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WOMAN Wphenomenal
WOMAN W WOMAN Wphenomenal
HELEN FORBES FIELDS
President and CEO, YWCA
Greater Cleveland YWCA
ROBBIE LATHAN
FOUNDER/OWNER, GINGER & HONEY
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phenomenal WOMAN Wphenomenal
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Beletu (Belé) Wondwossen
Founder / Publisher
Shelley M. Shockley
Managing Editor
Writers
Shelley M. Shockley
Marsha Walker Eastwood
Brittany Garrett
Rhonda Crowder
Creative
Belé Wondwossen
Jason Garrett
Cover Story: Shelley Shockley
Photos: Jason Garrett
The Blush Gallery
Contributing Writers
Rhonda Crowder
Michelle Phillips Fay
Marianna Marron
Letitia Nall
Stephanie Phelps
Kimberly Smith-Woodford
Advertising Sales ads@phenomenalwoman.me 216.702.0845
Phenomenal Woman Magazine A subsidiary of Atlantic Creative Productions 5247 Wilson Mills Road #141 Cleveland, OH 44143
©2024 Phenomenal Woman Magazine. All rights reserved
ISSN 2330-2534 (Print) ISSN 2330-2550 (Online)
orinpart in any form of this publication without prior permission from
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FromtheEditor: Shelley M. Shockley
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REINVENTION IN TIMES OF TURMOIL
Happy New Year! We have reached the time of year where resolutions, vision boards and“words”of the year guide our creative thoughts. It's often a process eliciting joy, wonder and hope, but this year it takes a little more energy to begin this exercise
It's hard, but you must resist the urge to curl up and close out the world. Some ways to limit the anxiety include gaining knowledge, building community, creating fun and distracting activities.
How do you acquire knowledge? First, limit your exposure to social media and the mainstream media. There has been an onslaught of information, and we can't consume it all. It is impossible. Attempting to take in everything you read, see and hear will lead to confusion and anxiety. That is what they want. A citizenry blinded by all the noise they are spewing.
Instead, pick an issue you are passionate about and learn everything you can before acting on what is shared. Do your research, becoming your own SME (subject matter expert). Find or build your community
These are people who share your beliefs and are willing to stand with you when times become overwhelming. If each member of your community picks a subject to research, you can share information ensuring everyone receives good information everyone can understand and spread.
Engage your elected officials through letter writing campaigns and telephone calls. Let your voice be heard. Today is not the time to sit quietly on the sidelines. We must get in the game.
Take a break from the world and engage in fun activities – release the inner child in your brain. Some ideas include painting, creating your vision board, play board games, have friends over regularly for game night. If it's in the budget, take a weekend trip, most importantly live life to its fullest.
A good way to bring joy into your life is community service. Gather your family and friends and plan an afternoon of service. The instant gratification you feel when giving to others will eliminate any stress you're feeling.
When recreating your world, make sure you add exercise to your routine. The range is endless, anything from rocking around the house to scheduling a class three days a week. The key is to keep your body moving, the adrenaline flowing and having fun.
Ultimately, you're creating the world you want to live in, even if it is a small corner of the larger world, it's your space
In our cover story, Helen Forbes Fields was a highly successful lawyer, wife and mother when she decided a change was needed. She was more than thirty years into this career, nearing what many consider is the time to retire. Instead, Forbes Fields left the law firm (with her name on the door) and began a new career in the nonprofit sector. The move was scary on the surface, but she believed in herself and has redefined herself and her life. If you're struggling with the possibility of a career change, this is must-read.
Toni Morrison is frequently quoting as saying her writing career was born because the stories she wanted to read didn't exist, so she wrote them. Entrepreneur Robbie Lathan has a similar story. During a tumultuous time in her life, she found the stress adversely affecting her skin and she couldn't find any over-the-counter remedies Living in New York City, she sought out natural ingredients at an African market and developed her own skincare products to solve her problem. Of course, that's not the entire story, you'll have to check out our feature story to learn more about using ingenuity to solve a problem and create a business.
As you begin the year, this is a good time to check your finances and columnist Marsha Eastwood advises you to beware of“free”offers. Signing up for the latest streaming service so you can watch the latest series can be costly if you don't pay attention to the fine print. We are all guilty of signing up for a service that we intend to cancel before the introductory free period ends and forgetting to cancel. In this edition she offers tips on what to look so you don't bust your budget.
I hope you find something helpful in this edition and remember to make time for you.
Until next time, keep your head up and breathe – this too will pass.
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ROBBIE LATHAN
... the founder and owner of Ginger & Honey, a successful company that 'specializes in providing allnatural skincare solutions for everyday concerns, but whose mission goes far beyond skincare.'
Raised on the east side of Cleveland, Robbie completed high school and attended Xavier University, where she graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in Biology and Psychology. She sharpened her skills working for various companies before embarking on her entrepreneurial journey
Moreonpage10.
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Growing up in Cleveland's Glenville community, Helen Forbes Fields, president and CEO of the YWCA Greater Cleveland, was immersed in a world of service, law, and politics. The oldest of three girls born to George L. and Mary Forbes, it is clear that one's surroundings are strong indicators of the paths you take in life. Like her father, Forbes Fields and her middle sister chose the legal world, while their younger sister chose social work – something they witnessed in their home.
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By: Marsha Walker Eastwood, BS.Ed, MSHSVC
WHEN “FREE” CAN BUST A BUDGET
Sometimes, the word "free" is an irresistible carrot dangled in front of those looking for something for virtually nothing. However, every time we think we're getting something for free, there is always some cost attached. No matter how infinitesimal, there is a price to be paid. A case in point is Amelia Jordan.
Amelia's husband, William, was known as the ultimate penny-pincher. He paid every bill on time, clipped coupons for groceries and household products, and consistently looked for money-saving ideas. He purchased their house and paid it off in three years. The same applied to both cars. Their home was tastefully decorated, and they lacked for nothing. He worked hard so Amelia wouldn't have to. He provided her with a generous allowance and her credit cards.
By her admission, Amelia was somewhat reckless in her spending. She believed the adage that less was more and that anything free kept money in her purse. While William clipped coupons, she surfed the net for "free stuff" with a new streaming service called Free All. Free All advertised unlimited entertainment for free. The service streamed all of her favorite old movies. Amelia was intrigued and, although somewhat skeptical, immediately signed up. As usual, she always forgot her glasses, but she felt no need to read the small print below the line that included free, so she missed the fine print.
Amelia thoroughly enjoyed the vast library of content offered on Free All. She becomes so engrossed in the "free" entertainment that charges from Free All become more frequent and substantial, and her initial skepticism begins to fade. She enjoyed the weekly updates on new shows and movies, even a couple of concerts. The following month, she noticed some small charges on her credit card statement but casually and erroneously assumed they were just service fees unrelated to Free All.
Over the next two months, she noticed the charges from Free All became more frequent and substantial. Amelia realizes that the service's "free" claim is misleading. And she realized that Free All had become anything but. Amelia contacted Free All's customer service, encountering frustrating delays, unhelpful representatives, and misleading explanations. The free in Free All was a 14-day trial period, after which the monthly bill would be $49.99 plus tax.
Amelia angrily stated that she had been misled by the free promo and demanded a refund. The company was willing to refund one month, but the customer service manager reminded her that few things in life are free and that it was her fault for not initially reading the fine print. Amelia was lucky that she caught things in time. Amelia successfully resolved the billing issue and reclaimed her money, learning a valuable lesson about hidden costs and the true meaning of "free.”
Jonathan Bell was not so lucky. For several months, he had cared for his elderly mother after she suffered a fall in her home. Every day after work, he would fix her dinner, breakfast, and lunch for the next day. But recently, after marrying his high school sweetheart, he didn't have the time or the inclination to continue caring for his mother. His wife told him about a cleaning service advertised on TV, which is one free month of cleaning by a professional cleaning company Afterward, the following month would be $19.95. He signed up using his credit card.
His mother was extremely pleased with the job they did. After the second month, Jonathan noticed a 479.00 charge on his credit card from the cleaning company. When he contacted customer service, he was told that he had not read the fine print and that after the second month, he would pay an annual 479.00 subscription fee if he continued the service. No matter how long he argued with the customer service manager, the company would not refund his money
Unwilling to let the matter drop, Jonathan contacted his bank to dispute the charges on his credit card. The bank started an investigation and temporarily refunded the money pending the outcome of the investigation. Jonathan also contacted the owner of the company and explained his situation. He was told it happens all the time, and if they constantly refunded money to people who didn't read the contracts, they would go out of business.
Confident that the bank would rule in his favor, Jonathan used the returned money to pay bills and buy food. Ten days later, the bank informed him that the company was not at fault. He failed to read the fine print, so the original amount was again charged to his card, causing him to exceed his credit limit.
Crystelle Morgan was cheap and vain, which is a dastardly combination of characteristics, to be sure. She bragged about her exploits of eating at buffets and secretly hiding food to take home so she could “eat for free” for a week. When all that free food found a home on her hips, she decided it was time to go on a diet. Some of her friends at work told her about a weight loss program they ordered from TV, and some were successful.
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WOMAN WWOMAN Wphenomenal
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The package included a 14-day free trial. For Crystelle, the word “free” was like waving a red flag in front of a bull. She ordered the program and used it faithfully for a week. She was called into work to travel to another office for a week. She missed the trial deadline and was charged $600.00 for a year's subscription. The product continued to come, but it remained unused, and her credit card was billed monthly.
According to Investopedia, the information in the fine print is often essential for the recipient to know, yet it is "hidden" at first glance. Fine print is typically included in a contract to provide plausible deniability against fraud claims. It contains additional and relevant details that are crucial for understanding the entire contract or information presented. At times, the fine print may not seem appealing. Consequently, the authors of a contract often obscure it rather than placing it prominently, making it challenging and unclear for individuals to know what they are agreeing to
For example, an individual may sign up for a gym membership, and after three months of not using their membership, they decide to cancel the membership to avoid wasting money. When they go to cancel it, they are told that their membership is contractual for 12 months, a stipulation that was included in the fine print but not made known to the individual when signing the contract.
The fine print is strategically located at the end of a print ad or television ad, two places consumers are less likely to view because the print is so small. Most people who wear reading glasses aren't wearing them when they place an order. The purpose is to make the customer believe they are getting a good deal—better than it might actually be. Imagine how many sales would never take place if the word “Free” was in small print.
When considering the impact of fine print on consumer budgets, quantifying the exact dollar amount lost due to consumers ignoring it is challenging. Many individuals have lost hundreds or even thousands of dollars by missing essential details like hidden charges, cancellation fees, or unfavorable terms in service contracts and cosmetic products. A significant number of businesses rely on consumers not reading the fine print. From a financial perspective, reading the fine print is crucial. The terms and conditions regarding subscription cancellations and refunds can significantly affect your bank account if you frequently purchase items advertised on TV
While most of the issues with failing to read the fine print fall on the consumer, several years ago NPR reported the story of a Georgia high school teacher Donelan Andrews who won a $10,000 reward after she closely read the terms and conditions that came with a travel insurance policy she purchased for a trip to England. Squaremouth, a Florida insurance company, had inserted language promising a reward to the first person who emailed the company
"We understand most customers don't actually read contracts or documentation when buying something, but we know the importance of doing so," the company said. "We created the top-secret Pays to Read campaign in an effort to highlight the importance of reading policy documentation from start to finish."
There are many lessons to be learned regarding reading the fine print. Most consumers are in “just get it done” mode. Time is valuable. They want to order an item and receive it promptly. The efficacy of a product is difficult to gauge because, in this microwave society, if it doesn't work within 72 hours, consumers are ready to move away from it. This is especially true with cosmetics and pharmaceuticals. g
ECOMMERCE IN 2025
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5 trends shaping the future of online selling
Thanks to the explosion of ecommerce over the past couple decades, consumers can find virtually any product or service they can think of online. In fact, the consumer ecommerce market is expected to approach $6 trillion by 2027, according to the InternationalTradeAdministration, up from roughly $4 trillion in 2024.
Adiverse collection of product segments is driving this growth, including everything from fashion and furniture to food and beverage. While major marketplace retailers still lead the category, ecommerce has become commonplace among small businesses, too. In fact, by the end of 2023, an estimated 80% of small businesses had at least basic ecommerce capabilities, according to a report by Digital Commerce 360.
However, small businesses are grappling with challenges such as inflation, supply chain issues and keeping pace with major retailers, among others, that are driving a variety of ecommerce trends in 2025 and beyond, including:
Video Content
Spurred by social media, video content is in high demand on ecommerce sites, too. Videos that explain how to use products,
offer tips for using them and demonstrate projects that were completed using a product all earn favor with shoppers. In addition, videos that highlight product features, video reviews on social media and “live shopping events” on the social channels of ecommerce retailers can provide a more appealing interactive experience for shoppers.
Inclusive of the “live shopping events” trends, livestreaming is often popular among consumers as it can create a sense of FOMO (fear of missing out), leading to enhanced brand loyalty and engagement. Short-form videos sweeping social media also drive engagements and offer a quick, appealing way to demonstrate new or popular products.
Personalized Products
Ecommerce provides opportunities for shoppers who appreciate buying products that are uniquely their own. Online buying platforms that allow for customization of products such as shoes, clothing and drinkware can create buyer engagement and earn loyal shoppers who know they can purchase the items they want exactly to their own specifications. In fact, a survey by McKinsey Insights found 80% of loyal customers prefer shopping with brands that offer tailored choices and personalized experiences.
From color selection and accessories to performance variations, custom options can help create a highly personalized shopping experience that allow buyers to interact more directly than they would for a standardized transaction.
Beyond the initial purchase, customized reports and shipping notifications are also becoming the norm. Shippers can alert customers to their products' delivery status – including any delays or changes – via email, text, video message or, in some cases, a customizable dashboard where consumers can view incoming shipments tied to their account or address, request a different delivery time or location, pre-sign for packages and more.
Micro Purchasing Moments
You may think phenomena like impulse buys or convenience purchases are reserved for brick-and-mortar stores, but micropurchasing trends suggest otherwise.These purchases are typically made by someone looking for a quick solution or information in a hurry from a mobile device, such as comparing two or more similar products and clicking a “buy now” link, ordering and paying for food ahead of time to skip the line, making a hotel or excursion reservation while traveling or looking up movie showtimes and purchasing tickets from the same page. Ecommerce sites that can establish themselves as a resource, make information easy to digest and simplify the purchasing process are earning customers (and revenue).
Flexible Payment Options
Online purchases were once limited almost exclusively to credit card purchases, but over time, businesses have granted greater flexibility to shoppers when it comes to collecting payment. While this trend has been growing for several years, many contemporary ecommerce sites now accept credit or debit cards, online checks, digital wallet and mobile payment services, cryptocurrency and even installment payments via third-party providers. By 2029, the third-party payment market is expected to almost double from $62.5 billion in 2024, according to findings from Mordor Intelligence.
Simplified Shipping Options
Evolving technology isn't just improving the browsing and purchasing side of ecommerce; shipping operations are also seeing enhancements. For example, ShipAccel, a digital platform designed by Pitney Bowes, simplifies and enhances shipping operations with advanced ecommerce technology The platform empowers early ecommerce brands to ship like larger companies with access to discounted carrier rates; more than 80 integrations including leading marketplaces, data and insights to help make smarter shipping decisions; branded tracking; and return capabilities. It features a collection of apps, widgets and application programming interfaces to easily configure new workflows
and seamlessly meet the demands of business growth.
“As ecommerce becomes a mainstay, shippers must take a technology-first approach, utilizing platforms that can grow along with the business and partnering with providers who offer deep expertise in the segment,” said Shemin Nurmohamed, president of SendingTechnology Solutions at Pitney Bowes. “As a result of using technology like ShipAccel, ecommerce shippers can save money, enhance operational efficiencies and delight customers –all of which support the business' bottom line.”
Find more shipping support for your ecommerce business in the coming year at shipaccel.com
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Easy ECommerce Shipping Tips
Whether you're a buyer or a seller, getting smart about shipping can help improve your ecommerce experience.
Be cost-conscious. Buyers obviously benefit from lower costs, but as a seller, managing shipping costs means more revenue. Volume discounts and options for lower prices with longer shipping times can make a bigger impact than you might expect. Ashipping partner that has pre-negotiated discounted rates with carriers can deliver significant savings to your business, too.
Reduce package sizes. Using boxes or padded envelopes that closely fit the product being shipped can reduce weight and therefore the cost to send it to the customer Also avoid excess packaging that adds bulk, which adds cost and waste.
Utilize advanced tracking tools. Keep tracking information for everything you ship or buy so you can monitor its safe delivery or, if problems arise, promptly identify and correct the issue. .An option like ShipAccel, uniquely provides branded tracking updates so your business stays front and center with your customer from click to porch.
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ROBBIE LATHAN
Founder And Owner Ginger & Honey, All-natural Skincare Products
Robbie Lathan is the founder and owner of Ginger & Honey, a successful company that 'specializes in providing all-natural skincare solutions for everyday concerns, but whose mission goes far beyond skincare.'
Raised on the east side of Cleveland, Robbie completed high school and attended Xavier University, where she graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in Biology and Psychology. She sharpened her skills working for various companies before embarking on her entrepreneurial journey
Phenomenal Woman recently caught up with Robbie to get a glimpse of her company, Ginger& Honey, and her views on fostering entrepreneurship.
Several studies support the idea that entrepreneurship runs in families. Growing up in an entrepreneurial family, Robbie
has embraced this legacy and said, “Creating something of my own has always been part of who I am.”
When asked about the inspiration behind Ginger & Honey, she said, “It was born during a challenging and transformative period in my life while living in New York City At the time, I was navigating immense personal difficulties, and my skin became a visible reflection of that stress. Unfortunately, the store-bought products I turned to only made things worse.”
Robbie had to engage her mind in search of a solution. “I started experimenting in my kitchen with natural ingredients from a local African market in Harlem. What began as an attempt to heal my skin turned into something much more profound!” she explained. “Not only did I resolve my skincare issues with natural remedies, but I also found a deep sense
of fulfillment and creativity in the process. While many aspects of my life felt like an uphill battle, this came to me effortlessly.”
Today, Ginger & Honey provides pure and effective skincare products tailored to meet individual needs. The company is committed to promoting overall well-being and encouraging its customers to embrace and celebrate where they are in their journey while supporting them in achieving their skincare and wellness goals.
When asked what makes her company standout among peers, Robbie said, “What sets us apart is our intentional approach to formulation. For example, during Breast Cancer Awareness Month, we create a special all-natural pink body butter crafted with plantderived pigments, nutrients, and scents to honor and support those affected by breast cancer. This is just one of the ways we use our products to raise awareness and support meaningful causes.”
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She continued, “Unlike companies that focus solely on external beauty through flashy marketing and celebrity endorsements, we believe true wellness begins from within. Our approach is holistic and lasting, aiming to help our customers feel as good on the inside as they look on the outside. With Ginger & Honey, it's about fostering confidence, self-love, and a deeper connection to personal wellness.”
According to the 2024 Wells Fargo Impact of Women-Owned Business Report, women-owned businesses continue to fuel the economy, representing 39.1% of all businesses—over 14 million—employing 12.2 million workers and generating $2.7 trillion in revenue. While the number of women entrepreneurs is increasing each year, challenges persist, affecting muchneeded progress and hindering their ability to make greater contributions to the economy.
Robbie acknowledges the difficulties encountered by women entrepreneurs and says, "The true barrier to growth within our community is not a lack of talent, innovation, or creativity—it's the lack of funding and support. Our community is rich in potential and ideas, but without the necessary resources and opportunities to thrive, that potential often goes untapped.”
Various analytical studies show that women entrepreneurs receive a significantly low percentage of funding. Only 2-3% of venture capital goes to companies founded solely by women, highlighting a substantial gender gap in the startup investment landscape.
Robbie states that consolidated efforts are essential to addressing these challenges. “I believe that supporting and uplifting women and minorities in entrepreneurship requires a multifaceted approach. Increased access to funding, improved educational opportunities, and stronger community support are vital for fostering growth and establishing a level playing field. By focusing on these key areas, we can empower these entrepreneurs to compete more effectively and make even greater contributions to society”
Some local organizations have been taking initiatives to help support entrepreneurs. Northeast Ohio and Cleveland, in particular, are lucky to be home to JumpStart Inc. as it provides venture capital and intensive, high-impact assistance to diverse entrepreneurs and small business owners, working one-on-one to establish and achieve value-creating growth milestones.
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Robbie recently completed a twelve-week Core City Impact Program organized by JumpStart Inc.The free program is designed to drive economic impact in Cleveland by helping individuals overcome obstacles to entrepreneurship through hands-on advising and industry-specific mentoring.
Very pleased with the objectives and components of the program, she said, “It was an incredible experience that exceeded my expectations. The program provided valuable insights into key areas such as marketing, financial planning, and projections. It was informative and empowering, equipping me with tools and knowledge to better position my business for growth.” She continued, “Overall, it was a tremendously rewarding experience that I highly recommend to other entrepreneurs seeking to strengthen their foundation.”
While she has put in a lot of hard work, Robbie is grateful to those who have supported her and enabled her to reach her success level today. She particularly cited Camille Genise, a key mentor and a positive influence who guided her journey Of her, she said, “Her unwavering commitment to my growth has been invaluable. She gave me access to events where I could showcase my products and connected me with incredible people who have played a crucial role in helping me scale my business. Her guidance and support have been instrumental in shaping both my work and my vision for the future.”
Robbie's busy schedule no doubt creates stress in her life. To help ease it, she utilizes her time wisely and plans effectively. When she is away from the hustle and bustle of life, Robbie enjoys spending time with her daughter and family, reading, and creating formulations.
While Robbie's Ginger & Honey continues to excel in delivering superb products, she is already working hard to take her company to the next level. She explained, “Our next step is to continue delivering top-tier products made with effective, high-quality ingredients to our customers. We're excited about expanding within the beauty industry and beyond it, venturing into new spaces where we can make an even greater impact.” To be able to give back to her community, which has given her so much, she plans to actively participate in community organizations and mentoring services effective this year.
As the interview concluded, she sent messages to girls and young women. Robbie said, “Never give up on your dreams. Pursue what you love with determination, and commit to it until it feels like second nature. Once you've mastered your craft, scale your skills because your talent will always open doors and create opportunities for you!”
To learn more about the company, visitwww.gingerandhoney.co Her skin care products are also available at her store located at 1442 W 28th Street Building 1 Cleveland, OH 44113
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I have learned over the years that when one’s mind is made up, this diminishes fear; Knowing what must be done does away with fear.” —Rosa Parks
Success is to be measured not so much by the position that one has reached in life as by the obstacles which he has overcome while trying to succeed. —BookerT Washington
He who is not courageous enough to take risks will accomplish nothing in life.
—MuhammadAli
Didyouknowthatthehuman voiceistheonlypure instrument?Thatithasnotes nootherinstrumenthas?It’s likebeingbetweenthekeysof apiano.—NinaSimone
Every great dream begins with a dreamer Always remember, you have within you the strength, the patience, and the passion to reach for the stars to change the world. —Harriet
Tubman
Changewillnotcomeifwewait forsomeotherperson,orifwe waitforsomeothertime.Weare theoneswe’vebeenwaitingfor. Wearethechangethatweseek.
—BarackObama
Won’t it be wonderful when Black history and Native American history and Jewish history and all of U.S. history is taught from one book. Just U.S. history. —MayaAngelou
Never be limited by other people’s limited imaginations.
—Dr. Mae Jemison
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IT'S NEVER TOO LATE TO CHANGE CAREERS HELEN FORBES FIELDS,
We rise by lifting others…Robert Ingersoll
By Shelley M. Shockley PWM Managing Editor
Growing up in Cleveland's Glenville community, Helen Forbes Fields, president and CEO of the YWCA Greater Cleveland, was immersed in a world of service, law, and politics. The oldest of three girls born to George L. and Mary Forbes, it is clear that one's surroundings are strong indicators of the paths you take in life. Like her father, Forbes Fields and her middle sister chose the legal world, while their younger sister chose social work – something they witnessed in their home
Forbes Fields attended public schools for her formative education before transferring to Lutheran schools and graduating from Lutheran East High School. As she began navigating life as an adult, it became clear that reinvention and finding the right fit were necessary. Following in the footsteps of her cousin, Forbes Fields enrolled at The Ohio State University, but this would be a short-lived experiment, and she never felt at home. She said,“I never felt as if professors cared about my progress.”
Throughout her life, relationships and community have helped influence her decisions, and Forbes Fields utilized family to provide insight into her higher education choices. While the first choice didn't work out as planned, she relied on the experience and knowledge of another cousin to help her navigate to a Historically Black College or University (HBCU).She explained that the world of choosing colleges, particularly HBCUs, was not as advanced as today. There weren't bus tours around the country offering high school students a look at campuses nor a real marketing push for these schools. The lack of these services made her relational experiences even more critical in her search for her“forever”university.
she arrived on campus, she said,“Thank the good Lord.” Her joy and pride in her alma mater are evident as she recalls,“I had professors who were nurturing and caring about your progress, making sure you got out of school. I had wonderful friends from all over the country who had lived a life very similar to mine.”
Helen said her affection for Spelman is rooted in knowing“it is an institution that is designed to make sure black women succeed in life.”The love comes from learning the history –from its founding in 1881 by Harriet Giles and Sophia Packard to the regular contact with leaders in the Black community. Forbes Fields remembers monthly visits from Dr. Martin Luther King, Sr., Coretta Scott King, Jesse Jackson, and Andrew Young. During their visits, she said, “These individuals were coming to talk to us about our success and making sure we were focused on moving the Black community forward as well as ourselves.”
Forbes Fields and her team continue this mission by touching individuals across generations, focusing on combating homelessness, fighting for racial justice, and empowering women. “ “
During her three years on campus, Forbes Fields studied political science, a major and interest she credits to growing up in a political household where she was a witness to and influenced by her father and her uncle Zeke Forbes. Helen became a part of the Spelman community excelling in her studies and graduated cum laude with a B.A. degree in Political Science
Her cousin, Eleanor, a Central State University alumna, offered insight into the HBCU experience. She recalls, “Eleanor sat me down to discuss attending an HBCU. She showed her yearbook, and there was a picture of her sorority (Zeta Phi Beta). She was pointing out all the individuals she knew very well.”One of the young women was a teacher, and the other was a lawyer. The third was a doctor –all successful. To bring home the point, her cousin told her,“This is the type of institution you need to go to so you can expand your wings.”
Helen considered three colleges: Howard, Fisk, and Spelman. She ultimately chose Spelman, and on the day
After graduating undergrad, Forbes Fields headed to Howard University Law School to pursue her Juris Doctorate. When asked if she always knew she would follow in her dad's footsteps, she said,“Going to law school seemed to make sense because my father was a lawyer.” Chuckling, she said,“I can't say I had some deep thinking about it. What else do you do with a political science major –go to grad or law school.”Four friends from Spelman joined her on this journey. The women left Atlanta and headed to the nation's capital to study law. She said they have remained close friends for over forty years
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She returned to Cleveland with her JD and began practicing law in her dad's firm, Forbes, Fields & Associates Co., where she was initially involved in various public and privately placed issuance of bonds and general obligation bonds for the State of Ohio and its political subdivisions, the Board of Education of the Cleveland City School District, and other cities and counties in the United States. She also served as Law Director to the City of East Cleveland in 1997 and 2005. Her legal practice later transitioned into litigation, focusing on employment discrimination and wrongful discharge matters.
Forbes Fields practiced law for more than thirty years. While she says she didn't always enjoy it, the work provided the flexibility to raise three young children. Reflecting on that time, she is grateful for the experience and says,“I have much more of an appreciation of the practice and the knowledge that I gained than when I was doing it.”
Ten years ago, when Forbes Fields and her husband were settling into their role as empty-nesters, Helen said she didn't see herself ending her career practicing law. She wanted to do something different. She has served on many non-profit boards throughout her career, including the Cleveland Museum of Art, where she met her friend Augie Napoli. Napoli had recently been named the CEO of United Way of Greater Cleveland, so Helen discussed the possibility of her coming over to United Way because she was looking to change career paths. She said,“It just made sense to try something different with someone I trusted. If it didn't work out fine too, I will be very honest: I always kept my office at the law office just in case, just in case it didn't work out.”
The office parachute wasn't needed. She said,“I enjoyed the work.”Working at United Way was an education in nonprofits. Forbes Fields was familiar with nonprofits as clients, even suing a few – but the internal operation of nonprofits and foundations was foreign. She elaborated, “What I often say of United Way is that I represent clients who no doubt received services from United Way or other non-profits, some of whom were my clients. So, I enjoyed that whole education. I was able to learn about the work that nonprofits do every day and how they serve the community. How nonprofits know their community best and provide amazing services to those in need.”
She started her tenure with United Way as Vice President of Community Impact, managing nonprofit allocations. Her territory encompassed Medina and Geauga counties, and they supported over eighty agencies in Greater Cleveland.
After mastering the role of Community Impact, Forbes Fields was promoted to Executive Vice President and General Counsel. As EVP, she was number two in the organization. Her work included board management and the development of the organization's Race, Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Initiative.
This initiative aimed to ensuring that the agencies it funded focused on equity, diversity, and inclusion. Before implementation, she emphasized the importance of United Way's involvement in this work. This evaluation resulted in the development of policies that reflected United Way's efforts for nonprofits
After six years and gaining a wealth of knowledge, Forbes Fields succeeded Margaret Mitchell as the President and CEO of the YWCA Greater Cleveland. She is honored to serve as the head of the YWCA and believes that the mission to eliminate racism and empower women is ingrained in her DNA.
The YWCA was founded with the mission of empowering women. Soon thereafter, that mission expanded to include eliminating racism. The organization's website says it best: “While the mission has evolved, this powerful phrase, from the 1850 statement, has remained constant: Peace, justice, freedom, and dignity for all people”
Locally, Forbes Fields and her team continue this mission by touching individuals across generations, focusing on combating homelessness, fighting for racial justice, and empowering women.
Through programming for children ages three to those approaching end of life, Forbes Fields said,“We are very much focused on those unhoused and, of course, on women. We have our Early Learning Center, which is a preschool. We're focused on children who have suffered from trauma.”
The Learning Center aims to prepare children ages three to five for kindergarten. To achieve this, it offers transportation and various wraparound services for the entire family Forbes Fields discusses its impact:“We are a twogeneration model, influencing the entire family. Therefore, while we may have an enrollment of 40 children, we are impacting the lives of at least 100 to 150 individuals each year.”
When the children finish the program, a graduation ceremony is held at the end of the year to recognize their hard work. Last year, during the graduation, a young father expressed his gratitude to the administrators for the support provided to him and his son. Forbes Fields mentioned that the young man arrived while living in a shelter, and the staff assisted him in securing housing, effectively helping him and his son progress to the next level in life.
The YWCA is also a haven for young adults ages 18-24 who have been touched by homelessness. Approximately 80 percent of them have aged out of foster care and have moved from house to house. The YWCA offers shelter and essential life skills training to end that cycle. The training includes budgeting, nutrition, driver education, and life coaches helping provide direction so they can thrive when they leave the center. The residents are encouraged to stay for three years, and Forbes Fields said that when they stay, they don't end up homeless.
The YWCA also provides emergency shelter to women, assisting between 215 and 220 women daily. They currently nd operate two Norma Herr shelters: one on E. 22 and Payne and a new location on Walton Avenue on the west side. She explained,“Our shelters are considered low barrier, which means we accept everyone who comes to our doors”This differs from other locations where guests must be sober and possess a driver's license.
PHENOMENAL FACTS:
BA, Political Science and Government (cum laude)
Spelman College
Doctor of Law (JD)
Howard University School of Law
Attended Loyola University
Summer Law School
Rome, Italy
Chairperson
Board of Trustees of Cuyahoga Community College
Board of Trustees
The Cleveland Museum of Art
Past member, East Cleveland Financial Planning & Oversight Commission
A graduate of Leadership Cleveland
Received recognition by Fraser Net and the Southern Christian Leadership Conference for her contributions to the community
Awarded the Cleveland Arts Prize
Special Prize in 2020
Selected by Smart Women as a Progressive Woman honoree in 2021
The Payne Avenue location is undergoing renovations but still accommodates guests, with a capacity of 145, while the Walton Avenue location can host up to 102. Forbes Fields mentioned that there are nights when they exceed these capacities, and to manage the overflow, they have a space at St. Paul Church for 45 women. The average stay, she noted, is about 120 days, although some guests have been with them for over five years
In March 2020, the YWCA merged with Cogswell Hall, a building on Franklin Boulevard with 41 apartments for older adults. At Cogswell, they offer socialization programming and three meals a day. The average age of residents is 50, but several have stayed until the end of life.
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The fight to combat racism is ongoing, but the YWCA's annual Racial Justice Challenge is the highlight of its efforts Launched in 2018, it is a virtual learning tool designed to provide dedicated time and space for building more effective social justice habits, particularly those related to race, power, privilege, and leadership issues
A curriculum is created annually to examine racism, sexism, ageism, and other subjects. Forbes Fields said that over the years, the YWCA has collaborated with other agencies, including the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Museum, to explore the development of music and how racism has impacted music and artists' success
She explained that they choose four to five topics and provide articles, podcasts, and YouTube videos about them so that participants can focus on these topics each week and learn more about how racism or sexism has affected these areas.
As an organization, Forbes Fields said they are expanding learning through monthly lunch and learn sessions. The goal, she said,“Is to delve deeply into our topics throughout the year, and our hope is that individuals aren't just doing it for that month but are really reading the material and coming back to refresh on the material throughout the year” While the lunch and learns have been held internally, they are announced in the organization's newsletter, and the hope is to have more participation beyond just the organization.
The final component of the YWCA's mission is women's empowerment. Annually, the organization honors northeast Ohio women who have achieved extraordinary accomplishments in their careers and community service This year, nine accomplished women will be honored at a celebration on June 4 at Severance Music Center.
The honorees are Gina Abercrombie Winstanley, Former U S. Ambassador to the Republic of Malta & President Emeritus of the Middle East Policy Council; Trina Bediako, Chief Executive Officer, New Horizons Baking Company; th Shontel Brown, Congresswoman, 11 Congressional District, United States House of Representatives; Michelle Hereford, System Chief Nurse Executive, Ethel Morikis Endowed Chair in Nursing Leadership, University Hospitals; Kelly Lamirand, Cleveland Market President, Key Bank; Deborah Lindway, Executive Vice President, Bank Security Officer & Technology Executive for Mergers and Acquisitions, PNC Bank; Jazmin Long, President & Chief Executive Officer, Birthing Beautiful Communities; Claire Rosacco, Vice President, Government Relations & Community Outreach, Cuyahoga Community College; and Renee Willis, PhD, Executive Director, Martha Holden Jennings Foundation.
Forbes Fields said of the annual event,“It is the premier program or event to recognize women who have achieved great heights in terms of their community service and careers”
When asked about the future of the YWCA and her goals for the organization, Helen said she wants to leverage her rich career history, relationships, and knowledge to build more collaboration and continue moving the organization forward. An example, she said, is a partnership with Care Alliance to offer medical care for their young people. A highlight of this partnership was the Care Alliance dental van coming out to provide exams, and due to the overwhelming response, they had to schedule another visit.
A relationship with Olivet Institutional Baptist Church, her home church, resulted in a computer class. She said of these relationships,“Many of us serve the same people but with different services. So, it makes sense to collaborate”
When Forbes Fields is away from her daily routine, she enjoys spending time with her husband, Darrell, an attorney. She says,“I've been a lover of the visual arts for many years, so I enjoy visiting museums, looking at exhibitions, and following various artists.”She also enjoys connecting with her adult children, who are scattered around the country, and regularly connecting with a group of friends
In closing, she advised young women,“Don't be afraid to change. Change is good. You often need to be brave to take that step, but don't let fear hold you back. Only you can create your happiness”Using her life as an example, she said,“I left a law firm that had my name on the door, and people didn't understand it. I think that reluctance has so much to do with being afraid to take that step. Ultimately, only you can decide what will make you happy, and you can't worry about how others perceive you.”
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BLACK HISTORY MONTH CELEBRATION
CITY OF CLEVELAND EVENTS CLEV. PUBLIC LIBRARY EVENTS
Wednesday, February 12 – Senior Prom 2025
Brought to you by Ward 5 Councilman Richard Starr andAnthem Blue Cross Blue Shield
11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. in the Cleveland City Hall Rotunda Invitation Only
Thursday, February 13 – Vendor Fair
Cleveland City Hall Rotunda
All are welcome to attend
Friday, February 14 – Health Fair
StephanieTubbs Nones Gallery
11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. in the Cleveland HopkinsAirport
All are welcome to attend
Tuesday, February 18 – MoneyTalkTuesday
Topic 1: Deferred Compensation in Room 30
Topic 2: Credit Repair and Finance 101 in Room 514
11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
All are welcome to attend
Wednesday, February 19 – Family Reunion
11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. in the Cleveland City Hall Rotunda
All are welcome to attend
Friday, February 21 – CMSD Brings you "Ease on Down the Road -AMusical Journey ThroughTime”
12:00 p.m. in the Cleveland City Hall Rotunda
All are welcome to attend
Tuesday, February 25 – MoneyTalkTuesday
Topic: How toAvoid Probate Court
12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. in the Cleveland City Hall Rotunda
All are welcome to attend
Wednesday, February 26 – Vendor Fair
Cleveland City Hall Rotunda
All are welcome to attend
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Join the dialogue on natural hair, celebrating its beauty and diversity while discussing its significance, care practices, and cultural heritage.
Monday, February 24 6:00 p.m.
Martin Luther King, Jr 10601 EuclidAve. Learn More
Celebrating Black Children’s Book Week with Author Shardae Webb
Celebrate Black Children’s Book Week with a book reading from local children’s author Shardae Webb. Mrs. Webb will read her second book, Courage in Kindergarten.
Wednesday, February 26 10:30am – 11:30am Memorial Nottingham 17109 Lakeshore Blvd
GoTell It:AHomecoming with Quartez Harris
Celebrate the final stop of Quartez Harris’s book tour for GoTell It: How James Baldwin Became a Writer
This special event, part of Black Children’s Book Week, honors the homecoming of Cleveland author Quartez Harris and his powerful story inspired by James Baldwin and his legacy
Don’t miss this opportunity to connect with the author and his work and explore the brand NEW Martin Luther King, Jr. Branch*, an engaging space dedicated to community and creativity
Thursday, February 27
11:00 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Martin Luther King, Jr 10601 EuclidAve.
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SKILLET LASAGNA
Save Time with the Skillet
A warm, cozy meal may seem like a burden to make after busy winter days, but Skillet Lasagna lets you skip the craziness of home cooking with an easy, one-pot solution. Discover more comforting recipes that let you reclaim evenings with loved ones by visiting Culinary.net.
Skillet Lasagna
Recipe courtesy of“Cookin' Savvy” Servings: 4-6
1 pound ground beef
1 tablespoon onion powder
1 tablespoon garlic powder salt, to taste pepper, to taste
44 ounces marinara sauce
1/2 cup heavy whipping cream
1/2 cup ricotta
1 1/2 cups frozen spinach 9 lasagna noodles
1 cup mozzarella cheese bread, for serving Parmesan cheese, for topping (optional)
In large skillet or Dutch oven, brown ground beef with onion power, garlic powder and salt and pepper, to taste. Drain excess grease. Mix in marinara sauce, heavy whipping cream, ricotta and spinach.
Break up lasagna noodles and add to skillet. Cover and let set over medium heat 10 minutes. Stir and top with mozzarella cheese. Cover and let set 10 minutes.
Serve with bread and top with Parmesan cheese, if desired.
Mornings for many families involve hurried breakfasts and mad dashes out the door. These Egg Tot Muffins can help take that grab-and-go breakfast to the next level. High in protein and flavor, they are a good way to get rid of early morning brain fog. Plus, you can make them ahead of time so all you have to do is pop them in the microwave and enjoy on the go. Find more morning meal inspiration at Culinary.net.
Egg Tot Muffins
Recipe courtesy of“Cookin' Savvy”
Servings: 12
Butter
36 thawed tater tots
10 eggs
1/2 cup heavy whipping cream or half-and-half
1/2 cup shredded cheese
2 teaspoons garlic powder
2 teaspoons onion powder
1 package (2 1/2 ounces) real bacon pieces salt, to taste pepper, to taste
Heat oven to 350 F
Grease muffin tin with butter. Place three tots in each muffin hole and smash down.
In bowl, whisk eggs, cream, cheese, garlic powder, onion powder and bacon pieces
Season with salt and pepper, to taste. Fill each muffin hole completely with mixture
MAKE BREAKFAST MORE MANAGEABLE
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Place cookie sheet under muffin tin to contain messes and bake 20-25 minutes.
Watermelon Soda Float
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Ingredients
2 scoops Vanilla Ice cream
12 watermelon balls
1/2 cup watermelon juice
1/2 teaspoon lime zest
1/2 cup fizzy water
Instructions
Mix lime zest with watermelon water. Place 6 watermelon balls in tall glass. Add 1 scoop of vanilla ice cream. Add in remaining watermelon balls. Add 2nd scoop of ice cream. Pour watermelon water over the watermelon balls and ice cream. Top off with fizzy water
SHOW OFFYOUR CULINARY SKILLS WITHA SURPRISINGLYSIMPLE DISH
Make mealtime a cinch with this no-fuss, minor-mess solution from “Cookin' Savvy.” Whether you're inviting neighbors for a weekend gathering or impressing your significant other this Valentine's Day, it's an easy way to look like a pro in the kitchen. Find more recipe inspiration at Culinary.net.
Champagne Chicken
Recipe courtesy of “Cookin' Savvy” Servings: 2-4
Mushroom Sauce:
1 can (14 ounces) mushrooms
1 1/2 cups chicken broth
3 tablespoons butter
3 tablespoons flour
1 tablespoon garlic powder, salt & pepper to taste
1/2 cup heavy cream
Chicken:
2 chicken breasts
2/3 cup flour
2 tablespoons lemon pepper seasoning
1/2 stick butter
1/2 cup chicken broth
3/4 cup champagne or sparkling wine mushroom sauce. rice, for serving
Lucky Mint Brownie Perfection
Mint Brownies
Servings: 9-12
Nonstick cooking spray
1 box supreme brownie mix with chocolate syrup pouch
3 tablespoons water
1/3 cup vegetable oil
1 egg
Filling:
3 1/2 cups powdered sugar
1/4 cup butter, softened
1/4 cup whipping cream
5 ounces cream cheese, softened
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To make mushroom sauce: In blender, blend mushrooms and chicken broth; set aside.
In skillet over medium heat, melt butter and mix in flour. Slowly add mushroom broth while stirring. It should start to thicken; if it doesn't, add 1 tablespoon flour and stir well.
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1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
5 drops green food color
Topping:
1/2 cup whipping cream
1 bag (12 ounces) chocolate chips
1/2 cup butter
Heat oven to 350 F
Spray 8-by-8-inch pan with nonstick cooking spray
In large bowl, mix brownie mix, water, oil and egg until combined. Pour into prepared baking pan. Bake 35 minutes. Cool completely, about 1 hour
Add garlic powder and salt and pepper, to taste. Mix in heavy cream while continuing to stir. Remove from heat and set aside. Reserve until ready to cook and keep refrigerated, if necessary
To prepare chicken: Butterfly chicken breasts, making four thinner pieces.
In shallow dish, mix flour and lemon pepper seasoning. Coat chicken in flour mixture.
Melt butter over medium heat and add chicken broth. Pan fry coated chicken breasts then remove from pan and set aside.
Use champagne to deglaze frying pan and add mushroom sauce to heated champagne. Place chicken breasts back in pan in mushroom sauce and cook over medium heat about 5 minutes. Serve over rice.
Substitutions: Mushroom soup can be used in place of homemade mushroom sauce. Chicken broth can be used in place of champagne.
To make filling: In large bowl, beat powdered sugar, butter, whipping cream, cream cheese, peppermint extract and food coloring. Spread over cooled brownies. Refrigerate 1 hour, or until set.
To make topping: In saucepan, melt whipping cream, chocolate chips and butter until smooth. Cool until lukewarm, about 10 minutes. Pour over filling; spread to cover. Refrigerate 2 hours, or until set.
Before serving, let brownies set 10 minutes at room temperature.
Tips: Cut brownies with wet knife for cleaner cuts. Store covered in refrigerator
TACKLE WELLNESS GOALS BYADDINGATOUCH OF GREEN
Better-for-you Recipes
Inspired By SAvory Salad Kits
Italian Crusted Salmon with Creamy Truffle Caesar Salad
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Servings: 2
1 clove garlic, minced
1 teaspoon lemon juice
2 teaspoons chopped, fresh rosemary
1/2 teaspoon honey
1/4 teaspoon salt
3 tablespoons panko breadcrumbs
3 tablespoons finely chopped walnuts
1 teaspoon olive oil
2 salmon fillets
nonstick cooking spray
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1 bag (9.3 ounces) Fresh ExpressTwisted Caesar CreamyTruffle Caesar Chopped Kit Salad
2 lemon wedges (optional)
Heat oven to 425 F. Line sheet pan with parchment paper
In small bowl, combine garlic, lemon juice, rosemary, honey and salt. In another small bowl, combine breadcrumbs, walnuts and olive oil.
Place salmon on prepared sheet pan. Spread mustard mixture over fish; sprinkle with panko mixture, pressing to adhere. Lightly coat with nonstick cooking spray
Bake 12-15 minutes, or until fish flakes easily with fork.
Place greens from salad kit in large bowl. Drizzle with dressing; mix well.
Evenly divide salad among two plates.Top with salmon. Serve each with lemon wedge, if desired.
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Grilled Zucchini Nachos
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 8 minutes
Servings: 4
4 medium zucchini, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil salt, to taste pepper, to taste
1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
1 bag (5 ounces) Fresh Express Sweet & Crunchy Salad Blend
1 cup canned corn, cooked and drained
1 cup canned black beans, rinsed and drained
1 cup tomato, diced
1/4 cup green onions
1/4 cup red onions
1 jalapeno, finely diced (optional)
1 avocado, diced
1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
1 tablespoon sour cream
Heat grill to medium heat.
In large bowl, toss zucchini and olive oil to coat. Season with salt and pepper, to taste.
Place zucchini on grill pan; grill 4-5 minutes until just tender Top zucchini with cheese and cook until cheese melts, 1-2 minutes.
Remove from grill and place on plate or large platter Top cheesy grilled zucchini with salad blend; corn; black beans; tomato; green and red onions; jalapeno, if desired; avocado; cilantro; and sour cream.
A First-Timer's Guide to Kitchen Remodeling
What to know before you begin
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Kitchen upgrades are among the most common renovation projects homeowners tackle. Even so, it's a big project for a
first-time renovation, and the final results are sure to be stronger with some detailed planning from the start.
Take into account these five tips from the experts at Wellborn Cabinet to help first-time kitchen remodelers achieve the kitchens of their dreams:
1. Plan Your Budget
Establish a clear and realistic budget. Factor in costs for materials, labor and some extra for unexpected expenses. Sticking to your budget can help ensure you enjoy the outcome of the project while avoiding financial stress. Your contractor can help you strike a balance between your vision and financial resources. You may also find it helpful to consult with a real estate professional who can ensure your plans are in line with the overall value of your home and neighborhood.
2. Prioritize Functionality
Design with practicality in mind. Ensure there's enough counter space and storage to create an efficient workflow. Consider the kitchen work triangle; that is, be conscious of the travel pattern among the sink, stove and refrigerator
Additionally, look for opportunities to incorporate functional storage in unexpected places. One example is the exposed end of a cabinet run or side of the refrigerator, where there is often wasted space. One example is a shallow cleaning utility cabinet from Wellborn Cabinet that fits a broom, dustpan and everyday cleaning supplies neatly, giving you practical access to frequently used supplies. A variation on this cabinet offers a spice rack designed for easy access to cooking essentials. Other options in the line include an over-fridge cabinet with a combination of shelves, sheet pan or cutting board storage and a trash can-cutting board combination.
3. Choose Quality Materials
Consider factors such as durability, maintenance requirements and compatibility with your design aesthetic when selecting materials for your kitchen. You may be tempted to cut corners and stretch your money further, but quality materials are a critical element of successful renovations. Prioritize high-quality materials that stand the test of time Durable countertops, solid cabinetry and reliable appliances typically save money in the long run, and they'll enhance the overall look and value of your kitchen.
4. Hire Professionals
Work with experienced contractors and designers. Their expertise can help you avoid common pitfalls and ensure your remodel meets all safety and building codes. What's more, these professionals have likely encountered and overcome all kinds of challenges, which means they'll be well-prepared to help you navigate unexpected obstacles and provide a wealth of knowledge from previous clients to help make recommendations for the perfect finished space.
5. Stay Flexible
Be prepared for unexpected challenges and delays. Stay adaptable and open to changes and remember patience is key to achieving the kitchen of your dreams. Materials go on backorder and paperwork gets misplaced all the time Set a realistic timeline for your project that allows for some hiccups and try to avoid becoming too rigidly attached to any single element of the design, so if you have to make a modification, it doesn't feel like a monumental sacrifice
Look for more ideas and inspiration for your kitchen remodel at Wellborn.com.
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CELEBRATE!
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Breaking Barriers:
Women Transforming Public Service
The Tri-C Women’s Summit is designed to empower and support women by bringing together a group of accomplished women from various industries to share their knowledge and experiences.
Attendees will have the opportunity to hear from keynote speaker Congresswoman
Shontel Brown, attend substantive sessions led by key Northeast Ohio female leaders, and engage in valuable networking opportunities.
Friday, March 7 | 9 a.m.
Corporate College® East
4400 Richmond Road
Warrensville Heights, Ohio
For more info and to register: tri-c.edu/womenssummit