Happy Monday, Houghton Jones Family! β˜€οΈπŸ’›

Welcome to March β€” National Women’s History Month! πŸ’βœ¨
This is a time to celebrate the strength, resilience, and achievements of women in our community and beyond. At Houghton Jones, we are especially excited to honor women this month as we prepare for our upcoming Christina Jones Women’s Tea Brunch, themed Rooted. Rising. Radiant. β€” a celebration of women who continue to grow, lead, and shine despite life’s challenges. πŸ’–

And guess what? Today is also National Old Stuff Day! πŸ“¦πŸ•°οΈ That definitely applies to us β€” because this year, the Houghton Jones Neighborhood Association celebrates 34 years of service! πŸŽ‰ That’s 34 years of community connection, youth development, and neighborhood impact. We are grateful to continue building on such a strong foundation. 🏑✨

🌟 Women’s History Month Spotlight

This week, we would like to highlight Dr. Aomawa Shields, a powerful example of excellence and versatility.

Dr. Shields is an astronomer, astrobiologist, classically trained actor, and writer whose research focuses on exoplanets and the potential for life beyond our solar system. She earned her Ph.D. in physics and astronomy from UCLA, becoming one of the few Black women in her field to achieve this distinction.

She currently serves as a professor at the University of California, Irvine, where she mentors and inspires students in STEM. She is also the founder of Rising Stargirls, an outreach program that blends theater and astronomy to encourage middle school girls of color to explore science in creative and empowering ways.

Her work reminds us that barriers are meant to be broken and that passion has no limits β€” from the stage to the stars. πŸš€πŸ’œ


This week, our Sister A. Lois After School Program continues Monday through Thursday from 3:30 PM – 6:00 PM at 1708 Johnson Street. We look forward to seeing our youth learning, building confidence, and having fun in a safe, supportive environment where they can truly shine. πŸŒŸπŸ’›

🎢 Music Monday β€” Major Chords for Minors brings creativity and inspiration through music.

πŸ’š Tuesday Scouts β€” In partnership with the Girl Scouts, youth develop leadership and teamwork skills. And yes β€” cookies are available πŸͺ, so stop by and support!

🧠✨ Mindful Wednesday with P.A.Y.S. β€” Focused on mindfulness, positive decision-making, and personal growth.

🎳 Bowling Thursday β€” Fun, friendship, and friendly competition to end the week.

πŸ’ƒπŸ½πŸ•ΊπŸ½ Hustle Robics β€” Monday & Thursday | 6–7 PM
Join us for just $5! No dance experience needed β€” just come ready to move, laugh, and have a great time. It’s fun fitness for everyone! πŸ”₯

πŸŒΈπŸ«– Christina Jones Women’s Tea Brunch β€” March 21st | 11 AM
Tickets are limited for this beautiful celebration honoring dynamic women in our community while raising funds to support HJNA youth programs and initiatives.

🎟️ Tickets can be purchased on our website or by calling 989-752-1660.

We are grateful for every family, volunteer, and supporter who continues to help Houghton Jones grow and thrive. Together, we are building stronger youth, stronger families, and a stronger neighborhood. πŸ’›πŸ‘

We can’t wait to see you this week!