I was incredibly proud of the Houston community this past weekend. I attended the 18th Annual Family Fun Day, sponsored by Sylvester Turner’s family and Praise 102.1 Radio Station. I’d been waiting a long time to see the community gather in person, especially the Black community. It’s not always easy to bring Black folks together in one place, enjoying themselves without alcohol or drugs, but it happened. Even with the rainy weather and plenty of mud, there was so much love in the air. Seeing elders and young people dancing together in the rain was beautiful, but honestly, the free parking at Living Word Fellowship Church and free Metro Bus rides to the event were a lifesaver—especially since I wore shorts and didn’t want to get sick walking in the rain.

Live music played from 1 p.m. to 6 p.m.—one area had trail ride music, the other featured gospel, so you really got the best of both worlds. I don’t usually head to the northside of Houston, but when I heard J. Paul Jr. would be performing, I knew I had to make the trip.

There was free food, soft drinks, and even a small train giving kids rides to sightsee around the area. I had an amazing time, and it warmed my heart to see my beautiful Black people come together for joy and worship. I’m not a religious person myself, but I definitely felt a loving spirit as I walked through the park. Big shoutout to Praise 102.1 and the northside of Houston—peace and love.

-Charles White