“If my uniform doesn’t get dirty, I haven’t done anything in the baseball game.”- Rickey Henderson. Major League Baseball’s all-time leader in stolen bases, Rickey Henderson died on December 20th, 2024, five days before his birthday, at 65. Henderson was recognized for his speed and dominance on the field. He was known as the “Man of Steal.” He was famous for his speed and record-breaking stolen bases. An important figure in Black history, shaping baseball beyond the contributions of Black players who came before him.
Henderson played in Major League Baseball (MLB) for 25 years, studies show the average MLB player only plays for 5.6 years. He played for nine teams over the course of his career, but he is most remembered for his time with the Oakland Athletics. He spent 14 seasons with the athletics where he broke records and won a championship.
Henderson understood his athleticism early on, born in the back of a car on the way to the hospital, he later said “I was already fast I couldn’t wait.” He played baseball, basketball, football and briefly ran track in high school. He received many scholarship offers to play football but decided against it because his mother told him that football players have shorter careers. At one point he was amongst only 57 other players who batted right and threw left, in an interview he said, “All of my friends were right-handed and swung from the right side, so I thought that’s the way it was supposed to be done.”
Henderson has two records in baseball history that have yet to be broken. He stole 1,406 bases and he scored 2,295 runs. In 1990, he won the Most Valuable Player (MVP) award, and in 2009, he was inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame which was during his first year of eligibility. In 2017, the Oakland Athletics dedicated their field to him. He was known for referring to himself in third person, while playing one time he struck out and another player said they heard him saying, “Don’t worry, Rickey you’re still the best.”
When people talk about Black history in baseball, they often focus on Jackie Robinson and sometimes Satchel Paige too. While both of those stories are important, Henderson’s career proves that Black athletes continue to increase the standard and thrive. Henderson’s life and career are a reminder that Black history in sports is full of stories like his. Henderson was not just another player on the roster, but a symbol of excellence and hard work.
Rickey Henderson will always be remembered as the “Man of Steal”, a player who could had great speed and skill. However, his legacy goes beyond baseball. He showed the world what Black athletes could achieve, in a sport where they were discriminated against for a long time. Henderson’s impact will be felt for generations. As he is remembered, his records should not only be celebrated but his role in shaping baseball and inspiring others to believe in themselves.
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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.
