BGR Houston was excited to welcome their fearless leader, Jay El Alexander, the owner, and CEO of BGR, came to participate in the Harmonie Grace Foundation 5K Walk/Run, which is an annual race to raise awareness for micro-prematurity and prematurity. This event recognizes families who have experienced prematurity, NICU experiences, and after-life infant loss. You can learn more about the Harmonie Grace Foundation at www.harmoniegracefoundation.org. This is a great cause to bring Mrs. Alexander from the East Coast to Houston to join over ten BGR Houston Run groups that meet all around Houston and surrounding areas.
There’s a massive misconception that black women don’t run. In 2009, Black Girls RUN! (BGR) was created to tackle the growing obesity epidemic in the African American community and provide encouragement and resources to both new and veteran runners. BGR’s mission is to encourage African American women to prioritize fitness and healthy living. According to the Centers for Disease Control, 80% of African American women are overweight. BGR! wants to create a movement to lower that percentage and, subsequently, reduce the number of women with chronic diseases associated with an unhealthy diet and sedentary lifestyle.
BGR encourages and motivates Black women to practice a healthy lifestyle. They strive to serve as a fitness resource for runners and gym rats and provide tips and commentary on staying active and maintaining a healthy lifestyle. It is a movement encouraging all women to get off the couch and get busy. According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Minority Health, African American women have the highest rates of being overweight or obese compared to other groups in the U.S, and about four out of five African American women are overweight or obese. In 2015, African Americans were 1.4 times as likely to be obese as non-Hispanic whites. In 2015, African American women were 60 percent more likely to be obese than non-Hispanic white women. In 2011-2014, African American girls were 50% more likely to be overweight than non-Hispanic white girls. The goal of BGR is to help decrease these statistics and BGR is committed to making a change, and they hope you are too.
Jay Ell Alexander is a public relations practitioner committed to giving back to her local community through her passion for communications, health, and fitness. She has served as the National Manager and Public Relations Director of BGR since 2012. In April 2018, she became the owner and CEO of the organization. She also owns The Vaughn Strategy, a public relations strategy consulting firm.
A native of Norfolk, VA., Alexander graduated from George Mason University in Fairfax, VA (2008), with a Bachelor of Arts in Communications with a concentration in journalism. She also received a Master of Science in Strategic Public Relations from Virginia Commonwealth University in Richmond, VA (2010). Alexander has a passion for running (completing her first marathon in 2014 and numerous half marathons, 10Ks, and 5Ks since 2010), loves shopping, and traveling.
She is a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. (Omicron Iota, Spring 2007) and resides in Richmond, VA. with her husband, Chris, their son, Ceej, and pup, Luna. You can connect and learn more about Jay Ell by going to www.jayellalexander.com. To learn more about opportunities for a Houston Area Black Girls Run group, visit www.blackgirlsrun.com or https://www.facebook.com/groups/blackgirlsrunhouston/.
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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.
