Community Journal 27

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November 2013

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27th Edition @dmars_com

Giving Back to Your Community Giving Back to the Community Ryan’s Way

By Judy Blake

I believe that all parents should teach their children the importance of volunteering at an early age.

Helping other...

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@dmars_com From what we get, we can make a living; what we give, however, makes a life. ~Arther Ashe

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t d-mars.com, it’s not only our duty, but also our privilege to highlight and celebrate the accomplishments of African Americans in

the world of fashion.

Saving Our Selves

By J. T. Myers

In our history we have been taught that education is the great equalizer in society. However, it actually is...

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d-mars.com Hosts the Celebration of the Year Hall of Fame Banquet Recognizes Black Athletes PAGE 21

Join our e-mail list for the latest updates @ d-mars.com

Get to Know d-mars.com Top 50 Black Models’

Most Nominated: Kaya Pickens

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Community Members Celebrate at the “Evolution of Gospel” Event PAGE 23

November 2013

Journal Behind The

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Publisher’s Message

Keith J. Davis, Sr.

SR. PUBLISHER Keith J. Davis, Sr.

SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT Kevin Davis

VICE PRESIDENT Kim Floyd

ASSOCIATE EDITOR Valerie Jones

ACCOUNTING MANAGER

Much like any team sport or group of any sort, a community can only be strong as its weakest member. That’s why it’s so important we embrace, support, and give back to our community. Small things such as buying from local businesses and volunteering with local organizations can make a huge impact. This issue highlights wonderful people in our community who give back as well as great ways to give back in your own community.

As always again, thank you for your continued support of d-mars.com. When you support d-mars.com, you are supporting more than just our company; you are supporting the communities in which we live and work. Working together, we can succeed in making positive things happen.

Eugenie Doualla

ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT

Angelle Gillum

SENIOR ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE Johnny Ray Davis, Jr. C.T. Foster Eric D. Goodwine

PHOTOGRAPHY L.C. Poullard Grady Carter Tony Gaines

MULTIMEDIA DIRECTOR Andrea Hennekes

LAYOUT & GRAPHIC DESIGNER Kevin Wright

DISTRIBUTION

Booker T. Davis, Jr. Rockie Hayden

Contents d-mars.com Hosts the Celebration of the Year . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Get to Know d-mars.com Top 50 Black Models’ Most Nominated: Kaya Pickens . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Saving Our Selves Breaking the Code: Uncovering the Secrets to Extraordinary Achievement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Giving Back to the Community - Ryan’s Way . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Celebrating the Life of Eric E. Goosby, Sr. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Here Comes the Bride . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Hall of Fame Banquet Recognizes Black Athletes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Muslim Democratic Caucus of Texas Hosts Banquet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Community Members Celebrate at the “Evolution of Gospel” Event . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

The Bridge Conference . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

3rd Annual Ricky Anderson Project Celebrity Golf Classic . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Up-and-coming Recording Artist Starts Nonprofit to Help Empower Teens . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Valerie Jones Judy Blake J. T. Myers

MR. D-MARS Tip of the Month We must exchange the philosophy of excuse – what I am is beyond my control – for the philosophy of responsibility.

– Barbara Jordan

d-mars.com Business Journal 7322 Southwest Fwy, Suite 805 Houston, Texas 77074

713-272-9511 . Phone 713-272-6364 . Fax

CONNECT WITH US ONLINE @d-mars.com

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November 2013

d-mars.com Hosts the Celebration of the Year

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here was an explosion of fashion, arts, and culture at the d-mars.com Celebration of the Year, held at The Bayou City Event Center. MR. D-MARS and the 2014 Top 50 Black Models hosted the historical celebration, which included a fashion show, a fashion awards ceremony, MR. D-MARS’ birthday celebration, and release of the d-mars.com African American Luxury Lifestyle Directory.

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t d-mars.com, it’s not only our duty, but also our privilege to highlight and celebrate the accomplishments of African Americans in the world of

fashion. Houston is home to some of the trendiest, talented and business-savvy African Americans and I was elated to be able to showcase their capabilities with the awards ceremony and fashion showcase featuring our 2014 Top 50 Black Models, MR. D-MARS, President and CEO of d-mars.com

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ntertainment and hosts included King MC, Fashion Showcase Coordinator Lauren Carmon, News Anchor Melinda Spaulding, music by Rob G “The General” of 97.9 The Box, and live performance by Reggie Jamz. Notable attendees included Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee; Retired NBA Hall-of-Famer Moses Malone; State Rep. Ron Reynolds, Houston Attorney Ben Hall; and James

Prince, CEO of Rap-A-Lot Records.

Thank you to all of our Title Sponsors for an Amazing evening

Kamica Hampton Realty Troy B. Smith Professional Services Porsche of West Houston Lamik Beauty The Hall Law Firm Experience Our World of Marketing, Media and Communication

November 2013

Honorees

Kim Roxie

Fashion Industry Trailblazer

Jackie Adams

Fashion Industry Community Hero

Mal Bailey-Massie

Fashion Industry Trailblazer

Ebele Iloanya Top Designer

Our honorees have made a significant impact for African Americans, not only in the Houston community, but in the world of fashion.

- MR. D-MARS

Kele Helm

Top Boutique

George Russell Top Tailor

Shakeina

Top Boutique

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Dionne Green Top Designer

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November 2013

“Getting the d-mars.com fashion industry trailblazer of the year award was definitely a humbling experience. Being as though I am young and learning myself, it really showed me that perseverance pays off. Even though there have been so many accomplishments by people before us that we pay homage to, there are still more doors to open in this industry for African Americans. I’ll use this platform to magnify my voice and bring in collaboration, which is what the celebration of the year was all about.

I would not wish anyone that is a minority in Houston to miss out on an opportunity to be a part of this event.” – Kim Roxie, LAMIK Beauty

“It was an honor to be one of the recipients of the 2013 Fashion Trailblazer Award.

This event was a great opportunity for me to introduce MalsCustomJewelry.com to local boutiques and meet some of my local fans. Special Thanks To D-Mars.com!!!”

– Malorie Bailey-Massie, Mal’s Custom Jewelry Experience Our World of Marketing, Media and Communication

November 2013

“I thought it was an awesome event. I am so honored to be included. I can’t wait to see how it grows in years to come.” – Dionne Green, Susej Designs

Fashion Showcase

Congratulations to all of the Top 50 Black Models

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November 2013

“The Fashion Showcase was a glamorous night of beauty coming to life. Thank you for honoring QWASHAE Boutique with the Top Boutique Award. This award is very special to us. We pride ourselves in giving the best to our clients, and it’s nice to be recognized in this way. It was a pleasure being a part of your very first Fashion Showcase! We had a magnificent time at this year’s event. It was a beautiful experience to witness everyone in fashion taking the stage together! The Top 50 Models looked amazing; they dazzled on the runway. You and your staff did an outstanding job. Wishing you much success on the next event as well…Bravo!” – Shakeina, QWASHAE Boutique

“When you’re wearing First Impression Custom Clothes, everybody becomes a model. We presented a fashion show with men from age 19 to 87, ranging in height from 5 feet to 6’10” and weighing from 110-375 pounds. We had all sizes and all shapes. I loved it. I think this was D-MARS best event yet.”

– George Russell, First Impression Custom Clothes Experience Our World of Marketing, Media and Communication

November 2013

“The event was very uplifting and inspirational. It was an honor to have been a part of the big celebration and especially to have received the top designer award.” – Ebele Iloanya, MODChic

“The Celebration of the Year was exactly that! It was one of the best fashion shows/parties I have attended in the past two years – from the set-up, decor, guest attendance, crowd participation, clothing designs and models. Even the food was great. It was a perfect venue; need I say more? I look forward to next year to see how MR. DMARS is going to top that!” – Kele Helm, Kele’s Kloset Experience Our World of Marketing, Media and Communication

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November 2013

“With fashion being a much understated industry in Houston, it was very nice to see it highlighted and made a feature in the D-MARS directory. The future of fashion in Houston will soar when the business community starts to see it as a ‘real’ business and not just a hobby or fun industry used for entertainment purposes.

Each professional has a ‘brand’ that it puts forth and ‘image’ is very important with every industry, so fashion and beauty is what every business makes sure to give the clients – the right information on what they are selling or services they provide.” – Jackie Adams, Melodrama Boutique

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November 2013

Birthday Celebration

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November 2013

Birthday Celebration

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November 2013

Birthday Celebration

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November 2013

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November 2013

Get to Know d-mars.com Top 50 Black Models’ Most Nominated: Kaya Pickens

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aya Pickens, 26, received the most nominations as a 2014 Top 50 Black Model. Pickens is an early childhood education specialist at New Faith Christian Academy. She holds a bachelor’s degree in sociology and family psychology from the University of Missouri (Mizzou) and currently attends Texas Southern University. She plans to graduate in December 2014 with a Master of Education with emphasis in Counseling.

When this former hooper isn’t busy with school, she enjoys modeling, theater, sports, dance and exercising.

She took some time from her busy schedule to share with d-mars.c om a little more about herself.

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November 2013

with Valerie Jones & Kaya Pickens JONES: Describe how it was working wKaya Pickens, 26, received the most nominations as a 2014 Top 50 Black Model. Pickens is an early childhood education specialist at New Faith Christian Academy. She holds a bachelor’s degree in sociology and family psychology from the University of Missouri (Mizzou) and currently attends Texas Southern University.

She plans to graduate in December 2014

with a Master of Education with emphasis in Counseling.

When this former hooper isn’t busy with school, she enjoys modeling, theater, sports, dance and exercising. She took some time from her busy schedule to share with d-mars.c om a little more about herself.

JONES: Describe how it was working with d-mars.com for the Top 50 Black Models Event.

PICKENS: Working with d-mars.com was a phenomenal experience. I want to thank d-mars.com, not just for this event, but for keeping his hands and eyes on the pulse of the community – especially the diverse Houston community. d-mars. com believes in connecting people and that is exactly what this event did. I met some wonderful people and felt an immediate connection with some of them. We should continue these types of events and utilize each other’s services, just as other communities do. This event brought individuals, many who are pillars of the community, together with aspiring business owners – together they shared ideas and wisdom. I will be attending future dmars.com events.

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JONES: Have you done any modeling rotation on your playlist right now?

PICKENS: “Too Much” by Drake, PICKENS: Yes, I have modeled on sev- “Sweet Thing” by Chaka Khan, and

before?

eral occasions. In high school, I won the model of the year competition at Madison High School’s yearly fashion show.

I modeled for charity events and today I am modeling for universities, colleges, schools, and businesses. Additionally, I’m participating in several fashion showcases and photo shoots in the State of Texas, as well as California and Las Vegas.

JONES: How would you describe your personal style?

PICKENS: My personal style can be described as edgy and rugged, ready to take on the world – yet my style can be very feminine and soft; much like my life as a female athlete. From time to time, my style may change, depending on the assignment.

JONES: What are your favorite places to shop?

PICKENS: Some of my favorite places to shop are Francesca’s, Lollipop, Macy’s, Alloy, QWASHAE Boutiqe, Kele’s Kloset, MODChic and Melodrama Boutique. :) JONES: What three songs are in heavy

“Church Bells” by Etta James (Beyonce’s Version) because in my mind, I can sing.

JONES: What are three items in your purse that you absolutely cannot live without?

PICKENS: My cell phone (for GPS and my camera), wallet (for my money), and Vaseline (to be used as lip chap, hair oil, and lotion).

JONES: Have you always been interested in fashion?

PICKENS: Yes, I have. I believe that fashion allows people to be creative and it is what differentiates us from one another.

Fashion is what you make of it, and all of it is beautiful.

JONES: Tell me something people would be surprised to know about you.

PICKENS: I have a wild/adventurous side. I would love to cross out some things on my bucket list. What’s first? Bungee jumping!

My personal style can be described as edgy and rugged, ready to take on the world – yet my style can be very feminine and soft; much like my life as a female athlete.

- Kaya Pickens

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November 2013

Saving Our Selves

BREAKING THE CODE: Uncovering the Secrets to Extraordinary Achievement Part Two of a Three-Part Series

By J. T. Myers, M. Ed, MRT Contributing Writer

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n our history we have been taught that education is the great equalizer in society. However, it actually is only a chance at a lifeline in this world, not a lifetime guarantee. For many of our African-American children, lack of education locks them out of the world of abundance and opportunity in this society. What is needed has often been thought of, but not pursued with a dogmatic passion.

Many of you have read or heard of the laundry list of what is needed to achieve.

Nevertheless, the truth is there are only three factors that are essential for students to achieve. It is there where you will find the secrets to unlock the direct pathway to the land of opportunity. The pathway is quite simple, yet few master the twists and turns to come out of the wilderness.

It is acquiring the thirst for knowledge, the fortitude to face and overcome obstacles, and the understanding that good is not enough that will make the impasses of life just another hurdle for our children to jump.

Acquiring the thirst for knowledge is the first pivotal step in ensuring that students will achieve. Somewhere along the way of our history, learning became

taboo. It stopped being important to our culture as a whole, and was pushed to the side in favor of more trivial things – materialism, counterfeit wealth, and imitation of celebrities. When a child can open a book and devour its contents, there is something that is exceptional in that. We must show black children that to have a step up on everyone else, you must already possess within you what others have to go out and find. Reading constantly – not just in school – gives our children an edge because it increases their knowledge base, a requirement to achieve.

What makes an item an obstacle? It is a problem or stumbling block that renders a person temporarily immobile.

How does this affect our black students?

It causes them to stop, give up, and stagnate their forward mobility. The answer to this is to develop the fortitude to overcome obstacles. There are always obstacles for our children – inferior textbooks,

inefficient educators, and lack of self-determination. However, it is the ability to overcome the problems that are presented to them that will allow them to rise to the top and achieve in the face of insurmountable odds. Regardless of what community, school, or family background a child comes from, it is the resolve that is instilled within them that will push them over the obstacles that they face in school and life.

Turn on the television or go to any retail store and you will hear parents and children discuss their grades when report cards or graduation time rolls around.

In these conversations, you may hear “I passed,” or “I got a D but at least I passed.” Alarms should go off in our ears to hear such reckless statements. Those comments attest to why black students are not achieving. In this society, every black parent, child, and individual needs to get a revelation that “good is simply

not enough!” Let’s put this in perspective. Would you want the doctor to operate on you that just “passed?” Would you want the restaurant to serve you that only “passed” the food regulations? We all know the answer is a resounding – NO! Then why do we accept “passing” as the standard for black children? To attempt to have a chance on a level playing field, every black child and parent must understand that good is not enough and strive daily to be the best. How is this accomplished – by creating personal goals with your child that are far beyond the minimum standards of what is required at school. It is through this that a mentality of excellence can and will be cultivated within every child.

The three secrets that have been uncovered here: acquiring the thirst for knowledge, the fortitude to face and overcome obstacles, and the understanding that good is not enough are truly the essential keys that are needed for any child to level the playing field. It is with the absorbency of these keys that a student will be virtually unstoppable. Don’t miss the next issue Part Three of a three-part series – S.O.S. Tools of the Trade: Armed and Dangerous.

It’s your moment.

No matter your passion, HCC can help turn your dreams into reality.

If you’re just getting started, or starting a new chapter, we have the skills and knowledge that meet your goals and your schedule. HCC has convenient locations andhundreds of programs and degree plans. What are waiting for? Go get it. It’s yours.

Your journey begins here.

visit hccs.edu to learn about our logistics program

Its your future D-Mars Fall 2013 .indd 1

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Giving Back to the Community – Ryan’s Way

By Judy Blake Contributing Writer

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believe that all parents should teach their children the importance of volunteering at an early age. Helping others comes in many forms and while monetary contributions are very important, there are a number of other ways one can help others.

My son is now 18 years old and has a number of hidden special needs. He is on the autistic spectrum, has obsessivecompulsive disorder, impulsive disorder, Tourettes syndrome and anxiety. Teaching him to think of others was quite challenging when he was younger. I took small steps with him because I knew that asking for major sacrifices would be overwhelming. I would ask him to donate two stuffed animals or two toys that he really didn’t care about. At first, it was difficult for him to understand why he had to give something of his to someone else. Why couldn’t they just buy it themselves? I would explain that some people have very little and it’s very nice to make them feel better by giving them a present.

In addition to donating toys or books,

donating gently worn clothing can help someone in need. I would clean out my closets every year and make sure clothes were donated to my local Goodwill store.

As he grew older, explaining the importance of helping others became easier. I always made sure to remind him that it isn’t how much you donate, but the fact that you are donating to a charity. Every bit helps and does make a difference. When attending Sunday school, they asked for donations every week; donating as little as 50 cents shows others that you care. Little amounts donated every week by each student can add up to quite a bit at the end of the month.

There are those people on the autistic spectrum that have some awareness and might think of others on their own. They have some empathy and compassion although it is more limited than most.

Many parents in my position have to constantly encourage their children and even young adults to give back to the community. It’s not that my son or others like him are selfish. They just don’t think about it. They have to be reminded because it doesn’t come naturally.

Ryan is now involved in a couple of allinclusive youth groups and they’ve made sandwiches for the homeless and soup for those staying in Houston while receiving medical treatment. It’s another step in the volunteering path for which I’m proud he is involved. Volunteering as a group provides him with wonderful role models that care about giving back and reminds

him of its importance.

The latest endeavor was my contacting Volunteer Houston. It is an amazing organization dedicated to helping agencies in need and assigning volunteers who want to help. I realize that Ryan has issues that may prevent him from volunteering anywhere. The agency needs to understand his difficulty in social communication, anxiety and impulsive behaviors. Before placing him, he visited their main office and volunteered a few times so their staff could evaluate him and place him in an agency that is best for him. Whether scanning pictures, making cards or assembling information packets – it allowed him to help someone else.

His next step in giving back will involve volunteering in one of the partnering agencies. The goal is for him to visit once

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a week for an hour after school. In the right environment with staff that understands hidden special needs, everyone can volunteer and pay it forward! Always remember that it doesn’t matter how much you give of your money or time, it matters that you are doing something to help someone else!

Judy Blake is the author of Judy’s World – The World of Autism through the Eyes of a Mother. Her story chronicles her life and that of her boys. Giving speeches for 10 years, she travels throughout the country and speaks to audiences of all ages.

Students, teachers, and adults are taken on a journey about her experiences in raising two boys with hidden disabilities.

Contact her at judy@judysworld.info or check out her website at www.judysworld. info.

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November 2013

Celebrating the Life of Eric E. Goosby, Sr.

By Valerie Jones Contributing Writer

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ric E. Goosby, Sr. was born March 5, 1957. He was a legendary cowboy with a vision and blessed with a purpose. Eric and his wife Jackie created the Therapeutic Training Program at E&D Ranch, in which they sold, bred, stalled, and trained horses, as well as taught riding skills to youth and veterans. After being recruited by The Buffalo Soldiers 9th and 10th Horse Calvary, Houston Chapter, he helped implement The Buffalo Soldiers Junior Trooper Mounted Program.

While helping with the kids’ program, the adult ground unit took interest in becoming mounted members. At the encouragement of Eric, seven new mounted members joined. Eric lost his battle with cancer on October 19, 2013.

A trooper in the City of Houston who will truly be missed, but whose legacy will never be forgotten..

He was known as the first original trail boss for the Southwest Trail Riders As-

sociation, a legendary cowboy, and a sergeant in the Buffalo Soldiers 9th and 10th Horse Calvary – Houston Chapter. I have fun-filled memories with my friend. Every time I would talk to him, even though he was battling his own personal health problems, he would always speak about helping the kids. As part of the Buffalo Soldiers Junior Troopers program, he was teaching the children responsibility: taking care of animals, leadership skills, selfworth, unity, how to be caring and how to work together. He always strived to make sure that the kids in the program were able to fulfill their dreams and that the program sustained itself. The kids would have a place in Houston to learn besides something else in the streets. He was just like anybody else: he grew up and lived the life of hard knocks but when he found God, it made him into a beautiful person whom everybody loved. Once he found out what his purpose was – what God had called him to do – which was minister to the youth, the kids he trained loved him like a father. He was not only passionate about training the kids for sportsmanship, but also training them to become better young men and women. He always

had good things to say and would help anybody if he could. I want the citizens and people to look at the pictures of him and the kids and see what I’ve seen through this program. I ask that the City of Houston support his wife Jackie with the Buffalo Soldiers Junior Trooper program. This is my way of saying goodbye to my friend Eric E. Goosby, Sr., better known as “Too Sweet” – which is what I’ve always called him. He’ll always be a living legend to Brother D-MARS. – Kevin “Brother D-MARS” Davis To the Love of My Life: The Legendary Eric E. Goosby, Sr., You were my ministry and I was your help mate. My gift – the Heavenly Father presented you to me in 2007, and I did not know my purpose in your life until I diligently sought God’s provision.

When I asked you in 2008 if you knew who I really was, you said I was cracked from your rib, and we moved forward together. When you designed the Goosby ring and presented it to me on my job, it became very real. Two weeks before God received you to live forever with him, I received confirmation when you told

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me I looked like an angel and I said ‘I am your angel.’ That brought us both to tears of joy and pain and we both knew the next step was coming. I was your virtuous woman. Proverbs 31 says he who can find a virtuous and capable wife, her husband can trust her and she will greatly enrich his life. She would not hinder him but help him all her life. Her husband is well-known for he sits in the council meeting with the other civic leaders. This is the woman God told me I was to you.

Throughout these years we have laughed together, we have cried together, we have prayed together, we have stayed together, and because of this, God is pleased with us. So in your journey to Heaven, God has won and so have I, and you live eternally. So I have no regrets. In our last conversation, you said to me “I will always be with you in life and afterlife” and because of this, the tears are few because I know I will see you again. It took two wings to fly away and I know you have earned yours and your legacy will live on. I will always love you. –Jackie Quinn

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Here Comes the Bride Hall of Fame Banquet Recognizes Black Athletes The Hall of Fame Banquet is held to honor the black high school athletes whose athletic records were not available due to segregation. After the schools were desegregated, the black athletes had no record of their sports achievements. The Hall of Fame Banquet allowed those athletes to be recognized for their contributions in high school athletics.

The ambitious young couple tied the knot at the Pellazio Reception Center on Saturday, September 28, 2013. The stunning bride is the daughter of Angela White-Walker and Carle Ammons (natives of Hawaii and Detroit, respectively). Fontwain is the son of El Campo natives Linda Williams as well as Nellie and Daniel Gary. The nuptials were made extra special as the couple was married by Nadia’s stepfather Pastor Irv White of Windsor Village United Methodist Church and former news anchor for KPRC Channel 2. Family and friends looked on as the two exchanged vows followed by a lavish reception. Nadia is a customer service supervisor for Brilliant Energy and owner of “Outside the Box Bartending Services.” Fontwain is a full-time computer science student and has consistently maintained a position on the dean’s list at Houston Community College. The couple has two children that served as flower girl and ring bearer, Farrah Mckenzie and Donnie Jr. Mr. and Mrs. Hood are homeowners in Fort Bend County.

d-mars.com wishes to congratulate Nadia Leialoha Florette-Morgan Ammons and Fontwain Hood!

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November 2013

Muslim Democratic Caucus of Texas Hosts Banquet Directors of the Muslim Democratic Caucus of Texas Nargis Ahmed and Zaki Mirza hosted a meet-and-greet banquet in honor of Consul General of Pakistan, Hon. Afzaal Mehmood at the HESS Club.

Nargis Ahmed spoke about the history of the Muslim Democratic Caucus of Texas and acknowledged all guests, including Mrs. Salma Lalani. Commercial and cultural attachĂŠ from the Pakistan consulate were present.

Among the Democratic elected officials included: Andrew Burks, Clinton Charleswells, Gloria Canter Minnick, Farhan Shamsi, Ramona Franklin, Natalia Oakes, David Singer, Steve Brown, Barbara Gardner, Tracy Good, and Farhan Shamsi.

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Community Members Celebrate at the “Evolution of Gospel” Event

By Valerie Jones Contributing Writer

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he Gospel Music Heritage Month Foundation held the 5th Annual Evolution of Gospel to commemorate the 50th Anniversary of the March on Washington. The George R. Brown Convention Center was filled with patrons on Sept. 27 to witness a night of celebrating the history of gospel music.

The event told the story of gospel music through word, song, and dance and featured some of the top gospel musicians in the country. Gospel music has historic roots in the soulful melodies of African American spirituals. Taking various elements from African music, melodic influences from Irish folk songs and hymns, and other American musical styles such as

ragtime, jazz, and blues, gospel music has played a vital role in shaping the history of music.

Four local men were honored at the event: Dr. Thomas Freeman, distinguished professor and debate coach at Texas Southern University; Skipper Lee Frazier, legendary radio personality of radio station KCOH; State Representative Al Edwards, advocate of Texas’ Juneteenth celebration; and Reverend Paul Jones, posthumously, gospel recording artist.

“We are humbled to be able to salute four our city’s great pioneers and are excited to have a prestigious host of talented and gifted performing artists,” said Carl Davis, chairman of the Gospel Music Heritage Month Foundation.

The Gospel Music Heritage Month Foundation was established in 2008 to celebrate and educate people about the

rich heritage of gospel music. Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee and Senator Blanche Lincoln led the passing of the resolution in both chambers declaring September as Gospel Music Heritage Month and two celebrations are produced each year – one in Washington, D.C. and one in Houston – since inception.

Gospel artist Pastor Kim Burrell, who is a native of Houston, chatted with Keith “Mr. D-MARS” Davis after the event.

“Houston is filled with a legacy of great people. We are honored to have Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee be a part of Houston and then to represent the black culture worldwide being such a smart woman who knows what she’s doing,” Burrell said. “For her to take interest in black gospel music is one of the main reasons I’m here because I do sing gospel music, but to do something for the community is what I’m all about. For many

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years, we’ve been sharing in this George R. Brown building, feeding people every Christmas, every Thanksgiving. Community is all about that. My pleasure is coming home and seeing how much I can touch the ones closest to me.”

Editor’s Note: This story ran in October’s issue of the Community Journal with incorrect pictures. d-mars.com regrets the error.

For more exclusive photos, visit our facebook page.

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November 2013

The Bridge Conference 3rd Annual Ricky Anderson Project Celebrity Golf Classic The Bridge, Southwest Community Christian Center hosted the workshop conference “In Spirit and In Truth 2013” that featured host pastor Dr. Gregg J. Patrick, Shawn McLemore, Rhonda McLemore, Pastor Donnie McClurkin, and Earnest Pugh.

The conference ended with a wonderful concert which included gospel great Donnie McClurkin performing.

d-mars.com sponsored the Third Annual Ricky Anderson Project Celebrity Golf Classic by Texas Southern University’s Thurgood Marshall School of Law and TMSL Sports and Entertainment Law Society. Celebrity chair was Billy Granville, former NFL football player for the Cincinnati Bengals and Houston Texans.

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November 2013

Up-and-coming Recording Artist Starts Nonprofit to Help Empower Teens

By Valerie Jones Contributing Writer

S

harve isn’t your average 14-year-old. She’s an actress, model, singer, and founder of her very own nonprofit organization “The Sweethearts Foundation,” created to encourage teens to use their gifts and talents to create positive changes in the community and leave behind a legacy.

Sharve was active in student council, in which she had to focus on service and leadership. After the success of an anti-bullying rally she sponsored last year, Sharve found it was difficult to get sponsors and obtain money for all the things she wanted to do.

“I decided to launch a nonprofit organization so that I could help more people.

I have so many ideas, but I do not do all the work on my own so it makes it a lot easier when you have help,” Sharve said.

“Even though I am young, I still believe that I can make a difference.”

Sharve is working with MD Anderson Pediatric Cancer Center to host a Sweetheart Ball for the patients in January. She plans to include more initiatives as her nonprofit grows larger and sponsor fun events for the kids in the community. In addition to her own nonprofit, Sharve also works with local organizations such as House of Amos, Star of Hope, and the Houston Food Bank.

During the month of October, Sharve focused on cancer awareness and hosted a Pink Nail Party in observance of breast cancer awareness. A portion of the proceeds were donated to Sharve’s nonprofit organization.

Sharve first found five-year-old Kyssi Andrews on Facebook. After reading about her illness (Kyssi has cancer) and reading all of the updates by Kyssi’s mother, Sharve wanted to do something to help.

“When I started my foundation and we decided the focus was going to be on cancer, I knew that she was the person I was going to help,” Sharve said. “My fans are called sweethearts and I wanted to have Kyssi as my first sweetheart.”

Sharve’s mother sent Kyssi’s mother a message on Facebook and the rest was history.

“Kyssi has become a part of our family now. Once you meet her, you can’t forget her. She is so beautiful and has a personality to match,” Sharve said. “When I decided to record Nail Party, it happened to be the same weekend as Kyssi’s birthday so I told my manager that I wanted to include her and have a celebration for her, also.”

Sharve’s music career began seven months ago, and her only difficulty is balancing school and work. She’s an honor student enrolled in advanced courses and has parents who are educators and strict about grades.

“There are a lot of late nights – learning music, writing music, studio sessions, vocal training, working out, and practicing for shows,” she said. “I am very determined and I love what I do, so it’s not something that I can’t handle. I want other kids to know that if you keep God first, are determined, and work hard, you can overcome any obstacle.”

Sharve’s parents are her biggest supporters and always encourage her to do her best. She also looks up to her grandmother because she persevered and keeps faith in God no matter what obstacles she encounters.

“I want to continue to inspire others to be positive role models even at a young age. It is my hope that my foundation will grow and help a large number of people,” Sharve said. “I want to be able to donate to several charities and partner with some major companies to help build my brand.

Winning a Grammy Award would also be nice…you have to dream big!”

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