“A man with dreams needs a woman with vision. Her perspective, faith and support will change his reality. If she doesn’t challenge you, then she’s no good for you. Men who want to stay ordinary will tell you not to have expectations of them. Men who want to be great will expect you to push them, pray with them and invest in them.” – Unknown

HOUSTON – Typical married couples live a lifetime either building or attempting to build a successful empire for themselves and their offspring. Though some fall short of completing the task, ordinary human behavior has the tendency to motivate people to pursue a sense of security for those closest to them, who they will one day leave behind.

On the contrary, Roy Douglas and Shirley Ann Malonson, whom are both legends in their own right, have selflessly dedicated their entire marriage to caring for the greater good of humanity.

The Dynamic Duo

Prior to being united in holy matrimony by Pastor Bill Lawson in 1982, both Roy Douglas and Shirley Ann had already began leaving remarkable and historical footprints in the sand.

Shirley Ann was the only child birthed to Mrs. Leola A. and Mr. Kye D. Williams. After the passing of her parents, she was raised in Lilly White community by her grandmother, Mrs. Willie Frances Johnson.

She is a product of the Houston Independent School District, where she graduated from Booker T. Washington High School in 1955 and also furthered her education at Texas Southern University.

One of her first “semblances” as a legend came following integration; at that time, she became a “Door Opener” to help create job opportunities for Blacks in Corporate America. In the 60’s she was strategically selected as 1 of 3 first Black people hired in the Data Processing/Computer Department at First City National Bank, the largest bank in Downtown Houston.

By the time she retired as Assistant Vice President/Consumer Loan Officer, Shirley Ann had become a proud symbol of success to local Blacks around Houston. Pastor F. N. Williams recently affirmed this fact in a video tribute to the duo.

“First City National Bank was the first to hire a Black woman as an officer in the bank. Mrs. Malonson was the first Black woman and she rose to official status. So much so, they made her attractive – they put a red carpet on the window and put her in the window – where the public could see her as they passed down the streets – main streets and there she was, sitting at her desk. And as a result of that many of us deposited our monies, our means, our church monies at that bank. She is a first, and we certainly applaud her for that…Paving the way for other Blacks to be involved in banking…Carry on Mrs. Malonson you are still doing a good job!”
-Pastor F.N. Williams, Sr. Antioch MBC

Roy Douglas stems from a family of 11 and was raised in the Acreage Homes community by his father John Curley Malonson. Despite being stricken with polio at six-months of age and walking with braces to help correct partial paralysis; his vision to succeed remained undeterred. Encouraged by his father and equipped with his own measure of volition, Roy Douglas initiated an entrepreneurial journey as early as age seven.

From his savings of shining shoes, recycling bottles and later apprenticing as a wood-worker; he purchased his first home at the age of 16. Before graduating from George Washington Carver High School in 1968, he had become a master trimmer and sole owner of Roy’s Woodworking Company, the forerunner to the much-accomplished Malonson Construction Company. He later attended the University of St. Thomas. By the year, 1980, he was named to a short list of America’s best remodelers and builders, the only African-American to be included at that time.

Building an Empire

Following, Roy Douglas took all of his earnings over the years and invested in land, buying two acres adjacent to a third acre he had his eye on. Negotiations with the owner, Shirley Ann developed into a friendship, marriage and eventually a dynamic business partnership and a phenomenal community-engagement relationship. After marrying in 1982, the couple established RS Ranch in Acreage Homes on 23 acres of land. Several years later, after Shirley Ann’s retirement and the recurrence of Post-Polio Syndrome health issues emerged for Roy Douglas; the couple decided to transition from the construction industry to devoting more time to community service engagement and the inception of several new business ventures.

Thus, the Malonson’s established Shirley Ann’s Black Art & Kollectibles Showroom, the largest Black Art & Kollectibles Showroom in Texas and one of the largest in the nation in 1992. In 1996, the Malonson’s founded African-American News & Issues, the largest African-American newspaper in Texas with a Black perspective, addressing current and historical realities. Two years later, the Dynamic Duo set out on a mission to ensure pizza was delivered throughout the African-American community. Consequently, they purchased two Domino’s Pizza restaurants and later controlled a total of ten in Houston. Once their objective was met, they sold the restaurants.

In 2004, the couple purchased a 251-acres ranch from the legendary race car driver A.J. Foyt Jr. in Waller County, becoming one of two African-American Whitetail Deer Breeders in the nation. In 2013 Shirley Ann’s Flower Shop was incepted. The following year RS Deer & Cattle Ranch was birthed in Waller County.

Economic Impact

As community organizer’s, the Malonson’s founded the Acres Home Citizen Chamber of Commerce, focusing on business, community development and education; the Acres Home Community Development Corp, focusing on housing; the Acres Home Coalition for School Improvement, the first charter school in Texas and the Acres Home Center for Business & Economic Development.

The Malonson’s became the driving force behind Aldine ISD Montessori/Magnet Programs, Lone Star Community College System Victory Center and closed the deal on the Acres Home Multi-Service Center, Acres Home Repair program and the Acres Home Police Station. Through their encouragement, the Acreage Homes community was able to get neighborhood-based policing. The Malonson’s have also helped preserve the legacy of the National Black United Front.

They were also instrumental and helped found the Vietnamese Community Center. Mr. Joseph Do, Director of the Vietnamese Community Center shared the influence Malonson has had on him in their efforts.

He stated, “He is my mentor, he teach me everything, you know, good, bad, and ugly things.”

Additionally, the Malonson’s helped found the Acres Home War on Drugs, the first community War on Drugs in the nation. This initiative garnered the attention of then-President George H.W. Bush, who patterned the nation’s War on Drugs effort after the one started in Acreage Homes.

Former President Bush also quoted Roy Douglas’ stating, “We have to have personal accountability.”

Considering the above, it is no secret why over 400 people rallied together to help celebrate this Dynamic Duo on February 22. The Acres Home Chamber for Business & Economic Development, chaired by Mr. Warren Fitzgerald Muhammad, held its 30th Annual Awards Banquet, honoring the Malonson’s for dedicating over 35-years of impeccable service to the Acreage Homes community and onward.

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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