Politicians' donations

Former House Speaker Jim Black gave $5,500 to the N.C. Legislative Black Caucus Foundation between 1995 and 2005.

The Mecklenburg Democrat gave annual donations of between $500 and $1,000 to the nonprofit during those years, according to campaign finance records.

Other politicians whose campaign committees reported giving money to the caucus foundation include Gov. Mike Easley, Treasurer Richard Moore, Insurance Commissioner Jim Long and Huntersville Rep. Drew Saunders, all Democrats.

Easley's $500 donations in 2001 and 2002 and Moore's $500 donations in 2001 and 2003 are listed as "sponsorship" or "event tickets," most likely for the group's annual banquet. Long's $500 donation in 2003, Saunders' two $500 donations in 2006 and Black's donations are listed as "contributions."

Lt. Gov. Beverly Perdue listed an $80 donation in 2000 and a $25 donation in 2005, both for event tickets.