Author: On Common Ground News

ATLANTA– Sen. Emanuel Jones (D-Decatur announced a new partnership between the YMCA of Metro Atlanta, the State of Georgia and the Department of Family and Child Services (DFACS aimed at mitigating learning loss and bolstering youth achievement among low-income Black, Indigenous and People of Color (BIPOC) families in South DeKalb during out-of-school time. “This investment underscores our unwavering commitment to youth of South DeKalb. By providing these programs, we aim to address learning loss, prioritize social-emotional development and create pathways for both academic success and personal growth,” said Jones. The YMCA of Metro Atlanta praised the efforts of Jones stating:  “Thanks to the leadership…

DECATUR, GA—North Decatur Road, between North Decatur Lane and Jordan Lane, will experience lane closures 7 p.m. to 5 a.m. on Sunday, Nov. 26, through Monday, Dec. 4, excluding Dec. 1-2 Day work will take place Monday, Nov. 27, and Tuesday, Nov. 28, from 7 a.m.-7 p.m. The lane closures are part of the Scott Boulevard Water Main Replacement Project Phase II.  Lane closure and detour signs will be placed in the area during the lane closure period, advising motorists of construction work in the area and of local traffic restrictions. For more information, visit the DWM website at www.dekalbwatershed.com,…

STONECREST, GA—New Birth Missionary Baptist Church hosted community leaders and special guests on Saturday, Nov. 11, to unveil the Community Healthcare of America Clinic at New Birth. The clinic is expected to officially open in December. Hundreds attended the ribbon cutting ceremony and toured the new clinic, an innovative partnership between New Birth and Community Healthcare of America aimed at expanding medical and preventative health services in South DeKalb. Notable attendees included New Birth Senior Pastor Jamal Bryant; DeKalb Chief Executive Officer Michael Thurmond; DeKalb Commissioners Larry Johnson and Lorraine Cochran Johnson; Stonecrest Mayor Jazzmin Cobble; Stonecrest City Councilmembers Tammy…

By Mark Brock DCSD Athletics Specialist DEKALB COUNTY, GA—Three football teams from the DeKalb County School District (DCSD) play on Friday, Nov. 24, in the high school state playoffs. The Columbia Eagles, Cedar Grove Saints and the Stephenson Jaguars will have the opportunity to move into the semifinals of their respective classifications. The Columbia Eagles (9-3) travel to Adel to take on the No. 9 ranked Cook Hornets (10-2) in the third round of the Class 2A state playoffs in a game set for 7:30 p.m. on Friday. Columbia advanced with a come-from-behind 18-13 win over North Cobb Christian.…

 Jamal Bryant, senior pastor of New Birth Missionary Baptist Church is kicking off the free celebration with the Friday Doorbuster Party and Presentation at 10 a.m. Organizers say “It’s going to be lit!”  Experts have curated “an incredible” selection of products from various brands, all available at discounted prices—from fashion and electronics to home decor and more. There will be exciting games, giveaways, and delicious snacks to keep your energy levels up throughout the event, organizers say.    During the Doorbuster Party, presenters will showcase the hottest deals and share insider tips on how to make the most of your…

STONECREST, GA—The New Black Wall Street Market, 8109 Mall Parkway, City of Stonecrest, is hosting the Black Power Fashion Show on Sunday, Nov. 26, from 1 to 4 p.m. Admission is free.   Get set for an electrifying fashion extravaganza at the New Black Wall Street Market. Come witness the hottest trends in Black fashion, celebrating black culture and embracing black power. This in-person event will showcase bold designs, vibrant colors, and Afrocentric styles as models strut down the runway, exuding elegance and grace. From streetwear to formal attire, this show will leave you inspired and ready to make a statement with your own style.  Discover the creativity and talent of Black…

ATLANTA, GA—Early this morning, local American Red Cross volunteers from the Atlanta area responded to an apartment fire on Windmont Drive NE in Brookhaven, GA. Red Cross volunteers part of the Disaster Action Team were on the scene to help coordinate emergency aid to those affected. They assisted more than a dozen families for a total of 73 people. At this time, a reception center has opened for residents who have been displaced. They will receive meals, and comfort, while officials determine if those in unaffected units may return home. HOW TO KEEP YOUR FAMILY SAFE Help protect your family against home fires by taking two simple steps: Practice your two-minute escape drill and test your…

DECATUR, GA– Due to forecasted cold weather, DeKalb County will open five warming centers for residents on Wednesday, Nov. 22, starting at 8 p.m. to use at the following locations: Fire Station 3, 100 N. Clarendon Avenue, Avondale Estates, GA 30002 Fire Station 4, 4540 Flakes Mill Road, Ellenwood, GA 30294 Fire Station 6, 2342 Flat Shoals Road, Atlanta, GA 30316 North DeKalb Senior Center, 3393 Malone Drive, Chamblee, GA 30341 Frontline Response International, 2585 Gresham Road, Atlanta 30316. Anyone staying in the warming centers must follow the county’s COVID-19 protocols that include wearing a mask, social distancing and undergoing…

CONYERS, GA— Conyers is set to celebrate the holiday season beginning the first  weekend in December. Mark your calendars for the Olde Town Christmas Party featuring the Trucks on the Tracks food truck event, Rockdale County community tree lighting and the Conyers Christmas Parade. This year also marks the Rockdale Emergency Relief’s 25th Annual Christmas Tour of Homes. Sponsored by the City of Conyers, the Olde Town Christmas Party and Trucks on the Tracks will take place on Dec. 1, 5 to 9 p.m., on Railroad Street in the historic business district.  Food trucks scheduled to participate include 6 Pack Subs,…