Mayor Bell's parents featured in AARP Ohio documentary

Toledo Mayor Mike Bell's parents, Norman and Ora Bell, are featured in a new audio documentary about the wisdom and experiences of older African-Americans in Ohio produced by AARP.

The Bells are among more than 20 blacks interviewed for the project, titled "Everyday People, Exceptional Lives: The Inspiration and Wisdom of African-Americans 50+."

In the documentary, Norman Bell, a long-time AARP Ohio volunteer leader, talks about honoring those who helped you in your life by trying to help others. The couple also share their thoughts on the importance of family, marriage, and a joint commitment to giving back.

The two-part documentary is narrated by Samuel Gresham, Jr., a member of the Executive Council for AARP Ohio.

"Even in this vastness of our country, those little bitty stories, believe it or not, encourage other people to try harder, to think differently, and dream what they can be," Mr. Gresham said in a statement. "How a husband and a wife struggle. How a man who carried a bag for a doctor became a doctor. How a man who was a banker made a contribution to the literacy of people in his community. These stories matter. AARP members change lives."

Both hours are available for listening or to download from the AARP Ohio Web page http://www.aarp.org/giving-back/volunteering/info-11-2011/listens-and-learns-oh.html.