Author: On Common Ground News

DECATUR, GA– DeKalb County Public Library (DCPL) announced today, May 27,  the launch of its annual Summer Reading Challenge, starting on June 1. This summer, the library will provide opportunities for all ages to read more, explore library resources, and connect with their community. The theme, “Color Our World,” celebrates the many ways in which art enriches our lives. DCPL branches will offer themed programs to inspire readers, and participants can earn prizes for meeting reading and activity goals. DCPL will also host a wide variety of talented performers and presenters, who will captivate audiences with a range of activities,…

ROCKDALE COUNTY, GA– The Rockdale County High School Class of 2005 donated a total of $1,500 to both the Rockdale County High School Class of 2025 and the Rockdale County Football Gridiron Booster Club, marking a significant highlight of its recent 20-year reunion.  The initiative showcases the alumni’s commitment to giving back to the school that helped shape their futures, said Kai Oden, Class of 2005 representative and a Rockdale resident. “Giving back to the school that set our foundation and paths is near and dear to us as we set the standard for excellence as millennial leaders,” said Oden said.…

GWINNETT COUNTY, GA—Gwinnett County Public Schools’ (GCPS) two book mobiles and van— called Pow, Explore, and Quest—hit the road today, May 27, to bring a summer of reading to the Gwinnett community. The two mobile libraries will travel routes that will take them to 90 stops in four clusters every week this summer. The colorful converted school buses will make nine stops per day, checking out books to students who may not have easy access to the public library. The book mobiles will travel routes in the Berkmar, Central Gwinnett, Meadowcreek, and Norcross clusters. These libraries on wheels are stocked with books for all ages—Pre-K to 12th grade. The weekly schedule (11…

ATLANTA — Emory Healthcare has announced the transformation of Emory Hillandale Hospital as the first hospital in the U.S. fully powered by Apple products and integrated with Epic, the leading electronic health record system. This digital transformation of the ‘hospital of the future’ reimagines the inpatient experience—enhancing care delivery, streamlining clinician workflows and empowering patients with seamless access to secure information about their health. Across the hospital, Apple products are making workflows for clinicians more efficient, while making interactions with patients more connected. Clinicians can quickly access Epic through Mac computers, and iPhone and Apple Watch allow them to stay…

GWINNETT COUNTY, GA– A former deputy director in Gwinnett County’s Department of Information Technology has been arrested following an investigation into the attempted diversion of county funds through altered financial documents. On May 15, the Gwinnett County Treasury Division identified suspicious activity related to a vendor payment and promptly notified the Gwinnett County Police Department. An investigation was launched, focusing on James Smith, the Deputy Director of Infrastructure and Operations within the Department of Information Technology. Investigators determined that Smith allegedly altered financial documents in an attempt to redirect county funds. As a result, probable cause was established to charge…

Post updated: 5.28.2025

DEKALB COUNTY, GA—As graduation nears, the DeKalb County School District is honoring 20 student athletes exiting their high school eras as standouts— valedictorians/salutatorians in the Class of 2025.  Eleven of the 20 athletes are graduating as valedictorians and nine as salutatorians.  Miller Grove High’s valedictorian, Saniya Francis, is a softball and track star. During the fall, Francis was part of the Wolverine softball team that made history for the school by reaching the Elite Eight of the Class 2A State Softball Tournament. Francis finished her track career at the Class 2A State Track and Field Championships by capturing the gold medal…