Every first Saturday for 15 years, DeKalb County Commissioner Stan Watson has hosted a community breakfast meeting that brings elected officials, corporate executives and other local leaders face to face with the community.

The Super District 7 commissioner has coached youth sports for years and hosts an annual Christmas party that has provided toys for charities.

For these and other reasons, Watson was voted “Most Beloved Public Official” in the 2012 CrossRoadsNews’ Best of East Metro Readers Choice Awards.

Karl McCray, chief of staff at Atlanta’s St. Philip AME Church, was among readers who voted for Watson.

“He’s just always been a very friendly person, always extremely helpful with assisting with things in the community,” McCray said. “He always loved working with kids.”

McCray has known Watson since McCray was commissioner of the city of Atlanta’s Department of Parks, Recreation and Cultural Affairs. Watson was a volunteer officiator for youth sports then.

“He’s always been a person who was available when I called for assistance,” McCray said.

Watson thanked readers for their votes.

“I’m truly humbled and grateful,” he said. “I just try to make sure that I’m accessible, accountable, and that I provide a service to the community.”

Watson’s DeKalb Legislative Community Cabinet & Breakfast Meeting is held every first Saturday of the month from 9 to 11 a.m. at Chapel Hill Middle School, 3535 Dogwood Farm Road in Decatur. The meeting and breakfast are free and open to the public.

For additional information, call 404-371-3681.