The Acres Home Chamber for Business and Economic Development, Inc. hosted its 35th Annual Awards Dinner and Banquet on October 24, 2025. The evening brought together community stakeholders, partners, and sponsors from across Texas to celebrate the Chamber’s ongoing commitment to business growth, education, and economic empowerment in the Acres Home community. In addition to planning this event I had the esteemed pleasure of attending and hosting this affair (I’m the Community Relations Director).
Representatives from H-E-B, MD Anderson Cancer Center, and Williams Energy were among those in attendance, listening attentively as honorees and award recipients shared stories of service, perseverance, and progress. When asked about the notable organizations present Waren F. Muhammad, Acres Home Chamber CEO and Board Chairman shared these words “Every partnership, every scholarship, every story we share is a reflection of what happens when a community believes in itself. We’re proof that when Acres Home rises, Houston rises with us.”
The program featured a soulful performance by Jenae Inez, whose voice set the tone for an evening filled with gratitude and inspiration. One of the most touching moments of the night came from the Lone Star College scholarship recipients, Alexis Stone and Jeremiah Paiz, who shared their dreams and appreciation for the Chamber’s support. Paiz admitted that although he had prepared all day for his speech, he still found himself at a loss for words—simply overcome with gratitude.
The keynote address was delivered by Houston media legend Ralph Cooper, who shared a moving reflection on his journey “from here to Africa.” He spoke about a chance meeting at the funeral of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.—a moment that inspired him to dedicate his life to serving his community. Through decades of storytelling and advocacy in the media, Cooper continues to amplify voices that might otherwise go unheard. Local journalists Andy Cerota, Terrance Harris, and KG Smooth were also honored for their work shining light on underserved communities and telling the stories of the disenfranchised.
In these trying times, it’s more important than ever that we have media outlets willing to tell our stories—but what happens when those stories stop and the people are left voiceless? During his keynote, Cooper recalled a historic strike among radio professionals in Houston, a moment when no local news was being reported. It was his bravery and perseverance—sharing information from Houston to outlets across the country—that ultimately helped bring the strike to an end. His actions not only restored the flow of information but also marked the beginning of news radio in Houston, which up until that point had been entirely music-focused.
The Acres Home Chamber has recently launched its own podcast on YouTube, continuing in that same spirit of community storytelling. The show aims to share updates from the Chamber, highlight the achievements of its members, and discuss the challenges and opportunities facing business owners in Acres Home and beyond. By amplifying these voices, the Chamber hopes to foster transparency, collaboration, and connection across the global business community.
Though 2025 is coming to an end, The Acres Home Chamber has no intention of slowing down. Its Farmers Market and Hydroponic Farm, in collaboration with The Metallic Sunflower Foundation, are growing and thriving, and new business programming is on the horizon for 2026.
While the Chamber continues to give generously—especially through scholarships, small business programs, and community initiatives—it receives little government funding. Its success relies heavily on partnerships, sponsorships, and community support.
Support the Mission
To help the Acres Home Chamber continue its vital work of empowering businesses, educating youth, and strengthening the Acres Home community, please consider becoming a member, making a donation, or sponsoring an upcoming program or event. Every contribution fuels progress and ensures that this legacy of service continues for generations to come. For more information visit their website at www.acreshomechamber.com.
Photo Credit: Jackie Young Photography
Do you have an event coming up and you’d like me to cover it? Send an email to sheba@mscreativeaf.com or learn more about me and my business at www.mscreativeaf.com
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