October 9th, 2024

CHEF PSALMIST

By: Shelley McKinley

There is no other way to describe Willie Mae Sharpe other than as a chef and a Psalmist, hence she is known as Chef Psalmist. Chef Willie Mae was named after and raised by her maternal grandmother, Willie Mae Wiley. Willie Mae Sharpe watched her grandmother run her small catering business in Beaumont, TX. Sharpe also helped her grandmother in the kitchen to prepare the dishes that she served. Sharpe witnessed her grandmother feed strangers coming from the railroad. As her grandmother explained, “ e scripture says ‘Be careful how you entertain strangers; because some have entertained angels unaware. – Hebrews 13:2.”

 

Willie Mae Sharpe always knew she could sing. Her gi of song has opened many doors, and some may recognize her from the Trinity Broadcasting Network (TBN). She has opened for many Gospel singers and shared the stage with national recording artists such as Marvin Sapp, Myron Williams, Israel Houghton, Donnie McClurkin, Kurt Carr, Fred Hammond, Brian Courtney Wilson, Betty Ransom Nelson, Kim Burrell, and Bishop Carlton Pearson to name a few. Her gi has also taken her to Geneva, Switzerland; Viernheim, Germany; and Landstuhl, Germany.  roughout her travels, however, one dream remained which was to open her own bed & breakfast patterned after her grandmother’s home. Sharpe shared, “One of my greatest memories was hearing the testimonies of so many who had come back to just say ‘thank you’.” With determination to combine her three loves of food, music, and people, Chef Willie Mae Sharpe studied at  The Art Institute of Houston.

 

Her goal was to merge traditional comfort dishes with sophisticated culinary cuisine. She also wanted people to enjoy her great food and great music together. Willie Mae Sharpe started by opening her catering business and named it “ e Chef Psalmist,” making the switch from songstress to entrepreneur. In August 2023, she finally saw the manifestation of her 30-year dream by opening Wiley House Bed & Breakfast in the Atascocita/ Humble area. It is named after her grandmother and provides “a taste of soul” which features live music in addition to scrumptious food and a relaxing stay. Sharpe continues to sing at Wheeler Ave. Baptist Church. She experiences her dream-come-true every time she gets to see people react to her food and music at Wiley House Bed & Breakfast.  The added bonus is that she has the chance to continue the legacy of Black entrepreneurship given to her by her grandmother.

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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