In February, all Central Market stores will amplify the diverse voices of black-owned makers and share their stories by highlighting their products in departments throughout the store. The campaign will showcase new and existing black-owned makers and businesses, black winemakers and owners and will offer a lineup of renowned black chefs for a special virtual cooking class series.

In addition, February’s tear pad campaign will be dedicated to the Be the Change campaign. At checkout, customers will have the opportunity to add $1, $3 or $5 to their grocery bill to benefit non-profit organizations that support education, equity and empowerment in local communities.

Mia Moss of Black Coffee
Photo courtesy of Central Market

This month will allow each store to showcase products which have been customer favorites for years as well as highlight those new-to-market products that our buyers have scoured the world to find. Black owners will be featured throughout the stores with signage near their products sharing the backstory to their success. Here are a few to look for in the upcoming weeks:

• Essie Spice: Female owned and inspired by her Ghana culture. From cocktails to desserts to savory seared protein, veggies and soups, they add the perfect flavor.
• Basbaas: Female owned and inspired by the clean ingredients of the Somalian culture; these condiments compliment any meal. Flavors include tamarind date sauce and coconut cilantro chutney.
• Mumgry: Hand-crafted and ethically sourced natural nut butters rich in vitamin D, omega 3, iron and calcium. The nut butters come in three flavors including pistachio chocolate almond butter, smooth peanut butter and chocolate peanut butter.
• Yolele Fonio: Fonio is a gluten-free ancient African grain that has many health benefits. It’s light and fluffy with a slightly nutty undertone. It picks up spices and sauces beautifully. Yolele was found in 2017 to create an economic opportunity for smallholder farming communities. Flavors include classic fonio, flavored fonio pilaf and chips.
• Cajou: Plant-based frozen desserts created by a family-owned business in Baltimore. The product is cashew and almond based made from scratch using dairy- and chemical-free ingredients. Flavors include kulfi, baklava and sweet potato pie.
• Egunsi Foods: West African soup created by Nigerian-born and New York-raised owner. All soups are made from preservative-free, whole, fresh ingredients sourced locally in New York and New Jersey.
• Kimma Lou’s Famous Banana Pudding: Made locally in Dallas, every dessert is crafted by hand using a family recipe passed down to Kimma Lou from her grandmother. A percentage of sales goes to deliver care packages to cancer patients. This is a Central Market exclusive.
• Black Coffee: A family-owned business run by Mia Moss and based in Fort Worth, Texas. Blends include: the Eastside Blend and Poly Blend as well as a variety of single origin coffees. This is a Central Market exclusive.
• Askanya Chocolate: This is the first Haitian cacao available in Central Market. The cacao is grown in Haiti and then processed and packaged at their facility in northeastern Haiti. The business was founded to create opportunities for cacao farmers and factory workers. Askanya offers unique flavors like Bouquet Vert, a dark chocolate infused with lime.
• And dozens and dozens more …

KImma Lou
Photo courtesy of Central Market

These existing favorite brands will also be showcased during the month: Dozen Cousins, Pipcorn, Partake Cookies, J Lee barbecue sauce, Me & The Bees Lemonade, Grain4Grain, Ayo Frozen Meals, G.O.A.T. Fuel and Ollie & Otto Castille Soap.

Virtual Cooking Classes featuring notable black chefs:

Following the popularity of last year’s virtual cooking class series, Central Market has brought back some favorites and has added to the 2022 lineup.

Chef Pierre Thiam
Photo courtesy of Central Market

Modern Senegalese Recipes with Chef Pierre Thiam

Friday, Feb. 4, 6 to 7:30 p.m.

About the class: explore a modern, eclectic take on the rich culinary traditions of West Africa with this delightful chef who will introduce participants to his innovative cooking style. Pick up tips on some of the many uses of fonio, an ancient grain with a variety of health benefits.

Menu:

• Salmon and cassava croquettes with tamarind glaze
• Grilled chicken yassa with onion and lime confit over fonio
• Chocolate fonio pudding with honey roasted mango

Ticket options: Virtual class access + cook-along ingredient kit: $85 per household

Virtual class access only: $20 per household

Winemaker Andre Mack, Kim Lewis and Donae Burston

Thursday, Feb. 10, 6 to 7 p.m.

About the class: spend a little time with Central Market’s wine expert who will be joined by Kim Lewis, Donae Burston and Andre Mack, three featured black winemakers, for a guided tasting of some delicious wines. With grapes from the Willamette Valley, Provence and the high plains of Texas, participants will come to understand what a difference terroir can make. Also, pick up tips on pairing these beauties with a variety of foods.

The wines:

• Maison Noir in Sheep’s Clothing
• Maison Noir Love Drunk Rose
• La Fete du Rose
• Ole Orleans Wards White Blend

Ticket options: Virtual class access only ($10 per household)

Customers may purchase as many or as few of the wines that you would like to sample during class at Central Market.

Chef Marcus Samuelson

Friday, Feb. 18, 6 to 7 p.m.

About the class: During this one-and-a-half hour, live, online class, participants will spend time with the acclaimed Chef Marcus Samuelsson, who will teach how to make a simple but delicious meal. Pick up on tips for pan-frying fish to perfection and creating a quick and delicious sauce to complement it. Also, discover the secret to crispy flavorful fried chicken. The Chef will discuss his inspiration for The Rise, his latest cookbook.

Menu:

• Blackened catfish with aioli and lime
• Coconut fried chicken
• Roasted carrots with orange and fresh cheese

Ticket options: Virtual class access + cook-along ingredient kit: $100 per household

Virtual class access only: $10 per household

The post Celebrate Black History Month at Central Market first appeared on Tanglewood Moms.

The paintings of Charles Gray are personal meditations – on family, slavery, and the female perspective. Gray balances weighty themes with a stylistic exuberance that encourages relaxed and engaging conversations with each piece. Photographer Donnie Williams’ raw black and white images capture the essence of Fort Worth and its diverse communities. Williams, who shoots in film and is one of the city’s more prolific artists, has an extensive Instagram following and a series of highly regarded self-published zines through Deep Red Press. Christopher Knowles’ truly dynamic photographs also celebrate every day subject matter, while capturing the avant-garde elements of our surroundings. And Jewelry maker Teacoa Rushton’s creations are exquisite works of art. Rushton, who specializes in bead weaving, finds inspiration in photography, jazz and the contemplative properties of the materials he utilizes in his work.  

WHEN + WHERE

February 5, 4 – 9 pm
February 6, 2 – 9pm

Kent & Co Magnolia Wine Bar
1101 West Magnolia
Fort Worth, TX 76104

LOTTIE MAE LOUNGE Declared “Fort Worth’s hottest new art gallery” by CultureMap Fort Worth, Lottie Mae Lounge is a contemporary art space in a fully renovated 1979 Airstream Sovereign. A roving showcase of highly collectible works by both emerging and established artists, Lottie Mae Lounge defies traditional gallery models and reimagines the traveling exhibition.  While Lottie Mae’s interior viewing capacity is three people at a time (masks required), additional Covid-related safety measures include an interior UV Light Sanitizer used daily and a state-of-the-art ventilation system.

The post Tony Green Celebrates Black History Month with Gallery Pop-Up first appeared on Tanglewood Moms.

Photo courtesy of the author

I’m pursuing some new opportunities (consulting and otherwise). But I’m not just thinking about the opportunities ahead, I’m also thinking about potential barriers and realities. I am…

• thinking about my hair for Zoom meetings. You see, my Afro gives people pause. Even in its silence, it makes a bold statement to people. People with decision-making power.
• thinking about past SM posts. My vocality and perspective about issues of race and justice are viewed as offensive and divisive to some people. People with influence.
• thinking about Black History Month. Things I want to say, stories I want to share, issues I want to highlight that aren’t comfortable for all people. People who will potentially sign – or not sign – my contracts or employment offers.
• thinking about my Black History Month gear. I have at least ten Black-themed shirts. When I wear them, some people celebrate. Others cringe. And they judge me because of the words on my shirts. Because of my celebration of Blackness. People actually find my “Hella Black Hella Proud” or “Making Black History Daily” shirts problematic. People who will vote on my participation in groups or committees.
• thinking about my face. I don’t smile all the time. I smile a lot, but I don’t have a perpetual smile on my face – especially when I’m thinking or when I detect bs. Which is quite often. I’m not “cordial” all the time. So I’m viewed as hostile by people. People who think I should be “softer” and less “harsh.” People who think I’m intimidating and prefer a “softer” or “gentler” tone.
• thinking about my smiles in these two pictures. My joy and my fullness. My confidence and drive. And thinking about how the girl in these two pictures is right now – in this very moment – not smiling. I am crushed by my reality that other people have a lot of power in my life. People who are different from me. People who don’t understand or value all of me.

This is what it means to be Black in America. It means to be always aware of the deeply held conceptions of racial inferiority, the painful reality of racism, and the abiding presence of whiteness that impacts every part of my existence. To being so very careful when others don’t have to be. To wonder which of my friends, colleagues, neighbors, or kids’ teachers were in the 74 million who voted for a man who considers me subhuman. To have to worry about my hair and whether or not it is professional enough for work and meetings. To consider how much is too much for the power-holding white people in my life. It means always grappling with the reality that my Blackness will always be too much for some and not enough for others and how who I am yet must be tempered to be accepted.

Happy first day of Black History Month 2021.

Photo courtesy of the author

Dr. Sharla Horton-Williams has a 20-year career in early childhood and pre-kindergarten through 12th grade education. She is committed to achieving educational excellence and equity for all students – especially Black and Hispanic students who have historically been underserved in education. She has served as a teacher, assistant principal, and principal in private, public charter, and traditional public schools. Sharla earned a doctorate in curriculum and instruction from Texas A&M University, where her research focused on the role of school leadership in closing the opportunity-achievement gap.

The post Living Black History first appeared on Tanglewood Moms.

Class registration is available at www.centralmarket.com/cookingschool. Each class will offer two options: one for the virtual class-only and the other for the virtual class, plus an ingredient kit available for pick up at the following Central Market locations: Austin-North Lamar, Dallas-Lovers Lane, Fort Worth, Houston, Plano and San Antonio (limited quantities available). Additional details for each class including class description and menu are also available on Central Market’s web site.

Headlining this series is Harlem, New York-based, award-winning celebrity Chef Marcus Samuelsson. During his class, he will prepare a Sunday roast chicken (photo attached) with chickpeas and couscous from his new book, “The Rise: Black Cooks and the Soul of American Food.” It is a collection of profiles of black voices, ranging from rising culinary talents to accomplished chefs to leading scholars and activists – and is packed with delicious recipes. His other cookbooks include “The Red Rooster Cookbook: The Story of Food and Hustle in Harlem”; “Marcus Off Duty: The Recipes I Cook at Home”; “Yes, Chef: A Memoir”; “Make it Messy: My Perfectly Imperfect Life”; “New American Table”; “The Soul of a New Cuisine: A Discovery of the Foods and Flavors of Africa”; “Aquavit and the New Scandinavian Cuisine.” The ingredient kit for Chef Samuelsson’s class will include an autographed copy of his new book (quantities limited – first come, first served).

left to right: Chef Tiffany Derry; Chef Marcus Samuelsson; Chef Chris Williams
Photos courtesy of Central Market

WHEN:  

Chef Chris Williams, Wednesday, Feb. 10, 2021, 6:30 to 8 p.m.

Menu: Roasted lamb chops with Senegalese peanut sauce and coconut gremolata

Chef Marcus Samuelsson, Friday, Feb. 19, 2021, 6 to 7 p.m.

Menu: Sunday roast chicken with chickpeas and couscous

Chef Tiffany Derry, Thursday, Feb. 25, 2021, 6:30 to 8 p.m.

Menu: Crispy chicken with roasted garlic-lemon sauce; herbed potatoes and dressed arugula salad

WHERE:

All Central Market store locations.

COSTS:

Digital-only classes are $10; Class plus ingredient kits range from $70-$100

The post Chefs Celebrate Black History Month with Virtual Classes at Central Market first appeared on Tanglewood Moms.

There is always something fun and exciting for the whole family to partake in month after month, which is why I write you today! I might also add that this is the month that represented the season of love many, MANY years ago (you can Google it.). So whether it’s Galentine’s or Valentine’s or neither for you this month, THIS GIRL has some options for you!

We are still in the throes of the best rodeo on the planet: The Fort Worth Stock Show and Rodeo! This legendary event will keep going strong through February 8th. One of the ways YOU can be legendary is by attending the rodeo on Wednesday, February 5th. Half the cost of your ticket to the 7:30 p.m. show will benefit Cook Children’s NICU! As a Child Life Specialist in the NICU several years ago, I know firsthand the importance of this special night. The babies, their families, and staff need your support, Fort Worth. This is a fun and meaningful way to contribute! For more information and to purchase tickets for this worthy event, click here.

The Fort Worth Zoo seems to always come up with creative ways to bring kids of all ages to its wildly fun environment! This year, they will host their first Sensory-Friendly Day on Saturday, Feb. 8, 2020. The Zoo will open an hour early – at 9 a.m. – especially for those participating in the day. Sensory-Friendly Day is specially designed for individuals on the autism spectrum as well as others who have sensory sensitivities. Some sensory-sensitive accommodations will allow these individuals to enjoy a fun-filled day at the Zoo with their families and caregivers. You can read the schedule of events and other activities and features about this special day here.

Looking for a unique opportunity to open the musical mind of your early elementary child or family member? Then get to a Kinderconcert! Children (and adults) will get to explore the elements of a story – including setting, characters, conflict and resolution – as the Fort Worth Symphony tells an original tale through music on Wednesday, February 12th at 10:30 a.m. or 12:30 p.m. at Will Rogers Auditorium! Clink link for prices and more information!

Depending on the unpredictable weather, you may want an outdoor activity for the month of February! Besides the highly anticipated Cowtown Marathon, there is an opportunity to learn about paddling the Trinity River! Paddling the Trinity? Sounds rather peaceful to me, actually. There is a free event happening on February 15th at the Fort Worth REI location where you can learn all of the secrets of the Trinity River Paddle Trail. Representatives from the Trinity Coalition will give a presentation about the 130-mile-long Trinity River Paddle trail, including how to access the trail and how to use the new website and interactive tools to make the most out of every trip. An ACA Instructor will also be on hand to answer paddling questions and share stories of our local river–the best kept secret in DFW. They will also discuss the Trinity Coalition and its goal to bring National Park Service recognition to DFW. (YASSSSS!) Check it out if you have the chance!

In addition to celebrating LOVE in February, we are celebrating Black History Month! The Fort Worth Public Library is offering several free showings of the movies “Selma,” “Betty and Coretta,” and “The Jackie Robinson Story.” Locations and times can be found here.

Sponsored by Visit Fort Worth, you explore black history touring iconic locations & sampling delicious soul food cuisine in your own backyard on the Soul of DFW: Food & Black History Bus Tour. More details  and tickets can be found here.

For the music enthusiast, head out on Saturday, February 22nd, from 2-3 p.m., to join Jonathan Walker-VanKuren and pianist Kyle Naig in an afternoon of spirituals in celebration of Black History Month, “Songs My Mother Taught Me”.

Well friends, once again, our beloved city does not disappoint in working to reach everyone of all ages in getting out and having community with one another! Hope you can take advantage of at least a few of the things Fort Worth has to offer!

I would like to close with this remarkable quote from Maya Angelou:

“People will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.”

Amidst the hustle and bustle, there is always an opportunity to do good. As we continue our journey in every day that is given, I encourage you to make the most of it…love deep, show grace, be kind, and make a difference that has a positive impact.

See you around The Fort!

Jennifer

Jennifer Kieta is a native Texan, born and raised in Houston. She graduated from Texas Tech University and has lived in Fort Worth since 1996. After marrying her husband, Brian in 1998, Jennifer worked as a Child Life Specialist at Cook Children’s Medical Center for 9 years before becoming a full-time mom to her two daughters. Her passion for helping people in healthcare transitioned into the fitness world in 2014. She now teaches spin and HIIT classes at Zyn22 and Pilates at Studio 180 in Pop’s Gym. December of 2017, Jennifer was diagnosed with breast cancer. Her journey through a double-mastectomy and being able to call herself a Survivor and Overcomer has allowed her to have an even greater passion for helping people embrace every day and take care of themselves one day at a time.

The post Fun in the Fort for February 2020 first appeared on Tanglewood Moms.