Houston, TX — In honor of the legacy of former Congressman and Mayor Sylvester Turner, the Greater Houston Black Chamber (GHBC) successfully launched Gas in the Tank, a four-part Master Class Series designed to equip Black entrepreneurs with the strategic tools, confidence, and clarity needed to scale sustainable businesses.

Hosted during GHBC’s 90th anniversary year, the series was developed to address persistent barriers facing Black-owned businesses, including access to capital, visibility, and long-term growth readiness. The program was made possible through the generous support of SouthState Bank and the Houston-Galveston Area Council, whose commitment to inclusive economic development continues to strengthen Houston’s entrepreneurial ecosystem.

Delivered in partnership with the Cynthia A. Guillory Foundation and Black Entrepreneurs Week (BEW), Gas in the Tank focused on four essential pillars of business success: Financial Readiness, Storytelling, Pitch Development, and Strategic Partnerships.

Entrepreneur-Focused, Expert-Led Learning

The master classes were led by accomplished founders and strategists who brought real-world experience and transparency into each session:

• Lyndsey Brantley, Founder of Camellia Alise
• Landi Spearman, Founder of Organized SHIFT®
• Kiley Summers, CEO of SpenDebt
• Khaliah Guillory, Founder of Nap Bar™

Participants described the sessions as both transformative and immediately applicable.

“I learned to hone in on my unique voice and the story behind my brand. Instead of hiding behind my product when pitching, I now focus on the foundation of my business, our story and our numbers. As my first pitch training experience, this was incredibly impactful.” — Program Participant

Tangible Takeaways and Real Impact

“Relationships are the new currency. I now feel empowered to reach out for partnerships without needing everything ironed out in advance.” — Program Participant

Real Impact, Real Transformation

The impact of Gas in the Tank is reflected in the voices and outcomes of its participants. Entrepreneurs walked away with increased confidence, clearer business strategies, and a stronger understanding of what it takes to scale successfully.

“My goal is to tell my story in a way where people can see who I am, who I be and my passion to be the change I want to see. Each class became something I genuinely looked forward to. That’s how impactful it was. Growth is my priority and this cohort delivered”

These testimonials underscore the program’s ability to meet entrepreneurs where they are and help move them forward with purpose and clarity.

Looking Ahead

While participants praised the depth and quality of instruction, they also provided constructive feedback to strengthen future cohorts, particularly around logistics and advance notice. GHBC views this input as a valuable part of the program’s growth and evolution.

“This is a dynamic program, and I was honored to be in the room with such giants. I know these growing pains will lead to an even more seamless experience for future cohorts.”

Continuing a Legacy of Economic Empowerment

With the support of SouthState Bank and the Houston-Galveston Area Council, Gas in the Tank stands as a living tribute to Sylvester Turner’s enduring commitment to Black business growth. The series reinforces GHBC’s mission to ensure Black entrepreneurs are not only launched, but positioned to lead, scale, and thrive.

Houston, TX – June 13, 2025

The Greater Houston Black Chamber (GHBC) proudly hosted a ribbon cutting ceremony to welcome Tony T Gulfgate Dodge Chrysler Jeep Ram into the Chamber family. The celebration marked not only a new chapter for the dealership but also a historic continuation of Black ownership in the automotive industry — a sector where such representation remains rare.

The dealership, formerly under the leadership of James Davis,  a longtime supporter and friend of GHBC, is now owned and operated by Tony Thomas, a veteran automotive executive with over 15 years of experience. Mr. Davis, who built Gulfgate Dodge into one of Houston’s top-performing and community-centered dealerships, passed the torch to Thomas earlier this year in a milestone moment during Black History Month. With the transition, Tony T Gulfgate became the largest African American-owned franchise dealership in Houston.

During the event, GHBC President & CEO Dr. Asheli S. Atkins addressed the crowd, highlighting the significance of this moment. “We are honored to celebrate Tony Thomas and welcome him as a GHBC member. His story is a powerful reminder of the legacy and leadership within our community. We are proud to support Tony T Gulfgate, one of the very few Black-owned dealerships in the state of Texas.”

Thomas, who began his career in automotive sales at Gulfgate Dodge and worked his way up through the ranks, now owns and operates multiple dealerships across the country, including in South Carolina and Arkansas. His leadership style is defined by community investment, operational excellence, and a deep commitment to mentorship and philanthropy.

Reflecting on his journey, Tony Thomas shared:

“Owning a Black owned business and being rooted in the community is both a privilege and a responsibility. It’s more than just entrepreneurship, it’s about representation, resilience, and reinvestment. As a Black business owner, I’m not only building economic stability for myself and my family, but I’m also creating space for others to see what’s possible. My presence challenges stereotypes, inspires the next generation, and often fills gaps in services or support that larger systems may overlook. Being a part of the community means being deeply connected to its needs, struggles, and victories. I see my neighbors not just as customers, but as partners in progress. Every decision I make, who we hire, how we show up, what we give back, reflects our commitment to uplifting those around us. There’s a deep pride in knowing my success is shared, and that I’m contributing to a legacy far greater than myself.”

With live music, local partners in attendance, and remarks from community and business leaders, the ribbon cutting was a festive affirmation of progress and promise. GHBC looks forward to deepening its partnership with Tony T Gulfgate and celebrating continued milestones in representation, ownership, and excellence.

For more information about Tony T Gulfgate CDJR, visit www.tonytauto.com.