Opal’s Legacy Juneteenth Event Line Up
Organization Honors Leaders
Civil rights pioneer and champion of human rights, Ambassador Andrew Young will speak to an audience in Fort Worth. Scheduled for June 19, the event is part of the Freedom Vibes 2025 “Uniting Voices” Speaker Series, held at I.M. Terrell Academy High School at 3 p.m.
A close confidant of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., Ambassador Young was a key strategist during the Civil Rights Movement, helping lead historic efforts such as the Selma to Montgomery marches. He later became the first African American U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations and served two terms as mayor of Atlanta, where he helped transform the city into an international hub of culture and commerce.
The speaker series is presented by the National Juneteenth Museum and is open to the public. For more information or tickets, visit freedomvibes2025.com.
National Juneteenth Museum, planning construction in Fort Worth near Rosedale and New York Avenue, acquired land and new architectural renderings this year. Organizers hope it will preserve and honor the historical moment when African-Americans received news slavery ended in Texas, which ignited celebrations across the country.
While gaining a reputation as a strong supporter of other artists and the visual art community for decades, Karen Shields-Smith continued to use her gift of creative expression. You rarely saw her without the professional black camera in hand, often taking snapshots of people or inspiring moments in nature. That talent is now being recognized through several exhibition events in the Dallas-Fort Worth area.
Shields-Smith was selected, along with 51 artists out of 155 females, for “Women in Art - Letting in the Light.” The exhibit was presented by Art on Main, with support from the City of Dallas Arts & Culture. An opening reception took place on May 17.
“I am so humbled to be in this exclusive group of female artists from the region,” Shields-Smith said.
In June, she will have two pieces of artwork included in the Juneteenth Art Festival Show in Garland, and later on display at Epiphany Gallery.
“My photography work focuses primarily on the outdoor environment that includes nature, animals, moon, stars, milky way, mountains, grass, lakes, oceans, floral, trees and anything that has a depth of feeling and life,”
Smith stated. “The essence of nature stirs up a fierce eruption of love for creating portraits from the environment that I live in. I create and redesign some of my photography pieces using Adobe Photoshop to balance nature with technology.”
The artist began her photojournalism career over 40 years ago with her first official assignment from the United States Army newspaper, Tropic Times. She captured sports events on camera, ranging from basketball to soccer, football and more. She also photographed special events and award ceremonies on and off base in Central America.
While living overseas, she developed a love for the environment and nature photography, leading to numerous awards in the category. Locally, Shields-Smith has shared her expertise with the community, often coordinating art shows and silent auctions for homegrown talent. For the last 11 years, she curated the Lenora Rolla Heritage Center Museum juried art show, where 300 minority adult and youth artists have participated in art show competitions. She has juried several other competitions at the grade school, high school, college, and adult levels, and exhibits for local groups.
Fort Worth Black News
www.fwblacknews.com
Fort Worth ISD Names Tierney Tinnin as Chief of Communications and Community Partnerships
Fort Worth Independent School District announced Tierney Tinnin as the district Chief of Communications and Community Partnerships. A nationally respected expert in strategic communications and public relations, Tinnin brings more than two decades of leadership in K education, government affairs, and broadcast journalism.
Tinnin most recently served as the Chief of Communications and Marketing for Cedar Hill ISD, where she spearheaded award-winning marketing campaigns, expanded community engagement, and elevated the district leadership was instrumental in the successful passage of a $282 million bond and the district’s first-ever tax ratification election.
“Telling the stories of public schools is more than just a profession it’s a calling,” said Tinnin. “I am deeply honored to join Fort Worth ISD and look forward to partnering with our students, families, staff, and community. Together, we will shine a bright light on the successes happening in our schools every day and ensure our message reflects the progress, promise, and potential of this incredible district.
”
Superintendent Dr. Karen Molinar shared her enthusiasm for Tinnin’s arrival, stating, “Tierney Tinnin is a dynamic communicator with a proven track record of building trust, strengthening relation-
ships, and elevating public education. Her passion for storytelling, deep understanding of urban school systems, and commitment to serving diverse communities make her an exceptional addition to our leadership team. We are thrilled to wel-
Fort Worth
Board President
Roxanne Martinez also expressed her support, saying, Strong communication is the foundation for strong schools and strong communities. Tierney Tinnin brings a bold vision, proven experience, and deep authenticity to this work.”
Throughout her career, Tinnin has served in key communications roles in large urban districts, including Irving ISD and Oklahoma City Public Schools, managing messaging for school systems. Her career began in broadcast journalism as a news anchor and reporter for ABC affiliates in Texas and Oklahoma.
In addition to her leadership experience, Tinnin has earned numerous accolades, including the National School Public Relations Association’s Gold Medallion Award and recognition as one of School PR’s Top 35 Under 35. She is an active member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. and other professional organizations.
Tinnin holds a degree from Langston University. She lives in Mansfield with her husband, Robert, a Nuclear Medicine Technician, and their daughter, a third-grade student in Mansfield ISD
YMCA of Metropolitan Fort Worth Hosts Teen Financial Literacy Workshops Course Aims to Help Teens Learn to Budget, Save, Avoid Debt and Build Financial Independence YMCA Eastside Community Impact Center, 1500 Sandy Lane, Fort
YMCA, 2701 Moresby
Workshops will be held at the YMCA Eastside Community Impact Center and the McDonald YMCA. The class is free for everyone at the Eastside Community Impact Center, and free for members and $10 for non-members at the McDonald location.
Fort Worth Black News • June 2025 • Page 7 • www.fwblacknews.com
“That I may publish with the voice of thanksgiving, & tell all thy wondrous works.” - Psalms 26:7 Advertise your church, special program or event in the next issue of Fort Worth Black News! Call or Text: 817-729-6491
Vision & Faith
by Arnita Ware
“Think left and think right and think low and think high. Oh, the thinks you can think up, if only you try!” ~ Dr. Seuss
Reading this quote makes me think of so many things. The first thought that comes to mind is… “If you can believe it, you can conceive it.” In this life, faith and vision is required to do some things.
Do you ever think about people who are visionaries? According to Jonathan Swift “Vision is the art of seeing what is invisible to others.” I firmly believe that.
Everybody’s visions are not on the same level. My vision may be from the view of a higher plane (up on the mountain) and your vision is from the ground (in a valley). Whatever the case, no matter our vision, we have to keep the faith. First and foremost, we must have faith to begin with; but even in that, we
can’t lose faith when the going gets tough and the tough gets going. This is where keeping the faith comes in handy.
The point of this message is that each of us has a purpose to fulfill, and some of us know what we should be doing. We have seen the vision; we know it has been there, but may not have started to operate in the faith that it takes to get started perhaps some have lost the faith.
Let me admonish you to go back and revisit your God given vision, and move forward with the things you have been thinking about it.
Write the vision make it plain Habakkuk 2:2
Oh, the thinks you can think!
Arnita Ware is a published author & speaker. Book Entitled: Look Through the Window. She is also an educator, life coach, a Lifetime member of Strathmore s Who s Who Worldwide, & the founder of Just Write:
www.justwrite4insight.com justwrite4insight@gmail.com
Plan to join us for an afternoon of delicious southern comfort food and live Gospel music performances! An inspiring and soothing event for the community during a turbulent year
Vendor Booths Available: www.fwblacknews.com/sunday-dinner
www.fwblacknews.com
Fascinators have long been a symbol of elegance, sophistication, and fashionforward flair. These ornamental headpieces, often adorned with feathers, flowers, beads, and intricate fabric designs, are commonly worn at formal events, weddings, and high-profile gatherings, especially in the UK and at horse racing events
When to Wear a Fascinator
Fascinators are often seen at:
• Weddings: Guests, brides, and bridal parties frequently wear them to add a touch of elegance.
• Horse Racing Events: Iconic at events like the Royal Ascot and the Kentucky Derby, where fashion is as competitive as the races.
• Formal Gatherings: Garden parties, tea events, and cocktail receptions also provide the perfect occasions for fascinators.
ABrief History
Fascinators trace their origins to the 18th century, evolving from elaborate bonnets and headpieces worn by European aristocracy. Over time, they have transformed from full head coverings to the smaller, decorative pieces we recognize today. The term "fascinator" became popular in the mid-20th century, describing lightweight, decorative headwear attached to a clip, headband, or comb.
Design and Styles
Modern fascinators come in a variety of styles, ranging from understated and chic to bold and extravagant. Common materials include sinamay (a type of woven straw), lace, silk, and tulle, often embellished with feathers, crystals, and ribbons. Designers play with shapes, heights, and colors to create statement pieces that complement formal attire.
Tips for Wearing a Fascinator
1. Balance Your Look: Choose a fascinator that complements your outfit without overwhelming it.
2. Consider Your Hairstyle: Fascinators work well with both updos and loose hairstyles, depending on the design.
3. Placement: Traditionally worn on the right side of the head, but modern fashion allows for more flexibility.
Fascinators continue to be a beloved accessory that blends tradition with contemporary style, making them a captivating choice for anyone looking to add a sophisticated touch to their ensemble.
Etiquette is NOT Extinct” It has Evolved
Anita C. Heiskell, Certified Social Graces Etiquette & 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
Email: primpoisedandproper@gmail.com, call 817-219-5557.
with Dr. Sheron C. Patterson
Dear Dr. Patterson,
Our 33-year-old son still lives at home with his mother and me - and we are fed up! It is embarrassing for a grown man to live under our roof. All our other kids are grown and gone.
When he was 25 he had a quickie marriage that lasted six months. After the divorce we let him come back home so he “could find himself.” Now, eight years later my wife and I have “found ourselves” too. We are tired of hosting him. Our son will work and he pays his bills, but offers nothing to cover our household bills. In all honesty, he is a good kid. He never gives us problems. When we bring up the topic of him moving out, he says he is not ready. We are Christian people, and we have been patient. Are we wrong for wanting him to leave our house?
- Disappointed Dad
Dear Disappointed Dad,
Sounds like you and your wife are at a breaking point. Hang on, there are ways to address this.
First, know that you are not alone. According to a 2024 statistic, “1 in 3 U.S. adults ages 18 to 34 live in their parents’ home.” A number of factors caused this from young adults being underpaid, the high cost of renting and COVID-19, which brought lots of adult kids back home with their parents. In many instances, the young adults becomes comfortable and complacent once back at home.
Secondly, Christian parents are both loving and firm. You have been
loving. Let’s get firm with him. There are two choices - let him stay or get him out.
If you allow him to stay in your home, negotiate a roommate relationship that includes boundaries and which household bills he will pay.
If you want him out:
1. Sit down with him and tell him that he can no longer live in your home. He needs to stand up on his own feet.
2.Give him a realistic move out date.
3. Schedule monthly or weekly checkin conversations to discuss his move out progress.
4. Stay prayed up, this may be a rocky road.
- Dr. Patterson
Got questions? I have answers? Send to patterson52@icloud.com You will remain anonymous and we’ll share the answer right here in this section of Fort Worth Black News!
Dr. Sheron C. Patterson is available to enhance your relationships as a life coach. She is also available for speaking and preaching engagements.
For speaking, counseling or coaching inquiries, please reach her at patterson52@icloud.com
Follow her on Instagram @drsheron, tiktok@lifelover
