Under the bright Texas sun at Memorial Park's Tennis Center, the air buzzed with excitement as Houston's youth gathered for a special Kids Day event. Former Wimbledon finalist Zena Garrison led the festivities, celebrating the end of summer with a day filled with tennis, laughter, and community spirit.

"This is amazing to see all these kids come out," Garrison remarked, her enthusiasm palpable as she watched children donning tennis shirts, ready to swing their rackets. The event, supported by the Houston Tennis Association and the National Junior Tennis League, aimed to provide an opportunity for kids to engage in a sport that Garrison herself cherished during her formative years on Houston's public courts.

With over 22 years of experience in the parks department, Garrison has taken her role to new heights, fostering a sense of belonging and joy among the city's youth. "All we want to do is see them smile and give them an opportunity to do something they may have never done before," she said, emphasizing the importance of community engagement through sports.

As the day unfolded, the laughter of children echoed through the park, a testament to the success of the event and the impact of Houston's Parks and Recreation Department. Garrison's leadership and dedication to the program highlight the city's commitment to providing enriching experiences for its residents.

In addition to the tennis festivities, the meeting also touched on the city's summer internship program, which recently concluded. Interns had the chance to create stories for City Pulse, including features on the women of city council who work tirelessly for their districts and the community at large.

As the sun began to set over Memorial Park, the day's events served as a reminder of the power of togetherness and the importance of nurturing the next generation in Houston. With initiatives like Kids Day, the city continues to foster a vibrant community where everyone can belong.