Pittsburgh Boatride

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Party with a purpose

by Debbie Norrell
For New Pittsburgh Courier

There is nothing like an Omega Psi Phi party. And when that party is coupled with the Labor Day weekend and a distinct purpose, it’s even better. Omega weekend 2003 began Aug. 29 at The Phase III in Homewood, where the crowd partied until 2 a.m.

Despite a rainy start on Saturday, the "Que B-Out" cookout was an outstanding success at the Hawthorne Grove in Highland Park. More than 200 turned out for food, music and family fun.

On Aug. 31. close to 900 boarded the Majestic and joined the Q brothers for an "Aqua Boogie Affair." The party was on! Deejay Nick Nice kept the crowd on their feet with a mix of old and new school music.

"People of all walks of life came out to have a good time. We pride ourselves that our affairs allow young and old, white collar, blue collar, dog collar and no collar to come together in a safe but fun venue without breaking your wallet. The beautiful thing is that our efforts will go back into the community," said Carlton "Big Daddy" Heywood.

If you attended the trio of events you may have noticed the number of Omega men who traveled from up to five hours with Pittsburgh as their destination. Their mission was "to turn the mutha out" for a good cause.

"One hundred percent of our proceeds supports social action activities and scholarships from the Iota Phi Chapter of the Omega Psi Phi Fraternity" commented event co-chair Joe Hogan. Hogan chaired the event along with Derrick Russell.

Hogan added, "I think this was one of the best boat rides in history. We had so many people attend from out-of-town. Next year we may add a second boat."

Whether one boat or two, the "Q" boat ride was non-stop fun. This year the planning committee had the foresight to hold the "Step Show" early in the evening. As always it was exciting to see these brothers kick and step.
"Bow, wow, wow, yippee yo, yippee yea!