Houston, TX-Minute Maid Park’s Union Station on Saturday March 11, 2023, was aligned with some of Houston’s best known Who’s Who in community leadership for the Champions For Children Gala presented by the North Houston Suburban Chapter of Jack & Jill of America, Inc. The sold-out gala which was co-emceed by KHOU’s Mia Gradney and Len Cannon honored philanthropic heavy weights, including music artist | actor Curtis “50 Cent” Jackson – Founder of G-Unity Foundation; Astros Foundation Executive Director Paula McCann Harris; and Texas Children’s Hospital President and CEO Mark A. Wallace. Mayor Sylvester Turner and Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee also spent their evening at the gala, each presenting proclamations to include one from Congressman Al Green.
“The Champions For Children Gala exceeded our fundraising goal due to the generous support of our sponsors and we are grateful for all of them, no matter what level they chose to support,” stated Gala Chair Nikki Hamler. JP Morgan Chase & Co. led the list as the event’s Platinum Medal Title Sponsor, followed by Texas Children’s Hospital and the Astros Foundation, who supported at the Gold and Silver Medal levels, respectively. Net proceeds of the Gala will benefit the Jack & Jill Of America Foundation, Inc. and Salvation Army Boys & Girls Club Garden City. “Needless to say, we are excited to be able to support two outstanding organizations serving children and youth. NHS selected Salvation Army BGC Garden City as our local non-profit beneficiary because it is within our Chapter’s geographic boundary and provides valuable programming for low income, at-risk children in the Acres Home community”, said NHS President Marvalette Hunter.
Guests were entertained by the award-winning Joe Carmouche & Band, Gregory Daniels (Saxman) & Tess Reed (prodigy violinist) and a good time was had by all. Some of the noted personalities in attendance included Kisha Porch, Head of Retail Banking, Small Business and Online Products for JP Morgan Chase, “A Different World” star actress Charlene Brown, Dr. Lesia Crumpton-Young, President of Texas Southern University, Houston Police Chief Troy Finner, Houston Fire Chief Sam Pena, celebrity speed artist Ange Hillz and Pastor Marcus Cosby of Wheeler Avenue Baptist Church.
A highlight of the evening was the live auction facilitated by Auctioneer Bennie Lambert, who started a friendly bidding war over several curated items including a live performance art piece painted by famed artist Ange Hillz while violinist Tess Reed performed. The 4’ x 6’ artwork, which took about 8 minutes to complete, appropriately pictured an African American boy and girl proudly adorned with their gold crowns.
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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.
