads/2016/05/AIDS-Healthcare-FS-2015_FINAL-3.pdf, p. 4 Paid for by Ohioans Against the Deceptive Rx Ballot Issue Disclaimer goes here.

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The Columbus African American News Journal • February 2015