Jackson Free Press

Nurse Tootie McBride: "As the jobless meter climbs to higher heights, depression, apathy and shame infect the wounds of the people. Life for poor folk in this country is like chewing gum that has lost its flavor. And anxious individuals wait hopefully for a fresh, new stick of gum. And while the good-intentioned gesture of bi-partisanship tries to combat feelings of bitterness, the masses continue to pray and wait for the manna—I mean, money—in the form of stimulus checks to drop from government heaven.

"My great-granddaddy, Pappy McBride, told me that the strength of a chain is in its weakest link. This is a great time to reach back and make our communities, cities, states and country strong again. Everyone must develop the strength to end his or her own petty differences, hateful thoughts and vengeful attitudes. It's time for the strong links to encourage the victimized weaker links to become survivors in challenging times.

"Like baseball legend Hank Aaron, the McBride and Hustle families have stepped up to the plate to form 'The McBride-Hustle Foundation for Displaced People in Depressed Times.' The McBride Hustle Foundation is here to help displaced and laid-off workers on the verge of a financial and mental breakdown in a troubled economy.

"So if you're thinking about breaking into your neighbor's home to steal and pawn the analog-to-digital broadcast converter box, think twice, then call the McBride-Hustle Foundation at 1-800-I-Am-Edgy!"