Sunday, July 20, 2025
Blacks in Ophthalmology - these program books (click link on your PC)
https://www.rabbvenable.com/25thanniversarygala When I ppened on my PC and not my phone I was able to read the program books - great history we should know and share!
Saturday, July 19, 2025
NASA HAS IDEAS FOR PARENTS AND TEACHERS - DIY PROJECTS AND MORE!
https://www.nasa.gov/learning-resources/for-students-grades-k-4/?utm_source=FBPAGE&utm_medium=NASA+-+National+Aeronautics+and+Space+Administration&utm_campaign=NASASocial&linkId=834588085
PARENTS AND TEACHERS: Do you need new ideas for keeping your kids busy at home this summer break, NASA has you covered! From space-themed crafts and DIY experiments to videos and activities, CLICK HERE these free resources will keep curious minds engaged until the school year begins.
Looking for Community in Houston? Efamily member Carin Pinto has the answer! Young Adults are the focus of this group! All ages Support their Gala
Looking for community in Houston?
Philly Connect® is where young adults gather to grow in faith, purpose, and real connection. It’s a co-ed, faith-based hub for young professionals, students, entrepreneurs and creatives. From Thursday night Bible studies to fitness workouts, social events and service projects, PC is where it’s happening.
Check them out at Bible study every Thursday at 6:30PM at 1003 Washington Ave, and don’t miss their 10-Year Anniversary Black Tie Gala on Saturday, August 9 at the historic Julia Ideson Library downtown, celebrating a decade of impact, discipleship and community.
Themed The Power of One, Multiplied, the gala will be a night to remember, full of honor, legacy and Kingdom impact. Guests will experience a beautifully curated evening with live music, a 360° video booth, gourmet bites, luxe décor, a coffee bar, and a vibrant mix of current and next gen leaders, creatives and change-makers. The night will also feature the inaugural Kingdom Impact Awards, recognizing individuals boldly living out their faith and transforming culture in Houston and beyond. VIP guests will enjoy a private reception with a live violinist, special moments and exclusive perks.
Sponsorships and ads are available.
To support or attend the gala: https://givebutter.com/
Follow @phillyconnecthtx on IG to get plugged in
With love,
Carin
Tuesday, July 15, 2025
Saturday, July 12, 2025
Cardiac amyloidosis, particularly transthyretin amyloid cardiomyopathy (ATTR-CM), disproportionately affects Black men in the United States due to a prevalent genetic mutation.
Cardiac Amyloidosis in Black Men
🎯 Overview
Cardiac amyloidosis, particularly transthyretin amyloid cardiomyopathy (ATTR‑CM), disproportionately affects Black men in the U.S., driven by a common genetic mutation.
Genetic Risk: The V122I Mutation
- Approximately 3–3.9% of African Americans carry the V122I (Val122Ile) mutation in the TTR gene, which destabilizes transthyretin and causes hereditary ATTR‑CM :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}.
- Not all carriers will develop the disease, but those who do typically present symptoms after age 60 :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}.
Clinical Impact & Underdiagnosis
ATTR‑CM progresses to heart failure, arrhythmias, and cardiac complications. Early symptoms often mimic other cardiac conditions, resulting in frequent delays or misdiagnoses. Black patients are diagnosed at roughly twice the rate of White patients, yet are still underrepresented in clinical trials :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}.
🥼 Treatment Advances
Several disease-modifying therapies have demonstrated benefits in reducing mortality and hospitalization:
- Tafamidis: In the ATTR‑ACT trial, it reduced all‑cause mortality from 42.9% to 29.5% (HR 0.70) versus placebo :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}.
- Acoramidis (Attruby): FDA-approved November 2024. In Phase III ATTRibute‑CM, it showed significant reductions in all-cause mortality and cardiovascular-related hospitalizations versus placebo :contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}.
- Vutrisiran: In the HELIOS‑B trial, it cut risk of death or cardiovascular events by ~28–33% and improved six-minute walk distance in ATTR‑CM patients :contentReference[oaicite:6]{index=6}.
💡 Why Awareness & Screening Matter
- Due to high V122I prevalence, increased awareness and early screening (e.g., genetic testing) are essential in Black communities.
- Cardiologists should include ATTR‑CM in the differential for Black older adults with unexplained heart failure.
Summary
Black men in the U.S. carry a disproportionate burden of hereditary ATTR‑CM due to the V122I genetic mutation. Recent therapeutic advances — tafamidis, acoramidis, vutrisiran — can significantly slow progression and reduce mortality. Early recognition, genetic testing, and specialist referral are key to improving outcomes.
Janice Weaver is raising funds for research on the "Black Man's Disease" of her husband Alvin Weaver - Link to Alvin's Homegoing Service
Janice Weaver Shares: Raising Awareness of “Black Man’s Disease”
Janice's husband, Alvin Weaver, recently passed away after a 45-year marriage. Married couples, parents, grandparents—Janice and Alvin shared a full, loving life.
Spreading the Word
Janice spoke with me about the disease that deeply affected her family and emphasized: “More people need to know about her husband's disease—Cardiac Amyloidosis.”
Cardiac Amyloidosis has disproportionately impacted Black men, and Janice urges greater public awareness.
How You Can Help
Janice, through her nonprofit, is raising funds for research on this disease and organizing blood drives in Alvin's memory.
To donate via Zelle to One Body Network Amyloidosis Research in honor of Alvin Weaver, please send any amount to:
Zelle: 281‑799‑6518
Learn More
↪ Mayo Clinic: Cardiac Amyloidosis
Read Alvin’s full story in the July 4 issue of the African American News—which highlights his impactful life as a Sunday school teacher, deacon, veteran, coach, and punctual family man ("if you’re on time you’re late").
Watch the moving homegoing service: YouTube Service for Alvin Weaver
Support the African American News: Subscribe and read more about Alvin
Also, shop at Shirley Ann Gift Shop—owned by the same proprietors.
About Alvin Dwight Weaver
Alvin was born March 27, 1947, and passed away June 30, 2025, at age 78, in Houston, TX :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}. He was part of Klein High School’s first integrated class in 1966, graduated from Carver Senior High, attended Prairie View A&M, and served in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War—earning the Army Medal for Meritorious Service :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}.
A devoted community leader, Alvin was a 36‑year member of Starlight Church, served as a Sunday school teacher, deacon, and finance committee member. He coached youth football and baseball in Acres Homes and St. Monica Youth Sports, mentoring countless young people :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}.
Known for his legendary barbecue skills, craftsmanship, and love for the outdoors—especially as a longtime member of the Six Hundred Yard Hunting Club—Alvin was a family-first man through and through :contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}.
He is survived by his wife, Janice Weaver—herself a community leader and one of the Top 30 Women—and their children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and godson. Alvin’s legacy of service, mentorship, and love continues to inspire.
The Frontline Formula: NAACP Unit 6820 Advocacy Training Experience—a two-part, hands-on training designed to introduce students to the history, structure, and impact of the NAACP
Greetings from the NAACP Houston Youth Council, Unit #6820-B,
We invite your child, grandchild, niece, nephew, cousin, or godchild (ages 0–25) to join us for The Frontline Formula: NAACP Unit 6820 Advocacy Training Experience—a two-part, hands-on training designed to introduce students to the history, structure, and impact of the NAACP.
This interactive training is open to elementary, middle, and high school, and junior college students. No one is too young to learn how to organize, advocate, and lead. Whether new to social justice or ready to deepen their engagement, students will build essential skills in leadership, public speaking, and civic action.
Part 1: The NAACP Blueprint
Saturday, July 19, 2025
11:00 A.M. – 6:00 P.M. CST
NAACP Houston Branch Office
2002 Wheeler Avenue, Houston, TX 77004
Students will gain a foundational understanding of how the NAACP operates across all levels, including:
- History, Hierarchal Structure, and Governance
- National Board and Foundation
- Washington & Hollywood Bureaus
- Legal Defense Fund and ACT-SO Program
- Image Awards
- National Convention and CRATI Training
- Governing Documents and Compliance Standards
- Unit Types, Functions, and Leadership Opportunities
Part 2: From Blueprint to Frontline Formula
Saturday, July 26, 2025
9:00 A.M. – 2:00 P.M. CST
NAACP Houston Branch Office
2002 Wheeler Avenue, Houston, TX 77004
This session focuses on action and impact. Students will explore:
- The NAACP 7-Point Advocacy Agenda
- C-HOPE (Centers of Innovation)
- Direct Action Guidelines
- Collaborative advocacy planning with 2025–2026 Standing Committee Chairs
Students will begin developing Fall and Spring advocacy campaigns that support the association's C-Hope initiatives.
What to Bring (Both Sessions):
- Laptop (or tablet/phone if no laptop), with charger
- Notebook, pencil, sharpener
- Lunch (microwave and fridge available)
- Snacks and drinks will be provided
Registration Deadlines:
- Part 1: Register by Friday, July 18, 2025 at 11:59 P.M. CST
- Part 2: Register by Friday, July 25, 2025 at 11:59 P.M. CST
Click below to register.
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfc5vdEFfFoLHfn_Ocmu1DePsB09i8Vo78cbwehDHHrveXa6A/viewform
This is more than a bootcamp—it’s a launchpad into lifelong leadership.
Note: If your student is a current paid member, NAACP Houston Youth Council T-shirts will be available for purchase at $20 each (cash only). Not yet a member? Join us for the training, and we’ll guide you through the membership process.
Warm Regards,
NAACP Houston, TX Youth Council Unit 6820
Executive Committee
Email: naacphoustontxyc@gmail.
com Instagram: @naacphoustonyc
Follow Us On Instagram NAACP Houston Branch| 713-526-3389 | 2002 Wheeler Avenue, Houston TX 77004 www.naacphouston.org
Join NAACP 
Donate to NAACP NAACP Houston Branch | 2002 Wheeler Ave | Houston, TX 77004 US
Announcing.. Efamily member Louis Hook's son Randy Saavy of the Compton Cowboys' latest video release with Burner Boy!! And also his dad, Louis Hook's Book on Black Cowboy History! On Amazon (paperback & ebook) Audiobook on Spotify - Listen now!
Click Here! https://youtu.be/7dDJi9WI_3Y
Efamily member Louis Hook's son Randy, his Compton Cowboys nonprofit and his horses were featured in Beyonce's country genre performance at the holiday football half-time show... https://www.randysavvy.com/ and latest song https://youtu.be/BO2nslAU_ys For more information, you can visit his official website at randysavvy.com or follow him on Instagram and YouTube.
Spotify+9CSUN Today+9The Blueprint Group+9
Musically, Savvy pioneers the "Street Country" genre, blending elements of country and rap music. His tracks often feature acoustic guitars combined with 808 drums and hi-hats, reflecting his diverse musical influences. YouTube+3Randy Savvy+3The Blueprint Group+3The Blueprint Group+1Randy Savvy+1
Savvy has collaborated with brands like Ariat and Boot Barn, and his work has been featured in various media outlets. He holds a Master's degree in Music Industry Administration from California State University, Northridge. CSUN Today+1Randy Savvy+1
Randy Savvy, born Randy Hook, is a multifaceted artist and community leader from Compton, California. He earned a Master’s degree in Music Industry Administration from California State University, Northridge (CSUN) in 2016, equipping him with the skills to merge his passions for music, community service, and entrepreneurship. Instagram+15CSUN Today+15CSUN Today+15
Raised in Compton's Richland Farms neighborhood, Hook was immersed in equestrian life from a young age through the Compton Junior Posse, a nonprofit founded by his aunt, Mayisha Akbar, in 1988. This organization aimed to provide at-risk youth with positive alternatives to gang involvement through horseback riding and mentorship. americanhorsepubs.org+5Los Angeles Times+5CSUN Today+5CSUN Today+2CSUN Today+2Huck+2
In 2017, Hook co-founded the Compton Cowboys, a group dedicated to preserving the legacy of Black cowboys and promoting positive images of African Americans in urban communities. The group's motto, "Streets Raised Us, Horses Saved Us," encapsulates their mission to use equestrian culture as a means of empowerment and community building. Voyage LA+14Los Angeles Times+14CSUN Today+14YouTube+1Los Angeles Times+1
As a musician, performing under the name Randy Savvy, Hook developed a unique genre called "Street Country," blending elements of hip-hop and country music. His debut single, "Colorblind," produced with the help of Dr. Dre, addresses themes of racial injustice and urban violence, reflecting his commitment to social activism through art. Facebook+13The Blueprint Group+13Randy Savvy+13Occidental College+1Los Angeles Times+1
Beyond music and horsemanship, Hook serves as the executive director of the Compton Junior Equestrians, the successor to the Compton Junior Posse. In this role, he continues to mentor youth, fostering personal growth and resilience through equestrian training and community engagement. TikTok+10CSUN Today+10CSUN Today+10Occidental College+3Huck+3The Blueprint Group+3
Randy Savvy's work exemplifies the power of combining cultural heritage, artistic expression, and community service to inspire and uplift future generations.
Background efamily info... Randy's dad Louis probably got Randy into music... you may remember from grad school back in the day (Louis was an awesome DJ at many parties!) Louis is an Occidental College grad that completed his Masters in Economics from MIT and MBA from Harvard Business School..
AUDIOBOOK! Louis' audito book on Black Cowboy history is found on spotify at https://promocards.byspotify.
Paperback Edition
by Louis Hook (Author) , Randy Savvy (Foreword)
Black in the Saddle: From African Cavalries to Modern Cowboys is Volume I in a seven-part series that reclaims the erased legacy of Black cowboys in American history. With a Foreword by Randy Savvy, founder of the Compton Cowboys, this sweeping narrative connects the equestrian mastery of African empires to the rise of Black cowboys in the American West and their powerful resurgence today.
Author Louis C. Hook—also known as the Educated Hood Rat—examines the African origins of horsemanship, the role of enslaved equestrians in colonial and plantation economies, and the erasure of Black contributions to western expansion, law enforcement, and frontier settlement. This volume provides a foundational overview of the complete series and demonstrates how today’s urban riders and rodeo cowboys carry on a tradition rooted in ancient Black cavalry empires.
Whether you're a historian, a student, or a modern cowboy, this book challenges long-held myths, reclaims buried truths, and invites readers to ride forward in celebration of Black equestrian excellence.
—This isn’t just history. It’s a movement.
ORDER HERE ON AMAZON - Paperback and E-Book
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0FD8673QN?binding=paperback&qid=1750045228&sr=8-1&ref=dbs_dp_rwt_sb_pc_tpbk
Robotics graduate school fellowship opportunity.thanks efamily member Sam Denard for sharing! DEADLINE Aug 15, 2025
Hello Everyone,
We are glad to announce another round of Robotics Masters Fellowship Support in partnership with 3M! This supports up to $50k in tuition for MS students studying Robotics in the United States.
- Applications are open, and due August 15, 2025 - with support being available as early as this Fall 2025: https://blackinrobotics.
org/bir-3m-ms-student-tuition- fellowship - Direct link to application form: https://forms.gle/
3eaXDFPjDtNwKoX39
- Direct link to application form: https://forms.gle/
- Typically, in meeting the tuition need, we have been able to support ~2-3 students each year, so please apply!
Sincerely,
Black in Robotics
Sunday, June 29, 2025
Thursday, June 19, 2025
Saturday June 21th Juneteenth Family Day at Bayou Bend MFA - thanks efamily member Laura Herbert Peavy for sharing!
A Juneteenth Celebration at Bayou Bend
Family Day at Bayou Bend
Saturday June 21, 2025
Bayou Bend Collection and Gardens invites you to this family-centered program in honor of the Juneteenth holiday. Enjoy performances, an art-making workshop, and more, all with a focus on Black history.
Admission | Free
Highlights
- A drop-in art-making workshop, led by teaching artists Norola Morgan and Janice Warren, is open to all.
- In the house, docents are on hand to talk about aspects of the Bayou Bend Collection that connect to the story behind Juneteenth.
- Program partners include the Black Cowboy Museum, which preserves the legacy of African American cowboys; and the Wilson Pottery Foundation, one of the first African American–owned businesses in Texas.
Events Museum of Fine Arts thanks efamily member Laura Peavy for sharing!
Jazz and Family Art event details Saturday June 21st Juneteenth Celebration at Bayou Bend
Family Day at Bayou Bend
The Museum, Bayou Bend, and Rienzi are open regular hours on Thursday, June 19.
On Saturday, Bayou Bend invites you to A Juneteenth Celebration.
🎉 Celebrate Juneteenth at Bayou Bend Collection and Gardens
Saturday, June 21, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
This family-centered program explores Black history with performances, tours, and an art-making workshop.
Learn about:
🎟️ Admission is free.
🖼️ See Highlights: Your Family, Your Masterpiece
Make Memories with Family Art-Making Studio
Sunday, June 22, 1 p.m.
Get ready for an afternoon of creative adventure inspired by Alice Neel’s The Family.
Explore the painting, then dive into the studio to craft your own props and design fun family scenes against a photo backdrop.
Perfect for families with children ages 5 to 12 to learn, create, and make lasting memories together.
👉 Tickets & Info
🎷 Jazz on Film Series
Art Blakey: The Jazz Messenger
Friday, June 20, 7 p.m.
📍 Brown Auditorium Theater
Art Blakey formed the Jazz Messengers in the mid-1950s, and the evolving group became a rite of passage for talented young musicians for the next 35 years.
This documentary portrait captures the legendary drummer, bandleader, and teacher in the 1980s as he leads workshops and performances in London and New York City.
🎟️ Get Tickets
The Pawnbroker
Saturday, June 21, 7 p.m.
📍 Brown Auditorium Theater
This groundbreaking 1964 drama from director Sidney Lumet stars Rod Steiger as a German-Jewish immigrant who lives a bitter, lonely existence running a pawn shop in Harlem.
Quincy Jones’s first Hollywood film score features musicians Dave Grusin, Freddie Hubbard, Elvin Jones, and Oliver Nelson.
🎟️ Get Tickets
Monday, June 16, 2025
Black Cowboy History by Efamily Member Louis Hook Paperback and ebook at Amazon - Audiobook on Spotify
Black in the Saddle, From African Cavalries to Modern Cowboys (1 book series)
Paperback Edition
by Louis Hook (Author) , Randy Savvy (Foreword)
ORDER HERE ON AMAZON
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0FD8673QN?binding=paperback&qid=1750045228&sr=8-1&ref=dbs_dp_rwt_sb_pc_tpbk
Paperback Edition
by Louis Hook (Author) , Randy Savvy (Foreword)
Black in the Saddle: From African Cavalries to Modern Cowboys is Volume I in a seven-part series that reclaims the erased legacy of Black cowboys in American history. With a Foreword by Randy Savvy, founder of the Compton Cowboys, this sweeping narrative connects the equestrian mastery of African empires to the rise of Black cowboys in the American West and their powerful resurgence today.
Author Louis C. Hook—also known as the Educated Hood Rat—examines the African origins of horsemanship, the role of enslaved equestrians in colonial and plantation economies, and the erasure of Black contributions to western expansion, law enforcement, and frontier settlement. This volume provides a foundational overview of the complete series and demonstrates how today’s urban riders and rodeo cowboys carry on a tradition rooted in ancient Black cavalry empires.
Whether you're a historian, a student, or a modern cowboy, this book challenges long-held myths, reclaims buried truths, and invites readers to ride forward in celebration of Black equestrian excellence.
—This isn’t just history. It’s a movement.
ORDER HERE ON AMAZON
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0FD8673QN?binding=paperback&qid=1750045228&sr=8-1&ref=dbs_dp_rwt_sb_pc_tpbk
Sunday, June 15, 2025
Ebony Opera TODAY June 15th at 3:30 - Thanks Efamily member Deborah Wood for sharing!
Another event for Juneteenth. Sunday, tomorrow June 15th the Houston Ebony Opera will be presented in a Juneteenth concert at the Match Theatre on Main Street at 3:30 p.m. This is a part of the Fade to Black series.
More information: https://houstonebonymusic.org/
Saturday, June 14, 2025
Juneteenth Houston Museum of African American Culture
HMAAC Juneteenth Family Day Thurs, June 19, 11AM - 6PM OPENING EXHIBITION
AND ARTIST TALK: Ted Ellis' JUNETEENTH FREEDOM PROJECT THURS, JUNE 19, AT 4 PM
Ted T. Ellis, nationally recognized as the Art Ambassador for Juneteenth, has
received proclamations from the City and County of Galveston, the State of
Texas, and Congressional recognition for his work in preserving African American
history through art. His powerful “Juneteenth Freedom Project” returns to
Texas—on view at the Houston Museum of African American Culture (HMAAC) from
June 1 to August 9, 2025. Co-curated by John Guess and Tanner Ellis, the
exhibition also features “Free At Last,” the official Juneteenth painting
created at Stringfellow Orchards in Hitchcock, TX. Join us for a special Artist
Talk with Ted T. Ellis on June 19, 2025, from 4 PM—an inspiring conversation on
history, freedom, and the power of visual storytelling. HMAAC STORYTELLING IN
THE COMMUNITY 7 PM, WED, JULY 2, @SUNNYSIDE MSC Seven storytellers will
celebrate the legacy of one of Houston’s oldest historic Black neighborhoods.
This HMAAC-sponsored exhibition in the community will take place at 7 PM,
Wednesday, July 2, at the Sunnyside Multi-Service Center, located at 4410 Reed
Road, Houston, TX. Free and open to the public. For more information, call
713-526-1015, or email AlexusR@HMAAC.org.
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