By Maria Saporta
The State of DeKalb County lunch on April 26 had a railroad theme – partly because it was held at Pullman Yards – which once built the luxury Pullman passenger train cars.
In his address, Thurmond said DeKalb is on a journey to greatness. But he then added that he would be getting off the train in 2024 and that a new CEO would continue DeKalb’s journey.
Thurmond, a natural politician who served as Georgia’s labor commissioner, worked the room – connecting with people from throughout the region. He was introduced by Beatrice Williams, co-chair of the DeKalb County Bicentennial Commission, who urged Thurmond to run for higher office rather than step away as a public servant and elected leader.
The sold-out lunch had several highlights.
The State of DeKalb County lunch played on a railroad theme partly because it was held at Pullman Yards. (Photo by Kelly Jordan.)
It was the first time DeKalb had held the State of the County lunch within the city limits of Atlanta. A portion of Atlanta is in DeKalb County.
Atlanta City Council President Doug Shipman provided a welcome – celebrating the city’s hosting of the luncheon, sponsored by the Council for Quality Growth. Shipman also applauded the current collaboration between Atlanta and DeKalb – especially at a time when there is so much divisiveness in the country.
Another highlight revolved around the John Lewis Commemorative Task Force.
Hilton Howell, CEO of Gray Television, and Jay Gipson, developer of Assembly Atlanta, announced they were making a $50,000 contribution to help honor the late U.S. Congressman and civil rights leader.
DeKalb County Commissioner Mereda Davis Johnson, who is chairing the task force, announced they had raised $700,000. Decatur Mayor Patti Garrett, a co-chair, recieved applause when she said the new public artwork would be installed on the site of a previous Confederate memorial in front of the historic DeKalb County Courthouse.
Thurmond also…
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