The Willoughby Western Lake County Chamber of Commerce proudly recognizes black-owned businesses in the community
By Patricia Nugent
The Willoughby Western Lake County Chamber of Commerce has more than 540 businesses that represent a vibrant and diverse business community serving Lake County.
“In honor of Black History Month, we are proud to recognize and acknowledge the business leaders, and showcase their organization and contribution within our community,” says Executive Director Dana Wolfe.
Here are insights into what this month means to them:
Margo and Michael Davis, Fate into Destiny Wellness Center
“Black history is American history. To celebrate and acknowledge the impact of African Americans is a reminder to all Americans that our country would not be as wealthy and sustainable without the countless contributions of Black Americans that came before us and those of us who are committed to enhancing our personal lives and the lives of others today.
We truly believe we can become better citizens of our country and our world by acknowledging all cultures, identifying our differences without judgment, and celebrating what we have in common.”
Business Overview: Armed with numerous wellness and coaching certifications, Margo and Michael help empower others at the Fate into Destiny Wellness Center. FateIntoDestiny.com
James Barnes, Jr., Immaculate Cleaning
“Twenty-eight days could never be enough time to encapsulate the importance and depth of Black history. However, we should use this time to reflect on the individuals that sacrificed their lives to ensure that future generations have the opportunities that we are currently experiencing.
As a Black American man from the heart of Cleveland, the odds were always stacked against me. But, because of the team I have around me, Immaculate Cleaning Company is experiencing regional and statewide growth. The Lake County business community has been extremely supportive, and we have been experiencing some of our greatest growth after moving our base of operations to Lake County.”
Business Overview: Immaculate Cleaning Company offers premier janitorial services in the Greater Cleveland area. ImmaculateCleaningOhio.com
Kevin Davis, Kevin P. Davis State Farm Insurance Agency
“Black History Month is a wonderful time to recognize the contributions African Americans have made to the United States and to the world.
It’s a time to learn more about our history, and to consider what we can do personally to make an impact for those that will follow us.
Lake County is a diverse community of hard-working people that care about their families and the assets they have worked hard to accumulate. State Farm and its products were built with those families in mind, so my agency has been a perfect fit.”
Business Overview: As an independent business owner with State Farm Insurance, Kevin has been running a full-service agency in Willoughby the last 10 years. AgentDavis.com
Cassandra Merriman, Robeks
“I care a lot about my heritage. I think Black history should be celebrated every month and every day, around the world.
So far, as a Black-owned and woman-owned business, the opportunities of opening and operating a place like Robeks in Lake County have been wonderful. My customers have been warm and welcoming.
As the only Robeks in Lake County, I knew this would be the chance to bring something new and healthy to people.”
Business Overview: Cassandra opened Robeks in Willoughby to offer the community fresh smoothies, toasts, bowls and boosts with enrichments. Robeks.com
In addition to Margo and Michael, James, Kevin and Cassandra, other Black-owned businesses who are members of the WWLCC include: Kedesh Robinson, Demetrius and Lucretia Moore, Heights Soulfood and Grill; Linda Peavy, LiPav Consulting; Rhonda Osagie-Erese, CRE8IVRHO Digital; Tammara and Curtis Banks, Auntie Tam Signature Salads & More; Sharon Jackson, Early Steps Learning Center; Tenisha Gant-Watson, Jordan Community Resource Center and Kellie Love, Fred Astaire Dance Studio.
Headquartered at 28 Public Square in Willoughby, the Willoughby Western Lake County Chamber of Commerce serves Eastlake, Kirtland, Wickliffe, Willoughby, Willoughby Hills, Willowick and the villages of Lakeline and Timberlake. To join or learn more about the WWLCC, call 440-942-1632 or visit WWLCChamber.com for more information.