Fort Worth Black News December 2024

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United Way of Tarrant County’s board of directors announced the selection of Adam Powell as UWTC’s new president and CEO effective January 13, 2025. Powell, a nonprofit executive with more than 20 years of experience, is known for his strategic vision and ability to optimize resources to achieve the core missions of the organizations he serves. He succeeds Leah M. King, who resigned her position in October.

“Adam’s nonprofit experience and results demonstrate his focus on positive community impact,” said Steve Bobb, UTWC board chair. “I, along with the rest of the board, am excited about his ability to connect with stakeholders across Tarrant County and his record of securing investments to help our organization continue to innovate, thrive and grow.”

Powell comes to UWTC from his role as president and CEO of Communities in Schools of the Dallas Region, where he doubled the organizational impact over five years and nearly tripled its revenue. Prior to Communities in Schools, Powell served as vice president of site operations for College Possible, a national college access and success organization. In that role, he was responsible for fundraising, program delivery, staff management and development, and community relations at sites in seven different cities across the United States. He has extensive experience in the education nonprofit space in North Texas, working previously in a variety of roles for Education is Freedom, including as its COO. He started his Texas-based nonprofit career as a resident assistant in Arlington’s Life Shelter in

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2007, when he first arrived in the DFW area.

Along with his professional responsibilities, Powell has been an active member of several community organizations, including the Southern Dallas P-16 Council, the North Dallas Chamber of Commerce’s Education Committee and the National College Access Network.

He recently was inducted into the Forbes Nonprofit Council, an honor set aside for top nonprofit executives around the country. He was named a D Magazine/D CEO Leadership Excellence finalist in 2024 and 2023, honored as a Dallas Business Journal 40 under 40 recipient in 2021, and selected to Dallas Mayor Mike Rawling’s Star Council in 2015.

Powell holds a bachelor’s degree in mass communications from Jackson State University, an master’s in social work from University of Texas in Arlington and is expected to graduate with his Ed.D. in leadership and innovation from Purdue University in December 2025.

Homestyle cooking - catering Lunch, Dinner & desserts Pick up Sunday dinner after church

DJ’s Soul Food 6700 brentwood stair rd. - Fort Worth, Texas

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Bank of America named BRAVER Together and Catholic Charities Dallas as its 2024 Neighborhood Builders for their work to enhance the health and wellbeing of the North Texas region.

Each nonprofit is awarded a $200,000 grant over two years, comprehensive leadership training for the organization’s executive director and an emerging leader, and access to a national network of nonprofit peers.

“This year, we celebrate 20 years of strengthening North Texas nonprofits that provide solutions to local challenges and promote economic advancement. That means 59 local nonprofits that have been empowered with flexible funding and leadership training to address critical needs and create economic opportunity in our communities," said Jennifer Chandler, president, Bank of America Dallas Catholic Charities Dallas enhances the health and wellbeing of North Texans by strategically, collaboratively and holistically responding to pressing needs of the region through its core programs addressing hunger, financial stability and career services, and homeless and housing. The bank’s funding will allow the organization to continue to respond to urgent community needs and support new mission areas and programs.

BRAVER works to achieve health equality in neighborhoods in zip code 76104, home to residents with the lowest life expectancy in the state, by erad-

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icating racial disparities in education, healthcare, housing and economic development. This new grant funding will provide operational stability, allow the organization to nimbly respond to urgent, unforeseen needs that arise within the community, as well as enable it to grow its staff.

“As a ‘first responder’ in the 76104 community, we often hear directly from residents with urgent needs.

Through the Neighborhood Builder grant, we can build our capacity and have the flexibility to promptly and effectively respond to these immediate concerns,” said Shawn Lassiter, Executive Director of BRAVER Together.

“By addressing the root causes of disparities and investing in neighborhood revitalization and small business resiliency, together we are creating a positive economic ripple effect throughout the community.”

Neighborhood Builders is part of the bank’s longstanding efforts to build thriving communities by addressing issues fundamental to economic opportunity. Nationwide since 2004, Bank of America has invested over $346 million in grants to nearly 2,000 nonprofits across the country through Neighborhood Builders and Champions.

The Neighborhood Builders invitation-only program is highly competitive. Nonprofits are selected by a committee comprised of community leaders and past Neighborhood Builders awardees.

Children at Clifford Davis Elementary School celebrated a new kiddesigned, community-built playground.

The months-long collaboration between Clifford Davis Elementary School, Fort Worth ISD, the CarMax Foundation, and KABOOM! involved more than 200 volunteers, who built the new playspace. Organizers hope it will spark joy and foster a sense of belonging for 836 kids each year at the school.

Additionally, the CarMax Foundation presented the school with a $5,000 check to support campus initiatives, allowing the school to use the funds in the way that best meets its needs.

The new playground at Clifford Davis Elementary is part of a nationwide effort led by KABOOM! to address playspace inequity—the reality that many children, especially those in underserved

communities, could use more quality places to play. Community members guided the project from start to finish, incorporating ideas from 25 students who shared their dream playground designs earlier this year.

“Having this new playspace at Clifford Davis Elementary is truly special for our students and the community," said Ebony Key, Principal of Clifford Davis Elementary School. "It’s a safe, vibrant place where our kids can come together, play, and let their creativity thrive. This playspace is more than just equipment; it’s a space they helped shape, reflecting their ideas and dreams. I am thrilled to see our Clifford Davis Eagles enjoying something built for and by them, and I know it will be a source of pride and joy for the entire neighborhood.”

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Moss Releases New Book About Her Life Beloved community leader, Christene Chadwick Moss, released a new book discussing her life’s journey. Called, A Rose Amongst the Weeds, she shares the personal side of a very public personality.

Moss was an activist, serving on the Fort Worth Independent School District Board as a Trustee for 29 years.

Both an elementary school and Salvation Army library were named in her honor.

She is a retired Registered Nurse and also worked as an adjunct professor at Tarrant County College. During her lifetime, she served and led many county,

state and national boards.

Moss is married to former Fort Worth City Councilman Franklin D. Moss, Sr. Her daughter-in-law, Mia Moss is the owner of Black Coffee.

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rammy Award-winning recording artist Leon Bridges returned home to a soldout crowd at Dickies Arena in November.

He was greeted by Mayor Mattie Parker, a street sign named in his honor and even the day designated specially for him. This is a long way from how it all began - working nights at a local restaurant and performing for an audience of five during Open Mic. “There are no words to describe how it feels right now,” said Wallace Bridges, his father and Fort Worth Independent School District Board Trustee. “I remember when he was 19 years-old and told me he was going to start singing at Open Mics. There were just a few of us there but I was so impressed with the songs. He told me he wrote them.”

As a dad, he was glad to hear it but surprised since Leon is extremely shy and wouldn’t even sing in front of family when requested. He noticed the vocal gift when his son was about six-years-old watching The Lion King.

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“I heard the song, ‘Hakuna Matata’ from another room and thought it was the video - it was Leon!” Bridges said. “I told his mom, this kid can sing-sing!”

Leon was so shy he would not open his mouth to sing the song in front of his mother at that time. Nor would he compete in talent shows or church. The next time his father saw him perform was in front a crowd with tens of thousands of people, opening for the Rolling Stones in the Netherlands.

“My mind went back to where it all began. I thought about it - it’s surreal,” Bridges shared.

Leon has gone on to accomplish success in multiple arenas. He is a singer, songwriter, and record producer, signed with Columbia Records. His work has appeared in films and he is credited with designing the Dallas Mavericks City Edition jerseys. His nonprofit organization, THE BIG GOOD, co-founded with legendary football coach Gary Patterson, has granted over $2.5 million to its community partners over the last three years. The organization focuses on initiatives that support educational and workforce development within the Fort Worth community.

Amid all these accolades, what seems to matter most to the Bridges family are those precious moments and memories from childhood. Leon released the song, “Simplify,” in October, which centers around his Fort Worth upbringing. The lyrics tell the story of a little boy skipping across rocks at the Trinity River with his father, pretending alligators were chasing them. That father was Wallace Bridges.

“I wondered if he even remembered those times. He was about four or five -years-old,” Bridges said. “I streamed the song at 2:30 in the morning when it was released and it took me to another place - I broke into tears. It made me realize, it’s the simple things kids remember, not material things.”

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hough Dr. Helen Curtis is an accomplished educator and distinguished leader, many women across the city refer to her affectionately as “my second mama.” They experienced her guidance as students when she served as a teacher and administrator in Fort Worth public schools. Her path traveled the course of teaching middle school, high school, junior college and senior college levels. She served as a principal for 18 years.

After retirement, Dr. Curtis continues to interact with organizations that benefit young people, working as the Program Evaluator for AB Christian Learning Center and a Test Monitor for Freedom Schools. The learning center is a nonprofit educational organization focusing on closing the achievement gap, decreasing the dropout rate and helping students prepare for and enroll in college.

There is a building appropriately named in her honor on the campus of East Pointe Church of Christ. Called The Dr. Helen Curtis Education Center, it is the structure where classes are held. She has been an active member at the church for 59 years and previously served as Administrative Assistant.

The longtime educator was the recipient of an award named in her honor from East Pointe, “The Helen Curtis Community Involvement Award,” which is given annually to a female committed to serving the community and making life better for others. She was inducted into the Southwestern Christian College Hall of Fame and received the prestigious “Strong Woman” award from Girls, Inc. of Tarrant County. In 2011, she was awarded the Honorary Doctor of Humane Letters from Southwestern Christian College. She is a graduate of Southwestern Christian College, Pepperdine University and the University of North Texas.

These numerous accomplishments and milestones would require tremendous effort and determination in today’s world. Yet, Helen Curtis achieved them during much more challenging times and in a less understanding era. She has continued to evolve and impact those around her positively.

“In a world where kindness can sometimes feel rare, you shine as a true servant of God. Your love and compassion touch everyone you meet, leaving a lasting impact on their lives,” said Nakia Cole, a community leader and church member.

“I want you to know that your selflessness does not go unnoticed; you inspire those around you to be better and to love deeper. I love you and thank God for you everyday. Grateful for the way you allow Him to work through you to uplift and bless others. You will always have a special place in my heart.”

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s the recipient of numerous business awards and high profile construction contracts, Jeff Postell may appear to be an overnight success. The company he founded, Post L Group has worked on major projects including JPS Medical Home Southwest Tarrant, DFW Airport Terminal D Capital One Premium Lounge, I-635 Expansion, I-35 Lowest Stemmons, and more.

This public success is the result of 27 years of consistent work behind the scenes, that began with a simple job of Postell working for a drywall company as an unskilled laborer.

He climbed up the construction industry ladder one step at a time, advancing in responsibilities and training. The young, determined worker took on roles including assistant superintendent, superintendent, assistant PM, project manager, and estimator. This process prepared him to eventually launch and lead his own company as a chief executive in 2015.

Post L Group is a general contractor that specializes in construction services, including self performance drywall, job order contracting, and owner’s representation in the Dallas-Fort Worth area and beyond.

You would often see Postell with business card in-hand, networking at local events, making the public aware of the services. He had the ability to make everyone he came in contact with feel like they were key players in the game - from decision makers to gatekeepers. Now, he is receiving invitations to be honored by wide-ranging organizations, from the Real Estate Council of Greater Fort Worth to Workforce Solutions for Tarrant County and the Texas Association of African-American Chambers of Commerce.

Remembering his personal journey, he founded Building Pathways, Inc. in 2022, a non-profit organization which opens doors to careers in construction for individuals that have not considered it as a career. Postell has also been a member, leader and volunteer serving many community organizations and boards.

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illi Mills is one of those people who bring light by sharing talent across the airwaves. What began 30 years ago as an internship for an Arkansas radio station, has turned into a lifetime of sharing inspiring stories and content with listeners. Most notably, is her current podcast show Bring it In the House, which launched during very dark and uncertain times in our country.

“The nation was pretty much shutdown during the pandemic, employees were having to work from home and youth were being educated from home,” Mills stated. “I felt that entertainers were creating alternative ways to gather and entertain online...bringing everything online into homes. Thus, the podcast show was given the title, Bring it In the House.”

The veteran broadcaster launched the show in 2020 to bring live-streamed interviews and entertainment straight to families at home. She conducts conversations with guests over the streaming platform, using a split screen format.

It’s a 30-minute program spotlighting the success of musicians, entertainers, artists and leaders.

This year she celebrated 150 episodes.

Though Mills never imagined producing a podcast, she prepared to work in the field earlyon by attending the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff, majoring in Speech and Theater with a concentration in Communication. During her professional journey, she crossed paths with a number of celebrities and managed her daughter’s music career for almost six years. Rumill was an R&B/Pop/Hip-Hop Recording Artist who recorded the single, “Not the 1 For Me” in 2010 at the age of 15.

As a manager in the entertainment industry, Mills lived in the Dallas-Fort Worth area for a number of years before relocating to Austin. She plans to continue the uplifting podcast in 2025.

“I want people to know that it is an honor to recognize the genius in others. Through research and show preparation, I have the opportunity to learn of the success of others who are not always so common in the spotlight,” Mills stated.

The show airs weekly Saturdays at 7:30 pm: Facebook at BRING IT IN THE HOUSE’ Weekly Podcast Show | Facebook.

he Tucks have made a name for themselves in the area of love, marriage and relationships. A dynamic husband and wife duo, Candace and Remon Tuck share practical advice for couples seeking to strengthen their union. They bring an unconventional approach, using personal examples and spiritual direction to guide clients. Some scenarios are shared publicly through a column featured in Fort Worth Black News and their podcast, The Couples Lounge.

Audiences pay attention when they speak because of the unique combination of hearing both the male and female point of view at the same time.

They also reflect everyday people who go to work, pick up the kids, and are striving to advance themselves by walking in their life’s purpose. They’ve had ups and downs - almost got divorced ten years into their marriage, yet figured out a way to make it work.

Candance and Remon started out as college sweethearts and had a wonderful beginning of marriage.

As challenges unfolded, it began to look like the love wouldn’t last.

Instead of walking away they decided to get counseling and focus on building a better relationship.

Now, they use the experience to help others.

In 2014, the duo published their first book and officially launched The Couples Lounge Marriage Ministry, which started in their home many years prior. The Tucks co-authored, Somebody Shoulda Told Me, Marriage Do Really Know What It’s About. This led to the podcast that dives deep into different aspects of relationships, exploring topics like communication, conflict resolution, and personal growth.

Their commitment to healthy

unions has been noticed around the nation, resulting in speaking engagements at marriage conferences, colleges and churches. They have been assigned Regional Marriage Directors for Full Gospel.

Both are college educated and continue to grow in their respective fields. Candace earned a master’s degree in Counseling from Tarleton State University. In 2019, she became a Spiritual Life Coach through Inner Visions Institute of Spiritual Development, under the guidance of Iyanla Vanzant.

The Tucks bring a unique, qualified and loving voice to the Black community regarding personal relationships. They are a muchneeded example of what is possible and are helping marriages stay together in a healthy way, which benefits the entire community.

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“That I may publish with the voice of thanksgiving, & tell all thy wondrous works.” - Psalms 26:7

The Gift (John 3:16)

by Arnita Ware For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life.

The greatest gift this world has ever received is the gift of salvation in the person of Jesus Christ, God’s ONLY son.

Tis the season to celebrate JESUS, the real reason for the season.

Turners Chapel COGIC 5332 Ramey Ave. - Ft. Worth 76105 469-826-6938 FB: turnerschapelcogic

Let’s celebrate “the one,” who willingly gave himself for us, so we may have eternal life forever.

The best gift ever!

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

TUBMAN Gallery presents the inaugural Christmas Program, Make A Joyful Noise, a presentation of sounds honoring the birth of Jesus Christ.

It will feature music by Fort Worth Minister Leo Vaughns, Jr. Pastor & Music Director of St. Mark Cumberland Presbyterian Church.

December 22, 2024 4 pm - 6 pm Hot chocolate and co ee by Black Co ee and Smores will be served.

Free to attend.

2800 E. Loop 820 - Fort Worth, TX 76119

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Society is shifting away from formal written communication. Handwritten cards and letters are on the way to extinction.

Unfortunately, text messages do not allow us to convey the messages that we wish to convey, and email isn’t always as formal or a warm method of communication.

Take the time to handwrite thank-you notes and birthday, get -well, sympathy, congratulations, and anniversary cards. A warm, handwritten note sent using the postal service makes a dramatic impact on the recipient. It is so touching to receive a thoughtful handwritten card or letter in the mail.

Handwritten notes and letters say, “You are so meaningful to me that I am going out of my way to write you this note.”

Handwritten letters fill a different need than text, social media post or emails.

Reasons to handwrite letters: · Timeless keepsakes · Create a legacy

tion.

Happy Writing!

“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.

· Show effort · Can be reread · Tangible

When we handwrite a letter or card, each word we choose is important and counts. Handwritten letters can become timeless keepsakes that can be passed down from generation to genera-

For more information: You may visit the website: www.primpoisedandproper.com Email: primpoisedandproper@gmail.com or call 817-219-5557.

Dear Readers, Recently on our podcast, The Couples Lounge, we tackled a thought-provoking topic: What Makes a Good Spouse? The discussion began with my perspective, Candace, that if we live according to the Word of God and its teachings, we can make our spouse happy. My husband, Remon, added a practical insight: "You need to ask your spouse."

This difference in opinion spurred us to expand the conversation. To explore further, I posed a simple question to a group of men: What makes a good wife? To my surprise, I received over 20 unique answers. This variety highlighted that men are diverse in their desires and values, emphasizing character over traditional expectations. Not a single man mentioned sex, cooking or cleaning as defining traits of a good wife!

Here are some qualities they shared: · Supportiveness: A wife who encourages her husband’s ambitions and provides emotional support fosters confidence and teamwork. · Respect and Understanding: Respecting individuality, actively listening, and avoiding judgment build a foundation of trust. · Effective Communication: Honest dialogue helps resolve conflicts and strengthens connection. · Emotional Stability: Resilience and calmness in challenging times are deeply valued. · Shared Values and Goals: Alignment in life goals fosters long-term unity. · Affection and Appreciation: Regular expressions of love and gratitude strengthen emotional bonds. · Adaptability: Flexibility to grow and evolve with the relationship is crucial.

Subscribe to the Digital Edition!

· Spiritual Connection: A deep relationship with faith adds peace, purpose, and a moral compass to the marriage.

· Wholeness: A complete, independent person contributes to a healthy interdependence. · Self-Awareness: Understanding oneself leads to healthier, more mature interactions.

As you can see, these qualities beautifully align with God’s guidance for relationships.

When we strive to embody His teachings in our marriages, we create a foundation of love and respect. However, if these efforts don't resonate with a spouse, it may signal deeper issues such as unresolved conflicts or intentional sin.

The bottom line? You can’t go wrong when you align your actions with God’s Word.

A strong marriage starts with faith, intentionality, and mutual effort.

Warmly, Candace and Remon The Couples Lounge Podcast _____________________________________ 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.

www.thecoupleslounge.com Order book: www.lulu.com Book for speaking engagements: wewillwin@candacetuck.com Send relationship questions to:

wewillwin@candacetuck.com

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TO SIGN UP CONTACT 972-704-5001 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

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