Extraordinary HBCU Talent, outstanding HBCU Leaders, and an engaging audience are the ingredients for an amazingly successful show. It perfectly describes the HBCU Choral Explosion featuring the Spelman College Glee Club with dynamic HBCU Alumni talent. Every HBCU artist that graced us with their presence on stage was incredible. Every vocalist had beautiful strong vocals that were distinctly their own.
1881 HBCU Blue Legacy should be proud of the awesome success of their first fundraiser. Their goal is to raise funds to distribute scholarships to the Houston area HBCU Scholars. The HBCU Choral Explosion truly celebrated the phenomenal talent that is developed, nurtured, and loved in the HBCU environment. HBCU’s truly make a difference in our Black communities.
The 1881 HBCU Blue Legacy Award Honorees were exceptional public servants who pride themselves in supporting, nurturing, and celebrating the vivacious spirit of the HBCU Experience. Mrs. Jackie Bostic, the great-granddaughter of Rev. Jack Yates, who set the standard of Black Excellence in Houston, was presented the 1881 HBCU Blue Legacy Pioneer Award. Marium Echo paid tribute to Mrs. Bostic by serenading her with the classic hit Summertime and Happy Face. The Acts of Service Award was presented by Mayor Pro Tem and Council-member Martha Cautex Tatum of District K to her colleague Council-member Dr. Carolyn Evans-Shabazz of District D. Lea Rutherford paid tribute to Council-member Evans-Shabazz with her rendition of The Greatest Love of All. The Acts of Mentorship Award was presented to an incredible couple, Mr. Ernest and Mrs. Floretta Collins, by their Prairie View Houston Alumni President, Tramyra Waites Simmons. Prairie View A & M Graduate and Multi Talented Artist, Integra Foxx serenaded the fantastic couple with a lovely rendition of Al Green’s Love and Happiness. The Acts of Scholarship Award was presented to dedicated and hard working servant leader, Mrs. Avelina Holmes, the Director of the Houston NAACP ACT-SO and Youth Works programs by Filmmaker Shawnre Tieuel. She was serenaded by beautiful vocals of Morehouse Grad, Jeremy J. King.
The Acts of Courage Citizens Award was presented to Nettie Murry, the mother of Marsai Murry, who was a victim of senseless gun violence in 2003 when she was mistakenly shot at a Hightower High School Football. Nettie selflessly focused on Marsai’s distraught friends and family instead of her own grief. Nettie went even further and advocated that the young man who murdered her daughter not be considered for the Death Penalty.
In honor of the amazing life Marsai Murry lived for 17 years, 1881 HBCU Blue Legacy with Nettie Murry’s support established the Marsai Murry Memorial Scholarship at Spelman College. Once the scholarship fund raises $50,000, a young woman from the Houston Area will receive a $2,500 scholarship in remembrance of Marsai Murry.
There was not a dry eye in the house, but the Spelman College Glee Club pepped everyone up with their dynamic talent. Their harmony was gorgeous and their detailed performances wow’d the audiences.
It was an exceptional look in night awesome event thanks to the Spelman Glee Club, HBCU Alumni Artist, HBCU Presenters, and their donating sponsors like Rucker Roots, Brookies N More, Shape Community Center, 4 Ever Mine Events, Chloe’ Marsai Masterpieces, JCS Project, Ponino’s, Maxwello Dental, Sassy Apparel & Accessories, and Randall McHenry Photography. The HBCU Choral Explosion Sponsors were Chris and Morgan Hollins, Ernest & Floretta Collins, Gulfgate Dodge Ram Jeep, Trez Bistro and Wine Bar, Councilman Edward a Pollard, Jeanine Eaton D.D.S., Critter Care Animal Hospital, Lea Rutherford, Camille Murphy, Councilwoman Dr. Carolyn Evans – Shabazz, Crystal Toussant, Dr. Omah Williams Duncan, and Michelle Mason.
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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.
