"The Cover" Magazine - October Issue 2023

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The

October Issue 2023

C O V E R FURTESHA WOODS

NAREB’s Region VII, Vice President

The Trailblazing Realtist Transforming Communities and Lives Promoting

Homeownership Opportunities

Helping People Build Wealth

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PUBLISHER’S NOTE In this exclusive edition; I chose to feature and celebrate the remarkable success of Furtesha Woods, NAREB Nashville Region VII, Vice President. Furtesha is the owner of Woods Realty, and a Trailblazing Realtist transforming communities and lives. Most rewarding for a realtor is seeing buyers in their new home. Also, sellers are beaming with excitement when they’re handed a check at closing.

This issue also highlights and promotes healthy and happy life styles, the fashion, food, beauty, arts and entertainment industry. When it comes to creating opportunities and achieving success; there is no industry like the beauty, arts, fashion, food and entertainment industry.

As we prepare to leave the past year behind and start planning for a better new year, one of the most popular ways to get ready is by creating New Year’s resolutions. My top priority resolution is setting attainable and reachable goals, by preparing a weekly plan and writing down short-term achievable goals. The benefit of short-term goals is that it helps you with time management, kill procrastination, and motivate you to complete more tasks.

To our readers, advertisers, contributors, subscribers and fans, this magazine has been published and produced with you in mind. It’s for real, a dream magazine that comes alive at your fingertips; each time you open an issue of The Cover magazine.

It is our sincere hope that you are inspired and motivated to become one of our advertisers, subscribers, fans, supporters or contributors who enjoy reading and dreaming of dreams that can be made a reality.

For more information about advertising and subscribing to The Cover magazine or the Publisher and Producer, Anner J. Echols visit us at https://www.ajedreamland.co/the-cover or call (901) 650-4955.

AJE

PUMPKINS, SPICES AND SOUP CRAVING SEASON When the temperature start dropping the cravings begin

Baking can be a hobby that can be done from the comfort of one’s kitchen.

Baking can stimulate your senses, knowing the ingredients that are in your food, the feel of the ingredients and the smell of your freshly baked goods can encourage people to enjoy their food and build up an appetite. Baking can be a very relaxing activity and a stress reliever.

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SPORTS TALK

Eleven year old Anabella McCrary, a Native of Valdosta, became the first national Gymnast in Valdosta. Anabella is the daughter of Dr. Timothy and Brandy Pitts and Justin McCrary.

The win qualified her for Nationals. She was the only Platinum gymnast in her age division who represented Georgia in Manheim, PA on June 10th at Nationals.

Anabella McCrary competed in Xcel Platinum and is the reigning National Champion in the 11 & under age group.

Vault — 9.35 — 1st place Bars, 9.75 — 1st place beam, 9.525 — 2nd place Floor 9.55 — 3rd place All around 38.175- 1st place

Anabella hopes and dreams of one day making it the the Junior Olympics. Her hobbies and sports are: soccer, modeling and acting. Anabella also has a passion for pageantry. In July 2023, she won Young Miss GA South at the Miss GA South Pageant, with two perfect interview scores. She also won the People’s Choice award among others at the pageant.

Anabella’s parents hope is that she will always have a passion for gymnaistics and one day they will be watching her chase her dream of competing in the U.S. Olympics.

Gymnastics is such a beautiful sport. This sport teaches many life skills: persistence, dedication, commitment, strength, power, grace, flexibility, setting and achieving goals.

We are proud of inspiring and aspiring youth at Dreamland Productions and The Cover Magazine.

Photo Credit and Content Source: Valdosta Magazine/Brandy Pitts

BUSINESS OWNER PLANNING If you are a business owner, entrepreneur, realtor, freelancer, or anyone who’s their own boss, this article is for you! What is your most important asset? You!

Entrepreneurship is awesome, that’s why you must take care of yourself. Are you getting paid for sick leave or vacation time? You’re disciplined to handle your business; are you disciplined to plan for yourself? Are you the cobbler wearing torn shoes or the contractor with a leaky faucet.

Don’t put off tomorrow what can be done today.

Whether you are a solopreneur or have employees; Let’s look at some plans that you should implement for yourself.

Disability Coverage: What happens if you cannot work due to an injury or illness? How long will your business manage without you?

Health Insurance: Did you realize business owners may qualify for ACA/the marketplace? Are you paying yourself a salary as an employee?

Life Insurance can be personally owned or trust owned. It’s used to fund Buy-Sale agreements and Key Man policies. Some business owners draft the agreements but fail to fund them. If you passed away or became critically or chronically ill, who would take over your business, and would there be funds available?

Retirement Plan: As a business owner, you must save for your retirement, or you may be working longer than you planned.

Qualified plans: If you wish to reduce your taxable income now. You’ll pay taxes in the future.

Non-qualified plans allow you to pay taxes now, so you won’t have to in the future.

Simplified Employee Pension Plan (SEP): Allows up to $66,000 annual contribution.

Roth IRA: $6,500 maximum annual contribution or an additional $1,000 if you’re 50 & over. Be aware of the income limits as you may not qualify.

401(k), 403(b) has a $22,500 maximum for 2023. If you are a non-profit organization, we provide 403(b) plans at no cost.

Charitable Remainder Trust: You can sale your real estate and place the funds in this tax-exempt irrevocable trust. You can then receive income for life or a specified period. The IRS only requires you to leave at least 10% in the trust for charity. Now that’s a win-win!

Entrepreneurship is awesome! Transfer your risk! Plan! Purchase benefits!

Sandra Quinn Bailey Women Financial Power 901-617-1139 info@womenfinancialpower.com www.womenfinancialpower.com

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BET HIP HOP AWARDS 2023 Isabelle Doll Media Group Reporting Live in ATL

BET HIP HOP AWARDS “BET Hip Hop Awards” 2023 brought the hottest names in Hip Hop back to Atlanta, GA, for the annual taping of the trailblazing award show paying homage to 50 years of Hip Hop. Kendrick Lamar ruled the night with four wins, including ‘Lyricist of the Year,’ ‘Best Live Performer,’ ‘Hip Hop Artist of the Year’ and ‘Video Director of the Year’ with Dave Free. GRAMMY®-nominated recording artist, actor, entrepreneur, and media personality Fat Joe hosted this year’s awards from The Cobb Energy Centre. Rocking the stage : LL Cool J, Jermaine Dupri, TI, Ludacris, BOW WOW, Da Brat, Glorilla and many more Hip Hop performers.

Photo Credit: Photo Credit: Getty Images for BET)

COMMUNITYNEWS

Photo Credit: GSW Enterprises: Gary Whitlow, CEO gsw.enterprises@yahoo.com

The Little Black Dress Event was a success, held on September 28, 2023 at Memphis Hilton, East Memphis

Rhonda Treadwell is the Executive Director of Dress For Success Memphis.

Congratulations, Rhonda and your outstanding Board members on another success fundraiser.

Thank you for supporting Dress for Success Memphis.

Donate Today: memphis@dressforsuccess.org

A Remarkable Success Story

In the ever-evolving world of real estate, there are individuals whose dedication and commitment to their craft set them apart. Furtesha Woods is one such trailblazer, whose journey in the real estate industry spans nearly two decades, marked by a relentless pursuit of helping people build wealth and fostering homeownership opportunities. Her story is one of determination, passion, and a relentless desire to make a difference in her community Furtesha's journey into real estate began with a profound realization during her high school years while taking a personal finance class. She discovered her calling - to help black people build wealth.

To equip herself with the knowledge and expertise necessary to fulfill this mission, she embarked on her educational path. She first pursued an accounting degree, followed by acquiring a Life & Health Insurance license, and finally, she earned her Real Estate license. Little did she know that these diverse skills would form the foundation of her extraordinary career.

When Furtesha obtained her real estate license, it was a turning point in her life. She knew she was onto something big, and her journey was just beginning. Even while holding a fulltime senior accounting position for many years, she seamlessly helped her clients achieve homeownership, showcasing her remarkable dedication to their financial well-being.

The Trailblazing Realtist Transforming Communities and Lives

Woods Realty

In the year 2020, Furtesha took a bold step forward and founded her own brokerage, Woods Realty. Her venture proved to be a resounding success, establishing her as an influential figure in the real estate industry. Simultaneously, she became a member of the National Association of Real Estate Brokers (NAREB) Nashville, a pivotal moment that fueled her desire to contribute more to her community.

NAREB Nashville President Furtesha Woods' passion for promoting homeownership opportunities within the Black community led her to play an active role in NAREB Nashville. In her first year as a Realtist, she was honored with the prestigious Hard Hat Award from Region 7. The following year, she was recognized as Realtist of the Year for NAREB Nashville and was elected as the NAREB Nashville President for the 22/23 term.

Implementing a plan of action As she assumed the role of President, Furtesha wasted no time in implementing a strategic plan to ensure NAREB Nashville's success. Her leadership and dedication bore fruit almost immediately. In 2022, the NAREB Nashville chapter rose from number 57 to number 25, an impressive feat among approximately 100 chapters. She was also named President of the Year for Region 7. The following year, the chapter continued its ascent, climbing to the 11th position.

A BEACON OF HOPE Inspiring Others and Enjoying Life Furtesha Woods' journey from a high school personal finance class to becoming a leading figure in the real estate industry is a testament to her unwavering commitment to helping people build wealth through homeownership. Her passion, dedication, and transformative leadership within NAREB Nashville have left an indelible mark on the community she serves. As a real estate professional and advocate for homeownership, Furtesha Woods is an inspiration and a beacon of hope for aspiring realtors and individuals looking to achieve their dreams of owning a home.

Under Furtesha's guidance, NAREB Nashville experienced a transformation in culture, with an engaged and vibrant chapter membership. Her initiatives included organizing a leadership retreat, establishing a robust back-office system, introducing the Realtist of the Month/Year program, and hosting an annual awards gala that welcomes all black real estate professionals in the city, whether NAREB members or not.

Remarkable Achievements When asked about her most significant achievement during her tenure, Furtesha humbly stated, "This has been one of the most rewarding positions I've ever held. If I had to choose an achievement that meant the most to me, I would say the caliber of members obtained. Our current members are killing it in their field of expertise and are the top crop! I think that says a lot about the organization and current leadership team.”

Beyond her remarkable achievements within NAREB, Furtesha Woods also took time to expand her horizons as a licensed real estate instructor. She authored three courses - two for agents, titled "Authentically YOU" and "Preparing Credit Worthy Buyers," and one for consumers called "Her Journey Home," a five-week course designed to empower individuals on their homeownership journey.

Outside of her professional pursuits, Furtesha cherishes spending time with her family, enjoying vacations with her husband and five children, and indulging in a game of bowling.

L-R: Shameka Britton, Region VII Admin, Furtesha Woods, Region VII, Vice President, Patrice Boston, NAREB Nashville Secretary and Wonda McGowan, Region VII Advisory Chair

Photos: Compliments of Furtesha Woods

https://www.woods-realty.net/

CONGRATULATIONS! REGINA HUBBARD 2024 PRESIDENT OF TENNESSEE REALTORS Regina Hubbard was installed as the 1st African American female to the office of President of Tennessee Realtors on October 20, 2023.

Regina Hubbard is a native Memphian and a graduate of Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland Ohio. After taking an early retirement from a major corporation, she followed her husband, Lester Hubbard, into real estate. Her professional designations include: AHWD, At Home with Diversity; E-Pro; ASP, Accredited Staging Professional; GRI, Graduate REALTOR Institute; RENE, Real Estate Negotiation Expert; C2EX, Committee to Excellence. She recently earned the Master GRI. And in 2002, she was chosen as Tennessee’s GRI Student of the Year.

Regina was Principal Broker for Lester Hubbard Realtors for 13 years.

She is currently affiliated with Fast Track Realty as a Broker/Trainer.

Regina has been involved with the Women’s Council of REALTORS (WCR) for several years. In 2011 she was elected the first African American President of the Memphis Chapter. She has earned the WCR “Excellence in Service Award “many times.

In 2005 she was the National Association of Real Estate Brokers (NAREB), Realtist of the Year and the recipient of the “A. W. Willis Award.”

As a top producer, she has earned Life Membership in the Memphis Area Association of REALTORS (MAAR) and NAREB’S Multi-Million Dollar Clubs.

Regina is an active member of the Memphis Area Association of REALTORS (MAAR). In 2005 she was elected Secretary/Treasurer of MAAR’s Board of Directors. In 2009 she was honored with MAAR’s most prestigious recognition, “REALTOR of the Year”. And in 2013, she was the first African American female elected President of Memphis Area Association of REALTORS. Regina has served as a NAR Director and Tennessee REALTORS Director.

She has also served in Tennessee REALTORS leadership as Division 1 Vice President, Treasurer and First Vice President. Regina is being installed as the first African American female President of Tennessee REALTORS in Savannah, GA October 18, 2023. She is also currently serving on several NAR committees and in 2022, she was selected as NAR’s Commitment to Excellence (C2EX) Ambassador of the year. The first to achieve this honor.

She is a graduate of Leadership Memphis 2009 and Leadership TAR in 2012. She is a recent recipient of “Diversity, Equity and Inclusion” certification from the University of South Florida.

Regina was honored by the Tri-State Defender newspaper as a “Woman in Excellence” in 2012. And in 2014 she was appointed to the board of Directors of Memphis Mortgage Bankers Association. In 2016, she was appointed by the Governor to the board of directors for Tennessee Housing Development Authority (THDA). Regina currently serves on the Board of Directors for Convergence Memphis, an organization that works to improve homeownership in minority communities in Memphis

In 2016 she was approved as an instructor by the Tennessee Real Estate Commission and currently teaches Tennessee REALTORS and National Association REALTORS real estate classes. During her real estate career Regina has achieved over 700 continuing education hours. She is a life learner.

Regina works diligently with several organizations that promote fair housing.

Her business philosophy which aligns with NAR’S Code of Ethics, is simply the Golden Rule,” Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.” https://www.ftrmemphis.com/regina-hubbard Contact Regina @ 901-550-1556

This time last year, I was completing the final quarter of 2022 preparing to pass the torch and Presidential gavel to the 2023-2024 administration of NAREB Memphis Realtist® Board under the incoming leadership of President Daryl Lewis.

It was with great pride and honor to receive and accept the Presidential Medallion for my service as NAREB Memphis Realtist® Board 25th President at the NAREB Memphis Inauguration on February 4, 2023. On this same evening, I was presented with an engraved crystal gavel, a gift from President Daryl Lewis. I could not have been successful as President without the love and support from my husband, Rickey McGowan.

In my new role as Immediate Past President, I am committed to aid the new leadership in reaching its goals to L.I.T.E. up Memphis with Leadership, Integrity, Transparency and Excellence in advocating for Democracy in Housing and Housing Justice.

I currently serve as Director At Large of the National Association of Real Estate Brokers, Inc. This is a three-year appointment that I proudly accept. I also serve on the 2023 Community Development Committee with the Memphis Area Association of Realtors and 2023 Diversity and Inclusion Committee for Tennessee Realtors®.

June 8, 2023, I was awarded by Regional Vice President, Cheryl Johnson the President’s Award for NAREB Region VII.

Under the leadership of Kaye Thompson on June 28, 2023, Women’s Council NAREB Memphis held its 1st Annual Scholarship Afternoon Tea where they honored their Board of Governors and recognized its charter members. I am proud to be recognized as a charter member.

HONORS AND ACHIEVEMENTS

July 13, 2023, I attended the NAREB Nashville Awards of Black Excellence where I received the Dan Lane Award from Nashville’s President, Furtesha Woods.

As I gear up for 2024, I will continue to work in our local communities advocating for Democracy in Housing and working to find solutions to creating affordable housing.

Wonda McGowan, Broker, ABR, AHWD Director-at-Large, National Association of Real Estate Brokers, Inc.

FB: https://www.facebook.com/WondaMageeMcGowan www.wondamcgowanrealtor.com

DRY AS A BONE Give Your Skin a Drink Your skin is the largest organ of your body and needs moisture just like your internal organs. In the fall and winter in areas of cooler or colder weather, the lower humidity, wind and indoor heating pull moisture from the skin. Here are ways to give your skin a big drink to ward off that dry, itchy and flaky skin.

Use warm water instead of hot water to shower or bathe. Hot water washes away your skin’s natural oils.

Use facial cleansers and body soaps, wash with a moisturizer without fragrance.

Apply moisturizers immediately after showers or baths while your skin is still damp.

Use creamy moisturizers or oils to bump up skin hydration.

Decrease the use of exfoliates and products containing alcohol, as these will dry the skin.

Use retinol products less often, or with a lower concentration during cold dry months Apply sunscreen year round, even on cloudy days, to protect against the sun’s UV rays.

Drink plenty of water. Carrying some type of water bottle keeps it readily available.

If you have eczema or psoriasis, be sure to keep your skin moisturized. These skin conditions may flare up in winter months, making dry, itchy skin worse.

For more information, Google “Your Winter Skin Survival Kit” and select the entry posted by the American Academy of Dermatology.

This article is not intended as medical advice. Talk with your healthcare team about your individual health and concerns.

YOUR WINTER SKIN SURVIVAL KIT American Academy of Dermatology Association https://www.aad.org/public/everyday-care/skin-care-basics/care/winter-skin-survival-kit

Contributing Author: Cherry Odom, BSN, RN-Retired

HEALTHY LIFE STYLES

Facebook: Steph Lynn

IG: amplified queen

Website: amplifiedqueenfitness.com

MEMORABLE MOMENTS 9TH Annual Josie Music Awards Congrats! to all the Nominees and Honorees

The Josie Music Awards (JMA) was held in the Music City, at the historical Grand Ole Opry House on Sunday, October 22, 2023 The JMA Music Awards is The largest, most respected, revered award, and prestigious events & association in the independent music industry!

"Chase Your Dreams - Be A Part of Something BIG!" ™​ "A World of Opportunities" www.josiemusicawards.com

Baking Sweets and Treats

IN A DOG’S WORLD The Poodle

Poodles are extremely intelligent and are easily trained. They are agile and graceful as well as smart, they enjoy and excel in a variety of canine sports.

Most Poodles live long, happy, healthy lives thanks to the efforts of dedicated, responsible breeders who routinely test all breeding stock. As with all breeds, however, some health issues can occur.

Grooming Unless you plan to keep your Poodle clipped in a short trim, you will need to learn how to brush them daily to keep their coat from matting. If you do not brush and comb a full-coated Poodle completely to the skin, the hair will mat near the roots and will have to be shaved off to start all over with new growth. Most pet owners opt to keep the Poodle in a shorter trim. Some owners learn to do this clipping and trimming themselves, while others choose to take their dog to a professional dog groomer every four to six weeks for a bath, grooming, and nail trim. The breed's relatively non-shedding coat makes the breed a good choice for people with allergies.

Poodles of any size are very active dogs who require good exercise every day to suit their high energy level. Poodles are eager for all kinds of activity, and they enjoy keeping busy. Swimming is great exercise for them, and most Poodles love to get in the water. Bred as hunting dogs, their impulse is to retrieve, so tossing toys, sticks, or balls for them will exercise both their mind and body. They also thrive on going for jogs or long walks with their human.

Poodles are generally great family dogs and are friendly and accepting of animals in the house. Poodles are fonds of children. Always make sure they are properly groomed, healthy and happy.

BLUSH/MUA BEAUTY TIPS Blush can help to brighten up your face, add a healthy glow, and contour your features. It is also a great way to add a pop of color to your look.

When applied correctly, blush can make you look more awake and youthful. It can also help to disguise any imperfections on your skin. If you have dark circles under your eyes, for example, a touch of blush can help to brighten up the area and give you a more refreshed appearance

Blush is also a great way to add definition to your face. By contouring your cheekbones with a darker shade of blush, you can create the illusion of added dimension. This is especially helpful if you have a rounder face shape.

Blush is an easy way to add a little bit of color to your makeup look. Whether you prefer a natural flush or something more dramatic, there is a shade of blush out there for you. And because it’s so easy to apply, it’s perfect for busy mornings when you don’t have time for a complicated makeup routine.

Would you like to learn how to choose the right shade of blush for your skin tone?

If so, schedule a Consultation at Dreamland Production at the Beauty & Style Bar and get your head to toe transformation.

https://www.ajedreamland.co/

JOIN US IN CELEBRATING THE PRESIDENT OF NAREB NASHVILLE

NAREB Nashville https://narebnashville.com/ https://www.instagram.com/realtorshawanda/ 2023