Empowerment Community Development Corporation

06/16/2026

Visit Our Website @ www.EmpowermentCDC.ORGAdd Us On Facebook @ ww...

06/15/2026

With Les Rhodes Jr. – I just got recognized as one of their top fans! 🎉

06/15/2026

The father of a righteous man has great joy; he who has a wise son delights in him.

06/15/2026

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

THE KING OF OXTAILS COMING TO TYLER FOR JUNETEENTH CELEBRATION

Tyler, Texas — Empowerment Community Development Corporation is excited to announce that nationally recognized pitmaster and social media sensation Les Rhodes Jr., better known as LES BBQ and "The Oxtail King," will be a special guest at the upcoming Juneteenth Celebration at The Market Place on MLK in Tyler, Texas.

Known across the country for his world-famous smoked oxtails and Texas-style barbecue, Les Rhodes Jr. has built a massive following through his unique recipes, larger-than-life personality, and commitment to authentic Southern barbecue. What started as a simple effort to feed youth football players eventually grew into one of the most recognizable barbecue brands in America. Today, LES BBQ ships products nationwide and has attracted hundreds of thousands of followers across social media platforms.

A Texas native, Rhodes transformed his passion for barbecue into a thriving business after relocating to Utah. His signature smoked oxtails earned him the nickname "The Oxtail King," and his restaurant and online business have become destinations for barbecue lovers from across the nation. His success story has been featured in national media, highlighting his journey from oilfield worker and football volunteer to viral entrepreneur and barbecue celebrity.

LES BBQ's brand is rooted in Texas barbecue traditions, Black cowboy heritage, family values, and a commitment to serving food with authenticity and soul. His motto, "Texas In Every Way," reflects his dedication to preserving and sharing the rich culinary traditions that helped shape his success.

"We are honored to welcome Les BBQ to Tyler for our Juneteenth Celebration," said Stanley Cofer, President of Empowerment CDC. "His story embodies entrepreneurship, perseverance, family, and community. We believe his participation will make this year's celebration one of the most exciting Juneteenth events East Texas has ever seen."

The Juneteenth Celebration at The Market Place on MLK will feature food, entertainment, vendors, cultural activities, and opportunities to support local businesses and entrepreneurs. Vendor spaces are currently available.

For vendor information or event details, contact:

Empowerment Community Development Corporation
309 W. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd.
Tyler, Texas 75702
Email: [[email protected]](mailto:[email protected])

06/15/2026

🔥 ATTENTION VENDORS, RETAIL VENDORS & ENTREPRENEURS! 🔥

Don't miss your opportunity to be part of one of East Texas' most exciting Juneteenth celebrations!

The Market Place on MLK Juneteenth Celebration is proud to feature the one and only "King of Oxtails" — LES BBQ! 👑🍽️

When great food draws a crowd, smart vendors show up ready to serve! Thousands of dollars are spent at community events every year, and this is your chance to showcase your products, services, crafts, apparel, artwork, specialty foods, and more.

🎉 Juneteenth Celebration
📍 Empowerment CDC Complex
309 W. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd.
Tyler, Texas

🛍 Vendor Spaces Available
💲 Only $25 Per Space

Join LES BBQ, local businesses, community leaders, families, and visitors as we celebrate freedom, culture, entrepreneurship, and community pride.

Vendor spaces are limited and expected to fill quickly.

📧 Request a vendor application today:
[email protected]

Come be a part of history, connect with new customers, and grow your business at The Market Place on MLK Juneteenth Celebration!

06/15/2026

06/14/2026

Congratulations to Stuart Hene on becoming the new Mayor of Tyler!

Empowerment Community Development Corporation extends our sincere congratulations and best wishes as you begin this new chapter of leadership and service to our community.

Tyler is a city filled with opportunity, rich history, strong neighborhoods, and dedicated citizens. We look forward to working alongside Mayor Hene, community leaders, businesses, churches, nonprofits, and residents to continue building a stronger Tyler for future generations.

At Empowerment CDC, our mission is to educate, equip, and empower communities, and we remain committed to initiatives that strengthen neighborhoods, promote economic development, preserve our cultural heritage, expand affordable housing opportunities, support small businesses, and improve the quality of life for all citizens.

Together, we can help make Tyler an even better place to live, work, and worship.

Please join us in congratulating Mayor Stuart Hene and praying for wisdom, vision, and success as he leads our city forward.