This North Texas Latino community is tapping into its rich cultural heritage and local talent to create a sense of place & opportunity.
This North Texas Latino community is tapping into its rich cultural heritage and local talent to create a sense of place & opportunity.
ISSUU № 4
TABLE OF CONTENTS
4. FIVE NORTH TEXAS CATALYSTS
Tsunamis come in waves, and here are five for which you should prepare.
10. BARRIO ARTES CULTURA MAP
This underserved Latino small business corridor taps into its culture to even the economic playing field.
13. FINANCIAL LITERACY RESOURCE
The time to prepare for opportunity is now. Meet Rebecca Flores and Sandra Longoria 20. The Prism of Education - Jennifer Orona
An experience I had as an adolescent left me with a different impression. How can we create new realities and new systems that embrace equity for all.
6. Art & Culture - Authentic Northside 8. Catrina Alegria 14. Placekeeping & Community 16. Meet the historic Northside Project Manager 18. Cultivating Connection: Northside Rooted Urban Farm 21. Time to Vote in Local Elections 22. North Texans Abroad: Where in the World is Griselda? 23. Small business spotlight 24. TCU Maestro Program: Closing the Latino educator gap
I am thrilled to share the fourth edition of Northside Community Magazine with you. This issue arrives at a pivotal moment for North Texans. Big changes—both local and global—are on the horizon, and they’re poised to reshape our community in profound ways.
For North Texans, these shifts bring opportunities for some but devastating effects for most, especially underserved communities like ours. Despite this, I believe in the power of culture and collaboration to make visible and even tangible change that can't be ignored. See www.northsidefortworth.com for a portfolio of our community's social interventions.
That’s the mission of this magazine: to connect us through our stories, struggles, culture, and resilience. By recognizing the common threads that bind us, we can unite to face the challenges ahead. Strategically speaking, this magazine is a hard-copy documenting this particular community's grassroots organizing efforts, documenting local businesses, and the socio-economic landscape that is engineered in and around us.
To that end, we’re shining a spotlight on five major catalysts that will significantly impact North Texas. But more than that, this is a call to action—not just for our community, but for communities across Texas. Now is the time to prepare, organize, and stand together.
Arnoldo Hurtado, Northside Community LLC Founder & Director
ED IT OR
catalysts that will transform North Texas for good. Is your community ready?
The 2026 FIFA World Cup at AT&T Stadium - This multi-billion dollar global phenomenon has reshaped iconic cities throughout the globe, and we expect no different here in North Texas. According to KERA news, The World Cup will bring an estimated $2 billion to North Texas, with hotels and developers reaping the most benefits. But opportunities exist beyond them—Airbnb/VRBO hosts can capture overflow demand, and Uber/Lyft drivers will help fill transportation gaps. Now is the time to prepare and position yourself for success.
There are strong signs that the 2026 World Cup could serve as a stage for big tech companies to showcase cutting-edge innovations, such as autonomous vehicles. With major corporations like Tesla relocating their headquarters to Texas, it’s possible we’ll see technologies like robotaxis introduced to impress global visitors and fill our transportation gap. As more tech giants establish roots in the state, their influence on the local economy continues to grow. While this brings new job opportunities and advancements, it also contributes to rising costs of living, from housing to everyday expenses. To ensure a balanced economic landscape, it’s crucial for residents to advocate for strong small business representation and policies that support local (North Texas) entrepreneurs.
3. Fort Worth Stockyards Boom - With hundreds of millions of dollars already earmarked for the expansion of the Stockyards, residents can expect an influx of boutique hotels, increased traffic, and inevitable gentrification. While this development may bring new business opportunities, it also comes with a significant downside—rising property taxes. For many homeowners, this could lead to financial strain, forcing many to sell or even risk losing their homes due to unpaid taxes.
4. Panther Island - Often criticized as a "boondoggle," the long-discussed artificial island project in Fort Worth is finally moving forward. Similar to the Stockyards' redevelopment, such large-scale projects often lead to displacement over time. If history is any guide, communities— especially in areas like Northside—may face pressure through tactics such as intimidation and eminent domain claims. Residents must stay informed and proactive. Research developments, engage in local discussions, and organize within your community. Ensure Spanish-speaking neighbors have access to vital information. Be cautious—bad actors often emerge during major developments, sometimes from within the community itself. Question intentions, demand transparency, and protect your neighborhood from unchecked greed.
5. North Texas Marketing & Film- Fort Worth’s marketing efforts are in full swing, thanks in part to city contracts with agencies like Visit Fort Worth (there's also a Visit Dallas), which continue to promote the city on a grand scale. In the film world, writer/director Taylor Sheridan has brought national attention to the area with his latest series, 'Landman'. The show not only showcases Texas culture but also serves as a powerful marketing tool—one that could accelerate Fort Worth’s transformation in ways similar to what Austin experienced over the past few decades. While Fort Worth will never be Austin (nor does it seem to want to be), it certainly wants Austin’s economic success. A growing tax base, an influx of new residents, and a push to make the city a more "exciting" destination are all part of the playbook that reshaped Austin through events like SXSW, Austin City Limits, and the influence of filmmakers like Robert Rodriguez. If 'Landman' can make Midland, Texas, look appealing, there’s no doubt that Fort Worth is being positioned as the next "cool" Texas city. Whether that’s a good or bad thing depends on who you ask—but one thing is clear: big changes are coming.
ART
In the heart of North Texas, the vibrant sounds of mariachi music and the mesmerizing grace of horse dancers bring large Mexican families together to honor their heritage. These gatherings are more than just celebrations; they are acts of preservation, resilience, and community building. For families like the Escobars from Chihuahua, these events hold even deeper meaning as they navigate a post-pandemic world & displacement efforts.
Because authenticity is and always will be more valuable in an increasingly corporate landscape.
Northside Community LLC, with help of event manager Gabe Gonzalez honor this tradition of authenticity and resistance by putting on neighborhood cultural programming that brings local talent and small businesses to celebrate the richness of this heritage (see page 10). Through these cultural celebrations, a new narrative takes over and it puts a spotlight on the existing community's cultural scene. Because authenticity is and always will be more valuable in an increasingly corporate landscape.
& CULTURE
CATRIN
Written by Selena Cruz
Collaborating with fellow artist and editor of this magazine, Arnoldo, on the creation of Catrina Alegria was an extraordinary and deeply meaningful experience. From the initial stages of brainstorming to the meticulous placement of the final touches, I was profoundly inspired by the intricate weaving throughout every aspect of the process. Designing a concept for a Catrina outfit extends far beyond the mere selection of colors and achieving aesthetic appeal. It delves into the profound symbolism and cultural essence of Día de los Muertos, capturing the very
CATRIN A
LEGRIA
spirit and heritage of of our indigenous and Mexican roots within a single, evocative visual representation.
While Día de los Muertos is a celebration of life’s transience, the concept of “Catrina Alegría” reframes the discussion to highlight the joy and vibrancy that can emerge from embracing the idea of mortality. Through its aesthetic sophistication, the “Catrina Alegría” design invites us to view death not as a somber end, but as a bridge to honor our ancestors and celebrate the continuity of life.
This outfit represents a refreshing departure from the traditional, darker portrayals of La Catrina that we are accustomed to. Its vivid, radiant colors and lively composition breathe new life into the archetype, infusing it with a sense of optimism and celebration. The process of creating such a piece was not only a creative endeavor but also a profound journey of cultural appreciation and understanding. The opportunity to work on this project was truly enlightening, leaving me with a deep sense of connection to my heritage and a renewed appreciation for the beauty of tradition.
Selena Cruz
The
best Mariachi in Fort Worth
Mariachi Real de Alvarez is THE mariachi of choice in Fort Worth. With an impressive repertoire of traditional Mexican mariachi music as well as English language pop-mariachi hybrids, it is no suprise that even Sundance Square has sought them out as part of its cultural programming. We predict that this family of true artists will go far in the music and entertainment industry.
EMPOWERING COMMUNITIES THROUGH FINANCIAL EDUCATION
Rebecca Flores Castro and Sandra Longoria are real estate agents committed to promoting financial education within the community
Rebecca, with over 20 years of experience in real estate and a background as a legal assistant and business owner since the age of 20, discovered her passion for helping others as a child, interpreting documents for her family Her experiences helped her understand the importance of financial literacy and its impact on the economic stability of individuals and families.
Sandra, with 20 years in the service industry and five in real estate, noticed how many of her coworkers were paid in cash and lacked credit knowledge, limiting their financial opportunities This inspired her to educate people about money management and creating long-term financial stability
er the past two years, Rebecca and Sandra have joined forces organize community events focused on financial well-being eir workshops cover key topics such as choosing the right e to buy or sell a home, finding suitable loans, legacy nning, investing in real estate to build generational wealth, d strategies to grow businesses through financial services ey have also taught about property protection, legacy planning, and tax protest strategies, providing valuable tools to help the community save money and make informed decisions.
Thanks to their work, many individuals have improved their financial well-being and achieved significant savings Rebecca and Sandra remain committed to their mission of closing the gap in financial education and providing the resources needed to ensure the economic success of local families and businesses
IF
SCAN
photo by: Michael Rikkel & Sophie Heisenberg
PLACEKEEPING & COMMUNITY
RECLAIMING PUBLIC SPACES
Marine Skate Park in Fort Worth recently underwent a paint job. The once grey and chipping skate ramps are now colorful blocks that can be seen from across the park. This, thanks to a wonderful display of community that took place on Saturday, November 23rd 2024, where local organizations collaborated to help make public spaces people-friendly again. Placemaking, is a term that is often used in certain circles when talking about creating public spaces meant to attract a certain demographic. In other words, placemaking is usually synonymous with gentrification.
MEET DEE
As a response to this, Northside Community LLC. along with the TCU Maestro Program, the Historic Northside, the Fort Worth Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, My Brother's Keeper/My Sister's Keeper, Artes de la Rosa, and Fort Worth's Graffiti Abatement Program organized a series of community-input sessions dubbed Noches de Horchata, to explore a variety of topics, including Placekeeping. Placekeeping, as opposed to placemaking, recognizes that people already exist in a community, and the goal is to keep the community there (see pages 16-17 for more examples of placekeeping).
Leading this initiative is Project Manager for Historic Northside, Dee Lara O'Neal. Dee, along with the Historic Northside District Advisory Board, a group of dedicated community volunteers ensuring decisions reflect the voices of residents, small business owners, and other stakeholders, are committed to a community-led process, where preserving the district’s identity and culture remains central. Expert recommendations from Henry Cisneros and the Urban Land Institute Advisory Services Panel have further strengthened this vision.
" This project belongs to all of us. Together, we can preserve the Historic Northside District’s culture and shape a vibrant future. " - Dee Lara O'Neal
ANDRES VAZQUEZ SKATEBOARDER WITH EXPERIENCE
Very excited for what we're doing for the community here in the Northside...
This urban farm is helping residents feel connected.
CULTIVATING CONNECTION
by Catherine Arredondo
Northside Rooted Urban Farm is so much more than a space to grow fruits and vegetables—it’s where connections are made, ideas are exchanged, and where community comes to life. It’s a place where we cultivate not just plants but also relationships, resilience, and a shared vision for the future.
This past Friendsgiving, District 2 of Fort Worth's only USDA certified farm buzzed with laughter, conversations, and a sense of togetherness. We shared food and ideas about the farm’s next steps, while kids and teens proudly carried pumpkins they had helped plant.
NORTHSIDE ROOTED URBAN FARM
These conversations weren’t just about crops; Walking through the rows of raised beds with neighbors, we dreamed out loud about what the farm could become—a sustainable resource and a symbol of our community’s strength. These conversations weren’t just about crops; they were about sowing seeds for a stronger Northside. The farm teaches us lessons in patience, teamwork, and what we can achieve when we work together.
To me, the Northside Community Urban Farm is proof of what’s possible when hope and collaboration take root. It’s more than a garden—it’s a living testament to the potential of our community and the brighter future wer'e building together.
"My favorite part was the pumpkins and feeding the sheep. I hope to be back soon for more events." -Vanessa Ruiz
The Prism of Education
I recall an experience in which my entire class, including myself, was subjected to what I perceived as a profoundly unfair situation. At the time, I was a middle school student, and while the incident itself was minor, it left a lasting impression that remains vivid to this day. In this situation, students whose parents recognized the injustice and took action were able to influence a different outcome for their children. However, those of us without advocates to speak on our behalf were left to endure the unfair consequences.
Effective schools do not allow such circumstances to persist; they ensure fairness and equity for all students, not just those at the top. Strong leadership upholds these standards, remaining present, visible, and committed to holding individuals accountable for maintaining the highest level of professional integrity. When schools fail to provide equitable opportunities, the
"Without rep- resentation and advocacy within the system, studentsmarginalized will continue to be excluded from opportunities that have the poten- tial to change their futures."
consequences extend far beyond the classroom. Systemic inequities shape students' perceptions of their own worth and potential. If a powerful institution such as a school views a student as less than, that student may begin to internalize that belief. This diminished sense of selfworth can lead to fewer life opportunities, ultimately reinforcing the cycle of poverty. The self-fulfilling prophecy of "I can't, so why try" takes hold. Without representation and advocacy within the system, marginalized students will continue to be excluded from opportunities that have the potential to change their futures.
Holding Schools Accountable
Change is possible, but it requires action. As a community, we must create the circumstance by which accountability is the norm. We must have a voice in speaking into existence the characteristics required of our school leaders. We must advocate for policies that ensure equal access and fairness for all students. Parents and students must be informed about their rights and utilize resources to challenge unfair decisions. All students—regardless of background—must be afforded fairness and equity.
Breaking the Cycle
My experience taught me an important lesson: systems remain broken when they go unchallenged. We cannot afford to be passive observers while inequality persists. Latinos and other marginalized communities must take an active role in shaping the education system— through advocacy, voting, and holding school officials accountable.
Education should uplift, not exclude. Until we demand real change, the promise of education as the great equalizer will remain just that—a promise, unfulfilled.
"My experience taught me an important lesson: systems remain broken when they go lenged."unchal-
Jennifer Orona is a life-long educator, administrator, mentor, and champion for young people in our communities. Learn more about Jennifer in our second edition of Northside Community Magazine.
Running for FWISD School Board District 1
Amanda Inay is a dedicated educator of 18 years who is a passionate advocate for our students, families, and educators. She is currently a 4th and 5th grade reading/writing teacher and was the 2022-23 recipient of the District Teacher of the year award for Fort Worth ISD. In addition, Amanda served as a Literacy Champion by helping fellow teachers in delivery of literacy instruction and educational
practices. She and her husband have 3 sons, two of which attend in Fort Worth ISD. Amanda and her family work tirelessly to serve at community events, give to sports and other clubs in our local schools, attends school events regularly and supports educators/coaches in the community.
Amanda currently serves at Cook Childrens as Chair of Mended Little Hearts of Fort Worth and Vice President of Family Advisory Council for the Cardiac Unit. Amanda will bring a unique set of skills and views to the board as a parent, constituent and educator. Her dedication and passion for education are truly an inspiration to her students, families, fellow educators, and a testament to her commitment to making a positive, lasting impact in the lives she serves.
Fort Worth native and avid traveler follows through with her goal of traveling to Japan! (check out her Parisian adventures in issue 2 of our magazine) Griselda's next trip involves spirits of the blue.
ORNELAS
Sebastian Razo, a senior and president of the My Brother’s Keeper chapter at North Side High School, is also the owner of a vintage brick-and-mortar shop (@ Sebsvintage) on Race Street. I first met Sebastian during a community-led project in the Northside, where we brainstormed and pitched ideas on community building and placekeeping (see page 10). What stood out immediately was Sebastian’s confidence in advocating for himself and his vision. As he put it, “The best ability is availability. Show up, be present, and take advantage of the opportunities around you.”
Sebastian didn’t just speak up—he took action. He turned his idea for an outdoor business market into reality, rallying the community and delivering a hugely successful event. His work shows the power of collaboration, especially when bridging generational gaps. Talented young leaders like Sebastian underscore the potential within District 2 of Fort Worth. The question is: will the district rise to the occasion and create the opportunities these go-getters need to thrive?
VINTAGE
ORNELAS
PRODUCTIONS
ALFREDO ORNELAS HAS BEEN HARD AT WORK GROWING HIS BUSINESS, AND HIS IMPRESSIVE PORTFOLIO, FEATURING COLLABORATIONS WITH MAJOR NAMES, SPEAKS FOR ITSELF. YET, ALFREDO'S COMMITMENT TO HIS NORTHSIDE COMMUNITY REMAINS JUST AS REMARKABLE. LIKE ANY SAVVY ENTREPRENEUR, HE UNDERSTANDS THAT A THRIVING SMALL BUSINESS ECOSYSTEM DEPENDS ON MUTUAL SUPPORT AND COLLABORATION. OVER THE PAST FEW YEARS, ALFREDO HAS JUGGLED A BUSY SCHEDULE— PURSUING HIS STUDIES AT
TCU, BUILDING AN IMPRESSIVE VIDEOGRAPHY PORTFOLIO, AND USING HIS TALENTS TO SPOTLIGHT SMALL BUSINESSES IN FORT WORTH’S NORTHSIDE. HIS WORK NOT ONLY SHOWCASES HIS ARTISTIC SKILL BUT ALSO REFLECTS HIS DEDICATION TO UPLIFTING THE COMMUNITY THAT SHAPED
HIM. THIS FEATURE IS OUR TRIBUTE TO ALFREDO, CELEBRATING HIS ACCOMPLISHMENTS AND HIS SPIRIT OF GENEROSITY. WE WISH HIM CONTINUED SUCCESS AND LOOK FORWARD TO SEEING MANY MORE COLLABORATIONS THAT HIGHLIGHT THE HEART AND HUSTLE OF NORTHSIDE.
"The Maestro Program was my first introduction to college. As a first generation student, I felt isolated and afraid. Thankfully, Maestro made me feel like I was a part of something greater."
-Manuel Barcenas
It is estimated that youth spend about a quarter of their childhood at school, interacting with teachers. When those teachers look like the students and share cultural, linguistic, and lived experiences, youth are provided with mirrors to see themselves in their learning, windows to dream about possible futures, and sliding glass doors to take action in their lives (Bishop, 1992). The Maestro Program at the Texas Christian University College of Education purposefully works to increase these possibilities for students by diversifying the teacher workforce, with a specific focus on recruiting, preparing, supporting, and sustaining more Hispanic male teachers in U.S. schools. Hispanic male teachers make up only 2% of the U.S. teacher workforce and Texas is one of the states with the largest gaps between Hispanic students in schools and teachers who look like them.
university. The overall goal is an increased attention, value, and respect placed on these important future teachers.”
Hispanic male teachers make up only 2% of the U.S. teacher workforce...
Reflecting on his own experience with only having one Hispanic male teacher, throughout all of his education, the Maestro Program was started by the Dean of the TCU College of Education, Dr. Frank Hernandez. Maestro began in Fall 2022 with four preservice teacher educators, including Northside High School grad, Pedro Reyes (TCU Music Education Major). Now in its third year, Maestro has 16 current Maestros, studying to be future elementary school teachers, middle and high school teachers, and coaches. Although most of these Maestros are Hispanic male students, the Maestro Program also has Latinas and Black males in the program. Program co-founder and director, Dr. Steve Przymus, states that “We welcome all students who want to be teachers, even if Maestro gets them interested, but they end up studying at a different
This past year, the Maestro Program hosted the first annual Maestro Conference, bringing together 150 Hispanic male educators from across Texas, had a billboard campaign up around Fort Worth; teamed-up with the Fort Worth Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, the Northside Community, My Brother’s Keeper, and My Sister’s Keeper on the Marine Park skatepark beautification project; and just hosted the Maestro 5K “Corre TCU,” on the TCU campus. All of these events have had the purpose of community outreach to let students know about the program and its benefits (e.g., scholarships, study abroad, mentorship, etc.), to plant the seed about becoming a teacher, and to tell the story about who Maestros are, their importance to our communities, and their vital role in racial justice and educational equity. In the dictionary, Maestro is defined as “a great or distinguished figure in any sphere.” The TCU College of Education is adding “in other words…a teacher,” to this definition.
-Texas is one of the states with the largest gaps between Hispanic students in schools and teachers who look like them.
