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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.
JANUARY 31ST: 64 YEARS OF HISTORY
“Education, Motivation, Perseverance” is the motto that Samuel Lee Gravely lived by. Samuel L. Gravely Jr. was a Black pioneer whose accomplishments changed the course of history, both in the military and for Black people. On January 31, 1961, Gravely became the first African American to command a U.S. Navy warship, the USS Falgout. This was a huge milestone not just for him, but for Black Americans in general, showing that anyone could rise to leadership positions, regardless of their race. His story is one of resilience, breaking barriers, and proving that hard work and determination can overcome any challenge.
Gravely was born in 1922 in Richmond, Virginia, and his journey to becoming a Navy leader was not easy. He initially tried to enlist in the U.S. Army but was turned away because of an alleged heart murmur. Despite the challenges, he was determined to serve his country. After high school, he enlisted in the U.S. Naval Reserve during World War II. At that time, the military was segregated, and Black sailors were often given lower-ranking jobs or limited opportunities. But Gravely never let racism stop him. He worked hard, rose through the ranks, and proved himself as a capable and courageous leader.
His leadership did not stop with being the first African American to command a warship. Samuel Gravely went on to achieve several more “firsts” in his military career. He was the first Black person to be promoted to the rank of admiral in the U.S. Navy. This was a huge moment not only in military history but also in the fight for racial equality in the United States. His success was proof that Black people could excel in positions of power and responsibility, even in an environment that was traditionally not welcoming to them. Gravely’s rise to the top wasn’t just important for the Navy but it also greatly impacted Black history.
His achievements also had a lasting impact on the U.S. military. After Gravely broke through these racial barriers, the Navy and other branches of the military began to see more Black people in leader- ship roles. His leadership and excellence set the stage for other Black officers to follow in his footsteps. Today, his legacy is honored by the Navy, with several ships and military programs named after him, reminding future generations of the importance of Black history, diversity and inclusion in all areas of life.
There is an elementary school in Haymarket, Virginia named after his legacy. The street he grew up on in Richmond, VA was renamed to “Admiral Gravely Boulevard.” A guided missile destroyer in the United States Navy was named in his honor, called the USS Gravely (DDG-107.) He is honored annually in San Pedro, California aboard battleship Iowa, at the Gravely celebration Read more at experience.
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