Get The Scoop On The War on African American Entrepreneurs By Gary L. Smith

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The War On
African American Entrepreneurs

By Gary Smith

We've witnessed the War on Poverty and endured the War on Drugs, but the ongoing War on Black Entrepreneurship is a different battle altogether. The assault on black entrepreneurs, traces back to the late 1800s when black landowners, primarily farmers, were either cheated out of their land or forcibly expelled.

The Greenwood District in Tulsa, Oklahoma, a thriving hub of Black-owned businesses known as Black Wall Street, exemplified the prosperity of black entrepreneurs with over 35 city blocks of shops, hotels, and theaters in the early 20th century.

Similar vibrant black economies existed in various cities across the nation, like Black Bottom in Detroit, only to face destruction, such as the demolition, for a freeway. Despite the passage of time, the struggle persists into 2024, with systemic barriers disproportionately affecting Black entrepreneurs.

The aftermath of the Great Recession saw the top 20% wealthiest Americans gaining wealth, while 80% of black families fell behind, illustrating the deep-seated inequities.

Even before the COVID-19 pandemic, people of color, women, and rural Americans encountered barriers hindering entrepreneurship. Disparities in wealth, limited access to funding, and systemic biases in loan approval processes persist, intensifying the challenges faced by Black and Latino entrepreneurs.

The pandemic further exacerbated these inequities, revealing the racial, gender, and geographic disparities in access to government relief and the subsequent closure of businesses owned by entrepreneurs of color.

Get The Scoop On Royal Descendant Venita Benitez And The Liberating Unity Of National Freedom Day

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Activist Venita Benitez
Emerges From Her Royal Heritage To
Unify By Fighting For Freedom

Venita Benitez is a force to be reckoned with. Case in point. When geological research seemed to indicate she was a direct descendant of not only Kings Henry the II, John, and Henry III but Alexander the Great and William the Conqueror, Venita made it her personal mission to dig deeper into the research of her cousin, Dr. James Hamilton, and her proven lineage.

But she didn’t stop there. With her trademark tenacity, she wrote to the powers that be in England and didn’t yield until she’d received a family crest in acknowledgement of her family’s royal lineage.

“In 2006, the Wingfield family invited me to witness the signing of the King James charter to America in recognition of my family raising a majority of the financial backing for the ships that eventually discovered America, ships named The God Speed, Susan Constant, and Discovery,” she said. Venita was invited to return to England in 2006 for a resigning of the charter on its 400th anniversary. (Only 150 invitations were issued and only to descendants of those who’d signed the original charter from all over the world.)

Venita Benitez

MULTICULTURAL HERITAGE

Venita credits her unique and varied bloodline with giving her the courage to fight the good fight — wherever she finds it. “I grew up knowing these formidable men were my ancestors. But I was also raised by a Puerto Rican father and a mother who is black, white, and Native American. And I’m a descendant of Morton Deane, who was born into slavery and later served as one of the first out of five black nationally elected city councilmen, during the reconstruction era in Richmond, Virginia, and Edward Maria Wingfield, the first elected president of the Council of Virginia - Jamestown, on April 25th, 1607. This multicultural heritage helps me look at people with clear eyes and see the love in everyone.”

In homage to her family ’s tradition of military service, Venita joined the US Army in 1981. “I was r a i s e d to understand the importance of liberty and duty,” she said. Although she describes basic training as grueling, she learned a lot from serving in one of the first-ever co-ed battalions, Bravo 1-3, marching side-by-side with men. 

“We were labeled ‘guinea pigs’ according to official congressional documents. The idea of co-ed troops was something new, and they just sort of threw us to the wolves.” That challenging time further developed her fortitude.

AFFECTING CHANGE

Venita went on to affect change not only in her 23-year career in diversity and inclusion (DEI) — including seats on Arlington Mayor ’s Black Advisory Council and more recently the Frisco Inclusion Committee by Frisco Mayor Jeff Cheney. But she also worked to draw attention to National Slavery and Human Trafficking Prevention Month each January—proclamations she feels are issued by each succeeding United States presidents and then pretty much forgotten — and refocusing the nation’s attention on the very real problem of modern-day slavery/human trafficking through her website NationalFreedomDay.com.

She was even mentored weekly by Dr. Reverend Ronald Myers, the founder of the National Juneteenth movement, long before his passing. The desk in her home office is piled high with resolutions and proclamations she has affected and with correspondence from some of the most powerful men and women in Texas, the country, and the world. These documents acknowledge Venita’s unrelenting pursuit not only for recognition of those who suffered in the past but those who still suffer today.

Get The Scoop On Billboard Chart-Topper Tanya Nolan's UPcoming Music and Authentic Lifestyle Insights

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Billboard Chart-Topper Artist Tanya Nolan Talks Beauty Skin Regimen, New Music, and Being Authentically YOU

In the ever-evolving world of music and beauty, R&B sensation Tanya Nolan is making waves not just with her soulful melodies but also with her commitment to authenticity and self-expression.

In an exclusive interview, Tanya opens up about her beauty skin regimen, the excitement surrounding her new music, and the empowering journey of embracing one's true self.

Beauty from Within: Tanya's Skincare Secrets

Known for her radiant presence both on and off the stage, Tanya Nolan shares insights into her beauty routine that goes beyond the surface.

"Beauty, for me, starts from within," she states. "It's about self-care, hydration, and a healthy lifestyle."

Tanya emphasizes the importance of staying hydrated and incorporating natural ingredients into her skincare routine. "I'm a big believer in the power of natural products.

Cleanse, moisturize, and protect – that's the key," she adds. Tanya's commitment to inner and outer well-being reflects not only in her music but also in the glow that she exudes.

New Music on the Horizon

As anticipation builds for Tanya's upcoming release, "Honey," fans are eager to delve into the soulful journey that she promises to unveil.

Tanya gives us a glimpse into the creative process behind the music, stating, "Every song I release is a piece of my soul. 'Honey' is no exception – it's a fusion of passion and soul that I believe will leave a lasting impression."

Tanya's authenticity shines through in her music, creating a connection with listeners that goes beyond the beats and lyrics. With a release date set for February 16th, "Honey" is poised to be a powerful addition to Tanya's chart-topping discography.

Checkout Tanya Nolan's Popular
Music Video: Pace Yourself

Filmmakers - Documentarians - Video Creators - Animators Make Black History In The Red Carpet Film Festival

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Enter Your:

Film

 Movie

Video

Documentary

Animation

Into The....  

Click Here To Submit Your Production 

The Queens Underground International Red Carpet Black History Festival Announces that Submissions are Now Open for the 6th Season with In-Person Dates at King Manor Museum on Saturday, February 17th and Friday and Saturday, April 12th and 13th.  One of the unique benefits of Submitting to Queens Underground is that they accept all Genres and Categories from Movie Shorts, Documentary Shorts, Music, Dance, Poetry Videos and Series Episodes.

Winners are awarded for each Category: Drama, Documentary, Historical Reenactment, Horror, Sci Fi, Animation, Music Videos, Dance Videos, Poetry Videos and Series Episodes.

Checkout The Trailer for The
Queens Underground Black History Film Festival

Submitting to the Film Festival is quick and easy via Film Freeway: To Visit Click

 and the next deadline with a discount is: January 27th.

Projects are already coming in from all over the country and world depicting the talent of Directors, Actresses, Actors, Musicians, Dancers, Poets and of course, Screenwriters.  A Film Festival is the best Platform for the Big Screen, soaking up audience energy, increasing your fan base and networking with other professionals.

Known for their exciting Red Carpet which always features two - three Talk Show Hosts conducting Filmmaker & Producer Interviews at the front door, the 2024 Season will not be an exception. For Filmmakers and Audience members alike, participating in and attending any or all of the Film Festival Days is always filled with excitement and joy.

Click Here To Submit Your Production

Get The Scoop On Business Trailblazer Dr. Germaine Bolds-Leftridge Receiving Her Honorary Doctorate in Humanitarianism With Legendary Luminaries

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Celebrating Trailblazers: Honorary Doctorates in Humanitarianism Bestowed Upon Germaine Bolds-Leftridge, Omarosa, Towanda Braxton, Karyn White, Little Anthony, Gerald Alston, and More

Leaders Esteem Christian Bible University honored Germaine Bolds-Leftridge, founder of IKNOW Skincare, with an Honorary Doctorate in Humanitarianism at a prestigious ceremony held on December 17, 2023, in Houston, Texas.

The event aimed to recognize exceptional individuals making significant contributions to their communities.

The ceremony attended by a distinguished list of recipients, included notable figures such as Omarosa, Towanda Braxton, Karyn White, Gerald Alston (the lead singer of the legendary group "The Manhattans"), and Little Anthony (from the rhythm and blues/soul legendary group "Little Anthony and the Imperials"), among others. These individuals were recognized for their significant contributions to the community. Evelyn Braxton also received a special honor during the ceremony.

Towanda Braxton with mother Evelyn Braxton.

Dr. Verna Caddie, the esteemed founder of Leaders Esteem Christian Bible University, expressed deep honor in recognizing individuals like Germaine Bolds-Leftridge who embody the spirit of humanitarianism and contribute positively to society.

Learn How A Former Gang Member From LA Now Runs a Multi-Million Dollar Organization

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FORMER GANG MEMBER FROM LA NOW RUNS A MULTI-MILLION DOLLAR ORGANIZATION WITH 125 EMPLOYEES

In 2012, Yusef Wiley was released from a California Correctional facility after serving close to 22 years due to his past gang involvement in South Central LA. He hit the ground running being supported by family, friends, and the faith community located in the San Francisco Bay Area, he immediately began to make his passion for serving known by speaking at all types of venues.

Not long after that, requests began to pour in for Yusef to share his story at local government meetings, college campus events, and companies in Silicon Valley. After securing employment in the private school sector as an African-American Studies School Teacher.

In 2014, it was time to bring to life his dream and prayer to serve his community full-time as founder of the Timelist Group, Inc., which is now a successful multi-million dollar operation serving the very community he once helped to destroy as a gang member.

Checkout This Video On
One Of The Main Driving

Forces Of Yusef Wiley's Success

Get The Scoop On How The Fearless Fund Faces Legal Challenges For Helping Raise Money To Help Black Businesses

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Why Blacks Should Be Fearless
Funding The Fearless Fund

Do you know it may soon become illegal for Blacks to support other Blacks in business funding and social programs? Have you heard how the Fearless Fund, an organization founded to RAISE funding for Black women in business, has a court order on it stopping it from giving grants to Black women?

The same group that stopped Affirmative Action in higher education - taking a Harvard law suit all the way to the Supreme Court, called ironically the American Alliance for Equal Right, is also a bringing a lawsuit to stop the Fearless Fund. This is their disingenuous legal actions despite the fact Black women only get less than 2% of venture capital or angel investing.

Black women although more educated and starting businesses faster, than any other demographic, only make like 57 cents to every dollar that a White male is paid. Recently another organization also ironically, took legal action against the organization Hello Alice, for helping to fund Black women owned businesses.

By the way 92% of Black businesses (Black men & women) have no employees and only one (1) Black business has been listed on the NYSE in over 200 years. Only 13 Black businesses have ever been listed on all the stock exchanges of over 6,000 companies! Economic marginalization and injustice is a real thang Y'all!

Get The Scoop On How to Value Commercial Real Estate With Gary Smith

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How To Value Commercial Real Estate

By Gary L. Smith

Given enough time all real estate deals are profitable, however it is a known fact everyone loses money in real estate at some point. But in order to mitigate your risk, how do you determine how much to pay for a property?

How do you decide what a building is truly worth both in today’s market and at some point in the future?

 

How do you know what a property is really worth? 

There are basically three ways to evaluate real estate. The Sales Comparison method, commonly referred to as “comps” is primarily used in residential real estate. Basically you determine the value of one property in a given area by the sales of similar properties within a specific time frame, typically six months. 

Another approach to determining value is the Replacement Cost method. Whenever you use this approach you must find out how much does it costs, to build a brand new building with the same quality of materials, location, etcetera, as the one you’re buying.  It’s generally acceptable if your costs are lower than the cost to build new. 

Then there is the Capitalization method (CAP Rate). This method is used over 90 percent of the time when it comes to commercial real estate, because what you are buying is an income stream. By taking the income of a property and dividing it by the price you arrive at the Capitalization or CAP Rate. 

Another way of looking at cap rate is that if you were paying all cash for a property, then the cap rate is the actual return you’re receiving on your investment. Knowing the cap rate in a particular market or for a particular property type is critical to determining value. 

This column will focus on the Capitalization Method or what I like to call the Income Approach. The income approach to valuing a building is used to determine whether you can make money or not, before you even see the property. 

Get The Scoop On Bishop T. Cooper The Visionary Leader, Spiritual Guide, and Music Industry Trailblazer

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Family Harmony in the

Spotlight: Bishop T. Cooper

Visionary Leader, Spiritual Guide, and

Music Industry Trailblazer, Leads

Jet Records North/East with

Sons at the Helm

Left to Right: Jermaine Cooper, Bishop T. Cooper and Steve Cooper.

NEW JERSEY - Bishop T. Cooper, a revered figure in both the spiritual and music realms, continues to leave an indelible mark with his multifaceted roles.

As the Pastor of Palm Garden Holiness Church in New Jersey, the Presiding Bishop of the True Churches of the Living God Inc., and the Founder & CEO of Jet Records North/East, Bishop Cooper exemplifies a rare fusion of spiritual leadership and artistic innovation.

Bishop T. Cooper serves as the Pastor of the Palm Garden Holiness Church, where his inspirational teachings and compassionate guidance have touched the lives of many. His unwavering commitment to faith and community has made him a respected figure in the religious landscape.

In addition to his pastoral responsibilities, Bishop Cooper holds the esteemed title of Presiding Bishop of the True Churches of the Living God Inc. His visionary leadership has fostered unity and growth within the church community, making a profound impact on the spiritual journeys of countless individuals.

As the founder and CEO of Jet Records North/East, Bishop T. Cooper has seamlessly woven the tapestry of family into the fabric of the music industry.

Get The Scoop On Michelle Watson's Healthy Organic IngenuiTea™ Tea Products

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TEA ARTISAN MICHELLE WATSON LAUNCHES HEALTH OPTIMIZED ORGANIC TEA PRODUCTS INSPIRED BY
HER GREAT-GRANDMOTHER

Meet Michelle Watson, the founder and CEO of IngenuiTea, a Black-owned line of organic tea products. When her phone kept ringing, she was sure there was a problem.

But that buzz buzz buzzing was the sound of validation. This active-duty vet took a leap of faith to open a business during uncertain times.

The result? A nearly sold-out launch the very first day she opened her website’s virtual doors.

Michelle is the product of world travel. Her great-grandmother Anna was born and raised in Grenada which was a British colony at the time. Before later emigrating to Panama, Anna developed a deep love for English tea.

Her legacy and passion for good tea and spices were passed down to her children, their children, and future generations.

Checkout Michelle Watson's TeaTorial

 Video Series Below...

Get The Scoop On How Autistic Activist Aaliyah Alicia Thompson Looks To Help Single Parents Impacted BY Autism

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 Aaliyah Alicia Thompson School of Nails & Aaliyah Beauty Bar and 2023 McDonald's Change Leader, Awarded $10,000 at Afro Tech in Texas and Gives Back to Autism Community for the Holidays

Aaliyah, who is only 22 years old, is not only an entrepreneur but also the proud owner of the Aaliyah Alicia Thompson School of Nails & Aaliyah Beauty Bar.

She is dedicated to making a positive impact in her community.

And has a strong passion for advocacy.  As a result, she has taken concrete action to support families affected by autism.

At her school, she provides training to individuals on the Autism Spectrum, and at her salon, she employs people on the autism spectrum.

Checkout Aaliyah Alicia Thompson's Video