60 years ago today, famous Black entertainer Nat King Cole passed away. Nat King Cole was considered one of the greatest singers of all time. He was born as Nathaniel Adams Coles on March 17, 1919, in Montgomery, Alabama. When he was a little boy, his family moved to Chicago, where he grew up surrounded by music. His father was a pastor, and his mother taught him how to play the piano. He loved music and became very good at playing jazz, which began to become popular at that time.
In the 1930s, he started a band called the Nat King Cole Trio. Soon after people started to realize that his smooth, deep voice was just as amazing as his piano playing. By the 1940s and 1950s, he became a huge star. Some of his most famous songs include Unforgettable, L-O-V-E, and The Christmas Song (Chestnuts Roasting on an Open Fire). His music is still played on the radio, in movies, and on during the holidays.
He made history in an impactful way. In 1956, he became the first Black man to host his own national television show, The Nat King Cole Show, which aired on NBC. At that time, Black entertainers didn’t get many opportunities on TV. The show featured famous guests like Ella Fitzgerald and Harry Belafonte, and was loved by many. Due to racism, many companies refused to sponsor the show, so it was canceled after just one season.
Besides music and TV, he was also a businessman. He bought a house in Hancock Park, a wealthy neighborhood in Los Angeles where only white families lived at the time. Some of his new neighbors didn’t want a Black family living there, but he refused to leave. He faced a lot of racism throughout his career. Even though he was a famous star, some hotels and restaurants wouldn’t serve him because he was Black. Sometimes, he had to use the back entrance at clubs where he was performing.
Nat King Cole died of lung cancer on February 15, 1965, when he was only 45 years old. He had been a heavy smoker for most of his life. Even though he passed away young, his music and his impact on history still live on. He showed the world that talent has no color and that Black artists deserved the same respect and opportunities as anyone else. Today, Nat King Cole is remembered as a legend whose voice and legacy will never be forgotten.
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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.
