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The Truth, Toledo OH, 7 E Bancroft Street, Toledo, OH (2025)

02/03/2025

THIS WEEK'S FRONT PAGE: Boyce Safford III: Leading Revitalization Efforts in Columbus and Beyond

By Robert Smith, AALP
Special to The Truth

Boyce Safford III, a veteran leader in urban development and community revitalization, currently serves as the Executive Director of the Columbus Next Generation Corporation (NexGen). This city-sponsored nonprofit is dedicated to identifying and synthesizing real estate development opportunities to attract private-sector investment in Columbus’s older neighborhoods. NexGen’s mission focuses on incentivizing developers to invest in revitalizing historically significant areas, transforming these communities into thriving hubs of activity and opportunity.

Safford’s dedication to community development was on full display this past July, when he joined former Columbus Mayor Michael B. Coleman and Columbus civic leader Larry James in hosting a delegation of 50 Toledo community members. The group explored Columbus’s successful urban renewal initiatives, including the transformation of the historic King-Lincoln Bronzeville District, once a vibrant African American cultural hub that had faced decades of neglect.

As host, Safford shared insights into the strategies that revitalized the neighborhood, turning a standard bus tour into an inspirational experience for the Toledo group. Through storytelling and shared experiences, he highlighted the parallels between King-Lincoln Bronzeville and Toledo’s Dorr Street Business District, both of which were once thriving African American communities that experienced economic decline.

“Under Boyce’s leadership, Columbus has become a national model for economic development,” according to four -term former Columbus Mayor Michael B. Coleman. “His efforts have elevated our fight against vacant and abandoned housing while initiating transformative neighborhood revitalization projects.”

Read Full Article: https://wordpress.thetruthtoledo.com/index.php/2025/01/30/boyce-safford-iii-leading-revitalization-efforts-in-columbus-and-beyond/

01/24/2025

THIS WEEK'S FRONT PAGE:
Jonathan Dorcely and United Way of Greater Toledo: Connecting Hearts, Minds and Resources for a Better Tomorrow

By Asia Nail
The Truth Reporter

Imagine standing at a crossroads in life, unsure of which path to take. For Jonathan Dorcely, that moment came during the tumultuous days of the COVID-19 pandemic. Laid off like many others in 2020, he was searching for his next step when a door opened: United Way of Greater Toledo. “I’ve always had the desire to be involved with my community and help others, but I wasn’t sure how to do that. United Way came to me at the perfect time in my life,” Dorcely shares.

Today, Dorcely serves as the director of Marketing & Engagement at United Way of Greater Toledo, where his passion for connection and community-building shines. But what does United Way actually do? And why should it matter to you? Let’s explore the story of Mr. Dorcely and this transformative organization that’s been at the heart of our community for over a century.

Read Full Story Online: https://wordpress.thetruthtoledo.com/index.php/2025/01/23/jonathan-dorcely-and-united-way-of-greater-toledo-connecting-hearts-minds-and-resources-for-a-better-tomorrow/

01/22/2025

The Prestige School of Protocol Instructs on Etiquette and Protocol
By Dawn Scotland
The Truth Reporter

Prestige School of Protocol, led by executive director Precious Tate, hosted its Interview Masterclass/Day Camp for teens and girls at the Holiday Inn Express North on Saturday January 11. The event was led by a team of certified etiquette consultants, a school admissions associate director, HR consultants, and PR professionals who helped prepare the students to excel in interviews with confidence and poise.

Tate is a certified etiquette consultant and owner of Prestige School of Protocol. The organization was founded in 2021 and teaches girls and teens from ages seven-16 about etiquette and protocol. The aim is to help young girls navigate an ever-changing market. This is the first year operating the charm school.

“We teach different workshops related to girlhood womanhood and etiquette,” Tate shared, “while we today focused on interviews and professionalism, other events will focus on topics like grooming and hygiene. “

The enrollment period is between October and December for the upcoming year. The program features different workshops year around, typically once a month. The enrollment process is based on the girls’ grades and willingness to commit to the program. While the school does cost there are also scholarships available.

Read Full Article: https://wordpress.thetruthtoledo.com/index.php/2025/01/16/the-prestige-school-of-protocol-teaches-instructs-on-etiquette-and-protocol/

01/21/2025

Brown Legacy Memorial: Leading the Way in Community Collaboration and Aftercare

In the heart of Toledo, Ohio, Brown Legacy Memorial is redefining the funeral service industry by combining tradition with innovation to honor legacies and celebrate lives. As the CEO, Richard Brown, III, brings over 30 years of experience, a commitment to cultural sensitivity, and a profound dedication to serving families with dignity and care.

Brown Legacy Memorial operates from Castillo Funeral Home, at 1757 Tremainsville Road, where Richard served his apprenticeship under the mentorship of John Castillo, a highly respected funeral director in Toledo. Richard credits Mr. Castillo with teaching him the importance of being culturally aware of each family’s uniqueness and personalizing their experience — values that have become cornerstones of Brown Legacy Memorial.

“Working side by side with John, I learned the value of honoring the unique needs of multiple ethnic communities,” Richard reflects. “John’s approach to serving families respectfully and with cultural sensitivity has shaped how I envision funeral services. I am deeply grateful for his mentorship and generosity in allowing me to use space within his funeral home while Brown Legacy Memorial looks to establish its permanent location.”

This partnership demonstrates Richard’s belief in community collaboration and mutual support, which are integral to Brown Legacy’s mission to create a place of comfort and healing for families during life’s most challenging moments.

Read Full Article: http://wordpress.thetruthtoledo.com/index.php/2025/01/16/brown-legacy-memorial-leading-the-way-in-community-collaboration-and-aftercare/

01/21/2025

A Holiday Masquerade Ball

The Truth Staff

Nikola Welcome-Bovell and Toni Battle-Gaines organized a masquerade ball at The Truth Colours Gallery (7 East Bancroft St. in Minority Way Plaza) on Saturday night, December 28. The event featured delicious food, drinks and music by DJ Big Lou, The Mayor.

The ball, said Welcome-Bovell, “was designed for mature people to come together in a space at the end of the year … to have some clen safe fun.”

Part of the celebration included a contest to see who was modeling the best mask; the winner was awarded a painting from the gallery – a piece of art by Welcome-Bovell – as the grand prize.

To rent The Truth Colours Gallery contact Nikola Welcome-Bovell at 347-286-9227.

Visit and Like The Truth Colours Gallery page.

Read Online: http://wordpress.thetruthtoledo.com/index.php/2025/01/16/a-holiday-masquerade-ball/

01/18/2025

Todd McDonald Named Chairman of the National Bankers Association

Special to The Truth

Liberty Bank and Trust proudly announces that its president, Todd McDonald, has been sworn in as the new chairman of the National Bankers Association (NBA), succeeding Robert E. James II, president and CEO of Carver Financial Corporation. This marks another significant leadership transition for the NBA as it continues its mission of protecting and expanding inclusive banking across the nation.

Both Todd and Robert represent a continuation of a remarkable legacy, following in the footsteps of their fathers, Alden J. McDonald, Jr. and Robert E. James, who also served as chairmen of the association. This shared history underscores the deep commitment of these families to advancing the effectiveness of minority depository institutions (MDIs) and fostering financial inclusion for underserved communities.

During his tenure on the NBA board, Todd McDonald has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to the association’s mission, bringing a breadth of experience and a forward-thinking vision for the future of banking. As chairman, he has outlined a bold agenda to strengthen MDIs and drive innovation within the industry.

Read full story: http://wordpress.thetruthtoledo.com/index.php/2025/01/16/todd-mcdonald-named-chairman-of-the-national-bankers-association/

01/17/2025

THIS WEEK’S FRONT PAGE: Troubling the Waters of Injustice in Toledo

By Rev. Donald L. Perryman, Ph.D.
The Truth Contributor

Civil Rights and Justice leaders who utilize disruption as a change strategy are often labeled “radical” or “revolutionary” to silence them by protectors of the status quo. The intent is to force leaders and their organizations into compliance, making them docile, passive and palatable for those in power.

Yet, for Darlene Sweeney Newbern, these labels are not deterrents but badges of honor, reinforcing her commitment to troubling the waters rather than going quietly into the night.

Not to be confused with “reformers,” who operate within the existing system, because it often works to the benefit of the so-called reformer, Newbern seeks to dismantle systems of oppression, tear down what is broken and create space for equity and justice to flourish.

She is a leader who pushes the envelope, refusing to settle for superficial progress. And most of all, she challenges not only systems of oppression but also leadership paradigms that prioritize self-interest over collective liberation or seek justice for a select few rather than for everyone.

As Newbern assumes the reins of the Toledo chapter of the NAACP, she brings a leadership style that is uncompromising, unconformable, unrelenting, and unapologetic in her pursuit of justice.

I caught up with Newbern to discuss what it means for her not only to navigate troubled waters but to actively disrupt them, creating the ripples that lead to systemic change.

Read Full Interview Here: http://wordpress.thetruthtoledo.com/index.php/2025/01/16/troubling-the-waters-of-injustice-in-toledo/

01/13/2025

Kristian Brown’s Path Forward Amid Change at 13abc

By Rev. Donald L. Perryman, Ph.D.
The Truth Contributor

When 13abc announced that Sashem Brey would succeed Diane Larson as co-anchor of the prestigious 5 and 6 p.m. newscasts, Kristian Brown posted a message on her page almost simultaneously:

“2024 was a year to remember. From career milestones to personal growth, graduations, unforgettable moments, and new beginnings. The best is yet to come! Cheers to 2025!”

However, those who know Kristian and have followed her career could sense a suppressed disappointment simmering beneath her words, even though she tried hard to be celebratory and optimistic.

Without question, Sashem Brey (also an ethnic minority) is a highly skilled journalist who has earned her place at the desk. Brey’s professionalism, service and connection with the Toledo viewing audience are well-documented, and her transition from mornings to evenings isn’t without merit. She has held down the number one morning show for over 20 years and, as a mother of young children, understandably has had enough of getting up at 2:00 a.m. each morning for work.

On the other hand, Kristian Brown has been more than just an anchor. For years, she’s been a hometown face of trust and professionalism in media.

Ready full story: https://wordpress.thetruthtoledo.com/index.php/2025/01/09/kristian-browns-path-forward-amid-change-at-13abc/

01/12/2025

The Toledo Club of NANBPWC hosts Cotillion Informational Tea

By Dawn Scotland
The Truth Reporter

The Toledo Club of The National Association of Negro Business Professional Women’s Clubs, Inc. presented 57th Annual Debutante Cotillion Tea at The Indiana Avenue Missionary Baptist Church Fellowship Hall on Sunday December 15.

After a hiatus due the COVID pandemic, the Cotillion is back in full swing – celebrating its resurgence last year in 2024. The event is continuing to grow attracting the best of the area’s youth.

The informational tea introduced the Debutantes, Debs in Waiting and their parents on what to expect through the process including an overview of Cotillion, the waltz rehearsals and talent night.

Read full story online: https://wordpress.thetruthtoledo.com/index.php/2025/01/09/the-toledo-club-of-nanbpwc-hosts-cotillion-informational-tea/

01/12/2025

The Padua Center Annual Kwanzaa Celebration

By Dawn Scotland
The Truth Reporter

The Padua Center held its annual Kwanzaa celebration on Friday, December 27, 2024 at 1416 Nebraska Ave. The cultural festival was open to the community and featured an interactive presentation of Kwanzaa with food and fellowship for all.

Brother Washington Muhammad presented the Nguzo Saba (seven principles) to African drums. The Ngoza Saba includes: Umoja (Unity), Kujichagulia (Self-Determination) , Ujima (Collective Work and Responsibility), Ujamaa (Cooperative Economics), Nia (Purpose), Kuumba (Creativity), and Imani (Faith). Kwanzaa, a cultural celebration, is composed of a Libation Ceremony in honor of ancestors, the lighting of the Kinara, education, family activities and food to share.

Created in 1966 by Maulana Ron Karenga, Kwanzaa is an African American and Pan-African holiday that celebrates history, values, family, community and culture. (source https://nmaahc.si.edu) Kwanzaa lasts for seven days, the day after Christmas until the first of the new year (Dec 26- Jan 1). The colors of Kwanzaa are black (representing the people), red (representing struggle and bloodshed) and green (representing the fertile land of Africa).

About the Padua Center

The Padua Center is located at 1416 Nebraska Ave., Toledo, Ohio. The Kwanzaa Park Neighborhood is bordered by Dorr, Brown, Klondike and Hawley Streets. Members of the Kwanzaa Park Neighbors meet monthly at The Padua Center to investigate ways to work together (Ujima) and improve the neighborhood. The next community meeting is February 6, 2025 at 12:00 p.m at The Padua Center. (During February and March the Kwanzaa Park Neighbors’ meeting is held at 12:00 because of the darkness. Other months the meetings are on the First Thursday of each month at 6:00 pm.)

To learn more about the Padua Center or to volunteer contact 419-241-6465 or visit paduacenter.org.

Read story online: https://wordpress.thetruthtoledo.com/index.php/2025/01/09/the-padua-center-annual-kwanzaa-celebration/

01/11/2025

Kwanzaa at the Doug

By Dawn Scotland
The Truth Reporter

The Frederick Douglass Community Association held its annual Kwanzaa Celebrations at the Doug December 26 – Jan 1. The weeklong celebration featured music, speakers and vendors with the final night culminating in a community celebration of the Karamu.

Created in 1966 by Maulana Ron Karenga, Kwanzaa is an African American and Pan-African holiday that celebrates history, values, family, community and culture. The ideas and concepts of Kwanzaa are expressed in the Swahili language. The seven principles which form its core were drawn from communitarian values found throughout the African continent. (source:nmaahc.si.edu)

Each night the Doug celebrated Kwanzaa with a special celebration beginning at 6pm. Day 1 of the celebration, December 26, kicked-off with the first principle of Kwanzaa: Umoja (unity). Kwanzaa began with a procession into the auditorium led by Bro. Washington Muhammad , the acknowledgement of elders, libation ceremony, lighting of the Kinara, speeches, activities and the opportunity throughout the night to support black vendors at The Doug.

Read full story: https://wordpress.thetruthtoledo.com/index.php/2025/01/09/kwanzaa-at-the-doug/

01/09/2025

THIS WEEK’S FRONT PAGE:
Building Stronger Communities: Transforming Neighborhoods Through Vision and Trust

By Asia Nail
The Truth Reporter

When Shantae Brownlee talks about her work, you can almost hear the hum of construction, the whispers of dreams and the echoes of hope. As the senior vice president for operations and chief financial officer of the Lucas County Land Bank, she’s not just crunching numbers or overseeing demolition crews—she’s shaping the heart of Toledo, one neighborhood at a time.

Brownlee is a bit like a gardener. She nurtures seeds of potential, prunes away decay and watches as communities bloom into healthier, stronger versions of themselves. With over $30 million in grants under her care—the largest budget in the Land Bank’s history—she’s leading projects that range from home renovations to tearing down structures that have outlived their time.

“It’s not just about buildings,” Brownlee explains. “It’s about the lives inside them. Homes are where memories are made, and neighborhoods are the stage where life’s shared stories unfold.”

But how does someone become the kind of leader who sees both the forest and the trees? For Brownlee, it started at home.

Read Full Story: http://wordpress.thetruthtoledo.com/index.php/2025/01/09/building-stronger-communities-transforming-neighborhoods-through-vision-and-trust/

01/07/2025

Debt, Liberation, Justice and Jubilee

By Rev. Donald L. Perryman, Ph.D.
The Truth Contributor

The bi-partisan passage of Ohio House Bill 29, with its transformative amendments from Senate Bill 37, aligns more closely with ancient biblical principles than modern political trends.

Passed in the waning moments of the marathon lame-duck 2024 Ohio legislative session, the bill eliminates debt-related driver’s license suspensions.

While this effort appears like a dry policy change to some, the legislative accomplishment mirrors what biblical scholar Scot McKnight calls a “Jubilee vision – a radical economic reset rooted in liberation and justice.”

Read article online: https://thetruth857632249.wordpress.com/2024/12/30/debt-liberation-justice-and-jubilee/

01/04/2025

Annual Christmas Basket Give Away at Simply D’Vine Boutique

By Dawn Scotland
The Truth Reporter

Terrie Cook, owner of Simply D’Vine Botique and the ladies of Gamma Phi Delta Sorority, Inc. held their annual Christmas basket give away at the boutique Saturday, December 21. Recipients lined outside the store doors before 9am to receive baskets of food including turkeys for the holiday.

The group gave away 50 baskets. Simply D’Vine boutique has hosted the event for 10 years and the with the sorority joining the effort four years ago.

Cook opened Simply D’Vine Boutique in August 2014 and brought to life an idea she had been nurturing for 19 years – a stylish boutique that offers something for every pocketbook and for a variety of tastes.

In addition to girls’ and women’s clothing, Cook also carries men’s apparel – shirts, socks and ties. Men’s suits are available to order. It’s a small tidy shop with an abundance of goods.

Terri Cook and Simply D’Vine Boutique can be reached at 567-455-5940 or by email at [email protected]. You can also view the shop’s products by going to the website or page – Simply D’Vine Boutique.

Read online: http://wordpress.thetruthtoledo.com/index.php/2025/01/02/annual-christmas-basket-give-away-at-simply-dvine-boutique/

01/03/2025

The 13th Annual Christmas Bazaar

Special to The Truth

On a beautiful winter day, the 13th Annual Christmas Bazaar was held on Saturday, December 14, 2024, at St. Clement Hall, Toledo, OH.

The event was hosted by Donnetta Carter, The Social Butterfly Company. There were over 65 vendors and crafters that participated. There were vendors such as Savvy Sista’s Boutique, Delicate Soap, paparazzi Jewelry; products such as Tupperware and handmade wreaths, and many, many others and booths by a number of agencies and offices such as Lucas County Auditor’s Office, Katie Moline.

There were two new food trucks “Better Than Yo Mama’s” and “Tosha Cake Addiction.” And Santa Claus and the Mrs. arrived on their sleigh and distributed treats and took photos with the children and families.

This was one of the highest attendances for the annual Christmas Bazaar with guests in record numbers of 650 plus.

The entertainment provided by DJ Steven Wolfe, F.A.M.E.D Studio dancers, Shawanda Clarke, Founder. Also, in attendance were Toledo City Councilwoman Cerssandra McPherson and newly elected Judge Ken Walz.

The Social Butterfly thanked everyone including the small businesses, sponsors, volunteers, guests and all who supported the annual event. The next scheduled event will be the 14th Annual Business and Health EXPO, Saturday, April 5, 2025, from 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. at the YMCA Wayman D. Palmer, Toledo, OH.

For more information contact Carter via email [email protected] or (419) 367-9765.

Read online: http://wordpress.thetruthtoledo.com/index.php/2025/01/02/the-13th-annual-christmas-bazaar/

01/02/2025

THIS WEEK’S FRONT PAGE:
Bernadette Joy Graham: A Journey of Healing and Heritage

By Asia Nail
The Truth Reporter

Bernadette Joy Graham’s life is a testament to the power of perseverance and purpose. As a licensed professional clinical counselor (LPCC), she has dedicated her career to helping others navigate grief and mental health challenges, drawing from her own deeply personal experiences. Whether through her private practice, her work with the African American Legacy Project, or her powerful writing, Graham continues to inspire and uplift those around her with her unwavering commitment to healing and hope.

Read article online: http://wordpress.thetruthtoledo.com/index.php/2025/01/02/bernadette-joy-graham-a-journey-of-healing-and-heritage/

01/01/2025

Happy New Year from the Sojourner’s Truth Newspaper 🗞️🎊🎈!

01/01/2025

The YWCA of Northwest Ohio Announces 2025 Milestone Honorees

By Dawn Scotland
The Truth Reporter

The YWCA of Northwest Ohio held a press conference Tuesday, December 17 at the Nexxus Health Center announcing its 2025 Milestone Honorees. The upcoming annual event will be celebrating 30 years in 2025 recognizing eight outstanding women in the community who have demonstrated outstanding leadership qualities and contributed to the empowerment of women.

Lisa McDuffie, YWCA President and CEO, announced the 2025 Honorees for the YWCA Milestones: A Tribute to Women Annual Awards Event. “The members of the YWCA and I are honored to recognize these outstanding women with this prestigious award,” said McDuffie. “We invite the community to join us and help pay tribute to this year’s Milestones Honorees.”

The 2025 YWCA of Northwest Ohio Milestone Award Honorees are:

• Jori Lynch Jex – Arts
• Olivia Holden – Business
• Kim Grilliot – Education
• Lisa A. Sobecki – Government
• Kaylee Halko – Sciences
• Alicia M. Smith – Social Services
• Diane Friedman – Volunteerism
• Ebony Carter – Woman on the Rise

The YWCA 30th Annual Milestones: A Tribute to Women Awards will be held at the Glass City Center on Thursday, March 21, 2025 at 11:30 a.m. with program beginning at 12:00 p.m. Event registration will be available in January.

Honoree bios and photos will be made available at www.ywcanwo.org in the coming weeks. The major Milestones 2025 sponsor is KeyBank.

Read article online: http://wordpress.thetruthtoledo.com/index.php/2024/12/24/the-ywca-of-northwest-ohio-announces-2025-milestone-honorees/

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