Author: On Common Ground News

ATLANTA, GA—What  better way to start off 2024 than getting outside in Georgia’s great outdoors after all the holiday treats. Get a jump on those resolutions by lacing up and heading out to one of Georgia’s State Parks & Historic Sites to celebrate “First Day Hikes” on New Year’s Day. “First Day Hikes” is a national initiative from America’s State Parks that encourages people to get out and explore nature. It began more than three decades ago, and all 50 states have participated. Hikers are invited to enjoy the beauty and inspiration found in nature that awaits right in Georgia’s backyard Rangers…

CONYERS, GA—Conyers police are urging small businesses to remove cash from their registers after burglars hit at least 12 businesses in the city. Police say they believe three men are involved in the rash of smash-and-grab burglaries. Police Lt. Quantavis  Garcia said the burglaries in Conyers began on Dec. 8 and some occurred as recently as Dec. 12. A security camera video  shows the men broke the glass door at a convenience store on Klondike Road early in the morning on Dec. 8. “One of the suspects had a handgun. They stole the cash register and tobacco products—blunt wrappers—and other items,” Garcia said.  All…

ROCKDALE COUNTY, GA– The Rockdale County Board of Commissioners (BOC) approved launching the Business Opportunity Program (EBO) during its meeting on Dec.12. In support of the EBO program, the county will conduct outreach activities such as participation in trade fairs, hosting specialized business workshops, and organizing pre-bid conferences. BOC Chairman Oz Nesbitt, Sr. said the initiative underscores the county’s commitment to fostering inclusivity and fairness in procurement processes within the county. “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…

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Congressman Hank Johnson (GA-04) commended Director Kathi Vida’s announcement that the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) is establishing a Southeastern Regional Office in Atlanta under direction of the Unleashing American Innovators Act of 2022. As the longtime senior Democrat on the Courts, Intellectual Property and Internet Subcommittee, Congressman Johnson has been pushing for Atlanta to be the site of the USPTO’s new regional office. “For years, I have reminded the world that Atlanta is not just a hub for culture and creativity, but also for technology and innovation,” said Rep. Johnson. “I’m so grateful that…

DEKALB COUNTY, GA—DeKalb County Commissioner Lorraine Cochran-Johnson, in partnership with the 100 Black Men of DeKalb County and the DeKalb County School District, will host the 5th Annual Lock-in for Life event to foster male youth development for students ages 13-18. The free event will be held on Friday, Dec.15, 6 p.m. to midnight, at Redan High School, 5247 Redan Rd., Stone Mountain. The Lock-in for Life features sessions for middle and high school males facilitated by nonprofit leaders, legal experts, doctors, judges, attorneys, motivational speakers, and civic leaders for a night of fellowship, fun, and enrichment. Participants will enjoy…

ROCKDALE COUNTY, GA—The Rockdale County Clerk of Superior and State Courts Janice Morris is now offering a free service that helps protect from potential property and mortgage fraud. Property fraud can occur if someone forges your identity, transfers your property into their name, and officially records the document. This fraudulent activity can make it appear as if that person owns your home or property, and you may not have any idea that this happened. Property Check will automatically alert you when official documents are recorded on your property. Citizens can sign up by clicking this link WWW.ROCKDALECLERK.COM Once a person signs up on the…

DECATUR, GA – The DeKalb County Tax Commissioner’s Office announces its operating schedule for the Christmas and New Year holidays. Customers are reminded that online service and kiosk options are available daily, including holidays and weekends. Holiday schedule: Dec. 22, 8 a.m. – 1 p.m., closed Dec. 25-26 Dec. 29, 8 a.m. – 1 p.m., closed Jan. 1 “With the holiday season upon us, we are reminding customers that most property tax and motor vehicle services can be handled online or at a kiosk daily,” said Tax Commissioner Irvin Johnson. “Taxpayers may go online to access their property information, sign up…

DEKALB COUNTY GA– Due to more forecasted cold weather, DeKalb County will open five warming centers for residents Dec. 13, Dec. 14 and Dec. 15, starting at 8 p.m. to use at the following locations: Fire Station 3, 100 N. Clarendon Avenue, Avondale Estates Fire Station 4, 4540 Flakes Mill Road, Ellenwood Fire Station 6, 2342 Flat Shoals Road, Atlanta North DeKalb Senior Center, 3393 Malone Drive, Chamblee Frontline Response International, 2585 Gresham Road, Atlanta Anyone staying in the warming centers must follow the county’s COVID-19 protocols that include wearing a mask, social distancing and undergoing a temperature check. For…

CONYERS, GA— Springfield Baptist Church will host its annual Christmas food giveaway event on Dec. 16, 8 a.m. to noon, at 1877 Iris Dr. SE, Conyers. The food giveaway is open to all members of the community at no cost. To ensure ease of participation, onsite mobile registration will be available. Food items will be placed directly in attendees’ trunks upon arrival. For more information, visit: www.sbcgrowth.church  or call 770-929-1111.

STONECREST, GA—Elizabeth Smith was welcomed by a room filled with family and friends who cheered as escorts rolled her in a wheelchair to the head table for her birthday celebration at New Birth Missionary Baptist Church, where she is a member. Wearing a tiara and a gold “100 and Fabulous” sash with her silver and white outfit, Mother Smith smiled at the crowd. She had come on Saturday, Dec. 9, in the rain weather to be showered with gifts and love—four days ahead of her 100th birthday: Dec. 13. New Birth, on behalf of Pastor Jamal Bryant, hosted the celebration.…