BlackFacts.com Takes Black History & Black History Month to a New Level!
The web site celebrates Black cultural contributions from the past and present
Since it’s founding in 1997 by a pair of self-avowed “nerds” from MIT and Boston University, BlackFacts.com has been the longest running data-driven repository of Black history on the internet. Over its 20+ year history, this online project, founded on the concept that there were black technologists who could give back to their community, has grown from a simple labor-of-love, to become #1 on all 3 major search engines (Google, Yahoo, Bing), having its own Amazon Alexa™ Skill for the Black History Fact-Of-The-Day, and garnering millions of national and international visitors and over 100,000 followers via social media and email.
Black Doctor from Chicago Upset After Police Mistook Him for a Robbery Suspect
Dr. Gregory Hall, a Black American doctor in Evanston, became a victim of mistaken identity. He was walking home from a public library when he was suddenly stopped by police officers and was wrongfully detained for alleged robbery.
Baltimore Police Commissioner Fired After Record Number of Homicides in 2017
Baltimore Mayor Catherine Pugh fired Police Commissioner Kevin Davis after a surge of homicide rate and a lot more controversies during his term. He was replaced by previous deputy police commissioner Darryl DeSousa.
MD Anderson Supports World Cancer Day Through Commitment to End Cancer
The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center and its 20,000 faculty and staff devoted exclusively to patient care, research, education and prevention are proud to support World Cancer Day, Feb. 4, and its mission of uniting the world’s population toward the goal of eliminating cancer. Established in 2000, the Union for International Cancer Control leads the global campaign that aims to save lives by increasing awareness and education about the disease and encouraging action. The tagline ‘We can. I can,’ emphasizes the cooperative approach needed to eliminate the disease.
Semi-trucks Filled with 1.2 Million Packages of Girl Scout Cookies Roll into Houston February 10
It’s the day Girl Scout cookie lovers have been waiting for. Girl Scout Cookies are rolling into southeast Texas beginning Saturday, February 10. From 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Sam Houston Race Park, hundreds of Girl Scout volunteers will be unloading more than 1.2 million packages of Girl Scout Cookies from dozens of semi-trucks that will line the event park. The cookies will be delivered to customers in the following days by Girl Scouts who took pre-orders in January.
Governor Abbott Statement On Arrests Made In TJJD Investigation
Governor Abbott today released a statement following the announcement by the Texas Department of Public Safety that the Texas Rangers made four arrests earlier today in relation to their ongoing investigation into misconduct at the Texas Juvenile Justice Department.
Suburban Sugar Land Women Honors Women in the Community in Their Women’s History Month 2018 Celebration
The National Women’s History Project recognizes and celebrates the diverse and historic accomplishments of women. History helps us learn who we are, but when we don’t know our own history, our power and dreams are immediately diminished. Multicultural American women are overlooked in most mainstream approaches to U.S. history, so the National Women’s History Project champions their accomplishments and leads the drive to write women back into history. Recognizing the achievements of women in all facets of life – science, community, government, literature, art, sports, medicine – has a huge impact on the development of self-respect and new opportunities for girls and young women.
Comedian Bill Murray Brings "New Worlds" Tour to Houston
Just Announced. Tickets on sale now at houstonsymphony.org
The Houston Symphony announced today that legendary actor and comedian Bill Murray is bringing his New Worlds: Bill Murray, Jan Vogler & Friends tour to Jones Hall at 7:30 p.m. April 16, 2018, for a one-night-only event of music and literature.
Let The Good Times Roll At Willie’s “Beer Bugs & Blues” Party
Cajun crawfish boil, live music and more on tap for five-day party, Feb. 8-11, 13
Willie’s Grill & Icehouse – known for serving “Great Food and More Fun” to Texans – is celebrating Mardi Gras Cajun-style, with a lively five-day party.
When You Should – And Should Not – Get A Nose Job
Young people love their nose jobs. In fact, rhinoplasty is far and away the No. 1 cosmetic-surgical procedure performed for patients who are ages 13 to 19, according to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. Teenagers aren’t the only ones intrigued by the idea of changing the way their noses look, though. It’s also in the top five procedures for people of all ages.
Mayor: Property tax cap would endanger quality public safety services to all residents
In written testimony today in Houston to the state Senate Select Committee On Property Tax Reform, Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner warned against the adoption of proposed legislation that would cap property tax revenues for local governments.
Macy’s Celebrates Innovators and Visionaries During Black History Month
Macy’s welcomes local change makers at eight stores nationwide, highlighted by special appearances by Issa Rae in Los Angeles and Laverne Cox in New York City
This February, Macy’s (NYSE:M) celebrates Black History Month by welcoming a host of innovators in fashion, entertainment, art, music, literature and technology, who are pioneers in their industries. Innovation is one of the cornerstones of Black culture, helping to propel trends, widely influencing pop culture, and changing the face of history.
Statement of Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee Regarding the Decision by the President Whether or Not to Release the “Nunes Memo”
Jackson Lee: “Never in my congressional life have I seen a President recklessly ignoring the consultation of his national security hierarchy, including the FBI, thereby placing the Government in peril. The FBI and DOJ should immediately take legal action against the White House.”
200 Pastors and Faith Leaders in Prayer and Support Kickoff the 2018 Sheila Jackson Lee Congressional Campaign
Something highly unusual happened at 8:00AM on Monday morning, January 29. Nearly 200 pastors and faith leaders made their way to Vic and Anthony’s 5 Star Restaurant, in downtown Houston. Why? They gathered to affirm their intensified support for Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee. The veteran incumbent finds herself with an opponent as she seeks re-election to the seat she has now held for blank years. This group of faith leaders are not taking anything for granted. The event was co-chaired by two of Houston’s prominent clergy personalities. Bishop James Dixon of The Community of Faith Church, and Dr. Ralph D. West of The Church Without Walls.
Jill Jill Stuart Creates the Ultimate "It" Girl Collection for Macy's
The limited-edition spring line features bold floral prints, distinctive textiles, and eye-catching silhouettes, and will be available in 151 Macy’s stores and on macys.com in February
Jill Stuart, known for her collections that marry feminine romanticism with downtown edge, has partnered with Macy’s to create JILL Jill Stuart, a limited-edition spring ready-to-wear line replete with wardrobe essentials for the girl with a packed social calendar. With creations worn within the fashion, socialite, and celebrity set, Jill Stuart’s coolly ethereal aesthetic has made her eponymous brand one of the most coveted in the industry. The JILL Jill Stuart collection that includes fanciful dresses and lightly structured tops, skirts, and pants, brings her unique point of view to Macy’s stores and macys.com in February.
Mariah Carey Sued for Cancelling Shows in Argentina and Chile
Argentine promotor Fenix Entertainment is counter-suing Mariah Carey for her cancellations of shows in Argentina and Chile in October 2016.
Cardi B's Journey to Stardom Shows the Struggles of Bronx Latinas
Bronx native and proud Dominican-Trinidadian Cardi B, born Belcalis Almanzar, has taken the music industry by storm with her hit single “Bodak Yellow" — earning her Grammy nominations for Best Rap Performance and Best Rap Song.
Don't Miss Soul/Pop Guitarist Jackie Venson (toured with Gary Clark Jr) in Houston on Mar 6
"The Austin native’s stage presence exudes joy and excitement for life as her blues-y, rock ‘n roll sound carries this tune about freedom and self-acceptance. Her delicate, yet mesmerizing voice and the ease with which her fingers find all the right notes along her guitar’s neck will have your head in the clouds." (VIBE Magazine)
Statement of Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee Honoring the Life and Legacy of Simeon Booker
Jackson Lee: “Simeon Booker captured and documented some of the most heinous acts of the civil rights movement, chronicling history in a way that helped inspire a nation to evolve. His tremendous body of work has formed an indelible imprint on the fabric of America.”
200 Reasons Drivers Should Obey Traffic Laws Near METRORail
METRO police have a message for area drivers; start paying attention to traffic signs along the METRORail or get ready to pay up. A jump in illegal left turns prompted a focused traffic enforcement campaign.
Playa! Playa! Musician Icon Quincy Jones, 84, Says He Has 22 Girlfriends
*84-year-old Quincy Jones revealed in a recent interview with GQ that he has 20+ girlfriends and counting. He explains, “I got 22 girlfriends. I was married three times, man. Was told not to marry actresses or singers. I ended up with two actresses, Peggy Lipton and Nastassja Kinski (9), and a superstar model. I didn’t listen to all the advice.”
UH Alumnus & Cliburn Medalist Returns for International Piano Festival
Kenny Broberg Will Perform Fri., Feb. 2 at Moores Opera House
Kenny Broberg, a University of Houston alumnus and silver medalist at the 2017 Cliburn International Piano Competition, will return to his alma mater to perform at this year’s International Piano Festival, which runs Thursday-Sunday, Feb. 1- 4, at the Moores Opera House.
Opening: Kevin Cole and George Smith, Feb. 24 at Nicole Longnecker Gallery
Nicole Longnecker Gallery announces dual exhibitions; “Danci’ with Color” featuring work by Atlanta-based artist Kevin Cole and “George Smith” by Houston icon George Smith from February 24 to March 31, 2018. There will be an artists’ reception on Saturday, February 24, from 5-8pm.
Unique Food and Wine Experience Launches in Dallas
Food and Wine Crawl Dallas will kick off February 17th with visits to several local restaurants and wineries. The private tour has been popular in cities like Chicago and Atlanta and hopes to replicate that success in Texas.
Shelley Johnson, CDME, LCTP Louisiana Travel Association Tourism Lifetime Achievement Award
Shelley Johnson, executive director/CEO of the Lake Charles/Southwest Louisiana CVB (LC/SWLA CVB) was named as the recipient of the prestigious Will Mangham Tourism Lifetime Achievement Award during the Louisiana Travel Association (LTA) Annual Membership Meeting held recently in Lafayette. The award is named after the late Will Mangham, affectionately known as the “father” of Louisiana Tourism Promotion.
Little Miss Flint Helps Fundraising Effort for #BlackPantherChallenge Students in Flint, Michigan
This campaign is apart of the #BlackPantherChallenge, a challenge started by Frederick Joseph in New York City. The Marvel movie Black Panther is going to be a very important film.
Pop Some Bubbly At The General Public This Valentine’s Day
Live music, complimentary champagne flights and chocolate served all day Feb. 14
There are dozens of ways to impress your better half on Valentine’s Day, but none quite like the romantic experience that The General Public has planned.
Harden Posts Historical 60 Point Triple Double
Harden pours in 60 points, 10 rebounds and 11 assists for the first 60 point triple double in history while setting a franchise record for most points in one game. Here are all his made field goals from a historic performance.
Revolutionary Black-Owned Swimming Cap Brand Fits Women With Braids, Locks, and Afros
Do you have braids, locks, weaves, or an all-natural afro? Have you ever been frustrated finding a swimming cap that would perfectly cover your hair, that is not too tight and damaging? Fret not! Nomvuyo Treffers, a woman entrepreneur from South Africa, has innovated a swimming cap design specifically made for Black women's hair.
Facebook Partners with the Alfred Street Baptist Church Foundation to Support Their 16th Annual HBCU College Festival on Saturday, February 10
Alfred Street Baptist Church Foundation Announces Facebook as the Title Sponsor of the Largest Free HBCU College Festival in the United States
Facebook and The Alfred Street Baptist Church Foundation have partnered to support the 16th Annual Alfred Street Baptist Church’s Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU) College Festival (Festival). The 2018 Festival will take place on Saturday, February 10 at the Gaylord National Resort and Convention Center in Oxon Hill, Maryland.
The Rockland Orange (NY) Chapter of Jack & Jill of America Hosts U.S. Tour of “An Adam Experiment” This Black History Month
Renowned Civic Organization Hosts New Play on the Life of Adam Clayton Powell, Jr. at Rockland County Community College on February 25th to Benefit College Scholarship Fund
In celebration of Black History Month, the Rockland-Orange (NY) Chapter of Jack and Jill of America, Inc. will present An Adam Experiment during its second year of touring across the United States on Sunday, February 25, 2018 at 3:00 p.m. at the Rockland County Community College’s Cultural Arts Center Theater (145 College Road, Suffern, New York 10901). Ticket prices are $40.00.
NAACP Files Lawsuit Against U.S. Department of Homeland Security For Denying Haitian Immigrants Their Rights
The U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s decision to rescind the Temporary Protective Status (TPS) designation for Haitian immigrants discriminates against immigrants of color, in violation of the Fifth Amendment, according to a new lawsuit filed today on behalf of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) by the NAACP Legal Defense and Educational Fund (LDF) in the U.S. District Court for the District of Maryland.
Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC) on Forbes First-Ever List of America’s Best Employers for Diversity
The Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC) has been ranked No. 53 out of 250 organizations on the Forbes 2018 list of America’s Best Employers for Diversity. In addition, MUSC ranked No. 6 among the 20 institutions listed in the education category.
Down But Not Out — Single Mom Fatima Alexander Launches New Lifestyle Magazine Inspiring Others to Never Give Up
She battled through depression, an abusive relationship and a suicide attempt. Now inspirational mom Fatima Alexander launches “I Am Unashamed” – a lifestyle magazine with a difference.
Having walked away from an abusive relationship and suffering from depression for more than 20 years, single mother Fatima Alexander knows that even the darkest of nights can give rise to the brightest mornings. First her mother passed away, then she lost her niece to brain cancer; her son was diagnosed with leukemia diagnosis shortly afterwards. When the pain was too much to bear, depression consumed her and she attempted to end her own life.
Reginald F. Lewis, First Black $Billion Dollar Dealmaker — New Documentary to be Broadcast in February, Black History Month
WNET has announced the television premiere of Pioneers: Reginald F. Lewis and the Making of a Billion Dollar Empire (Watch the trailer). The documentary chronicles the life and legacy of business pioneer, philanthropist and titan Reginald F. Lewis. Lewis, a Harvard Law School graduate, who rose to prominence as a lawyer, financier, and leader of the global food company TLC Beatrice International.
Alicia Boler Davis Selected 2018 Black Engineer of the Year
General Motors executive will be the sixth woman in the 32-year history of the scientific and technical awards to be named Black Engineer of the Year
US Black Engineer (USBE) magazine’s annual BEYA STEM Conference will recognize GM Executive Vice President, Global Manufacturing Alicia Boler Davis with the Black Engineer of the Year Award on Saturday, Feb. 10, 2018, at the BEYA Gala in Washington Marriott Wardman Park in Washington, DC.
Woman Burns Her Face With Acid — and Then Tells Police That a Black Woman Did It!
Lizzie Dunn, a 52-year-old white woman from Staten Island, suffers from second-degree burns after fabricating a story that a black woman sprayed acid on her face. Turns out the black woman was imaginary and she did that to herself.
Getting His Cut -- Black Tech Entrepreneur Creates Device That Automatically Gets Your Lawn Mowed
Wilkinson Egwu, a Black tech entrepreneur based in Woodstock, Georgia, has created an innovative way to automate professional lawn care! LawnTap, the startup company he co-founded, has developed a device and an app that enables your lawn to take care of itself (yep, literally).
Study Confirms Black Women Are 3-4 Times More Likely to Die During Pregnancy
The death of a woman during pregnancy or after delivery is indeed a tragedy for a family. Unfortunately, more and more pregnant women in the United States die each year due to pregnancy or delivery complications, and black women are more likely to be a victim than white women.
The Black History Bowties Are Back — Just in Time For Black History Month!
Following a huge success of their re-launch last year, the founders of BlackHistoryBowties.com have announced two new additions to their collection – The Harlem Renaissance design and the Black Cowboy design. Both designs give African American men an opportunity to celebrate their history in elegant style!
The BBVA Foundation Award Goes to James Allison, Creator of the First Immunotherapy to Prove Highly Effective Against Cancer
The BBVA Foundation Frontiers of Knowledge Award in the Biomedicine category goes, in this tenth edition, to American immunologist James P. Allison, whose research, says the jury, "had led to harnessing the immune system to combat cancer in patients and the development of new therapies." Allison was the first to demonstrate that immunotherapy can treat cancer effectively, initiating an approach that "has provided clinical benefit to many cancer patients" and "stimulated the development of a new class of drugs employing the immune system to fight cancer."
City to Partner With Harris County, Galveston & Pasadena For Fair Housing Choice Community Input Meeting on Feb. 6
In an effort to solicit increased community participation and involvement in identifying barriers to fair housing choice and priorities for affirmatively furthering fair housing, Missouri City will partner with Harris County and the cities of Galveston and Pasadena to hold a public meeting from 4 – 7 p.m. on Tuesday, Feb. 6 in the Old Courtroom Chambers in the City Hall Complex, 1522 Texas Pkwy., to gather resident and stakeholder perspective on housing issues in the region.
Latino Victory Fund Hosts Second Latino Political Summit
As Trump prepared to deliver his first State of the Union address, progressive Latino leaders met to discuss how to take back Congress
As President Donald Trump prepared to deliver his first State of the Union address – and boast about all the ways in which he has terrorized the Hispanic community, Latino Victory Fund held its second Latino Political Summit. The event gathered the nation’s progressive Latino leaders to discuss how to empower Latino candidates and take back Congress in 2018. Joining Latino Victory were Democratic National Committee Chair Tom Perez, Senator Bernie Sanders, San Juan Mayor Carmen Yulín Cruz, and former HUD Secretary Julian Castro.
Main Event Entertainment To Reopen Humble Center Damaged By Hurricane Harvey
Grand re-opening celebration set for Jan. 30
Humble’s Main Event Entertainment center was open for just six months before it was completely destroyed by Hurricane Harvey.
Black Lives Matter Global Network’s Response to Trump’s First State of the Union Address
In a speech riddled with lies and half-truths distorting the performance of his administration, Donald Trump delivered his first State of the Union address to the nation.
Houston Ranks in the Top 15 Best Places to Get Married
Anyone who’s ever organized a wedding knows all too well how difficult and time-consuming the process can be. It’s the reason many couples hire professional event planners to do the heavy lifting. And the cost only adds more stress, with the average couple shelling out over $35,000 for their big day.
Rep. Jarvis Johnson Claims Success at Annual State of the District Breakfast
Houston, Texas On Saturday January 20, 2018, State Representative Jarvis Johnson held his annual State of the District Breakfast at Luby’s, where over 100 constituents engaged in a wonderful, delicious breakfast. The event started on time with eager seniors leading the way, and of course, Representative Johnson ensured they among the first served. Each attendee was able to share a candid moment with their State Representative, and many were given the opportunity for a reunion with old friends.
The Kevin Hart Irresponsible Tour' Adds Over 100 New Dates Across North America, Europe, Australia And Asia
Today, Kevin Hart announced he is expanding his widely successful and massively hysterical 'The Kevin Hart Irresponsible Tour,' adding over 100 new dates across the U.S., Canada, Europe, Australia and Asia. Produced by Live Nation, the new dates will kick off March 23 in Baltimore, MD and hit all new cities including New York, Atlanta, Chicago, Toronto, Paris, London, Sydney, Auckland, Singapore, and more. See below for full routing and on sale details.
Healthier Soul Food Cookbook Takes Fresh Approach to Traditional Recipes for "Go Red" Heart Health Month
Joint Project Between Transamerica Center for Health Studies and the Association of Black Women Physicians Promotes Healthier, Happy Traditional Eating
The Healthier Traditions Cookbook: Soul Food, a healthy twist on traditional Southern dishes, features 17 classic recipes and is available for complimentary download today. The cookbook, a collaboration of Transamerica Center for Health Studies® (TCHS) with the Association of Black Women Physicians (ABWP), helps maintain the integrity of these soul food dishes, while identifying easy steps people can take to enjoy healthier versions. Each recipe was adapted and tested by two nutritionists to ensure an increase in nutritional value and decrease in caloric value.
The Home Depot Announces the 2018 Retool Your School Grant Program for Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs)
The Home Depot’s Campus Improvement Program Will Award a Total of $360,000 in Campus Improvement Grants to Nine Deserving HBCUs
The Home Depot, the world’s largest home improvement retailer, today announced its 2018 Retool Your School Grant Program. Now, in its ninth year, the program awards accredited Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) grants to use toward creating sustainable renovations and additions to their campuses.
