I had the honor of meeting Cedric Thornton at an event in New York around a decade ago (2006). I didn’t understand who he was at first. I thought he was a youthful, friendly, funny guy. As I got to know him though, I realized that Cedric (Big Ced) Thornton was much more. Cedric knew a lot of people and a lot of people knew him. I would soon learn that he, himself was a pioneer of contemporary, commercial, urban culture, having appeared in a few music videos to songs by Monie Love and MC Lyte, in his youth, among other things. Cedric has always been wise beyond his youthful appearance. His sense of humor never strays from the truth. My fondest memory of Ced, was when I was getting my feet wet with digital reporting, and he gave me a few writing assignments. He always referred to me by my last name, “Glinski” and I loved that! Cedric’s level of professionalism and respect, sets him apart. Whether publishing news to his forum, TheIndustryCosign, or holding weekly social events around NY, one could always count on Cedric to be mature and responsible – and also down to earth and funny.

Cedric is a great friend. He has maintained many friendships with people who he’s known most of his life, and has always been instrumental in bringing people together for a good time. Ced is famous for saying, “I don’t get involved; people involve me.” The original phrase is a testament to the fact that many people have confided in Ced, because they trust him. To know him, is to love him.