Local Organizations team up for Water Safety
By Pat Tucker Wilson
Flanked by his five-year-old daughter, Karem Greene was one of many parents who spent the afternoon at the Weekly Family YMCA on Stella Link, for a free water safety event. “I wanted to make sure she is water safe. I wanted to get a sense of where she is with water and see what you guys can provide her in terms of safety.”
Greene’s African American daughter is in a high-risk group when it relates to drownings. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the fatal-drowning rate of Black/African-American children is three times higher than white children. Greene didn’t know the statistics, but he wasn’t surprised at the alarming rate. “There are more kids in urban ethnic communities who can’t swim because they don’t have access to the facilities, but getting them to the facilities so they can learn is important,” he said.
Greene registered his daughter after seeing the promotion for the YMCA’s Water Safety event. He and others took advantage of the event which was hosted by the YMCA and Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc’s Gamma Phi Sigma (GPS) chapter of Houston. The organizations promote water safety and encourage teaching children how to swim at an early age.
Weekly Family YMCA’s Aquatic Director, Katie Rosinke, said, water safety is the first step toward one of the organization’s overall goals. “One of the strategic initiatives for the Y is to eliminate drowning. So, our thought process behind offering free swim lessons is so people get a taste of how important water safety is, and how even 30 minutes, can help their child become safe around water.”
In addition to partnering with the YMCA, Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. is part of a unique and historic partnership with USA Swimming. Their Swim 1922 initiative is the first of its kind focused on decreasing the drowning rates in the African American community by increasing swim participation. GPS’ Swim 1922 Co-Chair, Sada Okolo-Miles said it was a delight to find a local partner that shares the sorority’s goal as it relates to Swim 1922, “Teaming up with the Y meant our chapter’s reach was wider, and together we could help more people.”
Sorority members braved Houston’s scorching temperatures and staffed an information table, where registered families checked in and received printed information about water safety, discount coupons for a water park, and ice-cold bottled water.
More than 100 families registered for the event, although some were no-shows, Greene said, he was grateful for the free opportunity. Rosinke said, at the Y, inability to pay will never prohibit a child from learning how to swim. You may contact your local YMCA for more information about low-cost to free swim lessons. You may learn more about Sigma Gamma Rho, Sorority Inc.’s Swim 1922 initiative at www.Sgrho1922.org.
Photo credit: Pat Tucker Wilson
October 16, 2023, HOUSTON, TX – Congressional Candidate Amanda Edwards has raised over $1 million in less than 4 months, a substantial sum that helps bolster the frontrunner status of the former At-Large Houston City Council Member in her bid for U.S. Congress. Edwards raised over $433,000 in Q3 of 2023. This strong Q3 report expands on a successful Q2 where Edwards announced just 11 days after declaring her candidacy that she had raised over $600,000. With over $829,000 in cash-on-hand at the end of the September 30th financial reporting period, Edwards proves again that she is the clear frontrunner in the race. “I am beyond grateful for the strong outpouring of support that will help me to win this race and serve the incredible people of the 18th Congressional District,” said Edwards. “We are at a critical juncture in our nation’s trajectory, and we need to send servant leaders to Congress who can deliver the results the community deserves. The strong support from our supporters will help us to cultivate an 18th Congressional District where everyone in it can thrive.” Edwards said. “Amanda understands the challenges that the hard-working folks of the 18th Congressional District face because she has never lost sight of who she is or where she comes from; she was born and raised right here in the 18th Congressional District of Houston,” said Kathryn McNiel, spokesperson for Edwards’ campaign. Edwards has been endorsed by Higher Heights PAC, Collective PAC, Krimson PAC, and the Brady PAC. She has also been supported by Beto O’Rourke, among many others. About Amanda: Amanda is a native Houstonian, attorney and former At-Large Houston City Council Member. Amanda is a graduate of Eisenhower High School in Aldine ISD. Edwards earned a B.A. from Emory University and a J.D. from Harvard Law School. Edwards practiced law at Vinson & Elkins LLP and Bracewell LLP before entering public service. Edwards is a life-long member of St. Monica Catholic Church in Acres Homes. For more information, please visit www.edwardsforhouston.com
As September 13th rolls around, we extend our warmest birthday wishes to the creative powerhouse, Tyler Perry, a man whose indomitable spirit and groundbreaking work have left an indelible mark on the world of entertainment. With his multifaceted talents as an actor, playwright, screenwriter, producer, and director, Tyler Perry has not only entertained but also inspired audiences worldwide, particularly within the African-American community, where his influence and role have been nothing short of powerful. Born in New Orleans, Louisiana, in 1969, Tyler Perry’s journey to stardom was a path riddled with adversity. Raised in a turbulent household, he found refuge in writing, using it as a therapeutic outlet. This period of introspection gave rise to one of his most iconic creations, Madea, a vivacious, no-nonsense grandmother who would later become a beloved figure in Perry’s works, offering a unique blend of humor and profound life lessons. Despite facing numerous challenges, including rejection and financial struggles, Perry’s determination and unwavering belief in his abilities propelled him forward. In 1992, he staged his first play, “I Know I’ve Been Changed,” which, although met with limited success, was a pivotal moment in his career. Unfazed by initial setbacks, Perry continued to hone his craft, and by 1998, he had successfully produced a string of stage plays that showcased his storytelling prowess.
Calling all teenage student-athletes! If you have dreams of playing college soccer and wish to represent an HBCU, the HBCU ID Camp is your golden opportunity. From 8 am to 5 pm on November 11-12, Houston Sports Park will transform into a hub for aspiring male and female soccer players. Coaches from HBCUs across the nation will be present to evaluate, scout, and offer valuable feedback. Moreover, they might even spot the next soccer prodigy to join their collegiate soccer programs. This camp is not just about honing your soccer skills but also a chance to connect with the HBCU soccer community. You’ll learn the ins and outs of what it takes to excel on the field and in the classroom, which is crucial for a college athlete. The HBCU ID Camp is an excellent platform to network with coaches, learn from experienced athletes, and take the first steps toward your college soccer journey. To secure your spot at this incredible event, don’t forget to register [here](insert registration link). Space is limited to 120 participants, so make sure to reserve your place before it’s too late. It’s time to turn your dreams of playing college soccer into a reality.
