SPEAKIN’ OUT NEWS
The Huntsville City Council recognized CHILL Huntsville, a nonprofit organization dedicated to reducing youth violence and promoting public safety, during its October meeting. The resolution, sponsored by Councilwoman Michelle Watkins, highlighted the group’s ongoing commitment to building safer schools, stronger families, and a more peaceful community.
Councilwoman Michelle Watkins began the presentation by sharing the personal history behind CHILL Huntsville, which was founded on February 1, 2018, by the late Pastor Cornell Martin.
“Pastor Martin’s unwavering commitment to youth empowerment and community transformation led to the creation of this impactful initiative,” Watkins said. “From its inception, CHILL Huntsville has served as a platform for awareness, mentorship, and meaningful engagement. What started as a grassroots effort has now grown into a citywide movement.”
Watkins emphasized that CHILL Huntsville’s mission remains steadfast—to equip youth with tools to succeed, raise awareness about the impact of gun violence, and build a stronger, safer, and more connected Huntsville. Standing with her were Norma Martin, the widow of Pastor Martin, and Emmanuel Igboine, the organization’s current president.
Accepting the recognition, Emmanuel Igboine expressed gratitude to the City Council and Councilwoman Watkins for their support.
“This honor represents more than a recognition of our efforts—it is a testament to what can be achieved when civic leaders and community advocates work hand-in-hand,” Igboine said. “Through community dialogue, youth engagement, and outreach, we strive to bridge divides and prevent the spread of violence in all forms.”
Igboine added that the council’s resolution strengthens CHILL’s resolve to continue fostering peace, unity, and empowerment across Huntsville.
“Together, with the support of our leaders, partners, and neighbors, we can ensure Huntsville remains a place where every resident feels valued, safe, and empowered to thrive,” he said.
Legacy of Pastor Cornell Martin
Pastor Cornell Martin, born September 20, 1954, in Huntsville, Alabama, was the son of James and Mary Agnes Martin. A devoted husband, father, grandfather, pastor, and entrepreneur, he owned Martin’s Masonry, Inc. for 40 years. Throughout his life, he served on numerous community boards and founded several neighborhood initiatives, including Operation Clean Streets and the Community Neighborhood Watch.
He was also the Founder and CEO of CHILL Huntsville and Stop the Violence, as well as the host of the Chill Talk and Vent-Stration podcasts—platforms that encourage open conversation and positive decision-making among youth. After retiring from construction, he served as Pastor of Tabernacle Missionary Baptist Church in Pulaski, Tennessee, and continued his community outreach by feeding the homeless weekly in Huntsville.