All results / Stories / Jo-Carolyn Goode
The Women Behind Minority Business Growth in Houston
Being in business for yourself is hard. It is always helpful to have a mentor and some assistance to navigate the path to get to your success story. Business owners in Houston are fortunate in that respect to have a plethora of resources at hand to assist in that department. Some of the main resources for minorities are in the form of our chambers. The Greater Houston Black Chamber (GHBC) and the Houston Hispanic Chamber of Commerce (HHCC) are avenues that entrepreneurs need to seek out to reach that pinnacle level of achievement.
Houston's Water Bill Revolution: Mayor Whitmire's Vision for Transparent Billing
City of Houston Unveils Groundbreaking Plan to Enhance Water Billing Accuracy and Transparency
In a landmark move towards transparency and accountability, Mayor John Whitmire is spearheading a comprehensive water bill improvement plan, aimed at eradicating inaccuracies and rebuilding public trust. Commencing on April 1, 2024, the City of Houston will implement sweeping reforms to ensure customers receive fair and consistent water bills, marking a significant milestone in the city's commitment to service excellence.
African American Music Appreciation Month Still Relevant
Without the beat of the drum, where would we be. Music started from the first beat and has spawned so many beats and songs of today. Always at the forefront of that beat were African Americans. The month of June celebrates the creativity, wealth, culture, and the beat of Black music.
Houston Firefighter Agreement Secures Historic $650 Million Settlement
Mayor John Whitmire and the Houston Professional Fire Fighters Association have announced a groundbreaking deal today, ending an eight-year impasse and paving the way for a new era of collaboration and stability in the city. The $650 million settlement resolves longstanding pay issues dating back to 2017 and ensures a five-year contract moving forward, marking a significant milestone in Houston's history.
Houston Concerts Are Cancelled in the Wake of the Astroworld Festival Tragedy
Houstonians and Travis Scott fans are still mourning the loss of the ten victims who tragically died at the Astroworld Festival concert. Many performers, as well as concert producers and promoters, are closely examining the ways in which they put on concerts and how to make them safer for concertgoers.
Houston's Water Bill Revolution: Mayor Whitmire's Vision for Transparent Billing
City of Houston Unveils Groundbreaking Plan to Enhance Water Billing Accuracy and Transparency
In a landmark move towards transparency and accountability, Mayor John Whitmire is spearheading a comprehensive water bill improvement plan, aimed at eradicating inaccuracies and rebuilding public trust. Commencing on April 1, 2024, the City of Houston will implement sweeping reforms to ensure customers receive fair and consistent water bills, marking a significant milestone in the city's commitment to service excellence.
Joya T. Hayes Takes Office As South Central Regional Director for Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated®
Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated® has always been an organization that of times of crisis, the members respond by stepping up, serving, and continuing the business at hand. The global pandemic of COVID-19 might have delayed their efforts but did not stop them. Treading in uncharted waters, the sorority used its virtual platforms to hold the first virtual election where Joya T. Hayes was declared the South Central Regional Director and installed into office at the 69th international convention of the 112-year-old organization. Hayes now leads 10,000+ members in more than 120 undergraduate and graduate chapters in the states of Arkansas, Louisiana, New Mexico, and Texas in the second largest region of the sorority.
Don’t Suffer Alone: STOP Domestic Violence
This time last year domestic violence was on the rise in Houston. Increasing by almost 10%, victims were now trapped in an enclosed space 24/7 with their abuser. No help from family and friends was available as all were practicing being socially distance while quarantining. Although staying at home to stay safe was enacted to keep everyone was safe from catching the coronavirus, it gave abusers the opportunity to take total control over their defenseless victim(s). Through various community partnerships with the city of Houston, a message was sent out to let survivors know that they don’t have to suffer in silence.
Shell Honors Heroes of Houston with National Ad Campaign
Hurricane Harvey was a storm that changed us. Whether directly affected or indirectly Harvey changed Houstonians and those around the world emotionally, mentally, and physically. Our values of what was important changed. Our concerns for our fellowman broke color lines as well as challenge our thoughts on how one person can make a difference if they just have the desire.
Houston’s Third Gun Buyback Scheduled for Feb. 18th at Deussen Park
Harris County Commissioner Rodney Ellis and Sheriff Ed Gonzalez have announced a gun buyback at Deussen Park on Saturday, Feb. 18, from 8 a.m. to noon. Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner also attended the news conference. The event is part of Harris County’s initiatives to prevent gun violence. This is the third gun buyback co-sponsored by Harris County Precinct One in seven months, resulting in about 2,000 firearms being taken off the street. Residents will be able to turn in firearms in exchange for gift cards worth $50, $100, $150, or $200 at the upcoming buyback, with no questions asked.
Train a Child, Reach a Parent, Represent Well
Proverbs 22:6 states, “Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not depart from it.” Either today’s generations missed a lesson or two or never learned it all but the lesson of knowing how to represent yourself well publically has been lost. Gone are the rules for wearing what is right.
Billy D. Washington: Keeps the Crowds Coming, Keeps the Laughs Going
He is probably the funniest comedian that you don’t really know all too well. A superior talent, Billy D. Washington, is not a comedian that you can compare to others. His sets make you challenge your thought, question your actions, and start a conversation. In other words, the brother is deep. Houston audiences got to experience Washington’s higher level thinking when he headlined at the Joke Joint Comedy Showcase.
Rice Baker Institute Experts Analyze Impact of Taiwan's Presidential Election on Politics and Energy
In a compelling exploration of Northeast Asia's energy landscape and political dynamics, experts at Rice University's prestigious Baker Institute for Public Policy delve into the ramifications of Taiwan's recent presidential election. Hosted by David Satterfield, Director of the Baker Institute and former U.S. ambassador, the latest podcast episode offers invaluable insights into the evolving relationship between Taiwan and China, as well as the implications for global energy security.
Bun B's Trill Burgers and Chef Ronnie Killen Debut Exclusive Menu for 2024 Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo™
Trill Burgers, co-founded by Bun B, and renowned chef Ronnie Killen unveil mouthwatering new menu items for the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo™ 2024, including the Trillen’s Burger and Trillen’s Brisket Fries. Don't miss out on these delectable BBQ-themed offerings available only at Rodeo Plaza from Feb. 27 to March 17!
Unveiling "The R&B Money Tour" with Tank, Keri Hilson, and Carl Thomas: A Night of Soulful Splendor
Live Nation Urban Presents a Spectacular R&B Experience Coming to Dallas and Houston
Get ready for an electrifying summer as Live Nation Urban proudly announces "The R&B Money Tour," featuring the illustrious Tank alongside R&B sensations Keri Hilson and Carl Thomas. This star-studded event promises an enchanting evening filled with soulful melodies and unforgettable performances, marking the first-ever tour to unite these three powerhouse artists on one stage. Prepare to be serenaded, mesmerized, and swept away by the magic of R&B as this tour embarks on its unforgettable journey.
Charles K. Njuguna Takes the Helm as CEO of The Center for Pursuit, Houston's Premier IDD Organization
The Center for Pursuit (The Center), a cornerstone organization dedicated to serving individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD), autism, and related conditions, proudly announces the appointment of Charles K. Njuguna as its new President and Chief Executive Officer, effective April 8th.
Remembering Naomi King: A Legacy of Courage and Compassion
The matriarch of the King family, civil rights icon Naomi Ruth Barber King, leaves behind a profound legacy of love and activism.
The hearts of many in Houston and beyond are heavy as they bid farewell to a remarkable woman whose life epitomized courage, compassion, and unwavering dedication to the fight for equality. Naomi Ruth Barber King, beloved matriarch of the King family and revered civil rights activist, peacefully passed away on March 7th, 2024, in Atlanta, Georgia, at the age of 92.
LaTavia is Using the Low Points to Live a High Life
Issues that would break most have just made two-time Grammy Award winning artist, actress, mother, writer and businesswoman LaTavia Roberson stronger. It has made her grateful for her struggle and even prouder of the path she is on now.
Navigating the Depths of Depression: Understanding Clinical Depression and Seeking Support
Depressive episodes can be triggered by various life events, such as job loss, the death of a loved one, or financial struggles. Nobody is immune to these challenges, and while some emerge from depression more easily, others may require extended assistance. This is where professional help comes into play.
Alpha Kappa Omega Presents 21 Young Ladies in Society Debut
The energy was electric as 21 young ladies jubilantly twirled in circles, nervously practiced their curtseys and carefully walked to ensure no missteps would be taken before they made their official debut at the biennial debutante ball hosted by Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. – Alpha Kappa Omega Chapter. Each debutante’s brains, beauty, and benevolence were celebrated as “Royal Roses of Excellence” before a wall-to-wall crowd of onlookers and well wishers.

