✨ LIGHTS, CAMERA, ACTION! 🎬
All-In Cincinnati Presents: Empower & Eats TV Show Premiere
Women’s HERstory in the Making!

Be part of a monumental evening as this exclusive event is a celebration of economic mobility, policy change, and the cultural richness that drives our community forward.
All-In Cincinnati premieres Empower & Eats, our exciting new TV show showcasing the voices of Hamilton County entrepreneurs, policymakers, and changemakers.
Get ready to experience:

• Exclusive Screening of Empower & Eats
• Fireside Chat with Featured Entrepreneurs & Policymakers
• Networking & Community Conversations
• Light Bites & Refreshments

REGISTER HERE: www.bit.ly/empowerandeats

📍 Soul Secrets 1434 Vine St, Cincinnati, OH 45202
🗓 March 21, 2025  |  ⏰ 7pm – 9pm

Let’s celebrate Legacy, Leadership, & Liberation during Women’s HERstory Month—honoring the people who are transforming our city!

SPACE IS LIMITED—SECURE YOUR SPOT TODAY!     

🌱 Growing People, Growing Community
Recognizing Our Collective Strength and Amplifying Voices for a Stronger Tomorrow

Real change happens when we uplift the leaders, organizations, and businesses shaping our community. This month, we’re celebrating five dynamic community leaders and six businesses driving impact across industries in Hamilton County.

🔹 Anzora Adkins – A steadfast advocate for neighborhood transformation, Anzora ensures that youth and families in Evanston have the tools and opportunities to thrive.
🔹 Freda Epum – An acclaimed author and artist, Freda weaves powerful narratives on race, illness, and belonging, as seen in her debut memoir, The Gloomy Girl Variety Show.
🔹 Te’Airea Powell – President of the East Westwood Community Council, Te’Airea drives neighborhood growth while balancing roles as a business owner, consultant, and mom.
🔹 Rajani Menon – A dynamic civic engagement leader, Rajani advances inclusive leadership and community-driven solutions at The Women’s Fund of Greater Cincinnati Foundation.
🔹 Venita Turner – A heart transplant survivor turned advocate, Venita founded The Beat Goes On to provide housing support for transplant patients traveling to Cincinnati for life-saving care.

FEATURED BUSINESSES:

🔹 Christina Davis, CEO & Owner, Davis Cookie Collection – Creating sweet memories with handcrafted cookies and inspired recipes.
🔹 Crystal Kendrick, CEO & Owner, The Voice of Your Customer & The Voice of Black Cincinnati – Driving visibility and impact for Black businesses and community initiatives.
🔹 Jennifer Ingram, CEO & Owner, Calibrated Lens – Expanding history’s reach with the Numismatics Noir Coin Card Deck, a curated collection of rare U.S. currency featuring untold Black stories.
🔹 Kisha Johnson, CEO & Owner, The Johnson’s Daycare Center – Nurturing the next generation, providing safe, loving, and empowering care for children and families.
🔹 Shauntel Dobbins, Founder & CEO, FinanciallyU – Providing financial literacy education to equip individuals and families with wealth-building tools.
🔹 Tammie Scott, CEO & Owner, Nostalgia Wine & Jazz Lounge – Bringing nostalgia and joy to Cincinnati with a sophisticated space for music, culture, and connection.

Join us in celebrating these leaders and businesses! Their work strengthens our community and builds a legacy of opportunity for generations to come.

The post All-In Cincinnati presents Empower & Eats to celebrate women’s HERstory appeared first on The Cincinnati Herald .

“Let’s go shopping!” chanted Avondale residents as they stood by the hundreds outside The Country Meat Co. Marketplace’s ribbon cutting ceremony leading to the grand opening of its new grocery store in the Avondale Town Center on February 29. The opening of the long-awaited store was an overwhelming success as customers then filed in one-by-one to shop the Avondale community’s first grocery store in 17 years, a store that is locally owned and operated by Tennell and Chanel Bryant.

The opening had the atmosphere of a celebration as shoppers flooded the attractive new store at 3539 Reading Road, shopped, met the owners and staff, and even had a cup of coffee or hot chocolate at the coffee bar. Shoppers experienced the finest meats, fresh produce, local offerings and homemade meals that reflect the heart of the Avondale and the Greater Cincinnati communities.

The customers were also able to connect with local elected officials, community leaders, grocery vendors and partners, local farmers and food artisans; sample some of the delicious in-house creations and seasonal favorites; and enjoy special discounts on a wide selection of products throughout the store. 

Former City Councilman Wendell Young said he remembers when Avondale had a thriving business district and the importance of a grocery store in the community. When on City Council, Young was a leader in fighting to eradicate food deserts. He pushed for funding to bring a grocery store to Avondale. Young was a featured speaker at the opening because he paved the way for Avondale and other communities to have grocery stores, and not accept being a food desert.

 “Today, we erase Avondale off of the food desert map,” said Cincinnati Vice Mayor Jan-Michele Lemon Kearney who grew up in and still lives in Avondale. A few years ago, she challenged the Avondale Town Center management when they made plans to bring a blood plasma center rather than a grocery store to the shopping center. “I told them what Sandra Jones Mitchell, president of the Avondale Community Council, told me: ‘We are making signs right now to protest any plans for a blood plasma center here.’” Kearney praised Christie Kuhns, president & CEO of the Urban League, and Dr. Monica Mitchell of Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center for providing funding and support to bring in a grocery store.

Reggie Harris, former council member and now Chief of Staff for U.S. Rep. Greg Landsman, pushed for the grocery store when he worked for TCB, and then when he was on City Council. Harris came in from Washington, D.C. for the grand opening. Another key supporter at the opening was Russ Hairston, president of the Avondale Development Corporation. He provided ongoing support and guidance to help the Bryants get to the finish line. “I also have to thank Triversity Construction,” said Kearney. “When there were repairs needed, Triversity’s President Jim Watkins immediately sent contractors to make those repairs.”

“We did it,” said co-owner Tennell Bryant in opening remarks, only to be loudly repeated by the shoppers in the crowd. “We are ending the food desert in Avondale!”    

The store opening is a part of Black History Month,” said shopper Di’Neva Moats, “It is emotional for me, in a right way. We can now get fresher foods here in Avondale.”

Co-owners Tennell and Chanel Bryant, said the Country Meat Co. Marketplace is more than a grocery store—it’s a community hub where fresh, locally sourced ingredients meet a welcoming, vibrant atmosphere. Chanel Bryant added, “We take pride in partnering with local farms to deliver the finest meats, produce, and other essentials. Our mission is simple: offer top-quality products while fostering a sense of togetherness. With a commitment to sustainability and community-driven values, The Country Meat Co. Marketplace provides a place for neighbors to connect and experience ‘City Fresh at its Best.’ ” 

“This has been a long road,” said co-owner Chanel Bryant, “but we are going to be successful and we are going to be great.”

The Bryants have successful experience operating a similar grocery store in Findlay Market in the Over-the-Rhine community near downtown Cincinnati.     

The store serves the Greater Cincinnati area and is open seven days per week from 6:30 a.m. – 8:00 p.m. For more information and to join the mailing list, visit https://thecountrymeatcomarketplace.com

The post Grand Opening of The Country Meat Co. Marketplace draws hundreds appeared first on The Cincinnati Herald .

Contributed by Cincinnati Regional Chamber

On February 27, at its Annual Dinner, the Cincinnati Regional Chamber recognized eight individuals as honorees of its We Are Making Black History campaign. Now in its 7th year, Making Black History highlights Black leaders living and working in our region creating legacies today. These leaders are from diverse backgrounds and professions, united by their commitment to excellence. We Are Making Black History is generously supported by BT Rise and Frost Brown Todd. 

“This year, we proudly celebrate eight remarkable Black leaders whose contributions are shaping the future of our region across the arts, nonprofit, and business sectors,” said Devona Stripling, Director of the Chamber’s WE Excel and Everyone Belongs Here initiatives. “These individuals are leveraging their skills, talents, and passions not only to uplift others but to redefine what an inclusive, thriving community should look like. Their impact is a testament to the power of perseverance, vision, and collection action – proof that when we growth together, we grow stronger.” 

These honorees are trailblazers who continue to break barriers and set new standards of excellence in their respective fields. Their dedication and leadership inspire progress, creating pathways for the next generation and strengthening the vibrancy of our community. 

This year’s We Are Making Black History are: 

• Damian Hoskins | Executive Director at Elementz Cincinnati 
• Kai Lewars | Principal and Founder Kaiker Development and Construction 
• Sheryl Long | City Manager at the City Of Cincinnati 
• Roddell McCullough | Chief Corporate Officer at First Financial Bank 
• David Minor | Director of Worship Arts & Media at Lincoln Heights Missionary Baptist Church 
• Rickell Howard Smith | President & CEO of YWCA Greater Cincinnati 
• Robie K. Suggs | President and CEO of Warsaw Federal Savings and Loan 
• Siobhan Taylor | President & CEO at DePaul Cristo Rey High School

More information about the program and previous honorees can be found here.

The post Cincinnati Regional Chamber honors eight Black leaders for making history appeared first on The Cincinnati Herald .

By Rachel Noerdlinger, RNoerdlinger@actumllc.com

New York, NY – National CARES Mentoring Movement, founded as Essence CARES by its CEO, Susan L. Taylor, best-selling author, renowned journalist and Essence Magazine’s Editor-in-Chief Emerita, will hold its milestone 10th Anniversary For The Love of Our Children Galaat the historic Edison Ballroom in the heart of New York City’s vibrant theater district. Emmy Award-winning and multi-hyphenate entertainer Sherri Shepherd, returns to host the elegant evening of deep intention–to demonstrate that transformation is possible, and we have all we need to secure our precious young.

“As we gather for our 10th Gala, we stand in both deep gratitude–and an even deeper commitment,” shared Susan L. Taylor. “We could not have grown our work and programming without the generosity of those who support us. But with depression and Black child suicide at epidemic levels, our work must not only be sustained, but grown. Our children have to know that we love them and that we are unwilling to lose them.”

The Gala’s esteemed North Star Award will be presented to award-winning actress, producer, and mental health advocate Taraji P. Henson; mentor and philanthropist Tina Knowles; social justice hero, member of NYC’s Council District 9 and the celebrated Exonerated Five, Dr. Yusef Salaam; and renowned author, attorney, spiritual teacher and television personality, Dr. Iyanla Vanzant. With special performances by America’s Got Talent star, JourneyyandHip-Hop legend Doug E. Fresh, the Gala promises to be an unforgettable night!

Funds raised will help support and help grow National CARES’ trauma-healing programming at an extraordinarily urgent moment. Its evidence-and-curriculum-based initiatives have been found by independent evaluators to be exceptionally effective tools in countering the life-shredding harms of poverty, violence and social isolation that have contributed to the breathstealing 144 percent rise in Black child suicide—the highest amongst all children, some of whom are thankfully seeing a drop in the tragedy.

Stunningly, there is no national response to this heart-shattering experience-–which is one we know we can solve.Most suicides are driven by depression, which is one of the most treatable and manageable mental health illnesses. The driving mission of National CARES has always been to ensure that every child has the opportunities and skills they need to not simply live but thrive. The March 6th Gala is immensely proud to pay tribute to this year’s honorees, presenting each with the North Star Award for their healing work—seen and unseen. In different forums and cities and space, each one has been holding open their arms and hearts for our young ones, and then walking the walk…for the love of our children.

Since its founding nearly 20 years ago, National CARES has recruited, trained and placed some 250,000 mentors in its own programs in schools, communities and detention centers across America, and  supported its partners like Big Brothers, Big Sisters and Boys and Girls Clubs of America who are in need of African American mentors. Working in collaboration has allowed the organization to serve more than 300,000 youngsters.

For the Love of Our Children Gala was first presented in January of 2016. Some of the luminaries who have participated in our annual For the Love of Our Children Gala or invested in our work include President Barack Obama • First Lady Michelle Obama • Oprah Winfrey • Alicia Keys • Maxwell, • Jon Baptiste • Common  • LaTanya Richardson Jackson & Sam Jackson • Lee Daniels • Tamron Hall • and Robert F. Smith. It’s cherished late, great friends include Harry Belafonte. Dr. Maya Angelou and Cicely Tyson. 

For more information about the National CARES Mentoring Movement and Gala Tickets or Sponsorships can be found at www.caresmentoring.org.

The post CARES Mentoring to honor Taraji P. Henson, Tina Knowles, others appeared first on The Cincinnati Herald .

By P. A. Willis

Recently, the Black & White Cancer Survivors Foundation (BWCSF) hosted its 14th Annual Black & White Cancer Survivors Gala at the Sharonville Convention Center. This year’s theme was “Harlem Renaissance – A Renewal of Life.”

The gala was supported by various partners, including Bon Secours Mercy Health, Cargill, McElrath-Slade Wellness Institute, Oncology Hematology Care (OHC), The Urology Group, The Cochran Firm, Walker Funeral Home, Center for Closing the Health Gap, Hightower Petroleum, Interact for Health, The Abercrumbie Group, The Academy of Medicine, Performance Lexus, Western & Southern Financial Group, and United Way of Greater Cincinnati.

Approximately 1,100 community supporters came together to celebrate cancer survivors.

The mission of BWCSF is to celebrate cancer survivors and educate the community about early cancer screenings, promote the benefits of preventive healthcare and maintenance, and provide necessary resources to local cancer-focused organizations. Co-founders Dr. C. Keith Melvin and Mr. William (Bill) Mabrey remain dedicated to this mission.

Guests began arriving at 5:30 p.m., with ladies adorned in fabulous headpieces, feathers, and pearls, while gentlemen sported their stylish tuxedos. The Jameze Latrail Band wowed the crowd with an exciting performance throughout the evening. DJ Baby Rome served as the MC for the reception, introducing musical selections from the Harlem Renaissance era. Volunteer firefighters from the Cincinnati African American Firefighters Association assisted guests who required wheelchair support.

Guests later proceeded to the elegant ballroom, greeted by the soulful sounds of Ed “Sax” Thomas, who performed a prelude to the dinner/program portion of the evening. Pamela Champion served as the Mistress of Ceremony, stepping in for radio personality Faith Daniels, who was unable to attend due to a family emergency. The Master of Ceremony for the evening was Lincoln Ware, a radio and TV personality. Bishop Bobby Hilton, Pastor of Word of Deliverance, offered the invocation before dinner. Ohio State Senator Cathrine D. Ingram welcomed attendees who traveled from near and far.

Testimonial videos were shown, featuring cancer survivors sharing their inspiring experiences. Remarks were made by Dr. Barry Brook from Bon Secours Mercy Health; Dr. Ethan Hoppe from OHC; Dr. Stephen Kappa from The Urology Group; and Dr. Grant Mussman, the Cincinnati Health Commissioner. Dr. C. Keith Melvin and William (Bill) Mabrey introduced the BWCSF team members and acknowledged the volunteers. Ed “Sax” Thomas also performed a moving memorial tribute honoring those who lost their battle with cancer.

Gifts were presented to the Erica J. Holloman Foundation, Pink is My Power Color (PIMPC), and to two young cancer patients. The evening continued with the dynamic 2nd Wind Band providing Harlem Renaissance musical entertainment, complemented by A.C.E. Production dancers performing dances from the era.

Dr. Melvin led the parade of cancer survivors into the ballroom, waving colorful LED glow sticks as they made their way to the dance floor for their celebration. The night concluded with dancing to the sounds of DJ Vader until midnight.

Thank you to all who supported and contributed to an unforgettable evening celebrating cancer survivors.      

Congratulations to the winning bidders of the Silent Auction.

Mark your calendars for Saturday, November 1, 2025, when BWCSF will hold its 15th annual gala at the Sharonville Convention Center

The post More than 1,000 celebrate at Black and White Cancer Survivors Gala appeared first on The Cincinnati Herald .

The Urban League of Greater Southwestern Ohio (ULGSO) is excited to announce the 31st class of the Legendary Lions Society, honoring seven exceptional leaders whose contributions have left a significant impact on the Greater Cincinnati region and beyond. These individuals have demonstrated extraordinary dedication, commitment, and service to others. The 2025 honorees are:

• Patricia A. Bready
• Alva Jean Crawford
• Dr. Alvin Crawford
• Howard D. Elliott
• Edna G. Keown
• Jack Rouse
• Steve Shifman

The Lions will be honored at the 31st Annual Glorifying the Lions Luncheon Ceremony on Wednesday April 9, 2025, 11:30 am – 1:30 pm at the Cintas Center. Tickets may be purchased by visiting www.ulgso.org/lions.

In addition to the luncheon, WLWT Channel 5 will air the 2025 Glorifying the Lions broadcast on April 11 at 7:30 pm to further showcase and celebrate these outstanding individuals.

The post Urban League announces 2025 Glorifying the Lions honorees appeared first on The Cincinnati Herald .

By Sarah Gideonse, Communications Team

     A celebration and a fundraiser, Woman’s City Club is honoring three “feisty” women for the contributions to the club and to the community.

    This year’s honorees include two WCC members and a community member:

     Valerie Daley is Senior Program Office at LISC  Daley has worked with community leadership on neighborhood plans and housing strategies in the Cincinnati area for more than 15 years and is active with the Cincinnatus Association in leadership roles.

     Nina E. Lewis, Ph.D., has worked professionally in the health care, mental health care, substance abuse treatment, and social service fields. Currently, she is employed by the Hamilton County Department of Job and Family Services in the Office of Systems, Partnerships and Community Solutions, and is an adjunct professor of social work at the University of Cincinnati. Lewis has served on numerous nonprofit boards and coalitions, including the Ohio Justice and Policy Center, Health Care Connections, and Hospice of Cincinnati. In 2021 she received the Statewide Lifetime Achievement Award for the Ohio Chapter of the National Association of Social Workers. She is the current vice president for membership of the Woman’s City Club.

     Jeanette Rost, Esq., a retired lawyer and longtime WCC member, is loyal, responsible and dedicated to the mission and goals of Woman’s City Club. She has served on the board and various committees, especially finance and the annual National Speaker Forum. A lawyer, she is an excellent legal and financial steward. As a member, she is also a warm hostess. For years she hosted the National Speaker celebratory dinner at her home. She is a shining example of endurance, perseverance and loyalty to WCC.

The post Woman’s City Club hosts Fifteenth Annual Feist Tea appeared first on The Cincinnati Herald .