The Mayor’s Office of Cultural Arts, Houston Arts Alliance with City of Houston At-Large No. 4, Council Member Letitia Plummer, sponsored a grant workshop for the Houston Community to learn about the arts grants, services, processes, and awards that are available to Houston residents. This was an effort to help Houston citizens improve their chances of getting a gift to support their art projects. All creative producers were invited, no matter what their art discipline is.
This workshop was packed and truly did a service to the community at large. A recent study of Houston Arts Alliance grant recipients revealed that 65% of grantees were White men. Houston is one of the most diverse cities in our nation, but only a tiny fraction of the Arts opportunities is given to people who reflect Houston’s population. That is a major problem.
Houston Arts Alliance (HAA) is a local arts and culture organization whose principal work is implementing the City of Houston’s vision, values, and goals for its arts grantmaking and civic art investments. HAA’s work is conducted through contracts with the City of Houston, overseen by the Mayor’s Office of Cultural Affairs (MOCA). HAA also executes privately funded special projects to meet the arts community’s needs, such as disaster preparation, research on the state of the arts in Houston, and temporary public art projects that energize neighborhoods. HAA takes pride in helping artists and nonprofits be bold, productive, and strong.
Taylor Jackson, HAA Director of Grants, did an excellent job facilitating the workshop and thoroughly explaining the ins and outs of the grant process from start to awarding and receiving Houston grant funds. Colleena Payne, Grants Manager, was very hands-on and ready to answer any questions about the grant process. The audience of possible grant recipients reflected the population of Houston. This was an excellent opportunity for any artist to get detailed and vital information about the process. If you missed it, visit https://www.houstonartsalliance.com/ for more details about their grant opportunities. Thank you, Council Member Dr. Plummer, for creating the opportunity to enlighten our Houston Artists about the process it takes to get funded to spread the Arts throughout the Houston Community. The Houston Arts Alliance leadership and staff did an exceptional job of making every potential grantee feel welcome and confident about their chance of being awarded a grant. To every Houston artist, don’t be afraid to give it your best effort. You could be the next grant awardee.
The City of Houston Mayor’s Office of Cultural Affairs (MOCA) develops policies and initiatives that foster an environment where art and culture flourish for the sharing and benefit of all residents and visitors. You can find great cultural destinations and engaging arts events all over Houston daily. Visit Houston’s Cultural Events Calendar at http://calendar.haatx.com/ to explore the city’s extraordinary creative and cultural activities, including individuals and organizations supported by city grants. You can find out what’s happening in Houston’s SEVEN Cultural Districts: Arts District Houston, Midtown Cultural Arts & Entertainment District, Theater District Houston, Houston Museum District, East End Cultural District, Third Ward Cultural District, Fifth Ward Cultural District at https://www.houstontx.gov/culturalaffairs/.
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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.
