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.
Left- Nakia Key, Rhonda Crowder, President of Greater Cleveland Association of Black Journalists (middle), Right-Brian Wherry Nakia Key strikes a pose on the red carpet
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
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!
Kerry Washington is best known as an award winning actor, director, producer and tv star, in her iconic role as Olivia Pope on her hit show, Scandal. Now, Washington is facing some hard truths of her own, as she was hit with a bombshell in 2018. As her book opens, Washington receives a startling text from her mom as she is on her way home. The text reads: “We need to talk.” She then starts to detail the many disturbing scenarios in her mind as to why her mom is insisting on talking, but the “we” insinuating at her father being included in the conversation as well. For Washington, she writes how that is unsual behavior from her mom, and knew something serious must be going on.
It was on that day that a deep dark secret is revealed to Washington that her father whom she has known to have raised her all of her life, is not her biological father. That significant detail is just a synopsis to other subjects pertaining to the unraveling stories of Washington’s life in her New York Times #1 best seller, Memoir: Thicker than Water.
Like most celebrities in the public eye, it takes alot of strength to have your most public lives on display in front of the world. But, for Washington, this has been something up until now that she has been so discreet and great at staying low-key about. However, in this new book, she goes all out discussing her trauma, addictions, abortion and so much more.
It was a pleasure to do a spotlight on Washington’s accolades, and to see her blossom into the impactful woman she is today. She is currently on a 8-city worldwide tour to promote her new book, and I had the opportunity to be in the room as I listened to Tyler Perry moderate the event at Tabernacle in Atlanta, Georgia.
There were several gems to takeaway. One of the main ones that stood out to me was, whatever you do in your career to become successful, and stay successful is to “find your people,” Washington says. She acknowleged to the audience that Tyler Perry fills the gap when she speaks of finding your people. That is a significant factor in today’s society… when the world can be faced with so many challenges. But, with the right people by your side, the sky is the limit.
Wayne Dawson just made his 16th stop on his incredible book tour: “The Seeds of Greatness are Within You” at the Fairview Park Public Library Branch. Dawson is the lead co-anchor on Cleveland’s #1 morning show, Fox 8 News in the Morning on WJW-TV seen weekdays from 4am-10am. Suprised on the set by his morning crew and family, Dawson celebrated 43 years at Fox 8 which is detailed in his memoir!
Dawson hosted a book signing and Q&A with his publicist Deante Young. Joined by special guest appearance, co-anchor of Fox 8 News in the Morning, Todd Meany. The public were able to meet and greet the host, take photos and enjoy themselves with getting an up close and personal view of the newcaster outside of work.
In his earlier life, Dawson graduated from Kent State University with a Bachelor of Arts degree in journalism. He went on to win so many awards including 11 Emmy awards and is a member of the Broadcasters Hall of Fame. Other awards include the Chuck Heaton Award for the Cleveland Press Club which was presented in 2014 and his induction into the NATAS Silver Circle. In additon, Dawson was named “Outstanding Young Men of America.” And also was selcted as “Outstanding TV News Reporter” and “Man of the Year.” Dawson is a member of the NAACP, the National Association of Black Journalists and the Phi Beta Sigma fraternity.
Dawson is pastor to Grace Tabernacle Baptist Church and the co-founder of the Dawson Foundation alongside his brother, Judge William Dawson in special memory to honor their late mother, Annie L. Dawson.
On Wednesday May 10th, 2023, the Cleveland Cavaliers foundation in collaboration with the City of Cleveland joined forces to create another milestone. Both organizations led the red-ribbon cutting and unveiling of the newly renovated Gunning Park Resource and Recreation Center. This is the 13th refurbished resource center that the Cleveland Cavaliers in partnership with the City of Cleveland have renovated since 2018.
The event brought together the community, families and our youth as an opportunity to give back to the neighborhood and have a fun space to visit just in time for the summer months ahead.
Cleveland Cavaliers in-court host and emcee Ahmaad Crump led the opening festivites as he spoke to the community with an important message about how significant this celebratory experience is to our youth. In addition, there was music from Cleveland’s own DJ Steph Floss, performances by 216 Stix, the Scream Team and PowerHouse. Followed by opening remarks from Cavs Ceo Nic Barlage, a Cavs Legend Campy Russell, City Council President Blaine Griffin, Ward 16 Councilman Brian Kazy, Ward 17 Councilman Charles Slife, Director of Public Works Frank Williams, Commissioner of Parks and Recreation Sam Gissentaner and Gunning Center Manager Carlitos Torres.
See full coverge here:
To continue to show appreciation to the city and our youth, the Cleveland Cavaliers and City of Cleveland also held fun-filled events after the unveiling. There was a basketball clinic led by Cavs Academy coaches with neighborhood youth and a kickboxing class.
Watching the commuinty leaders and youth enjoy themselves was fun to watch.
A local voluteer at the Gunning Park Resource and Recreation Center, Donnell Stephenson stated, “I enjoy working and keeping these young kids off the street. This gym is a way to keep these kids focused and it gives them an extracurricular activity to look forward to.”
The refurbished multi-purpose gynasium features two full-sized basketball courts, a full-sized volleyball court and pickleball courts. Visit: https://www.clevelandohio.gov/node/166758 to see more.
Thank you Cleveland Cavs for this wonderful opportunity, was great to be a part of it.
More photos here:
Cleveland Cavs Legend Campy Russell
Brian Wherry (left) Video Editor and Nakia Key (right) Executive Producer/Host -enjoying the festivities
Singer, song-writer, actor and we can now add to his resumé; producer. Eric Benét hit the stage Friday night singing all the hits from his debut albums. Benét performed live at Cain Park’s Evans Amphitheater located in beautiful Cleveland Heights, Ohio on July 22nd. He stepped out showing his admiration for the city and not to mention adding how much he loved visiting Cain Park. One thing’s for certain the neo-soul singer still has that voice filled with so much emotion and power. Benét who is also known for his fondness of performing barefoot, which adds to the sexy mix of his smooth performances.
The 4 time Grammy-nominated singer dressed in all black kept the crowd moving from beginning to end. He performed some of his greatest hits starting off with “Love Don’t Love Me” and “Sunshine.” And of course singing more favorites like “Spend My Life with You” and “Georgy Porgy”and many more. Here’s a quick recap of the event:
Stay tuned for seeing Benét, the producer as he has a new series coming up inspired during covid according to deadline. Learn more about his work and new show “Snap” coming soon to televison.
Cain Park is no ordinary park. Besides the basketball and tennis courts, skateboard park, playgrounds and recreation attached; there is so much more to see. It was created for the outdoor evironment hosting live events, performances from kids to adults, professional theatrical productions, a nationally recognized Arts Festival, cabaret series, professional dance companies, children’s programming, and concerts featuring national, regional, and local performers. If you are looking for a nice summer vibe and a place to enjoy yourself, stop in to visit and purchase tickets.
Well, the holidays may be over, but one thing’s for sure, The Holiday Gospel Concert, which took place on December 19, 2021 at Cleveland’s Marriott Hotel was a sold out night! People gathered in their Sunday best attire, as they waited for the doors to open for the main event to take place, starring, national saxophonist, Andre Cavor and national Grammy award winning gospel artist, Yolanda Adams. Before the event began, a variety of vendors filled the main entrance hall. There was also a VIP with food served, just a good time!
The gospel concert was hosted by 9 time award winner, Eric J. Chambers, a vet in the entertainment industry. Chambers has done many red carpet events, host to his own radio show, The Jazzspel, airing Sunday mornings at 10AM PST and 1PM EST on KIFM.com and also his own media show, The CUT, so he had no problem keeping the audience engaged and immersed in his good vibes! Traveling all the way from sunny California, to the cold East Coast of the greater Cleveland, OH area for the concert; this was his first time visiting Cleveland, OH. I hope Cleveland rocked for you and treated you well!
Dr. Eric Chambers and I outside of the main entrance hall touring the local vendors
A special thanks to the local talent of Cleveland who blazed the stage before the opening act. There was a live band full of entertainment. The crowd continued to enjoy themselves and celebrate with praise throughout the night.
As soon as the MC for the night, Dr. Chambers introduced Andre Cavor to the stage, it was a good time from start to finish. Cavor, showed his many talents of using his pipes on the saxophone. He blessed us with countless melodies like, “I love you Jesus,” as well as a host of popular holiday songs like, “Little Drummer Boy.” It was a great way to kick off the holiday season!
Yolanda Adams looked absolutely beautiful wearing a sequin 2 piece suit, with a pop of orange for color. I still can’t believe we matched. (See the pic below for details). Just listening to her words and the smooth powerful sound of her anointed voice, left goosebumps in the room. She started the show by acknowledging how good God is, and how He will continue to manifest new doors being opened to us, if we only believe. Her words of wisdom was such a shield of favor to receive.
Left to right: Brian Wherry (Co-producer), Multi-platinum Grammy Award winner Yolanda Adams, Executive Producer, Host to Nakia’s Key to the Stars, Nakia Key National Saxophonist Andre Cavor
One of my all time favorite songs of Adams is, “Open My Heart,” because that particular song has gotten me through some tough times in my life, I’m sure you all can agree. The lyrics say…
“…so I need to talk to you
And ask you for your guidance…”
Just taking the time to pray or cry out to God, and ask Him for guidance or re-assurance can clear many obstacles from our paths for a better day or tomorrow.
But that’s not all! The highlight of the show was when Adams called Cavor onto the stage for an unexpected encore performance, but this time playing with her in a duet. The two were amazing together! Cavor will shed more light to his big debut with Adams and all the emotions he endured as they performed together in our sit-down interview. As well as my interview with Eric J. Chambers and highlights from the show below:
Overall, there was so much to anticipate at the concert and it kept the audience engaged for more.
We look forward to upcoming shows with Andre Cavor & the Cavor Project. You can see him performing in upcoming shows locally and in mid March/April with 2 other features guests coming to Cleveland.
You can check out more with Eric Chambers on the Jazzspel and the CUT network, and if you missed it, check out a “A Very Cali Christmas,” hosted by Sheryl Underwood.
And be sure to check out, Yolanda Adams in her new debut show, The Kingdom Business, executive produced by Devon Franklin, Kirk Franklin and Holly Carter airing soon on BET+. This will be a music driven drama, according to deadline.com. Looking forward to following each artist in the new year!
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/.
The Cleveland Cavaliers made championship history after 50 long years! Now entering into 2019, things in Downtown, Cleveland will never be the same. Starting with the scene of the Rocket Mortgage Mortgage Fieldhouse, formally known as the “Q”-Quicken Loans Arena.
Thanks to Emma Brown for showing us her hospitality as she takes us on a virtual tour of the NEWLY built Rocket Mortgage Fieldhouse. The inside includes new food and entertainment options. “It’s definitely alot more spacious, that’s for sure,” says Brown.
As the public enters, viewers will notice a longer atrium built like a club scene, the infamous Championship trophy and Legends Jersey Wall. And, if you are someone who loves visiting the venue for all events, such as basketball and hockey, concerts, and more you definitely do not want to miss the Members Only Club Suite, dynamic Budweiser Brew House and Overlook Bar. And, how about launching your very own party as you watch the game. Pretty cool!
Inside the arena, fans will also get a chance to charge their phones now right from their seats without having to get up, very convenient. Well I don’t want to give too much away, so take a look here for yourselves:
“You don’t know, babe When you hold me And kiss me slowly It’s the sweetest thing And it don’t change If I had it my way You would know that you are….”
The crowd sang in harmony as the Canadian soul and R&B singer, Daniel Caesar serenaded his audience at the House of Blues Cleveland on a Wednesday night. Fans went wild the entire night as they sang each melody including hits like, “Best Part,”Get You” and “Love Again.” Caesar’s music has been streamed millions of times as a successful independent artist. According to Rolling Stone, his first two EP’s were launched a year after each other, Praise Break in 2014 and Pilgrim’s Paradise in 2015. Later in 2017, the first debut album, Freudian was released. And his 2nd debut album, Case Study 01 released earlier this year in June. Not only is Caesar a singer, but an amazing songwriter who has managed to still thrive and reach the top of the Billboard charts leading him to a platinum status.
Caesar, an Ontario native, grew up with a gospel background which explains his powerful vocal range. His talent has also landed him two Grammy nominations for Best R&B Album and Best R&B Performance, as well as going on to WIN his very first Grammy for his single mentioned above, “Best Part.” In addition, in 2018, another big win was when he won for the category of Best New Artist at the Soul Train Music Awards. Caesar has worked with several other R&B vocalists and major talents such as H.E.R., Brandy, and Pharrell to name a few as he continues in his career.
Featured below, are more photos from the night of his SOLD OUT concert as he stops his band from singing to stop and sign an autograph for a fan. What a night?
Photo by: Brian Wherry
But that’s not all. After exiting the stage, Caesar was not done yet as he was chanted by his crowd to return for an encore. Which extended the show with an additional 5 songs! And his fans cheered him on with appreciation, as they continued to sing and shout, “I love you Daniel” not missing a beat.
WELCOME TO: NAKIA'S KEY TO THE STARS 