October 9th, 2024

By Stacy M. Brown, NNPA Newswire Senior Correspondent
@StacyBrownMedia

Iconic Grammy and American Music Award winner Stephanie Mills is unapologetically pro-Black. On her social media pages, she often sends shoutouts to “talented Black men” and “Black Queens.” She observed Black Out Day and Juneteenth.

With one of the most distinctive voices in contemporary music, the Grammy and American Music Award-winning recording artist has five best-selling albums and ten Billboard #1 singles.

With a career that spans more than 35 years, Mills has distinguished herself as an actress and performer whom her manager says is just as much at home on the Broadway stage as in the recording studio.

Her endless string of hit records include, “Whatcha Gonna Do with My Lovin,’” “Never Knew Love Like This Before,” “If I Were Your Woman,” “I Feel Good All Over,” “You Putting a Rush on Me,” “I Have Learned to Respect the Power of Love,” “Something in the Way You Make Me Feel,” and “Home.”

She’s also known for her stirring duets with Teddy Pendergrass on “Two Hearts,” and “Feel the Fire.”

“You know, when I was recording with Teddy, he was like a brother to me, but I look back, and he was so phine… He could have been my husband!,” Mills laughed.

When BlackPressUSA reached out to her manager, Amp Harris, to invite the “Home” singer for an interview, her response was priceless: “BlackPressUSA, oh heck yeah, I’m doing it!” Mills declared.

Unfortunately, technology challenges prevented her from keeping our originally scheduled date. However, that didn’t stop Mills from tweeting, “I was scheduled to interview with BlackPressUSA and Stacy Brown. I had technical issues. However, I am a woman of my word. Plus, it’s a Black organization, so I had to make it right.”

Two days later, Mills more than made it right. She sat for an hour-long interview in which “The Wiz” star talked about her disgust over the police killing of George Floyd, her son’s new book, and her celebrated career.

“I’m crying now just thinking about that man who had his knee on George Floyd’s neck,” Mills stated, insisting on talking about police brutality and “that man in the White House.”

“I think there should be a federal law that has to be adhered to in Chicago, New York, and across the country when police do these things,” she proclaimed, adding that she’s working to help make that happen.

Mills is also promoting the 2020 Census. “Counting everyone helps ensure communities receive federal resources to support healthcare, education, accessibility services, and more,” Mills noted.

Her 19-year-old son, Farad J Mills, was also a fascinating topic of conversation. “He’s my greatest gift. He’s smart, intelligent, funny, charming, charismatic, handsome, and a wonderful young man,” Mills declared. Farad J, who has Down Syndrome, works with Mills and her manager, and he’s also written a book, “The Adventures of Farad J.

“He doesn’t know how much he has fulfilled my life,” Mills said of her son whom can be seen dancing with his mom to one of Mills’ hit songs in a video she recently posted on Twitter.

BlackPressUSA saluted Mills at the end of the interview by playing the song and video, “Home.”

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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