Author: On Common Ground News

ROCKDALE COUNTY, GA–Democrat Tony Brown has been disqualified as a candidate for the Special Election for Georgia’s 13th Congressional House District, the seat formerly held by the late Rep. David Scott, On Common Ground Newshas learned.   Scott, who served 12 consecutive terms in the U.S. House of Representatives, died on April 22 at the age of 80 while seeking re-election to a 13th term as congressman.  In addition to Rockdale, the 13th Congressional House District includes portions of DeKalb, Newton, Clayton, Gwinnett and Henry counties.  Rockdale County Supervisor of Elections Cynthia Willingham posted the disqualification notice in her July 6 online elections update. The notice from…

DEKALB COUNTY, GA—An employee in the DeKalb County District Attorney’s Office who was critically injured by celebratory gunfire on July 4 has been identified as Lakesha Davis, officials said today (July 6).  Two suspects have been arrested in connection with the shooting, as Davis remains hospitalized, according to authorities.  DeKalb County Police (DKPD) said Davis was at home when she was hit by gunfire. DKPD responded to the reported shooting around 11:30 p.m. in the 7500 block of Clear Creek Drive in unincorporated Lithonia.  When officers arrived, they found a woman with a gunshot wound. She was rushed to a hospital in critical but stable…

The DeKalb County Recreation Parks and Cultural Affairs is partnering with the Georgia Department of Early Care and Learning’s Nutrition Services Division, to host a special summer meal event to remind Georgia families that free nutritious meals are available to children and teens ages 18 and younger throughout the summer. The event will take place on Thursday, July 9, from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at Gresham Recreation Center, 3113 Gresham Road, Atlanta. During the event, children and teens will receive free healthy meals through Happy Helpings, Georgia’s Summer Food Service Program, funded by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). Families also will enjoy a…

ATLANTA, GA– AARP Georgia is now accepting nominations for the 2026 Georgia Andrus Award for Community Service, the organization’s most prestigious volunteer tribute. This annual award honors outstanding Georgians age 50 and older who share their experience, skills, and time to enrich the lives of others in their communities. “The AARP Georgia Team is pleased to spotlight exceptional Georgians age 50+ who are leveraging their talents, knowledge, and dedication to make a lasting impact in their communities,” said Vanessa J. Payne, AARP Georgia’s state director. Nominees will be evaluated by the AARP Georgia State Office team based on how the volunteer’s…

DECATUR, GA  –The DeKalb County Sheriff’s Office (DKSO) Criminal Process Fugitive Unit, with assistance from DKSO Field Uniform personnel, today successfully conducted a warrant service operation resulting in the arrest of a suspect listed on the metro Curry had been evading apprehension since Oct. 11 when warrants allege that he caused the death of an Atlanta man in August 2023. “The DeKalb County Sheriff’s Office locates and apprehends violent offenders no matter long it takes. This arrest reflects our steadfast commitment to public safety,” said Sheriff Melody M. Maddox. The suspect was transported to the DeKalb County Jail, where he…

DECATUR, GA– As dangerously high temperatures continue across metro Atlanta, DeKalb County today announced a comprehensive countywide response to help residents safely navigate extreme heat while protecting employees, supporting individuals experiencing homelessness, and ensuring uninterrupted government services.  The County’s Extreme Heat Response includes:  ·      Expanded cooling resources for individuals experiencing homelessness  ·       Free admission to County pools during periods of extreme heat, air-conditioned recreation centers serving as cooling and hydration centers, and  ·       A new Summer Remote Work Policy designed to protect eligible County employees while supporting the County’s sustainability goals  “Extreme heat is no longer just a seasonal inconvenience, it is…

DEKALB COUNTY, GA — A dead bat tested positive for rabies on July 2 near Millstone Trail in the Stone Mountain area.  Georgia is a rabies endemic state, and the virus is present all year long. It is not unusual for the county to report several rabies cases each year.  Residents should make sure pets arehave current preventative vaccinations and should eliminate outdoor feeding stations and access to garbage cans. Anyone who has been bitten or scratched by an animal should seek medical attention immediately.  Additionally, residents are advised to watch pets and contact DeKalb County Animal Control if unusual behavior…