2022 CODE M MAGAZINE MARCH ISSUE

TRANSFORMING THE LIVES OF MEN

THE NEW POWER

GENERATION: LED BY

JUSTIN BIBB

SO PROUD OF CLEVELAND DURING ALL-STAR WEEKEND

+

PICS OF THE AMAZING PARTIES

DATING THE MODERN BLACK WOMAN THERE IS SOMETHING ABOUT A MAN IN A BOWTIE

MARCH 2022 ISSUE

INSIDE

46

THERE IS SOMETHING ABOUT A MAN IN A BOWTIE There are many levels of dress for the man of measure. For those that understand how to wear a bowtie, the options are limitless and powerful.

ON THE COVER

26

THE NEW POWER GENERATION: LED BY JUSTIN BIBB Every generation is blessed to experience a once-in-a-lifetime leader who can create

difference in their careers and changing the world!

Rejuvenation.

The North Atlantic Treaty Organization was created in 1949 to stop Russian aggression. Based on the recent invasion of peaceful Ukraine, it looks like NATO failed.

12 CLEVELAND STRONG: DIVINELY INSPIRED: HEAVENLY MUGS

18 SO PROUD OF CLEVELAND DURING ALL-STAR WEEKEND

11 MAN CODES

During a pandemic, there are a lot of things to consider doing, but starting superpower buzz and influence the a new company wouldn’t be high on masses to effect change. If we are lucky, Justin Bibb will make the City of Cleveland the list. Yet, that’s exactly what Stella Hall did. feel just like Metropolis.

8 MOVERS AND SHAKERS Get to know people who are making a

15 NATO WAS CREATED TO STOP THE UKRAINE CRISIS

The city could not have done a better job playing host to the NBA and world during the All-Star Weekend.

23 THINKING OUTSIDE THE BOX If you own rental property, you are going to want to get this book so you can triple your monthly income.

CODE M / MARCH 2022 3

[ INSIDE ] 32 MENTORING THAT MATTERS

42

A WEEKEND TO REMEMBER III The All-Star Weekend held in Cleveland last month gave the citizens of the city a chance to come out and enjoy the festivities like never before.

Young Black men are finding first and second chances when they enter College Now’s Mentoring Program. Those chances are paying huge dividends for the program and the people it serves.

38 DATING THE MODERN BLACK WOMAN Dating for Black men and women between the ages of 40 to 55 are struggling to find an emotional, financial, and physical connection with each other causing confusion, reluctance, and a lack of effort as a result.

TRANSFORMING THE LIVES OF MEN

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PUBLISHER Bilal S. Akram

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STAFF

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CODE M Magazine was created to be a guiding force in creating a dialogue for black men everywhere. Code M focuses on the conversations of advancement, mental health, career choices, the political landscape and relationships that define and shape the lives of black men everywhere.

Code M Magazine is published

by CODE MEDIA GROUP, LLC © 2021 All Rights Reserved

[ TRAVEL ]

CODE M / AUGUST 2021 9

MOVERS &

SHAKERS

T A N Y A 8 MARCH 2022 / CODE M

Get to know people who are making a difference in their careers and changing the world!

V A U G H N

[ MOVERS & SHAKERS ] TANYA VAUGHN

COSMORONDE DANIELLY

Tanya Vaughn began her career with American Greetings as an INROADS intern. It developed into a 20-year career, allowing her to mature as a woman and gain worldly experiences in Marketing.

Cosmoronde Danielly, also known to his clients as Cosmo, has over 15 years of experience providing solutions & strategies to clients.

Today Vaughn serves as the Director of Sales at Libbey, Inc. Her inspiration comes from her child, family, friends, and sorors of Delta Sigma Theta, Inc. In her spare time, Vaughn loves to travel and try new restaurants and attend the theater.

As a Financial Advisor and fiduciary at the downtown Cleveland office of Equitable Advisors, he has provided valued service and advice to individuals and businesses with less than 100 employees by developing deep relationships and recommending risk management, financial planning, and tax efficient solutions.

KELLI DAVIS Kelli Davis began her term as a Worthington School Board member in January 2022. Her term runs through 2025. Kelli holds a Bachelor's Degree in Criminology from The Ohio State University.

Davis's interest in building bridges between students, teachers, staff and community members is, in part, the reason she chose to run for the Board. She also believes in a student-centered approach to district leadership, which starts with productive, honest, open communication and a commitment to building on common ground when making decisions.

DOMINIC LEWIS Lamont Avenue Winery is a black owned wine company, deeply rooted in family and faith founded by Dominic Lewis! Dominic is a 28-year-old educator turned entrepreneur, who decided to start Lamont Avenue Wines in his hometown of Cleveland, Ohio after his cousin AJ was diagnosed as pre-diabetic with a doctor's recommendation to only drink dry red wine.

Dominic took a negative situation and turned it into a positive one. Dominic’s family and friends heavily supported the brand, which led to the official launch of “Lamont Avenue Winery,” named after the street that Dominic grew up on “Lamont Avenue” in one of Cleveland’s, Ohio’s roughest neighborhoods.

CODE M / MARCH 2022 9

10 MARCH 2022 / CODE M

Sidney Poitier

MAN CODES: REJUVINATION Compiled by Bilal S. Akram

“Sleep is essential for the body and mind and restful sleep is one of the foundations of good health. Recharging and rejuvenating body and mind sufficiently every night is important for better quality of life” - Milind Soman “Appreciate again and again, freshly and naively, the basic goods of life, with awe, pleasure, wonder and even ecstasy, however stale these experiences may have become to others” - Abraham Maslow “Take wrong turns. Talk to strangers. Open unmarked doors.

And if you see a group of people in a field, go find out what they are doing. Do things without always knowing how they’ll turn out” - Randall Munroe “Relax. Refresh. Renew. Play. Sing. Laugh. Enjoy. Forgive.

Dance. Love. Hug. Share. Kiss. Create. Explore. Hope. Listen.

Dare. Trust. Dream. Learn. TODAY!” - Steve Maraboli

“Challenge yourself with something you know you could never do, and what you’ll find is that you can overcome anything.” – Anonymous “Taking breaks isn’t about cheating yourself, it’s about treating yourself.” - Curtis Tyrone Jones “That which is striking and beautiful is not always good, but that which is good is always beautiful.” – Ninon de L’Enclos “Always take time out for rejuvenation and redirection. Inquire as you move along the path. There is no one best way.

Different paths—different solutions. Refinement is a constant process of growth for better results!” - Joseph S. Spencer, Sr. “A great way to get rid of stress is, every once in a while, do something totally different and unexpected without any prior planning.” - Franklin Gillett

CODE M / MARCH 2022 11

Divinely Inspired: Heavenly Mugs During a pandemic, there are a lot of things to consider doing, but starting a new company wouldn’t be high on the list. Yet, that’s exactly what Stella Hall did.

Written by DAVID CHRISTEL David has been ghostwriting books for well-known people since 1995. He is also the author of Married Men Coming Out: The Ultimate Guide to Becoming the Man You Were Born to Be.

J

ust after the COVID-19 began making itself known, Stella had been mulling over an idea about coffee mugs and scripture. “What got me started was listening to the bishop of my church,” Stella explained. “He was taking scripture and breaking it down for his sermon titles. I really liked this approach, and I began to put more attention on this idea.” Then, one night, Stella was awakened about three in the morning by a divinely inspired wake-up call. She had received the name of a new company: Heavenly Mugs.

The product? Bible scripture beautifully designed on coffee mugs with the purpose of uplifting hearts and minds around the world.

As her slogan says, “Keeping you spiritually lifted with every sip.”

Being the self-directed and highly motivated person she is, Stella got right on the project even though she had several other irons in the fire. She showed the mugs to her pastor, Bishop Eugene Washington Ward, Jr., who loved the concept. Not long after that, the Heavenly Mugs were being sold at their church, Greater Love Missionary Baptist Church, for Women’s Day. They were a hit!

with what people need in their lives. Perhaps this will put a smile on your face, ease your heart, or motivate you in some way. That’s something you can take out into the world, and you never know how that will uplift others.”

One reason the mugs are taking off is that they’re truly divinely inspired. “These mugs are different because they’re not just the usual quotes you see on mugs, t-shirts, and everything else. God would lay the scripture on my heart, letting me know what scripture to use. In this way, I’m stepping out of the way and letting God inform me. This is true inspiration that is far more connected

Because technology has changed how we communicate and connect with others, Stella has observed that many people have lost focus. She finds that we’re so much more easily distracted, less willing to engage person-to-person, and that our communication and behaviors are spiraling downward.

She finds this especially true with kids and younger people.

16 12 OCTOBER MARCH 2022 2021 / CODE / CODE MM

CLE STRONG

need to be focused.”

Stella’s observations are right on target and Heavenly Mugs is such a simple, yet highly effective way in which we can not only reconnect with our own hearts and open the door to greater divine love but share that bounty with others — one mug at a time.

But, it doesn’t stop there. Stella has several other products that are very beneficial and handy from umbrellas to digital thermoses that let you know the temperature of the liquid inside it whether it’s hot or cold.

Stella is currently in the process of designing the Heavenly Mugs website so that the entire world has access to daily, heartwarming inspiration. It’s such an easy way to help make the world a better place.

In addition to her entrepreneurial launch with Heavenly Mugs, Stella is also an author. Her PR notice states: “In 2021, she has several literary and cinematic projects lined up and she also has her sights set on creating a platform for at-risk youth to pursue a career in the performing arts. ‘God created me for a unique purpose and my goal is to use my talents and gifts to be a blessing to others.’” Stella is currently putting the finishing edits on a sci-fi adventure, Samantha Machine.

Divinely led and inspired, Stella, though very activated and busy with projects, has one last message she’d like to convey. “We’re too much on the go, everything’s open 24 hours a day, every day.

We’re not giving ourselves time to rest and recuperate. We’re constantly up and about and moving. It’s time we got re-focused, focus on this day and time, the people in your life and around you. You never know what another person is going through, what their challenges are. So, give them a heavenly gift, something that will give them a moment of respite and uplift. Give them a Heavenly Mug.” ●

Stella Hall owns several brands that allows her to reach her artistic peek.

“Everything is about playing video games, hanging out on social media, down-and-dirty texting without emotional connection or compassion. With the pandemic having changed our approach to work, everything’s about ‘I want — but don't want to work for it.’ What I see is people aren’t taking the time to give God the praise, glory, and honor He deserves. To a large degree, we’ve lost our get-up-and-go. And there’s no unity in the way we think about our connection with each other and helping one another. We’re all over the place — we CODE M / MARCH 2022 13

14 MARCH 2022 / CODE M

NEWS

NATO WAS CREATED TO STOP THE UKRAINE CRISIS The North Atlantic Treaty Organization was created in 1949 to stop Russian aggression. Based on the recent invasion of peaceful Ukraine, it looks like NATO failed.

W

by Bolling Smith

hen generation X looks at history, we wonder how the world let certain things happen. How did the world let Adolf Hitler exist? How did the world let Martin Luther King, President John F. Kennedy and Malcolm X get assassinated? How did the world let genocide happen in Africa?

As the world witnesses the horrible invasion of Ukraine, we now understand how something like those other blemishes on

humanity can happen. The North Atlantic Treaty Organization was created in 1949 to stop this very thing from happening.

Created by the United States and Britain to stop Russia from trying to take over Europe, the thirty country members of the organization have done little to nothing to stop this senseless invasion. The proposed sanctions against Russia will have little to no effect on the countless deaths and property destruction that is currently taking place in Ukraine.

For months, the world watched at Russia built up its military along the border of Ukraine. If NATO, which has its own military, were serious it would have sent troops to the area to respond to the threat.

To make a tough situation worse, the conflict between Russia and Ukraine started over Ukraine’s desire to become a member of NATO. Russia feels like Ukraine joining NATO is a threat, so it decided to attack Ukraine in response.

CODE M / MARCH 2022 15

[ NEWS ] One could say that this is a test to see if NATO, America, and Europe will stand up to Russia. But what if this is just the beginning of what is to become World War III. For anyone who is paying close attention to the world’s affairs, notice how quiet China is.

China is a friend to Russia, and it has its own country to invade. China is looking to annex Taiwan back under its rule. The world is currently resisting this attempt.

But with the world is not responding to Russia, it gives China, a much larger mili-

tary, permission to attack Taiwan. The United States could easily beat Russia if it decided to enter this conflict. But China is a different story.

What if Russia and China decided to partner to get these countries back and agreed to evaluate the world to find out how much resistance they would get if they attacked.

Based on the recent events in Ukraine, it looks like China has nothing to worry about as it evaluates the borders of Taiwan and their resilience to protect

itself. The world has said repeatedly that it will not stand for such unruly behavior from world dictators. But the world at the same time does not want gas prices to increase.

So, while people complain about missing baby formula and long lines, the people of Ukraine are fleeing their homes, saying goodbye to their men, and running for the border. One can only hope that one day the world will respond to real threats in real time. ●

Ukraine is surrounded by Russian military on all three sides, making it difficult to avoid conflict.

16 DECEMBER 2021 / CODE M

[ BLACK HISTORY MONTH ]

CODE M / MARCH 2022 17

[ NEWS ]

18 MARCH 2022 / CODE M

[ NEWS ]

SO PROUD OF CLEVELAND DURING ALL-STAR WEEKEND The city could not have done a better job playing host to the NBA and world during the All-Star Weekend.

by Brad Bowling

W

ow! Wow! Wow! There is nothing like seeing a plan come together. As a Clevelander, I had the opportunity to attend and witness pure perfection this weekend. From the airport to Rocket Fieldhouse to the wideranging events held all over, the city simply delivered on the expectation of an enjoya-

ble time.

There is something special coming for a city that can pull

Tower City, busting at the seams with people from all over the place, coming out to support Black business. LaRese Purnell did an amazing job putting this event together. It was so good to see so many Black businesses representing their quality products, owned by some of Cleveland’s rising stars.

The parties around the city hosted by Steadyfloh, Arnold Hines, The President’s Council, DJ Nerve and Mixtapes, and all the NBA celebrities truly made this weekend one to remember. As Clevelanders, we put on our fashionable clothes, smelled good, danced, bumped into each other, and hugged each other for a solid five days.

The question that comes to mind when thinking about all the wonderful experiences of the weeks’ events is: how do we keep this momentum going?

Cleveland has always been an underachieving city with tons of potential. The restaurants and museums have always been here.

The question that comes to mind when thinking about all the wonderful experiences of the weeks’ events is: how do we keep this momentum going? off an amazing weekend like Cleveland did during the AllStar weekend. The weather was not a factor, the traffic was not a factor, no violence, no drama. Every event held was done with class and professionalism. Black, white, old, and young all got together to celebrate one common thing.

To be honest, this weekend represents what America is capable of when we all work together. Imagine the filled

Photos taken by Denice Rucker Burton

The city simply glowed on AllStar Weekend, from downtown to Playhouse Square.

CODE M / MARCH 2022 19

18 MARCH 2022 / CODE M

[ NEWS] But this weekend was about the people of Cleveland — they created this feeling that we all cannot let go.

The rub on Clevelanders is that we do not celebrate ourselves and city enough; that we don’t support each other and our businesses enough. Well, this weekend Clevelanders turned a corner on all things negative about us and the city.

From the westside to the eastside Clevelanders, along with all the suburbs and surrounding communities, supported the events, the city, and each other with amazing spirit and class.

With spring coming, all we can do is hope to continue to create this amazing feeling of loving where you live. Honoring where you live by buying from the people in the community.

This feeling can continue if we want it to.

So, as I let my feet recover from all the walking and hanging out, I congratulate every single person who stepped out to partake in this week’s festivities. I salute you and I am proud of my city that I love so much. O-H . . . ●

The iconic wall that used to house Lebron’s image was transformed for the weekend.

CODE M / MARCH 2022 21

BUSINESS

22 MARCH 2022 / CODE M

BOOK

REVIEW

THINKING

OUTSIDE THE BOX If you own rental property, you are going to want to get this book so you can triple your monthly income.

by Bryce Miller

T

BOOK REVIEW

here are very few occasions where you can take an opportunity that you already own and repurpose it into something much greater. As we all seek ways to create additional income, without having to do additional work. The Blueprint, written by Joshua Jackson, offers a straightforward way to accomplish this goal.

Jackson, born and raised in Cleveland, decided to take his own apartment and experiment with it. He placed ads on short-term rental apps (STR) to see if he could increase his income. What he found was quite a bit more than additional cash, Jackson has authored a book about his experiences and will soon hit the lecture circuit to teach others how to do the same thing.

In The Blueprint, Jackson does more than help would-be renters make more money, he prepares his readers mentally for the journey to discover financial freedom.

“As the author of this book, it’s my goal to direct your hopes and/or ambitions towards greatness.” Jackson writes. “Just as farmers water seeds to produce crops, it’s

my desire to water your aspirations to soon produce the best short-term rental host in the world.”

Jackson is speaking from experience. After receiving his communication degree from The University of Akron, Jackson went fulltime and has four rentals on STR apps producing enough income to support himself with no other job.

Jackson is not by himself, the STR business is exploding with Airbnb leading the way. Airbnb is currently worth over 150 billion with over 150 million worldwide users. In 2007, two down-andout young men used their San Francisco apartment as a bed and breakfast to fulfill rent obligations. Their discovery paved the way for millions to use non-hotels to quickly stay all over the world.

Jackson lays the entire process out for you if you decide to venture into the STR world. Your desired location and the quality of CODE M / MARCH 2022 23

[ BOOK REVIEW ]

the rental you pick will determine your start-up costs.

The best way to get started is to turn any properties you currently own into an STR. The best part about venturing into this business is the increasing and steady demand for short-term housing.

People are constantly traveling, and businesses are starting to rely on this business for employees who need housing while visiting and working at remote sites.

The pandemic briefly reduced the business segment, but it is expected to return to and surpass those levels this year. So, the market is perfect for those who might want to try this business.

If you are hesitant to try, The Blueprint eliminates fears by detailing every aspect of the business, even the negative side.

This book is a quick read for anyone that doesn’t have a lot of time or lengthy and complicated engagements that will take years to see results. For anyone interested in getting the book, you can reach Joshua at 216206-3824 or try Joshua@heartoheart.community. ●

Joshua Jackson

24 MARCH 2022 / CODE M

[ BUSINESS ]

CODE M / MARCH 2022

25

COVER

Every generation is blessed to experience a once-in-a-lifetime leader who can create superpower buzz and influence the masses to effect change. If we are lucky, Justin Bibb will make the City of Cleveland feel just like Metropolis.

N

o one is saying anything openly, but everyone can sense it. Something is going on in Cleveland, Ohio and it feels good. For the first time in years everything is going according to plan. The city has never seen more promise that it does right now. We have always enjoyed our elected officials, but sometimes they did not seem like a total fit. Today, with the election of Justin Bibb, Cleveland seems poised to explode in growth and popularity.

After starting his term in January, Bibb has already been on TV and throughout social media more than in the 20 years that Frank Jackson served. Could it be because Bibb was born in the social media era? The Trinity High School graduate is only 34 years of age. This means that he understands how to use all the platforms available to him to communi-

26 MARCH 2022 / CODE M

Written by BRAD BOWLING Brad Bowling is the President of CODE Media Group, LLC. Bowling has his BA in mass media communication and an MBA in marketing. He contributes articles to the magazine continuing his love for writing.

cate his agenda.

This winter saw Bibb address the need for better snow removal.

He appeared on Nick Cannon’s talk show to salute a fellow Clevelander. He has used Cleveland’s social media account to update the residents on numerous occasions. And lastly, when Bibb announced that the city would not extend the city’s bar hours for All-Star Weekend, no one seemed to mind.

Bibb is truly running the city, naming key players to his cabinet, and changing the way we see our community leaders.

“As you know, the theme of our campaign was ‘Cleveland can’t wait.’ The voters gave us a clear mandate on November 2nd to make change. Every day that I am in office is one less day I have to impact that change,” Bibb said.

[ COVER ]

Cover and inside photo taken by Mychel Lilly.

CODE M / MARCH 2022 27

Mayor Justin Bibb.

And he is not playing. Bibb makes quick decisions. He is filling his administration with quality hires empowered with the ability to improve the city. Bibb also is attacking the city’s remaining unvaccinated with encouragement to get the shot and free the city from worry. Currently, only 46 percent is vaccinated, and Bibb wants to change that.

Bibb is thinking about Cleveland in a way no other mayor has, by addressing the unseen issues of Cleveland.

“We have a plan of address the development of the Westside market. We are going to address the led paint crisis plaguing too many Cleveland homes. And finally, we reversed the prior administration’s policy on the diversity program where you no longer need to have prosecutor approval to help people who have mental health issues. They no longer will end up in jail, we will help them get the support they need,” Bibb commented.

Bibb is working to bringing people back to the city, the way the city is performing and living in a post-COVID society where people can work from home, which means move to

28 MARCH 2022 / CODE M

Cleveland.

“The remote workforce is changing the way people live. They want walkable places to live, affordability, safe environments, and reduced impact from the weather. This makes Cleveland an outstanding place to live and work.” Bibb continued, “We have to go on the offensive, my role as the mayor of Cleveland is to get on a plane, attract businesses here, and then support them by creating and maintaining great communities.”

The way things are going, Bibb is getting help. The city offers Lake Erie, amazing restaurants and nightlife, the cost of living is fair, and traffic is limited to very few instances of congestion.

With all three major sports team in Cleveland and the second largest theater district, the city is never dull on things to do.

“We also are going to make sure that it’s easy to do business in Cleveland by offering easier permit processes, helping companies relocate here, and thrive in and around the city,” Bibb said.

Cleveland could be considered, by some, two different cities.

The Westside of Cleveland looks and functions very differently

[ COVER ]

Blacks used to have national leaders like W.E.B. Du Bois, Malcolm X, and Rep. John Lewis.

CODE M / MARCH 2022 29

[ COVER ]

From left to right, Mayor Justin Bibb and Congresswoman, Shontel Brown.

than the Eastside. Bibb, being from the Eastside, understands that he needs to be the mayor of all Cleveland.

Requires that the commission be demographically representative of the city; and

“What’s good for Mt. Pleasant is also good for Westpark. The working mom on the Westside wants the same thing as the teacher living on the Eastside,” Bibb continued. “They want safe streets, they want constitutionally appropriate policing, they want excellent quality jobs, excellent quality schools, access to good public transit, a good park to go to on the

Changes to membership qualifications and requirements for the Civilian Police Review Board to include attorneys with experience defending victims of police brutality, give the mayor instead of the Police Chief the authority to remove board members, and require the board’s budget to equal at least 1% of the police department’s budget.

“What’s good for Mt. Pleasant is also good for Westpark. The working mom on the Westside wants the same thing as the teacher living on the Eastside.” weekends, and good sports teams to follow.”

In 2021, the entire country saw crime increase. In addition to that, cities across the country, including Cleveland, are starting to address how Black people are policed and treated. The voters of Cleveland passed Issue 24, which gives oversite to the city’s police department. Issue 24 allows for:

“I had a chance to speak to Tamir Rice’s mother after becoming mayor, and I also had a chance to speak with our leaders in the police department. We all understand the importance of Issue 24 and what it can do to help the city bring on a new chapter in how we look at our police officers, and what we can expect from them going forward,” Bibb commented.

The creation of the Community Police Commission to — together with the Civilian Police Review Board — oversee police conduct investigations and discipline; report and advise about police-community relations’ and oversee police training and recruitment,

When speaking with Bibb, one understands how the former co-chair of Teach for America approaches his job. Bibb speaks with conviction and confidence. His answers seem to be well thought out and planned every single time he is peppered with questions. While he is physically thin, his presence fills

30 MARCH 2022 / CODE M

[ COVER ]

the room like a superhero ready to save the city.

If Bibb’s tenure as mayor goes like his first one hundred days is going, the residents of Cleveland can expect more impressive things from the city and what it has to offer. The momentum is real and the feeling that we all have is safe, for now. If Bibb gets his way, this feeling is going to be here for as long as possible. ●

CODE M Magazine President, Brad Bowling interviewing Mayor Justin

CODE M / DECEMBER 2021 27

BUSINESS

MENTORING THAT

MATTERS

Young Black men are finding first and second chances when they enter College Now’s Mentoring Program. Those chances are paying huge dividends for the program and the people it serves.

by David Christel

32 MARCH 2022 / CODE M

C

onsidering the uphill battle many young Black youth are saddled with, the move from high school to college can be

daunting, off-putting, and dispiriting.

Everything seems to be coming at them from increased school demands to more intense classroom requirements to all the pressures layered on by family and society.

Added to that is the transition into early adulthood, navigating evolving relationships during this transitioning period, and keeping in mind that the seeming purpose of a college education is to land a good job in one’s chosen major. All of that can deter many a student from following their dreams and aspirations. Enter — the mentor.

[ BUSINESS ]

In the past, mentoring has most often been considered a part of the corporate world. More recently, though, programs are investing in high school students by offering mentoring programs to help them traverse the complicated, often confusing, and more academically challenging college terrain. One such program is the College Now Mentoring Program in Cleveland.

“Over the last 10 years, the College Now Mentoring Program has connected thousands of local students and volunteer mentors, all committed to the individual success of students, as well as the success of our region. We are proud to partner with Say Yes to Education by providing mentors for Say Yes scholarship recipients.

Together, we can change the narrative for Cleveland and Northeast Ohio!”

The program’s mission is to “… increase postsecondary educational attainment through college and career access advising, financial aid counseling, and scholarship and retention services.” Their data shows that students graduate college at a 70 percent rate, as opposed to the national average for their peer group of 42 percent.

Two members of the College Now program are Herbert Kwofie and Martin Cole.

Martin has been a mentor for Herbert for four years, but the two of them met through another Cleveland-based nonprofit three years prior.

“When we first met, I looked up to him like a big brother,” Herbert explained. “I still look at him as a big brother, but I feel

The program’s website states:

The training program from College Now allows Black men to accomplish their goals.

CODE M / MARCH 2022 33

[ LIFE ]

[ BUSINESS ]

The students of College Now enjoying spending quality time together.

we’ve transitioned over the seven years we’ve known each other to more of a friendship. I know I can confide in Martin if there’s anything going on in my personal or professional life. He’s always there for me.”

become a doctor, was far more interested in finance, policy, and public health. It just so happens that Martin is an entrepreneur. His major in college had been finance, with a minor in entrepreneurship.

Martin concurs. “Our relationship has been fantastic and really blossomed.

When I found out he wanted to go to Miami University, my alma mater, I definitely wanted to help him through the ins and outs of university life. It was going to be a very different world than what he’d known growing up.”

Needless to say, Herbert’s parents, though disappointed, see that he will be much happier following his dream.

“Martin was very helpful in terms of helping me make that hard decision to not become a doctor. I’ve come to realize that I need to live my life for me, not my parents or anyone else. And I’d rather be happy than hate my career or my job in the future. I think my parents have

What also intrigued Martin was that Herbert, whose parents wanted him to

CODE M / MARCH 2022 35

[ BUSINESS ] begun to realize that this is my passion — though they’re always gonna have that wish that I was a medical doctor, but that’s okay,” he said, with a smile. “And here I am today, about to start my career in the business world. It’s going to go well!”

Martin also benefitted from the mentoring program. By providing support and guidance, Martin found himself refocusing on his own self-worth and value. “Herbert’s je ne sais quoi kind of rubbed off on me. I’ve become more determined, more communicative, and have really zeroed in on what I want out of life.”

Herbert and Martin have found that being a mentor and mentee is a gift and inspiration that works in both directions. As they look toward the future, they are certain that they’ve established a life-long friendship built on mutual respect, support, and profes-

The programs from College Now are having a real impact on the community.

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sional interests.

Looking forward to his graduation in May, Herbert has these closing words to share: “College Now is an amazing program. This definitely helped me out throughout my four years of college, and I would recommend it to any student in Cleveland or wherever they’re at and to get involved. Even if you think you can’t learn anything from a mentor or you feel like you know it all. I believe it’s a great opportunity for any student that’s going to assuredly progress them in the future.”

To learn more about College Now, visit: College Now | Become a Mentor

[ LIFE ]

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LIFE

DATING THE MODE

Dating for Black men and women between the ages of 40 to 55 is a struggle to find an emotional, financial, and physical connection with each other causing confusion, reluctance, and a lack of effort as a result.

by Brad Bowling

F

or many Black people over the age 40, love seems to be an elusive thing. Those recovering from a divorce or long-term relationship do not want to make the same mistake twice, so the process to choose a new romantic partner can be critical.

CODE M took some time to ask several Black men and women about their dating experiences and the conversation covered everything from time commitments to availability. The bottom line: there is a disconnect between the sexes that must be addressed. Here are the answers to the questions that were asked from both parties.

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IS IT HARD TO FIND LOVE? Most of the Black men interviewed answered “yes” to this question. Many felt like they meet enough women, but they struggle to develop enough interest from the women they speak with to have it develop into a relationship.

“It seems like the women I meet are very professional.

They are high achieving in their careers, but they bring that same critical thinking into the relationship, and it doesn’t work for me,” Jason, from Cleveland, said.

The men feel like the professional women they have met were too serious and didn’t allow themselves to have fun.

This feeling was across the board for the men interviewed. For Black women, the answer to this question was quite different. They felt like it was not hard to find love, they just don’t want to waste their time on relationships that will not lead to marriage.

“I like to date with intent,” Tanya, from Shaker, said. “I don’t want to put time and energy into a relationship that isn’t going to end in a long-term relationship. I’m not

ERN BLACK WOMAN

looking to get married soon, but the intent to achieve that needs to be there.”

DOES YOUR IMCOME IMPACT WHO YOU MEET? Men are overly sensitive when it comes to income and how much they, and the women they date, make. This age-old problem needs to be eliminated from the dating conversation because women have jobs, own homes and are leading in several sectors of professional positions.

[ LIFE ]

the right person. Whether they are afraid of it or not, it can create a barrier to finding the right person. Black women are on the move. They are advancing is scores of fields and getting degrees at a much faster rate than their counterparts.

According to Forbes, women have been earning more col-

“I personally don’t have a problem if my lady makes more than me, but I do expect to lead the relationship,” Chris, from Mentor, said. “I hate to sound traditional but it’s how I was raised.”

The women questioned had a much different answer.

“Income for me is not a problem. Most of the men I meet have a problem with what I make. And I am not going to apologize for living well or having wonderful things.” Crystal said.

“Intimidation doesn’t work for me, so ultimately, the man I Black women come in many meet will have to be OK with what I make.”

The question of income hinders many individuals from finding

wonderful shapes and colors that men find incredibly attractive.

CODE M / MARCH 2022 39

[ LIFE ]

lege degrees than men since the 1980s and now, for the first time, there are more college-educated women in the workforce than college-educated men. Black women have also attained more education, and this has resulted in big gains in job growth for this population.

According to a new study from Pew Research, which analyzed data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, women twenty-five and older now make up 50.2% of the collegeeducated work force. That is up about 11% since the year 2000.

Employment rates for minority women have also seen significant increases. The percentage of employed Hispanic women between the ages of 25 and has increased by 2.2% since 2007. That is the biggest increase in employment of any working group in that timeframe. Black women came in second, with their employment jumping 1.6% over the same period. The New York Times attributes these increases in workforce participation in part to the uptick in Hispanic women enrolling in college (the share of Hispanic women pursuing a degree increased to 41% from 36% from 2010 to 2016) and to decreases in fertility rates for Hispanic and Black women.

HOW MANY RED FLAGS DO YOU HAVE? The men laughed at this question, but they eventually agreed that they have dozens of red flags. Red Flags are warning signs that creep up when meeting someone. As people age, their red flags tend to increase due to a desire to not make the same mistakes they did in the past.

John, from Cleveland offered his opinion: “My red flags change from time to time because I’m still trying to figure out what I want. I just want someone who loves me like I’m

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willing to love them. I’m not that complicated.”

The complex process of merging adult lives can be about the most awkward thing couples can do, but it can be done.

There are scores of people who have met someone on a dating app and got married in less than a year. Not everyone is that lucky, but it is proof that it can be done.

“My red flags are men who play games,” Brandi said. “The men that I meet seem to only want to date a little. When I see that he’s doing a lot of texting and no phone calls or communication, it lets me know that he’s not serious. And I want serious.”

All the women polled agreed that men seem to want to

[ LIFE ]

Both Black men and women want to be in a healthy relationship.

casually date, without a real commitment to the relationship. Because men increasingly take on this trait, women sometimes can be reluctant to engage with any man.

The result of these questions only created more questions. Both men and women want to date but struggle to find the right guid-

ance to do so. Both agreed that a dating summit needs to take place where they can engage in real dialogue and find the underlying cause of the problem. Until then, both sexes will have to find a way to meet, date, and court each other effectively. ●

CODE M / MARCH 2022 37

[ LIFE ]

A WEEKEND TO REMEMBER The All-Star Weekend held in Cleveland last month gave the citizens of the city a chance to come out and enjoy the festivities like never before.

H

ow can we, as Clevelanders, effectively sum up what was one of the most memorable weekends in Cleveland’s history. The events held all around the city during the All-Star Weekend gave everyone something to enjoy.

The Pandemic’s two-year jail sentence kept most people at home looking out the window waiting for a reason to risk their lives.

That waiting ended as people flocked to

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everything they could to enjoy all things basketball and party like never before. Arnold Hines Events did not disappoint by hosting three parties over the weekend at Nuevo, the Mexican Taco Restaurant, located on East 9th Street, in downtown Cleveland.

Each night was themed something new to enjoy. The first night hosted the National Association of Black Journalist’s organization for any members of the press who came into town to cover the weekend.

Saturday was Gumbo Night, where attendees could enjoy the foods of New Orleans and party to live percussionists partner with DJ styled music.

Sunday ended the weekend with a watch party for the All-Star Game and dancing after. Enjoy some of the photos that were taken over the three-day events held and get ready for more events coming soon. ●

CODE M / MARCH 2022 43

[ LIFE ]

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[ LIFE ]

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FASHION

THERE IS SOMETHING ABOUT A MAN IN A BOWTIE There are many levels of dress for the man of measure. For those who understand how to wear a bowtie, the options are limitless and powerful.

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Written by LARON HARLEM A wardrobe shopper, stylist and accessories designer who specializes in dapper looks that truly appeal to the most discerning eye. mailto:styledbydecarlo@gmail.com, https://www.styledbydecarlo.com/

[ FASHION ]

It's OK to mix color and patterns...The black and white bowtie is a jump off from the blue suit...

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[ FASHION ]

Brad is sporting a green white and black multi pattern tie set that commands attention with the white suit....

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[ FASHION ]

Dale Cordice At 11 years old, Dale is wearing a tailored blazer with a custom bowtie set made just for his suit.

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[ FASHION ]

The bowtie used to be considered attire for the very best occasions. But today, men are discovering different ways to incorporate the bowtie into everyday use.

Whether there is a business meeting or night on the town, bowties spice up any wardrobe. With so many people working from home, the chance to go out and enjoy dinner also means getting a chance to dress up.

Use Purple to add royalty to any ensemble..

The custom made lapel flower is a great addition...

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As society gets back to normal, what men wear shouldn’t. The bowtie represents a departure from the norm and deserves to be explored if you plan to venture out post-COVID.