City of Stonecrest hosts “Key to the City Ceremony” honoring outstanding leaders

The City of Stonecrest honored five local leaders and one international leader at its “Key to the City Ceremony” on Sunday, Jan. 17. The red carpet event, restricted to guests by invitation only, was held at the Atlanta Evergreen Marriott Conference Resort.

Those honored included:

• Dr. Kwaku Oteng, Ghana, Africa, a successful entrepreneur featured as the recipient of the International Key to the City recipient
• Brenda Cornelius, founding member of the city of Stonecrest, leader in government relations
• Kim Bentley, vice president of Operations at Emory Hillandale Hospital in Stonecrest
• Dr. Terry Cummings, legendary NBA player, Stonecrest resident
• Tony Vaughn, actor (notably “Colonel” Cleophus Jackson in Tyler Perry’s “Meet the Browns” comedy series), resident of Stone Mountain and frequent visitor of the City of Stonecrest
• Devyne Stephens, Entertainment mogul, co-founder of the Devyne Stephens Academy in Conyers

The event was restricted to about 50 guests who were required to wear facial masks and practice due to COVID-19 protocol.

Mayor Jason Lary, who is out on sick leave, was unable to attend the program.

Al Franklin, director of Cultural Affairs for the city of Stonecrest, said the awards honored outstanding citizens and dignitaries who have extraordinary life accomplishments.

“Our mission is to use the Key Ceremony for brand ambassadors in a variety of industries to promote the city through association,” Franklin said.