Iconic Newspaper Continues the Philanthropic Work of Its Founder by Supporting the Education of the Next Generation of Journalists

HOUSTON, Texas — On October 2, the Houston Forward Times Newspaper will celebrate 55 years of covering the rich history of the African-American community with an anniversary benefit concert. The event will feature an evening of entertainment headlined by the Zapp Band. Proceeds from the event will benefit the Julius and Lenora Carter Scholarship and Youth Foundation.

Julius Carter founded the Houston Forward Times in 1960, which is now the largest African-American independently owned and operated newspaper in the Southern region. After his death, his wife, Lenora, ran the newspaper until her sudden passing in 2010.

The newspaper is now under the leadership of their daughter, Karen Carter Richards, who launched the Julius and Lenora Carter Scholarship and Youth Foundation five years ago to continue her parents’ philanthropic efforts in support of journalism students. Under Richard's leadership, the foundation has awarded over $20,000 in scholarships to deserving students pursuing careers in journalism and digital communications. The foundation also offers internships to provide students with practical experience and prepare them for careers in their prospective fields of study.

The Houston Forward Times Newspaper’s anniversary and benefit concert will be hosted by comedian Marcus D. Wiley and feature the Hustlers Brass Band and D.J. “Chilly” Bill Smith. Special guest Dr. Benjamin F. Chavis, Fox 26 News reporter- Isiah Carey and President and Chief Executive Officer of the National Newspaper Publishers Association (NNPA), will also attend.

The event is sponsored by Wells Fargo, Lane Staffing, Capital One, H-E-B, Magic 102, The breakfast Club, Black Dollar Project, American Heart Association, and several others. The event is open to the public and tickets for reserved seating start at $100.

For more information and to purchase tickets, visit www.forwardtimes.com or call (713) 526-4727.

Public Relations or Media Contact: ThinkZILLA PR Group/ 888-509-1145 / [email protected]