ROCKDALE COUNTY PRESS RELEASE

For Immediate Release

January 25, 2024

ROCKDALE COUNTY, Ga. — Rockdale County Public Relations is proud to announce the release of “The Slate of Eight: Black History Made in Rockdale,” a compelling four-part docuseries highlighting a pivotal moment in Black History that unfolded in Rockdale County in 2012.

The docuseries will premiere on multiple platforms, including Rockdale County’s Channel 23, YouTube Channel, and Vimeo, and will be accessible on the official website. Save the dates for the release of each episode:

– Episode 1: February 6th

– Episode 2: February 13th

– Episode 3: February 20th

– Episode 4: February 27th

Explore the stories of trailblazers who played a crucial role in changing the landscape of representation within Rockdale County. Delve into the history of citizens who challenged conventions, transforming their offices to embody the best version of itself.

Over the past decade, Rockdale County has undergone remarkable growth. Join us in a reflective celebration, examining how we’ve evolved and the impactful individuals who have shaped our community.

For more information, contact publicrelations@rockdalecountyga.gov or call 770-278-7050 for the Public Relations main line.

This is an inspiring journey you won’t want to miss!

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ROCKDALE COUNTY PRESS RELEASE

ROCKDALE COUNTY, Ga. – Rockdale County Emergency Management Agency will open a warming center for the community over the next few days. Through frigid winter temperatures, it is imperative to raise awareness among community members for those needing a place to escape the cold.

The warming center will be open in the evenings from 7 pm to 7 am on January 16th, 17th, 19th, 20th, and 21st at the Conyers First Methodist Church. Anyone in the warming center must arrive for intake between 7 and 8:30 pm. Wearing a mask and social distancing are highly recommended.

Only service animals will be allowed in the center for individuals with pets needing to stay at the center. However, other pet accommodations will be made, and the pets will be returned to the individuals at 7 am the following day.

Please help spread the word to those at risk due to the freezing temperatures.

For more information, please call the Emergency Management Agency at 770-278-8405 or the Warming Center contact line at 470-334-5000.

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ROCKDALE COUNTY PRESS RELEASE

For Immediate Release

January 9^th, 2024

ROCKDALE COUNTY, Ga. – On December 6th, 2023, at Conyers City Hall, Rockdale County Juvenile Court Judge Maureen E. Wood was awarded the distinguished “Bud” Cody Community Impact Award. This prestigious accolade celebrates exceptional dedication to community betterment, recognizing individuals whose unwavering commitment, innovation, and drive have fostered enduring positive change within their communities.

The award, named in honor of James A. “Bud” Cody, renowned for his 46-year tenure as Executive Director of the Georgia Sheriffs’ Association, Director of the Georgia Sheriffs’ Youth Homes, and Secretary of the Sheriffs’ Retirement Fund, annually honors those whose efforts resonate with profound impact and lasting influence.

Judge Maureen E. Wood joins a distinguished list of recipients, including notable figures such as First Lady of Georgia Marty Kemp, Community Advocate Mona Franklin, Superior Court Judge Nancy Bills, and City Manager Tony Lucas.

The 2023 commendation also extended to Pastors Ray and Barbara Muse of Bread of Life Development Ministries, underscoring their unwavering dedication and tireless contributions to community advancement.

Judge Wood has received local and statewide recognition for her efforts both inside and outside the courtroom. She was the 2023 recipient of the Georgia Conference on Children and Families Innovative Leadership Award and received Rockdale/Newton Citizen 2023 Best of the Best Awards for best Community Leader and Politician.

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ROCKDALE COUNTY PRESS RELEASE

ROCKDALE COUNTY, Ga. –  The Rockdale County Board of Commissioners proudly announces the approval of the Equal Business Opportunity Program (EBO) during its voting session on December 12th. This initiative underscores our commitment to fostering inclusivity and fairness in procurement processes within the county.

Chairman Oz Nesbitt, Sr., expressed the county’s commitment, stating, “I want to emphasize to our citizens and the community that we not only stand as an equal opportunity employer but also as an Equal Business Opportunity advocate. It is crucial that we foster an environment where everyone, both in our workforce and local businesses, has an equal chance to thrive and contribute to the prosperity of our community.”

Commissioner Washington Post 1 commented on the county’s progress, stating, “The strides we’ve made as a county have been truly remarkable. With the recent approval of the Equal Business Opportunity (EBO), the trajectory of our county’s future is poised for even greater success.”

Commissioner Williams, Post 2, highlighted the importance of outreach, saying, “It is crucial to connect with businesses that are currently underutilized, ensuring they are well-informed about upcoming initiatives and the avenues available for their active involvement in major projects and beyond.”

The EBO Program establishes comprehensive guidelines, policies, and procedures aimed at maximizing contracting opportunities with Historically Underutilized Businesses (HUBs). This includes small enterprises, minority-owned businesses, women-owned enterprises, veteran-owned establishments, and those owned by individuals with physical and mental disabilities.

Under this program, Rockdale County will spearhead the development and implementation of targeted strategies, outreach programs, and inclusive initiatives. The objective is to actively engage HUBs in the county’s contracting processes, thereby enhancing local business prospects and promoting overall economic development.

In support of the EBO Program, Rockdale County will conduct outreach activities such as participation in trade fairs, hosting specialized business workshops, organizing pre-bid conferences, and disseminating information about this newfound opportunity. The Board of Commissioners strongly believes that promoting, encouraging, and utilizing HUBs will bring significant economic and community benefits to Rockdale County.

The approval of the EBO Program symbolizes a progressive stride towards a more inclusive and thriving Rockdale County.

For further information, visit Rockdalecountyga.gov/

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