By: N. L. Preston

 

HOUSTON – “Charlie Brown” is one dapper dude. And more than his handsome outward appearance, inside he is humble, gracious and extremely grateful for the opportunity he says God has bestowed upon him. At 68 years of age, he’s reinventing himself and loving every minute of it.

Charles Lonzo Brown is a style consultant for Suit Mart located off I-45 and Aldine Bender, and, always being a “sharp-dressed man,” he loves to help others look their best, especially young Black men during prom season.

“To see those mothers coming in with their sons, some of them not knowing what they want, some of them never owning a suit,” Brown said. “To help them leave there with their heads up and smiles on their faces, that’s better than gold and silver to me.”

And as much as he loves to help others shine, he had a longtime dream of his own.

“I’ve always liked to dress. I always like to look nice and I was encouraged by relatives and friends of mine that I should apply for modeling school,” he explained. “One of my friends suggested that I contact 40 Plus Models.”

Brown did and sent his pictures in, but a woman he spoke to explained they were more of a charity and were not the right fit. Unbeknownst to him, she saw something special in him and decided to make a few phone calls.

Later the same day, John Casablancas Model and Talent Agency reached out, and after an in-person interview, invited Brown to join their 30-week training program.

“Most folks think modeling is just walking down the runway – that’s the easy part – but you have to learn all the terminology, all the turns, how to take care of your skin, your nutrition and how to present yourself,” he said. “So, at the age when most folks are slowing down, my life is just beginning.”

Brown proudly shared that in 1971, he was voted “Mr. Debonaire” by his peers in high school, and in 1992, he was the first driver to be featured on the front cover of Southeast Texas Big Idea Magazine for UPS. Now, he has something else to be proud of.

“I am the oldest person in the class at John Casablancas. Most of the others are young enough to be my great grandkids. It was kind of challenging for me because I am hearing-impaired, but God has blessed me to get a state-of-the-art hearing aid and I can hear a lot better,” he said. “And my brain doesn’t work as well as the youngsters, but I am able to complete my studies, I haven’t given up and I am going to make this dream come true.”

Brown says that on Jan. 13, he will sign a three-year, non-exclusive contract with the agency. The ordained minister, who is also a volunteer for the Acres Home Chamber of Commerce and several churches, teared up as he spoke about his dreams.

“My dream is to bring glory to God, to the community I come from and to myself. God has been good to me,” he said.

Brown also acknowledges that none of this could be possible without the support of his loving wife of 45 years, his two children and two grandchildren.

He then went on to issue a challenge.

“If Matthew McConaughey can sit in a Lincoln and sell one, I can too. If Samuel L. Jackson can sell a Master Card, I can too. The only thing they have over me is name recognition and they really don’t have that, because my name is Charlie Brown.”

His words of advice?

“Never give up on your dream! I don’t care what folks tell you, it is never too late. You never know what you have inside of you until you need it. I found out while going through modeling school that I have what it takes,” he said. “There’s no harm in failing, there’s harm in not trying. You might not reach the moon, but you will reach the stars.”

 

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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