December 13, 2024
GREATER HOUSTON EDITION African-American News&Issues
“Addressing Current & Historical Realities Affecting Our Community”
Vol. 29, Issue 47
FREE
We the People Success is one of the greatest causes of failure. - Roy Douglas Malonson
ISSAC ALEXIS By: Natice Ford
CLOSING AFTER 30 YEARS By: Chloé Richards
In the heart of the Acres Homes community, Mrs. Shirley Ann Malonson has spent the past 30 years building more than just a business. Shirley Ann’s Kollectibles and Flowers, the largest Black-owned gift shop in the United States, has been a place for Black culture, art, and history. Now, at 87 years old, Mrs. Malonson plans to close the doors of her beloved gift shop, a place that has become a cultural landmark locally and nationally.
The shop is filled with figurines by renowned artists like Thomas Blackshear, Martha Holcombe, and Annie Lee. There are also soapstone pieces from the African continent. These pieces celebrate Black life, showing details of the beauty and complexity of African American culture. Shirley Ann’s Kollectibles and Flowers began as a way for Mrs. Malonson to stay active after retiring in Gift Shop on pg. 3
The second oldest of four children, Issac Alexis, always strived to help his family. His father left when the children were young. Alexis got minor jobs bagging groceries, pumping gas, and collecting cans to help out his family. He was a Honor Roll student and member of the JROTC program for three years preparing for the military. After graduating Cashmere High School, Alexis went into the military at 19. Alexis joined the military as an E3 infantry man because of his experience with the ROTC program. Alexis climbed the ranks fast and declined to become an Alexis on pg. 4 E9, the highest rank that can