Learn how your lungs work, the early warning signs of lung cancer, and who should get screened. Understanding your respiratory system can save lives.
By Milton Kirby | St. Louis, MO | June 9, 2026
Series: Lungs, Lives, and Lessons – Part II
Part I of this series explored the misconceptions surrounding lung cancer, Part II turns inward, to the lungs themselves. Understanding how the respiratory system works is not just a biology lesson. It’s a form of self‑protection. When you know how your lungs function, you can recognize when something isn’t right.
How Your Lungs Keep You Alive
Every cell in the body needs oxygen. The lungs deliver it. When you inhale, air travels through the nose or mouth, down the throat, and into the windpipe. From there, it branches into the bronchial tubes, which divide again and again until they reach the bronchioles, tiny passageways that end in clusters of air sacs called alveoli.
Inside these microscopic sacs, oxygen enters the bloodstream while carbon dioxide leaves it. This exchange happens thousands of times a day, without conscious effort. The diaphragm, a strong muscle beneath the lungs, contracts and relaxes to pull air in and push it out.
The lungs also filter harmful substances, regulate air temperature, and support the sense of smell. They are constantly working, and constantly exposed to the outside world.
How Lung Cancer Develops
Lung cancer begins when cells in the lung mutate. These mutations can be caused by smoking, secondhand smoke, hazardous chemicals, or genetic factors. Once mutated, cells grow uncontrollably, forming tumors that damage healthy tissue and interfere with breathing.
The challenge is that early lung cancer often causes no symptoms. By the time people notice something is wrong, the disease may already be advanced.
The Warning Signs We Ignore
The body sends signals long before a crisis. But many people dismiss them as aging, allergies, or the remnants of a cold.
Warning signs include:
A cough lasting more than eight weeks
Shortness of breath after little or no exertion
Chronic mucus or phlegm production
Wheezing or noisy breathing
Coughing up blood
Chest pain lasting a month or more
These symptoms do not automatically mean lung cancer, but they do mean something is wrong. Early detection is key to successful treatment, and recognizing these signs can save lives.
Who Should Be Screened?
Low‑dose CT scans are the gold standard for early lung cancer detection. Screening is recommended for people who meet certain criteria, including age, smoking history, and risk factors. But many people who qualify have never been screened, often because they don’t know they’re eligible.
The upcoming symposium will offer onsite screening eligibility assessments, giving residents a chance to learn whether they qualify and how to access screening.
Knowledge Is Power
Part II of this series is about empowerment. When people understand how their lungs work, they can better protect them. When they know the warning signs, they can seek help sooner. And when they understand screening, they can take the first step toward early detection.
In Part III, we turn to the community and to the event bringing these lessons to life.
Support open, independent journalism. Your contribution helps us tell the stories that matter most.
Lung cancer is one of the deadliest diseases in America, yet many people still struggle to talk about it openly.
For decades, public understanding of lung cancer has been shaped by silence, stigma, and a persistent misconception: that only smokers get the disease. Physicians, survivors, and community health advocates preparing for a St. Louis symposium say that belief has delayed diagnoses and prevented too many people from recognizing their own risk.
As the HEAL Collaborative prepares for the June 27 community symposium, “Lung Cancer Screening to Treatment 2.0,” local partners Five Star Center, Inc. and Southside Wellness Center are helping connect residents to the conversation. The event will be held at the International Institute of St. Louis and is supported by Amgen. Together, those efforts are focused on one message above all others:
“Anyone with lungs can get lung cancer.”
It is a simple statement, but one that challenges decades of misunderstanding surrounding one of America’s most lethal diseases.
Lung cancer remains the leading cause of cancer deaths in the United States, claiming more lives each year than breast, prostate, and colon cancers combined. Yet despite its impact, awareness surrounding lung cancer risk, symptoms, and screening remains dangerously uneven, particularly in underserved communities.
Many people still believe they are not at risk.
Others delay seeking care because they fear what a diagnosis might mean.
And some never discuss symptoms at all until the disease has already advanced.
For those involved in the St. Louis symposium, changing that reality begins with changing the conversation itself.
More Than One Cause
Smoking remains the leading cause of lung cancer, accounting for approximately 90 percent of cases. But medical experts stress that smoking is not the only risk factor, and not the only story.
Exposure to radon gas, secondhand smoke, air pollution, asbestos, uranium, arsenic, cadmium, chromium, nickel, and certain petroleum products can all increase the likelihood of developing lung cancer. Genetic history can also play a role, even for individuals who have never smoked a cigarette.
In many cases, exposure may have occurred decades earlier through industrial work environments, household conditions, or long-term environmental exposure.
For some families, the danger was never fully understood at the time.
That complexity is one reason health advocates say public education remains critical.
“Anyone with lungs can get lung cancer” is not simply a slogan for the symposium. It is a direct challenge to the misconception that only one type of person develops the disease.
The reality, health advocates say, is far broader and far more personal.
The Disease That Often Hides
One of the greatest dangers of lung cancer is that symptoms frequently appear late.
By the time warning signs become impossible to ignore, the disease may already have spread beyond the lungs, making treatment more difficult and survival rates lower.
Early symptoms can also resemble ordinary health problems people routinely dismiss:
• a lingering cough • shortness of breath • chest tightness • chronic mucus production • wheezing • unexplained chest pain • coughing up blood
Sometimes people assume breathing difficulties are simply part of aging. Others attribute persistent coughing to allergies, smoking history, or seasonal illness.
But health advocates warn that ignoring those symptoms can carry serious consequences.
That is one reason the St. Louis symposium will focus heavily on education, awareness, and screening eligibility conversations designed to help residents better understand when medical evaluation may be necessary.
While low-dose CT screenings themselves will not be conducted onsite, health professionals will be available to help attendees understand screening eligibility and connect attendees with additional healthcare resources and follow-up pathways.
“The goal is not to frighten people,” said Rachael Jones, Regional Director of Community Outreach and Advocacy Engagement for the HEAL Collaborative. “The goal is to make people aware of the resources available to help them access screening, understand their risk, and seek treatment early if needed.”
It is to encourage earlier conversations before symptoms become life threatening.
The Weight of Stigma
Early detection results in better outcomes.
Lung cancer carries a unique stigma that many survivors and families say separates it from other major diseases.
Patients are often asked one question almost immediately after revealing their diagnosis:
“Did you smoke?”
For some families, that question can feel less like concern and more like blame.
Advocates say that stigma has real consequences. It can discourage people from seeking screening, delay medical appointments, and isolate patients emotionally during treatment.
Some individuals avoid discussing symptoms because they fear judgment.
Others incorrectly assume that if they never smoked, they are automatically safe.
The result is that misinformation and silence continue to shape public understanding of the disease.
Health advocates behind the St. Louis symposium hope to confront those misconceptions directly by creating a space where residents can ask questions openly, hear from survivors, and receive information without shame or fear.
The event is expected to bring together physicians, advocates, survivors, and approximately 150 community members for discussions focused on screening awareness, navigation support, treatment conversations, and the future of lung cancer care.
Two to three survivor speakers are also expected to participate, helping personalize a disease that statistics alone often fail to fully explain.
Why St. Louis Matters
According to the HEAL Collaborative, St. Louis was selected intentionally.
St Louis faces significant healthcare disparities
The June 27 symposium marks the collaborative’s second visit to St. Louis. At the previous event, 87 community members attended and seven were identified as eligible for lung cancer screening. Health advocates say those figures demonstrate both the value and the challenge of community outreach: every person connected to potentially life-saving information matters, yet many residents who could benefit from screening information and healthcare navigation services may still remain unreached.
Like many American cities, St. Louis continues to face significant healthcare disparities tied to access, economics, environmental exposure, and long-standing inequities in medical outcomes.
Black and Brown communities in particular often experience lower screening rates and poorer lung cancer survival outcomes.
Those disparities are part of the reason health advocates believe community-based education efforts remain so important.
Events like “Lung Cancer Screening to Treatment 2.0” are designed not only to raise awareness, but also to help close gaps in information and access before diagnoses become more severe.
The symposium will include conversations on pulmonology care, navigation support, medical debt, the role of artificial intelligence in future lung cancer treatment, and the impact stigma can have on care and outcomes.
Lunch will be provided, and organizers say the free event is intended to be welcoming, accessible, and community centered.
At its core, the symposium is built around a belief that education itself can become a form of prevention.
A Conversation That Cannot Wait
For many Americans, lung cancer remains something that happens to “other people.”
But advocates say that perception continues to cost lives.
Part I of this three-part series begins with the misconceptions because health advocates believe understanding risk is the first step toward improving outcomes.
In Part II, we will look deeper inside the lungs themselves, exploring how lung cancer develops, how symptoms are often overlooked, and why early detection can dramatically improve survival chances.
For now, the message symposium leaders hope residents carry with them is straightforward:
Lung cancer is not simply a smoker’s disease.
It is a human disease.
And it is one communities can no longer afford to ignore.
The Atlanta Hypertension Initiative is bringing health systems, churches, and community groups together to improve blood pressure control for more than 500,000 adults.
By Milton Kirby | Atlanta, GA | May 29, 2026
High blood pressure is often called the “silent killer” because millions of people live with the condition without knowing it. Left untreated, hypertension can lead to heart attacks, strokes, kidney disease, and other serious health complications.
In metro Atlanta, a growing coalition of health care providers, community organizations, faith leaders, public agencies, and national health organizations is working to change that reality through the Atlanta Hypertension Initiative (AHI), an ambitious effort designed to improve blood pressure control for more than 500,000 adults by 2030.
Built on a mission “to advance cardiovascular health for all and reduce related health inequities by building a lasting collaborative effort for Atlanta,” the initiative represents one of the region’s most comprehensive approaches to tackling cardiovascular disease.
Unlike traditional awareness campaigns, AHI combines community outreach, clinical improvement, education, training, and collaboration into a long-term strategy aimed at creating lasting change.
A Region Facing a Serious Health Challenge
The need is substantial.
Nationally, nearly half of U.S. adults have hypertension. Yet only about one in four has the condition under control. The consequences are severe. High blood pressure remains one of the leading causes of heart attacks, strokes, and preventable deaths across the country.
The burden is especially significant in metro Atlanta.
According to AHI data, approximately one-third of adults across the region report having high blood pressure. In some communities, the numbers are even higher. Clayton County reports a self-reported hypertension prevalence of 40.3 percent, while DeKalb County stands at 35.5 percent, Fulton County at 33.7 percent, and Gwinnett County at 32.4 percent.
Health leaders note that the actual burden is likely even greater because many people remain unaware they have hypertension until serious complications develop.
The initiative has identified Fulton, DeKalb, Douglas, Cobb, and Gwinnett counties as priority areas for concentrated engagement and support while continuing to welcome participation from organizations and residents throughout the broader 11-county metropolitan region.
A Collective Effort
The Atlanta Hypertension Initiative is grounded in a simple belief: no single organization can solve the region’s hypertension crisis alone.
The initiative brings together partners from public health, health care, academia, government, faith communities, and community-based organizations to advance equitable hypertension control through collaboration, capacity building, and clinical quality improvement.
AHI is co-led by the CDC Foundation, the Atlanta Regional Collaborative for Health Improvement (ARCHI), the American Medical Association, and the Metro Atlanta American Heart Association, with foundational support from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Together, these organizations are working to improve awareness, treatment, and blood pressure control while addressing many of the barriers that contribute to health disparities throughout metro Atlanta.
More Than Awareness
One of the initiative’s distinguishing features is its emphasis on providing practical tools and resources that residents can use to improve their health.
Through community outreach programs, AHI supports blood pressure screenings, patient education programs, health fairs, and community events designed to help residents better understand hypertension and the steps they can take to manage it.
AHI classroom discussion
The initiative also promotes innovative programs such as “Low Pressure Parties,” community-based events that make learning about blood pressure, nutrition, physical activity, and healthy living engaging and accessible.
Residents can also benefit from educational materials, connections to care, and resources that help them navigate the health care system and better manage chronic conditions.
For organizations and health care providers, AHI offers technical assistance, training opportunities, quality improvement resources, peer-learning collaboratives, and implementation support.
Expanding Access to Home Monitoring
A major focus of the initiative is increasing access to self-measured blood pressure monitoring.
Research has shown that individuals who regularly monitor their blood pressure at home are often better able to manage hypertension and work with their health care providers to improve outcomes.
To support that effort, AHI helps distribute validated home blood pressure monitors and provides education on how to use them correctly. The initiative also offers training and technical assistance to organizations interested in implementing self-monitoring programs.
Community health workers play an important role in this strategy by helping residents understand their readings, connect with care, and stay engaged in treatment plans.
Reaching Communities Where They Are
AHI places particular emphasis on reaching populations disproportionately affected by hypertension, especially Black adults.
One of the initiative’s key outreach tools is the Live to the Beat campaign, a national effort designed to encourage Black adults ages 35 to 54 to take small, manageable steps to reduce cardiovascular disease risk factors such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and high blood sugar.
By partnering with trusted community leaders, churches, neighborhood organizations, and local events, AHI seeks to bring health education directly into the communities where people live, work, worship, and gather.
Three Strategic Pillars
The initiative’s work is organized around three strategic pillars.
The first pillar, Community Capacity-Building, focuses on strengthening partnerships, infrastructure, and resources that support hypertension prevention and control.
The second pillar, Community Outreach and Campaigns, seeks to increase awareness and understanding of hypertension through culturally relevant education and engagement.
The third pillar, Clinical Quality Improvement Support, helps health systems and providers implement evidence-based practices that improve diagnosis, treatment, and blood pressure control.
Together, these pillars create a coordinated approach that spans both community and clinical settings.
Building a Network of Champions
Organizations can engage with the initiative as Participants or as Champions.
Participants stay informed, attend trainings, and access resources. Champions take a more active role by making measurable commitments to improve hypertension control through education, screenings, outreach, quality improvement efforts, and other evidence-based strategies.
Those commitments form the foundation of the initiative’s collective impact model, allowing organizations to contribute in ways that match their mission, resources, and capacity.
AHI blood pressure testing
Early Results Show Momentum
Although still in its early years, the initiative has already demonstrated significant progress.
According to AHI, more than 300 individual members and champions have joined the effort, representing more than 90 organizations throughout metro Atlanta.
The initiative has conducted more than 5,700 community blood pressure screenings, distributed nearly 300 home blood pressure monitors, secured 229 hypertension-control commitments, hosted dozens of trainings and learning events, and awarded clinic stipends to support self-measured blood pressure programs.
Several participating clinics have also achieved hypertension control rates of 70 percent or higher.
Looking Ahead
The Atlanta Hypertension Initiative’s long-term vision is straightforward but ambitious: a heart-healthy metro Atlanta where every resident has the knowledge, resources, and support needed to achieve and maintain healthy blood pressure.
As the initiative moves forward, leaders plan to expand the number of active champions, strengthen community and clinical interventions, increase public awareness efforts, improve data collection, and deepen collaboration across sectors.
The challenge remains significant. Hypertension often develops without symptoms and can go undetected for years.
Yet AHI leaders believe meaningful progress is possible when health systems, community organizations, churches, employers, and residents work together.
Through education, screenings, home monitoring, quality improvement, and community engagement, the Atlanta Hypertension Initiative is pursuing a simple but ambitious goal: reducing heart attacks and strokes while helping hundreds of thousands of metro Atlantans live longer, healthier lives.
The Bill Pickett Invitational Rodeo expands its legacy of community care through a new partnership with Guardant Health, bringing life‑saving colorectal cancer screening and education directly to Black communities.
Riding for Our Lives: How the Bill Pickett Invitational Rodeo Is Expanding Its Legacy of Community Care Through a New Partnership With Guardant Health
By Milton Kirby | Memphis, TN | May 1, 2026
For forty‑two years, the Bill Pickett Invitational Rodeo (BPIR) has been more than a showcase of Black cowboy excellence. It has been a cultural institution, a traveling classroom, a family reunion, and a lifeline — a place where heritage is preserved, children are affirmed, and communities gather to celebrate themselves. Long before “community engagement” became a corporate buzzword, BPIR was already doing the work: educating youth, supporting families, creating safe spaces, and showing up in cities where resources were thin but hope was abundant.
That legacy continues today through the Bill Pickett Invitational Rodeo Foundation (BPIRF), whose mission is rooted in value‑driven philanthropy and whose vision is clear: preserving heritage, empowering communities, and inspiring generations. Since 1987, the Foundation has delivered health and wellness programs, STEM initiatives, scholarships, senior support, emotional‑intelligence workshops, and anti‑violence education across the country. Its values, generosity, compassion, empathy, equity, inclusion — are not slogans. They are the operating system.
So, when BPIR announced a new partnership with Guardant Health, a trusted leader in blood-based cancer tests for more than a decade, as part of its “Riding Across America for Community Health” initiative, it wasn’t a pivot. It was a continuation. It was BPIR doing what BPIR has always done: meeting the community where it is and bringing life‑saving information directly to the people who need it most.
The Heartbeat of the Mission: Rodeo for Kidz Sake
If you want to understand BPIR’s soul, you start with the children.
The Rodeo for Kidz Sake (RFKS) program is one of the most powerful expressions of BPIR’s values, an immersive, educational, joy‑filled introduction to Black cowboys and cowgirls, Western history, and the “cowboy mystique” that shapes childhood imagination. For many inner‑city students, RFKS is their first time seeing a horse up close, touching an animal, or witnessing Black excellence in a space they never knew belonged to them.
On Friday, April 10, nearly 4,000 students filled the AgriCenter Showplace Arena in Memphis. They laughed, learned, asked questions, and saw themselves reflected in a history that has too often been erased. RFKS events now take place in Denver, Memphis, and Washington, D.C./Maryland and for many children, the experience is life‑changing.
Photo by Milton Kirby – For Kidz Sake
Margo Wade‑LaDrew, National Development / Sponsorship Director told me this as cowboys and cowgirls streamed past us, moving through the lines to enter the arena for Saturday night’s show a reminder that BPIR’s commitment to community isn’t theoretical. It lives in the dust, the boots, the laughter, and the anticipation of families gathering for a night of culture and competition.
“The Bill Pickett Invitational Rodeo is committed to empowering and uplifting communities across the country through dynamic outreach initiatives. We focus on promoting health, education, emotional intelligence, life skills, career development, anti‑bullying, and anti‑violence awareness,” she said. “This new partnership with Guardant Health is in total alignment with that legacy.”
RFKS is the heartbeat of that commitment — a reminder that BPIR’s work is not just about preserving the past, but preparing the next generation to thrive.
A Longstanding Commitment to Health and Healing
BPIRF’s health outreach didn’t begin with Guardant Health. For years, the Foundation has delivered timely education on:
COVID‑19 and flu vaccination
Domestic and community violence prevention
Anti‑bullying and emotional intelligence
Mental health and suicide prevention
Breast cancer, prostate health, diabetes, and high blood pressure
Through partnerships with Anti‑Violence Ventures and the Black Beauty & Wellness Foundation, BPIRF has created safe spaces for emotional expression, healing, and empowerment — reaching both men and women with culturally grounded resources.
This is the context that makes the Guardant partnership meaningful. BPIR wasn’t looking for a sponsor. It was looking for alignment. And it found it.
The Crisis: Colorectal Cancer in Black America
Colorectal cancer is the second‑leading cause of cancer death in the United States.
Photo by Milton Kirby – Guardant Shield
For Black Americans, the burden is even heavier:
20% higher incidence
40% higher mortality
More likely to be diagnosed at a younger age
More likely to be diagnosed at a later stage
The difference between early and late detection is staggering:
91% survival when caught early
13% survival when caught late
We don’t fully understand why colorectal cancer behaves more aggressively in Black patients. But we do know this: early detection saves lives.
And that is where Guardant Health enters the story.
Shield Across America: Innovation Meets the Arena
On April 11, 2026, the Guardant Health mobile colon cancer screening education tour bus rolled into Memphis to join BPIR’s tour stop, marking a milestone in the “Riding Across America for Community Health” initiative. The bus is part of Shield Across America, a nationwide effort to expand access to colorectal cancer screening and education about Shield, the first and only test FDA‑approved as a primary screening option for colorectal cancer for average‑risk adults 45 and older.
Shield is:
non‑invasive
accessible
covered by Medicare, and the VA Community Care Network
designed to meet people where they are
For communities facing systemic barriers to healthcare including Black Americans this partnership is more than symbolic. It is lifesaving.
Courtesy photo – Sam Asgarian, Guardant Health’s vice president of clinical development for screening
The Science Behind Shield: A Conversation With Dr. Sam Asgarian
To understand the test’s impact, I spoke with Dr. Sam Asgarian, Guardant Health’s vice president of clinical development for screening. He explained that Shield’s FDA approval was built on one of the largest colorectal cancer screening studies ever conducted.
In 2019, Guardant launched the ECLIPSE Study, enrolling more than 20,000 Americans across the country. The goal was not just size – it was representation.
“We made sure the study matched the demographics of the United States,” Asgarian said. “Not just white participants, not just white and Black participants — but a true reflection of the country.”
The results were strong:
83% detection ratefor colorectal cancers
10% false‑positive rate
Consistent performance across ethnicities
For Black families who have historically been excluded from clinical trials, this matters.
Cost, Coverage, and the Reality of Access
Eligible Medicare Part B or Fee for Service (FFS) patients will have $0 out-of-pocket cost for the Shield test. Medicare Advantage patients may be subject to co-pays, co-insurances and deductibles, depending on their specific plan. Veterans have zero copay through VA Community Care.
Coverage varies depending on private insurance.
But here’s where Guardant does something unusual: They don’t leave patients to navigate the insurance maze alone.
“Every time a test is ordered, we reach out to patients,” Asgarian said. “We tell them what we think their coverage will be. We work with insurance companies. We help with financial assistance. We don’t want people going through that alone.”
As someone who has had two colonoscopies myself, I asked whether people like me could switch to the blood test going forward.
“It’s entirely up to you and your physician,” he said. “You have options now.”
Optionality saves lives.
Memphis: What Happened on the Ground
The Shield Across America tour launched in Las Vegas in March, Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month. Since then, it has made several stops across the country navigating festivals, charity walks, and any event with enough space to park a 45‑foot mobile lab. The BPIR was a natural partnership for the tour.
Outside the arena, I saw a steady flow of people approaching the Shield Across America. Inside, Guardant had a table set up for conversations, questions, and education. I didn’t see the table myself — I was photographing from the opposite side of the arena — but the team reported strong engagement.
Even a few hundred screenings can shift outcomes in a community.
Looking Ahead: Atlanta and Beyond
When I asked about the next stop, Asgarian said the team was still finalizing the Atlanta layout, but that the latest information could be found at ShieldCancerScreen.com.
BPIR is uniquely positioned to make this work. The rodeo is already a family event. Adding health engagement to the pre‑show atmosphere is a natural fit.
This is not a one‑off partnership. It is the beginning of a sustained health equity effort.
The Human Barrier: Fear, Anxiety, and Avoidance
Asgarian said something that stayed with me:
“People aren’t avoiding screening because they don’t care. They’re afraid. They’ve had bad experiences. They don’t trust the system. They don’t know what’s available.”
This is why meeting people at the rodeo matters. When people are in a space they love — surrounded by culture, joy, and community — they are more open to engaging with healthcare.
BPIR becomes the bridge between fear and action.
The Role of Trusted Media
When I asked what Truth Seekers Journal could do to strengthen the partnership, Asgarian didn’t hesitate:
“There’s so much noise in the world. Breakthroughs get drowned out. When people hear about this from a trusted source — your publication — it means more. It pushes them to act.”
That is the responsibility of Black media: to amplify what saves us, not just what threatens us.
Colorectal cancer is the second‑leading cancer killer. But unlike many cancers, early detection changes everything.
This is breakthrough technology. This is life‑saving access. This is information our community deserves.
Closing: Riding for Our Lives
The Bill Pickett Invitational Rodeo has always been about more than competition. It is about culture, community, and care. It is about honoring the past while protecting the future. It is about showing up; for children, for families, for elders, for each other.
Now, through its partnership with Guardant Health, BPIR is riding for something even deeper: our lives.
Preserving heritage. Empowering communities. Inspiring generations. Protecting futures. One family, one child, one screening, one city at a time.
Atlanta celebrates opening of The Beacon at Cooper Street, marking 500 rapid housing units delivered to address homelessness through innovative modular construction and community partnerships.
By Milton Kirby | Atlanta, GA | April 17, 2026
Atlanta leaders, community members, and housing advocates gathered this week in the Mechanicsville neighborhood to celebrate a major milestone in the city’s fight against homelessness: the ribbon cutting of The Beacon at Cooper Street, the final development needed to reach the city’s goal of 500 rapid housing units.
Mayor Andre Dickens called the moment “promises made and promises kept,” emphasizing that the project represents more than just construction.
“This work is not just about numbers,” Dickens said. “It represents 500 opportunities, 500 lives, and 500 chances at stability and dignity.”
Mayor Andre Dickens The Beacon @ Coopers Street – Photo by Milton Kirby
The Beacon at Cooper Street includes two multi-story buildings with 100 modular studio units, each designed to provide safe, supportive housing for individuals experiencing homelessness. The development also includes on-site offices for case management, mental health services, and other support systems aimed at helping residents rebuild their lives.
A Citywide Effort
The project is part of Atlanta’s broader Rapid Housing Initiative, a strategy launched by the Dickens administration to address homelessness by quickly converting underutilized city-owned land into permanent supportive housing.
From its earliest days, the initiative relied on partnerships across government, nonprofit organizations, developers, and the private sector.
“This is what it looks like when we listen, when we engage, and when we build together,” Dickens said during the ceremony.
City officials highlighted earlier developments in the initiative, including The Melody, a container-based housing community that gained international recognition, and Waterworks Village, a modular apartment complex delivered in record time.
Community Support in Mechanicsville
Leaders also praised the Mechanicsville community for embracing the project, noting that neighborhood support played a key role in its success.
“There’s a lot of ‘not in my backyard’ across the country,” Dickens said. “But this community said yes—and that made all the difference.”
District 4 Councilmember Jason Dozier described the development as both personal and transformative, pointing to the broader impact stable housing can have on families and neighborhoods.
“Housing creates the foundation for safety, health, and economic stability,” Dozier said.
More Than Housing
Officials emphasized that The Beacon is not just a housing project, but part of a larger ecosystem of care.
Thirty units are dedicated to individuals who need ongoing medical and mental health support through partnerships with local healthcare providers. The development also includes a “housing navigator” program to help individuals transition from hospitals and shelters into stable living environments.
The Beacon @ Coopers Street – Photo by Milton Kirby
Research cited during the event shows that rapid housing programs are effective, with 70 to 90 percent of participants remaining housed after one year.
Looking Ahead
While the ribbon cutting marked a significant achievement, leaders were clear that the work is far from finished.
Speakers emphasized that while the milestone is significant, much work remains to address homelessness across the city.
With the 500-unit goal now achieved, city officials signaled plans to expand the model and continue building housing solutions across Atlanta and the broader region.
As Dickens put it, “Love ought to look like something—and today, you can see what that looks like.”
“Smart devices now track heart rate, sleep, and glucose, turning everyday wear into powerful tools for health awareness, prevention, and community wellness.”
You can track your heart rate, sleep, even glucose levels just by strapping on a device. Are these next-generation right for you?
By Jeanne Dorin McDowell | April 12, 2026
Wearable health monitors have come a long way since Fitbits and Apple Watches introduced the idea of digitally counting steps and calories burned.
Today’s wearables include a dizzying array of devices—armbands, smart rings, smart eyeglasses, chest-strap monitors, clothing embedded with sensors—to track physical activity, heart rate, blood pressure, temperature, blood oxygen, glucose levels, stress, sleep patterns and movement.
And while it can be fun to track your biometrics on your own, wearables are having a big impact on doctor-patient relationships by giving health care providers real-time access to critical health data. Some can record and transmit electrocardiogram (ECG) readings; others can detect falls and epileptic seizures before they happen.
“I ask my patients to self-monitor to tell me what their heart rates are,” says Niraj Varma, M.D., a cardiac electrophysiologist and professor of medicine at the Cleveland Clinic who routinely recommends wearable monitors for patients diagnosed with atrial fibrillation (A-fib), a common heart disorder that can disrupt blood flow and lead to blood clots and an increased risk of stroke.
Nearly 1 in 3 Americans use a wearable device, such as a smartwatch or band, to track their health and fitness. But not all remote monitors are created equal.
Consumer-grade wearables, such as smart-watches and rings, which you can buy online or at retail stores, may be fairly accurate but are not FDA-approved, which means they have not met stringent regulatory requirements.
Medical-grade wearables, such as most continuous glucose monitors, which measure sugar levels, usually require a doctor’s prescription and are FDA-approved. Health information is transmitted via an app or a receiver and can be shared remotely with a physician, so it can be interpreted and discussed with the patient.
While the accuracy of consumer devices varies across brands and the metrics that are being measured, they are not considered as accurate as medical-grade wearables.
But even if the accuracy falls short, one of the intrinsic values of consumer wearables is that they can signal that something is wrong.
“If you are tracking your activity and motion as well as heart rate, and suddenly there’s a change—not from yesterday to today but a definite trend of something happening—the wearable can be an alert system that tells you something is going on,” says Albert Titus, a professor of biomedical engineering at the University at Buffalo.
Here’s a rundown of widely used wearable tech devices and what doctors who work with them have to say.
SMARTWATCHES AND FITNESS TRACKERS
BEST FOR: Monitoring basic health metrics and exercise
If your idea of a fitness tracker dates back 15 years or so, you might want to see what the new models can do. Through a technique called photoplethysmography, which detects heart rate by measuring changes in the volume of blood flowing near the surface of the skin, sensors can measure heart rate and even stress levels.
They can also flag an irregular heartbeat, says Erica Schorr, associate professor in the School of Nursing at the University of Minnesota and a member of the American Heart Association’s Center for Healthy Technology and Innovation, Digital Science Working Group. That said, watches and trackers are not a replacement for regular checkups; they can’t diagnose a heart attack or other serious medical condition.
SMART RINGS
BEST FOR: Monitoring sleep
Smart rings emit light at specific wavelengths into the skin, then measure how much of that light is reflected back to the ring. Since blood absorbs more light than other tissue does, the ring can monitor the rhythmic ebbs and flows in blood volume to track your heart rate and sleep cycles. These devices typically connect to a phone app and may require a monthly subscription.
Smart rings may compile heart rate data more accurately than smartwatches and may produce more accurate measurements in people with darker skin tones than wrist-worn devices do. (Melanin, a dark pigment in the skin, can absorb some of the light emitted by optical sensors and distort heart rate measurements. But there is less melanin on the inside of the fingers than on the wrist.)
While sleep monitoring is a selling point of these devices, not everyone is sold on the value of this function. “It’s challenging for many wearables to accurately assess deep and REM sleep,” says Cheri Mah, M.D., a sleep physician and adjunct lecturer with the Stanford Sleep Medicine Center. “People can get fixated on their daily sleep outcomes and on perfecting those numbers.” Instead, she recommends looking at your results in terms of trends rather than nightly performance.
SMART GLASSES AND SMART CLOTHING
BEST FOR: Serious fitness enthusiasts
Smart clothing refers to garments—usually shirts and leggings—with embedded sensors that monitor vital signs and track physical performance. Like other health wearables, smart clothing monitors heart rate, temperature, heart rhythm and physical movements; the data is transmitted via Bluetooth to an app in real time. Some smart clothes send alerts when the wearer experiences an irregularity or a health problem.
Even eyeglasses can come with health trackers nowadays. Smart eyewear is equipped with sensors and Bluetooth connectivity embedded in the frames, and some can monitor heart rate and calories burned. But, like wrist-based monitors, they’re not as accurate as some other products.
CHEST-STRAP HEART MONITORS
BEST FOR: Serious athletes, people with heart conditions While the heart rate monitors in your smartwatch or ring can provide useful data about your general fitness and exercise levels, a wearable that wraps around your chest to measure heart rate is considered the gold standard. Chest-strap monitors use electrocardiography to measure electrical signals from the heart, which makes them more precise than the sensors used in wrist- or finger-based devices. In April, researchers at the University of Missouri College of Engineering announced the development of a starfish-shaped wearable powered by Al technology that can detect heart problems with 90 percent accuracy.
Some of these devices connect with a cable or wirelessly to a device that you can tch to your clothing or carry in a pock-while many newer models use wireless nections to send data to your phone or another device.
If you have a heart condition, your doctor might prescribe a medical-grade heart monitor that records the heart’s rhythm, such as a Holter, which your physician reviews after return the device. These monitors are even more accurate than the retail versions.
CONTINOUS GLUCOSE MONITORS
BEST FOR: People with diabetes or prediabetes, biohackers
Continuous glucose monitors (CGMs), which are worn as a patch and use a sensor that’s inserted under the skin with a needle, continuously record glucose levels, sending an alert when they rise or fall too far.
“People who benefit most from CGMs are those with diabetes who require insulin therapy, because these monitors have been associated with reducing the risk of severe hypoglycemia, or low blood sugar,” one of the most feared complications of insulin use, says Aoife M. Egan, an endocrinologist at the Mayo Clinic.
The American Diabetes Association advocates for CGM accessibility for people with type 1 and type 2 diabetes who are required to take insulin. But CGMs have also become popular with people who just want to know more about the impact of food, stress and activity on their glucose levels. The emergence of several kinds of nonprescription CGMs have empowered the biohacking-curious to measure the sugar in their bloodstream, although over-the-counter CGMs give less-detailed feedback than prescription models.
An effective glucose monitor needs to pierce the skin, researchers say. Last year the FDA alerted consumers that using smartwatches or smart rings that claim to measure blood glucose levels without piercing the skin “can lead to errors in diabetes management.”
Is a Wearable Monitor Right for You?
Wearables continue to evolve: Scientists are working on a smart ring that can help detect hand tremors, a Parkinson’s disease symptom; wearables that will be able to detect neurodegenerative diseases, like multiple sclerosis and ALS, in the earliest stages; and even a wrist-worn device that tracks activity patterns, which may catch early signs of Alzheimer’s disease. But while wearables have myriad benefits, some people find that continuous monitoring of their health creates anxiety. Fluctuations in heart rhythms or blood sugar levels are normal and often insignificant, but if your device sends up an alarm, it can provoke unneeded stress. “Telling someone they’re experiencing a heart arrhythmia if they don’t feel it can create more anxiety,” says Lindsey Rosman, assistant professor of medicine in the division of cardiology at the University of North Carolina School of Medicine. Rosman says we need more studies both on the adverse effects of wearables and on who would actually benefit from these devices. —J.M.
Jeanne Dorin McDowell writes about health and wellness for national print and digital publications.
Support open, independent journalism—your contribution helps us tell the stories that matter most.
SNAP benefits in 2026 bring updated income limits, work requirements, and policy changes under federal law, impacting how low-income households qualify for food assistance nationwide.
Milton Kirby | Decatur, GA | April 4, 2026
The federal government’s largest anti-hunger program is entering a period of renewed attention, as policy updates and eligibility rules continue to shape how millions of Americans access food assistance.
The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), administered by the U.S. Department of Agriculture, remains a critical safety net for low-income families, seniors, and individuals facing economic hardship. Its mission is straightforward but essential: increase food security, improve nutrition, and support American agriculture.
Recent legislative changes tied to the One Big Beautiful Bill Act of 2025, signed by Donald Trump on July 4, 2025, have introduced new policy considerations. Federal agencies are continuing to release guidance on how those provisions will be implemented, signaling that SNAP may evolve further in the months ahead.
Who Qualifies for SNAP in 2026
Eligibility for SNAP is based on a combination of income, household composition, and resources. In most cases, households must meet both gross and net income thresholds, though households with elderly or disabled members may only need to meet net income limits.
For the current cycle (October 1, 2025 – September 30, 2026), a household of four must generally earn no more than $3,483 per month in gross income and $2,680 in net income to qualify.
Households are defined not just by who lives together, but by who purchases and prepares meals together. That means spouses and most children under 22 are typically counted as one unit, even if meals are prepared separately.
Applicants who are approved can receive benefits retroactive to the date they applied, an important provision for families experiencing sudden financial hardship.
Assets, Vehicles, and What Counts
SNAP also considers household resources, though not all assets are counted. A primary home, retirement accounts, and resources tied to programs like SSI or TANF are excluded.
In most cases, households may have up to $3,000 in countable resources, or $4,500 if at least one member is elderly or disabled.
Vehicles are treated with nuance. Cars used for work, transportation of disabled individuals, or as a primary residence are typically excluded. However, vehicles with significant market value may count toward resource limits depending on state rules.
Work Requirements and Exemptions
Work requirements remain a central feature of SNAP eligibility. Most participants must register for work, accept suitable employment, and participate in training programs if assigned.
Able-bodied adults without dependents (ABAWDs) must work or participate in qualifying programs for at least 20 hours per week to receive benefits beyond three months in a three-year period.
However, several groups are exempt from these rules, including seniors, veterans, pregnant women, individuals experiencing homelessness, and those with physical or mental health limitations.
How to Apply and Stay Eligible
Applications are handled at the state level, and applicants must go through a certification process. Once approved, households receive benefits for a set period and must recertify to continue receiving assistance.
The USDA provides a national directory of state SNAP offices, allowing applicants to find local resources and begin the process online or in person.
A Program Under Watch
As economic conditions shift and federal policy evolves, SNAP remains a focal point in national conversations about poverty, workforce participation, and food access.
For many families, the program is not just assistance, it is stability.
And in a time of rising costs and uncertain economic signals, that stability continues to matter.
Support open, independent journalism—your contribution helps us tell the stories that matter most.
The 16th Annual Red Shoe Lunch at Chateau Elan advanced heart disease prevention through the Veronica Blount Memorial Foundation’s blood pressure monitor initiative.
By Milton Kirby | Braselton, GA | March 1, 2026
What began as a small lunch among six friends has grown into one of metro Atlanta’s most heartfelt annual traditions. On Saturday, February 28, 2026, the 16th Annual Red Shoe Lunch filled a ballroom at Chateau Elan Winery & Resort to capacity, with nearly every guest—women and a few men—wearing a shade of red. The color symbolized both celebration and urgency: a reminder that heart disease remains the leading cause of death for women.
A Movement Born From a Moment of Fear
The Red Shoe Lunch traces its origins to 2010, when six women gathered at a restaurant in Atlanta’s Phipps Plaza. They didn’t set out to start a movement; they simply came to support their friend, 36‑year‑old Tasha “Tee” Blount. Each woman wore red shoes, high heels, flats, slingbacks, and peep-toes; an outward symbol of unity that caught the attention of passersby. But the shoes represented something far deeper.
Just days earlier, Tee had been lying on an operating table preparing for a cardiac catheterization. As she waited, she overheard a nurse whisper, “Wow, she’s young.” It was the same phrase she had heard thirteen years earlier when her mother, Veronica Blount, underwent a quadruple bypass in Baltimore. Veronica survived the first surgery, required a second, and later died from coronary artery disease at just 46 years old.
Tee came from a family of women who died young. Her grandmother, Delores, died at 53. Her great-grandmother at 64. As Tee closed her eyes in that Atlanta operating room, she made a promise: if she woke up, she would fight to break the cycle.
From Six Women to a Community of Hundreds
Photo by Milton Kirby Red Shoe Audience
Once released from the hospital, Tee invited her closest friends to lunch on what would have been her mother’s 56th birthday. She asked them to wear red shoes in her honor. The women passed around an iPad and donated to the American Heart Association. When the restaurant manager learned the meaning behind their gathering, he moved them to a private dining room at no charge.
That afternoon, Tee decided the lunch would become an annual event.
Six women have now grown into a community of roughly 200 attendees—and the number continues to rise. While the venue changes each year, the mission has remained constant: raise awareness about heart disease and educate the communities they call home.
A New Chapter: The Veronica Blount Memorial Foundation
For more than a decade, attendees paid for their meals and donated directly to the American Heart Association, raising nearly $20,000. But in 2021, Tee charged $22,000 to her personal credit card to cover event costs. “That was my wake-up call,” she said.
In August 2022, the Veronica Blount Memorial Foundation (VBMF) became a 501(c)(3) nonprofit. The Red Shoe Lunch is now its annual flagship event.
Tee admits she delayed applying for nonprofit status because she wasn’t sure she would live long enough to see it through. “Every woman in my mother’s immediate family died younger than their mother,” she said. “By this time next year, I will be the first to outlive my mother and my grandmother. And I plan to outlive my great-grandmother too.”
She credits access to cardiac care and the resources VBMF now provides for her longevity.
A Mission Rooted in Prevention
Photo by Milton Kirby Red Shoe Lunch Tags
VBMF’s primary fundraising goal is simple but powerful: ensure every household in underserved communities has a blood pressure monitor. “Just like a smoke detector, blood pressure monitors save lives,” Tee said.
The work extends far beyond the luncheon. Volunteers identify neighborhoods with high need, distribute educational materials, and personally deliver monitors to residents.
The Women Behind the Work
The Red Shoe Lunch is powered by a large team of dedicated volunteers whose behind‑the‑scenes work makes the event possible each year. Among them, several leaders shared their perspectives with TSJ.:
Mary Fondon, Co-Chair & Volunteer Relations Chair, emphasizes the scale of the effort. “It takes a lot of volunteers to deliver a flawless Red Shoe Lunch,” she said. She hopes every attendee will return next year and bring someone with them.
Lisa Daniel, Fundraising Chair, brings her own lived experience to the mission. “I have gone through the fire and I don’t smell like smoke,” she said. Her goal is to ensure fewer people ever have to face the fire at all.
Evie Fleming, Event Registration Chair, ensures the event runs smoothly, supported by her mother, April Woodyard from Columbia, SC and sister Wanda Simpkins, and longtime attendee Sally Richardson
Their stories reflect the spirit of the Red Shoe Lunch: community, compassion, and collective action.
SIDEBAR | Heart Disease Risks for Black Women
The Urgency
Black women face the highest rates of heart disease in the United States. Nearly 59% of Black women over age 20 live with some form of cardiovascular disease.
Major Risk Factors
High Blood Pressure — Black women experience the highest hypertension rates of any group, and only about a quarter have it under control.
Obesity — Nearly 57% of Black women are classified as obese, increasing strain on the heart.
Diabetes — Higher rates of both diagnosed and undiagnosed diabetes elevate long‑term cardiovascular risk. · Family History — Generational patterns of early heart disease are more common in Black families.
Stroke Risk — Black women are twice as likely to experience a stroke compared to white women.
Healthcare Gaps
Black women are more likely to encounter:
Delayed diagnosis, even when symptoms are present
Under‑treatment due to implicit bias
Higher pregnancy‑related cardiac complications, including preeclampsia and cardiomyopathy
These disparities contribute to higher mortality and more severe outcomes.
Symptoms Often Missed
Heart attack symptoms in women—especially Black women—can be subtle:
Unusual fatigue
Nausea or vomiting
Shortness of breath
Back, jaw, or stomach pain
Lightheadedness
These are frequently mistaken for stress or exhaustion.
Prevention That Saves Lives
Know your blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar
Schedule regular heart screenings
Manage stress and sleep
Maintain physical activity
Recognize symptoms early
Why Access Matters
Access to blood pressure monitors, preventive screenings, and culturally competent cardiac care dramatically improves outcomes—especially in underserved communities where risk is highest.
Looking Ahead
Blount announced that the 17th Annual Red Shoe Lunch will return on February 27, 2027.
The Red Shoe Lunch continues to grow in size, purpose, and impact. With its nonprofit status secured, all proceeds now support the Veronica Blount Memorial Foundation’s work in underserved communities. The organization will continue its annual giving campaign to the American Heart Association through the Veronica Blount Memorial Fund.
What began as six women in red shoes is now a movement—one that is saving lives, one household at a time.
Social Security and Medicare changes in 2026 include higher COLA payments, rising premiums, new senior tax breaks, negotiated drug prices, and potential Medicare coverage for weight-loss drugs.
By Milton Kirby | Atlanta, GA | January 10, 2026
Americans who rely on Social Security and Medicare entered 2026 facing a series of significant changes that will shape monthly incomes, health care costs, taxes, and access to prescription drugs. From a higher cost-of-living adjustment to the long-awaited launch of negotiated Medicare drug prices, the updates reflect both inflation pressures and years of policy debate.
Here is a breakdown of the most important changes now in effect.
Higher Social Security Payments, Modest but Meaningful
Social Security recipients received a 2.8 percent cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) on January 1, reflecting rising inflation late last year. That increase is slightly higher than the 2.5 percent COLA granted in 2025.
According to the Social Security Administration, the average monthly retirement benefit rises by about $56, from roughly $2,015 to about $2,071. While not dramatic, the increase offers some protection against rising food, housing, and medical costs.
Medicare Premiums and Deductibles Rise Sharply
Medicare enrollees are seeing steeper increases.
Medicare Part B premiums climbed nearly 10 percent, rising to $202.90 per month, up from $185 in 2025.
The Part B deductible increased to $283, up from $257.
The Part A inpatient deductible is now $1,736, compared with $1,676 last year.
These increases mean many seniors will see a noticeable portion of their COLA absorbed by health care costs.
Higher Payroll Taxes for Top Earners
Workers continue to pay 12.4 percent of earnings toward Social Security—split evenly between employees and employers, or fully paid by the self-employed. In 2026, however, the maximum amount of earnings subject to that tax increased to $184,500, up from $176,100 in 2025.
The change affects higher-income workers most directly, modestly strengthening Social Security’s funding base.
New Tax Break for Older Americans
A new federal tax deduction aimed at older adults also took effect this year. Eligible taxpayers 65 and older can now reduce taxable income by up to $6,000, or $12,000 for married couples.
The deduction phases out for individuals earning more than $175,000 and couples earning more than $250,000. The provision was backed by AARP and included in the One Big Beautiful Bill Act passed last summer.
Earnings Test Adjustments for Working Beneficiaries
Seniors resources are being squeezed by the cost of living, medicine, food in some instances, taxes
For Social Security beneficiaries who have not yet reached full retirement age—now between 66 and 67—the earnings test threshold also increased.
In 2026, beneficiaries who will not reach full retirement age during the year will have $1 withheld for every $2 earned above $24,480, up from $23,400 in 2025. Once full retirement age is reached, the earnings test no longer applies.
Higher Threshold to Earn Social Security Credits
Workers still need 40 Social Security credits to qualify for retirement benefits, earning up to four credits per year. In 2026, the income needed to earn one credit increased.
You now earn one credit for every quarter in which you make at least $1,890 in taxable earnings, about $80 more per quarter than last year.
Weight-Loss Drugs Poised for Medicare Breakthrough
Beyond core benefits, one of the most closely watched developments involves GLP-1 weight-loss medications.
Roughly 32 million American adults have used GLP-1 drugs, including about one-fifth of women ages 50 to 64, according to a recent report by RAND Corporation. Monthly prescriptions often exceed $1,000, placing them out of reach for many seniors.
A deal announced last fall between the Trump administration and manufacturers Eli Lilly and Novo Nordisk promises sharply lower prices through a new direct-to-consumer platform called TrumpRx, expected to launch in early 2026.
President Biden signed the Inflation Reduction Act of 2022 lowering the cost of 10 widely prescribed medications
Officials say prices could fall to about $350 per month through TrumpRx. If the oral GLP-1 drug orforglipron receives approval from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, it would be priced similarly. An initial pill version of Wegovy could cost as little as $150 per month, pending approval.
Under Medicare, officials estimate GLP-1 prices could average $245 per month, with typical copays around $50, a dramatic reduction if fully implemented.
Medicare Drug Price Negotiations Finally Begin
Another landmark change arrived quietly on January 1: the first 10 Medicare Part D drugs with negotiated prices officially became available.
After Congress passed a law in 2022 requiring negotiations between drugmakers and the federal government, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services finalized prices that slash costs for some of the most widely used medications.
Savings are substantial. For a 30-day supply:
Januvia $527 $113 79% reduction
Eliquis $521 $231 56% reduction
Jardiance $573 $197 66% reduction
Enbrel $7,106 $2,355 67% reduction
Jardiance $197 $573 66% reduction
Stelara $4,695 $13,836 66% reduction
Xarelto$197 $517 62% reduction
Eliquis $231 $521 56% reduction
Entresto $295 $628 53% reduction
Imbruvica $9,319 $14,934 38% reduction
Advocates say the move represents the most significant shift in Medicare drug pricing since the program’s creation.
A Year of Tradeoffs
Taken together, the 2026 changes deliver both relief and new pressures for older Americans. Monthly Social Security checks are larger, tax breaks are broader, and drug prices are finally falling—but Medicare premiums and deductibles continue to climb. For seniors living on fixed incomes, 2026 may be remembered less as a year of sweeping reform than one of careful tradeoffs, where every increase comes with a corresponding cost.
Thank you for reading. If this reporting matters to you, consider subscribing to The Truth Seekers Journal and supporting independent, community-focused journalism.
DeKalb County launches a $250,000 initiative to combat illegal tire dumping, removing over 37,000 tires and targeting major dump sites across neighborhoods and commercial corridors.
By Milton Kirby | Decatur, GA | December 12, 2025
DeKalb County officials on Friday announced one of the most aggressive environmental cleanup efforts in the county’s history, unveiling a $250,000 initiative that has already removed more than 37,000 illegally dumped tires from neighborhoods, commercial corridors, and private property across the county.
The announcement came during a press conference led by DeKalb County Chief Executive Officer Lorraine Cochran-Johnson, who framed the effort as both an environmental response and a community restoration campaign.
“This is not just a cleanup. This is a reclaiming of our communities,” Cochran-Johnson said. “To put this into perspective, if the 37,000 tires we have removed were laid end to end, they would stretch 20 to 25 miles — the equivalent of the entire Atlanta BeltLine loop or the distance from Midtown Atlanta to Hartsfield-Jackson Airport. That is what our neighborhoods have been forced to live beside.”
Photo by Milton Kirby -Varkel Lane
The cleanup is being carried out by DeKalb County’s Sanitation Division and Beautification Unit, with Ricky Crockett serving as the county’s lead coordinator. Crews are targeting some of the most hazardous and logistically challenging illegal tire dump sites in DeKalb, many located on steep slopes, in wooded ravines, or near abandoned structures.
Eight Priority Sites Targeted
County officials initially identified nine priority locations for remediation. One site, at 3747 Presidential Parkway, was previously cleaned by the Georgia Environmental Protection Division. The remaining eight sites form the backbone of the current initiative.
Four of those sites have already been fully cleared and are scheduled for final inspection and approval on December 3, 2025. The remaining four locations require more complex retrieval methods due to limited access and safety concerns but are projected to be completed by the week of December 24, weather permitting.
The eight priority cleanup sites include:
5986 Marbut Road, Lithonia (behind a residence)
3041 Northeast Expressway, Atlanta (former State Farm property with steep slope)
6941 Brannon Hill Road, Clarkston (residential neighborhood)
1785 Continental Way SE (commercial landscaping area)
1700 Corey Boulevard, Decatur (church property)
Officials estimate the total volume of tires removed from these locations is in the tens of thousands, with several sites requiring specialized equipment and extended timelines.
“Organized Environmental Crime”
Cochran-Johnson did not mince words when describing the scale and intent behind many of the dumping incidents.
“We must confront a difficult truth,” she said. “Much of this dumping is not accidental. It is organized environmental crime. We have documented cases where a business drives into our county at night and dumps 3,000 tires in a single incident, leaving taxpayers and communities to pick up the pieces. That is unacceptable.”
Photo by Milton Kirby – 2285 Randall Rd
Illegal tire dumping poses serious environmental and public safety risks. Stockpiled tires create fire hazards, attract mosquitoes, and often become magnets for additional illegal dumping and criminal activity. County leaders said the cleanup effort is part of a broader strategy that combines enforcement, prevention, and long-term restoration.
Push for Statewide Reform
Beyond local cleanup, DeKalb County is advocating for changes to Georgia’s tire remediation laws to help counties better address widespread dumping.
The county supports amendments to O.C.G.A. § 12-8-40.1 that would allow Solid Waste Trust Fund reimbursements for projected cleanup costs in hard-to-reach areas, permit counties to seek reimbursement on behalf of municipalities when intergovernmental agreements are in place, and provide additional state funding for large counties with populations over 500,000.
County leaders said those reforms are critical to sustaining long-term cleanup efforts and deterring repeat offenders.
Legal Disposal and What Comes Next
Residents are reminded that they can legally dispose of up to 10 tires per trip at the Seminole Road Landfill, located at 4203 Clevemont Road in Ellenwood. Tires are transported from the site to approved recycling facilities. Additional information is available by calling the landfill at (404) 687-4040.
Cochran-Johnson also announced that the county is developing a permanent solution to address tire disposal. In early 2026, DeKalb plans to introduce an option allowing all residents and businesses to legally dispose of tires, a move officials hope will undercut illegal dumping at its source.
The current initiative aligns with the county’s Reimagine DeKalb agenda, focusing on reducing blight, improving safety, and restoring pride in heavily impacted communities.
During a recent drive through Lithonia, The Truth Seekers Journal observed multiple tire dump sites at varying stages, many of which appeared to have begun with just a handful of discarded tires before rapidly expanding. Once visible, the piles often grew rapidly, reinforcing a pattern county officials say underscores the need for swift cleanup and consistent enforcement.
DeKalb County approved a five-year, $78 million ambulance contract that expands coverage to 600 daily unit hours and continues cutting EMS response times across all emergencies.
By Milton Kirby | Decatur, GA | November 20, 2025
DeKalb County leaders have approved a five-year, nearly $78 million contract to strengthen ambulance coverage, boost emergency medical staffing, and continue lowering EMS response times across the county.
The Board of Commissioners voted unanimously Tuesday to adopt the new contract with American Medical Response (AMR), setting a maximum value of $77,773,900 based on performance. County officials say the agreement will support long-term growth, expand coverage, and build on the measurable improvements achieved over the past year.
Daily Ambulance Coverage to Reach 600 Unit Hours
The new contract increases daily unit hours—the number of hours ambulances are staffed and in service—to 600 per day, the highest in county history. The agreement also launches several major upgrades, including:
More ambulances in service daily
Improved response-time compliance through additional units and resources
A supplemental ambulance provider during peak call times
Expansion of the Nurse Navigator program and social-services outreach
A whole-blood program for trauma care
A third ambulance deployment center
AI-based analytics to improve ambulance posting and enhance patient care
County officials said these investments will help stabilize the system, especially during peak call periods and high-demand events.
County Leaders Say the System Is Moving in the Right Direction
CEO Lorraine Cochran-Johnson said the new contract continues the county’s push to build a modern, high-performing EMS system.
“As we continue to reimagine how EMS is provided in DeKalb County, I am excited at the progress we have made and expect this contract will allow us to better serve our residents,” Cochran-Johnson said. “We will have a world-class emergency medical service.”
Fire Chief Darnell Fullum also praised the results from earlier investments and said the new agreement positions the county for long-term success.
“I am excited about the positive outcomes we’ve achieved since the beginning of the year,” Fullum said. “This contract is a roadmap for success.”
Commissioner LaDena Bolton, who chairs the Employee Relations and Public Safety (ERPS) Committee, said the final agreement reflects community concerns raised during last year’s debate over an extension.
“Earlier this year I voted against an 18-month extension with AMR to push for a competitive RFP process that would secure a long-term contract meeting the service delivery our community deserves,” Bolton said. “Tuesday’s agreement not only ensures improved emergency response, but also provides real-time support for non-emergency calls and alternative ambulatory options. Through deliberation and compromise, we have positioned DeKalb County to deliver excellence in emergency medical services for the next five years.”
Improvements in 2025: Faster Response Times and More Unit Hours
In 2025, the county implemented an AMR contract extension that included a $4.9 million subsidy to increase ambulance availability. The investment immediately raised average daily unit hours from 456 in 2024 to 583 in the third quarter of 2025—a 28 percent increase.
According to county officials:
Response times for critical emergencies, such as heart attacks, are now 23 percent lower than at the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic.
All major emergency call types recorded their fastest response times since early 2020 through September 2025.
County leaders credit the gains to more ambulances, the Nurse Navigator system, additional county-funded EMS staff, and improved deployment strategies.
Audit Showed the System Was Underfunded
In 2024, DeKalb County hired Fitch and Associates to conduct a full review of EMS operations. The assessment found that the system was underfunded and recommended an investment between $12.6 million and $16.5 million, depending on the preferred design.
Key recommendations included:
Ensuring long-term financial and operational sustainability
Improving response-time performance
Reducing hospital offload delays
Expanding unit availability during peak hours
Updating EMS unit deployment locations
County officials say these findings guided both the 2025 contract extension and the new competitive RFP process that shaped the five-year agreement approved this week.
Years of Concerns Led to System Overhaul
DeKalb has spent years working to resolve concerns about slow ambulance response times. In 2024, leaders in Brookhaven and Dunwoody raised alarms after emergencies sometimes exceeded 20 minutes—well above the 12-minute benchmark for high-priority calls. Some residents reported waits of more than 25 minutes.
Earlier issues date back to 2018, when the county negotiated staffing and reporting reforms with AMR following service-related complaints.
But by mid-2025, county reports showed major improvement. A June 2025 update documented ambulances arriving nearly three minutes faster on average than before February 2024.
What’s Next
County officials say a press conference is planned for next week to outline the implementation timeline, explain upcoming deployment changes, and discuss additional components of the AMR contract.
The new agreement takes effect in 2026 and is expected to guide the county’s emergency medical services strategy for the next five years.
ATLANTA — On Saturday, October 18, hundreds of seniors filled the Wolf Creek Amphitheater for a joyful and determined attempt to set a new Guinness World Record. The goal: the largest senior health awareness fitness class ever organized.
Led by energetic fitness coach DaShaun Johnson, the crowd stretched, stepped, and moved in sync for nearly an hour. The effort came just 83 participants shy of setting a new global mark, but the day was far from a loss.
“What we did here today was bigger than any record,” Johnson said. “We moved together — as one community — and that’s what this is all about.”
The event, presented by the City of South Fulton in partnership with The Guru of Abs, drew seniors, caregivers, and family members from across metro Atlanta. Volunteers, sponsors, and local wellness organizations filled the amphitheater with energy, resources, and encouragement.
A Day of Movement and Motivation
The day began with warm ups and motivational music before Johnson led a full-body session designed to be inclusive for all mobility levels. From chair-based stretches to low-impact cardio, participants showed that age is no barrier to movement.
“While we did not break the Guinness record, to see all of these seniors here investing in their health is truly amazing,” said Leslie McGuffie, Chief Operating Officer of Axxess Benefit Consultants.
Many seniors said they came not for a record, but for connection.
“It feels good to know we’re part of something that celebrates us,” said participant Margaret Allen of East Point. “You’re never too old to take care of yourself.”
Why Senior Fitness Matters
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), adults aged 65 and older need at least 150 minutes of moderate physical activity each week, along with muscle-strengthening exercises twice a week. Regular activity helps reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as diabetes, heart disease, and certain cancers.
The popular SilverSneakers program, which provides free gym access for many older adults through Medicare, reports that consistent exercise improves balance, boosts mood, and reduces falls — the leading cause of injury among seniors.
“Events like this do more than raise awareness,” said wellness coordinator Tasha Greene. “They remind our elders that they are seen, valued, and capable.”
Building a Culture of Wellness
Organizers say the near-record turnout has inspired plans for a larger attempt next year. The City of South Fulton plans to continue promoting senior wellness programs throughout 2026, including walking clubs, nutrition workshops, and free exercise classes.
“We may have missed the record this time,” Johnson said with a smile, “but next year, we’ll make sure the world knows Atlanta’s seniors are unstoppable.”
No matter your age, the fitness journey can continue. With proper guidance and a consistent regimen, movement at any stage of life can improve health outcomes and quality of living.
Senior Fitness by the Numbers
150 minutes of weekly activity recommended for adults 65+.
28% of adults over 65 are inactive, per CDC.
25% reduction in risk of early death for active seniors.
40% fewer falls reported among seniors who exercise regularly.
The Power of Community Wellness
Social engagement improves mental health and reduces isolation.
Group exercise increases consistency and motivation.
Community-based programs can improve local health outcomes by up to 20%, according to public health studies.
October marks 40 years of Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Know the signs, close the gaps, and act early. Every story is unique. Every journey matters. Get screened
By Milton Kirby | Decatur, GA | October 19, 2025
Why This Month Still Matters
This October marks 40 years of Breast Cancer Awareness Month — four decades of breakthroughs, bravery, and a global pink movement.
The 2025 theme, “Every Story Is Unique, Every Journey Matters,” is both a reflection and a rallying cry. Behind every pink ribbon is a story of survival, strength, and ongoing struggle.
According to the National Cancer Institute (NCI), breast cancer remains the most common cancer among women in the United States. About 316,000 new invasive cases are expected this year. Earlier detection, modern therapies, and awareness campaigns have improved survival rates, saving over half a million lives since 1989.
Understanding Breast Cancer
Breast cancer begins when cells in the breast grow out of control. Most cases (70–80%) start in the milk ducts, while others begin in the lobules (10–15%).
When cancer spreads into nearby tissue, it becomes invasive breast cancer. If it reaches distant parts of the body — such as the lungs, liver, or bones — it becomes metastatic breast cancer (MBC).
Today, about 170,000 women in the U.S. live with MBC. Though not curable, it can be managed with targeted therapies and compassionate care. Organizations like Susan G. Komen, Breastcancer.org, and the National Breast Cancer Foundation offer trusted information and support networks for patients and caregivers.
When Breast Cancer Affects Men
Breast cancer in men is rare — less than 1% of all cases — but it does occur. The lifetime risk is about 1 in 1,000 for men, compared with 1 in 8 for women. Symptoms include a painless lump, nipple changes, or redness.
The Breast Cancer Research Foundation (BCRF) notes that men are often diagnosed later because they’re less likely to recognize the signs.
Black men have the highest incidence and mortality rates, a disparity that experts say demands greater awareness and screening equity.
Inflammatory Breast Cancer: Fast and Fierce
Inflammatory breast cancer (IBC) represents 1–5% of all diagnoses and is one of the most aggressive forms. It typically appears as redness or swelling rather than a lump. According to the NCI, IBC progresses rapidly and is more common among younger and African American women.
Treatment involves a multimodal approach — chemotherapy, surgery, and radiation. Foundations like the Dr. Susan Love Research Foundation and Lynn Sage Cancer Research Foundation are leading targeted studies to better understand and treat this form of the disease.
The Power of Progress
Since 1989, U.S. breast-cancer deaths have declined 44%, according to the National Breast Cancer Foundation, Inc.
That progress reflects improved screenings, expanded research, and the courage of survivors who share their stories. Still, racial and economic disparities persist — Black women are 40% more likely to die from breast cancer than white women. Closing that gap remains a central goal of the awareness movement.
Screenings Save Lives
Early detection changes everything. The American Cancer Society and Living Beyond Breast Cancer (LBBC) recommend individualized screening schedules based on age and risk.
Know the signs:
New lump or thickening in the breast or underarm
Change in breast shape or size
Dimpling, puckering, or redness
Nipple inversion or unusual discharge
Pain or swelling in the breast or chest
A Survivor’s Voice: “It’s Going to Be Alright”
For Beverly, a 24-year breast cancer survivor from North Carolina, Breast Cancer Awareness Month is far more than an annual observance — it’s a celebration of endurance, faith, and family.
She was first diagnosed in 2002 at just 48. “The mammogram caught it early,” she recalled. “I was afraid of everything — the diagnosis, the treatment, the unknown.” Before surgery, she remembers hearing her late grandmother’s voice say softly, “It’s going to be alright.”
“When I told my mother, who had also survived breast cancer, she said, ‘That’s nothing,’” Beverly laughed, remembering that first round of treatment. “My family has lived this — my mother, grandmother, my aunt, who’s now less than 30 days from 85 years strong, and even my great-grandfather. We’ve all faced it.”
Twelve years later, Beverly discovered a small lump under her arm. “I was just looking and feeling my armpits when I noticed it,” she said. “It had come back — same side, left side.” Her oncologist confirmed the cancer had returned in her lymph nodes.
This time, the treatment was more aggressive — chemotherapy, radiation, and years of medication. She credits her husband, Ted, as her constant support. He’s been my listener, my quiet presence, and my driver. When I didn’t need words, he just stayed close — and he’s become an expert tea brewer” she smiled.
One of her hardest moments came when she had to tell her then nine-year-old son. “He saw the calls and cards and said, ‘I hope you don’t have cancer.’ That opened the door for us to talk openly — to face it together.”
It has now been ten years since Beverly completed her second bout with breast cancer, including the aggressive treatment and follow-up medication regimen. This past August, her care team finally permitted her to discontinue the inhibitors.
Since that first diagnosis, Beverly has made gratitude and wellness her daily focus. “Every day, I try to live with intention and thankfulness,” she said. “Even on tough days, I remind myself: I’m still here — and that’s reason enough.”
The 10 Screenings Women Should Know
(Source: National Breast Cancer Foundation, Inc.)
Health Screening
Who Needs It
Why You Need It
Well-Woman Exam
Women 18+
Preventive check-up for overall and reproductive health.
Breast Cancer Screening
Women 40+*
Mammograms detect breast cancer early, when treatment is most effective.
Cervical Cancer Screening
Women 21+*
Detects abnormal cervical cells before they become cancerous.
Colorectal Cancer Screening
Women 45+*
Identifies and removes precancerous polyps to prevent colorectal cancer.
Lung Cancer Screening
Women 50+* at high risk
Detects lung cancer early, when it’s most treatable.
Skin Cancer Screening
Women at high risk*
Detects early skin cancers for prompt treatment.
Cholesterol Screening
Women 40+* (can start in 20s)
Detects high cholesterol linked to heart disease and stroke.
Blood Pressure Screening
Women 18+*
Identifies hypertension, a leading risk for heart attack and stroke.
Diabetes Screening
Women with risk factors*
Detects diabetes or prediabetes before symptoms appear.
Bone Density Screening
Women 60+*
Measures bone strength to prevent fractures and osteoporosis.
Certain factors such as family history, prior cancer, gene mutations, or other risks may require earlier or more frequent screenings. Always consult your healthcare provider for personalized recommendations.
Beyond Medicine: The Human Side of Healing
A breast-cancer diagnosis tests both body and spirit. Emotional and financial support are vital. CancerCare offers free counseling and grants. Living Beyond Breast Cancer connects survivors through education and peer support. Clinical partners like Medpace Oncology continue advancing therapies to improve quality of life worldwide.
Research and Clinical Trials
Clinical trials are shaping the future of breast cancer care. The National Cancer Institute Clinical Trials Database lists open studies nationwide. Participation helps move science forward — for patients today and those yet to be diagnosed.
Every Story Matters
From lab breakthroughs to late-night conversations in waiting rooms, every act of awareness is an act of care.
This October, honor the survivors, remember the lost, and encourage someone you love to schedule their screening. Because after 40 years, the message still holds true: every story is unique, every journey matters.
By Stacy M Brown | BlackpressUSA Newsiwre | October 9, 2025
Across America, families are being broken not by illness alone, but by the quiet cruelty of denial letters from insurance companies. Patients in crisis are told their care is not medically necessary. Others learn too late that their coverage has been canceled. The denials come swiftly, the appeals take months, and the system often feels rigged against the very people it was built to protect.
A ProPublica investigation revealed just how devastating those denials can be. In North Carolina, Teressa Sutton-Schulman and her husband, identified as “L” to protect his privacy, endured escalating mental health crises. After two suicide attempts in 11 days, Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield repeatedly denied payment for psychiatric treatment. Hidden on page seven of a denial letter was a single line about a right to an external review. Desperate, Sutton-Schulman filed for that review. An independent physician overturned the insurer’s decision and forced the company to pay for more than $70,000 in care, ProPublica reported. “Appeal, appeal, appeal, appeal,” said Kaye Pestaina, a vice president at the nonprofit health policy group KFF, who has studied external appeals. “That’s all you have,” she told ProPublica.
The right to an external appeal was expanded by the Affordable Care Act in 2010, but the protections are uneven. Karen Pollitz, who helped draft the federal regulations under the Obama administration, told ProPublica that insurance lobbyists weakened the process. She said only a fraction of denials are eligible for external review and, in most cases, insurers still choose the reviewers who decide the fate of patients’ appeals. “There are all kinds of ways they could strengthen the laws and the regulations to hold health plans more accountable,” she said. Even when laws exist, few Americans know where to turn. That is why state-based consumer assistance programs, established under the Affordable Care Act, have become a vital safety net — though many states never created them, and others have defunded theirs. About 30 states still operate programs that guide patients through internal and external appeals, while the rest leave families largely alone.
“Every state needs one of these programs,” said Cheryl Fish-Parcham, director of private coverage at Families USA. “Health care is so complicated, and people really need experts to turn to,” she told ProPublica. Those experts are often housed in attorney general offices, state insurance departments, or nonprofit agencies. Maryland’s Health Education and Advocacy Unit, for example, has been a lifeline for residents struggling with denied care. “The numbers are low because some people just give up. They’re frustrated. They’re tired. They’re battling cancer,” said Kimberly Cammarata, the unit’s director. “And sometimes the information about why the claim was denied or about how to appeal is terribly unclear. A lot of these outcome letters will say you have a right to an external appeal, but they don’t exactly tell you where to go,” she told ProPublica.
In New York, the Community Service Society operates a similar program, where advocates draft detailed appeals on behalf of patients. “We can help people write their appeals,” said Elisabeth Benjamin, vice president of health initiatives at the Community Service Society. “We write appeals for them, sometimes going through thousands of pages of medical records and writing 15- to 20-page appeals,” she told ProPublica. Across the nation, CMS documents show an uneven patchwork of help. In California, consumers can call the Department of Insurance Ombudsman at 1-800-927-4357 for help with denied claims. In Georgia, the Office of Insurance and Fire Safety Commissioner fields appeals and complaints from residents at 1-800-656-2298. In Illinois, the Department of Insurance maintains a consumer hotline at 1-866-445-5364. New York’s Department of Financial Services handles cases through its consumer division, while Pennsylvania residents can reach the state Insurance Department at 1-877-881-6388. Maryland, Virginia, and the District of Columbia all continue to run active programs through their respective attorney general or ombudsman offices.
Still, millions of Americans remain in states without fully funded consumer assistance programs. For those individuals, even knowing that an external appeal exists is a struggle. ProPublica found that the process is buried under jargon, hidden in small print, or placed deep within denial letters that few patients have the time or emotional strength to decode. Experts say one step can make a difference: persistence. “Appeal, appeal, appeal” has become a mantra not only for patients but for advocates who have watched insurers exploit confusion and fatigue to wear people down.
For urgent cases, the law allows expedited reviews that must be resolved within 72 hours. If the independent reviewer overturns the denial, the insurer is required by law to pay. When that happens, the victory is binding. But the system was never designed for easy victories. Most patients never reach that point. Many die waiting. And yet, despite the exhaustion and the heartbreak, people keep fighting. From North Carolina to California, from New York to Georgia, they continue to challenge billion-dollar corporations that have learned to profit from denial. What unites them is not just the pursuit of care, but a demand for fairness — a demand that too often goes unanswered. “Every state needs one of these programs,” Fish-Parcham said again. “Health care is so complicated, and people really need experts to turn to.”
Please consider supporting open, independent journalism – no contribution is too small!
Nearly 30 Atlanta seniors joined SilverSneakers and Kroc Atlanta Center’s free 2K walk, highlighting fitness, fellowship, and healthy aging in the Pittsburgh community.
Milton Kirby | Atlanta, GA | October 1, 2025
Nearly 50 local seniors laced up their walking shoes on Tuesday morning as SilverSneakers and The Salvation Army’s Kroc Atlanta Center teamed up to host a free 2K walk in the heart of Atlanta. The event gave older adults of all fitness levels a chance to get moving, meet new friends, and discover resources for healthy living.
The walkers, wearing numbered bibs, circled the Kroc Center’s indoor track 16 times to complete the 2K distance. Along the way they enjoyed a group warm-up, music, prize giveaways, and a cool-down session to finish strong. For some, it was their first organized walk; for others, it was another step in a lifelong commitment to staying active.
“Seeing the energy and camaraderie at this event in Atlanta displayed the power of community,” said Melissa Anthony, Regional Growth Manager for SilverSneakers. “More than just a run, it was incredible to witness the visible boost in confidence each participant demonstrated when they completed those 16 laps. Our top walker got in more than 10,000 steps.”
The program highlights an important message: staying active is central to healthy aging. With seniors now the fastest-growing age group in the United States, SilverSneakers has built its reputation by providing fun, low-pressure opportunities to help older adults maintain mobility and confidence.
Local partners Humana, Paradise Smoothies & Juice Bar, and JenCare Senior Medical Center joined in to support the event, providing refreshments and information about senior health resources.
The Kroc Atlanta Center, a 53,500-square-foot community hub in the city’s Pittsburgh neighborhood, provided a fitting backdrop. More than a gym, the center offers space for worship, arts, education, and recreation. Its facilities range from a multi-use gymnasium and computer labs to performing arts stages and community meeting rooms.
“Our mission is to be a beacon of hope and a gathering place for all,” said a Kroc Center representative. “This walk shows how seniors can come together to strengthen not only their bodies, but also their sense of belonging.”
The Salvation Army Kroc Centers trace their roots back to Joan Kroc, wife of McDonald’s founder Ray Kroc. After seeing firsthand how underserved communities lacked safe, welcoming spaces, she donated more than $1.5 billion to build centers nationwide. Today, 26 Kroc Centers carry forward her vision of nurturing children’s potential, supporting families, and strengthening neighborhoods.
Tuesday’s walk was the first of two group events planned this year. Organizers say seniors of all abilities are invited to join the next one.
For the participants, however, it wasn’t just about distance or steps—it was about being seen, supported, and celebrated. As one participant remarked after crossing the finish line, “It feels good to know I can still do this—and I’m not doing it alone.”
Charlie Kirk’s accused assassin, Tyler Robinson, had childhood firearm obsession; investigators cite rooftop sniper attack, political motive, and disturbing family photos in Utah arrest.
By Mataeo Smith | Orem, UT | September 12, 2025
Investigators claim that the alleged assassin who killed Charlie Kirk had a childhood obsession with firearms.
The 22-year-old Tyler Robinson was identified on Friday as the suspected assailant who shot Kirk during the conservative influencer’s protest on Wednesday at Utah Valley University. Robinson was spotted liking firearms as a child and seemed to regularly visit shooting ranges, according to social media posts from his family.
One photo from when Robinson looked like a teenager showed him holding a scoped rifle, while another showed him with an M2 Browning 50. caliber machine gun. A bazooka was in his hand in a third picture.
His mother shared pictures of Robinson and his two younger siblings at military functions and shooting ranges on Facebook. Amber Robinson was pictured clutching a US Army machine gun with pride in one of her posts.
As his family dressed in similar red clothes for Christmas 2017, Tyler Robinson was spotted with a brand-new iPhone and his brother a “build it yourself” gun kit.
Another photo from that year’s social media posts by Robinson’s mother showed him dressed as Donald Trump for Halloween. FBI Director Kash Patel and other officials identified Robinson as the suspected assassin who killed Kirk from a rooftop about 200 yards away using a Mauser 98 bold-action rifle on Friday.
Robinson was arrested Thursday evening in southern Utah, according to law enforcement authorities who spoke to the Daily Mail. Approximately 260 miles south of Kirk’s killing site in Orem, he resides in a six-bedroom, $600,000 mansion in Washington, Utah.
According to people who spoke to the Mail, the accused murderer confessed to his father, Matt. He was persuaded to talk to a local youth preacher who was also employed by the US Marshals Service after he allegedly told his father that he would rather commit suicide than give himself in.
Amber Robinson, his mother, is employed by Intermountain Support Coordination Services, a state-contracted organization that assists in the care of individuals with disabilities. According to internet records, both of his parents are registered Republicans.
According to individuals who spoke to the Daily Mail, Robinson attended Utah State University on a scholarship for just one semester in 2021.
According to a probable cause affidavit, he is charged with aggravated murder, felony discharge of a handgun causing serious bodily damage, and obstruction of justice.
At a press conference Thursday evening, authorities stated that Robinson would be executed if found guilty. Utah Governor Spencer Cox opened his remarks at a press conference Friday morning by saying, “We got him.”
“The question is, what sort of watershed?” Cox said, referring to Kirk’s killing as a ‘watershed point’ in American history.
He stated that Robinson’s relatives had told detectives that he had recently become more political and had told them that he didn’t like Kirk, calling him “full of hate.”
Please consider supporting open, independent journalism – no contribution is too small!
