June 8 recognized as ‘Coogi Doogi Day!’

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Coogi Doogi is pictured with his certificates of recognition from President Biden; Governor Lee, and local government, (Contributed Photo)

By proclamation from the Chattanooga City Council and Hamilton County, June 8 is recognized as Coogi Doogi Day. This day is named in recognition of William Jones-Odom, stage name Coogi Doogi, for his work and contributions to the underserved communities of Chattanooga.

My name is William Jones-Odom, or as many know me by my stage name, Coogi Doogi.

I have lived in Chattanooga, Tennessee my whole life and enjoy giving back to our community. As a local leader I have had the privilege to serve the Westside of Chattanooga and specifically nurture our underprivileged children in the community. For this humanitarian work, Sesame Street has granted me two medals, which I am so grateful to have received. I have detailed several events below which I have organized, Fall & Christmas Southside events; West-End Easter Egg Hunt; and the Valencia A. Jones Remembrance Track Meet.

Each Fall season, I host “Stop The Violence” campaigns at local churches and city Fall Festival events. I believe this will strengthen our youth to use their words, not violence when dealing with frustration. During the Thanksgiving season, I spend my time gathering and distributing turkeys to families who cannot afford such. During the Christmas season, I run a toy drive for the less fortunate children in the Westside community. In organizing these events, my hope is that one kind action will lead to many more!

It has been my honor to have founded and orchestrated the annual Easter Egg Hunt which takes place on Easter Sunday. This year, 2024, was the 11th anniversary! The event is a great way for the community to interact with our children in a positive manner. During this event, we offer free food, a petting zoo, and music for all!

My proudest venture has been leading out in the creation of the Valencia A. Jones Track Meet. The track meet is in honor of my mother, Valencia, who tragically passed away in 2019 from diabetes and kidney failure. In her younger years, she loved running and led Howard High School to receive Gold in city, county, and state track meets in 1978. Valencia devoted her career to the Erlanger Health Center in Chattanooga for over thirty years. The Remembrance Track Meet is focused on health and wellness. Every year, I encourage youth to begin running and focusing on their health. During this event, I give out three medallions to the top runners of each age group. I teach them about diabetes, as well as other diseases, and provide insight on how to prevent those. My hope with this event is that it can educate our children for a brighter and healthier future!

Along with these achievements, I am also the first African American Rap Artist to have been honored at the Chattanooga Association for Visual Arts. As a pioneer for the Black community, I hope to showcase to others anything possible!

June 8th is “Coogi Doogi Day”. Former Mayor Jim Coppinger & the new County Mayor Westin Wamp previously granted this annual date for Hamilton County! (@COOGI_DOOGI)Editor’s Note:  CONGRATULATIONS!!!!! Mr. Odum aka Coogi Doogi!  We join with your community, city, state, and nation in salute to your efforts to ‘give back’ to those in need.  Thank You!