May 21, 2026 Edition - Chakira’s Corner Newsletter
Mahidere Sibhat Lideta LeMariam Monastery EOTC
Deputy Presiding Officer Super District 7 Commissioner Dr. LaDena Bolton and Presiding Officer Commissioner Chakira Johnson attend the annual celebration at Mahidere Sibhat Lideta LeMariam Monastery EOTC alongside community and monastery leaders in May 2026.
Ethiopian Orthodox Monastery Annual Celebration
Presiding Officer Commissioner Chakira Johnson attended the annual celebration hosted by Mahidere Sibhat Lideta LeMariam Monastery Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church, joining faith leaders, community members, and guests for a gathering centered on fellowship, faith, and cultural tradition.
The event brought together members of the Ethiopian Orthodox community from across the region and highlighted the importance of cultural connection, spiritual leadership, and community engagement. The celebration also provided an opportunity for local leaders and residents to come together in recognition of the diverse communities that help shape DeKalb County.
Commissioner Johnson remains committed to supporting opportunities that celebrate the cultural richness and diversity of the DeKalb community
Public Service Distinction Recognition
Presiding Officer Commissioner Chakira Johnson delivers remarks during a special recognition presentation held at the DeKalb County Board of Commissioners regular meeting. Photo: DCTV23.
Former DeKalb Sheriff and retired U.S. Marshal Thomas E. Brown speaks during a special recognition presentation at the DeKalb County Board of Commissioners meeting. Photo: DCTV23.
Former DeKalb Tax Commissioner Irvin Johnson addresses attendees during a special recognition presentation at the DeKalb County Board of Commissioners meeting. Photo: DCTV23.
Commissioner Chakira Johnson joined county leaders and community members in recognizing former DeKalb Sheriff and former U.S. Marshal Thomas E. Brown and former DeKalb Tax Commissioner Irvin Johnson for their longstanding service and contributions to DeKalb County.
The recognition celebrated decades of public service and leadership dedicated to supporting residents and strengthening county institutions. Both honorees have played important roles in helping shape DeKalb County through their commitment to public safety, public administration, and community service.
Commissioner Johnson remains grateful for the leadership and lasting impact of those who have dedicated their careers to serving the people of DeKalb County.
Council for Quality Growth
Ricky L. Clark Jr. of Pond & Company with Presiding Officer Commissioner Chakira Johnson during the 21st Annual Council for Quality Growth Meet & Greet event.
Commissioner Chakira Johnson attended the 21st Annual Meet & Greet hosted by the Council for Quality Growth, joining regional leaders, business partners, and community stakeholders from across metro Atlanta.
The annual event provides an opportunity for elected officials, organizations, and industry leaders to connect and strengthen relationships that support economic development and regional collaboration. Hosted in Midtown Atlanta, the gathering brought together partners from across the public and private sectors for an evening focused on engagement and community-building.
Commissioner Johnson remains committed to fostering partnerships and conversations that support thoughtful growth, investment, and opportunity throughout DeKalb County and the region.
100 Black Men of DeKalb Annual Gala
Scenes from the 100 Black Men of DeKalb Annual Gala, “The Legacy Is Not Extinct… The Future Is Alive,” featuring community leaders, attendees, speakers, and moments from the evening’s celebration and recognition program.
Commissioner Chakira Johnson attended the annual 100 Black Men of DeKalb Gala, joining community leaders, elected officials, and supporters in celebrating the organization’s ongoing work to empower youth and strengthen communities across DeKalb County.
This year’s gala theme, “The Legacy Is Not Extinct… The Future Is Alive,” highlighted the lasting impact of mentorship, leadership, and community investment while recognizing the promise and potential of the next generation. The event also supported programs focused on education, mentorship, economic empowerment, and leadership development for young people and families.
Commissioner Johnson remains committed to supporting organizations that create opportunities for youth achievement, mentorship, and long-term community success.
Annual NAACP Unity Breakfast
Display honoring Rev. Jesse L. Jackson Sr. at the NAACP DeKalb County Branch Unity Breakfast.
District 1 Commissioner Robert Patrick, Deputy Presiding Officer Super District 7 Commissioner Dr. LaDena Bolton, Presiding Officer Commissioner Chakira Johnson, and attendees gather during the NAACP DeKalb County Branch Unity Breakfast.
Commissioner Chakira Johnson attended the annual NAACP DeKalb County Branch Unity Breakfast, joining community leaders, elected officials, advocates, and residents for a morning focused on civic engagement, justice, and community unity.
This year’s theme, “Mobilizing for Justice – Hope is STILL Alive,” emphasized the continued importance of collective action and community leadership in advancing equity and opportunity. The event also honored the legacy of civil rights leader Reverend Jesse Jackson and recognized the ongoing work of organizations and leaders committed to strengthening communities across DeKalb County and beyond.
Commissioner Johnson remains committed to supporting partnerships and initiatives that promote civic engagement, equity, and opportunity for all residents.
Pinnacle Awards Presented by Congressman Hank Johnson
Award recipients and attendees pose for a group photo during Congressman Hank Johnson’s Pinnacle Awards event.
Commissioner Chakira Johnson attended Congressman Hank Johnson’s annual Pinnacle Awards program, which recognizes outstanding small businesses, entrepreneurs, and community leaders across Georgia’s 4th Congressional District.
The event celebrated individuals and organizations whose leadership, service, and commitment continue to strengthen local communities and support economic opportunity throughout the region. Honorees represented a wide range of businesses and community-focused efforts making a positive impact across DeKalb County and beyond.
Commissioner Johnson remains committed to supporting small businesses, entrepreneurs, and community partnerships that help drive growth and opportunity throughout District 4.
Maloof Auditorium Construction Update
View from the dais of the Maloof Center auditorium during ongoing renovations and construction.
Construction continues on the renovation of the Maloof Auditorium, with visible progress underway as crews work to modernize the space for future Board of Commissioners meetings and county events.
The renovation project includes updated technology, improvements to the auditorium layout, and enhancements designed to create a more functional and modern meeting environment for residents, staff, and visitors. County meetings are temporarily being held at the Sams Street location while work continues on the project.
Commissioner Johnson looks forward to the completion of the renovated space and the continued improvements being made throughout county facilities.
Chakira's Cookout: Full STEAM Ahead
Join Commissioner Chakira Johnson and the District 4 team for the 2026 Chakira’s Cookout: Full STEAM Ahead — a free, family-friendly community celebration designed to inspire learning, creativity, and opportunity for students and families ahead of the new school year.
This exciting annual event brings together residents, educators, local organizations, and community partners for a day filled with interactive STEAM activities, educational resources, health and wellness services, entertainment, giveaways, and hands-on experiences for all ages.
Featured STEAM stations and activities will include robotics, production studio technology, civil engineering, mechanics, aeronautics, workforce development resources, and more.
“I am thrilled and excited for the families of DeKalb,” said Commissioner Johnson. “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.”
Event highlights include:
Interactive STEAM learning stations
School supplies and educational resources
Food and refreshments
Live entertainment and music
Community vendors and family activities
Health screenings and school-required vaccinations
Chakira’s Cookout: Full STEAM Ahead is more than just a community event — it’s an investment in the future of District 4 youth and families. The event creates 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.
Local businesses, organizations, and community partners are still encouraged to participate as sponsors or vendors to help expand the event experience and support youth enrichment efforts across DeKalb County.
To learn more about sponsorship and 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
