RC3 News & Notes

The James R. Leonard Center (JRLC) Stage generates so many fond memories for people who experienced the theatrical productions, concerts, and talent shows which took place there. The great anticipation of the heavy red velvet stage curtains opening to witness creativity that would spark your imagination and awaken your dreams was awe inspiring. The Center Stage represented the heart of the JRLC mission; provide a safe place for youth and young adults to develop and cultivate their dreams. The crowd favorite of the productions on The Center Stage were talent shows. When reminiscing with Center Alumni, they recall shows featuring people from the community like singers Marlene Edwards and... Read More →

“Building Communities of Positive Peer Pressure” James R. Leonard Center (The Center) Alumni Brian Coleman is the epitome of what The Center worked so diligently to accomplish; develop youth that positively impact their community.  Brian has done just that, thanks to the skills and values he was taught there.  He is the first to proclaim the significant role The Center played in him maturing into the man he is today.  Brian learned so many things at the Center.  While basketball was not his initial reason for going, he took full advantage of the excellent coaching of Mr. Jim Jones and his staff.  With their assistance Brian became a prominent player in the city of Port Huron... Read More →

“He’s Nice on Every Field”   James R. Leonard Center (Center) Alumni Kevin Nicefield is an honorable husband, faithful father, experience entrepreneur and committed coach for youth. He is “Nice” no matter what “Field” you put him on. Mr. Nicefield has been making commendable moves ever since his days at The Center where he learned not just about basketball but so much about life.   Kevin is quick to pay homage to the many mentors and supporters he encounter at The Center when discussing his journey since high school. He attributes much of his basketball growth and development to Center legends like Fred “Ice” Kibby, and Durk Hunter Brice. “They took me under... Read More →

The Open Gym All-Stars The 1980s and 90s were a flourishing time for basketball in the Port Huron area. Many of the premier players benefited from the wonderful work done at the James R. Leonard Center (The Center) led by Mr. Jim Jones.  The lives of so many young people were positively impacted by the programming that took place.  Now as adults, the Alumni are boldly stepping into the footsteps of their mentor, Mr. Jones, to revitalize the infamous legacy of “The Center”. By uniting around these leaders not only can we generate a resurgence of basketball excellence but also become a community known for distinguished community youth development. Let us introduce you to the Open Gym... Read More →