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Calhoun, John and Minority Issues
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1112975
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Calhoun, John and Minority Issues
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Foster Chanock Files
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African Americans
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The original documents are located in Box 1, folder "Calhoun, John and Minority Issues" of the Foster Chanock Files at the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library. Copyright Notice The copyright law of the United States (Title 17, United States Code) governs the making of photocopies or other reproductions of copyrighted material. Gerald R. Ford donated to the United States of America his copyrights in all of his unpublished writings in National Archives collections. Works prepared by U.S. Government employees as part of their official duties are in the public domain. The copyrights to materials written by other individuals or organizations are presumed to remain with them. If you think any of the information displayed in the PDF is subject to a valid copyright claim, please contact the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library. Digitized from Box 1 of the Foster Chanock Files at the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE January 21, 1976 Press Contact: 202/456-2507 OFFICE OF PUBLIC LIAISON LISTRY THE WHITE HOUSE STATE OF THE UNION SPEECH INCLUDES TOP MINORITY ISSUES President Ford, in his State of the Union Message, dealt with a number of issues of critical concern to the Nation's Black citizens. Appearing before a joint session of the 94th Congress, the President appealed for action in such areas as the economy, job creation and employment, crime control, tax cuts, health care improvements and aid to the unemployed and elderly. John Calhoun, Special Assistant to President Ford, said that the President's "down to earth" speech covered a broad area of issues that will be further explained in the new Federal budget. Throughout his address, President Ford proposed recommendations on subjects like energy, housing assistance and child nutrition -- subjects which bear directly on the lives of all the country's citizens, especially its minorities and poor. Basic to overall progress across the Nation is the general State of the Union. Monday night, the President declared: (more) -2- "Just a year ago, I reported that the State of the Union was not good. Tonight I report that the State of the Union is better -- in many ways a lot better -- but still not good enough." Characterizing the American economy as "well on the way to recovery from the deepest recession since the 1930's", the President outlined policies designed to keep the economy on an upward path toward two central long-term objectives: (1) sustained economic growth without inflation, and, (2) jobs for all who seek work. An improving economy is often the key factor in the determination or disposition of countless programs of major importance to Blacks. As one economist has put it, "When the general economy catches the sniffles, specific but worthwhile programs may come down with pneumonia." To further bolster the economy, the President called on Congress to reduce Federal taxes and curb Government spending and to work toward a balanced budget in Fiscal Year 1979. In job creation and unemployment, the President pointed out that 85.5 million Americans were at work in December, 1.7 million more than at the low point in March, 1975. He reported on measures to deal with unemployment, then proposed four new programs to promote additional investment and create new jobs, including one to imme- diately benefit the construction industry -- one of the most depressed industries in the economy. (more) -4- consistency among program requirements, greater equity among recipients, preserved and strengthened work incentives, and targeting on those with greatest need. In urging a "new realism" that is true to the great principles on which our Nation is founded, the President underscored his faith in the common sense of the country's people and their representatives. "In all that we do," he declared, "we must be more honest with the American people, promising them no more than we can deliver and delivering all that we promise." # # # NEWSLETTER #2 March 26, 1976 LISSARY MINORITY NEIGHBORHOODS have been allocated $1. 425 billion of the $2. 5 billion in funds for black-grant programs authorized by the Housing and Community Development Act of 1974, HUD reports. The funds are committed to about 2900 communities. * * * NATIONAL INSURANCE ASSOCIATION given the green light by the Administration to sponsor a Minority Enterprise Small Business Investment Company (MESBIC), has high hopes for aiding minority business firms, according to NIA President I. H. Burney, II. * * * NATIONAL TEACHER OF THE YEAR Mrs. Ruby S. Murchison of Fayetteville, N. C was warmly praised by President Ford at White House ceremonies honoring her as 1976 Teacher of the Year. Her credo- "I don't teach subjects I teach children" drew an enthusiastic reply from the President. "I think that's really what education is all about", the President told the Black seventh-grade teacher. * * * MODEL FOR ANY SCHOOL SYSTEM? A new program to introduce the study of ethnic materials into school cirricula, developed by the Museum of African Art in the Nation's Capital, could serve as a model for any school system, Museum officials say. In a project considered to be the first of its kind, the Museum has initiated in six public elementary schools in Washing- ton, D.C. an arts-in-education program disigned to promote a better understanding of African art and culture. "African Heritage Month", (more) NEWSLETTER #2 CONTINUED -2- made possible by grants from the National Endowment for the Arts and the D.C. Commission on the Arts and Humanities, is an intensive four-week program utilizing slides, films, craft workshops, museum visits and discussion demonstrations. The Museum's Ethnic Heritage Kit of slide/tape presentations, developed under a grant from the U.S. Office of Education, is a major resource for the project. * * * SUMMER FOOD SERVICE PROGRAM FOR CHILDREN provides free meals to needy children during summer and vacation periods when school breakfasts and lunches are not available. The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has published two handbooks for potential sponsors for this year's program. Contact your State department of education or write to the Child Nutrition Division, Food and Nutrition Service, USDA, Washington, D.C. 20250. * * * FORMER CONSUMER PRODUCT SAFETY COMMISSIONER Connie Newman has been sworn in as Assistant Secretary of HUD for Consumer Affairs and Regulatory Functions. Her husband, D.C. Superior Court Judge Theodore Newman administered the oath. * * * MOVING ON UP Three Black military officers have been nominated by the President for the rank of major general and a Black naval officer has been nominated for the rank of rear admiral. According to Pentagon officials, there are 18 active Black generals in the Army (this is what Jet says, but it could be Armed Forces, to include the Air Force; we need to check this with Minton) and three Navy rear admirals. (more) NEWSLETTER #2 CONTINUED -3- BLACK NUL OFFICIAL NAMED Dr. Joan E. Wallace, deputy executive director of the National Urban League, has been named to the Federal Advisory Committee for Higher Education Equal Employment Opportunity Programs. The Committee provides two Federal Departments, HEW and Labor, with continuing advice and recommendations on equal employment matters at institutions of higher education. * * * EEO OFFICIAL HONORED Velma M. Strode, director of the U.S. Department of Labor's Office of Equal Opportunity, received an award at the recent banquet of the Conference of Minority Public Administrators. The award cited Mrs. Strode "for outstanding efforts to promote hiring and career advancement of minority administrators. " Floyd McKissick, president, The Soul City Company, presented the awards. * * * THE WHITE HOUSE has approved the appointment of former D.C. City Councilwoman Toni Ford as Deputy Director of the Federal Contract Compliance Office at the Department of Labor. Mrs. Ford was sworn in along with the new OFCC Director Lawrence Lorber, in ceremonies at the DOL auditorium. Also President Ford has named two Blacks to the National Advisory Council on Economic Opportunity. Named to a two year term was Hershel R Cannon of Phoenix, Ariz. Leroy Tombs of Boner Springs, Kansas was named for a term expiring Sept. 22, 1976. * * * (more) NEWSLETTER #2 CONTINUED -4- DR. JAMES R. COWAN was called to the Oval Office by President Gerald Ford to receive personal thanks for outstand- ing service while serving as the highest ranking Black ever to be appointed within the Defense Department. Dr. Cowan served for two years as Assistant Secretary of Defense for Health and Environment, a post he left to become senior vice- president of Blue Cross-Blue Shield in New York. * * * ADMINISTRATION STEPS UP ATTACK ON DRUGS The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) has announced that it has smashed a massive drug ring smuggling heroin into this country from Thailand. DEA Administrator Peter Bensinger told a press conference 11 people were arrested early in a coordinated operation. Three other members of the smuggling ring, based in Greensboro, North Carolina, are already serving prison terms for drug offenses, he added. The indictment said over a 14 month period, from August, 1974, to October, last year, the ring had smuggled more than 100 kilograms of virtually pure heroin. # # # [April 1976] NEWSLETTER #3 FORD COMMITMENT TO EQUAL OPPORTUNITY In signing on March 23 a bill expanding the Equal Credit Opportunity Act, President Ford hailed it as "a major step forward in assuring equal opportunity in our country. 11 H. R. 6516 amends the Act, which prohibits discrimination on the basis of sex or marital status, to bar creditor discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion or national origin. The President, in signing this important piece of Administration-supported legislation, reiterated that "This Administration is committed to the goal of equal opportunity in all aspects of our society.' " * USERY UNDERSCORES COMMITMENT W.J. Usery, Jr. whom President Ford recently appointed Secretary of Labor, is "determined to do what I can to make the freedom of opportunity more accessible to all Americans of all races and creeds from both sexes. " The Cabinet member made his declaration at the swearing in of Lawrence Z. Lorber as director and W. Antoinette Ford as deputy director of the Labor Department's Office of Federal Contract Compliance Programs (OFCCP), which adminis- ters laws requiring firms with federal contracts to provide equal employment opportunity to minorities, women, the handicapped and Viet Nam-era veterans. Ford, who is Black, is a former member of the District of Columbia City Council, a former White House Fellow and an ex-contract officer for the Department of Commerce's Office of Minority Business Enterprise (OMBE). * * * APPOINTMENTS The President has appointed W. Beverly Carter, Jr. of Philadelphia to be Ambassador to Liberia. Carter has been Special Assistant to the Assistant Secretary for African Affairs at the State Department since 1975. Carter, onetime publisher of the Pittsburgh Courier, also had served as Ambassador to the United Republic of Tanzania Jazz great Lionel Hampton has been named director of special events for Black citizens in President Ford's campaign. A lifelong Republican, "Hamp" will have nationwide campaign responsibilities among civic, social, frateranal and entertainment groups. * (more) -2- LAUDS LAND GRANT COLLEGES The 1890 land grant colleges will continue to have a unique educational and cultural responsibility in the Black community, a Department of Agri- culture official said in a recent speech at Alabama A&M. "These people's colleges have provided the opportunity for a college education to many first-generation college graduates. Black colleges still graduate annually a significant number of all Black college graduates in the country. Because leadership is not born -- but made, the 1890 land grant colleges have a vital role to play for the future, 11 Deputy Assistant Secretary for Rural Development James Bostic stressed. * * * PRESIDENTIAL PROCLAMATIONS For single copies of the President's Proclamation on Black History Month, drop a line to John Calhoun, Special Assistant to the President, at the White House. Also available is the Presidential Message on the 200th Anniversary of the Revolution. Presidential Assistant Calhoun, who took the "pro" side in a "Black Journal" debate on "Should Blacks Participate in the Bicentennial Celebration?", reports a flood of approving letters, telegrams and calls from Blacks across the Nation. # # # NEWSLETTER #4 April 8, 1976 BLACK WOMAN NEW FOOD STAMP DIRECTOR Mrs. Nancy Snyder, an experienced government executive, has been named director of the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Food Stamp Division. The GS-16 position pays $37,500 a year. Since 1973, Mrs. Snyder has served in the U.S. Department of Labor as associate director for coal mine workers programs. * * * BLACK MAN NAMED DIRECTOR OF COMMUNICATIONS AT COMMERCE Horace S. Webb, who has served as deputy director of communications at the U.S. Department of Commerce since July, 1975, has been elevated to director, Secretary of Commerce Elliot L. Richardson announced. Webb, a native of Langston, Okla. and Howard University graduate, will be respon- sible for the Department's overall communications effort with the media and the public as well as supervising public information activities of the 15 bureaus and offices within the Department. * * * A FIRST IN THE SIGNAL CORPS With his promotion to brigadier general, an up-from-the-ranks Army careerman became the first Black general officer in the 116-year existence of the U.S. Army Signal Corps. Brigadier General Emmett Paige Jr., a Florida native, will leave Fort Huachuca, Ariz. to take command of two major subcommands at Ft. Monmouth, N.J. Paige commanded the 11th Signal Group for 15 months. * * * (more) -2- THIRTY MILLION DOLLARS TO URBAN LEAGUE During the period 1970-72, the National Urban League had grants and contracts from many Departments of the Federal Government totalling approximately 30 million dollars, according to a report in the March, 1976 issue of the OMDT Journal, an NUL publication. And Emory Jackson, the former director of the Office of Manpower Development and Training (OMdT) has accepted a position at the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) as Special Assistant to the Assistant Secretary of Fair Housing and Opportunity, James H. Blair. * * * TEN MILLION DOLLAR CONTRACT TO TARHEEL FIRM The Fuller Oil Company, a minority-owned firm in Fayetteville, N.C., has been awarded a $10 million contract for the delivery of fuel oil and gasoline to Fort Bragg and Pope Air Force Base. "This is the largest minority business contract ever awarded in this region by the Small Business Administration, " the SBA regional director said at the signing on March 31. * * * UP, UP AND AWAY A Memorandum of Agreement between the Small Business Administration and United Air Lines could result in up to $10 million gross during the first year for minority vendors, officials say. Under the agreement, UAL will use its purchasing power to improve the economic status of minority vendors. The SBA, in turn, will supply both economic and administrative aid to the minority firms. The SBA hopes that as a result of the agreement with UAL, other air carriers and major corporations will increase their dealings with minority firms. * * * SCHOOL VIOLENCE AND VANDALISM A recently-released report's recommendations will be used to plan a special emphasis program to help schools with problems of violence and serious juvenile crime. Violence and vandalism in America's schools is increasing and should be fought from the federal level, the report, commissioned by the Justice Department's Law Enforcement Assistance Administration, recommends. NOTES From the Desk of John Calhoun, Special Assistant to the President The White House, Washington, D.C. 20500 Number One April 15, 1976 NOTES: During the course of the day a number of items cross my desk and I would like to share some of them with you in case you may have missed them. J.C. * * % MINORITY NEIGHBORHOODS have been allocated $1. 425 billion of the $2. 5 billion in funds for block-grant programs authorized by the Housing and Community Development Act of 1974, HUD reports. The funds are committed to about 2900 communities. * * * NATIONAL INSURANCE ASSOCIATION given the green light by the Administration to sponsor a Minority Enterprise Small Business Investment Company (MESBIC), has high hopes for aiding minority business firms, according to NIA President I.H. Burney, II. * * * NATIONAL TEACHER OF THE YEAR Mrs. Ruby S. Murchison of Fayetteville, N.C. was warmly praised by President Ford at White House ceremonies honoring her as 1976 Teacher of the Year. Her credo. "I don't teach subjects; I teach children" drew an enthusiastic reply from the President. "I think that's really what education is all about", the President told the Black seventh-grade teacher. (more) -2- MODEL FOR ANY SCHOOL SYSTEM? A new program to introduce the study of ethnic materials into school cirricula, developed by the Museum of African Art in the Nation's Capital, could serve as a model for any school system, Museum officials say. In a project considered to be the first of its kind, the Museum has initiated in six public elementary schools in Wash- ington, D.C. an arts-in-education program designed to promote a better understanding of African art and culture. "African Heritage Month", made possible by grants from the National Endowment for the Arts and the D.C. Commission on the Arts and Humanities, is an intensive four-week program utilizing slides, films, craft workshops, museum visits and discussion demonstrations. The Museum's Ethnic Heritage Kit of slide/ tape presentations, developed under a grant from the U.S. Office of Education, is a major resource for the project. * * SUMMER FOOD SERVICE PROGRAM FOR CHILDREN provides free meals to needy children during summer and vacation periods when school breakfasts and lunches are not available. The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has published two handbooks for potential sponsors for this year's program. Contact your State Department of Education or write to the Child Nutrition Division, Food and Nutrition Service USDA, Washington, D.C. 20250. * * * FORMER CONSUMER PRODUCT SAFETY COMMISSIONER Connie Newman has been sworn in as Assistant Secretary of HUD for Consumer Affairs and Regulatory Functions. Her husband, D.C. Superior Court Judge Theodore Newman administered the oath. * * * MOVING ON UP Three Black military officers have been nominated by the President for the rank of major general and a Black naval officer has been nominated for the rank of rear admiral. According to Pentagon officials, there (more) -3- are 18 active Black generals in the Army (this is what Jet says, but it could be Armed Forces, to include the Air Force; we need to check this with Minton) and three Navy rear admirals. * * * BLACK NUL OFFICIAL NAMED Dr. Joan E. Wallace, deputy executive director of the National Urban League, has been named to the Federal Advisory Committee for Higher Education Equal Employment Opportunity Programs. The Committee provides two Federal Departments, HEW and Labor, with continuing advice and recommendations on equal employ- ment matters at institutions of higher education. * * THE WHITE HOUSE has approved the appointment of former D.C. City Councilwoman Toni Ford as Deputy Director of the Federal Contract Compliance Office at the Department of Labor. Mrs. Ford was sworn in along with the new OFCC Director Larry Lorber, in cermonies at the DOL auditorium. Also President Ford has named two Blacks to the National Advisory Council on Economic Opportunity. Named to a two year term was Herschell R. Cannon of Phoenix, Ariz. Leroy Tombs of Bonner Springs, Kansas was named for a term expiring Sept. 22, 1976. * * * DR. JAMES R, COWAN was called to the Oval Office by President Gerald Ford to receive personal thanks for outstand- ing service while serving as the highest ranking Black ever to be appointed within the Defense Department. Dr. Cowan served for two years as Assistant Secretary of Defense for Health and Environment, a post he left to become Senior Vice-President of Blue Cross-Blue Shield in New York. (more) -4- ADMINISTRATION STEPS UP ATTACK ON DRUGS The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) has announced that it has smashed a massive drug ring smuggling herion into this country from Thailand. DEA Administrator Peter Bensinger told a press conference eleven people were arrested early in a coordinated operation. Three other members of the smuggling ring, based in Greensboro, N. C., are already serving prison terms for drug offenses, he added. The indictment said over a 14 month period, from August, 1974 to October, last year, the ring had smuggled more than 100 kilo. * * December 12, 1975 GERALD R. MEMORANDUM FOR: JACK CALKINS FORD FROM: JOHN CALHOUN LISRARY In view of Dr. Henry Lucas' recent endorsement of Ronald Reagan, coupled with the fact that Robert J. Keyes was the top Black aide to Ronald Reagan, I think we should discuss the attached letters. Dr. Lucas is on the Republican National Executive Committee and is the head of the Black Republican Council. Attachments bcc: Foster Chanock CALIFORNIA BLACK REPUBLICAN COUNCII NORTHERN OFFICE: SOUTHERN OFFICE: 683 McALLISTER ST. - SAN FRANCISCO, CA. 94102 1443 EDGE CLIFF LANE - PASADENA, CA. 911 Phone: (415) 567-5088 Phone: (213) 847-66 Chairman November 14, 1975 ROBERT KEYES 1st Vice-Chairman Membership JOHN DUKES 2nd Vice-Chairman Education MARY SHAW 3rd Vice-Chairman The Honorable John T. Dunlop Political Affairs Secretary of Labor ELLSWORTH PRYOR Department of Labor Recording Secretary Department of Labor Building MEL BRADLEY Fourteenth Street and Constitution Avenue Treasurer JAMES DAVIS Washington, D. C. 20210 Finance Chairman JIM WOODS, SR. My dear Mr. Secretary: Staff Secretary L.P. LEWIS Recently I was selected by the Chairman of the National Black Republican Council, Dr. Henry Lucas, to be Chairman of the Policy and Resolutions Committee for the National Black Republican Council, with the responsibility of drafting position papers that would reflect the interests and concerns of Black Americans throughout the United States. The NBRC is the only Black recognized auxiliary of the Republican National Committee. My charge, then, is to put together the most discerning reports, utilizing top governmental officials and also the top Black minds in the United States. My purpose in writing you is to secure an appointment during the week of December 8 through the 13th to solicit your thoughts and opinions on the vital subjects of interest to Blacks that relate directly to your area so that our position paper will reflect not only our collective views, but also those of our national admini- stration. Thank you in advance for your consideration. I respectfully await your reply. Sincerely, Robert J. Keyes Chairman RJK:ms cc: Dr. Henry Lucas Mrs. Mary Louise Smith Mr. John Wilks CALIFORNIA BLACK REPUBLICAN COUNCI NORTHERN OFFICE: SOUTHERN OFFICE: 683 McALLISTER ST. - SAN FRANCISCO, CA. 94102 1443 EDGE CLIFF LANE - PASADENA, CA. 911 Phone: (415) 567-5088 Phone: (213) 847-66 November 14, 1975 Chairman ROBERT KEYES 1st Vice-Chairman Membership JOHN DUKES 2nd Vice-Chairman Education MARY SHAW The Honorable Rogers Morton 3rd Vice-Chairman Secretary of Commerce Political Affairs Department of Commerce ELLSWORTH PRYOR Commerce Building Recording Secretary Fourteenth Street between Constitution Avenue MEL BRADLEY and E Street Treasurer JAMES DAVIS Washington, D. C. 20230 Finance Chairman JIM WOODS, SR. My dear Mr. Secretary: Staff Secretary L.P. LEWIS Recently I was selected by the Chairman of the National Black Republican Council, Dr. Henry Lucas, to be Chairman of the Policy and Resolutions Committee for the National Black Republican Council, with the responsibility of drafting position papers that would reflect the interests and concerns of Black Americans throughout the United States. The NBRC is the only Black recognized auxiliary of the Republican National Committee. My charge, then, is to put together the most discerning reports, utilizing top governmental officials and also the top Black minds in the United States. My purpose in writing you is to secure an appointment during the week of December 8 through the 13th to solicit your thoughts and opinions on the vital subjects of interest to Blacks that relate directly to your area so that our position paper will reflect not only our collective views, but also those of our national admini- stration. Thank you in advance for your consideration. I respectfully await your reply. Risk Robert J. Keyes Sincerely, Chairman RJK:ms cc: Dr. Henry Lucas Mrs. Mary Louise Smith Mr. John Wilks CALIFORNIA BLACK REPUBLICAN COUNCII NORTHERN OFFICE: SOUTHERN OFFICE: 683 McALLISTER ST. - SAN FRANCISCO, CA. 94102 1443 EDGE CLIFF LANE - PASADENA, CA. 911 Phone: (415) 567-5088 Phone: (213) 847-66 November 14, 1975 Chairman ROBERT KEYES 1st Vice-Chairman Membership JOHN DUKES 2nd Vice-Chairman Education The Honorable William Coleman MARY SHAW Secretary of Transportation 3rd Vice-Chairman Department of Transportation Political Affairs ELLSWORTH PRYOR 400 Seventh Street, S.W. Washington, D. C. 20590 Recording Secretary MEL BRADLEY Treasurer My dear Mr. Secretary: JAMES DAVIS Finance Chairman Recently I was selected by the Chairman of the National Black JIM WOODS, SR. Republican Council, Dr. Henry Lucas, to be Chairman of the Policy Staff Secretary and Resolutions Committee for the National Black Republican Council, L.P. LEWIS with the responsibility of drafting position papers that would reflect the interests and concerns of Black Americans throughout the United States. The NBRC is the only Black recognized auxiliary of the Republican National Committee. My charge, then, is to put together the most discerning reports, utilizing top governmental officials and also the top Black minds in the United States. My purpose in writing you is to secure an appointment during the week of December 8 through the 13th to solicit your thoughts and opinions on the vital subjects of interest to Blacks that relate directly to your area so that our position paper will reflect not only our collective views, but also those of our national admini- stration. Thank you in advance for your consideration. I respectfully await your reply. Robert J. Keyes Chairman RJK:ms CC: Dr. Henry Lucas Mrs. Mary Louise Smith Mr. John Wilks CALIFORNIA BLACK REPUBLICAN COUNCI NORTHERN OFFICE: SOUTHERN OFFICE: 683 McALLISTER ST. - SAN FRANCISCO, CA. 94102 1443 EDGE CLIFF LANE - PASADENA, CA. 91 Phone: (415) 567-5088 Phone: (213) 847-6 November 14, 1975 Chairman ROBERT KEYES 1st Vice-Chairman Membership JOHN DUKES 2nd Vice-Chairman Education MARY SHAW The Honorable Carla Hill 3rd Vice-Chairman Secretary of Housing and Urban Development Political Affairs Department of Housing and Urban Development ELLSWORTH PRYOR HUD Building Recording Secretary 451 Seventh Street, S.W. MEL BRADLEY Washington, D. C. 20410 Treasurer JAMES DAVIS Finance Chairman My dear Mrs. Secretary: JIM WOODS, SR. Staff Secretary Recently I was selected by the Chairman of the National Black L.P. LEWIS Republican Council, Dr. Henry Lucas, to be Chairman of the Policy and Resolutions Committee for the National Black Republican Council, with the responsibility of drafting position papers that would reflect the interests and concerns of Black Americans throughout the United States. The NBRC is the only Black recognized auxiliary of the Republican National Committee. My charge, then, is to put together the most discerning reports, utilizing top governmental officials and also the top Black minds in the United States. My purpose in writing you is to secure an appointment during the week of December 8 through the 13th to solicit your thoughts and opinions an the vital subjects of interest to Blacks that relate directly to your area so that our position paper will reflect not only our collective views, but also those of our national admini- stration. Thank you in advance for your consideration. I respectfully await your reply. Keyes Chairman RJK:ms cc: Dr. Henry Lucas Mrs. Mary Louise Smith Mr. John Wilks CALIFORNIA BLACK REPUBLICAN COUNCII NORTHERN OFFICE: SOUTHERN OFFICE: 683 McALLISTER ST. - SAN FRANCISCO, CA. 94102 1443 EDGE CLIFF LANE - PASADENA, CA. 911 Phone: (415) 567-5088 Phone: (213) 847-66 November 14, 1975 Chairman ROBERT KEYES 1st Vice-Chairman Membership JOHN DUKES 2nd Vice-Chairman Education MARY SHAW The Honorable Henry Kissinger 3rd Vice-Chairman Secretary of State Political Affairs Department of State ELLSWORTH PRYOR 2201 C Street Recording Secretary Washington, D. C. 20520 MEL BRADLEY Treasurer JAMES DAVIS My dear Mr. Secretary: Finance Chairman JIM WOODS, SR. Recently I was selected by the Chairman of the National Black Staff Secretary Republican Council, Dr. Henry Lucas, to be Chairman of the Policy L.P. LEWIS and Resolutions Committee for the National Black Republican Council, with the responsibility of drafting position papers that would reflect the interests and concerns of Black Americans throughout the United States. The NBRC is the only Black recognized auxiliary of the Republican National Committee. My charge, then, is to put together the most discerning reports, utilizing top governmental officials and also the top Black minds in the United States. My purpose in writing you is to secure an appointment during the week of December 8 through the 13th to solicit your thoughts and opinions on the vital subjects of interest to Blacks that relate directly to your area so that our position paper will reflect not only our collective views, but also those of our national admini- stration. Thank you in advance for your consideration. I respectfully await your reply. Robert J. Keyes Chairman RJK:ms cc: : Dr. Henry Lucas Mrs. Mary Louise Smith Mr. Jonn Wilks CALIFORNIA BLACK REPUBLICAN COUNCI NORTHERN OFFICE: SOUTHERN OFFICE: 683 McALLISTER ST. - SAN FRANCISCO, CA. 94102 1443 EDGE CLIFF LANE - PASADENA, CA. 91 Phone: (415) 567-5088 November 14, 1975 Phone: (213) 847-6 Chairman ROBERT KEYES 1st Vice-Chairman Membership JOHN DUKES 2nd Vice-Chairman Education MARY SHAW The Honorable David Mathews 3rd Vice-Chairman Secretary of Health, Education and Welfare Political Affairs 330 Independence Avenue, S.W. ELLSWORTH PRYOR Washington, D. C. 20201 Recording Secretary MEL BRADLEY My dear Mr. Secretary: Treasurer JAMES DAVIS Finance Chairman Recently I was selected by the Chairman of the National Black JIM WOODS, SR. Republican Council, Dr. Henry Lucas, to be Chairman of the Policy Staff Secretary and Resolutions Committee for the National Black Republican Council, L.P. LEWIS with the responsibility of drafting position papers that would reflect the interests and concerns of Black Americans throughout the United States. The NBRC is the only Black recognized auxiliary of the Republican National Committee. My charge, then, is to put together the most discerning reports, utilizing top governmental officials and also the top Black minds in the United States. My purpose in writing you is to secure an appointment during the week of December 8 through the 13th to solicit your thoughts and opinions on the vital subjects of interest to Blacks that relate directly to your area so that our position paper will reflect not only our collective views, but also those of our national admini- stration. Thank you in advance for your consideration. I respectfully await your reply. Sincerely, Robert J. Keyes Chairman RJK:ms cc: Dr. Henry Lucas Mrs. Mary Louise Smith Mr. John Wilks CALIFORNIA BLACK REPUBLICAN COUNCII NORTHERN OFFICE: SOUTHERN OFFICE: 683 McALLISTER ST. - SAN FRANCISCO, CA. 94102 1443 EDGE CLIFF LANE - PASADENA, CA. 911 Phone: (415) 567-5088 Phone: (213) 847-66 November 14, 1975 Chairman ROBERT KEYES 1st Vice-Chairman Membership JOHN DUKES 2nd Vice-Chairman Education MARY SHAW Mr. Louis F. Laun 3rd Vice-Chairman Acting Director Political Affairs Small Business Administration ELLSWORTH PRYOR 1441 L Street, N.W. Recording Secretary Room 100 MEL BRADLEY Washington, D. C. 20416 Treasurer JAMES DAVIS Dear Mr. Laun: Finance Chairman JIM WOODS, SR. Staff Secretary Recently I was selected by the Chairman of the National Black L.P. LEWIS Republican Council, Dr. Henry Lucas, to be Chairman of the Policy and Resolutions Committee for the National Black Republican Council, with the responsibility of drafting position papers that would reflect the interests and concerns of Black Americans throughout the United States. The NBRC is the only Black recognized auxiliary of the Republican National Committee. My charge, then, is to put together the most discerning reports, utilizing top governmental officials and also the top Black minds in the United States. My purpose in writing you is to secure an appointment during the week of December 8 through the 13th to solicit your thoughts and opinions on the vital subjects of interest to Blacks that relate directly to your area so that our position paper will reflect not only cur collective views, but also those of our national admini- stration. Thank you in advance for your consideration. I respectfully await your reply. Robert J. Keyes Chairman RJK:ms cc: Dr. Henry Lucas Mrs. Mary Louise Smith Mr. John Wilks December 8, 1975 MEMORANDUM FOR: JAMES T. LYNN THROUGH: WILLIAM J. BAROODY, JR. FROM: JOHN CALHOUN The proposed cut in the Department of Commerce Office of Minority Business Enterprise budget of $3.2 million in the FY '77 budget, coupled with the transfer of 10 slots, would have an almost disastrous political impact on the communities of Blacks, Hispanics and other minorities. OMBE is undoubtedly the most popular and visible program started by a Republican Administration geared specifically to minorities. The minority business program is viewed as the single domestic program positively identified within minority communities as a Republican brainchild. Unlike Democratic efforts, 1t is not a handout program but rather an initiative toward self-help and greater participation in the economic system of our Nation. Any budget cut, on the eve of an election, would be tantamount to an admissal of lack of concern and sensitivity and would offset previously made gains in this area among minorities. OMBE has advised that 17 States and the District of Columbia would be adversely affected by a budget cut. (see attachment) There is strong Congressional support within these States for OMBE. I strongly urge careful consideration of the programmatic value and political losses that would be imminent. Attachment BERALD FORD LIBRARY ATTACHMENT Subject: Brief of Factual Data on Minority Business Development Under Executive Orders 11458 and 11625 As you know, Minority Business Enterprise is an area where opinions are plentiful but hard facts are scarce. My ten years of minority business in the U. S. Department of Commerce enables me to provide a distillation of essentials in this important field and to share them with you. Precis In March 1969, The President created OMBE - - To establish, strengthen and preserve minority firms by providing access to markets, finance and expertise. - - To accomplish this goal through an alliance of govern- ment, the private sector and minority business interests. - - To utilize appropriations provide in attachment #1: FY 70--FY 77. (Appropriations - FY 70 thru FY 73 = $198,152,000.) - - To obtain accomplishments supportive of minority business enterprise growth as shown below: FY 70 - FY 1975 106,057 clients served. GERALD *10,932 procurements for $812.8 million. FORD '15,487 packages for $734.4 million. '1,723 start-ups and buyouts. LIBRARY FY 69 - 1975 Grants, bonds, loans & guarantees $3,141,961,167 Direct & subcontracts $1,770,993,223 9,036 8(a) contracts $1,047,425,955 Private procurement_ - FY 72-74 $650 million Aleyeska Pipeline $210 million Attachment #2 furnishes additional details. Voluminous docu- mentation is available at OMBE to support data herein. With your overwhelming schedule, I believe this quick-study presentation AMERICAN REVOLUTION WENTENINAT may be more relevant and useful. 1776-1976 ATTACHMENT GERALD R. FORD PROJECTED DEFUNDINGS LIBRARY While any projections of cuts are somewhat speculative, the cuts projected below are essentially in those whose present funding allocation is above the OMBE average. This is calculated by multiplying minority population by a state's 1980 gross business receipts projections. The projections presume an attempt to maintain equity in service between minority communities within a state. Pennsylvania $400,000 cut would be concentrated on projects in Philadelphia and Pittsburgh areas, oriented largely toward a black constituency. Tennessee $100,000 cut probably from the Memphis area. Senators Baker and Brock have been strong advocates for funding of Tennessee services, as has Representative Harold Ford. Florida $200,000 cut would be likely to mean elimination of two assistance organizations serving predominantly black constituency in the Sanford and Palmetto areas. Service would be ended in large areas of the state. Kansas $100,000 cut could be achieved by eliminating services in Topeka. Senator Dole would, however, be likely to object to such a curtailment of services outside Kansas City. Missouri $100,000 cut would involve reduction of services in either St. Louis or Kansas City. Illinois $100,000 cut would perhaps be achieved by curtailing services in Rockford. Congressman John Anderson represents the area that would suffer by the loss of services. GERALD R. 2. FORD Ohio $200,000 cut could be achieved by reducing services in Cleveland and eliminating program coverage in Canton. Wisconsin $100,000 cut would necessitate elimination of organization in Milwaukee, OMBE's resource commitment to this state would be cut in half. Nebraska $100,000 cut in Nebraska would require elimination of an assistance organization serving Omaha. Congressman John McCollister would be most displeased with such a curtailment of services to his constituents. Oklahoma $100,000 cut would entail elimination of an organization providing construction services in Oklahoma City. Senators Bartlett and Bellmon both could be expected to take a negative view of such service curtailment. Arizona $300,000 cut would entail defunding of two Mexican American organi- zations, a construction organization in Phoenix and a business development organization in Gaudalupe. In addition, one Indian project serving a large part of the state would be likely to be defunded. Senators Goldwater and Fannin as, well as the Arizona!s Congressional delegation, could be expected to be unreceptive to these defundings. New Mexico $200,000 cut would be achieved through defunding of two Mexican American organizations, a construction organization in Albuquerque and a business development organization in Las Cruces. Senator Domenici and Congressman Lujan have both pressed for increased OMBE program activity for New Mexico. Colorado $100,000 cut would result in elimination of organization serving largely Mexican American constituency in the Durango area. California $300,000 in cuts would impact largely on black organizations in the Southern California area Representatives Burke, Corman, Hawkins, Charles Wilson, and Glenn Anderson could be expected to press for reinstatement of funds. 3. Washington $100,000 cut in Seattle would provoke reaction from Senators Jackson and Magnuson, as well as area Congressmen. Massachusetts $200,000 cut in Boston area projects serving a largely black constituency. Note: Senator Brooke has been a strong supporter of minority business activity in Massachusetts. Connecticut $100,000 cut in projects serving the Hispanic community. Opposition could be anticipated from the Congressional delegation and Governor Grasso. District of Columbia $200,000 cut in funding of local projects; would probably generate adverse comment from Washington area media. GERALD R.FORD R FORD THE WHITE HOUSE WASHINGTON February 10, 1976 TO: WHITE HOUSE STAFF FROM: JOHN CALHOUN The attached fact sheet is provided for your information and future reference. February 1976 HIGHLIGHTS OF ADMINISTRATION INITIATIVES IN CIVIL RIGHTS AND RELATED SOCIAL PROGRAMS (NOTE: All years without months refer to fiscal years) A. Civil Rights 1. Total outlays for civil rights activities will increase from $2.9 billion in 1975 to $3.9 billion in 1977. 2. Outlays for civil rights enforcement will grow to $430 million in 1977, an increase of 24% over 1975. 3. In 1977, outlays for equal opportunity in the military services, including the U.S. Coast Guard, will total more than $40 million An additional $19 million will be expended for contract compliance, fair housing and title VI activities B. Equal Employment Opportunity 1. As of November 30, 1974, over one fifth (21%) of Federal employees were from minority groups. Recent surveys have reflected a continuing trend of more minorities in the middle and upper grade and pay levels. 2. Outlays for Federal civil service equal employment opportunity programs (including upward mobility) will increase by 29% in the years, 1975 to 1977, to $188 million. 3. The budgèt of the Equal Employment Opportunity Commis- sion will increase from $56 million in 1975 to $68 million in 1977. 4. Executive Order 11246, as amended, prohibits the practice of discrimination in Federal contracts, sub- contracts, and on federally assisted construction projects. In 1977, Federal agencies responsible for implementing this order will spend $40 million compared to $18.1 million in 1972. Approximately 570,000 new hires and promotions will be effected by such affirma- tive action goals. 2 C. Minority Enterprise 1. Small Business Administration's (SBA) direct and guaranteed loans to minority enterprises have increased from $41.3 million in 1968 to $226 million in 1975. As a part of the Administration's continuing strong support of efforts to expand minority participation in private enterprise, SBA expects to provide over $465 million in loan and loan guarantees to about 8,600 minority enterprises in 1977. 2. The Office of Minority Business Enterprise (OMBE) will continue to provide financial assistance at a level of $50 million to support efforts to create and expand business ownership opportunities for minorities and stimulate private, State and local initiatives in this area. 3. SBA will expand its management assistance program for minority firms by $3 million in 1977. SBA will also increase procurement subsidies by $3 million for minority contractors to facilitate participation the 8 (a) program. 4. Under SBA's 8 (a) procurement program, sole source contracts with minority firms are expected to increase from $322 million in 1975 to $350 million in 1977. 5. 74 Minority Enterprise Small Business Investment Companies (MESBICs) are currently in operation with Federal matching funds of $43 million and private capital investment of $40 million. 6. A combined private sector/Government program has resulted in a substantial increase in the deposits of the Nation's 71 minority-owned banks. These deposits totalled $1.3 billion as of June 30, 1975, compared with $396 million in 31 minority-owned banks at the start of the program, September 30, 1970. D. Educational Opportunities 1. Under the emergency school aid program, Federal aid will be continued to help overcome the effects of minority group isolation in school systems. In 1977, this program is proposed for operation at a requested level of nearly $250 million, including some $35 million for civil rights advisory services. 3 2. About 1.3 million needy college students will receive $1.1 billion in basic education opportunity grants. By the 1977-78 school year, every eligible disadvantaged student will receive up to $1400. 3. In 1977, $110 million will be obligated in order to support the improvement of developing institutions, including Black colleges. 4. In 1977, $1.9 billion will be provided for disadvantaged students at the elmentary and secondary levels. 5. Office of Child Development activities -- primarily in the Head Start Program -- will receive $434 million in 1977 and serve more than 430,000 children. E. Housing 1. Expenditures for the enforcement of laws against dis- crimination in housing will increase to more than $18 million in 1977. 2. An experimental program will carry on its test of the effectiveness of direct cash assistance programs as a means of dealing with the fundamental problem --- inadequate income -- in achieving the goal of a decent home for all Americans. 3. The lower income housing assistance program will con- tinue to provide a more flexible form of housing assistance. In 1977, support will be provided for 400,000 units. F. Health Care Services 1. A $10 billion Financial Assistance for Health Care program will be initiated which consolidates 16 health grant programs including Medicaid, and better targets funds on meeting the health care needs of the low income. 2. Protection against catastrophic health care costs will be provided to the elderly and disabled through Medicare, by limiting an individual's payments to $500 per year for hospital and nursing home care and $250 annually for doctor's fees. 3. Medicare expenditures will increase from $17.4 billion in 1976 to $19.6 billion in 1977, and provide health insurance protection to almost 25 million aged and disabled Americans. 4. 7,000 new community based drug abuse treatment slots will be funded in 1977 to insure adequate treatment capacity for those in need. 4 5. Federal obligations for drug abuse prevention and treatment will be $482 million in 1977, compared to $455 million in 1976. G. Anti-Poverty and Other Social Programs 1. Authorization for the Community Services Administration, formally the Office of Economic Opportunity, has been extended and provision made for increasing State and local involvement in community action programs for the poor through increased non-Federal matching. 2. The Legal Services Corporation has been successfully established as an independent, non-profit private corpora- tion to administer legal services programs for those who cannot afford legal counsel. 3. In 1977, a $2 billion Child Nutrition Reform program will provide more benefits for feeding poor children than under existing programs. By consolidating over- lapping and administratively complex categorical programs, States will be given more flexibility and responsibility in meeting the needs of poor children. 4. The proposed reform of the Food Stamp program would simplify and improve program administration and assure that benefits are targeted towards the poor. A key feature of this reform would provide each par- ticipating household a standard deduction of $100 per month in computing net income, with an additional $25 allowed-for the elderly, to replace the present complex itemized deductions and provide increased benefits to poorer households who currently are not able to afford these deductible items. The Thrifty Food Plan also provides a nutritionally adequate diet for specified sex-age groups of people resulting in higher average food stamp allotments than previously provided. 5. Under the Work Incentive (WIN) program, 175,000 welfare recipients will be placed in unsubsidized jobs. 6. Some 515,000 training and employment opportunities for the disadvantaged and unemployed will be provided under the Comprehensive Employment and Training Act in 1977. THE WHITE HOUSE WASHINGTON March 4, 1976 MEMORANDUM FOR: FOSTER CHANNOCK FROM: JOHN CALHOUN CS It would be a real plus for the Administration to go ahead and appoint Weldon Latham (OMB) to the General Counsel Post at SBA. He could attract a large percentage of the growing numbers of young lawyers, Black and white to our camp for the big race ahead. He has the experience, is very capable, and deserves the opportunity.