MELVIN TROY WILLIAMS
September 28, 2024
By: Natiece Ford While we cannot say whether music mogul Sean Combs aka “Diddy” is guilty or not. We do know that Donald Trump was found guilty on all charges of business fraud in New York on May 30, 2024 and is free, while his sentencing has been postponed until after the 2024 presidential...
Snoop Dogg, one of the most recognizable names in hip hop, and his wife Shante Broadus, have been in the public eye for decades. Their relationship, which began long before Snoop reached the heights of fame, has weathered several storms, including infidelity. In recent years, the couple has been open about their challenges, particularly...
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By: Natiece Ford Images of John Wayne often come to mind when thinking of cow-boys. Augusto Macedo and a group of friends have set out to change the imagery and tell the real story of the original cowboy, the black cowboy. Set to ride from Rosenburg, TX on September 21st and end at the...
By: USA Today So tenacious conservative Dick Cheney and progressive icon Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez are voting for the same presidential candidate. You don’t see that every election. Former President Donald Trump’s bid to regain power is generating all kinds of odd situations, including stalwart opposition from party leaders and members of the Republican political establishment...
Dallas, TX – July 17, 2024 – St. Luke Community UMC is hosting its 9th annual Mental Health Symposium from 10:00 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. (CST) Saturday, July 20, 2024, virtually on Zoom. The symposium, held in conjunction with National Minority Mental Health Awareness Month, addresses the intersection of mental health and the criminal justice system, and advocates for crucial reforms and community-based solutions. The Honorable John Wiley Price, commissioner of Dallas County District 3, is the keynote speaker. The Honorable Lela Lawrence Mays, presiding judge of Dallas County’s 283rd Criminal District Court, leads a panel of six distinguished speakers who will explore pivotal topics such as the impact of mental health crises on 911 calls, decision-making processes for first responders, the role of deflection centers as alternatives to incarceration, mental health services within jails, probation challenges, and future initiatives to improve mental health outcomes. “We are committed to fostering dialogue and action around the urgent need to reform how our justice system addresses mental health,” said Richie Butler, senior pastor of St. Luke Community UMC. “Our symposium serves as a platform to educate, empower, and advocate for equitable mental health care solutions that prioritize compassion and support.” The symposium is free and open to the public. Interested participants can get complete information and register at https://slcumc.org/mentalhealthsymposium-2024. Three Continuing Education Units (CEUs) are available for free to mental health professionals through Hickory Trail Hospital in DeSoto, TX. St. Luke Community UMC will also host a special mental health worship celebration at 10 a.m. Sunday July 21, 2024. This service will include the presentation of the Lawana Porter Mental Health Trailblazer Award to Rev. Velda Turnley and Rev. Dr. Paula Dobbs-Wiggins for their exemplary leadership in promoting mental health awareness within faith communities. “We recognize the critical need to destigmatize mental illness and advocate for systemic change,” added Pastor Butler. “Through initiatives such as our Mental Health Ministry Scholarship, we support future mental health professionals who will provide culturally competent care to underserved communities.” About St. Luke Community United Methodist Church: Since 1933, St. Luke Community UMC has served as a...
By: Alice Claiborne Important dates to remember this election season include: Oct. 7: Last day to register to vote Oct. 21: Early voting begins Oct. 25: Deadline to apply for ballot by mail Nov. 1: Early voting ends Nov. 5: Election Day For official information, including registration and vote-by-mail deadlines, please visit VoteTexas.gov or call 1-800-252-VOTE. If you live in Texas, check your voter register immediately: teamrv-mvp.sos.texas.gov/MVP/mvp.do In honor of National Voter Registration Day on Sept. 17, Texas Secretary of State Jane Nelson reminds Texans there is still time to register to vote ahead of the November General Election. “Texans have just a few short weeks left to register to vote, and I want to ensure all eligible Texans who want to make their voices heard are registered and prepared to do so,” Secretary Jane Nelson said. Eligible Texans are encouraged to make a plan for voting. Directions on how to register to vote and how to update existing voter registrations can be found at VoteTexas. Gov. Texas voters must be registered to vote at least 30 days before an upcoming election date, and voters do not have to declare a party affiliation when registering. Registered voters can check their status on the Secretary of State’s My Voter Portal web-site. To be eligible to vote, you must be a United States citizen, a resident of the county where you register, and at least 18 years old on Election Day.
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By: Brian Lewis This is pretty much all anyone needs to know about defending champion Coco Gauff ’s 6-3, 4-6, 6-3 loss to Emma Navarro in the US Open’s fourth round Sunday: Gauff wound up with more double-faults, 19, than winners, 14. It was the latest in a series of early-for-her exits in recent weeks, including bowing out in the third round at the Paris Olympics, then going 1-2 at hard-court tuneup events before arriving in New York. “I feel like there’s 70 other players in the draw that would love to have the summer that I had, even though it’s [the] least, probably, [I’ve] done well during this time of the year,” said the No. 3-seeded Gauff , who went 18-1 during the North American swing on hard courts 12 months ago, including the run to her first Grand Slam title. “So many people want to be in the fourth round. So many people want to make the Olympics. So many people want to be flag bearer. It’s perspective.” The 20-year-old from Florida did fight her way back into the match with a four-game run in which she claimed 14 of 17 points and grabbed the second set. “Had a little bit of a lull there,” said the 13th-seeded Navarro, an American who was 0-2 at the US Open until this year, “but I was able to regroup.” After each of her previous two contests in New York, Gauff headed back onto the practice courts to work on her serve. That didn’t help much Sunday, when she tied her career high for double-faults; she also had 19 in a loss at the 2020 French Open. Against Navarro, Gauff delivered a trio of double-faults in four different games. Eleven of the double-faults came in the final set alone. Gauff attributed her problems to a mix of is-sues with her mechanics — “I go down on my left side a lot on my serve, and it’s something I’m aware of, but it’s tough in the moment to, I guess, try not to do it,” she explained — and in her mind....
By: Ronald Williams Melvin Troy Williams was born on September 28, 1956 in Houston, Texas. He passed away into eternal life at the age of 67, 11 months on September 15, 2024. Melvin grew up in Acres Homes Community and attended George Washington Carver High School where he enjoyed playing football. Melvin had a business acumen. He started his own trucking company and pressure washing service. He accepted Jesus Christ as his Lord and Savior and was baptized at an early age. He enjoyed family time. Melvin was known for his unique sense of humor, his compassion for others. He loved to make people laugh. He was always willing to help others with words of wisdom, a kind word, a listening ear, or a few dollars. He never met a stranger.
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Snoop Dogg, one of the most recognizable names in hip hop, and his wife Shante Broadus, have been in the public eye for decades. Their relationship, which began long before Snoop reached the heights of fame, has weathered several storms, including infidelity. In recent years, the couple has been open about their challenges, particularly infidelity, and have shown resilience and dedication to rebuilding their marriage. Recently, they have symbolically celebrated their renewed commitment to each other by showcasing new wedding rings, a testament to the strength of their 27-year union. A Long-Standing Relationship Snoop Dogg, born Calvin Cordozar Broadus Jr., and Shante Taylor met during high school in Long Beach, California. Long before Snoop became a household name with the release of his debut album Doggystyle in 1993, the couple had already established a deep bond. Their relationship transitioned into marriage in 1997, and they share three children together: Corde, Cordell, and Cori Broadus. As Snoop’s career skyrocketed, life in the limelight brought its own set of pressures. Like many high-profile relationships, theirs was tested, particularly as rumors and reports of Snoop’s infidelity emerged over the years. One notable challenge came in 2004, when the couple filed for divorce, citing irreconcilable differences. Overcoming Infidelity Despite their separation in 2004, Snoop and Shante eventually reconciled and decided to remain together. In later interviews, Snoop has been candid about his missteps, admitting to infidelity and how his fame had led him to make poor decisions that strained their relationship. The couple’s reunion and decision to work through their issues rather than follow through with the divorce made headlines at the time. Their dedication to repairing their relationship despite the challenges they faced has since been widely admired. The key to their reconciliation, as Snoop explained in several interviews, was their focus on family and the realization that their bond was stronger than the mistakes made during the marriage. Snoop’s public acknowledgment of his wrongdoings and his efforts to make amends played a crucial role in their journey toward healing. Celebrating Resilience Recently, Snoop Dogg and Shante celebrated their enduring relationship by showing...
In celebration of 30 years as the pioneer and the leading, black-led national organization dedicated to the black breast cancer crisis movement, Sisters Network® Inc., will host the 2024 National Black Breast Cancer Summit. The event on October 4-6, 2024, at the Hyatt Regency-Galleria, 2626 Sage Road, Houston, TX. 77056. The Summit is free and open to the public. The two-day Summit features leading breast health medical experts from major medical institutions who will present the latest information on breast health and survivorship. Registration is open now at sistersnetworkinc.org. Black women are 42% more likely to die of breast cancer as compared to white women. Black women under age 35 are diagnosed at 2 times the rate as White women and more likely die at 3 times the rate. Our National Black Breast Cancer Summit” is needed now more than ever,” stated Karen E. Jackson, Founder/CEO, Sisters Network Inc. “Our sisters are facing alarming breast cancer challenges. It’s imperative that we amplify the black breast cancer crisis, educate the community to help save our sisters lives.” Sisters Network is committed to empowering and educating Black women about the importance of early detection, advocating for health equity, eliminating barriers, and increasing access to quality care for all women,” added Jackson. During the summit on Saturday, October 5 at 12:00 p.m., Sisters Network®Inc. will also host the 30th Anniversary Pretty In Pink Luncheon & Style Show featuring fashions presented by Saks Fifth Avenue. Tickets may be purchased for $100.00. A portion of the funds raised support the Karen E. Jackson Breast Cancer Assistance Program (BCAP). “As Sisters Network® Inc. celebrates 30 years of being at the forefront of the black breast cancer movement, I’m inspired by the courage and resilience of the countless Black women our organization has provided emotional support and a sisterhood to during their breast cancer journey, the lives we have saved by educating black women about breast health and the over $1.6 million in financial assistance and mammogram support we have offered to the black community,” added Jackson. The National Black...
Bomb threats; guns and knives on campuses; persistent bus problems; sweltering classrooms; teachers begging publicly on social media for necessary supplies; students denied permission to accept invitation to perform in Sugar Bowl parade. (The mayor stepped in to solve this. Mike Miles was entirely unaware, he said). HISD has a lot to overcome in...
By: Bill King There was some slow-down during desegregation, as enrollment in private schools surged. However, growth resumed by the early 1980s at a little less than 2% each year. But by the late 1990s, the growth rate began to noticeably slow, eventually falling to under .5% annually. Public school enrollment peaked in 2019...
By: Mike LaFirenza The American dream of homeownership often begins with a starter home—a manageable property that allows young adults and families to establish roots, build equity, and lay the groundwork for fi nancial security. This initial step on the property ladder fuels the housing market and strengthens the economy by creating a generation...
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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.