National News

By: Clarence Walker Houston’s Black History Month spotlights the story of a wealthy cattle rancher who broke the segregation barrier in an affluent all-white neighborhood. The captivating tale is another episode of Houston’s forgotten past. To get there, take a ride going south on 288 to MacGregor and explore the neighborhood’s natural beauty, popularly...

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Entertainment

[Photo: Getty Images] In Hollywood’s star-studded history, Zendaya stands out for her remarkable journey from a Disney Channel star to a leading actress in Hollywood. She has smoothly transitioned from her early days of child stardom to become a shining figure in the film industry, handling fame with grace, confidence, and a strong dedication...

Local News

By: Ariel Pirela Get ready, Houston! Marcus Sullivan, a beloved DJ known for his captivating presence and exceptional ability to create a vibe, is starting an exciting journey at KTSU-FM 90.9 &  e Vibe! After departing the legacy he created at NGEN with its Christian, Hip Hop, and Pop domain, Marcus is now taking...

Politics

By: David Ellison (Media Information Offi cer for Commissioner Rodney Ellis, Pct 1) Harris County Commissioner Rodney Ellis has received the NAACP’s George “Mickey” Leland Humanitarian Award, which is given annually by the civil rights organization to a person who displays outstanding service to the Houston minority community by assisting with a significant minority...

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MENTAL HEALTH AWARENESS

By Jazz Paz It is no coincidence that the month of new year’s resolutions is the month of mental health awareness, especially for Black and brown people. Sixty-seven percent of Texans declared themselves to be African American or brown in the 2020 national census. In these communities self-care is often seen as self-indulgence rather than urgently necessary. When expressions of emotional distress are taboo, they become difficult to recognize and admit to. Too many individuals experience a mental health diagnosis as a label that implies a weakness. Being a “strong person” encourages victory in athletics and other physical successes, but not in activities that promote emotional or mental growth, especially for men.   According to the National Institute of Health, Black and brown people are twice as prone to depression. anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder than whites, and that racism, discrimination, and poverty all contribute to psychological disorders.  These burdens foster the temptation to unwisely hide our mental struggles to defend against further bigotry, especially since the media (like, Silence of  the Lambs or  the Joker),  flaunt mental impairment through characters that are dangerous, crazy, murderers.   An exacerbating contributor to mental stress is that helpful resources can be difficult to obtain when people lack health insurance, work irregular schedules, or are without reliable transportation, but relief exists for those who su er.  The Hope Line (832-831-7337) at the Hope and Healing Center offers free 30-minute peer counseling over the phone as well as free support for adults (https://hopeandhealingcenter.org/).  e Harris Center for Mental Health (24/7 crisis line 713- 970-7000; toll-free 866-970-4770) serves those with or without legal status, in English and in Spanish, and can provide transportation (https:// www.theharriscenter. org/). If you need immediate suicide or mental health support or are worried about someone else, call or text 988.   If you are called upon to assist a friend or family member besieged by distress, recommend that they get or continue seeing a professional advocate as well as: • Listen to them. Empathize. Avoid judgment, just be a safe understanding hearer Remind the person of their inherent worth and...

Shocking Incident at Lakewood Church: What Black Communities Need to Know Now In a harrowing turn of events that has sent ripples through communities nationwide, Lakewood Church became the scene of an unthinkable act this past Sunday. A chilling shooting during a Spanish-language service, carried out by 36-year-old Genesse Ivonne Moreno, has left the city of Houston and its diverse communities in a state of turmoil and grief. A Young Life Hangs in the Balance Among the chaos, a 7-year-old boy fights for his life in a critical condition, symbolizing the innocence lost and the urgent need for action. A 57-year-old man, also caught in the line of fire, was able to leave the hospital, but the scars of the event remain. Houston Leaders Vow Change In the aftermath, Houston’s top officials, Mayor John Whitmire and Police Chief Troy Finner, are stepping up, promising to fortify the security of places of worship. Their pledge is more than a response; it’s a call to action for communities, especially Black communities, historically subjected to violence in sacred spaces. A Complex Motive Unfolds Moreno’s shocking spree, unleashing up to 12 shots inside the church, was not just an act of violence but a message intertwined with pro-Palestinian sentiments found on her firearm. This twist adds a layer of complexity to her motives, sparking widespread speculation and concern over the implications for security and community relations. The Bigger Picture: Safety, Mental Health, and Community Resilience This incident isn’t just a news story; it’s a wake-up call for communities of color across America. It’s a reminder of the ongoing struggles with gun violence, mental health, and the safety of our sacred spaces. As Black communities, who’ve faced both historical and present-day challenges of violence, this event pushes us to the forefront of the conversation on how to protect our places of worship and ensure the well-being of our congregants. Law Enforcement’s Swift Response With a raid on a Conroe residence linked to Moreno, law enforcement is leaving no stone unturned. This comprehensive approach not only seeks justice but underscores the need for vigilance and preparedness...

[Photo: Netflix trailer] In an unexpected twist that has sent ripples through the sports and entertainment worlds, Mike Tyson, the legendary former heavyweight boxing champion, is reportedly stepping back into the ring to face YouTube star-turned-boxer Jake Paul. This bout is anticipated not just as a sporting event but as a cultural phenomenon, blending the lines between traditional boxing and the new age of celebrity fights.   Mike Tyson, known for his ferocious fighting style and tumultuous career, had retired from professional boxing in 2005. However, Tyson, now in his mid-50s, has shown that age is but a number for him. After making a stunning return to the ring in an exhibition match against Roy Jones Jr. in November 2020, which ended in a draw, Tyson has hinted at wanting more fights. His remarkable physical condition and enduring popularity make him a formidable opponent, even years after his prime.   On the other side of the ring stands Jake Paul, a figure who has become synonymous with the term “influencer-turned-boxer.” Paul, who first gained fame through his videos on Vine and later YouTube, has carved out a niche in professional boxing with a record that, while controversial, remains undefeated. His fights against former athletes and MMA fighters have garnered attention not just for their spectacle but for Paul’s surprising prowess as a boxer.   The Tyson-Paul fight is not just a clash of fists but of eras and personas. Tyson, the epitome of boxing royalty, represents the sport’s rich history and tradition. Paul, on the other hand, symbolizes the modern era of entertainment, where social media influence and celebrity status can open doors to arenas previously reserved for seasoned athletes.   This bout is expected to draw significant attention, not only from hardcore boxing fans but also from a broader audience intrigued by the spectacle and the personalities involved. The pay-per-view numbers are projected to be astronomical, given the massive followings both fighters boast on social media and beyond.   Financially, the fight is a goldmine. Both fighters stand to earn substantial purses, with pay-per-view shares, sponsorships, and merchandise sales...

Willie Ruth Haynes Harris, 96, was born in Houston, Texas, May 7, 1927, to Earnest and Jeanette Haynes. She attended HISD schools and graduated from Booker T. Washington High School in 1943. After her graduation she attended a business training school where she received business and secretarial training. She then began working at HISD. She married her childhood sweetheart, Herbert Harris on January 25, 1946. From this union 12 children were born, six boys and six girls. She was a devoted wife and mother who leaned on our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ for guidance and strength to complete what she thought was her mission in life. She was her children’s first Bible teacher and diligently taught Bible lessons and stories. She taught her children to memorize verses and to quote them during their study sessions.   Additionally, she taught her children many valuable life skills so they would be independent and productive adults. She also shared her faith, wisdom and love with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. During her spare moments, she loved visiting and interacting with a few special ladies in the neighborhood, especially Mrs. Elizabeth Peavy, Mrs. Celia Streety, Mrs. Sammie Mae Ford, and Mrs. Jean Marie Jackson. She regularly tried to share and pour God’s love into her family and others that were put into her path. Early in her life, she was a member of Greater Zion Baptist Church, formally known as Little Zion Missionary Baptist Church, where her Grandfather W.H. Haynes was elected and served as pastor from 1921-1931.   She later became a member of Acreage Home Church of God where she served in many capacities until her demise. Willie Ruth made her transition March 8, 2024. She is preceded in death by her husband Herbert Harris, her parents Ernest Haynes and Jeanette Davis, her son David Harris, her sister Lois Hall, and grandsons Herbert Harris III and Damian Wade. She leaves to mourn her passing, Herbert (Carol), Eunice (Andrew), Sandra (Charles), Timothy (Alice), Ernest, Deborah (Mark), Linda (Gerald), Barbara (Kirk), Anthony, Annette (Kenneth) and Jonathan. 34 grandchildren, 38 great grandchildren, 4 great great […]

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[Photo: Getty Images] In Hollywood’s star-studded history, Zendaya stands out for her remarkable journey from a Disney Channel star to a leading actress in Hollywood. She has smoothly transitioned from her early days of child stardom to become a shining figure in the film industry, handling fame with grace, confidence, and a strong dedication to her acting career and causes she cares about.   Born Zendaya Maree Stoermer Coleman on September 1, 1996, in Oakland, California, she was destined for the spotlight. The seed of her future in entertainment was sown early, with her mother working as a house manager for the California Shakespeare Theater. Zendaya’s exposure to the performing arts from a tender age cultivated a deep-seated passion for acting and dance, setting the stage for her entry into the realms of stardom.   Her first foray into the public eye came with her role as Rocky Blue on the Disney Channel sitcom “Shake It Up.” The show, which debuted in 2010, revolved around two best friends dreaming of becoming professional dancers. It was here that Zendaya showcased not just her acting chops but her formidable dance skills, endearing her to a global audience of young fans. The success of “Shake It Up” served as a launching pad, leading to more opportunities within and beyond the Disney ecosystem, including music releases that highlighted her vocal talents.   However, it was Zendaya’s deliberate pivot towards more mature and complex roles that marked her evolution from a child star to a formidable actress in Hollywood. Her portrayal of Rue Bennett in the critically acclaimed HBO series “Euphoria” exemplified this shift. The character, a troubled teenager grappling with addiction, showcased Zendaya’s ability to navigate the depths of human emotion, earning her widespread acclaim and the distinction of being the youngest recipient of the Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Series in 2020.   Zendaya’s filmography also showcases her versatility and willingness to explore new territories. From her role in the musical drama “The Greatest Showman” with Hugh Jackman and Zac Efron to her portrayal of MJ in the...

[Photo: dallasartsdistrict.org] Dallas, TX – Dallas Black Dance Theatre (DBDT) and Broadway Dallas (BD) are continuing their annual arts education accessibility partnership with the Dallas Independent School District (DISD) for a fourth year. Originally started to bridge the gap in arts access during the pandemic, the partnership has grown into a yearly district-wide program each February that to date has served over 59,000 students. Between February 5-16, 2024, Dallas Black Dance Theatre will present their Cultural Awareness virtual matinee to every student and grade level in the Dallas Independent School District during Black History Month 2024, which includes performances of the works in•ter•pret choreographed by Hope Boykin, For Etta, choreographed by Carmen Cage, a tap lecture and demonstration led by Sean J. Smith and Like Water, choreographed by Darrell Grand Moultrie. The virtual matinee is made possible at no charge by Broadway Dallas in partnership with Dallas Black Dance Theatre and Dallas Independent School District. “This program advances the importance of cultural literacy for every student in Dallas ISD. We are fortunate to have partners like Dallas Black Dance Theatre and Broadway Dallas who are committed to making this happen and to invest in the education and lives of our students,” said Dr. Scott Rudes, Executive Director of Academic Enrichment and Support for Dallas Independent School District. Designed to increase cultural literacy by providing access to all Dallas ISD students across grade levels and disciplines, this arts education initiative is in keeping with the mission of the National Endowment for the Arts, to support arts learning, affirm and celebrate America’s rich and diverse cultural heritage, and extend its work to promote equal access to the arts in every community across America. Hope Boykin is a dancer and choreographer who created in•ter•pret for Dallas Black Dance Theatre in 2005 with funds by the Arts District Foundation. The work was reinterpreted in 2015 and was described by The Dallas Morning News as “one of the best pieces in the Dallas Black Dance Theatre repertory.” Boykin describes the piece as lighthearted, quick and whimsical with expansive full movement. A former dancer with the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater for over 20 years, Boykin now serves as Artistic Advisor for Dance Education at the Kennedy Center and Artistic Lead for the Kennedy Center Dance Lab. Carmen Cage is a current Dallas...

Opinion

Too many Americans, especially Whites cannot look in the mirror, and see themselves for who they really are. Biologically, we are more alike than that which makes us different. Yet, our failure to acknowledge the universal biological dimension in human existence is what gives rise to a grievance attitudinal mentality, grievance politics, and self-righteousness....

Education

By: SH-FBISD News Fort Bend ISD hosted a realtor’s workshop yesterday that showcased all the great things the district has to offer for prospective parents and students. In collaboration with the Women’s Council of Realtors Fort Bend Chapter, the Champion School of Real Estate and Homes.com, the event provided Fort Bend area realtors with...

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Business

Biden is urging Congress to enact legislation facilitating more Americans’ access to homes, acknowledging the pivotal role of homeownership in family well-being and economic prosperity. By Stacy M. Brown NNPA Newswire Senior National Correspondent @StacyBrownMedia In a move to tackle the escalating housing crisis, President Biden has revealed a comprehensive plan to build and...

October 16, 2023, HOUSTON, TX – Congressional Candidate Amanda Edwards has raised over $1 million in less than 4 months, a substantial sum that helps bolster the frontrunner status of the former At-Large Houston City Council Member in her bid for U.S. Congress. Edwards raised over $433,000 in Q3 of 2023. This strong Q3 report expands on a successful Q2 where Edwards announced just 11 days after declaring her candidacy that she had raised over $600,000. With over $829,000 in cash-on-hand at the end of the September 30th financial reporting period, Edwards proves again that she is the clear frontrunner in the race. “I am beyond grateful for the strong outpouring of support that will help me to win this race and serve the incredible people of the 18th Congressional District,” said Edwards. “We are at a critical juncture in our nation’s trajectory, and we need to send servant leaders to Congress who can deliver the results the community deserves. The strong support from our supporters will help us to cultivate an 18th Congressional District where everyone in it can thrive.” Edwards said. “Amanda understands the challenges that the hard-working folks of the 18th Congressional District face because she has never lost sight of who she is or where she comes from; she was born and raised right here in the 18th Congressional District of Houston,” said Kathryn McNiel, spokesperson for Edwards’ campaign. Edwards has been endorsed by Higher Heights PAC, Collective PAC, Krimson PAC, and the Brady PAC. She has also been supported by Beto O’Rourke, among many others. About Amanda: Amanda is a native Houstonian, attorney and former At-Large Houston City Council Member. Amanda is a graduate of Eisenhower High School in Aldine ISD. Edwards earned a B.A. from Emory University and a J.D. from Harvard Law School. Edwards practiced law at Vinson & Elkins LLP and Bracewell LLP before entering public service. Edwards is a life-long member of St. Monica Catholic Church in Acres Homes. For more information, please visit www.edwardsforhouston.com

As September 13th rolls around, we extend our warmest birthday wishes to the creative powerhouse, Tyler Perry, a man whose indomitable spirit and groundbreaking work have left an indelible mark on the world of entertainment. With his multifaceted talents as an actor, playwright, screenwriter, producer, and director, Tyler Perry has not only entertained but also inspired audiences worldwide, particularly within the African-American community, where his influence and role have been nothing short of powerful. Born in New Orleans, Louisiana, in 1969, Tyler Perry’s journey to stardom was a path riddled with adversity. Raised in a turbulent household, he found refuge in writing, using it as a therapeutic outlet. This period of introspection gave rise to one of his most iconic creations, Madea, a vivacious, no-nonsense grandmother who would later become a beloved figure in Perry’s works, offering a unique blend of humor and profound life lessons. Despite facing numerous challenges, including rejection and financial struggles, Perry’s determination and unwavering belief in his abilities propelled him forward. In 1992, he staged his first play, “I Know I’ve Been Changed,” which, although met with limited success, was a pivotal moment in his career. Unfazed by initial setbacks, Perry continued to hone his craft, and by 1998, he had successfully produced a string of stage plays that showcased his storytelling prowess.

Calling all teenage student-athletes! If you have dreams of playing college soccer and wish to represent an HBCU, the HBCU ID Camp is your golden opportunity. From 8 am to 5 pm on November 11-12, Houston Sports Park will transform into a hub for aspiring male and female soccer players. Coaches from HBCUs across the nation will be present to evaluate, scout, and offer valuable feedback. Moreover, they might even spot the next soccer prodigy to join their collegiate soccer programs. This camp is not just about honing your soccer skills but also a chance to connect with the HBCU soccer community. You’ll learn the ins and outs of what it takes to excel on the field and in the classroom, which is crucial for a college athlete. The HBCU ID Camp is an excellent platform to network with coaches, learn from experienced athletes, and take the first steps toward your college soccer journey. To secure your spot at this incredible event, don’t forget to register [here](insert registration link). Space is limited to 120 participants, so make sure to reserve your place before it’s too late. It’s time to turn your dreams of playing college soccer into a reality.

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