Black History Events This Weekend Houston

There are plenty of exciting events highlighting Black History and African American culture happening this weekend. I fondly recall a story from back-in-the-day when they were holding the photo-op for the groundbreaking for the Astrodome. These dapperly dressed men are celebrating both the dome and the MLB Colt-45's coming to Houston.

Here are the final two of the “The 5 Best Black History Celebrations of 2014” alongwith a few other things you can do this weekend in Houston.

Since 1976 Black History has been celebrated for the entire month of February. It allows more time to focus the world's attention the many contributions of Africans and African Americans to world history.Here's the rundown of some of the upcoming Houston events.

The Other Great Migration: The Movement of African Americans to Houston, 1900-1941
A book signing and discussion of a masterful volume that illuminates the stories and struggles of Blacks in that era. The author craftily weaves together the racial issues and rural lifestyles that spawned the migrations of human capital that catapulted Houston from a Texas town into a fledgling metropolis.
Dr. Bernadette Pruitt, Associate Professor of History, Sam Houston State University. Saturday, February 8, 2014 2 PM The African American Library at the Gregory School

Houston Stars Old Timers Celebrity Game
The New World Professional Basketball League (NWPBL) 2014 Black History Tip-Off Tour There is a new basketball team in town the Houston Stars of the (NWPBL). The leagues first season begins with 24 teams scheduled to play 52 games! You can come out join the fun, meet the players and support the League.
Sunday, February 9 4:30 Fonde Recreation Center Sabine Street in Houston, TX

2014 HCC Black History Scholarship Gala
The annual fundraiser has featured Spike Lee, Julian Bond and Sidney Poitier. In 2014 the scholarship gala brings to H-town the outspoken New Yorker and syndicated talk show host Rev. Dr. Al Sharpton.
Friday, February 21, 2014 6 p.m. HILTON AMERICAS

Special Black History Programs: Houston Events in 2014

Macy's Black History Month Celebration
Macy's salutes ten decades of African American Style with an "in conversation" discussion featuring Constance White, Beverly Johnson and Ledisi hosted by Houston Chronicle Fashion Editor Joy Sewing.
Macy’s Galleria @ Hidalgo on 2/8 at 2pm, on the 2nd floor

Celebrate the 100th Birthday of Late, Great Joe Louis with "A Nation’s Hope"
Author Matt de la Peña’s book for children is a powerful biography of the great boxer. It centers on the historic fight in which Black and White America set aside prejudice for a few hours and came together to root for the soon-to-be heavyweight champion of the world.
February 11, 10:30 AM McCrane-Kashmere Gardens Library Pardee St

World Café: Remembering Mandela with Texas State Representative Helen Giddings
World Café, a public forum co-sponsored by the United Nations Association, highlights Nelson Mandela to raise awareness of in our community of the legacy that he leaves behind.
February 20 6-8 PM Central Library McKinney St

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There are a lot more events coming your way this month so don’t leave this page without hitting the Facebook like button. When is the last time you visited our Event Calendar? Well, That’s too long. It’s where all of the family-friendly fairs, festivals and free events in and around the state are listed.

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Houston Events: The 5 Best Black History Celebrations Of 2014

“Black people are always being short-changed even Black History Month is in February, the shortest month on the calendar”. That’s a line I’ve heard a lot from a variety of Black comedians that can get big laughs from audiences.

The real deal is that in the mid-1920’s Dr. Carter G. Woodson, head of the Association for the Study of African American Life and History, established Black History week in February to coincide with Abraham Lincoln’s birthday.

It didn’t take to long before it began resonating with educators, communities and civic organizations in the U.S.A. that celebrating achievements of Blacks, was a good thing.

Here’s where you can get a taste of the good things happening in February:

• Cultural Organizations
• Local Events
• Houston Library

plus a few other places around the city in support of this honorable tradition.

Celebrate Black Culture At Organizations In Houston

There are a variety of Houston events saluting Black History that highlight the culture of African Americans. They include plays, films and discussions on topics surrounding the unique influences that have been adopted from the soul of Black folks, their culture, into everyday life.

These are the places I found in Houston where Black history is being presented in a style that will sooth any visual learners in your crew.

The Meeting (Ensemble Theater) by Jeff Stetson
An inventive play depicting the supposed meeting of two of the most influential Black men of modern times: Malcolm X and Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. The two debate their varying approaches to the same grave social problems. They both seem to have a willingness to die for their beliefs, but neither are aware of the nearness of that reality.
January 28 - March 2014 Ensemble Theater - Main St

“It’s A Black Thing: Collecting African American Memorabilia”
Objects have meaning, whether positive or negative. Come and observe African American Memorabilia collections. On display are objects with a cultural and/or historical context that provide reflections on the past and the modern African American experience in the USA.
Now-March 1, 2014 African American Library at the Gregory School Victor St

"Following Your African American Roots" with Tony Burroughs
In the post-Civil war Army twenty percent of the cavalry and a large part of the infantry was African American. Learn about highly decorated soldiers from the era and the records that are available to research them.
Friday, February 21, 2014 | 3 PM Buffalo Soldiers National Museum | 3816 Caroline,

It’s easy to see the main focus is still to build awareness of a fundamental truth. African Americans and peoples of African descent may be slighted by by mainstream publications, but they were and still are explorers, inventors and makers of history

The conundrum is that, few if any Black churches or organizations in Houston are having events commemorating Black history month this year. If you or your group are sponsoring a program, let us know about it in the comment section.

More Houston Events On African American History

Those are my top 3 Houston events, during Black History month, because each will give you something to take away from them that you can readily apply to everyday life. Even if it’s something as simple as shaping your attitude about how an image on paper can be offensive to someone else.

There are more events to come, a lot more, including the remaining two celebrations that are on our top 5 list. B-T-W don’t leave this page without hitting the like button for MidtownLIVE or browsing through our Event Page's Calendar with family-friendly fairs, festivals and free events in and around Houston that you can attend.

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If you found this information useful tell somebody

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Feburary Events: Things To Do During Black History Month in Houston

Here's some more exciting February Events for you. There's still time to pencil-in some more Black history Month-2010 activities on your crowded schedule of things to do in Houston . I've added some of the incredible activities in Houston that highlight African American history.

The assortment of fun and entertainment that you can enjoy this month ranges from the sizzling hot sounds of Zydeco music and Jazz to engaging story-times for youth.

I've also put together some useful resources and events celebrating African American history from other parts of the country. I mixed in a few websites, places with more details on the contributions on African Americans in Texas and the U.S., so that you'll have plenty of stuff on African Americans to sink your chops into.

Oral History Projects

My grandma always said it's better to hear it from the horses mouth. That's one of the reasons written history isn't the only source of history. In 2009 the StoryCorps a mobile studio, stopped in Houston for three weeks to record personal interviews of local residents.

They plan to record and setup a permanent oral archive in the Library of Congress of face to face interviews with prominent citizens, well known businessmen and everyday people from all across the country, over the next decade. Our local public radio affiliate KUHF plans to air some of the Houston interviews later this year.

Mayor's Oral History Project

The city of Houston and several other major cities have several ongoing oral history projects to capture fascinating bits and pieces of their history from the last century.
Former mayor Bill White commissioned interviews of well known civic, political and business leaders that have been digitally recorded. These are people who were the eyewitnesses to the historical events that created the Houston we know and have come to love. There are a total of 100 interviews that will eventually be available to us through the Houston Public Library's webspace.

The Houston History Project

The University of Houston is creating The Houston History Project. It will be a learning laboratory for public history students. It's comprised of oral history, a history magazine and a Houston history archive. Their ultimate goal is to generate materials that can be used by teachers in public schools, universities, students, amateur historians and any one interested in Houston's vibrant history.

Famous Black Houstonians

Houston is a place where beaucoup Blacks have left a legacy that paved the way for today's African Americans. Here are some of the names of famous Black Houstonians. You should become familiar with their accomplishments during the hundreds of February events that celebrate Black history in Houston.

Dr. Bernard Harris, Jr.
The First African American to walk in outerspace.
Sherman E. Stimley
Opened the first African-American Law firm in Texas to consult exclusively in tax-exempt bond law.
Dr. Lonnie E. Smith
He was the Smith named in; Smith v. Allwright. The 1944 landmark Supreme Court case which won the right of all African-Americans to vote in Texas primary elections.

That's enough talk about February events honoring Black history in Houston. You may be curious and want to learn more about your own family's history?

Where To Research Family History In Houston

If you want to discover some really interesting facts about your family history in Houston, take time to do a little sleuthing at the Clayton Library Center for Genealogical Research. It's the best place in Houston for you to connect with your ancestors and other members of past generations.

Black History Events Online

Shape Community Center
Smithsonian Institute
Program for research for Black Americans
Buffalo Soldier Museum
History.com-Black History
African American History Month in Houston

Black History Programs In Houston


Harris County Public Library
Zydeco & Blues
Mr. Entertainer
Music Magic
Magical Storytime

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Events In Houston

A moving forensic/art exhibit is one of the highlights you can discover during Black History Month in Houston. The Main St Theater, Buffalo Soldiers Museum, the Smithsonian and forensic sculptor Amanda Danning all have a piece to tell in a story that begins with a Buffalo Soldier, Thomas Smith.

You go behind the scene to see the science that drives forensic anthropology. It'll reveal some of the intricate details on how they work with sculptors to examine bones and bodies and uncover the identities and recreate the faces of unidentifiable human remains.

This display focuses on artifacts found at Fort Craig, New Mexico one of the outpost where the Buffalo Soldiers served after the Civil War. This incredible exhibit blends science and art to share the story of how once forgotten soldiers become the center of attention and admiration.

Main Theater
4816 Main Street
Next To Museum Of Contemporary Crafts

More Things to do In Houston

photo credit:Jeff Balke




Free Film Screenings

Black History Month Events in Houston

Free Movie Night@Project Row House

Golf Tournament

Houston Storytellers Meeting



see more details below.........

Houston Area Alliance of Black School Educators (HAABSE)
Golf Tournament – Windrose Golf Club

Texas Southern University's Granville Sawyer Auditorium
The Alley Theatre’s “I Barbara …” Production and Reception
For ticket information call 713-313-7931

Tale Swap at 7 pm
At the Montrose Library, 4100 Montrose Blvd.
3rd Thursdays of each month
6:30 pm social and begin
Guests are always welcome and there is never a charge.These gatherings are open to anyone interested in listening to or telling stories.

Project Row House
2521 Holman St.
Fri., Feb. 12th
Event begins: 6:45 PM
2521 Holman St.

Film Screening
Lords of the Revolution

Following the movie, Ayanna Ade and Veron (Sensei) Benton, two Houston Alumni of the Black Panther Party, will lead a discussion on the significance of this historic organization and their commitment to keep its legacy alive

Rice Media Center
6100 Main St
Houston, Texas


The Eyes Of Me
Produced by Keith Maitland and Patrick Floyd
Animation by Jason Archer and Paul Becka

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Black History Celebrations in Houston

Black History Month in Houston has a lot of activities that for everyone that wants to learn, celebrate and participate in African American heritage events. Take a look at this sampling of just a few of the things that are on tap.

African American Heritage Month Film Festival
Central Library Wednesday, February 17 | 10 AM – 8 PM
Join them for a day of films that celebrate the African American heritage of Texas. For more information, please call 832-393-1313.


Alafia Gaidi, lead percussionist and singer for the award-winning group D.R.U.M. incorporates imaginative stories and games using African drums and other traditional percussion instruments of Africa.
Bracewell Neighborhood Library | Tuesday, February 2 | 11:30 AM
Walter Neighborhood Library | Tuesday, February 2 |4 PM
HPL Express Southwest | Friday, February 5 | 9 AM
Carnegie Neighborhood Library | Monday, February 15 | 3:30 PM
Flores Neighborhood Library | Wednesday, February 24 | 4 PM
The African American Library at the Gregory School Saturday, February 27 | 3 PM

Handle Yo Buznez
Charlie Berry shares familiar songs and several of her original tunes which promote positive values and belief in oneself.
Smith Neighborhood Library | Friday, February 3 | 4:30 PM

A versatile musician, Rickey Ford offers an exciting one-man show sharing his expertise in saxophone, flute, piano, clarinet, piano, oboe, and vocals playing everything from classical to rock, to reggae, to funk, the blues, gospel, jazz, alternative, rock, zydeco/Cajun, Latin jazz, country and R&B.

Zydeco & Blues
JABO, the man called the “Texas Prince of Zydeco”, creates musical magic with his accordion and offers samples of “ZydeBlues” – a mixture of zydeco and blues music.

Moody Neighborhood Library | Wednesday, February 17 | 3 PM
Central Library | Saturday, February 20| 12 PM

Martin Luther King Revisited
The dynamic speeches of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. are revisited by C. Anthony Jackson. He takes you on an exciting journey back to the life and times of the courageous African American leader.
Central Library | Saturday, February 6 | 2 PM

As “The Griot”, Kijana takes you on a time trip to the dawn of time – portraying an African maiden whose job it is to teach them to sing and dance with her the music of a South African Xhosa “click” song for a wedding they will all be attending. She then takes them to America, singing gospel then closing with the music of 20th century jazz ladies.

Robinson-Westchase Neighborhood Library |Wednesday, February 10 |10 AM
African American Library at the Gregory School |Saturday, March 13 | 3 PM

Terry Parker mesmerizes audiences with his silky smooth renditions of the music of the 40’s, 50’s, 60’s and 70’s, including some of the world greatest legends: Nat King Cole, Sam Cooke, Jackie Wilson, Little Anthony, The Platters and Smokie Robinson.

Henington-Alief Regional |Monday, February 22 | 3 PM

Steel Drum Magic
Shinar is the only known performer that simultaneously sings and accompanies himself on steel drums using six mallets. An avant-garde musical and portrait artist, he weaves a tale of beautiful music and eye-popping magic for young and the young at heart.

Central Library |Saturday, February 13 | 2 PM

Collier Regional Library | Saturday, February 13 | 4 PM
Lakewood Neighborhood Library |Monday, February 15 | 6:30 PM

Swingout & 2-Step
Experience the rediscovered art of American dance with these two avid performers and instructors.

Young Neighborhood Library|Saturday, February 13 | 4:30 PM

The Music of Ella & Sarah
This finalist for “Showtime at the Apollo” and NBC’s “Gimme the Mic” shares a program honoring Ella Fitzgerald and Sarah Vaughn. Cassandra honors these ladies of jazz while telling the stories of their rise to stardom.

Collier Regional Library |Saturday, March 6 | 2 PM

You can attend some of the Black History month films and musical performances that personify the African American experience during the African American Heritage Month Film Festival in February.

Plan to attend the musical performances by local Zydeco, Jazz and Soul artist are this month, you'll be delighted that you did. I'll keep you posted for other Houston Texas events in February.

Books

Art/Theater

Attractions

Parks

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Things to do In and Around Midtown Houston This Weekend

Every kid loves them and most dad's, if just for a day, envy the saddle-worn riders on horseback that end their trail ride with a final trot through the downtown streets.

Hands down. the best free event in Houston this weekend will be the Rodeo Houston 2009 parade. Be prepared in case the usual chilly blast accompanies the festivities.

If you're like me and avoid cold weather, rush hour traffic, honey do's and other domestic chores, I have the 411 on fun things to do indoors on the last few days of this month.


Houston's Black History Collection

The community is invited to participate in compiling photos documents and related items that celebrate and tell the stories of Houston's African American community.
Pictures from professional, political, schools, church and sporting events can be brought in for review to the Johnson Branch Library from 10 am to 1 pm Saturday.

Green Home and Garden Workshop

Help the world, Houston and your backyard become a greener place. If you can pull yourself to leave the comforts of your pad in Midtown Houston, take a short trip, to the local The Harris County Extension Office, for a Green Home and Garden Workshop.

Learn the best practices for composting, picking low maintenance plants and handling invasive varieties.

Experts on hand will discuss two hot topics that can help reduce your carbon footprint.

BUILDING HOMES FROM RECYCLABLE MATERIALS
Dan Phillips, Homebuilder, Phoenix Commotion

LOW COST ENERGY SAVING IDEAS FOR YOUR HOME
Jeff Kaplan, Owner, New Living Hardware.

Hanging Out In Downtown Houston

If your idea of an exciting fun weekend involves something more physical, there's the ConocoPhillips Rodeo Run for willing participants.

There is no doubt about it, Toyota Center has the best nighttime action. It'll becomes the battleground for HBO's Wold Championship Boxing Event.

You can expect your adrenaline to get kicked up a couple of notches if you can land a ringside seat.

Hometown favorite's JUAN DIAZ and Olympic Silver Medalist, ROCKY JUAREZ are both after new belts during Saturday's title matches.

Books

Art/Theater

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Events In Houston TX

Free Black History Events In Houston

The African American Library at the Gregory School is looking for Houstonians who have valuable and interesting pieces of history such as rare photos of family members, important individuals and events. They realize that these items are precious, so they have developed a special project as a way for all Houstonians to contribute to the collection at Houston African American Library housed at the Gregory School.

Appointments to participate in the scanning project can be made by calling Ingrid Grant at 832-393-1364.

Reliant Park

If you don't mind taking a short train ride from Midtown Houston to Reliant park this week, you'll get a chance to take your kids to see Elmo, Zoe, Telly and friends explore Big Bird's garden. Sesame Street Live- Elmo's Green Thumb features dancing ladybugs, beautiful butterflies and grouchy beetles to give kids a handy lessons on patience, overcoming their fears and the importance of even creepy crawly creature in our ecosystem.

Houston Hobby Center

The Hobby Center has set the stage in downtown Houston for Broadway Across America's acclaimed traveling show, "The Bronx Tale".

The story introduces 18 vivid characters to bring life to a gripping tale of a rough childhood on the Bronx streets. The Broadway hit stars Chazz Palminteri, an incredible actor with a distinct voice with shows nightly until Feb 8th.

Books

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Attractions

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