Judge Kenneth Michael Hoyt was born on March 2, 1948 in San Augustine County, Texas. His father, Earl, was a barber; his mother, Fannie, a beautician. Hoyt attended Lincoln Elementary School and Lincoln High School, both in San Augustine, Texas. He received his A.B. degree from Texas Southern University in 1969 and his J.D. degree from Texas Southern University’s Thurgood Marshall School of Law in 1972, where he served as an editor for the Law Review.
From 1972 to 1981, Hoyt worked as an attorney at the Houston, Texas law firms of Wickliff, King, Hoyt & Jones; Anderson, Hodge, Hoyt & Jones; and Hoyt, Webster, Shepard & Anderson. While practicing law, Hoyt also fulfilled a six year military reserve commitment from 1972 to 1978. In addition, he served as city attorney for Kendleton, Texas and Prairie View, Texas from 1975 until 1981.
In 1981, Governor Bill Clements appointed Hoyt to preside over the 125th Civil District Court of Texas. He also practiced law through his firm, Kenneth M. Hoyt, P.C., from 1982 to 1985. During that time, Hoyt was a member of the faculty of the South Texas College Trial Advocacy Program, and from 1983 to 1984, he was an adjunct professor at the Thurgood Marshall School of Law. From 1985 to 1988, Hoyt served as a justice of the First Court of Appeals of Texas. Then, on November 24, 1987, Hoyt was nominated by President Ronald Reagan to a seat on the United States District Court for the Southern District of Texas. He was confirmed by the United States Senate in March of 1988, and received his commission on April 1, 1988. Hoyt was the second African-American federal judge in the state of Texas. He took senior status on March 2, 2013.
Hoyt has received numerous awards, including the City of Kendleton Service Award, the Willie Melton Civic Memorial Award, three Houston Business and Professional Men’s Club awards, the Ethel Ranson Art and Literary Award, the National Black Law Students Association President’s Award, an Institute for Social Justice Award, the Houston Lawyers Association Outstanding Service Award, the Gardere 10th Annual Martin Luther King Oratory Award, San Augustine’s Key to the City Award, the Thurgood Marshall Christian Legal Society Award, an NAACP award, and multiple awards from the Thurgood Marshall School of Law. Hoyt has also served on many state and local bar committees, including the Thurgood Marshall School of Law ABA Blue Ribbon Committee and the Governor’s Blue Ribbon Criminal Justice Corrections Committee.
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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.
