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DeKalb County Fallen Officers’ Memorial 2024

National Police Week Tribute in Decatur, GA: A memorial service honored fallen officers, their families, and colleagues, remembering the ultimate sacrifice of 43 officers who died in the line of duty in DeKalb County.

Decatur, GA – May 8, 2024

As the roll was called, a bell tolled for each fallen officer. The sharp, piercing sound of the bell reminded the families, colleagues, and the lives touched by the fallen officers of the pain and anguish experienced when news of their loss was first delivered.

May of each year has been recognized as a time for law enforcement agencies throughout the country to pay tribute to fallen officers and their families. There will be tributes and memorial services around the country during National Police Week Sunday, May 12, 2024 – Saturday, May 18, 2024.

DeKalb County Police Department Honor Guard with wreath and Roll Call Bell

The Memorial Service on May 8, 2024, presented by the DeKalb County Georgia Police Department, continued a long-standing May tradition in DeKalb County.

DeKalb County Police Department Chaplain Christ-Lee Lizaire-Ganthier offered a prayer of comfort. The faces of the families, colleagues, friends, and fellow officers seemed to accept those words of comfort to help process the loss that they felt and continue to feel.

Christ-Lee Lizaire-Ganthier, Chaplain, DeKalb County Police Department

“Father, we thank you for our leaders, officers, and family that are here to honor and support their loved ones. Father, we thank you for the promise that you have given us in your word.

In Psalm 34 verse 18: The Lord is close to those that are broken hearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit. Help us God to focus on that which enables us to keep us going, remind us that the signs will never erase the memories. And that, for a moment, we are not alone; as we sit here together, we give thanks for the time we had with our loved ones, both the ups and the downs of living. But most of all, we are grateful for love, which is stronger than death.

Help us to bear our sorrow without bitterness, to look forward slowly, one day at a time, and to gain some comfort from those who can help us ease our pain. Be with us now as we encourage and support each other. Amen.”

The roll call presented by Joseph H. Lumpkin, Sr., Director, DeKalb County Public Safety, consisted of a reading of names of officers who died in the line of duty. The earliest recorded fallen officer was Marshal Moses W. Formwalt, who died on May 26, 1852. He was a DeKalb County Marshall and Sheriff. The roll call ended with Sergeant Daniel Mobley, DeKalb County Police, who died on January 2, 2021. Between the first and last, there were forty-two other male officers and one female, Officer Ann M. Guinta, DeKalb County Police, who died July 20, 2002. Having served their last watch, they will long be remembered and honored as ones who accepted the responsibility to serve and protect and made the ultimate sacrifice.

Mirtha V. Ramos, Chief of the DeKalb County Police Department, delivered an emotional reminder of the dangers that officers face every day. Further proof of the danger is that in the United States of America, this year, fifty-six have already given their lives while serving and protecting. Their families understand and acknowledge that as each officer leaves his/her home for their work shift, it may be the last time; it is a deep-seated feeling that all law enforcement share, as all are united by the badges that law enforcement officers wear.

The Honorable Michael L. Thurmond, DeKalb County Chief Executive Officer, thanked those who ran towards the danger while others ran away. He went on to say, “always know that as you go, you will never go alone, as you serve; you will never serve alone. Don’t ever grow tired of standing right and for justice; don’t ever grow weary, as you are not standing alone.”

He reminded political leaders that “words are good, but deeds are better. Officers should be the best trained, best equipped, and the best paid.”

William “Bull” Wallace, Jr. as he delivers heartfelt message to the audience

During the memorial service, a particularly poignant moment occurred when William “Bull” Wallace, Jr., the brother-in-law of Fallen Officer Thomas S. Atkinson, shared the story of receiving the wrenching phone call informing him of his brother-in-law’s death. Bull was tasked with the responsibility of breaking the tragic news to his sister.

As Bull made his way to his sister’s home, he encountered the ceremonial procession of police cars stationed at various intersections along the route. As he got closer to his sister’s home, the denser the presence of police cars became, their lights dimmed in a show of respect, including the vehicle of the police chief.

Upon entering his sister’s home, Bull found himself unable to find the right words to convey the heartbreaking news. Yet, to his sister, his mere presence spoke volumes, and she understood the devastating reality before a single word was spoken. On that fateful night, she not only lost a husband, but Bull also lost a friend who was as close to him as any brother could be.

The last watch of Officer Thomas S. Atkisson ended December 14, 1976, forty-eight years ago. The pain of loss that could be heard in Bull’s voice was as if his brother-in-law’s death had occurred just minutes before he got up to speak.

The Memorial Service brings together surviving family members, police officers, elected officials, community groups, and friends to commemorate the lives of our fallen heroes.

The ceremony and roll call included officers from Clarkston, Decatur, DeKalb County Marshall’s Office, DeKalb County Medical Examiner’s Office, DeKalb County Sheriff’s Office, Doraville, MARTA, Pine Lake, and Stone Mountain Police Departments.

Jay’Den Turner: A Journey of Excellence and Achievement on the Hardwood

Jay’Den Turner’s Inspiring Journey: From high school phenom to college basketball star, Turner’s remarkable career is marked by dedication, exceptional talent, and humility, paving the way for a bright future in professional basketball.

Atlanta, GA – May 3, 2024

Jay’Den Turner and his fellow athletes were honored with a graduation reception on April 30th at the Georgia State University Parc Stadium. Each athlete was presented with a Georgia State University Panthers Blue Blazer during the reception. The Blazer is a symbol of accomplishment, brotherhood, and sisterhood.

Jay’Den Turner receives Georgia State University Blazer from coach Jonas Hayes

Certain college basketball players possess a rare blend of talent, dedication, and passion that sets them apart from the rest. Jay’Den Turner is one such player, a standout forward whose journey from high school phenom to college basketball star has been nothing short of remarkable.

A High School Sensation

Turner’s basketball journey began in the halls of Southwest Guilford High School, where he established himself as a force to be reckoned with on the court. With his imposing 6’5″ frame, versatile skill set, and relentless work ethic, Turner led his team to unprecedented success, capturing the hearts of fans and the attention of scouts nationwide. At the end of Jay’Den’s final year of high school with the Cowboys in 2019, he was ranked 129th Nationally, 7th in North Carolina, 2nd in Division 3A, 1st in Piedmont Triad, 1st by the North Carolina Coaches Association.

In addition, Turner’s stellar performances during his senior year earned him a slew of accolades, including First-Team All-State honors and MVP of North Carolina’s prestigious East-West All-Star Game. During his tenure, Southwest Guilford soared to new heights, clinching the North Carolina 3A State Championship, creating a legacy as one of the state’s most celebrated basketball talents.

Transition to Collegiate Success

Building on his high school achievements, Turner embarked on the next chapter of his basketball journey at Queens University in Charlotte, North Carolina. Throughout three seasons, he continued to shine on the court, earning a reputation as one of the premier forwards in the ASUN Conference.

During his tenure at Queens University with the Royals, Turner’s statistics spoke volumes about his impact on the game. Averaging 9.2 points and 6.5 rebounds per game in his junior year, Turner’s contributions played a pivotal role in his team’s success, solidifying his status as a rising star in collegiate basketball.

Rising to New Heights at Georgia State University

In 2023, Turner made the transition to Division I basketball, joining the Georgia State University Panthers in Atlanta. From the moment he stepped onto the court, Turner made his presence felt, emerging as a standout player in the highly competitive Sun Belt Conference.

In his debut season with the Panthers, Turner’s performance was nothing short of spectacular. Leading the team in rebounds with an average of 8.5 per game, he showcased his versatility by ranking fourth in scoring, third in steals, and leading in three-pointers made. His ability to deliver in clutch moments was evident, as seen in his pivotal role in overtime victories and his impressive streak of double-figure rebounding games.

Left to Right, Ereka Turner, mother, Jonas Hayes, Coach, Jay’Den Turner, Torree Leake, father

A Legacy in the Making

As Turner continues to carve out his legacy in the world of college basketball, his journey serves as an inspiration to aspiring athletes everywhere. With his unwavering dedication, exceptional talent, and humble demeanor, Turner embodies the qualities of a true sportsman and leader both on and off the court.

Even though Turner is somewhat of a giant athlete at 6’ 5”, he is a very modest young man. When asked about his college statistics in a calm voice, he said, “I averaged 9.0 points, 7.5 rebounds, and 1.2 assists during my college career.”

What’s next?

Now a graduate of Georgia State University with a Master of Science degree in Sports Administration, Jay’Den Turner has a bright future ahead. He plans to make himself available for one of the professional leagues in the US, Canada, or Europe to continue honing his skills and possibly move to the NBA.

Even as Mr. Turner made a tremendous difference on basketball courts in high school and college, he still made time to focus on his studies. He graduated with a 3.3 grade point average.

As he looks ahead, the sky is the limit for Jay’Den Turner. Whether he’s dominating the hardwood or making an impact in the community, one thing is sure: his legacy will endure long after his playing days are over, leaving an indelible mark on the world of basketball and beyond.

The US Preventive Services Task Force Releases New Breast Cancer Screening Recommendations

USPSTF Updates Breast Cancer Screening Recommendations: Women aged 40-74 should receive biennial mammograms, with individualized decision-making for those under 40, to balance benefits and harms of breast cancer screening

Atlanta, GA – April 30, 2024

The US Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) has released new recommendations for breast cancer screening. Research evidence suggests that women aged 40 to 74 should now get biennial mammogram screening.

One of the USPSTF’s most important roles is to make recommendations about the effectiveness of specific preventive care services for patients without obvious related signs or symptoms to improve the health of people nationwide. The USPSTF bases its recommendations on the evidence of both the benefits and harms of the service and an assessment of the balance. While the USPSTF makes recommendations based on research, it understands that every case has its specific circumstances and that decisions involve more considerations than evidence alone. Clinicians should understand the evidence but individualize decision-making to the specific patient or situation. The USPSTF has found that race, ethnicity, and gender are all social rather than biological factors, but they are also very important predictors of health risk.

According to the USPTSTF, among all US women, breast cancer is the second most common cancer and the second most common cause of cancer death. In 2023, an estimated 43,170 women died of breast cancer.

According to the American Cancer Society, The Susan G. Komen Foundation, and the National Library of Medicine, non-Hispanic Black and non-Hispanic white women have the highest incidence of breast cancer. Black women are more likely to die from breast cancer at every age and are more likely to develop more aggressive, advanced-stage breast cancer that is diagnosed at a young age.

White women have a higher incidence rate of breast cancer between the ages of 60 and 84, while Black women have a higher incidence rate before age 45. Hispanic women have the lowest incidence of breast cancer.

Earlier Recommendations

In 2016, the USPSTF recommended biennial mammograms for women aged 50 to 74 and individualizing the decision to undergo screening for women aged 40 to 49, based on factors such as individual risk and personal preferences and values.

Latest Recommendation

Based on its most recent research and findings released April 30, 2024, the USPSTF recommends, biennial mammograms from ages 40 to 74. The USPSTF further notes that all screening is subject to modification based on individual needs, conditions, and preferences.

More Research Required

The USPSTF concedes that there is still more research required to understand and address the disparities between Black women and other women.

Research is needed to understand why Black women are more likely to be diagnosed with breast cancers that have biomarker patterns that confer greater risk for poor health outcomes.

Research is needed to understand how variations in care (including diagnosis and treatment) lead to increased risk of breast cancer morbidity and mortality in Black women, across the spectrum of stages and biomarker patterns, and on effective strategies to reduce this disparity. Research is needed to determine whether the benefits differ for annual vs. biennial breast cancer screening among women overall and whether there is a different balance of benefits and harms among Black women compared with all women.

Other Recommendations

The USPSTF included in their finding the recommendations of agencies in the fight for women against breast cancer.

The American Cancer Society recommends that women with an average risk of breast cancer should undergo regular screening mammography starting at age 45 years. It suggests that women aged 45 to 54 years should be screened annually, that women 55 years or older should transition to biennial screening or have the opportunity to continue screening annually, that women should have the opportunity to begin annual screening between the ages of 40 and 44 years, and that women should continue screening mammography as long as their overall health is good and they have a life expectancy of 10 years or longer.

The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists recommends that women at average risk of breast cancer should be offered screening mammography starting at age 40 years,

The American College of Radiology and the Society of Breast Imaging recommend annual screening mammography beginning at age 40 years for women at average risk.

The most important thing to know is that regardless of age, all treatments and preventive screenings should be carefully scripted with a focus on individual conditions, preferences, and beliefs.

The full report can be found on the USPSTF website.

Heavy Rainfall Impact Pee Dee River and Surrounding Lakes

Pee Dee River Overview: A 232-mile-long river in North Carolina, formed by the Yadkin and Uwharrie Rivers, plays a crucial role in the region’s ecosystem and economy, with recent heavy rainfall highlighting its dynamic relationship with weather patterns.

Wadesboro, NC – January 15, 2024

On Monday, January 8th, a powerful storm swept through the southeastern United States, bringing heavy rains, wind gusts, and high sustained winds from as far south as Atlanta, GA, to as far north as Norfolk, VA. The Pee Dee River, a vital waterway in the region, was one of the beneficiaries of the substantial rainfall, leading to significant changes in water levels and the surrounding landscape.

The Pee Dee River originates in the Appalachian Mountains of North Carolina, where its upper course, above the Uwharrie River, is known as the Yadkin River. The river’s name changes to the Pee Dee at its merger with the Uwharrie River. It travels southward, eventually merging with the Waccamaw River to form the Winyah Bay that empties into the Atlantic Ocean near Georgetown, SC.

This 232-mile-long river also known as the Great Pee Dee plays a crucial role in the region’s ecosystem and economy as it winds its way to the Atlantic Ocean.

As rain falls throughout the river basin, various creeks, branches and tributaries channel rainwater from its landing spot into the Pee Dee.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), a US Commerce Department tracks weather and rainfall through its National Weather Service (NWS).

The NWS provides weather, hydrologic, and climate forecasts and warnings for the United States, its territories, adjacent waters and ocean areas, for the protection of life and property and the enhancement of the national economy.

The widespread rain fall from Sunday, January 7^th and Monday, January 8^th caused the Pee Dee to swell. According to records of the NWS, rain fell from a high of 2.14” in Albemarle, NC to 1.5” in other areas of the Yadkin Pee Dee River basin.

The heavy rain fall lead to increased water levels, causing flooding in low-lying areas along the riverbanks. Grassy Island Road in Anson County (also known as County Road 1634) that is less than five hundred yards from the Pee Dee in some areas in Anson County experienced some flooding from the Pee Dee. While many other low-lying bridges and roadways in Anson County experienced some flooding it may not have been a direct result of the higher water level of the Pee Dee. Conversely, those higher water levels most likely flowed into the Pee Dee.

Generally the chemical quality of the surface waters in the Yadkin-Pee Dee River basin is good. They are low in mineral matter and soft, although some of the surface water contains excessive quantities of iron.

Blewett Falls Lake borders Anson and Richmond counties and nearby Lake Tillery borders Montgomery and Stanly counties.

Lake Tillery in North Carolina has an average depth of 32 feet and a maximum depth of 72 feet. The lake is 29.934 miles long, has 104 miles of shoreline, and is 278 feet in elevation.

Lake Tillery is a manmade lake that was created in 1928 by damming the Yadkin and Pee Dee Rivers. The lake is a popular destination for fishing tournaments, water sports, and swimming. The lake is home to many fish species, including bass, catfish, crappie, and bream.

Blewett Falls Lake is a 2560-acre between Wadesboro, NC and Rockingham, NC. The lake is the storage reservoir for the Blewett Falls Hydroelectric Dam and is located at approximately mile 195 on the Pee Dee River between Anson and Richmond counties. The dam has a maximum height of about 50-feet above the river bed.

The Blewett Falls development began operation in 1912 and is owned and operated by Progress Energy. The surface area of Blewett Falls Lake covers about 2560 acres at the normal full pool elevation of 178 feet above mean sea level. At full pool elevation, the lake contains approximately 34 linear miles of shoreline.

There are six large hydroelectric dams along the Pee Dee River. The uppermost reservoir is W. Kerr Scott Dam and Reservoir. The other reservoirs are: High Rock Dam and Lake, Tuckertown Dam and Reservoir, Narrows Dam and Badin Lake, the Tillery Hydroelectric Plant Dam and Lake Tillery and The Blewett Falls Dam and Blewett Falls Lake.

The recent storm and heavy rainfall have highlighted the dynamic relationship between weather patterns and the Pee Dee River’s behavior. As communities along the riverbanks navigate the challenges posed by increased water levels and flooding, it underscores the importance of monitoring and managing these waterways. The Pee Dee River and its surrounding lakes continue to be integral to the region’s environment, economy, and recreation, showcasing the resilience and adaptability of communities in the face of natural forces.

How Old Are You Really?

Researchers at Johns Hopkins University are studying cellular aging to develop a more accurate measure of human age, potentially leading to innovative treatments for age-related health decline and blood cancers.

By Milton Kirby

Jude M. Phillip, an assistant professor said that his research being conducted at Johns Hopkins University could tell us how old we are not by looking at the calendar, but by looking at our cells. Dr. Phillip and his team are examining and studying the cells in our bodies to better understand their movement and structural features. Dr. Phillip said the characteristics could be a much better indicator of our true age. For example; one person who is 70 years old can run a marathon and shows very few signs of aging, while another individual could be 70 years old and show multiple signs of aging, including diminished mobility.

His lab studies biological aging dynamics in the context of health and disease. He combines fundamental engineering approaches with translational aging and oncology research to develop strategies and technologies to probe aging and identify means to modify aging trajectories to drive healthy aging.

In the research that Dr. Phillip and his team are doing, they look at a cell’s ability to move, its ability to stay flexible, and its structure. The team’s findings determined that there are three groups: those whose cell function was parallel to their chronological age, those whose cell function was distinctly older than their chronological age, and those whose cell function was younger than their chronological age. This life-changing research could eventually allow doctors to see aging in the cells before the patient shows any age-related health decline.

Dr. Phillip’s research is the development of innovative treatments for blood cancers, such as leukemia and lymphoma. He has conducted extensive research on the use through the use of immunotherapy, a type of cancer treatment that uses the body’s immune system to fight cancer cells. Dr. Phillip’s work has contributed to the development of CAR-T cell therapy, which is a type of immunotherapy that uses T cells from your immune system to make your treatment. It has been shown to be effective in treating certain types of blood cancers.

Dr. Philip’s work has been published in several prestigious medical journals. Dr. Phillip, who specializes in both hematology and oncology, has spent his entire professional life working to improve both the diagnosis and treatment of cancer.

Dr. Phillip is also dedicated to giving his patients good care in addition to his research. He is known for his compassionate and personalized approach to patient care, and he takes the time to listen to his patient’s’ concerns and explain their treatment options in detail.

Dr. Philip’s long-term goal is to develop and translate discoveries and technologies from the laboratory into the medical arena to improve human health and longevity. He intends to develop robust cell-based biomarkers of aging in health and disease and to establish research pipelines that explain the relationships among age-related dysfunctions, disease progression, and treatment responses.

His current projects include:

Development and validation of cell-based biomarkers of aging in health and disease (frailty)
Scale-dependence of aging – pathways for modifiable aging trajectories
Understanding the role of age-induced stroma-immune crosstalk, and how it shapes lymphoma tumor immune-microenvironment (tiME)

Doctor Jude M. Phillip spoke about his research as the keynote speaker for the 2023 A.G. Rhodes Board of Advisors Living Well Luncheon.

Dr. Phillip born and raised on the island of Grenada, is an Assistant Professor of Biomedical Engineering, with a secondary appointment in Chemical & Bimolecular Engineering, Oncology, and a core member of the Institute for Nanobiotechnology (INBT) at Johns Hopkins University.

Phillip has a Bachelor of Engineering degree in chemical engineering from the City College of New York and a Ph.D. in Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering from Johns Hopkins University. He completed his postdoctoral work at Weil Cornell Medicine with Leandro Cerchietti, MD, and Ari Melnick, MD. (https://inbt.jhu.edu/people/jude-phillip).

Dr. Phillip has received numerous awards and honors for his contributions to the field of oncology.

Dr. Phillip enjoys being outdoors and experiencing nature with his wife and two daughters. He has run the New York City Marathon twice.

The A.G. Rhodes Living Well Luncheon is a major fundraiser that provides scholarship assistance in the field of caregiving. The scholarships benefit the staff, residents, and their families. The Board of Advisors also paid tribute to Laura Smith Spearman and the Smith Family Legacy during the Living Well Luncheon. Ms. Spearman is a longtime member of the A.G. Rhodes Board of Advisors, and third generation of Smith family volunteers and supporters of A.G. Rhodes.

For more than 115 years, A.G. Rhodes (AGR) has been a mission-driven organization guided by what is best for its patients and residents. The AGR Board of Trustees and Board of Advisors enable the mission of the AGR. AGR has become one of Atlanta’s most successful nonprofit organizations.

AGR’s long-standing reputation of providing high-quality care is achieved, in large part, because of its successful compliance program (https://www.agrhodes.org/about-agrhodes).

Jocelyn Dorsey, former WSB-TV Broadcast Manager and member of the AGR Board of Trustees served as host and emcee for the occasion.

From left to right: Dr. Jude M. Phillip, Keynote speaker, Jocelyn Dorsey, Board of Trustees, Deke Cateau, CEO A.G. Rhodes, David Perdue, Chair Board of Trustees, Felicia Huger, President of the Board of Advisors, Kim Beasley, Director of Communications & Outreach, Claire Kaye, Director of Development

He Just Wanted to Run – Annual Run for Ahmaud Arbery

Honoring Ahmaud Arbery: Hundreds Gather for Annual 2.23-Mile Run in Atlanta, showing solidarity and support for his family, while promoting mental wellness for Black boys through The Ahmaud Arbery Foundation.

Atlanta, GA – February 28, 2023

On Ahmaud Arbery Day, Thursday, February 23, 2023, the air was thick with the threat of a heavy downpour. The air was thick with anger and disgust. The air was thick with hope. The air was thick with solidarity. The air was thick with love and support.

Ahmaud Arbery was murdered by the father-son team, Gregory McMichael and Travis McMichael on February 23, 2020, in Glynn County, near Brunswick, Georgia. Before being murdered, Mr. Arbery was pursued by the McMichael duo in their truck. In a second truck, the McMichael’s neighbor William “Roddie” Bryan trailed the McMichael’s and Ahmaud was eventually cornered by the trucks. After a brief encounter, Ahmaud was shot and killed by Travis McMichael. The neighbor, Mr. Bryan used his cell phone to record the encounter and eventual killing by the McMichael team. All three white men were convicted in state court on multiple murder counts. Ahmaud Arbery was Black. Later the three men were convicted in Federal court of a hate crime and other charges. They are currently serving time in prison.

The runners gather before the start of the run

The running community came together for the second year to honor Ahmaud Arbery and show love, support, and solidarity with Ahmaud’s mother, Wanda Cooper-Jones and her family. Hundreds of runners showed up for the now-annual event. In addition to the individuals who came out to participate and show love and support, there were several organizations and running groups including but not limited to South Fulton Running Partners (SFRP), Lace Up Fitness (LUF), Movers & Pacers, Running Nerds and Black Men Run (BMR). The 2.23-mile run started and ended at the Atlanta Beltline West End Trail.

Ahmaud’s mother, Wanda Cooper Jones expresses her gratitude to the runners before the start

Why did they come and what did they say about Ahmaud Arbery…

Sandra Scott, State Representative District 76 – “Here to show support for Ahmaud Arbery’s family”

Cynthia Barren (SFRP) – “Any one of us could have been Ahmaud Arbery. We are here to show support for the family to let them know that Ahmaud will not be forgotten. The turnout this year is more than double that of last year. We intend for turnout to be an even larger next year.”

Alta U. – “What happened to Ahmaud could have happened to anyone of us while we are out for a jog.”

Big Mike (SFRP) – “In this tragic loss of life of Ahmaud Arbery, his mother Wanda Cooper-Jones has gained an entire community that will forever keep the memory of Ahmaud Arbery alive.”

Terry Gresham (BMR) – “I have been running for 10 years and it could have been me. We run through all kinds of neighborhoods. It’s great to see everyone come together singly focused on one cause to support the family of Ahmaud Arbery. He Just Wanted to Run.”

Eleanor Ross – “I would like to see the turnout even larger, I would like to see and hear more about safety.”

Patrick Jefferson (LUF) – “We are here for Ahmaud.”

Bity – “I love and respect the Arbery family.”

Michelle Escobar – (From Michigan) – “I am in Atlanta for a short visit – I heard about the Run for Ahmaud Arbery – I just had to come to participate.”

Eleanor Ross, Bobby Sassberry, and Venita Bell Shaw
found cover under an umbrella during brief rain shower.

Ayesha Martin (Adidas Brand Purpose & Social Impact Program, Communications & Strategy Lead) – “Adidas has been a strong supporter of The Ahmaud Arbery Foundation since its inception. I am here representing Adidas to continue that support.”

Before the start of the run, Ahmaud’s mother came to the microphone to thank the runners for coming out and honoring her son. While her comments were brief, the pain of the loss still rings loud and poignantly in her voice.

Even though there was a brief rain shower during the presentations made before the start of the run, there were no signs of any dampened spirits. The crowd was asked to say his name. You could hear the sound harmonious uplifted voices as they chanted – “Ahmaud Arbery.”

In 2022 Georgia lawmakers declared February 23^rd Ahmaud Arbery Day to honor him.

Ahmaud’s mother has further endeavored to honor her son by founding The Ahmaud Arbery Foundation. The Foundation’s mission is Empowering, serving and affirming Black boys on the journey towards mental wellness.

According to the foundation’s website, Ms. Jones states “I am grateful to honor my son by creating a safe space for Black boys and their families to align their inner strength with the resources we provide through this foundation to help usher them on their journey towards mental wellness”

(https://www.ahmaudarberyfoundation.org/).

For more information about some of the participating groups, please visit their websites.

South Fulton Running Partners – http://sfrp.club/

Lace Up Fitness – https://www.facebook.com/laceupfitnesstraining

Black Men Run – https://blackmenrun.com/blackmenrun-chapters/atlanta-runs-2/

Running Nerds – https://runsocialatlanta.com

Movers & Pacers – https://runningcrews.com/crews/movers-and-pacers/

He just wanted to run…