PITTSBURG COURIER NEWSPAPER

BLACK HISTORY MONTH 2024

PITTSBURG COURIER NEWSPAPER

 Mr. Willie Lee & Mrs. Melody Woods would like to share pages from their collection of the “Pittsburgh Currier.” This African American Weekly Newspaper was established in 1907 by Edward Harleston.  Robert Lee Van was editor from 1910 until October 22, 1966. The Pittsburgh Currier was distributed nationally and internationally; it was widely read in the Negro sections of Chicago, Illinois, as well as Ypsilanti, Michigan.

Joel A. Rodgers was the first Journalist to publish detailed columns on the importance of African Kingdoms to the world “Your History.”

Source Information: Black Perspectives- cdn.aaihs.org

Matthew Siegfried, CMV Alex Thomas Show - Human History of Ypsilanti

Ypsilanti.www.contacts-Michigan

New Pittsburg Courier Editor and Publisher Rod Doss

Newpittsburghcourier.com

  En.m.wikipedia.org

 I'd like you to see the actual article, and feel free to come to the office.

THEY WILL BE UP UNTIL THE END OF FEBRUARY

Celebrating Black History Month: A Journey Through Real Estate

Black History Month isn't just a time to honor the past; it's an opportunity to recognize Black individuals' ongoing contributions and achievements in every field, including real estate. This month, I want to shine a light on the role of real estate in Black history and the importance of continuing to build a more inclusive and equitable industry.

The Legacy of Black Pioneers in Real Estate

From overcoming the barriers of segregation and discrimination to pioneering urban development and community building, Black real estate professionals have played a crucial role in shaping American cities and neighborhoods. 

Current State of Black Homeownership

Today, the journey towards equitable homeownership continues. Despite progress, the gap in homeownership rates between Black and white Americans remains significant, a lingering effect of historical housing policies and systemic inequality. As a Black business owner in real estate, I am committed to addressing these disparities by educating and empowering Black homebuyers and investors, fostering opportunities for wealth creation and economic stability through real estate.

Empowering the Next Generation

Education and mentorship are critical to empowering the next generation of Black real estate professionals and homeowners. During Black History Month, my firm is launching initiatives like homebuyer education workshops, investment seminars, and mentorship programs for young Black individuals aspiring to enter the real estate industry. We aim to equip them with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to succeed in this field.

Building Inclusive Communities

Real estate is more than buying and selling properties; it's about building communities. This month, we recommit ourselves to advocating for fair housing practices and inclusive development projects that benefit all residents, regardless of race or background. We collaborate with community leaders and policymakers to ensure that development projects in Black communities are carried out responsibly, respecting the history and culture of these areas.

Embracing Heart Health Awareness Month

As we flip our calendars to February, it's not just about Valentine's Day and the celebration of love. This month also marks a vital health observance – Heart Health Awareness Month. It's a time dedicated to spreading awareness about heart health, understanding the risks of heart disease, and encouraging everyone to adopt heart-healthy habits. 

Understanding the Importance of Heart Health

Heart disease remains one of the leading causes of death worldwide. It's a silent threat that often goes unnoticed until it's too late. This month serves as a crucial reminder that taking care of our hearts should be a priority in our daily lives. It's about making long-term changes to reduce the risk of heart-related ailments.

Risk Factors for Heart Disease

Several factors contribute to heart disease, including high blood pressure, high cholesterol, smoking, obesity, diabetes, poor diet, and physical inactivity. Understanding these risks is the first step toward prevention. February, the Heart Health Awareness Month, is the perfect time to schedule that long-postponed check-up with your healthcare provider.

Lifestyle Changes for a Healthier Heart

Diet:

Eating a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins can significantly lower the risk of heart disease. Avoiding processed foods, reducing salt intake, and limiting the consumption of trans and saturated fats are equally important.

Exercise:

Regular physical activity is crucial for maintaining a healthy heart. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic or 75 minutes of vigorous activity each week, supplemented by strength training exercises.

Stress Management:

Chronic stress can negatively impact heart health. To reduce stress, engage in stress-reducing activities like yoga, meditation, or even simple breathing exercises.

Community and Support

Heart Health Awareness Month is also about community and support. Participate in local events, join support groups, or engage in online forums. Sharing experiences and tips can be incredibly motivating and educational.

This Heart Health Awareness Month, let's pledge to prioritize heart health. It's about small, consistent changes that can lead to a lifetime of benefits. Remember, a healthy heart is not just about avoiding illness – it's about living a fuller, more active life. So, let's wear our red ribbons proudly to symbolize awareness and a commitment to a heart-healthy lifestyle.

Honoring Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.: A Black Real Estate Broker’s Reflection on Equal Housing

As a Black real estate broker, Martin Luther King Jr. Day holds a special significance to our team as a time to reflect on Dr. King's immense contributions to civil rights and appreciate his lesser-known yet crucial efforts toward fair housing. His fight for equality extended to every facet of American life, including the fundamental right to equal housing opportunities.

Dr. King’s Legacy in Real Estate

While most remember Dr. King for his powerful speeches and peaceful protests, his impact on housing cannot be overstated. In the late 1960s, Dr. King’s activism firmly focused on ending housing discrimination. His Chicago Campaign, although met with intense resistance, was pivotal in bringing national attention to the systemic barriers faced by Black Americans in housing.

The Fair Housing Act of 1968

One of Dr. King's most enduring legacies in real estate is the Fair Housing Act of 1968. Passed just days after his assassination, this landmark legislation prohibited discrimination concerning the sale, rental, and financing of housing based on race, religion, national origin, or sex. It laid the groundwork for the ongoing battle against housing discrimination, a cause Hinton Real Estate is deeply committed to as a Black real estate broker.

Continuing the Fight for Fair Housing

As a real estate professional, I honor Dr. King’s legacy by ensuring equal housing opportunities for all, regardless of race, ethnicity, or background. Educating and Empowering Clients is a crucial part of our role, which involves educating clients about their rights and helping them navigate the often complex world of real estate. Empowering clients with knowledge and resources is a crucial step towards achieving the dream of homeownership, which Dr. King believed should be accessible to all.

Reflecting on Personal and Professional Responsibility

Today, we reflect on the broader implications of Dr. King's work and personal and professional responsibility As a Black real estate broker. We are fortunate to be uniquely positioned to continue Dr. King's work, ensuring that the dream of fair housing becomes a reality for everyone. It's a day to celebrate progress and recommit to the work that still lies ahead, honoring Dr. King's vision of equality and justice in every aspect of life, including real estate.

Real Estate Investment in 2024: Why It's a Smart Choice

As we venture into 2024, we’re excited to share our insights on why investing in real estate remains a wise and lucrative decision. Whether you're a first-time investor or looking to expand your portfolio, understanding the benefits of real estate investment this year is crucial.

Stability in a Volatile Economy

Real estate stands out for its relative stability in a landscape where stock markets can be unpredictable. Property values tend to appreciate over time, safeguarding against inflation and economic fluctuations. Investing in real estate in 2024 is a tangible asset that can offer a sense of security and a potential hedge against inflationary pressures.

Passive Income Potential

One of the most attractive aspects of real estate investment is the opportunity to generate passive income through rental properties. As the demand for housing continues to rise, particularly in urban and developing areas, owning rental properties can be a steady source of income. Furthermore, with the rise of short-term rental platforms and a shift towards remote work, there are diverse opportunities to maximize rental income in 2024.

Tax Advantages

Real estate investments can offer several tax benefits. From deductions on mortgage interest, property taxes, operating expenses, and depreciation to potential tax-deferred growth, savvy investors can significantly leverage these advantages to enhance their financial gains. It's always best to consult with a tax professional to understand how these benefits can apply to your situation.

Appreciation and Equity Building

Over time, real estate typically appreciates in value. This appreciation means that the property you buy today could be worth significantly more, especially considering the market trends anticipated for 2024. Additionally, as you pay down your mortgage, you build equity in your property, increasing your net worth and financial leverage.

Diversification of Investment Portfolio

Diversifying your investment portfolio is a crucial strategy to minimize risk. Adding real estate to a portfolio of stocks, bonds, and other assets can reduce volatility and provide a more stable return on investment. The unique attributes of real estate as an asset class make it an excellent tool for portfolio diversification.

Leverage Opportunities

Real estate allows investors to use leverage, which means using various financial instruments or borrowed capital (like mortgages) to increase the potential return on investment. In 2024, with interest rates providing new opportunities, leveraging can be particularly powerful in real estate investing.

Real Estate as a Tangible Asset

Unlike stocks and bonds, real estate is a tangible asset. This tangibility provides psychological comfort and security, knowing you have a physical asset that can serve various purposes, from a rental property to a personal residence or a business premise.

Investing in real estate in 2024 offers many benefits, from the stability and security of a tangible asset to the potential for passive income and tax advantages. As a realtor, informed and strategic real estate investments can be a cornerstone for long-term financial success and stability. If you're considering taking this rewarding path, now might be the perfect time to explore the opportunities real estate investment offers.