As we take this time to celebrate the life of the great public servant, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., I would like to take a moment to share with you the impact his message continues to make on me and how it guides every aspect of my life.

As a Christian, I believe that King's Dream is built upon the notion that in all things we do, our love for our fellow man/woman must be demonstrative and should guide our thoughts, words and deeds. This concept inspires me to smile and speak kindly to others, to give freely where I can, and to place the well-being of my city above my own as a public servant.

As an American, King's Dream serves as reminder to me, as I hope it does for others, that the time-honored, heartfelt and constitutionally rooted principles of freedom and liberty must and should apply to all people regardless of their background, race, gender, culture or sexual orientation. Even though our country has not always indiscriminately reserved and preserved these awesome principles for all of her people, King's Dream calls us to resist the hypocrisy of creating exceptions for and carving out people from these inalienable rights.

As someone who earnestly believes in the immovable universal principles of karma and respect, Dr. King's Dream also reminds me that we are "trapped in an inextricable web of mutuality," and that our actions vibrate, reverberate and even recoil. If we disrespect others, disrespect for us will follow - even if ultimately visited upon our descendants. If we do not respect ourselves, we grant others permission to be a reflection of our worst self. As a public servant, the principles of karma and respect have helped me to develop empathy and humility in my daily dealings with people of diverse backgrounds and circumstances.

In closing, I want to remind you that because of his love for us, we too are afforded the opportunity to make an impact on our world. We do not have to stand in his shadow, but rather can stand on his shoulders as we endeavor to achieve the Dream.

Listen: Ceasar's interview on Reflections of a King and His Dream on WCLK Jazz 91.9 FM

The holiday season is a time to gather with family and friends to reflect on the challenges, achievements and blessings of the past year.
It is a time to think about those who are less fortunate and give thought to ways we can make their path a little brighter.

It is also is a time to think about those who serve in our Armed Forces, especially those who serve abroad, and thank them and their families for the sacrifice they make every day on behalf of our freedom.
Also take a moment to give thanks to our city’s first responders who keep us safe as we go about our daily lives.

Throughout this season I encourage you to remember that the gifts of time and self are still welcomed, so take the time to visit with those you love and care about. As you, together, enjoy the hustle and bustle of the holidays, stop and enjoy the splendor of the holiday lights that illuminate our wonderful city. And as you pass others going about their daily chores, remember to offer a bit of holiday cheer through a warm smile and friendly greeting.

The city of Atlanta has enjoyed a tremendous year, and the best is yet to come. As we look forward to the New Year, let us welcome the coming days with excitement and hopeful anticipation of what is in store. There may be challenges ahead, but as our history has shown, Atlantans always face the tough times with optimism, determination and resilience. I look forward to serving you in the New Year and striving to make Atlanta Clean, Green, Safe, and Thriving.
From my family to yours, we wish you a safe and happy holiday season and a prosperous New Year!

Interested citizens of Atlanta are invited to lend their voices to the

City of Atlanta’s Redistricting Process

TONIGHT, Monday, December 12, 2011
6:00 PM

Atlanta City Hall
Council Chamber, Second Floor
55 Trinity Avenue, SW
Atlanta, GA 30303

A copy of the Charter Amending Ordinance 11-O-1827 and the Plan 5 map

under consideration by the Atlanta City Council may be reviewed in the Office of Municipal

Clerk at Atlanta City Hall or you may visit the City Council website at:

http://citycouncil.atlantaga.gov/REDISTRICTING.htm

For more redistricting information, please email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

or call

(404) 330-6771