Black students must close education gap

At a time when many poor African-American youth view professional sports and entertainment as their only ticket out of poverty, it's critical that we put the focus back on education.

That's a tall order when the majority of what young people see around them is consumption and excess, especially in a society where you're more apt to get noticed for your clothes than your smarts.

Summit aims to engage black community - Organizers want to bring people together to address problems

Faced with lingering racial disparities in income, education and other measures, organizers hope to get at least 500 Charlotte-area residents to create an "African American agenda" next month.

A two-day gathering at the Charlotte Convention Center is expected to attract black church and civic groups, as well as residents and elected leaders of all races from the area.