Issue link: http://theflywire.uberflip.com/i/1464103
Welcome to Bal more. It's only fi ng as host of CIAA 2022, to introduce the woman who truly adds "charm and grace" to Charm City. Meet Shelonda Stokes, h ps://www.instagram.com/shelondastokesthe first African American President of Downtown Partnership of Bal more @downtownbal more. She stepped into the role of President at the beginning of the pandemic in March 2020. Despite overwhelming global chal- lenges, she credits the DPOB team for working togeth- er to help keep Downtown clean, safe, and vibrant. For decades, Stokes has been instrumental in many facets of Bal more's successes as a business execu ve and civic leader. Founder of greiBO, Stokes served as CEO and President of the marke ng company. It was named Top 100 Minority Businesses in the region and its client roster included Hewle -Packard, the Smith- sonian, Visit Bal more, and Under Armour. In 2021, DPOB created BOOST, a program for Black- Owned and Occupied Storefront Tenancy. The ini a- ve provided storefront space and funding for five businesses on Howard Street in Downtown Bal more. A new applica on cycle is expected in 2022. Genius Guice Studios, Cajou Creamery and Cuples Tea House have already opened. This is a bright moment in working towards diversity in business development and empowering Black Bal more. Mrs. Stokes is a Bal more Legacy Icon. Tracye Stafford-Smith has dedicated her career to music. She's a graduate of Hampton University, a former CIAA school. In an industry dominated by men, Tracye has worked hard to dominate the region as one of the top concert promoters. A er college , she began her career working for Mo- town Records in Los Angelos. Nearly 20 years ago she created her business which is now known as Ikonic Entertainment. She has the keen insight to discover hot talent. Tracye is instrumental in introducing some of the biggest ar sts to the area. Cardi B, Drake, Nicki Minaj, Jeezy, Gucci Mane, Rick Ross and Yo Go are a few the ar sts she showcased early in their careers. Tracye is a smart, talented and crea ve business execu ve. From Lil Wayne, Chris Brown to Megan The Stallion, she has produced the ho est concerts and owned a successful nightclub. She is now bringing to life her newest venture Ikonic Live- a new live enter- tainment venue to Bal more. She's always chronicling her career in the new reality show "The Promoters." Her contribu ons to music history and black culture is invaluable. Mrs Stafford-Smith is a Bal more Legacy Icon.