May 14, 2026 Edition - Chakira’s Corner Newsletter
Podcast
Summer Camps, Pools, and the Arts
In the May episode of Chakira’s Corner, Commissioner Chakira Johnson sits down with DeKalb County’s new Director of Recreation, Parks and Cultural Affairs, Christopher Bass, to discuss summer programming and the department’s direction.
The conversation highlights camps, aquatic programming at the reopening N.H. Scott Pool, and broader efforts to enhance parks and cultural offerings across DeKalb County. Residents can learn more about available programs and what’s ahead this season.
Learn more about what DeKalb's Parks, Recreation & Cultural Affairs department has to offer at https://dekalbcountyga.gov/departments/recreation-parks-and-cultural-affairs/parks-and-facilities
Housing Plan Bus Tour
Illustrations showcasing plans for the future Lulah Hills development at the former North DeKalb Mall site.
Participants view ongoing construction at the future Lulah Hills site during the guided tour.
Commissioner Chakira Johnson joins community partners and stakeholders during DeKalb County’s Comprehensive Housing Plan Tour focused on housing, development, and community planning efforts across the county.
Commissioner Chakira Johnson participated in a guided bus tour as part of the ongoing development of DeKalb County’s Comprehensive Housing Plan, joining project partners and stakeholders to review key sites across the county.
The tour provided an opportunity to examine current housing conditions, discuss development patterns, and explore areas of need that will help inform future housing strategies. Efforts like this support a more data-informed and community-centered approach to addressing housing challenges across DeKalb.
Commissioner Johnson remains committed to advancing thoughtful planning efforts that expand access to safe, stable, and affordable housing for residents.
Champions for Change
From left to right: DeKalb Marshal Kevin Richardson; DeKalb County School District Police Chief Tracey Whaley; DeKalb Police Chief Gregory Padrick; Presiding Officer Commissioner Chakira Johnson; Executive Administrator for the DeKalb Clerk of Superior Court Laveeta Branche; and Stone Mountain Police Chief James Westerfield.
Program card from this year's Champions for Change event
A Leopard Whipray glides above a “WRCDV 40th” display during the Champions for Change gala at the Georgia Aquarium.
The organization unveiled its new “in safe company” branding during the Champions for Change gala and 40th anniversary celebration.
Commissioner Chakira Johnson attended the Women’s Resource Center to End Domestic Violence’s annual Champions for Change Gala, held at the Georgia Aquarium. The event marked the organization’s 40th anniversary and brought together community leaders, advocates, and partners committed to supporting survivors.
As the organization’s signature fundraising event, the evening supports critical programs including housing stability, legal advocacy, youth services, and mental health support for survivors across metro Atlanta. During the event, the organization also announced a new chapter in its mission, unveiling its rebrand to In Safe Company, reflecting its continued commitment to providing safety, support, and healing for survivors of domestic and sexual violence.
Commissioner Johnson remains committed to supporting organizations that provide vital resources and advocacy for individuals and families in need.
Learn more about their work visit https://www.wrcdv.org.
Fallen Officers Memorial Ceremony
DeKalb Police Chief Gregory Padrick delivers remarks during the annual Fallen Officers Memorial Ceremony honoring the service and sacrifice of fallen law enforcement officers.
A ceremonial honor guard participates in the Fallen Officers Memorial Ceremony, presenting flags in tribute to fallen law enforcement officers.
From left: City of Stone Mountain Police Chief James Westerfield, DeKalb County Police Chief Gregory Padrick, DeKalb Sheriff Melody Maddox, and DeKalb Marshal Kevin Richardson gather during the Fallen Officers Memorial Ceremony honoring officers who lost their lives in the line of duty.
Honoring DeKalb’s Fallen Officers
Commissioner Chakira Johnson joined law enforcement agencies, families, and community members at the annual DeKalb County Fallen Officers Memorial Ceremony to honor those who have lost their lives in the line of duty.
Observed each year during National Police Week, the ceremony brings together agencies from across DeKalb County to recognize the service and sacrifice of officers and to support the families they leave behind. Moments of remembrance like these serve as a powerful reminder of the dedication and courage shown by those who protect our communities.
Commissioner Johnson remains committed to supporting public safety and honoring the lives and service of DeKalb’s fallen officers.
State of the County Address
From left: District 1 Commissioner Robert Patrick, District 3 Commissioner Nicole Massiah, DeKalb CEO Lorraine Cochran-Johnson, Deputy Presiding Officer Super District 7 Commissioner Dr. LaDena Bolton, District 5 Commissioner Mereda Davis Johnson, and Presiding Officer District 4 Commissioner Chakira Johnson.
Presiding Officer District 4 Commissioner Chakira Johnson delivers remarks during DeKalb County’s 2026 State of the County Address.
Commissioner Chakira Johnson attended the annual DeKalb State of the County Address, joining county leadership, business partners, and community stakeholders to hear updates on progress, priorities, and the vision for the year ahead.
The event highlighted key initiatives and ongoing efforts to strengthen DeKalb’s infrastructure, economic development, and quality of life for residents. It also provided an opportunity for leaders across sectors to align around shared goals and continue building momentum for the county’s future.
Commissioner Johnson remains committed to advancing initiatives that support growth, opportunity, and long-term success for District 4 and DeKalb County.
See the 2026 State of the County Address on DeKalb DCTV23's YouTube Channel
Invest in the Future of District 4
Our annual Chakira’s Cookout: Full STEAM Ahead event is quickly approaching, and we are currently seeking sponsors and community partners to help make this year’s event a success.
This family-focused community event connects local students and families with hands-on STEAM experiences, educational resources, entertainment, and back-to-school support ahead of the new school year.
We invite local businesses and organizations to partner with us in investing in the next generation of innovators, creators, and leaders while also demonstrating your commitment to the District 4 community.
Sponsorship support helps fund:
STEAM activities and student engagement experiences
Giveaways and educational resources
Food and entertainment
Community outreach efforts
This is also a valuable opportunity to connect directly with District 4 residents and showcase your organization as a community partner committed to youth development and educational opportunity.
If your business or organization is interested in sponsorship opportunities, please contact Alesia Brooks at adbrooks@dekalbcountyga.gov for additional information.
Thank you for your consideration and support.
