Sophomore Caden Taylor Procter, who is a varsity tennis player at Scarborough High School, is one who is passionate about tennis, and makes sure she does what it takes to succeed. Ever since she was as young as six years old, Procter knew that tennis would be the sport that she would fall in love with. When she was in the first grade at Wainwright Elementary School, tennis was introduced to her by her uncle when he played with her for the first time at a local park.

Because her elementary school did not have a tennis team, she would practice with him at Highland Park and Memorial Park. Her uncle was quite athletic, so she was able to pick up the basics and learn all the tips and tricks as they continued to play together. Procter didn’t know a lot of African Americans her age who played tennis, but she pursued the sport because she truly loved I started to play just because I enjoyed it, and it was a different sport that not a lot of my kind of people were playing,” Procter stated.

She continued to do this throughout elementary school, and for her first couple of middle school years at Frank Black Middle School. Since Frank Black did not have a tennis team either, she resumed playing at her local parks until the 8th grade. She then switched from Memorial Park to Lee LeClear Tennis Center Park. Knowing that freshman year was vastly approaching, she trained hard in the summer by practicing at Lee LeClear Tennis Center Park with the Kids N’ Tennis organization with Coach Johnson.

Procter made varsity her freshman year at Scarborough High School in hopes of making the state championships. However, she realized that playing on her own and attending tennis organizations was different from playing for a high school team. “It was more experienced and more organized than it is at school. “It was challenging playing at school because the coaches didn’t really know what they were doing.” Since she was playing for a team with less experienced players, training with her coaches and her uncle outside of school was the best way for Procter to improve her skills.

Aside from tennis, she also enjoyed running track. At the start of 2023, she began to run track for her school, even though varsity tennis still held the number one spot in her heart. While both, playing tennis and running track, Procter noticed the difference in diversity between the two sports, and wished that tennis was as diverse as track. “I was more comfortable running track considering there were more African Americans than in tennis,” said Procter. “Tennis is just overall a sport I enjoy most because its different from what African Americans usually play.”

With her family’s support, Procter wins most of her matches, and her mother, being her biggest supporter, attends every competition. Procter plans to simply just be the best that she can be to make her coaches, and her mom and dad proud. She also encourages the black community to not be afraid to get out there and try something different. “It’s not weird to do something different. If you like it, that’s all that matters.”

Procter has big goals for herself and looks up to numerous role models such as professional tennis players like Coco Gauff, Frances Tiafoe, Naomi Osaka, Rafael Nadal, and Roger Federer. Procter still practices at Lee LeClear Tennis Center with teammates and organizations such as Kids N’ Tennis with Coach Johnson. She sees herself playing tennis in the future as a professional tennis player and wants to attend college to become an orthopedic surgeon.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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.

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