By Leslie Hudging

First Lady Jill Biden visited Columbus, Georgia, on July 8th to launch the Biden-Harris initiative, Veterans and Military Families for Biden-Harris, aimed at increasing outreach among veterans and military families. The event featured speeches highlighting President Biden's efforts to extend military healthcare, end the Afghanistan war, and promote mental health programs for veterans.

Center Stage: Meet the Creators of the Free Gems Podcast LLC| A Media Outlet for the People

By Leslie Hudgins

The "Free Gems Podcast," founded by Ej Petty, Willmatic, and Gumbosa, was inspired by their love for music and desire to provide a platform for artists and entrepreneurs to share their stories. Starting in late 2020, the podcast has evolved to include various professionals beyond musicians and has overcome challenges like scaling their audience through live events and merchandise. Their future goals include expanding their reach to other cities and states and becoming a major broadcasting network.

Byron Hickey Sworn in as Columbus, GA District 1 Council Representative

By Janell Williams

Byron Hickey was sworn in as the District 1 council representative for Columbus, GA, on July 9, 2024, pledging to serve with dedication and integrity. On the same day, the Columbus City Council passed a measure allowing retired political figures and state representatives to draw pensions while receiving public funds, marking significant changes in the city's governance and financial policies.

NACA Home Purchase Program Offers Path to Homeownership Without Down Payment or High Credit Score

By Kirsten J. Barnes

If you're looking to buy your first home but lack a down payment or have questionable credit, the NACA home purchase program could be your solution. The program starts with a homebuyer workshop, available in person or via Zoom, with the next sessions near Columbus scheduled for July 13 in Jonesboro, GA, and August 3 in Atlanta, GA. NACA offers counseling services, character-based underwriting, and affordable mortgage options, focusing on helping working families and people of color achieve long-term homeownership without the need for a high credit score.

Suspect in Shirley B. Winston Recreation Center Shooting Arrested

By Janell Williams

Noah Harley, the suspect in the Shirley B. Winston Recreation Center shooting, was arrested on July 7, 2024, by the Muscogee County Sheriff's Department. Facing multiple charges, including possession of a deadly weapon at a public gathering and theft by receiving, Harley pled guilty during his preliminary hearing on July 8, with his arraignment set for September 6, 2024. This arrest follows a community-shocking incident and has sparked significant public safety discussions in Columbus, GA.

From Gangsta to Gavel-Shaken…It’s a Reality Check When The Judge Puts those Years on You

By Wane A. Hailes

This week in his View From A Pew Publisher Wane A. Hailes expresses his opinion on the reality check young people are faced with when sentenced by a judge.