From the Newtown neighborhood to Morningside Heights, black-owned businesses have a long, proud history in Gainesville. But strengthening these ties within today’s marketplace is part of a renewed focus among African-American leaders that includes the launch of a black business directory and grant funding for local entrepreneurs through Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. “This is an opportunity to empower our community,” said Annette Woods, a local businesswoman who helped organize a black business brunch on Saturday as part of a weeklong series events celebrating the annual Martin Luther King, Jr. holiday.