In the today’s society there are many negative things teens can get involved in. But here, locally more than 100 teens and pre-teens are doing something positive with their time after school and making an impact in their community. NBC 38’s Maria Jones Explains. High Stepping and with one sound, The Chattahoochee All-Star Band is making their mark in Columbus. Performing in their community and traveling to surrounding states, the students say they are proud. “It has been truly amazing,” stated by 11th Grade Band Member, Nathaniel Tate. 11th Grade Band Member, Ashley Owens added, “It’s a good part of being in this organization, because it’s an outlet for kids and it also shows, like the younger kids that’s in middle school how a real marching band is.” With more than 100 students from dozens of local schools, members of the All-Star band practice and perform…trying to make a difference in their lives and the lives of their peers. Ron Thomas 11th Grade Band Member says,

“It’s what I do, I’m going to college for this and I’m going to be someday a Band Director, probably come back and help this band.” The Band Practices here every Tuesday and Thursday for several hours at Shirley B. Winston Park but for Coaches and Band Directors, its much more than just practice. “Statistics say that children, you know in our community won’t make it out of high school, won’t make it to college. And this is to keep them out of the streets, we don’t want them in the streets, we want to give them an opportunity to do something,” Assistant Band Director, Draveious Hurston told News 38. And Band Director, Lorenzo Manuel added, “It’s very important that we put our time and efforts into the youth of the community. I think this is a great opportunity for musicians or any kids that play a instrument, just to showcase their talents and just help them stay out of trouble.” “But it’s a community thing and it’s an opportunity for myself, to interact with the young women of the community and teach them a little more than just twirling an flag. It’s also about life skills and about the things that they are going to encounter,” Flag Coach, Janet Cobbs-Post stated. The Band supported solely by donations, and there is always a need. FOR WLTZ NBC 38, I’m Maria Jones. The Chattahoochee All Star Band is always looking for new members and donations to keep their program running. If you’d like to help call 573-586-6170. This Saturday there is a “Battle of the Bands” where the Chattahoochee All Stars will play against the Augusts All Stars. The event will be held at 2pm at the Callaway Stadium in LaGrange.