June 4, 2026 Edition - Chakira’s Corner Newsletter
Cedar Park Ribbon Cutting
Community members, county representatives, and project partners gather for the ribbon cutting celebrating the reopening and improvements at Cedar Park.
Residents and guests attend the Cedar Park ribbon cutting ceremony and community celebration.
New features at Cedar Park include upgraded playground equipment, shaded seating areas, picnic pavilions, and improved gathering spaces for residents and families.
District 4 Chief of Staff Alesia Brooks attended the ribbon cutting ceremony on behalf of Commissioner Chakira Johnson, celebrating the completion of renovations and improvements at Cedar Park in Scottdale.
The updated park features a new playground, upgraded basketball court, refreshed landscaping, and a new pavilion designed to create a more welcoming and engaging space for residents and families. The improvements reflect ongoing investments in parks and recreational amenities that support neighborhood quality of life and community connection.
Commissioner Johnson remains committed to supporting projects and partnerships that enhance public spaces and create opportunities for residents to gather, play, and enjoy their community.
Active People, Healthy DeKalb Month Proclamation
(L-R) Super District 6 Commissioner Ted Terry, District 2 Commissioner Michelle Long Spears, Dr. Asia Foster, Erika Cotton, Jacquelyn E. Bridges, Dr. Sedessie Spivey, Presiding Officer Commissioner Chakira Johnson, Stefani Carter, Dr. Christiana Johnson, District 3 Commissioner Nicole Massiah, District 1 Commissioner Robert Patrick, and Deputy Presiding Officer Super District 7 Commissioner Dr. LaDena Bolton pose with DeKalb Public Health representatives following a proclamation presentation.
Commissioner Chakira Johnson presented a proclamation recognizing May as Active People, Healthy DeKalb Month to DeKalb Public Health and its LEAD DeKalb team during a recent Board of Commissioners meeting.
The proclamation supports the Walk It Out physical activity campaign and the CDC’s national Active People, Healthy Nation initiative, which aims to help more Americans build healthy habits through regular movement and physical activity. During the presentation, public health leaders highlighted the importance of creating safe, accessible opportunities for residents of all ages and backgrounds to stay active and improve their overall well-being.
Commissioner Johnson remains committed to supporting efforts that promote healthier lifestyles, strengthen communities, and improve quality of life for all DeKalb residents.
DeKalb United Council Countdown
Representatives from Discover DeKalb and community stakeholders recently participated in a DeKalb United Council Countdown Meeting to discuss preparations and opportunities surrounding the upcoming FIFA events taking place in metro Atlanta this summer.
The conversation focused on regional collaboration, tourism, economic impact, and ways DeKalb County can continue positioning itself as a welcoming destination for residents and visitors during one of the world's largest sporting events.
Discover DeKalb, the county's official tourism organization, plays an important role in promoting local destinations, cultural attractions, hospitality partners, events, and economic development opportunities throughout the county. As the region prepares to welcome visitors from around the world, organizations like Discover DeKalb continue working to showcase the unique experiences and opportunities available throughout the county.
Commissioner Johnson remains committed to supporting initiatives and partnerships that strengthen DeKalb's visibility, economic vitality, and community engagement.
Learn more about Discover DeKalb at https://discoverdekalb.com.
Chakira's Cookout: Full STEAM Ahead
Join me and the District 4 Team for Chakira’s Cookout: Full STEAM Ahead — a free, family-friendly event designed to inspire learning, creativity, and opportunity ahead of the new school year.
This annual community celebration will bring together students, families, educators, local organizations, and community partners for a day filled with interactive STEAM experiences, educational resources, entertainment, health services, and hands-on activities for all ages.
Featured activities will include robotics, production studio technology, civil engineering, mechanics, aeronautics, workforce development resources, and more. This year’s event will also include a special Teacher’s Corner initiative, where educators can access classroom supplies and resources ahead of the new school year. Community members who would like to support local teachers are encouraged to contribute items through the Teacher’s Corner Amazon Wish List.
Additional event highlights include:
Interactive STEAM learning stations
School supplies and educational resources
Food, refreshments, and live entertainment
Community vendors and family activities
Health screenings and school-required vaccinations
Chakira’s Cookout: Full STEAM Ahead continues to create opportunities for students to explore science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics in fun, engaging, and accessible ways while connecting families with valuable local resources and services throughout DeKalb County.
I am thrilled and excited for the families of DeKalb. Thank you to everyone who has joined us through vendor participation, sponsorships, and volunteer commitments. Your support will help make this an amazing event for our community.
Registration is encouraged. Community members interested in attending, volunteering, or supporting the event are invited to register and get involved. To learn more about sponsorship or vendor opportunities, contact Alesia Brooks at adbrooks@dekalbcountyga.gov.
🗓 Saturday, June 27, 2026
⏰ 11:00 AM – 1:30 PM
📍 East Central DeKalb Community & Senior Center
4885 Elam Road | Stone Mountain, GA 30083
Juneteenth Celebration
🎉 Celebrate freedom, culture, and community at the DeKalb County 2026 Juneteenth Festival!
Join DeKalb County CEO Lorraine Cochran-Johnson, Commissioner Mereda Davis Johnson, and the DeKalb County Board of Commissioners for an evening of live music, celebration, and family-friendly fun as we honor the legacy and significance of Juneteenth.
🎶 Live performance by Morris Day & The Time
✨ Featuring Klymaxx
🗓 Saturday, June 13, 2026
⏰ Festival begins at 6 PM
🚪 Gates open at 5 PM
📍 Rainbow Park Amphitheater
3181 Rainbow Drive, Decatur, GA
Celebrate with music, food, culture, and community as we come together to recognize freedom, resilience, and unity.
🎟 Free admission | Registration required
*Please note: One ticket per person. Guests should register individually.
