Cincy Black Magazine Issue 15 Jan 2025

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BLACK ART AND CULTURE PROPEL THE CITY INTO THE MAJOR LEAGUES

Editor’s Note

WELCOME TO THE MUCH-ANTICIPATED 2025 ISSUE OF CINCY BLACK MAGAZINE! AS WE STEP INTO THIS NEW YEAR, I AM FILLED WITH EXCITEMENT AND PRIDE TO SHARE THE REMARKABLE STORIES AND INNOVATIONS WITHIN OUR VIBRANT CINCINNATI COMMUNITY

THIS ISSUE IS PARTICULARLY SPECIAL AS WE HAVE THE PRIVILEGE OF FEATURING THE INSPIRING MYMY JONES, A STUNNING BEAUTY INFLUENCER AND ENTREPRENEUR WHO HAS CAPTURED THE HEARTS OF MANY WITH HER CREATIVE FLAIR AND DEDICATION MYMY EXEMPLIFIES THE SPIRIT OF RESILIENCE AND AMBITION THAT PERMEATES OUR CITY, REMINDING US OF THE EXTRAORDINARY POTENTIAL WE ALL POSSESS IN ADDITION TO OUR FEATURE ON MYMY, THIS ISSUE IS DEDICATED TO HELPING YOU SET MEANINGFUL AND ACHIEVABLE GOALS FOR THE YEAR AHEAD. AS WE EMBRACE 2025, IT PROVIDES US ALL WITH A FRESH SLATE A PERFECT OPPORTUNITY TO ENVISION WHO WE WANT TO BE AND THE HEIGHTS WE ASPIRE TO REACH WE DELVE INTO PRACTICAL STRATEGIES AND INSIGHTS TO FOSTER GROWTH, ENCOURAGING YOU TO BE YOUR BEST SELF IN BOTH PERSONAL AND PROFESSIONAL REALMS IT’S IMPORTANT TO INVEST IN OURSELVES AND OUR DREAMS, AS EACH OF US CONTRIBUTES TO THE MAGNIFICENT TAPESTRY OF BLACK EXCELLENCE THAT THRIVES IN CINCINNATI. MOREOVER, WE ARE COMMITTED TO PROVIDING YOU WITH NEWS THAT YOU CAN USE INSIDE, YOU’LL FIND RESOURCES AND HIGHLIGHTS THAT CELEBRATE THE CULTURE, INNOVATION, AND ACHIEVEMENTS WITHIN OUR COMMUNITY WE BELIEVE THAT BY SHARING THIS KNOWLEDGE, WE CAN UPLIFT ONE ANOTHER AND PAVE THE WAY FOR A BRIGHTER FUTURE FOR OUR YOUTH AND FAMILIES. AS YOU FLIP THROUGH THE PAGES OF THIS ISSUE, WE HOPE YOU FEEL INSPIRED AND EMPOWERED HERE’S TO 2025 A YEAR FILLED WITH PROMISE, GROWTH, AND THE UNWAVERING STRENGTH OF THE BLACK COMMUNITY IN CINCINNATI THANK YOU FOR JOINING US ON THIS JOURNEY, AND WE HOPE YOU ENJOY EVERY MOMENT OF THIS ISSUE!

CINCY BLACK

WHAT’S NEW IN CINCY?

Cincinnati Sundance Film Festival

Takeover

OUR CINCY BLACK TRAVEL GUIDE TEAM HAS BEEN PREPARING FOR A CINCINNATI TAKEOVER AT THE SUNDANCE FILM FESTIVAL, BRINGING YOU EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT SUNDANCE 2025.

Exciting New Health Workshops Coming in 2025

The Intergenerational Wellness Partners have introduced a fresh lineup of workshops this year, aimed at enhancing both physical and mental health.

2025 Travel Deals

Explore our 2025 Cincy Black Travel offers featuring the top five destinations for this year, brought to you by CVG.

CINCINNATI'S LITTLE KNOWN HISTORY FACT

DID YOU KNOW?

MAJORCHARITYADAMSRICHTIESINDAYTON,OHIO

Did you know that Charity Adams, a pioneering figure in the history of African American women in the military, has strong connections to the Southwestern Ohio region? Born on December 5, 1918, in Kittrell, North Carolina, Adams moved to Ohio to pursue her education at Wilberforce University, where she excelled in mathematics, Latin, and physics. She went on to become the first African American woman to command a battalion in the Women's Army Corps during World War II, leading the legendary 6888th Central Postal Directory Battalion. Her inspiring story has recently gained renewed attention through Tyler Perry's Netflix film "Six Triple Eight," celebrating her remarkable contributions and highlighting the rich legacy of empowerment and leadership that continues to resonate in Ohio today.

Hamilton County Strengthens Veteran Services Through Strategic Partnerships: A New Era for the Veterans Services Commission

The Hamilton County Board of Commissioners has taken a significant step to enhance the support provided to local veterans by officially engaging with the Veterans Services Commission (VSC) through newly established partnerships. As articulated by Commissioner Alicia Reece, a transformation is underway: “The partnership can no longer be a one-way street.” In response to public concerns following the WCPO Homefront investigation that illuminated the VSC's spending discrepancies and service deficits, the Board has strategically appointed three new members to the commission. These appointments Air Force veteran and Cincinnati City Council member Victoria Parks, Army veteran Bill Burwinkel, and Marine Corps veteran radio host Lincoln Ware are a testament to the Board's commitment to fostering real collaboration With recent changes at the VSC, including a new executive director, Orlando Sonza, the organization is actively working to revamp its operation, providing much-needed services such as dental, vision, and transportation for

medical appointments The VSC's budget request for 2025 signifies a substantial increase from the previous year, highlighting the pressing demand for comprehensive support to veterans. This partnership not only aims to boost funding from $1.4 million to $2.8 million but also fosters accountability and collaboration. As Commissioner Denise Driehaus emphasized, the VSC's restructuring is essential to adequately serve Hamilton County's veterans, a mission strengthened by the newly appointed commission members’ leadership and dedication. With annual salaries set at $7,050.39 each for the appointees, this five-year commitment symbolizes a renewed focus on security, trust, and resource accessibility for veterans. The county continues to encourage veterans to engage with the VSC, reinforcing their active role in the community, where every voice matters in paving a brighter future for those who have served.

UNDERSTANDING CANNABIS: A GUIDE FOR PARENTS NAVIGATING YOUTH ENGAGEMENT WITH THE PLANT

As Ohio embraces the legalization of recreational cannabis and expands access to medical marijuana, it is critical for parents to understand the complexities surrounding its use among youth Cannabis offers potential benefits, including relief from anxiety, improved focus, and better sleep, but the plant's psychoactive properties necessitate careful monitoring With the right dosage and guidance, cannabis can indeed serve as a therapeutic tool, especially for adolescents facing mental health challenges such as depression and trauma. However, awareness is vital; parents must recognize signs that cannabis use may be becoming detrimental, such as changes in behavior, academic decline, or withdrawal from social activities Understanding the mental traumas youth navigate today from societal pressures to unprecedented levels of

stress can help parents provide better support and identify healthy coping mechanisms, such as mindfulness, exercise, or creative outlets It’s also essential for parents to engage in open conversations about cannabis use, emphasizing safety, legality, and responsible behavior. For those interested in learning more about cannabis and its impact on youth, the Cincinnati Minority Cannabis Group offers invaluable resources and support for parents seeking to understand this evolving landscape. As we foster a more informed community, we empower our youth to make responsible choices regarding cannabis use while recognizing the importance of parental guidance and support.

On January 9th, 2025, Hamilton County will witness a milestone in its political landscape as Commissioner Alicia Reece participates in a special public swearing-in ceremony, the first meeting of the year for the Hamilton County Board of Commissioners. Scheduled for 1:00 p.m., the ceremony will be administered by Judge Richard Moore, a significant figure in Ohio's judicial history as the first African American to serve on the First District Court of Appeals, symbolizing progress and representation within the Ohio judiciary. Reece, who was re-elected to her second term with an impressive 218,338 votes, has been a prominent voice in local politics, known for her steadfast commitment to community engagement and social justice issues. Her political journey began when she was first elected to the Cincinnati City Council in 2001.

Since that time, she has served in various capacities, championing initiatives that promote equitable economic development and improving life for constituents throughout the county. Reece's advocacy has made her a transformative force in local government, especially as she continues to pave the way for underrepresented communities in Hamilton County. The historical significance of this day extends beyond Reece's inauguration; it also highlights Judge Moore's groundbreaking role as the first African American on the appeals court, an achievement that has profound implications for the representation of minority voices within Ohio's legal framework. Reece’s re-election and the presence of Judge Moore at her ceremony underscore a growing commitment to diversity and inclusion in Hamilton County's governance, setting a powerful example for future leaders and inspiring hope for continued progress in civil rights and equal representation.

In a proactive stance to revitalize Cincinnati’s cultural and economic landscape, members of the Banks Business Community are advocating for the construction of a modern arena at the current Heritage Bank Center site This initiative comes in the wake of a recent Cincinnati Regional Chamber study, which highlighted a pressing need for a new arena that could better attract major concerts, sporting events, and conventions, ultimately enhancing the city’s national appeal. The current Heritage Bank Center, serving the community for nearly five decades as a venue for concerts and home to the Cincinnati Cyclones, is now seen as inadequate with its less than 400,000 square feet of space compared to a modern arena’s typical 650,000 square feet. Local business owners believe that the foot traffic generated by events at a new arena is vital, particularly during the winter months when other venues at The Banks are dormant

Advocate Tracy Schwegmann emphasized the potential of a new arena to not only sustain but also invigorate the economic and cultural vibrancy of The Banks area, ensuring its status as a premier Cincinnati destination. The community's open letter to city leaders underscores the importance of considering the needs of local businesses and employees in any forthcoming plans

While the arena has been positioned as a pivotal development for Cincinnati, stakeholders have already outlined the potential locations and acknowledged the project's substantial financial implications, estimating a cost of around $800 million, with public tax dollars likely needed to cover more than half of that expense This proposal has sparked discussions on the future of entertainment and commerce in the city, signaling a transformative era that could redefine Cincinnati's riverfront experience

Cincinnati, Ohio has long been an overlooked gem in the Midwest, but in recent years, the city has catapulted itself into the major leagues, thanks in large part to the profound impact of black culture and art on its landscape. From the nation's largest art light and mapping festival, Blink, which showcases the works of local and international artists, including the likes of Gee Horton, to the internationally acclaimed Cincinnati Black Music Walk of Fame, founded by Hamilton County Commissioner Alicia Reece, the city's rich cultural tapestry is on full display. The Black Music Walk of Fame, alone, has attracted a staggering 86,000 visitors in its first year, generating millions of dollars in revenue for local businesses and cementing Cincinnati's position as a premier tourist destination. The economic impact of black culture and art in Cincinnati cannot be overstated. According to a recent study, the city's arts and culture industry contributes over $700 million annually to the local

economy, with the majority of this revenue generated through tourism. Furthermore, black-led initiatives like the Cincinnati Art Museum's Community Arts Program, which provides access to arts education and training for marginalized communities, have not only enriched the city's cultural offerings but have also helped to drive economic growth and social mobility.

But Cincinnati's rise to prominence is not limited to its economic impact alone. The city's rich cultural heritage, rooted in black excellence, has the potential to captivate audiences from around the world. The upcoming Sundance Film Festival, which may be held in Cincinnati in 2027, is a testament to the city's growing reputation as a cultural powerhouse And it's here that the significance of black culture and art truly comes to the fore From jazz legends like Miles Davis and John Coltrane to artists like Paul Laurence Dunbar and Romare Bearden, Cincinnati has long been a bastion of black creativity and innovation.

The impact of black culture and art on the world is immeasurable. It has inspired movements, fueled social justice, and transformed artistic expression. But, more importantly, it has given voice to the voiceless, hope to the hopeless, and a sense of pride and belonging to a community that has long been marginalized and oppressed. As Black people, we should feel empowered and honored to have such a rich, rich, rich legacy of which to boast. We should celebrate our triumphs, big and small, and continue to push the boundaries of what is possible. For in Cincinnati, we have a shining example of what can happen when black culture and art are allowed to flourish.

Get ready for an incredible cinematic journey as Cincy Black Travel Guide takes over the iconic Sundance Film Festival in Park City, Utah, from January 23 to February 2. This year, we’re excited to bring you exclusive behind-the-scenes access, featuring amazing interviews and insightful recaps of the groundbreaking films set to grace screens in 2025. The Sundance Film Festival is not just a showcase of independent cinema; it’s a pivotal event that influences the movie industry, providing a launching pad for new voices and innovative storytelling. This year, alongside our film coverage, we’ll immerse you in the vibrant culture of Park City

and Salt Lake City, highlighting local fashion and an array of mouthwatering culinary delights that celebrate the essence of Utah. As we embark on this exciting adventure, don’t miss out on the opportunity to stay connected with us for all the latest updates, unique experiences, and insider stories. Plus, there’s exciting news on the horizon Cincinnati is being considered as the potential new home for the Sundance Film Festival in 2027! Join us as we bring the festival experience right to your screens; subscribe and follow Cincy Black Travel for an unforgettable Sundance adventure that you won’t want to miss!

CINCY BLACK MAGAZINE

As the owner of Defined Beauty Beauty Bar, Defined Boutique, and Defined Way Coaching, along with being a co-owner of Lux Beauty Suites and a vending machine operator, MyMy's story is one of resilience andambition.

"My journey into entrepreneurship really started eight years ago, and it wasn’t anything I initially envisioned for myself," Mymy reflects. "I thought I would be working in the dental field, but everything changed when I became a mother. After having my son, I realized that working long hours away from him just wasn't viable." Her pivotal moment came when she discussed her frustrations with a friend who was also an entrepreneur. "She suggested I try doing lashes, which completely surprised everyone, including myself, because I had no experience in that area." Determined, MyMy plotted a course: she enrolled in a class, secured a workspace, and created a business plan. "I quit my job on February 19, 2017, andIhaven’tlookedbacksince."

With a foundation in lash extensions, MyMy soon graduated from esthetician school and opened her firstsaloninMarchofthesameyear,propelledbythe support of fellow beauty professionals. However, the pandemic posed a significant challenge. "It was a tough time, and I had to pivot quickly," she recalls. "My friends and I started selling clothes pop-up style, and it exploded from there." As COVID restrictions lifted, she successfully blended her businesses, launching both the Defined Beauty Beauty Bar and DefinedBoutique.

Her entrepreneurial spirit didn't stop there; a trip to China inspired her to think bigger. "I saw how affordable beauty products are and thought about creating a beauty vending machine for my salon," she explains. "It offered convenience for our clients who often needed products but were pressed for time." That idea solidified the vending machine venture, which would go on to become a beloved staple in the community, featuring products targeted at busy hairstylists and clients alike.

Mymy draws inspiration from countless sources, predominantly her father, who instilled the entrepreneurial spirit in her from a young age. "He ran the same business my entire life, showing me that consistency pays off," she states. Social media influencers like Ming Lee also fuel her ambition. "In the next ten years, I see my business expanding further, and I believe that anything I put my mind to, I can achieve."

As a mother, entrepreneur, and mentor, MyMy has valuable advice for aspiring business owners: "Start before you think you're ready, embrace your failures, and always focus on the positives." Her journey exemplifies resilience, determination, and an unwavering commitment to empower others through her ventures. Mymy Jones is not just shaping the future of beauty but also redefining what it means to be an entrepreneur in today’s world.

As the clock struck midnight and marked the beginning of a new year, we couldn't help but feel the sense of renewal and possibility that comes with the turn of a calendar page. For many of us, the start of a new year is a time for reflection on the past, and a chance to make new promises to ourselves for the present and future. But how do we make those promises become a reality? How do we break free from the bad habits that have held us back in the past, and achieve the success and happiness we've always dreamed of? In this article, we'll explore some practical tips on how to make 2025 work for you, by setting new goals and establishing new habits that will take you to new heights.

The first step to making this year count is to let go of the negative patterns and habits that have held you back in the past. This means acknowledging the things that have been holding you back, whether it's a bad habit, a toxic relationship, or a self-defeating mindset. It's time to take responsibility for your actions and make a conscious decision to change. Ask yourself what specific habits or patterns you want to break, and make a plan for replacing them with healthier, more positive alternatives.

Once you've let go of the old, it's time to start setting new goals for yourself. But don't make the mistake of setting unrealistic goals that will only lead to disappointment and frustration. Instead, make a list of specific, achievable goals that align with your values and aspirations. For example, if you want to get in better shape, your goal might be to work out three times a week, rather than trying to become a marathon runner overnight. Make sure your goals are specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and timebound (SMART) so that you can track your progress and stay motivated

Now that you've set your goals, it's time to start making a plan for achieving them. This means breaking down each goal into smaller, manageable steps that you can take on a daily or weekly basis. For example, if your goal is to read more, your plan might be to set aside 30 minutes each day to read a book, or to join a book club to stay accountable with others Make sure your plan is realistic and achievable, and that you're taking consistent action towards your goal. The final key to achieving your goals is to stay motivated and focused. This means finding a community of support and accountability, whether it's a friend, family member, or mentor who can encourage and motivate you to reach your goals It also means being kind to yourself and celebrating your successes along the way. Remember that setbacks are a natural part of the journey, and that it's okay to make mistakes and learn from them.

In conclusion, making 2025 work for you requires a combination of letting go of the past, setting new goals, and taking consistent action towards achieving them. By breaking free from negative patterns and habits, setting SMART goals, making a plan for achieving them, and staying motivated and focused, you can achieve the success and happiness you've always dreamed of. So don't wait any longer - start making this year count, and watch as your life transforms in ways you never thought possible.

As 2025 approaches, it’s time to start planning your dream getaway, and CVG has curated the ultimate list of vacation spots that promise unforgettable experiences.

With its stunning natural beauty, including Table Mountain and breathtaking beaches, Cape Town offers an eclectic mix of cultures and cuisines, making it perfect for adventurers and foodies alike.

2. Tulum, Mexico

Where ancient Mayan ruins meet chic beachside resorts. Tulum's vibrant eco-conscious community and stunning coastal views make it a prime destination for relaxation and exploration

1. Cape Town, South Africa.

3. Kyoto, Japan

Known for its historic temples and serene gardens, this city is a must-see in spring when cherry blossoms bloom, providing a picturesque backdrop for hikes and tranquil tea ceremonies.

4. Marrakech, Morocco

With its stunning souks, historical palaces, and rich culinary scene, Marrakech is a feast for the senses, offering travelers a glimpse into a unique cultural tapestry.

5. Cape Verde

An island nation off the northwest coast of Africa. With its stunning beaches, diverse landscapes, and warm, welcoming locals, Cape Verde is ideal for travelers seeking both adventure and relaxation.

Each of these destinations offers unique experiences and cultural richness, ensuring that your travel adventures in 2025 will be memorable. Don’t just dream about traveling start planning today and make the most of what this year has to offer!

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