Recycling Today. Protecting Tomorrow.
2 • GEORGIA FIREFIGHTER
Vol. 53, No. 3 • Autumn 2026
Firefighter The Official Publication for the Georgia State Firefighters Association
4
GSFA Officers
5
GSFA Contact Directory
9
Leadership Messages
35 2026 Georgia Fire Service Conference
On the Cover
The 2026 Fire Service Conference was a huge success, featuring
hands-on training, powerful keynote sessions, friendly competition and a packed exhibit hall. For more, see page 35.
The Georgia Firefighter is the official medium of expression for the Georgia State Firefighters Association and is published by Public Safety Services, LLC.. Editorial contributions will be handled with reasonable care; however, the publisher assumes no responsibility for the safety of artwork, photographs, or manuscripts. Copyright © 2026, Public Safety Services, LLC. All rights reserved.
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2026-2028 GSFA Officers
Craig Dukes-President
Jeff Hardin-1st Vice President
Jason Amerson-2nd Vice President
Calvin Hitchcock-3rd Vice President
Billy Young- Director at Large
Mike Byrd-Past President
Bruce King-Treasurer
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Ronnie Cowart-Chaplain
Georgia State Firefighters Association 2026-2028 Board of Directors
GSFA BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Name
Craig Dukes President Jeff Hardin 1st Vice President Jason Amerson 2nd Vice President Calvin Hitchcock 3rd Vice President Billy Young Director at Large Mike Byrd Past President Bruce King Treasurer Ronnie Cowart Chaplain Jason Shivers Parliamentarian Taylor Moore Business Manager
Employer
Cell Phone
Thomasville Fire Rescue
229.393.5984
Craig.dukes@thomasville.org
McRae-Helena Fire Department
229.315.0938
jeff.hardin@mcrae-helena.org
Cartersville Fire Department
404.391.6652
jamerson@cityofcartersville.org
Statesboro Fire Department
912.213.3341
hitchcockfarms3341@gmail.com
Lowndes County Fire Rescue
229.375.6341
Billy.young@lowndescounty.com
Spalding County Fire Department
678.588.9579
mbyrd@spaldingcounty.com
Bartow County Fire & Emergency Services
404.391.0101
batman777.bk@gmail.com
GPSTC
404.391.6679
rcowart1@outlook.com
Forsyth County Fire Department
404.392.4456
rjshivers@forsythco.com
Advanced Association Management
402.499.9120
taylor@gsffa.org
GSFA CONTACT INFORMATION Office Address: 521 First St. PO Box 10 Milford, NE 68405
Current Mailing Address: PO Box 10 Milford, NE 68405
GSFA Phone: 770-914-7774 GSFA Staff Email: info@gsffa.org
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6 • GEORGIA FIREFIGHTER
THANK YOU TO OUR
BUSINESS MEMBERS
AUTUMN 2026 • 7
Pour House Liquor 201 West Franklin Street Sylvester
EZ Corner #22 5043 West Franklin Street Sylvester (229) 776-6333
Handy Tobacco & Gift Shop 109-B East Franklin Street Sylvester Harry's Food Mart 301 South Main Street Sylvester (229) 776-0000 Handy Express 107 East Franklin Street Sylvester (229) 776-3546
1252 Nathan Blvd, Loganville
8 • GEORGIA FIREFIGHTER
Sylvester Express 102 East Franklin Street Sylvester (229) 776-2369 OM Liquor & Smoke Shop 223 South Sims Street Bainbridge
President Craig Dukes
No Passengers: Strive to Live the Mission During Officer Training, we learned an important lesson: When we accept a lower standard, we create problems that could have been prevented. In the fire service, that can mean the difference between having a firefighter on the truck and having a passenger on the truck. A passenger rides. A firefighter prepares. A passenger watches. A firefighter acts. A passenger waits for someone else. A firefighter steps up. We cannot afford passengers. As fire service leaders, we must make sure every person on the team is ready to do their job. Everyone matters. Everyone has a purpose. Everyone has a responsibility. Everyone counts. When that alarm sounds, there is no room for passengers. There is no room for excuses. There is no room for someone who is not prepared. The person sitting next to you may depend on you. The person you are going to help may depend on you. Your crew may depend on you. Your family may depend on you. Be ready.
As I look back, I am reminded that good fire service officers do not lead without a plan or purpose. Leadership takes hard work. It takes commitment. It takes sacrifice. A plan comes from the mind. Purpose comes from the heart. Sacrifice comes from the heart. And good fire service officers never lose the heart of a firefighter, never forget where you came from. Heart. You have to have heart. Miles and miles of it. There is no bravery without heart. There is no courage without heart. There is no teamwork without heart. There is no sacrifice without heart. There is no service without heart. There is no excellence without heart. Nothing great is ever accomplished without heart. You must have heart. The thing I know for sure is that the heart has room for more than we sometimes believe. I do not believe my heart will ever run out of room for my love and passion for firefighters and the fire service. In fact, I believe the opposite. The more you care, the more you can care. The more
you serve, the more you want to serve. The more you lead, the more you want others to succeed. That is what I want for every firefighter. I want you to succeed. I want you to become the best firefighter you can be. I want you to have a heart for this job. I want you to have pride in what you do. I want you to know that you belong. And I never want to see a firefighter get left behind, lose valuable skills, or become a passenger on a fire truck. Because being a passenger is not just a problem for that firefighter. It is a danger to the entire crew. When one person is not ready, the whole team is affected. When one person stops training, the whole team becomes weaker. When one person stops caring, the whole team feels it. But the opposite is also true. When one firefighter gets better, the crew gets better. When one firefighter trains harder, the crew gets stronger. When one firefighter cares more, that passion spreads. That is what a team does. AUTUMN 2026 • 9
1051 Nathan Dean Pkwy Rockmart (770) 684-7377
Al's Exxon
30 Hwy 101 N. Dallas (770) 562-5996
A-Team Services Heating & Air 4703 Ecton D Marietta (770) 515-5165
10 • GEORGIA FIREFIGHTER
President (continued) Do You Belong?
There is a question every firefighter should ask themselves: Am I just wearing the shirt, or do I truly belong to this department? And even more important: Am I living the mission? Wearing the shirt is easy. Living the mission is harder. Living the mission means showing up. It means training when you are tired. It means learning when you think you already know enough. It means helping the firefighter next to you. It means taking responsibility when things go wrong. It means giving credit when things go right. It means doing the right thing when nobody is watching. That is what belonging looks like. Every firefighter needs a sense of belonging. To belong means we accept one another. It means we take ownership of both the good and the bad. It means we take pride in our department. It means we hold each other accountable. It means we accept responsibility. It means we support one another. It means we work together toward one purpose. We are not just a group of people wearing the same shirt. We are a team. And a team does not leave people behind. A team does not accept passengers. A team builds firefighters. Why We Do This
I love this job. I know many of you do too. I feel called and blessed to be a firefighter. That is why I want to speak to the
firefighter inside each of us. Ask yourself: Do I have the heart to help my department succeed? Do I want the firefighter beside me to succeed? Am I willing to do the work to become better? Am I helping others become better? Am I living the mission? Those questions matter. Because this job is bigger than any one of us. It is bigger than a rank. It is bigger than a title. It is bigger than a paycheck. Some things in life cannot be measured by money. Being a firefighter is one of those things. There is value in serving others. There is value in putting someone else's needs before your own. There is value in knowing that when the alarm sounds, you are part of something bigger than yourself. That is why we must protect the heart of this profession. No Passengers
You either have the heart of a firefighter, or you don't. There is no halfway point. Your heart for this job should break down the walls and differences between us. It should bring us together. Your passion for the fire service should make you want to see every firefighter succeed. Your pride should make you want to leave your department better than you found it. Your commitment should push you to train harder. Your courage should push you to prepare better. Your leadership should push others to become better. We should never be satisfied with just being
good enough. Good enough is not the standard. Doing the minimum is not the standard. Waiting for someone else is not the standard. Excellence is the standard. Not because we are trying to be perfect. But because someone's life may depend on us being prepared. The firefighter beside you may need you. The person trapped inside a burning building may need you. The family waiting outside may need you. Be the firefighter they need you to be. We owe that to ourselves. We owe it to our crews. We owe it to our department. We owe it to the firefighters who came before us. And most importantly, we owe it to the people we serve. So, if change is needed, let's embrace it. If we need to get better, let's get better. If we need to train, let's train. If we need to step up, let's step up. If we need to lead, let's lead. And if we need to look in the mirror, let's have the courage to do it. Change. Let's embrace the challenge. Heart. Let's examine our own. Accountability. Let's own our part. Excellence. Let's refuse to settle. Team. Let's make each other better. And when that alarm sounds ... no passengers. Everyone counts. Everyone has a job. Everyone must be ready. Live the mission. Have heart. Be the firefighter your crew needs you to be.
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4687 GA Hwy 120 Buchanan (678) 647-5090
Powder Springs Bottle Shop 3217 New MacLand Road, Unit 30 Powder Springs (770) 943-6428
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1190 Hayes Industrial Drive Marietta (770) 966-9970
2nd Vice President Jason Amerson
Working Through Change to Build Stronger Departments The fire service stands at a unique crossroads. Across the country, departments are experiencing a rapid shift in responsibilities, operational demands, technology adoption, and workforce expectations. These pressures combined with rising community needs have created what many leaders recognize as “growing pains.” While such periods can be challenging, they can also serve as means for transformation, strengthening both personnel and the organization. Understanding these growing pains and developing strategies to move through them has become an essential leadership skill in today’s fire service. Evolving the Tradition of Service
Few professions hold tradition as closely as the fire service. Those traditions provide identity, stability, and connection to generations of firefighters who built the foundation of today's fire service. But the demands placed on today’s fire departments have expanded significantly, requiring new
tools, policies, and operational approaches. All which are important to the Fire Service to evolve. Adapting long-standing practices can be met with resistance. Veteran members may feel that change disregards history; newer personnel may feel hindered by outdated norms. Successful departments find a balance: preserving meaningful traditions, while evolving procedures to meet current realities. Leaders who clearly communicate the purpose behind change, and link it to safety, efficiency, or mission readiness will often find greater acceptance and buy-in among their teams. Recruitment, Retention, and Workforce Expectations
The fire service is experiencing a generational shift. Nationally, recruitment pools have diminished, competition for qualified applicants has increased, and younger firefighters are entering the workforce with different expectations regarding career development and work life balance. These
staffing pressures can impact morale, overtime demands, and operational readiness. Departments working through this growing pain are focusing heavily on wellness, peer support programs, flexible scheduling policies, and transparent career pathways. Retention improves when firefighters feel valued, supported, and able to envision a long-term future within the organization. Leadership Transitions and Cultural Shifts
Leadership turnover, whether through promotions, retirements, or organizational restructuring often brings a period of uncertainty. Even positive change creates disruption. Culture does not shift overnight, and departments may experience friction as expectations increase. Building stability during leadership transitions requires deliberate communication. Leaders who consistently share updates, clearly define standards, and explain the rationale behind decisions foster trust and alignment. Equally important AUTUMN 2026 • 13
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Change (continued) is empathy: acknowledging the emotional impact of change helps personnel feel seen and supported during periods of adjustment. Technology Integration and the Modern Fireground
Today’s fire service is increasingly data-driven. Inspection platforms, digital incident reporting, analytics systems, improved PPE, and upgraded tools offer powerful advantages, but they often arrive faster than personnel can comfortably adapt. Departments moving through this growing pain benefit from structured implementation plans: paced training, dedicated technology champions, and opportunities for hands-on learning. When personnel understand not only how a system works but why it matters, the transition becomes far smoother. Expanding Community Expectations
Communities today look to the fire service for far more than fire suppression. Departments serve as the backbone of emergency medical response, public education, hazardous materials mitigation, rescue services, crisis intervention, and increasingly, the first point of contact for social or behavioral emergencies. This expansion places significant pressure on staffing, budgets, and training. To manage these demands, successful departments
evaluate resource allocations, clarify service boundaries, and strengthen partnerships with allied agencies. Collaborative approaches can reduce strain and ensure that community needs are met without overwhelming firefighters. Cohesion During Change
Perhaps the most universal growing pain is the strain placed on teamwork. Change no matter what type creates uncertainty. When uncertainty grows unchecked, it can fracture cohesion and create divisions within a department. Strong departments prioritize communication, involvement, and shared purpose. They encourage open dialogue, support constructive feedback, and include personnel in decision-making processes where appropriate. Most importantly, they anchor their efforts in the department’s mission: serving the community with professionalism, integrity, and commitment.
those willing to evolve with intention, communicate with clarity, and lead with empathy. The path through growing pains is rarely smooth. But with steady leadership and a unified team, these periods become opportunities, moments to improve, innovate, and reinforce the core values that define the fire service. As we all go through these pains, we should remember that your department is not the only on struggling, reach out to your network. Let’s work together to make a Stronger Fire Service for our communities
Moving Forward Together
The fire service has faced countless transformations since its inception. Each generation has weathered growing pains and emerged stronger because of them. Today’s challenges though significant are no different. Whether navigating workforce shifts, modernizing operations, or expanding community services, the departments that succeed are AUTUMN 2026 • 15
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3rd Vice President Calvin Hitchcock
The Ride Isn't Always Easy: Learning to Keep Moving Forward
Wow—what a ride it has been. It is hard to believe that I have already been on the board for two years. This has truly been a great ride so far. As I sit here thinking about what to write, I am reminded of both the fun times and the hard times we have experienced over these last two years. Over the last few years, it seems like hardships have become the new norm. That got me thinking: What about you? How have the last few years been for you? Have they been fun? Have they been hard? Have you been able to accomplish the goals you set for yourself? For me, I would say that most of the goals I set for myself 10 years ago have long since come and gone — and, if I am being completely honest, most of them have failed. At least, that is how I saw them at the time. I have struggled to cope with some of those failures because I felt like I had failed. But as I look back now, I am beginning to understand that those failures were not neces-
sarily failures at all. They were building blocks for what is coming down the road. When will that day come? I don't know.What I do know is that I have to keep moving forward. That is really where I want to go with this article. As you set goals — and I hope every one of you is setting goals — what do you do when one of those goals doesn't work out? And just as importantly, how do you handle it when you accomplish a goal and have to figure out what comes next? Do you have someone you can sit down with and talk to about the failures and the bad days? Do you have a crew that is willing to walk the line with you? Do you have people around you who will tell you the truth, support you when things get tough, and help you find the next step? And as leaders, what are we doing to improve our stations and prepare the next generation? Are we bringing the next firefighter up through the ranks and preparing them to become a driver, an officer, or the next leader of the department?
These are questions we need to be asking ourselves. We Have to Talk About the Hard Days In the fire service, we sometimes have a tendency not to talk about the bad days, the hard calls, or the failures. We put our heads down, go back to the station, clean the trucks, put the gear away, and move on to the next call. But the truth is, we don't all cope the same way. Everyone handles difficult situations differently. Some people need to talk. Some need time. Some need their crew around them. Others may need someone they trust to simply sit down and listen. As firefighters and leaders, we have to be someone others can come to. When someone trusts you enough to talk about something difficult, don't take that trust lightly. Build trust with your crew. Give people a safe place to talk. And remember that not everything someone shares with you needs to become a station-wide conversation. If a firefighter comes AUTUMN 2026 • 17
1957 S. Cobb Drive, Ste 101 Marietta (770) 333-0025
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Moving Forward (continued) to you privately, protect that trust. If the time comes when the entire crew needs to be involved, then build that firefighter up and support them. Let them be part of the conversation when they are ready. Trust doesn't happen overnight. It is built one conversation, one call, one training session, and one hard day at a time. When we build that trust with each other, we create something that can stand when the bad days come. And believe me — the bad days will come. A Year That Tested Us As we move into the final part of 2026, I think it is important to recognize just how much this year has challenged the fire service and emergency management community. Georgia has experienced one of the worst wildfire years in the state's history. Working these fires has proven to be a tremendous challenge. We lost homes. We watched communities change. We stood at command posts trying to make the best decisions we could with the information we had. Some of us were out on the line watching the fire move, knowing that no matter how hard we worked, we could not always stop what was happening. I have to be honest with you. There were times I felt like I had failed the team.
There were times I questioned whether I was the right person to be on the line doing the job. There were moments when watching homes being lost brought all kinds of emotions to the surface. But as the days turned into weeks, we began to learn something important: We were doing everything we could. And some days, everything we could do simply wasn't enough. Some days the fire made a run. Some days the wind changed. Some days the conditions were just beyond what we could overcome. That doesn't mean we failed. It means we faced something bigger than any one firefighter, officer, agency, or organization. Those were some of the hardest days of my fire service and emergency management career. But we pressed on. We continued working. We continued making decisions. We continued supporting one another. We kept moving forward. What Happens When the Plan Doesn't Work? So as we move forward, I want to leave you with a few questions. What goals have you set for yourself? I hope you have some. If you don't, ask yourself why. Who is in your circle? Who can you call when you have had a great day? More importantly, who can you call when
you have had one of the worst days of your life? What will you do if your goals don't work out? Will you stop? Will you try something completely different? Or will you dig deep, reset, and establish new goals? What will you do when your days begin running together and you aren't sure what comes next? These questions have been harder for me than others. If I look back at the goals I set for myself 10 years ago, I would say that 90 percent of them have failed — or at least, that is how I viewed them. But I have a great friend whom I trust who reminded me of something important: Those goals were just goals. We need goals. We need something to work toward. We need something that challenges us and makes us better. But we also have to understand that sometimes the plan changes. For me, that comes down to faith. I believe God may have other plans for us. Sometimes the answer is, "No, not today." Sometimes it is, "No, not that promotion right now." Sometimes it is, "No, you aren't going to keep that." And sometimes we don't understand why. But maybe there is something else being put together behind the scenes. Maybe the answer is not rejection. Maybe it is redirection. Maybe God is saying, "I've got you. Keep AUTUMN 2026 • 19
New Era Drive Thru Liquor 7057 Covington Hwy Lithonia (678) 613-2657
20 • GEORGIA FIREFIGHTER
Moving Forward (continued) moving. Trust Me. There are other plans in the works." Keep Moving Forward As we enter the final months of 2026, I want us to work toward being better firefighters, better leaders, better friends, and better family members when we walk through the door at home. For me, I believe in keeping God, family, and our fire service family at the center of how we live our lives. But I also know that saying those things is much easier than actually doing them. Life is hard. Putting our pride aside is hard. Admitting that we need help is hard. Admitting that we failed is hard. Starting over is hard. But sometimes that is exactly what we have to do. We need to build a fire service that cares more about one another. A fire service where firefighters know they have someone to turn to. A fire service where leaders don't just prepare people to be better firefighters but prepare them to
be better leaders, better husbands and wives, better fathers and mothers, and better human beings. Because when we build trust, we build strength. When we support each other, we become stronger. And when we are willing to admit that we don't have all the answers, we create room to learn. The ride will not always be easy. The ride will not always be fun. There will be failures. There will be bad calls. There will be goals that don't work out. There will be days when we wonder what comes next. But don't let those days convince you that the journey is over. Reset. Refocus. Surround yourself with people you trust. Set new goals. Keep moving. Because sometimes what we believe is a failure is really just another building block for what is coming next. I don't know exactly where this ride is going. But I know I'm going to keep moving forward. And I hope you will, too.
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1503 Rice Avenue Dublin (478) 353-1100
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Treasurer Bruce King
Get Involved A lot of people today (including Firefighters) don't want to "stick their neck out," and do extra stuff. Most would prefer to "keep their head down" and "fly in under the radar." I believe that there are at least a couple of primary reasons for this. The first is that everyone is so busy and overwhelmed because of all that is going on in their lives. While it is true that there's always something going on, we always seem to make time for things that are really important to us or things that we really like to do. So, weigh out what will help you the most in life. Another reason is that we may be concerned that others may label us as overachievers or worse, "suck-ups." The truth of the matter is that if you
try to excel at your job, those that try to just get by doing as little as possible are going to look for ways to put you down, because you will potentially make them look bad. Don't let them hold you back! If firefighting is really what you want to do, get involved in the new specialty teams that are being formed (especially if it involves things that you are really interested in). But don't stop there. Our state is full of departments that have no idea what is going on with their neighboring departments, much less what's going on around the state. Make a difference! As you become increasingly proficient at your job, venture out into other aspects of the fire service and broaden your horizons. If your department offers opportunities to go to fire
service conferences, sign up! If you don't get to go to this next one, keep signing up until you are able to go. Ask your supervisor about getting involved in state and area associations. And remember, networking is one of the greatest benefits of going to conferences and even going to training at GPSTC. It may not seem like a big deal while you're still early in your career; however, it will make a definite impact on your career, a lot sooner than you realize. When the opportunity arises, get involved. Even if you have to seek out permission again and again, get involved. If you want to become really good at your job, get involved. If you truly want to make a difference, GET INVOLVED!
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2316 Main Street Tucker (770) 674-1782
4880 LeLand Drive Cumming (770) 887-6117
24 • GEORGIA FIREFIGHTER
Immediate Past President Mike Byrd
Capturing Our Past Before They Are Gone The Association has initiated a project to interview prominent figures in the Georgia Fire Service. The objective is to document the historical knowledge that informs the current generation of firefighters. The contributions of these pioneers, whose vision shaped the development of the fire service, have been instrumental in establishing the foundation for presentday advancements. The inaugural interview featured Harold Thompson, the first Superintendent of the Georgia Fire Academy. The interviewers, David Wall and Jeff Yodar, are also esteemed members of the Georgia Fire Service and previously served under Thompson at the Academy. The discussion provided numerous accounts and anecdotes illustrating the Academy's evolution, including its transition from an independent state agency to a component of the Georgia Public Safety Training Center. Mr. Thompson is a veteran of both the Navy and Air Force, having served during the Ko-
rean War. He left the Navy in 1952 and completed his service commitment in the Air Force Reserve as a staff sergeant. Following his military service, he joined the Gainesville Fire Department in 1953, advancing to the position of driver-operator. During his tenure at the Gainesville Fire Department, he also served as an instructor, delivering training at regional schools. In 1963, the Georgia Fire Institute was established on the campus of Georgia Technical College in Atlanta. This program utilized part-time instructors to deliver classes throughout the state. Harold Thompson joined as a full-time staff member and, in 1976, was appointed the first superintendent of the newly formed Georgia Fire Academy. He oversaw the development of state fire training from its inception, guiding its evolution and the relocation from Southern Polytechnic in Smyrna to its current site at the Georgia Public Safety Training Center in 1987. Thompson retired from this
position in 1993. During his tenure, Thompson was an active member of the International Society of Fire Service Instructors (ISFI), serving as a past chairman. He served on the inaugural committee that developed numerous National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) training standards, including NFPA 1001. This committee initiated the fire service's commitment to standardized training objectives required for firefighter certification. In 2015, Thompson was recognized as the 44th inductee into the National Fire Service Hall of Legends, Legacies, and Leaders. Mr. Thompson played a significant role in the development of Title 25 of the Official Code of Georgia Annotated, the Fire Protection and Safety statute that currently governs the Georgia Fire Service. Adopted in 1981 and enacted as law in 1982, this statute established the roles and responsibilities of state fire agencies and granted local fire departments the legal authority to operate. AUTUMN 2026 • 25
115 Franklin Rd Newnan (770) 253-2841
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Capturing the Past (continued) Mr. Thompson remains a prominent figure in Georgia's fire service community, particularly due to his leadership as Director of the Georgia Fire Academy. During his tenure, he advanced firefighter training and supported innovative programs that shaped Georgia's professional firefighting standards. His vision emphasized providing opportunities for advanced training and education beyond what was available locally, with a focus on developing highly trained professional firefighters and officers. As Director of the Georgia Fire Academy, Thompson advanced this vision by championing high-quality training and professional development for firefighters statewide. His leadership coincided with growth in specialized fire service education, ensuring firefighters received rigorous instruction to improve effectiveness, safety, and readiness. Mr. Thompson worked tirelessly to secure resources at both the Southern Polytechnic and Forsyth campuses. He first obtained funding for a tower and burn building at Southern Polytechnic. Later, he secured funding for a new tower, burn building, a fleet of fire apparatus, and a library filled with training resources for students and instructors. Thompson's legacy is evident in the generations of firefighters who benefited from enhanced training opportunities and elevated professional standards
during his tenure at the Academy. His support for innovative training methods and advanced firefighter development programs strengthened Georgia's fire service and fostered a culture of excellence that persists today. Harold Thompson is widely recognized in Georgia fire service history as a leader whose vision and commitment established pathways for advanced firefighter education and professional development. His influence continues to be reflected in the Georgia Fire Academy's ongoing success and its sustained provision of
advanced training in both classroom and practical settings. We look forward to conducting additional interviews. While dates and times have not yet been established, we are seeking ideas from across the state for regional fire service legends. If you have any ideas for someone whose contributions should be captured and documented for firefighting, please send their name and contact details to the association. The goal is also to publish the interview videos on the Georgia State Firefighters Association website.
From left: Jeff Yodar - Retired Gwinnett County Fire and Georgia Fire Academy; Harald Thompson- Retired Superintendent/Director of the Georgia Fire Academy; David Wall- Retired Director, Georgia Fire Academy. Photo courtesy of Firefighter Caleb Watson.
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Past President Gary Clark
Thank You for the Honor to Serve As I contemplate the subject matter for this article, I reflect on the 30 years I have dedicated to serving the membership of this association. It has been an honor to contribute to the betterment of this organization. My journey began in August 1996, following the election of Chief Gordon Henderson. I was appointed as the District Vice President for Area One, a position I held from 1996 to 2012. In 2012, I was elected to the Executive Board as Director at Large and served two years per each seat until First Vice President where I served four years during the COVID-19 pandemic. Over the past 14 years, I have served a total of 16 years on the Executive Board of Directors. Throughout my tenure, I have had the privilege of forming lasting friendships with fellow firefighters. Being elected to the Board of Directors was a personal aspiration of mine, driven by the desire to serve as a catalyst for positive change and benefit as many firefighters in this state as possible.
My philosophy has always been to leave a position or organization in a state of greater prosperity than I inherited. Working with this Executive Board over the past 14 years has proven this philosophy to be true. Collectively, we have worked on legislation to provide comprehensive cancer coverage for every firefighter in the state, funded by the municipality where they serve. Additionally, we drafted legislation to initiate the process of providing PTSD benefits to individuals affected by traumatic events. As you are aware, firefighter attrition has been a persistent challenge for the fire service in Georgia. It was my goal to enhance our retirement benefits through the firefighters’ pension, thereby improving retention rates of quality, tenured firefighters. The introduction of Senate Bill 243 has partially achieved this objective by allowing firefighters to return or continue to work as firefighters and receive their pension if they meet the 80-rule of 25 years of service at the age of
55. As the upcoming executive board continues to work on the second part of this legislation, which would allow firefighters to meet the rule of 80 with 30 years of service at 50 years old and retire while continuing to work, it has been my honor and privilege to have served this association with honesty and integrity. During my attendance at the GSFA annual conference in Augusta, I bid farewell to the body and rang the association bell for the final time. I extend my gratitude to all the mentors who have guided me over the years and provided invaluable advice, thank you for your leadership as a past president. I will continue to monitor the association and assist the Board of Directors in any upcoming matters they may request. Once again, thank you for providing me with the opportunity to serve in my opinion, one of the most esteemed associations in the state of Georgia. Gary J. Clark AUTUMN 2026 • 29
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Working with local Fire Officials representing the Georgia Firefighter Magazine
Please send resume to: John Bodin, Jr. 678.940.4460 Jebodinjr@aol.com
AUTUMN 2026 • 33
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34 • GEORGIA FIREFIGHTER
2026 Georgia Fire Service Conference Recap Augusta, GA • August 24-29
Firefighters, chiefs, and industry partners from across the state gathered in Augusta this August for the 2026 Georgia Fire Service Conference, a week-long event hosted jointly by the Georgia Association of Fire Chiefs (GAFC) and the Georgia State Firefighters Association (GSFA). Between hands-on training, powerful keynote sessions, and a packed exhibit hall, this year's conference once again proved why it's the can't-miss event for Georgia's fire service community. Kicking Off With Chaplaincy Training The week began with a two-part pre-conference class, Essentials of Chaplaincy, designed to help train new chaplains for departments across the state — a reminder that even before the official opening, this conference was focused on strengthening the people behind the badge. Official Opening and Keynote Wednesday's official opening welcomed attendees with remarks from Augusta representatives, followed by a keynote address from Blake Stinnett that set the tone for a conference built around growth, resilience, and community. Standout Sessions This year's education lineup tackled some of the fire service's most
pressing — and often hardest to discuss — topics: • Gear-Driven Heat Stress (Dr. Maleah Winkler) shared new research on how personal protective equipment affects firefighters' core temperature from the moment it's donned — critical insight for anyone managing thermal strain on the fireground. • Navigating Organizational Change (Jeff Dean) challenged leaders to embrace their role as "change agents" within their departments. • Deadweight in the Jumpseat (Corey Monroe) delivered one of the week's most candid sessions, confronting burnout, complacency, and accountability head-on within fire service crews. • From Academy to Degree (Dr. Kellie McElroy-Hooper & Chief Antonio Burden) spotlighted a groundbreaking partnership between Augusta Fire Department and Augusta Technical College, offering a national model for pairing recruit training with real academic credit. • #strongaugusta and NFPA 3000 (John Ryan & Chief Antonio Burden) recapped Augusta's landmark status as the first municipality in the nation to formally adopt the NFPA 3000 Standard for Active Shooter/Hostile Event Response.
• The Resilient Department (Timothy Chipley) equipped attendees with a behavioral health framework combining Critical Incident Stress Management (CISM) and QPR suicide-prevention training. • FF Safety: Hazards of Lightweight Construction (Leigh T. Hollins) broke down how Georgia's soon-to-be-passed "Preston Fant & Brant Chesney Firefighter Safety Act" will change building marking requirements statewide. • Protecting Our Own (Beverley Walker) closed out the education track by applying Community Risk Reduction (CRR) principles to internal fire service hazards like behavioral health and cancer risk. Community, Memorial and Celebration Beyond the classroom, the week made space for reflection and camaraderie. A Memorial Service honored those lost from the fire service, while lighter moments — including an Ice Cream Social and the ever-popular Firefighters Competition & Meal — gave departments a chance to connect and compete in good spirit. Exhibit Hall and Sponsors The Exhibit Hall opened Wednesday evening and remained a hub of activity through Thursday, giving attendees hands-on acAUTUMN 2026 • 35
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Conference (continued) cess to the latest apparatus, gear, and technology from dozens of exhibitors. A special thanks goes out to this year's top sponsors, whose support made the conference possible: • Premier Sponsors: Bennett Fire Products, Fouts Fire, and FirstNet Built with AT&T • Platinum Sponsors: Peach State Truck Centers Emergency
Vehicles, SAFEbuilt, and Williams Fire Apparatus
after year.
• Gold Sponsor: ETR Vehicles
From rookie mentorship to behavioral health, from legislative updates to a national model for workforce development, the 2026 Georgia Fire Service Conference once again delivered a full week of learning, connection, and honoring the work Georgia's firefighters do every day. See you in Albany next year!
• Silver Sponsors: Burn Foundation of America, FireLine Inc., Whelen, and Workrite FR Fire Service Their generosity, along with dozens of exhibitors and business members, continues to fuel the growth of this conference year
Closing Thoughts
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(678) 932-6930
38 • GEORGIA FIREFIGHTER
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10 Celebration Way, Peachtree City (678) 961-5271
2332 Austell Road SW Marietta (770) 693-2653
40 • GEORGIA FIREFIGHTER
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42 • GEORGIA FIREFIGHTER
3770 Southside Drive Acworth (770) 917-9791 3466 Cobb Pkwy Acworth (770) 917-8436
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44 • GEORGIA FIREFIGHTER
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Cox’s 1 Stop 1008 E. Morris Street Dalton (706) 278-4048
La Texanita Mexican Store
533 N Main Street Cornelia (706) 778-0039
Sunny Nails
168 Wall Mart Circle Sandersville (478) 412-8044
244 S. Main Street Cleveland (706) 865-4079
Kwick Serve 406 Nathan Dean Bypass Rockmart (404) 992-8189
725 S. Harris Street Sandersville (478) 552-1234
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2511 Leona Street Loganville (770) 696-5947 jhmartinmechanical.com
Chevron Food Mart 157 Commerce Drive Villa Rica (678) 941-3524
Eagle Mart 811 East Avenue, Suite A Cedartown (678) 901-0159
Nick’s Superette 7419 Hwy 120 Buchanan (770) 646-5600
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Servicios De Moffles 911 E. Morris Street Dalton (706) 652-9376
Los Abuelos Mexican Grill 1494 Rome Highway Cedartown (770) 748-7073
244 S. Main Street Cleveland (706) 865-4079
508 S. Harris Street Sandersville (478) 553-1414
Kwik Way 4683 GA Hwy 120 Buchanan (678) 647-5025
Plaza Food Mart 1668 Rome Hwy Cedartown (404) 543-9968
Jiron’s Automotive
Quick Stop Austell
430 Pat Mell Road S.E. Marietta (678) 770-4630 WS Hand Car Wash 4937 Austell Road Austell (770) 912-0342
48 • GEORGIA FIREFIGHTER
3195 Austell Road Marietta (770) 432-8608
Hilltop #1 8045 US Hwy 78 Bremen (201) 554-4888
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Monroe Valero 215 Hwy 138 Monroe (770) 207-1175
Walton Truck Stop 1490 Hwy 78 Monroe (770) 207-1337
3884 Bremen Xing Bremen (770) 537-6300
11190 Alpharetta Hwy Roswell (678) 393-0100
The Corner Store 425 N Main Street Cedartown (678) 901-3400
Atami Grill & Sushi 3895 Cherokee Street Kennesaw (678) 653-8280 Kwik Mart 3418 S. Cobb Drive SE Smyrna (678) 698-0554
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Quick Change #16 2797 Hwy 41 Valdosta (229) 242-7282
Vickery Ace Hardware 881 concord Road SE Smyrna (770) 435-4567
3100 Creekside Village Drive NW Kennesaw (770) 917-9920
Subligna Food Mart
8140 Gore Subligna Road Summerville (706) 397-2003
5058 Old National Hwy Cottage Park (404) 549-2379
Corner Store 12449 Hwy 27 Summerville (706) 859-1112 52 • GEORGIA FIREFIGHTER
19th Hole Chevron 10490 Bells Ferry Road Canton (770) 704-0520
Mahi-Shaili Texaco 12606 Hwy 27 Summerville (706) 857-0164 Great Way Food Mart
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551-A Marietta Road Canton (770) 720-7714
Chevron 2 Magnolia Blvd Port Wentworth (912) 433-9245
China Cafe 801 First Avenue Moultrie (229) 890-2233
World Cleaners 12195 Hwy 92, Ste 170 106 Arnold Mill Road, Suite D Woodstock (678) 445-1003 Shell 2890 Little Neck Road Bloomingdale (912) 737-2802 54 • GEORGIA FIREFIGHTER
Come see us at one of our Woodstock locations! Family, Local, & American owned!
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Hana Japanese Steakhouse 147 Reinhardt College Hwy Canton (770) 721-8291
Stop N Go 806 Euharlee Cartersville (770) 386-5411
1120 South Wall Street Calhoun (706) 629-1453
ABC Convenience Store 703 Oothcalooga Calhoun (706) 629-2944
KKFood Mart
4688 Buena Vista Road Columbus (706) 505-9157
Flint River Grocery 2450 Pine Street Unadilla (478) 627-9608
Hilltop #1 8045 US Hwy 78 Bremen (201) 554-4888
919 Joe Frank Harris Pkwy SE Cartersville (770) 382-5806
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188 WC Bryant Pkwy Calhoun (706) 625-5134
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Shell LaGrange 828 N. Greenwood Street Lagrange (706) 884-1052
206 Park Avenue Calhoun (706) 625-2434
Sogongdong 1841 Roanoke Road Lagrange (706) 882-1925
727 3rd Avenue West Point (706) 501-1382
China Express 135 Commerce Avenue Lagrange (706) 883-6331
Pop’s Grocery
375 GA Hwy 100 Hogansville (706) 637-9753
J&W Play World 1513 Lafayette Pkwy Lagrange (706) 407-6377 JK Package Store
Suwon Korean BBQ House 303 E 10th Street West Point (706) 300-5471
1109 New Franklin Road Lagrange (706) 242-9191
104 Bull Street Lagrange (706) 756-1430
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Quick Change #16 2797 Hwy 41 Valdosta (229) 242-7282
151 W. Main Street Cartersville (770) 334-8755
4726 Atlanta Highway Loganville (770) 466-6875
60 Wansley Drive S.E. Cartersville (770) 386-7911
Nick’s Superette 7419 Hwy 120 Buchanan (770) 646-5600
Bobby’s Food Mart
8371 Eisenhower Pkwy Lizella (478) 935-2242
1164 Hwy 42 South Jackson (770) 775-3182
Thomaston Tobacco & Vapors 1091 US Hwy 19 Thomaston (706) 938-0316 60 • GEORGIA FIREFIGHTER
438 Atlanta Hwy Gainesville (678) 943-1182 icarsmotors.com
277 Perry Pkwy Perry (478) 313-5505
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Santo Cantina & Cocina 31 N Avondale Plaza Avondale Estates (404) 254-3909
Service 1st Auto Care 2258 Lithonia Industrial Blvd Lithonia (770) 484-4905
TG Asian Cuisine Express 6768 Browns Mill Road Lithonia (470) 408-9498
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3311 Jodeco Road Jonesboro (770) 477-2125
910 Rose Lane Toccoa (706) 886-4132
Tienda Y Carniceria Sonia 115 Main Street Buford (770) 271-3276
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710 N. Jefferson Street Dublin (478) 304-5052
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One Stop 12930 Magnolia Street Blakely (229) 723-0855
317 E. Robinson Avenue Grovetown (706) 855-0832 BP Food Mart-Rome 1808 Dean Avenue Rome (706) 204-8437
1600 Crescent Centre Blvd Tucker (770) 491-8778
Redan Package Store
Duy Cafe 5368 Jonesboro Road Lake City
Marcus Brothers Auto Repair 7228 Hwy 85 Riverdale (404) 665-6518
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4787 Redan Road Stone Mountain (404) 458-5573
5430 E Ponce De Leon Avenue Stone Mountain (770) 938-6988
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1135 Harrington Road Lawrenceville (470) 282-1586
11 First Ave Newnan (770) 253-5622
8841 Gurley Road Douglasville (770) 489-5567
Luke’s discount cigarettes 703 Oothcalooga Calhoun (706) 629-2944
68 • GEORGIA FIREFIGHTER
Dairy Queen 380 Cobb Pkwy S. Marietta (770) 428-6292
1260 Powers Ferry Road Marietta (770) 818-0088
2569 Cobb Pkwy Smyrna (770) 818-0650
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Chevron Food Mart Jo-Jo Food Mart Five-Fork Food Mart Red Barn Food Mart Ameri Mart TCBY 1401 West Avenue Cartersville (770) 303-3664
Mobil Mart
10 The Cresent Newnan (404) 528-7576
One Stop #42 4544 Old Cypress Mill Road Brunswick (912) 264-1738
1400 Eatonton Road Madison (706) 438-1181
New China Buffet 517 1st Avenue Moultrie (229) 898-8608
1411 Browns Bridge Road Gainesville (770) 535-0833
Warm Springs Food Mart 1403 Warm Spring Road Columbus (706) 641-2763
900 1st Avenue Cairo (229) 377-9866 70 • GEORGIA FIREFIGHTER
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Gecko Auto Care 5734 Rockbridge Road Stone Mountain (470) 709-4583
J. Raj Liquors 301 Anderson Road Nashville (229) 686-3952
52 S. Broad Street (678) 712-6792 Trawick’s
1010 Hwy 84 Cairo (229) 337-0948
Pop’s Corner 8726 Hwy 166 Winston (770) 694-6270
EZ Stop
1441 Hwy 81 S Loganville 770466-0438
Vibe Nails Bar 2 7895 Senoia Road Fairburn (678) 604-6278
Smart Mart
3171 Hwy 5 Douglasville 912-292-4080 72 • GEORGIA FIREFIGHTER
6126 Fairburn Road Douglasville (770) 942-5858
2975 Hwy 81 Loganville (646) 841-9086
202 N Central Avenue Tennille (478) 582-7286
114 Blalock Mill Drive Cleveland AUTUMN 2026 • 73
Classified Directory We are pleased to offer our readers this easy reference guide to additional businesses. We urge you to patronize these advertisers, as well as those who have purchased display space in this magazine.
8879 BY THE RIVER 8879 ROSWELL RIVE 770-352-9784…SANDY SPRINGS A V FOOD MART 1222 1ST AVENUE 229-365-7116…ROCHELLE A&T AUTOMOTIVE 5733 BELLS FERRY ROAD 678-322-6392…ACWORTH ACCESS LAUNDRY 7815 ROSWELL BLVD 770-833-9894…SANDY SPRINGS ACWORTH TOBACCO & LIQUOR 4974 COWAN ROAD 678-574-5150…ACWORTH ALEXANDRA’S ALTERATIONS 5290 ROSWELL ROAD 404-843-9533…ATLANTA ALL-STAR 1700 BOLD SPRINGS ROAD 770-266-6741…MONROE AMOCO EXPRESS MART 780 CONYERS ROAD 770-554-7965… LOGANVILLE ASR GAS 1937 ATLANTA HWY 770-725-1629…STATHAM AUSTELL FOOD STORE 5565 AUSTELL POWDER SPRINGS ROAD 770-948-5022…AUSTELL AUTO LUX 52 N. FAIRGROUND STREET NE 404-494-6300…MARIETTA BUSY FOOD MART 635 E MCCARTY STREET 478-240-0051… SANDERSVILLE BUSY FOOD MART 1356 S. HARRIS STREET 478-240-0051… SANDERSVILLE CLS PACKAGE STORE 219 NORTH SMITH STREET
74 • GEORGIA FIREFIGHTER
478-552-5385… SANDERSVILLE CARNICVERIA LA MEXICANA 6200 MABLETON PKWY 770-745-5100…MABLETON CENSACARS MULTISERVICES 118 E. MIDLAND 786-368-2814,,,WINDER CHEVRON FOOD MART 4272 OLD DANIELSVILLE 706-352-0224…ATHENS CHINA ONE 1569 ROME HWY 770-748-1010…CEDARTOWN CITGO MINI FOOD MART 4658 ATLANTA HWY 770-554-3310… LOGANVILLE COUNTRY TIRES 11220 ALPHARETTA HWY 678-425-3645…ROSWELL DA PENG BBQ 234 MARTIN LUTHER KING 770-207-7989…MONROE DAN’S PACKAGE STORE 8529 ROSWELL DRIVE 404-992-1988…SANDY SPRINGS DESTINY FOOD MART 415 HARTWELL STREET 706-245-5293…ROYSTON DIXIE DALE 2922 W MAIN STREET 706-245-4770…ROYSTON EL POLLO DORADO OF ROSWELL 13070 ALPHARETTA STREET 470-255-2912…ROSWELL EPLING’S LAWN MOWER SHOP 3343 BUS. HWY 27 770-646-5206…BUCHANAN
FINE UPHOLSTERY 1586 HOLCOMB BRIDGE ROAD 770-594-0570…ROSWELL
FOOD MART/COUNTRY STORE BP 5400 HWY 20 770-466-3052… LOGANVILLE GREEN PANTRY 502 E 16TH AVENUE 229-273-3443…CORDELE HERMANOS SUPERMARKETS 635 HOLCOMB BRIDGE ROAD 770-992-2123…ROSWELL HONG KONG CHINESE RESTAURANT 238 W BROAD STREET 912-685-9710…METTER HONG KONG BUFFET 4555 ATLANTA HWY 770-554-0099…LOGANVILLE HUNGRY HUNTER 91 N. 4TH STREET 478-232-2291…TENNILLE ILA FOOD FUEL/DISCOUNT TOBACCO 115 ILA ROAD 706-215-9278…ALTHENS IRINA’S ALTERATION 463 ATLANTA STREET 770-518-4811…ROSWELL J.E.S. AUTO SALES & RENTALS 4025 GREAT WEST PARKWAY 404-889-2632…UNION CITY JONES Z MART 218 BROAD STREET 478-783-1360… HAWKINSVILLE KAYA RESTAURANT 10707 ALPHARETTA HWY 770-609-8590…ROSWELL LA FAVORITA 1550 DEAN FOREST ROAD 912-349-3468…SAVANNAH LCG INSURANCE 178 NORTHWOODS DRIVE 678-600-2889…ATLANTA LIQUOR EXPRESS 4450 ATLANTA HWY 706-521-8589…ATHENS
LUXY NAILS 7513 ROSWELL ROAD 770-671-8103…ATLANTA MAB ASSOC 91 SAMMY MCGHEE BLVD 706-253-1350…JASPER MABLETON BOTTLE SHOP 757 VETERANS MEMORIAL HWY 770-941-7770…MABLETON MID EAST MARKET 1255 GRIMES BRIDGE ROAD 770-545-8787…ROSWELL MIMI BEAUTY 1219 W. SPRING 678-823-8634…MONROE NAGOYA SUSHI 916 MARIETTA HWY 770-998-9988…ROSWELL NAIL USA 1200 BARRETT PKWY NW, STE 128 770-422-2117…KENNESAW NEW WINDER CONVENIENCE STORE 119 ATLANTA HWY 999-999-9999…WINDER NEW YOU MASSAGE 710 HOLCOMB BRIDGE ROAD 678-654-3158…ROSWELL NORTHBRIDGE BOTTLE SHOP 8333 ROSWELL ROAD 734-250-5259…SANDY SPRINGS PIGGLY WIGGLY 32 S. TALLASSEE STREET 912-375-5823…HAZELHURST PORTO BRAZIL STEAKHOUSE 7887 ROSWELL ROAD 678-580-1904…SANDY SPRINGS PRESSTINE CLEANERS 4455 ROSWELL ROAD 404-255-4312…ATLANTA PRINTLOGIC 2016 LEROY ANDERSON
770-267-2500…MONROE
SAMEER VENEER 4 767 CHRISTMAS AVENUE 678-963-5825… BETHLEHEM
QUIKFILL USA 140 OLD RIVER BRIDGE ROAD 478-580-6205… MILLEGEVILLE
SAM’S FOOD MART 183 W ATHENS 678-900-1561…WINDER
QUICK STOP 4000 LEXINGTON ROAD 770-827-8942…ATHENS
SANDERS FOOD MART 705 E MCCARTY STREET 478-552-0611… SANDERSVILLE
RED RABBIT BP 830 LOGANVILLE HWY 770-868-4605… BETHLEHAM
SHELL FOOD MART 685 HOLCOMB BRIDGE ROAD 770-993-7393…ROSWELL
ROSSWELL MOBIL 5345 ROSWELL ROAD 404-255-6781…SANDY SPRINGS ROYSTON FOOD MART 636 CHURCH STREET 706-245-5181…ROYSTON
SHELL FOOD MART 125 MIDLAND AVENUE 770-868-0251…WINDER SPARKWELL VARIETY
1651 WALNUT AVENUE 678-404-2573…WALNUT GROVE
TEQUILLA’S MEXICAN GRILL 863 N MAIN STREET 706-343-1519…MADISON
SUBWAY STORE #2986-0 444 ATLANTA HWY 770-867-0338…WINDER
THE BOTTLE SHOP 130 W MAY STREET 470-429-5336…WINDER
SUNNY CLEANERS 4502 ROSWELL ROAD 404-843-1133…ATLANTA
THE INFERNO ART FOUNDRY 5072 SUNSET STRIP 770-964-6621…UNION CITY
SUNOCO/CORNER STOP 2314 SKIDAWAY 912 349-4620…SAVANNAH
TRIUMPH AUTO COLLISION 4018 LINDLEY ROAD 404-621-0145…POWDER SPRINGS
SUPER STOP 1898 MARION STREET 478-272-8659…DUBLIN SUPERMERCADO SANTA FE 178 NORTHWOOD DRIVE 404-256-0067…ATLANTA
WINDER PACKAGE STORE 178 N. BROAD STREET 470-429-3153…WINDER ZARA LOUNGE 915 HOLCOMB BRIDGE ROAD 770-294-7800…ROSWELL
Business Directory In addition to the advertisers who have display and directory space in this issue, these merchants and firms are cooperating to make this magazine a successful and valuable publication. 7 CLOUD SMOKE & NOVELTY AZTEC GROCERY (BP)) FAZAL RASHDI BETHLEHEM FOOD MART BILL’S FOOD MART BISCUIT MAKER CHEVRON-BETHLEHEM CHEVRON FOOD MART-ATLANTA CHEVRON FOOD MART-SANDY SPRINGS CHEVRON FOOD MART-UNION CITY CHEVRON FOOD MART-WINDER COCINA SOFIA DONAJI ENVIOS ESQUIRE CLEANERS EXTRA MILE GENERAL STORE HIBACHI EXPRESS HONG KONG KITCHEN ILA FOOD FUEL IMPERIAL CLEANERS J&J FOOD MART JACK PETERS GROCERY LA CANASTA LA CHAPINA BAKERY MIS TIOS ICE CREAM SHOP NEW CHINA OXFORD FOOD MART-VALERO P&P FOOD QUICK PICK ROSWELL FOOD MART ROYAL PACKAGE STORE SHELL FOOD MART-ATLANTA SOCIAL CIRCLE VALERO SUN GARDEN
SUNOCO FOOD MART TAMPICO EXPRESS VALERO FOOD MART-ROSWELL WALNUT GROVE BP YOGINA MINI MART (CITGO)
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Costa Mar Mexican Restaurant & Seafood & Grill 677 Franklin Gateway Marietta (678) 503-2301
AJ’s Auto Inc. 1090 Industrial Park Drive Marietta (770) 794-9447
3667 Rockmart Road Rockmart (770) 646-2164
China King-Union City 4733 Jonesboro Road Union City (770) 306-6878
lasabra Body Shop 534 Keith Drive Canton (770) 656-1424
Lilburn Package 501 Indian Trail Road Lilburn (770) 923-0250
United Auto Service Inc. 1123 North Wall Street Calhoun (706) 629-9541
The Winery II 2101 Savoy Drive Atlanta (770) 458-6623
Yuriria Supermarket 1830 Atlanta Hwy Gainesville (770) 533-5740
Hernandez Tire Service 107 E. Felton Road Cartersville (770) 862-1221
Malik Food Mart 1153 Burnt Hickory Road Cartersville (678) 557-3843
JJ Fish & Chicken
Kenwood Rod Shop 568 Corinth Road Newnan (404) 558-1162
Shell Food Mart 3245 Cypress Mill Road Brunswick (912) 265-5341
Tomo Japanese Restaurant 90 Glenda Trace Newnan (770) 254-8588
76 • GEORGIA FIREFIGHTER
Rockmart Food
2598 Candler Road Decatur (678) 207-8286
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