C L Magazine Fall 2016 volume 2 issue 3 by C L Magazine

Volume 2 | Issue 3

FAL L 2016

In This Issue:

• Great Reads for Children of Color • 2016 Election Madness: It’s Finally Over! • Everything You Need to Know About CAREER & LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE for women of color

College Tours: Tips from Amara Alberto

Supervisory Aerospace Engineer at the NASA Glenn Research Center

Diana Centeno-Gomez Shares the story of her professional career journey from humble beginnings in Puerto Rico to managing aeronautics and ground-based systems for one of our nation’s premiere space research centers!

GROWING STRONGER COMMUNITIES. We’re putting down deep roots and giving back to the communities we serve.

We think it’s only natural to cultivate meaningful relationships

volunteering over 100,000 hours of their time. From refurbishing

in the communities where we live and work. And at Dominion,

homeless shelters to replenishing local food banks to cleaning

that means we do more than write checks. So while we’re

up parks to helping soldiers and their families, we’re donating

very proud to invest more than $19 million in our communities

the most precious resource of all: our energy. Learn more by

annually, we’re even prouder of Dominion’s employees for

visiting dom.com/foundation.

contents 6

Books for Preschoolers: Check Out Our Book List for Your Little Ones!

Water Me: Encouraging Words to Live and Grow By!

faith hope love

College Tours 101 and How to Have Fun While Doing Them

From Teen Mom and Drug Abuser to Pastor... How I Rose from a Rock Bottom Life!

Spice up Your Thanksgiving Dinner with a Delicious Side Dish from Chef Eric Wells!

Are You Killing Your Husband with TLC? Find Out from Our Expert, Linda D. Bradley, MD

Are You Experiencing Teacher Burnout? Learn to Identify the Signs and Get Help!

Why Your Vote Matters:

One Woman’s Plea to Female Voters of Color!

Cover Story: An Amazing Woman at the Center of Some of NASA’s Innovative Space Programs!

Suffering in Silence (Ask Dr. Angela): See

What this Doctor Has to Say About Social Media Addiction

FALL 2016 | 3

CL Magazine Team Publisher and Chief Editorial Officer Alexandria Johnson Boone Editor and Chief Researcher Simone E. Swanson Director, Production & Distribution Michelle E. Urquhart Creative Director Jennifer Coiley Dial Business Manager Paula T. Newman Assistant to the Publisher Bernadette K. Mayfield Photographer & Photography Editor Rodney L. Brown Database and Information Coordinator Cheretta Moore For advertising information please contact us at: advertising@CL-Magazine.com Subscribe online: www.CL-Magazine.com

/CareerLifestyleMagazine @CLMagz C L Magazine is published digitally on a quarterly basis by the Women of Color Foundation (WOCF), a 501 (c) (3), tax-exempt organization, for the benefit of women of and girls of all colors. Our offices are located at 50 Public Square, Tower City Center, Suite 832, Cleveland, Ohio 44113. Toll Free Phone number: 866.962-3411 (866.WOCF.411). Copyright © 2014-2016. All rights reserved. No portion of this publication may be distributed electronically, reproduced or duplicated in whole or in part, without written permission of the publisher. Subscription price is $16 per year. Readers and advertisers may subscribe at: www.womenofcolorfoundation.com/clmagazine Magazine Production: GAP Communications Group

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Publisher’s Letter

What Happened to 2016? Dear Readers, As I reflect on 2016, I am wondering where the year has gone. It seems as though one day was New Year’s Day and the next day, fall leaves were everywhere! During the year, you may have suffered some career or financial setbacks and perhaps even lost a loved one. I lost my father, Alex B. Johnson on March 30, at the ripe old age of 96, but I have some amazing memories to cherish. But on a more positive note, we may have achieved some amazing milestones in our careers, or travelled around the world. At least I can say, I did. I received several local, regional and national awards for my communication industry accomplishments and my community service in a number of areas; but most particularly, for mentoring young women and girls of all colors. And, Cuba, Turks & Caicos and Paradise Island, Bahamas, all made it onto my 2016 travel schedule! As the holiday season approaches, I find myself lacking the holiday spirit and missing my father more than I had ever anticipated. So please take time now, to tell a close friend or family member that you love them and value their role in your life and career. Because before you know it, 2017 will be upon us and you might miss an important opportunity to share your feelings. Please enjoy the holiday season and be safe!

In the spirit of the greatness in us all,

Alexandria Johnson Boone Publisher and Chief Editorial Officer C L Magazine

Dear Subscribers,

Editor’s LETTER

Well, the results are in, the dust has settled and it’s time for healing. If you haven’t guessed, I am referring to this year’s historic Presidential Election. While some of us are happy the canvasing, phone calls and posters are all gone, many Americans are shocked and in search of answers following the results from election night. For the first time in American history, we had a woman, Hillary Clinton running for the highest position in the country. Her opponent, and now President-elect Donald Trump, was also unique as he was the first presidential candidate in recent history to run for this office having no prior political experience.

cars, our final words were “it’s time for healing.” As you explore this issue, no matter what political affiliation you may have…I implore you to search for healing. As the back bone of our American family, it is important for us to feed our spirit with positive and loving energy. We hope you find healing through the articles in this issue. Thank you for reading and we hope you encourage another “sister” to find healing through our articles as well.

In this election we saw America become divided as the campaign unfolded. It was as if a mask was taken off our country exposing sexism, racism and classism. Even now post campaign, some folks are desperate for hope and fearful for their children’s future. What we must remember is this is NOT the first time we’ve been divided as a nation. In fact, we were here just eight short years ago right before the first African American man was elected President of the United States of America. The morning of the election, I must admit I too found myself in a state of concern as I felt the tension all around me. Not knowing how the country would react following the final results. I received a call and was asked to serve on a panel for a local news station in Cleveland, Ohio along with seven other women including CL’s Publisher Alexandria Johnson Boone. As panelists we were asked to share our thoughts on the election results as they came in throughout the night. With a diverse group of women, both democrats and republicans there were moments when I could feel the tension that had been ringing loud throughout the campaign. However, after the results were final all eight of us hugged and expressed mutual respect for one another. As we walked out of the studio and to our FALL 2016 | 5

Great Reads for Children of Color Mixed Me: A tale of a girl who is both black and white by Tiffany Catledge Little Mixie wonders why everyone wants to know WHAT she is. Isn’t it obvious? She is clearly a human being. And anyway, isn’t WHO she is what matters most? Coming from a family with a black dad and a white mom makes her extra special, and maybe a little different too. But different is good. Mixie embraces her uniqueness and determines to be the best “Me” she can be. Cinderella (Once Upon a World) by Chloe Perkins The classic story of Cinderella gets a fresh twist in this vibrant Mexican spin on the beloved fairy tale! Once upon a time, there was a girl who lived in a little cottage with her stepmother and two stepsisters... The classic tale of Cinderella gets a fresh twist in this debut title of a brand-new board book series, Once Upon a World. With Mexico as the backdrop, and vibrant artwork from Mexican illustrator Sandra Equihua, Cinderella is still the same girl with a fairy godmother and a glass slipper—but she’s totally reimagined. Once Upon a World offers a multicultural take on the fairy tales we all know and love. Because these tales are for everyone, everywhere. The Colors of Us by Karen Katz Seven-year-old Lena is going to paint a picture of herself. She wants to use brown paint for her skin. But when she and her mother take a walk through the neighborhood, Lena learns that brown comes in many different shades. Through the eyes of a little girl who begins to see her familiar world in a new way, this book celebrates the differences and similarities that connect all people. Books can be found on www.amazon.com 6 | CL MAGAZINE

Good neighbors. Great Lake. Greater future. The Northeast Ohio Regional Sewer District Good Neighbor Ambassador Program offers career opportunities and professional development in communities affected by major construction projects. The result is better relationships and a brighter future for the region.

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My Commitment.

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more than 23,000 youth (kindergarten to high school) have experienced afterschool programs, summer jobs, and leadership training

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Get Involved we can use your talents! for more information contact

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Kasey T. Morgan Director, MyCom 5246 Broadway Ave. Cleveland, OH 44127 216-812-8700 kmorgan@mycom.net

Water

In the midst of a garden, stood a beautiful flower adorned with colors that mesmerized those who laid eyes upon it. Its pedals stretched towards the sun and they danced the waltz as if they were in a ballroom. During various seasons the flower would disappear, but would anxiously blossom as if it were released from hibernation or a cocoon. Annually, the loving gardener would nurture, till, and fertilize the ground. The gardener took pride in carefully administering the appropriate amount of water to feed the soil. The gardener would speak words of affirmation over the flower, declaring how beautiful and important it was to the environment because of its habitation within the earth. The flower was stunning, well cared for, and admired by many who walked by. When the flower reappeared the next season, it was ready to grow, awaiting the sun’s rays and anticipating the gardener’s

Pastor Valerie Howard Outreach Specialist, God’s Kingdom valehoward@yahoo.com FALL 2016 | 9

special TLC. Days had passed, and the flower’s soil became dry. Weeds began to sprout around it. The flower attempted to welcome the weeds, not realizing the inevitable danger. The weeds would grow roots so deep, eventually wrapping around the flower’s root and strangling the flower over a period of time. The flower began to hear melodies in the air and knew it was time to dance with the sun. As soon as it reached towards the sun, a shoe stepped on its petal, causing an immediate corolla amputation. The flower was accustomed to storms, so it didn’t focus on these hardships or the temporary drought that it was experiencing. Thoroughly optimistic, the flower still grasped for the warmth of the sun, forgetting that it had no arms with which to dance. Once filled with confidence, worry set in. The flower didn’t feel the gardener’s presence, any form of growth, and it was being manipulated below the surface. The weed was growing much faster, taller and bigger. The flower became intimidated. Year after year, it was watered and cared for. There was no need to feel threatened because it was given the tools to thrive successfully. Now for the first time ever, it contained no strength to stand tall. The flower wasn’t aware of the weed’s potential or its ability to grow in grass between sidewalk cracks and in gardens, or its power to break through cement structures. The flower was designed to be handled gently, but the insensible gardener, allowed anyone to trespass in the flowerbed. The flower was not only mishandled, but trampled upon and became an object of little importance. The thirsty flower became desperate. It once welcomed the sun, but now cursed its existence because it couldn’t become as one with it. The flower was being 10 | CL MAGAZINE

choked out by the weeds and rejected by the gardener. The flower longed for the gardener to see its potential and its beauty. It hoped the gardener would begin to speak life into it, water it, fertilize it and uproot anything that could cause harm. The flower began to wither, becoming limp. The once thriving flower became pessimistic and longed to die. The flower’s breathing became shallow, awaiting its date with death. It no longer anticipated the ability to dance, to grow, to be radiant, to be productive, but lost its reason for living. It couldn’t endure another season of pain and torture. Right as the flower lost the will to live, it began to feel lighter. The melody of the sun began to whisper in the air. The weeds were disappearing as if they were being plucked up one by one. As its soil became moistened, the flower asked, “Am I being watered?” As the flower looked up, the newly inspired gardener looked down and smiled. No matter what soil you are in, no matter what weed has come to destroy your existence or the lack of sunshine present in your life, encourage yourself. Dance by yourself, respect yourself, believe in yourself and realize that you must LOVE yourself!! Don’t wait for the gardener to arrive to supply you with what you need in order to survive. Don’t let the flowerbed in which you reside dictate your abilities, your fate or entertain trespassers. Reach deep within, rejuvenate yourself, reignite your purpose and seek the power that you possess within. It’s there. Your existence is important and your presence is necessary. You are a flower, so beautiful, so gentle and worth living. So learn to “water yourself” because you captivate the world with your uniqueness.

Everything You Need to Know About

College Tours Do you remember those dreaded college visits of your high school days? The walking, the bombardment of facts, and the endlessly peppy student who led you around campus, cracking lame jokes every step of the way? That’s me. I’ve been a campus tour guide for nearly two years now, and I’ve walked enough tours to do it in my sleep. (I have, on occasion, given tours while mentally writing papers, which is nearly the same thing…) Tour guides are on the front lines of the admissions process. We are not always the first university representative to meet a student, but we’re often the ones who have the greatest impact. In general, we’re only a few years older than the people we’re talking to, and we’ve gone through many of the same experiences. We’re knowledgeable and relatable. There’s a big difference between reading about a school and walking its grounds, and we know it. Because campus tours can make or break a college decision, it’s important to insure that each and every student has a great tour experience. I’ve been a campus tour guide for a year and a half now, having started two years ago as an orientation leader. As a sophomore, I thought that I knew a lot about my school, but in the time since I began working in admissions, I have learned a lot, and helped others learn a lot too. Occasionally, an older sibling who already attends the university will tag along for a tour, and they always walk away amazed at what they didn’t know. I’ve also received strange questions of pretty much every type, from middle schoolers won-

Amara Alberto Student, Cleveland State University a.g.alberto@gmail.com FALL 2016 | 11

dering if we have a dress code (no), to farm kids asking if their concealed carry permits mean that they can bring a weapon into the dorms (also no, in case you were curious). In the past two years, I’ve given tours to everyone from middle school programs to French exchange students to South African artists to multi-millionaire commencement speakers. While the people on the other side of the tour differ widely, the goal is always the same: we want guests to walk away feeling welcomed and that our university is a place worth coming back to for an amazing academic experience. Getting the most out of a college tour is easy: show up, listen, and know the questions you want to ask in advance. College tours tend to fall within specific time slots, so you’ll have a limited amount of time to get the answers you need. Tour guides can sometimes answer the questions you have before they even come up, just because we’ve done this so many times. For example: financial aid is an important topic, and generally tends to be covered in a normal tour. But have you ever considered the price of books? College textbooks tend to lean towards the heinously expensive, and aid in purchasing them should be a factor in financial decisions. When I take a tour group past our bookstore, I encourage them to think about paying for textbooks with scholarship money, but also to think about renting and buying secondhand books. Know what you want to know, and be open to what your guide tells you. Show up ready to walk: you came to see the campus and you’re probably going to be walking to see it. Your tour will be easier for everyone if you’re prepared to move along with your tour guide. And if the person showing you around is about to walk backwards into a pole, I promise that they’ll appreciate it if you give them a warning. And those lame jokes take guts to keep telling: I promise we’ll love it if you laugh.

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faith hope love Debrah Williams Pastor, New Kingdom Life House Church godsgirl607@yahoo.com

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My I was a high school dropout and wanted to experience what I thought was missing, and turned into a party girl. At the ripe old age of 18, I became a teen mom and four years later I had my second child. I depended on my mother to raise my children. It was good to know that they were safe, but I knew I was taking advantage of my mother as I stayed high, using drugs. I did not want my children to see me high so I would let grandma have them. I did not think very much of myself, and got really deep into drugs. I smoked weed and drank and then experimented with cocaine. I became strung out for a few years. One day, I finally got tired and knew that there had to be more for me than the life I was living. I would pray, but I thought God was tired of me and I knew he was not pleased. I didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t think he wanted anything to do with me and I felt like he wasnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t listening to my prayers. I figured I had nothing to lose so I asked him to help me and watch over

TESTimony my children. I even asked him to help me through my addiction. I liked being high on drugs because it took all my pain away and it was my escape from reality, even though it was only a temporary escape. I had become so accustomed to rejection, that I did not know how to accept myself and almost gave up and wanted to end my life. I did not think that I was worth much and I didn’t think anyone loved me; after all I was not lovable. I entered an abusive relationship and I knew that if I had stayed I would lose my life, or take his. Even in all the chaos of my life, I did not want to go out like that. I still believed that I could have more, I just did not understand how to get there. I was really scared, but I knew the only way I could save my life was to ask and cry out to God. I believed he was real I just did not know him and I know with all the craziness in my life he didn’t know me. I had a spiritual awakening one day. I cried out to God and said the sinner’s prayer and sought him out for the change that I needed in my life. I have been clean for 23 years now, and I am a licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor Assistant (CDCA) and

a Pastor. I go into detention centers and treatment centers as an advocate for victims of abuse. My sister and I have a sober living home where women can live for up to 6 months. We have a women’s mentoring group and recently opened the doors to our own church. I am currently working on my Bachelor’s Degree in Substance Abuse Counseling and Theology. God has blessed me to share my story through a book I am writing entitled, Mary and Me. I encourage myself by reading the word of God and sharing my life with others while introducing them to my heavenly father. I believe he has a plan for us and he will carry it out if we just get out of the way. Hebrews 11:1 “Now faith is the substance of things hoped for the evidence of believing things that are not yet seen.” Faith is real and if you believe that it will happen, faith is what makes it come into manifestation. It’s a pleasure to assist my sisters in finding themselves, in a faith-based sober living environment. Keep the Life House and New Kingdom Life House Church in your prayers. Please seek us out if you are in need, we are a safe place for your life and spiritual healing.

FALL 2016 | 15

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A Message to Teachers

Experiencing Burnout Are you at the end of your rope? Grades are due, the copy machine is broken, the internet is running slow, and you are out of caffeine. Well, you might be experiencing teacher burn out. a Don’t fret my dear teachers. There is light at the end of the tunnel—and it is not a train! Teachers are the super heroes of the educational world, and we must avoid our kryptonite (teacher burnout) at all costs. Here are a few tips to help in keeping your spider senses. Meditate. Find time in your work day to meditate. Take 15 minutes. Dim the lights and surround yourself in either complete silence or soft music. Sit and breathe deeply while purging the frustration and negativity of the day away. Doing this will help you to find a small piece of balance in an often hectic day. Stay on top of grading. Grades are the blood suckers of the educational

Jeanette Chappell-Nettles Teacher, Lorain City School District jnettles@loraincsd.org

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universe. You spend an insurmountable amount of time in this area. The key is to pick three days out of the week that you will dedicate to grading papers in abundance. You do not want to grade papers daily at home. Your home should be your castle and your sanctuary; thus, you want to make sure that your home does not become just another extension of school. Have a school support system. Who is on your Justice League? All super heroes need support. When you have teammates that you can lean on, it just makes the day run smoother. Start to design your dream team. Help one another with “time out” spaces for our reluctant learners. Solutions aren’t always found in the administrative office. As educational super heroes, the stress is real. Thus, with your support systems in place, you can conquer any obstacles in

your path. Remember, there is great power in working together. Live, Laugh, and Love. In the sum of all things possible and impossible, we are alive. So, we must live like we mean it. As an educational super hero, you have the power to change lives, and to change your studentsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; lives for the better is a must. However, you cannot afford to lose yourself in the process. Remember to laugh. Laughter is a great medicine. It helps

to heal many mental, physical, emotional, and spiritual wounds. Remember to love. Love what you do. Teaching is one of the most amazing jobs in the world. For your students, the effects of your teaching are lifelong. Thus, find and hold dear what you love about teaching. In the end, love is what connects us to truly living beyond the borders of the infamous villain, burnout.

| 19 | 19 FALLFALL 2016 2016

executive profile RESUME Name: Diana Centeno-Gomez Title: Deputy Branch Chief Aeronautics and Ground Based Systems, Systems Eng. and Architecture Div. Organization: NASA Glenn Research Center Background: Aerospace Engineer Education: Universidad de Puerto Rico, BS Math; Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, MS, Applied Math; Cleveland State University, MS computer Information Science; International space University, Space Studies Program Certificate, Space Studies Residence: South Euclid, Ohio BUSINESS PHILOSOPHY Essential business philosophy: Be willing to learn new things, get out of your comfort zone, be flexible and be willing to collaborate. Best way to keep competitive: Do a good job. Make sure you

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follow through. If you make a commitment, be sure to keep it. Find people who are willing to mentor or support you. Be willing to volunteer for different projects that could get you recognized. The projects that have been most satisfying for me have been those that others have encouraged me to take on when I was not sure I could do it. Guiding principle: I have found out that when people ask you â&#x20AC;&#x153;what do you want?â&#x20AC;? you should have an answer. If they know what you want, they will be willing to provide you help. Have the self awareness to be able to answer that question. Some young engineers have asked me how to move up, I tell them to ask themselves: What do you want, what do you enjoy doing, what type of work makes you happy? You must ask yourself a lot of questions. Yardstick of success: Do I like the work that I am doing? Am I making a contri-

bution? Am I happy doing the work that I’m doing? I am still learning? Then you know you are on the right path. Goal yet to achieve: Professionally - I would like to become a Branch Chief. I have learned a lot from my branch chief, Dennis Rohn. Personally - I want to learn new languages and travel more. I have been to Paris and Spain. I would like to go to Italy. Central and South America are very appealing, Argentina, Costa Rica. I would like to go back to Puerto Rico to explore in more depth the place I come from. Best business decisions: Moving outside my comfort zone, in 2006 my Division Chief asked me to take on a position supporting the Space Shuttle Program. I thought I was not the right fit, but my Division Chief suggested I talk to the engineer at the Johnson Space Center that was doing the work. As a result, I worked on the last 5 years of the Shuttle Program supporting the last 20 missions of the program. Another example, I applied for a lateral position to work on the Space Station Program, early in my career but did not get it. However, the branch chief asked if I would be interested in another position in the future. A year later a similar position was advertised, I applied and I became a software project manager for International Space Station Electrical Power System software.

Toughest business decision: When I applied for my current position it was a bittersweet. I was sad to leave the team and the project because I really enjoy working in that area and with the team.

level positions and encourage me to apply when they became available. I applied and got selected from one of the positions. If they had not encouraged me I would probably not have applied.

Biggest missed opportunity: I passed up a chance to move to NASA Headquarters because my daughter was going into her senior year of high school. Part of me says I should have taken it, but at the same time my husband and I did not want to disrupt our daughter’s life at that critical point. Family was the priority.

TRUE CONFESSIONS

Mentors: Throughout the years I have had both formal and informal mentors, and colleagues that I could talk to and/or ask for guidance. For example, I participated in a Leadership Developmental program in the mid 90s that required a formal mentor. The Director of Engineering at the time helped secured a detailed assignment outside of my primary area. He steered me to the right person, a new supervisor to work with. He provided me great career advice and what to look for in terms of future assignments. Another example, in the late 90s there was a new office established at NASA Glenn, the Principal Center for Workgroup Hardware and Software which I did not know anything about. Two friends and colleagues, Olga Gonzalez-Sanabria and Rafael Sanabria called me and told me about the new office, that there were going to be high

As a young engineer I thought I would be at NASA for maybe 5 years and then move on, but I didn’t. I found out that I could work in different exciting projects while staying at the same place. Likes best about the job: First of all NASA is a unique organization at the cutting edge of space and aeronautics. You get to work in some very interesting projects. In addition, NASA provides opportunities to further develop your technical skills. You can become an expert in one specific area or decide to diversify your skills as I did. You must have the attitude to work well with other people in different areas within Glenn and across the Agency. When I see the International Space Station I can say that I that I worked on the electrical power system. Every time the Space Shuttle gets mentioned as part of NASA’s history and accomplishments I realize that I contributed to its missions. It is very gratifying. Likes least about the job: Being a supervisor is different and challenging. There are competing priorities, and not everything is under your control.

Sharon O. Williams sharonosophelia@gmail.com FALL 2016 | 21

Diana discusses project updates and processes with members of the Configuration and Data Management Working Group. Centeno-Gomez branch members support Aeronautics and Ground-Based Systems projects comprised of systems experts and engineers from throughout the NASA Glenn Research Center Facility in Cleveland.

Also some people can be challenging so you have to be flexible, patient and a good listener.

Center, where I served as a Board Member from 2008 – 2016.

Most influential book: I have an eclectic taste in books. I like fiction but it also could be a mix between mystery, romance, thriller or science fiction. Lately I have been reading autobiographies. The most recent was of United States Supreme Court Justice Sonia Sotomayor, which was very inspiring. I currently reading Rita Moreno’s memoir who I met in October at Hispanic Roundtable Convencion Hispana 2016. Recently I bought a book called “How to bake pi: An edible exploration of the mathematics of mathematics.” It combines baking and math concepts. Very interesting.

Favorite activities: I like theatre, especially musicals. I love dance and rarely miss an opportunity to see the Alvin Ailey Dance Company or Dance Theatre of Harlem.

Favorite cause: I currently serve on the Board of the Hispanic Roundtable, LATINA, Inc. (Leading and Advocating Together in New Arenas), and the Saint Luke’s Foundation. I recently stepped down from the Domestic Violence and Child Advocacy

Other thoughts: I would like to see more Latina and African American women going into Engineering and Science. There has been progress but there are still not enough Women of color in STEM careers.

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Favorite restaurant: Pier W because of the great location and the food. I love seafood. Mallorca is another one of my favorites. Favorite way to spend free time: Travel, reading, dancing and attending live performances.

Fun

Fall Recipe Roasted Butternut Squash Risotto

Ingredients: Nonstick vegetable oil spray 1- 2-pound butternut squash, halved lengthwise, seeded 8 cups low-sodium chicken broth 1 tablespoon olive oil 4 tablespoons unsalted butter 1/3 cup finely chopped shallots 2 ½ cups Arborio rice 1 cup Parmesan-Reggiano 1 tablespoon chopped fresh sage Directions: Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Spray 13x9x2-inch glass baking dish with vegetable oil spray. Place squash cut side down in prepared dish. Pierce each squash half several times with toothpick or skewer. Bake until squash is tender, about 45 minutes. Let cool. Peel and cut the squash into ½ inch cubes and set aside in a bowl. Bring broth to a simmer in a 4-quart pot and keep at a bare simmer, cover. Heat oil with 1 tablespoon butter in a 4- to 5-quart heavy saucepan over moderately high heat until foam subsides, then sauté shallots until softened, about 3 minutes. Add rice and cook, stirring, 1 minute. Ladle in 1 cup simmering stock and cook at a strong simmer, stirring, until absorbed. Continue simmering and adding stock, about 1/2 cup at a time, stirring very frequently and letting each addition be absorbed before adding next, until rice is just tender and creamy-looking, 16 to 18 minutes. (Save leftover stock for thinning.) Remove from heat and stir in remaining tablespoon butter, squash, cheese, sage, and salt and pepper to taste. If desired, thin risotto with some of leftover stock. Yields 6 servings Chef Eric Wells www.skylaraes.com | 23 | 23 FALL FALL 2016 2016

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Real People. Real Stories. Pass it On! Hello Northeast Ohio Residents,

News and Traffic Reporter Danielle Wiggins with Anchor Russ Mitchell.

Have you heard about RISING? Well, here’s the scoop! Rising is a series of television and digital stories on WKYC and wkyc.com/Rising showcasing people who have overcome obstacles to achieve success, and in doing so, are inspiring others to do the same. Individuals can join the Rising movement through social and online media. News and traffic reporter Danielle Wiggins, has been a champion for the series on air and out in the Northeast Ohio community. Individuals who want to share a Rising Moment about themselves or someone else, should summarize their story in a one or two sentence written description and then email a photo of themselves holding that description to Rising@ wkyc.com. WKYC is also looking to partner with non-profit organizations, businesses and churches who are eager to offer services, encouragement, and support to help the ‘Risen,’ (a name given to those profiled in the series) offer gifts to assist others in the community working to overcome difficult and challenging situations.

Visit wkyc.com/Rising to see the people and families who have already been profiled. The series airs every Tuesday during the 7:00 p.m. news broadcast. You, your neighbor, a friend or family member, a church member, a colleague at school or work, could be next! #RisingWKYC

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Don’t Kill Him with Tender Loving Care:

Just “MENtion It” Why is a gynecologist writing about men’s health? The last time that a man was my patient was when I did his circumcision as a newborn baby. I’m growing wiser and older with my patients and tend to dole out more sage advice these days. More often than I’d like, when I open the examination door for my next patient who is there for her scheduled annual exam, second opinion consult, pap test or breast exam – I’m embraced by sadness, haunting stares, and despair. Far too many women are sharing their pain due to disability, disease, and untimely early death of their beloved husband or partner. Too many disheartening anecdotes about chronic conditions that were easily treated such as hypertension, diabetes, overweight/obesity, depression, alcohol/drug and cigarette addiction and symptoms that were simply ignored. Their partners wore the blinders of denial they bemoan. My patients cry and mourn, but increasingly, I hear anger and despair in their voices. They lament that despite the fact that they “made the appointment for the prostate/ rectal and annual exam, colo-

noscopy, eye appointment, and even dentist visits,” that their partners did not keep them. Prescriptions remained unfilled or retrieved from the pharmacy. He ignored the reminder phone calls from the pharmacy that informed him that his medication order was ready for pick up, they say. Do you need more money? Can you calculate a way mathematically to obtain income faster than winning the lottery? Or finding a pot of gold at the end of the rainbow? Would cashing in on your partner’s life insurance and disability policy help finance your whims, wishes, and dreams? It’s possible by killing him with lots of tender loving care (TLC). On the average, men usually marry women who are 3-5 years younger than they are. But women usually outlive their spouses by 12-15 years because they see their doctors for wellness and preventative check-ups. Women rarely ignore symptoms for months or years before seeing a doctor. Can you envision your life without him by 10-15 or more years? Men like women, will die of chronic diseases, such as heart disease, diabetes, or stroke. Many of the health co-morbid-

Linda D. Bradley, MD Professor of Surgery, Vice Chair Obstetrics & Gynecology Women’s Health Institute, Cleveland Clinic

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ities are avoidable and even reversible by lifestyle changes. Unlike women, who are more likely to obtain their vaccinations, mammogram, Pap test, and seek prenatal care – for many men, the last doctor visit was at the pediatrician’s office. No not their child’s pediatric visit—it was theirs. Cajoling our partners is one of women’s favorite past time activities. Once our male partner, an avid avoider, finally makes a doctor’s appointment and checks in as a new patient, the angelic receptionist hands him a medical questionnaire to complete. She asks him to fill out the form and return it to the front desk when finished. Within one minute the paperwork is returned to the receptionist, who looks incredulously at the form and can’t believe what she reads. The first question asks, “When have you been treated for a variety of ailments, diseases and allergies.” His answer, “N/A”, or not applicable. Then it asks for the name of his prior primary care physician and he writes, N/A, this time it means “no answer.” The final question asks “when was the last time that you had a routine physical exam and he answers “CR” for can’t remember. This is the

typical patient who has physician avoidance syndrome. Sadly, this refrain is common for many men. Here’s your road map and GPS to killing him with all of your love. Is He Having Trouble Raising His Flag? Never talk about sexual problems in the bedroom. Rather talk about it in the kitchen while you shell pistachios, slice watermelon, or spread almond butter on some whole grain Ezekiel bread. Remind him to eat the delicious lunch that you packed. Erectile dysfunction is defined as the persistent inability to attain or maintain an erection for satisfactory sexual performance. Thirty million men in the US have it. However, you may want to remember the 40/50/60 rule of thumb. Forty percent of men by age 40 have difficulty with erections. By age 50, almost half of men notice erectile problems, and by age 60, almost 60 percent suffer from erectile dysfunction. If he is having trouble getting an erection, keeping his erection, and his libido has plummeted, no matter how much you tried to “put him in the mood” it’s time to see his doctor. Not getting it up, can be an early sign of heart disease. Engorgement of the penis requires a vibrant micro-circulation. A tiny blood vessel blocked by atherosclerosis doesn’t afflict just the cardiac muscle – it cripples and inflames the minute penile arteries first. Atherosclerosis

or hardening of the arteries can lead to “softening of the penis, since stiffened arteries can’t relax open and let the blood flow. Thus, erectile dysfunction may just be the flaccid tip of the iceberg in terms of a systemic disorder,” says Dr. Michel Greger, in his number one bestselling book, How Not To Die. Having a large, protuberant abdomen is often an early sign of the metabolic syndrome characterized by hypertension, diabetes, and elevated cholesterol levels. Recently, I heard a urologist say that the best scientific 101 class advice that he gives his male patients with erectile dysfunction is the following, “if you can’t see your penis when standing up and looking down over your belly, you won’t be able to get it up.” To which the patient replies, “You mean doc, I can get an erection if I lose my belly fat?” Yes, that’s the easiest science lesson that the patient really understands. Perhaps you can persuade him to eat a few servings a day of watermelon, collards,

kale and spinach. Research has demonstrated that a healthy diet can improve erection hardness in men with mild erectile dysfunction. Good bye Viagra. Create His Man Cave. Tell him everyone needs a place in the house to relax and cocoon. Make sure he’s got an oversized sofa or massaging recliner chair ready when he gets home. While he won’t likely need the 10-year warranty for the $3,000 gizmo, you will. Let him hibernate in the cave. Shake up his martini or buy beer from the local micro-brewery. Don’t forget to purchase two remote controls that only he can operate for the 120-inch flat screen TV. In case he likes sci-fi, pay extra for the 3D glasses. While you are at it, get HBO, Net Flicks, Crackle, and at least all the sports channels imaginable. Who knows he might enjoy watching Sumo wrestlers. Let him want for nothing. Tease him that he’s starting to be a couch potato and mouse potato. Keep his iPad, iPhone and computer charged all the time. Get extra battery charges and keep near FALL 2016 | 27

him. Microwave ovens are cheap these days. Purchase one so that he can have all the buttery popcorn he loves. Keep a wellstocked refrigerator for the keg of cold beer, wine, and liters of soda. Make sure he goes to the bathroom before entering the man cave. You don’t want him to have to move for anything. Remind him to Take His Medicine—Never. America has a drug problem. Too many people are not taking drugs. Doctors prescribe them, pharmacists dispense them, and the little bottles of pills sit on the nightstand drawer, as the “use by” date slowly expires. Often, the patient is expiring right alongside of them. It’s estimated that about 50 percent of the 2 billion prescriptions filled each year are not taken correctly. One-third of patients take all their medicine, one-third takes some, and a third never even fill their prescriptions. Non-compliance is said to cause 125,000 deaths annually in the United States, and may lead to up to 28 percent of hospital and nursing home admissions. As the former surgeon general C. Everett Koop says, “Drugs don’t work in patients who don’t take them.” Remind him of these statistics—maybe it will be a wake-up call. Yard Work — Never. Hire a great landscaper and let the crew do the work. He doesn’t

28 | CL MAGAZINE

need to do the fall cleanup or plant spring flowers. But you make sure that you have the best looking yard and landscape on your block. Keep the yard tidy. He will always be able to use the cozy hammock and rock himself to sleep after smoking his cigar, cigarettes or E-cigarettes outside. You don’t want to breathe the second hand smoke. Don’t remind him to wear sunscreen---who gets skin cancer? Don’t let him move an inch of snow—it just might cause a heart attack. Don’t Nag Him to See the Doctor. You don’t want to cause tension in the family. But make sure you are getting your mammogram, colonoscopy, Pap smear and blood pressure checked. Keep the peace in your house. A few lovingly reminders now and then to get his prostate, blood pressure, cholesterol, colonoscopy, or to see the doctor about the persistent cough checked. But when he becomes irate and says, “Who wants to live forever because everybody has to die of something.” Look affectionately in his eyes and say, “okay honey, let me know when you are ready. I’m always here for you.” Lovingly Ask Him to Help You Cook. Cooking together can be romantic, ease tension, and allow time to bond. Plus, it teaches him to do more than boil water. If he declines helping out in the kitchen, remind him that men who help with house-

work, often have more romantic relationships. He could see what’s not under the apron that you are wearing while you cook. Just Say No. You have a nightly headache. Don’t see a neurologist. Sexless relationships don’t lead to marital bliss. No interest in your partner? No longer turns you on? Don’t talk about it with him. Upset that he doesn’t lift a finger to help with housework, don’t nag him…just withhold sex. Doesn’t help with homework with the kids, remember your birthday or anniversary…just withhold sex. It will make him irritated. Maybe his untreated hypertension might just create a cardiac or neurological problem. Vacation? Never. Encourage him to work overtime, weekend, holidays, and bank all of his vacation days. Who needs restorative rest and relaxation? Instead, make sure your getaway weekends with girlfriends, daughter sisters, or mom are merry. Let your hair down. Smell the roses, savor life, and recharge your inner spirit. Let his vacation less life continue. Hard work never killed anyone… right? I mean, I’ve never heard anyone on their death bed wish that they had worked more— have you? Join you spiritually weekly. Never nag him when you are going to church or your spiritual home weekly. Just let him know that you are praying for him.

You won’t be questioned in his early demise. No weapon will be found. You won’t have to encourage him to go to the neighborhood pool, knowing that he can’t swim. You don’t need to attempt to toss him a life vest or life jacket. You don’t have to call him on his cell phone and talk with him while he’s on the snowy, ice-slicked highway driving home. You don’t have to remind him to buckle up when he drives. Nope, your local law enforcement agencies will not take your fingerprints or suspect foul play. Everyone will tell you that you are a trophy wife who did “everything” for her man. In fact, most of your friends, sorority sisters, and relatives said that you should be cloned. The statements indelibly etched in your memories include: “I only wished I was half as good to my man as you were.” “Disease happens; it’s just the luck of the draw.” “You could be on the cover of our local magazine as Wife of the Year.” “Honey, you loved that man to death.” So, I’ve given you a few hints at how you can kill him with all of your love. Next time I’m scanning through Facebook and see your posts of only you on vacation, taking a selfie at your

yoga class, marvel at your before and after picture of your weight loss, and see you shopping in the produce aisle at our local grocery store — I’ll hug you tightly and whisper into your ear, “girl you just loved that man to death. I’m so glad you are taking care of yourself.” The PostScript I Would Like to Write Yes, recent statistics are sobering. More than 60 percent of men don’t go to the doctor. Yes, the stereotype of machismo and disinterest is true. Men rather talk about sports, the weather or their job, rather than their health. In fact, a recent survey by the Cleveland Clinic of more than 500 men between ages 18-70 in the United States, noted that 19 percent admitted that they went to their doctor to halt the incessant nagging of their significant other. Eric Klein MD, a prominent urologist at the Cleveland Clinic stated, “Enough with the machismo, gentlemen. Your misguided aversion to taking serious interest in your health is contributing to the very things you fear most—illness and even death. A new educational campaign goal called, “MENtion It” encourages more men to talk with their doctors about their health, chronic conditions, and take proactive steps to prevent problems and even reverse some problems. Until age 50, John smoked, drank, and was a mouse and couch potato. It was a lot easier

and more enjoyable for him to eat unhealthy food than move. As anticipated, John underwent cardiac bypass surgery, recovered a few days in the intensive care unit and promised his wife that he would make lifestyle changes. He would listen to her advice and make the necessary follow up with his doctors and cardiac physical rehabilitation health team. He would adhere to his doctor’s advice and faithfully take his medicines. Going to church, became a weekly ritual. Sneaking in the bathroom one day while her husband was taking a shower, she saw him looking down. He patted his stomach and could now see over it. The flag was able to rise. He started singing in the shower. Finally, he understood what the “MENtion It” campaign meant and what his loving wife and had been saying for years. Stay in motion, eat food, not too much, and mostly plants, forgive, and have gratitude— and that men should see their health care team. Eureka! He got it. As Dean Ornish eloquently says, “Wellness begins with “WE.” Illness begins with “I”. Community is the cure. He paused and reflected on an African proverb recited and memorized in high school, “If you want to travel swiftly go alone. If you want to travel far, travel together.” They lived happily ever after. FALL 2016 | 29

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Why Your Vote H

Matters

In 2012, it was Black women voters who put President Obama over the top with the votes needed to secure a second term, confirming what we already knew – that when black women and women of color vote, we determine elections. According to the Pew Research Center (PRC), Black voter turnout in presidential elections has consistently been increasing since 1996 and now, for the first time, PRC finds that, millennials have overtaken baby boomers as the nation’s largest living generation, marking a potential new era for U.S. presidential elections.

Jazmin Long Co-Founder, Cleveland Young Professional Minority Women’s Group www.cleypmwg.com

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Many reports that have been released, point out that many millennial women of color are less engaged in this year’s election than older generations, but I think that is changing swiftly. The first time that many millennials were able to cast their vote in a presidential election was in 2008, myself included. We were wowed by then, Senator Barack Obama’s message of hope! He inspired us and made us take notice of his greatness, we couldn’t wait to cast our ballot for him. I can certainly remember being drawn in by this electric speaker and his phenomenal wife. However, it is just as important to cast our vote in this election, as it was in 2008 and 2012. There are three policies that women of color are primarily focused on in this election cycle: the gender pay gap, support for small businesses, and criminal-justice reform. These three issues have significant impact on women of color. For example, on average women make 80 cents on the dollar compared to white men. For African-American women it’s 63 cents on the dollar and for Latinas it is 54 cents on the dollar. When you talk about ensuring equal pay for women that will have a distinct and dramatic impact for women of color, for whom the wage gap is widest. There is only one candidate with a plan to address all three of the issues concerning women of color, and that’s Hillary Clinton. Initially, I planned on writing a bi-partisan article about the importance of voting. But,

in the wake of this election cycle it is crucial for me to express how important it is for women of color to cast their votes for Hillary Clinton. In the words of philosopher/singer/ song writer, Beyoncé Knowles Carter – ok ladies now let’s get in formation! If you’re feeling disconnected from politics for whatever reason, now is the time to take a step back and acknowledge that Donald Trump is not a viable presidential candidate for Black women. It does not matter how many times he retracts his racist and misogynistic comments, the law and order proponent will not be working toward equal pay, reform of the criminal justice system, funding for our schools, or stimulating the economy for women of color. This election is crucial to many of our livelihoods and we cannot afford to sit this one out. President Obama said it best, “Black women have been a part of every great movement in American history even if they weren’t always given a voice. When women of color aren’t given the opportunity to live up to their God-given potential, we all lose out on their talents; we’re not as good a country as we can be. We might miss out on the next Mae Jemison or Ursula Burns or Serena Williams or Michelle Obama. We want everybody to be on the field. We can’t afford to leave some folks off the field.” Women of color are the most powerful voters in the electorate and we have to be willing to leverage our social capital to ensure we elect the candidates that are best for all Americans!

FALL 2016 | 33

15th Anniversary Year 2017 Calendar of Events

15th Anniversary Year - Upcoming Events MARYSVILLE, OHIO (BY INVITATION ONLY) 2nd Annual Special Women’s History Month Program Thursday, March 9, 2017 ■ 12:30pm – 2:30pm Ohio Reformatory for Women (ORW) 1479 Collins Avenue, Marysville, Ohio 43040 CLEVELAND, OHIO 5th Annual “Speaking of Women! A Dialogue Series for Women in Leadership” Thursday, March 30, 2017 ■ 12:00 noon – 1:30pm Special Women’s History Month Leadership Symposium Cleveland Clinic – Main Campus – Bunts Auditorium 9500 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland, Ohio 44195 AURORA, OHIO (BY INVITATION ONLY) 15th Anniversary “ C-Suite” Executive Summit (NEW Exclusive Event!) Sunday – Tuesday, April 9-11, 2017 Walden Inn & Spa 1119 Aurora-Hudson Road, Aurora, Ohio 44202 CLEVELAND, OHIO 15th Anniversary VIP Reception and Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony Saturday, April 15, 2017 ■ 6:00 – 9:00pm Cuyahoga Community College - Corporate College 4400 Richmond Road, Warrensville Heights, Ohio 44128 CLEVELAND, OHIO th 15 Annual Personal and Professional Development Retreat for Women of Color “Connections, Community and Career 2017” Thursday, May 11, 2017 ■ 8:00am – 5:00pm Case Western Reserve University, Tinkham Veale University Center 11038 Bellflower Road, Cleveland, Ohio 44106 6th

CLEVELAND, OHIO Annual “Speaking of Women! A Dialogue Series for Women in Leadership” Thursday, June 8, 2017 ■ 11:30am – 1:30pm Women’s Leadership Symposium Dominion East Ohio 1201 East 55th Street, Cleveland, Ohio 44103

Suffering in

Silence Ask Dr. Angela

Today, just about everyone has at least one social media account. While social media is fun and keeps us connected, it can also create serious problems. Cyberbullying, social media addiction, loss of human interaction and loneliness are fast-growing problems. This quarter’s column focuses on the dark side of social media. Dear Dr. Angela, I am writing this letter to you because I believe you may be able to help me. I think I am addicted to Instagram and Snapchat. I post just about every day. I seek to my peers for reassurance of my beauty. I get utterly upset if I don’t get more than fifty likes because it makes me feel unwanted. I want to be like the Instagram models I see everyday in my news feed. Sometimes I get judged and insulted online for posting pictures that aren’t actually me. But that’s who I want to be. Along with getting bullied online, I also face it at school. People pick on me and call me names for posing as some one else online. The Internet is where I can disguise

myself. What do you suggest I net and feeling worse and do? worse about your true self. So, how do you begin to Dr. Angela’s Response: increase and value your selfWho you are is better than worth and break this depenanyone you can ever pre- dence on the internet/sotend to be. However, in this cial media? Recognize that age where you can become you will not be able to do it a star in an instant it is very alone. Contact the human hard to believe or remem- resource department at ber that. As I read your let- work or your state’s psychoter, there are two things go- logical association and ask ing on, the constant need to for the names of therapists use the internet for valida- who specialize in women’s tion and your feelings about issues. Share with the theryourself. The two go hand apist what you have shared in hand. As a result, you are with me. Together the two caught in a cycle of exces- of you can begin working on sive internet use to increase a plan that will change how your feelings of self-worth. you feel about yourself and Simply put, it is not work- your behavior on social meing; you are spending more dia. and more time on the inter-

Disclaimer: The advice in this column is for informational purposes only. The author is not engaged in rendering medical, health, psychological or any other kind of professional services or advice, in this column. The reader should consult their own medical, health or other competent professional before adopting any of the suggestions in this column, or drawing inferences from it.

36 | CL MAGAZINE

Dear Dr. Angela, Talking about what really happened seems to be my biggest issue. My friend just recently committed suicide and honestly I feel like I am the one to blame. I feel like calling her my friend is one of the biggest lies I have ever told myself. We grew up together, I thought she was funny, but I just could not defend her. Actually, I just would not defend her. She was strange and nowhere near normal. What is normal anyway? She was different but she made me laugh. She didn’t wear what everyone wanted her to wear but she did not have to either. People were constantly taking videos and talking about her on Snapchat during school, talking about her outfit, and everything she had to say. They mocked her like she was prey, weak and innocent prey. Every picture she posted on Facebook they made into ridicule. I liked some of those pictures because I thought they were funny, I asked her if they were and she laughed too. I should have known better because I am sure her laughs covered up the many scars each “like” and comment gave her. The last time I saw her before she died, she told me she was thankful for someone like me and she hung herself that night, but now I know she needed someone better than me. She basically told me she was thankful that I helped end her life. My question to you Dr. Angela is how do you deal with this? If I could take a “like” back, if I would have just done or even said something, she would still be here. But how do I deal with this? How could I have prevented this? What do I tell the next person? Where do I go from here? Dr. Angela’s Response: When we lose a friend to suicide, it is natural to look back and count all the things we

should have done differently. If only I had done this or that we tell ourselves, then my friend would still be alive. In other words, we blame ourselves. The truth is you did NOT cause the death of your friend. Suicide is complex and a number of factors led to her ending her life not just cyberbullying. But knowing this does not necessarily make it easier. You are grieving and it is important to reach out to one of your school‘s counselors about what you are thinking and feeling. Tell the counselor exactly what you told me in this letter. If you are uncomfortable sharing with a counselor, reach out to member of the clergy. Both will be able to help you navigate the grieving process. Consider ways to honor your friend’s memory. One such way is to begin a cyberbullying awareness program at your school. www.StopBullying.gov has many resources that will help you start and build the program. Being involved in raising awareness will also help you to heal from the trauma of losing your friend.

Dr. Angela Neal-Barnett is the author of Soothe Your Nerves: The Black Woman’s Guide to Understanding and Overcoming Anxiety, Panic, and Fear. A clinical psychologist, Dr. Angela is the CEO of Soothe Your Nerves, Inc. and a professor in the Department of Psychological Sciences at Kent State University.

Dr. Angela Neal-Barnett CEO of Soothe Your Nerves, Inc., and Professor at Kent State University FALL 2016 | 37

99 Years and Counting! December 1st marks the historic countdown to the Centennial celebration of the Ur-

ban League of Greater Cleveland! We are excited to present the annual Equal Opportunity Day Luncheon (EOD) on THURSDAY, DECEMBER 1st, 11:30 am at The Westin in downtown Cleveland. National Urban League President Marc Morial will deliver the keynote address and help to kick-off our Centennial year-long celebration! The theme for this year’s EOD: A Second Century Urban League: Systems Driven, Community Responsive and Collaboratively Positioned. It is focused on the importance of providing innovative programs and strategies that intersect education and youth development; growth and job creation strategies for entrepreneurs; and employer driven workforce training and employment opportunities to open doors of access for everyone, including our most disconnected citizens. These three areas intersected together, represent game changing forces and enablers that will drive the advancements in Education & Youth, Economic Empowerment, Health & Quality of Life, Civic Engagement, and Civil Rights and Racial Justice. As we embrace the League’s 100-year legacy, we continue our dedication to the mission of “Empowering Communities and Changing Lives.” This year, we will recognize significant partners and supporters of the Urban League over its celebrated history at the Partner Roundtable presented by Dominion East Ohio. The Partner Roundtable will be held from 9am-11am prior to the luncheon at The Westin. In addition, we will announce our newly formed Capital Access Fund at a press conference; time to be determined. Representatives from National Development Council, National Urban League, Morgan Stanley, and Urban Empowerment Fund will be a part of the Centennial announcement. TO REGISTER:

www.eventbrite.com

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