Real Estate Professionals are Spreading the Word with Events in 100 Cities Nationwide
up from 10 am to 3 p.m. on Saturday, April 13 at Holy Tabernacle Church of God in Christ Family Life Center. Holy Tabernacle is located in Fort Worth’s eastside at 2800 E. Loop 820 S., 76119. In addition to workshops, participants may also meet one-on-one with a lawyer and Certified HUD Counselor. It’s free to attend with advance registration at https:// tcrblackwealth.com
by Jill Darden, FWBN Publisher
The Building Black Wealth Tour will stop in over 100 cities on April 13. Presented by the National Association of Real Estate Brokers (NAREB), the Fort Worth event features sessions like, What to Do with Big Mama’s House, Black Men Buy Houses, and Show Me the Money. The tour is designed to empower Black communities with steps towards homeownership, property investment, starting a business, and other wealth-building opportunities.
“Our mission is to alert families and individuals, and especially those who can qualify for a mortgage, how important it is to buy a home and be put on a path towards generational wealth,” stated NAREB President Dr. Courtney Johnson Rose. “Discriminatory housing policies have kept our families for generations from opportunities to build wealth. We want everyone to know the important steps and information that can lead to wealth-building and homeownership.”
The Tarrant County Realtist Board is hosting a power-packed line-
“We are excited to be one of the host of the NAREB Black Wealth Tour,” said Terri Attaway, President of Tarrant County Realtist Board. “We have worked to plan an impactful event that will give our community the education and tools they need to build wealth through real estate.” Organizers hope to answer questions including, how much down payment is expected, ideal credit scores for loans, and mortgage requirements. Research by Freddie Mac determined as of January 2021, 2 million Blacks ages 45 or younger are near mortgage-ready, while another 3.4 million are potentially mortgage ready.
Tour partners include Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc., the Church of God in Christ, Inc. and other entities.
Fort Worth Black News
• April 2024
• Page 3
www.fwblacknews.com
Renowned historian and filmmaker, Henry Louis Gates, Jr., PhD is the featured guest for the National Juneteenth Museum Speaker Series on June 6, 2024. Taking place in Fort Worth at I.M. Terrell Academy for STEM and VPA, he will participate in an insightful discussion as part ofthe “Uniting Voices” theme.
Dr. Gates is celebrated for his contributions to documentary filmmaking, scholarship and education. As an Emmy and Peabody award-winning filmmaker, the educator has illuminated the pages of history through his numerous groundbreaking documentary series, including "The African Americans: Many Rivers to Cross"and "Finding Your Roots."
Beyond achievements in filmmaking, Dr. Gates is a distin-
guished scholar and historian whose scholarship has reshaped our understanding of pivotal historical narratives, shedding light on stories that are often overlooked. He is currently the Alphonse Fletcher University Professor and Director of the Hutchins Center for African & African American Research at Harvard University. He continues to enlighten a new generation, leaving a lasting mark on academia and society as a whole.
The Fort Worth speaking event starts at 7 p.m. Proceeds will be used to help build the new National Juneteenth Museum in Fort Worth’s Historic Southside.
For more information about the museumor event tickets, visit www.nationaljuneteenthmuseum.org
The Fort Worth Chapter of the NAACP is active and meets regularly. If you would like more information about local events or becoming a member visit: www.naacpfwtc.org
Mayor Pro-TemGyna Bivens helped cut the ribbon for the grand opening of Trinity Lakes Station, the newest stop for Trinity Railway Express. The goal of the station is to connect communities and offer reliable transportation options. Located at 7979 Trinity Boulevard, leaders hope the new stop will provide a comfortable ride between Fort Worth and Dallas. For more details: trinityrailwayexpress.org/stations
The Scaling Struggle: Why Business Owners Find Growth Challenging
by JaCoi James Pugh, FWBN ColumnistScaling a business is often seen as the next logical step for successful entrepreneurs looking to expand their operations and reach new heights. However, the path to scaling is riddled with challenges that many business owners find daunting. From resource constraints to market dynamics, there are several reasons why scaling a business can be an uphill battle.
1. Resource Constraints: One of the most common challenges faced by business owners when scaling is a lack of resources. Whether it's capital, talent, or technology, scaling requires a significant investment in resources that many businesses may not have readily available. Without the necessary resources, scaling can be slow, inefficient, or even impossible.
2. Market Dynamics: The business landscape is constantly evolving, with changes in customer preferences, competitive dynamics, and market trends. These shifts can make it challenging for businesses to scale effectively, as they must adapt to new market realities and navigate unfamiliar territory.
3. Operational Inefficiencies: Scaling a business requires a level of operational efficiency that many businesses may not have achieved. Inefficient processes, outdated systems, and a lack of automation can slow down scaling efforts and make it difficult to manage growth effectively.
4. Limited Scalability of Business Model: Some business models are inherently difficult to scale. For example, service-based businesses may struggle to scale compared to productbased ones, as services are often more dependent on human resources and are harder to replicate at scale.
5.TechnologyConstraints: Outdated or inadequate technology infrastructure can hinder scaling efforts,
especially in today's digital age. Businesses need to invest in technology that can support their growth and enable them to scale efficiently.
6.RegulatoryChallenges: Compliance requirements or regulatory hurdles can pose challenges when scaling a business, particularly in highly regulated industries. Businesses need to navigate these challenges carefully to avoid legal issues that could impede their growth.
7. Cultural Resistance to Change: A company culture that is resistant to change can hinder scaling efforts. Business owners need to foster a culture of innovation and adaptability to successfully scale their businesses.
In short, scaling a business is a complex and challenging process that requires careful planning, strategic thinking, and a willingness to adapt to changing circumstances. By addressing the challenges mentioned above, business owners can overcome the hurdles to scaling and achieve sustainable growth in the long term.
About JaCoi James Pugh
JaCoi James Pugh is a co-founder and President of the 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, Black Women’s Wall Street, Inc. based in Mansfield, Texas. Black Women’s Wall Street, Inc.’s mission is to empower Black women who aspire to be business owners by equipping them with startup business training, financial literacy and education so they can impact local and global communities.
She is also the lead host of the talk radio show "The Boardroom with Black Women's Wall Street, Inc." that can be heard on the iHeart Radio app and maintains a small-business consulting practice, J&K Solutions. The entrepreneur is a published author of The Single Mother ’s Path to Wealth.
A new contemporary fine art gallery has opened in East Fort Worth’s Handley neighborhood. It’s named Tubman, in honor of American abolitionist Harriet Tubman and occupies a 600 square foot white cube space at 6613 East Lancaster Avenue, just off I-820. “The future of Fort Worth will have more art in it and will be a better place for artist growth and incubation,” said Dante Williams, co-founder of Tubman Gallery.
Tubman is led by Senior Director Matthew Nelson, a Fort Worth native with two decades of experience in independent art. The primary goal is creating a sense of freedom for those who interact with it. The gallery aims to do this by adopting a non commercial approach to exhibitions and programming and partnering with community organizations to split the difference in cost.. This allows independent artists to keep more profit from sales.
Tubman Gallery officially launched with their inaugural exhibition, I AIN'T NEVER BELONGED TO JUST ONE PERSON. The show focuses on ideas around ownership in general and specifically ownership of artworks and the means of production in the art world. The exhibit features artwork from a number of artists both from Texas and abroad including Andrea Price, Amandla Baraka, REMEMBERCHARLES and From, Phyl Studio. The opening reception also included a presentation of The Chrononaut, a film by Jordan Riggs.
The gallery is partnering with Community Frontline, the 501(c)(3) non profit that describes itself as “a brotherhood of men who love Fort
ing the issues that cause suffering in our neighborhoods,” of which Williams & Nelson have both been actively part of leadership since its inception.
To schedule a visit or see full upcoming exhibition lineup, go to www.tubmangallery.com
•
A new exhibit at Modern Art Museum shows a beautiful interpretation of Black resistance and creativity through more than 80 works by Caribbean and Black artists. Called, Surrealism and Us, the collection represents a global perspective and was organized by Curator Maria Elena Ortiz.
The moment you reach the top of the stairs at the Modern, you’re greeted by colorful, vibrant installations hanging from the ceiling. As you make your way through the gallery, a wide range of media including painting, sculpture, drawing and video help to tell the story.
Selected artists from the exhibit were in Fort Worth recently to explain what inspired their pieces. Kim Dacres, creator of the Sojourner sculpture, said she wanted to present Sojourner Truth in a different light.
“We always see Sojourner Truth in a bonnet. I wanted an
image that shows her strength and lets her hair down,” Dacres explained. “I imagined what she might look like, adding earrings too.”
Dacres used tires and gears in the sculpture to represent mobility and believes the piece also shows truth.
“
The mouthpiece design
shows you have to speak a sacred language when speaking for yourself and speaking truth to power. Sojourner was speaking to white women and black men.”
Surrealism and Us is on display through July 28, 2024. Visit www.themodern.org for more information.
Actor and Producer Omar Epps is coming to The Dock Bookshop on April 27, 2024 for National Independent Bookstore Day. He will share his latest literary works with the audience.
Epps first gained fame playing Q in the film, Juice, alongside Tupac Shakur. He later starred in the romance, Love and Basketball and more. Epps currently portrays Malcolm Howard, NYPD Detective and Kanan’s biological father in the hit series Powerbook III: Raising Kanan
The Dock Bookshop 6637 Meadowbrook Drive Fort Worth, Texas 817-457-5700
TheDockBookshop.com
Today, I pen down these words with a heavy heart, as I bid farewell to a titan of a man, James Washington. Known affectionately as “Big Jim,” he wasn't just a figure in my life; he was a beacon of strength, resilience, and wisdom. As I reflect on his life and legacy, I can't help but feel an immense sense of gratitude for the lessons he imparted upon me.
First and foremost, James Washington embodied the values of a true leader. He led not with loud words or grand gestures, but with quiet determination and unwavering integrity. His actions spoke volumes, inspiring those around him to strive for excellence and to always lead with compassion.
As a strong and resilient Black male in America, James defied stereotypes and shattered barriers. He showed me that success is not defined by the color of your skin or the circumstances of your upbringing, but by the strength of your character and the depth of your determination.
Throughout his entrepreneurial career, James dedicated himself to the
service of his community. He understood the power of storytelling and used it as a tool to uplift and empower those around him. He taught me the importance of aligning my own story with the community I serve, and the impact that authenticity can have on creating meaningful connections.
My greatest challenge as a public relations practitioner came when I worked for James's former wife, the amazing Vicki Meek, at the South Dallas Cultural Center. Balancing the responsibilities of my role while ensuring the activities of the center were well-covered by Dallas Weekly, where James was the Publisher, taught me invaluable lessons in professionalism and diplomacy. I experienced the professional and personal relationship between the two of them, and I also have the additional joy of engaging with the wonderful talented children, Patrick and Elena.
But perhaps the greatest lesson I learned from James was the importance of being authentic and speaking my truth. He showed me how to navigate the complexities of professional journalism with grace and hu-
mility, and how to remain true to myself in my immersion of storytelling. It was as if he knew where I had to grow and what I had to be supported to obtain success in my PIO role. He taught me how to focus on information that matters, and he showed me how to "D.U.C.K" - Dodge Unworthy Consciousness Kindly in all the people Imet.
James Washington was not just a game changer; he was a World Changer. His mentorship to me and others was a gift that I will forever cherish, and I am eternally grateful to have known him. As I bid farewell to my beloved ally and friend, I take solace in the knowledge that his legacy will live on in the hearts and minds of all those he touched. I could take forever listing the individuals he impacted that impacted me. James Washington, God favored me when I met you. You were the best father, publisher, mentor, friend and thought leader on my personal journey. Thanks for being a top 10 hit in the songbook of my life!
“
I met him as a very young publisher about 20 years ago,” said Jill Darden, FWBN Publisher. “In my
right. I really enjoyed his publication and appreciated his professionalism.”
In closing, Iurge you, dear reader, to reflect on your own experiences with James Washington and to share them with us. Let us honor his memory by continuing to live out his values of leadership, resilience, and service to others we meet along the way.
Please email me at the Fort Worth Black News and share your James Washington story: fwbn@aol.com
Rest in power, Big Jim. You will be deeply missed, but your legacy will endure for generations to come.
Fort Worth Black News
• April 2024
• Page 7
“That I may publish with the voice of thanksgiving, & tell all thy wondrous works.” - Psalms 26:7
• www.fwblacknews.com
Don’t Forget to Bless the Lord
Psalm 103
by Arnita Ware
Bless the Lord, O my soul: and all that is within me, bless his holy name. Bless the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits: Who forgives all thine iniquities, who heals all thy diseases.
The Lord is merciful and gracious, slow to anger, and plenteous in mercy He has not dealt with us after our sins, nor rewarded us ac-
cording to our iniquities. For as the heaven is high above the earth, so great is his mercy toward them that fear him.
In light of the above scriptures, these simply remind us to appreciate God’s goodness and kindnesses towards us.
We are to bless his name for all he has done, is doing, and will do!
Tickets: https://donorbox.org/events/568381
Texting Etiquette
There are rules for just about everything including texting. Let’s get into some basic texting etiquette rules to follow.
• Do not inform someone of sad news or to end a relationship by text. Deliver the news in person or by phone.
• No long text messages please. Keep it brief. If it runs on and on, pick up the phone and call instead.
• Be careful when choosing a recipient from your phone book; be sure it is the correct person.
• When you text someone who doesn’t have your number, start by stating who you are.
• Reply to a text by texting back or with a phone call.
• If you receive a text by mistake, respond to the sender with “Sorry, wrong number.”
• Put your phone away at the movies, a play, or a concert and do not text - the screen light is annoying to others.
• Don’t text things that are confidential, private, or potentially embarrassing.
• Your text may not get an immediate response - you can’t know for sure when the recipient will read the message.
• Texting is a conversation: If you would respond in the conversation, then respond in the text.
• Do not answer your phone during a conversation, you shouldn't text when you're engaged with someone else. If you are with someone who won't stop texting during your conversation, feel free to excuse yourself until they have concluded their messaging.
• Be careful with group text. These can get out of control very quickly. Only respond to the sender of the text.
• Don't text and drive.
Happy Texting!
“Etiquette is NOT Extinct” It has Evolved
Anita C. Heiskell Certified Social Graces Etiquette and Image Consultant
Anita Heiskell is the founder and owner of Prim, Poised and Proper, LLC., a full-service Etiquette School located in Fort Worth, Texas that focuses on social graces, dining etiquette, business etiquette, along with image and presentation skills. Heiskell also offers Pageant Preparation and training. She is certified from The Social Skills School of Protocol and has over 25 years experience in the etiquette field.
For more information: www.primpoisedandproper.com, primpoisedandproper@gmail.com or 817-219-5557.
Come Be Heard during the Advocacy Panel Discussion on K-12 Education.
Date: April 30, 2024 6:30 pm
Location:
The Potter’s House Fort Worth 1238 Woodhaven Blvd Fort Worth, TX 76112
Presented by:
Beta Tau Lambda Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. and Fort Worth Tarrant County NAACP
Fort Worth native Trina Sanders has released a new book designed to help young people and senior citizens save. Called, “How to Grow Your Money Own Tree,” the pages are designed to allow readers to physically insert dollar bills into a specific slot each day. After a full year, they will have completed the book and the first round of savings. Sanders said this process is an excellent way to introduce the concept of saving or to help people who have difficulty with will-power. Seeing the pages fill up with money over time is rewarding and encourages the person to save even more.
Published in 2023, the author said her goal is to educate the younger generation and others that they can save “a dollar a day” or larger amounts for emergency savings or
- God-fearing Woman, Texas
Dear God-fearing Woman, I’m not sure how long y’all have been together but with the depth of this situation, I do not even know if that matters. If he doesn’t believe in God, he believes in something - even if that something is nothing. It’s still something, if you follow me. The Word says, “Do not be unequally together with unbelievers.” That “bother” in your spirit is the Holy Spirit’s voice of guidance DO NOT IGNORE IT.
The things you stated as to why you think he is your soulmate is surface level living that doesn’t necessarily take morals, values, or a spiritual belief system. My mind says if you are thinking in soulmate terms you are thinking marriage. To have longevity, peace, love, joy, abundance and the ability and desire to overcome hardships in marriage y’all better be equally yoked! Both parties need to at least believe in God. Can you introduce him to God? Absolutely! Can you change him or save him? Absolutely not! You get to choose what the reality of your life will be over the course of the next week, month, or years based on this decision.
what you experience because he has been honest with you), and
3) consult with God NOW
As far as soulmates, it has to be a soul connection. If your soul is for God and his soul is for “other,” he just might not be your soulmate - but instead a friend you enjoy hanging out with.
Love you always, The Tucks
Remon & Candace Tuck are the founders of The Couples Lounge, an awarding-winning talk show and marriage movement. Their mission is to inspire, encourage, and give hope to God s sacred marriage union. The movement consists of speaking, marriage events, and retreats. The Tucks are the authors of Somebody Shoulda Told Me, Marriage Do We Really Know What It s About. Candace is the founder of We Will Win, an affiliate of the movement, which consists of couples and individual coaching services.
Follow on social media: The Couples Lounge. Order book: www.lulu.com
Book for speaking engagements: wewillwin@candacetuck.com
Send relationship questions to: wewillwin@candacetuck.com
