October 3rd, 2024

Courtesy of The Baker Family

The world came to know a beautiful, bouncing baby boy by the name of Wendell Carl Baker on February 14, 1946 in Bay City, Texas. Born to proud and devoted parents, Jerdie Mae Holland Baker and Milton Garland Baker, Wendell was reared in Littig, Texas, where he obtained all his formal schooling in the local public school district through graduation.

Throughout his younger years, Wendell was keenly interested in animals and nature, and he engaged in schoolwork with great ease.  His intellectual curiosity enhanced his natural academic talents in science and mathematics, both which he excelled and expressed an interest in pursuing professionally after school.  Wendell set his sights on higher education, following in his father’s footsteps by matriculating at his beloved Prairie View A & M University, where he studied Animal Science.  Upon earning his bachelor’s degree, he continued toward his most auspicious life goal of becoming a veterinarian.  Wendell entered the renowned Tuskegee Institute’s College of Veterinary Medicine, then and currently the nation’s only veterinarian medical school that resides at a Historically Black College or University.  Dr. Wendell Carl Baker, Sr. successfully earned his Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree in 1972.

Dr. Baker honorably served our country by devoting the next four years of his career to the United States Army, where he worked as an Army veterinarian.  Most of all, Dr. Baker gained tremendous joy from educating the next generation of agriculturists, animal scientists, and future veterinarians.  He returned to his Alma Mater, Prairie View A & M, and taught agricultural science from 1976 through 1984.  He also served as the University Farm Manager. Over these eight years, Dr. Baker had the distinct privilege of working under the leadership and guidance of the legendary veterinarian, Dr. Alfred N. Poindexter, who instilled in him great confidence through hands-on experience while also demonstrating the spirit of giving back to the generations that follow.

The university classrooms and laboratories kept Dr. Baker intricately connected to his craft, which eased his transition o launching a private practice. In 1978, he opened the Baker Veterinary Clinic in Prairie View, where he treated all types of animals, large and small, in addition to establishing a specialty in equine and acupuncture and dentistry. Additionally, Dr. Baker was a pioneer in the field of white-tail deer DNA testing. Most notably, Dr. baker continued his commitment to growing and developing new and future veterinarians by intentionally hiring recent graduates and or interns from Prairie View A & M, as well as the Tuskegee Vet School. To his credit, hundreds of veterinarians, mostly African Americans, were trained under Dr. Baker’s tutelage and achieved their dreams through his nurturing guidance.

Those who knew Dr. Baker well, know that he never declined a challenging case on a sick or injured animal. He was highly motivated by tough cases that were brought to him in the middle of the night or those that were so dire that a house call was required for treatment. Many of his clients boast about the special touch and great skill he applied to their animal when they were in the worst health or in a heightened emergency situation.

Outside the clinic, Wendell explored may interests and hobbies. He was a true outdoorsman and rarely missed an opportunity to enjoy the activities that afforded him immense satisfaction ad relaxation, including horseback riding, hunting, bay fishing, gun-shooting and target practice, and designing leather goods. Most of all, the time he spent with his family and closes friends was most cherished. He especially enjoyed watching classic western movies and attending rodeos with his grandsons.

Wendell is preceded in death by his mother, Jerdie Mae Holland Baker; his father, Milton Baker; sister, Mable Ann; and son Wendell Baker, Jr.

He leaves to cherish his memory and continue his legacy a devoted wife, Annette Baker, step daughters, Maya Rutledge (Jason) and Arianne Gafford-Jackson; step-son, Kevin Murrell; grandchildren, Ashton Baker, Jaylon Lindsey, Javar Tompkins, Jamari Idlebird, and Keveon Murrell; brothers Milton Baker, Jr. of Elgin, Texas (Teresa), Shifton Baker of Spring, Texas (Arlena), Jeffery Baker of Elgin, Texas, and Steven Green of Austin, Texas; his loving sisters, Jerdie Garland Horn (Bill), and Rosa Reese (Lewis); special nieces, Sharlonda Rutledge and Taneshia Whorton; close friends, Bud Rhumes, Eric Ceree, George High, Sam Parker, and Jim Lawson; fellow members of the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association, and a host of other extended family and friends.

 

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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