Author: On Common Ground News

CONYERS, GA – State Representatives Rhonda Taylor (D-Conyers) and Viola Davis (D-Stone Mountain), and State Sen. Emmanuel Jones (D-Decatur), will host a pre-legislative listening session on Saturday, Nov. 15, 10 a.m. – 12 p.m., at the Conyers-Rockdale Library, 864 Green St. S.W. “These listening sessions are where democracy starts,” said Rep. Taylor. “Before we introduce or debate a single bill, we want to hear directly from the people we represent. Your voices guide our priorities and ensure we are addressing the real challenges families face across the East Corridor.” The event will feature a panel discussion and open dialogue with Reps. Taylor…

UPDATED: 11.20.2025

ATLANTA – State Rep. Dar’shun Kendrick (D-Lithonia) will serve as a moderator during a panel discussion at the National Foundation for Women Legislators’ Conference from Nov. 16 – 20in New Orleans, Louisiana. Rep. Kendrick will moderate the “Women in Business Using TikTok” session on Nov. 17, 2025. “Video is one of the most effective ways to communicate, and I use TikTok both as a legislator and as a lawyer,” said Rep. Kendrick. “It’s not as daunting as it might seem, and I hope attendees leave with new excitement and strategies to enhance their messaging. I look forward to engaging with…

CONYERS, GA—Following public discussion at the city-hosted Nov. 5 town hall meeting, proposed modifications to the city of Conyers charter have been put on hold until 2026, city officials announced on Wednesday, Nov. 12. “After months of revisions and thoughtful deliberation among council and staff regarding basic changes and clarifications to the city’s charter and having meaningful dialogue with concerned citizens and members of our state delegation, we’ve decided to put the charter revisions on hold until the city council planning retreat in 2026,” said Mayor Vince Evans. The 2026 retreat will provide an opportunity for the incoming city council, which…

GWINNETT COUNTY, GA–The annual Lighting of the Tree kicks off the holiday season on Thursday, Nov. 27, 5:30 to 8 p.m.,  at the Gwinnett Historic Courthouse in downtown Lawrenceville. Following Santa’s official tree lighting duties, visitors are invited to explore Santa’s headquarters with self-guided tours of the Courthouse, offering plenty of photo opportunities. Learn more at GwinnettParks.com.

GWINNNETT COUNTY, GA–Gwinnett County is allocating $250,000 to help families access essential food and hygiene products.  The county is using existing annual contracts to purchase a large supply of shelf-stable food, hygiene products, and household goods identified by local food cooperative partners as items most in demand. Anyone who is in need may visit the Food Resources page for assistance. The county also is hosting a collection drive of most-needed items to help stock the shelves at Gwinnett’s local food pantries through the holiday season. Learn more about donating food and hygiene products.

CONYERS, GA–The inaugural Festive Night of Lights, a brand-new holiday celebration in the city featuring a drone show, takes place in historic Olde Town Conyers on Saturday, Nov. 22, from 4 to 6:30 p.m. To kick off the holiday season, families are invited to join in on festive fun, food, entertainment and sparkling lights. Guests will enjoy free trackless train rides and other children’s activities, take selfies with Santa, and savor delicious bites from local food vendors or dine at one of Olde Town’s charming restaurants. Adding to the magic of the evening, carolers dressed in Victorian-styled costumes, The Christmas Carolers,…

CONYERS, GA—Conyers City Council member-elect Sherri Washington will be sworn in on Wednesday, Nov. 19, 6 p.m., at Conyers City Hall, 901 O’Kelly St., Conyers. Washington was the clear front runner of the three-way race on Nov. 4, capturing 63.89 percent(559 votes) for the District 2, Post 2 seat.  Washington will take her seat at her first City Council meeting, following the swearing-in ceremony. Washington will begin her term immediately, having been elected to fill the remainder of Connie Alsobrook’s term. Alsobrook stepped down from her second 4-year-term, which began in January 2025. Alsobrook overwhelmingly won the office of mayor…