🌱 Gang Member Arrested After Traffic Stop + Freedomfest Celebration

Hey, neighbors. It's Thursday in Columbus and I'm back in your inbox to get you caught up on all the most important things happening locally.

But first, your local weather:

• Thursday: A t-storm around in the p.m.. High: 93 Low: 72.
• Friday: Thunderstorms. High: 91 Low: 72.

Here are the top three stories today in Columbus:

1. Sheriff Greg Countryman announced the arrest of Kenjerald Jordan, a validated gang member, following a traffic stop in north Columbus on Tuesday. Jordan attempted to escape from law enforcement, driving recklessly and endangering other drivers. Deputies apprehended him after a foot chase. Jordan faces multiple charges, including drug distribution, felony fleeing, and criminal gang activity. During the arrest, authorities discovered a significant amount of narcotics and marijuana with a street value of nearly $11,800. The case is currently under investigation. (WTVM)
2. Louie Robinson, an 86-year-old landlord in Columbus, is struggling to provide affordable housing due to rising market rate rents, limited housing inventory, and increasing costs of taxes, insurance, and maintenance. The market rate rent in Columbus has risen by 55 percent from January 2016 to January 2023, surpassing the national average. The limited housing inventory and high costs are making it difficult for low-income individuals, including voucher program recipients, to find affordable housing in the city. (Subscription: Columbus Ledger-Enquirer)
3. On Tuesday, the National Infantry Museum in Columbus held its Freedomfest event, a Fourth of July celebration that included music, historical reenactments, and a parachute jump. The event was open to the public and aimed to foster a deep appreciation for freedom and the sacrifices made to protect it. Attendees were also able to continue the festivities in Uptown Columbus or Phenix City with a concert and fireworks display in the evening. (WTVM)

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Today and tomorrow in and around Columbus:

Thursday, July 6

• Comedy Open Mic At Giovanna's Pizzaria, Phenix City (7:30 PM)

Friday, July 7

• Ladies Night At The Compound Event Center (7:00 PM)

From my notebook:

• Applications are now open for the 2023-2024 Leadership Columbus program, organized by the Greater Columbus Georgia Chamber of Commerce, which aims to develop leaders by providing them with exposure to economic, governmental, and sociocultural community issues and encouraging active participation in future solutions. You can learn more about the program here or apply here. (Columbus Family Connection)
• New homes have been listed for sale in the Columbus area! Get all the property details at the link. (Columbus Patch)
• Experience an exciting weekend filled with music, whitewater kayaking competitions, local art, and delicious food at the inaugural RushSouth Music Fest & Outdoor Games in Columbus! The festival falls on Oct. 14-15, and you can purchase tickets at the link. (RushSouth Whitewater Park)

Thanks for following along and staying informed! I'll be in your inbox soon with another update.

— Sean Peek

About me: Sean Peek is a writer and entrepreneur with a degree in English Literature from Weber State University. Over the years, he has worked as a copywriter, editor, SEO specialist, and marketing director for various digital media companies. He currently co-owns and operates content creation agency Lightning Media Partners.