Politics Archives - The Truth Seekers Journal

Empire Board of Realtists Hosts Town Hall Discussion on Doing Business in DeKalb County

DeKalb County Economic Forum Recap: The Empire Board of Realtists hosted a town hall discussion on business growth, infrastructure, and real estate development in DeKalb County, featuring CEO Michael Thurmond and community leaders.

By Milton Kirby | Atlanta, GA – May 21, 2024

The Empire Board of Realtists Commercial Council recently hosted a dynamic town hall-style discussion on conducting business within DeKalb County, Georgia.

The moderator for the evening was Ms. Beverly Echols, a Commercial Real Estate Agent with Ruhill Commercial. After informing the audience of the rules for participation and the flow of the evening, Echols introduced the main speaker, Michael Thurmond, Chief Executive Officer of DeKalb County. Mr. Thurmond, provided some basic background information then delved into the county’s burgeoning prospects for commerce, emphasizing pivotal infrastructure advancements, strategic capital investments, and the ongoing transformation and development around Metropolitan Area Rapid Transit Authority (MARTA) transit stations.

Michael Thurmond addressing the audience

The event, held at the Privi Event Center situated in the revamped former Sears building at Stonecrest Mall, drew an engaged audience very interested in exploring DeKalb County’s economic tapestry. Thurmond, in his address, underscored the county’s commitment to fostering an environment conducive to business growth, underscoring infrastructural enhancements and system upgrades tailored to improve the county’s operational efficiency.

The Empire Board of Realtists®, Inc.(EBR), a distinguished 501(c)6 professional real estate trade organization, and the Atlanta Chapter of the National Association of Real Estate Brokers (NAREB) were the hosts for this insightful meeting to initiate meaningful dialog surrounding real estate development and doing business in DeKalb County. Founded in 1939, the organization stands as one of the oldest minority trade associations in the United States, steadfast in its mission to champion equitable housing opportunities for all.

Ms. Archie Emerson, President of the Empire Board of Realtists, articulated the organization’s unwavering commitment to community activism and safeguarding stakeholders’ interests. Emphasizing the imperative of delivering high-quality real estate services, Emerson affirmed the pivotal role of the EBR in fortifying the economic bedrock of metropolitan Atlanta and the state of Georgia.

Following Thurmond’s illuminating presentation, attendees engaged in a spirited Q&A session punctuated by inquiries regarding Thurmond’s political aspirations. When pressed about a potential gubernatorial bid, Thurmond reflected on his nearly four decades of public service, expressing openness to future endeavors while affirming his enduring dedication to community betterment. Vaughn Irons, Privi Owner/Developer, capped off the evening by unveiling plans for “Friday Night Live,” an immersive community engagement initiative slated to kick off on June 14, 2024.

Vaughn Irons, Privi owner/developer chats with Loylene Jefferson, President South DeKalb Business Association

Set to run for eight weeks, finishing the summer program on August 2, 2024, Friday Night Live promises an eclectic fusion of youth educational experiences, live entertainment, food trucks, vendors, and much more, encapsulating the vibrant spirit of DeKalb County. As the curtain fell on this riveting conversation, the EBR remains steadfast in championing democratic housing ideals, underscoring the enduring legacy of advocacy and service that defines its illustrious history.

President Biden Delivers Commencement Address at Morehouse College

Morehouse College’s 140th Commencement ceremony honored 415 graduates with President Joe Biden delivering a poignant address, emphasizing the transformative power of education and commitment to social justice.

Atlanta, GA – May 19, 2024

Amidst a backdrop of pride and achievement, Morehouse College bid farewell to 415 young men as they transitioned from students to alumni in the esteemed institution’s 140th Commencement ceremony on Sunday. President Joe Biden delivered a poignant address to mark the occasion.

The core values of a Morehouse education – Scholarship, Leadership, Excellence, Service, Knowledge, and Resilience – were heralded as defining attributes of the graduating class, embodying the institution’s commitment to nurturing well-rounded individuals poised to make a difference in the world.

Valedictorian Deangelo Jeremiah Fletcher, a Summa Cum Laude Psychology Major hailing from Chicago, IL, stood out among his peers with a remarkable cumulative grade point average of 3.99. Notably, Fletcher pursued a double minor in neuroscience and Chinese studies, showcasing his dedication to interdisciplinary learning. In his eloquent speech, Fletcher shared his initial trepidation in accepting the role of addressing his fellow graduates but ultimately found resolve in the honor it bestowed upon him, his desire to set an example for his family, and a serendipitous encounter with a red cardinal, symbolizing perseverance in his family.

In a stirring call to action, Fletcher echoed the sentiments of Morehouse’s most esteemed alumnus, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., advocating for global justice and specifically urging for an immediate and permanent ceasefire in the Gaza Strip. His words resonated deeply with the audience, reminding them that the pursuit of justice knows no bounds.

Salutatorian Duwane Allen Terrell II, a business major with a concentration in Finance from Stone Mountain, GA, also distinguished himself with a remarkable 3.98 grade point average. His induction into the Beta Gamma Sigma honor society underscored his commitment to academic excellence and leadership within his field of study.

In his address, President Biden emphasized the transformative power of education, particularly a Morehouse education, in instilling fearlessness and fortitude in its graduates. Reflecting on his journey, Biden shared his experience as the first in his family to attend and graduate from college, a feat made possible through loans to cover tuition costs. Drawing parallels to the tumultuous era of Dr. King’s assassination, Biden pledged unwavering support to the Morehouse 2024 graduating class, affirming the enduring value of democracy and the imperative to confront systemic injustices such as white supremacy. He outlined ambitious initiatives to uplift communities, including investments in historically black colleges and universities (HBCUs), infrastructure improvements, and job creation.

While making his introduction of the keynote speaker, David A. Thomas, President of Morehouse College, noted, that “With the American Recovery Act – the bipartisan Infrastructure Law, Biden has put Americans back on track to prosperity while also fixing the nation’s crumbling roads, bridges and rails. It is a once-in-a-generation investment in our nation that is putting millions of Americans to work. No other Administration in history since the inception of HBCU’s has invested more in our institutions than the Biden Administration has.”

President Biden, in his opening remarks, told the audience in his folksy way, “I got more Morehouse men in the White House telling me what to do than I know what to do. It’s the best thing that has happened to me.” The audience responded with laughter and applause.

The ceremony was not without controversy, as several graduates turned their backs to the President in protest of the Administration’s positions and actions regarding the Israeli-Hamas war. At least one faculty member was seen standing with her hand in a fist. Two other professors on the stage behind President Biden held a flag of the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

As the ceremony concluded, the Morehouse College Class of 2024 stood ready to embark on their respective journeys, armed with the knowledge, skills, and values instilled within them during their time at the institution. With President Biden’s words of encouragement and guidance echoing in their ears, they set forth to make their mark on the world, embodying the spirit of excellence and service synonymous with Morehouse College.

The commencement ceremony served not only as a celebration of academic achievement but also as a call to action for graduates to embody the principles of leadership, resilience, and social responsibility instilled within them by their alma mater.

Chairman Jeff Turner Delivers 2024 State of the County Address

Clayton County Celebrates Progress and Stability: Chairman Jeff Turner delivers final State of the County address, highlighting achievements, financial improvements, and community growth under his 11-year leadership in Clayton County, Georgia.

By Milton Kirby | Atlanta, GA – May 17, 2024

On Thursday, May 16, 2024, Chairman Jeff Turner delivered his final State of the County address to a capacity crowd. Captivating the audience with his unique and conversational delivery style, he highlighted numerous achievements and developments that have taken place under his leadership.

During his tenure, Clayton County witnessed the initiation and completion of several major capital projects. These included the construction of a new Public Safety Facility at Ft. Gilliam in Forest Park, the completion of Phase II of the Forest Park Street Scape Project, the establishment of a new fire station in Lake City, and the development of The Dubois Integrity Academy in Riverdale. Additionally, the county celebrated the opening of the Morrow Convention & Exhibit Hall and the City Center in Jonesboro. A notable accomplishment was the completion of the Spivey Splash Water Park, which is scheduled to open on May 25, 2024, and has already sold 1,000 annual passes.

Chairman Turner also emphasized significant financial improvements in the county. Turner stated that when he took office in 2013, the county had approximately $30 million in cash reserves, enough to cover one month of operating expenses. By May 2024, this figure had increased to approximately $160 million, covering five months of operating expenses. This fiscal prudence was further evidenced by the county’s finance department consistently receiving the Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting for 44 consecutive years, a prestigious award from the Government Finance Officers Association.

In 2023, the board of commissioners approved a 3% cost of living increase for county employees and funded merit increases of up to 6.5%. They also secured $7.4 million in federal and state funds to assist homeowners in preventing foreclosure, as well as $6.4 million for emergency rental assistance, resulting in the dismissal of 1,174 eviction cases through the dedicated efforts of the Clayton County Magistrate Court and local nonprofits.

A new public safety housing allowance was instituted, providing stipends to encourage public safety officers to relocate to Clayton County. Turner, who took office on January 1, 2013, brought extensive experience from his 23-year career in law enforcement, culminating in his role as Clayton County’s first African-American Chief of Police.

Chairman Turner has deep roots in Clayton County, having lived there for most of his life. He graduated from Morrow High School and earned a Bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice and a Master’s in Public Administration from Columbus State University. He is also a graduate of the FBI National Academy.

Turner is married to Darlene Turner, and they have four sons. The family attends Greater Works Missionary Baptist Church in Forest Park, Georgia.

Chairman Turner’s address celebrated a legacy of progress and stability, marking a significant chapter in Clayton County’s history.

The event was attended by numerous supporters and officials, including Beverly Echols, a commercial realtor, and Rhonda Burnough, a representative from the Georgia House of Representatives, District 77. Both attended to congratulate Turner and acknowledge his contributions to the county’s development.

Clayton County’s population has grown significantly during Turner’s tenure, from 259,899 in 2010 to 298,300 in 2023. The median income increased to $58,325, with total households reaching 108,274 and employer establishments numbering 4,242.

The Council for Quality Growth hosted the State of Clayton County event. The Council, which advocates for those at the intersection of public policy and private investment, plays a crucial role in advising on regulations that balance community protection with economic development.

Chairman Turner’s address celebrated a legacy of progress and stability, marking a significant chapter in Clayton County’s history.

Photo Gallery – State of County Address – Jeff Turner Clayton County, Chairman

Trump Trial Continues: Cohen Paints Picture of Deception and Corruption

Former President Donald Trump’s trial heats up as Michael Cohen delivers bombshell testimony on hush money payments, sparking a vigorous cross-examination and election interference allegations.

New York, NY – May 14, 2024

On Monday in Manhattan, the courtroom was abuzz as Michael Cohen, a pivotal witness for the prosecution, took the stand in the ongoing criminal trial involving former President Donald Trump.

Cohen, who once said, “He would take a bullet for Mr. Trump,” delivered a bomb shell testimony regarding hush money payments.

With riveting testimony, Cohen peeled back the layers of deception surrounding hush money payments and alleged affairs, offering a damning portrayal of Trump’s involvement. Cohen’s testimony centered on the payment made to adult film actress Stormy Daniels to ensure her silence about an affair with Trump. He claimed that Trump, in a cavalier manner, instructed him with a terse tone, “Just Do it” regarding the payment. Furthermore, Cohen asserted that at Trump’s direction, he orchestrated the suppression of stories from various women. Cohen’s testimony emphasized Trump’s nonchalant attitude toward the possible impact of his marriage to Melania. Still, Trump’s sole concern was about the stories going public and their effect on his 2016 presidential campaign

The spectacle escalated as Cohen, still under oath, recounted Trump’s callous response to the emergence of Karen McDougal, a former Playboy Playmate, alleged a nine-month affair with Trump. Ms. McDougal’s story was the first that Cohen purported he needed to fix. Cohen stated that Trump, unperturbed by the potential damage to his marriage, instructed him to handle the situation discreetly, underscoring Trump’s disregard for the consequences of his actions.

Under oath, Cohen detailed the meticulous orchestration of the hush money payment to Stormy Daniels, revealing that he secured a personal home equity loan under the assurance that Trump would pay back the $130,000 sum. Cohen presented phone records corroborating his claim that Trump explicitly approved the payment before Cohen promptly wired the funds to Daniels, a move he believed would salvage Trump’s reputation.

As the trial continues on Tuesday, May 14, 2024, the spotlight will turn to Todd Blanche, Trump’s lawyer. Blanche is poised to mount a vigorous cross-examination aimed at discrediting Cohen as a convicted felon and perjurer. Blanche’s strategy reflects the broader narrative pushed by Trump’s camp, aiming to cast doubt on Cohen’s credibility amidst his prior convictions for tax fraud and lying to Congress.

Mike Johnson, Speaker of the House (R-Louisiana)

In a surprising twist, House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-Louisiana), a potential vice-presidential candidate, appeared outside the courthouse expressing his support for Donald Trump and condemning the procedure as a broader attempt to interfere with the Presidential election. He made it clear that he showed up at the courthouse on his own.

Speaker Johnson said while addressing cases involving Special Council Jack Smith, “The latest revelation is that they manipulated documents and might have tampered with the evidence in the cases, it seems. In Congress, we have oversight responsibility, and it is our objective and our responsibility to hold them accountable. These are politically motivated trials, and they are a disgrace; it is election interference.”

The stakes are high for Trump, who faces 34 counts of falsifying business records to conceal reimbursements to Cohen for the hush money payment to Daniels. Despite Trump’s vehement denial of the charges, the trial unfolds as pivotal, laying bare the intricate web of deceit surrounding the former President.

At 11:15 a.m., Donald Trump and his team of lawyers left the courtroom. The former President did not comment to the press or the stationed cameras outside the courthouse.

The White House Correspondents’ Dinner

The White House Correspondents’ Dinner: A 100-Year Tradition. An annual event hosted by the White House Correspondents’ Association, featuring the President’s comedy routine, attended by journalists, celebrities, and politicians, promoting unity and humor amidst politics.

Washington, DC – April 29, 2024

The White House Correspondents’ Dinner has been an annual event hosted by the White House Correspondents’ Association (WHCA) since 1921. The one-hundred-year-old organization was founded in 1914 by the journalists who covered the White House and the President. Until 1962, the dinner was open only to men, even though WHCA’s membership included women.

The annual event has become an opportunity for the sitting President to poke fun at the journalists who cover the White House and the President.

According to Barbara Maranzani “The first cancellation occurred in 1930, when former president and recently retired Chief Justice William Howard Taft died on the morning of the WHCA dinner, followed hours later by the unexpected death of another Supreme Court justice, Edward Terry Sanford. The dinner was canceled again in 1942 after America’s entry into World War II. When it returned the following year, strict rationing was already in place and even President Franklin Roosevelt was asked to pay for his own ticket. The last time the event was canceled was in 1951—at the request of President Harry Truman—due to the “uncertainty of world events” during the Korean War.”

Sunday, April 20th President Joe Biden embraced the opportunity to practice his standup comedy routine. His speech had some serious points, but mostly he took light jabs at the journalists and the former President, Donald Trump.

The 2024 dinner was attended by more than 2000 journalists, Hollywood stars, and well-known politicians. The dinner is traditionally held on the evening of the last Saturday in April at the Washington Hilton. The 2024 dinner was held on Sunday.

According to the WHCA website, President Donald Trump, was the only president who did not attend at least one WHCA dinner while in office, beginning with Calvin Coolidge in 1924. While not having been elected to the presidency, at the time, Donald Trump did attend the 2011 WHCA dinner as a guest while Barrack Obama was president. President Obama used approximately five minutes of his speech time to roast Mr. Trump.

The credentialing procedure, getting access to the president, and the physical state of the White House press briefing rooms are a few of the more prominent concerns that the WHCA handles.

Lorraine Cochran-Johnson Lays Out Vision for DeKalb County’s Future in CEO Bid

Former DeKalb County Commissioner Lorraine Cochran-Johnson engages with voters, outlining her vision for a reinvigorated DeKalb County with enhanced accountability, improved service delivery, and inclusive governance, positioning her as a contender for the CEO role.

DeKalb County, Georgia – April 27, 2024

In a bid to become the next DeKalb County Georgia CEO, former DeKalb County Commissioner Lorraine Cochran-Johnson engaged with voters from South DeKalb on Friday evening, April 26th. The gathering served as a platform for Cochran-Johnson to articulate her vision for a reinvigorated DeKalb County, emphasizing enhanced accountability and service delivery standards.

Lorraine Cochran-Johnson talks to business owners in South DeKalb County – Photo by Kirby Photo Suite

Cochran-Johnson’s vision encompasses an ambitious overhaul of the CEO’s office and several departments, aiming to establish expanded and refined levels of accountability while setting higher service delivery expectations and standards. The meeting, attended by local business owners who reside or operate within DeKalb County, provided an opportunity for constituents to directly engage with Cochran-Johnson.

Key topics discussed during the session included infrastructure improvements, addressing the longstanding EPA consent decree, streamlining the business licensing process, and bolstering the LSBE Program (Local Small Business Enterprise) alongside Contracting and Procurement initiatives.

Addressing the pressing concerns of constituents, Cochran-Johnson fielded questions with transparency and insight, outlining her strategies and commitments to tackle these challenges head-on. The gathering underscored the importance of community engagement and collaboration in shaping the future trajectory of DeKalb County.

Dietris Barnes shares her experience with candidate Lorraine Cochran-Johnson as other voters listen attentively. Photo by Kirby Photo Suite

As the race for DeKalb County CEO intensifies, Cochran-Johnson’s proactive approach to engaging voters and articulating her vision positions her as a formidable contender in the upcoming election. With a focus on accountability, service delivery, and inclusive governance, Cochran-Johnson aims to chart a new course for DeKalb County’s prosperity and well-being.

My Reps at the Gold Dome

Meet Your Representatives: A Personal Account of Visiting State Representative Imani Barnes and State Senator Kim Jackson, Advocates for Georgia’s Youth and Communities.

By Milton Kirby

On Tuesday, February 21st, I had the opportunity to meet State Representative Imani Barnes and State Senator Kim Jackson. Both of which represent me and my neighbors under the Gold Dome.

While Representative Barnes and Senator Jackson had full calendars, we managed to get both meetings scheduled on the same day after a series of email exchanges.

The 2023 session of the Georgia General Assembly started January 9th and runs through March 30th for a total of 40 days. On the day of my visit, we were just past the halfway point through the session at Legislative day 21. The 28th day of the session is Crossover Day. For the 2023 session, March 6, 2023 is crossover day. Crossover Day is the deadline for a bill to pass out of either of the legislative chambers. If it fails to do so, the bill can no longer be considered during the current session. Representative Barnes is a professional biomedical research scientist with more than twenty years of experience, and she is currently a Public Health Ph.D. candidate. She is a lifetime resident of DeKalb County with an 11-year-old son. She earned a BS in biology and chemistry from HBCU South Carolina State University and an MS degree in Public Health with a concentration in Global Health from Emory University where she is also employed.

Imani Barnes Georgia State House of Representatives District 86

Representative Barnes started a small business called I Can Become Anything, LLC (I.C.B.A.). I.C.B.A. is a teen development and inspiration company that works with teens from 13 to 18 years old. According to the company’s website, it focuses on uplifting our next generation through different developmental activities, peer group sessions, positive mentors, and community service. As a scientist, Ms. Barnes has incorporated data-driven models and scholarly research journals to provide solutions to our youth with a long-lasting difference (icanbecomeanything.com).

Senator Jackson was born in Elkins, WV, and grew up near Cowpens, SC. Ms. Jackson made Georgia her home more than ten years ago. Kim’s Dad served families as a social worker for more than 30 years. Her Mom, a retired nurse and Professor of Nursing, served as a community nurse for economically disadvantaged families living with Sickle Cell Disease. Senator Jackson studied at Furman University, graduating in 2006, and later graduated from Candler School of Theology at Emory University with a Master of Divinity (M Div).

Upon receiving her M Div she started her vocation as an Episcopal priest. During ten years of ministry, she served as a college chaplain, a nationally renowned consultant and preacher, a parish priest, and social justice advocate (https://www.kimforgeorgia.com/meet-kim).

During my visit, I was accompanied by my good friend Lula Gilliam, Founder of Youth Enhancement Services, Inc. (YES) of which I have been a board member for nearly 15 years. The mission of YES is to develop and implement alternative education solutions, effective programs, and practical action strategies for disconnected youth and their families (www.yesgeoriga.org).

Rep Barnes’ passion for our youth was quite evident within the first five minutes of our meeting. She serves on the Higher Education, Small Business Development and Technology, and Infrastructure Innovation Committees.

Not all freshmen hit the ground running like Rep Barnes. She has already taken deep dives into issues that affect children in the state of Georgia. Indeed she has drafted legislation to help ensure the success of all Georgia children by proposing free breakfast and lunch for all public school students in the state.

There is no doubt that this freshman will have an impactful, dedicated, and strong voice for my fellow constituents.

According to BallorPeidia Georgia House of Representative District 86 (https://ballotpedia.org/Georgia_House_of_Representatives_District_86) has a population of 58,735. The median household income is $55,439 with a high school graduation rate of 86.4%. Included in the district are parts of Tucker, Clarkson, Stonecrest, Lithonia, and Stone Mountain, where I reside.

Georgia State Senator Kim Jackson District 41

As Senator Jackson spoke about children, I could see a slight change in her eyes. I didn’t see tears but there was no doubt in my mind that she wants to see better happen for Georgia’s kids.

Senator Jackson’s committee assignments include; Agriculture and Consumer Affairs, Children and Families, Health and Human Services, and Public Safety.

According to BallorPeidia Georgia Senate District 41 has a population of 196,140. The median household income is $52,429 with a high school graduation rate of 83.0% (https://ballotpedia.org/Georgia_State_Senate_District_41).

My visit to my representatives was enlightening and humbling. They both embody what I believe are the core values and principles that are foundational to strong and productive communities. I encourage all of our readers to get to know your representatives and hold them accountable for serving your communities and delivering on the promises of making life better for those that they serve.