A MESSAGE FROM THE CHIEF
by Fire Chief Corey Thornton
Dear Residents, Supporters, and Stakeholders,
As Fire Chief of the City of East Point Fire Department, I am honored to share our Spring 2025 Newsletter with you. This season is a time of renewal, growth, and reflection a perfect opportunity to acknowledge the incredible work of our firefighters and the unwavering support of our community.
The fire service is built on readiness and resilience. Every day, our firefighters train, respond, and adapt to the ever-changing challenges of emergency response. From structure fires to medical emergencies, their dedication ensures that help is always just a call away. But our mission goes beyond responding to crises—we are committed to prevention, education, and building a safer East Point for all.
This spring, we continue our efforts to enhance fire safety education, improve emergency response strategies, and strengthen community partnerships. Whether through hands-on training, public safety initiatives, or new additions to our staff, our focus remains on protecting lives and property with efficiency and compassion.
I encourage you to stay engaged with your fire department visit our stations, check your smoke alarms, and take proactive steps to keep your home and family safe.
Thank you for your continued trust and support.
With gratitude,
Chief Corey Thornton
These updates reflect our ongoing commitment to strengthening our fire department and ensuring the highest level of service for our community. As we move forward, we will continue seeking innovative ways to enhance our operations, expand our outreach, and uphold the safety and well-being of East Point residents.
Technical Services Officer Chief Quintavius Hill has been awarded the Chief Fire Officer of the Year by the Georgia State Firefighters Association.
We have responded to over 2,600 calls so far this year, which is a 12% increase compared to last year. We are on track to once again break 10,000 calls by the end of this year.
Community Events – This month, the Fire Department participated in Read Across America Month by reading to over 10 classes and sharing Fire Safety tips with students at Brookview Elementary School.
Renovations have concluded at Fire Station #3, marking an exciting milestone for our team.
A new group of Fire Recruits has been admitted into the Grady EMS Academy. Over the next 14 months, they will undergo extensive training and will graduate with their Advanced EMT certification.
Progress is underway at Fire Station #5. Demolition is complete, and the general contractor is awaiting the issuance of the building permit.
Applications are now open for our next group of Fire Recruits, with an expected start date of July 2025.
EmergencyAmbulanceFunding
The City of East Point Fire Department remains committed to strengthening its emergency medical services (EMS) Last year, the Senate Appropriations Committee approved $302,000 in the FY 2025 Labor-HHS spending bill to fund two emergency ambulances However, the bill did not receive final approval due to massive federal cuts, leaving the city without the much-needed resources to address growing emergency response challenges
The closure of Wellstar Hospital on Cleveland Avenue continues to impact EMS response and transport times, increasing risks for residents in need of urgent care. In response, the funding request has been resubmitted for consideration in the FY26 budget, with renewed efforts to secure approval. With the leadership of U.S. Senator Jon Ossoff and U.S. Senator Raphael Warnock, this funding remains a critical priority to ensure that East Point’s 40,000 residents receive timely and life-saving emergency care.
“Senator Ossoff and Senator Warnock’s ongoing commitment to our community’s needs has been vital in keeping this effort alive,” said Fire Chief Corey Thornton. “We remain hopeful that this funding will be approved, bringing us closer to enhancing emergency services and protecting lives in East Point.”
While the funding is not yet secured, the resubmission represents a continued push to expand EMS capabilities and improve health outcomes for all residents.
The East Point Fire Department is proud to announce the successful graduation of our latest classofrecruitswhohavecompletedtheFirefighter1and2certificationprogram.Thisrigorous 14-weektrainingpreparedtheseindividualstojoinusascertifiedfirefighters,equippedwiththe essentialskillsneededtoprotectourcommunity.
Led by Fire/EMS Training Chief George Toney and Fire Safety Education Specialist Lt. Dennis Pierre-Charles,therecruitsunderwentacomprehensivetrainingregimenthatemphasizedboth firefighting techniques and safety protocols. Their training included hands-on drills, classroom instruction, and real life simulations to ensure they are ready for the challenges they’ll face on thejob.
Inadditiontotheirfirefightingqualifications,theserecruitswillcontinuetheireducationwiththe Grady EMS Academy, where they will spend the next 14 months pursuing Basic and Advanced EMTcertification.
As these newly certified firefighters step into their roles, they represent not only the East Point FireDepartmentbutalsothecollaborativespiritfosteredthroughpartnershipswithneighboring departments, including College Park and Union City. Their journey reflects our shared goal of improvingpublicsafetyacrosstheregion
We are excited to welcome these recruits into their new positions and look forward to their contributionstoourdepartmentandcommunity.
This March, the East Point Fire Department proudly participated in Read Across America Month, sharing our passion for literacy, education, and fire safety with the young minds of Brookview Elementary School in East Point Our firefighters visited over ten classrooms, reading engaging stories and providing important fire safety tips to students.
Read Across America Month, inspired by Dr. Seuss’s birthday on March 2nd, is a nationwide initiative that encourages children to develop a lifelong love for reading. We believe that literacy is a powerful tool that opens doors to knowledge, imagination, and future success By engaging with students, we not only foster their enthusiasm for books but also strengthen our connection with the community.
Our visits included reading beloved children’s books, interactive discussions about fire safety, and fun activities that reinforced critical life-saving skills. Students learned about fire alarms, escape plans, and the importance of knowing their home address all in an engaging and memorable way
EastPointFireDepartmentPartnerswithCollegePark
SkyhawksforanExciting2024/2025Season
The City of East Point Fire Department is thrilled to announce an exciting new partnership with the College Park Skyhawks, the NBA G-League affiliate of the Atlanta Hawks. This collaboration will bring together two community-focused organizations to deliver fun, family-friendly entertainment while recognizing the dedicated members of the East Point Fire Department and residents of East Point.
As part of this partnership, the Skyhawks will provide complimentary tickets for selected games during the 2024/2025 season to East Point Fire Department members. Additionally, February and March will feature special "East Point Fire Nights," where East Point residents will receive FREE tickets to join Fire Department personnel for an unforgettable game night at the Gateway Center Arena in College Park
“We are excited to partner with the City of East Point Fire Department and celebrate their hard work and commitment to the community,” said Katie Parkins, Director of Sales for the College Park Skyhawks. “This partnership is about more than basketball; it’s about fostering connections and creating lasting memories for East Point’s firefighters and residents alike.”
The City of East Point Fire Department encourages all eligible residents to participate in this event.
FireDepartmentContinuesPartnershipwiththe GeorgiaRenaissanceFestival
The City of East Point Fire Department is pleased to announce the renewal of its partnership with Georgia Renaissance Festival, proudly celebrating its 40th year! This partnership renewal underscores our commitment to fostering community engagement and providing enriching experiences for residents and firefighters
As part of this renewed partnership, we are thrilled to once again offer an exciting opportunity for East Point residents. Through contests hosted on our social media channels, we will be giving away 5 pairs of tickets Georgia Renaissance Festival in Fairburn, GA!
In addition to the ticket giveaway, we have secured complimentary tickets for the entire East Point Fire Department, further demonstrating our commitment to fostering community connections and providing access to unique experiences.
"We are delighted to renew our partnership with the Georgia Renaissance Festival and continue our shared mission of enriching the lives of our community members," said Corey Thornton, Fire Chief. "The Georgia Renaissance Festival is an extraordinary event that offers a one-of-a-kind experience, and we are thrilled to provide East Point residents with the opportunity to attend."
Tickets to the Georgia Renaissance Festival typically range from $30 for adults to $16 for older children, with complimentary admission for children under 5 years old. Tickets are available at www garenfest com
To participate in the ticket giveaway and for more information about the festival, residents are encouraged to follow East Point Fire on Facebook and on the Neighbor’s Public Safety App
We are excited to announce our partnership with the Georgia Swarm, Georgia's professional indoor lacrosse team and 2017 National Lacrosse League (NLL) World Champions, for Heroes Night 2025. This special event is dedicated to honoring first responders.
Event Details:
Date: Saturday, April 5, 2025
Time: 7:30 PM ET
Location: Gas South Arena, Duluth, GA
As part of this collaboration, the Georgia Swarm is offering complimentary tickets to East Point firefighters and their families. This is a wonderful opportunity our staff to enjoy an action-packed lacrosse game while being recognized for their dedication and service.
Chief Thornton expressed enthusiasm for the event, stating: "Heroes Night is a meaningful occasion that highlights the strong bond between first responders and the communities we serve. We are grateful to the Georgia Swarm for their continued support and look forward to celebrating together."
We encourage all firefighters to take advantage of this generous offer and join us for a night of camaraderie and appreciation.
About the Georgia Swarm:
The Georgia Swarm is a professional indoor lacrosse team based in Duluth, Georgia. Competing in the National Lacrosse League (NLL), the Swarm features some of the best players in the world and brought Atlanta its first professional world championship in 22 years with their 2017 NLL World Championship win.
The East Point Fire Department is proud to announce the promotion of Reginald Etheridge to the rank of Lieutenant. Advancing from his role as a Firefighter/Advanced EMT, Lt. Etheridge bringsawealthofexperienceanddedicationtohisnewpositionasaFireInspector Amanof manytalentswithdeep-rootedcommunityconnections,heisnotonlycommittedtofiresafety but also passionate about music, education, and mentorship. Born and raised in Atlanta, Lt. Etheridge is a proud graduate of Atlanta Public Schools, Morris Brown College, and Atlanta TechnicalCollege.
His journey to the fire service began in 2020 with the City of College Park, where he earned multiplecertifications,includingFireInspector,FireandLifeSafetyEducator,andCPRInstructor. Since joining East Point Fire in 2023, he has furthered his expertise by obtaining NREMT-B and AdvancedEMTcertifications.
Beyond his dedication to public safety, Lt. Etheridge has made a lasting impact in the music industry PerformingunderthenameKNova,hegothisfirstbigbreakasavocalistonRaheem TheDream’shitsongMost Beautiful Girlinthe1990s.Overtheyears,hehasworkedalongside industrylegendssuchasTeddyRiley,YungJoc,BobbyBrown,The-Dream,andthelateWhitney Houston.Inadditiontoreleasingsoloprojects,hehaswrittenandcollaboratedwithtopartists, showcasinghispassionformusicandstorytelling.
A devoted husband and father of three boys, Lt Etheridge is also a licensed Master Barber, instructor, and former salon owner. His diverse background in the arts, entrepreneurship, and public service gives him a unique perspective on leadership and community engagement. Reflectingonhisnewrole,heshares,“Faith,family,andservicehavealwaysbeenatthecoreof who I am. Joining the East Point Fire Department as an Inspector allows me to combine my passion for safety and education with my love for helping others. I look forward to making a meaningfulimpactinthiscommunity”
Firehouse Cajun Chicken Pasta
SERVINGS: 4-6
PREP TIME: 10 MIN
"Quick, spicy, and satisfying this dish brings the heat to the firehouse!
INGREDIENTS
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
1 cup diced bell peppers (red, yellow, or green)
1 cup diced onion
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, drained
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup chicken broth
8 ounces of your favorite pasta, cooked and drained
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
INSTRUCTIONS
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season well chicken with Cajun seasoning and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Add bell peppers, onion, and garlic, cooking until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in diced tomatoes, heavy cream, and chicken broth. Simmer for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add cooked pasta and Parmesan cheese, tossing to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with extra Parmesan if desired.
FIREFIGHTERS WANTED
JOINEASTPOINTFIRE COMPENSATION
More than 9,000 calls annually
Three Engine Companies
One Ladder Company
Advanced Life Support Units
State and Local PENSION
Optional 457(b) Plans
Promotional Opportunities
Paid Holidays
$1500-2500 College Degree Bonus
Additional Education Incentives
Fire Recruit: $49,000 Firefighter/AEMT: $51,450
Firefighter/Paramedic: $54,022
