Ross and Cheryl Love are two of 357 nationally, but in Cincinnati, they are one in a million.

        The Loves, of Clifton, have pledged $1 million to the United Way of Cincinnati, payable over five years, the group announced Friday.

Ross Love

        They are the first African-American couple in Cincinnati to donate $1 million. In fact, only two African-Americans have donated that much to United Ways across the nation, said Carol Aquino, a spokeswoman for the United Way.

        The Loves join four families and groups in donating $1 million locally: John and Francie Pepper, Dick and Joyce Farmer, Harry and Linda Fath and the HCS Foundation.

        “This generous donation places the Loves in United Way of America's National Million Dollar Roundtable,” said David L. Calhoun, president and CEO of GE Aircraft Engines and the 2002 general United Way campaign chairman.

        “It was a fairly easy decision to make,” Mr. Love said Friday. “My wife and I have been blessed in many ways. This is one way we can help the people of Greater Cincinnati.”

        Mr. Love, president, CEO and owner of Blue Chip Enterprises in Roselawn, said he feels strongly that the United Way offers one of the best vehicles to support programs in the urban core.

        Mrs. Love said, “It is our hope that our gift encourages others in the African-American community to participate.”

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