Min Dale Edwards Executive Director Call and Post
Contributing : Valarie J. McCall
CLEVELAND — On a brisk winter morning, the warmth of community, culture, and commitment filled The Nelson on East 93rd Street as more than 100 residents, business owners, candidates, faith leaders, and civic stakeholders gathered to celebrate the re-election of Cleveland City Council President Blaine A. Griffin and to lift up the ongoing renaissance of Ward 6 and the Kinsman, Union, and Miles neighborhoods.
The gathering was more than a victory brunch—it was a public affirmation of leadership rooted in service, inclusion, and accountability. The celebration, hosted at Cleveland’s newest soul-food and community hub, The Nelson, owned by Rich Decembly, Jr., reflected the very spirit of what President Griffin has pledged to protect and grow: neighborhood-based businesses, minority entrepreneurship, and community-driven economic development.
“Ward 6 continues to set the standard for engaged, organized leadership,” said Council President Griffin. “When community leaders come together with intention and purpose, it strengthens not only the ward, but the entire city of Cleveland.”
Those words rang true in a room filled with residents and rising leaders who have witnessed Griffin’s consistent support for Black-owned, minority-owned, and neighborhood-based businesses, particularly along the East 93rd Street corridor. His administration has made inclusion more than a slogan—it is a strategy. Through access to city resources, equitable development policies, and direct engagement with small businesses, Griffin has helped ensure that economic growth does not bypass the very people who built these communities.
As Scripture reminds us in Jeremiah 29:7, “Seek the peace and prosperity of the city to which I have carried you… for if it prospers, you too will prosper.” President Griffin’s leadership reflects that biblical principle—investing in the people so the whole city can rise.
The event was co-hosted by Rich Decembly, Jr. and Cordell Stokes, whose partnership symbolized the powerful alignment between local entrepreneurship and responsive government. With a soul-infused brunch by Chef Candice and warm hospitality led by General Manager Denise, The Nelson stood as a living testimony to what happens when minority businesses are nurtured and supported.
“This space represents what’s possible when community, leadership, and local investment come together,” Decembly said. “Seeing neighbors, leaders, and families celebrating President Griffin is exactly why The Nelson exists.”
A major architect of the day’s success was Valarie J. McCall, Ward Leader and Precinct Person for 6E, Founder and CEO of Valarie McCall Consulting Agency (VMCA), whose organizational leadership continues to make Ward 6 one of the most politically engaged in the city. Working with the Ward 6 Precinct Persons and Executive Committee Members, McCall helped create a forum where voices were heard, candidates were accessible, and community mattered.
One of the most impactful moments was the “Chit Chat” session, organized by President Griffin and Leader McCall, giving candidates a direct opportunity to engage Ward 6 leadership. Even on one of the coldest days of the winter, turnout was strong—a clear sign of the trust and momentum built within the ward.
“This was more than an event—it was an experience,” said Cordell Stokes. “It showed what’s possible when leadership, local business, and community come together with intention.”
President Griffin’s record speaks to that intention. His ongoing commitment to minority business development, inclusive contracting, and neighborhood revitalization reflects the biblical charge in Luke 12:48: “To whom much is given, much is required.” Entrusted with leadership, Griffin has used his position to uplift those who have too often been left behind.
“This moment was about more than a celebration,” McCall said. “It was about creating intentional space—where leadership is accessible, voices are heard, and community is strengthened through connection.”
As I, Minister Dale Edwards, observed this gathering of faith, business, and civic unity, it was clear that Ward 6 is not just surviving—it is thriving. East 93rd Street is rising, not by accident, but through faith-guided leadership, inclusive policy, and community-driven vision.
As Psalm 133:1 declares, “Behold, how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity.” On this day at The Nelson, Cleveland witnessed unity in action—and a future being built, together.
