Congressman Al Green Champions $11 Million Opportunity for Minority Entrepreneurs
In a monumental stride for empowering minority business owners, Congressman Al Green has once again proven why he’s a beacon of hope for social and economic justice. Through his Minority Business Resiliency Act of 2021, codified within the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act of the same year, the Minority Business Development Agency (MBDA) now stands as a permanent federal agency dedicated to the advancement of minority enterprises. This victory has unlocked unprecedented opportunities, including the announcement of $11 million in funding, poised to transform the entrepreneurial landscape.
Campus Chronicles - January 23, 2025
Catch up on the news happening in Alief ISD, Aldine ISD, and Channelview ISD
Hyatt Regency San Antonio Riverwalk Unveils Galentine’s and Valentine’s Day Celebrations
The Hyatt Regency San Antonio Riverwalk invites guests to celebrate Galentine’s and Valentine’s Day with festive events, romantic packages, and luxurious accommodations in the heart of Downtown San Antonio.
Harris County Attorney Christian D. Menefee: A Fierce Advocate for Justice Amid President Trump’s Disastrous Policy Shifts
As the political winds in Washington shift under President Donald J. Trump’s second term, the first days have already unleashed a wave of policy changes that are reverberating across the nation—and especially in Harris County. Among them is an executive order entitled “Ending Radical and Wasteful Government DEI Programs and Preferencing,” which has sent shockwaves through communities relying on environmental justice protections.
Health and Hope: Free Mammograms, Vaccines, and Screenings at MLK Health Center
Mark your calendars, Houston! On Saturday, January 25, 2025, the Harris Health Martin Luther King Jr. Health Center is rolling out the red carpet for community wellness. From 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., this Health and Wellness Fair promises more than just screenings—it’s a celebration of care, compassion, and community.
Houston Takes Center Stage in an International Celebration of Childhood
Guardians of the Gods: A Global Theatrical Collaboration Led by Alley Theatre
The Tony Award®-winning Alley Theatre has embarked on a groundbreaking journey that transcends borders, languages, and cultures. In partnership with Swedish theatre Unga Klara and nine other renowned international theatres, the Alley Theatre proudly announces its participation in Guardians of the Gods, a captivating theatrical production set to tour 11 countries across five continents in 2025. This initiative, part of The Childhood Project, aims to unite children around the world through the shared experience of navigating a world governed by adults.
"Make Good Trouble" by Jamia Wilson: A Call to Action for Changemakers of All Ages
In an era where activism isn’t just encouraged but essential, Jamia Wilson’s newest book, Make Good Trouble, offers a compelling handbook for anyone seeking to challenge injustice and create a better world. Perfect for both Generation Alpha and Baby Boomers, this vibrant work echoes the timeless call to action of civil rights icon John Lewis, inspiring readers to, quite literally, make good trouble.
A Night to Celebrate: The 2025 iHeartRadio Music Awards Highlight Music, Community, and Resilience
Houston, mark your calendars! The Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles is set to host one of the most exciting nights in music: the 2025 iHeartRadio Music Awards. Scheduled for Monday, March 17, this annual extravaganza promises an unforgettable evening honoring the artists, songs, and moments that defined 2024.
Keystone Awaits: Why the 2025 NBS Ski Summit is the Ultimate Ski Experience – One Month Away
Get ready to ski, connect, and experience the thrill of the mountains like never before at the 2025 NBS Ski Summit in the breathtaking Keystone, Colorado. Whether you're an experienced skier or a first-timer, Keystone offers an unforgettable experience, making it the ultimate destination for NBS enthusiasts looking to make memories that last a lifetime.
Celebrating Excellence: The 2025 Audrey H. Lawson IMPACT Awards Luncheon and Fashion Show
Honoring Houston's Most Impactful Leaders
The spotlight will shine on nine extraordinary Houstonians at the Audrey H. Lawson IMPACT Awards Luncheon and Fashion Show on March 1, 2025, at 11:30 a.m. The annual event, hosted by The Women’s Guild of Wheeler Avenue Baptist Church, is set to take place at the Hilton Americas, downtown Houston. This year’s celebration, themed Celebrating our Legacy, Built on Style and Grace, promises an unforgettable experience, combining powerful leadership, community contributions, and inspiring fashion.
Statement By Dr. Gail C. Christopher, NCHE Executive Director, On the National Day of Racial Healing
President Jimmy Carter Epitomized the Meaning of Healing and Transformation
WASHINGTON, DC – “Nine years ago, the National Day of Racial Healing (NDORH) was launched as an annual observance dedicated to promoting equitable communities and fostering truth-telling, understanding, and collaboration to envision and create a future in which racism - the belief in a false hierarchy of human value, no longer defines our society. This transformative day allows communities, organizations, and individuals to engage in discussions and actions that pave the way for healing and transformation. It inspires people to build stronger relationships across different racial and cultural backgrounds, laying the foundation for a more inclusive and just society. We want to reflect on the shared humanity that unites us all and work towards dismantling systemic inequalities. “Individuals and organizations are encouraged to participate in activities promoting racial healing, such as community conversations, film screenings, art exhibits, workshops, and more. The day creates spaces for us to acknowledge our biases and privilege, educate ourselves on the impacts of racism, and plan actions to create a more inclusive world. It's through our collective engagement that we can truly make a difference. “Today, I think about a man who embodied the meaning of NDORH. During his lifetime, former President Jimmy Carter transformed from the grandson of a Deep South plantation owner, overcoming his interpersonal prejudice and bias, to champion human rights, civil rights, and diversity. Carter’s father was a segregationist who employed Black families as tenant farmers. Yet, Carter was a living example of the tenets of racial healing and the NDORH. He acted within these principles throughout his entire life’s work. The degree to which he worked for peace, bridging divides, and respecting human dignity was extraordinary. “Carter had compassion for people suffering and for those exposed to injustices. In sharp contrast to what we experience today, he was a political leader who valued honesty. He believed in the responsibility of telling the truth. He embraced humility. You don't get to be President of the United States, the most powerful elected person in the world, without a huge ego. Still, he embodied humility; it was front and center. His spiritual values kept him humble and honest. And he was able to forgive. He was a real peacemaker. After his presidency, he didn’t just build a library; he actively worked to support human rights and fairness worldwide. His actions underscored his love of humanity. “His life’s work was dedicated to transformational policies and practices. Carter facilitated the Camp David Accords, the 1978 agreements marking a significant step toward peace in the Middle East at the time. He rejected violent options and negotiated the release of US hostages in Iran, calling them “52 precious lives.” A strong advocate for a Palestinian homeland, Carter wrote a controversial book, Palestine: Peace Not Apartheid, arguing that Israel's continued control and construction of settlements were significant obstacles to peace in the Middle East. He created the Energy Department to help everyday Americans by promoting energy conservation, developing alternative energy sources, and ensuring the country's energy security. He renegotiated the Panama Canal Treaty to improve relations with Latin American countries, address tensions surrounding U.S. control of the canal, and recognize Panama's sovereignty while ensuring the canal remained open to international shipping. Carter installed solar panels on the White House (later removed by President Reagan), promoting energy conservation. “After his presidency, through the Carter Center, he continued improving the quality of life for humankind. His Center advanced human rights, resolved conflicts, and prevented diseases. One of its crowning achievements was leading the near eradication of Guinea worm disease, a parasitic ailment that once afflicted millions. The Center is also renowned for its work in observing elections across the globe to ensure fair and democratic processes, as well as initiatives aimed at improving mental health awareness and reducing stigma. Carter’s engagement with Habitat for Humanity also aimed to create affordable housing for families across the country. “Jimmy Carter inherited the legacy of racial hierarchy about as acutely as it could be inherited. But his adherence to the principles of healing and the values embraced by NDORH transformed him into a global leader committed to peace, justice, and equality. He will be missed. “His powerful legacy tells us that there is hope that others can also transform and make our world a better, more just place in the future.” **** (For broadcast or print interviews with Dr. Christopher, please contact Michael K. Frisby at Mike@frisbyassociates.com or 202-625-4328.) **** Dr. Gail C. Christopher, the Executive Director of the National Collaborative for Health Equity, is also a Senior Scholar at the Center for Advancement of Well-Being at George Mason University and a former Senior Advisor and Vice President of the W. K. Kellogg Foundation. She led the development and launch of Truth, Racial Healing, and Transformation (TRHT) at the W. K. Kellogg Foundation. Her new book is RX-Racial Healing: A Guide to Embracing Our Humanity.
Short-term Credentials: Empowering Our Youth for a Bright Future
Communications Director, Houston Community College (HCC) Central Campus
Returning to Houston after a 36-year absence to join Houston Community College (HCC) was a full-circle moment for me. My journey from Third Ward and Sunnyside to serving in the U.S. Army, and later living in San Antonio, was one I never expected to take. However, the opportunity to contribute to my community through education called me back home. Today, as the Communications Director for HCC’s Central Campus, I have the privilege of engaging with communities that shaped me and spreading the good news about the wealth of educational opportunities that are right here in our city.
Celebrate You This Valentine’s Day: Stylish Self-Care Essentials That Say “I Deserve It”
Valentine’s Day is no longer just about roses, chocolates, and candlelit dinners—it’s about celebrating you. Whether you’re single, coupled, or just here for the vibe, this is the season to embrace your inner glow and treat yourself to a little luxury. At Houston Style Magazine, we’ve found two standout picks that blend style, sustainability, and self-care for the ultimate indulgence. So, go ahead, be your own Valentine—you’re worth it.
Feeding Texas Futures: Commissioner Sid Miller Invites Nonprofits to Nourish Young Minds This Summer
Summer in Texas isn’t just about scorching heatwaves and backyard barbecues—it’s also about ensuring our children stay healthy, active, and ready for the next academic year. Enter the 2025 Summer Meal Programs, brought to you by the Texas Department of Agriculture (TDA) and spearheaded by none other than Texas Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller.
Powering Up Houston’s Future: The DOE's ITAC Implementation Grants Open a New Round of Opportunities
Houston’s manufacturing heartbeat is about to get even stronger! The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE), in collaboration with ENERGYWERX, has reopened the Industrial Training & Assessment Centers (ITAC) Implementation Grant Program—and this time, the stakes are higher than ever for small and medium-sized manufacturing firms (SMMs).
Goode Co. Armadillo Palace Rocks 2025 with Star-Studded Concert Lineup
Looking to infuse your nights with authentic Texas charm, lip-smacking food, and electrifying music? Goode Co. Armadillo Palace has you covered! This Houston hotspot is kicking off the year with a stellar lineup of live performances that’ll have you two-stepping into February. From Shawn Pander’s soulful melodies to The Guzzlers’ legendary anniversary bash, there’s something for every music lover.
Smokie Phillips Sworn In as County Constable for Pct. 7: A Legacy of Service and Dedication to the Community
In a heartfelt ceremony at Fountain Life Center on Main Street, James “Smokie” Phillips, a Houston native with 37 years of law enforcement experience in Harris County, took the oath of office as County Constable for Precinct 7. Phillips succeeds May Walker, who had held the position since 2005, marking the beginning of a new chapter for both him and the community he serves.
Blueprint Church: A Faith-Based Community Expanding in Houston
Houston, Texas, is a vibrant city filled with diverse cultures and religions. Amidst this spiritual tapestry, Blueprint Church has quickly gained momentum as a dynamic and growing congregation. With their unwavering faith and a commitment to spreading the love of Jesus, the church has seen remarkable growth and transformation, and now, they are stepping into a new chapter that will bring even more opportunities to impact the community. The anticipation is high as Blueprint Church prepares to move to a new location at Bayou City Event Center, located at 9401 Knight Rd., Houston, TX 77045, starting January 26, 2025.
Love, Fredericksburg: A Journey Through History, Wine, and Hill Country Charm
Nestled in the heart of Texas Hill Country is a cute little German town called Fredericksburg, which offers an inviting blend of rich history, vibrant culture, and breathtaking scenery. As part of the town’s new “Love, Fredericksburg” campaign, visitors are encouraged to embrace its charm and explore the many facets that make it a must-visit and a beloved destination.
BANF’s $500,000 Artist Awards Spark a Creative Renaissance in Houston
Houston is no stranger to innovation, but the BIPOC Arts Network and Fund (BANF) is taking creativity to new heights with its groundbreaking 2025 Artist Awards. This January, 25 extraordinary local artists will receive a $20,000 grant each, alongside an 18-month immersive learning experience, to push the boundaries of cultural innovation and uplift the voices of Houston’s vibrant BIPOC communities.
