By Wane Hailes

Welcome to our brand-new newsletter! The Street Committee, founded by The Courier Eco-Latino and Davis Broadcasting Inc., is your go-to news source for the latest updates, insights and trends in the Tri-Cities' Black and Hispanic communities. Combining the strengths of trusted local print and radio media, this publication aims to highlight community stories, public affairs, arts, culture, and opinion pieces, creating a platform for underrepresented voices. Join us on this journey to stay informed, inspired, and empowered every week!

A Tale of Perseverance, Passion, and Pilot Wings

By Janell Williams

Jabari Leake’s story exemplifies overcoming adversity through determination, family support, and relentless pursuit of dreams. Born with a short right femur, Jabari underwent numerous surgeries under Dr. Dror Paley’s care and achieved significant milestones, including earning his private pilot's license. His journey, culminating in an upcoming final surgery and a future in Aviation Management, serves as an inspirational beacon of hope and potential for the Black and Hispanic communities.

Why this is important to the Black and Hispanic community: Jabari Leake’s story is not just a personal triumph but a symbol of hope and potential for the Black and Hispanic communities, illustrating that with determination, support, and access to opportunities, extraordinary accomplishments are within reach.

Davis Broadcasting, WTVM, and The Courier Eco-Latino Team Up to Address Local Violence

By CEL Staff

Community Invited to Get Involved at Citywide Stop the Violence Volunteer Fair

Davis Broadcasting Inc., WTVM, and The Courier Eco Latino Newspaper are partnering to combat violence in the Tri-City area with a Citywide Stop the Violence Volunteer Fair on June 15, 2024, at the Columbus Public Library. This event will gather community groups focused on reducing violence and invite residents to connect with volunteer opportunities. The initiative highlights the importance of community engagement and collaboration in creating a safer environment, especially for the Black and Hispanic communities.

Why this is important to the Black and Hispanic community: The collaborative effort by Davis Broadcasting, Inc. (DBI), WTVM, and The Courier Eco Latino Newspaper to address violence in the Tri-City area is profoundly significant for the Black and Hispanic communities for several key reasons, including community empowerment, resource mobilization and building solidarity. The Citywide Stop the Violence Volunteer Fair and the ongoing efforts by DBI, WTVM, and The Courier Eco Latino Newspaper play a crucial role in addressing violence in the Black and Hispanic communities. By fostering community engagement, raising awareness, and promoting collaborative solutions, this initiative helps create a safer, more supportive environment for all residents.

Time-Out! With Jerome Bryant

By Jerome Bryant

A wave of excitement surrounds the community as student-athletes from Shaw High, Columbus High, and others commit to colleges and achieve state championships, showcasing local talent. These athletes' accomplishments, from football to track, are celebrated as they embark on their collegiate journeys. Their success is especially significant for the Black and Hispanic communities, highlighting the impact of dedication, community support, and the opportunities sports can provide for educational and professional advancement.

Why this is important to the Black and Hispanic community: The achievements of these local student-athletes are a source of immense pride and inspiration for the Black and Hispanic communities. They demonstrate the power of hard work, the value of community support, and the potential for sports to serve as a gateway to broader educational and professional opportunities.

Alpha Phi Alpha Empowers Youth Through Scholarships: Over $15,000 Awarded to 25 Students in Annual Presentation Dinner

By Leslie Hudgins

Alpha Phi Alpha of Columbus, Georgia, awarded over $15,000 in scholarships to 25 students during their annual Onward & Upward Foundation scholarship presentation dinner. The funds, raised through the fraternity's Martin Luther King, Jr. Unity Award Breakfast, support high school students transitioning to college, emphasizing the fraternity's commitment to education and community service. This scholarship program is crucial for the Black and Hispanic communities as it provides financial aid, encourages academic growth, and fosters a supportive community network.

Why this is important to the Black and Hispanic community: The Onward & Upward Foundation's scholarship program is vital as it provides financial support, encourages academic and personal growth, fosters community engagement, and promotes a legacy of excellence and service. This initiative not only helps individual students but also strengthens the community as a whole, creating a ripple effect of positive change.

Should we Stand on Maya Angelou’s Words or Accept the Apology of Columbus Chief of Police Stoney Mathis?

By Wane A. Hailes

Chief Mathis's comments on the need for churches and fathers to address community violence sparked controversy and backlash from various civic and social organizations. After meeting with the Interdenominational Ministerial Alliance, Chief Mathis apologized for his remarks and agreed to include the IMA in future crime prevention discussions. The article argues that effective crime reduction requires a multifaceted approach to addressing systemic issues rather than placing responsibility solely on religious leaders and family dynamics.

Weekly column by Publisher Wane A. Hailes providing a personal take on the issues the Tri-City's Black and Brown community faces each day.