Annually, we celebrate National Military Appreciation month each May to honor those serving in the military and to thank them for their dedication, bravery, and efforts to do their duties for the country. “I chose to serve to do my part in helping my people and keeping them safe,” said 19-year-old Intelligence Analyst Specialist Kaveon Dashawn Jalargio Watkins-Taylor, better known as Kavo by friends and family.
After being born in California, Watkins was often on the move. He moved to Houston from California up until third grade. He then moved to Georgia for a year before moving back to Texas. Ever since he was a child, the thought of joining the military was crucial to him as his aunt, mother and father served in the Navy. After attending Bammel Middle School, and Cullen Middle School, he attended Lamar High School before moving to North Carolina for his junior year of high school.
During his senior year in North Carolina, he participated in JROTC. To Taylor, JROTC was very informative. He experienced meeting different personalities and being put in leadership positions, just like his experience in the real military. With JROTC, Watkins was able to take trips to places like Fort Bragg and Fort Jackson. Being in JROTC was the perfect path to the U.S military for Watkins. “People respected me for doing what was best for everyone in the program,” Watkins said.
When JROTC and senior year came to an end, Watkins made the decision to join the U.S. Army. Watkins was nothing less than excited to experience diversity, face challenges, and obtain opportunities that he knew was ahead of him. “My plan going in was to apply myself and stand out for just that.” First going in, he had to do things that was nothing like he had ever experienced before, such as cutting his hair short, walking in single file lines, and having people with him referred to as Battle Buddies.
In basic training, Watkins mainly enjoyed the hand grenade range, being his most thrilling experience learning how to throw and handle them properly. “Getting to throw a live one and hear the explosion itself and feel the vibration was unlike anything I’d ever experienced,” Watkins stated.
However, undergoing and overapplying himself and not always getting the best result out of it has been the most challenging parts about being in the military for Watkins. He would always be the first person to volunteer help and get things done no matter the difficulty of the task. Because he has always given his time and full efforts within his job, it has been frustrating for him watching others get promotions. “It was inconvenient watching other people get promoted knowing I deserved my own,” Watkins stated. Optimistically, he believes that this is how life goes, and that there is always something better waiting on the other side.
Watkins’ advice for anyone joining the military is to be resilient and humble. “Don’t take anything personal and get your job done as best as you can.” He wants people to know that the military is nothing to be afraid of, and that it brings a plethora of opportunities and benefits. He understands that many people think they are poorly treated and ridiculed, however that is not the case as respect is key.
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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.
