To the POINT DN
Message from the Reporter
Trill Burgers’ second location is now open
Trill Burgers has been through a lot!
Last June, the burger joint’s owners were fighting a legal battle when a Harris County judge issued a temporary injunction against co-owners Bernard “Bun B” Freeman, Andy Nguyen and Nick Scurfield, mandating asset restrictions and prohibiting self-payments or equity transfers.
But now, the chain has a second location at 6810 Louetta Road in North Houston.
Announcing the news through an Instagram post with A$AP Ferg’s New Level playing in the background, it has caused quite the stir! SEVERAL cars had lined up to grab a quick bite from the drive-thru.
And now, two more locations are promised in Missouri City and on Westheimer. Yeah, it’s about to be some good eating in H-Town.
As an education reporter, I must add: Bun B seems interested in partnering with Historically Black Colleges and Universities, too!
When asked about the joint’s partnership with the University of Houston and whether he wants to expand that to HBCUs, he said because of the lack of funding for endeavors like that, he’d love to take that up in the future.
Despite the legal woes, Trill Burgers keeps growing. There’s a lesson in there somewhere!
Shondaland hits the whodunit spot with “The Residence”
A maverick Black detective in a whodunit at the White House? SIGN ME UP!
Listen, I love a good detective series. When I was a kid, Nancy Drew and Hercule Poirot were my heroes! Wait… is that why I became a journalist? Okay, that’s a story for another day.
Inspired by Kate Andersen Brower’s book “The Residence: Inside the Private World of the White House,” Shondaland’s latest Netflix series delves into the lives of those who run the White House while its leaders are busy running the country.
I loved every second of it. The mystery is generously packed into eight episodes, starting with the crazy murder of White House Chief Usher A.B. Wynter during the Australian State Dinner.
What follows is a montage of scenes going back and forth over several months, dotted with investigations and a congressional committee hearing.
But here’s the star of the show: Cordelia Cupp, who is hailed as the best detective in the world. Played by the iconic Uzo Aduba, Cupp breaks down the case into thousands of little pieces that eventually come together in a grand finale that will leave you…well, stunned.
What really wowed me is Cupp’s grit: this woman listens to no one but herself. Pop off, queen! FBI and Secret Service, who?! PLUS, she is SO funny, but her delivery is comedic genius.
Finding Black detectives in main roles is so rare and chancing upon such complex characters will tell you we need more. If you’re looking for a weekend binge, look no further. “The Residence” will keep you entertained!
1,000 sailors, Marines headed to Houston
Did y’all hear about the 1,000 sailors and Marines who are coming to Houston for the first time in over two centuries?
That’s right! Houston is hosting Fleet Week at the Port of Houston in November, during which the ships will interact with the public…on their ships!
The U.S. Navy and Marine Corps will celebrate their 250th birthdays in our city from Nov. 9 through 16.
This will be the perfect opportunity for anyone interested in how military ships operate because, yes, they will conduct demonstrations and other events.
In a video, U.S. Navy Adm. Daryl Caudle “formally” accepted Mayor John Whitmire’s invitation.
For young people, this could be a great way to determine whether they’ll pursue this career later in life. So, here’s a heads-up in case you want something insightful to do at the end of the year!
ON THE WEB
• Forget hustle culture: How Black women can build without burnout.
• Would you pay $10k for a dating coach to find a spouse?
• Fort Bend Marshall girls track team returns to state meet after regional victory.
Tannistha Sinha
Trill Burgers’ second spot just opened at a former Dairy Queen site on Louetta Road. Credit: Trill Burgers
SECTION 8 VOUCHERS AT RISK
Thousands could lose housing
By ReShonda Tate
More than 18,000 Houstonians on the Housing Choice Voucher waitlist must re-register in the Houston Housing Authority’s (HHA) new system between May 1 and June 2 or risk being dropped from the list entirely.
The new requirement, prompted by an overhaul of the Housing Authority’s system, impacts 18,276 people—many of whom have waited years for access to affordable housing assistance. The Housing Choice Voucher program, commonly known as Section 8, typically covers 60–70% of rent for very low-income households.
Starting May 1, all individuals on the waitlist must create an account in the HHA’s new Rent Café portal, confirm their contact information and click “Save My Spot” to maintain their position. Those who don’t respond may be removed permanently.
“If we don’t have your current information—your email, phone number or if you’ve moved—then we have no way of knowing how to contact you,” said Jamie Bryant, the newly appointed CEO of the Houston Housing Authority. “Sometimes folks put themselves on a waitlist eight years ago and now they have moved out of Houston, they’ve gotten a job and they no longer need the assistance, or they’ve already found housing.”
A decade-old waitlist
HHA officials say the list, which was last opened in 2016, is now over a decade old and requires a critical refresh.
“This list is 10 years old, and in those 10
years, there’s probably been quite a bit of movement of the applicants on the list,” said Kenneth Coles, HHA’s senior vice president of voucher operations. “If we can get 50% of the individuals responding, in my experience, that would be an excellent response.”
The agency delayed the original deadline— initially slated for late March—“to get the word out wider and give folks an opportunity to know what’s coming,” Coles said.
Outreach
efforts and concerns
HHA is launching a media and
community outreach campaign to notify applicants, in addition to sending emails and offering in-person assistance at its office at 2640 Fountain View Drive. Full instructions will be posted to the agency’s website on May 1.
For those who fail to respond, Coles said there may be recourse.
“There are contingencies in place for individuals that are withdrawn from the list to have the opportunity to get back onto the list at the original location,” he noted, though such cases will be reviewed individually.
RESPONSE TO ESTRANGED HUSBAND’S ARREST
Despite the efforts, housing advocates are raising red flags.
“I think a month is too short of a time frame, since folks have to be notified,” said Taylor Laredo, a community navigator with Texas Housers, a housing justice and research nonprofit. “I have concerns over households that have limited internet access, limited technology access—people who might be on the waitlist who are housing unstable, doubled up or don’t have transportation to get help.”
A similar outreach effort in December 2023 saw only 2,300 responses—an outcome Coles called “concerning.” HHA has since hired a public relations firm to improve this cycle’s turnout. “We expect a much better response this time,” he said.
The bigger picture
Today, roughly 19,000 households receive support through HHA’s Housing Choice Voucher program. However, due to rising rents and stagnant federal funding, expanding the program remains difficult.
“The authority recently exited a year-long funding shortfall,” Coles said. “But without additional federal funding, we’re unlikely to do more than fill vacancies as households leave.”
“It’s hard to say now, especially with the talk in D.C. about changes to the program and funding cuts and things like that,” Coles added. “So we’re just hopeful that cooler heads will prevail in Washington, and we’ll get our appropriate funding—and be able to call in larger numbers from the waitlist.”
Turkey Leg Hut co-founder speaks out
Defender News Service
The co-founder of the famed Turkey Leg Hut, Nakia Holmes, is speaking out after her ex was arrested and charged with federal arson. Lynn Price, 42, is accused of orchestrating a fire at Bar 5015, a popular Third Ward lounge, as part of a targeted attack against a former business associate, according to federal prosecutors.
Price’s arrest follows a months-long investigation by the Houston Fire Department’s Arson Bureau and federal authorities. Court documents allege that Price recruited two other men—John Price, 39, and Armani Williams, 27—to help carry out the blaze in 2020 by pouring gasoline at the bar’s entrance and deck and
setting it ablaze. Authorities say Price paid the men afterward and also conspired with John Price to set fire to a stolen 1975 Chevy Nova later that year.
All three men now face charges of conspiracy to commit arson of a commercial building and conspiracy to use an interstate facility to commit arson of a vehicle. If convicted, each could face up to 20 years in federal prison. Holmes, who helped build Turkey Leg Hut into a household name, stepped away from the business amid personal and professional fallout. After the arrest, Holmes issued a new statement to ESSENCE, saying: “In light of the recent events involving my estranged husband, Lynn Price, I want to
make it clear that my primary focus remains on protecting my peace, my children, and our healing journey.
“This is a deeply painful and personal matter. I have been separated from Mr. Price for some time and have taken every necessary step to distance myself and my family from his actions and legal affairs. My children and I ask for privacy, compassion, and understanding as we continue to move forward with strength and grace. I will not be commenting further at this time, as my priority is the well-being of my family.”
The target of the arson, Bar 5015, is owned by Steve Rogers—a former business partner of Lynn Price. The bar fire caused significant property damage and endangered the lives of residents in the surrounding Third Ward neighborhood.
The explosive allegations mark another chapter in the ongoing unraveling of the Turkey Leg Hut empire, which had once been
hailed as a Houston culinary sensation known for its viral social media buzz, celebrity clientele, and long lines snaking around the block. Turkey Leg Hut shuttered its flagship location in November after its lease was terminated following bankruptcy filings, outstanding debt, and numerous health code violations. Financial struggles and internal disputes had been mounting for years.
Hundreds of families could be displaced from public housing if they don’t fill out the housing vouchers in the new system. (AP Photo/Ashley Landis)
Lynn Price and Nakia Holmes Price in happier times.
TEXAS STATE LEADERS SERIES
Jolanda Jones
Files justice-centered bills and more as a State Rep.
By Tannistha Sinha
In her second term representing House District 147, State Rep. Jolanda Jones (D-Houston) says her lived experiences are at the forefront of her lawmaking.
Having grown up directly impacted by harmful laws, she has set her mind to fixing a “broken system,” filing a suite of bills in the ongoing 89th Legislative Session that tackle issues in public education, law enforcement and the justice system.
Before becoming a state representative, Jones helped shut down the Houston Police Department’s DNA crime lab, which she said was “faking lab results to get people they thought committed crimes.” Additionally, as a city councilmember, Jones pushed the city to increase its business contracts with Black and brown-owned businesses.
Now, as a state legislator in a Republican-dominated House, she foresees difficulty in passing her bills. She needs a majority in the House for her bills to reach the Senate and a majority of GOP votes to pass a bill.
“In this super politicized climate after Donald Trump, that’s hard” said Jones, the Texas Legislature’s first openly LGBTQ+ Black representative. “The environment right now is unlike anything I’ve seen in my time as an adult.”
Justice system
Jones’ House Bill 463, if passed, would expunge arrest and conviction records in drug cases where lab results later show no drugs were present, even in pretrial and post-conviction cases, or the person has been charged.
“Some people will plead guilty to a case that they’re not actually guilty of to get outta jail quicker,” said Jones, adding it would make it easier for them to get housing, a job and qualify for government services. “I don’t even wanna call it a second chance because to need a second chance, you had to have messed up the first time.”
Juvenile justice reform is also on Jones’s docket. Jones, who is the vice chair of Juve nile Justice, a subcommittee of Criminal Jurisprudence, filed HB 5525 that would revise parole guidelines for individuals convicted under 18, favoring rehabilitation over punishment.
Law enforcement
In what she calls the “police liability bill,” Jones’ HB 765 would require peace officers to carry liability insurance, which is similar to auto insurance. Her goal is to protect communities of color and hold officers accountable for misconduct.
“If I need liability insurance to drive my car, then police officers should need liability insurance to be a police officer,” said Jones, placing the cost of the insur ance from $15 to $30 a month. “If they have enough complaints for excessive force or profiling, I think that indicates whether they’re a good cop or bad cop…that’s indic ative of how likely you are to shoot and kill somebody or seriously injure someone.”
Jones has also filed HB 1455 to expand reporting on mental health jail diversion programs and HB 786 for justice court security in certain counties.
Public education
Jones has also turned her attention to student-athletes at risk of losing their scholarships due to injury, par ticularly Black athletes in predom inantly white institutions (PWIs).
As a former NCAA champion heptathlete for the University of Houston, Jones filed HB 936 knowing the stakes.
“In many ways, the only way Black people are gonna get into PWIs is if they’re good athletes,” she said.
Houston Black engineers open youth stem camp
By Laura Onyeneho
The Houston chapter of the National Society of Black Engineers (NSBE) invests in the future by reaching back to inspire the next generation.
NSBE Houston hosts a free STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) camp twice a year. The camp is designed to ignite a passion in young students for science, technology, engineering and math, particularly those from underserved communities.
“This has been a program that’s been around for at least the last 15-plus years of the organization’s existence,” said Karen Reeder, NSBE Houston chapter president. “The mission of our organization inspires it. Our mission is to increase the number of culturally responsible Black engineers who excel academically, succeed professionally and positively impact the community.”
That mission, Reeder emphasized, is not just a tagline.
“This organization is celebrating our 50th anniversary and over the last 50 years, NSBE has produced over 100,000 Black engineers,” she said. “So we take that mission very seriously and our role in the community is to help make the mission possible.”
To do so, NSBE Houston starts with the youth.
“We start with the younger generation, third graders up to middle school and high school students and expose them to various types of STEM activities,” said Reeder. “We give them hands-on activities so they can witness and see for themselves how fun and exciting it is, ask
questions, see other Black engineers and technologists and be inspired to become engineers.”
Reeder explained that the organization specifically targets students who might otherwise lack access to these learning opportunities.
“We target the underserved community because, with all that’s going on in the world right now, programs are being taken away from public schools,” she said. “We want to make sure that students still have access to these types of programs. And we do not charge. Thank God we’ve been able to continue to provide this program at no cost to parents.”
That includes providing food, supplies and expert-led instruction. The camp has about 130-200 volunteers for more than 200 students.
“We work with Fortune 500 companies in the Houston area, so that they can give back as well,” she said. “So far, we’ve been successful with the activities and scholarships we provide. We’re increasing the number of students participating yearly.”
For the chapter’s Public Relations Officer, L’Anne Onyekachi, her commitment to NSBE is deeply personal. Onyekachi’s journey began with her daughter’s participation in NSBE programming.
“I’ve studied biology, so I know how important science is. Capturing kids early is very crucial,” she said. “Being cool is one thing and being smart is another. But when kids are exposed to these careers and opportunities, their minds open.”
National Society of Black Engineers Houston Chapter STEM camp volunteers. Credit: NSBE Houston
SAFETY
Beyond more jails & police
By Aswad Walker
Houston activist Ken Rodgers works to ensure that Blackshear Elementary students receive all the necessary in-school and outof-school support.
Houston-born national union leader Claude Cummings, president of the Communications Workers of America (CWA), champions the cause of a living wage.
Several local grassroots activists, including members of the advocacy group Pure Justice, are fghting for greater investment in jobs, housing, and healthcare.
What they all have in common is a push to expand the way the general public defnes public safety.
Pushback Against Traditional Public Safety Approach
President Donald Trump’s campaign promised to “free police to do their job” (via immunity from prosecution). His words refected the traditional view of public safety being increased by more prisons and more police unencumbered by threats of accountability for wrongdoings.
Trump’s call did not elicit feelings of safer days ahead for Black people who voted overwhelmingly for his presidential opponent
Vice President Kamala Harris. In fact, many equate Trump’s plan with the resurrection of the racially-biased “stop-and-frisk” policy.
So, it stands to reason that many in the Black community do not view the idea of more police in neighborhoods equaling more community safety.
In fact, a national movement has been afoot for the past decade, challenging Black communities and others to expand their
defnitions of public safety.
In 2013, the Ella Baker Center for Human Rights began the Night Out for Safety and Liberation to that end. It’s an alternative to the police-centric annual National Night Out, which highlights police-community partnerships as the pathway to community safety.
Te overall negative history of law enforcement’s interaction with Black people alone calls that idea into question.
Te Ella Baker Center and its national network, along with initiatives like Campaign Zero, promote a more holistic defnition of community safety – one that believes less police and/or more community investment can enhance community safety.
Meeting
Community Needs
Locally, the advocacy group Pure Justice promotes its RISE initiative to deliver that same message.
“We created a campaign, it’s called RISE, ‘Reimagining Safety for Everyone,’ because when you start digging into the word ‘safety,’ depending on who you’re talking to, it’s defined differently,” said RoShawn Evans, co-founder and organizing director of Pure Justice. “For some, safety is putting as much money as you can into the things that have caused generational trauma and harm to the masses.
“Some people believe in throwing money into a system that has been proven not to work, like law enforcement or building more courts and more jails.”
Evans points out that 65.8% of Harris County’s overall budget is spent on “public
safety” in the form of jails, courts, frefghters and law enforcement.
“That leaves less than 35% of the budget spent on things we actually need to survive, like housing, healthcare, mental health education. When you’re spending more money on incarcerating people from the vulnerabilities they have, then you are not creating a safe space,” he added.
RISE galvanizes grassroots justice advocates to go into historically under-resourced communities and organize residents by fnding out what they need to feel safer.
“When you ask them what they need to feel safe, they’re telling you deodorant and washing powder and housing, some kind of economic opportunity, just a job in general. So, with our RISE campaign, what we would like to see is more money start fowing to the programs we need to survive.”
To Evans’ point, a study by University of Pennsylvania criminologist Aaron Chalfn found that reducing police spending does not lead to a spike in crime. Te UPenn study reviewed spending on state and local police over the past 60 years and discovered there’s no correlation between police spending and crime rates.
Yet, for decades, politicians and others have told Americans crime only goes down when spending on police and jails goes up. However, individuals and organizations locally and nationally are promoting public safety beyond policing, and are
Some people believe in throwing money into a system that has been proven not to work, like law enforcement or building more courts and more jails.”
FACTORS THAT MAKE COMMUNITIES UNSAFE
attempting to redirect funding (tax dollars) to initiatives that have been proven to work.
Quality Schools
National research shows that when neighborhood high schools and/or their feeder pattern middle and elementary schools close, crime rises and neighborhoods become less safe.
Houston activist Ken Rodgers wasn’t thinking about research statistics when he saw enrollment numbers at Houston’s iconic Jack Yates High School dropping. He focused on strengthening one of Yates’ main feeder elementary schools – Blackshear – and helping children have a Merry Christmas. Te result: For the past decade, Rodgers has organized Operation Love, which provides Blackshear students and any attending youth with
toys for Christmas, haircuts, manicures, free food and more. Operation Love has grown into a community event that includes healthcare providers, area businesses and service providers. It donates its time, goods and services so that children and adults in attendance leave the event with what they need.
Operation Love sets an example of how investment in neighborhood schools can change things for the better.
Jackie Anderson, who is president of the Houston Federation of Teachers, takes that premise a step further.
their administration. As students leave the school environment and return to their various neighborhoods, those life lessons go forth. Children learn what they live.”
Living Wage
Te federal minimum hourly wage is just $7.25. Congress has not increased it since 2009. Low wages hurt all workers and are particularly harmful to Black workers and other workers of color—especially women—who make up a disproportionate share of severely underpaid workers.
Communications Workers of America (CWA) President and Houston resident Claude Cummings insists that a living wage and union jobs are critical, and not just for people’s bottom line.
“Research has shown that more economic inequality leads to more crime and that where unions are stronger, crime rates are lower,” said Cummings, a Kashmere High School alum.
“Unions also reduce racial resentment. Tat’s not surprising. Working people of all races see that the current economic and political system in the United States is serving billionaires instead of our families.
“Inconsistent scheduling and the high cost of child care make it hard for people with young children to hold down a job. Te lack of paid sick time and family leave means one major illness could land you in the unemployment line. Union representation gives us more power over our own lives and a way to fght back together against corporate control instead of turning against each other. In order to rebuild our communities and increase our safety, we must make it easier for all workers to join unions.”
Other
Examples from across the country show that housing stability, teen summer jobs, healthcare access, pollution reduction, civilian neighborhood watches, and other methods are efective methods of increasing safety.
“Schools are the lifeblood of our communities. What educators impart to our students are lessons for life,” said Anderson. “Te teachers’ working condition is the students’ learning condition. Terefore, to support and nurture students, teachers need to be supported by
“When people actually have resources fowing through the community… how much safer that is in comparison to over-policing spaces that don’t have the resources,” said Evans.
For more information, visit purejustice.org or call 713-370-7490.
Houston advocates emphasize community investment over policing to redefine public safety for children, adults and families like the one pictured enjoying a community event at Houston’s Emancipation Park in 2022. Credit: Aswad Walker.
Healthcare access has been found to impact incarceration rates. Stats courtesy of Care4Carolina.
MORE HOUSTONIANS SPEAK ON EXPANDING THE IDEA OF SAFETY.
Ken & Dolores Rodgers
RoShawn Evans
Claude Cummings Jr.
ROSHAWN EVANS
Profle DN
Jerome D. Love
Strengthens Black business communities through Texas Black Expo
By Laura Onyeneho
When you think of Texas Black Expo, it’s easy to get caught up in the vibrant showcases, packed vendor booths, celebrity speakers and community empowerment initiatives.
But behind the scenes of one of the state’s largest cultural and business expos is Jeremy D. Love, a man who understands the grit and grind of entrepreneurship.
Born in Monroe, Louisiana, and raised in San Antonio, Love credits his Southern upbringing for shaping his values and fueling his entrepreneurial fire. He was the youngest of four kids and was raised on the old-school ethics of hard work, education and perseverance.
His father always told him the key to having money is spending less than you make. That principle, he explained, was crucial to keeping the expo afloat in its early days.
“There were many years, the first four years, we were pretty much in the red. When I hosted my first expo, I was $100,000 in the hole,” said Love. “But because I managed my money in such a way where my living expenses were extremely low, we were able to weather those storms.”
Before launching Texas Black Expo, Love dipped his toes into various ventures, including fashion design. The lessons were valuable. “My mentor told me I was operating out of passion and didn’t have a plan,” he said. That early misstep turned into one of his biggest breakthroughs. “That taught me the value of having mentors... folk that can kind of advise you and help you along your path.”
Whether in fashion, real estate or development, Love’s success comes from two defining personality traits, perseverance and strategic thinking.
“You’ve got to have a passion, a vision, be strategic and most importantly, have mentors,” he said. “Every business I’ve had, from Black Expo to real estate, I sought out someone to guide me through it.”
Love attended the University of Texas at Austin, unsure of what his future held.
“My parents just told me to go to college and get an education. I didn’t really know what I wanted to do,” he admitted with a laugh. “I got my so-called first job and I was miserable. I thought, ‘Man, I’ll start my own business, have a bunch of free time and a lot of money.’ Of course, that wasn’t the case.”
Still, the ups and downs of entrepreneurship have been worth it.
“There are certain frustrations, certain ups and downs in your cash flow... but there’s also a certain level of flexibility,” he explained. “If my
kids are sick, I go pick them up from school. I take them to the office with me. You can’t do that if you’re working for someone else.”
The vision for Texas Black Expo was planted during those early days with his clothing line. After losing money and learning the hard way about marketing and business strategy, Love decided to build something more impactful.
“I wanted to create a platform that could teach and educate others about entrepreneurship and business,” he said. “But I also
strategically wanted to build a platform that I could utilize to market my own companies.”
For Love, failure isn’t the end; it’s part of the blueprint.
“There’s never a failure. It’s just an opportunity to learn,” he said. “You can’t have a good relationship until you’ve had some failed ones. You don’t even know how to recognize a good one otherwise.”
The Expo is more than a trade show. It creates an ecosystem where Black businesses can thrive. The goal is to circulate the Black
dollar, promote health in the communities and give our people the resources they need to succeed.
One of those resources is the We All Eat program, launched by Love and Texas Black Expo during the COVID-19 pandemic. The initiative, funded through CARES Act dollars and partnerships with local municipalities, paid small Black-owned restaurants to provide free meals to families in need.
“The program did three things,” Love said. “It put money in the pockets of small businesses, it fed families during a crisis, and it fostered a deeper sense of community. That’s the power of what we do at the Expo—we serve our people on multiple levels.”
The initiative provided nearly 714,000 meals to over 7,600 residents and generated over $11 million in revenue for 28 local restaurants. As a result, these restaurants were able to hire nearly 100 staff members.
Texas Black Expo has grown into a thriving platform that empowers countless entrepreneurs across the state. Dr. JP Whitaker, a Houston-area chiropractor, has participated in the Expo for over a decade.
“I think the first one we did was probably like 2013,” he recalled.
For Whitaker, the goal was simple: “It was the opportunity to get chiropractic in front of my people. Typically, Black people are not exactly sure what chiropractors do or the health benefits involved. This was a way to contact my folks and give them opportunities to take advantage of what we had to offer.”
His participation has increased awareness about spinal health in the Black community and helped his business. “We got patients. So it definitely helped my business,” he said. “On top of that, just the idea of consistently keeping yourself in other people’s minds top of mind so to speak. If they have you in their network, they’ll probably call.”
Dr. Whitaker also credits the Expo with long-standing relationships and community engagement. “Ninety percent of my practice is Black. That wasn’t even on purpose, it just happened,” he said. “So I think just the concept of making sure my community knows where I am, what I do and that we want to help.”
Having practiced for over 23 years, Whitaker advises other Black entrepreneurs to stay true to themselves.
“Be authentically you. We’re all pretty much designed uniquely to fit whatever space it is that God intended. Fill that space to the best of your abilities.”
Jerome Love is an award-winning businessman, nationally recognized motivational speaker and highly respected author. Courtesy: Texas Black Expo
Profle DN Candace Blue
Builds luxury, legacy and leaders in Houston real estate
By ReShonda Tate
When it comes to luxury real estate in Houston, Candace Blue is more than a name—she’s a force.
With an impressive track record, boundless energy and an unwavering commitment to excellence, Blue is not only selling million-dollar homes—she’s building something far more valuable: a legacy of leadership, mentorship and mastery.
As co-owner of NextHome Luxury Premier and the former Team Leader of Houston Luxury Living, Blue has spent years at the top of her game. But now she’s turning her attention to empowering others to rise alongside her. Her newest endeavor? Author, coach and guide with her recently released book, 12 Months to Mastery: Unlocking Grit, Execution and Lasting Success—a practical, no-fluff playbook designed to help sales professionals build sustainable success from the ground up.
“The same grit that helped me thrive in luxury real estate is what I’m teaching in this book,” Blue says. “I’ve made the mistakes, I’ve taken the hard lessons—and now I’m pouring that knowledge into others so they can shorten the learning curve.”
A storied career
With nearly two decades of experience under her belt— including a distinguished 18-year background in Human Resources—Blue has become a sought-after coach. She helps agents elevate their careers through mindset, execution and strategic business planning.
Her approach is part drill sergeant, part big sister: tough when necessary but always grounded in care.
Making a difference
Known for her creativity, strong communication and signature blend of directness and empathy, Blue’s coaching is already transforming lives. The Sharpstown High and Belhaven University grad is a frequent speaker at industry conferences, on podcasts, in schools and in publications, often sharing insight on negotiation, business development and the mindset of a top producer.
“Success doesn’t happen by accident,” Blue explains. “It’s about consistent action, systems that work and a strong sense of purpose.”
And her purpose is crystal clear. In addition to her real estate endeavors, Blue actively serves on the HAR Fort Bend Political Affairs Advisory Leadership, HAR Governmental Affairs and Advocacy Committee, the board of directors for Missouri City Chamber of Commerce and Texas Realtors and is a proud investor in the Texas Real Estate Political Action Committee. Her work in these spaces is driven by a deep belief in representation, advocacy, and using her voice to shape the future of real estate.
Starting over
Blue, who recently went through an ugly divorce, says she hopes to serve as an inspiration for women looking to start over.
12 Months to Mastery https://candaceblue. txluxurypremier.com
“I don’t sugarcoat. But I do show up,” she said. “My agents know that I’m going to push them, but also that I’m deeply invested in their success. I want to see them win.”
And many have. Under her leadership, The Luxury Living Team achieved over $30 million in closed sales volume. Her personal achievements have earned her the President’s Circle award both as an individual agent and as a team leader— proof that she walks the talk.
Still, the Houston native says it’s the wins she sees in others that bring her the most joy.
“Watching someone go from stuck and overwhelmed to confident and closing—that’s what fuels me,” she says. “Real estate can be an emotional rollercoaster. My job as a coach is to give people the tools and mindset they need to not just survive, but thrive.”
“I kept smiling, kept working, yet my personal life was falling apart. I am happy that I’m on the other side of that and I want my journey to serve as motivation for women who may think their options are limited after life throws them curveballs,” Blue said.
Outside of the boardroom, Blue remains grounded in what she calls her “real why”—her daughters Paige and Gabrielle. Her daughter, Gabi, says even if her mother doesn’t inspire anyone else, her efforts aren’t going unnoticed.
“I have a front-row seat to everything she’s been through—divorce, career changes, situations that would’ve sidelined most people,” Gabi said. “But my mom never folded. She kept showing up, for herself and for us. Watching her turn challenges into stepping stones has taught me what real strength looks like.”
Whether swimming, traveling, hiking or volunteering with organizations like Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., Jack and Jill of America, Inc., or the National Charity League, Blue brings the same heart and hustle to her personal life as she does to her professional one.
“My girls are watching me,” she says. “I want them to see what it looks like to be bold, to build something that matters and to give back while doing it.”
UT TRACK STAR
Osawese Agbonkonkon Juggles life as an author and student-athlete
By Terrance Harris
As a kid growing up in the Dallas area, Osawese Agbonkonkon read all kinds of fiction and was captivated by Cartoon Network. He was definitely a Marvel Comics guy.
“It’s just scheduling. The calendar app is really great. Writing down things is also really great,” Osawese said to the Defender when asked how he manages it all. “Of course,
very supportive of this. Professors are very supportive, as well.
“If I ever need to show up to … I wouldn’t say show up to practice late to do an interview or I need practice moved so I can do an interview or things like that, they understand. Just a lot of support from the UT community, as well. The city of Austin and alumni, it’s just been great.”
It’s been quite the adventure for Osawese, who began his collegiate career competing for the University of Oregon as a freshman last year before jumping into the portal and transferring to UT to continue competing as a high jumper in track and field. Osawese spent his weekends and whatever time he could find writing his 318-page book in the midst of it all.
He got the idea to create a story about characters he calls psychics who crashlanded in Africa. They gained powers from an alien metal, providing them with wealth and political influence. The psychics are able to use the alien metal to make weapons that eventually fall into the hands of the wrong people.
“The psychics that we focus on in the book live lives of opulence because of what their ancestors did,” Osawese said. “So there is a terrorist attack in New York City using technology powered by their metal. And now they have to go and stop this terrorist organization that is using their metal for evil.”
Osawese began putting words to paper for his book in 2018. Initially, the novel was just from a lot of thoughts in his head, but with events like the George Floyd murder, Osawese decided to intertwine social aspects into his story. He completed the book last spring, self-published it and now Psychic Suit can be purchased on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Google and pretty much anywhere you can buy
“They were kind of just characters in my head,” Osawese said.
“But as I matured, I realized that, at least for my first story, my characters need to look like me for future stories. I can get
as diverse as I’d like, but for my first story, that needs to represent me and people who look like me. I’d say James Bond definitely influenced this a lot. The espionage angle of it, even real-world events influenced this.”
In his real world, Osawese is also a star track athlete with aspirations of doing big things. He established a personal record with a jump of 7-foot-1 during the indoor track season, has performed well during the outdoor season with the Longhorns and now looks forward to the upcoming SEC Championships.
A heavily recruited track athlete out of high school, Osawese first took his talents to Oregon, but now seems to be in his comfort zone closer to home. The Economics major is focused on his macro goals, which will put him on the world stage.
“I want to go to nationals and be competitive there,” Osawese said. “And then, of course, we’re going to have our USA Track & Field meet and then go to Worlds. I’d like to compete there. And if we have a really good day, you will see me in Tokyo wearing USA on my chest.”
Osawese’s goals and plans, which also include attending law school and pursuing an MBA and Jurist Doctorate (law) after undergrad, seem quite ambitious. But those who know Osawese best believe he has no ceiling on what he can accomplish.
“He’s very charismatic. I would say positively. He’s very headstrong,” said Ishmael Lawrence, who is Osawese’s marketing agent for his track career and his book publishing company. “He definitely believes in himself. And he is a go-getter. He’s very much a go-getter, outspoken in a positive way. He’s very vocal. He communicates well what he wants, what he feels and it translates in his sport, also translates in his schoolwork.”
If you think he is planning to slow down or scale back anytime soon, don’t count on it. Osawese has a plan to keep going and continue growing.
“I’m very business-minded. I get that from my mom, who I believe gets it from my grandmother,” he said. “So the plan for now is this first book, make it a success. And then, of course, I have ideas for second, third and fourth books. I also have ideas for books that are separate from this series. Then I already have ideas written down for parts of the actual novel written as well.
“This is definitely a project that I want to parlay my book into eventually publishing other books.”
Sports DN
JUNIOR GOLFER
NILE MAX-GEORGE Advocates for diversity through golf
By Jimmie Aggison
Nile Max-George, a high school golfer from Houston’s Southside, is determined to play collegiate golf while advocating for greater diversity in the sport. Through his relentless work ethic, Nile is showing that talent and perseverance can break barriers, even in a sport with underrepresented Black athletes.
“It’s important for athletes like me to promote diversity in golf because you never know what young person is watching and may find inspiration in my journey,” said Nile.
Determination and resilience are deeply rooted in Nile’s family. He proudly wears blue and white attire for tournaments to honor his paternal grandmother’s heritage.
“My grandmother bravely escaped political and economic unrest in Sierra Leone to provide a better life for her family,” said Nile. “My maternal grandfather was drafted as a pitcher to the 1980 World Series Champions Philadelphia Phillies, proving that dedication and perseverance can open doors. Now, I’m carrying that legacy onto the golf course.”
Nile’s golf journey began at nine years old when his mother Adrienne Tillman came across the Houston Chapter of the First Tee, a national initiative that introduces youth ages 8-18 to golf’s fundamentals while teaching them valuable life skills.
“I actually wasn’t looking specifically for a golf program,” said Tillman. “I was searching for an extracurricular activity that would reinforce character-building skills and keep him out of trouble”
Based at nearby F.M. Law Park, The First Tee offers not only access to golf instruction and tournaments but also a foundation built on nine core values, including honesty, integrity and sportsmanship.
“As a parent, my role is to support and guide Nile while allowing him the space to carve his own path,” said Tillman. “The First Tee’s core values gave him the structure he needed, not just as a golfer, but as a young man.”
“Those lessons shape how I approach shots on the golf course and also make personal decisions,” said Nile. “Golf teaches me how to stay focused under pressure and the importance of always giving my best effort.”
To balance academics and golf, Nile uses an online curriculum through Acellus Academy, that allows him to travel for tournaments while maintaining his 3.6 GPA.
As a homeschooled student, Nile has faced challenges due to limited access to college recruiters and the social aspects of participating in team sports. However, he hopes that in the future, students like him in Houston ISD will have the chance to compete on their local district sports teams. The UIL Equal Access Bill, also known as the “Tim Tebow Bill,” passed in 2021, grants homeschool athletes the ability to compete for their district teams.
Unfortunately, Houston ISD has chosen not to participate, leaving students like Nile without the opportunity to play high school sports. Nile, who completes graduation this spring, is zoned to Sterling.
“It would mean so much for homeschool students like me to be able to represent our local teams. I hope one day more districts opt-in,” said Nile.
Throughout his golf journey, Nile has built meaningful connections, including a special bond with Houston’s Southside legend and hip-hop pioneer, Brad “Scarface” Jordan. As fellow South Acres natives and passionate golfers, they share a deep connection that started as a casual lesson on the putting green.
“Mr. Jordan has been an incredible inspiration,” said Nile. “At first, I only knew him as an excellent golfer who would work with me on putting drills. It wasn’t until recently that I found out he’s also a legendary rapper who grew up in my neighborhood. He approaches the game with the same discipline, patience and strategic thinking that I strive for. It’s encouraging to see someone from my community carry that level of focus on and off the course.”
Their continued friendship reinforces the importance of representation in the sport and the impact of mentorship.
“I’m thrilled to see kids from our inner city taking the game as seriously as I do,
ABOUT NILE MAX-GEORGE
Class: 2025
IG: @nile.max06
Twitter: @nile_max06
Favorite artist: Mac Demarco
Status: Uncommitted
Favorite subject: Math
Shout-outs: Mom, my Uncle Bernard, Grandparents
putting in the work to become great,” said Jordan.
“Nile is an exceptional young man, very respectful and one hell of a young golfer. I look for ward to helping and being as inspirational to him as he is to me. Just seeing him work lets me know that I still have a lot of work to do.”
Nile’s dedication has earned him an invitation for three con secutive years to the prestigious Mack Champ Invitational. This year’s event will take place May 8-11 at Hous ton’s Memorial Park. Competing in this event is not only a testament to Nile’s skill but also an opportunity to inspire the next generation of young
“I’m incredibly proud to represent Houston at the Mack Champ Invita tional,” said Nile. “It’s an honor to show case the talent and determination that comes from my city and I hope to inspire others to follow their dreams in golf and beyond.”
As Nile continues competing in junior tournaments and working toward a college golf scholarship, he remains focused on advocating for more accessibility in the sport.
“Keep a positive mindset,” said Nile. “Golf is mentally tough, but will help you build character and confidence. The hard work and dedication you put in today will pay off and inspire others along the way.”
Harambee Art Gallery
Uplifts artists, culture, community in Houston
By Laura Onyeneho
When Charles Washington and Gail Mebane opened Harambee Art Gallery in 2011, they created a platform for equity, education and visibility for artists who’d long been left out of Houston’s mainstream scene.
“We were trying to fill the gap of just not enough representation of emerging artists and artists of color in Houston,” Mebane said.
“To give more opportunities to artists who were not getting opportunities from the big galleries. We also wanted to provide training and information so that artists would feel more confident in how they present themselves.”
The gallery was once located at the historic SHAPE Community Center in Third Ward. The name “Harambee” is Swahili for “let us all pull together,” and that philosophy is present in every brushstroke, installation and event the gallery holds.
“For us, it means we are offering opportunities, but we’re all working together for a common goal,” Mebane said. “Each one, help one. Each one, reach one. It’s about becoming better, sharing and impacting the community as a whole.”
Washington’s roots in the arts run deep. A self-described “upcycled artist,” he’s made a name for himself by turning every day, often discarded materials into vibrant, meaningful pieces. He’s been creating art in Houston for
decades, carving out space—literally and figuratively—for expression, mentorship and innovation.
“The main objective [of] this gallery is being able to create a platform that I never had. To be able to bring artists… [and] have them sit at a table that I never got an opportunity to be able to sit at,” Washington said. “So it was all about something that’s bigger than me, all the information I’ve gathered in 40 years.”
That mission spills into the city itself. Washington’s art and sculptures can be found throughout Houston—from River Oaks to the Third Ward—as part of his ongoing commitment to public art and cultural memory. He says he holds the record for the most sculptures by a Black artist in the city, but even that isn’t what drives him.
“My work is just a piece of the idea,” he explained. “If I give someone an idea, their grandkids will talk about me because of what their grandfather learned from this old man.”
Harambee Art Gallery co-founder Charles Washington and Gail Mebane’s mission is to create economic stability for arts in Houston and beyond.
Credit: Harambee Art Gallery
Charles Washington