Georgia Leaders Selected for 2024 GeorgiaForward Young Gamechangers Cohort

ATLANTAFeb. 5, 2024PRLog — GeorgiaForward has selected 45 promising professionals to serve the organization’s 2024 Young Gamechangers (YG) program. YG is a unique leadership action program hosted by GeorgiaForward, a non-profit organization administrated by the Georgia Municipal Association. Young Gamechangers brings professionals from across the state to work on the persistent challenges of one Georgia community.

In 2024, the City of Valdosta will host the Young Gamechangers. Valdosta leaders have finalized their four “Challenge Questions” that the 2024 cohort will be charged to answer through the eight months they will spend developing specific, actionable recommendations for the community. These questions focus on economic development, green infrastructure, corridor redevelopment, and community togetherness.

“Each year, our Young Gamechangers, through the energy and innovation of our state’s best minds, help improve our cities and counties,” said Amir Farokhi, chair of GeorgiaForward’s board of directors. “This year, we are excited and grateful to partner with Valdosta/Lowndes County. Great ideas come from all over Georgia, and we cannot wait to see our Young Gamechangers in action.”

“We are all excited to welcome this impressive program and equally as impressive list of young leaders and professionals into our community! The deep look, the fresh set of eyes, and the programs and projects they bring back to us will be received by an enthusiastic team ready to coordinate City staff and civic leaders on implementation. The future is theirs, the time to act on that future is now…welcome Gamechangers!” said Valdosta Mayor Scott Matheson.

The 2024 cohort of Gamechangers will meet for the first time in the City of Valdosta on April 24th, and their work will culminate with a community presentation of their findings and recommendations on Thursday, October 10th. The Gamechangers are accomplished professionals aged 40 and under from across the state who wish to make an impact through civic engagement, economic development, and community partnerships. A third of the class is from the Valdosta-Lowndes County area, another third is from the metro Atlanta region, and the remaining third are from greater Georgia.

  • Darius Anthony, Hahira, GA, Valdosta State University
  • Marquese Averett, Columbus, GA, Partnership For Southern Equity
  • Madison Beaumarchais, Valdosta, GA, Valdosta State University
  • Jacob Bell, Valdosta, GA, Renasant Bank
  • Eric Bell, Jonesboro, GA, Georgia House of Representatives
  • Hope Brown, Valdosta, GA, Legacy Realtors
  • Claire Chan, Atlanta, GA, Georgia Municipal Association
  • James Howard, Valdosta, GA, James Howard
  • Jada Carithers, Adel, GA, City of Valdosta
  • Michael Carpenter, Pooler, GA, City of Pooler
  • Shantanu Chakraborty, Valdosta, GA, Valdosta State University
  • Andrew Clark, Atlanta, GA, Atlanta Convention & Visitors Bureau
  • Michael Conger, Valdosta, GA, Camp Rock
  • Jeremy Daniel, Watkinsville, GA, University of Georgia
  • Kiondre Dunnam, Douglasville, GA, The Brookman Group
  • Adam Fulbright, Hull, GA, North Georgia Technical College
  • Alexus Garrett, Valdosta, GA, Valdosta State University
  • Erica Grier, Valdosta, GA, Georgia Municipal Association
  • Kara Hope Hanson, Valdosta, GA, SGMC Health
  • Abigail Harrell, Hahira, GA, Valdosta State University
  • Jamie Hill, Valdosta, GA, Valdosta City School Board of Education
  • Rebecca Hunt, Thomasville, GA, Carl Vinson Institute of Government
  • Sara Kamppi, Valdosta, GA, South Georgia Regional Library
  • Jamiya Miles, Valdosta, GA, South Georgia Medical Center
  • Andrew Moody, Newnan, GA, City of Newnan
  • Brandon Moore, Lakeland, GA, Georgia Power Company
  • Hoa Nguyen, Valdosta, GA, Valdosta State University
  • Kvonne Oliver, Valdosta, GA, Coastal Plain
  • Destini Osby, Valdosta, GA, Valdosta State University
  • Britney Pooser, Augusta, GA, Medical College of Georgia Foundation
  • Ashlie Prain, Valdosta, GA, Valdosta State University
  • Jennifer Price, Hahira, GA, City of Hahira
  • Chanel Randolph, Lake Park, GA, ACE Loans
  • Victoria Ray, Valdosta, GA, Country Financial
  • Xavier Ross, Fayetteville, GA, City of Stonecrest
  • Allyson Sealy, Valdosta, GA, City of Valdosta
  • Britney Smith, Warner Robins, GA, FVSU
  • Taylor Smith, Thomaston, GA, City of Thomaston
  • Zahnay Smoak, Port Wentworth, GA, City of Port Wentworth
  • Korrelle Trollmann, Valdosta, GA, Greater Valdosta United Way
  • Samantha Trust, Brookhaven, GA, City of Brookhaven
  • Angela Ward, Valdosta, GA, Game Changers Marketing, Consulting, and Investments
  • Jason Weaver, Screven, GA, City of Screven
  • Arlena Williams, Talbotton, GA, In the Door

Previous Young Gamechangers Host Communities are Columbus-Muscogee County, Americus-Sumter County, Dublin-Laurens County, Douglasville-Douglas County, Augusta-Richmond County, LaGrange-Troup County, Milledgeville-Baldwin County, Albany-Dougherty County, Monroe-Walton County, Dalton-Whitfield County, and Columbus-Muscogee County.

About GeorgiaForward: GeorgiaForward is a convener, connector, and unifier. We exist to unite our state, strengthen communities, and create a talent pipeline within Georgia.

GeorgiaForward engages young professionals with leaders in civics, industry, government, academia, and the media to find a common vision for Georgia. The nonprofit organization, which is administered by the Georgia Municipal Association, accomplishes this by creating an environment in which vision and pragmatism can overcome political deadlock, fostering communication and goodwill among Georgia’s stakeholders, and seeking innovative solutions to Georgia’s biggest challenges. To learn more about GeorgiaForward visit georgiaforward.org.

About the Georgia Municipal Association: Based in Atlanta, GMA is a voluntary, non-profit organization that provides legislative advocacy, educational, employee benefit and consulting services to all of Georgia’s 537 cities. GMA anticipates and influences the forces shaping Georgia’s cities and to provide leadership, tools and services that assist municipal governments in becoming more innovative, effective and responsive. Created in 1933, the Georgia Municipal Association (GMA) is the only state organization that represents municipal governments in Georgia. For more information, visit www.gacities.com (https://gmanetmail-my.sharepoint.com/personal/abailey_gac…).

Author Georgia Danville’s New Book, “Gasping for Air,” is a Fascinating Story of a Housewife’s Bid to Escape Her Static and Monotonous Life Through a Torrid Love Affair

 Georgia Danville, a lifelong Texan, fitness enthusiast, and mother of three who holds a master’s degree in public affairs, has completed her new book, “Gasping for Air”: a thrilling novel that centers around a housewife who, desperate to escape her stagnant life, finds herself involved with a married man while befriending his wife, leading to a complicated web of relationships and lies that can only end is heartache.

“‘Gasping for Air’ is the story of Cami Bonner, a middle-aged housewife who is desperately looking for purpose in her life,” writes Danville. “Becoming cemented in her daily rut, which she finds suffocating, Cami sets out to alter her behavior in ways that are totally unbefitting of her personality. The irony of Cami’s life is that she loves being a wife to her husband, Jacob, and mother to their three daughters and seems to be truly living the dream life. That is until she becomes entangled with a married couple who forever change her life.

“Ben and Hilary Daniels are a married couple with problems just like everyone else. As fate would have it, Cami Bonner becomes involved with Ben as his lover and Hilary as her confidant. The relationship among the three of them becomes an impossible dynamic that doesn’t survive the consequences.”

Published by Page Publishing, Georgia Danville’s enthralling tale was inspired by the author’s desire to try her hand at creative writing after years of writing lengthy business drafts, proposals, and summaries throughout her career. Expertly paced and character driven, “Gasping for Air” is a story of yearning for change that is sure to resonate with women from all walks of life and will leave readers spellbound right up until its shocking, twist ending.

Readers who wish to experience this mesmerizing work can purchase “Gasping for Air” at bookstores everywhere, or online at the Apple iTunes Store, Amazon, Google Play, or Barnes and Noble.

For additional information or media inquiries, contact Page Publishing at 866-315-2708.

About Page Publishing:

Page Publishing is a traditional, full-service publishing house that handles all the intricacies involved in publishing its authors’ books, including distribution in the world’s largest retail outlets and royalty generation. Page Publishing knows that authors need to be free to create, not mired in logistics like eBook conversion, establishing wholesale accounts, insurance, shipping, taxes, and so on. Page’s accomplished writers and publishing professionals allow authors to leave behind these complex and time-consuming issues and focus on their passion: writing and creating. Learn more at www.pagepublishing.com.

Page Publishing Media Department
1-866-315-2708
www.pagepublishing.com

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Georgia State Representative Dewey McClain to Attend 7th Annual Spin Awards Ceremony

CONFIRMED TALENT & CELEBRITY GUEST: TEDASHII, Canton Jones, Denita Gibbs, Terrell Trex, Williams Singers, Laurel Taylor, Eartha Edwards and more. Celebrity guest:Greg O’ Quin, Everett Drake, Earnest Pugh, Actors Tobias Armand, & Tray Wright

Ga. State Rep. Dewey McClain

Ga. State Rep. Dewey McClain

ATLANTAOct. 9, 2023PRLog — Georgia State Representative Dewey McClain will be in attendance at The 7th Annual Spin Awards to present special awards to veteran renowned radio announcer, Cedric Bailey, who is expected to be honored as “Radio Man of The Decade” during The Spin Awards Weekend Experience, October 12-14, 2023 in the Atlanta, Georgia area.

“We’re overjoyed to honor the career of Mr. Cedric Bailey and his impact on Gospel music,” proclaims MD Vaughn, Spin Awards Business Manager. The Spin Awards (TSA) made history in 2017 as the first and only organization to exclusively honor those who spin the Gospel, hence Christian Gospel Radio.

In addition to Bailey being honored, Mayor David Still of Lawrenceville is set to render a welcome to the nominees and attendees from across the United States and international guest from the United Kingdom and Dubai.

The Spin Awards Weekend Experience event dates are October 12-13, 2023 at the Hilton Atlanta Northeast in Peachtree Corners, Georgia. The Spin Awards Pre-Ceremony happening October 13, 2023, at the beautiful and prestigious Aurora Theatre (Bobby Sikes Building) in Lawrenceville, Georgia. The biggest night in Christian Gospel radio culminates at The Spin Awards Main Ceremony night on October 14, 2023 at the Aurora Theatre’s Grand Stage. TSA Weekend Experience includes a multitude of workshops, showcases and ceremonies.

The main event will be hosted by Tony Gee, Stellar Awards Radio Announcer Nominee and Program Director of WFMV 95.3 FM radio station in Columbia, South Carolina and co-hosted by comedian GRIFF, of the Get Up! Mornings with Erica Campbell.a nationally syndicated radio show.

For additional information, event inquiries, sponsorships, tickets, or volunteer opportunities, go to thespinawards.com.

About Dewey McClain
Dewey is the former President of the Atlanta North Georgia Labor Council AFL-CIO, and he is married to the former Miss. Linda Evans. The couple has two daughters, and four grandsons. A proud resident of Gwinnett County for 35 years, Dewey is even prouder to serve the citizens in Georgia State House District 109.

About Mayor David Still
David was born and raised in Lawrenceville and has maintained a Lawrenceville address his entire life. He was the co-owner and publisher of the Gwinnett Post-Tribune prior to establishing his Lawrenceville based company, Capital Endeavors, Inc, 27 years ago which focused on the merger and acquisition, advisor and business appraisal industry sector.

About Cedric Bailey
Bailey’s outstanding career includes being one of the first African-Americans that worked as a radio announcer for KTLS 93.3 FM and a sports reporter for KTEN Channel 10. His gospel syndicated radio show airs in 53 markets across the USA. Cedric has broadcasted from MegaFest with Bishop T. D. Jakes, The Stellar Awards in Nashville, Tennessee at the Grand Ole Opry House, and many other events, such as concerts with gospel artists like Vickie Winans, Dorinda Clark-Cole, the late Rance Allen and others.

About The Spin Awards
The Spin Awards® is a no fee based platform created with the intent of honoring those who spin the gospel message. All Spin Awards brands (magazine and radio station) are subsidiaries of Heart 2 Heart Music Ministries of GOD, a 501C non-profit music outreach organization.

Georgia Cyber Academy Board of Directors Appoints Michael Kooi as Superintendent

 The Georgia Cyber Academy (GCA) Board of Directors is pleased to announce the appointment of Michael Kooi as the new Superintendent.

With a career spanning multiple facets of education and leadership, Mr. Kooi’s diverse background has prepared him well for this role. He began his career as a commercial litigation attorney before transitioning to work as an attorney for the Florida Department of Education. Mr. Kooi subsequently held positions such as Policy Chief for Education in the Florida House of Representatives, Executive Director of the Florida Consortium of Public Charter Schools, and Executive Director of the Office of Independent Education and Parental Choice at the Florida Department of Education. His extensive experience also includes serving as the Education Division Director for the Governor’s Office of Planning and Budget in Atlanta. Mr. Kooi also served as the Managing Director of Capital Education Solutions, LLC. He held the position of Executive Director for Georgia Cyber Academy from 2017 through 2022 and most recently served as Interim Superintendent for the school.

As Superintendent, Mr. Kooi will continue to lead the dedicated staff at GCA, directing their efforts towards achieving academic excellence for every student. His deep understanding of education policy, combined with his experience in managing diverse educational organizations, will be invaluable in furthering the school’s mission to provide quality education in a virtual environment.

“I am honored and excited to serve as the Superintendent of Georgia Cyber Academy,” said Mr. Kooi. “GCA has established itself as a leader in online education in Georgia, and I am committed to working with our faculty and staff to ensure our students receive the highest level of education. Together, we will continue to foster a nurturing and engaging virtual learning environment that empowers students to reach their full potential.”

The GCA Board of Directors extends its congratulations and confidence to Mr. Kooi, knowing that under his leadership, the school will continue to deliver outstanding educational opportunities to students across Georgia.

About Georgia Cyber Academy:
Georgia Cyber Academy is a leading online public charter school serving students from kindergarten through 12th grade in Georgia. With a focus on personalized education and flexible learning, GCA offers a comprehensive curriculum, dedicated teachers, and a supportive virtual community, enabling students to achieve academic success from the comfort of their homes.

Georgia Cyber Academy
Maria Blencowe
404-334-4790 ext. 1104
https://www.georgiacyber.org

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Kia America and Kia Georgia Contribute $100,000 to the American Red Cross of Georgia in Support of Tornado Relief Initiatives

IRVINE, Calif. – WEBWIRE

Kia America and Kia Georgia announced a joint $100,000 donation to the American Red Cross of Georgia to help those affected by recent tornadoes across Georgia, which destroyed or caused major damage to more than 500 homes in the state and affected at least a dozen team members from Kias U.S. manufacturing plant in West Point, Georgia. The donation will support the non-profit as it works to facilitate temporary shelter and support for tornado victims. In addition to the monetary donation, Kia will also collect supplies for tornado victims and disaster relief workers.

We are devastated by the tornado destruction across Georgia, which has impacted the lives of many, including Kia team members and families. We are committed to supporting the American Red Cross of Georgias disaster relief efforts for those impacted by the tornadoes, said Sean Yoon, president & CEO, Kia North America and Kia America. As proud members of the community, Kia thanks the American Red Cross of Georgia for its relentless support for those in need, during times of disaster and beyond.

Kias support of the American Red Cross is a further extension of the brands Accelerate The Good charitable initiative, which has provided nearly $14 million to those in need since 2019. In addition to disaster relief, Kia has also made donations to St. Jude Childrens Research Hospital to treat and defeat childhood cancer and other life-threatening diseases; established scholarships for students in need looking to pursue their dreams of higher education; provided PPE to medical facilities nationwide during the pandemic; and partnered with animal welfare organizations including those that help rescue and preserve the endangered sea turtle population and those that help shelter animals find their forever homes.

The Red Cross of Georgia is grateful to Kia America and Kia Georgia for their generous donation to help provide relief to those impacted by disasters here in our state, said Dee Dixon, Regional Chief Executive Officer of the American Red Cross of Georgia. With this support, our dedicated Red Cross volunteers will continue to deliver safe shelter, food, comfort and hope to those in need.

Kia will encourage its employees, dealer network and vendor partners to provide additional support via a donation microsite in partnership with the American Red Cross of Georgia and by donating supplies on-site at its West Point, Georgia plant. For information on how to donate please visit www.redcross.org.

Kia America about us

Headquartered in Irvine, California, Kia America continues to top automotive quality surveys and is recognized as one of the 100 Best Global Brands. Kia serves as the Official Automotive Partner of the NBA and offers a range of gasoline, hybrid, plug-in hybrid and electrified vehicles sold through a network of over 750 dealers in the U.S., including several cars and SUVs proudly assembled in America.*

For media information, including photography, visitwww.kiamedia.com.To receive custom email notifications for press releases the moment they are published, subscribe atwww.kiamedia.com/us/en/newsalert.

* The K5, Sportage, Sorento, and Telluride (excludes HEV and PHEV models) are assembled in the United States from U.S. and globally sourced parts.

Kia Georgia about us

Kia Georgia, Inc. is the first manufacturing site in North America for Kia Corporation based in Seoul, Korea. With an annual capacity of 340,000 units, Kia Georgia is located on 2,200 acres in West Point, Ga. and began mass production on Nov. 16, 2009. Kia Georgia is home to the Telluride SUV, Sorento SUV, Sportage SUV and the K5 mid-size sedan.

Press Release Information Accuracy DisclaimerInformation posted in press releases on the Kia Media website was accurate at the time of posting but may be superseded by subsequent releases or other information.