Mary Kay conference to be held in Houston

This week's Mary Kay Inc. conference in Houston will pump $8.5 million into the city's economy, according to the company. The Dallas-based, direct-sell cosmetics company is hosting its annual leadership convention in Houston from Jan. 23 to 30 at the George R. Brown Convention Center.

As part of the festivities, Mary Kay will make a $20,000 donation to The Old Sixth Ward Neighborhood Association in honor of its founder, Mary Kay Ash, who grew up in the neighborhood. The company also is making a $20,000 donation to the Houston Area Women's Center to aid in the prevention of domestic violence against women.