Defend Warren

Ken MacPherson City Council Bio:2022 Ken MacPherson grew up in the Warren area a short distance away from his current residence and has represented the citizens of Warren’s 5th Ward as Councilman on the SouthEast side from 2018-2021. Ken was elected city-wide Council-At-Large in 2021 and loves the richness, demographic diversity, backbone, and historical charm that the City of Warren has to offer. Ken has a successful career of helping organizations fix and improve institutional processes, his main goal is to modernize and implement technology initiatives across the Ward and City to improve the communication and delivery of critical services to the citizens. Mr. MacPherson’s diverse experience in business, technology, science, community service, and farming, provide a unique perspective to help guide the City of Warren into the future. Mr. MacPherson has a lifetime experience in advanced technology, software development, and business startups. EXPERIENCE: 1. Member of Warren’s Community Development Board (2 years) 2. Consultant to State of Oregon ACA HealthCare Website  3. Consultant to City of Austin, TX – Citizen Portal  4. Consultant to US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Food Safety Portal  5. Consultant to US Depart of Transportation (DoT) Citizens portal 6. Created the City of Cleveland Community Portal 7. Consultant for Suez Canal Water & Sewage System engineering  8. Consultant to GM, McDonalds, and numerous fortune 500 companies  9. Traveled and visited 100s of cities around the World  10. Advisor to Youngstown Oakhill Collaborative (technology outreach)  11. Wife & I manage the Lena Mason Christian Memorial fund to help children  12. Member of UN International Standards Committee (OASIS)  13. Rotary International – Paul Harris Fellow  14. Boy Scouts of America - Eagle Scout  15. Certificate Ohio SERB on Public Sector Fact Finding  16. Engineering & Technology Degree – Case Western Reserve UniversityAny resident of the City of Warren is welcomed to contact Mr MacPherson via email, tweet, call, SMS, or morse code with your ideas, issues, concerns, questions, or complaints. Email: ken@KenMacPherson.com  Phone: (330) 219-3564  Website: http://kenmacpherson.com/  Twitter: @kenmacpherson  Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kenmacpherson/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kmacpherCity of Warren Annexation Policy https://codelibrary.amlegal.com/codes/warren/latest/warren_oh/0-0-0-13282City of Salem annexation policy.https://codelibrary.amlegal.com/codes/salem/latest/salem_oh/0-0-0-16413Article: Annexation and Mayor Sensenbrenner.  The Story of How Columbus Grew to be the Largest City in Ohio. By Alexander Tebbens.https://teachingcleveland.org/annexation-and-mayor-sensenbrenner-the-story-of-how-columbus-grew-to-be-the-largest-city-in-ohio-by-alexander-tebbens/             

We talk about all kinds of things.  Everything from the Warren Raiders 2003 football state title game to his adventures in the woods near his home.He shares his life post high school.  Brandon didn't go to college but worked various full time jobs till he decided to go all in with MDI Studios.Brandon Giovannone,  Warren Born and Raised and A 2003 graduate of Warren Harding. Owner of MDI Studios, a Web Design and Stadium Entertainment company. Celebrating their 10th year in Warren, creating College/Pro stadium video productions and entertainment for NEO Ohio High School Football Stadiums. And it all started at Warren’s own Mollenkopf Stadium!  A strong passion and commitment to be part of the evolving renewed energy of Downtown Warren. MDI Studios has been located on courthouse square for over 6 years!Happily married to his wife Katie, and father of  2 beautiful daughters! Brandon looks forward to continue his drive to defend warren by creating inspiring video productions of Warren, Warren City Schools, and Downtown for years to come, While growing his stadium entertainment side to more NEO high school stadiums.MDI Studios145 West. Market St.Warren, Ohio 44481330.501.9126www.mdistudios.comwww.downtownwarrenohio.com

Learn what Tom's dream career was and what ended it.Hear how Tom met his wife and how he asked her to marry him.Tom shares his experience with the JFK/Howland rivalry.Hear the struggles Tom had in the jewelry business and the risks he took to grow his business.  He also shares how his father, Thom, got started in the jewlery business.Tom shares his views of downtown Warren over the years.Tom also shares how he got his business, Thom Duma Jewelers, up and running.  Also the vision he had for the store.Thom Duma Jewelers does repairs on site. Looking for Rolex.  They have them.https://www.tdfj.com/rolexThom Duma Jewelershttps://www.tdfj.com/(330) 393.4696115 WEST MARKET ST. WARREN, OHIO 44481 Downtown Warren

This episode I have the pleasure of talking with Lana Kontos. ND, LDHS.  She was born and raised in Warren and a graduate of Warren Western Reserve High School.We talk about life growing up in Warren and she shares memories of Raider - Panther rivalry.This episode is useful for anyone with health issue, especially digestive health and immune system issues or would like a stronger immune system.Lana is  a Board-certified naturopathic doctor.  Trained and certified diet and lifestyle intervention practitioner and a digestive health specialist.Get board – certified naturopathic doctor Lana Kontos’ gift to you - “The 5 Things Most People Don’t Know About Weight Loss, Boosting Immune Health and Avoiding Mid-Life Symptoms andHow to Help Protect Your Family from Colds, the Flu and Viruses!” And learn more about her affordable programs for weight loss, immune health, acid reflux and helping college students and senior citizens stay healthy as well as her signature talk …“The 4 things you can do to boost your immune system in minutes a day and the 3 questions you must ask your health care provider before taking a medication or vaccination.” Please visit  her website https://inspiredbywellness.com  to learn more.

Come and listen to the stories of Nick Frankos.  We discuss life growing up on the east side of Warren.  We talk WGH Panther football and the talent that came from Warren.  He shares stories of the Panther/Raider rivalry.  Hear about the egg  throwing story.Nick shares what his plans were, post his U of Cincinnati football career - and it wasn't the BV.We discuss WGH Raider football.Learn how Mr. Frankos (Uncle Nick) got the money to add on to the restaurant - Nick cleared up the story for me.Learn how Uncle Nicks fried chicken came into existence. Of course we discuss Warren business and how to grow Warren as well as some Entrepreneurship.  

This episode we continue to bring business development to the listeners. We cover the Work Opportunity Tax Credit.  Hope this helps!I speak with Mike Lancey who is originally from Los Angeles.  He shares life growing up in LA.  Everything from running on top of the cinder block walls that enclosed the back yards to his humble beginnings growing up with 2 brothers and a sister,  in a very small home.  He also was an early skate boarder - his board had metal wheels.   He also shares some valuable lessons he learned playing high school football.He is now the President and CEO of McKenzie Chase Management, Inc.  based out of Seattle Washington.  They help employers navigate the Work Opportunity Tax Credit.  The WOTC is a specialty that McKenzie Chase specializes in.  The WOTC is not something a CPA firm usually does because it is so specialized.MCM has over 38 years of specialization in employer tax credits, culminating with the creation of the "MCM Program" which is:-WOTC (Work Opportunity Tax Credit- Empowerment Zones- Indian Employment Credits- COVID-19 Payroll Tax Credits and Audits- State and local tax credits and incentives The Work Opportunity Tax Credit is a tax incentive program that motivates employers to hire and retain employees. For every eligible employee you hire, your business can qualify for a tax credit up to $9,600 during the first year of employment. Put our connections and expertise to work for you. Our team is backed by experience, technology and processes unmatched in the industry: ■ Over 30 years of industry experience nationwide ■ A full-support client service culture ■ Customized reporting ■ Integrated and seamless services ■ Affordable pricing with money back guarantee. Mckenzie Chase (MCM) gets you the tax credits you’re entitled to. Employers.... you get all the credit, and MCM does all the work. Michael Lancey, MBA | EA | President & CEOMckenzie Chase Management, Inc. Seattle, WA Office: (206) 547-8277 Toll-free: (866) 547-8277 US Mail: PO Box 30550, Seattle, WA 98113 Fax: (206) 524-7775 Scans: Apps@MckenzieChase.comWeb: https://www.mckenziechase.comAdmin: https://wotc.MckenzieChase.com

Bob is not from Warren but is a Defender of Warren, for sure.  This episode we discuss life growing up on a farm in Hubbard Township.  He went to Hubbard schools and  played football and ran track. After high school he went to Slippery Rock, YSU and graduated from  Kent State.  He is now a realtor with ReMax/Pathway.  We discuss Warren Real Estate and the potential that is here, in Warren.   He has a lot of good things to share about Warren and Warren Real Estate.Bob is married with 2 children who attend Warren JFK, where he is coach.

Emma Brown-Simpson was born and raised in Warren, Ohio.  Emma shares her story of growing up on Willamsburg street and attending Secrest elementary.  She was an excellent student until junior high school.  That's when things changed for her.  She was expelled in the 8th grade and had her first child 10 days before her 17th birthday.  She shares her journey post high school to eventually achieving her bachelors degree.  She worked for Warren City Schools (starting as a basketball coach) for 13 years and spent the last 3 years at Jefferson K-8.  Emma now has her own company called  Naked Seamoss.  www.nakedseamoss.com"Don't be afraid to stand for what you believe, even if it means standing alone..."

Jimmy shares life in Warren as well his adventures living in Florida and Las Vegas.  His ups and downs, successes and failures and how he got into art.   He has had some major accomplishments in the art world as  Berner Co-Founder of Cookies states:  "His art represents the real, his pieces are fire!" https://massacciart.com/James L. Massacci, Jr. is one of the 21st century’s most captivating visual artists. Born and raised in Warren, Ohio, the “Bad Boy of Art” began honing in on his talent in 2007 when he was creating art for his own home. Massacci, the Founder of Massacci Art, is influenced more by hidden stories in society than other artists, resulting in ethereal pieces. The subject matter of his creations are unique and often ornamented with unsettling attributes or thought-provoking phrases. Massacci’s art draws you into surreal moments, juxtaposing pop culture with subliminal messages to create provocative narratives. On both canvas and walls, his artwork can be found in private collections and galleries around the country. Although he has maintained residences in Las Vegas and Florida, he opened his studio and a gallery in Warren, Ohio. It is here that he’s most inspired and can help revive the economy in his hometown. His artwork has been hailed by critics and celebrity collectors, as “Banksy-Esque” and reminiscent of the legendary Andy Warhol. Massacci recently had his most successful exhibit in Los Angeles in September of 2019. He has received praise from fans and gallery owners around the globe. He finds himself most humbled when someone approaches him to share how his artwork has made their life more meaningful and inspired them to start pursuing their passions.Massacci is currently working on his magazine cover series. It includes a 5’ x 4’ canvas covered in vintage TIME magazine covers. Across the center, he spray-painted ‘Never Enough” to reflect that there is truly never enough time. He states of the piece, “It’s inspired by how quickly we grow up, get caught up in the daily grind, and find ourselves aged. Only then do we realize, when we are truly wise, that there was never enough time.” The Massacci family has been long time supporters of the St. Jude Foundation. James continues the tradition, in addition to donating to many other causes, events, and individuals. Massacci believes that helping others doesn’t fall on any particular day of the year, but rather all year long. Giving to those less fortunate than himself has always made him happy. He continues to contribute by setting aside several pieces each year for various organizations that are important to him. In addition to gallery openings and expanding his collections, he has an exhibit backed by a major brand, and it’s scheduled for 2020. Massacci’s brands and his clothing line are slated for appearances on a major network television series this year. 

Kevin Stringer is the Director of Warren City Schools 21st Century Community Learning Centers. He is a long time friend who I met at West Jr.  We discuss all things Warren.  Schools, growing up in the neighborhoods (Kevin grew up in Palmyra Heights), and going to Warren City Schools.  Kevin graduated from Warren Western Reserve in 1990.  Kevin left Warren and decided to come back.  He shares the story of his son Donavon getting cancer and how the residents of Warren as well as people outside of Warren, came together to help him and his family during the trial.  You will hear how good the people in Warren and the people in this area are.  We also share some Mr. Don Fowler and a some Korey Stringer stories.Kevin explains what 21st Century Community Learning Center is and what he does and how beneficial the program is for "struggling" kids.  He shares the strengths of Warren City Schools and what the district offers its students.  Kevin's with 21st Century Community Learning Centers contact number:  330-841-2321 x 7133I want to give a shout out to my first sponsor Impression Media.  I have used them for my business cards, static stickers, stickers and other promotional items. You can contact Mr. Michael Main 330.269.7004  l  Cell + Text 330.503.5199Mike@LeaveYourImpression.comImpression Media, a print and promotions company specializing in print marketing and business signage. Check out our gallery on Instagram - @ImpressionMediaKevin Stringers bio:Kevin Stringer is a life-long resident of Warren, Ohio.  Kevin graduated from Warren Western Reserve High School before attending the University of Virginia and later Kent State University.  After college, Kevin worked as a caregiver for children and adults with special physical, behavioral and developmental needs.  Eventually, Kevin got a job at a local factory where he worked for 12 years.  During that time, he married, had two children and divorced.  After his time in the factory, Kevin pursued his political interests.  His first position was as a precinct committeeman and later he ran for the Warren City School District’s Board of Education.  Kevin served one four year term spending 2 years as the Legislative Liaison, 2 years as Vice President and 1 year as President.  Kevin remarried and gained 2 more children and chose not to stand for reelection.  He worked simultaneously at a psychiatric hospital for children and a Developmental Center for adults with special needs.In 2012, Kevin Stringer was hired as the Program Manager or the 21st Century Community Learning Centers of Warren City Schools.  This program serves students with academic, behavioral and social barriers to school success.  In July, 2017, Kevin was named as a Parent/Family Engagement Coordinator for the Warren City Schools.  Kevin serves on the Trumbull Memorial Health Foundation’s Board of Directors and The Senior Corps Advisory Council of the Mahoning Valley and is a member of the Second Baptist Church.  He enjoys movies, music and poetry and theater.  

Tim Drummond is the owner of Artistics Silk Screening in downtown Warren.  He shares some stories of growing up in Warren until the 6th grade.  He is a graduate of Mathews High School.  Come and listen to his story of quitting GM and starting Artistics.  He shares his ups and downs (including overcoming a fire in his shop/building) and how to make your experience with Artistics as seemless as possible.  If you are looking to start a business, listen to this podcast.Artistics Silk Screening 179 West Market st Warren Ohio 44418330-240-5096      www.artisticsonline.com 

Listen to Mike share his story as why he left Warren and why he came back.  He shares his life growing up on the Southwest side of Warren.  He even shares how he met Shawn (Puff Daddy, P Diddy) Combs and was offered an internship with Combs.Michael Engram is a 96’ graduate of Warren G. Harding High School. After graduation, Michael had the opportunity to study at Sawyer School for Hospitality, Bethune Cookman University for Business, and Oral Roberts University for in Business and Divinity. During his studies, he earned the opportunity to work multiple disciplines for the Walt Disney World Company in Orlando, Florida and later helped launch a nonprofit in NJ for inner city boys. In 2013, Michael moved back to the Continental US from Hawaii to make a positive difference in his hometown of Warren, OH to launch Game Changers. As Executive Coach, his goal was and continues to be, to create extraordinary leadership platforms for student athletes which will help positively impact their future.  In just over five years, Game Changers has had the amazing opportunity to impact the lives of over 4,400 students nationwide. He attributes his foundation to his Faith, Family, and Football. As Game Changers celebrates its sixth year, Michael continues to personally invest in helping to mentor and provide leadership to student athletes in the local community. In as much, Michael has had the recent honor from his college alma-mater Bethune-Cookman University to receive the 40 under 40 award for his commitment to service; Game Changer Award from 2Deep Entertainment and the City of Youngstown, and as of recent— the 2019 Healthy Hero Recipient of the National African American Male Wellness Initiative. Coach Engram continues to make an indelible mark in the lives of the young people he comes across. Game Changers is not focused on the athlete you see, but the person that athlete wants to be! 

Greg is a graduate LaBrae High School and of Youngstown State University.  Listen to stories of growing up in Leavittsburg/Warren and the shananigans he and his friends did, like build a wrestling ring from materials found in the aftermath of the 1985 tornadao in Newton Falls. He shares the story of how he got his comic book store going and how he has grown it to what it is today.  We talk a little music as well. Kiss fans don't be too hurt.  Greg was also on Warren City Council as the representative of the 4th Ward (downtown).  He served two terms 2012-2015.  Lastly we have a very candid converstation about the economy of Warren. Greg was also on Warren City Council as the representative of the 4th Ward (downtown).  He served two terms 2012-2015.  JFK grads - we still love you!You can visit All American Cards and Comics at 161 W. Market St.  Downtown Warren.(330) 393-3137

Bob LaRicca, Former Head Coach at Warren Western Reserve and Warren Harding for 17 years.  He graduated from Niles McKinley in 1964 and Youngstown State University in 1968.His record is 296 wins an 103 losses.  His accomplishments include:46 game regular season winning streak11 conference championships6 district championships 1982, 1983, 1987, 1989, 1991, 19953 regional finals 1989, 1991, 1995State final four 1989Ohio "Coach of the Year' in 1983Head Coach of Northern Ohio State All Star game in 1993Head Coach of the Ohio Team vs. Kentucky All Star Game 1995Assistant Coach Youngstown Pride, World Champions 1990Warren Sports Hall of FameTrumbull County Sports Hall of FameTrumbull County Italian Sports Hall of FameCurrently teaches basketball at the Trumbull Basketball School located at the Niles Wellness Center where he gives lessons and camps which stress fundamentals, shooting, ball handling and understanding the game.

I break out of the mission statement for the show, which I can do. :)  I interview Lexi Mager.  Listen to her stories from being born in Russia and was put into an orphange till the age of 6.  She was put into an orphange because of a "disability".  She was adopted by a local family and brought to America, not speaking a word of english.  She graduated from Champion High School and is now a personal trainer.  She shares what it takes to do a figure competition.  Everything from diet and exercise to the proper mindset.  "Don't let people define you" - Lexi Mager.

This episode stars Erik and Stacy Hoover of Cockeye Bbq.  Listen to their story of how they started Cockeye and why they picked the location they did.  They have quickly become a staple on the west side of Warren and a name in the BBQ game in northeast Ohio, western PA and in my humble opinion east of the Mississippi.  Hey, they even have customers in Germany.  Erik and Stacy are invested, literally, in Warren and are a welcome addition to the West Side of Warren.Cockeye BbqAddress: 1805 Parkman Rd NW, Warren, US 44485-1743Phone: 330.369.4227https://www.cockeyebbq.com/

In this episode we chat with Meghan Reed, Director of the Trumbull County Historical Society.  She shares her experiences growing up in Pittsburgh and her move to Warren. As well as getting involved.Meghan was born and raised in Pittsburgh, PA and graduated from Mt. Lebanon High School in 2008.  She got her BA in History and English from Washington and Jefferson College and a Master from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro in Museum Studies.Along with being the Director of Trumbull County Historical Society for the past 5 1/2 years she is also the current President of WD Packard Foundation.Meghan resides in Warren.Trumbull County Historical Society303 Monroe Street, Warren, OH 44483Mailing Address: PO Box 1907, Warren, OH 44482 www.trumbullcountyhistory.org330-394-4653

Mr. Scott is a positive influence in Warren and a creative genius. He is an entrepreneur and an all around kind soul.  It is a priviledge to call him a friend.  Please visit his website www.thed5group.com

Jim Fogarty is the President and Chief Content Creator at the 2 Ticks & The Dog Productions, Inc., the award winning video production company and media agency founded over twenty ago in Warren, Ohio and currently located downtown on Courthouse Square.  When he's not producing video content or leading media campaigns for his clients, he's proud to have served his community in various capacities for over two decades as an outspoken activist, arts educator and motivational speaker. Jim has volunteered with several non-profits including as the former marketing chair for both the John F. Kennedy Center for the Arts Any Given Child Warren arts learning initiative with Warren City Schools and The Trumbull Art Gallery, as well as past President for both the non-profit  W.D. Packard Foundation, and the W.D. Packard Park and Music Hall board of Trustees .  He currently serves on Kent State University's Trumbull Theater advisory board . His podcast, The ProdCast will enter its third season this summer of 2021 and has listeners in all fifty states and over forty countries worldwide.  The ProdCast is available on all major podcasting platforms or can be found at www.TheProdcast.net. 2 Ticks & The Dog Productions, Inc.197 West Market Street (Suite 201)Warren, Ohio 44481(330) 720-7560http://www.2ticksandthedog.com/

Matt Martin, Executive Director of Trumbull Neighborhood Partnership and Shawn Carvin Director of the Trumbull County Land Bank.  The amount of work that TNP has  done and is doing is amazing.   Everything from tackling blight, from organizing the Farmers Market, to addressing the issue of food desserts.   Come and here how and what they do.  There will be a part 2 because we couldn't cover nearly enough in one episode.Matt Martin -  has been the Executive Director of Trumbull Neighborhood Partnership (TNP) since its launch in 2010. TNP manages the Trumbull County Land Bank and focuses on housing, food access, and community organizing in Warren, Ohio. A Cleveland native, he has a Bachelor of Arts in Liberal Studies and a Master of Arts in Environmental Studies, both from Cleveland State University’s Levin College of Urban Affairs. He lives in downtown Warren  with his wife and 4 children. Shawn Carvin - is the director of the Trumbull County Land Bank in Warren, Ohio, part of the Trumbull Neighborhood Partnership (TNP), a community development organization focused on the revitalization and empowerment of residents. Shawn volunteers his time to use his talents at a number of community organizations. Prior to his work at TNP, Shawn served in the United States Airforce as a meteorologist. He lives in downtown Warren with his partner and dog!