Breaking Barriers: Greater Cleveland Association of Black Journalists makes HISTORY with First-Ever Hall of Fame Induction

The Greater Cleveland Association of Black Journalists hosted it’s first-ever Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony last month on Feb 22, 2025 located at the Cleveland History Center. VIP guests in attendance gathered for such a historical and momumentous night of recognizable talent for their achievements in print, radio, broadcast, digital, media and storytelling.

The inauguaral red carpet celebration marked an exciting turning point for Cleveland, Ohio. Actor, playwright and former politician, Peter Lawson Jones was the MC for the night. And, accompanying him as the presenter to each prestigious recipient was the President of The Greater Cleveland Association, Rhonda Crowder. “This has been a long time in the making, but unfortunately was put off due to the everlasting effects of the Covid-19 pandemic. Being that the upcoming event with the National Association of Black of Journalists (NABJ) is hosting their 50th Anniversary right here in Cleveland this year, it was no better time than the present than to implement this new idea,” says Crowder.

In addition, the chapter also recognized those emerging leaders in the entertainment and media industry making an impact over the last year. Congratulations to all the honorees. It was a remarkable night. You just had to be there!

Hall of Fame Recipients include:

*Print Category

Constance D. Harper- Call & Post

Dick Peery – The Plain Dealer

*Radio Category

Lynn Toliver- 93FM WZAK

Mansfield Frazier- Newsradio WTAM 1100AM

James “Jimmy” Malone- Newsradio WTAM 1100 AM

*Broadcast Category

Ernest “Pete” Cary- FOX 8/WJW

Leon Bibb – News 5 CLEVELAND WEWS & WKYC STUDIO 3 NEWS

*Photojournalist/Visual Category

Herb G. Thomas – FOX 8/ WJW

Richard “Zoom” Scott- FOX 8/WJW

*Digital Category

Nate Paige- Cleveland.com

*MEDIA/PR Category

Dargan J. Burns- Karamu House/Burns Public Relations Services

Alexandria Johnson Boone- GAP Communications

Montessori Life Pre-school: Your Child’s Journey Begins Here

Ever wanted to put your child in a school that promotes one-on-one attention, is hands on and fast learning? Well look no further than Montessori Life Pre-school located in Macedonia, Ohio. It is surrounded by a beautiful pond, garden and play area allowing children a chance to further develop their skill knowledge all while having fun. Getting a fresh jumpstart!

Lydia Stephens is the Owner and Director of Montessori Life Preschool. The school is deeply rooted in values of the Montessori philosophy and believes that it lends itself to the way that God intended for children to learn. Although, it does not encourage or force children to adopt the Christian faith. It is known for it’s diverse lifestyle, independence and teaching children responsibility . Stephens, currently a mother of four, wanted her children to receive the best education, but knew that Montessori school systems were known for being expensive. Coming from a prior military lifestyle as her husband expanded his career, Stephens had been in conversation with other military wives at that time whose children were also enrolled in a Montessori school teaching, she too decided to give it a try.

Stephens eldest daughter attended her first preschool which was a Montessori school growing up, making her appear “more confident and independent in nature,” says Stephens. This sparked the idea of wanting more of this for her other children. It was at that moment Stephens knew that Montessori was the right choice!

Montessori Life Preschool’s mission is based soley on values of diversity, creativity, and individuality. Focusing on child development and adaptation to an environment that teaches different ages from 2-5 years old at the same time. Depending on which learning program style package is chosen, children in attendance can learn as a joint venture or independently.

Listen here as Stephens details the culture, background and what made her interested in becoming CEO of her own school since 2020.

She is also active in the classroom along with her helpful staff of employees who work extra hard throughout the week. “It was an act of faith and trusting in where God was truly leading me,” says Stephens.

So, is your son or daughter ready for pre-school? Why not start here at Montessori Life? Just click the link www.thatmontessorilife.org to schedule a visit and find out how to enroll today.

Tours are available virtually or by appointment. While you’re at it, tell them Nakia Key sent you!

CLEVELAND’S OWN: R&B Soul Singer Dre Walton with surprise guest Eric Nolan Grant of the O’Jays

Who remembers 90’s R&B music? Sexy, soulful, sultry and it just made you feel so in love right? Well, that’s what genre Cleveland artist, Dre Walton is known for. The kind of sound that is pure, memorable and has a smooth melody that takes you back to that 90’s kind of vibe. Walton, is known for his unique style, where he stands out from the crowd. There is not a moment that you won’t hear him saying his slogan, “Been Told’em!”

At just 31 years old, Walton is making a name for himself as he continues to step out on the scene as a rising independent artist. The Ohio native has had the wonderful opportunity to work with various artists. And has been influenced by those such as the late Michael Jackson, Tyrese, Musiq SoulChild , The Temptations and so many more. And, in 2017 one of his other R&B influences Tank, announced the Savage Tour with Sammie at the House of Blues Cleveland.

See in this exclusive interview as he explains how he was selected out of thousands to participate. But, this only marks the beginning of his rising career. “I’m just getting started, just barely touching the surface…,” says Walton.

As the interview continues, despite being on a busy tour, Eric Nolan Grant of the O’Jays another artist that Walton has built a great relationship with, made a special stop to Nakia’s Key to the Stars. He came to shed some light and legendary advice on our youth and upcoming artists; especially those in the Cleveland, Ohio area. This is a show that will definitely go down in history.

Walton will be featured this weekend at Cleveland’s Homegrown Showcase on Sunday December 22nd alongside many other Cleveland artists. And he will be performing his latest single, “11.16.” The show is presented by the Real 106.1 iHeart Radio. You don’t want to miss it! Doors open at 6pm and concert starts at 7pm. For tickets and more details be sure to visit https://www.agoracleveland.com/.