supporting urban culture, community, and business in Cleveland, OH

Interviews

Feature: Rep. Marcia L. Fudge

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written by Andre Cisco II

Since filling the 11th District Seat of Ohio vacated by the passing of her dear friend, Representative Stephanie Tubbs-Jones, she has been working twofold to ensure that the legacy of her close companion is recognized through her own hard work and dedication.

We recently sat down with Congresswoman Fudge to discuss her role in changing Cleveland for the better, the key issues on the upcoming November ballot and the future direction of our nation.

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Feature: Miesha Wilson

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by Andre Cisco II

The buzz in the streets surrounding the success of NuLife Personal Fitness has become too big not to acknowledge. With a rap sheet of numerous success stories that have knocked off over 40,000 pounds in only three years, 30 year old founder and personal fitness instructor, Miesha, continues to stress to her clients that accomplishments come in all shapes and sizes.

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Biz: Arnold Hines (Word of Mouth)

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Party promotion and event planning is a skill that many usually undertake, but few are able to boast of having 10 years of experience. Arnold Hines, owner of Word of Mouth Promotions, has been a leader within Cleveland’s nightlife scene with a number of successful events at venues like the House of Blues, Sunset Lounge, Anatomy, and Touch. That’s not including former Cleveland clubs like Spy Bar and Cloud Nine.
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Feature: Demetria Francis (Headlines by DeFranco)

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Beingg a small business owner is one of the most difficult jobs that a person can choose. Enterpreneurs exchange one supervisor for many supervisors (i.e. your clients) and take on the responsibility of not just one position but whatever position/hat/job is necessary to make their business a success.

Recently, we touched bases with local entrepreneur Demetria “Meechie” Francis of two location (4034 Mayfield Rd & 5160 Wilson Mills Rd) local salon Headlines by DeFranco to talk about the business of doing business in Cleveland.

How did you get your start?
D: I got my start as a salon owner, at the age of 22 after working in salons that didn’t fit my personality or growth as a stylist.

What do you believe are the keys to being a successful salon owner?
D: Location and advertising are key to a successful salon, but choosing a staff that supports and respects your business is equally as important.

What are some challenges you’ve faced in getting to current place?
D: Basically just staying focused and not letting negativity destroy my business. Rumors, gossip, and drama are inevitable in such a competitve business. However, you soon learn that if nobody is talking about you, than you’re nobody worth talking about.

What’s the good and bad of working in Cleveland’s hair industry?
D: The good thing is that there are very talented stylists here that do really great work. The bad thing is that they have allowed clients not to pay what the service is really worth. Stylists in Cleveland are being paid less than what stylists in other areas charge.

What words of advice do you have for upcoming stylists and salon owners? What’s the average income range?
D: Don’t be afraid to take chances. As long as you have faith in God, he’ll work everything out. A stylists income can range anywhere from a few hundred dollars a week to a few thousand. It all depends on the size of your clientele and cost of your services.

What are the top three local salons?
D: There are so many successful salons, that it’s hard to pick just three, but needless to say Headlines by De’Franco is one of them!

What’s next for Headlines?
D: I’m excited about our new barbershop coming soon, Barbers by DeFranco on 4034 Mayfield Rd. in South Euclid. Barbers Wanted! Shameless plug!

Thanks!