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Where can a young entrepreneur figure out how to turn their dreams into reality? Just take a step into the Shrimp Tank. The Shrimp Tank brings you interviews with some of the most successful business owners in the United States to learn the do’s and don’ts of starting and running a successful business. Then, the fun really starts when we bring in high school and college students to pitch their business ideas to the Shrimp Tank. We don’t fund any business, but we do teach kids how to turn their business ideas into a successful business.
Hosts of The Shrimp Tank Chris Hanks and Ted Jenkin.
Ted Jenkin, Dr. Jeff Drobney, Mayor Derek Easterling and Chris Hanks
Derek Eaterling / Mayor of Kennesaw
The Mayor is the city’s Chief Executive Officer and is responsible for the efficient and orderly administration of city affairs. He presides over all meetings of the City Council but votes only in the case of a tie and has veto power. The Mayor also executes contracts, deeds, and other official documents as authorized by the City Council.
Derek Easterling is originally from Fort Lauderdale, Florida. He enlisted in the U.S. Navy in 1980 and served as a submariner, where he rapidly advanced his career. In 1990, he was selected for the Naval Officer Indoctrination Course. He attained the rank of Lieutenant and completed his service through an early retirement option in 1996. His decorations include the Defense Meritorious Service Medal, Joint Service Commendation Medal, Navy Commendation Medal, and the Navy Achievement Medal.
In 2003, Derek completed law enforcement officer training and joined the Cobb County Sheriff’s Office as a Deputy Sheriff where he served until 2010. He relocated to Tampa in 2010 to care for an aging parent where he accepted a position as a Hillsborough County School District Field Inspector. In 2012, he returned to Georgia and was employed as the Security Supervisor for Kennestone WellStar Hospital until April of 2015.
Derek is in his first term as Mayor of Kennesaw; he began his service in January 2016 with a term ending in December 2019.
Civic and community involvement is very important to Derek. He is active in school system support activities and is currently Co-President of the Awtrey Middle School PTSA and First Vice President of the Tom Mathis Council. He has coached baseball for the Kennesaw Baseball Association and spends time helping families with special needs children.
Derek and his wife Dawn have been married for 10 years. They are active members of Kennesaw United Methodist Church and reside in Kennesaw’s Legacy Parks subdivision.
Dr. Jeff Drobney / City of Kennesaw
City Manager
The City Manager serves as chief operating officer of the city and is appointed by the Mayor & Council on the basis of qualifications and experience. Responsible for directing the day to day operations of city government, the City Manager serves as the chief policy advisor to the Mayor & Council.
